Atlantic City Casinos Blog

   I did a lot of driving on Sunday. Three states in one day, not to mention a serious state of confusion. On the way from a relative’s house in Northern New Jersey to run to Philadelphia to see a show, I was passing the Philadelphia Park casino. It was only a couple miles out of my way, and a billboard on the Atlantic City Expressway promised me free slot play, so I decided to pay them a visit.

   It was dark, and the entrance to the place wasn’t well-marked. After leaving the main roadway, I had to go down a series of access roads to reach the massive parking lot, which was quite dark with only a few street lights. I guess the ponies never ran there at night.

   It was a healthy walk to the front entrance, but after a huge lunch, I was happy for the exercise - as long as I didn’t get mugged. The slot-club booth was right at the entrance. I showed them my Diamond card from the Atlantic City Harrah’s properties, and they gave me their own card and $50 in free play. Not bad for just walking in the door.

   I chose to play it off on the third floor, which is mostly non-smoking. I didn’t see any video-poker machines, just reel slots. Few of the slots were the familiar games I see in Atlantic City, and some were made by companies I never heard of. 

   There was no theme, no atmosphere, just rows and rows of machines in a huge hall. No cocktail servers offering drinks, you had to press a button on your machine to summon one. I didn’t see any slot attendants on the floor either. Just people playing the machines. No one seemed to be having fun, no whooping it up at a big hit, just sit there and spin the reels. I played my $50 through several machines, and ended up with $34. I put all my “winnings” back in the last machine to combine them in one ticket to ease the redemption process. When I went to cash out my ticket, I tried three ticket-redemption machines and none of them worked. I waited in line at the cashier to get my money and get out the door.

   The only bright spot was a Sunday promotion during football season. Whenever the Eagles scored, everyone who was playing a machine at the time got free slot play, and the amount varied by your card level.

   I happily left, drove the spooky access roads to the main highway, and made it to Philly in time for the show. I was in the casino all of about half an hour. I don’t care if the casino tags me as a flea, because I have no intention of going back. Even if I lived in Philadelphia, I’d still prefer Atlantic City.

   A friend and I were having lunch at a casino buffet earlier this week, when we looked over to see a man two tables away put half a dozen brownies into his bag. We commented on it, and it turned into a conversation on how much is too much to sneak out.

   Of course, the buffets’ official rule is you take out nothing unless it’s in your stomach. But manypeople don’t obey this.

   My friend and I are not among the few that heed the casinos’ rules. We’ve been known to take out some packs of no-calorie sweetener, a couple of tea bags or a piece of fruit. But where do you draw the line?

   I’ve seen women take a complete steak out of a buffet in their purses. Or stash two dozen cookies in a shopping bag. That may be too much. But is it wrong to take out a piece of fruit? A couple of cookies? A piece of prime rib for your dog or a chicken breast for your cat? A miniature pie for a late-night dessert? Or is anything fair game as far as taking from a casino is concerned?

   I don’t have any answers here. I’m just asking the questions. But it was something that made me pause and think.

$500,000 Football Challenge
Have you been scoring entries? There’s still time to get in on the action in Trump Marina’s $500,000 Football Challenge. Play your favorite slots and table games to earn entries now through October 31, 2009. Then join us for the “big game” on Saturday, November 7 at 10 p.m. in the Atrium for your chance to play on our gigantic football field board. Eight lucky players will be selected to “take the field.” If you’re one of them, you get the chance to gain yards by picking four “yard cards” to move down the field. Get 100 yards and you’ll score a touchdown worth $500,000! Huddle up at any Rewards Center Kiosk between 6 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. to activate your entries.

The Football Frenzy has been so popular; we’ve continued the game through December! Players can continue playing to earn entries from November 1 through December 5 for our second $500,000 Football Challenge. Another eight winners will be selected to ‘suit up’ and join us in the Atrium for another chance to play on the “BIG FIELD.” On Saturday, December 5 at 10 p.m. Talk about fantasy football!

