Chicago Sun-Times: Casino News & Notes

Horseshoe Casino in Hammond has introduced a first in the Chicago area with three-spot blackjack tables in its high-limit room. Standard blackjack tables have seven betting spots. The Indiana Gaming Commission approved a 90-day trial for the three-spot tables. During that period, which ends late in March, the three-spot tables will be exclusive to Horseshoe.

Also from Horseshoe comes word that has awarded its first jackpot on its 50-cent Who Wants to be a Binionaire slot machines. A 56-year- old Chicago woman won $92,292 on Christmas Eve. The 50-cent slots, which were installed Oct. 25, are seeded with a $75,000 starting jackpot.

Veteran recording star Lesley Gore, whose string of hits in the 1960s included "It's My Party," "Judy's Turn to Cry" and "You Don't Own Me," will perform two shows Jan. 29 at the Grand Ballroom at Empress Casino in Joliet. Showtimes are 7 and 9 p.m., and tickets are available for $20 at the Palace Treasures Gift Shop at the Empress Pavilion. Call (815) 744-9400.

Majestic Star Casino in Gary has brought back its popular Licensed to Win promotion. Starting Jan. 21, earn points while you play while using your Club Majestic card. Each 200 points earned brings an entry into weekly Saturday drawings for NASCAR items and cash. The grand prize is a 2002 Mercedes SLK230 Kompressor.

Mondays are the big days for the Hollywood Squares cash giveaway at Harrah's East Chicago. Through March 4, get six entries a week into a drawing for cash prizes up to $100,000. Stop by the Total Rewards booth on the first level of the boat to activate the entries each Monday--activate by 10:30 a.m. and Harrah's will double the entries. Drawings are at 12:30, 4:30 and 8:30 p.m.

Seniors can get two Epic Buffet breakfasts or lunches for the price of one Thursdays at Hollywood Casino in Aurora. Breakfast is served from 7:45 to 10:30 a.m., and lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Regular buffet prices are $4.99 for breakfast, $7.99 for lunch. The buffet is being served in the Meyer Ballroom during construction in preparation for the opening of Hollywood's new barge.