Treasure Island Resort and Casino Media

May 6, 2008
Laugh Like You’ve Never Laughed Before at Treasure Island this Summer

Red Wing, Minn. (May 6, 2008) – Treasure Island is excited to bring four outstanding comedy shows to the stage this summer, highlighting six of the country’s funniest comedians. Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood kick off The Island Comedy Series on Saturday, June 21 with Tracy Morgan following on Friday, July 18. Next to hit the stage is the famous Chelsea Handler on Saturday, July 26 with David Brenner and Richard Lewis wrapping up the hilarious series on Friday, August 15.

About the Comedians
Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood
Saturday, June 21 at 8 p.m.
The first act to amuse audiences at Treasure Island is Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood. Mochrie and Sherwood are stars of the Emmy nominated Whose Line Is It Anyway?. These two have partnered for a great show of improvisational comedy. The duo uses only their fast wit and suggestions from the audience to create this much fun. Be prepared to get involved as audience members are brought up on stage to participate in this hilarious show.

Tracy Morgan
Friday, July 18 at 8 p.m.
Tracy Morgan is coming to amuse you on the Treasure Island stage on July 18. Maybe best known as a member of the cast of Saturday Night Live, Morgan now stars as Tracy Jordan in Emmy Award Winning sitcom 30 Rock. Beginning his career on the show Martin, he now entertains audiences across the country. You’ll experience his great stand-up act during this show and might even be lucky enough to hear one of the world-famous impressions he debuted on Saturday Night Live.

Chelsea Handler
Saturday, July 26 at 8 p.m.
Introducing the star of Girls Behaving Badly, Chelsea Handler, you’ll never experience another night like this one at Treasure Island. Handler’s two recent books tell a lot about what you will hear - Are You There Vodka? It's Me, Chelsea and My Horizontal Life: A Collection of One-Night Stands. Be prepared for fun and sass because Handler is sure to bring both to her crowd-shocking performance in this adult content show!

David Brenner & Richard Lewis
Friday, August 15 at 8 p.m.
Being in the business for many years, comedians David Brenner and Richard Lewis are two seasoned comedians that won’t let you leave the show without a smile. Brenner began his national TV debut on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson back in 1971 and went on to make the most appearances of any guest on the show. According to The Book of Lists #2, he has continued to be the most frequent talk show guest of any entertainer. Fellow comedian, Richard Lewis has become famous for his stream-of-consciousness riffs. Lewis was named by both GQ Magazine and Comedy Central as one of the best and most influential comics of the last century.

Don’t miss the chance to see these entertaining comedians at Treasure Island’s Summer Comedy Series. All shows begin at 8 p.m. in Barbados Showroom. Tickets are priced at $40 and can be ordered by calling the Treasure Island Box Office at 800-222-7077 ext. 2297.

About Treasure Island
Treasure Island Resort & Casino is the only casino resort in southern Minnesota and the only facility of its kind located on the banks of the Mississippi River. Treasure Island offers guests some of the best gaming, accommodations, food service and nationally known entertainment in the casino industry. Treasure Island features over 2,500 slots, 44 table games, 10-table poker room, and 550-seat high stakes bingo hall all within seven casinos, each with a unique Caribbean theme. Currently, guests can relax in Treasure Island’s luxurious 250-room hotel. Additional guest amenities include a 137-slip marina, 95-site RV-park and a 125-passenger cruise yacht. Later this summer, Treasure Island is opening a new event and convention center with a 3,000-seat showroom, two new hotel wings and Island Xtreme bowl with a 24-lane bowling alley, arcade and lounge.

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May 5, 2008
Tim McGraw First Entertainer to Grace Treasure Island’s New Event and Convention Center Stage

Red Wing, Minn. (May 5, 2008) – Treasure Island Resort & Casino is excited to announce that one of country music’s biggest icons, Tim McGraw, is the debut performer in their new event and convention center. On Saturday, August 30, Treasure Island opens its doors to one of the industry’s most electrifying performers as a part of their Grand Opening Celebration for their latest venture – a new 30,000 square-foot event and convention center, 230 additional hotel rooms and Island Xtreme Bowl, a 24-lane bowling alley, arcade and lounge.

McGraw is known for his dynamic stage performances and state-of-the-art production and has proven himself as one of the top entertainers in the entire music industry. He is the only country music artist in 2007 to be named a Top 10 earner by Forbes Magazine. In addition, McGraw recently won his 11th CMA award and his first-ever BMI award as a songwriter for the co-penned hit “My Little Girl,” and was named Billboard’s Top Male Artist in country music in 2007. McGraw has also scored four Grammy nominations this year.