A Cool Million Could be Yours
You could have a chance to win a cool $1 million at Trump Marina during our Million Dollar Blackjack Challenge. Simply use your Trump One Card to play your favorite table games and slots at Trump Marina from November 1 through January 1, 2010 to earn entries. Rack up those entries, then visit us at 10:00 pm in the Atrium on Sunday, January 2, 2010 for a chance to win BIG! We’ll select six finalists to play one hand of Blackjack. If you’re one of the lucky seven, you’ll win a guaranteed $2,500. But you could win a lot more: Any Blackjack in the first two cards dealt wins $10,000; A Blackjack in Spades in the first two cards dealt wins $100,000; and three “7”s in the first three cards dealt can win $1,000,000 (25 year annuity.) Remember to activate your entries on January 2 simply by playing any slot or table game between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. Who knows? The New Year might start out on a very good note!

$50 Just For You!
What’s the latest fall accessory to get you the best Cash Back, dining, entertainment, rooms and more in Atlantic City? The Trump One Card, of course! And now, new Trump One Members who sign up at Trump Marina will receive $50 in Bonus Slot Dollars. Just sign up, play and earn 20 tier points to be eligible.  New members will receive $25 Bonus Slot Dollars on the day they enroll and $25 Bonus Slot Dollars to play with on your next visit.
New Trump One Card Members will also receive a FREE Trump Advantage Pass, filled with valuable discount offers for dining, shopping and salon services at all three Trump Atlantic City Properties. Get yours today when you sign up for a new Trump One Card.

$1,000 Every 15 Minutes: On Two Days!
Win your share of $33,000! Trump Marina is giving away $1,000 every 15 minutes on Tuesday, November 3 and again on Wednesday, November 25. Play from noon to 8 p.m. each date for your chance to win a cool grand. Best of all, every Trump One Cardholder gets a free entry. Be sure to activate yours by playing any slot or table game using your Trump One Card or by visiting Trump One Services. Then play your favorite games and listen for your name as we call a winner every 15 minutes!

Asylum Fight League MMA Returns
The mixed martial arts action returns to Trump Marina! Asylum Fight League Mixed Martial Arts is the East Coast’s premier amateur fight league. And they’re bringing their fiercest to the Grand Cayman at Trump Marina on Friday, November 13. Catch a night of high-impact action and great matchups: Julio Arce battles RJ Starace in a super lightweight AFL title fight. Patrick Enright takes on Anton Berzin for the AFL cruiserweight title. Plus, loads of other competitive matchups cap off the card. The first match is at 9 p.m. and tickets are priced at $100, $75 and $50.

A Diamond-studded Event
This is as close to the real Neil Diamond as it gets. DMEI presents Real Diamond: A Tribute to Neil Diamond, on Saturday, November 21 in The Shell. The premier Neil Diamond tribute band, Real Diamond, delivers a dynamic performance every time they take the stage. Dedicated to bringing audience the authentic Neil Diamond Experience, you’ll enjoy the costumes, the sound and hit after hit. Show time is at 8 p.m. and tickets are priced at $22.

Dine Out on Gourmet Your Way!
Trump Marina’s award-winning gourmet restaurants, DJ’s Steakhouse and Harborview are again offering guests a chance to dine on all-new three course prix fixe menus for just $35* per person. Make your reservations from Sunday through Thursday and choose from Soup or Salad, a Choice of Entrée and Dessert. Choose from hearty steaks and chops at DJ’s Steakhouse or savory Italian specialties and freshest seafood at Harborview. Either way, you’re in for a treat of expertly prepared cuisine and impeccable service at two of Atlantic City’s finest gourmet dining venues.

For a special treat, don’t miss the lavish Sunday Brunch from 10 am to 2 pm every week, at Harborview, where guests can dine overlooking a breathtaking view of the marina and enjoy a extravagent brunch menu with something for everyone. Choose from made-to-order omelettes, eggs Benedict, French Toast and pancakes, fresh fruit, an abundant raw bar and dessert selection that is to-die-for,accompanied by tasty mimosas and champagne for just $42.00 per person. For reservations, please call 1-800-777-8477. (*Tax and gratuity not included.)

Give Thanks and Let Us do the Cooking!
Join us for a traditional Thanksgiving feast at Harborview Restaurant. Bring the whole family for Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday, November 26 and our chef will personally carve your own fresh roasted turkey table side accompanied by all the classic trimmings for $32.00 per person. Reservations are required and must be booked by Tuesday, November 24. Please call 1-800-777-8477 or Ext. 68400. (Available for parties of four or more. Tax and gratuity not included.)

Park for Free All November Long
Visit Trump Marina in November, and we’ll take care of the parking in our self-park garage. All Trump One Cardholders are entitled to free parking. Be sure to visit and enjoy all that we have to offer, from hot casino action to fabulous restaurants and shops.

