Delta and Mid-South casinos host New Year's Eve parties

 TUNICA RESORTS – As New Year’s Eve nears, it is time to make plans for the night when we will be saying bye to 2011 and welcoming in 2012. There is no better place to be on New Year’s Eve than at “Party Central” - your favorite casino.
The time is now to make reservations and put your plan together for an exciting end to 2011 and beginning of 2012.
Casinos in Mississippi have a lot planned for New Year’s Eve, with a mix of public and private events, live entertainment, special dining prices and more.
Here is a list of just some of the things planned for the Mid-South and Delta region.
• Gold Strike Casino Resort
Make the final night of 2011 memorable by ringing in the new year at Gold Strike Casino Resort. Guests are invited to count down to midnight on the casino floor complete with a champagne toast and party favors. Stage 2 is the place to be for live music throughout the night. Almost Famous gets the party started from 6-10 p.m. Gabby Johnson rocks into the new year from 10:30 p.m.  – 3 a.m.
- Chicago Steakhouse: End the year with a mouth-watering meal at Chicago Steakhouse. Start your dining experience with salmon gravlax carpaccio, shrimp salad or wagu boneless short rib, chard, mushrooms and truffle, then move to the evening’s soup and salad selections  consisting of roasted yellow pepper bisque, jumbo lump crab, pea greens or salad with grilled heirloom tomatoes and petit greens. The main course includes a choice of  duet of lobster tail and seared filet or 14-ounce New York strip, rainbow carrots crab purse. Make the meal complete with a chocolate sphere, cream anglaise’ and chambord bavarian, with raspberry and mint. Chicago’s New Year’s Eve menu is $135 per person.
- Atrium Café: Atrium Cafe will also offer a New Year’s  Eve specialty menu. This includes choice of shrimp cocktail, lemon and cocktail sauce or lobster crème brulee’, poached halibut, leek and fennel, saffron basmati, seared chicken with roasted prawns, bacon and corn risotto grilled filet of beef tenderloin served with crab gratin. End with a decadent dessert of chocolate flour less torte or raspberry and orange Bavarian. The three course New Year’s Eve special is $75 per person and available from 5 p.m. – 12 a.m. Atrium Café will remain open until 1 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 26 –Thursday, Dec. 29. It will also be open on New Year’s Day until 1 a.m. Note that Atrium Café will offer its specialty menu only.
Reservations for Chicago Steakhouse and Atrium Café are recommended and can be made by calling (662) 357-1225.
– Courtyard Buffet: The Courtyard Buffet will feature a New Year’s Eve Specialty Seafood menu from 3 p.m. – 1 a.m. for $30 per person and a breakfast buffet on New Year’s Day from 1 to  8 a.m. for $12.  Enjoy a traditional New Year’s Day Champagne and Seafood Brunch from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. for $21.99.
• Hollywood Casino
Enjoy a free champagne toast and balloon drop at midnight on New Year’s Eve at Hollywood Casino. In the Safari Bar Lounge, Ricky Lynn Gregg will perform for free in the Safari Lounge on Saturday, December 31 from 9 p.m. to 2a.m.  At midnight, they will lead in the New Year’s Eve Countdown accompanied by a balloon drop and party favors for all.
- Fairbanks Steakhouse - Make your New Year’s Eve unforgettable by joining Hollywood at the highly acclaimed Fairbanks Steakhouse on Saturday, Dec. 31 from 5 to 11p.m. Choose from the a-la-carte menu or let Fairbanks handle all the details with its New Year’s Eve Fairbanks Special. The New Year’s Eve Fairbanks Special includes a set menu for two with champagne for $125 per couple. For an additional $25, each Fairbanks special course will be paired with a glass of wine.
- Epic Buffet - Enjoy the Epic Buffet Filet Mignon & Crab Legs Extravaganza on Saturday, Dec. 31 from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. for $26.99 per person.
• Fitz Casino & Hotel
On Dec. 31, there will be a Champagne Toast and New Year’s count down at the Stage Bar, 11:45 p.m. Enjoy live music that night. Four bands will be performing: Say it Ain’t So, Crazy Flame, The Fabulous Steeler Band and MS Nickki. Enjoy the 2012 New Year’s Eve Champagne Buffet, 4 p.m. to close for $22.99, includes all-you-can-eat steak, prime rib, crab legs, oysters and more. There is also a $10,000 Promo Cash New Year’s Day Slot Tournament, Jan. 1 at 2 p.m. Registration is 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the group check-in desk. Get free tournament entry by earning 100 points in slot play on your Key Rewards card.
• Sam’s Town Hotel & Gambling Hall
Sam’s Town will have live music in Roxy’s and the Atrium as you walk in the door. Ring in the New Year with free party favors, champagne toast and balloon drop at midnight. The Atrium Features Brian McComas, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Bobby Marquez rings in the New Year at Roxy’s Live upstairs at Sam’s Town.
• Isle of Capri Lula
The Isle of Capri Casino, located about  30 minutes south of Tunica at the foot of the Helena Bridge, has a big party planned for New Year’s Eve. The Isle of Capri will be bringing in the New Year with a Hoedown Hootenanny. Party to live entertainment on the casino floor and enjoy a champagne toast, party favors and confetti cannons at midnight. The Billy Jones Band will be performing to ring in 2012.
• Southland Park Gaming & Racing in West Memphis, Ark., will feature DJ Crumbz spinning your favorite sounds in the Juke Joint and outside will be the Big Top Bash 4. This is a carnival atmosphere with carnival rides, food and fun (See page 10).
• Horseshoe Tunica
Celebrate "60 Years of Swagger" on New Year’s Eve at Horseshoe Tunica. This celebration includes live music from Terry Mike Jeffrey, Rob & the Rage and the Soul Shockers on the Stage 2 bar while Las Vegas Showgirls dance on the casino floor throughout the night.
Enjoy food specials in the Village Square Buffet and complimentary party favors that will lead up to a countdown to 2012.
NYE specials at Horseshoe include:
- Village Square Buffet, 3 p.m. to 2 a.m., adults, $29.99; children, 3-10 years of age, $15.99 and children under 3 eat free.
- Jack Binion’s Steakhouse: $100 for four courses with champagne and wine with entree. (Add lobster tail to any entree, $135.) Champagne and wine with entrée included.
• Harrah’s Tunica
At Harrah’s, you can join DJ Ben Cohen and multiple acrobats, aerial artists and fire performers at the Event Center party that includes a free champagne toast at midnight. It’s the CIROC du Night New Year's Eve Celebration. Tickets are $20 through Ticketmaster and $35 at the door. Doors open at 10 p.m. and the party goes until 2 a.m.
• Tunica Roadhouse
The Tunica Roadhouse will ring in 2012 with a little toe-tapping sidecar and live music on the River Stage Bar.  Dwayne Dopie and the Zydeco Hellraisers will perform from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Specials include a $75 per person price for the Range Steakhouse, from 5 to 11 p.m. and the Big Kitchen Buffet will be $10.99 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and $21.99 from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. (plus tax).
• Resorts and Bally’s casinos
Fun things likes lots of money will keep the action hot at Resorts and Bally’s. You can listen to the Mudpuppies on stage at Resorts and then follow the $25,000 countdown from 6 p.m. to midnight where 25 winners will go home get $1,000 each in free slot play. The same thing takes place at Bally’s Casino and on the stage there you can listen to Derrick Joseph.

Gulf Coast casinos giveaway cash and more on New Year's Eve, New Year's Day

SOUTH MISSISSIPPI —What is better than a kiss from a loved one on New Year’s Eve? How about cash or casino free slot play? Many casinos have special promotions on Saturday, Dec. 31, with some ending at the stroke of midnight and others continuing through Sunday, Jan. 1. Here is a look at some of the casino promotions.

IP Casino, Resort & Spa

At IP Casino, Resort & Spa, players have a chance to win $1,112 in IP Rewards Play on Jan. 1. All IP Rewards members actively playing slots and table games using their IP Rewards card will be eligible to win. The Rewards Play will be given away every 12 minutes from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit IP Rewards for complete details.

