Virgil’s Real Barbeque To Open Inside Mohegan Sun
Famous BBQ Eatery opening this Spring
Barbeque lovers rejoice as Mohegan Sun announces a new addition to their restaurant offerings, Virgil’s Real BBQ, NYC’s original BBQ Restaurant since 1994. Virgil’s will be located on the upper level of The Shops concourse near The Lansdowne Irish Pub & Music House in the previous Big Bubba's BBQ. Virgil’s Real BBQ, which will have seating for 225, will boast something for everyone from comfort food favorites to regional cuisines to complement the famous smoked meats such as brisket, pulled pork and even some vegetarian dishes. This will be their third location with restaurants currently in New York City and in 2001, a 650-seat restaurant at the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island, Nassau, Bahamas.
ABOUT VIRGIL’S
Virgil’s fired up its pits and opened its doors in 1994 serving up traditional Southern barbecue and hospitality. Virgil’s smokes all their meats at a low temperature over indirect heat for up to ten hours with a unique mix of hickory, oak and fruit woods in order to impart the most flavor and keep the meat from drying out. To complement the main menu of BBQ specialties, Virgil’s also offers a generous selection of traditional sides like barbecue beans, coleslaw and cheese grits and Southern-style desserts like Banana Pudding and Key Lime Pie. To wash it all down, Virgil’s beer list features 16 beers on tap including Virgil’s own recipe lager brewed by Magic Hat Brewery in Burlington, Vermont. They are available by the glass or pint along with 75 varieties of bottled beers in every style to match any mood or plate.
Jim Rice And Bucky Dent To Visit Mohegan Sun On April 4th
Batter up! Meet two of major league baseball’s heavy hitters on Thursday, April 4th when Jim Rice and Bucky Dent visit Mohegan Sun for a Signings & Sightings event inside Bow & Arrow Sports Bar. Jim & Bucky will be meeting fans and signing autographs for this free event that’s sure to be a “home run!”
*Participation is on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to time restrictions, signing items will be limited to headshots given out at event as well as two pieces of memorabilia per celebrity.
That's all for now.
Binbin
Showing posts with label Dining Reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dining Reviews. Show all posts
Saturday, 23 March 2013
Monday, 18 March 2013
Maine Monday - Dining
Oxford Casino
After this past weekend's ala carte specials, Oxford has the following buffet options coming up and on-going:
Beginner's Luck Buffet, Every weekend (Sat & Sun)
7:30 - 10:30; $9.99
Easter Buffet, March 31st, 11-4
A traditional Easter Buffet with ham, turkey and all your favorite sides & desserts.
$19.95
Oxford Grill ....
A brand new eatery for the Oxford area, provides classic American cuisine and favorites off the grill served in a casual setting. Fuel up for another round with a delicious lunch or dinner, cooked fresh to order and made to please your every taste bud. One of the hottest new restaurants near Portland, Maine, Oxford Grill offers something for everyone.Menu links can be found on the Oxford Casino website.
Hollywood Casino, Hotel & Raceway
Epic Buffet
They call it a "never-ending parade of flavors including the freshest seafood, pasta, pizza, an exciting array of Chinese dishes and all-American comfort favorites." It has a 20’ salad bar and large collection of desserts including cakes, pies, pastries and soft serve ice cream. Here are special offerings and prices:
Sunday Brunch, 9 - 3, $12.99
Friday Seafood Fest Buffet Dinner Special, 4 - 9, $16.99
Saturday Prime Rib & Crab Buffet Special, 4 - 9, $16.99
Regular Prices - Lunch is $10.99; Dinner $15.99
Children under 12 - Breakfast $3.99, Brunch $6.99, Lunch $4.99, Dinner $7.99
Sounds like some Royally scrumptious specials.
That's all for now!
Binbin
After this past weekend's ala carte specials, Oxford has the following buffet options coming up and on-going:
Beginner's Luck Buffet, Every weekend (Sat & Sun)
7:30 - 10:30; $9.99
Easter Buffet, March 31st, 11-4
A traditional Easter Buffet with ham, turkey and all your favorite sides & desserts.
$19.95
Oxford Grill ....
A brand new eatery for the Oxford area, provides classic American cuisine and favorites off the grill served in a casual setting. Fuel up for another round with a delicious lunch or dinner, cooked fresh to order and made to please your every taste bud. One of the hottest new restaurants near Portland, Maine, Oxford Grill offers something for everyone.Menu links can be found on the Oxford Casino website.
Hollywood Casino, Hotel & Raceway
Epic Buffet
They call it a "never-ending parade of flavors including the freshest seafood, pasta, pizza, an exciting array of Chinese dishes and all-American comfort favorites." It has a 20’ salad bar and large collection of desserts including cakes, pies, pastries and soft serve ice cream. Here are special offerings and prices:
Sunday Brunch, 9 - 3, $12.99
Friday Seafood Fest Buffet Dinner Special, 4 - 9, $16.99
Saturday Prime Rib & Crab Buffet Special, 4 - 9, $16.99
Regular Prices - Lunch is $10.99; Dinner $15.99
Children under 12 - Breakfast $3.99, Brunch $6.99, Lunch $4.99, Dinner $7.99
Sounds like some Royally scrumptious specials.
