Phil Bryan takes helm at Cal-Neva in downtown Reno

Bryan, 59, replaces William McHugh, who began working at the club as a roulette dealer 24 years ago and became president and CEO in 1988.

Bryan worked for the Cal-Neva in the 1970s. In his new position, he will also be a board member and have an opportunity to become part owner based on performance.

"Bringing in Phil Bryan, we think, is a very positive move for the organization," said Barry Phillips, Cal-Neva marketing director. "Phil's got a tremendous amount of experience."

Bryan managed the Peppermill Hotel-Casino in Reno from 1982 to 1992, and joined Boomtown in April 1996, which was since acquired by Hollywood Park Inc.

Former Boomtown Chairman Timothy Parrott, who is now a Hollywood Park board member, said the Cal-Neva's gain is Boomtown's loss.

"I'm happy for him and sad for (Boomtown)," Parrott said.

He said Bryan will be remembered at Boomtown "for his high energy and making everything have a bottom-line orientation."

"He was always striving for improvement, always pushing the envelope and always open to new and very different ideas," Parrott said.

Parrott said Bryan's new job gives him the chance to stay in Reno, while remaining with Hollywood Park could have required moving.

Hollywood Park owns and operates Boomtowns in Verdi; Biloxi, Miss.; and New Orleans.

One of the biggest challenges facing Bryan will be how to rejuvenate gambling and tourism in Reno's downtown casino core, where six casinos have closed in the last four years.

"I have incredible confidence in Reno," Bryan told the Reno Gazette-Journal.

He added that he believes traditional casinos like the Cal-Neva have a place in the changing market.

"In a way, there's a special attraction that you can carve out for it," he said.

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