Carson Nugget celebrates 45 years

The Carson Nugget will kick off a week of special deals beginning today to celebrate the casino's 45th year in business.

"We're just happy that we're able to be open and able to celebrate 45 years of being in business," said General Manager Brian Smith. "We thank all of our local customers."

Hop and Howard Adams opened the Carson Nugget at its current location in 1957. The Adams family still owns the establishment, even though Hop died a year ago.

The place has undergone many changes and doubled its size in 1981. Owners still plan to add a hotel in the surrounding area but are waiting until the economy can support it.

"We're optimistic to see a hotel as part of our property," Smith said.

In the meantime, the casino is planning to add an easy-pay system to its machines, which will allow players to quickly be paid out or move to other machines. The pay system may be in place by December.

The casino continues to provide the warm, friendly and non-threatening atmosphere that attracts many locals.

During the anniversary week, many specials will be offered to those who want to help celebrate. The coffee shop will serve their daily specials, the Awful Awful Burger special and coffee and doughnuts at half price today through Saturday. Buffet dinners will be half price today and Tuesday.

Many deals will be available at the bar with happy hour domestic draft beer at 50 cents and well drinks at $1.

The Prospector's Club will have double club points all day Monday, drawings and other specials.

A sock hop will take place in the Nugget's Main Ballroom beginning at 7 a.m. Saturday, featuring the Motifs and a disc jockey. Cost is $8 at the door and $4 for Prospector Club members.

The Nugget Coffee Shop will open its doors again this year to locals who may not otherwise get Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. A traditional meal of roast turkey or baked ham with all the trimmings will be served complimentary from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 28 and Dec. 25.

To accept the offer, customers just need to sign the check and hand it to the cashier saying, "I'm a guest of the Nugget today."

"We sincerely care about the families in our community and we don't want to see anyone go without Thanksgiving dinner," Smith said.