“This is good, this is good so far,” said Santana, of MGM Springfield, who noted he’s been to casinos in Atlantic City, New Orleans and Las Vegas. “We had nothing else to do today,” said Genest, who is retired.įred Santana, a retired postal worker from New Salem, said that he loves the atmosphere of casinos. George, Vermont, for the casino opening, which he said is 250 miles away. Joe Genest said that he traveled from St. “Winning money,” she said, on what she was looking forward to most about the day.

Gallo said that she normally gambles at Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun in Connecticut. There was even a man who attended the opening to enjoy some family fun with his children.Ĭarla Gallo, a postal worker and real estate agent from North Branford Connecticut, said she came out, “For the experience of the opening of a casino.”

Some came to game, others to enjoy the atmosphere, and many showed up simply to satisfy their curiosity. Inside the casino was also bustling, with swirling crowds playing slots and casino games and standing in a long line to sign up for the M life Rewards loyalty program. Yet the ability to check out the resort’s wares at any time did not appear to deter opening day crowds.Īccording to MGM, about 10,000 people showed up for grand opening festivities outside, a mass that stretched all the way around the block from State Street to Main Street. The casino and resort, a $960 million project MGM began in 2011, will be open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. SPRINGFIELD - When MGM Springfield officially opened its doors Friday morning, one thing was certain: As long as it is in business, it will never close.

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