• Lottomatica Group Subsidiary GTECH Printing Corporation Selected As New Mexico’s Primary Instant-Ticket Printing Vendor. Full Story
• Scheduled Privatisations of State Lotteries and Operators – Spanish LAE, Casinos Austria, and Ontario Lottery. Full Story
• Scientific Games Successfully Renews Key Supply Agreement with Gala Coral. Full Story
• INTRALOT: 10-Year License To Operate Sports Betting In Azerbaijan. Full Story
• Custom Drawing Machines From Smartplay Put Israeli Lottery On The Road. Full Story
• Illinois Lottery Wants You to Join Them in RAISING A HAND. Full Story
• Record Turnover for Norsk Tipping – Official Press Release. Full Story
• New Survey Data Released On Gambling Participation And Public Perceptions Of Gambling. Full Story
• Georgia Lottery Welcomes Powerball. Full Story
• Pollard Banknote Announce Intention to Convert to a Public Corporation and New Distribution Policy. Full Story
• Ladbrokes Joins European Sports Security Association. Full Story
• Powerball® and Mega Millions® Join Forces to Create Largest Market for Jackpot Games in the United States. Full Story
• Mega Millions® Ticket Sales Strong in South Carolina. Full Story
• Championship Wager: Lottery President Bets on the Saints. Full Story
• OLG Lottery Tickets Shrink as Part of Agency’s Initiative ‘Bet-on-Green’. Full Story

Lottomatica Group Subsidiary GTECH Printing Corporation Selected As New Mexico’s Primary Instant-Ticket Printing Vendor

ROME (Italy) – PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND (USA) (February 1, 2010) -- Lottomatica Group S.p.A. announced that its subsidiary, GTECH Printing Corporation (GPC), has been chosen as the primary instant-ticket vendor for the New Mexico Lottery. The contract award is the result of a competitive procurement and is anticipated to commence on March 18, 2010. Under the terms of the proposed contract, GPC will be the primary vendor of instant-ticket game services to the New Mexico Lottery for the next four years, with four one-year extension options available. With the addition of the New Mexico contract, GPC now services more than 40 customers worldwide.

“We are grateful to have been chosen as the primary supplier of instant-ticket game services for the New Mexico Lottery,” said GTECH Printing Corporation President Ross Dalton. “GPC will provide the New Mexico Lottery with comprehensive game portfolio management so that it delivers the exciting and innovative instant games its players have come to expect.”

“GPC has the right mix of technology, state-of-the-art printing capabilities, experienced personnel and competitive pricing,” said New Mexico Lottery CEO Tom Romero. “We look forward to working with GPC in developing visually exciting games that will help us grow lottery sales responsibly and maximize revenues for the state’s college scholarship program.”

GPC is the fastest growing instant-game manufacturing company in the industry. GPC now has 43 customers worldwide, half of which are from outside the United States.

About Lottomatica Group

Lottomatica Group is a market leader in the Italian gaming industry and one of the largest Lottery operators in the world based on total wagers and, through its subsidiary GTECH Corporation, is a leading provider of lottery and gaming technology solutions worldwide. Together, the companies are the only vertically integrated full service lottery group. Lottomatica Group is majority owned by De Agostini, which belongs to a century-old publishing and media services group. Lottomatica is listed on the Stock Exchange of Milan under the trading symbol “LTO”. In 2008, the Company had approximately €2.1 billion in revenues and 7,500 employees in over 50 countries when combined with GTECH.

For further information: Robert K. Vincent, GTECH Corporation, Public Affairs, T. (+1) 401 3927452.

Scheduled Privatisations of State Lotteries and Operators – Spanish LAE, Casinos Austria, and Ontario Lottery

LONDON, United Kingdom (February 1, 2010) -- There are always rumours afloat about impending privatisation of state lotteries and gambling operators, but in recent weeks three planned privatisations were the hot topic in the industry. Some of these privatisations are still in the early stages and are only discussed in whispers, and there is only sparse information available. But together with the privatisations and sales in the lottery industry that are already underway (e.g., UK Camelot, NSW Lotteries, …), these three privatisations could make 2010 a year of significant changes.

Spain prepares to privatise state lottery Loterias y Apuestas del Estado (LAE)

The first steps toward privatisation of Spain’s state lottery Loterias y Apuestas del Estado (LAE) were completed last year when regulatory changes supporting the commercialisation of the Spanish lottery market were introduced. Many experts suggested already at that time that these changes were made with an eye to a potential privatisation of LAE.

Now progress seems to come quickly. According to the Spanish newspaper El Economista and industry insiders, the Spanish government is preparing to privatise the state lottery Loterias y Apuestas del Estado (LAE). The privatisation will probably be

implemented in two steps:

1. The first step will be the liberalisation of the online betting / gambling market that has long been under discussion.
2. In the second step the government will schedule the privatisation of LAE.

