The Seminole Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood, FL will begin dealing hands of Blackjack on June 22, 2008 at 6 PM.  Along with Blackjack it's reported that the casino will offer other 'card' table games as well.  This will bring the property closer to it's quest to be a full blown 'Vegas Style' casino. 

There will be 68 tables on opening day with a few more added soon after.  This is a big deal for the area and I'm sure the place will be packed with those wanting to be the first to be dealt a hand.  While this is great news for the gaming consumer...it might not be good news for the 3 Broward pari-mutuals that now have slot machines.  This could eat into their 'thin' profits and could prove to be a huge obstacle.  With strict limits on hours of operations, no table games and a VERY high tax rate...it will be very hard to compete with the Seminoles.

As I've said time and time again...Florida is going to need to evaluate options for tourists.  With airlines cutting service and raising prices, we'll need other options besides just our great weather and beaches to entice visitors.  Allowing full gaming in South Florida might be a way to tap into another market and also bring in some needed tax money (and a shot in the arm to the local economy).  This should be a very interesting summer to see what kind of impact Blackjack will have.


Update:
Table games that will be played at Hard Rock Casino-
Blackjack
Three card poker
Pai gow poker
Let it ride
Baccarat
Mini-baccarat