When Thistledown Racino opens in Spring 2013, it will bring new and fun offerings to Northeast Ohio including gaming and live entertainment in addition to its tradition of live and simulcast racing. Renovations to update and add more than one thousand video lottery terminals (VLTs) to Thistledown began in August 2012 and are expected to exceed $88 million. The construction team, led by a Cleveland-based team from Whiting & Turner, is working diligently to transform the main level of the facility.
“The addition of VLTs will add a new element of excitement to Thistledown which is a property with a great tradition of live action racing,” said Rick Skinner, general manager of Thistledown Racino. “We are thrilled to share this property with our community and to continue to grow our Total Rewards network right here in Northeast Ohio.”
Skinner joins Thistledown Racino as the General Manager bringing more than 15 years of experience in finance, operations and marketing with Caesars Entertainment. Skinner most recently served as the Regional Vice President of Finance for Caesar Entertainment’s three Tunica Properties (Horseshoe, Harrah’s and Tunica Roadhouse.)
New updates offer guests an inviting experience
When guests enter the 57,000 sq. ft. gaming floor at Thistledown Racino, they will have the opportunity to explore a variety of VLTs of various denominations as well as dining and nightlife spots.
Highlights of the gaming floor include:
- 1,150 VLTs across indoor and an outdoor gaming space that allows smoking
- VLTs will feature the latest game themes including Superman, Jaws, Super Monopoly Money, Plinko Jackpots, Mr. Cashman Live as well as classic favorites like Wheel of Fortune and Stinkin’ Rich.
- Two jumbo games measuring 8-ft. tall. These reel machines offer a unique gaming experience.
Dining and nightlife will be the centerpiece of the new Thistledown Racino with these features:
- The Diner – A Modern Twist on a traditional diner, the Thistledown Diner will serve tasty and affordable food and drinks that maintain the comfort of American classics. Open 24 hours, The Diner will serve breakfast all day along with gourmet sandwiches and salads, burgers and comfort foods.
- Food Court – Centrally located within Thistledown Racino’s gaming floor, it will offer guests two grab-and-go options: American burgers and a deli. The Burger Bar will offer juicy build-your-own burgers, hand cut french fries and hand-dipped shakes, malts and floats. The Mane Street Deli will be a fresh approach to the traditional sandwich shop offering overstuffed sandwiches with hand carved deli meats and 25 toppings and sauces.
- Steaks & Rings – Taking over the space formerly known as “Silks”, Steaks & Rings will offer another casual, quality dining option for Thistledown Racino guests with (add brief menu description).
- Slush – Slush will be the centerpiece of Thistledown Nightlife by featuring a twist on classic frozen cocktails. Slush will feature more than 20 unique frozen drinks including classics like Margaritas and Mojitos. Slush will also offer live entertainment and a unique gaming porch – a covered patio that lets guest enjoy VLTs and live racing and entertainment at the same time. The gaming porch also allows smoking.
- Center Bar – A sports bar featuring multiple television screens and sports memorabilia, enjoy all the action that Thistledown Racino has to offer right in the center of the gaming floor.
Thistledown Racino Joins Total Rewards Network
Thistledown Racino will also become a Total Rewards property. Total Rewards is the guest loyalty program offered by Caesars Entertainment for all of its properties, membership is free by visiting www.totalrewards.com. Guests can earn and redeem credits at all of the Total Rewards properties. Participants must be 21 or older to sign-up for a Total Rewards membership.
Employment Opportunities available
Thistledown Racino is also seeking 600 friendly and outgoing new team members to support its new gaming, dining and nightlife offerings. Employment opportunities are available in food and beverage, security, human resources, marketing, finance and more. Previous experience is not required as new team members will undergo an extensive training program prior to Thistledown Racino’s opening. Interested candidates can apply online at www.caesarscareers.com.
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