Apr 20, 2021 | Breaking News, General News, Sports
Former UConn Women’s Basketball Star and Current Assistant Coach of the USA Women’s Olympic Basketball Team to Lead Mohegan Tribe owned WNBA Franchise
Mohegan Sun is excited to announce today that Jennifer Rizzotti has been 
named President of the Connecticut Sun (CT Sun). In this role, Rizzotti will be responsible for the overall business operations and marketing strategies of the Mohegan Tribe owned WNBA franchise that plays its home games in Mohegan Sun Arena.
“I am so honored to rejoin the WNBA family in this leadership position with the Connecticut Sun,” said Rizzotti. “This league employs the very best women’s basketball players in the world. But more importantly, the WNBA is an inclusive and diverse community of women that inspire, lead and in their own words, “provide a voice for the voiceless.” I am proud to have won two championships as a player in the WNBA and will work tirelessly to help bring a championship to the Sun franchise.”
“When you open the official website of the Mohegan Tribe, the first thing you read is Honor the Past. Building for the future,” continued Rizzotti. “I believe the immediate future of the WNBA has never been more exciting. The level of talent, growing support around the sports world, and the league’s commitment to be a keystone for cultural change in these tempestuous times, makes this upcoming season one of the most important in its already rich history.”
Jennifer Rizzotti had a storied career for the UConn Huskies from 1992 – 1996, where she helped lead a 1995 team to a 35-0 season that ended in a Division 1 NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship. She finished her college career with 637 assists and nearly 350 steals, while averaging just over 11 points per game. After playing eight seasons of professional basketball following college, which included two championship seasons with the Houston Comets (1999 & 2000), Rizzotti embarked on a coaching career that led her to the University of Hartford (UHart) where she spent 17 seasons. During her tenure with UHart, Rizzotti became America East Conference “Coach of the Year” in 2006, 2007 and 2010. Rizzotti has also been an integral part of USA Women’s Basketball, and she currently serves as an Assistant Coach for both the Women’s USA Olympic team and the USA AmeriCup Team. In 2011, she was named USA Basketball “Coach of the Year.”
“Jen Rizzotti brings instant credibility and is a powerhouse within the women’s basketball community. She has deep roots here in Connecticut and we could not be more thrilled to have her joining our team,” said Connecticut Sun Board of Governors Representative and Recording Secretary for the Mohegan Tribal Council, Kathy Regan-Pyne. “Her passion, talent and expertise, along with her shared values and philosophies, make her a natural fit within our organization. We look forward to the team’s continued success and path forward under her leadership and alongside our incredible staff, coaches and players.”
“The Connecticut Sun has had so many great seasons, and incredible athletes, coaches and leaders throughout their impactful history here at Mohegan Sun,” said Jeff Hamilton, President & General Manager of Mohegan Sun. “Mohegan Sun is honored to have Jennifer Rizzotti joining our executive team, and we’re incredibly excited about the future of the Connecticut Sun under her vision.”
A press conference on this special announcement will be scheduled for members of the media on Tuesday, April 27th, where Rizzotti will be joined by Mohegan Sun, Mohegan Tribe and CT Sun leadership. More details are to come on this event.
Rizzotti was also head coach of the George Washington Women’s basketball team for five years, that began with a 20-10 season in 2016-17 and a share of the A-10 regular season title. A trip to the NCAA Tournament would come in 2018 as well, after coaching George Washington to an A-10 Tournament title. Rizzotti was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013, joining fellow UConn legends, Coach Geno Auriemma (2006 inductee) and Rebecca Lobo (a 2010 inductee).
“I’d be remiss if I didn’t recognize the contributions that Amber Cox made to this franchise over the past five years,” said Rizzotti. “She and head coach & GM, Curt Miller, have made the Connecticut Sun one of the most successful teams in the WNBA. I look forward to using this foundation and the overall culture of the Mohegan Tribe and Mohegan Sun to attract players, fans, and sponsors to be a part of our bright future.”
The Connecticut Sun recently announced their schedule for the upcoming 2021 season, which starts on the road against the Atlanta Dream on Friday, May 14th. The Sun, led by DeWanna Bonner, Jonquel Jones and Jasmine Thomas, have their first home game of the season on Sunday, May 16th, which marks their first return to Mohegan Sun Arena since Game 4 of the WNBA finals on October 8, 2019.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, a golf course, over 80 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @mohegansun, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun.
