Penn National Gaming Names VP

WYOMISSING, Pennsylvania -- (PRESS RELEASE) -- Penn National Gaming, Inc. (Nasdaq: PENN) today announced that Richard J. Klemp has been named Vice President, Government Relations. Mr. Klemp will be representing the company's interests on legislative matters at the local, state and federal levels. He will report to Eric Schippers, Vice President, Public Affairs & Government Relations.

Richard Klemp brings more than 30 years of experience in government affairs, public relations, and communications to Penn National. Most recently, Mr. Klemp served for 11 years as Regional Vice President, Government Relations for Harrah's Entertainment, Inc., where he was responsible for the company's legislative and regulatory activities in Indiana, Missouri, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky and other states where Harrah's has operations or development interests. Prior to joining Harrah's, Mr. Klemp worked for Miller Brewing Company as Vice President, Corporate Affairs, where he oversaw the company's Washington, D.C.-based government affairs office and seven regional offices.

Kevin DeSanctis, President and Chief Operating Officer of Penn National Gaming, commented on the appointment: "With the pending closing of the Argosy Gaming Company acquisition, Richard's well-established relationships and in-depth knowledge of the legislative process in the states where Argosy has operations will play an important role as we enter these new jurisdictions. The addition of Richard to our Public Affairs team will support Penn National's initiatives to proactively address tax policies and other critical interests in the state and federal legislatures."