Gateway Casino celebrating 25 years of operation in Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay’s Gateway Casino location is celebrating 25 years of operation in the city on Thursday.

The casino first opened on August 28, 2000.

To celebrate this milestone, Gateway is donating $2500 to Pawa for Love.

“For 25 years, the Thunder Bay casino has been a fixture in the community. It has created hundreds of jobs and delivered important revenue to the city,” said OLG’s Chief Gaming Officer, Dave Pridmore. “Over the years, the city has wisely invested the $58 million from the MCA payments in many ways that have helped make this community a great place to live.”

To celebrate the anniversary, the casino is hosting a couple of events.

A $2,500 cash draw is taking place at 8:00 p.m.

Hot Seat draws are taking place from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

There will also be souvenir gifts, cupcakes, and a special $15 big smash burger.

“A quarter of a century flew by, but not without leaving a trail of amazing memories and opportunities,” said Food and Beverage Manager, Helen Cerilli. “Twenty-five years of friendships, personal and professional growth.”

“The best part is watching the people, the friends I have made, grow, get married and have kids. I was part of families I didn’t even know I had.”

In addition to creating jobs and providing a recreation opportunity in the city, Gateway also provides a quarterly payment to the city for hosting.

“Congratulations to Gateway Casino on 25 years in our community,” said Mayor Ken Boshcoff. “Since opening its doors, the casino has contributed millions in funding that has directly supported important local projects and non-profits.”

“I was honoured to be there as mayor on opening day 25 years ago, and I’m just as proud to celebrate this milestone today.”