MECN estimates (based on a multiples approach) LAE’s worth at around US$25-30 billion. The Spanish government’s estimates are even higher – ranging up to US$40billion (ca. Euro 30 billion).

Because of the size of the deal we will most likely not see a complete privatization / sale

of the entire LAE. There is probably no other gambling company capable of the necessary financial commitment. Although the press names Cirsa and Codere as potential bidders, it seems more likely in our view that a partial privatisation (e.g., IPO), similar to the step-by-step privatisation of Greek OPAP, will be implemented.

In recent years LAE made about Euro 9-10 billion in turnover/sales (before payment of prizes) with nearly 90% coming from lotto/number games. LAE pays out ca. 60% of turnover / sales as prizes to winners.

Ontario Lottery – early stage but a likely candidate

In Canada, the Ontarian government is preparing to privatise the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp (OLG). The potential privatisation of the OLG (and also of other state companies) has been under discussion for a while. But at the end of December 2009 the government was reported to be “on the brink” of signing a deal with investment banks to conduct “preliminary” research into a potential privatisation/sale of OLG.

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Casinos Austria – Austrian National Bank could sell its 33.24% stake

The Austrian National Bank currently holds (via Münze Österreich, the Austrian Mint) 33.24% in Casinos Austria. In accordance with the plans of the minister of finance, this stake is slated for sale in the course of the upcoming full nationalisation of the Austrian National Bank.

Currently, the co-operative Austrian bank Raiffeisen is rumoured to be a likely buyer of Münze Österreich‘s stake in Casinos Austria. However, the sale in any case depends on whether the various licenses involved will be renewed.

Moreover, in December 2009 it was rumoured that several investors, such as Apollo, Texas Pacific, Queenco, and Triton, were interested in taking over a 49% stake in Casinos Austria International (CAI), the international subsidiary for which Casinos Austria has been trying to find a strategic partner.

Casino Austria is an international spread company and is a major shareholder of Österreichische Lotterien Ges.m.b.H. (Austrian Lotteries) .

More to come?

In our view, based on our analysis in our report (“Privatisation of state-controlled gambling operators - 2nd edition”), the privatisation tendency has increased significantly - although these processes will take time. As a MECN survey reveals (see exhibit below), the industry experts surveyed estimate that in the next 2-3 years there will be about nine privatisations.

Exhibit 1: Estimated number of privatisations in the next 2-3 years – Results of MECN survey

The increase in privatisations is driven by the growing liberalisation in the gambling market. In recent months several countries (e.g., France, Denmark) moved forward with liberalisation of key sectors of the gambling market. These developments apparently have a strong impact on the likelihood of privatisation of the state operators in those jurisdictions.

For example, in 2005 only ca. 30% of the experts assumed that Danske Spil and La Française des Jeux would be privatised in the near future. By the time of our 2009 survey, this figure had skyrocketed to 100% and 89%, respectively. Although MECN does not fully agree with these estimates, we can truly support the statement of one expert surveyed “As in other industries, once a market is opened up for private competition, state operations will have a hard time to survive”.

MECN’s reports on lottery privatisation

The above article is based in large part on MECN’s updated report “Privatisation of state-controlled gambling operators” - 2nd edition”. More information at: http://www.privatisation.mecn.net.

SOURCE: MECN (www.mecn.net).  CONTACT: Martin Oelbermann, MECN - Media & Entertainment Consulting Network GmbH, Tel: + 49 (0)89 3835 678 5, Fax: + 49 (0)89 3835 678 6, Email: martin.oelbermann@mecn.net.

Scientific Games Successfully Renews Key Supply Agreement with Gala Coral

The Global Draw Renews Contract Covering 6,500 Nevada Terminals

NEW YORK, N.Y. (February 1, 2010) -- Scientific Games Corporation (Nasdaq: SGMS) announced its wholly owned subsidiary The Global Draw Ltd, has successfully renewed an agreement to continue as the sole provider of server-based gaming machines for major UK bookmaker Gala Coral. The agreement covers 1,646 Gala Coral shops and the provision of more than 6,500 leading Nevada gaming terminals, which will include added functionality via new technology such as player tracking, improved yield management tools and menu management. The Global Draw will be responsible for the supply and service of gaming machines for the Gala Coral estate for the next four years. Gala Coral has the option to extend the contract to the end of 2017.

Steve Frater, Executive Chairman of the The Global Draw, said: "Gala Coral has been a great customer for the past ten years and we are honored and excited to continue our partnership. We consider this renewal to be a true reflection of the quality and performance of our product, which couples innovative game design with the very best cabinets and a fully integrated and networked operating system."

John Pettit, Machine Director of the Gala Coral Group, said: "Gala Coral is committed to meeting customer demand and providing the best possible gaming experience. The partnership with The Global Draw has undoubtedly enhanced our machine offer and we are confident that, together with our games partners, this will continue. In addition, Global Draw's clear commitment to future innovation and development will enable technology to enhance our customer's gaming experience."

