April 15, 2005


HOT SLOTS: FREEBIES AND OPTIONS
Casinos build slots players' loyalty with free club-card promotions

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By Bonnie Britton
bonnie.britton@indystar.com


Whether you're a high roller or a first-timer, there are rewards for playing slots if you sign up for and use your free slot club card faithfully.

Depending on the time you play, you might receive an offer of cash for your next trip to a casino, free meals, free hotel rooms or entertainment. The casinos generate loyalty this way; the more points you rack up, the better the offers.

The casinos also are generous with other promotions, awarding cars, trucks, motorcycles and cash in drawings entered by using your card.

A Caesars Indiana promotion gave slot players a room, gourmet meal, a holographic commemorative cube and a performance by the Louisville Ballet in its showroom. Harrah's in East Chicago threw a 2004 New Year's Eve party that included a room, food, beverages, live music, for some, a Mikasa crystal clock. A champagne brunch at the Argosy for slot players included a room at the hotel, brunch, a Reed and Barton crystal vase and chances to win cash.

Many of the state's casinos feature dockside theaters and music venues.

Today and Saturday, Crystal Gayle is scheduled to perform at Casino Aztar in Evansville. On Sunday, Lee Ann Womack is booked at the Grand Victoria in Rising Sun. Oldies-but-goodies entertainers such as Brenda Lee, Bo Diddley, Roy Clark, Paul Revere and the Raiders and David Cassidy make the rounds.

So how much do you have to lose or win to become a preferred slot player?

It varies by casino. If you log on to the casino Web sites, some will give you a general idea of how much play is required to earn rewards.