Deal Yourself a High Hand and Win $250,000
What would you do with a quarter of a million bucks? Trump Plaza’s $250,000 Royal Flush is your chance to find out. Earn 20 or more Tier Points every day, now through November 28 and receive up to three entries each day. Simply earn your points, then visit any Rewards Center Kiosk to receive your entries. Then on the big day, Saturday November 28, deposit your entries into the drum in the 5th Avenue Slot Area and you could be one of the lucky ones. We’ll randomly draw five names at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Each contestant will choose five cards from a set of 20. If you’re one of the players, you’re guaranteed to win $250 Bonus Slot Dollars. Deal yourself a Royal Flush, and you’ll win $250,000!

Cast Your Vote…at Trump Plaza!
Tuesday, November 3 is a very important day. After all, you could win up to $10,000 at Trump Plaza. Simply play any slot machine or table game using your Trump One Card between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. on November 3 and you’ll be eligible to win…big! We’ll select a winner every 15 minutes. The action is in the 5th Avenue Slot Area. And with cash and prizes worth up to $10,000, you’ll want to visit Trump Plaza to exercise your right to win!

Is That the Fab Four at Trump Plaza?
Don’t miss the Long Live the Beatles Show featuring the Mahoney Brothers. On two special days, Saturday, November 28 and Sunday, November 29, you’ll enjoy a musical tribute like no other. The longest-running Beatles tribute show relives the magic of the Fab Four phenomenon with all the authentic costumes, exact instruments and, of course, all the hits. Show times are 9 p.m. on Saturday and 4 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are priced at $25.

Fall Into Something New!
What’s the latest fall accessory to get you the best Cash Back, dining, entertainment, rooms and more in Atlantic City? The Trump One Card, of course! And now, new Trump One Members who sign up at Trump Plaza will receive $50 in Bonus Slot Dollars. Just sign up, play and earn 20 tier points to be eligible.  New members will receive $25 Bonus Slot Dollars on the day they enroll and $25 Bonus Slot Dollars to play with on your next visit.

New Trump One Card Members will also receive a FREE Trump Advantage Pass, filled with valuable discount offers for dining, shopping and salon services at all three Trump Atlantic City Properties. Get yours today when you sign up for a new Trump One Card.

Gourmet Your Way
Here’s your chance to experience award-winning gourmet dining at a fraction of the price at the award winning Max’s Steakhouse and Roberto’s Ristorante located in Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino. Whether it’s thick, flavorful steaks and chops at Max’s Steakhouse or the finest cuisine from Northern Italy in Roberto’s Ristorante, you can dine on four decadent courses for one fabulous price.

Select an appetizer, soup or salad, entrée and delicious desserts prepared by our Executive Chef, for the unbelievable price of $35 per person. Available in Max’s Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, and in Roberto’s on Wednesday and Thursday. A selection of wines are also available starting at just $15.00 per bottle. Dine in the warm ambiance of Max’s Steakhouse or take in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean in Roberto’s Ristorante. Either way, you’ll discover Trump Plaza’s fine gourmet restaurants and impeccable service without breaking the bank. Call 609-441-6777 to make your reservations today.

Dine 24/7/365
Take advantage of the Early Bird Dinner Specials in our 24 Central Café, Sunday through Thursday from 4 to 7 pm. For just $12.95 per person, you’ll enjoy soup, salad, entrée and dessert. And Sunday through Thursday from 7 pm until midnight it’s half price appetizers at the bar. Certain availability or restrictions may apply.

It’s Thanksgiving so Gobble, Gobble – with US!
Trump Plaza will be offering guests two great options for the the turkey day feast. Roberto’s Ristorante will serve a gourmet Thanksgiving Dinner. Enjoy fresh turkey with all the trimmings and savory side dishes and of course sumptuous gourmet desserts to choose from, starting at $39.00 per person. Open 6 pm to 10 pm. Call 609-441-6777 to make your reservations today.

The Plaza’s 24 Central Café will offer a Thanksgiving dinner from 12 noon to 12 midnight. Choose from an entrée of turkey with gravy, mashed potatoes and fresh vegetables, along with pumpkin pie and other seasonal desserts favorites on the menu and available a la carte, starting at $19.95 per person. Reservations are not necessary and the restaurant is open conveniently, 24 hours a day!

