Page 12 - Mississippi/Louisiana Gaming News - Summer, 2024

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12 MISSISSIPPI GAMING NEWS SUMMER 2024
Sportsbook Ribbon Cutting
Golden Nugget Biloxi celebrated the grand opening of its sportsbook powered by DraftKings in March with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Biloxi Bay Area Chamber of Commerce. General Manager Chett Harrison (center) cut the ribbon as community leaders and property executives joined in for the celebration. The venue features the area’s largest seamless screen, allowing for multiple games to be shown at once. The new addition also provides guests with an expansive sports viewing experience and Draftkings-powered betting operations. With DraftKings’ established product and technology, eligible customers can take advantage of Same Game Parlays, prop bets and an array of in-game betting options. The space includes three video walls with state-of-the- art LED screens, and a viewing area with VIP and stadium seating. In addition to the updated viewing experience, the retail sportsbook also includes 17 betting kiosks, and five over-the-counter betting windows.
Crystal Sky Travel Plaza
Crystal Sky
Travel Plaza
to be beacon
of hospitality
CHOCTAW — The Choctaw Resort Development Enterprise (CRDE), owned by the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, announced the name of its upcoming travel plaza: Crystal Sky. The name
draws inspiration from the nearby Tribal community in Winston County, known as Crystal Ridge. This development promises to be a beacon of hospitality, convenience, and cultural pride for travelers passing through the Louisville, Mississippi, area.
“As we unveil the name of our travel plaza, I am filled with gratitude,” said Tribal Chief Cyrus Ben. “This endeavor isn’t
just about bricks and mortar; it’s about weaving connections. Crystal Sky will not only serve travelers passing through,
but will also uplift the Louisville/Winston County area and honor the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians.”
In April 2023, during the ground- breaking ceremony for the travel plaza, Ben unveiled an innovative contest.
Tribal members were invited to submit their suggestions for the plaza’s name, reflecting the spirit of the community and the natural beauty of the surroundings. The response was overwhelming, with 258 entries. After extensive rounds of voting and thoughtful consideration, the winning name was selected collaboratively by the Tribal Council and CRDE board members.
Dachelle E. of Louisville had the winning submission, which captured the essence and vision of the property. She received $500 in recognition of her creativity and contribution to the community.
Rise and shine with bakery, coffee shop at Gold Strike
TUNICA — Gold Strike Casino Resort announced the opening of Rise Coffee & Bakery. The eatery offers fresh coffee and baked goods prepared by the pastry team at Gold Strike,
and provides an additional food option adding more variety to the culinary choices available to guests.
“Rise is just one
way we are enhancing our offerings at Gold Strike,” Gold Strike Senior Vice President and General Manager Dean Rubin said. “Guests are in for a delicious treat with
our fresh coffee offerings and fabulous, mouthwatering selections of baked goods.” Rise serves Starbucks coffee, juices, and
energy drinks as well as savory breakfast sandwiches and
fresh baked goods that include sweet scones, flaky croissants, cheese danishes and flavorful muffins. The bakery also offers
gourmet sandwiches and such desserts as flourless chocolate cake, salted caramel tarts, and assorted loaves. Rise is open 24/7.