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Apr 15, 2021 | Community Relations, General News, Sports, Travel & Leisure, Uncategorized
BALTIC, CT (April 15, 2021) –This morning, Mohegan Sun Golf Club (MSGC,) located at 7 Dows Ln, Baltic, CT, officially opened for the season to all resort and public play. In addition to enjoying one of the most scenic and impressive courses New England has to offer, golfers can enjoy the Pautipaug Pub, a spacious and well-appointed clubhouse, a well-stocked and revamped pro shop, a fitness room, the “Triple Tee Snack Bar” that greets players half-way through their round, top-notch practice areas, a training facility and a driving range. Tee times can be made by phone (860-862-9235) or by visiting mohegansun.com/golf.
Led by PGA Master Pro and VP & General Manager, Philip Krick Jr., MSGC kicks off the 2021 season with a public rate of $100 Monday through Thursday ($75 after 2:00pm.) Weekend rates before 2:00pm are priced at $125.00, ($100 after 2:00pm). MSGC does offer military discounts and guests staying at Mohegan Sun receive reduced rates as well. Golf carts are included in all of the above. Mohegan Sun’s Momentum members are also provided exclusive opportunities. Signing up for Momentum, Mohegan Gun’s loyalty rewards program, is free and can be done via mohegansun.com/momentum
MSGC is also home to a one-of-a-kind Golf Academy where guests can improve their techniques while taking advantage of a comprehensive training facility equipped with the latest in video and shot tracking technologies. Professionals at MSGC will also provide outdoor training, with a coaching model that is based on asking the right questions, actively listening and empowering students with focused, fact-based feedback. Guests can book lessons through the “Golf Academy” tab at the top of mohegansun.com/golf.
Mohegan Sun Golf Club is a 72-par course and one of the premier golf destinations in the Northeast. The 156-acre course is kept in top-shape by a dedicated grounds team and upgrades to various holes have been made since Mohegan Sun took ownership in 2007. Mohegan Sun Golf Club has also become known for hosting high-profile tournaments and events, some of which that have brought the likes of Michael Jordan, Aaron Rodgers, Charles Barkley, Chris Paul, Joe Pesci, Ahmad Rashad, Larry Fitzgerald and Ray Allen to the championship course.
MSGC’s clubhouse, stretching 20,000 square feet, has also been significantly updated in recent years, including enhancements to the Pautipaug Pub and lounge areas.
The clubhouse also features a second floor banquet room, which can be customized for private parties, receptions & group events.
For more information on all things Mohegan Sun Golf Club, including the Golf Academy, group event booking and upcoming tournaments, call 860.862.9660 or email Clubhouse & Event Manager, Lisa Najjar-Melkoun, at [email protected].
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Apr 9, 2021 | Breaking News, Community Relations, Entertainment, General News, Special Events, Travel & Leisure
Connecticut’s Leading Integrated Entertainment Resort to Host Milestone Miss America 2021 Competition and Other Exciting Events
UNCASVILLE, CT (April 9, 2021) – The stage is set for an unforgettable 2021 at Mohegan Sun! Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment’s (MGE) flagship property today announced an exciting evolution of its partnership with the Miss America Organization (MAO) to continue hosting one of the nation’s most anticipated competitions. For the next three years, Miss America events and finals will take place at the award-winning Mohegan Sun Arena. This historic relationship is a testament to Mohegan Sun’s consistent innovation and industry-leading health and safety practices that have inspired confidence among its distinguished partners and the public. The 100th anniversary Miss America competition will be broadcast live in December 2021.
“Following the success of the Miss America 2020 competition at Mohegan Sun, we knew we had created something very special here in Connecticut and we’re thrilled to be able to host Miss America events and competitions for the next three years at our destination,” said Jeff Hamilton, President and General Manager of Mohegan Sun. “Miss America will now become one of Mohegan Sun’s largest annual events in terms of size, scope and reach, allowing us to continue to deliver world-class, unique experiences to all those who step through our doors. We share many values with MAO, such as community support and empowerment, and we are excited and honored to add the like-minded organization to our incredible roster of renowned partners.”
2021 marks a historic year for MAO as the nationally recognized nonprofit celebrates its 100th anniversary this fall. The milestone competition will continue to highlight a diverse group of young students and professionals who are advancing the message of female strength, independence, and empowerment through their efforts in the areas of scholarship, talent and social impact. MAO looks forward to returning to the big stage and providing a national platform for each talented candidate to share their voice with viewers around the country.
“For 100 years Miss America has been an icon, a champion for social causes, and one of the leading providers of scholarships to women in the country,” said Shantel Krebs, Miss America Organization President & CEO. “We are thrilled to have Mohegan Sun join us in this mission. As a leading integrated entertainment resort with a state-of-the-art venue and innovative vision for hosting events, Mohegan is the ideal partner as we enter into our second century of service to America’s outstanding young women.”