Anyone can enter, and anyone can win in any of the promotional events (as long as they’re over 21)! All that’s needed is a Trump One Card, which is available for free at Trump One Services. For more information, visit www.trumpplaza.com. Tickets for the above entertainment can be purchased by calling Ticketmaster at 1-800-736-1420 or online at www.ticketmaster.com. For more information, call the Trump Plaza box office at 609-441-6157. Show schedules are subject to change.

$25,000 Run for the Riches
Football season is in the thick of the action. Get in on it! Watch your favorite games every Monday in Ego Bar & Lounge. Enjoy great food and drink specials, plus chances to win big. Maybe even a share of $25,000! It’s Trump Taj Mahal’s $25,000 Run for the Riches every Monday during football season. Use your Trump One Card to register at any Rewards Center Kiosk from 5 p.m.–8 p.m. on Mondays. Then catch the action in Ego on our high-def big screens. If the second half kickoff is returned for a touchdown, you automatically win your share of $25,000! Be sure to catch ESPN’s Mike Gill, as he broadcasts live in Ego each Monday, from 3 p.m.–7 p.m.

United States Poker Championship Returns To Taj Mahal
Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort is proud to announce the return of the United States Poker Championship to the Taj Mahal Poker Room.  The casino has signed a five year deal with Compass Entertainment to film and produce the USPC, Trump Taj Mahal’s ‘Signature’ poker event.

The 2009 USPC will run from November 2 - 24, culminating with a $5,000 buy-in No Limit Hold’em Championship Event beginning on November 20, which will be aired in conjunction with Spike Network.The Taj Poker Room is also organizing High-Stakes Cash Games on Sunday, November 15 and Sunday November 22. Many of the current superstars of poker began or furthered their climb to success while playing at the legendary Taj Poker room–so put on your best poker face and join us for some hot poker action. Players can reserve their tournament seats NOW on line at www.ptseats.com

November is Hot-Hot-Hot!
Beginning November 9, every Monday through Friday, Trump Taj Mahal customers will have a chance to play and win during our Hot Seat Promotion. From 11 am - 7 pm, every other hour, five lucky slot machines will be chosen to win prizes ranging from cash, to gifts, Comp Dollars and more. Fifty winners will be chosen each week and all you have to do is play, oh and be sure you are in the HOT SEAT!

Fall Into Something New!
What’s the latest fall accessory to get you the best Cash Back, dining, entertainment, rooms and more in Atlantic City? The Trump One Card, of course! And now, new Trump One Members who sign up at Trump Taj Mahal will receive $50 in Bonus Slot Dollars. Just sign up, play and earn 20 tier points to be eligible.  New members will receive $25 Bonus Slot Dollars on the day they enroll and $25 Bonus Slot Dollars to play with on your next visit. (Must earn 20 tier points on each visit to receive $25 Bonus Slot Dollars).

Daughtry
AEG Live presents Daughtry in the Mark G. Etess Arena on Friday, November 6. Chris Daughtry is one of the most successful American Idol contestants since the juggernaut show began launching people’s careers. In fact, his band, Daughtry, sold more than one million copies in just five weeks making it one of the fastest-selling ever. It went on to top the Billboard charts just weeks later. Daughtry is made up of Chris Daughtry, vocals, Josh Paul, bass; Joey Barnes, drums; Brian Craddock, guitar; and Josh Steely, guitar. Don’t miss the hits from this Grammy-nominated group, including “It’s Not Over” and “Home.” Show time is at 8 p.m. and tickets are priced at $39.50 and $29.50.

Freestyle Free For All
Get ready to dance! It’s a hot music free for all in the Mark G. Etess Arena on Friday, November 13. The sizzling lineup features more than a dozen performers, including Stevie B, Lisa Lisa, Rockell, K7/ TKA,  Judy Torres, Coro, Rob Base & EZ Rock, C+C Music Factory Featuring Freedom Williams,  Debbie Deb, Cover Girls and George LaMond. Show time is at 9 p.m. and tickets are priced at $95, $75, $55 and $40.

