If at first you don't succeed, try, try again.
That's been the mantra for Empire City Casino in Yonkers as they eagerly pursue one of those coveted downstate casino licenses in New York. However, recently, a different kind of excitement has stolen the spotlight at the casino.
Imagine this: the atmosphere buzzing and hearts racing as Barnett T., a familiar face from New Rochelle, makes casino history. He hit a jaw-dropping jackpot of $2,995,532, setting a record for the largest payout since Empire City opened its doors in 2006.
The casino posted a picture of Barnett in front of his winning machine on its social media pages.
The description read: 'Barnett T. from New Rochelle, hit a record-breaking $2,995,532 JACKPOT– The biggest in Empire City Casino's history."
He told the Talk of the Sound newspaper, “The whole experience has been surreal,” Barnett said. “I actually felt more excited when I hit the $46,000 jackpot a few months ago. When this one happened, it didn’t feel real at first. Don’t get me wrong, it is a very big deal, but when you’re looking at the machine, you just don’t believe it’s reality.”
Talk about a life-changing spin! It reminded us of the massive prize somebody recently won while playing the Wheel of Fortune Gold Spin Triple Gold slot machine.
This win isn't just a personal victory for Barnett; it's a milestone moment for the casino too.
The Big Moment at Empire City Casino
So, picture this: Barnett is sitting in front of the popular IGT Wheel of Fortune Triple Stars slot machine, the air around him charged with anticipation.
Then, in a surreal turn of events, the machine lights up, announcing Barnett as the winner of nearly three million dollars! It’s a scene straight out of a movie, right? Barnett, still processing the enormity of his win, shared how the moment felt dreamlike, taking a while for the reality to settle in.
Now, what do you do with almost 3 million dollars?
Well, Barnett's got some thoughtful plans. He's set on wisely investing a bulk of his winnings—smart move, Barnett! Plus, there’s talk of a dreamy getaway with his wife and maybe even snagging a cozy second home in the Poconos.
In addition to all this, he has been honored with an upgraded status in the MGM Rewards program, a fitting recognition for his milestone win.
Barnett is a Repeat Winner at Empire Casino
Interesting tidbit—this isn’t Barnett's first taste of luck at Empire City. Just a few months before this record-breaking win, he walked away with over $46,000! Many might count themselves lucky to win big even once, but Barnett seems to have a knack for it!
He's also become a member of a very elite club.
Barnett’s win places him in the elite “millionaires club” of Empire City Casino, rubbing virtual shoulders with past winners like Theresa P., Linda P., Howard G., and Leo—each of whom has struck it big with their own jackpot stories.
With Barnett’s addition to this exclusive club, it’s clear that dreams do come true at Empire City!
Empire City on the Rise
This record-setting event couldn’t come at a more exciting time for Empire City Casino. Its operators are waiting to find out if they’ll get a full commercial license.
MGM has submitted a $2.3 billion proposal to transform its current casino in Yonkers into a full-scale commercial casino and entertainment destination.
The plan includes:
- Complete renovation and expansion of gaming areas
- A new high-limit lounge and a state-of-the-art BetMGM Sportsbook for retail sports betting
- A 5,000-seat entertainment venue for concerts, local events, and graduations
- Three new full-service restaurants and upgraded dining options
- A new parking garage with solar panels and electric vehicle charging, emphasizing sustainability
The race for New York's three casino licenses in the downstate area is now down to the final four. Along with Empire City, the other three contenders include:
- Metropolitan Park near Citi Field, backed by Steve Cohen and Hard Rock
- Bally’s Bronx, located at the old Trump Golf Links site
- Resorts World New York City in Queens
Big wins like Barnett’s are making it an even more exciting place for the people who run Empire City, hoping to attract players from all over who dream of hitting it big.
Congratulations to Barnett T. for making headlines and showing us all that sometimes, the impossible dream is just a spin away!
But remember, if you decide to try your luck, always exhibit responsible gambling habits like setting limits and never gambling more than you can afford.
