Gaming Section May 17th

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A rock ‘n’ roll summer at Bally’s Sammy Hagar beach bar has season opening

Opening day is always a blast, whether it’s baseball or beach bars. Friday is opening day for the return of Sammy's Beach Bar across from Bally's Atlantic City.

Sammy Hagar, Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Famer and founder of the Cabo Wabo Cantina in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, brought his signature lifestyle to the beaches of Bally’s two years ago to an overwhelming response. The beach bar will again offer unique live entertainment, drink specials, and culinary delectables, all with a view of the Atlantic and the boardwalk.

It just so happens Hagar will be in town Friday with his musical super group, Chickenfoot, which will play the House of Blues at Showboat. Will Sammy make an appearance at the bar? Show up and find out. Activities kick off 5 p.m. and go until 3 a.m. and feature the band, Crushing Day, as well as DJ Q Ball. The bar opens again Saturday and Sunday from noon to 3 a.m.

Sammy’s Beach Bar holds its official opening May 25 with a performance by legendary reggae band, The Wailers. Other talent scheduled to take the stage throughout the summer include Shake Shake Shake, Daddy Pop and John Eddie, and DJs Aiden Scott, Sonatra, Patrice McBride, Xtina and Licious.

For the first time, Sammy Hagar’s new Beach Bar Rum will be available, alongside Mexican fusion favorites such as Spicy Jersey Shore fries, sea salt spiced

The Cabo-meets-Jersey-Shore concept at the beach bar will boast a vast array of specialty cocktails.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Sammy’s Beach Bar holds its official opening May 25 with a performance by legendary reggae band, The Wailers. PHOTO PROVIDED peel-and-eat shrimp, Wabo wings and burgers. The Cabo-meets-Jersey-Shore concept also will boast a vast array of specialty cocktails. These include Sammy’s Maui Libre, made with Beach Bar Rum and Coke ($5) on Saturdays; Skyy Infusions Cherry Limeades ($5) on Industry Sundays; Cabo Wabo Margaritas and shots ($6) and Hennessey Black & Belvedere cocktails ($5) on Latin Mondays, and Absolut Berri Acai cocktails ($4) and Malibu cocktails ($4) on Model DJ Tuesdays.

“Last year Sammy’s Beach Bar proved

to be the region’s favorite on-the-beach location for locals and visitors alike. With The Wailers set to play on May 25, I can tell you we don’t plan on giving back the title of Atlantic City’s best beach bar,” said Don Marrandino, Caesars Entertainment eastern division president.

Hagar says Atlantic City is becoming like a second home. “On May 18, I’m playing here with Chickenfoot and that same day Bally’s opens up Sammy’s Beach Bar, so either I need to get a place of my own or Don needs to get a more comfortable

couch,” he said in a release. “Seriously, I’ve partnered with Bally’s for three years and it’s been electric ever since, now I’m so excited to be back launching my new Beach Bar Rum , so Atlantic City, consider this your warning; this summer is going to get loud.”

Open daily noon until 3 a.m. Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. On the Beach at Sammy's Room Package includes $30 Sammy’s Beach Bar food and beverage credit. For more information, visit www.ballysac.com or call (609) 236-6983.

HOT LIVE MUSIC & COOL DRINK SPECIALS Opening Weekend

Friday, May 18 5pm – 3am

DJ Sonotra | Crushing Day DJ Q Ball Coors Light $3 Heineken or Heineken Light $4 Belvedere Lemon Tea Cocktails $5 Sammy’s Maui Mama $5

Saturday, May 19 12pm – 3am

Crazy in Stereo | DJ Ed Smooth The Replicants | DJ Xtina Miller Lite $3 Heineken $4 Jack and Colas $5 Sammy’s Maui Libre $5

Memorial Day Weekend Friday, May 25

SPECIAL APPEARANCE

THE WAILERS

Shows subject to change or cancellation. Must be 21 or older to gamble, enter and remain in a New Jersey casino or participate in any Caesars Entertainment promotion.

Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. ©2012, Caesars License Company, LLC. CP-0010474464

8S COURIER-POST, Thursday, May 17, 2012

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WHERE PHILLY COMES OUT TO PLAY 2 0 0 A L L- N E W S L O T S T H R E E A L L- N E W R E S T A U R A N T S BLOCKBUSTER ENTERTAINMENT MORE FUN WITH THE BEST ODDS AND HIGHEST LIMITS

Management reserves the right to change or cancel this promotion at any time without notice. Must be 21 or older to enter or gamble (18 or older for pari-mutuel wagering) in any Pennsylvania casino or to participate in any Harrah’s promotion.

Know When To Stop Before You Start.® ©2012, Caesars License Company, LLC.

G A MBLING PROBLEM ? CA LL 1- 8 0 0 -G A MBLER.

CP-0010474477

COURIER-POST, Thursday, May 17, 2012 7S

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West

meets Easts

Lillie's of Vegas opens eatery that offers flavors of southeast Asia

The latest — and, for now, the last — Landry’s restaurant to open on the casino floor at Golden Nugget Atlantic City features Asian cuisine. By design, the restaurant lies adjacent to the Asian gaming pit.

Lillie's offers a fusion of Cantonese and Szechwan flavors with a little Thai, Vietnamese and other regions available as well. Much of the menu features favorite entrees found in Lillie’s in the Las Vegas Golden Nugget, although there are differences. The Atlantic City version adds a sushi bar, which is a separate restaurant known as Red Sushi in Las Vegas.

