The once-prosperous property that, in its heyday, was owned by Frank Sinatra and frequented by the likes of the Rat Pack, Marilyn
“As many of you know the Cal Neva Casino has lost money since the day Luna began operating it in January of 2007,” Jim Oegema, president of Luna Entertainment, which ran the casino, wrote in a memo to employees nearly a year ago. “The only reason the casino has remained open for the last three years is because the owner of Luna provided funds to the casino to allow it to pay its operating expenses.”
In a recent telephone interview, Emily Heidt, spokeswoman for Canyon Capital Realty Advisors — which owns the resort — confirmed the casino is expected to open early this upcoming February.
Eric Dale, general manager of Baldini's Sports Casino in Sparks, confirmed Wednesday he will oversee gaming operations at the Cal Neva.
Gaming operations are currently undergoing the licensing process with the Nevada Gaming Control Board; Dale said he hopes to obtain proper permits by the end of January.
Initially, gaming operations will be small, with video poker available at the bar, and slots placed in the lobby area, he said.
“It will be a small offering at first,” Dale said. “That is based on the time of year, as casinos rely more on the local market during the winter.”
Dale said he is well aware of the historical cache that abounds at the North Shore casino, which resides on the California/Nevada state line at North Tahoe. Its hotel sits on the California side, while the casino portion is in Nevada.
“It's a really cool place when you think of the historical context,” he said. “Plus, it's a beautiful spot; there's great views of the lake, it's a great place to hold weddings. We're excited to be there.”
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