This concert marks Treasure Island’s inaugural performance in the event center – where every seat is within 125-feet from the stage. Bob Ruhland, Treasure Island’s Marketing Director stated, “Tim McGraw is a marquee country music performer, and we are excited to bring this level of entertainment to our guests.” The 3,000-seat event center nearly triples the size of Treasure Island’s former showroom. “This venue allows us to better serve our guests providing an exceptional entertainment experience while continuing to offer them a performance that is up-close and personal.”

Sure to captivate the audiences with his talent, McGraw is performing one show only at Treasure Island’s Grand Opening Celebration, so don’t miss your opportunity to be a part of the fun. Tickets prices are $150, $180, $200 and $230. You can purchase your tickets online starting Tuesday, June 3, by logging on to www.treasureislandcasino.com. Or sign-up to receive Treasure Island’s Island Call emails and receive an exclusive opportunity to purchase tickets one day before the general public. In addition by signing up, guests receive updates on future entertainment acts with pre-sale opportunities and other great email-only deals. The Treasure Island Box Office will also begin selling tickets by phone or on a walk-up basis on June 9. You can reach the box office at 800.222.7077 ext. 2297.

About Treasure Island
Treasure Island Resort & Casino is the only casino resort in southern Minnesota and the only facility of its kind located on the banks of the Mississippi River. Treasure Island offers guests some of the best gaming, accommodations, food service and nationally known entertainment in the casino industry. Treasure Island features over 2,500 slots, 44 blackjack tables and 550-seat high stakes bingo hall all in Caribbean themed casino. Casino guests can relax in Treasure Island’s luxurious 250-room hotel. Additional guest amenities include a 137-slip marina, 95-site RV-park and a 120-passenger cruise yacht. Later this summer, Treasure Island is opening a new event and convention center with a 3,000-seat showroom, two new hotel wings and Island Xtreme Bowl with a 24-lane bowling alley, arcade and lounge.

April 1, 2008
Jesse Olberding Wins First Place at Treasure Island’s World Series of Poker Tournament

Red Wing, MN (April 1, 2008) – Treasure Island Resort & Casino wrapped up the second World Series of Poker satellite tournament on March 22, with Jesse Olberding of Roseville, Minnesota taking home the grand prize. As part of his prize package, Olberding is traveling to Las Vegas in July for the championship.

Olberding’s winning hand earned him a prize package valued at $30,000. This includes a seat in the World Championship in Las Vegas, which is worth $10,000, as well as round-trip airfare for the tournament and hotel accommodations. Olberding will compete with professional poker players from all over the world.

“I’m overjoyed to win the satellite tournament and to now have a chance to win the main event and retire at the age of 22,” said Olberding.

In the final game, the board showed the jack of hearts, jack of spades, five of clubs, three of hearts, and three of spades. Olberding had two pair on the board with an ace kicker beating Christopher Carpenter’s two pair with a ten kicker.

With more than 500 participants, $100,000 was won during the tournament. The top three places following Eccles include Christopher Carpenter of Savage, Minnesota who won $15,500, Steve Ringstom or Robbinsdale, Minnesota who won $12,500 and David Thurston of Vero Beach, FL who won $10,000.

Treasure Island Resort & Casino is the only casino resort in southern Minnesota and the only facility of its kind located on the banks of the Mississippi River. Treasure Island offers guests some of the best gaming, accommodations, food service and nationally known entertainment in the casino industry. Treasure Island features over 2,500 slots, 44 table games, 10-table poker room, and 550-seat high stakes bingo hall all within seven casinos, each with a unique Caribbean theme. Currently, guests can relax in Treasure Island’s luxurious 250-room hotel. Additional guest amenities include a 137-slip marina, 95-site RV-park and a 125-passenger cruise yacht.

March 25, 2008
Treasure Island’s Advertising Campaign Earns Top Honors with Six Telly Awards

Red Wing, MN (March 25, 2008) – Treasure Island Resort & Casino was recently honored with six Telly awards for their 2007 advertising campaign. Competing with over 14,000 entries, Treasure Island earned awards for each of five spots, Westminster, Beauty Pageant, Tree, Lifeguard and Peanut and an additional Telly for the whole campaign.

Bob Ruhland, Director of Marketing, is excited to receive these awards. “The Telly is a very prestigious national/international television commercial award competition. It’s very gratifying to be recognized by industry professionals for the creativity that went into the campaign from both Treasure Island and our advertising agency, Periscope.”