The Atlantic City restaurant also has a traditional noodle bar, something not available in Las Vegas. “This is more authentic,” said Kevin Scull, Golden Nugget’s director of food and beverage, speaking about the comparison with Las Vegas.

“The noodle bar is all my recipes. I have a lot of freedom to play with recipes,” said Chef Borgie Kwon, who worked at Lillie’s in Las Vegas before coming east.

In addition, Lillie's offers a variety of appetizers, soups, salads, stir-fry and noodle dishes. Traditional dishes, such as General Tso's chicken, Mongolian beef, chicken or shrimp and XO shrimp are among Lillie's newest additions.

The sushi — and sashimi — menu includes the freshest cuts of Ahi

(tuna), Sake (salmon) and Unagi (smoked freshwater eel), as well as a selection of cut rolls. Many of the sushi selections were created for Golden Nugget Atlantic City, like Taste of Atlantic City, Nugget, Boardwalk and Jersey Shore.

Taste of A.C. features jumbo lump crab, takuan, cucumber, ginger, ponzu and spicy eel sauce; the Nugget mixes shrimp, scallops, Asian vegetables, tempura fried, with spicy ponzu dipping sauce; The Boardwalk includes crunchy soft shell crab, cucumber, topped with spicy tuna, crab mix and sweet soy, and the Jersey Shore features soft shell crab, cream cheese, salmon with basil aioli and eel sauce “These are specials just for here,” said Sylvia Xue, manager of Lillie’s.

The restaurant also features exotic desserts and premium beverages, including a vast selection of sake.

IF YOU GO Lillie's Asian Cuisine is located on the casino floor at Golden Nugget, Brigantine Boulevard and Huron Avenue. It is open for lunch and dinner from noon to midnight Sunday to Thursday and from noon until 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. For more information and the full menu, visit www.goldennugget.com/atlanticcity/eat_lillies.asp. Or call (800) 777-8477.

The sushi — and sashimi — menu includes the freshest cuts of Ahi (tuna), Sake (salmon) and Unagi (smoked freshwater eel), as well as a selection of cut rolls. PHOTO PROVIDED

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‘Music of love and of peace’ The Wailers to perform Bob Marley classics

Koolant Brown is a relative babe in the woods when it comes to The Wailers. The singer joined the Wailers soon after his cameo appearance in the film “Made in Jamaica” two and a half years ago.

“It’s so rewarding. I learned a lot of things with this. It’s been an honor and privilege to be there to do the work of Bob Marley,” said Brown.

Brown and the rest of The Wailers will play a concert at Sammy’s Beach Bar across from Bally’s Atlantic City May 25.

Concertgoers to the beach can expect a lot of music which inspires people, Brown said. “It’s the never-ending music of love and of peace.”

“It’s been a wonderful experience, singing with The Wailers because so many of Bob Marley’s songs are still relevant to what’s happening right now. They are of the times,” he said on the band’s website.

Together with Bob Marley, The Wailers have sold in excess of 250 million albums worldwide.

“Bob Marley was a prophet, and it’s an honor to be part

Harrah’s Baywalk adds watery outdoor fun IF YOU GO The Wailers perform May 25 at Sammy’s Beach Bar on the beach in front of Bally’s Atlantic City, Park Place and the Boardwalk. Show time is 8 p.m.

Cover charge TBD. For information, visit ballysac.com

Koolant Brown and the rest of The Wailers will play a concert at Sammy’s Beach Bar across from Bally’s Atlantic City May 25. PHOTO PROVIDED of that. I put my whole self into spreading that message, and it can only help my own development as an artist and as a songwriter.”

A night for gents only

IF YOU GO Guy’s Night, May 24 at Harry's Oyster Bar & Seafood, Bally’s , Boardwalk and Park Place, 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. Free.

Rain date is May 31.

By WILLIAM SOKOLIC Courier-Post Staff

What’s good for the goose is good for the gander.

Turnabout is fair play.

Call it what you will, but Harry's Oyster Bar & Seafood believes in equality of the sexes. So if the restaurant has Ladies’ Night, then by gosh, they’ll have a night for the guys.

Guys’ Night debuts on May 24. While Ladies’ Night is a monthly staple every third Thursday, the guys get a quarterly evening to call their own.

“A lot of guys attending Ladies Night kept asking, ‘What about us?’ ” said Harry’s General Manager Kim Brownell.

So they created Guys’ Night.

The first-ever men’s night will center on the outside courtyard of the Dennis Hotel portion of Bally’s Atlantic City, where the Phillies-Cardinals game will be shown

Pool on the promenade

The first-ever men’s night will center on the outside courtyard of the Dennis Hotel portion of Bally’s Atlantic City, where the Phillies-Cardinals game will be shown on a 6-foot by 12-foot TV screen. SONY DCS on a 6-foot by 12-foot TV screen.

“It’s a great way to kick off the holiday weekend,” Brownell said. In addition to the big game, the event features complimentary tasting of Harry’s appetizers, beer specials, and a wide variety of entertainment. Appetizers include clams casino, Cajun shrimp, crabcake sliders and nachos.

Also available, $5 glasses of red and white wine.

Caesar’s Entertainment dancers will perform. in the courtyard. Cortez Cigars of

Monmouth County will feature hand-rolled Dominican cigars. Bellezza Salon in Atlantic City will offer straight-razor shaves.

Golf pro Matt Callaghan from the Golf Academy at Twisted Dune in Egg Harbor Township will analyze golf swings. The fun includes cruising car simulators, guy games and the Bud Light girls.

The newest BMW from BMW of Atlantic City will be displayed as well.

