Arizona Gaming Guide Magazine - 01:14 - 06:01

DEPARTMENTS 04 EDITOR’S NOTE 06 PLAYERS TALK 08 GREAT GAMES 18 WINNING WAYS 21 GAMING NEWS 24 ARIZONA LOTTERY 26 FEATURE STORY 28 CASINO DINING 30 TRIBAL NEWS 32 CASINO GOLF 34 LAUGHLIN, NEVADA 38 CASINO ENTERTAINMENT 40 CASINO NIGHTLIFE 42 HOT DEALS 44 CASINO BINGO DIRECTORY 46 FUN & GAMES 48 SAMI’S SMACKDOWN 50 CASINO DIRECTORY

BLUE WATER HOSTS DA VINCI EXHIBITION

CURVED TOUCHSCREENS ON BALLY’S SLOTS

TRIBAL GAMING IS GREAT FOR TRIBES & ARIZONA

SAY “WOW” TO SEWALIO GOLF COURSE

Remember the curved reels of old?

Now Bally introduces the first curved touchscreen on a slot.

Casino gaming and beyond. An inside look at everything that the tribes in Arizona are involved in.

Staff writer Lee Allen covers the grand opening of Sol Casinos’ golf course with pro Notah Begay III.

azgamingguide.com | January 2014 | Arizona Gaming Guide

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Your Authority On Everything Gaming VOLUME 06 • ISSUE 01 PUBLISHER Chris Höft chris@azgamingguide.com MANAGING DIRECTOR Elizabeth Torma liz@azgamingguide.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alexandra Lang editor@azgamingguide.com

Leonardo da Vinci at BlueWater?

Yes! A Leonardo da Vinci exhibition debuts at BlueWater Resort & Casino this month in Parker, Arizona. I highly recommend our readers check out this once-ina-lifetime opportunity to see his work on display. The exhibit will be open daily through April 22. This makes me want to play IGT’s Da Vinci Diamonds again!

This issue has the scoop on exciting new slots by WMS, Bally, IGT, Aruze, and Rocket Gaming coming to casinos near you. Plus, gaming industry veteran Al Moe gives us the inside scoop on Blackjack strategy. Staff writer Lee Allen provides an article on Sol Casinos’ new golf course Sewalio. Entertainment writer Ramses Ja interviews popular Talking Stick Resort entertainer, DJ Hospe. And if you want to make your own fry bread, you’ll want to check out the Dining section for mouthwatering pictures and a great recipe. As always, we also give you the latest scoop on gaming news, hot deals, entertainment, bingo, and so much more!

Please visit us at: facebook .co m /ArizonaGam ingGuid e , become part of our community and share your thoughts and experiences with others who also love the same casino games you do. You can sign up for our e-newsletter and find current and back issues of AZ Gam ing Guid e on our website at azgam ingguid e.com . Let me know what you think of our January issue and have fun!

Cheers!

Alexandra

Alexandra Lang Editor-in-Chief editor@azgamingguide.com

“Like” us on Facebook because

we “Like” you too!

ART DIRECTOR Melanie Mueller CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Al Moe Ramses Ja Cindy Esquer Lee Allen Katie Snyder Alex Stewart Samantha Becker Lana Hartmann ADVERTISING SALES Nina Consiglio nina@azgamingguide.com Elizabeth Torma liz@azgamingguide.com MAILING INFORMATION Arizona Gaming Guide P.O. Box 20636 Mesa, Arizona 85277 INTERNET INFORMATION www.azgamingguide.com www.facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide Copyright © 2014 The Arizona Gaming Guide.

All rights reserved.

The Arizona Gaming Guide (AGG) presents casino industry and gaming related facts as well as personal opinions and expects the reader to make his or her own decisions. All responses to reader posts, e-mails and letters are to be considered as advice only. AGG accepts no responsibility and no liability for any actions of our readers based on the articles and advertisements presented within this publication. All pictures, images, logos, trademarks and trade names, etc. are the sole property of their respective owners.

You must be 21 or older to gamble. Please play responsibly.

Help is available at 1.800.NEXT.STEP or problemgambling.az.gov.

Arizona’s State Gaming Regulatory Agency: Arizona Department of Gaming 1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 450, Phoenix, 85007 1.602.771.4263 or azgaming.gov

www.facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide 04 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

Tribal Gaming Funded Problem Gambling Resource: Office of Problem Gambling 1.800.NEXT.STEP or 1.800.639.8783 1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 450, Phoenix, 85007 1.602.542.8998 or problemgambling.az.gov

PLAYERS TALK

Q&A On Everything Gaming

Q: Love your magazine! I have a question for Players Talk. Question is: I play a lot of Pai Gow and enjoy the slow pace of the game and my question concerns the dealing machines. I have been told that the machines are fair and random when dealing the cards out, but I have trouble understanding how the machine knows what the two card top (lower hand) should be. The dealer is able to touch the table screen and the machine tells the dealer what the best (house way) the two cards should be for each seat on the table. I was told that the machine looks at the cards as they come out of the shuffler after they have already been dealt. If that is so, how can the machine know if the deck is short a card and, if it is, exactly what card is missing? If the shuffler knows this information, can’t it also know the supposed random number that comes up indicating where the dealer starts the first hand and control exactly which hand will end up where?

I have heard different dealers try to explain this but each answer is different. I believe the Arizona Gaming Commission would not allow casinos to have a dealing machine that would favor the house, but I’m not really sure on that also. Can you clarify and explain exactly how the shuffler works? Thank you for your time and assistance.

Daniel Tom, Jr.—Surprise, AZ A: Daniel, you have a lot of valid questions about Pai Gow and it sounds like you have already gone to some lengths to have them answered by dealers at your favorite casinos.

Here’s what we know to be true about Pai Gow and the use of automatic shufflers and the screen used to assist game play. Pai Gow is a table game created by a company called Shufflemaster (now owned by the slot machine manufacturer Bally Technologies). Shufflemaster makes a device called the i-Deal single-deck specialty shuffler. This i-Deal device is independently tested by a third party lab for security, accuracy, and randomness. Furthermore, here in Arizona, automatic shufflers have to be retested on a regular basis according to the Tribal-State compacts overseen and enforced by the Arizona Department of Gaming, Arizona’s casino gaming regulatory agency. The i-Deal will alert a dealer during a new shuffle if a card is missing or if

there are extra cards and can be used to reconstruct hands for jackpot verification and other issues. These features, independent testing, recurring testing, and regulations combine to protect players, dealers, and the casino from cheating and other errors during game play. Once a dealer begins dealing a hand, the i-Deal no longer checks the deck until the next shuffle begins.

Shufflemaster also makes a device called i-Verify which players will see embedded into the table, generally between the chip tray and the betting positions. This device can be used together with the i-Deal shuffler in order to inform the dealer how to set their hand according to the prescribed house procedure. Every casino has a defined house procedure for Pai Gow allowing the game to have a long run house edge. As Pai Gow has a complicated strategy, the house procedure can be difficult for dealers and pit supervisors to remember at a moment’s notice! In addition, the i-Verify device can perform the same task for players.

That is, the i-Verify tells players how to best set their hand. The i-Verify device also uses its own random number generator to determine which player starts the next round of Pai Gow. Both the i-Deal and i-Verify devices are unable to influence the outcome of game play. Gaming regulations prohibit the i-Deal shuffler from arranging the deck in such a way as to benefit the casino and not the players. The Arizona Department of Gaming regulates casino gaming in the state and is very diligent about ensuring that all casino games are fair for both the players and the casinos. Furthermore, it is in the best interest of the casino that all of their games are fair. If the Arizona Department of Gaming were to find out that a game is not random, or a device isn’t functioning correctly, the casino is subject to regulatory infractions which they (obviously) want to avoid incurring. It is also in the best interest of players for the games at Arizona’s casinos to be fair as we don’t want to be accused of cheating!

Hopefully this provides additional insight into the answers you have been seeking. Good luck playing Pai Gow! Q: Re: June Players Talk Answer ... “Even though it’s highly unlikely, progressive values can keep growing and growing in value forever and never be hit!” How can that be? It sounds like players are being ripped off. Why should a person gamble if it is never attainable? If that is the case, is there a way to differentiate between them?

and get a $25 gas card if we decide to print your question!

Do you have a question for our staff of casino gaming industry professionals and slot experts? Write us with your questions and comments in any area of gaming and we will make every attempt to publish a response in upcoming issues. Space is limited so we are unable to print every letter or e-mail we receive. Please include your name and mailing address with all correspondence. Mail to: Arizona Gaming Guide PO BOX 20636 Mesa, AZ 85277 or E-mail to: editor@azgamingguide.com.

06 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

Q&A On Everything Gaming Have you or anyone there seen this happen?

Kathleen R. Williams—Prescott, AZ A: Kathleen, what you are referring to is one of the four points we indicated as part of a response to a reader regarding progressive slot games in our June 2013 issue. Here are those four fun facts again: Interesting Facts About Progressives: ●The Top Award on a progressive must occur, on average, once in every 50,000,000 plays according to the Arizona TribalState Gaming Compact! ●Very large progressives, like the MegaJackpots by IGT, are paid by the slot manufacturers and not the casinos! ●Even though it’s highly unlikely, progressive values can keep growing and growing in value forever and never be hit! ●Most progressives are set up so that players betting the maximum have an added advantage of winning the prizes. Always make sure to read the help screens to be clear about the rules.

In order to further clarify the issue, let’s pretend we have a slot with a progressive jackpot of $1 million whose odds are 1 in 10 million according to the mathematician who designed the game.

We can simplify this example as much as possible by indicating we are only interested in two outcomes, hitting the progressive or not hitting the progressive. Now, let’s act like the random number generator within this slot machine. We are blindfolded and reach into a bag containing one red ball (representing the progressive) that feels exactly like the other 9,999,999 white balls (not a progressive) also in the bag. How many times do you think we will have to reach into the bag in order to come out with the red ball (and win the progressive)? Once, ten times, a million times, ten million times, a hundred million times, one billion times? How long will it take? One day or ten years? Honestly, it’s anyone’s guess! Yet, mathematically, statistically, over the long run, the progressive will hit about once in every ten million draws because of the design of the slot.

