Arizona Gaming Guide Magazine - February 2015 - 07:02

FEBRUARY

Contents

IN EVERY ISSUE 04 EDITOR’S NOTE 06 PLAYERS TALK 08 TABLE GAMES 10 NEW SLOTS 18 ARIZONA LOTTERY 20 DINING 22 WINNING WAYS 24 FEATURE STORY 26 LAUGHLIN, NEVADA 28 TRAVEL 30 GAMING NEWS 34 TRIBAL NEWS 36 CASINO ENTERTAINMENT 38 CASINO NIGHTLIFE 40 CASINO BINGO 42 FUN & GAMES 44 SAMI’S SMACKDOWN

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45 FUN FACTS 46 CASINO DIRECTORY

CASINO TRENDS FOR 2015

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Play the latest first-in-Arizona slot machine at their Nogales Highway location in Tucson.

Make Harrah’s Ak-Chin your destination this Valentine’s Day for some incredible food and entertainment.

The popular radio DJ walks us through all the casino night spots he visited recently.

DESERT DIAMOND HAS ALASKAN STORM DELUXE

A NEW WAY TO CELEBRATE

ALONG FOR THE RIDE WITH POWER 98’S TIO GIO

azgamingguide.com | February 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide

03

EDITOR’S NOTE

MOVING FORWARD Learning To Evolve

Your Authority On Everything Gaming VOLUME 07 • ISSUE 02 PUBLISHER Chris Höft chris@azgamingguide.com

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couldn’t wait for the new year to start and in January I couldn’t wait for February! Why would anyone want time to move forward so quickly you ask?

Well, let’s just say I am enjoying what I set up at the start of the new year and I really want to continue on my new path forward.

I have made a conscious decision to be more positive. I am avoiding negative thoughts and negative people on a daily basis. This is part of my multi-stage process for 2015. I told you last month I set up a to-do list and marched straight through it before the new year even got started. As a result, I was far more organized and productive about everything I did in January. That’s not to say I was disorganized or unproductive before, I just didn’t have anything hanging over my head weighing me down anymore. I’m really enjoying myself in 2015 and I’m looking forward to the current evolution in February and the one to come in March!

In this issue, you’ll find plenty of reasons to make your next trip to any casino a success. We’ve got the low down on a ton of slots, plenty of tips for you to incorporate into casino visits, and even some information about making money in the casinos in the Fun Facts section (back by popular demand)! Please visit us at: facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide, 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 Gaming Guide on our website at azgamingguide.com. Let me know what you think of this issue and have fun!

Alexandra

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

“Like” us on Facebook because

we “Like” you too!

MANAGING DIRECTOR Elizabeth Torma liz@azgamingguide.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alexandra Lang editor@azgamingguide.com ART DIRECTOR Melanie Mueller CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Al Moe Lee Allen Ramses Ja Mark Novak Cindy Esquer Amanda Riddle Lana Hartmann Samantha Becker 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 © 2015 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 an informed decision. 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 | February 2015 | 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

By Kaitlyn Ahrbeck

EMPLOYEE CERTIFICATION Investigation Behind Becoming A Casino Employee

Q: This month we thought we’d answer a question by reaching out to the Arizona Department of Gaming. On a regular basis, our readers ask how employees get gaming licenses or what the review process is when applying for a gaming license here in Arizona. We are fortunate enough to have one of the Department’s interns, Kaitlyn Ahrbeck, provide an excellent answer to our readers’ questions on the employee certification process. What follows is her article in response.

Arizonans know where to gamble, how to gamble, what gaming entails, but not many know the process in which prospective employees are screened to work in these gaming establishments.

There is an agreement between Arizona and the Native American Tribes regarding gaming establishments. This partnership is known as the Compact. The requirements for the tribes and the state is clearly broken down in the Compact for an individual to be employed in a casino.

To be considered for employment in any tribal gaming establishment in Arizona, each applicant must submit two sets of fingerprints to be processed by the state. Once the submission arrives at the Department, the state certification process begins.

Certification starts with an application being submitted to the tribes. Once it has been checked by the tribe and the state’s record bureau it then goes to an employee certification investigator.