Look for the next Harry’s Guys’ Night in August.

The giant in the room at Harrah’s Resort is their iconic Pool.

And while sunshine streams in during the day time, The Pool is not outside. Harrah’s created Baywalk on the promenade last year and, by doing so, joined the Golden Nugget and Bally’s as outdoor pool hosts.

“With all the competition we wanted to make sure we had something outdoors that was different from The Pool experience,” said Howard Weiss, regional director of nightlife, strategy and development for the Eastern Division of Caesars Entertainment.

Open every weekend, Baywalk features live music in the afternoon and a Jamaican take on backyard BBQ food. The menu includes chicken wings, hot dogs, hamburgers, BBQ pulled pork, baby back ribs, steamed clams and sausage and peppers. Items range from $5 to $10 with $3 sides of grilled corn on the cob, cole slaw, cowboy beans, and potato salad.

Guests can order $3 Coors Light Drafts and $4 Blue Moon, Sam Adams and Yuengling Drafts. Also available are $6 signature drinks and $20 pitchers of sangria “We wanted that midday experience, a place to find middle ground.

Something tight before dinner or after brunch,“ Weiss said.

The live music slants toward reggae which pairs well with the culinary style.

“It’s a unique experience that is hard to find,” Weiss said.

IF YOU GO Baywalk is open noon to 8 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday at Harrah’s Resort, 777 Harrah’s Boulevard. Live music from 2 to 6 p.m. (609) 441-5000 or visit www.harrahsresort.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 27 Doors Open at 3pm For bottle service, cabana & table reservations, call 609.441.5585

ThePoolAfterDark.com 21+ with valid ID required to enter. We accept US-issued Drivers Licenses, Military State IDs and passports. Dress to impress. Nightclub attire is required to enter and is enforced at all times. Management reserves the right to refuse admission. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. ©2012, Caesars License Company, LLC. CP-0010474470

COURIER-POST, Thursday, May 17, 2012 5S

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ON SALE

MATISYAHU July 21 at House of Blues.

Tickets, $27-$42. GANNETT FILE

THE SMITHEREENS June 16 at the Showroom at Golden Nugget. Tickets, $30.46-$41.76. FILE PHOTO/BRYAN ANGELES

EVENTS CALENDAR

Mike Love (left) and Bruce Johnston of the Beach Boys will perform a sold-out show at the Borgata on Saturday.

GANNETT FILE

Thursday, May 17

LEGENDS IN CONCERT 8 PM, Bally's >> The best tribute artists return. $32.50 GYPSY BAR 10 PM Borgata >> Modern Bliss performs.

XHIBITION BAR 10 PM Harrah’s >> DJ Ed Smooth provides the musical entertainment.

EDEN LOUNGE 9 PM Harrah’s >> Strawberry Fields: A Beatles tribute band performs.

LIVE BAR 8:30 PM, Golden Nugget >> Loop rocks the room.

LUKE PALLADINO’S 8 PM Harrah’s >> Love and Branca play.

Friday, May 18

PENN & TELLER 9 PM, Harrah's >> Witty Penn and silent Teller do their magic act in The Concert Venue. $45-$75 CHICKENFOOT 8 PM, House of Blues >> Metal rockers play the Music Hall. $57-$71.

SAMMY’S BEACH BAR 8 PM, Bally's >> Beach bar opens for the season with Crushing Day playing until midnight. DJ Sonatra spins records from 3 to 8 PM, with DJ Q Ball taking over until 3 AM. 21 BAR@DUSK Caesars >> Live music in this new lounge off the casino floor.

DUSK Caesars >> Global Fridays.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE AT THE POOL AFTER DARK 10 PM, Harrah’s >> DJ Vito G and 10 Supreme entertain.

LEGENDS IN CONCERT 8 PM, Bally's >> The best tribute artists return. $32.50 GYPSY BAR 7 PM Borgata >> Big Bang Baby rock the house early followed by Gypsy Wisdom.

TOGA BAR 10 PM Caesars >> VJ Ernesto DeSiro plays the music.

MIXX 10 PM Borgata >> The bi-level lounge provides an intimate experience. mur mur 10 PM Borgata >> Eli Escobar OKs the music.

FRIDAY NIGHT SUPPER CLUB 6-9 PM, Foundation Room, House of Blues >> Choose from four seatings, a four-course dinner, wine and admission to a live music show at 10 p.m. $50.

LOBBY BAR 10 PM Bally’s >> Beth Tinnon Duo entertain.

HOUSE OF BLUES PARTY PIT 10 PM >> 2Twenty2 rocks with DJ B. Lee on deck from 9 p.m. with dancers as an added attraction.

LIVE BAR 10 PM, Golden Nugget >> The Benderz perform.

MIA 10 PM, Caesars >> DJ Lu'AP spins the music.

Saturday, May 19

JOAN RIVERS 6 PM, 9 PM Borgata >> Legendary comedian brings her barbs to The Music Box. Sold out.

BEACH BOYS 9 PM, Borgata >> All the remaining boys of summer reunite for sweet harmonies and rock in The Event Center. Sold out.

PENN & TELLER 9 PM, Harrah's >> Witty Penn and silent Teller do their magic act in The Concert Venue. $55-$75 EPIC SATURDAY AT THE POOL AFTER DARK 10 PM, Harrah’s >> featuring Eric Forbes and DJ Vito G with a live performance by Breathe Carolina.