That's all for now!
Binbin
Sunday, 17 March 2013
"Sun" Sunday
Mohegan Sun News & Promos
Mohegan Sun has some shopping specials for the month of March with a hint of green for St. Patrick's Day:
SHINE 360
I always wondered what this was. I haven't tried it yet. So, what exactly is it?
It's a space where guests can experience the excitement of a “phygital” experience. Patented technology in the Shine 360° enables creation of one-of-a-kind 360 degree video, capturing each guest’s shining moment in the spotlight and instantly sharing it through Facebook, Twitter and e-mail. A growing trend in Europe, “phygital” marketing brings physical experiences to life in the digital world. You step inside and strike a pose as cameras capture a video of your shining moment. Guests enter Shine 360° and immediately are transformed into “digital celebrities” as 48 photos are simultaneously snapped in a circle around them. In seconds, the photos are seamlessly transformed into a 360-degree head-to-toe, back-to-front image. You can share your video with friends, or watch it again to relive your time in the spotlight.
Located in Casino of the Sky, across from the Arena Club entrance, this 24-foot wide installation captures users’ celebrity moments from every angle, creating a 360 video that they can immediately share with their social media ‘fans.’ There is no charge to use the booth; guests just need to be 21 years of age or older and be a Player’s Club member.
It's open every Friday & Saturday Night, 6pm to 2am
Finally, Congratulations.....
I like to concentrate on New England Gaming, but at this moment, I would like to look to AC and congratulate Jeff Hartman, previous President and Chief Executive Officer of Mohegan Sun from January 2011 until October 2012. I knew him through my career in education and his wonderful family, and through discussions about the PowerBonusing additions at the Sun.
Revel AC Inc. announced that it has appointed Mr. Hartmann as Revel AC’s Interim Chief Executive Officer, subject to regulatory approval. Jeff is a more than 20-year veteran of the gaming, hospitality and leisure industries, and possesses a solid understanding of Revel’s business, having worked with the Company on a consultancy basis since the beginning of 2013. I wish him and his family well, as well as Revel which seems to need a good person to bring it out of it's shaky beginning in AC.
That's all for now! Happy St. Patrick's Day.
Binbin
Mohegan Sun has some shopping specials for the month of March with a hint of green for St. Patrick's Day:
- The Bow & Arrow Sports Bar - $5.50 pints of Guinness
- The Old Farmer's Almanac General Store - LED Fiber Optic Angel - $40
- Ben & Jerry's Minter Wonderland Shakes - $6.50
- Hash House A Go Go Pub Crawl - $13.50
- The Lansdowne Irish PUb & Music House Corned Beef & Cabbage - $16
SHINE 360
I always wondered what this was. I haven't tried it yet. So, what exactly is it?
It's a space where guests can experience the excitement of a “phygital” experience. Patented technology in the Shine 360° enables creation of one-of-a-kind 360 degree video, capturing each guest’s shining moment in the spotlight and instantly sharing it through Facebook, Twitter and e-mail. A growing trend in Europe, “phygital” marketing brings physical experiences to life in the digital world. You step inside and strike a pose as cameras capture a video of your shining moment. Guests enter Shine 360° and immediately are transformed into “digital celebrities” as 48 photos are simultaneously snapped in a circle around them. In seconds, the photos are seamlessly transformed into a 360-degree head-to-toe, back-to-front image. You can share your video with friends, or watch it again to relive your time in the spotlight.
Located in Casino of the Sky, across from the Arena Club entrance, this 24-foot wide installation captures users’ celebrity moments from every angle, creating a 360 video that they can immediately share with their social media ‘fans.’ There is no charge to use the booth; guests just need to be 21 years of age or older and be a Player’s Club member.
It's open every Friday & Saturday Night, 6pm to 2am
Finally, Congratulations.....
I like to concentrate on New England Gaming, but at this moment, I would like to look to AC and congratulate Jeff Hartman, previous President and Chief Executive Officer of Mohegan Sun from January 2011 until October 2012. I knew him through my career in education and his wonderful family, and through discussions about the PowerBonusing additions at the Sun.
Revel AC Inc. announced that it has appointed Mr. Hartmann as Revel AC’s Interim Chief Executive Officer, subject to regulatory approval. Jeff is a more than 20-year veteran of the gaming, hospitality and leisure industries, and possesses a solid understanding of Revel’s business, having worked with the Company on a consultancy basis since the beginning of 2013. I wish him and his family well, as well as Revel which seems to need a good person to bring it out of it's shaky beginning in AC.
That's all for now! Happy St. Patrick's Day.
Binbin
Saturday, 16 March 2013
St Patrick's Day Specials In New Endland Casinos
Mohegan Sun
St. Patrick’s Day Begins And Ends At The Lansdowne Irish Pub & Music House Inside Mohegan Sun
On March 17th, catch the luck of the Irish at Mohegan Sun’s brand-new Irish pub
This March 17th, grab your green and join The Lansdowne Irish Pub & Music House inside Mohegan Sun as they host their first-ever St. Patrick’s Day party!
