More slots, more jobs...take a look inside the Okanagan's newest casino facility.
-------Casino deals out new digs--------By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: June 09, 2009 7:00 PM
With the sights and sounds of flashing lights and bells and whistles around every corner, Vernon’s new casino is like a midway for grown-ups. And large crowds are expected to flock to the Anderson Way site as Lake City Casino unveils its latest operation today at 6 p.m. “As an entertainment option, it’s more than we’ve been able to provide before,” said Jeff Pascoe, vice-president, of the 30,000-square-foot structure. “We have raised the bar. We didn’t want it to be a small transformational change.” The new casino has capacity for 1,600 people, whereas only 400 could squeeze into the old one at the Village Green Hotel. “There’s lots of room to move,” said Suzanne Carter, director of marketing. The main room is dominated by 400 slot machines that provide encouraging noises as patrons try to strike it rich. Virtually every colour of the spectrum can be found piercing the surroundings. “There’s some impressive signage. I think customers will love it,” said Carter.
In an adjacent room, there are eight electronic gaming tables, including blackjack and lightning poker. “We’re the first casino to have completely electronic gaming,” said Bridget Armstrong, general manager. “It’s very interactive and pit hosts will be walking around and interacting with the players.” Versions of the electronic tables are used in the U.S., including in Las Vegas.
Next door is the 90-seat Sevens Bar and Grill. “It’s a new concept in the gaming industry. It’s a landmark in town,” said Jorge Manning, food and beverage manager. A stage in the restaurant will play host to live entertainment,, while UFC and pay-per-view will be available on a big screen. Beyond providing residents with new entertainment options, the casino is playing a role in the North Okanagan’s economic development. Construction cost $10 million and it will employ 140 people. “We’re also looking for local suppliers so we can contribute to the economy,” said Pascoe. Long-term plans include a banquet hall for 150 people. As part of construction, surveillance cameras have been installed and security staff hired. “This is about ensuring the integrity of the game and the safety of patrons,” said Pascoe.
The process to build a new operation began in mid-2007 and Lake City Casino had to overcome numerous hurdles at city hall including pressure to fund a social responsibility program and a bylaw only allowing 300 slot machines in the community. Council members amended that rule to 400 machines Monday. Much of the opposition from some politicians revolved around gambling addiction and what they saw as a financial drain on underprivileged families. However, Pascoe says Lake City Casino takes gambling addiction seriously. “We’ve got programs where patrons can exclude themselves (from the casino),” he said.The B.C. Lottery Corporation also has a booth that provides customers with information on addiction issues.
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