So, yes, we have seen progressives not hit for a really, really, really long time and then finally hit. We have also seen a progressive not hit for a really long time and then the casino decided to remove the game. Now, as required by gaming regulations, the casino has a couple of options of how to keep the money ‘on the floor’ so it can be won by players at a future time.

One option is to redistribute the money to other existing progressive machines on the floor. However, since casinos tend to replace one progressive game with another, they usually end up adding the money into the meters of the new game. Therefore, you can rest assured knowing that even if a progressive is not hit before it leaves the floor, the accumulated values in the progressive will remain on the floor! Rest assured, players are NOT being cheated in any of these scenarios. $

PLAYERS TALK

The One Number Every Slot Player Should Know I really enjoy reading your Gaming Guide and I hold on to all of them. I love the tips. Since I missed issues, I went to your website and read through all the back copies. I loved your advice in “The One Number Every Slot Player Should Know” article. I passed it along to all my slot player friends as well.

Now, because of your article, we’re always counting spins between bonuses and trying to come up with averages together. It’s really helped me determine how much money I should risk in each slot. If the bonus doesn’t happen by my average number then I move on. This system has helped me not lose as much and I feel like I can determine when a machine is “cold” a lot quicker rather than sitting there and feeding it more and more money. So, I just wanted to say thank you for a great magazine. We just love all the helpful hints and tips you provide.

Keep up the good work!

Katie Grunfeld & Friends—Chandler, Arizona Katie & Friends, thank you for the kind remarks about our magazine. We truly appreciate your support of our publication! My team and I really enjoy what we do and we’re excited to share all the casino industry knowledge and experience we’ve acquired with all our fans!

Fortunately, us slot enthusiasts don’t have to rely on blind luck when playing our favorite games! Even though slot machines are based on random behavior, there’s still a math model behind each game! Referring to the article you mention, “The One Number Every Slot Player Should Know” [April, 2011] is the average number of spins (called the pulls-to-hit) it takes to trigger a bonus event—even if it’s just a ballpark figure! Knowing this number can help you determine an appropriate bankroll which will allow you to experience the game’s bonus at least once. It’s also a great way to judge a game’s performance during a particular play session.

To learn how to calculate the average number of spins it takes to get into your favorite slot’s bonus, take a look at page 20 of our April 2011 issue on our website. This issue and all other back issues can be found under “back issues” on our website at azgamingguide.com.

azgamingguide.com | January 2014 | Arizona Gaming Guide

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GREAT GAMES

Table Games—Blackjack

By Al Moe

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lackjack is one of the most popular casino games ever invented because it is fun and easy to play! And, you can actually improve your game by just remembering a few simple strategy rules. If you’re like most players, then you already know the basics of blackjack, like letting the dealer take the next card when you hold a hard 12 through 16 and the dealer has a 2 through 6 showing, but what about those split and double down hands? Knowing when to double your bet will allow you to win twice as much!

When to Double Down Not all blackjack tables are created equal, but the games in Arizona are some of the best in the world. You have the option to double down on any first two cards, and while this play is best with a 9, 10 or 11, you may also want to double down on a soft hand (an ace and 2 through 9).

When you double down, you are allowed to bet up to the size of your original wager in exchange for taking just a single card. It’s a good deal most of the time. Follow these rules and you’ll do great: ●When you hold a two-card nine, double down against a dealer upcard of 3 through 6, otherwise hit. ●When you hold a two-card ten, double down against a dealer upcard of 2 through 9, otherwise hit. ●When you hold a two-card 11, double down against a dealer upcard of 2 through 10, otherwise hit. ●When you hold Ace 2 or Ace 3, double down against a dealer upcard of 5 or 6, otherwise hit.

08 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

●When you hold Ace 4 or Ace 5, double down against a dealer upcard of 4, 5, or 6, otherwise hit. ●When you hold Ace 6, double down against a dealer upcard of 3, 4, 5 or 6, otherwise hit. ●When you hold Ace 7, double down against a dealer upcard of 3, 4, 5 or 6. Stand against 2, 7 or 8. Hit against a 9, ten or ace.

Don’t double down on Ace 8 or 9.

When to Split Pairs You can also split any pair by doubling your wager, do so with these hands: ●Split 2’s when the dealer upcard is 2 through 7, otherwise hit. ●Split 3’s when the dealer upcard is 2 through 7, otherwise hit. ●Split 6’s when the dealer upcard is 2 through 6, otherwise hit. ●Split 7’s when the dealer upcard is 2 through 7, otherwise hit. ●Split 8’s against any dealer upcard, because a 16 is a terrible hand. ●Split 9’s against any dealer upcard except 7, 10 and Ace. ●Don’t ever split your 10’s! ●Always split your Aces. Arizona casinos allow resplitting of Aces – so do it!

Good luck at the Blackjack tables. $ Writer Al Moe has worked in the casino industry for many years.

He has lived and worked in Las Vegas, Reno, and Lake Tahoe. He also attended the University of Nevada, Reno. He is an avid writer and blogger, author of “Vegas and the Mob"—available at Amazon.

He is also the proud father of four beautiful girls.

GREAT GAMES

New Slots

New Slots At Paradise Casino

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aradise Casino in Yuma, Arizona just recently installed a wide assortment of exciting new games. King of Dragons by Aruze Gaming, a new Innovator stepper series game, is the latest edition to their slot floor. This mythical dragon-themed game is a 5-reel, 30-line stepper with powerful reels, 15 different reel actions, and LEDs that light up in 7 different colors.

King of Dragons has an exciting Bonus and Free Games feature that is played on the top screen. The feature is triggered when 5 or more Orb symbols appear on the reels. The more Orbs that appear when the Bonus is triggered, the more credit awards are randomly selected during the Orb Prize Selection.

King of Dragons integrates classical stepper elements with new and exciting presentation modes that make for a wonderfully engaging game. While dragons may be imaginary, the thrill and excitement of King of Dragons is certainly real! $

12 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

OTHER NEW SLOTS NOW AT PARADISE CASINO: Crystal by Aruze Gaming The Gold by Aruze Gaming Catch the Money by Aruze Gaming The Great Inca by Aruze Gaming Michael Jackson King of Pop by Bally Texas Dice by Bally Dragon Lines by Bally Triple Trouble by Bally Dante’s Diamonds by Bally One Red Cent by Multimedia Games Wild Pixies by Multimedia Games Starry Night by Multimedia Games Carnival of Rio by Multimedia Games

New Slots

GREAT GAMES

New Slots At Harrah’s Ak-Chin

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esigned around the hit film franchise, Back to the Future: Back in Time by IGT is a 40-line game ready for play at Harrah’s Ak-Chin casino!

Players will be excited to see all the recognizable movie clips from the entire trilogy as they spin the reels for wilds, multipliers, scatter pays and more.

Thematic bonus rounds keep players engaged as they race against the clock in the interactive Time Flies!

Free Games Bonus which puts destiny in the player’s hands as they wind up the infamous clock tower to be awarded with thrilling multipliers. During the Wild West Bonus, players select symbols on the screen to collect fire logs that award credits and multipliers. The Time Circuit Scramble lets players choose four numbers to potentially match a series of numbers chosen by the game, leading to increased multipliers. Three classic movies and one perfect game prove that nostalgia and fun never go out of style! $

OTHER NEW SLOTS NOW AT HARRAH’S AK-CHIN: Hot Shot Dual Wheel by Bally Michael Jackson Wanna Be Startin’ Something by Bally

Crazy Money by Incredible Technologies Leonidas by Incredible Technologies Black Rose by Incredible Technologies Ferris Bueller by WMS Lord of the Rings Return of the King by WMS

New Slots At Desert Diamond Casino

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ootloose has made it onto the floor at Desert Diamond Casino in Tucson. So get your dancing shoes on and cut loose! This 5-reel, 30-payline, 50-credit cost-to-cover game offers four multi-level progressives, a base game that pays from left-to-right and right-to-left, and is packed with iconic imagery, hit music and main characters from the nostalgic film. The slot features stacked symbols and the Let’s Dance! Respin Feature. When two or more stacks of the same symbol land, they lock, award the player, and the other reels re-spin to award more credits!

Three Cut Loose bonus symbols trigger the bonus. During the bonus, players select pairs of shoes to reveal a number of steps up the bonus ladder. There are four progressives and four additional bonus events available including: Progressive Wheel Bonuses Wheel pointers are awarded based on the line bet multiplier, encouraging higher wagers for a chance at winning one of four progressive jackpots. Play the Hits Bonus Players choose from cassette tapes revealing credit awards and possible extra picks. Tractor Challenge Bonus Players select icons to reveal credit awards and forward movement as they play chicken with an opposing tractor. The Silver Spur Bar Bonus Players spin the bottle to earn credits and multipliers. Prom Party Free Spins Bonus Ten free games, all stacked symbols turn wild, and any two or more full stacks trigger the re-spin feature for big win opportunities. Head over to Desert Diamond now to get in on all the fun! $ DID YOU KNOW? The iconic title song Fo o tlo o se hit No.1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Popularity and fan following led to the successful remake of the film in 2011. The film’s soundtrack hit No. 1 on the US Billboard Top Soundtracks. Fo o tlo o se is now playing on Broadway!

azgamingguide.com | January 2014 | Arizona Gaming Guide

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GREAT GAMES

New Slots Coming Soon

The Game of Life—Pay Day

By WMS Gaming

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elect from a whole new variety of careers in this new take on The Game of Life board game that offers a distinct approach to awarding base game wins. The Bank of LIFE Pay table is a unique play mechanic in which any spin can increase awards that pay out on specific spin outcomes – a way to possibly win additional awards on each spin!

There’s also the Pay Day Feature that may award one of five different enhancements, including full WILD Reels, Multipliers, symbol upgrades and more. But that’s not all! Landing on the “Career Day” space on The Gam e of Life board triggers the Career Day Bonus, where players pick to match cards for Credits and multipliers!