Opening at 11:00am, The Lansdowne Irish Pub & Music House will have drink specials, giveaways, authentic Irish dishes and live entertainment throughout the day including Jediah at 4:00pm, bagpipers at 7:00pm and Kenny Mehler Band at 9:00pm.
Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis so get to Mohegan Sun early to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day like they do on the Emerald Isle.
Foxwoods-MGM
Thursday, Mar 17, 2011 6:00a
Block party at Atrium Lounge featuring Celtic Cross, a New York City based pop/folk band with a strong Celtic traditional influence, and the Guinness Girls will make a special appearance.
Stop by any Dream Rewards location between 6 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 17, 2011 and receive your entry into the Pot O’ Gold Cash Giveaway. The drawings will be held at 8:00 p.m. at the Atrium Lounge in Rainmaker Square where ten lucky guests will each win $2,500 in CASH!
Twin River
St. Patrick's Day Party
Join them in the clubhouse for a celebration of St. Patrick's Day. There will be tons of food, beverages, and activities for you and your friends. You definitely do not want to miss out! Wear your favorite green outfit and meet us in the clubhouse at 7:00 pm.
Newport Grand
St. Patrick's Day Buffet
Sunday, March 17th
12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Hollywood Casino & Raceway
EXCLUSIVE DRAWINGS FOR OUR 55+ MEMBERS!
Start earning entries at 8am. Drawings every half-hour between 11am-2:30pm. Stop by Player Services on March 3 to obtain your official LIUC pin to use for a special Epic Buffet offer on March 27! Then, come in on St. Patrick's Day, March 17, for BONUS drawings at 3pm & 3:30pm for an additional share of $1,000 Free Slot Play! Visit Player Services for complete details.
Oxford Casino
Food ala carte specials at Oxford Grill
Sunday, March 17th
11:00 am. to 8:00 p.m.
Erin Go Bragh
Binbin
St. Patrick’s Day Begins And Ends At The Lansdowne Irish Pub & Music House Inside Mohegan Sun
On March 17th, catch the luck of the Irish at Mohegan Sun’s brand-new Irish pub
This March 17th, grab your green and join The Lansdowne Irish Pub & Music House inside Mohegan Sun as they host their first-ever St. Patrick’s Day party!
Opening at 11:00am, The Lansdowne Irish Pub & Music House will have drink specials, giveaways, authentic Irish dishes and live entertainment throughout the day including Jediah at 4:00pm, bagpipers at 7:00pm and Kenny Mehler Band at 9:00pm.
Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis so get to Mohegan Sun early to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day like they do on the Emerald Isle.
Foxwoods-MGM
Thursday, Mar 17, 2011 6:00a
Block party at Atrium Lounge featuring Celtic Cross, a New York City based pop/folk band with a strong Celtic traditional influence, and the Guinness Girls will make a special appearance.
Stop by any Dream Rewards location between 6 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 17, 2011 and receive your entry into the Pot O’ Gold Cash Giveaway. The drawings will be held at 8:00 p.m. at the Atrium Lounge in Rainmaker Square where ten lucky guests will each win $2,500 in CASH!
Twin River
St. Patrick's Day Party
Join them in the clubhouse for a celebration of St. Patrick's Day. There will be tons of food, beverages, and activities for you and your friends. You definitely do not want to miss out! Wear your favorite green outfit and meet us in the clubhouse at 7:00 pm.
Newport Grand
St. Patrick's Day Buffet
Sunday, March 17th
12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Hollywood Casino & Raceway
EXCLUSIVE DRAWINGS FOR OUR 55+ MEMBERS!
Start earning entries at 8am. Drawings every half-hour between 11am-2:30pm. Stop by Player Services on March 3 to obtain your official LIUC pin to use for a special Epic Buffet offer on March 27! Then, come in on St. Patrick's Day, March 17, for BONUS drawings at 3pm & 3:30pm for an additional share of $1,000 Free Slot Play! Visit Player Services for complete details.
Oxford Casino
Food ala carte specials at Oxford Grill
Sunday, March 17th
11:00 am. to 8:00 p.m.
Erin Go Bragh
Binbin
Thursday, 20 December 2012
Foxwoods Friday
New Slots Expected at Foxwoods
Looks like the slots manufacturers have been busy. The following include some new interesting slots you should find in December and to enter in the new year:
1) "Cheers" - a slot where everybody knows your name! Lots of bonus and mini-bonus features with clips from the sitcom.
2) "Kiss" slots - from the high-heeled metal band. Another theme slot with multi-array games, original game mechanics and a rockin’ soundtrack.
3) Aristocrat Gaming introduces three new slots - "Cashman Alive," Tarzan-Lord of the Jungle" and "Tarzan - The adventures Return"
$5 Burger Days at David Burke Prime
Where to find the best burger at Foxwoods? According to Connecticut magazine, it's at David Burke Prime. And on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, you can get our famous, juicy, 28-day dry-aged burger for only $5. For a few dollars more you can add a salad or french fries. But any way you bite it, it's not just the best burger at the casino, it's the best bargain, too. Thursday, Friday and Saturday only 12pm – 4pm. Call 860-312-8753 for reservations.
