HBO is about to debut its series “The Boardwalk Empire” about the glory days of Atlantic City. It’s based on a book by a local judge about the corrupt politicians who ran (and some say, still do) the city, concentrating on the Roaring Twenties. I don’t get HBO as part of my cable package, so I won’t be able to watch it. But I read the book, and I recommend it for people who want to know more about the history of Atlantic City. According to the author, there was plenty of gambling in Atlantic City in the 1920s, all in back rooms with the cops paid off. The city fathers decreed that there was no such thing as Prohibition in Atlantic City. It led to some interesting times, as people came here to do stuff that would get them thrown in jail back home.

   In honor of the TV series, several local establishments are offering some very good deals. Caesars was promoting a room rate of $19.20 for some nights while the series airs. I think it’s mostly sold out, so get on their website pronto if you want to take advantage of it.

   Several restaurants in town are offering meals for $19.20, plus tax and tip, from September 16-30. These can be three-course gourmet meals, or a selection of many favorites, depending on the place. Participating eateries include Arturo’s, the gourmet Italian restaurant at Bally’s, Cafe Roma at Caesars, the Back Bay Ale House in Gardner’s Basin, the Knife and Fork Inn near the Hilton, and Tony Baloney’s pizza joint in the Inlet section.

   For more details, log on to http://www.atlanticcitynj.com/bwempire_dining.aspx.

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