Tag: Massachusetts Casinos

Recent New England Casino News

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MGM Springfield Opens to 150,000 people

Over 3 days

There was so much hoopla over the opening of MGM Springfield, you would have though it was the second coming of Caesars Palace in Vegas.  To be honest, so many hopes and dreams of Springfield’s residents do rely on its success.  Instead of re-inventing our coverage, I will just list our posts for your perusal.

Everything You Need To Know About MGM Springfield & “Industrial Chic,”  

MGM SPRINGFIELD – Entertainment, MassMutual Center & Symphony Hall;  

MGM Springfield Kept Community History in Casino Consideration; 

MGM Springfield Trip Report 

But there was more happening on the New England Landscape besides MGM Springfield…….

TIVERTON CASINO HOTEL & CASINO OPENS

Tiverton, Rhode Island

Twin River Moves Newport Grand to Tiverton

We also covered the opening of the casino that is supposed to take Newport Grand’s place and put more competitive pressure on Massachusetts & Connecticut for the Twin River Management Group.  Here’s our coverage:   Tiverton Casino Hotel – Our Last Summer Trip Report

Mohegan selected to oversee Canada gaming, entertainment venues

Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment (MGE), which oversees the company and its subsidiary casinos in Connecticut and Pennsylvania, announced Monday it has been selected by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp. (OLG) to assume daily operations of its Fallsview Casino Resort, Casino Niagara, and 5,000-seat Niagara Falls Entertainment Centre, which is currently being built.  OLG will assist in managing the casinos, known as the Niagara Gaming Bundle, including approvals for operational changes.  Fallsview Casino spans over 2.5 million square feet, with 200,000 square feet of gaming space and more than 3,000 slot machines and 100 gaming tables. Casino Niagara, meantime, has a 95,000-square-foot gaming floor with 1,500 slot machines and more than 40 table games.  All this taking place while managing Resort in AC, building a $5 billion resort at Incheon International Airport in South Korea, the opening of ilani on 152 acres near La Center, Washington with the Cowlitz Tribe, opening Paragon resort Casino in the heart of Louisiana, and preparing the huge plot of land across the Thames River from its flagship property in Preston, CT.  Mohegan Sun News – Plans for Norwich Hospital Site and Mohegan Expo Center.  It’s obvious Mohegan Sun is not sitting still while Massachusetts continues to add casinos. Oh, and did we mention Mohegan Sun announced Momentum partnerships with MSC Cruises, the world’s largest privately owned cruise line, and with Samuel Adams, the Boston brewery; the Boston Bruins of the National Hockey League; Blue Back Square, a shopping and live entertainment destination in West Hartford; and Hartford Stage, a theater?

Maine’s top court – could a tribe run a casino on tribal land without state permission

Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians Tribal Offices

The House last month approved Rep. Henry Bear’s order asking the Maine Supreme Judicial Court to consider whether a U.S. Supreme Court decision would allow the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians to conduct gambling on tribal trust land. Efforts to allow tribal casinos in Maine have long failed. A third casino in Maine is still being sought, if not by business men and politicians, now by Maine’s tribes. The Maliseets do run Bingo events weekly.

It’s Not All Great News at MGM Springfield when it comes to underage gambling

Inside MGM casino

Casino.Org’s Katie Barlowe reported that “MGM casino executives admit that they’ve had issues with minors finding their way onto the gaming floor, which is not exactly the most comforting news to area residents.” Mathis described the casino as “a very mixed-use, downtown, porous design” which has “created an unexpected challenge: difficulty in ensuring that underage patrons don’t have access to the gaming floor. MGM Springfield officials told regulators that there was a mix of intentional non-gaming areas in the venue, and inadvertent violations by visitors who don’t understand the exact age limits or where children are allowed to be was causing the problems.”  It seems that simple 4-ft barriers along the edge of the casino would help, similar to the Fox Casino at Foxwoods (ironically built by MGM in their joint venture with Foxwoods years ago).  Trouble is, there is no space to spare.

Mathis outlined some of the steps that MGM Springfield was taking to correct the underage access problem. Unattended minors are now banned from the venue, with anyone under 16 considered to be a minor for those purposes. In addition, there is now a midnight curfew for the resort. After midnight, only those 21 or older or those who are hotel guests are allowed in the complex.

Binbin

When you gamble, embrace the Math, not the Myth.

MGM Springfield “Sign-In Party”- A Gallery of the Day

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A lot of hope in Springfield with MGM casino

It was a day I was excited for.  It was my first impression of what was to come. It was the MGM Springfield “Sign-In Party.” To say it was a “party” was kinda pushing it much, but it still had that hospitality-based MGM influence.

