As the Vegas strip has flourished, the workers to support the demands of the
constant stream of Jacks and Jills have expanded with it. The Las Vegas
Metropolitan area is now home to well in excess of 1 million inhabitants, many
of whom are employed in the casino industry.
When Frank Fertitta Jr. opened the Bingo Palace over 25 years ago -- later
renamed Palace Station -- his bet was that at least some of those locals would
like a place to get away from the throngs of tourists on the strip. Whether
they stop in for just an after shift cocktail or to enjoy some casino action
themselves, the Station brand has been built on providing higher payouts,
lower table limits, and reasonably priced food and drink to Vegas locals.
Fertitta's bet paid off. Not only do the locals frequent the Station casinos,
but visitors in the know who don't mind a lack of pretense make their way off
the strip to get in on the action. Now under the direction of Frank's son,
Frank Fertitta III, Station Casinos have interests in 9 properties in Nevada.
The opening of the Green Valley Ranch Resort might signal a slight change in
direction for Station Casinos; the resort is markedly more chic with
restaurants like the Border Grill and Il Fornaio, and a hip poolside nightspot
in Whiskey Sky. But considering the upscale neighborhood, Green Valley Ranch
seems like a local's casino, just for a wealthier clientele.