Mr. Calles, the employee certification supervisor at the Arizona Department of Gaming, runs the applicant through a police database. His intent is to check that the application matches the actual background of the applicant. Thefts, defrauding, or any serious criminal charges will be reviewed.

Not only does the applicant receive a state background check but also a national one. The application is sent to the FBI to conduct a background search on the individual. National background checks are given to check the applicant’s nationwide record in addition to their state record.

Although many applicants are truthful, some are not. There are a few red flags that stick out when reviewing applications.

Jumping from state to state and being married more than three times are on the list, says Calles. To weed out these applicants he immediately sets up an interview with the individual.

The whole purpose of the Department is to protect the gaming industry and the tribes, making background checks essential.

“We are all retired police officers,” says Calles. The majority of the investigators at the Department have a law enforcement background, which comes in handy since running background checks is a formality.

The next step in being certified to work at a gaming establishment differs depending on whether the applicant is a non-tribal or tribal member. A non-tribal individual must have a state and tribal license to be employed at a gaming institution. A tribal member is not required to obtain a state license to be employed at a casino of their own tribe.

The state can still give a negative recommendation to a tribal applicant. The difference being, “the tribe has the right if they want to employ that tribal member, they can employee them, period,” says Calles.

However, the tribes undergo a process very similar to the state and are usually in agreement with the state’s recommendation.

Still, in meeting with a tribe, “lets agree to disagree” sometimes applies, says Calles.

and get a $25 gift or 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 | February 2015 | azgamingguide.com

Due to the fact that the state can’t decide if a tribal member can be employed, the liability for that individual is then put solely on the tribe.

If everything runs smoothly, the applicant will receive a state and tribal certification (if they are a non-tribal member) and begin working in the casino. Or, if the applicant is a tribal member, the tribe will allow them to start working at their casino.

An employee who violates a casino policy can be fired. An in depth investigation takes place by the Department. Simultaneously, the tribe also does an investigation of the employee. This is because they were given both a state and tribal license. The individual can lose their tribal license because of a policy violation. However, not all hope is lost. If the individual applies to work at another casino they can be hired as long as the policy violation is minor.

After each year of working at a casino, an employee must go through a certification renewal process, says Calles. Updated applications are sent to Calles. He reviews the files in search of any felony committed in the past year.

Among the applications currently on Calles’ desk, one file stands out. The “Dirty File” is how Calles describes this application. The file is a renewal application consisting of an arrest as well as other serious felony charges. One of the offenses of this applicant was conning a man out of his Porsche. “She’s in jail, she’ll stay in jail, she plead up to a class four felony,” says Calles. Her tribal license has been revoked. “It’s a privilege to get a license,” say Calles and that privilege can be taken away, as is the case of this applicant.

If an applicant is found to have a felony, the tribe will decide whether the applicant may continue to work in their institution.

Calles says a top reason employees are not given a renewal certification is due to receiving a DUI during the year.

The process of employment in casinos is strict in Arizona. So if seeking employment at a gaming establishment, first consider if you have a clean background and are willing to provide a truthful application and then apply to get both a state and tribal license if a non-tribal member. Also, know the tribal policies in the casino you desire to work in. These are helpful steps to take in order to be able to work in a casino in the state of Arizona! $

azgamingguide.com | February 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide

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TABLE GAMES

By Al Moe

ARE YOU CRAZY 4 POKER? Throw Away Your Worst Card Each And Every Hand

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f you love Three Card Poker and World Poker Tour, Crazy 4 Poker is probably right up your alley. The game is dealt at the same leisurely pace and players tend to be more relaxed at the game. Dealers smile, the cocktail servers come by more often, and the Pit Bosses all offer comps when they see you! Well, not quite that relaxed, but close. In fact, the game is so cool you get to throw away your worst card every hand.

After making your Ante wager and the Super Bonus bet in equal amounts, you’ll be dealt five cards. The dealer gets five cards too, but in a strange and stingy way, they won’t show you one like they do at Three Card! So, you’ll have to decide what to do by just peeking at your own cards. Fortunately, we know that any four cards of K-Q-8-4 is half-way decent (and statistically higher than the dealer’s cards), so you can stay in the hand and make a Play wager the same size as your Ante bet.

