By Rudi Schiffer
Mississippi gaming revenue continues to fall under the never-ending dark economic cloud that hangs over the state, but there is still some optimism out there, even if it might be misplaced. I’m talking about Texas businessman MICHAEL WASSERMAN. I guess Mike doesn’t subscribe to the WALL STREET JOURNAL and even after earlier attempts to establish more casinos in ARKANSAS that never made it to the starting line, Mike says that state needs more destination resorts — his, of course.
But Mike is a Texan and those folks always think big, so he wants casinos in Boone, Crittenden, Garland, Jefferson, Miller, Pulaski and Sebastian counties. He still needs 77,133 registered voters to get his bid on the ballot next November, but there are some other bumps in the road. Political action groups are gearing up to oppose the proposal by the Gainesville, Texas operator, who runs a company called Arkansas Hotels & Entertainment, Inc. Last year, Mike couldn’t get enough signatures for his gaming push. …you got to know when to fold ‘em.
But recent news suggests that optimism extends into TUNICA COUNTY, where FOUNDATION GAMING GROUP, through foreclosure, is about to take over RESORTS and BALLY’S casinos, which have floundered in the competitive market.
The state gaming commission has approved the move that is subject to completion of the foreclosure process by a lender of the current owner. Assuming the lender is the successful bidder, Foundation will operate the two casinos. It is expected to take place and will allow a seamless transition with uninterrupted operations. Good news for the employees who will be part of a fresh start moving forward into the new year.
“Our immediate focus will be to keep the property operations as is, and once the transaction is complete, begin the process of compiling the operating plan for the coming year….“ said LES MCMACKIN, chief operations and marketing officer. Foundation brings over 75 years experience in gaming development, marketing, operations and regulation to the Tunica jurisdiction. The Group had been a key player in acquiring and developing over a dozen facilities in the USA and internationally. It is based in Gulfport, Miss.
PEARL RIVER RESORT has a busy December promotion month with big cash giveaways, including THE $450K HOLIDAY CASH promo, the $100k Holiday Gadgets, Gifts & Cash Giveaway and the $200k Ringing in the Cash Giveaway. All that cash being tossed around might be a good reason and time to pickup some extra money for your holiday shopping. For more details go to pearlriverresort.com.
The $10,000 Holiday Classic Video Poker Tournament begins at Gold Strike CASINO RESORT on Tuesday, Dec. 27. Try your luck during the Holiday Classic at Gold Strike. Players who earn 100 base points on the day of the tournament receive comp entry. Registration is on Tuesday, Dec. 27, from 3 to 8 p.m. in the Millennium Theater lobby. Players will receive tournament session times.
Also at Gold Strike, win a share of up to $200,000 in FreePlay and a 2012 Infiniti m37 in the Winning Wonderland promotion, on Friday, Dec. 9 and 23. Earn entries Dec. 1-23. See the Mlife desk for more details.
Southland Park Gaming & Racing hosts its 5th annual The Twelve Tournaments of Christmas, Dec. 1-12, with all tournaments beginning at 7 p.m. All Southland Park guests who donate a new, unwrapped toy with a minimum value of $20, or $20 in cash, are able to participate in daily tournaments. There is no limit to the number of donations accepted from one guest. Registration will take place daily, Dec. 1 through 12, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the Player Rewards desk. All proceeds will benefit Toys for Tots. See page 10 for the list of tournaments. There is a different type of tournament each day, so there is something for everyone.
Win with the Magic Mondays Gift Giveaway at FITZ CASINO & HOTEL. You can come away with a holiday shopping spree. Earn points on your Key Rewards card or with qualified rated table play each Monday in December for great holiday gifts such as Wii’s, TVs, video cameras and more, while supplies last.
Coming up at SAM’S TOWN HOTEL & GAMBLING HALL are the Bang Fighting Championships - MMA on Saturday, Jan. 7, at 7 p.m. Tickets are just $35 for ringside seats and $25 for general admission. Mixed martial arts has gained in popularity over the past few years to the point where it is a huge sport. This a an opportunity to see MMA up close and in-person.
Love your DEALER this HOLIDAY SEASON…dealers work under a lot of stress and little reward so keep that in mind in December and maybe add another chip to that tip for a smile and good service. Dealers make a minimum wage or a bit above and need those tips to live on and support their families. The same goes for waitresses, cage people, and valets, so don’t forget them.
ERICA JONES has been named director of Human Resources at GOLD STRIKE bringing some 14 years of experience with her. Management changes continue at PEARL RIVER RESORT under newly elected CHIEF PHYLLIS ANDERSON,. CONNIE R. DEON has been appointed executive director of finance for the resort which encompasses, Golden Moon, Silver Star, and BOK HOMA casino in Jones County.
HOPE Y’ALL had a wonderful Thanksgiving day.
LAISSEZ LES BON TEMPS ROULER
Listen for the latest casino news on the GOODTIMES radio show every Friday night from 6-8 on 730 KQPN SPORTS & GAMBLING AM, Memphis.
