Caesars' eastern boss Rockin' Don stepping down

(AP) A Caesars Entertainment casino executive known as Rockin' Don is stepping down after more than three years as president of the company's eastern division.

Nevada-based Caesars Entertainment Corp. said in a statement Friday evening Don Marrandino is pursuing other interests.

Marrandino took the position in Atlantic City, N.J., in 2009, overseeing Caesars Atlantic City, Bally's Atlantic City, Showboat Casino Hotel and Harrah's Resort Atlantic City.

Marrandino is a friend of rock singer Sammy Hagar. He opened a bar with country star Toby Keith and has jammed onstage with folk rock singer John Eddie.

Kevin Ortzman will become general manager of all the Caesars properties in Atlantic City except for Harrah's if regulators approve. John Smith would remain the Harrah's general manager.

Marrandino's departure was first reported by The Press of Atlantic City newspaper (http://bit.ly/1019Xjt).