If you have a pair of Aces or higher, you can make your Play wager double or even triple your Ante bet. The best strategy is to do that any time you can! If you have less than K-Q-8-4 you might as well fold and wait for the next hand because (no offense) you’ve got junk, unless four of your cards make a straight or a flush.

As for the dealer, they only play when they have a hand of King high. If you don’t know poker hand rankings, they go like this: no pair, pair, two-pair, straight, flush, three-of-a-kind, straight flush, and four-of-a-kind. Higher hands are possible with five cards, but remember you’re only going to use four!

If the dealer does not qualify, only your Play wager wins – the Ante bet is a push. If the dealer qualifies and you beat their hand, you’ll be paid even money on your Ante bet and your Play wager. The Super Bonus wager pays up to 200 to 1 for four aces and 30 to 1 for any other four-of-a-kind. Other payoffs include 15 to 1 for a straight flush, 2 to 1 for a three-of-a-kind, 3 for 2 on a flush and 1 to 1 for a straight. It loses if the dealer’s best four cards are less than a straight.

Queens Up Wager The Queens Up wager at Crazy 4 Poker is optional and wins if the player’s hand is a pair of queens or higher. The standard pay table for the Queens Up wager pays 50 to 1 on a four-of-a kind. It also pays 30 to 1 for a straight flush, 8 to 1 for three-of-a kind, 4 to 1 for a flush, 3 to 1 for a straight, 2 to 1 for a two pair

08 Arizona Gaming Guide | February 2015 | azgamingguide.com

and 1 to 1 for a pair of queens, kings or aces. Only the highest hand is paid.

The House Edge The house edge for the Ante wager is 1.71% while the Super Bonus wager carries a higher 3.48% house edge. However, both must be made to play a hand and the “Play” or raise option has a positive expectation of 4.85%. Since all of these wagers must be made to get optimal benefits from the game, the overall house edge is the only number that is really relevant and that number is 3.42%. The Queens Up wager carries the highest house edge ranging from 3 to 7%. The standard pay table provided in the article has a house edge of 5.32%. $

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.

NEW SLOTS

By Lana Hartmann

BATMAN Now Available At Harrah’s Ak-Chin

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he newest slot to arrive at Harrah’s Ak-Chin is the Batman Classic TV Series Slot Game powered by Wonder Wheels, the most recent game category from Aristocrat that features three large, mechanical reels.

Batman is a 30-line game with a 50-credit minimum/250-credit maximum bet. The game features still and video imagery from the classic TV series with Adam West. Game play is enhanced by stacked wilds, seven themed bonus features, video clips from the TV series, and a highly anticipatory wheel feature trigger.

While visiting Harrah’s Ak-Chin, make sure to try your luck on one of their other recent additions to the floor. Themes include Aristocrat’s Spark ling Royal, Garden of Amazon, Golden Festival and Golden Princess. Konami enthusiasts will also be excited to see new titles which include China Shores Double Winnings, Dragon’s Law, Gypsy Fire, Myth of Gold, Riches with Daikoku, Solstice Celebration, Spellbound Princess, Warrior’s Gate and Wild Aztec. And, don’t forget to take a spin on the custom Mystery Progressive High Roller slots with IGT’s best game themes (featured in January’s issue of Arizona Gaming Guide) that also just went live this month! For more information about Harrah’s Ak-Chin, visit HarrahsAkChin.com. $

ALASKAN STORM DELUXE Now Available At Desert Diamond Casino

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rave the wilds for natural treasures in Alask an Storm Deluxe , the latest first-in-Arizona game to arrive at Desert Diamond Casinos’ Tucson location on Nogales Highway. This video slot from Aristocrat is housed in the stylish Helix game cabinet, featuring three video screens to capture the beauty and excitement of the Alaskan wilderness.