The Global Draw is a leading supplier of dual screen B2/B3 gaming machines to UK betting shops with more than 12,500 terminals operating in around 3,400 shops.

About Scientific Games

Scientific Games Corporation is a leading integrated supplier of instant tickets, systems and services to lotteries worldwide, a leading supplier of server based gaming machines and systems, Amusement and Skill with Prize betting terminals, interactive sports betting terminals and systems, and wagering systems and services to pari-mutuel operators. It is also a licensed pari-mutuel gaming operator in Connecticut, Maine and the Netherlands. The Company's customers are in the United States and more than 50 other countries. For more information about the Company, please visit our web site at www.scientificgames.com.

Scientific Games Contact: Investor Relations, 212-754-2233.

SOURCE: Scientific Games Corporation.

INTRALOT: 10-Year License To Operate Sports Betting In Azerbaijan

ATHENS, Greece (January 29, 2010) -- INTRALOT Group announces that its subsidiary in Turkey, INTELTEK, received authorization from the responsible authorities in Azerbaijan, to organize, operate, manage, and develop fixed-odds and pari-mutuel sports betting games, including the provision of related services, in Azerbaijan.

INTELTEK will own 51% of the newly established company, named Azerinteltek, which will be based in Azerbaijan. Azerinteltek will operate sports betting on an exclusive basis in more than 1.000 points of sale countrywide for a period of 10 years.

“In the context of evaluating investment opportunities in various countries of the wider region, we decided to enter the promising market of Azerbaijan together with our respectable partner Turkcell, through our joint venture, INTELTEK, which has created strong values and competences in the gaming sector and a clear expansion strategy outside Turkey,” said Mr. Constantinos Antonopoulos, CEO of INTRALOT Group. “We are confident that we will manage to make sports betting an exciting experience for the people of Azerbaijan and create a successful operation, similar to the one we have established in Turkey.”

Azerbaijan is a country in the Caucasus region of Eurasia at the crossroads between Eastern Europe and Western Asia, with a total population of 9 million people and a GDP per capita of US$ 9,900. Azerbaijan experienced high economic growth during 2006-08, due to large and increasing oil exports, as well as to considerable growth in non-export sectors, such as construction, banking, and real estate.

About INTRALOT (www.intralot.com)

INTRALOT, a public listed company, is the leading supplier of integrated gaming and transaction processing systems, innovative game content and sports betting management, to state-licensed gaming organizations worldwide. Its broad portfolio of products & services, its know-how of Lottery, Betting & Video Lottery operations and its leading-edge technology, give INTRALOT a competitive advantage which contributes directly to customers’ efficiency, profitability and growth. With presence in more than 50 countries, with 5,000 people and revenues of €1.1 billion for 2008, INTRALOT has established its presence on all 5 continents.

For more information CONTACT: Ms. Persa Kartsoli, Head of Corporate Affairs, Phone: +30-210 6156000, Fax: +30-210 6106800, email: kartsoli@intralot.com

Custom Drawing Machines From Smartplay Put Israeli Lottery On The Road

EDGEWATER PARK, New Jersey (January 2010) - When Israel’s lottery, Mifal Ha’payis, wanted to take their show on the road, Smartplay answered the demand for travel-sized drawing machines!  Smartplay President David Michaud and Mifal Ha’payis representative Oded Kalina collaborated on a miniature version of Smartplay’s Multi Digit Gem 6 and Saturn.  The two completed Multi Digit Gem have six chambers, each mixing ten balls, and operated by automatic remote control.

They are also equipped with customized protective travel cases to simplify transporting the machines to various locations.

In addition to miniature Multi Digit Gem, Israel also requested six custom-sized Saturn drawing machines with smaller chambers.

Two miniature Saturns were delivered with 46 centimeter-chambers, able to mix 50 balls and select 8.  Four additional Saturns are even smaller, with a chamber diameter of 36 centimeters, mixing 20 balls.  Israel also ordered security coded numbered ping pong balls especially for their traveling machines, as well as protective travel cases.

Mifal Ha’payis intends to use these intriguing, newly-designed draw machines to demonstrate their weekly drawings to curious players and to the general public on the road.

Established in 1993, Smartplay is dedicated to the creative design, development and manufacture of lottery drawing equipment. The product line has evolved over the years in response to clients’ needs by incorporating the latest technology. Smartplay has thereby maintained a position as international leader in the area of lottery drawing machines and customized game show equipment. Smartplay is consistently chosen above other manufacturers due to a reputation for quality and reliability. Smartplay is proud to be the choice of the world’s most prestigious lotteries.

SOURCE: Smartplay International, Inc. CONTACT: Mariana Burachok, Marketing +1 609 880 1860, Email: mariana@smartplay.com.