It’s time to spin the reels in The Game of Life and win big because it’s Pay Day! Visit youtube at www.youtube.com/wmsslots or their website at wms.com for more information on this and other unique gaming experiences by WMS!

Ultra Stack Feature

By Aruze Gaming

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he Ultra Stack series is taking Ultra Stack Free Games to an entirely new level in the latest 5-reel, 50-line video game, Ultra Stack Feature. This exciting new slot

by Aruze Gaming is the first of its kind as it offers up to 200 Free Games! Between the random number selection and the 50 pandas jumping into the reels, players will find their excitement and enthusiasm at an all time high.

The Ultra Stack Free Games can be triggered by 3 FEATURE symbols appearing on 3 or more consecutive reels beginning with the left most reel. Each FEATURE symbol that was involved in triggering the Free Games will have a number between 1 and 10 appear within it, this is known as the random number selection. The sum of the numbers that appear within the FEATURE symbols will be added up and awarded as the total number of Ultra Stack Free Games to be played. Players can win a STACK and truly make it a FEATURE to remember—an ULTRA STACK FEATURE!

Pride of the Jungle

By Rocket Gaming

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ake way for the new king of the jungle—Rocket Gaming Systems new 5reel, 40-line video slot game called Pride of the Jungle.

Everyone will be talking about the exciting bonus features that Pride of the Jungle has to offer. This title is equipped with the Stacked Wilds feature where stacks of Wilds are loaded on all reels for gigantic wins that occur more frequently.

The Prid e of the Jungle symbol is Wild. Players that obtain twenty Pride of the Jungle symbols with max bet win the top award.

Three, four, or five Bonus symbols scattered adjacent from the leftmost reel triggers the Free Games Bonus. During the feature, extra stacks of Wilds are added to the reels. Watch wins grow as multipliers continue to increase for each awarded free game! For more information about this and other Rocket games, visit their website at rocketgaming.com.

14 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

Bally Technologies—New Slots Coming Soon

GREAT GAMES

Catch the Wave

By Riley Meredith

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ew slot machine cabinets hit the casino floors all the time and let’s face it, most don’t offer anything truly unique. But when it comes to the new cabinet from Bally, we definitely think it’s something you’re going to want to see and play. It’s called the ALPHA 2 Pro Series Wave.

Believe us, this is one you certainly won’t overlook on the casino floor. The Wave has a 40-inch HD touchscreen monitor that’s curved inward – the first of its kind in the casino industry and in any other industry for that matter. Touchscreens have been around for years, but we bet you haven’t come across a curved touchscreen. The unique design gives you an enormous area to play your favorite games on, but you won’t have to crane your neck up and down to take in all the action. It’s right there in front of you to reach out and touch.

So the cabinet sounds cool, but what about the games? This one is more than just a pretty face. Bally is producing many new games for the Wave designed to take advantage of its advanced features. The initial four are Fu Dao Le, Dragon Rising, Super Red Phoenix, and Super Rise of Ra. Fu Dao Le and Dragon Rising are both 243-way games and offer Bally’s Mystery Stacks play mechanic in the base game, which are only revealed once the reels have spun. These titles also include the Expanding Wilds feature on reel three, in which a partial stack of wilds expands into a full reel. Companion titles Super Red Phoenix and Super Rise of Ra also include Mystery Stacks in both the base game and free games, and Radiating Wilds in the Free Games feature. The Radiating Wilds expand to make all adjacent horizontal symbols wild, possibly covering entire reels of symbols.

All four games also offer the Red Envelope Jackpot progressive. This four-level linked mystery progressive is triggered by a red envelope on reels one and five. When hit, you’ll win one of the progressive jackpot amounts.

If you aren’t big on new games and prefer to stick with your favorites, there’s nothing to worry about since it isn’t just new titles you’ll enjoy on the Wave. Bally has also designed the Wave to work with their existing library of video slots you already know and love like Quick Hit. Watch for the wave to hit casino floors soon! $

azgamingguide.com | January 2014 | Arizona Gaming Guide

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WINNING WAYS

Players Weigh In On

Recently, we asked a group of players at Apache Gold Casino Resort several questions including why they liked to gamble at Apache Gold, w ha t memo ra ble experiences they ha d a t the ca sino , why they keep coming back to play there, and what their favorite games are at the casino.

The staff at The Arizona Gaming Guide have all played at the casino on many occasions over the years, so we had an idea as to what some of the answers might be. We knew we’d hear about their great selection of games (especially in pennies), the better payouts, the excellent and friendly customer service, the great comps at the player’s club, the delicious food, all the resort amenities including golf, the short and scenic drive from the Valley, the small town charm, and more! If you haven’t been before, or it’s been a while, we highly recommend our readers visit as soon as possible.

But don’t just take it from us, here’s what your fellow players had to say about Apache Gold!

Vivian Todd—Florence

Randall Graves—Safford

Rosalie Peralta—Solomon

“I win a lot and it’s my favorite place to have fun. Plus, the guest service is great!” Favorite Slot: Jungle Wild II by WMS.

“I win here and I love it at Apache Gold!”

Favorite Slots: Double Jackpot by Multimedia Games, including Tiger 7’s and Smokin’ 777.

“The casino is in a convenient location, has great jackpots and the right atmosphere!”

Favorite Slot: Triple Gold Bars by IGT.

Sherry Helsel—San Tan Valley

Al Chavez—Tempe

Phil Garcia—Clifton

“The staff is friendly and makes me feel welcome. Plus, the jackpots!” Favorite Games: 3 Card Poker and other live table games.

“Good comps and their high limit slot machines have better payouts!” Favorite Games: Slots and 3 Card Poker.

“In 2010, I hit jackpots of $1,200, $5,000, $18,000, and $2,000 all on the same slot!”

Favorite Slot: African Diamond by Konami.

18 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

WINNING WAYS

Apache Gold Casino Resort Apache Gold Casino Resort is owned by the San Carlos Apache Tribe whose tribal land covers over 1.8 million acres in eastern Arizona, from the Sonoran desert to Ponderosa pine forests.

Gina Jonovich—Globe

Josie Solis—Chandler

“I have been very lucky at the casino and the staff knows me by heart!” Favorite Slot: Triple Gold Bars by IGT.

“The casino is a lot of fun and I have the opportunity to meet a lot of nice folks! I’m a slot girl! Plus, I like the scenic drive.”

Daniel Hinojos—Winkelman

Don Bethke—Mesa

“The odds are better at Apache Gold than at other casinos. They’ve got a good variety of slots for me to play.”

“The machines are loose! Plus, I won $15,000. I prefer Apache Gold over going up North.” Favorite Slots: Any dollar slots.

Les Schwartz—Arizona

Doris Truelore—Texas

“I love their penny slots! And my son won $3,000 during a drawing.” Favorite Slot: Game King Keno by IGT.

“I win often! I hit two jackpots in one day. I like the slots and stick to the higher denomination games when I play.”

Located five miles east of Globe, Arizona on Highway 70, the casino features 600 of the newest slot machines, available 24/7. Discover the most penny slots in the State along with exclusive games like Apache Ponies.

Find state-of-the-art video and reel slot machines and progressives as well as Blackjack and poker, and play at their 200-seat Bingo Hall that’s open five days a week. Enjoy it all in a friendly and casual atmosphere that promises more uninterrupted play which means more chances to win. Join their Player’s Club to win valuable points for prizes and “perks,” like rounds of golf, hotel stays, and dining. For more info, call 800.APACHE.8 (800.272.2438) or visit apache-gold-casino.com. $

azgamingguide.com | January 2014 | Arizona Gaming Guide

19

GAMING NEWS

Law Enforcement Agencies Investigate Suspected Illegal Gambling

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n December 12, 2013, agents from the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG), Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, Phoenix Police Department, Department of Public Safety and the Glendale Police Department served simultaneous warrants at five locations around the Valley. This was part of a combined effort to pursue concerns over alleged illegal gambling operations throughout Phoenix.

on unrelated charges. To report suspected illegal gambling, contact your local police department or the ADG at 602.255.3888. $

Location of one of the suspected illegal gambling establishments.

The locations included: Pocket Rockets at 13048 W. Rancho Santa Fe Road Suites 115 & 117 in Avondale, Cracked Aces at 15224 N. 59th Avenue Suite 14 in Glendale, AZ Poker Supply at 6003 N. 43rd Avenue in Phoenix, Poker Play at 4494 W. Peoria Avenue in Glendale, and Joker Social Club at 3519 W. Northern Avenue in Phoenix.

The evidence gathered by agents suggests possible violations including: possession of gambling devices, benefitting from gambling, promotion of gambling, and possession of gambling records. Agents seized 11 poker tables and other gambling materials, thousands of poker chips, several televisions and surveillance equipment, computers, records and nearly $5,000 in cash. The investigation is ongoing and two people were arrested

Snapshot of seized surveillance footage allegedly depicting illegal gambling.

azgamingguide.com | January 2014 | Arizona Gaming Guide

21

GAMING NEWS

Player’s Card to Become General Purpose Prepaid Reloadable Card eading gaming technology supplier Aristocrat Technologies Inc. entered into a strategic partnership with Wave Crest Group to launch an openloop casino card. The project is aimed at improving the user experience for casino patrons and to provide casino operators with new payment and loyalty solutions to enhance the overall gaming and leisure experience.

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The open-loop casino card works in conjunction with a casino patron’s loyalty club card account and will be issued by partner banks providing FDIC insurance over casino patron balances and will be powered by the Wave Crest enterprise payments platform. The purpose of the card is to provide casino patrons with a convenient and secure way to electronically fund their loyalty club account from a single external source and to access their gaming winnings and other available funds through their casino card, enabling spend wherever open-loop prepaid cards are accepted. It also provides casino operators with a superior solution and integrated experience for their patrons while significantly reducing cost and risk associated with cash handling.