The event was at the MassMutual Center, which will serve as one of MGM Springfield’s entertainment venues, with Symphony Hall also included.  For more on this, go to   MGM SPRINGFIELD AND SPECTRA JOINTLY BID TO OPERATE MASSMUTUAL CENTER

Quite the line, Sunday, outside MassMutual – 9:30AM

The line at MassMutual was long both mornings – an hour was the average wait to get in. The afternoons were an easy walk right in.  As you entered, staff members yelled “welcome” and clapped, happy to see you. There were different lines for MLife Rewards Card sign-ups – Newbies, Tier-Upgrades, and Mlife cards for members.

Inside MassMutual, waiting to upgrade!

Once inside, there was another wait, but very organized. In MGM style, staff and a card illusionist was available for the long line to pass the time.  Pens, and other novelties were handed out.

I have had a love-hate opinion of MGM for years.  Recently it’s more appreciation for their handling of my account with them.  After staying in MGM Vegas properties, I offers have increased in number and quality.  I still have concerns about their parking and resort fee madness, but for now, I will focus on last weekend’s events.

Casino Entrance and Galleria / Marketplace beyond

The combination of my MLife Credit card and Oceans (Atlantic) to tier black card helped upgrade my status to Platinum in MLife. A host greeted me with great conversation, and provided explanations for the opening.  Cindy will certainly help our stay soon after the opening.  Yes, MGM has a knack for making players feel special with their classy style of hospitality and worked for me. I walked into the party room next, a new platinum card member.

DJ in the “Party Room”

The party room was, ah, not really a happening time. No snacks or beverages – not even water.  A DJ to make it festive – and loud so it was difficult to talk to anyone. Two blackjack tables to learn how to play. I met the Everi people who are not only expanding their slot machine options, but also well-rounded collection of integrated products and kiosks that brings next-level transactional security to the casino floor. Next time you cash in your slot ticket, check for the Everi name on the machine.

The most interesting stop in the room was the 3-D experience that gave a chance to see the inside of a hotel room.  Not only was it fun, I experienced a personal tour of a deluxe hotel room. The rooms are designed with the city of Springfield in mind. It may have a blue-collar influence, but it is the usual MGM experience.

Giuseppe R. Zemba and the 3-D Hotel experience at “Sign-In Party

Chief Experience Director Giuseppe R. Zemba designed the technology for VR/AR Business Solutions.  Definitely a highlight in the room.

Soon, I was on my way home, upgraded to platinum, visiting with a host, and really looking forward to the opening in 8 days – 8 DAYS!  But first, a few more pics of the new MGM Springfield.

Entire east side of property

Self Parking – a simple right off the exit and you’re in!

South Market where casual eateries will be found – North side, next to parking

More of the East side of the property

Sign from I-91

This week we will be running little specials of past posts, and new posts on how to prepare if you’re going to the opening.

Binbin

 

July Promotions & Events – Final Two Weeks+

Click on the highlighted titles for more details of events of click on the casino links in the menu bar to go to casino websites.

GAMBLING PROMOTIONS & EVENTS 

FOXWOODS RESORT CASINO, MASHENTUCKET CT

$1,000,000 SLOT TOURNAMENT: July 1 – August 23.

Swipe to Rock in Vegas – July 1 – August 31. Activate Entries: September 2 • 6am – 3pm. Grand Prize Drawing: September 2 • 4pm. Celebration Zone 

Foxwoods ♥ New York – Residency has its privileges. Clink on the previous link for details.

Jeffrey Osborne Celebrity Classic, July 29 – 31  – 

DEAL OF A LIFETIME BLACKJACK TOURNAMENT JULY 1 – AUGUST 31

Summer of Dreams Thursdays – July 26 | August 2, 8, 16 & 23, 5 pm – 8pm • Celebration Zone. 

Monopoly Slot Promotion – July 27 • 4PM – 6PM • Great Cedar Casino. Receive $15 Bonus Slot Play and play 5 spins at the max bet on the new Monopoly slot machines and the winnings go right in your pocket.

Beach Ball Hot Seat – Friday, June 29 • 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM . Five guests will be selected in the “Hot Seat” every hour.

ONGOING PROMOTIONS – SPECIAL MILITARY OFFERS & DISCOUNTS, High Hand Poker Frenzy, Young & Fun Days, 55+ Offers

HOLLYWOOD CASINO, HOTEL & RACEWAY, BANGOR ME

QUEEN OF HEARTS PROGRESSIVE – Fridays and Saturdays in July

JACKPOT PARTY – Saturday, July 28th, Win up to $750 of Free Slot Play or the Grand Prize of $1000 CASH.  Play for entries using your Marquee Rewards Card.  2X entries every Sunday, Tuesday, & Thursday.

Midweek Moolah – We’re giving away $50 in Free SlotPlay every 10 minutes between 6PM – 9PM on Wednesdays.