The game offers a free games feature triggered with 3 or more Eagle Gold Coins. But, players have a shining opportunity: to increase their chance of winning with a Deluxe Bonus ante bet designed to deliver increased options for excitement! When playing the Deluxe Bonus option, you can choose your free games feature and multiplier. Choose between more free spins at lower multipliers for more chances to win, or fewer free spins with higher multipliers for bigger potential payouts. Multipliers appear on wild wins, featuring iconic Alaskan wildlife like bears, owls and fish. Players can also pick up extra free games during free games with just 2 or more Eagle Gold Coins for even more opportunities to win. Visit ddcaz.com for more information about Desert Diamond Casinos. $

10 Arizona Gaming Guide | February 2015 | azgamingguide.com

NEW SLOTS

By Lana Hartmann

REELS OF RIVENDELL Now Available At Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino

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traight From Middle-Earth to the Casino Floor at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, THE LORD OF THE RINGS Reels of Rivendell by WMS will have you sitting on the edge of your seat in anticipation of some wildly huge wins!

Now there’s no need to travel all the way to Middle-Earth in order to experience the sights and sounds of THE LORD OF THE RINGS trilogy. With a 42” curved LCD top box and 1080p high definition screens, this innovative gaming experience brings Middle-Earth to life through character-based bonuses and memorable clips from THE LORD OF THE RINGS films.

No BONUS symbols are needed to trigger THE LORD OF THE RINGS Bonus; instead, any win over 5x the bet will spin the top wheel, triggering bonuses centered on your favorite characters! Pick an Andúril sword for up to a 50x bet in the ARAGORN Bonus; add up to 50 WILD symbols, per spin, in the LEGOLAS Bonus; or watch as oversized ARWEN symbols land on the reels in the ARWEN Free Spin Bonus.

But that’s not all—watch as up to 216 WILD symbols drop from the top screen onto the reels in the Falling Wild s Feature, or as up to four reel sets drop from the top screen and are showered with WILD Symbols in the Falling Reels Feature.

Remember, there’s some good in this world, Mr. Frodo… and THE LORD OF THE RINGS Reels of Rivendell slots may even be called great! For more information about Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino and other Gila River properties, visit their website at WinGilaRiver.com. For more information about THE LORD OF THE RINGS slots, visit wms.com. $

MAGIC FLOWER Now Available At Casino Arizona

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ans of Aristocrat slots will be excited to hear that Casino Arizona just released a ton of brand new titles! All games are installed in pennies and include the following themes: Jack pot Streak Sparkling Royal, Jackpot Streak Garden of the Amazon, Gold Pays Golden Princess, Gold Pays Golden Festival, Moon Maidens Selene, Moon Maidens Mona, and our personal favorites, Magic Flow er Secret of the Gold en Flow er and Magic Flower Seduction of White Peony.

The Magic Flow er games were created for players who prefer a longer time on device experience by providing low-volatility, high-anticipation experiences utilizing large stacks of symbols to create multiple coinciding wins. These fun new slots will take players on a journey where near misses, winning spins, exploding reels, random credit rewards and re-spins provide the ultimate slot entertainment experience. $

14 Arizona Gaming Guide | February 2015 | azgamingguide.com

Coming Soon

NEW SLOTS

CRAZY STARS

By Aruze Gaming

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nticipation, excitement, and flair…If this is what you are seeking, then look no further!

CRAZY STARS is another eye-catching addition to the I-DELUXE line for Aruze Gaming.

Equipped with 5-reels and 30-lines of stacked WILD symbols, shooting stars, and a spinning star as a topper, this game is nothing short of flashy! Offering three different number sets of FREE GAMES, this penny denomination game adds a brand new play mechanic to the I-DELUXE arsenal.

The main feature in CRAZY STARS is the WILD STAR FREE GAMES. When 3 or more BONUS symbols appear, the FREE GAMES will be triggered. The number of FREE GAMES that can be awarded are 7, 12, or 50. This is dependent on the number of BONUS symbols that triggered the FREE GAMES whether it was 3, 4, or 5. If a BONUS symbol appears during the WILD STAR FREE GAMES, it will then change to three consecutive wild symbols, giving a greater opportunity for a win. Are you up for the “crazy” ride that CRAZY STARS has in store for you?