In addition to the epic one-night finale, other exciting events and preliminary competitions will take place in Mohegan Sun’s Earth Expo & Convention Center, which includes the 125,000 square foot Earth Expo center. To commemorate the organization’s centennial anniversary in September, MAO and Mohegan Sun hope to host iconic celebrations and community events, as well as bring back the beloved “Show Us Your Shoes” parade, in its new home state of Connecticut this year.
Leading up to the nationally broadcast event in Mohegan Sun Arena, the Mohegan Sun leadership team and MAO will lean heavily on guidance from the Mohegan Tribal Health Department as well as local and state COVID-19 health and safety protocols. Further details on ticket sales, scheduling and broadcast partners will be announced in the coming months. To stay updated on the latest, please visit: mohegansun.com and missamerica.org.
ABOUT THE MISS AMERICA ORGANIZATION:
The Miss America Organization, a 501(c) (4), is one of the most recognizable household names in America working to empower young women through education and service. The Miss America Organization is comprised of 51 licensed state organizations, including all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Miss America candidates contribute tens of thousands of community service hours annually and have raised more than $17 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and Miss America scholarships since 2007. The Miss America Foundation, a 501(c) (3), provides academic, community service, and other scholarships to young women.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN:
Owned by Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, a golf course, over 80 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @mohegansun, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun.
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Mar 30, 2021 | Food & Beverage, General News, Travel & Leisure, Uncategorized
Holiday dining and retail specials are available on Sunday, April 4th
UNCASVILLE, CT (March 30, 2021) – Easter is right around the corner, and Mohegan Sun restaurants BALLO Italian Restaurant, Hash House A Go Go, Michael Jordan’s Steak House and more are inviting guests to gather around the table for a special meal. The Shops at Mohegan Sun are also celebrating with a variety of retail specials. All dining and retail specials are valid on Sunday, April 4th.
Dinner at BALLO Italian Restaurant starts with either crispy baby artichoke hearts with parmigiano, slow roasted garlic and lemon, or BALLO’s famous tableside flaming Mac & Cheese. The main course is a choice between homemade Cavatelli, lamb ragu and grana padana, or Risotto, sea scallops, and English peas topped with shaved black truffle. Dessert is lemon pistachio cannoli.
Todd English’s Tuscany’s Easter dinner is braised lamb shank with spring pea risotto and an heirloom tomato and arugula salad. Dinner at Todd English’s Tuscany starts at 5:00pm.
Easter specials at Hash House A Go Go include an Easter basket pancake topped with jelly beans and shredded coconut, Margie’s Crab Benedict made with all blue crab cake on a bed of mashed potatoes, a split biscuit, spinach and sliced tomato, and a glazed ham dinner served on a bed of garlic mashed potatoes with fresh spring vegetables and a side of peach chutney.
Guests who spend Easter with Michael Jordan’s Steak House can enjoy a three course meal that starts with Moroccan lamb lollipops with feta-mint yogurt and aged balsamic. The main course is bone-in beef short rib with whipped Yukon gold potatoes, rainbow chard, mushroom ragu and pistachio gremolata. Complete the meal with a decadent slice of carrot cake. Michael Jordan’s Steak House is open on Easter Sunday from 2:00pm – 9:00pm.
MJ23 Sports Bar & Grill is serving up a meal that features either a pork tenderloin sandwich with Vermont cheddar, caramelized apples, bacon jam and chipotle mayo, or Lamb kebabs with peppers, onions, tomatoes, fingerling potatoes, pickled peppers and mint tzatziki. Guests can tie their Easter dinner together with a slice of carrot cake. MJ23 Sports Bar & Grill is open on Easter Sunday from Noon – 9:00pm.
Easter Dinner at SolToro is a rack of lamb with grilled vegetables and topped with an ancho chile glaze. Dessert is Capirotada – a Mexican bread pudding with white chocolate mousse and caramel sauce.
Skyrise Food Court, Southside and Mohegan Sun’s newest casual dining option, Mezze Mediterranean, are celebrating the holiday with springtime cookie trays and Linzer torte bunny cookies.
Those looking to celebrate with ease can leave the dinner plans up to Pasta Vita. Catering services include an impressive selection of appetizers, entrées, sides and desserts.
Reservations for dining are not required but highly encouraged. All restaurants will be operating at limited capacity. To book reservations, visit mohegansun.com/dining.
Guests can also celebrate by treating themselves and their loved ones to the retail specials at The Shops at Mohegan Sun. Le Creuset is set to help host the perfect Easter brunch with their special holiday cookware. Those looking to score some new athleisure can stop by bluwire on Sunday, April 4th and receive $20 off two pairs of Rune NYC leggings. Special spring pastel colors are now available. Everyone who shops at Galina’s on Sunday, April 4th will receive 50% off all clothes.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, a golf course, over 80 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @mohegansun, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun.