Looking for other things to do at Foxwoods?
Try some modest shopping on the concourse; be tempted tby Native American artifacts, men’s and women’s clothing and athletic gear, shoes, purses, and jewelry.
For a literal breath of fresh air, a 1.9-mile trail leads through the woods to the Mashantucket Museum & Research Center (Wed-Sat 9 a.m.-5 p.m., adults $15, 55 and up $13, 6-15 $10) where exhibits detail the natural history of the area as well as the history and culture of the nation that owns the casino. There is also a shuttle bus between the casino and the museum.
If it's a walk inside you're looking for after that big buffet, try a walk from the farthest end of Foxwoods all the way to MGM and back. You might want to reward yourself with either Junior's Cheesecake on your way back or stop in at Gelato Cafe and treat your sweet tooth to the silky, smooth, luscious flavors of handcrafted Italian-style ice cream – 24 flavors to be exact.
Then, you might have to do that power walk all over again! Yummm....
That's all for now. I say royal, you say _____! (Louder) I say royal, you say _____! Nice!
Binbin
Looks like the slots manufacturers have been busy. The following include some new interesting slots you should find in December and to enter in the new year:
1) "Cheers" - a slot where everybody knows your name! Lots of bonus and mini-bonus features with clips from the sitcom.
2) "Kiss" slots - from the high-heeled metal band. Another theme slot with multi-array games, original game mechanics and a rockin’ soundtrack.
3) Aristocrat Gaming introduces three new slots - "Cashman Alive," Tarzan-Lord of the Jungle" and "Tarzan - The adventures Return"
$5 Burger Days at David Burke Prime
Where to find the best burger at Foxwoods? According to Connecticut magazine, it's at David Burke Prime. And on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, you can get our famous, juicy, 28-day dry-aged burger for only $5. For a few dollars more you can add a salad or french fries. But any way you bite it, it's not just the best burger at the casino, it's the best bargain, too. Thursday, Friday and Saturday only 12pm – 4pm. Call 860-312-8753 for reservations.
Looking for other things to do at Foxwoods?
Try some modest shopping on the concourse; be tempted tby Native American artifacts, men’s and women’s clothing and athletic gear, shoes, purses, and jewelry.
For a literal breath of fresh air, a 1.9-mile trail leads through the woods to the Mashantucket Museum & Research Center (Wed-Sat 9 a.m.-5 p.m., adults $15, 55 and up $13, 6-15 $10) where exhibits detail the natural history of the area as well as the history and culture of the nation that owns the casino. There is also a shuttle bus between the casino and the museum.
If it's a walk inside you're looking for after that big buffet, try a walk from the farthest end of Foxwoods all the way to MGM and back. You might want to reward yourself with either Junior's Cheesecake on your way back or stop in at Gelato Cafe and treat your sweet tooth to the silky, smooth, luscious flavors of handcrafted Italian-style ice cream – 24 flavors to be exact.
Then, you might have to do that power walk all over again! Yummm....
That's all for now. I say royal, you say _____! (Louder) I say royal, you say _____! Nice!
Binbin
Wednesday, 19 December 2012
This Weekend’s Casino Entertainment - Check websites for ticket information.
Short listing this week. Next week I'll include a long list of New Year's Eve Events in New England Casinos.
Binbin
Mohegan Sun Resort & Casino (CT)
Wolf Den
Ronnie Specter's Best Christmas Party Ever
Saturday, December 22nd - 8:00pm
The Arena
Straight No Chaser; Friday, December 21th - 8:00pm
Cabaret Theater
The Funniest Comic in New England Contest
Saturday, December 22nd - 9:00pm
Foxwoods Resort & Casino (CT)
Great Cedar Exhibition Hall
Now - Feb 24 – “Victory – an Exhibit of Red Sox History”; $10 - $15
Comix at Foxwoods
Lenny Marcus - December 19-22 (4 Shows)
Thursday - 8:00pm, Friday - 8:00pm, Saturday - 8:00/10:30pm
MGM Grand TheaterDecember 21st, 8:00 PM - Kenny Rogers
December 22nd, 11:00 PM - Dai Nhac Hoi
Twin River Casino (RI)
Friday, December 21st @ Catch A Rising Star - Ben Hague - 7:30PM
Saturday, December 22nd @ Catch A Rising Star - Big P and the Pussycats featuring Vinny Pastore- 8:00PM
Hollywood Casino (ME)
The Sound Stage Lounge
Friday, December 21st- Kayla Wass Trio - 9:00PM
Saturday, December 22nd - Kayla Wass Band 9:00PM
Short listing this week. Next week I'll include a long list of New Year's Eve Events in New England Casinos.