The casino card allows casino patrons to manage their gaming and leisure spending with a convenient and secure solution. As a General Purpose Reloadable Prepaid Card, it offers features that enable individual users to load and unload funds through their bank account, credit/debit cards and loyalty club personal banker account. The casino card can also be used to make retail and online purchases and to withdraw cash from ATMs. Users can also transfer funds between their casino card account and loyalty club personal banker account in real time. In addition, the casino card comes with an intuitive online account management system and a mobile application for Android and iOS based phones.

Aristocrat Vice President of Product Strategy Daniel De Waal said, “At Aristocrat we are transforming the game, and now with this new agreement with Wave Crest, we are transforming the way casino patrons pay for their gaming experience. Wave Crest Vice President of Business Development Jeremy Gies added, “The casino card provides players with an open-loop GPR card account for a seamless gaming and entertainment experience. Its advanced technology allows for easy transfer of funds between the card account and the casino cashier, and it can be used interchangeably to fund casino loyalty accounts or as a networkbranded payment card. Above all, it provides players with one card account for all entertainment spend that provides convenience, security, privacy, and flexibility.”

The open-loop casino card technology will be available to those casinos using Aristocrat’s Oasis 360 player tracking program. And, since the Oasis 360 is the most widely used system in Arizona, and North America, expect to be able to use this all-purpose card very soon! $

22 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

ARIZONA LOTTERY

Winners then took a closer look at the ticket and discovered what they thought was $5,000 was actually $50,000, the top prize for the game. Michael, who moved to Phoenix from Pennsylvania to be closer to his daughter, was happy beyond belief with his win.

He plans to pay off some bills, get a new car, take care of some personal expenses, and save the rest.

Michael Knight

$50,000 Bingo Scratcher

By Cindy Esquer

Michael, who is temporarily working as a manager for a sub shop, used to play guitar with a touring band. He is currently working to get back into the music field. He doesn’t have much spare time, but what time he does have, he spends with his daughter. The winning ticket was purchased at Albertsons, 8950 W. Bell Road, Peoria. $

$50,000 Money Tree Scratcher

ichael Knight of Peoria likes to play Bingo Scratchers, but only plays when he has extra cash. He recently purchased five $2 Bingo Scratchers. Then he took his winnings and purchased two Diam ond Dazzler tickets from the Lottery vending machine. At first he thought he’d won $150 and was thrilled, but then he and his girlfriend took a closer look and thought it was perhaps $5,000. Since they weren’t sure, they took the ticket to the store to be scanned.

The store clerk didn’t know how much the ticket was worth, but gave Michael the papers that the terminal had printed. They

24 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

Ashley Sanders

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Winners

ARIZONA LOTTERY

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lthough it ended up being a great day for Ashley Sanders, Friday, November 15, did not start out that way. As she was pulling in to the gas station, one of the tires on her car blew. She went to change it and discovered that the tire iron was not in the trunk. Another customer offered to help, but lo and behold, his tire iron was also missing from his car. Finally, the store clerk went to her car to get her tire iron, but it was too big. At which point, Ashley threw up her hands and went inside the store to get a cold drink. The way her luck had been running, she wasn’t surprised the store was out of the soda she wanted, so she got another flavor instead. While she was paying for her drink, she told the clerk, “I’m feeling lucky, give me a $5 Money Tree Scratchers.” Having observed the fiasco with the tire iron, the clerk laughed and said, “Right. Maybe you’ll get the jackpot.”

Ashley went back to her car to scratch the ticket and got the shock of her life. Her lucky feeling had become a reality; she’d just won the top prize of $50,000 on Money Tree. She went back inside the store to show the clerk. It was difficult to tell who was more excited, Ashley or the clerk. After she got home, Ashley called her family to tell them the good news. When she got to work, she immediately told her boss that she needed to redeem the ticket; he told her to “get going.” She had been wondering how she was going to come up with the money for her airfare home for the holidays. Now, she didn’t have to wonder anymore. She could take her trip, pay off some bills, and have some left to save. The winning ticket was purchased at a retailer at 5105 E. Elliot Road, Phoenix.

Frederick Alexander

$50,000 Coffee Break Crossword

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rederick Alexander of Glendale said, “I always play the crossword Scratchers.” He recently purchased one Coff ee Break Crossword and took it home for his wife to check. Only after she had checked it did he take it to a store to have it scanned. When Frederick took his ticket to the Arizona Lottery office to redeem it, he was still shocked that he’d won $50,000! He plans to share the money with his family. Some of it will be used for a down payment on a house and some of it will go towards a trust fund for his son. The winning ticket was purchased at Quik Trip, 5082 N.W. Grand Ave., Glendale. $

For more information on the Arizona Lottery, visit their website at arizonalottery.com.

For the winning numbers call 480.829.7425 in Phoenix or 520.325.9141 in Tucson. All other areas in Arizona, call 1.800.499.3798.

azgamingguide.com | January 2014 | Arizona Gaming Guide

25

B

lueWater Resort & Casino is proud to announce the opening of a major traveling exhibition, Leonardo da Vinci: Man-Inventor-Genius and Man-Artist-Genius.

Including 60 invention models and 23 replicated artistic masterpieces; Leonardo da Vinci is an educational exhibition of unequaled fascination.

Made to scale and produced by the Italian artisan family who has been building the inventions to da Vinci specifications for two centuries, the models of Man-Inventor-Genius include interactive inventions and machines from the four codices: flight, civil machines, hydraulics & engineering and military machines.

The craftsmanship and beauty of the materials used by da Vinci are represented just as they were in the 15th century.

Complimenting the invention models, Man-Artist-Genius combines made-to-scale replicas of all of da Vinci’s masterpiece paintings together with films of da Vinci’s life, an audio video guide and recorded music composed by da Vinci. Through this exhibition, visitors will have the rare opportunity of seeing all of da Vinci’s paintings together in the same place. Additionally, they will have the pleasure of considering how the masterpieces relate to the artist’s love of science and nature.

“BlueWater Resort & Casino will soon be home to over 80 replicas of Leonardo da Vinci’s creations. We look forward to sharing the story of da Vinci with the community, as it is truly a fascinating one,” said Anthony Chavez, representative of BlueWater Resort & Casino.

Leonardo da Vinci was one of the greatest geniuses the world has ever known. More than five hundred years ago, he designed flying machines, robots, submarines, underwater breathing gear, solar powered industries and laid most of the groundwork for the artificial heart valve. With little formal education, his brilliance lay in his ability to master different subjects and fuse them together through observation, insight and inspiration.

Images Copyright © Event Marketing Services, Vienna.

Leonardo da Vinci: Man Inventor Genius & Man Artist Genius.

Exhibition tour organized by EMS Vienna and distributed by Exhibits Development Group, USA.

26 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

The exhibition includes interactive computer stations, an educational time room, theatre room and music composed by da Vin-

ci. In addition, the Leonardo da Vinci: Man-Artist-Genius exhibition presents the twenty-three da Vinci masterpieces to replicated scale, making it the most comprehensive and educational da Vinci exhibition ever to tour the United States.

The exhibition opens to the public in the BlueWater Showroom Saturday, January 11, 2014 and continues through April 22, 2014. The hours of operation will be from 8am to 10pm, seven days a week. Admission is $20 (discounts may apply) and presale tickets are now available for $15. For more information please call 866.636.0171 or visit bluewaterfun.com/davinci.

Opened in 1999, BlueWater Resort & Casino, along the shores of the Colorado River in Parker, Arizona, is fast becoming the entertainment capital of western Arizona. An enterprise of the Colorado River Indian Tribes, BlueWater features 200 river and mountain view rooms and suites, over 500 slot machines, table games, poker room and a bingo hall.

Nationally renowned celebrities appear regularly at the BlueWater Amphitheater and Show Room; performing January 25th is Wynonna and the Big Noise and Kenny Rogers March 22nd.

The resort has an over 100 slip marina, and several restaurants including River Willow, Parker’s outstanding steakhouse, and The River’s Edge Cantina, a dockside open-air marina restaurant and night club along with the Wake Board Island wake board cable park. For reservations and information, call 888.243.3360 or visit bluewaterfun.com. $

 Leonardo was the embodiment of a Renaissance Man

having been a painter, sculptor, architect, musician, mathematician, engineer, inventor, anatomist, geologist, cartographer, botanist, and writer!  An ambidextrous, paranoid dyslexic, Leonardo could

draw forward with one hand while writing backward with the other, producing a mirror-image script that others found difficult to read—which was exactly the point!  Famous Leonardo da Vinci quotes include:

He who thinks little, errs much.

I know that many will call this useless work.

There are three classes of people: those who see, those who see when they are shown, and those who do not see. azgamingguide.com | January 2014 | Arizona Gaming Guide

27

CASINO DINING

• 3 cups all-purpose flour • 1 tablespoon baking powder • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 ¼ cups warm water • Oil for cooking

Mix flour, baking powder and salt together. Then, slowly pour the warm water into the center and mix by hand. Make sure that the dough is smooth and not sticky. If the dough is too sticky, add a pinch of flour until it is smooth. Cover the dough for 10 minutes with a dishtowel. Next, divide the mixture in two equal halves. Then, divide each half into two equal halves. Continue with this process until you have eight equal sized portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten with a rolling pin or by hand. Preheat an inch of oil in a frying pan and place the dough in the pan when oil is hot. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the edges are brown, and then flip over. Once fried, place on a paper towel to absorb any excess grease. Top with powdered sugar, honey, jam, maple syrup and crushed walnuts, or use as a base for an Indian Taco. ——— Submitted By Tanya Mendez

Best Casino Indian Fry Bread Our favorite: Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort near Flagstaff. Specialties include Fry Bread Hamburgers, Fry Bread Fajitas, and so much more! A must try as a main dish or a dessert or both!

28 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

azgamingguide.com | November 2013 | Arizona Gaming Guide

29

TRIBAL NEWS

Great For Tribes. Great For Arizona.

Left to right: Debra Griffin—President of the Gila River Gaming Enterprises Board of Directors, Derrick Watchman—Navajo National Gaming Enterprises CEO and Chairman of the Board of the National Council on American Indian Enterprise Development, John James—CEO of Gila River Gaming Enterprises.

