Tonight's the night

Joe Branchik, vice president of marketing for Horseshoe Casino confirms everything is ready and waiting at the Hammond gaming property that has everyone buzzing.

The VIP invites, clad in black ties and sequins, for tonight's grand-opening celebration are in for a fantasy-filled evening, including huge party gatherings before and after Bette Midler's 8 p.m. sold-out concert in the new stunning theater space The Venue.

And of course, plenty of games to play, ranging from 3,200 slots to the World Class Poker room and 97 gaming tables. There's also the brand new 650-seating capacity Village Buffet, which has been moved from the land-based pavilion onto the new vessel and features Italian selections, seafood and desserts to organic offerings (at the same price as always.)

With a price tag of more than half a billion dollars and a total expansion of more than 350,000 square feet, it's also easy to see why expectations are as high as some of the new high-roller heavy-duty limits gaming options, which include slot machines for $1,000 a pull, private blackjack rooms with $50,000 limits and baccarat with stakes as high as $100,000 per bet.

The new gaming vessel actually opened for business on July 29th and on July 31, Hammond Mayor Thomas McDermott helped Horseshoe's top man Rick Mazer do the honors at the actual ribbon-cutting with other dignitaries.

But no matter when you get your first chance to see what's new and improved, my advice is to drink in more than just a glimpse of this architectural wonderment by the masters at the renowned Sceno Plus architects, the same folks responsible for eye-popping properties along the famed Las Vegas strip, including parent company Caesar's Palace's dream performance space The Colosseum. That venue was designed especially for Celine Dion in 2003 and now is the new Sin City home for Midler, Cher and Elton John's rotating gigs.

Just the sparkling chandeliers alone boast more than 120,000 Swarovski crystals in each of these hanging, illuminated focal points in the main gaming room. There's also real 24 karat gold and silver leafing covering the walls, vaulted ceilings and even the ornate metal details.

In addition to Midler's mingling, other notable names flying in for the fun include singer Josh Kelley, who is married to Emmy Award-winning actress Katherine Heigl, star of "Grey's Anatomy," "Knocked Up" and "27 Dresses." Other favorite faces to look for on the red carpet are "American Pie" actress Tara Reid; Cheryl Burke from "Dancing with the Stars" and her 'Dancing' partners Drew Lachey and Mr. Las Vegas Wayne Newton; Countess Luann DeLesseps and Bethenny Frankel of "The Real Housewives of New York City;" Noah Bean of "Damages;" Esai Morales of "Jericho," who played the brother of singer Ritchie Valens in "La Bamba" and also an appearance by professional poker player Phil Gordon.

Since she has to prepare for her concert, Midler will NOT be strolling the red carpet. However, she will mingle with invited guests following her concert.

Tune in

Actresses Mary Kay Steele of LaPorte, who is portraying country legend Patsy Cline and Michele Craig of Chesterton, who will play Louise Seger her devoted fan, will be in full costume at the Indiana 105 studios today at 8 a.m. and again at 4:30 p.m. Not only will the two be interviewed on WLJE, but they will also be giving away tickets for their play "Always Patsy Cline," opening Aug. 15 at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso. Besides being heard during the broadcasts, with the magic of the webcam, listeners can also watch the interview. Check it out at www.indiana105.com.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer. He can be reached at ppotempa@nwitimes.com or 219.852.4327.

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