Binbin
Mohegan Sun Resort & Casino (CT)
Wolf Den
Ronnie Specter's Best Christmas Party Ever
Saturday, December 22nd - 8:00pm
The Arena
Straight No Chaser; Friday, December 21th - 8:00pm
Cabaret Theater
The Funniest Comic in New England Contest
Saturday, December 22nd - 9:00pm
Foxwoods Resort & Casino (CT)
Great Cedar Exhibition Hall
Now - Feb 24 – “Victory – an Exhibit of Red Sox History”; $10 - $15
Comix at Foxwoods
Lenny Marcus - December 19-22 (4 Shows)
Thursday - 8:00pm, Friday - 8:00pm, Saturday - 8:00/10:30pm
MGM Grand TheaterDecember 21st, 8:00 PM - Kenny Rogers
December 22nd, 11:00 PM - Dai Nhac Hoi
Twin River Casino (RI)
Friday, December 21st @ Catch A Rising Star - Ben Hague - 7:30PM
Saturday, December 22nd @ Catch A Rising Star - Big P and the Pussycats featuring Vinny Pastore- 8:00PM
Hollywood Casino (ME)
The Sound Stage Lounge
Friday, December 21st- Kayla Wass Trio - 9:00PM
Saturday, December 22nd - Kayla Wass Band 9:00PM
Tuesday, 18 December 2012
Tuesday Tidbits
Random stuff concerning New England Gambling, US Gambling, and gambling in general.
You can find more of Frank’s teachings at his site http://www.gamblingteachers.com.
That's all for now. A-K-Q-J-10 all diamonds. Diamonds aren't just a girl's best friend!
Binbin
- In this year’s election news, the biggest election-day casino issue was in Maryland which approved the addition of table games at its casinos, including a sixth resort that will be built near Washington D.C. As we remember in New England, table games were also approved for Rhode Island’s Twin River slot parlor, but were declined for the Newport Grand. And, a measure to escalate a casino presence in Oregon was defeated.
- Ever get "free slot play?" Ever play just the free slot play, then leave? Well, consider this. Whatever your playing status (card tier) is - low, mid to high roller status - casino management looks at all of your play statistics - time played, denomination, bet amount, games - high or low house advantage - and time away (for example, Mohegan Sun looks at last 6 visits). If your "free slot play" only visit isn't incorporated in your usual amount of play, it may decrease your perks and your tier-status. Something to keep in mind on those days you go to eat and play your free slot play and leave, damaging your player rating! Not that I would know, I mean, so I've heard.....
- Frank Scoblete, well known gambling author and teacher, gives the following suggestions about protecting your money in a casino - Men should never keep their wallets in their back pockets. Get a shirt with a pocket in front that buttons and keep your money in there. Some savvy craps players even keep a “dummy” wallet in their back pockets. Women should never put your purse on the floor, or on the drink shelf that surrounds the craps table at thigh level, or between slot machines. Doing so is an invitation to long-armed thieves. Keep your purse wrapped securely around your shoulder, on your lap covered by your arm, or keep it in your hands. The bottom line is to make the thief realize that it is going to take quite an effort to dislodge you from your purse. Both sexes can protect their money by using a secure fanny pack or waist pack.
You can find more of Frank’s teachings at his site http://www.gamblingteachers.com.
- Promotion - Shop & Dine Anywhere at Mohegan Sun w/ a $25 Gift Card and $15 in Free Slot Play for $25 ($40 Value) Limit 1 per person, per Player's Club card. Voucher expires December 31, 2012. From ReferLocal. http://tinyurl.com/b76kqym
- A Doctor Poker Player - A doctor answers his phone and hears the familiar voice of a colleague on the other end of the line. "We need a fourth for poker," said the friend. "I'll be right over," whispered the doctor. As he was putting on his coat, his wife asked, "Is it serious?" "Oh yes, quite serious," said the doctor gravely. "In fact, there are three doctors there already!"
- Finally, a Casino Myth from Frank Scoblete: Casinos are not interested in low rollers. To get comps, you have to bet big money. If you play the machines, even for quarters, you aren’t as low a roller as you think you are. Put three quarters in a machine every five seconds and you are putting through $540 per hour. Play four hours and you just gambled $2,160 -- wow! The casinos will be more than happy to recognize such action with free or discounted rooms, meals and other special promotions. If you play table games, you might not want to be a five-dollar bettor looking for comps in a casino where they only rate $25 action. However, there are plenty of casinos that will gladly comp five-dollar players if they play long enough. The bottom line is this: Most casinos want just about all players. Find the places that give your action the most in perks as possible...and then patronize them.
That's all for now. A-K-Q-J-10 all diamonds. Diamonds aren't just a girl's best friend!
Binbin
Friday, 14 December 2012
Casino News in Massachusetts
Massachusetts Round-up
The process for three / four casino sites in Massachusetts continues, although to some, at a snail's pace. The winner of a lone casino license in Western Massachusetts will be determined on merit to the company that can best deliver on its promises.
Below is part of an article by Howard Stutz's Inside Gaming column which appears Sundays in the Las Vegas Review Journal. He blogs at lvrj.com/blogs/stutz. Follow @howardstutz on Twitter.
