First things first: We contacted the PR representative for the Silverton, who got the skinny for us from the Director of Construction. Apparently, two thirds of the old RV park has been converted to temporary parking lots for use while the hotel tower, casino addition, and new parking structure are being built. The master plan calls for this land to eventually be a mixed-use area with retail, hotel rooms, and a new casino. (We're not sure what's happening with the remaining third right now -- presumably not much.)
That's not the only new construction the property's been undertaking either: Check out the pictures of the Silvertons's cool new sign, below, which was installed on Friday, March 23 at the west corner of Dean Martin Drive and Blue Diamond Road. At 25', it's 10' taller than the old sign and measures 54' long x 25' high, with LED screens that measure 16' wide x 9' tall.
As to the second question, it was the AOL CityGuide that awarded the Silverton the accolade of "Best Locals Casino" this year.
The way that the AOL awards work is that the Web site nominates candidates based on recommendations from their locally based correspondents and then readers vote on their favorites. Apparently, the Silverton, which will celebrate its 10th anniversary this summer, was chosen primarily for its "good grub* and entertainment." The property's Shady Grove Lounge also took third place in the "Best Cocktails" category and the Mermaid Restaurant and Lounge was honored in the list of "Best Conversation Bars." (If you don't feel like chatting, watching the aquariums is a very soothing alternative.) Other properties awarded by AOL's readers included: Bellagio ("Best Casino" and "Best Poker Room"); Social House ("Best Late-Night Dining"); Rouge at MGM Grand ("Best Bar"); and PURE ("Best Celebrity Spotting").
The Las Vegas Review-Journal's most recent award for "Best Locals Casino" went to Red Rock Resort, which finished second in the AOL awards and was the top pick of both R-J readers and its staff for features including its navigability, stylish design, cool pool areas, and spa, which were incorporated without sacrificing important amenities for locals, including the buffet, movie theaters, and coffee shop specials. Not to mention Station Casinos' Boarding Pass players club.
While Red Rock may have been the R-J's pick for "Best Locals Casino," the Silverton just garnered another great accolade from the staff, namely "Best Video Poker," thanks both to the quantity and caliber of the machines and to the free Tuesday video poker classes given by R-J columnist, HP author, and all-round video poker guru Bob Dancer. If you can't make it to the lessons or want to keep your skills up between visits, just click here to purchase Bob's best-selling tutorial software, Video Poker For Winners.
Congrats to all.
*Remember to mention the Silverton's ad in the Las Vegas Review-Journal at the Players Club booth today and tomorrow for a buy one, get one free meal coupon for Seasons Buffet or Mi Casa Grill Cantina.
