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Heard it on the River

Here is a wish list we should all like to see.

A NASCAR track approved and properly funded with a commitment from NEXTEL for a major event down the road.

A sister paddlewheeler for the TUNICA QUEEN to accommodate the large demand of visitors.

A ten percent rise in revenues for our NOBLE NINE Tunica Resort casinos.

Three packed golf courses, you have to actually get on a waiting list for tee times.

No robberies or attempts as the SHERIFF'S department upgrades its security for casinos and speeding is the biggest infraction in the County.

Announcement of another big ATTRACTION in Tunica Resorts as the County continues to grow.

An annex that doubles the size of the Tunica CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU on Highway 61 as some 16 million visitors flow into the County.

Announcement from New York that DONALD TRUMP is planning on building a giant TRUMP DELTA here followed by a press release from the state gaming commission that he was rejected.

A world champion fight at the PAUL BATTLE ARENA as promoter BRIAN YOUNG follows up on success of US OLYMPIC BOXING trials there.

Introduction of gaming curriculum at U. of MEMPHIS, which finally acknowledges what a lot of Memphis institutions won't… that there is a major industry just south of them that is vital to their own success and growth.

Completion soon of NEW HIGHWAYS leading to Tunica Resorts.

JET BLUE and SOUTHWEST announce plans to open scheduled flights to an enlarged Tunica Resorts Airport.

The MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE puts a 10-year moratorium on any new taxes for casinos, citing industry's enormous contribution in jobs and taxes to the state.

GOV. HALEY BARBOUR and his aide-de-camp CHARLIE WILLIAMS take out player club cards at all casinos.

And for all our players, looser slots, no 6-5 payouts on blackjacks, more comps and a few long roll at the craps tables.

How about a MONORAIL system to tie all the casinos together and linked into a new convention center.

And finally, a gold watch for JACK BINION if he actually ever retires.

We can dream, can't we?

NOW FOR THE MUNDANE NEWS…

BALLY'S $125,000 Ultimate Blackjack Tournament is now booking entries for its Feb. 6-8 event, one of the best in the nation. Last time out some 268 players each forked over $500 to play, a record for the 22-year-old event and as a result prize money rose to $159,000 for the full-equity tournament. I like to use the tournament as an economic barometer. The more players that enter, the better the economy. Call 800-38BALLY, EXT. 1511 and talk to ACE about it. GOLDSTRIKE liked its first MISSISSIPPI CRAPS CHAMPIONSHIP so much it is coming back with a second event with a $25,000 first place prize on Feb. 20-22.

JOE MALONEY has been named VP of Food & Beverage at GRAND CASINO and his plate will be full as he assists in the operation and management of Grand Buffet, Replays Sports Bar & Grill, Murano's Italian Café, LB'Steak house, Delta Blues Café, Java Grande gourmet coffee shops, Convention Center Banquets, the main Commissary for not only Grand but Bally's and Sheraton operations as well, and last but not least, the very important Associate dining rooms. Joe, you need some help. How about HOLLAND TUDOR, formerly of the famed Peabody Hotel in Memphis, as new Assistant F&B Director for Grand.

FROM THE QUOTABLE GAMBLER…Lyons Press

"Decide on three things at the start: the rules of the game, the stakes, and the quitting time."

CHINESE PROVERB

ATTABOY AWARD to CAESAR'S ENTERTAINMENT, used to be Park Place Entertainment, for its Holiday gift giving to disadvantaged kids at PORTER LEATH CHILDREN'S CENTER.

Laissez le bon temps rouler in 2004.