"A month ago, Penn National and MGM Resorts spent a combined $90 million and were on opposite sides of what might have been the most expensive and venomous casino expansion campaign ever seen in Maryland. What MGM and Penn need to avoid is another Maryland, where Question 7 passed by a 52 percent to 48 percent vote. MGM Resorts, which supported the gaming expansion measure, is expected to be awarded a license to build a casino in suburban Maryland. Penn National opposed the measure because the company believed it should be awarded the gaming license. Also, a new casino in Maryland would take customers from the company's West Virginia casino. Did MGM cross the line? Inundating the Springfield airwaves with millions of dollars in ads, mailing controversial documents to residents and questioning a company's financial acumen or intentions won't be tolerated. In fact, Springfield leaders reportedly told officials from both MGM and Penn to play nice.
But for the moment, the focus is now on MGM Resorts and Penn National.
Now, they are facing off in Western Massachusetts in what is the most heavily sought after license among the state's three potential gaming regions. Western Massachusetts drew six prospects. Both MGM and Penn have made inroads in Springfield. MGM promises to refurbish a city playground near its casino site and to use the gaming facility to bring additional business to two municipal golf courses. MGM Resorts and Penn National are focused on Springfield, which bills itself as a cultural center. MGM Resorts is planning an $800 million casino on 10 to 15 acres at the city's south side. Penn National wants to build an $807 million casino on the city's north end. Also on the table are separate proposals from two local developers in the town of Holyoke and a pitch by the Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut, operators of the Mohegan Sun Casino, which has a site in Palmer.
In the other areas of the state, Caesars Entertainment Corp. - in partnership with the Suffolk Downs Raceway - seemingly has a lock on the Boston-area license, although a late entry of Wynn Resorts Ltd. could muddy the waters. And, in the southeast, the license appears headed to a Massachusetts Indian tribe, though the process could reopen if the tribe can't get it's financing in order.
Hundreds of Springfield residents are expected to pack a public meeting to hear from two companies seeking to build casinos in the western Massachusetts city. MGM Resorts International and Penn National Gaming Inc. were scheduled to make presentations and take questions at the meeting on Tuesday night.
Mayor Domenic Sarno is expected to decide sometime early next year whether to negotiate a host community agreement with one or both of the remaining developers."
So the Bay State battles for casinos has begun. The expected completion is sometime around 2016. I guess we'll have plenty of news until then. I'll try to keep you posted we journey through. That's all for now.
Binbin
Tuesday, 11 December 2012
Wednesday means NE Time Weekend Entertainment
This Weekend’s Casino Entertainment - Check websites for ticket information.
Binbin
Binbin
Mohegan Sun Resort & Casino (CT)
Wolf Den
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy's Wild & Swingin' Holiday Party
Friday, December 14th - 8:00pm, Saturday, December 15th - 8:00pm
The Arena
Albano's Nutcracker - 50th AnniversarySaturday, December 15th - 7:00pm
Cabaret Theater
Carole Montgomery featuring Pete Costello with special guest Paul VirziCabaret Theater
Saturday, December 15th - 9:00pm
Foxwoods Resort & Casino (CT)
Great Cedar Exhibition Hall
Now - Feb 24 – “Victory – an Exhibit of Red Sox History”; $10 - $15
Comix at Foxwoods
IAN EDWARDS - December 13-15 (4 Shows)
Thursday - 8:00pm, Friday - 8:00pm, Saturday - 8:00/10:30pm
MGM Grand Theater
December 14, 8:00 PM - Mannheim Steamroller
December 14, 8:00 PM - Mannheim Steamroller
December 15, 8:00 PM - LISA LAMPANELLI
Twin River Casino (RI)
Friday, December 14th @ Catch A Rising Star - RC Smith - 8:00PM
Saturday, December 15th @ Catch A Rising Star - Frank Santos, Jr. - Comic Hypnotist - 10:15PM
Saturday, December 15th @ Catch A Rising Star - Frank Santos, Jr. - Comic Hypnotist - 10:15PM
Newport Grand Slots (RI)
Friday Dec 14, 2012 9:00 PM - Bruce James Comedy Hypnosis Show
Newport Grand Event Center - Newport, RI
Hollywood Casino (ME)
The Sound Stage Lounge
Friday, December 14th - Juke Rockets Blues Band 9:00PM
Saturday, December 15th - Alter Igor 9:00PM
Monday, 10 December 2012
Tidbit Tuesdays in New England Gambling
Today includes random coverage of New England Casinos. Some additional bits on Mohegan Sun since we missed "Sun" Sunday. Here goes:
MOHEGAN SUN
FOXWOODS
Trivia - The four suits represent civilizations that have influenced our culture. Spades represent the Middle East of Biblical times, clubs represent Greece, diamonds represent the Roman Empire, and hearts represent the Holy Roman Empire.
MOHEGAN SUN
Here's what I think is a hysterical promotion
SURVIVOR DAY T-SHIRT GIVEAWAY! - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22ND
Starting at 9:00am, the first 1,000 Player's Club members who visit the Summer Coat Check located in Casino of the Earth will receive a FREE "SURVIVOR DAY" T-SHIRT!
