[foxvince]

Casino Opens at WR Downs
12 December 2005

CLAREMORE, Oklahoma -- As reported by the Claremore Progress: "Principal Chief Chad Smith's vision of making Will Rogers Downs the future home of the world stickball championships may garner a few smiles but seems a likely reality considering the resurrection of the dormant racetrack east of Claremore on Highway 20.

"On Friday, Smith and Cherokee Nation Enterprises CEO David Stewart, along with Joe Lucas of the State Racing Commission, officially opened the doors to what is now being called the Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs.

"The 236-acre complex now features 250 electronic games, simulcast horse racing, a restaurant, dance floor, sidewalk café, live entertainment stage, new parking lots and new signage.

"Smith told Claremore and Rogers County officials in attendance at the event, the Cherokee Nation has even 'greater plans for Will Rogers downs, in addition to the horse racing, entertainment and RV park.'..."

[ThomasR]

Sounds like thats going to become a really big development in time, although I'm sure the local community won't say no to the increased revenue generated from the casino alone, as well as the jobs created.