Earlier this year Treasure Island won another award for the campaign from the Advertising Federation (Ad Fed) of Minnesota. Honored with a Bronze Push-Pin for the lifeguard television commercial, Treasure Island was also featured at Ad Fed’s annual awards gala, The Show. The campaign features the message “your odds are better here” and follows with a montage of casino footage and the Treasure Island Resort & Casino logo in each commercial.

About Periscope
Periscope is a Minneapolis-based integrated marketing agency providing advertising, interactive, public relations, design and graphic services to clients nationwide. For more information, visit www.periscope.com.

About Treasure Island Resort & Casino
Treasure Island Resort & Casino is the only casino resort in southern Minnesota and the only facility of its kind located on the banks of the Mississippi River. Treasure Island offers guests some of the best gaming, accommodations, food service and nationally known entertainment in the casino industry. Treasure Island features over 2,500 slots, 44 table games, 10-table poker room, and 550-seat high stakes bingo hall all within seven casinos, each with a unique Caribbean theme. Guests can relax in Treasure Island’s luxurious 250-room hotel. Additional guest amenities include a 137-slip marina, 95-site RV-park and a 125-passenger cruise yacht.

March 11, 2008
Tom Eccles Jr. Wins First Place at Treasure Island’s World Series of Poker Tournament

On March 1, Treasure Island Resort & Casino concluded the first of two satellite World Series of Poker Tournaments with Tom Eccles Jr. of South St. Paul, Minnesota taking home the grand prize. A veteran at Treasure Island’s poker tournaments, Ecceles had played in the World Series of Poker Tournament twice before but this is his first grand prize title.

In the final game, Eccles had an ace/jack verses Charles Braxmeier’s ace/five. The board was 2-6-Queen-King-Ace, which gave Eccles a pair of aces with a better kicker than his opponent. Eccles’s winning hand earned him a prize package valued at $30,000. This includes a seat in the World Championship in Las Vegas, which is worth $10,000, as well as round-trip airfare for the tournament and hotel accommodations. Eccles will compete with professional poker players from all over the world.

“Treasure Island is proud to host such a prestigious tournament and we are excited to see how the players we send to World Series Tournament do,” stated Allan Kronberg, General Manager of Treasure Island. “Our number one priority is providing the best entertainment experience in the Midwest and tournaments like the World Series of Poker allow us to successfully provide this for our guests.”

With more than 500 participants, $100,000 was won during the tournament. The top two places following Eccles include Charles Braxmeier IV of Eagan, Minnesota who won $15,500 and Troy Moseng of Ostego, Minnesota who won $12,500.

Treasure Island is hosting another satellite World Series of Poker Tournament Wednesday, March 19 – Saturday, March 22. To register, call the Treasure Island box office at 800.222.7077 ext. 2297.

February 29, 2008
Gary Spivey is Sure to Amaze the Audience at Treasure Island

The world famous psychic entertainer, Gary Spivey, is visiting Treasure Island for one night only. He is performing at 8 pm on Friday, March 7. Don’t miss this unique chance to interact with a powerful psychic talent and witness his remarkable abilities.

Spivey is an accomplished medium and has gained respect around the world for his talent. He is often sought out to answer unexplainable questions or predict future events. He became aware of his gift at the age of three and has read professionally for over 20 years. He also communicates with those who have crossed to the other side and uses his energy to perform physical healings. Spivey can answer questions regarding careers, business, love life, health, money, family, friends and many other issues.

Join Dave Ryan of the KDWB morning show as he hosts the event and gives away great prizes. This is an exceptional opportunity to witness psychic readings and possibly have one of your own! Don’t miss the chance to see Gary Spivey at Treasure Island for this incredible show. Tickets are priced at $25 and can be ordered by calling the Treasure Island Box Office at 800-222-7077 ext. 2297.

February 21, 2008
Treasure Island Begins a Whole New Ball Game with After Hours Bingo

Celebrating 24 years of Island Bingo this month, Treasure Island is excited to take the game that started it all to a new level with After Hours Bingo. Beginning February 29, Bingo will open on Friday nights at 11:30 p.m. through March.

Not your typical game of Bingo, Treasure Island is lowering the lights, turning up the music and offering cocktail services for the new Friday night sessions. Moreover, an exciting variety of games like Hardway Six Pack, Crazy T and Small Kite are offered. Each Bingo package is only $10 and includes more than 10 games.

