The casino hosted 13 concerts over the past year, featuring headliners like Aretha Franklin, Trisha Yearwood and Charlie Daniels.

The city also got a boost from the monthly wagering taxes paid by the casino.

Since July 2008, Anderson has received $2,455,778.29. Due to its population, the city received the largest portion of wagering dollars.

Despite its early struggles, Hoosier Park is ranked fifth in total revenue of Indiana’s 13 casinos.

Though revenues aren’t as high as the state anticipated, Brown said, casino officials have been pleased with the progress they’re seeing. “It hasn’t exceeded our expectations, but everyone that’s come to the facility appears to be having a good time and getting a great entertainment experience.”

Vicki Johnson agrees.

The 55-year-old Huntington resident, who drove an hour on Wednesday to play the slots, said she does so every three weeks or so.

When she plays, Johnson spends enough to get VIP treatment at the casino and has enjoyed the venue’s many concerts. “I just like it because they send me free stuff.”

On Wednesday, Johnson was up $500 after spending only $1 of her own money.

Elsie Powell, 84, of Greenville, Ohio, isn’t always so lucky. Most of the time, after making the one hour drive from Ohio, Powell loses money, but she and her husband keep coming back.

David Pinkton of Anderson said he thinks the casino has been good for the community. “It’s made a big change.”

Steve Wilson went to the horse track to gamble before the casino opened, but now spends most of his time on the slots side of Hoosier Park. “It’s good for the community if people are playing smart and not mortgaging their house. Hopefully, it’s helping the economy somewhat.”

Elsie Powell is an example of the casino’s influence on the local economy. Before Hoosier Park opened up the slots, Powell didn’t see Anderson as a destination for entertainment and never visited the area. “I never had a reason to.”

Now, Elsie and three million others are finding reasons to visit Anderson: the chance to hit it big.