SAMMY'S BEACH BAR 2 PM, Bally's >> The Replicants do an afternoon gig until 6 PM, with DJ Xtina spinning records on breaks from 3 to 8 PM. Crazy in Stereo plays live until midnight. DJ Ed Smooth spins until 3 AM when the band isn't on.

21 BAR@DUSK Caesars >> Live music in this new lounge off the casino floor with DJ Be-Easy until 5 AM. GYPSY BAR 7 PM Borgata >> Trippin Carla and LauraLea & Tripp Fabulous perform.

MIXX 10 PM Borgata >> DJ Spider provides the music. mur mur 10 PM Borgata >> Music by Borgata nightlife resident, Samantha Ronson, with Doug Grayson.

EDEN LOUNGE 8:15 PM Harrah’s >> Secret Service opens the evening's entertainment with Danger Mouse coming in at midnight.

LOBBY BAR 10 PM Bally’s >> Beth Tinnon Duo entertain.

XHIBITION BAR 10 PM Harrah’s >> DJ April and DJ Xtina split the duties till 5 AM. MOUNTAIN BAR 9 PM, Wild Wild West, Bally's >> DJ Mike Ficca spins the records. Shorty the Sheriff and Vixens entertain from 10 PM BLUE MARTINI 9 PM Bally’s >> 2Twenty2 entertains with live music, DJ Redline joins in at 10 p.m.

TOGA BAR 10 PM, Caesars >> DJ Patrice McBride spins the music with the Toga Dancers providing the visuals.

RUSH LOUNGE 6 PM, Golden Nugget >> Richie Balin plays with Evolution coming on stage at 10 PM

EDEN LOUNGE 9 PM Harrah’s >> Rock Star Karaoke with Big Ragu SINDUSTRY WEDNESDAY 10 PM Harrah’s >> The Pool After Dark features featuring DJ Vito G and DJ Jason E. RUSH LOUNGE 8 PM, Golden Nugget >> Slamm plays in this intimate lounge.

21 BAR@DUSK Caesars >> Live music in this new lounge off the casino floor.

Thursday, May 24

Bill Maher is sure to stir up controversy when he appears at Caesars on June 2.

GANNETT NEWS SERVICE/ABC

LIVE BAR 10 PM, Golden Nugget >> Element K provides the music.

MIA 10 PM, Caesars >> DJ Lu'AP spins the music.

AFTER HOURS FOUNDATION ROOM 10 PM Showboat >> "From Russia with Love" with DJ Ahmed and Vitali until 6 a.m.; on the Ocean Terrace: DJ Yan and guest.

Sunday, May 20

LEGENDS IN CONCERT 8 PM, Bally's >> The best tribute artists. $32.50 EDEN LOUNGE 9 PM Harrah’s >> Lefty Lucy rock the room.

GYPSY BAR 8:30 PM Borgata >> 3 AM performs in this eclectic setting with all manner of tequila.

MIXX SUNDAYS 10 PM Borgata >> A high-energy dance party with Paul Castro providing the music in this bi-level lounge.

RUSH LOUNGE 8 PM, Golden Nugget >> Doug Jennings performs.

THE DECK 2 PM, Golden Nugget >> Karma rocks the house.

21 BAR@DUSK Caesars >> Live music in this new lounge off the casino floor.

Monday, May 21

mur.mur 10 PM Borgata >> DJ Roger Sanchez plays house music with PS-1. $20 RUSH LOUNGE 8 PM, Golden Nugget >> Beth Tinnon performs in this intimate lounge.

21 BAR@DUSK Caesars >> Live music in this new lounge off the casino floor.

EDEN LOUNGE 7 PM Harrah’s >> Quizzo entertains.

Tuesday, May 22

LEGENDS IN CONCERT 8 PM, Bally's >> The best tribute artists return for another stand in Legends in Concert Theater. $32.50 DUSK TUESDAYS Caesars >> An adult playground awaits. DJ Tony Tone provides the music.

21 BAR@DUSK Caesars >> Music in this new lounge off the casino floor.

RUSH LOUNGE 8 PM, Golden Nugget >> French Vanilla provides music.

EDEN LOUNGE 9 PM Harrah’s >> Jeremiah Hunter rocks the room.

Wednesday, May 23

LEGENDS IN CONCERT 3 and 8 PM, Bally's >> The best tribute artists return. $32.50 GYPSY BAR 9 PM Borgata >> Eric & Coop play in an eclectic setting.

XHIBITION BAR 10 PM, Harrah’s >> DJ Kay Jay provides the entertainment.

LEGENDS IN CONCERT 8 PM, Bally's >> The best tribute artists return. $32.50 GYPSY BAR 10 PM Borgata >> Modern Bliss performs in this eclectic setting noted for its tequila selections.

XHIBITION BAR 10 PM Harrah’s >> DJ Ed Smooth provides the musical entertainment EDEN LOUNGE 9 PM Harrah’s >> B Street Band does a Springsteen tribute.

21 BAR@DUSK Caesars >> Live music in this new lounge off the casino floor.

RUSH LOUNGE 8 PM, Golden Nugget >> Karma rocks this intimate lounge.

LIVE BAR 8:30 PM, Golden Nugget >> Evolution rocks the room.

LUKE PALLADINO’S 8 PM Harrah’s >> Love and Branca play.

Friday, May 25

PITBULL 9 PM, Borgata >> The rapper and record producer takes the stage at The Event Center. Sold out.

GARBAGE 8 PM, House of Blues >> The eclectic rockers with the sultry Shirley Manson out front return to prominence in The Music Hall. $29.50$39.50 STEVE WINWOOD 9 PM, Borgata >> Classic rocker plays his catalog from Spencer Davis Group, Blind Faith,Traffic and his solo career in the friendly confines of The Music Box. $95.