In addition, with every package purchased guests can enter their name into a drawing for a chance to win fun prizes at the Friday, March 28 session. Prizes include IPODS, a WII, cell phones and many others.

Don’t miss your chance to join the fun as this opportunity only lasts through March. Packages for After Hours Bingo begin approximately one hour prior to the start on Friday nights at Island Bingo.

January 31, 2008
Treasure Island Celebrates Lunar New Year

Ring in the Lunar New Year at Treasure Island Resort & Casino February 7-10 with exciting events each day. As a significant year in the Chinese calendar, the year of the rat is said to bring material prosperity.

On Friday, February 8, Treasure Island is celebrating with a mid-month Grand Prize Drawing. Guests have the chance to win a 2008 Honda Civic and $20,000 in cash prizes. The fun begins at 7 p.m. with the drawing held at 10:30 p.m.

Then on Saturday, February 9, enjoy the Lunar New Year party with live music from B-Jam, dancing and hors d’oeuvres. B-Jam performs popular American hits in Vietnamese, in addition to traditional Vietnamese music. Tickets are priced at $25 so reserve your spot by calling the Treasure Island Box Office at 800.222.7077 ext. 2297.

Guests can also participate in two exciting promotions throughout the entire celebration. While playing their favorite machines, each day 40-random guests will have their chance to choose a lucky red envelope containing cash, free hotel stays or buffet coupons as part of the Lucky Red Envelope Promotion. During the Dragon Promotion, certain qualifying poker hands will also win the opportunity to choose a red envelope from the dragon with various chip amounts up to $100.

Commemorating the Lunar New Year, there is something for everyone on the Island.

December 20, 2007
Minnesota Favorite, Louie Anderson, to Perform a Laugh-Out-Loud Show at Treasure Island Resort & Casino

Experience a night of laughter at Treasure Island Resort & Casino with stand-up comedian Louie Anderson at 8 pm on Friday, March 14 and Saturday, March 15. Anderson is one of the most versatile and successful comedians today and is guaranteed to put on a sidesplitting show.

Anderson has been entertaining audiences across the country since 1984, after his debut on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. He has appeared on television, film and is the author of three books. Anderson hosted “Family Feud,” and “Saturday Night Live,” in addition to appearing in movies such as “Coming to America” and developing his Saturday morning cartoon series, “Life with Louie.” Much of his material is based on his childhood experiences as one of eleven children growing up in Minnesota.

Don’t miss your chance to see this hilarious comedian in action. This show may contain adult content. Tickets are priced at $35, $45 and $55 and are sure to sell out fast, so reserve your seats today at the Treasure Island Box Office by calling 800-222-7077 ext. 2297.

Treasure Island Resort & Casino is the only casino resort in southern Minnesota and the only facility of its kind located on the banks of the Mississippi River. Treasure Island offers guests some of the best gaming, accommodations, food service and nationally known entertainment in the casino industry. Treasure Island features over 2,500 slots, 44 table games, 10-table poker room, and 550-seat high stakes bingo hall all within seven casinos, each with a unique Caribbean theme. Guests can relax in Treasure Island’s luxurious 250-room hotel. Additional guest amenities include a 137-slip marina, 95-site RV-park and a 125-passenger cruise yacht.

December 17, 2007
The Prairie Island Indian Community and Treasure Island Resort & Casino Donate over $100,000 to Area Charities This Holiday Season

For the fourth consecutive year, Treasure Island Resort & Casino and the Prairie Island Indian Community teamed up to donate over $100,000 to a variety of charitable organizations this holiday season. The goal of the donations is to reach out to neighboring communities in the true spirit of giving.

To begin the season of giving, the United Way of Goodhue, Wabasha and Pierce Counties received a donation of $10,000. The United Way’s mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities. This mission is also important to both Treasure Island and Prairie Island as it serves area communities in many ways during times of need.

In addition, a donation of $10,000 was split equally between five local food shelves. These include the Pierce County Food Pantry, Hastings Family Services, Red Wing Area Food Shelf, Channel One Emergency Food Bank and Food Shelf in Rochester and Semcac Community Action. The relationships built with these organizations have become very significant to the Prairie Island Indian Community because they want to support families and individuals in their time of need.

The Prairie Island Indian Community also donated a total of $17,500 to area Native American organizations. The Minneapolis American Indian Center, Upper Midwest Indian Center and the American Indian Family Center were all recipients of a holiday donation. These organizations focus on social programs for Native Americans, many of whom live below the poverty line. The donation will be used specifically for holiday programs and will support year-round social service programs.

