Page 14 - Jackpot Magazine South ~ August, 2022

CASINO CORNER
A personal view of casinos by Lori Beth Susman
Did you know that it was Aug. 1, 1992, when the first casino in the state opened its doors? That was the Isle of Capri Casino Biloxi, which, at the time, was made up of two riverboats. Hard to believe that 30 years have passed since the Isle ushered in legalized gaming in the Magnolia State. It is certainly a milestone worth remembering. In the three decades since, gaming — and the hospitality and tourism industry as a whole — has meant so much to the state (think taxes and jobs). But to those of us who enjoy going to the casinos to play, eat and socialize, we think of the industry less in terms of economics and more in terms of, well, fun and excitement.
Were you here in 1992? What do you remember? Which of the casinos no longer here were your favorites: President Casino, Biloxi Belle, Lady Luck, Gold Shore, Grand Biloxi or others? Do you have souvenirs from those casinos long gone? Maybe you worked at one of those places? Send us a note (loribeth@m2mediacorp.com) and include a photo. Let us know what you remember and what you miss about those early years. We’re looking forward to hearing from you.
In the July issue, I mentioned that PALACE CASINO was the only smoke-free casino in the state. That was incorrect. What I should have said, was that Palace Casino Resort is the only smoke-free casino in Biloxi. In Gulfport, THE VIEW CASINO RESORTS’ BEACH VIEW CASINO is also smoke-free. Guests enjoy these two resorts for many reasons, but no doubt, the smoke- free status is a big reason.
It used to be every casino had a buffet, but we know that is no longer the case. Take HARD ROCK BILOXI. Their Satisfaction Buffet was something special. There were a number of food stations, tasty Southern and Asian specialties, wonderful desserts and friendly employees. The buffet is closed, and in its place is the popular Quick Pick Bites. Many hope the buffet, which was aptly named as it provided plenty of satisfaction, will one day come back. While we aren’t going to say it is coming back, we can tell you about a special weekend event that is sure to leave you satisfied. On Friday and Saturday, Aug. 12-13, enjoy all the favorites from the Satisfaction Buffet served from 4 to 9 p.m. The special buffet is $29.99.
Those of you who like hot seat promotions are sure to notice there are many this month. Could it be because August is so “hot”? Whatever the reason, players are sure to win just by sitting in their seat, playing their favorite game and having their players club card properly inserted. Just to name a few: SCARLET PEARL CASINO RESORT is giving away $160,000 Free Slot Play with their hot seat promotion on Fridays and Saturdays; HARRAH’S GULF COAST has the $30,000 Hula Moolah Hot Seats; and in Vicksburg, WATERVIEW CASINO HOTEL has hot seats for table players on Fridays and Saturdays. See what your favorite casino is offering.
14 JACKPOT! MAGAZINE • August 2022 THE SOUTH’S LARGEST GUIDE TO GAMING & FUN • www.jackpotmagazine.com