Treasure Bay Casino

Don’t drop the ball on New Year’s Eve and miss out on an exciting trip into 2012. Celebrate with friends at Treasure Bay on Dec. 31, and enjoy champagne, party favors and more as the countdown to the New Year begins with style. Cash in on each time zone with the third annual Ring In The New Year Hot Seat. More than $10,000 in prizes is waiting to be won. Simply play slots or table games using your Players’ Club card to be eligible to win a share of $2,012 each hour from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. This year, there will be more winners, as $503 in slot or table play will be awarded to one

lucky club member every 15 minutes. Don’t have a Treasure Bay Players’ Club card? Get one today — it’s easy and membership is free. For more  information, call (228) 385-6000.

Island View Casino Resort

The countdown is on to one of Island View Casino Resort’s biggest prize payouts of the year with the New Year’s Eve $100,000 Giveaway. Players can earn entries from Friday, Dec. 30, to Sunday, Jan. 1, by playing your favorite slot and table games. Each night, seven winners will receive $500 in Slot View Play, and at 8 p.m. on Jan. 1, the 21 winners will return to each choose an envelope featuring prizes ranging from $500 in Slot View Play to $50,000 in cash.

Hollywood Casino

Hollywood Casino Bay St. Louis has the $50,000 New Year’s Day Giveaway. Drawings begin at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 1, with two guests selected every 15 minutes to win $1,500 Slot Play each. The grand-prize drawing will be held at 9 p.m. At this time, two lucky winners will each receive $10,000 in cool cash. Receive one entry for every 100 slot points or table games equivalent earned each day now through the giveaway day. Entries are earned and stored automatically, and players can see how may entries they have earned throughout the month by checking at any kiosk. Entries must be activated day of the drawing by successfully inserting your Club Hollywood card in any slot machine after 4:30 p.m. All entries earned throughout the month then become available for the drawings. Visit Hollywood Casino Bay St. Louis for more information on the $50,000 New Year’s Day Giveaway.

Palace Casino Resort

Celebrate 2012 at Palace Casino Resort and win cash and Power Play. From 8 to 11 p.m. on Dec. 31, $2,012 in Power Play will be awarded every 30 minutes. After the midnight countdown, at 12:30 a.m. on Jan. 1, one lucky winner will win $10,000 cash. Get one free entry on Dec. 31, and receive additional entries for every 100 points earned beginning Monday, Dec. 5. Visit a Palace kiosk for entries and drawing check-in. The drawing drum opens at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 31.

DiamondJacks Casino

The $300,000 Holiday JackPlay Giveaway at DiamondJacks Casino ends with the biggest prizes to be awarded on Saturday, Dec. 31. Every Friday and Saturday, through New Year’s Eve, drawings are held from 7 to 11 p.m. Twenty-five winners are selected to win a share of $16,250 in JackPlay. On Dec. 31, drawings will be held from 6 p.m. to

midnight, and 12 winners will take home $2,012 JackPlay each. DiamondJacks Rewards members receive one free entry per week, while additional entries can be received every day, with one per every 25 points earned or with 60 minutes of rated table play. Entries must be used the week they are received. More information can be found at the Vicksburg casino.

Pearl River Resort

Guests at Pearl River Resort will want to participate in the $200,000 Ringing in the Cash Giveaway set for Friday, Dec. 30, and Sunday, Jan. 1. With this drawing-drum promotion, guests will win cash prizes ranging from $1,000 to $20,000. A total of $200,000 in cash will be awarded during the two-day event. The drawings will take place on Dec. 30 from 7 p.m. to midnight and again on Jan. 1 from 2 to 6 p.m. For all promotions, guests must be members of the resort’s player club. For more information, visit www.pearlriverresort.com or call (866) 44PEARL.

Riverwalk Casino

Ready to add some extra happy to your new year? Riverwalk Casino has the $20,120 Cash Confetti drawing on Dec. 31. Hourly hot seat drawings take place from 5:12 p.m. to 2:12 a.m. Hot seat winners will each get $2,012 cash.

Rainbow Casino

Rainbow Casino will have A Day & Night of Winners on New Year’s Eve — 212 winners, to be exact. Win a share of more than $46,000 cash with giveaways from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Twenty winners will be selected every hour from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and again from 7 to 11 p.m. to win $212.

At 1 a.m., 12 winners will win $212, with the final winner winning $2,012 plus all of the unclaimed prizes throughout the day and night. Players club members can receive one free entry daily now through the giveaway date, plus additional entries can be received for every 12 points earned from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Dec. 31. Players also receive 10-times entries on Mondays.

Get Yer Rodney On at Beau Rivage in a unique Rodney Carrington social media campaign

  It’s time to Get Yer Rodney On at Beau Rivage Resort & Casino Biloxi for a unique social media campaign with comedian and TV star Rodney Carrington.
  Beau Rivage is asking fans on its Facebook page to post a video or photo of their best impression of funnyman Rodney Carrington. Fans can also post an original joke for the chance to win airfare for two, a two-night stay in a suite at Beau Rivage an...d two tickets to Carrington’s show. The winner also will receive the choice of dinner with Carrington at BR Prime Steakhouse or golf with him at the award-winning Fallen Oak. Carrington will autograph a pair of his jeans for the winner, and a signed pair of boots and cowboy hat are also included.
  The Get Yer Rodney On contest runs through Jan. 8, with voting open through Jan. 9 on Beau Rivage’s Facebook page. The winner will be decided by fan votes and announced Jan. 10. People who aren’t fans of the Facebook page can like the page to enter the contest. Videos should be 30 seconds to 3 minutes.
  Carrington, who performs at Beau Rivage on Feb. 3 and Feb. 4, has made short videos for the contest and has helped promote the prize package to his fans on social media as well. Visit Beau Rivage’s Facebook page for details

Make Santa's naughty list as sexy Mr. & Mrs. Santa visit Beau Rivage in Biloxi

It is the last chance to make Santa’s naughty list as sexy Mr. and Mrs.

Claus stop short of the North Pole for a visit to Beau Rivage on Christmas

Eve, Saturday, Dec. 24, starting at 10 p.m. Beau Rivage beverage mixologist Kelly Pearce created a special drink menu guaranteed to make you feel merry. All drinks on the Dirty Santa Menu are $7.25. Free photo of you with Sexy Mrs. Claus or Na............ughty St. Nick with drink purchase. Try the Blitzen (Absolute Raspberri, Peach Schnapps and sour mix); Santa’s Little Helper (Smirnoff Marshmallow, Peppermint Schnapps, white crème de cocoa and splash crème de menth); Rudolph’s Ruffie (Absolut, Midori and cranberry); and the Naughty But Nice (Smirnoff Whip Cream Vodka, Amaretto de Saronna and cranberry juice). Triggerproof will perform live and DJ Zack Avelon mixes the latest Top 40 hits, electronic and house music. No Cover. Everyone will receive one drink ticket for a complimentary drink. Show police, fireman or military I.D. and receive free admission. The party begins at 10 p.m. and Sexy Santa photos are available from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. For more information, call (228) 386-7111.

Mississippi casinos will be ‘Party Central’ on New Year’s Eve

No better place to ring in 2012 —

Jackpot! Magazine has compiled this informative list of New Year's Eve happenings and will update it regularly, so check back with us!

TUNICA RESORTS – As New Year’s Eve nears, it is time to make plans for the night when we will be saying bye to 2011 and welcoming in 2012. There is no better place to be on New Year’s Eve than at “Party Central” - your favorite casino.

The time is now to make reservations and put your plan together for an exciting end to 2011 and beginning of 2012.

Casinos in Mississippi have a lot planned for New Year’s Eve, with a mix of public and private events, live entertainment, special dining prices and more.

Here is a list of just some of the things planned for the Mid-South and Delta region.

• Gold Strike Casino Resort

Make the final night of 2011 memorable by ringing in the new year at Gold Strike Casino Resort. Guests are invited to count down to midnight on the casino floor complete with a champagne toast and party favors. Stage 2 is the place to be for live music throughout the night. Almost Famous gets the party started from 6-10 p.m. Gabby Johnson rocks into the new year from 10:30 p.m. – 3 a.m.