Illinois Lottery Wants You to Join Them in RAISING A HAND

Black History Month Program Encourages Volunteerism in Illinois Public Schools

CHICAGO, Illinois (January 28, 2010) -- The Illinois Lottery is continuing its mission of empowering schools with the launch of RAISE A HAND ILLINOIS, a statewide volunteer effort to facilitate beautification efforts in local public schools. In honor of the heroes who fought for equality and education, RAISE A HAND ILLINOIS will take place in February during Black History Month in Chicago, Springfield, East St. Louis, and Rockford. Working with local radio personalities in each city, RAISE A HAND ILLINOIS will teach, inspire, and pass on good deeds to future generations.

Through Illinois Lottery's partnership with Serve Illinois participating schools, the RAISE A HAND ILLINOIS program will demonstrate its commitment to providing enhanced schools for the youth of today. Volunteers in each market will sign-up at http://www.RaiseAHandIllinois.com to participate in the beautification of local schools including activities such as painting, general cleaning, and grounds keeping.  Serve Illinois will identify appropriate schools and coordinate the volunteer activities.

Volunteers will "RAISE A HAND" at the first community event on Saturday, February 6, in Chicago and subsequent events will follow in Springfield, East St. Louis, and Rockford during the month of February.  Those who are unable to volunteer will be encouraged to participate by submitting $25 worth of qualifying, non-winning Illinois Powerball tickets to have their donation matched to the public school of their choice.

Volunteers will receive a limited edition RAISE A HAND ILLINOIS shirt and qualify to win great prizes in return for their generosity.  For additional information on the RAISE A HAND ILLINOIS volunteer program, please visit: http://www.RaiseAHandIllinois.com.

About Illinois Lottery

Founded in 1974, the Illinois Lottery is a state agency with annual sales over $2 billion. Since its inception, the Lottery has contributed more than $14 billion to the state Common School Fund to assist K-12 public schools. Players must be at least 18 years old. For more information on the Illinois Lottery please visit our Web site at http://www.illinoislottery.com.

About Serve Illinois

The Serve Illinois Commission is a 25-member, bi-partisan board appointed by the Governor. Its mission is to improve Illinois communities by enhancing traditional volunteer activities and supporting national service programs. The Commission is accomplishing this mission through the support of local community-based efforts to enhance volunteer opportunities and the administration of Illinois' AmeriCorps program.

SOURCE: Illinois Lottery.

Record Turnover for Norsk Tipping – Official Press Release

HAMAR, Norway (January 22, 2010) -- “2009 was a record year for Norsk Tipping.  – Our task is to offer the Norwegian populace responsible and attractive games that create profits to be used for deserving social causes. Our turnover is an indicator of our success in achieving this objective.” - Managing Director Torbjørn Almlid.

*Gross turnover for Multix does not reflect a true picture in that the figure includes the re-investment of accumulated winnings

“We were helped in 2009 by the so-called “Grass Roots” share, which has contributed to our social engagement becoming even more visible to thousands of clubs and associations nationwide”, says Torbjørn Almlid.

In 2009 1.9 million Norwegians contributed to Norsk Tipping’s highest ever turnover. Turnover for traditional games was 10.9 billion kroner and the new Multix gaming terminals contributed with turnover after prizes were deducted of 156 millions. Through the Grass Roots allotments 520,000 players have contributed 210 million to small and large clubs and associations in their local communities.

“Norsk Tipping’s gaming terminals made a very healthy contribution to the growth in the Company’s net turnover, and we are extremely pleased with the results of the initial phase. The figures show that our concept for gaming terminals is gaining a firm foothold in the market, and this is very satisfying. Multix games will provide an excellent contribution to our total profits over time,” Almlid continues.

Turnover generated by the traditional Norsk Tipping games, excluding Multix, also showed good growth in 2009. It was the increase in turnover from Lotto, Viking Lotto, Flax and Joker that ensured that total turnover from the traditional games continued to rise.

“We are very pleased that these games are achieving an increase in turnover, but we are at the same time aware that several of our traditional lottery games are ripe for renewal and further development if they are to maintain their positions. It is also time to take a look at the games that are more vulnerable to competition, perhaps Oddsen in particular, where turnover showed a drop last year. Which make sit even more satisfying that Tipping is holding its own,” says Almlid.

“2009 was also a record year for the electronic channels. A steadily increasing number of players are discovering how practical and simple it is to play via the Internet or mobile telephone, and turnover in 2009 through electronic channels was 1 242 million kroner.

“Gaming through these channels is becoming increasingly important to us and has proven to be an effective and popular supplement to gaming at our agent’s facilities,” finishes Almlid.

For further information please CONTACT: Magne Vikøren, Press Spokesman, 92 82 71 08.

