Sharkeys getting full make over

Sharkey's Nugget is getting a top-to-bottom makeover.

Manager Frank Nelson told the Gaming Control Board on Wednesday recarpeting of the casino floor will be finished by the end of the week. He said work is going ahead full speed on rebuilding the restrooms, opening up the casino area and other changes designed to update and upgrade the Gardnerville landmark.

And some of the changes will help customers even though they aren't as obvious. The air circulation and filtration system, for instance, is being repaired, doors and windows fixed to cut drafts. Outside, signs are also being repaired and updated.

"Everything we spot, we try to improve," said Nelson.

He said that includes discussions with an elevator company to provide better access to the second floor so they can open up banquet rooms capable of handling upwards of 200 people.

"People seem pleased with the changes, the cleaning," he said. "Every week we've done something."

He said that includes former owner Sharkey Begovich, who still comes by to talk to old friends and customers.

"We have a reserved parking space for him and he comes by and holds court," said Nelson.

He also told the board they plan eventually to expand the number of slot machines in the place from 136 to more than 200. He said two 21-tables are operating again on Friday and Saturday swing shifts and that most of the long time customers are still coming in.

The board voted to recommend Nelson for a license as general manager of Sharkey's Nugget.