- Chicago Steakhouse: End the year with a mouth-watering meal at Chicago Steakhouse. Start your dining experience with salmon gravlax carpaccio, shrimp salad or wagu boneless short rib, chard, mushrooms and truffle, then move to the evening’s soup and salad selections consisting of roasted yellow pepper bisque, jumbo lump crab, pea greens or salad with grilled heirloom tomatoes and petit greens. The main course includes a choice of duet of lobster tail and seared filet or 14-ounce New York strip, rainbow carrots crab purse. Make the meal complete with a chocolate sphere, cream anglaise’ and chambord bavarian, with raspberry and mint. Chicago’s New Year’s Eve menu is $135 per person.

- Atrium Café: Atrium Cafe will also offer a New Year’s Eve specialty menu. This includes choice of shrimp cocktail, lemon and cocktail sauce or lobster crème brulee’, poached halibut, leek and fennel, saffron basmati, seared chicken with roasted prawns, bacon and corn risotto grilled filet of beef tenderloin served with crab gratin. End with a decadent dessert of chocolate flour less torte or raspberry and orange Bavarian. The three course New Year’s Eve special is $75 per person and available from 5 p.m. – 12 a.m. Atrium Café will remain open until 1 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 26 –Thursday, Dec. 29. It will also be open on New Year’s Day until 1 a.m. Note that Atrium Café will offer its specialty menu only.

Reservations for Chicago Steakhouse and Atrium Café are recommended and can be made by calling (662) 357-1225.

– Courtyard Buffet: The Courtyard Buffet will feature a New Year’s Eve Specialty Seafood menu from 3 p.m. – 1 a.m. for $30 per person and a breakfast buffet on New Year’s Day from 1 to 8 a.m. for $12. Enjoy a traditional New Year’s Day Champagne and Seafood Brunch from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. for $21.99.

• Hollywood Casino

Enjoy a free champagne toast and balloon drop at midnight on New Year’s Eve at Hollywood Casino. In the Safari Bar Lounge, Ricky Lynn Gregg will perform for free in the Safari Lounge on Saturday, December 31 from 9 p.m. to 2a.m. At midnight, they will lead in the New Year’s Eve Countdown accompanied by a balloon drop and party favors for all.

- Fairbanks Steakhouse - Make your New Year’s Eve unforgettable by joining Hollywood at the highly acclaimed Fairbanks Steakhouse on Saturday, Dec. 31 from 5 to 11p.m. Choose from the a-la-carte menu or let Fairbanks handle all the details with its New Year’s Eve Fairbanks Special. The New Year’s Eve Fairbanks Special includes a set menu for two with champagne for $125 per couple. For an additional $25, each Fairbanks special course will be paired with a glass of wine.

- Epic Buffet - Enjoy the Epic Buffet Filet Mignon & Crab Legs Extravaganza on Saturday, Dec. 31 from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. for $26.99 per person.

• Fitz Casino & Hotel

On Dec. 31, there will be a Champagne Toast and New Year’s count down at the Stage Bar, 11:45 p.m. Enjoy live music that night. Four bands will be performing: Say it Ain’t So, Crazy Flame, The Fabulous Steeler Band and MS Nickki.

• Sam’s Town Hotel & Gambling Hall

Sam’s Town will have live music in Roxy’s and the Atrium as you walk in the door. Ring in the New Year with free party favors, champagne toast and balloon drop at midnight. The Atrium Features Brian McComas, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Bobby Marquez rings in the New Year at Roxy’s Live upstairs at Sam’s Town.

• Isle of Capri Lula

The Isle of Capri Casino, located about 30 minutes south of Tunica at the foot of the Helena Bridge, has a big party planned for New Year’s Eve. The Isle of Capri will be bringing in the New Year with a Hoedown Hootenanny. Party to live entertainment on the casino floor and enjoy a champagne toast, party favors and confetti cannons at midnight. The Billy Jones Band will be performing to ring in 2012.

• Southland Park Gaming & Racing in West Memphis, Ark., will feature DJ Crumbz spinning your favorite sounds in the Juke Joint and outside will be the Big Top Bash 4. This is a carnival atmosphere with carnival rides, food and fun (See page 10).

• Horseshoe Tunica

Celebrate "60 Years of Swagger" on New Year’s Eve at Horseshoe Tunica. This celebration includes live music from Terry Mike Jeffrey, Rob & the Rage and the Soul Shockers on the Stage 2 bar while Las Vegas Showgirls dance on the casino floor throughout the night.

Enjoy food specials in the Village Square Buffet and complimentary party favors that will lead up to a countdown to 2012.

NYE specials at Horseshoe include:

- Village Square Buffet, 3 p.m. to 2 a.m., adults, $29.99; children, 3-10 years of age, $15.99 and children under 3 eat free.

- Jack Binion’s Steakhouse: $100 for four courses with champagne and wine with entree. (Add lobster tail to any entree, $135.) Champagne and wine with entrée included.

• Harrah’s Tunica

At Harrah’s, you can join DJ Ben Cohen and multiple acrobats, aerial artists and fire performers at the Event Center party that includes a free champagne toast at midnight. It’s the CIROC du Night New Year's Eve Celebration. Tickets are $20 through Ticketmaster and $35 at the door. Doors open at 10 p.m. and the party goes until 2 a.m.

• Tunica Roadhouse

The Tunica Roadhouse will ring in 2012 with a little toe-tapping sidecar and live music on the River Stage Bar. Dwayne Dopie and the Zydeco Hellraisers will perform from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Specials include a $75 per person price for the Range Steakhouse, from 5 to 11 p.m. and the Big Kitchen Buffet will be $10.99 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and $21.99 from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. (plus tax).

• Resorts and Bally’s casinos

Fun things likes lots of money will keep the action hot at Resorts and Bally’s. You can listen to the Mudpuppies on stage at Resorts and then follow the $25,000 countdown from 6 p.m. to midnight where 25 winners will go home get $1,000 each in free slot play. The same thing takes place at Bally’s Casino and on the stage there you can listen to Derrick Joseph.

Read Jackpot! Magazine online at www.jackpotmagazine.com.

Harlows Casino Resort & Hotel announces expansion

Casino Resort to Add Multi-Purpose Event Center, Enhanced Guest Amenities

GREENVILLE, Miss. (Thursday, Dec. 8, 2011) – Harlow’s Casino Resort & Hotel (“Harlow’s) held a ceremony today to break ground for a series of renovations and improvements that will add new amenities to the resort property while remodeling and repurposing some hospitality areas that were impacted by severe Mississippi River flooding in the spring of 2011.

Harlow’s planned improvements include the following amenities:
New buffet area,
New steakhouse,
New business center,
New spa facility,
New fitness center,
New pool, and
New multi-purpose event center.

The new event center will take the place of Harlow’s current 2,600-seat entertainment venue, which sustained significant damage during the historic Mississippi River flooding that temporarily shuttered the facility in May 2011. The event center will be multi-functional and able to host a number of events, including business meetings and seminars, private parties and receptions, and musical performances and other forms of live entertainment.

Harlow’s General Manager Reggie Fullwood said the expansion is designed to enhance Harlow’s regional competitiveness. “Harlow’s entire team looks forward to offering these new and improved amenities to our customers and to making one of the best casino-resort experiences in the Mississippi Delta even better,” Fullwood said. “While no one expected the massive flooding that closed and caused significant damage to our venue last spring, we’ve found the silver lining in that unfortunate cloud and are excited to add new features and update hospitality areas that will make Harlow’s even more appealing to guests.”

Construction on the new event space is expected to begin in early 2012 with work on the new and improved buffet and restaurant spaces and hospitality areas to begin by mid year. All renovation and remodeling work should be finished by early 2013.

Harlow’s Casino Resort & Hotel, a wholly owned subsidiary of Churchill Downs Incorporated (NASDAQ: CHDN), is located on approximately 69 acres of leased land near the Mississippi River in Greenville, Miss., features a 33,000-square foot gaming floor with 841 slot machines, 21 table games and a poker room; a five-story, 105-room attached hotel; an entertainment center; and three separate dining areas. The property, which opened in November 2007, sits at the base of a new $336 million U.S. Highway 82 Bridge that connects Harlow’s to customers in the neighboring state of Arkansas. Additional information about Harlow’s can be found at www.harlowscasino.com.