New Survey Data Released On Gambling Participation And Public Perceptions Of Gambling

BIRMINGHAM, U.K. (January 28, 2010) -- The UK Gambling Commission has today published survey data on gambling participation and public perceptions of gambling. The findings are based on questions in omnibus* surveys conducted by ICM Research.

The Commission has collected and published information on remote gambling participation for some time. In 2008 a new set of questions covering participation in all types of gambling activity was added. Both these data sets complement the British Gambling Prevalence Survey by providing more regular information on gambling participation among the general population.

Over the year to December 2009, 55.2% of the adults surveyed said they had gambled in the past four weeks. Over the same period 10.5% of respondents reported that they had participated in at least one form of remote gambling.

As far as public perceptions on gambling are concerned, this is the first time such data has been published by the Commission. The questions measure how far people in this country think, firstly gambling is fair and can be trusted, and secondly gambling is associated with criminal activity. Figures covering last year show that 49.6% of the adults surveyed agreed that gambling in this country is conducted fairly and can be trusted. This percentage was considerably higher among those who gamble. Less than half of all respondents (41.3%) agreed that gambling was associated with criminal activity.

You can see the data on the Omnibus survey page of the Commission website.

Further information CONTACT: John Travers on (0121) 230 6700, (07852) 124624 or email him via Email: j.travers@gamblingcommission.gov.uk.

Georgia Lottery Welcomes Powerball

ATLANTA, Georgia (January 29, 2010) -- The big jackpot game Powerball is coming to Georgia! Powerball tickets go on sale January 31, and the first drawing will be held February 3.

“We have implemented a monumental agreement in the lottery industry that will allow us to cross-sell Powerball and Mega Millions,” explained Georgia Lottery Corp. President and CEO Margaret DeFrancisco. “Adding Powerball is an exciting opportunity to provide our players with more chances to win large jackpots and to yield new revenue for lottery-funded HOPE Scholarships and Pre-K.”

Powerball tickets are $1 per play. Powerball drawings will be held on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Mega Millions drawings will continue to be held on Tuesdays and Fridays, providing Georgia Lottery players with four big jackpots per week.

As with all other Georgia Lottery games, proceeds from Powerball will benefit education in the state of Georgia.

Since its first year, the Georgia Lottery Corporation has returned more than $11.4 billion to the state of Georgia for education. All Georgia Lottery profits go to pay for specific educational programs including Georgia’s HOPE Scholarship Program and Georgia’s Pre-K Program. More than 1.2 million students have received HOPE, and more than 1 million 4-year-olds have attended the statewide, voluntary prekindergarten program.

 For more information on the Georgia Lottery Corporation and Powerball, please visit:

www.galottery.com and www.powerball.com.

CONTACT: Tandi Reddick, Media Relations Manager, Georgia Lottery Corporation, P: (404) 215-5062, F: (404) 215-8983, C: (404) 323-4644, Email: treddick@galottery.org.

Pollard Banknote Announces Intention to Convert to a Public Corporation and New Distribution Policy

WINNIPEG, Canada (January 28, 2010) -- Pollard Banknote Income Fund (TSX Symbol PBL.UN) (the "Fund") today announced its intention to convert the Fund from an income trust to a publicly listed corporation.

On January 28, 2009, the Board of Directors of Pollard Banknote Limited, General Partner of the operating business known as Pollard Banknote and the Board of Trustees of the Fund approved in principle a plan to convert the Pollard Banknote Income Fund into a publicly traded corporation, with conversion expected to occur May 2010.

Pollard Banknote has been proactively assessing several options available to provide long term stable growth to the business while minimizing the impact of the trust taxation legislated by the Federal Government in June of 2007. In addition, the ongoing opportunities and competitive pressures in the lottery market underline the need to continue to invest appropriate amounts in capital and technological improvements. Pollard Banknote believes the conversion to a corporation will help accomplish these objectives.

The conversion will utilize legislative tax-free conversion options and is expected to become effective in May 2010, following appropriate approvals and Unitholders vote at the annual general meeting to be held May 6th, 2010. It is anticipated that ultimately Unit-holders in the fund will hold shares in the new public corporation on a one for one basis compared to their current unit holdings.

After the conversion it is expected the new corporation will pay a dividend that will be in line with typical dividend payout ratios for publicly traded corporations. Accordingly the plan approved in principle by the Board sets out a quarterly dividend after conversion of $0.03 per share. Prior to the conversion, effective with the distribution payable March 15, 2010, its monthly distribution to Unit-holders will be adjusted to the equivalent rate of $0.01 per unit.

Further information on the conversion will be made available once the detailed plan has been completed.

Rationale and benefits of the conversion

On October 31, 2006, the Department of Finance announced the Specified Investment Flow-Through ("SIFT") trust income and distribution tax (the "SIFT Tax") which will apply to the Fund in 2011. In order to qualify under new legislation for a tax-free conversion the Fund must convert to a corporation before the end of 2013. Having regard to these legislative changes, as well as the opportunities to advance the Fund's long-term plan, the Fund believes it is in its best interests to proceed with the conversion at this time.

