by Jimmy Vaccaro (Twitter @JimmyVaccaro)
January 10, 2011

We live in a "what can we promote next" society to increase either sales or visibility.

Sometimes we have to reach out and, in most cases, spend a lot of money to achieve that. Other times we just promote what comes naturally. I think you know where I am going with this.

It was championship Monday morning with LSU vs. Alabama. Naturally, every national TV show led with the Pittsburgh-Denver game and even our local product opened with the improbable Broncos win.

The point is that it is all a free roll for our city and state. You know the "what happens in Las Vegas stays in Las Vegas" ad was and still is a winner, but that comes with a hefty tag. Pro football is our ticket laddie, but this is the sprinkles we all benefit from.

The two Jays from both the LVH and Mirage, coupled with people such as Nicky B, Johnny A and me, are sure to be called to discuss next week’s game, but 75% of the interviews will be surrounding the Tebow effect.

Trust me, he polarized even more people – if that is possible – but that is good for business. I am sure our local bookmakers will not be invited to the next Chamber of Commerce luncheon but they might want to rethink that.

Look at it this way. NFL playoffs are good for our state, but would next Saturday’s late game be more interesting if the Jaguars were playing the Browns or Denver vs. the Pats? Your call.

It was nice to run into Bruce Marshall from the gold sheet and talk about NCAA basketball from the 60's. Yes, the 60's.

Take care,
Jimmy V.

Re-printed with permission of Gaming Today.