The Boys and Girls Club in Rochester received a check for $5,000 for their KidsStock program. The KidStock campaign encourages individuals, businesses and foundations to purchase shares of KidStock and develop awareness and an ownership in the enhancement of future community and society leaders within the Boys & Girls Club. Treasure Island will match all purchases of KidsStock up to $5,000.

A total of $6,000 was split equally between the Red Wing Coalition of Transitional Housing, Women’s Center and Abused Children’s Program for their holiday programs. These programs provide support and assistance to families and children in Goodhue County.

Moreover, Treasure Island and the Prairie Island Indian Community recognize that many parents struggle just to provide the basics for their children and stress about the extra costs during this time of year. This is the impetus behind the $2,500 donation to the Goodhue County Toys for Tots Program. This donation may help alleviate some of the burden.

Finally, Treasure Island also teamed up with local radio stations to continue giving for the season. Treasure Island worked with KOOL 108, KS95, KFAN, Laser 101.7 and Fox Country 102.5. Each of these programs worked with area families and charities to make the season brighter for people throughout the state. Laser 101.7 and Fox Country, out of Rochester, teamed up with Treasure Island to do a Toys for Tots Drive. Treasure Island matched all cash donations -- donating a total of $8,000 to this organization. KFAN’s program supported the Boys and Girls Club of America. This partnership helped seven clubs throughout the Twin Cities fill wishes for their organization. KOOL 108’s Everyday Heroes encouraged listeners to write in and recommend a hero for special recognition. KS95’s program invited listeners to contact the station with stories about people who have come across difficult times. The idea behind these programs is to bring communities together for the holidays by lending a hand to help one another.

The donations made are especially meaningful to the Tribe because they understand the hardships many families face, which is particularly notable during the holiday season. Before Indian gaming was legalized, many tribal members were in need of the services provided by such organizations.

Each year, Treasure Island and the Prairie Island Indian Community donate thousands of dollars to many non-profit and civic organizations. Since 1994, they have donated over $15 million to non-profit and community organizations. They are also the largest employer in Goodhue County, employing more than 1,600 people. Together, the Prairie Island Indian Community and Treasure Island are proud contributors to the economy and area communities.

December 12, 2007
Treasure Island Welcomes ‘Elvis’ to the Stage

Treasure Island Resort & Casino is excited to welcome back Travis LeDoyt by popular demand for one night only. LeDoyt, widely acclaimed as the greatest tribute performer to ever hail ‘The King,’ Elvis Presley, will take the stage at 7 pm and 9:30 pm on Saturday, February 16. Often referred to as the “world’s best young Elvis,” LeDoyt’s performance is guaranteed to leave audiences all shook up!

LeDoyt sells out shows across the country performing most of Elvis’ hits from the 1954 -1959 era. The earlier years appeal to LeDoyt because it was during these years the country witnessed him rising from the status of unknown to a legend. This tribute to Elvis includes favorite songs like “Teddy Bear,” “Hound Dog” and “A Big Hunk O’ Love.”

LeDoyt’s presence and electricity will show you why Elvis was referred to as the “King of Rock-N-Roll.” Don’t miss the opportunity to see Travis LeDoyt bring Elvis Presley back to life at Treasure Island. Tickets are priced at $25 and $35 and are sure to sell out fast, so reserve your seats today at the Treasure Island Box Office by calling 800-222-7077 ext. 2297.

Treasure Island Resort & Casino is the only casino resort in southern Minnesota and the only facility of its kind located on the banks of the Mississippi River. Treasure Island offers guests some of the best gaming, accommodations, food service and nationally known entertainment in the casino industry. Treasure Island features over 2,500 slots, 44 table games, 10-table poker room, and 550-seat high stakes bingo hall all within seven casinos, each with a unique Caribbean theme. Guests can relax in Treasure Island’s luxurious 250-room hotel. Additional guest amenities include a 137-slip marina, 95-site RV-park and a 125-passenger cruise yacht.

December 10, 2007
Treasure Island Promotes Allan Kronberg to General Manager

The Prairie Island Indian Community and Treasure Island Resort & Casino are pleased to announce that Allan Kronberg has been promoted to General Manager at Treasure Island. With over 35 years experience in the gaming and hospitality industries, Kronberg brings extensive knowledge to this position including being a C.O.O. at two properties and Assistant General Manager at Casino Niagara.

