Living Well 60+ March-April 2014 | Page 7

MARCH/APRIL 2014 There’s More to Casinos Than Just Gambling It’s elegance, luxury and fun all rolled into one by Jamie Lober, Staff Writer Many seniors enjoying going to casinos, but there’s more to casinos than just gambling. Owners are working diligently to meet the increased demands visitors are placing on casinos. “I think seniors would definitely be interested in the games, restaurants and hotel rooms,” said Reginald Dotson, regional public relations manager for Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. Belterra Casino Resort & Spa is one nearby gambling destination that is always hopping. “Belterra is a destination created by desire,” said Dotson. “The casino resort is a magnificent place that rolls elegance, luxury and fun into one.” A $37 million expansion project in 2004 doubled the number of rooms at Belterra and added meeting and conference space. “It expanded our appeal as a destination casino resort and made it the largest casino resort hotel in Indiana,” said Dotson. ILATES PP L A C E Seniors enjoy the slot and video ILATES PP L A C E poker machines, but there are plenty of other games to choose from. “We offer all of your favorite table games, including the newest sensations such as Pai-Gow Poker, Three-Card Poker, Caribbean, Ultimate Texas Hold’em Bonus, Crazy 4 Poker and 21+3,” said Dotson. Those who frequent the casino are rewarded with incentives. “A Mychoice card allows you to earn Choice Comps, equivalent to cash, while playing slots and tables,” said Dotson. These comps can be redeemed for room nights, shows, meals, spa treatments and more. There are also special event and promotional invites available. People who may not be so fond of gambling can enjoy spas, salons and other amenities on the campus of the casinos. “We offer a pampering, soothing and relaxing experience with a complete menu of individual massage therapies as well as hand and body treatments administered by our highly trained staff,” said Dotson. These treatments include body wraps and polishes, hydrotherapy and baths, manicures and pedicures, a cardiovascular fitness center, a sauna, whirlpools and more. The casino’s entertainment offerings appeal to both men and women. “Our state-of-the-art CenterStage Showroom has been designed to hold up to 1,500 seats,” Dotson said. “We book big-name acts ranging from country-western stars and household-name classic rock bands to tribute acts and superstar impersonators.” The venue also hosts live boxing and 7 GAMBLING IN KENTUCKY A Hot Topic Supporters of casinos in Kentucky are campaigning in favor of expanded gambling, believing it can serve as a lucrative revenue source during difficult economic times. A proposed Constitutional amendment will be on the ballot in Kentucky in Fall 2014 if approved by the General Assembly. The proposal is to allow up to seven casinos statewide and to designate 10 percent of gambling revenue to assist the state’s horse industry. The hope is this will entice owners to enter their horses in Kentucky races. Other casino revenues would go toward human services, local governments, education, public safety and a one-time bonus for military veterans who served in Operation Desert Storm and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Casinos are good for the economy because they help create jobs. “Currently, approximately 1,000 people, primarily from nearby Indiana and Kentucky counties, are employed [at our casino] and enjoy on-site dining facilities, a friendly, team-oriented atmosphere and competitive wages and benefits,” said Reginald Dotson, regional public relations manager for Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. theatrical productions. A state-ofthe-art sound system enhances the experience. Seniors may also be surprised to discover casinos have great food. You can find just about anything you want, including fresh grilled chicken and steaks, freshly rolled sushi and made-to-order hearthbaked pizzas. Fresh salad and fruit bars are also available, as well as en- ticing crab legs, Mediterranean-inspired pasta meals and house-made gelatos and pastries. “We serve succulent seafood and a never-ending array of dishes, including savory meats and American-inspired dishes,” said Dotson. If you’re Living Well 50 Plus and haven’t been to a casino, perhaps you should add a visit to your future weekend plans. Pilates is designed to strengthen the body’s core muscles through low-impact fitness techniques. All sessions taught by Stott Pilates trained health professionals. 859-266-3810 365 Duke Rd. Lexingtotn [email protected] follow us on: Eastland Shopping Center 1020 Industry Rd. Ste 10 Lexington, KY 40505 859-253-0012 Mon 9-7, Tues-Sat 9-6