Read Jackpot! Magazine at www.jackpotmagazine.com and follow us on Twitter #jackpotonline.

The new issues of Jackpot! Magazine are online. To find out what is happening this weekend and Thanksgiving weekend at casinos on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, at Paarl River Resort, along the Mississippi River and at the gaming center in West Memphis, Ark., visit www.jackpotmagazine.com.

Jackpot! Magazine: Southland Park Gaming & Racing expansion and renov...

Jackpot! Magazine: Southland Park Gaming & Racing expansion and renov...: Renovation and expansion planned for Southland Park WEST MEMPHIS, Ark – Southland Park Gaming & Racing in West Memphis, Ark., today anno...

Southland Park Gaming & Racing expansion and renovation planned

Renovation and expansion planned for Southland Park
WEST MEMPHIS, Ark – Southland Park Gaming & Racing in West Memphis, Ark., today announced it is set to begin a $10 million renovation of its gaming and hospitality amenities in December to better serve a fast-growing patron base.
The popular Mid-South entertainment destination near Memphis, Tenn., will add new features to its gaming floor, including 200 additional gaming machines – bringing the venue’s total to 1,200.
A new sports bar and lounge are also planned. The project will allow all the venue’s gaming machines and table games to be better spaced and add much-needed kitchen and serving space to the popular World Market Buffet.
“We’ve built our business on providing guests with exciting gaming and racing, delicious food and great hospitality, but we need more space to do it,” said Troy Keeping, Southland Park’s president and general manager.
“This project will ensure our guests can make the most of their visits and are comfortable while they’re here. Our hard-working staff will have the additional space and tools they need to keep providing great service,” Keeping said.
The project is expected to be completed by May 2012. Southland Park is owned and operated by global hospitality provider Delaware North Companies.
“Southland Park has been a great success story for Delaware North, and we are grateful to our dedicated management team and staff there for what they’ve accomplished,” said William Bissett, president of Delaware North Companies Gaming & Entertainment. “The support from West Memphis, the region and the State of Arkansas has also been tremendous, and Delaware North is proud to be able to expand our positive effect on the local and state economy.”
Already one of the area’s largest employers, Southland Park plans to add 60 new jobs, hourly as well as management positions, to its current workforce of 550. Keeping said that represents nearly an additional $2 million in payroll and benefits, bringing that total to almost $17 million annually. The project will also create a number of temporary construction jobs. Crossland Construction Co. Inc. in Rogers, Ark., was selected as the construction manager.
In addition, the expansion is expected to increase Southland Park’s tax contributions to the City of West Memphis, Crittenden County and the State of Arkansas by more than $3.4 million – to a total of more than $19.5 million annually. The amount in purses paid to kennel operators is also projected to grow $2.4 million – to just over $16 million in 2012.
“We also hope to increase our already substantial support of local charitable and community organizations,” Keeping said. “Providing help to these organizations is very important to Southland Park and Delaware North.”
Keeping said Southland Park will phase the work so there is no disruption to guests. Below is a summary of the project:

• The facility’s current event center, gift shop and player rewards club will be demolished to open up space on the west end of the building to accommodate the larger gaming floor and new central circular sports bar and lounge with their own service areas.

• A permanent stage for promotions and entertainment will also be built at the end of the gaming floor.

• A new and improved player rewards club area will be built off of the expanded gaming floor in a currently undeveloped area.

• The current event center will be relocated to the Mezzanine level. The area currently known as the Starting Gate will be completely renovated into a new event center to become a full-fledged banquet room with its own kitchen. It will be able to accommodate banquets of 500 people and other functions and community events of up to 700 people.

• The World Market Buffet’s kitchen and service allies will be expanded.

Guests will continue to be able to dine at the World Market Buffet, Quinn & Ella’s Café, or Bourbon Street Steakhouse and Grill, the popular contemporary restaurant added in 2008. In addition to the new sports bar and lounge, Southland Park will continue to host live music at the Juke Joint.
The project will be the latest in a series of improvements made by Delaware North to the 55-year-old racing venue. In 2007, Delaware North made a $40 million investment to bring 600 gaming machines and various added hospitality amenities to Southland Park. In 2008, the company renovated a wagering room for racing enthusiasts called Winner’s Edge and added The Bourbon Street Steakhouse and Grill. Additional gaming machines have been added since 2007. Get the latest gaming news by clicking here: Jackpot! Magazine.

What is your favorite slot machine?

Answer our poll: What is your favorite slot machine?

Poll question at www.facebook.com/jackpotmagazine

Win $20,000 cash at Fitz blackjack tournament

by Rudi Schiffer
Jackpot! Magazine Senior Consulting Editor
TUNICA RESORTS — Cash is king and VP Adolph Lepre knows that and to that end has cooked up a $20,000 guaranteed cash first place pot for Fitz Casino & Hotel’s Hot Hands Blackjack Tournament that is now on us, taking place on this Friday and Saturday (Nov. 4-5).
“Promo cash and the like have their place,” said Lepre, “but this an event that a lot of long and tried tournament players will only come for cash and that’s the way it should be.”
It got my attention and this long and tried tournament player will come out of tournament hibernation to take a shot at some cash in this event.
Prizes for Hot Hand Blackjack Tournament are awarded for places 2-7 as well and will be based on a sliding percentage of the total money collected from the $150 buy-in and two rebuys, where a player who loses in the first round can buy back and continue to chase the money.
Lepre, the guru of all blackjack tournaments and who has staged more  Tunica events that I can remember playing in, also said registered players can get a comp room as well for this event, so act now.
Shane Poe is tournament director for the HOT HANDS tournament  and recommends players registered Friday from 5-8 p.m. but if not, do it Saturday from  8-10 a.m.. The best way is to call in when you read this to make sure you are entered and have your room reserved at 1-866-351-2515, and mention BJAK1110. You can also talk to your host.
I’ve attended tournaments at the Fitz where players have traveled from afar to play.
There is a regular gang of cowboys who show up from Oklahoma, I met two Russians on the tournament trail, and lotus lovers from California, not to mention regulars from New Orleans, Canada and New York.
Most of them come because of Adolph whose personality is bigger than his waistline. He has a loyal following and I am one of those who worship at his Altar of Blackjack.
Of course, we all like Big A, but we like him more when his company puts up significant cash prizes. And think about this.
Any serious players is going to wager much more than the $150.00 entry fee on one trip so why not play in a tournament where you can win a lot more and lose less. Not to mention that tournament play is challenging and exciting where you get to forget Basic Strategy and split tens and blackjacks, hit a 19 against dealer’s upcard ten, and more.
In the end, tournaments are great fun with a great chance to win some real cash for a change.

Plan Halloween weekend in Mississippi here!

For the 411 on what's happening at Mississippi casinos on Halloween weekend, check out Jackpot! Magazine. We've got all the information you need to plan a fun weekend filled with entertainment, gaming, great dining and even costume parties!

Here is the site: www.jackpotmagazine.com

Win a new Ford Fusion at Isle of Capri Casino, Lula, Miss.

LULA, Miss. – The Isle of Capri Casino Hotel Lula offers exciting promotions the entire month of October, including the big Just Your Style Car Giveaway. In the Just Your Style Car Giveaway promotion, guests can swipe their IsleOne player’s cards for a chance win IslePlay and a new Ford Fusion.
Earn entries through Saturday, Oct. 29. Drawings will be held Oct. 28 and 29. Win IslePlay! Then, on Oct. 29 at 11 p.m., one lucky winner will drive away in a new Ford Fusion.
Also at the Isle of Capri:
• Isle of Capri’s weekly blackjack tournament —
A weekly blackjack tourney will be held every Tuesday. This is a $25 buy-in blackjack tournament with a $1,500 prize pool. Registration is 6 p.m. – 7:15 p.m. at the Coral Reef pit.
• Paradise 50-plus —
Every Wednesday, guests 50 and up will receive one free buffet.
• Weekly slot tournament —
The Isle will host a free slot tournament every Thursday. There will be a $2,500 IslePlay prize pool with a winner each round. Registration is 2 to 6 p.m. in the Isle of Capri Cove.