SAMMY'S BEACH BAR 10 PM, Bally's >> The legendary Wailers kick off the holiday weekend.

DJ Sonatra spins records from 3 to 8 PM, with DJ Aiden Scott taking over till 3 AM when the band isn't on.

THE DECK 7 PM, Golden Nugget >> The Rockets rock the room FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE AT THE POOL AFTER DARK 10 PM, Harrah’s >> Beat Clan Takeover featuring DJ Hollywood and the Beatclans DJs. MIXX 10 PM Borgata >> DJ Alesso shows why Borgata loves house music in this bi-level lounge provides an intimate experience with plush seating and private table service areas. $25. mur mur 10 PM Borgata >> Ross One provides the music. Free admission with ticket from Pitbull concert.

EDEN LOUNGE 8:15 PM Harrah’s >> Don’t Call Me Francis open the night with Hyjinx coming on at midnight.

XHIBITION BAR 11 PM Harrah’s >> Music provided

by DJ Freezie LOBBY BAR 10 PM Bally’s >> Beth Tinnon Duo entertain.

HOUSE OF BLUES PARTY PIT 10 PM >> Kristen and The Noise rocks with DJ Sonatra on deck from 9 p.m. with dancers as an added attraction.

MOUNTAIN BAR 9 PM, Wild Wild West, Bally's >> DJ Nicky D spins the records. Shorty the Sheriff and Vixens entertain from 10 PM BLUE MARTINI 9 PM Bally’s >> Star 69 rocks the house with DJ B. Lee joining in at 10 PM. RUSH LOUNGE 6 PM, Golden Nugget >> Jim Shaw opens up with Juicy appearing at 10 PM LIVE BAR 10 PM, Golden Nugget >> Spoiled Rotten performs.

Saturday, May 26

GOLDEN BOYS WITH FRANKIE AVALON, FABIAN AND BOBBY RYDELL 9 PM, Golden Nugget >> Former teen idols from Philadelphia sing the

FOXXHOLE COMEDY JAM HOSTED BY JAMIE FOXX July 6 at Caesars. Tickets, $65-$95. GANNETT FILE

old songs and maybe some new ones. $32.77$55.37 BIG AND RICH WITH COWBOY TROY, 8 PM, House of Blues >> Country guys perform in the Music Hall. $45-$105 JOHN PINETTE 8 PM, Borgata >> Heavyweight comic does his self-deprecating humor in The Music Box. $29.50-$35 PAUL ANKA 9 PM, Harrah's >> The legendary rock crooner performs the hits in The Concert Venue. $60-$105 AFROJACK 10 PM, Borgata >> Duck music producer and DJ entertains in The Event Center. $65 EPIC SATURDAY AT THE POOL AFTER DARK 10 PM, Harrah’s >> Beat Clan Takeover featuring DJ Hollywood and the Beatclans DJ's.

SAMMY'S BEACH BAR 2 PM, Bally's >> Daddy Pop does an afternoon gig until 6 PM, with DJ Xtina spinning records on breaks from 3 to 8 PM. Shake Shake Shake plays live from 7 to 22 PM. DJ Patrice McBride takes spins until 3 AM when the band isn't on.

GYPSY BAR 7 PM Borgata >> 2Twenty2 kicks off the evening, followed by Lost in Paris.

MIXX 10 PM Borgata >> DJ Spider provides the music. mur mur 10 PM Borgata >> DJ Jesse Marco and Doug Grayson spin the music EDEN LOUNGE 8:15 PM Harrah’s >> MBO opens the evening's entertainment with The Loop coming in at midnight.

LOBBY BAR 10 PM Bally’s >> The Girls Next Door entertain.

PARTY PIT AT THE HOUSE OF BLUES 10 PM >> Lucky You rocks with DJ Aiden Scott on deck from 9 p.m. with dancers as an added attraction.

MOUNTAIN BAR 9 PM, Wild Wild West, Bally's >> DJ Mike Ficca spins the records. Shorty the Sheriff and Vixens entertain from 10 PM BLUE MARTINI 9 PM Bally’s >> Sideways entertains with live music, DJ Micah joins in at 10 p.m.

TOGA BAR 10 PM, Caesars >> DJ Sonatra spins the music with the Toga Dancers providing the visuals.

Sunday, May 27

JOHN PINETTE 9 PM, Borgata >> Heavyweight comic does his self-deprecating humor in The Music Box. $29.50-$35 COLLECTIVE SOUL 8 PM, Harrah's >> Rockers do their hits and more in The Concert Venue. $35-$55 LEGENDS IN CONCERT 8 PM, Bally's >> The best tribute artists return for another stand in Legends in Concert Theater. $32.50 EDEN LOUNGE 8:15 PM Harrah’s >> Lefty Lucy rock the room. Garden State Radio comes on at midnight.

GYPSY BAR 6 PM Borgata >> Liquid A kicks off the music, followed by Burnt Sienna at 10 PM in this eclectic setting with all manner of tequila.

BAYWALK 2 PM, Harrah’s >> Reggamuffins rock the afternoon away.

THE POOL, 3 PM, Harrah’s >> Daydream hosted by Kim Kardashian with guest DJs MIXX SUNDAYS 10 PM Borgata >> Percussionist Ravi Drums performs with DJ Echo providing music for a high energy dance party in this bi-level lounge with plush seating and private table service areas.

