New Vice President and General Manager of Grand Lodge Casino
A former minor league baseball player associated with the St. Louis Cardinals and a graduate of UNLV has been appointed as vice president and general manager of the Grand Lodge Casino at Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe. The Nevada Gaming Commission approved Anthony Russo’s licensing following the recommendation from the Gaming Control Board. The commission also permitted the casino to initiate Boomer’s Sportsbook in northern Nevada.
Background in Gaming Industry
With over three decades of experience in the gaming industry, Russo holds licenses in five states. He was drafted by the Cardinals in 1987 and subsequently played for the Kansas City Royals, where he also engaged in coaching at the Major League level.
Russo remarked on his career transition: “I decided to move on with a real life career,” referring to his start as a dice dealer on a gaming boat in Illinois. He has since advanced through various roles and has worked with corporations such as Station Casinos, Pinnacle Entertainment, and Harrah’s, as well as tribal gaming in Oklahoma.
Responsibilities at Grand Lodge Casino
At the Grand Lodge, Russo focuses solely on the gaming operations, which employs approximately 80 staff members. He noted that employee recruitment is challenging, primarily due to the high cost of living in Incline Village.
In 2021, billionaire Larry Ellison acquired the property for $345 million and is investing an additional $100 million in renovations to transform it into an ultra-luxury resort. Commission member Brian Krolicki expressed anticipation over the upcoming changes: “He wants an ultra-luxury resort, and that can only be a good thing for you.”
Construction and Future Prospects
Full House Resorts leases the casino, and Krolicki inquired about the effects of ongoing construction on its operations. Russo indicated that the lodges attract high-end players seeking beach accommodations while visiting the casino and views the construction as an opportunity.
He projected that the renovations would be complete by 2027, adding, “The weather is cooperating, so hopefully they will be ahead of schedule.” Russo expressed excitement about the renovations that will also involve the hotel property.
Partnership and Rent Agreement
According to Russo, the Hyatt ownership is collaborating with the casino by freezing rent for two years and providing restaurant discounts. He remarked, “It’s a win, and they understand we’re a partnership.” By attracting significant players to the casino, he noted that this arrangement would benefit both entities through increased restaurant engagement.