“After more than two years as Hospitality Director at Treasure Island, Kronberg has proven to be a huge asset for the property,” stated Audrey Bennett, President of the Prairie Island Indian Community. Kronberg was an essential component in the planning of the $50 million entertainment addition as well as instrumental in opening Parlay Lounge. “Tribal Council is excited to work with Allan and the nine other department directors to establish goals and to continue to enhance our guests’ experience and the property as a whole,” stated Bennett.

With respect to casino goals, Kronberg said, “We are committed to growing our market share by providing superior guest service.” He notes that listening to guests and team members is vital to having a successful organization.

In August, Treasure Island will add 230 more hotel rooms, a 30,000 square-foot event and convention center and a family fun center. “I’m thrilled that we will be offering our guests more options, ultimately serving them better. Our priority is to ensure our guests are treated to the best entertainment experience possible.” In addition, Kronberg is excited about the economic impact of this project. “This isn’t just an investment in the property but is also an investment in the region,” Kronberg said.

When speaking about the his experiences at Treasure Island, Kronberg remarked, “The owners are the kindest and most compassionate people I have ever worked for and the team members here are second to none. I know this sounds cliché but there is something to say about ‘Minnesota Nice’ –I truly believe this.”

Kronberg resides in Red Wing with his wife Lillian to whom he credits his success for her support through the years.

December 1, 2007
Neal McCoy Rocks Treasure Island’s Stage in Classic Honky Tonk Country Style

Treasure Island Resort & Casino is excited to welcome the two time TNN/Music City News “Entertainer of the Year” award winner, Neal McCoy to the stage at 8 pm on Friday, January 18 and Saturday, January 19. Known as one of the most energetic performers in country music today, McCoy is sure to put on an exciting, dance ‘till you drop show.

After a six year stint on tour as Charley Pride's opening act, picking up countless adoring fans along the way, McCoy branched out on his own and released a series of records. He struck gold with his third album, 1994's No Doubt About It. Both the title track and "Wink" topped the country charts for multiple weeks, and the album sold more than a million copies. In the next few years, McCoy returned to the Top Five six times and he remains a popular draw in concert, and has been highly praised as an entertainer. Since the beginning of his career, McCoy has released 10 albums that include hits such as “The City Put The Country Back In Me,” “Now I Pray For Rain,” “The Shake” and most recently, “Billy's Got His Beer Goggles On."

Don’t miss your chance to see this freewheeling country music sensation live. Tickets are priced at $35, $45 and $55 and are sure to sell out fast, so reserve your seats today at the Treasure Island Box Office by calling 800-222-7077 ext. 2297.

Treasure Island Resort & Casino is the only casino resort in southern Minnesota and the only facility of its kind located on the banks of the Mississippi River. Treasure Island offers guests some of the best gaming, accommodations, food service and nationally known entertainment in the casino industry. Treasure Island features over 2,500 slots, 44 table games, 10-table poker room, and 550-seat high stakes bingo hall all within seven casinos, each with a unique Caribbean theme. Guests can relax in Treasure Island’s luxurious 250-room hotel. Additional guest amenities include a 137-slip marina, 95-site RV-park and a 125-passenger cruise yacht.

November 26, 2007
Treasure Island’s Advertising Campaign and Website Earn Top Honors

Recently, Treasure Island Resort & Casino earned top honors for their advertising campaign from the American Gaming Association (AGA) as well as the Advertising Federation (Ad Fed) of Minnesota. The AGA awarded Treasure Island with a 2007 Gaming Voice Award for the www.theislandiscallingyou.com website. Moreover, the website received a Bronze Push-Pin for Excellence from Ad Fed. In addition to these awards, Treasure Island also took home another Bronze Push-Pin from Ad Fed for the lifeguard television commercial.

Treasure Island’s website launched in March 2007 and is interactive, giving visitors a glimpse of what they will experience when they visit the property. The site provides a virtual tour of the casino featuring gaming areas, the 250-room hotel and Parlay Lounge. Treasure Island is one of the first casino properties to use this kind of technology.

Bob Ruhland, Director of Marketing, is thrilled to receive these awards. “It’s always nice for the industry to acknowledge the hard work and creativity that go into these campaigns from both Treasure Island and our advertising agency Periscope. The AGA honors casino properties throughout the nation – and it’s great receiving these top honors,” stated Ruhland. This is the second time Treasure Island has received a Gaming Voice Award from the American Gaming Association.