Mississippi Gaming News

Read Mississippi Gaming News for news for and about the people who make up the gaming industry in the state. www.msgamingnews.com.

Bet on a big Halloween weekend in Mississippi!

Check out Jackpot! to plan your Halloween weekend in Mississippi. We've got the scoop on what's happening in gaming at casino resorts in the Mid-South, along the Mississippi River, at Pearl River Resort and on the Gulf Coast. Plus, we have links to all of the casinos in the Southeast. www.jackpotmagazine.com.

AGA supports state licensing and regulation, following federal guidelines, of online poker

Below is a statement from Frank J. Fahrenkopf, Jr., president and CEO of the American Gaming Association regarding today’s Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade Subcommittee hearing entitled “Internet Gaming: Is There a Safe Bet?”

“Today’s hearing on Internet gambling made it abundantly clear that the “safe bet” is to allow states, following federal guidelines, to license and regulate online poker. Such action would protect U.S. consumers, keep children from gambling on the Internet, and provide the tools law enforcement needs to shut down illegal Internet gambling operators. It would also create new jobs and tax revenue at a time when our country sorely needs both.

“Testimony heard today and other testimony presented in writing, such as ours, demonstrates that new technology and processes used in ecommerce have been successfully adapted in jurisdictions where Internet gambling is legal, such as Great Britain, France, Italy and provinces in Canada, to keep minors from betting online and prevent illegal activities, such as money laundering and fraud.

“The subcommittee today heard clear evidence that millions of U.S. residents who play online are being put at risk because they are playing illegally with companies that are poorly regulated and, in the vast majority of the cases, outside the reach of U.S. law enforcement. The only way to protect U.S. consumers and ensure that minors aren’t gambling on the Internet is to allow the states to license and regulate the online poker.

“We support state licensing and regulation, following federal guidelines, on online poker because it is substantially different than other forms of gaming. First, it is a game that vast numbers of Americans have historically played and that millions of Americans still play.

“Second, unlike other forms of Internet gambling, poker is primarily a game of skill. And, poker is played between or among individuals, whereas in other forms of Internet gambling the customer is playing against the “house.” Finally, the support we’ve seen around the country is really focused on online poker and not on other forms of Internet gambling.

“We do not support any specific legislation, but there are certain provisions that any change should include:
- Each state should have the right to determine whether online poker should be legalized within their jurisdictions.
- Federal guidelines should be established that the states must follow to insure a consistent regulatory and legal framework.
- U.S. law enforcement should be provided with the ability to go after illegal operators and successfully prosecute them.

“We welcomed the hearings today and urge Congress to act to protect the U.S. consumer and ensure that online poker is being provided by law abiding, responsible companies.”

For a full copy of Mr. Fahrenkopf’s testimony that was submitted into the record during hearing, visit the AGA website, http://www.americangaming.org/newsroom/speeches-testimony/testimony-submitted-for-consideration-by-the-u-s-house-committee-on.

Feel like a good laugh this weekend?

Hey Mid-South ~ need to blow off this week & have a good laugh? Head to Tunica Funny Bone at Harrah's Casino Tunica to see K-97's own Prescott through 10/16! PS There's a 2 for 1 coupon in the current issue of Jackpot! Magazine. TGIF!

Craft Beer Festival is Friday, Oct. 21

Just found out that there will be a $10 discount for the military for the Craft Beer Festival at Beau Rivage. Also, several sports celebrities are expected to attend. Word is, retired Mississippi State Coach Jackie Sherrill will also be there. Here are more details:

2011 Beau Rivage Craft Beer Festival
Time: Friday, October 21 · 7:00pm - 10:00pm
Location: Beau Rivage Pool Deck
$65 per ticket

Artisan Beer Tasting
Souvenir Pilsner Glass
Complimentary Buffet “Oktoberfest” Food Menu
Over 30 Artisan Breweries Represented with Brew Masters
Oktoberfest Style Entertainment “ The Polka Dots” Giveaways

Address: 875 Beach Boulevard, Biloxi, MS 39530
Phone: 228.386.7111

Delta Day Festival set for Saturday, Oct. 29. Fun family event has something for everyone in Tunica, Mississippi

TUNICA — Tunica’s 9th annual Delta Day Festival is an event you don’t want to miss. This year’s festival will be held on Saturday, Oct. 29, and it is shaping up to include some of the best family fun you’ll find anywhere this Fall. Admission is free of charge and all the fun begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 5 p.m. in downtown Tunica’s Rivergate Park.
The Delta Day Festival will feature lots of children’s activities so there will be lots of excitement for the younger crowd. There will be a petting zoo, kiddie train, face painting, balloon artists, moon bounce, pumpkin painting, and a giant slide, just to name a few activities. A costume contest will let your little goblins strut their stuff in their Halloween best, and a pet costume contest will leave your pooches howling with delight.
The highlight of the children’s activities is always the Children’s Tractor Pull for ages 5 to 8. Kids get a chance to compete against each other to see who can pull the most and the farthest. The winner gets bragging rights for a full year.
There will be just as much fun for the adults as there will be for the little ones, too. Arts and crafts vendors from far and wide come each year to sell their goods—from homemade sweet potato pies to delightful children’s clothing, and everything in between. Another fun activity in the lineup is the ever-popular Hospital Wings. A medical helicopter will land in downtown for viewing and photo opportunities beginning at 2:30 p.m. New this year, for all ages, an old fashioned cakewalk will be going on in the park. Come ready to walk and leave with a scrumptious sweet treat.
Be sure to stroll through the park and around the downtown businesses to see how many fall Scarecrows you can spot. Winners of the downtown retailers contest will be announced on the stage at 3 p.m. Many classes from local schools will also be constructing scary scarecrows, which will be judged and winners announced on stage.
The annual antique car show brings beautiful classic autos from all over the country to downtown Tunica. The cars are on display throughout the Festival, with judging in several categories early on, and prizes awarded to the best of each category in the afternoon. Coming back to Delta Day will be an antique tractor show. Tractor enthusiasts will see all sorts for wonderfully restored machines.
Live entertainment this year will be provided by The Gents from Amory, Miss. and by Tunica’s own Bone and the Twins. Both shows will be featured on the amphitheatre stage in the middle of Rivergate Park.
And, finally, what festival would be complete without some fantastic food? Delta Day will have plenty of variety to please any palate. Barbecue with all the trimmings, southern fried catfish, sweet tea, and all of the traditional fair foods from corn dogs to funnel cakes will be available.
For more information on the upcoming Delta Day Festival, visit the website tunicamainstreet.com, or call Tunica Main Street at (662) 363-6611, or you can send an email to info@tunicamainstreet.com.
Major sponsors include the Tunica Convention and Visitors Bureau, Gold Strike Casino and Waste Management Tunica Landfill.

October poker room schedule for casinos in Tunica, Mississippi

Tunica has lots of great poker action. Here is the poker tournament schedule for October 2011. For what's happening at all of the casinos in Mississippi, visit jackpotmagazine.com.

Great dining at Beau Rivage in Biloxi

BILOXI, Miss. — The restaurants at Beau Rivage always have something delicious cooking. Read about what is new at Beau Rivage in Jackpot! South at www.jackpotmagazine.com. See the story on page 19.

Kool & The Gang to perform at the Isle of Capri Casino Hotel in Lula, Miss.

Weekend getaway opportunity! See Kool & The Gang at the Isle of Capri Lula on Saturday, Oct. 1 at 8 p.m. Tickets are now on sale at the Banana Cabana Gift Shop for $45. Make it a weekend with room and ticket packages starting at $199. Call 1-800-THE-ISLE for more information. The Isle of Capri is located on Highway 49 at the Helena Bridge.

Huge car show at Sam's Town Casino Tunica, Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 24-25.