LOBBY BAR 10 PM Bally’s >> Second to None entertains for the evening.

SAMMY'S BEACH BAR 2 PM, Bally's >> Rocker John Eddie provides live music while DJ Alisha Monique spins records between sets. Industry night kicks in at 8 PM with guest DJs. LIVE 10 PM, Golden Nugget >> Scream entertains in this rocking lounge.

BLUE MARTINI 9 PM Bally’s >> The Next entertains with live music, DJ XTina joins in at 10 p.m.

PARTY PIT AT THE HOUSE OF BLUES 11 PM >> Alien Ant Farm in a free concert with DJ Aiden Scott on deck from 9 p.m. and dancers as an added attraction.

TOGA BAR 10 PM Caesars >> DJ Ricky Lee plays the music with the Toga Dancers providing the visuals.

XHIBITION BAR 10 PM Harrah’s >> DJ April and DJ Hannah Red split the duties till 5 AM. 21 BAR@DUSK Caesars >> Live music in this new lounge off the casino floor.

MOUNTAIN BAR 9 PM, Wild Wild West, Bally's >> DJ B Lee spins the records. Shorty the Sheriff and Vixens entertain from 10 PM

Monday, May 28

mur.mur 10 PM Borgata >> Dutch house DJ and producer Fedde Le Grand plays house music.

RUSH LOUNGE 8 PM, Golden Nugget >> Beth Tinnon performs in this intimate lounge.

THE DECK 2 PM, Golden Nugget >> Slamm closes out the holiday.

SAMMY'S BEACH BAR 9 PM, Bally's >> Latin night 21 BAR@DUSK Caesars >> Live music in this new lounge off the casino floor.

EDEN LOUNGE 7 PM Harrah’s >> Quizzo entertains.

4S COURIER-POST, Thursday, May 17, 2012

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Gimme some

IF YOU GO

Winwood Steve Winwood was just a teenager when he hit the British and American charts as lead singer of The Spencer Davis Group with “Gimme Some Lovin.” A few hit singles later and Winwood left to form the more eclectic rock band, Traffic, with Jim Capaldi, Chris Wood and Dave Mason.

Winwood’s trajectory has skyrocketed ever since, including a successful solo career. He’ll play hits from all his incarnations when he comes to Borgata on May 25. In all, Winwood has released more than 30 albums, including his group work.

In a recent concert in Milwaukee, Winwood selections included “I’m a Man” and “Gimme Some Lovin’” from his Spencer Davis Group days; “Can’t Find My Way Home” from Blind Faith, and “The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys,” “Dear Mr. Fantasy” and “Empty Pages” from Traffic. He chose “Higher Love” from his solo days. “Dirty City” harked to his more recent collaboration with Eric Clapton in 2009.

His first get together with Clapton in 1969 led to Blind Faith with Clapton’s Cream-mate, drummer Ginger Baker, and bass player Rick Grech. The socalled super group lasted for just one album and tour. After Blind Faith, Winwood began work on his first solo project, but enlisted Capaldi and Wood, and it turned into a new Traffic album, the landmark “John Barleycorn Must Die.” An expanded Traffic lineup produced two classic works of the early ’70s: “The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys” and “Shoot Out at the Fantasy Factory,” adding jazz and world music elements.

In 1977, Winwood finally launched his solo career with “Steve Winwood,” followed by “Arc of a Diver,” which featured the hit “While You See a Chance.”

“Taking Back to the Night, “Back in the High Life” and “Roll With It” produced era-defining songs including “Valerie,” “Higher Love,” and the title songs, “Back in the High Life” and “Roll With It." Following 1990’s “Refugees of the Heart,” Winwood and Capaldi reunited as Traffic for the “Far From Home” album and tour, the latter documented in the CD/DVD release dubbed “The Last

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Old Homestead Steak House in Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa adds brews to the menu at a special event. PHOTO PROVIDED Steve Winwood plays The Music Box May 25 at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa. PHOTO PROVIDED

Great Traffic Jam.” Since the late 1990s, Winwood has released another series of solo albums.

In addition to his solo tours, Winwood toured with Clapton, including a memorable three night gig at Madison Square Garden in 2008.

In last week's Rolling Stone review of a concert at the Riverside Theatre in Milwaukee, Steven Hyden wrote, “Winwood was in remarkably fine voice, leaning into the first songs that made him famous with the same invigorating, Ray Charles-inspired yelp he had when he was still in his teens. On ‘Can't Find My Way Home,’ his vocals soared, fully conveying the vulnerability of the original even after giving the song a newly electric, lightly syncopated arrangement.’’

IF YOU GO Steve Winwood plays The Music Box May 25 at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, One Borgata Way. Show time is 9 p.m. Tickets are $95 and can be purchased by calling (866) 900-4849, visiting www.theborgata .com or at the Borgata’s box office.

Red, White & Brew will take place May 24 in Old Homestead Steak House in Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, One Borgata Way. Dinner begins at 7 p.m. Cost is $95 and can be purchased at www.theborgata.com/ dine/Events/ red-whiteand-brewevent.

Red, white and brew night at Old Homestead Old Homestead Steak House at Borgata has hosted wine dinners in the past, but on May 24, the iconic restaurant will add beer to the menu with its Red, White and Brew night.

“With all these craft breweries opening up, and their unique flavors, we thought we’d mix it up a little bit,” said Old Homestead executive chef, Romeo DiBona. “It’s going to be a fun night. “ The sponsors tapped a local South Jersey brewery – Tuckahoe Brewing Company – to provide the beers. The company was founded by three teachers from Mainland High School and an architect friend.

