Tri-State introduced poker at the Cross Lanes casino earlier this summer with pleasing results, according to executive director Rich Tesler.

"Poker has been an overwhelming success," he noted. "The players have found our location to be exciting and conducive to poker. We have been busier than we anticipated and, because of that, we have brought on more people in the areas of food service, cashiers and security."

Tri-State has 40 poker tables dealing up Texas Hold 'Em, Omaha Hi-Lo and Stud Poker.

"Our plan was to run 30 tables with the regular games and keep 10 tables for tournaments," Tesler stated. "We've been running 34 tables on the weekends because of the positive response. We're extremely happy."

Equipment for Phase II is on site and nearing completion. This includes 16 blackjack tables, eight tables for three new poker games, three crap tables, two roulette wheels, and one novelty "big wheel" game.

Tesler says the new offerings are already generating considerable excitement with a new element of players.

"Poker players are generally a different group than table games players, and table game players are generally a different group from slot machine players," he said. "There's very little crossover."

As was the case when poker started, two table game charity night events are planned in early October. Officials with the West Virginia Lottery Commission will observe and review, and if all goes as planned, table games could begin as early as the weekend of Oct. 10.

Tri-State maintains 1,600 slot machines in playing amounts ranging from a nickel to $5.

Despite the influx of new gambling options, Tesler says greyhound racing remains a vital aspect of the Tri-State entertainment package.

"Greyhound racing is an important part of the history of this location," he said. "Those guests who enjoy dog racing have continued to support us over the years and we plan to keep our commitment to them."

Tesler said Tri-State also will follow through with plans to construct an upscale hotel nearby. He says those plans will proceed once the table games are up and operating.