A behind-the-scenes look at Treasure Island

Treasure Island Resort & Casino took a little gamble last week, bringing together its slot machine vendors and the people who play the games.

"This is really about educating people and dispelling myths," Cindy Taube said. "No, there's no person behind there pulling little levers."

People could look inside slot machines, learn about the computerization and mathematics involved, quiz casino staff, take a class on blackjack and listen to a panel of experts in the gaming industry.

Two other casinos sent staff people to check out the open house/expo Friday and Saturday.

"They said, 'Are you crazy?' No, we're not," Taube said, adding "This is the first time anyone has done this in the industry."

Taube, who works in the marketing department, indicated the casino may do it again next year.

• Downtown Main Street has settled into its new location, 207 East Ave. The Cogel Phelps Building also houses the Red Wing Area Chamber of Commerce.

• March is National Nutrition month. Liz Knapp, registered/licensed dietitian from Fairview Red Wing Health Services, educated people March 31 about cutting cholesterol, fat, sodium and calories from their diets; portion control; and reading labels.

•Katy Lindberg of Hastings recently received Farmers Insurance's Life Leadership Award. Lindberg, who also serves Red Wing and assists with training agents, earned the award based on sales along with efforts in promoting education about life insurance.

Tags: business notebook, business