Mount Airy Casino Opens
ROSA YUM
WNEP.com
October 22, 2007
It was an historic day in the Poconos Monday, opening for the $412 million dollar Mount Airy casino, the first stand-alone casino in Pennsylvania.
People lined up outside the casino before the casino opened its doors at noon. Patrons had to wait for the opening ceremony to finish before they were allowed inside to try their luck.
At the grand opening ceremony Dunmore businessman and owner, Louis DeNaples, received the long-awaited and coveted slot license.
“The Mount Airy Casino Resort gives us tangible proof of the great things we can accomplish when individuals, communities and the government work together, plan ahead and work as a team,” DeNaples said.
After the ribbon cutting, friends congratulated DeNaples on his success in finally opening the first stand-alone casino in Pennsylvania.
“(It will) bring a lot of industry, bring a lot of jobs, and bring a lot of money back into the area,” DeNaples added.
While the ceremony was going on, hundreds of people had already lined up at another entrance.
“We’ve been going to Mohegan Sun too to tell you the truth,” said Bill George of Sheppton, who added he was at Mount Airy because it was the grand opening.
As soon as they were allowed in at noon, patrons hit the slots.
“We have a family where I love spas, my mom loves poker and my dad loves the slots. So I’m really hoping for a great variety here. Good spas, I hear, are coming soon, good restaurants and something for the whole family,” said Sue George of Blue Bell.
Some were reminiscing about the old days while marveling at the transformation.
“You know, when I was at Mount Airy Lodge? Like, 45 years ago, in my senior class trip. It was beautiful then, yeah,” said Monica Wichowski of Wilkes-Barre. “I like it! I like to gamble.”
There are four restaurants in the casino complex. The 188-room hotel is scheduled to open next month.
The night club and a spa will open by the end of this year.
