Ex-Gambling Executive Benninger Dies - 2004-03-01
Fred Benninger, a former gambling executive who also chaired the MGM Grand and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer movie studios, has passed away. He was 86.

Benninger--who helped develop some of the city's best-known properties, including the gigantic MGM Grand hotel-casino--died Sunday at his Las Vegas home after a brief illness.

"He was a towering force in shaping ... the gaming profession and was a tremendous influence in building our industry,'' said Terry Lanni, chairman and chief executive officer of the MGM Mirage.
Read the full story at Atlanta Journal Constitution

Las Vegas man in Moulin Rouge arson case sentenced to prison - 2004-03-01
A man who burned down the historic Moulin Rouge casino has been sentenced to 51 months in federal prison and was demanded to pay $5.6 million in restitution.

Fred Ball, 45, was charged with arson and aiding and abetting in connection with the May 29 fire that destroyed the casino, which is located about a mile northwest of downtown Las Vegas.

Ball was sentenced Feb. 20 in a closed federal court hearing and his case remains sealed, said Natalie Collins, a spokeswoman with the U.S. Attorney's office.
Read the full story at Las Vegas Sun