Judge says no to Madigan casino exit strategy - 2004-01-16
Attorney General Lisa Madigan might have a decision to make.

Her highly publicized solution to the legal morass over the state's 10th casino license isn't going anywhere if she insists on having the option to back
out if she doesn't like the outcome, the federal judge presiding over the situation said Thursday.

Officials in Madigan's office don't see the judge's comments that way and a spokeswoman insisted nothing has changed.
Read the full story at Chicago Daily Herald

Real characters, no gimmicks in 'Cooler' - 2004-01-16
Bernie Lootz's sad eyes examine the casino floor, and he shuffles into action. A high roller is having a winning streak at a craps table. Bernie walks near him, maybe just brushes his sleeve, and the guy's luck sours.

Bernie takes no delight in this, it is merely a confirmation of something he has known for a long time: "People get next to me -- their luck turns. It's been like that my whole life." How does he do it? "I do it by being myself."
Read the full story at Albany Times Union