I think that only those who truly believe the world is not going to end should be in line for this shirt, because otherwise it would be rather hypocritical.
Gambling quiz question 1) What is the difference between American Roulette and European Roulette?"
FOREVER YOUNG MONDAYS for 60 or over patrons. It's time to cut loose!
Every Monday, January 7th - February 25th, the Sun offers promotions including Dining Specials, Friends & Family free slot play specials, Entertainment & Shopping Offers, as well as Bus Packages. See website for details.
Answer to Question 1) - American = zero & double zero, European = just zero
Gambling Question 2) - What is the "Dead Man's Hand?"
FOXWOODS
BRING FRIENDS TO FOXWOODS PROMOTION
Bring your Friends to sign up for a Foxwoods Rewards Card. Once you and your Friends each earn one (1) point you’ll be rewarded with the same points up to 250. Plus your Friends will receive a Complimentary Buffet when one (1) point is earned and a Complimentary Room Offer when they earn five (5) points. Offer will be mailed. Offer valid on new accounts only.
Answer to Question 2) two pair - 8's and Aces. Why? Look it up, don't be so lazy.
FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH PROMOTION
SEPTEMBER 11 THRU DECEMBER 18, 2012 (Last Week?)
If you’re 60 or older, get ready to enjoy great perks, prizes and discounts.
TUESDAYS in the Food Court, adjacent to Panera Bread
MORNING COFFEE – 9am to 11am Giveaway items offered weekly during morning coffee
25% DISCOUNT at Veranda Café and Festival Buffet
FREE SMALL PLATE with a $15 purchase at California Pizza Kitchen
10% DISCOUNT at Craftsteak
HIGH ROLLERS – Buy One Game of Bowling, Get One Free 5pm to 7pm
25% OFF Services and Retail Purchases at the Norwich Spa at Foxwoods
DAILY PRIZE RAFFLE – Food Court adjacent to Panera Bread – 3pm
Prizes to include cash, BSP and gifts – There will be 10 guaranteed winners each week
TWIN RIVER CASINO
TRIPLE YOUR REWARDS PROMOTION
Every Sunday, Wednesday & Thursday at Fred & Steve's Steakhouse and every Tuesday at Wicked Good Bar & Grill!
All Twin River Rewards Club Members will be able to redeem their Rewards Points for TRIPLE their value. Maximum $200 point redemption per day. Alcohol Excluded. Must be 18+.
More trivia - The bar symbol used on modern slot machines is derived from a Bell Fruit Gum logo. The gum was dispensed in slots designed by Herbert Mills in Chicago in 1910, and other fruit symbols on slots were derived from the gum flavors.
NEWPORT GRAND CASINO
12-12-12 $12,000 Giveaway
On Wednesday, December 12, 2012, from 11a.m. - 9:30 p.m. there will be a winner every 15 minutes. Prizes will include 40 - $300 Prize Packages containing $200 Cash & $100 Free Play.
Yet, more trivia - Roly-poly was banned in England in 1745, but the horizontal wheel traveled well. By 1796, modern roulette was being played in France.
HOLLYWOOD CASINO
Test your lucky fate - 12.12.12
Don't miss out on this once in a lifetime date, come into Hollywood and test your lucky fate. 12 lucky winners will be chosen for 12 hours straight starting at 8am. Plus, 12 more winners from 10am-12pm & 2-4pm will be chosen to win an exclusive Snow Globe that could contain a free meal, hotel stay, and more! Visit Player Services for complete details.
That's all for now. Have a royal 12-12-12.
Binbin
Sunday, 9 December 2012
Maine Mondays
MAINE
Oxford Casino
OXFORD — Executives with the Oxford Casino say they havetaken in more than $30 million in net revenues in the six months since thefacility opened, but expansion plans remain in limbo. General Manager and Vice President Jack Sourssaid there are no immediate plans to expand, but the casino would eventuallylike to build a hotel to attract overnight visitors and not just day-trippers. Sours tells the Sun Journal that the casinoalso has to take into account planned expanded gambling opportunities in NewHampshire and Massachusetts. The casinohas resulted in nearly $13 million in tax revenue to the state.
An expansion that opened in September bumped the numberof slot machines from 529 to 819. The number of table games increased from 12to 22.
Hollywood Casino
BANGOR, Maine — In spite of its new competition to thesouth and a drop in the take from slot machines, Bangor’s Hollywood Casino ispoised to surpass its revenue totals from last year, a feat managementattributes to new offerings at the facility and marketing aimed at neighbors tothe north.
The casino’s 923 slot machines are bringing in less thanthey did in previous years, with slot revenue dipping below $4 million for thefirst time since 2008. In November, the slots netted less than $3.8 million. But Hollywood Casino has a new set ofattractions that are closing the gap, according to General Manager JohnOsborne.
“Table-game revenue has really had some traction …,”Osborne said in a phone interview. “In most months, it replaced the loss ofslot revenue.” The table games,including blackjack, roulette, Lucky Ladies, and several poker variants, havebrought in $5.9 million since they opened in March. The addition led thefacility to change its name from Hollywood Slots to Hollywood Casino, as wellas cut about 80 slot machines from the facility to make room for 16 tablegames.
