Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem to officially open its doors today

Situated on the former site of the historic Bethlehem Steel plant and located approximately one hour from Philadelphia and an hour and a half from New York City, Sands Bethlehem will debut with 3,000 state-of-the-art slot machines and a variety of dining and entertainment options, including Emeril Lagasse's first restaurant in the Northeast U.S., Emeril's Chop House. The property also includes 3,400 convenient, covered parking spaces.

"We are very pleased with the results of our two test days this week and are looking forward to welcoming guests to Sands Bethlehem on Friday," said property president Robert DeSalvio. "Our team members have been looking forward to this occasion for many weeks and are excited to show our guests Sands Bethlehem hospitality and service at its best."

The new casino resort will hold its official Grand Opening with a series of special events on June 9, 2009. The Grand Opening will be attended by Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell, Bethlehem Mayor John Callahan, Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board Chairman Greg Fajt and LVS Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Sheldon Adelson.