TUNICA RESORTS — Memphis Street Rods and Sam’s Town Hotel & Gambling Hall (Tunica, Miss.) present the 12th Annual Delta River Cruisin’ this weekend (Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 24-25). See one of the most impressive collections of classic and custom cars in the Mid-South. Delta River Cruisin’ is back for its gathering of some of the coolest, fanciest, jaw-droppingly impressive hot rods, street rods and classically restored vehicles the Mid South has ever seen. The event runs through Sunday, Sept. 25. The schedule is as follows for people wanting to register a pre-1979 vehicle:
- Saturday, Sept. 24, beginning at 8 a.m., registration, kick tire, hang out and have fun.
- Sunday, Sept. 25, beginning at 11 a.m., cash prizes, drawings, plus other giveaways.
Paul Revere & The Raiders will perform on Saturday, Sept. 24. Tickets are $25 and $30 and are subject to Ticketmaster fees. Call Ticketmaster at (901) 525-1515 for visit www.ticketmaster.com to buy concert tickets. Viewing the cars is free and open to the public.
One can register in advance of the show. Make checks payable to Memphis Street Rods. Registration fee is $30. Mail to: Memphis Street Rods, Attn: Poteet, P.O. Box 750161, Memphis, TN. 38175. For more information, go to www.memphisstreetrods.com.

Money saving coupons in current issue of Jackpot! Magazine

Pick up the current issue of Jackpot! Magazine (Sept. 22-Oct. 5, 2011 issue) for money-saving coupons. In Tunica or downtown Memphis, pick up Jackpot! and save with coupons for a VIP Coupon Book good at Casino Factory Shoppes in Tunica and a 2-for-1 buffet coupon good at Southland Park Gaming & Racing in West Memphis, Ark.

Win a Harley or Challenger at Sam's Town Casino Tunica on Saturday, Sept. 24

TUNICA RESORTS — Sam’s Town Hotel & Gambling Hall is hosting a powerful giveaway that will have one lucky winner rumbling down the highway in either a new Dodge Challenger or on a Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic motorcycle.
Whether you enjoy being behind the wheel of a hot muscle car or on the back of an iconic Harley, Sam’s Town has your prize. Take your pick.
You can drop in to earn entries now and on Sept. 24, if you win, you can enjoy your ride in style.
Sam’s Town will even give you a free entry just by swiping your B Connected card at the B Connected Club. Want more entries? Ask an attendant at the B Connected Club about earning additional entries. There are many ways to earn them.
On top of giving you a choice of which vehicle you would like to drive out of Sam’s Town, you have the choice of being present at 10 p.m. You don't need to be present to win your choice of vehicles, but you must activate your entries on Sept. 24 between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. 
See B Connected Club for a complete list of rules and regulations.

Win a tanker of gas at Southland Park Gaming & Racing in West Memphis, Ark. on Saturday, Sept. 24

WEST MEMPHIS, Ark. — It’s a Gas Tanker Giveaway. This Saturday, from 2 p.m. until 10 p.m., one player rewards member will be drawn every 30 minutes to win a $150 gas card and an entry in the grand prize drawing on Sept. 24 for your chance to take home a 9,400 gallon tanker full of gas worth over $30,000. Receive one entry for every 50 points earned per day. See player reward counter for complete details.
Also at Southland:
• Mondays are Sizzling Senior Days – Be there for the all the Sizzling Senior Mondays, with even greater benefits for seniors. Every Monday, player reward members 50-plus who earn 20 points can swipe their card at any kiosk for their chance to be drawn at 10 a.m. noon or 2 p..m. to win $25 in Free Play.
Also at Southland
• This month’s Live Racing Schedule at Southland: Monday features an 18-race twilight schedule starting at 4 p.m., on Wednesday’s it’s an 18-race matinee starting at 12:30 p.m. Thursday’s feature 18-races starting at 7 p.m. and on Friday, enjoy 18 evening races at 7 p.m. On Saturday’s, enjoy an 18- race matinee at 12:30 p.m. and 18 races starting at 7 p.m. Simulcast racing is featured daily.

Win Treasures of the Caribbean at Gold Strike Casino Resort in Tunica, Miss. Giveaway is Saturday, Sept. 24

TUNICA RESORTS — Win a Caribbean vacation and up to $10,000 in FreePlay during the Treasures of the Caribbean Giveaway on Saturday, Sept. 24 at Gold Strike Casino Resort.
The final drawings will be held this Saturday from 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. Ten lucky winners’ names will be drawn each hour to play the Treasures of the Caribbean game board for a chance to win FreePlay and Treasure Shopping Points. Guests earn one drawing entry for every 100 slot base points accumulated on their M life account and one treasure shopping point for every slot base point earned during promotional period. 
Players also receive one complimentary drawing entry ticket, per person, per promotion available at M life Players Club upon request. Sign up for M life during the promotional period and receive one complimentary drawing entry. Want to earn tickets more quickly? Play slots and video poker on Tuesdays to receive two-times points.
• Shopping days set for Oct. 28 through 30. Treasure Chest Gift Shoppe shopping points can be earned and redeemed October 28-30 for jewelry, electronics, house wares, home décor and sporting goods by top manufacturers.
Prizes include Sony 3D televisions, Drew Brees autographed jerseys, Krups Espresso Machines, SodaStream at home soda makers, Dooney and Bourke handbags, Hobo International handbags, Niven Morgan luxury bath and body products, Baby Cakes Cupcake maker, Waring movie theater popcorn makers, Cuisinart wine coolers, Bulova and Movado watches, Nikon D3000 cameras and Bose earbuds.
Treasure shopping points can also be redeemed for FreePlay. Patrons have the option to purchase the difference with cash or credit card during the shopping event.

Winner chooses between a Ford or Chevy truck in Fitz Casino Tunica's giveaway on Saturday, Sept. 24

TUNICA RESORTS — Are you a Ford or a Chevy truck fan? You can pick your favorite in the latest promotion at Fitz Casino & Hotel. Fitz is home to the Pick Your Pick-Up Giveaway in September. Receive one entry for every 10 points earned, or with qualified table play. Earn 10 times bonus entries on Mondays and five times bonus entries on Saturdays. The grand prize drawing is Saturday, Sept. 24 at 10 p.m. The grand prize winner will get the choice of either a Ford F-150 or a Chevy 1500 pick-up.

Win a Camaro, Buick Regal or Fusion Hybrid at Hollywood Casino Tunica on Saturday, Sept. 24

TUNICA RESORTS — Choose Your Ride is back at Hollywood Casino. Whatever your lifestyle, Hollywood has the ride for you. You could win a sporty Chevy Camaro, a sophisticated Buick Regal or a sleek Ford Fusion Hybrid on Saturday, Sept. 24. Swipe your player card daily for a free entry. New members receive five free entries when they sign up for a player card, so bring a friend.
Free slot play prizes and finalist drawings will be at 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 p.m. each drawing Saturday and the grand prize drawing will be held directly after the 10 p.m. drawing.

Casinos rise to the challenge of the Great Flood of 2011 in Mississippi

Read the June issue of Mississippi Gaming News for a look back at how the gaming industry rose to the challenges posed by Mississippi River flooding. Visit www.msgamingnews.com.

All Mississippi casinos reopen after flood

TUNICA RESORTS — All Mississippi casinos are now open. Not long ago, many were surrounded by water.

When the Mississippi River crested on May 10 at 47.8 feet here, all nine Tunica casinos had closed. Water surrounded the properties. Hollywood, Resorts and Sam’s Town appeared as islands on what was Casino Strip as the river crested and surrounded them on all sides. Parking lots were completely submerged under several feet of water and the casinos were accessible only by boat. The conditions around Bally’s, Fitz and Harrah’s were much the same. Water eventually flooded the parking lots of the casinos on Casino Center Drive — Gold Strike, Horseshoe and Tunica Roadhouse.

While the images on TV were alarming, the steps taken to safeguard the gaming facilities worked and casinos stayed dry for the most part. Cleanup efforts began as the water receded and on Wednesday, May 18, Gold Strike Casino Resort became the first casino to open its doors after the flood. Tunica Roadhouse followed a day later, and Horseshoe opened on Friday, May 20.

The following Thursday, Sam’s Town and Hollywood opened. Harrah’s opened a day later, as did Fitz. All nine casinos were open for Memorial Day weekend.