By Rachel Brockway

he tribal enterprises that are the foundation for the Arizona Indian Gaming Association (AIGA) have a great story to tell. While many people associate the Arizona casinos with entertainment, most don’t realize the far-reaching community benefits our state receives that are a direct result of the economic impact of Arizona’s tribal casinos.

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contributed nearly $1 billion in total revenues to Arizona. But the benefits to the state go far beyond the money contributed through Proposition 202. Not only do the tribal casinos employ more than 15,000 people, who pay income, sales and other taxes, but they also make an indirect impact through volunteer work and investments.

When many of Arizona’s tribes put forth the proposition to have gaming available on tribal lands, the leadership made a promise to the state and local governments to give a portion of the gaming revenue back. In 2002, when Arizona voters passed Proposition 202, the gaming compacts outlined the specifics of that promise. Today that means 12 percent is directed to city, town and county governments for government services and an additional nine percent goes to the state’s regulatory expenses.

The tribes contribute the remaining 79 percent to the Arizona Benefits Fund, a grass roots organization of individuals, businesses, tribes, not-for-profit and for-profit organizations. The fund supports such programs as education, emergency services, wildlife and habitat conservation, statewide tourism and the prevention and treatment of problem gambling.

For example, this year the Ak-Chin Indian Community, who is an AIGA member, made a financial investment in the city of Maricopa. The community’s $10 million investment is not only directly supporting the Maricopa Unified School District, but a significant portion of that investment has been allocated to the operation of the city’s Copper Sky Recreational Complex.

According to a report conducted by the AIGA, since 2002 the 22 Native American tribes that have compacts with the state have

Through earnings from Harrah’s Ak-Chin and Ak-Chin Farms, the community has made significant investments, not only on

30 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

“Proposition 202 has made an impact far beyond the original projections to provide much needed support to our state,” said Ak-Chin Tribal Chairman Louis J. Manuel Jr. “The Ak-Chin Indian Community is an active participant in the AIGA because we believe that it is the right thing to do and it is at the core of who we are which is to help better our community, the community around us and the state of Arizona.”

TRIBAL NEWS tribal lands but also in the surrounding communities. Adding multiple enterprises such as the Ultrastar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle and Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Course allows the Ak-Chin Indian Community to continue adding jobs, multiple revenue sources and much needed volunteers.

For example, Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino employees make a difference through volunteering with the HERO program. In 2012, the Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino HERO volunteers broke the property record for the amount of time and money donated. Harrah’s AkChin volunteers logged more than 12,000 volunteer hours. The casino and its employees continue to donate their time and attention via participation in events throughout the year that benefit local non-profit organizations. In fact, over 65 percent of more than 700 employees participated during the year.

Tribal gaming is important to the state of Arizona as it provides much needed financial support for important programs such as education and emergency services. The AIGA continues to advocate, educate and promote Tribal gaming to benefit Tribes and all of Arizona. It is important for the population of Arizona to understand that our Tribal casinos provide us with much more than entertainment and there are multiple community benefits that our state receives that we otherwise would not have. $

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino (above) and its HERO volunteers (pictured below) with Robert Livingston ,Vice President and General Manager, present a $50,000 donation on behalf of Caesars Foundation, to Wendy Webb, Executive Director of F.O.R. Maricopa. This $50,000 check is the second installment of a combined 3 year $300,000 donation with the Ak-Chin Indian Community.

The tribes that currently have compacts with the state are: Ak-Chin Indian Community, Cocopah Tribe, Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, Fort Mojave Indian Tribe, Fort Yuma-Quechan Tribe, Gila River Indian Community, Havasupai Tribe, Hualapai Tribe, Kaibab Paiute Tribe, Navajo Nation, Pascua Yaqui Tribe, Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community, San Carlos Apache Tribe, Tohono O’odham Nation, White Mountain Apache Tribe, Yavapai Apache Nation and Zuni Tribe. For more information about the AIGA and their members, please visit azindiangaming.org.

azgamingguide.com | January 2014 | Arizona Gaming Guide

31

CASINO GOLF

Say Wow To Sewailo

Sewailo Golf Course in Tucson, Arizona.

Sewailo Golf Course Tees Off Sewailo means “Flower World” which is the heritage of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe of Native Americans, owners of the land, the casino and now the golf course.

By Lee Allen

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t took longer than anticipated to get the greens ready and the ball teed up, but Sewailo Golf Course in Tucson, Arizona, an 18-hole, par 72 championship layout owned by the Pascua Yaqui tribe, is now open for business.

Backhoes and bulldozers showed up in mid-February 2012 to break ground with an announced opening date of 12-12-12. In ceremonies that day, a deer dancer blessed the grounds and tribal chairman Peter Yucupicio noted, “You can’t just come in, fire up the bulldozers and start changing the landscape. You have to first talk to the land and ask for permission. We asked our Creator and the ground, the trees, the rocks --God put you here for a reason and we’re going to change you a bit, but all the things we’re doing are for everyone’s benefit…the tribe, all of Tucson, all of Southern Arizona.”

And for any golfer anywhere who visits the newest of Tucson’s golf courses (three are already ranked in Golf Digest’s 75 Best Golf Resorts in North America—The RitzCarlton at Dove Mountain; the Lodge at Ventana Canyon, and Lowes Ventana Canyon). “This lush, oasis-style, PGA-quality course will revolutionize golf in this part of the country,” said Navajo/Pueblo native course designer Notah Begay III, former pro golfer now golf commentator for NBC TV and The Golf Channel (as well as former college roommate of another golfing icon, Tiger Woods).

32 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

CASINO GOLF Sewailo (Flower World in the Yaqui language) is the third course designed by Begay who walked the terrain before conceptualizing a layout plan. “These projects start from the standpoint of culture and it’s important we maintain and respect culture and tradition in the communities we work with. I asked for guidance from our Creator as we shaped these holes.”

There was a whole lot of shaping going on as the plan evolved.

“This will be one of the top courses in Arizona,” Begay predicted. “The course design, from routing of the holes to landscape architecture, will put us in strong consideration for one of the top rankings. This course will have the capability to challenge golfers of all skill levels.”

Managed by Troon Golf of Scottsdale, a group that already oversees properties in more than two dozen states and an equal number of countries, will handle daily coordination. By their estimation, it should take 4 ½ hours to play through the 18-hole, par 72 course that measures 7,400 yards from the championship tees (with 5 different tee boxes on each hole to allow for players of all abilities).

Nestled nicely on the 200-acre Pascua Yaqui property, large lakes, flowing streams, waterfalls, and plush landscaping blend with the northern Sonoran desert topography to create a transition from desert to oasis, winding seamlessly through gentlyrolling terrain.

The course will feature an extensive driving range and practice areas for putting and chipping. A full complement of Callaway Golf rental equipment is available for both guests of the Casino Del Sol Resort and the general public.

“The Pascua Yaqui tribe continues to shape this land and create economic opportunities,” former development officer Mark Birtha announced at the groundbreaking event. “From the initial Casino of the Sun to the Ava Amphitheatre entertainment venue to the $130 million Casino Del Sol Resort, it’s all part of

Sewailo Golf Course in Tucson, Arizona.

our mission to create a boutique property with the bells and whistles of a Las Vegas resort, and the golf course celebrates the beginning of yet another new chapter.”

Tribal Chairman Peter Yucupicio told the audience at the ribbon -cutting: “We’ve gone from a ‘you can’t do anything with this land’ prediction to all the things we’ve already built and we’re not going to stop here.”

For Begay, the successful golfer turned commentator turned businessman turned entrepreneur, the new course bearing his stamp is another example of the perseverance and dedication necessary to be a success in the business world and a model for Native youth to follow.

“By age 6, I was recycling aluminum cans to raise enough money to buy a bucket of practice balls. By age 9, I was working for the club pro --- for free --- to have no-cost access to the course.

And by age 17, I was the #1 junior golfer in the country.” The uphill climb continued on the PGA tour with four tournament wins that brought in more than $5 million.

Cognizant of the full-circle concept, Begay now gives back in the form of dollar donations to charities and mentoring of Native youth. “I get media attention because of who I am and you can leverage that celebrity into a collective good by leading by example,” he says. “My message is don’t buy into a negative philosophy and don’t limit your dreams. As Indian peoples, our business endeavors are doing well and we’re gaining traction in a lot of areas.”

Stressing that helping hands help all those involved, Begay looked out over the sparkling fairways he helped create and said, “When I first came here, there was a lot of uncertainty about what a world-class golf facility could do for the community and today we note, this isn’t an end, it’s just a beginning.

When it comes to golf courses, I’ve seen the best and played the best and it doesn’t get any better than this.” $

Notah Begay at the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

azgamingguide.com | January 2014 | Arizona Gaming Guide

33

LAUGHLIN, NEVADA

Directory & Gaming Statistics

Aquarius Casino Resort 800.662.LUCK aquariuscasinoresort.com.

1,250+ slots, no smoking slot area, high limit slots area, blackjack, table games, roulette, craps, keno, race/ sports book.

Avi Resort & Casino (Fort Mojave Tribe) 800.430.0721 avicasino.com.

1,000+ slots, bingo, blackjack, table games, craps, roulette, poker room, keno, race/sports book, KidsQuest.

Colorado Belle Hotel Casino 877.460.0777 coloradobelle.com.

750+ slots, blackjack, table games, craps, roulette, poker room, keno, race/sports book. Build your own amazing burger at Pint’s Brewery!

Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino 800.227.3849 riversideresort.com.

1,300+ slots, no smoking slot area, high limit slots area, bingo, blackjack, table games, craps, roulette, poker room, keno, race/sports book.

Edgewater Hotel Casino 800.677.4837 edgewater-casino.com.

750+ slots, no smoking slot area, high limit slots area, blackjack, table games, roulette, craps, race/sports book. Great all-around casino!

Golden Nugget Laughlin 800.237.1739 goldennugget.com/laughlin 1,000+ slots, blackjack, table games, craps, roulette, poker room, sports book. Sign up for the player’s club and spin for free play!

