What's Everyone Saying About Rivers Casino Opening?

It's no surprise that the grand opening of the new Rivers Casino in Des Plaines was big news Monday. The first casino to open in Cook County, Rivers was a long time coming. It follows the final casino license in Illinois being awarded almost 20 years ago to the neighboring Village of Rosemont, only to be revoked and subsequently awarded to the City of Des Plaines.

Many major news outlets attended the event, including the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times and FOX Chicago. Here are some highlights from their coverage of the opening. Have your own opinion? Share it in the comment box below.

Click here to find Patch's continuing coverage of the casino.

There are six eateries at Rivers Casino where diners can munch on everything from steak and seafood, to burgers and little bites. Many products are from local vendors. Read more about the casino dining experience from the Chicago Sun-Times. 

Not all guests were thrilled about their experience at the opening. Read about a woman who was so upset she left the casino to eat at a nearby Denny's, according to the Chicago Tribune. Read about a woman who said she won't be back to the casino after losing (how much money in 90 minutes?) on slots, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.

Think there are too many casinos in Illinois? Find out who disagrees and what a local politician said about casino revenue and the job market from WBBM Newsradio 780. 

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel said a casino in Chicago would be a great way to generate revenue but studies show that casino's adjusted gross receipts were down 3.9 percent in 2010 from 2009, according to timesunion.com.

How many tried their luck at getting into the new casino on opening day? The gaming floor can accommodate roughly 3,600 people and the parking lot 2,300 vehicles, according to the Chicago Tribune. See how many people actually showed up for the event, according to myfoxchicago.com.

Follow Des Plaines Patch on Twitter and 'Like' Des Plaines Patch on Facebook