Q: Do non-employee participants on talk shows get paid for their appearances? — George Fox, Roswell
A: It depends on their status and the kind of show. Someone who belongs to the Screen Actors Guild will receive a fee for appearing on an entertainment talk show such as "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" or "Live with Kelly and Michael." A big star might receive more money than lesser-known actors, who usually appear to promote a movie. Someone promoting a book or who has been involved in a human interest story might have his or her travel expenses (airfare, hotel and meals) paid for by the show, but they most likely won't receive additional money for appearing on the show. News shows, including everything from "60 Minutes" and "Meet the Press" to "Today" and "Good Morning America," generally don't pay their guests unless they are an actor/actress, regular or panelist.
Q: Do you know whether the casino in Shorter, Ala., is open or closed? — Alice Gee, Loganville
A: VictoryLand Greyhound Park is open for simulcast dog and horse race wagering from facilities throughout the U.S., but its 1,615 electronic gaming machines were seized by the state in February. The casino closed when the facility was raided, but it reopened the parimutuel part on March 15. President and CEO Milton McGregor said VictoryLand games are electronic bingo, but the Alabama Supreme Court issued an opinion March 1 calling them illegal slot machines, not electronic bingo, according to the Auburn-Opelika News. VictoryLand's number is 1-800-688-2946.
Andy Johnston wrote this column. Do you have a question about the news? We’ll try to get the answer. Call 404-222-2002 or email q&a@ajc.com (include name, phone and city).
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