Get Ready to Shake Your Groove Thang!
Discoball is back! Discoball 8 will be the hottest disco night around in the Mark G. Etess Arena on Saturday, November 14. Trump Taj Mahal will be a disco inferno, featuring hot performances by some of the biggest names in disco including: Gloria Gaynor, The Sugar Hill Gang, Trammps, Bonnie Pointer, Peaches and Herb, D-Train, Loleatta Holloway, France Joli, Shannon, Lime, Carol Douglas, and Taanya Gardner. Show time is at 7:00 pm with doors opening one hour prior.  Ticket prices are $125, $95, $75 and $50.

2010 Chevrolet Camaro and $10,000 Giveaway
On Saturday, November 14, you could win one of the hottest cars on the road—or maybe your share of $10,000. The all-new Chevy Camaro is guaranteed to turn heads with its sheer power and eye-grabbing good looks. Swipe your Trump One Card at any Rewards Center Kiosk now through Friday, November 13 to receive your entries. Then be sure to activate your entries on November 14 by receiving a slot or table game rating between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. We’ll give away $5,000 at 7 p.m. and the Camaro and another $5,000 at 10 p.m. So listen up…you just might hear your name!

Friday Night Fights at The Taj
Trump Taj Mahal in association with Dee Lee Promotions Inc. presents The Fall Brawl at Trump Taj Mahal on Friday, November 20, 2009 in the Grand Ballroom.  The main event features Prince Badi ‘Boxing Prince’ Ajamu (27-3-1/4 ko’s) defending his National Boxing Association Light Heavyweight Title against Daniel Judah (23-4-3/10 ko’s). The first bouts begin at 8:00 pm with doors opening one hour prior.  Ticket prices are $90, $75, $55 & $40.

Get Ready to Be Dazzled!
Cirque Dreams Holidaze is the Broadway hit that critics can’t stop raving about! Catch this magical show in the Xanadu Theater, Wednesday, November 25 through Sunday, December 13. This whimsical version of the celebrated Cirque Dreams shows is tailored to the holidays. Ornaments spring to life and ordinary figurines transform suddenly into high-flying performers. Be mesmerized by gravity-defying aerialists and elegant acrobats. Enjoy the highest caliber of singers and dancers. Even the costuming is a sight to behold! Cirque Dreams Holidaze makes the most magical time of year even more special. Show times are 8 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday; 9 p.m. on Friday; and 3:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are priced at $35 and $25.

CMN presents Aventura
Formed in 1994 in the Bronx, Aventura has become a hot-selling group known for their merging of traditional Dominican bachata sound with other genres like hip hop and R&B. Made up of Anthony Santos, Lenny Santos, Max Santos and Henry Santos Jeter, the award-winning band is known for smash singles including “Obesion,” “La Boda,” “Ella y Yo,” “Un Beso,” “Mi Corazoncito,” “El Perdedor,” “Por Un Segundo,” “All Up 2 You” and “Su Veneno.” They have sold over one million albums. Aventura will perform in the Mark G. Etess Arena on Friday, November 27 at 8 pm and Sunday, November 29 at 6:00 pm. Tickets are priced at $105, $85 and $65.

It’s a Rockin’ Holiday Tradition!
BRE Presents the Brian Setzer Orchestra’s 7th Annual Christmas Rocks! Extravaganza. This swingin’ performance will rock the Mark G. Etess Arena on Saturday, November 28. Setzer and his 18-piece big band bring a festive, upbeat and utterly exhilarating holiday show to Trump Taj Mahal. From blazing rockabilly to big band swing, you’ll enjoy hits that span Setzer’s career, including those from his Stray Cats days. You’ll hear smash singles such as “Stray Cat Strut,” “Jump Jive An’ Wail” and “Rock This Town” as well as new tracks off of “Wolfgang’s Big Night Out,” Setzer’s 14th studio album. This is guaranteed to be one of the hottest tickets of the holiday season—get yours early! Show time is at 8 p.m. and tickets are priced at $69.50 and $49.50.

The Angels at Ego Bar & Lounge
The seductive and talented group ‘The Angels’ continue to perform their spicy act in Ego Bar & Lounge. These multi-talented ladies showcase their tight dance moves and flex their impressive vocals, backed by talented musicians. You’ll enjoy renditions of the hottest acts including the Pussycat Dolls, AC/DC, The Black Eyed Peas and more. Of course, the entertainment isn’t all that’s hot. You’ll enjoy our signature drink menu and sizzling scene. Complemented by DJ Hot Linh, you can enjoy The Angels Thursday–Saturday from 10 p.m.–2 a.m. For table/ bottle reservations, email: egobar.tablereservations@taj.trump.com.