AT HOPS HOUSE 99 – Every Monday in July, from 8AM – 8PM – Every Monday Play One Hour, Eat Free & Trivia Night, Thursdays at 7:30

ONGOING PROMOS:  BIRTHDAY BASH – Fridays 8AM – MIDNIGHT ;   50 PLUS REWARDS KIOSK – Every Sunday 1PM – 4PM, VIP CONCERT EXPERIENCE

MOHEGAN SUN RESORT CASINO, UNCASVILLE CT

HOT SUMMER FUN IS BACK at Mohegan Sun.  Click on the links for all the Hot Summer Fun Events and Offers every weekday. “Mohegan Sun Hot Summer Fun Is Back in 2018.”

Mohegan Sun Tequila Tasting – July 20th at 8:00PM

THURSDAY NIGHT POOL PARTIES – at Sun Terrace Pool, Thursdays at 8:00pm. Weekly until Thursday, August 30th 2018

ROAR INTO SUMMER GIVEAWAY – Friday, June 29th 2018, daily until Friday, August 31st 2018. 

ONGOING PROMOTIONS – TURN 21 AT MOHEGAN SUN

NEWPORT GRAND CASINO, NEWPORT RI

Free Slot Play Hot Seat – Free Slot Play Hot Seat, WIN: Fridays, July 20 & 27 from 12PM-9PM; 1 winner every 20 min. wins $100 in Free Slot Play!

5X Rewards Points every Tuesday in July

OXFORD CASINO & HOTEL, OXFORD ME

ONGOING PROMOTIONS: 2018 Birthday Bash, SATURDAY – Super 6, SUNDAY – 16X Multiplier  TUESDAY – 15X Multiplier WEDNESDAY – 15X Multiplier & Seniors Day THURSDAY – Missile Madness. Every Thursday.  3:00pm – 8:00pm &– Free Lunch Buffet (100 pts earned),FRIDAY –  Mega High 5 , Prime Rib Buffet, Weekend Breakfast Buffets

PLAINRIDGE PARK CASINO & RACEWAY, PLAINVILLE MA

New Promotions: – Cash & Cruises Promotion & $10,000 July Sweeps, Prospector’s Plunge – Sundays, 1-8PM, Lottery Tickets – Wednesdays

ONGOING PROMOTIONS:  P OF Diamonds ,  Play Up To $500 Sign Up Bonus, Monday 50+ Rewards – Swipe your Marquee Rewards card at any of our promotional kiosks from 6AM-11:59 pm for our Mystery SlotPlay bonus.

SPORTING EVENTS

CONNECTICUT SUN BASKETBALL HOME SCHEDULE AT MOHEGAN SUN ARENA

July 20th – WNBA: CT Sun vs Seattle Storm, at Mohegan Sun Arena, 7:99PM

July 24th – WNBA: CT Sun vs Washington Mystics, at Mohegan Sun Arena, 7:00PM

August 1st – WNBA: Connecticut Sun vs. New York Liberty, at Mohegan Sun Arena, 7:00AM

August 5th – WNBA: Connecticut Sun vs. Las Vegas Aces, at Mohegan Sun Arena, 7:00AM

OTHER EVENTS

July 21st – Broadway Boxing at Fox Theater, Foxwoods 7:00PM

July 28th – Lion Fight Boxing at Fox Theater, Foxwoods 6:00PM

Live CES MMA Fighting – August 3 at Twin River Event Center, 7:00PM

ENTERTAINMENT

HEADLINERS

July 20th – Brian Wilson: Greatest Hits Live at Twin River Event Center, 8:00PM

July 25th – EVANESCENCE AND LINDSEY STIRLING at Mohegan Sun Arena, 7:00PM

July 28th – VETERANS OF SNL: JON LOVITZ, DARRELL HAMMOND, CHRIS KATTAN & FINESSE MITCHELL at Mohegan Sun Arena, 8:00PM

July 29th – Jeffrey Osborne All Star Comedy Explosion – at Grand Theater, Foxwoods, 8:00PM

July 29th – Smashing Pumplins at Mohegan Sun Arena, 7:00PM

July 31st – Camila Cabello – at Mohegan Sun Arena, 7:30PM

August 2nd – HALESTORM + IN THIS MOMENT at Mohegan Sun Arena, 7:30PM

August 3rd – Rise Against at Mohegan Sun Arena, 7:00PM

August 4th – Eric Moo, at the Grand Theater, Foxwoods, 1:00PM

August 4th – Jason Mraz at Mohegan Sun Arena, 8:00PM

August 4th – Boyz II Men at Twin River Event Center, 8:00PM

August 4th – The Cult, Bush, Stone Temple Pilots, at the Grand Theater, Foxwoods, 7:00PM

August 4th – Two Kings and A Queen, at the Fox Theater, Foxwoods, 7:30PM

August 5th – Boy George and Culture Club and Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey, at the Grand Theater, Foxwoods, 7:00PM