Harrah’s Laughlin 800.447.8700 harrahslaughlin.com 900+ slots, no smoking slot area, high limit slots area, blackjack, table games, craps, roulette, poker room, live keno, race/sports book.

Pioneer Hotel & Gambling Hall 800.634.3469 pioneerlaughlin.com 490 slots, blackjack, table games, craps, roulette, sports book. Make sure to check out the video poker & reel slots!

Laughlin’s Gaming Statistics October 2013 Slots

Hold % Tables

Hold %

3.29

Craps

14.16

$1

4.66

Blackjack / 21

16.77

25¢

5.86

Pai Gow Poker

18.81

Multi-Denom 6.44

Roulette

21.77

$5

7.59

Let It Ride

25.55

5¢

8.58

Other Table Games 28.87

1¢

11.98

Three Card Poker

Tight Megabucks

15.79

Loose $25

River Palms Resort Casino 877.787.7256 river-palms.com 550+ slots, bingo, blackjack, table games, craps, roulette, sports book.

Don’t miss the view of the river from Denny’s!

Tropicana Laughlin 800.243.6846 tropicanax.com 1,000+ slots, blackjack, table games, craps, roulette, and a sports book.

Stop in for lunch at Carnegie’s or the Poolside Café and enjoy the food!

Other We are not responsible for incorrect, missing, or outdated information. To inform us of updates, please email editor@azgamingguide.com. The Nevada Gaming Control Board publishes statistics on casino gaming activity in Nevada according to their state’s gaming regulations. The most current data for Laughlin at press time is from three months prior. *A negative hold percentage indicates that game overpaid during the stated month.

34 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

Loose Sports Pools Race Books

Tight Live Keno

33.58

Hold % Revenue

Dollars

14.37

Slots

37.0 mil.

16.79

Tables

3.3 mil.

18.26

Other

0.7 mil.

LAUGHLIN, NEVADA

News

All-You-Can-Eat Baby Back Ribs Only $12.95

During your next trip to Laughlin, make sure to stop in at The Pioneer Hotel & Gambling Hall for delicious All-You-Can-Eat Baby Back Ribs for $12.95 at the Boarding House Restaurant served from 4-9pm every Saturday. Other specials include Steak & Lobster meal for only $15.95 on Thursdays, Prime Rib or Shrimp Scampi for $15.95 on Fridays, and their award-winning Champagne Brunch for $11.95 every Sunday from 8am-1pm. For more information call 1.855.525.2125.

36 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

News

LAUGHLIN, NEVADA

CAPRIOTTI’S COMES TO LAUGHLIN! Edgewater sandwich shop 100th Capriotti’s location.

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he first ever Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop on the Laughlin strip is now open at the Edgewater Casino Resort.

The sandwich shop is located at the south end of the casino floor near the casino’s river walk access and just steps away from the Race & Sports Book and Edgewater’s Showroom.

The 100th franchise opening for Capriotti’s, Edgewater’s shop is a milestone in the award-winning sandwich franchise’s 37-year history. The shop’s The Bobbie, pictured right, is a savory sandwich filled with roasted turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce with a touch of mayo on a freshly baked roll voted “The Greatest Sandwich in America” by AOL readers.

Capriotti’s roasts their turkey and beef in-house nightly to ensure the highest quality in its signature subs. In addition to offering a wide range of sandwiches, Capriotti’s also handtosses a variety of fresh salads such as The Black & Blue, made with chopped greens, homemade premium roast beef, tomatoes, diced cucumbers and topped with bleu cheese crumbles.

“We are extremely excited to open Capriotti’s at the Edgewater.

The sandwich shop’s products are very popular wherever a shop is located. We’re confident the shop will provide an exceptional dining experience and value for our guests,” said Nick Della Penna, Vice President of Food & Beverage. Capriotti’s is open daily starting at 10:30am. For more information about Capriotti’s or the Edgewater Casino Resort visit edgewater-casino.com. $

Security cameras at Aquarius Casino Resort in Laughlin, Nevada confirmed the number 31 hit a lucky seven times in a row at one of the Aquarius roulette tables just recently. A lucky player was at the roulette table at the time of the anomaly and won $540.

On roulette, players have a 38 to 1 chance of hitting a specific number. The odds of hitting a specific number seven times in a row are approximately 114 billion to one! “The odds of this happening are astronomical,” said Aquarius Casino Resort General Manager Sean Hammond. “We have inspected the wheel and reviewed the play. Everything checks out.” Now that was one lucky run!

azgamingguide.com | January 2014 | Arizona Gaming Guide

37

CASINO ENTERTAINMENT

Listings

Apache Gold Casino—Globe, AZ—800.272.2438 Cabaret Lounge: Featuring a variety of live bands every weekend Pavilion: Chris Young with special guest Tommy Ash Band—Jan. 17 BlueWater Casino—Parker, AZ—888.243.3360 Dig Lounge: Featuring a variety of live bands, karaoke & DJs—Daily at 5pm BlueWater Showroom: Leonardo da Vinci Exhibition—Jan. 11-Apr. 22 Wynona & Big Noise—Jan. 25 Kenny Rogers—Mar. 22 Casino Arizona—Scottsdale, AZ—480.850.7777 The Showroom: Monday Night Showroom Football—Mondays during football season Pyromania (Def Leppard Tribute)—Jan. 10-11 Motley Crue’d (Motley Crue Tribute)—Jan. 24-25 Queen Nation (Queen Tribute)—Jan. 31-Feb. 1 Led Zepagain (Led Zeppelin Tribute)—Feb. 7 Aeromyth (Aerosmith Tribute)—Feb. 21-22 Wanted (Bon Jovi Tribute)—Feb. 28-Mar. 1 The Arizona Room: Country Dance Nights (Learn to dance)—Wednesdays at 6pm Marty Taylor Band (Cover band)—Sundays from 9pm to 1am Casino Del Sol—Tucson, AZ—520.838.6506 AVA Amphitheater: No event information for January at press time.

Cliff Castle Casino—Camp Verde, AZ—800.381.7568 Dragonfly Lounge: Featuring a variety of live bands, karaoke & DJs Cocopah Resort Casino—Somerton, AZ—800.237.5687 Events: Comedy Night with The Comedy Machine—Jan. 18 Karaoke with Bling Bling—We-Fr at 8pm La Vida Loca (Latin Music)—Fr at 9pm A variety of live music every Saturday night on the casino floor Desert Diamond Casino I—Tucson, AZ—866.332.9467 Monsoon Nightclub: Groovin’ Fridays—Tucson's Funkiest Old School Dance Party!

Noches Caliente—Saturdays the hottest Tex Mex and Tejano music!

Desert Diamond Casino II—Sahuarita, AZ—866.332.9467 Sports Bar: Karaoke Night in the Sports Bar—Wednesdays 7-11pm Live music or DJs—Fridays & Saturdays Diamond Center: STYX—Jan. 17 Chris Young—Jan. 18 Oh What A Night!—Feb. 8 Rodney Atkins—Feb. 22 (Rodeo Weekend) Ron “Tater Salad” White—Mar. 29 Doobie Brothers—Apr. 4

38 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

Oh What a Night! is a loving concert and tribute to the music of the boys from Jersey, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. This is an exciting musical revue written by Motown producer and creative consultant George Solomon, directed by award-winning producer/director Michael Chapman with choreography by Paul Holmquist. This exhilarating musical revue has been thrilling audiences across the world with great choreography, boundless energy, humor and timeless pop classics. Sherry, Big Girls Don't Cry, Walk Like A Man, Can't Take My Eyes Off You, My Eyes Adored You, Working My Way Back To You, Let's Hang On and Who Loves You are just some of the many hits you' ll enjoy from the dynamic songbook of those boys from Jersey, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Between the score of recognizable tunes, Oh What a Night! delivers informative and often hilarious banter between the stellar, high-spirited cast.

Treena Parvello, Director of Public Relations and Communications for the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise, said “Join us for a family-friendly afternoon of music, dance, and laughter as we celebrate the amazing music Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons with Oh What a Night!”

Fort McDowell Casino—Fort McDowell, AZ—800.843.3678 Lucky 7 Saloon: Featuring a variety of live music every weekend Harrah's Ak-Chin Casino—Maricopa, AZ—480.802.5000 The Lounge: John Anderson—Jan. 17 The Hamptons—Jan. 18 Kalimba Band (Earth, Wind & fire Tribute)—Jan. 24 Georgia Chrome—Jan. 25 Cold Shott—Jan. 31 Wild Wednesdays fro m No o n to 4pm: Sw ingtips—Jan. 8, Band Stand Shows 50’s—Jan. 15, Trio 380—Jan. 22, Silhouette—Jan. 29.

Hot Latin Nights fro m 8pm to midnight o n Thursda ys fea tures AzTex—Jan. 16.

Hon-Dah Casino—Pinetop, AZ—800.929.8744 Timbers Lounge and Showroom: Munday Funday—Comedy Show begins at 7pm Featuring a variety of live local talent Tuesday through Saturday

Editor’s Pick Lone Butte Casino—Chandler, AZ—800.946.4452 Cascades Lounge: Phoenix area bands & DJs offer free live entertainment We—Country, Th—Polka Party, Fr—Latin, Sa—Top 40/Dance Verona Chophouse: Talia Live— Saturdays 5-9pm Sunday Jazz Brunch Live—10am-3pm

CASINO ENTERTAINMENT Talking Stick Resort Presents

STYX January 18, 2014

Mazatzal Casino—Payson, AZ—800.777.7529 Event Center: No events scheduled at press time.

Paradise Casino—Yuma, AZ—888.777.4946 Sharky’s Bar & Bites: Featuring a variety of live music on the weekends Quechan Casino—Winterhaven, CA—877.783.2426 Sidewinders Bar & Grill: Featuring a variety of live music on the weekends Pipa Event Center: EP EXPO (Elvis Presley Tribute)—Jan. 16-18 Talking Stick Resort—Scottsdale, AZ—480.850.7777 The Showroom & Grand Ballroom: STYX—Jan. 18 Hot Tuna and Leon Russell—Jan. 24 Larry The Cable Guy—Feb. 1 Average White Band—Feb. 8 Twin Arrows Navajo Casino—Flagstaff, AZ—855.946.8946 Featuring a variety of local, regional & headlining acts. Call for info.

