State officials say they are modestly

optimistic after the first seven weeks of business at the casino in

Dodge City.

The state says the Boot Hill Casino & Resort is on pace to make

$39.7 million for the first year.

In total, 100,847 people went to the Boot Hill from its opening

on Dec. 15 through Jan. 31. The casino made $5.1 million in that

period, with $1.1 million of that going to the state.

Kansas Lottery executive director Ed Van Petten says he thinks

things are going well at the casino.

The casino currently employs 260 workers and plans to hire

another 20 people soon.

Under the developer’s proposal, about 600 workers will be hired

after the second phase, which includes a 124-room hotel, is

completed in 2012.