Stew's wins gaming license

The Nevada Gaming Commission voted Thursday to grant an unlimited gaming license to Stew's Sportatorium at the Lucky Spur.

"Opening goal is before Nevada Day and everything is on schedule," said owner Robert Stewart, a longtime Carson City businessman.

"I hope you can revitalize downtown Carson City," said Gaming Commission Chairman Pete Bernhard.

The Lucky Spur, at the corner of North Carson and Proctor streets, has been closed nearly 30 years. City officials have long proclaimed it the worst blight on downtown redevelopment efforts. Stewart's attorney Mark Amodei said city officials have strongly supported Stew's Sportatorium.

Stewart said when he appeared before the Gaming Control Board he planned to start with about half the 50 slot machines the license will permit. He said the Spur will have not only gambling but a restaurant, brew pub and a game area in the rear for youngsters. His son, James, will file for licensing as a key employee and general manager of the establishment in the near future.

Stewart said they have put nearly $1.6 million into renovating the historic casino - gutting and rebuilding the inside.

Amodei said they have submitted a surveillance plan to the control board. That is one of the final steps necessary before installation of slot and other gaming machines.

Reach Geoff Dornan at gdornan@nevadaappeal.com or 687-8750.