Vee Quiva Casino—Laveen, AZ—800.946.4452 VQ Live: Featuring a variety of cover bands, local & regional acts. Call for info.

Event Center: JoDee Messina—Feb. 14 Little Joe y La Familia—Feb. 15 Under a Blood Red Sky (U2 Tribute)—Mar. 15 Wild Horse Pass Casino—Chandler, AZ—800.946.4452 AiRIA Unplugged—Live music Fri & Sat 4pm-2am Encore Lounge—Featuring a variety of live music nightly Classics With A Twist—Featuring jazz music & cocktails Thu-Sun Showroom: Daughtry—Dec. 6 Eddie Money—Dec. 7 Ana Barbara & The Mariachi Sol de Mexico Jose Fernandez—Dec. 13 Big Bad Voodoo Daddy—Dec. 27 Chris Simpson and Adam Gropman (Comedy)—Dec. 28 Pwerdrive—Dec. 31 AbbaFab (ABBA Tribute)—Jan. 4, 2014 Yavapai Casino—Prescott, AZ—800.756.8744 Yavapai Cantina: Karaoke with Cruisin’ Susan—Fr at 8pm-12am Featuring a variety of live bands on Saturdays from 7 to 10pm

Blending heavy guitar riffs with elements of musical theater, Styx revolutionized the rock genre the moment they emerged from a Chicago basement in the early 70s.

Fans will rock out to the group’s signature sound when they return to Talking Stick Resort in the Salt River Grand Ballroom on Jan. 18. Classic hits include Blue Collar Man, Come Sail Away, and Too Much Time On My Hands. Styx embarked on the musical scene more than three decades ago. The band’s roster changed several times throughout its career with legendary guitarist Tommy Shaw joining the group in 1975. Shaw proved to be a great fit as the band would go on to release 16 Top 40 hits and four consecutive triple-platinum albums. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to Shaw and company when Styx is live in Scottsdale! Tickets for the concert are on sale now. Call 480.850.7777 and ask for the box office or visit their website at talkingstickresort.com for more information.

Verify all details & age restrictions (generally 21 & over) for each event. Venues, times, dates, & ticket information are subject to change. Photos/images copyright of the individual artist(s), photographer(s), or venue(s). All Rights Reserved. We are not responsible for incorrect, missing, or outdated information.

azgamingguide.com | January 2014 | Arizona Gaming Guide

39

CASINO NIGHTLIFE

By Ramses Ja

I

t’s time to put a name to the face you have been seeing and the voice you have been hearing across the valley! Andrew “Hospe” Hospedales is a talented DJ/host that has been appearing more and more frequently at Talking Stick Resort’s rooftop nightclub Degree 270 as well as in their TSR Lounge. I am familiar with him as a radio personality, so his hosting prowess came as no surprise…but his skills on the turntables really impressed me. I finally convinced him to take the time to tell me what makes partying with him so much fun…

RJ: For those who don’t know you, tell us a little about yourself.

I first started DJing in Southern California in Orange County as a teenager. I started with local house parties for classmates and community events. Eventually, I started DJing for local promoters. I moved to Tucson in 2006 to take a job in radio. I began hosting on Hot 98.3 and DJing parties around Tucson—primarily for the U of A crowd. I moved up to Phoenix almost 2 years ago to host the morning show on 101.1 FM The Beat, and I have been DJing here and in Tucson ever since then.

RJ: I’ve heard you spin and I noticed that you are very good at reading your crowd. What do you think makes you such a good DJ? I honestly don’t know how to answer that! If I had to guess, I would think that my time in Tucson gave me an awesome opportunity to learn the different ways people consume music. My station was geared toward the college crowd. Tucson is a big party town and the people there aren’t afraid of new music. Maybe that’s why I’m so confident during my sets. I believe that people will love the music if it’s presented to them the right way and the set is balanced with music they already love and music they will love once they hear it!

“If music is the heart of the party, then the DJ is the brain!” -Hospe

are awesome…the crowd and the energy are awesome! Everyone has a good time up there!

I couldn’t agree more! It is certainly true that Hospe knows how to rock a party! Having a passion for all genres of music coupled with his unmatched technical proficiency on the turntables ensures that Hospe can cater to all types of crowds. In his own words, Hospe states: “If music is the heart of the party, then the DJ is the brain!” Genius!

Talking Stick Resort’s TSR Lounge is located just downstairs from the main casino floor in the Atrium. The TSR Lounge features a live DJ, drink specials, and a plush ambiance to enjoy your weekends out. Enjoy the party at the TSR Lounge every weekend on Fridays from 8pm to 2am and Saturdays from 5pm to 2am! Located high on the hotel's 14th floor, Degree 270 offers an unbeatable mix of live entertainment, great dancing, and picturesque views of the Valley. New additions to this venue include an expanded dance floor, modern décor and renovated bar. Degree 270 is open Fridays and Saturdays from 8pm to 2am. Cover is $10 for men, complimentary for women and free for everyone on Friday nights. Must be 21 years or older to enter both establishments. For more information on TSR Lounge and Degree 270, visit talkingstickresort.com or call 480.850.7777. $

Ramses Ja Rudi King-Taylor II

•Music Director/On-Air Host (3-7pm) for KNRJ-FM 101.1 The Beat

RJ: So when and where can people catch your performance?

First and foremost, listen to me on the radio! I’m on Monday through Friday on 101.1 FM from 6am – 10am. Last year I spent some time in the TSR Lounge, but toward the end I found myself spinning more and more upstairs at Degree 270 on Saturdays. The other DJ Q Ward and I have been firing on all cylinders for some time now, so I’m hoping that continues. The view is awesome…the staff and the bartenders

40 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

•Resident DJ/VJ for KTVK-3TV Friday 10am •Host of R.E.D.Y. Set Radio •Official Bum Squad DJ •DJ Vatican Member •For more information on Ramses Ja, visit his website at: ramsesja.com.

HOT DEALS

January Promotions

7 LUCKY REASONS To Visit Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort Early Bird Slot Challenge Saturday, January 11th & 25th 9AM –NOON Win your share of $1,000. 1st Place wins $500 Free Play.

Earn 50 points to play.

Pay It Off Payday Every Thursday in January 7 – 10PM Pay off your Holiday bills by winning up to $5,000. Drawings are every 30 minutes. Earn 50 points for each entry.

Senior Monday Slot Challenge Every Monday in January 9AM – NOON Win your share of $1,000. 1st Place wins $500 in Free Play. Earn 50 points to play.

$10,000 Progressive Payout Monday, January 20th 2 – 6PM Win $1,000 every 30 minutes with unclaimed prizes rolling over. At 6PM they’ll add $2,000 to any unclaimed prizes. Earn extra entries every 500 points earned.

Navajo Fajitas at the Four Elements Cafe 2014 Toyota Tundra Truck Giveaway Friday, January 31st from 7 – 10PM Earn entries all month long. Drawings of $500 every hour. Every 50 points earns an entry.

42 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

Grilled Sirloin, Peppers, Onions, Fry Bread, Salsa, Guacamole, Sour Cream, Cilantro Rice, and Black Beans. This amazing meal will leave you stuffed for only $12.75!

Birthday Free Play Giveaway! Monday, January 27th 6 – 8PM Win your share of $2,500 every 30 minutes when your birthday matches the date drawn. Plus, free cake and ice cream!

CASINO BINGO DIRECTORY

The bingo hall at Paradise Casino in Yuma, Arizona is always a beehive of activity with lots of winning action. Located just off the main casino floor, players will find paper and electronic options for every level of bingo fan. If you haven't visited, it’s probably time to check it out!

sort. Players dressed as Elvis Presley will receive one free book.

Winning on the free book pays double with multiple winners splitting prizes. The buy-ins are $10 paper, $15 electronic, and $25 for the KOZMIC special. Music during the KOZMIC bingo session is provided by DJ MONEY.

The bingo hall will host special sessions on Monday, January 20th in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a 6pm $500 “Must Go” and on Saturday, January 11th a special KOZMIC Bingo session at 10pm during the EP EXPO (Elvis Presley Tribute) weekend held at their sister property, Quechan Casino Re-

With a 300 seat hall, your chances of winning are excellent and you can buy in for as low as $8 with a paper pack. Now that’s a deal worth checking out! For more information about Paradise Casino Bingo, session times, specials and events, phone 800.777.4946 or visit their website paradise-casinos.com. $

Casino

Sessions

Seats Smoke-Free Area Electronic

Apache Gold

Su, We, Th at Noon. Fr & Sa at 7pm. 1st Mo of the month at 7pm

200

No

No

No

BlueWater

Mo-We 4:30pm. Su at 11:30am.

400

Yes

Yes

No

Casino Arizona

Mo-Su at 6:30pm Daily Matinees at 12:30pm

1000

Yes

Yes

L8 Nite Bingo Fr & Sa Doors at 10pm. Games at midnight

Casino Del Sol

Daily at Noon, 1:30, 2:15, 6:30 & 7:15pm

600

Yes

Yes

Cosmic Bingo Sa at 11pm.

Cocopah

Daily at 1:30 & 6:30pm

350

Yes*

Yes

No

Desert Diamond I

Th-Mo 1:30, 2, 6, 6:30 & 7pm

270

No

Yes

No

Fort McDowell

Sa & Su at 6:45am. We-Mo at 9am. Daily at 12:30 & 6:30pm.

1275

(2 sections: enclosed or in general seating)

Yes

Fr & Sa at 12:10am.

Call for Lunar Bingo schedule.

Harrah’s Ak-Chin

We-Su at 11:30am, 2:30, 3:30, and 6:30pm

470

Yes

Yes

No

Lone Butte

Sa & Su at 10am, Noon, 3:45, 5:30pm. Daily at Noon & 6:30pm.

750

Yes

Yes

B.A.D. Bingo 2 Fr at 11:30pm & B.A.D. Bingo Sa at 11:30pm.

