Interview with Slot Host from Harrah's, New Orleans

1 October 2001

By Gayle Mitchell

The Slots Report published interviews with Slot Hosts in casinos around the country recently. They were well received and informative according to our readers.
We now offer up another interview in the series.
The Slot Host should be included as a most important contact before, during, and for future planned visits to your favorite casinos.
To introduce slot players to this friendly and valuable person, we interviewed Marilyn Dean from Harrah's, New Orleans.

SR: How long have you been in the casino industry?

Marilyn: 6 years on and off in the Casino Industry

SR: Where are you from originally?

Marilyn: England.

SR: What is the name of your current Slot Club?

Marilyn: Total Rewards

SR: Do you offer any special gifts or bonuses for new members/sign-ups?

Marilyn: If a card-holder brings a new member in, then the existing member will earn points with the new member's play added to their account.

SR: Most slot players are not aware of the many services provided by the Slot Hosts. What are the other benefits of Total Rewards Membership at Harrah's, New Orleans?

Marilyn: Gift of the month -- Westbank Wednesday; Funbook; Totally Golden for players over 50 years of age. Promotions -- Slot Tournaments; Blackjack and Baccarat tournaments for members only. ATM access -- We have kiosks where players can redeem comps for valet, buffet and food court. At present it does not indicate their point value. Room Comps -- Depending on play. We prefer a call in advance since we are often limited to comped rooms. Food Comps -- Yes Show/Event Tickets -- We do provide show tickets based on play, but at this time we do not have shows on the property so there is no exchange for show tickets. Show tickets are for Shows/Events that take place at the New Orleans Arena or Superdome. Transportation -- We provide limo services to restaurants and airport. Also bus service and shuttle service for junket players and to attend special events. Lines of credit -- Available for credit worthy customers.

SR: Marilyn makes a good point in her suggestion to call ahead of your trip and customize the stay. You can also request an upgrade or better room rates depending on your Card Membership status. Remember too, that Slots Hosts are always available for general questions and/or should any problem situation arise. Depending on the size of the casino, at least two or more Slots Hosts are on the floor at any time for your convenience.

SR: Worst experience in your job?

Marilyn: I can't say that I have had a bad experience at Harrah's, although it is never a pleasant situation when one has to decline a customers' request which is generally due to not having enough play time or average bet--comp value.

SR: Any Other Comments?

Marilyn: I love my job. I enjoy working with people and going to the nth degree to assist them.

Thanks, Marilyn for the interview. Slot Players can contact Marilyn for super service at Harrah's, New Orleans and have a listen to that delightful British accent. To read previous Slot Host Interviews, see Slots Report #13, 14, 16 and 17.