July 15, 1999 Gambling and 'gators

July 15, 1999

Gambling and 'gators

As alligators silently glided among stands of sawgrass in nearby waters, the Florida Turnpike slowly discharged more than 12,000 guests making their way to the parking lot of Florida’s newest gambling mecca. The grand opening was a Media Event, and sure to be exciting. Those too eager to wait in traffic simply abandoned their cars along the Tamiami Trail and walked. If there had been naysayers of the 302- room Miccosukee Resort and Convention Center, they were silenced on June 15 by the stellar success of its grand opening. Miccosukee Tribal Chairman, Billy Cypress, signaled that it was time to begin the ribbon-cutting ceremony, and after the enormous red sash that had festooned the entrance to the resort fell, Congressman Larry Smith read a letter of congratulations from Senator Connie Mack. Miami-Dade Mayor, Alex Penelas, followed with some special words of his own as Billy Cypress stood proudly nearby.

Marketing experts had planned a gala event in every sense. Food and drink were plentiful, and as guests strolled from one lavishly decorated room to the next, showgirls and performers entertained them in true Las Vegas style. Headliners, Hootie and the Blowfish, Little Richard, and Rick Springfield wowed the crowds from three stages. Miccosukee execs knew they had a winner when they heard the crowd’s reaction to the most wildly popular entertainment of the evening: wrestling matches featuring Worldwide Wrestling Federation’s Kane, Big Boss Man, and Roaddog Jesse James. They’re planning a repeat performance! Designers have tastefully mixed elements of traditional Miccosukee culture with the glitter of South Beach for a decor that is completely unique, and entirely pleasing. The rooms are appointed with custom-designed furniture upholstered in the rich, vibrant colors of a sunset. All have fax-modem connections, cable-TV, voicemail, movies-on-command and PlayStation for the kids. If you want to up the luxury ante, suites are available, complete with whirlpool bath, executive wet-bar, and semi-detached living room.

The spa offers Swedish and Shiatsu massage, aromatherapy, a full range of beauty treatments, and a fitness center oufitted with state-of-the-art Cybex workout equipment. There’s even something for the outdoorsman: If an airboat ride, nature walk, and kayaking in the Everglades National Park isn’t enough, then a tour of Shark Valley, where you can get ‘up close and personal’ with the alligators should do the trick. The majority of Miami-Dade and Broward country residents are pro-casino, and with the existence of pari-mutuels, state-run lottery, and offshore casino cruises already a familiar part of the Florida scene, experts feel it won’t be long before a full range of gaming is permitted on Indian land. For now, the Miccosukee Resort and Convention Center casino offers more than 1,200 slot machines, low-limit poker, and bingo for the gambling enthusiast, plus a host of fabulous amenities that are sure to please the most discerning vacationer. And don't forget about alligators!

Related Article;

Florida Tribe Shakes Up Everglades