Mazatzal

Mo-Th at Noon.

Tu & Th at 6:30pm.

280

Yes

Yes

No

Paradise

Daily at 11:30am & 1:30pm Mo-Sa at 6pm.

300

Yes

Yes

Call for Kozmic Bingo & Other Special Dates

Vee Quiva

Daily at Noon & 6:30pm.

366

Yes

Yes

Bingo Eclipse Sa at 11pm.

Yes

Late Night

Sources: Arizona Department of Gaming—Current Tribal Gaming Status as of 12/01/13 & direct inquiries by press time. We are not responsible for incorrect, missing, or outdated information.

Contact editor@azgamingguide.com to make updates. *Cocopah Resort Casino offers “Smoke-Free Sundays” which is a casino-wide non-smoking experience every week from 4am Sunday to 4am Monday.

44 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

FUN & GAMES

WORD SEARCH In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, find: BLACK, MARCHES, PREACHER, MEN, CIVIL, LIBERTY, AFRICAN, RIGHTS, EQUAL, FREEDOM, AMERICAN, RACE, LAW, PEACEFUL, JUSTICE, LEADER. Words appear in any direction. (Solution on page 50)

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SUDOKU Each of the columns, rows, and nine 3 x 3 grids must contain all of the digits 1 - 9. None of the digits may appear more than once in each column, row, and 3 x 3 grid.

(Solution on page 50)

2 5

6

9 1

4 8

8

2

5

2

3

6 9 4

46 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

7

6

4

7

3

1

2 3

1

9

6 7

3

SAMI’S SMACKDOWN

New Year’s Resolutions …

Be Kind. Be Patient. Be Respectful.

By Sami Becker

W

henever I visit a casino, I go prepared to lose.

It’s not to say that I’m a pessimist with a bad attitude, I just accept that gambling is a form of entertainment. The amount of money I take with me to a casino is what I feel I can afford to part with. If I happen to be lucky, then it’s an unexpected bonus I can be excited about.

Unfortunately, I believe there are people who forget that visiting a casino is an entertainment activity meant to be exciting and fun! When I walk around the floor, I see too many people with annoyed, angry, frustrated looks on their faces. Some act hasty and impatient and some just downright rude and disrespectful towards others.

I hope that this year we can all truly make an effort to be more kind, more patient, and more respectful towards others. By making an effort to be more self-aware, we might find areas of improvement and ways we can be more considerate of others. I am a big believer of doing unto others as you’d want them to do unto you. Based on my own experiences, discussions with my team members, and letters from our readers, here are just a few examples to reflect upon: Don’t be a party pooper.

Sitting next to people at a casino that are whining and grumbling about losing is completely annoying. The huffing, the puffing, the protesting, and the criticizing isn’t a whole lot of fun. If it’s not going well at a machine, then just change machines! If it’s not going well in general, then leave! The casino is not going to close before you have a chance to visit again. (If you’re sitting next to a party pooper, get away from them as fast as possible. They actually carry a contagious attitude that can spread like spilled water.)

Don’t be a hoverer.

Many casino visitors do not like people sitting beside them or standing behind them as they play. This is a fact. It makes people feel uncomfortable and on edge. The quiet lurkers are annoying because you just feel their presence, but the blustering oglers that interject maddening comments like “ooh, that was close” and “aah, what an awful bonus” are downright infuriating. No player needs their own commentator! If you are a hoverer, please stop. Go get your own machine, sit down, play, and have fun. Stop standing around and join in on the action. (If there’s a hoverer behind you making you feel uneasy, stop playing!

Read the help screen or make a phone call, trust me they’ll leave.)

48 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

Don’t be an inconsiderate smoker.

Whether you smoke cigars or cigarettes, try to be aware of the direction the smoke is drifting and always use the ashtrays provided by the casinos. Smokers will never quite understand that there are some non-smokers who are truly bothered by the smoke. Whether it’s allergies, sinus congestion, problems breathing, or other medical conditions, smoke can truly have adverse effects on some people. (If you’re bothered by someone’s smoke, nicely ask if they can move the ashtray or hold their cigarette away from your direction.)

Don’t be a hyper-freakazoid.

Having fun and being excited is one thing, but yelling like you’ve won a million dollars each time you get a small win is pure torment to those all around! No one enjoys having someone screaming in their ear. (If you’re sitting next to this type of person, or worse yet a group of friends all screaming in unison, then the only option is to move and find a quieter place to play.)

Don’t be a chatter box.

Many people don’t have type A personalities, especially casino visitors. If you want to talk to the stranger sitting next to you at the casino, make sure your timing is convenient and appropriate. Interrupting a slot fanatic in the middle of a bonus is like interrupting a sports fan during sudden-death overtime when their favorite team is in position to score and scoop up a victory!

(If you’re an introvert and prefer not to strike up conversations with complete strangers, I suppose you can always pretend not to speak English. This is a tactic that one of our readers actually said she uses that works for her!)

Don’t save your machine unless you really are coming back.

Don’t leave an ashtray on your chair or tilt the chair against the machine unless you really intend on coming back. It’s not fair to other players! (Most casinos have a 10 m inute policy, so if it’s been longer than that let a slot attendant know that you intend on playing the game.)

Don’t be a cheapskate.

Servers, slot attendants, dealers, and many other casino employees rely on tips to supplement their wages. Please tip them! Remember, if you pinch your penny too hard, you may just break it in half! Also, karma can be a harsh mistress! $

Do YOU have something to rant or rave about?

Write me at: sami@azgamingguide.com

Like Us For Your Chance To

First, if you haven’t already done so, like our Facebook page at facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide. Then make sure to register for the Break Away From The Big City Giveaway on our website (azgamingguide.com) for your chance to win a Stay & Play package at Apache Gold Casino Resort just outside of Globe, Arizona!

To date, our magazine has given away well over $10,000 in prizes via our Facebook page and our website. And we’re not going to stop now! Past prizes have included cash, gift cards, gas cards, free play, concert tickets, hotel stays, and more.

You could be our next winner! By joining our Facebook and registering for this giveaway, you’ll get access to exclusive info from Arizona’s only comprehensive gaming magazine published by slot machine and casino experts.

To date, the winners of the Break Away From The Big City Giveaway include: Sava S. Kimberly D. Sara H. Patrick P.

(Mesa) (Chino Valley) (Gilbert) (Clifton)

Donielle C. (Phoenix) Gina L. (Phoenix) Mary Z. (Safford)

azgamingguide.com | January 2014 | Arizona Gaming Guide

49

Y

Y

Y

Y Y

11300 Resort Drive

Parker

888-243-3360 523

03. Bucky’s Casino

1500 E. Hwy. 69

Prescott

800-756-8744 309

04. Casino Arizona

101 & McKellips

Scottsdale

480-850-7777 919

Y Y

05. Casino Del Sol 06. Casino of the Sun

12. Fort McDowell Casino

16. Mazatzal Hotel & Casino

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Camp Verde

800-381-7568 656

15318 S. Ave. B

Somerton

800-237-5687 504

Y

Y

Y

7350 S. Nogales Hwy.

Tucson

866-332-9467 1,088

Y

Y

Y

I-19, Exit 80

Tucson

866-332-9467 699

Hwy. 86, Milepost 55

Why

866-332-9467

Fort McDowell 800-843-3678 906

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

480-802-5000 1,089

Pinetop

800-929-8744 806

1077 S. Kyrene Rd.

Chandler

800-946-4452 786

Hwy. 87, 1/4 mi. S. of Payson

Payson

800-777-7529 425

Y

450 Quechan Dr.

Yuma

888-777-4946 506

Y

18. Quechan Casino

I-8, Exit 166

Winterhaven, CA 877-783-2426 1,000+

19. Spirit Mountain Casino

8555 Hwy. 95

Mohave Valley 928-346-2000 247

101 & Indian Bend

Scottsdale

480-850-7777 744

I-40, Exit 219

Flagstaff

855-946-8946 1,089

6443 Komatke Ln.

Laveen

800-946-4452 950

5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd.

Chandler

800-946-4452 950

1505 E. Hwy. 69

Prescott

800-756-8744 244

24. Yavapai Casino

Y

Y Y

Y Y* Y

Y

Maricopa

22. Vee Quiva Casino

Y

Y

56

777 Hwy. 260

21. Twin Arrows Navajo Casino

Y

Y

I-17, Exit 289

17. Paradise Casino

23. Wild Horse Pass Casino

Y

855-765-7829 293

15406 N. Maricopa Rd.

20. Talking Stick Resort

Y

Y

855-765-7829 1,082

14. Hon-Dah Casino 15. Lone Butte Casino

Y

Y

Tucson

Hwy. 87 & Ft. McDowell Rd.

13. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino

Y

Tucson

10. Desert Diamond Casino II 11. Desert Diamond Casino-Why

Y

5655 W. Valencia Rd.

08. Cocopah Resort Casino

Y

Y

7406 S. Camino De Oeste

07. Cliff Castle Casino & Hotel 09. Desert Diamond Casino I

Y

Y

Y

Y Y Y Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y Y

Y

Y

Y Y

Y

Y Y

Y

Y

Sources: Arizona Department of Gaming—Current Tribal Gaming Status as of 12/01/13 & direct inquiries by press time. We are not responsible for incorrect, missing, or outdated information.

Contact editor@azgamingguide.com to make updates. *Cocopah Resort Casino offers “Smoke-Free Sundays” which is a casino-wide non-smoking experience every week from 4AM Sunday to 4AM Monday

For information on the casinos & much more, scan our QR codes with your smartphone!

azgamingguide.com

facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide

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50 Arizona Gaming Guide | January 2014 | azgamingguide.com

Smoke-Free Area

02. BlueWater Resort & Casino

Y

Arcade

800-272-2438 619

Spa

Globe

RV Park

Hwy. 70, 5 mi. E. of Globe

Golf

01. Apache Gold Casino Resort

Hotel

Slots

Poker Room

Phone

Table Games

City

Live Keno

Location

Bingo

Casino

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CASINO DIRECTORY

Y Y