Jerrold, I could not make the Vernon opening due to last minute emergencies.
However, Grant Robertson from BLSH had this to say:
"I had the pleasure of attending Lake City's grand opening event for its new Vernon Casino on Tuesday. I thought I would share my observations with our subscribers. In the words of a BC Lotteries Commission spokesperson I talked to, "Lake City's new Vernon casino has raised the standard for the industry in the province today." "We have an excellent working relationship with the company." I prompted the official regarding Lake City's Penticton proposal. While she would not confirm the receipt of final approvals, she certainly indicated that Lake City was the most likely candidate. Having seen several of the province's casinos, there is no question that the Vernon casino is impressive in comparison. The Santa Fe theme certainly enhanced the atmosphere.
Within 5 minutes of the casino doors opening at 10:00am, about 90% of the 177 slot machines were being used. By dinner time, virtually every slot machine and gaming table was being utilized. Over 350 VIP delegates including investors, the media, brokers/analysts, Vernon city council members, BC Lotteries officials, and others, attended the event, in addition to several hundred Vernon residents. It was impressive to see the support for the company and its casino. The Mayor of Vernon gave a short speech congratulating the company on the new casino and giving a glowing endorsement of the economic benefits the project has and will continue to bring to the city.
For than 50 tour buses have made reservations for the next few months. The Village Green Hotel where the casino is located, is situated at the base of the road that leads to Silver Star Ski resort. The company has immediate plans to capture the interest of skiers vacationing at the mountain.
I walked away from the casino last night with a very favorable impression of the new facility and can only speculate how impressive the new Kelowna casino will be when it is completed in May 1999.
Shareholders will also be pleased to know that I contributed a few $$$ to Q2 "gross casino revenues". If you have any specific questions regarding the new facility, please feel free to post your question. "
Grant -----
Hope this helps.
Hotels hey.... not a bad idea !!
later
DM |