Split Rock Resort and Fernwood Resort in Bushkill Considering Opening Slots Casinos

It was announced on March 28, 2007 that the Split Rock Resort on Blakeslee and the Fernwood Resort in Bushkill are both considering getting a slots license so that they will be able to offer their customers slots gaming.

In November 2006, the casino operated by the Mohegan Sun at the Pocono Down opened for business near the Wilkes-Barre area. The Mount Airy Resort and Casino plans to open in November with about 1,000 slot machines.

The Fernwood Resort located in the Monroe County and the Split Rock Resort in the Carbon County have expressed interest in acquiring a license that will ultimately allow them to offer about 500 slot machines. Fernwood Spokeswoman, Gina Bertucci, said that they have already met with the Gaming Control Board to discuss the regulations that Fernwood has to follow in order to win the license.

However, they have not yet made a final decision on whether they will apply for a license or not. Just a mile away from the Fernwood Resort is the local business, Log Cabin Restaurant and Bar. Log Cabin owner, Cheryl Bateman, said that a slots casino in the area would be a great economic development in the area because tourists and visitors would certainly pick up.

Business customers in the area commented they are not against the slots plan. Harold Sippel, from the Middle Smithfield Township, commented that the slots profits may be used to reduce the taxes that the residents pay for their properties and even school taxes.

Bill Kiss from East Stroudsburg said that he is not against the idea of a slots parlor in the area, but he still prefers to play casino table games. Nonetheless, before Fernwood can offer slot machines in their resort, they have to first file an application in Harrisburg. The state will begin reviewing the slots license application next month.

Sunday, 08 April 2007
Caroline Mitchell