Showing off its new blue-and-silver wave-patterned décor, the 0 million Rhythm City Casino Resort recently opened in Davenport, Iowa, replacing its former riverboat operation. Chief Executive Officer Dan Kehl said, “It’s unlike anything else in the Quad Cities. We’re really proud of it.”
General Manager Mo Hyder added, “In a little less than a year, we’ve turned a cornfield into a beautiful facility. This facility, combined with the outstanding customer service team we have in place, will make this the best casino experience along the Mississippi River. Not only is this move economically advantageous, but it allowed us to address issues that we couldn’t address being on the river.”
For example, Hyder said, “It allowed us to build an entertainment venue with a multitude of amenities.” He noted patrons never will pay a cover charge for local and touring bands playing the room. “We didn’t have a venue for it. This provides us a lot of flexibility, an event center to have large concerts. We’re always looking for good acts that are touring.”
The new casino resort created 1,000 construction jobs and 300 permanent positions. It offers a 106-room hotel, full-service Aveda spa, retail outlets, buffet, Draft Day sports lounge and a fine dining restaurant, plus a 1,500-seat event center.
Contractor Brian Peters said, “It’s been a long time and a lot of hard work. It feels good to finally have people here enjoying it.” Contractor Cindy Burke added, “I’ve been here all the way up to today, and it’s been amazing to see it come together. It’s a beautiful facility.”
Hader commented, “We want to thank the contractors and employees who have worked so hard to bring this in on time and on schedule. And we want to thank the families of both who have sacrificed a lot of their time with their loved ones while they’ve been working.”
On June 24, the Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf plans to open its new $60-million, land-based gaming and entertainment facility 223 feet from the current riverboat. Opening ceremonies start at 10 a.m.
“We plan to mark the grand opening with celebrations throughout the day on June 24 and throughout the first week culminating with a River to Rock concert featuring Wynonna and the Big Noise on July 1,” Nancy Ballenger, vice president and general manager, said in a recent release.
Vanna White and Roger Craig will be special guests on June 24. Ms. White, known for her role on the Wheel of Fortune TV show, was in Bettendorf for the Diamond Lady’s first voyage 25 years ago on April 1, 1991. Mr. Craig, who played football for Davenport Central and won three Super Bowls with the San Francisco 49ers in the 1980s, was on hand in 1995 when Lady Luck Casino opened in Bettendorf.
“We encourage all of our customers to check out our Facebook page for a chance to win the opportunity to meet Vanna and Roger in person,” Ms. Ballenger said.
On June 24, the first 223 people in line by 10 a.m. will get $10 in free Fan Play and a commemorative opening day T-shirt. On June 25, the first 1,000 customers will receive $22.30 in free play.
The party culminates July 1 at the “River to Rock” concert in the Quad Cities Waterfront Convention Center featuring Wynonna and the Big Noise. Tickets are $40, available at thebiglittlemove.com.
The new 35,000-square-foot casino will have three restaurant options — Farmer’s Pick Buffet, Keller’s American Grill Restaurant and Keller’s Express — as well as the Lone Wolf Bar on the gaming floor.