Old Homestead restaurateur Marc Sherry will be there to help host an evening featuring appetizers and a fourcourse dinner, each paired with a red or white wine and a beer.

The food has a unique American BBQ feel to it. “I took things that are from Memorial Day traditions. I want people to feel like they are coming to my house for a cookout,” DiBona said.

Appetizers include corn dogs made with Kobe hot dogs, New England lobster roll and mini Kobe sliders with three mustards. The appetizers will be paired with Tuckahoe Brewery DC Pale Ale and Susana Balbo “Crios’’ Torrontes 2010 wine from Salta, Argentina.

The first course features Guava BBQ

pork ribs with apple slaw, an item on Old Homestead’s menu every summer. That’s also married with Tuckahoe Brewery DC Pale Ale and to Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc/ Viognier Blend 2009, from Napa Valley.

Grilled scallops step front and center for the second course, along with rhubarb relish. “That’s a recent addition to the specials we have in the restaurant,” DiBona said.

The scallops will be paired with Tuckahoe Brewery’s Marshallville Wit and Chateau d’Esclans Whispering Angel Rosé 2010, from Provence, France.

The third course highlights roasted lamb chops, prepared with Steelmantown Porter-infused mustard, served with pickled ramps, a very strong scallion-related onion.

Tuckahoe Brewery Steelmantown Porter will be the beer of choice, along with Clos des Brusquieres Chateauneuf-du Pape, a 2008 wine from Rhone, France.

The fourth course is dolce de leche ice “dream’’ cake — chocolate, covered with coffee beans, a cereal milk shooter which takes the edge off the beer. Tuckahoe Brewery selected New Brighton coffee stout, which smells and tastes like coffee.

The dessert also will be served the Marceno Brachetto d’Acqui wine, from 2010, in the Piedmont, region off Italy.

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COURIER-POST, Thursday, May 17, 2012 3S

ESCAPE TO WINNINGS FINALE Grand Finale Drawing Sunday, May 20, 2012 | 12pm – 6pm Drawings Every 30 Minutes!

ACTIVATE ENTRIES BETWEEN 11AM AND 5:30PM BY SWIPING AT THE DESIGNATED PROMOTIONAL KIOSKS. YOU COULD WIN FABULOUS PRIZES INCLUDING: VACATIONS TO LAS VEGAS, ATLANTIC CITY AND THE 2012 OLYMPICS IN LONDON.

Management reserves the right to change or cancel this promotion at any time without notice. Must be 21 or older to gamble, enter and remain in a New Jersey casino or participate in any Caesars Entertainment promotion. Know When to Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. ©2012, Caesars License Company, LLC.

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A.C. Heritage Festival alive with music and more

By WILLIAM SOKOLIC Courier-Post Staff

A cavalcade of celebrities will be part of the first Atlantic City Multi-Cultural Heritage Festival June 1 to 3. Tom Joyner, Mike Tyson, Julius Erving and Ashanti are some of the famous folks who will appear in locations throughout the city.

“The whole idea originated with Mayor Lorenzo Langford. This was something he envisioned,” said Nynell Langford, the mayor’s wife. “We want to show that this part of Atlantic City exists and is a reason to visit and have a great time. There’s something for everyone during the weekend. ” The festival includes a Heritage parade; a Gold & Platinum R&B Music Tribute; a Beach Bash; an All-Star Boxing Legends Gala; a Gospel Fest; and a Jazz in the Garden showcase.

Friday, June 1: Joyner will broadcast his morning show live from Surf Stadium on Albany Avenue. Admission to the 6 to 11 a.m. event is free. However, tickets are available on a firstcome, first-serve basis at City Hall, 1301 Bacharach Blvd.

After the broadcast, the radio icon will mix and mingle with listeners and sign autographs. There will be a T-shirt giveaway and Mayor Langford will present Joyner with a proclamation and the “Key to the City.”

The Heritage Parade will roll down the Boardwalk form 6 to 8:30 p.m. The parade will feature more than 100 entries, including marching bands, drum and bugle corps, drill teams, floats, beauty queens, celebrities and auxiliaries, and more.

Music plays a key element in the festival, with jazz, gospel and R&B concerts. The highlight Friday centers around a tribute to Philadelphia International Records and its founders, Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff. The same concert also will pay homage to artists who passed away, from Sam Cooke to Whitney Houston. The AC Experience Ensemble, Grammy Award-winner Ashanti, and other special guest vocalists will perform at One Atlantic on the Pier Shops at Caesars from 9 p.m. to midnight. Tickets are $60 and can be purchased by calling (609) 432-9649.

Saturday, June 2: From noon to 6 p.m., the city presents Beach Bash at the Missouri Avenue Beach. The event will be hosted by the Pee Dees of New York City, with cameo appearances, hotties and hard bodies, games, and the latest dance moves.

A free Old School Summer Concert will be held at Historic Gardner's Basin from noon and 7:30 p.m. The lineup includes Evelyn Champagne King, Third World and Harold Melvin's Blue Notes. Gardner’s Basin is at 800 N. New Hampshire Ave. .

Meet the greats of boxing at the All-Star Boxing Legends Gala in the Superstar Theater at Resorts from 9 p.m. to midnight. Pay tribute to the professional boxing personalities who helped to make Atlantic City a boxing mecca. An array of current and former champions have confirmed, including Mike Tyson and Hon. Judge Jacquelyn Frazier-Lyde, who will pay special tribute to the legacy of her father, Joe Frazier. The cost is $100 and can be purchased by calling (609) 432-9649.