Further down river, the Isle of Capri Lula opened its doors on Friday morning, June 3. Harlow's Casino in Greenville opened soon after and now all casinos in Mississippi are open. While the casinos were closed, many employees helped in relief efforts and stayed on the payroll. Donations were also made to the Red Cross by gaming industry members to help with relief efforts in the aftermath of the flood.

GOLD STRIKE CASINO RESORT TO HOLD JOB FAIR, MAY 23

Gold Strike Casino To Fill Various Positions

TUNICA, Miss - May 20, 2011 – After temporarily closing due to flooding, Gold Strike Casino Resort is open and hiring new talent. Gold Strike will hold a job fair Monday, May 23 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The fair will be held at Hilton Memphis located at 939 Ridge Lake Road. Applicants must meet all qualifications of the position for which they apply. Please bring a current resume’ and business attire is required.

Gold Strike is looking to fill the following positions:

- Security Officer

- Sous Chef

- Security Manager

- Cook

- Security Supervisor

- Hostperson

- Slot Technician

- Food Server

- Slot Guest Services Representative

- Busperson

- Cage Cashier

- Bartender

- Hotel Front Desk Agent

- Cocktail Waitress

- Surveillance Operator

- Table Games Floor Supervisor

- Guest Room Attendant

Gold Strike has been recognized as one of the “Best Places to Work” in Mississippi by the Mississippi Business Journal. It is also the two-time winner of the Mississippi Minority Business Alliance Flame Award, which recognizes and appreciates exceptional support of minority business efforts in Mississippi. Gold Strike has also won the Mississippi Minority Business Council Minority Business Champion Award for continued commitment to minority business development and innovative procurement practices.

For more information, call Gold Strike Human Resources at (662) 357-1368 or visit www.goldstrikemississippi.com

GOLD STRIKE CASINO RESORT FIRST CASINO TO REOPEN IN TUNICA

MGM Resorts International Resort Welcomed Employees and Visitors Back

TUNICA RESORTS, Miss. – May 18, 2011 – Driven by an unwavering commitment to the employees, residents and visitors of the Mid-South region, MGM Resorts International’s Gold Strike Casino Resort Tunica reopened its doors for business Wednesday – just two weeks after rising Mississippi River floodwaters forced a mandatory closure of all Tunica County’s nine casinos. The Mississippi River reached its crest on May 10, 2011 at 47.8 feet, the second highest reading on record, surpassed only by the 48.7-foot crest in February 1937. Gold Strike successfully prevented Mississippi River water from entering the resort and the recently-renovated facility remains like new, due in large part to the deployment of state-of-the-art technology and dedication of its 1,400 team members; 150 employees from its Biloxi sister property Beau Rivage; Mississippi Gaming Commission, Governor Barbour, local government and elected officials, and tremendous vendor partners including W.G. Yates and Sons Construction, JESCO, Gephart Electrical, Hydrological Solutions, AT&T, Reigstad and Associates, Johnson Controls, Wilson Welding, Williams Equipment, Oil Field Marine, Inland Salvage Inc., CDM, Tunica County Utility District - RiverBend of Mississippi Inc. and Entergy among others.

“We’re anxious to open our doors for our customers and to get our employees back to work,” said George P. Corchis, Jr., president and COO of MGM Resorts International Regional Operations. “Our initial priority was the safety of our employees and guests. Once secure, our focus turned to mitigation efforts and asset protection. Now comes the exciting part, where we get to bring our incredible employees back to reopen the property and re-ignite tourism to the region.”

In addition to employing more than 1,400 team members, the reopening of the 1,200-room Gold Strike will have an immediate, positive impact on the local economy while simultaneously fueling Mississippi tourism - the second largest industry in the state. Besides revenue generated from hotel room tax receipts, food & beverage, entertainment and retail taxes, Tunica’s nine casinos average $90 million in gross gaming revenue each May. Closing the casinos for the month could lead to a $10 million loss in gaming tax revenue to the state and local governments, not to mention payroll taxes for 9,300 casino employees. The ripple effect impacts all businesses from gas stations to local shops that support the tourism economy.

The Gold Strike employees have been the top priority for MGM Resorts. The company has a long-standing practice of supporting its employees in times of emergency and natural disaster and Gold Strike employees have been guaranteed full pay and benefits including tips, throughout the closure. For employees who live in flooded areas, MGM Resorts is helping facilitate access to company emergency relief funds and federal assistance that can help families through this difficult time. The employee health clinic, located across the levee from the resort, has remained open during the shutdown and human resource representatives are onsite seven days a week. In addition, a temporary dining facility, known as the “Levee Café,” has been open 24/7 for employees, emergency management and other government officials, first responders, gaming industry employees and anyone else interested in a free hot meal during the resort’s temporary closure. The long-standing partnership between MGM Resorts and the American Red Cross was further strengthened with the training of more than 50 Gold Strike employee volunteers in damage assessment and shelter operations for mobilization as this historic event unfolded.

MGM Resorts International used large-scale Aqua-Barrier and Army Corps of Engineers-certified HESCO baskets to safeguard Gold Strike from the Mississippi River. Thirty five hundred linear feet of the 8 ft. high x 100 ft. long Aqua-Barriers - each filled with 90,000 gallons of rising floodwater- were used to successfully envelop the entire circumference of the main structure and outbuildings. HESCO baskets – wire mesh nets filled with gravel and interconnected like blocks – covered 2,000 linear feet and formed an additional line of defense around the facility. More than 40,000 sandbags were filled for added protection. These technologies essentially created a mile-long manmade levee system around the 1.4 million sq. ft. resort. Four mooring columns that support the barge structure were also extended by 5 ft. in height to help support expected water level increases.

At 32-stories high, Gold Strike’s iconic gold windowpane tower is the tallest building in the Mississippi Delta and a Tunica landmark. MGM Resorts has played a significant role in Tunica’s tourism revitalization with its recent multimillion-dollar property transformation and is committed in its efforts to rebuild and renew the region after this historic flood. “Beyond supporting the livelihood of our employees and their families,” said Gold Strike General Manager George Goldhoff, “Gaming will fuel economic development in the region, spurring tax income and capital investments to benefit the industry’s employees, the local community and the entire state. Everyone at MGM Resorts is extremely optimistic about Tunica’s tourism and the gaming industry. We’re back and committed to play an integral role in the area’s success.”

What's happening at Mississippi River casinos?

Video poker tournament at Gold Strike

TUNICA RESORTS — Video poker is back and better than ever at Gold Strike Casino Resort. Play in the Royals & Aces Video Poker Tournament on Tuesday, April 26 and you could win your share of $5,000 in FreePlay. Registration is from 3-8 p.m. and tournament play starts at 4 p.m. Earn 50 base points on your M Life Players Club card on the day of the tournament for a free entry. See M Life Players Club for complete details.

April Showers Giveaway at Resorts

TUNICA RESORTS — At Resorts Casino in April players can win with the $125,000 April Showers Giveaway every Saturday, 4 p.m. to midnight. There will be 25 winners of $1,000 in free slot play each day.

Win a Cadillac CTS at Gold Strike

TUNICA RESORTS — Win a 2010 Cadillac STS for pennies as Gold Strike Casino Resort kicks its Revved Up Jackpots into gear. Play the casino’s penny machines for a chance to hit the jackpot and win a new high-powered ride now through Dec.22. A special slot machine bank is setup with a Cadillac STS Coupe on display. When the jackpot hits, a guest wins the car or $35,000 in FreePlay. Guest must be a valid member of the M life Players Club and have their Players Club card inserted into the machine to win. Players Club cards are free and available at the Players Club located at the west end of the casino.

Promo Cash Fridays at Fitz

TUNICA RESORTS — • Fitz Casino and Hotel is home to blackjack tournaments on Friday nights in April on April 1, 15 and 29 at 7 p.m. The buy-in is $20. Registration is at the host desk from 5 to 7:30 p.m.

Payouts are as follows:

1st place- $2,000 cash guaranteed

2nd - $500 promo chips

3rd - $350 promo chips

4th - $250 promo chips

5th - $100 promo chips

6th-10th - $50 promo chips

Get 2-for-1 admission at Tunica RiverPark

TUNICA RESORTS — The Tunica RiverPark, located on RiverPark Drive off Fitzgerald’s Blvd., offers scenic hiking trails, riverboat cruises and river views. The Mississippi River Museum lets you explore the Delta’s past. Get a 2-for-1 admission to the museum with the coupon on page 6 in this issue of Jackpot! Magazine. Individual museum rates only will apply and valid at Tunica RiverPark Museum only. Offer limited to one coupon per person per visit.