In addition:

• The conversion provides for an efficient and effective method of converting from a SIFT to a corporation consistent with existing legislation;
• The conversion is expected to be tax deferred for the Fund and Unit-holders resident in Canada such that no tax will be payable by the Fund or the Unit-holders resident in Canada as a result of the conversion;
• The new structure will simplify Pollard Banknote's interaction with capital providers such as banks, bonding companies and other financial institutions, as well as simplify its dealings with various gaming commissions and other regulatory agencies;
• Conversion to a publicly traded corporation will greatly simplify the current corporate structure and governance setup, allowing all Unit-holders to maintain their current ownership interests in one share class in the public corporation. In addition it is expected that administrative and overhead costs should be reduced;
• The operations of Pollard Banknote will be contained and disclosed in one consolidated financial statement, eliminating the requirement to have two separate financial statements, one for the business (Pollard Holdings Limited Partnership) and a separate financial statement and disclosure requirement for the Pollard Banknote Income Fund;
• The conversion will allow Pollard Banknote to reinvest a significant portion of its free cash flow into the business in order to capitalize on future growth opportunities, increase capital expenditures and strengthen the balance sheet by reducing debt;
• The conversion may result in greater access to capital and the removal of the "normal growth" and "undue expansion restrictions" in the SIFT legislation which limits Pollard Banknote's ability to consider strategic acquisitions.

Dividend policy

Following conversion, it is intended that Pollard Banknote will pay a quarterly dividend of $0.03 ($0.12 annually) per share. The expected dividend policy will allow Pollard Banknote to continue to achieve its growth objectives relating to capital and technological investments, strengthen the balance sheet through reduced debt and still maintain an ongoing cash return to its shareholders.

Distribution policy prior to conversion

The monthly cash distribution will be reduced to $0.01 per unit, consistent with the equivalent anticipated dividend rate, beginning with the distribution covering the period from February 1, 2010 to February 28, 2010. Payment of the February distribution will be made on March 15, 2010, to Unit-holders of record on February 26, 2010.

The cash distribution covering the period January 1, 2010 to January 31, 2010 was declared on January 9, 2010. Payment of the $0.0475 per unit will still be made on February 15, 2010, to Unit-holders of record on January 29, 2010.

Details of the Conversion

The conversion will take advantage of current legislation enabling a SIFT to convert to a public corporation on a tax free basis. The conversion is subject to completion of the detailed conversion plan and related agreements and is subject to various customary commercial conditions, including the receipt of various regulatory approvals. The mailing to the Fund's Unitholders of an information circular in respect of the meeting is expected to occur in April 2010 and the conversion is expected to occur in May 2010.

About Pollard Banknote Limited Partnership

Pollard Banknote Limited Partnership ("Pollard Banknote") is one of the world's leading full-service lottery vendors and is a major supplier to North America's charitable gaming industry. The firm manufactures instant tickets and provides related programming, design, and marketing support. As well, Pollard Banknote manufactures ticket vending machines, pull tab tickets and bingo paper, and supplies lottery management services (including warehousing and distribution). Established in 1907, the firm is owned by the Pollard family and the Pollard Banknote Income Fund and currently serves more than 45 lotteries worldwide, including some of the largest and most respected lotteries in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Central and South America.

About Pollard Banknote Income Fund

Pollard Banknote Income Fund (TSX: PBL.UN) is an unincorporated, open-end trust which owns 26.7% of Pollard Holdings Limited Partnership, which in turn owns Pollard Banknote Limited Partnership.

For further information: John Pollard, Co-Chief Executive Officer, Telephone: (204) 474-2323 ext 204, Facsimile: (204) 453-1375; Gordon Pollard, Co-Chief Executive Officer, Telephone: (204) 474-2323 ext 211, Facsimile: (204) 453-1375; Rob Rose, Chief Financial Officer, Telephone: (204) 474-2323 ext 250, Facsimile: (204) 453-1375.

Ladbrokes Joins European Sports Security Association

LONDON, UK (January 29, 2010) - The European Sports Security Association (ESSA) announces today that Ladbrokes, one of the world's leading betting and gaming companies, has joined the association.

ESSA was established in 2005 by some of the leading online sports book operators in Europe to monitor any unusual betting patterns or possible insider betting from within each sport. The organisation aims to provide an early-warning system to alert sport federations about irregularities in betting.

Ladbrokes is the first bookmaker with both an online and an offline operation to join ESSA.

Khalid Ali, Secretary-General of ESSA said: "This is an important step to ensuring ESSA becomes the industry standard organisation that has the support of both online and offline operators. We welcome Ladbrokes and we are sure they have an important contribution to developing industry-wide standards in this area. We would urge all operators in the industry, online and offline to work with ESSA."

