One Casino Thriving, Despite Recession

Three times a week for the past five years Mario Brown has made the trek from Everett to Kitsap to try his luck at the area’s tribal casinos.

Even the national economy’s continuing downward spiral — the steady rise in unemployment, major corporations closing doors and significant industry declines in nearly every business sector — Brown’s not sweating laying down the dough for frivolous fun.

He still makes his tri-weekly excursions. However, his gambling style has seen a cutback.

He always used to bet the maximum $3 while playing his favorite slots, now his bets cap at 30 cents per whirl of the lucky 7’s. He used to drop $1,000 a night. Now he only allots $100 to $200 for an evening on the gaming floor.

“I’m spending less,” Brown said, playing slots at The Point Casino Feb. 4. “I don’t really feel safe in this economy, whereas before I didn’t have to worry about having a cushion, so now it’s scary. I spend less at each trip rather than not coming.”

He knows of others who are getting nervous and not coming as much, or not at all.

For the complete story, please see Tara Lemm, Suquamish Casino thriving — and hiring — despite recession, North Kitsap Herald, February 13, 2009.