“We see table games getting stronger yet in 2013,”Osborne said, explaining that the casino is adding a craps table this month.
With its new competition from Oxford Casino just a120-mile drive down I-95, Hollywood Casino has been trying to keep up its patronageby looking to the north. General ManagerJohn Osborne said the number of visitors coming from southern parts of thestate has “slowed down a bit” in recent years, but that more people from Canadaand northern Maine are making the trip to Bangor. In years past, Canadian visitors accountedfor 3 percent or 4 percent of casino revenue, according to Osborne; this year,however, they are contributing more than 10 percent.
Hollywood Casino is owned by Penn National Gaming, whichoperates 29 gaming and hotel facilities across the country.
That's all for now. Short and royally sweet.
Binbin
Part 2 of 2: Casinos, Jazz & Brubeck
Let's just quickly recall yesterday's rant:
1) The great Dave Brubeck, jazz pianist, inspired my jazz performance, and brought jazz to to the mainstream.
2) Performing jazz in a group is a blueprint for life & harmony.
3) The growth of Casino Gambling needs to follow that blueprint for each facilities success and the success of New England gaming.
Yes I know, this is an incredibly simple and a "Polly-Annish" answer to the future success of gambling destinations in the northeast. And, that's where we start part 2...
Downtown Vegas has seen it, after the Strip realized it - gambling is now only a part of it. "It?" you ask? - It is financial success and luring a clientele to your your property. It seems the thought is a gambling hall needs more than good gambling to be a good gambling experience. NOW, a casino must be a resort - a "destination experience." Here's what a casino needs to be successful:
So, after two days of ranting, I finally get to the point.
NEW ENGLAND CASINOS MUST INCLUDE BETTER GAMING IN THEIR PROPERTIES IF THEY WANT TO MAKE THIS A GAMBLING DESTINATION THAT PEOPLE THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY WANT TO VISIT.
And if our future & present gaming owners don't work together, New England may just turn out to be another Atlantic City, another Reno - only New England may be so saturated with so-so gaming in a small area and threatened by New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, etc...that the locals won't even stay locally!
Bottom line - New England gaming properties need to work together, offer gaming better than other areas, and still be a destination for travelers all over the country. They need to play with harmony, each having a chance to be a highlighted soloist, and at the end of the day, all happy with the product being presented to the public - like a well-played jazz quartet. (RIP, Dave Brubeck).
That's all and That's enough for now. Tomorrow we go back to highlighting our six casinos and promotions.
Binbin
1) The great Dave Brubeck, jazz pianist, inspired my jazz performance, and brought jazz to to the mainstream.
2) Performing jazz in a group is a blueprint for life & harmony.
3) The growth of Casino Gambling needs to follow that blueprint for each facilities success and the success of New England gaming.
Yes I know, this is an incredibly simple and a "Polly-Annish" answer to the future success of gambling destinations in the northeast. And, that's where we start part 2...
Downtown Vegas has seen it, after the Strip realized it - gambling is now only a part of it. "It?" you ask? - It is financial success and luring a clientele to your your property. It seems the thought is a gambling hall needs more than good gambling to be a good gambling experience. NOW, a casino must be a resort - a "destination experience." Here's what a casino needs to be successful:
- Stores - small, large, expensive, boutiques, or usual mall stores.
- At least one state-of-the-art lavish hotel with pools, wifi, spas, and amenities seen in Beverly Hills
- Restaurants - lots and lots of restaurants- ranging from fast food to four-star
- Shows - lots and lots of shows - ranging from comedy spots to arena - size entertainment
- Sporting Events - boxing, basketball, arena football, PBR, etc.
- Night Clubs (boom,boom,boom,boom) and bars
- Games, rides, and baby-sitting services
- 3/2 payoff in blackjack (diminished to 6/5)
- Full pay Video poker pay tables
- Slot % payouts above 90% - or even 80% (the low strip % equals many other areas in the country)
- Low table minimums ($10 BJ tables are now a bargain?)
- Rewards Programs (gaming card) changing, making it harder to keep higher tier status and accumulate points.
So, after two days of ranting, I finally get to the point.
NEW ENGLAND CASINOS MUST INCLUDE BETTER GAMING IN THEIR PROPERTIES IF THEY WANT TO MAKE THIS A GAMBLING DESTINATION THAT PEOPLE THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY WANT TO VISIT.
And if our future & present gaming owners don't work together, New England may just turn out to be another Atlantic City, another Reno - only New England may be so saturated with so-so gaming in a small area and threatened by New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, etc...that the locals won't even stay locally!
Bottom line - New England gaming properties need to work together, offer gaming better than other areas, and still be a destination for travelers all over the country. They need to play with harmony, each having a chance to be a highlighted soloist, and at the end of the day, all happy with the product being presented to the public - like a well-played jazz quartet. (RIP, Dave Brubeck).
That's all and That's enough for now. Tomorrow we go back to highlighting our six casinos and promotions.
Binbin
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