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Mar 23, 2021 | Community Relations, Employment, Entertainment, Food & Beverage, General News, Travel & Leisure, Uncategorized
Connecticut’s Leading Integrated Entertainment Resort and TAO Restaurant Deliver Innovative Culinary Offerings, Craft Cocktails, and More
UNCASVILLE, CT (March 23, 2021) – Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment’s (MGE) flagship Connecticut property, Mohegan Sun, has partnered with TAO Group Hospitality for the opening of its highly-anticipated new venue, TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge. The 10,000 square-foot, 300-seat Pan-Asian restaurant is located off of Sky Tower’s hotel lobby and will open its doors to guests today, Tuesday, March 23, 2021. TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge is a distinctive and memorable culinary destination for all guests looking to treat their taste buds and further enliven their evening.
“We are looking forward to welcoming guests to TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge, where epicureans and thrill-seekers alike who visit our property will enjoy an elevated experience that blends unforgettable food with a dynamic energy that can’t be found anywhere else,” said Jeff Hamilton, President and General Manager of Mohegan Sun. “As the premier entertainment destination in the Northeast, we are constantly looking for world-class partners to up the ante and deliver exceptional entertainment to our visitors – TAO is a brand that does just that, and we are excited to welcome them to the Mohegan portfolio.”
The kitchen is helmed by TAO Group Hospitality Partner and Chef, Ralph Scamardella, who oversees a menu of premium Pan-Asian fare. Guests can dine on offerings from the sea, sky and land, with signature dishes that have become synonymous with the TAO brand, such as the Satay of Chilean Sea Bass, Lobster Wontons, Peking Duck, Crispy Snapper in “Sand,” and the highly-lauded Tuna Sashimi Pringle. Curated for Mohegan Sun guests, TAO has added a special Surf and Turf menu item featuring a 32 oz. prime Tomahawk steak, salt and pepper lobster, hand cut noodles and chili garlic sauce. Additionally, TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge’s beverage program caters to Asian tastes with creative, approachable craft cocktails and a robust sake program.
“TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge is our sixth iteration of the renowned Tao Group Hospitality brand, and our new location combines cutting-edge culinary and cocktail trends with the spirited atmosphere of Mohegan Sun,” said Ralph Scamardella, Partner/Chef of Tao Group Hospitality. “Visitors will discover an innovative mix of unconventional fare that guests have come to expect from TAO. We are thrilled to embark on this journey with tremendous partners like Mohegan Sun at our side.”
The new restaurant at Mohegan Sun will feature 300 seats and several notable TAO fixtures that guests have come to expect from the iconic brand, including private dining options, the Ink Lounge, sushi bar, and of course the 16-foot-tall Quan Yin statue anchoring the main dining room. In compliance with Mohegan Sun’s elevated health and safety measures, TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge will open at 50 percent capacity to ensure proper social distancing. Hours of operation will be Sunday – Thursday (5 p.m. – 10 p.m.), and Friday – Saturday (5 p.m. – 12 a.m.).
Furthermore, this newest property will continue to sustain TAO’s ongoing support of City Harvest, New York City’s largest food rescue operation combatting food insecurity. Through TAO and Mohegan Sun’s partnership with City Harvest, the organization will continue to provide more than 4,800 delicious, nutritious meals to hungry New Yorkers and countless hours of employment to those in need.
For more information on TAO Mohegan Sun, please visit www.taomohegansun.com.
About Mohegan Sun
Owned by Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, a golf course, over 80 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @mohegansun, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun.
About Tao Group Hospitality
Tao Group Hospitality is a leading restaurant and nightlife company that develops, owns and operates many of the worlds most recognized restaurant and entertainment venues under various brands including but not limited to Tao, Marquee, Avenue, Lavo, Beauty & Essex, The Highlight Room, and Koma in major markets across the world including New York City, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Chicago, Sydney and Singapore. Tao Group Hospitality operates all of the food and beverage outlets for Dream Hollywood in California and six hotels in New York which include Royalton Park Avenue, Dream Downtown, Dream Midtown, Moxy Times Square, Moxy East Village and Moxy Chelsea including brands PHD, Bodega Negra, The Rickey, Electric Room, Fishbowl, Legasea, Egghead, Magic Hour, Feroce, The Fleur Room Cathédrale, and Little Sister. Tao Group Hospitality’s corporate headquarter is located in New York City, with locally based managing partners and a full-time marketing and operations staff in every other market. For more information, please visit www.taogroup.com.