Ad Fed’s annual awards gala, The Show, also recognized Treasure Island’s campaign for the lifeguard television commercial. In this spot, a lifeguard runs out to help a man struggling in the water, until his cell phone rings. As the shot moves back to the man struggling in the lake the line “your odds are better here” comes up and follows with a montage of casino footage. The Show is Ad Fed's annual awards gala featuring the best work from the Twin Cities' creative community.

Periscope is a Minneapolis-based integrated marketing agency providing advertising, interactive, public relations, design and graphic services to clients nationwide. For more information, visit www.periscope.com.

Treasure Island Resort & Casino is the only casino resort in southern Minnesota and the only facility of its kind located on the banks of the Mississippi River. Treasure Island offers guests some of the best gaming, accommodations, food service and nationally known entertainment in the casino industry. Treasure Island features over 2,500 slots, 44 table games, 10-table poker room, and 550-seat high stakes bingo hall all within seven casinos, each with a unique Caribbean theme. Guests can relax in Treasure Island’s luxurious 250-room hotel. Additional guest amenities include a 137-slip marina, 95-site RV-park and a 125-passenger cruise yacht.

October 4, 2007
Prairie Island Pledges $100,000 to Minnesota State University Mankato Anthropology Program

On October 4, the Prairie Island Indian Community Tribal Council met with representatives from Minnesota State University Mankato (MSU) to pledge $100,000 to MSU’s Anthropology Program. MSU will receive $10,000 each year for 10 years to further their anthropological and archeological studies in Goodhue County. Their research focuses on ancient village sites and burial mounds dating back to A.D. 1100 on and near Prairie Island.

The department will collect scientific data relevant to area archaeology and investigate how traditional knowledge intersects with the discoveries. Dr. Ronald C. Schirmer, Assistant Professor in the Department of Anthropology at MSU, believes that existing archaeological interpretations have unfairly ignored traditional histories, and are therefore less accurate than they could be.

“In effect, the way archaeology has been done has unjustly kept Native voices and people separated from their own history,” stated Schirmer. “There are few fates worse than being systematically stripped of one’s culture and history.”

The donation also serves as a way for Tribal Community members to be involved in researching their historical roots. Faculty and students of the anthropology program will work with Community members to allow Tribal children to participate in the activities and research near Prairie Island. This partnership gives the Tribal Community the means to be actively involved in discovering their own history and gives researchers a unique perspective on their findings.

“Our friends at MSU have studied this area for a long time and we are proud to support their efforts,” said Audrey Bennett, president of the Prairie Island Indian Community. “We are as eager to learn the tools necessary to uncovering pieces of our history as much as we are looking forward to sharing more of our heritage.”

Since 1994, the Prairie Island Indian Community, a federally recognized Indian Nation, has donated more than $15 million to a variety of civic and non-profit organizations. The Prairie Island Indian Community owns and operates Treasure Island Resort & Casino, located just south of Hastings, Minn. As the largest employer in Goodhue County, the tribe employs more than 1,600 team members and generates more than $14 million in annual state and federal taxes.

The Department of Anthropology at Minnesota State University, Mankato offers Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and Master of Science degrees in Anthropology. The department specializes in studies of the following geographic areas: East Africa, East Asia, Europe, and North and South America. The faculty also collaborates with other anthropologists in the gerontology and ethnic studies departments at MSU.

September 20, 2007
Comedian Rodney Carrington is Back on The Island by Popular Demand

Treasure Island Resort & Casino is pleased to welcome Rodney Carrington back to the stage for one night only on Saturday, October 27 for two show beginning at 7 pm and 9:30 pm. This witty and often raunchy satirical singer and songwriter is on tour promoting his new hit album, King of the Mountains. Though this album is climbing the chart quickly, nothing compares to Carrington live on stage. His heartland charm and adult humor blend perfectly to create an attention-grabbing, laugh-out-loud show.

Carrington first gained exposure from his appearances on syndicated morning radio shows such as Bob and Tom and John Boy and Billy. He was immediately recognized as a unique comedian and his career took off. He has since release six chart topping albums, which have collectively sold over a million copies, and starred in the hit ABC sitcom, Rodney. Now spanning more than sixteen years, Carrington’s down-to-earth, laid back attitude and his playful, mischievous views on everyday life still leave audiences begging for more.

This star delivers every time, so be sure to catch his sidesplitting act. This show may contain adult content. Tickets are priced at $35, $45 and $55 and are sure to sell out fast, so reserve your seats today at the Treasure Island Box Office by calling 800-222-7077 ext. 2297.

