Powering Up Downtown
Courtney Garland Brings Innovation and Heart to Henderson’s Casinos
By Steve Kieva
Courtney Garland is the director of operations for Emerald Island Casino and Rainbow Club Casinos in downtown Henderson.
Garland, who joined the gaming properties as executive casino host, was promoted from assistant general manager to director of operations in 2020. Her responsibilities include elevating the casino brand by facilitating a safe, efficient and profitable work environment. Through her efforts and focus on technological expansion, the Emerald Island Casino reader board was upgraded to an electronic signboard.
Garland is a proud Henderson local, who graduated from Green Valley High School. She has a business degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and is actively involved in community service. In addition to volunteering at the City of Henderson Animal Care and Control as a dog exerciser and adoption counselor, she is also involved with the UNLV Alumni Association and the Henderson Chamber of Commerce. She has also served as a SYNK Customer Advisory Board Member and belongs to the Xs & Os of Success’ Rising Leaders Legend, which aims to engage and educate the leaders of tomorrow through coaching and development training.
In 2022, Garland was honored as one of Vegas INC’s 40 Under 40 recipients, for her service to the community, entrepreneurial attitude and overall impact in her industry.
In her spare time, Garland enjoys cooking, traveling and supporting the Vegas Golden Knights.
I had an opportunity to talk to Courtney and ask her some questions:
1 – What was your path that led you to Emerald Island?
I’ve always been interested in hospitality. Ever since my first trip to Disneyland as a kid I knew I was enamored with the unmatched customer service experience.
My parents were both in the gaming industry and I was born and raised in southern Nevada. These properties have always been a staple of downtown Henderson, and I wanted to be a part of that legacy.
2 – Would you let Casino Player readers know a little about Emerald Island and Rainbow Club?
We’re locals’ number one choice in downtown Henderson, Nevada. We pride ourselves in offering great value through unique partnerships with local vendors, where players can use their points to support local businesses, great slots selection, award-winning dining and everyday promotions.
We’re like Cheers, where everybody knows your name. We believe customer service never goes out of style.
3 – What are the differences between the two casinos?
You can expect the same great customer service at each casino—they’re both an extension of each other. We actually recently merged the players cards. In the past each had their own but now you can use them interchangeably. The Emerald Island is a newer property established in 2003. The Rainbow Club Casino has been around longer, since 1967, so people have been coming to it for generations. We have a guest, for example, who started coming to the Rainbow Club for breakfast growing up with his family and is now a regular while enjoying retirement.
4-Can you give Casino Player readers an idea of what a typical workday for you is?
Every day is different, but they all have something in common, they start with coffee! Generally, we have meetings with vendors and leadership teams early in the day. It feels like we’re always planning for an event or the release of something. It’s a balance of handling immediate operational needs with upcoming events and changes to keep our guest experience fresh. While my mornings tend to be office-time heavy, I head to the floor to get one-on-one interaction with staff and guests. It’s very important for me to have that face-to-face time—helps me make better decisions to keep guests happy. I also serve as the MC, announcing promotions, welcoming guests and maintaining a lively atmosphere. At some point I’ll stop by the kitchen, making sure the French fries are fresh and hot! Overall, ensuring compliance and making sure everything is running smoothly.
5 – What are you most proud of at Emerald Island and Rainbow Club.
I’m proud of how we treat guests. They have so many options and the fact that they keep coming back here is proof they’re having a good experience and that fills me with joy. Since many of our guests are regulars, our staff has gotten to know them and go the extra mile.
We’ve cultivated a culture of promoting from within and career planning for our team members. I’m so proud that so many of our employees who have displayed leadership skills are now in those roles training the next generation.
I am an example of that. I started in the rewards center as a casino host focusing on signing up new members and fostering relationships with guests, and moved on to player development. Our General Manager Tim Brooks pushed me to take leadership courses, which allowed me to learn and grow into a director of operations.
6 – I know there are too many to list, but would you let Casino Player readers know of some of the promotions that both Emerald Island and Rainbow Club offers?
We have everyday cash promotions, in which guests get to spin the wheel of cash. We have promotions for every type of game, whether you’re a keno, or video slot player—we cater to what you like to play.
We do gift giveaways; earning points on your player’s card allows you to redeem them for a variety of different items.
7 – The restaurant Emerald Island Grille has won multiple awards in Best of Las Vegas. What are some of your favorite menu items?
I love Monday Italian night! I love the Chicken Francese. Steakhouse Saturday we have Cioppino. I grew up on southern cooking, so I love our Wednesday Night barbecue, beans and mac and cheese and the burnt end sandwich.
8 – How are you trying to attract the Las Vegas “tourist” that might not be familiar with the two casinos?
If you’re looking for an old-school Vegas experience with superior customer service, you will definitely get that here. There is always a promotion going on and our restaurants offer great value for a great quality meal.
We are right in the heart of downtown Henderson amid a walkable area with bars, restaurants and a hockey arena.
A personal note:
My wife Dorene and I have been visiting both Emerald Island and Rainbow Club for over five years. Both are unique within themselves and we have a great time at both places. The food at the restaurants is sensational and very affordable. There are multiple specials every night.
General Manager Tim Brooks is always around and very approachable and very friendly, as is everyone on the staff.
When you visit either Emerald Island you’ll get the feeling that you are known by your name, not just your Player’s Card number.
Suncoast Hotel & Casino Unveils All-New Bingo Room
Conveniently located on the west side of the casino floor, the new, state-of-the-art Bingo Room is a bold reimagining of a timeless classic, designed to deliver high-energy entertainment within a modern setting. This premier venue embodies sophistication and fun in equal measure. As part of Suncoast’s ongoing renovation efforts, the new 9,170 square-foot Bingo Room features a modern coastal aesthetic theme along with a massive 17-foot bouncing bingo ball chandelier. The 406-seat room also features a snack bar and a glass-enclosed smoking area with its own ventilation system. The Bingo Room is open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Hidden Gem – Azzurra Cucina Italiana
Newly opened on Henderson’s reimagined Water Street, Azzurra Cucina Italiana offers well-prepared, much-loved Italian classics in a boutique space. Owned by local architect and Water Street fixture Windom Kimsey, Azzurra’s culinary team includes local favorite Chef Alessandra Maderia. The power team has ensured that each dish centers around quality ingredients and traditional preparation—bringing Italy to Water Street.
Azzurra Cucina Italiana is a cherished spot in Henderson, consistently praised for its “amazing food” and “great service.” The restaurant offers an intimate setting, “delicious menu,” and “friendly, attentive staff.” Reservations are essential due to its popularity. Highlights include fresh pasta, exquisite appetizers and memorable date-night experiences.
For appetizers, Chef Alessandra’s Meatballs are a must order. Traditional Italian classics comprise the majority of the Entrée menu. You can’t go wrong ordering any of them.
RESERVATIONS ONLY: Monday-Saturday, 4 p.m.-10 p.m. info@azzurracucina.com, 702-268-7867
322 South Water Street, Henderson, NV 89015