Commenting on the move Mike O'Kane, LadbrokesTrading Director said: "The European Sports Security Association is dedicated to improving the sharing of information between betting operators and sports bodies. Currently the issue is surrounded by rumour and sensationalism, whereas in reality the incidence of betting corruption in sport is minimal. By giving regulators and sporting bodies a full and accurate picture of unusual betting patterns we can assist them in protecting the integrity and reputation of both sport and its participants."

Since 2005, ESSA has developed a close working relationship and signed memorandums of understanding with UEFA and many other sport federations such as the IOC, the ATP and FIFA.

SOURCE: Ladbrokes Press Release.

Powerball® and Mega Millions® Join Forces to Create Largest Market for Jackpot Games in the United States

Multi-State Games to Generate Additional Funds for States as Players Benefit from More Chances to Win Bigger Jackpots

NEW YORK, N.Y. (February 1, 2010) -- In the largest lottery agreement in U.S. history, Powerball® and Mega Millions® today launched their partnership, creating the largest market ever for jackpot games. As of Sunday, players in 33 jurisdictions were able to purchase tickets for both Powerball and Mega Millions at official lottery retail locations.

With this partnership in place, state lotteries can now offer players both jackpot games. Thirty-three jurisdictions, representing a combined population of 199 million people and 147,000 retail outlets, now offer two multi-jurisdiction jackpot games with four drawings a week, instead of one multi-jurisdiction game with two drawings a week. The market for these games has the potential to expand to 45 jurisdictions representing 291 million people and 182,000 retail outlets.

“Previously, individual state jurisdictions could only sell either Powerball or Mega Millions but not both,” said Rebecca Paul Hargrove, chairman, Powerball Group and president and chief executive officer, Tennessee Education Lottery. “With this historic agreement, more jackpot games are available each week, benefitting players, retailers and good causes.”

“Players have asked for more options to participate in large jackpots,” said Margaret DeFrancisco, co- chair of the Joint Powerball Mega Millions Working Committee, and president and chief executive officer, Georgia Lottery Corporation. “We’re excited to deliver this opportunity to create more winners and also to provide more opportunities to raise additional revenue for respected state programs.”

Since Powerball’s inception on February 10, 1988, and Mega Millions™ inception on August 31, 1996, the games have generated an astonishing $17.6 billion for good causes, such as education, senior programs, local towns and the environment. With two large multi-state games, participating jurisdictions are expected to generate substantially more money for these good causes.

“The joint initiative between the members of Powerball and Mega Millions has proven to be a well orchestrated collaborative effort that will serve as a benchmark for implementing future joint games,” said MUSL’s President, Tom Shaheen, Executive Director of the North Carolina Education Lottery, who has been instrumental in this process.

To mark the historical significance of this partnership, Grand Central Station will be buzzing today with activity. Lottery directors from across the country will be gathering for a press conference. Additionally, lottery directors and passers-by will celebrate with festivities including the ‘World’s Largest JackPIT,” in which Human Mega Millions balls and Powerballs will be jumping into a giant ball pit to mark this momentous occasion.

More Information

For more information on Powerball please visit www.powerball.com.

For more information on Mega Millions please visit: www.megamillions.com.

About Powerball and Mega Millions

Powerball, formerly known as Lotto America, began on February 10, 1988. The base jackpot starts at $20 million. Powerball drawings are held Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10:59 p.m. Eastern Time, 9:59 p.m. Central Time and 7:59 p.m. Pacific Time.

Mega Millions, formerly known as The Big Game, began on August 31, 1996. The base jackpot starts at $12 million. Mega Millions drawings are held Tuesdays and Fridays at 11:00 p.m. Eastern Time, 10:00 p.m. Central Time and 8:00 p.m. Pacific Time.

For Powerball and Mega Millions: Raphaele Schnoll, 312-339-8662, Email: Raphaele.schnoll@bm.com.

SOURCE: Powerball and Mega Millions.

Mega Millions® Ticket Sales Strong in South Carolina

COLUMBIA, South Carolina (February 1, 2010) – The debut of Mega Millions® in South Carolina is providing players with a second, multi-million dollar jackpot game from which to choose.

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Market Express #704, at 1027 Elmwood Avenue, in Columbia, recorded the first Mega Millions® ticket sale in the Palmetto State yesterday. The transaction was processed at approximately 2:30 a.m.

“Mega Millions® ticket sales are very encouraging for our first full day,” said Paula Harper Bethea, SCEL Executive Director. “We had a strong start and noticed players playing both Mega Millions® and Powerball®.”

More than 3,600 South Carolina Education Lottery (SCEL) retail outlets are offering Mega Millions® tickets. An historic agreement between the Powerball® and Mega Millions® groups made it possible for lottery jurisdictions to offer both multi-state jackpot games.

