Isle employees give modeling a go

A star – make that a galaxy – is born.

Eight employees from each of the St. Louis, Missouri- based Isle of Capri Casinos Inc. properties were chosen to participate in a professional photo shoot for back-of-the-house signage and other materials that communicate messages targeted directly to the employees, as well as recruitment materials.

Employees were chosen from a survey that asked them three questions based up their current position and dedication to providing exceptional customer service: What do you do in your current position to exceed customer expectations on a daily basis? What is your favorite part of your job? In 100 words or less, explain why you should be the “face” of the property.

A panel reviewed each application and determined which employees should be part of the campaign. The team from The Isle Casino in Black Hawk was shot during a photo session Aug. 3.

“Casino companies have traditionally used stock photography for back of the house signage,” said Julia Carcamo, of Isle of Capri Casinos Inc. corporate vice president of brand marketing. “We believe that back of the house is some of our most important communications because our employees are what truly deliver the brand promise. We wanted a way for those materials to stand out and resonate. So, we added to our library of model talent with some employee talent. We made the process fun for everyone by setting up a bit of a talent scout across all of our properties.”

The chosen employee “models” were given the star treatment with their hair and make-up done. “A professional photographer was set up and was able to give them direction in a very comfortable environment,” Carcamo said. “We even recorded some comments for use in our social media channels and on-line recruitment. While some were nervous at first, they quickly got over that and let their true personalities really shine through.”

Laugh line. The Central City Opera House, home of traditional opera performances, is saying roll over Beethoven to make room for comedians Louie Anderson and Roseanne Barr during a benefit performance for Historic Georgetown at 6 and 8 p.m. Sept. 10.

The event includes live piano music by Ann Moore and Maraday Wahlborg in the Teller House Face Bar, and a live auction featuring the Jonathan Arndt Gallery of Jewels. There’s also an optional meet-and-greet with Anderson at 5 p.m. Tickets: centralcityopera.org or 303-292-6700.

Delicious opera. And speaking of the Central City Opera House…For the fifth year, Central City Opera and the Denver-based Kevin Taylor Restaurant Group have partnered to bring seasonal dining at the historic Teller House in Central City.

Reservations are available at Rouge, a fine dining restaurant, on the nights with events performances, while The Face Bar offers a casual menu on the main level.

The Face Bar Restaurant is open for appetizers, lunch, dinner and dessert on days with opera matinees or evening performances. Rouge Fine American Cuisine is open for dinner only on dates with 7:30 or 8 p.m. opera performances.

~ Penny Parker is a columnist for The Denver Post. She’s always on the prowl for tidbits and tips from Colorado’s gaming communities. Call her at 303-619-5209 or e-mail
pparker@denverpost.com