March 29, 2024

15 years and counting

Lakeside celebrates 15th anniversary with ribbon cutting

For 15-year anniversaries, it’s common for crystal to be given as a gift.

So, here’s a “toast” to Lakeside Casino on its 15th anniversary, which was celebrated Thursday, Oct. 1, at the casino with a ribbon cutting.

“Lakeside’s 15th anniversary is a big deal for all the staff, especially those who have been with us for the entire time, “ said Bob Thursby, general manager. “We have several 15-year veterans and more than half of the staff has been here five years or more. More importantly, we have been able to support the state of Iowa and the city of Osceola for all these years.”

Lakeside has seen growth in its 15-year run, especially with an expansion in recent years.

About Lakeside

Located on West Lake, the casino’s hotel has 150 rooms for guests to stay at, as well as an adjacent RV park.

For entertainment that’s not gambling related, Lakeside is able to draw celebrity performers and up-and-coming acts in its venue. An outdoor amphitheater is able to hold more than 1,200 people.

For dining, Lakeside offers a buffet, cafe, sports bar and Nibbles snack shoppe.

Currently, Lakeside employs 350 people. Thursby is the fourth general manager at the hotel and casino and has been there for almost seven years.

“I have seen pictures and heard stories about the opening,” Thursby said. “It is interesting that the casino barge was built on the shores of West Lake, and after it was complete, the area that it was built on became the boat ramp for the city of Osceola.”

In the community

Lakeside venue plays a pivotal role in the Osceola community, from hosting legislative luncheons to Clarke Community High School’s prom every spring.

Recently, Lakeside has become a member of the West Des Moines and Urbandale chamber of commerces.

“The greatest accomplishment has been all of the improvements our tax dollars have been able to fund,” Thursby said. “Casinos in Iowa pay a ‘casino tax’ on our gross revenue that other businesses do not pay. These funds have enabled the county, city, water board and Clarke County Development Corporation to fund many worthwhile projects.”

If the first 15 years have gone by this quickly, imagine how the next 15 years will go.

“We foresee slow to moderate growth on a consistent basis going forward,” Thursby said. “We hope that will give us the ability to grow the number of amenities on our property and attract other development in the area.”