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Rhythm City move twice as nice for community groups

“It will mean more for the not-for-profits in the area,” said Regional Development Authority President Randy Rathje.

DAVENPORT, Iowa -

Nearly 60,000 visitors checked out Rhythm City Casino in its first five days.

Three weeks later, that excitement is helping to nearly double gaming revenue from its years on the Mississippi River.

"We've certainly created a project here that the community can be proud of," said General Manager Mo Hyder.

Pride that's evident at Thursday's Regional Development Authority meeting.

The RDA holds the gaming license and distributes a portion of casino revenue to the community.

"It's nice to hear they're off to that fast of a start," said RDA President Randy Rathje.  "It will mean more for the not-for-profits in the area."

In May, the RDA distributed more than $900,000 to some 54 groups.

That includes diverse selections like a new wellness center at St. Ambrose University to dozens of local groups offering outreach.

While RDA begins to re-tool for the future, it's also focusing on its mission to help the community.

More requests are being fueled by the Illinois budget crisis.

Eventually, grants should increase in both quantity and dollar amounts.

"We see more and more demand for the social and human services, area, too," Rathje continued.  "We may just kind of fine-tune a little bit what we do."

Hyder reports that the casino is off to a good start and drawing more regional customers to its new location.

He says that's good news for the city, county, state and RDA.

"I think everyone benefits," he said.  "As more money goes back into the community, that means there's more opportunities for newer and different projects to happen."

As Rhythm City adjusts to its new home, it also promises to be a good neighbor in the community.

 

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