The addition of Mega Millions® to the Lottery’s lineup of games stands to potentially increase deposits to the Education Lottery Account.

Players now have four jackpot drawings each week, with millions of dollars in prizes. Mega Millions® jackpots begin at $12 million. Powerball® jackpots start at $20 million.

Mega Millions® drawings will be televised on the Lottery’s draw partner stations each Tuesday and Friday at 11 p.m. Powerball® drawings are held each Wednesday and Saturday at 10:59 p.m.

Since the Lottery’s inception in 2002, the General Assembly has appropriated more than $2.2 billion from lottery net proceeds for educational purposes through fiscal year 2010.

SOURCE: South Carolina Education Lottery (SCEL) Press Release.

Championship Wager: Lottery President Bets on the Saints

Visit www.facebook.com/louisianalottery to vote!

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana (February 2, 2010) - With less than a week until the big game on Sunday, Saints fans are making bets and Louisiana Lottery President Rose Hudson is no exception. She challenged her cohort in Indiana, Hoosier Lottery President Kathryn Densborn, to a friendly championship wager with each agreeing to submit themselves to the opposing team's traditions should their own team lose.  Fans will get to see the whole scenario play out online.

"I'm so confident that that our boys in black and gold will win that I have agreed to consume a plate of Indianapolis fried tenderloins and homemade root beer in front of the Superdome wearing a Indianapolis Colts jersey and singing 'Back Home in Indiana' if they don't!" exclaimed Hudson.

In turn, if the New Orleans Saints win the championship game, Densborn will have to do one of the following: second-line in front of Lucas Oil Stadium with a Mardi Gras umbrella wearing a Saints jersey, eat a raw oyster for every touchdown the Saints score during the game or sing "When the Saints Go Marching In" while wearing a Saints jersey in front of the Colts' stadium.  Fans will decide to which challenge she must submit by voting for their favorite on the Lottery's Facebook page, which just launched last week:

The votes will be tabulated on Sunday, right before kickoff.

As victory spoils, the "losing" lottery will videotape their leader performing the task and provide it to the "winning" lottery for posting on their Web site.

"The lottery industry thrives on collaboration and sharing," explained Hudson. "We're in a unique position to do that since we all have similar products but aren't competitors. This friendly challenge arose out of this spirit. It's also a great way to connect with our players and get them rallying around our home team and our brand."

Both the Louisiana Lottery and the Hoosier Lottery launched NFL team-themed scratch-off games this football season. The Lottery's Saints game sold out in December. Fans have until April 13 to send in their non-winning tickets from that game for the chance to win 2010 season tickets, autographed merchandise, lunch with the Saints' head coach and more.

Lottery ticket purchasers must be at least 21 years of age. Anyone with a gambling problem or friends of anyone with a gambling problem are encouraged to call toll-free 1-877-770-7867 for assistance. For security purposes, the Lottery recommends that players sign the back of their ticket after purchasing.

SOURCE: Louisiana Lottery.

OLG Lottery Tickets Shrink as Part of Agency’s Initiative ‘Bet-on-Green’

TORONTO, Ontario, Canada (January 27, 2010) - Good things come in small packages, even if they are lottery tickets. Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) is once again reducing the size of printed lottery tickets as part of its Bet-On-Green program, OLG’s ongoing commitment to being an environmentally friendly organization. This move saves 5,000 trees or 39 million sheets of paper from provincial landfills and $1.4 million dollars annually.

“To put this in perspective, the amount of paper we’ll now be saving on an annual basis is seven and a half times the height of the CN Tower in Toronto,” said Alex Hocevar, Senior Manager for Bet-On-Green.

Printed lottery tickets have been reduced in size by 25 percent - an additional 10 percent reduction over the initial 15 percent announced last year. A removal in ticket white space, marketing and promotion space and the reduction of brand logos all contribute to a smaller and more compact ticket.

Reducing the size of lottery tickets is an important step towards reducing OLG’s paper consumption and making a positive impact on the environment. Through its Bet-On-Green program, OLG has set a goal of reducing paper consumption by 80 percent. The ticket reduction initiative will contribute to 17 percent of the overall goal.

Bet-On-Green is an internal OLG program designed to improve the environmental impact of OLG’s operations, increase green awareness among customers and employees and become a global leader in energy-efficient gaming.

Using less paper is a key component of these environmental initiatives that also include efforts to power several OLG facilities across the province with electricity produced from clean and renewable sources.

Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG)

OLG is a provincial agency responsible for province-wide lottery games and gaming facilities. Since 1975, OLG lotteries, casinos, slots, and resort casinos have generated more than $28 billion for the benefit of the Province of Ontario. Gaming proceeds support Ontario's hospitals, amateur sport, recreational and cultural activities, communities, provincial priority programs such as health care and education, and local and provincial charities and non-profit organizations through the Ontario Trillium Foundation.

SOURCE: Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) Press Release.