We knew the brand new Presque Isle Downs & Casino would be crowded when we visited on Saturday, and it was. Way more than 10,000 people showed up that day to try their luck, pumping $13.6 million into the casino's coffers.

Originally, casino officials estimated that Presque Isle Downs would pull in about $16 million during its opening weekend, but the actual number soared past $40 million.

If you've followed this story in the Erie Times-News over the past six years, you know it's had many twists and turns. But, as the date of the actual opening approached, you could feel the excitement building. I've been to Erie's casino twice, so far, and each time I came away amazed at the high numbers of players there from Ohio.

You see Ohio license plates throughout the enormous parking lot, and I've talked to players from Ashtabula, Geneva, and Cleveland. They say they like the close proximity of the Erie casino, which, in many cases is only about an hour or a little more from their homes.

"If Erie is even close (in quality) to the casino in Salamanca, N.Y., then I'll come here," said Kathy Blevins, of Rock Creek, Ohio. "I can roll out of bed and be here an hour later," she said.

What's amazing about the high numbers of players who've turned out so far is the time of season. Erie is expecting single-digit temperatures tonight, and winter does not seem ready to loosen its grip on the region. It begs the question: if so many people are braving the elements to try their luck at the slot machines now, what's it going to be like in summer?

Think of it, all those thousands of visitors who enjoy Presque Isle's beaches by day will now be able to play the slots at night. Erie SeaWolves baseball, concerts at Liberty Park on the bayfront, and other events will also offer entertainment opportunities, providing a boost for tourism throughout the region.

Now that West Virginia has passed a new law legalizing full casino games, Pennsylvania is expected to turn its attention to such a consideration. It makes sense, and that would serve to bolster what's already a promising industry, based on a most auspicious start.

Fasten your seatbelts, everybody. We're about to shift into high gear.

-- Kevin Cuneo