Industry News
The Wildwood casino's revenues, moreover, are poised to continue growing, despite a state smoking ban in public places. Casino owners throughout the state are rebelling against the prohibition.
According to Kevin Werner, the general manager of the casino, which opened May 31, executives had some concern about the casino's Cripple Creek location, as it was not located downtown, where all the local festival activities have historically been.
But, Werner believes Wildwood doesn't need the downtown locale, due to its uptown feel. "Our market research tells us there were quite a few trips going from Pueblo and Colorado Springs to Black Hawk casinos in Gilpin County. We feel like we can capture some of that."
Werner says the gambling industry actually may benefit from gas prices, if gamblers decide to take shorter trips instead of longer trips. Others believe that online gambling is going to continue to soar, due to high gas prices. Gamers can place wagers online, and not have to spend a penny in their cars to travel to a resort casino location.
That's what Gene Skubal of Pueblo did by coming to Wildwood this past Sunday. "We usually ride the bus. But this time, we decided to spend the night this weekend," said Skubal, who also gambles online.
Another gambler from Pueblo says for now, trips to cripple Creek are worth the extra gas expense for her and her husband. "We don't take big vacations," says Merline Brinson. "So we come to Cripple Creek once or twice a month. Gas prices might affect us, but we'll be here."
Many casinos await the outcome of a court hearing next week, for three casinos cited for violating the smoking ban.
The Double Eagle has since changed its stance, but Bronco Billy's and The Midnight Rose still allow cigarette and cigar smoking within their buildings, despite the public ban.
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