Page 18 - Jackpot Magazine Tunica ~ March, 2023

Gold Strike, continued from front page
CNE Gaming Holdings LLC purchased the operating company from Mandalay Resort Group LLC, which is a subsidiary of MGM Resorts International, for approximately $450 million in cash.
The Mississippi Gaming Commission issued its determination of suitability and approval of the acquisition in January of this year. Concurrent with the purchase, the operating entity entered into a long- term lease agreement with GSCR Propco LLC, a subsidiary of VICI Properties Inc., which owns the real property associated with Gold Strike Casino Resort.
Gold Strike Casino Resort is located on the Mississippi River, approximately 30 minutes from downtown Memphis. Operations at the casino continue as usual, and the more than 1,100 team members dedicated to Gold Strike Casino Resort were retained.
“This acquisition is a natural evolution for our company. Building our business outside of Oklahoma is a huge step that strengthens our ability to boost the Cherokee Nation economy while also building on our reputation of being a strong community partner and industry leader,” said Chuck Garrett, president and chief executive officer of Cherokee
Gold Strike Casino & Hotel
Nation Businesses. “We’re looking forward to sharing that commitment with the people of Mississippi by also investing in their communities and contributing to the local economy.”
Gold Strike Casino Resort will continue to offer longtime dining staples like Chicago Steakhouse, Buffet Americana and Sweet Tea, as well as more than 1,100 luxury guest rooms, a theater, high-limit gaming and a sportsbook.
The property has also implemented the One Star Rewards loyalty program that enables casino patrons to earn rewards and enjoy the benefits of the company’s 10 gaming destinations. Current and future guest reservations at the Gold Strike property are being honored.
“Patrons of Gold Strike have become accustomed to the excitement and southern hospitality they receive when they walk through our doors. Our plan is to build on that and exceed those high expectations every day,” said Max Fisher, general manager of Gold Strike. “We are looking forward to the new opportunities for providing a world-class experience to all of our patrons and continue leading the industry in our region.”
CBRE Securities served as exclusive
strategic and financial advisor to Cherokee Nation Businesses in connection with the transaction. Latham & Watkins, along with Scale LLP, served as legal advisors, and Jones Walker served as special gaming counsel.
For more information about Gold Strike Casino Resort, visit goldstrike.com. More information about One Star Rewards is available at onestarrewards.com.
Cherokee Nation Entertainment is the gaming and hospitality company of the Cherokee Nation. With three decades of expertise and gaming experience, the company owns and operates Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa and nine Cherokee Casinos in Oklahoma, including a racino, three resort hotels, three golf courses and other retail operations. CNE now operates Gold Strike Casino Resort in Tunica, one of the most recognizable gaming destinations in the region.
Cherokee Nation Businesses is the tribally owned holding company of one of the largest Indian Nations in the United States. It owns companies in the consulting, health sciences, hospitality, real estate, technology, distribution and logistics, engineering, manufacturing, construction and environmental services industries.
18 JACKPOT! MAGAZINE March 2023
THE SOUTH’S LARGEST GUIDE TO GAMING & FUN • www.jackpotmagazine.com