WOW, WINDSOR

Caesars Windsor opens to rave reviews

Windsor, Ont. – Even long-time Las Vegas veterans were in awe as they got their first look at Caesars Windsor, and the $439 million expansion and renovation that has transformed Ontario’s first casino-resort into a property rivaling the world’s best.

Caesars Windsor welcomed more than 5,000 guests to a Gala Opening tonight, launching a new era of luxury and style on the Canadian side of the Detroit River.

“This is a tremendous property. It is not just the largest casino-resort in the Detroit-Windsor market, it is the largest casino-resort in Canada,” enthused Kevin Laforet, President and CEO of Caesars Windsor. “Combining this great facility with the world-renowned Caesars name makes Caesars Windsor a premier destination for world-class entertainment and getaways.”

Highlights of the black-tie Gala Opening included a performance by rock star Billy Joel, inaugurating the Colosseum – a 5,000 seat, state-of-the-art entertainment centre. Guests also had the opportunity to get a first-hand look at the new, 100,000 square foot convention space, and the stunning 27-story Augustus Tower – with its soaring lobby, grand pillars, Romanesque art, statues and spectacular fountain.

“This is our first expansion of the Caesars brand internationally and signals our commitment to and confidence in this market,” said Gary Loveman, chairman, CEO and president of Harrah’s Entertainment. “As the world leader in gaming, we are pleased to bring to Canada the customer-service excellence and first-class amenities that are the hallmark of the Caesars brand.”

Today’s opening marks the culmination of a three-year project – a partnership between Harrah’s Entertainment and the Government of Ontario.

“We have been fully committed to making a substantial investment in this great facility,” said Kelly McDougald, CEO of the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation. “The superb amenities give us a major edge in attracting new and repeat visitors.”

“The scope and grandeur of the new casino complex is in keeping with its place as an economic driver and employer in the city and province,” said Minister of Public Infrastructure Renewal David Caplan. “The McGuinty government’s support for the casino renaissance is a direct result of our commitment to strengthen Ontario’s economy and encourage local job creation.”

The extensive expansion and renovation has dramatically increased the size of the Windsor casino-resort, which now covers more than four hectares (10 acres), making it the largest in Canada. Features of the new Augustus Tower – now the tallest building on the Windsor skyline – include:

• 24-foot high ceilings over a 12,000 sq. foot lobby;
• A stunning mosaic-tiled fountain featuring a 10-foot high sculpture of the “Three Graces,” daughters of the Greek god Zeus. It holds 3,000 gallons of water;
• A hand-painted triptych mural, behind the Front Desk, of the world-famous Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy; and
• Guest rooms boasting the best views of the riverfront and Detroit skyline – some with 180° vistas – through floor-to-ceiling windows. Combined with the existing (and newly renovated) Forum Tower, Caesars Windsor now has the largest hotel inventory in the city, with a total of 758 luxuriously-appointed rooms.

• Food specials at restaurant outlets and live entertainment in Cosmos Lounge, starting at 8:30 p.m. tonight when Caesars Windsor opens to the public;
• A free commemorative Caesars medallion for the first 1,000 guests to sign up as new members for the award-winning Total Rewards program;
• The Caesars Celebration giveaway, on June 20 & 21, giving Total Rewards members a chance to win one of 10 fabulous Caesars vacation packages or up to 425,000 Reward Credits on each date; and
• On Sunday, June 22, for the first time ever, complimentary tolls at the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, with Caesars Windsor paying the way into Canada from 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.