Your Place for Lunch and Dinner
Whether you want to linger over a fabulous mid-day meal or make it a memorable evening, Il Mulino offers it all. The celebrated New York Italian restaurant is famously one of the toughest tickets in Manhattan. Now visitors to the Taj Mahal can use their Comp Dollars to enjoy a taste of the scrumptious authentic Italian cuisine for which Il Mulino is known. Choose Trattoria Il Mulino for a casual dinner or a fabulous lunch.

Trattoria Il Mulino located in Trump Taj Mahal is now serving lunch from 12:00 pm until 3:00 pm, Wednesday through Sunday. Enjoy a prix-fixe menu of $15.95 for three courses. Choose from antipasta, home made soup, pasta and dessert for one great price. Of course, many other selections on their fabulous menu are also available. FREE short-term parking is available in porte cochere.

Additionally, Trattoria Il Mulino will delight you with their Happy Hour, available Tuesday through Sunday from 4:30 pm until 6:30 pm.  Enjoy half priced drink specials and a free chef’s special appetizer with a purchase of any two drinks during happy hour. (Available in the Trattoria Lounge only.)  Drink specials include $3 beers, $5 glasses of wine, and $6 cocktails. You can also choose from signature cocktails, their extensive wine list or imported beers. If you are making holiday party plans for your office or family, Trattoria Il Mulino and Il Mulino New York want to help you with those plans. Call 609-449- 6004 for more information on holiday parties today or to make reservations.

Anyone can enter, and anyone can win in any of the promotional events (as long as they’re over 21)! All that’s needed is a Trump One Card, which is available for free at Trump One Services. For more information, visit www.trumptaj.com. Tickets for the above entertainment can be purchased by calling Ticketmaster at 1-800-736-1420 or online at www.ticketmaster.com. For more information, call the Trump Taj Mahal box office at 609-449-5150. Show schedules are subject to change.

   If you’ve ever dreamed of sitting at the final table in a high-stakes poker tournament while the TV cameras watch every hand and every expression on your face, your chance is coming to Atlantic City later this month. The United States Poker Championship series opened this week at the Taj Mahal.

   Of course, there’s a catch. You have to pay $2,500 or $5,000 in entry fees, and you have to beat all but half a dozen other players to make the televised final table.

   The pot-limit Omaha tournament, with a $2,500 buy-in plus $125 entry fee starts November 14, with the final table being filmed November 23. The No-Limit Texas Hold’Em tournament, with a $5,000 buy-in and $250 entry fee starts November 20, with the final table played out on November 24. Don’t have that kind of money? You can try to win your seat at satellite tournaments held throughout the week where entry fees are lower. The final table shows will air on the Spike Network.

   Log on to http://www.trumptaj.com/media/docs/tajMahal/USPCSchedule.pdf to see the entire schedule of events. You can reserve your spot at www.ptseats.com or in person at the Taj Mahal.

   If tournament play isn’t your bag, come on down to the Taj Mahal anyway. A lot of big-name players will be in town, and the poker room is setting up some high-limit cash games to keep them occupied while not in a contest. Most are willing to sign autographs and pose for pictures if you don’t bother them while they’re actually playing.

     Many people come to Atlantic City as a break from the stress of their daily lives. Well, Resorts just made it easier to relax and get pampered.

    A new Chinese massage spot opened in Resorts. It’s in the lobby near the boardwalk end, across from the Destination Club merch shop. It’s a lot nicer than the similar facilities you’ll find on the boardwalk or in malls, with a comfortable lobby and nice panels separating the treatment areas. For those of you smirking inwardly, this is totally legitimate massage.

   The good thing is, the going rates are the same as most joints in the mall or on the boardwalk. It costs about a dollar a minute to have someone work the stress out of those tired muscles. And even better news, you can use your comp dollars to pay for it.

   Just because you’re too old to go door-to-door begging for candy doesn’t mean you can’t dress up for Halloween. And if you choose to spend the holiday in Atlantic City, the fine establishments of the town will give you plenty of opportunities to have fun, and maybe win some cash for your creativity.

   Two points to note, however. Your costume can’t have a mask if you plan to wear it on the casino floor. Security wants to know exactly who you are in case you drink too much magic brew and do something illegal. Also, you need a player’s card to participate in some of the promotions.

