Conference guests had barely finished their drinks at the “Cocktails with Exhibitors,” pre-boarding party at the Astor Crowne Plaza New Orleans – French Quarter, Thursday evening before they were whisked by motor coach to the jazz dinner cruise aboard the Steamboat Natchez. The paddle wheeler is the last authentic steamboat on the Mississippi River.
Despite a light sprinkling of rain, spirits were not dampened and the networking party commenced to the sounds of Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland. Some folks toured the steam engine room, others joined fellow gamblers in the Captain’s Salon and still others enjoyed watching the sunset from benches on deck(s).
Everyone was having a roaring good time at the Blackjack tables, Roulette table and Craps table, where some “winnings” (vouchers, not real money) topped $500,000+.
During the festivities, a strolling magician enchanted cruisers with his sleight of hand. Meanwhile, Steve LeNoir, Postmaster of Horatio, South Carolina, offered a welcome toast to diners. In fact, guests pre-selected an early or late dinner seating, needed to accommodate the huge crowd. Diners feasted on Creole cuisine: Bayou Gumbo, French Market Salad, Slow Roasted Ribs of Beef Au Jus, Penne Primavera, Gulf Shrimp over Bread, Seasonal Vegetable Sauté and Seasonal Fruit Panna Cotta. Our host, Mr. Roy, and his staff showed us real Southern hospitality!
At the conclusion of the cruise, Board Member John Heeren led a large group of party-goers for some “real life” gambling at nearby Harrah’s Casino. And, everyone made it back in time for the buffet breakfast on Friday, prior to the general session!