A Paula Deen Weekend

By Doc Lawrence

CHEROKEE, NC--Harrah’s Cherokee Casino is a luxury colossus, and I’m here this weekend to join in the ceremonies celebrating the opening and debut of the magnificent Creek Tower and Paula Deen’s new restaurant. Taking all this in leads to the staggering conclusion that this is already the Southeast’s most spectacular resort.

I’m joining the ebullient Paula Deen and visionary Cherokee leaders along with Harrah’s top executives for the ribbon-cutting, staying in Creek Tower, enjoying once again Paula’s delectable Southern dishes, all blended into an evening of Vegas quality entertainment.

The new restaurant, Paula Deen’s Kitchen, has generated big buzz since the announcement last spring. Having Paula’s national celebrity presence at Harrah’s and in the region--the gateway to the Great Smokey Mountains--has immeasurable beneficial benefits. Good for Paula Deen. Good for Harrah’s and good for the wonderful Cherokee people.

 One other example of Harrah’s Cherokee commitment to excellence is the entertainment lineup. In March, two of the all-time legends of country music, Merle Haggard and Kris Kristofferson, team for two days of their music, songs that continue to mirror the heart and soul of America.

I’ll have in-depth stories including vignettes from Paula Deen, the undisputed first lady of Southern cooking, Cherokee tribal leaders and Harrah’s officials published and broadcast shortly. Stay tuned.