Win with Harlow’s $50,000 Cash Blast

GREENVILLE, Miss. — Win up to $50,000 cash on Fridays in April, 8 p.m. to midnight at Harlow’s Casino Resort in Greenville, Miss. The grand prize increases by $5,000 every Friday until someone hits. There is a winner every 30 minutes. Earn entries by playing your favorite games at Harlow’s. See Players Club for details. For general information, call (662) 335-9797.

Play and get a Tunica Roadhouse umbrella

TUNICA RESORTS — Accumulate 300 Base Reward Credits and receive a Tunica Roadhouse umbrella. Pick up your gift at Casino Services any day of the month during the promotion. See official rules at the Casino Services Desk. Games at the Roadhouse include: $3 blackjack, $3 craps, crapless craps – everyday; Quarter Roulette, Monday – Wednesday and $20 buy-in poker, Friday through Sunday, 6 p.m. – until.

Sam’s Town $24K Blackjack Tournament

TUNICA RESORTS — Feeling lucky? All B Connected card holders are invited to Sam’s Town’s $24,000 Open Blackjack Tournament, April 22-23. The buy-in is $150 with a $150 re-buy. First place walks away with a guaranteed $12,000. Make a weekend of it. Sam’s Town will provide two free nights stay for entrants, limited room block based upon availability. Make your reservations now.

Jackpot! is on Facebook and Twitter

Follow Jackpot! on Twitter @jackpotonline and “like us” on Facebook. Our addresses are: www.twitter.com/jackpotonline and www.facebook.com/jackpotmagazine. Pick us up in print or read us online at www.jackpotmagazine.com.

No Fooling, The Buffet of Buffets Offers Three Buffets for One Price

TUNICA, Miss., – Diners at Harrah’s, Horseshoe and Tunica Roadhouse can now have their cake and eat it too at not one, not two, but three different buffets all for one price.

Guests at the three casinos can purchase a Buffet of Buffets pass for $29.99 or $34.99, depending on the day purchased, and enjoy any and all of the casino buffets as much as they like within a 24 hour time frame. The Buffet of Buffets promotion is available at the Paula Deen Buffet at Harrah’s, the Village Square Buffet at Horseshoe, and the Big Kitchen Buffet at Tunica Roadhouse from April 1 through May 31, 2011.

Sunday through Wednesday a Buffet of Buffets pass costs $29.99 and Thursday through Saturday a Buffet of Buffets pass costs $34.99. Once a guest purchases the Buffet of Buffets pass they have 24 hours to visit all three buffets as much as they like. Buffet of Buffets passes can be purchased at the Paula Deen Buffet at Harrah’s, the Village Square Buffet at Horseshoe, or the Big Kitchen Buffet at Tunica Roadhouse in Tunica, Mississippi.

Plan to party on St. Patrick's Day at Fitz Casino & Hotel in Tunica, Mississippi, this Thursday. Here what's happening:
- A $10,000 promo cash slot tournament. Earn 100 points on your Key Rewards card to get a free tournament entry. Register at the player booth on the second floor with tourney play starting at 1 p.m.
- Revel with shamrockin’ party favors, such as green beads, glow necklaces, party hats and more.
- Get a t-shirt gift if if you earn 50 points on your Key Rewards card, table play included, or hit any hand-paid jackpot for the shamrock t-shirt.
- Enjoy rollicking live music on the Stage Bar with Eric Stone and the Fabulous Steeler Band.
— Take advantage of an Irish food buffet and green beer during the celebration.

St. Patrick's Day at Tunica Roadhouse

TUNICA RESORTS — Join the Tunica Roadhouse Casino and Hotel for St. Patrick’s Day Shenanigans. The casinos invites you to come celebrate green beer and a great time.

On March 17, Tunica Roadhouse invites you to stop on by for a good ol’ St. Paddy’s Day time. From 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. (or until the party stops), rock out to Frankie Hollie and The Noise at the Riverbar Stage.

St. Patrick’s Day deals include:

• Green Beer - $1 draws.

• Irish Coffee - $3.

• Shamrock Shaker - $3.

• Irish Car Bombs - $5.

• Guinness - $3.

• $1.50 domestic bottles.

• Free t-shirts and beads.

• Big Kitchen Buffet only $12.99

for dinner and $7.99 for lunch.

At Tunica Roadhouse, it is your lucky day. Bring in the coupon from the ad on page 11 of the current issue of Jackpot! Magazine and receive 15 percent off any item at the Tunica Roadhouse Gift Shop.

EXPERIENCE MISSISSIPPI’S RICH, DIVERSE HISTORY AND HERITAGE IN FEBRUARY

Jackson, Miss. (February 1, 2011) - Mississippi invites visitors to experience the state’s rich history and cultural heritage and to find their true south during the month of February. Whether you are interested in Civil War history, the Civil Rights Movement or Native American culture, Mississippi is full of authentic sights, sounds and attractions for you to experience firsthand. It’s true: Mississippi is home to some of our nation’s most important history and heritage.
“So many historical figures lived, fought, struggled and endured in Mississippi,” said Mary Beth Wilkerson, director of the Mississippi Development Authority’s Tourism Division. “You can walk where they walked, see many of the things they saw and envision the years past that shaped our future and the world we live in today. That’s a key part of what makes Mississippi the perfect place to find your true south – we are real, authentic and ready to share our story with you.”
Mississippi’s museums, historical homes, Civil War sites and Civil Rights landmarks are located throughout the state. From the Vicksburg National Military Park and the Corinth Interpretive Center near Shiloh National Military Park to the home of Medgar Evers and Freedom Corner in Jackson, plan a trip to Mississippi in February to experience it yourself.
The year 2011 marks the 150thAnniversary of the Civil War, and Mississippi is home to many of the Civil War Sesquicentennial activities and events being planned for 2011-2015. The Civil War Preservation Trust lists 39 Mississippi sites on its Civil War Discovery Trail. The recently launched www.mscivilwar150.com is an excellent resource for up-to-the-minutes details about Civil War-related activities happening around the state.
February is African-American History Month in America, bringing an increased focus on Civil Rights history to the world. Mississippians were central to that movement, and you can learn more about how they helped shape our future while you are here. This year also marks the 50th anniversity of the Freedom Riders and Freedom Summer 1961, a pivotal part of the Civil Rights Movement (Official celebrations are scheduled for May 22-28, 2011).
Stretching 444 miles, the Natchez Trace Parkway is one of America’s most fascinating National Scenic Byways. Its history is older than the nation’s, for its origins date to the days when buffalo roamed the region. The pathway eventually became the main land route for inland traders to reach the lower Mississippi. Andrew Jackson frequently traveled the Trace, as did American Indians, explorers such as Meriwether Lewis and infamous bandits. Today’s paved road is historic itself, as it was a civilian labor project during the New Deal. Stop at the Visitor’s Center in Tupelo and note the small frame houses behind it. These were one of the nation’s first federal housing projects, built for the workers constructing the Trace. Eleanor Roosevelt cut the ribbon.
The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians maintains a proud presence in the state. Its casinos in Neshoba County mix easily with its heritage. The famous Choctaw baskets, as well as other Choctaw crafts, can be found at the casino shop. Plan a visit in the summer where basket-weaving, the historic game of stick ball and native dance can be enjoyed at the Choctaw Indian Fair.
The state’s Welcome Centers will also offer a glimpse into Mississippi’s cultural heritage through visual displays, costume exhibits and a myriad of resources like maps, tour guides, photographs and brochures to point visitors in the direction of discovery.
Every city, town and community in Mississippi has its own story to tell about the people, places and events that helped shape its history and the future of our country. What better way to find your true south than a trip to Mississippi in February.
To view more details about places you can visit to enjoy the history and heritage of Mississippi, explore the Mississippi Tourism website, www.visitmississippi.org/cultural_historical.