September 18, 2007
Gary Spivey is Sure to Amaze Audiences at Treasure Island

The world famous psychic entertainer, Gary Spivey, is visiting Treasure Island for one night only. He is performing at 7 pm and 9:30 pm on Friday, October 19. Don’t miss this unique chance to interact with a powerful psychic talent and witness his remarkable abilities.

Join Dave Ryan, and his KDWB morning show crew, as he hosts the event. This is an exceptional opportunity to witness psychic readings and possibly have one of your own! Don’t miss the chance to see Gary Spivey at Treasure Island for this incredible show. This show may contain adult content. Tickets are priced at $25 and can be ordered by calling the Treasure Island Box Office at 800-222-7077 ext. 2297.

September 6, 2007
The Prairie Island and Treasure Island Donate $120,000 to Aid in Flood Relief Effort

On September 6, The Prairie Island Indian Community Tribal Council met with mayors and city officials to present $60,000 to help the towns devastated by floods in Southeastern Minnesota. The Tribe gave $10,000 to each of the following Minnesota communities: Rushford, Minnesota City, Winona, Stockton, Goodview and St. Charles. Treasure Island Resort & Casino matched this donation and each community received $20,000 to assist in flood relief efforts.

“Our hearts go out to those affected by this tragedy,” said Audrey Bennett, President of the Prairie Island Indian Community Tribal Council. “Our land is located on a floodplain so we understand that a flood can cause extraordinary devastation to an area. We hope this donation will help alleviate some of the difficulties these communities are facing.”

Jack Roberts, Mayor of Stockton, Minn. said, “I just want to thank both organizations for this contribution which will help immensely in our recovery. This donation will put a smile on a lot of faces in our community.”

Giving back is important to the Prairie Island Indian Community. Tribal Council hopes this donation will help relieve some of their burden. Bennett mentioned during the presentation, “We would like to make a government-to-government donation to help you through this time.”

“This is just another example of what community is – going beyond and recognizing the needs of others,” stated, Jack Weimerskirch, Mayor of Goodview, Minn. Weimerskirch mentioned that the donation would be put to good use. “The generosity of the tribe is wonderful.”

Since 1994, the Prairie Island Indian Community, a federally recognized Indian Nation, has donated more than $14 million to a variety of civic and non-profit organizations. The Prairie Island Indian Community owns and operates Treasure Island Resort & Casino, located just south of Hastings, Minn. As the largest employer in Goodhue County, the tribe employs more than 1,600 team members and generates more than $14 million in annual state and federal taxes.

August 12, 2007
1987 World Champ Twins Kick-off Their 20-year Anniversary Reunion with a Visit to Treasure Island

Today, the 1987 World Champion Minnesota Twins kick off their 20-year anniversary reunion with a visit to Treasure Island Resort & Casino. Among the champs slated to be at The Island for this reunion celebration are first baseman Kent Hrbek, third baseman Gary Gaetti, starting pitcher Frank Viola and leftfielder Dan Gladden.

The reunion will begin with a reception in Parlay Lounge where invited guests have the opportunity to chat with the players and have memorabilia autographed. Treasure Island is hosting the gathering to show guests their appreciation. After mingling and signing autographs, the Twins will board Spirit of the Water cruise yacht to reminisce and share stories with their former teammates.

Treasure Island has been a major sponsor of the Minnesota Twins for nearly a decade.
Bryan Prettyman, General Manager of Treasure Island, is pleased about the relationship established with this organization and is proud to welcome the Twins. “We are excited to be a part of commemorating the ’87 World Series and congratulate the team on this historic victory,” said Prettyman. “And we’re thrilled to offer our guests the opportunity to meet this championship team and to relive the memories of that spectacular season.”

The ’87 champs will also be appearing for autographs throughout the weekend at Metrodome Plaza and the Mall of America. For more information, log on to minnesota.twins.mlb.com.

Treasure Island Resort & Casino is the only casino resort in southern Minnesota and the only facility of its kind located on the banks of the Mississippi River. Treasure Island offers guests some of the best gaming, accommodations, food service and nationally known entertainment in the casino industry. Treasure Island features over 2,500 slots, 44 table games, 10-table poker room, and 550-seat high stakes bingo hall all within seven casinos, each with a unique Caribbean theme. Guests can relax in Treasure Island’s luxurious 250-room hotel. Additional guest amenities include a 137-slip marina, 95-site RV-park and a 125-passenger cruise yacht.