The place had many open tables but we were told there was a half-hour wait. My wife and I wanted to eat at TAP one recent Sunday afternoon. So why not reopen the multiple entrances? That was one of the major design elements of the casino. I understand with the coronavirus pandemic they wanted to make sure everyone was wearing a mask and to ensure that all patrons had to wear a mask and go through a checkpoint. The casino still has one basic entrance open, with other entrances closed. I have been increasingly concerned, though, that while revenues are at or reaching the pre-coronavirus pandemic era – MGM Springfield grossed $22 million in November 2022, the most recent released figure – too many of the amenities are still not fully operational.

I want the casino to succeed as the jobs and revenue it brings to the area are sorely needed. There were statements made that simply needed questioning.

I’ve never hated MGM nor have I ever hated the idea of a casino for Western Massachusetts much less for Springfield. When MGM Springfield was being built, a public relations person for the gaming giant called me after I wrote a story about security at the casino – not yet open – and asked me “Why do you hate MGM?”