   The Quarter at the Tropicana seems to be the most hopping place Halloween night. There will be a costume contest in the Fiesta Plaza at 11 p.m., player’s card required to register. In addition several of the restaurants in the Quarter and the plaza at the Boardwalk side of the casino will have their own costume contests and other specials.

   Dress up at Boogie Nights at Resorts starting at 9 p.m. both Friday and Saturday nights. Prizes will be awarded for the best get-ups. If you head to the casino, earning one cashback point entitles you to a free t-shirt, and two points gets you a long-sleeved shirt to keep you warm for the coming winter. The buffet will become a boo-fet, and player card holders get a $3 discount.

   If you want to make mischief Friday night, the Hard Rock Cafe at the Taj Mahal is having a costume party starting at 9 p.m. Dusk nightclub at Caesars is also holding a party that night, and is asking people to wear red.

   On the big night itself, there will be a party at The Pool at Harrah’s starting at 10 p.m., with the cast of “Twilight.” There’s probably an admission charge, but sorry, I don’t know what that is. The Casbah at the Taj Mahal is having a “Release Your Inner Wild Child” costume party starting at 10:30 p.m., and Club Worship at the Showboat’s party starts at 9 p.m. All three nightclubs (mixx, mur.mur and Gypsy Bar) at the Borgata will have costume parties with a Playboy theme.

   And for you poor souls that have work or other obligations Saturday night, all is not lost. mum.mur at Borgata will hold a costume party Monday night, November 2, so you don’t miss out on all the fun.

  Happy hauntings!

   At first, the news seemed great. At a time when many casinos are reducing their full-pay video-poker inventory, the Taj Mahal put in a bank of multi-denomination machines with 9/6 Jacks or Better and 8/5 Bonus Poker. A friend and I went to check them out, looked at the paytables, and there they were.

   We were playing for a bit, and then I hit a 4-of-a-kind playing Bonus Poker. My friend looked at the screen, and saw I got only 100 credits for the score, not the usual 125. I double-checked the top of the paytable, and sure enough, you got only 100 credits for 4-of-a-kind instead of 125, with a bonus for queens, kings and aces. Oops! I switched back to Jacks or Better, played along a while, and then saw that a 5-coin royal flush pays only 2,500 coins instead of 4,000. So if you’re lucky enought to hit the royal, you get ripped off.

   No, thank you. I decided to cut my losses, cash out and head to the real full-play machines next door.

   More of these puppies may be popping up in Atlantic City, so keep your eyes open. The Taj Mahal banked on players checking only the bottom part of the pay table before we put in our money, because that’s where most short-pay games short the player. My friend and I fell for the ruse and forgot to carefully check the top half of the paytable as well.

   So before you play a new video-poker machine - or even an old favorite - be sure check out the entire paytable before you push the “deal” button.

   Attention foodies! There are a couple events coming up in Atlantic City that you’ll want to know about.

   “A Taste of Emeril’s” opens October 21 at the Circus Maximus theater at Caesars and runs through November 12. Hosted by Marc Summers, guests will be picked from the audience to come on stage and show off their culinary talents. (I hope they don’t pick me, if I go, because I’d probably burn the place down.)  Celebrity chef Emeril LaGasse will offer contestants help by video feed. People called on stage have a chance to win some nice prizes, like meals in gourmet rooms at Caesars or on the shopping pier. Everyone in the audience will get to sample the results.

   Show time is 2 p.m. Sundays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7 p.m. There will also be 7 p.m. shows Friday, November 6 and Saturday, November 7. Tickets are $35 and available through Ticketmaster.

   If you’d rather eat the good food than try to cook it, you’ll want to be at the Borgata the evening of November 7.  Savor Borgata will be held at the Water Club, and chefs famous and not-so-famous will be in attendance. That includes Bobby Flay, Michael Mina, Wolfgang Puck and the chefs from the Borgata’s other fine eateries. Each restaurant will host its own station, where guests can meet the chefs and sample some items off the menu. Flemings Jenkins Vineyards & Winery will provide the grape juice to go with each sampling.

   It all gets underway at 7 p.m. Tickets are $125 each and can be purchased by calling 1.866.900 4TIX (4849) or logging on to www.theborgata.com. Yes, it’s kind of pricey in a rough economy. But my foodie friends who have the discretionary cash say these events are well worth it.