GAMING

Another Stratosphere Exec Resigns: Las Vegas-based Stratosphere Corp. said David Wirshing resigned as president and that Richard Schuetz, a 25-year gaming industry executive, was named interim president. Wirshing is the second top executive in a week to leave after the company reported a 24% drop in earnings. Chairman Bob Stupak resigned last week and has been succeeded by Chief Executive Lyle Berman. Stratosphere’s stock price has fallen 71% since it opened its Las Vegas Strip casino April 29. Business at the property has been hurt by retail shops only partly completed, a lack of hotel rooms and its out-of-the way location. Stratosphere also said its investor relations and corporate communications offices will be consolidated under Grand Casinos, which owns a 42% stake. Stratosphere stock rose 37.5 cents to $3.25; Grand Casinos fell 50 cents to $18.875.