Bristol’s Hard Rock Casino Raises More Than $37K For Cancer Research

Written By Adam Hensley on November 28, 2022
Bristol Hard Rock Donation

Bristol Casino – Future Home of Hard Rock generously gathered over $37,000 to support the progress of cancer research, embodying the true essence of giving.

During the month of October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the casino’s staff and customers joined forces to contribute towards the donation.

A check amounting to $37,426 was officially presented by the casino to the American Cancer Society on November 10.

Amanda Darling-Thompson, Director of Development in the Southeast Region of the American Cancer Society, expressed immense gratitude towards Bristol Casino — Future Home of Hard Rock for their remarkable support in the first year of the local breast cancer programs. She highlighted that all the funds raised by the casino’s team members, patrons, and ‘Real Men Wear Pink’ donors will be dedicated to patient support programs and crucial research advancements in the field of Breast Cancer, emphasizing the significance of their contributions.

The temporary casino capitalized on several different opportunities in order to gather the funds.

The proceeds from the Bristol Casino’s team member dining room, which will soon be the future home of Hard Rock, amounted to $16,911.

The total cost for the casino’s team member T-shirts, accessories, and a bowling night event was $7,942.

A campaign called “Read Men Wear Pink” was led by Marc DeLeo, the vice president of marketing at the casino. The campaign successfully raised a total of $5,478.

Another $7,095 came from:

  • A pink Blackjack table
  • The funds generated from the sale of a unique beverage known as the “Pretty In Pink” cocktail.
  • revenue generated from Mr. Lucky’s and Brick’d restaurants
  • Slot coupons.

“Our team and guests have displayed exceptional generosity, and I couldn’t be more proud,” stated Allie Evangelista, President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol. She acknowledged that many of us have close ones affected by the devastating impact of breast cancer. The funds raised will not only contribute to spreading awareness but also offer vital support and treatment to the courageous individuals fighting against breast cancer.”

More on the American Cancer Society

Founded in 1913, the American Cancer Society stands tall as one of the leading organizations spearheading the battle against cancer. This group has been at the forefront of cancer research, providing essential patient support, and advocating for those affected by this disease.

The cancer-fighting organization has invested over $4.6 billion in research since 1946. As stated on its website, the American Cancer Society currently has approximately $400 million dedicated to research grants.

According to Darling-Thompson, the Society is currently financing a total of 153 multi-year grants dedicated to Breast Cancer research, with a combined funding of over $1.3 million. This financial support is made possible thanks to partners such as Bristol Casino – Future Home of Hard Rock.

The American Cancer Society’s website states that the organization takes pride in its significant contribution to the 29% decline in the overall cancer death rate in the United States.

According to the website, the decrease in numbers translates to a reduction of 2.9 million cancer-related deaths from 1991 to 2017.

What to know about the Bristol Casino – Future Home of Hard Rock

Situated at 500 Gate City Hwy in Bristol, Virginia, the currently under construction temporary full-service casino offers a range of entertainment options for all visitors. Boasting a spacious 30,000-square-foot area, the casino features over 870 slot machines, 21 tables, and a sportsbook. Additionally, it operates round the clock, welcoming guests seven days a week, 24 hours a day.

After the completion of construction, the new casino will proudly showcase a spacious casino floor spanning 100,000 square feet. Within this area, visitors will find an impressive assortment of 30,000 slot machines, 100 table games, and an array of delightful retail shops. Additionally, patrons will have the opportunity to enjoy various amenities such as a magnificent outdoor live music venue accommodating 20,000 seats, a charming amphitheater with seating for 3,200 people, a relaxing spa, and a refreshing pool. This remarkable upgrade for the city of Bristol comes with an estimated cost of approximately $300 million.

The initial figures show great potential. Within the first nine days of operation, the temporary casino at Hard Rock Bristol witnessed a remarkable total wager of over $37 million. Notably, $35 million of this amount was contributed by slot machines, indicating their popularity among Virginia patrons.

The anticipated opening date for the Hard Rock Casino in Bristol is set for 2025.

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Adam Hensley

Adam Hensley, a journalist hailing from Des Moines, Iowa, has made a name for himself in the media industry. His work has been featured in renowned publications such as the Associated Press, Sports Illustrated, and various sites under the USA Today Network. Hensley completed his education at the University of Iowa in 2019, where he dedicated his college years to the sports department of the Daily Iowan. Throughout his time there, he honed his skills as both an editor and reporter.

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