Sunday, June 3 Surf Stadium will host an early morning Gospel Fest 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. The ecumenical non-denominational spiritual service will include prayer, choirs, readings and the preached word. Pastor Eric McCoy, president of the Fellowship of Churches of Atlantic City and Vicinity, will preside. Admission is free.

From noon to 8 p.m., the boardwalk will be the setting of a Boardwalk Bazaar. Merchants will sell ethnic dry goods, merchandise and clothing at select locations.

“Jazz in the Garden” will feature an afternoon of live

The festival, which takes places throughout the city, includes a Heritage parade; a Gold & Platinum R&B Music Tribute; a Beach Bash; an All-Star Boxing Legends Gala; a Gospel Fest, and a Jazz in the Garden showcase. ASSOCIATED PRESS

Julius Erving and other top-name athletes will join the festival. FILE PHOTO music on the Boardwalk at Garden Pier, New Jersey Avenue, and also at Kennedy Plaza. Music runs from 1 to 7 p.m. and admission is free.

The festival also will include Swab a Cheek, with local volunteers swabbing the cheeks of volunteers to test for bone marrow donor matches.

“It’s an important issue we’re trying to address,” Langford said. “With so many people coming in and celebrities, it’s important to have a party with a purpose.”

IF YOU GO Atlantic City MultiCultural Heritage Festival June 1 to 3. Tom Joyner, Mike Tyson, Julius Erving and Ashanti are some of the famous folks who will appear in locations throughout the city.

R&B singer Ashanti will perform at the Atlantic City Multi Cultural Festival.

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Tourism on the upswing Visitors walk on the Atlantic City Boardwalk on a nice spring day.

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First-class accommodations like this room at Borgata’s and numerous entertainment and dining options give visitors more reasons to stay in A.C. PHOTO PROVIDED

Visiting and staying Atlantic City’s diverse attractions and ad campaign are come-on for visitors

By WILLIAM SOKOLIC Courier-Post Staff

April marked the first month for — both the opening of the latest casino resort, Revel, and the launch of a new citywide advertising campaign. The results for the month show the two additions have paid off.

At the visitor welcome centers operated by the Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority, more than 11,000 people stopped for information, maps and reservations, a 28 percent jump from April 2011.

Year-to-date visitation has risen 37.6 percent.

Almost 300,000 visitors logged onto the ACCVA's Web site, with 69 percent of them being new to the site. Additionally, more than 18,000 Facebook “Likes” were registered in April, 738 people opted in to the ACCVA's eNewsletters and online requests for visitor guides jumped to 3,810 for the month, all significantly higher than both the previous month and the same month in 2011.

While the market experienced a shift

away from April, the year-to-date total of conventions, trade shows and public shows at the Atlantic City Convention Center and the city's hotels remained relatively stable: 68 in 2012 vs. 69 in 2011. However, the number of attendees’ year-to-date was up 2 percent and delegate spending yearto-date rose by 1 percent, adding $62.7 million to the local economy.

Additionally, scheduled service deplanements at the Atlantic City International Airport — passengers arriving in Atlantic City — increased by some 8 percent in April over the same month in 2011.

The number of overnight bus passengers visiting Atlantic City increased as well. More than 9,200 passengers arrived for overnight stays in April, up 24.4 percent from April, 2011.

“As the spring and summer season progress, these statistics provide a positive outlook,” said Jeff Vasser, president of the ACCVA. “All of the new initiatives within the Atlantic City Tourism District should combine to bring new visitors to our diverse attractions, while our repeat visitors will want to see what's new.”

By WILLIAM SOKOLIC Courier-Post Staff

At the beginning of the recession in 2008, the 11 casino hotels had an occupancy rate of 87.4 percent. Last year, the rate was 82.6 percent. But if you look at the intervening years, the situation looks sunnier. The most precipitous decline was from 2008 to 2009, when rates fell to 82.5 percent citywide. Since then, rates have enjoyed a slight uptick.

Similar trends hold true for hotel revenues which went from $497 million in 2008 to $508 million in 2011.

These are positives to be celebrated.

“Our occupancy rate is significantly higher than most destinations,” said Jeff Vasser, president of the Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority.

“We offer more in the way of non-gaming amenities. Our dining, nightlife, convention business is booming.

There’s so much more to do than seven or eight years ago, to say nothing of special events and concerts.”

Bally’s, Borgata, Harrah’s and Showboat are among the casinos that saw a decline in occupancy rate from 2008 to 2009 followed by an increase since. Caesars saw a decline in 2010 but by 2011 had eclipsed even 2008 figures. On the

revenue side, Bally’s, Harrah’s and Showboat have enjoyed improvements from 2009 through 2011. Caesars and Harrah’s have had a steady growth from 2008.

The four Caesars Entertainment properties are up more than the industry average in statistics. “They are driving the industry growth,” said Shawn K. McCloud, vice president of analysis for Spectrum Gaming, of Linwood.

Caesars Entertainment Eastern Division president, Don Marrandino, credits more than $1 billion in renovations with the hotels’ success “Atlantic City clearly has transformed itself into a full resort destination, creating a more complete visitors experience by offering numerous entertainment options, in addition to gaming,” he said.

Borgata’s senior vice president of operations, Joe Lupo, is happy the numbers have remained consistent. “It’s important not only for Borgata and Atlantic City to continue to market and focus on hotel rooms and other amenities to differentiate this market from the others,” Lupo said. Borgata is spending $50 million to renovate more than 1,500 standard rooms.