For more information about this slot and other exciting Aruze Gaming slots coming to Arizona casinos soon, visit their website at AruzeGaming.com. $

azgamingguide.com | February 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide

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NEW SLOTS

Coming Soon

By Lana Hartmann

GONG XI FA CAI

By IGT

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layers seeking a higher volatility experience will fall in love with IGT’s new game Gong Xi Fa Cai, which in Mandarin translates to “Happy New Year.” Several slot directors have decided to install this game on their floors, so keep an eye out for this exciting new slot at your favorite casino soon.

The five-reel, 50-payline Gong Xi Fa Cai keeps players on the edge of their seats with vibrant Asian-inspired graphics including lucky dragons and gilded medallions. Anticipation climbs when the mystery trigger initiates the progressive bonus. Jewel-filled red envelopes in the Pick Bonus allow players to select envelopes until three of the same colored gems are revealed, awarding one of four corresponding progressive level jackpots.

Players can also trigger the Free Spins Bonus, where stacked major symbols pay out big wins. Players are encouraged to place a side bet and buy the multiplier feature, which adds up to a 5x multiplier on any line wins that pass through the multiplier symbol and also extends the multipliers in the Free Games Bonus. For more information on IGT’s new video slots, visit igt.com. $

MULTI-CHANCE JACKPOTS

By IGT

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hree of IGT’s most iconic themes come to life in a new way in the Multi-Chance Jackpots game featuring IGT Hall of Fame Video Slots. In this nostalgic gaming experience, players will enjoy combined base game and bonus elements from the company’s legacy library including Kitty Glitter, Stinkin’ Rich and Wolf Run. Best suited for those seeking low-denomination play, this 5-reel, 30-payline game which features a 40-credit cost-to-cover and a 200-credit max bet is definitely fame-worthy. In the Free Games Bonus Round, players spin a virtual wheel where they are awarded a number of free games. These free games are identical to the base game experiences found in Kitty Glitter, Stinkin’ Rich or Wolf Run and can lead to big payouts. Free Games are played identically to the original classic base game including retriggers, enhancements and mini games depending on which free games theme was won from the wheel spin.

Players who enter the Multi-Chance Jackpots feature have the potential to win up to three progressives on a single base game spin. Progressives are triggered with a scatter symbol on reels one and three followed by an activated sub-symbol on reel five. The sub-symbols on reel five correspond to certain progressive levels and more sub-symbols become available as players increase their wagers! For more information on this new IGT video slot, visit igt.com. $

16 Arizona Gaming Guide | February 2015 | azgamingguide.com

Coming Soon

NEW SLOTS

GREASE PINK LADIES

By Bally Technologies

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mmerse yourself in America’s favorite musical in Bally’s new Grease Pink Lad ies video slot.

This five-reel, 30-line penny slot is a sequel to the hit Grease game. It’s full of ways to win with Hand Jive Kisses Free Games, the pick’em-style Frenchy’s Heartbreaker Bonus, and Mystery Stacks. Adding to the fun is the chance at a gigantic top award on Bally’s Cash Co nnection wide-area progressive link.

This hip game will have you dancing in your seat along to classic clips and music from the smash 1978 movie, featured on a 32-inch or 42-inch vertical screen. Combine the stunning high-definition graphics with the spectacular audio quality of a surround-sound chair, and Rydell High School and its famous students have never looked so good!

The Hand Jive Kisses Free Games feature awards eight free games with randomly awarded Wild Kiss symbols on each spin. The interactive Frenchy’s Heartbreaker Bonus creates excitement as you touch the screen to pick hearts and build up multipliers until a credit value is revealed. The game also offers the popular Mystery Stacks feature in which mystery symbols are randomly replaced by two or three symbols to create chances for big five-of-a-kind wins. “Pink” rules with Grease Pink Ladies. Look for the game on casino floors soon and join Rizzo, Frenchy, Marty, and Jan in this nostalgic trip back to the 1950s at Rydell High! For more information, visit BallyTech.com. $

azgamingguide.com | February 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide

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ARIZONA LOTTERY

By Cindy Esquer

$100,000 Crossword

$50,000 Black Tie Bingo

$53,000 Fantasy 5

Barbara Burrus, of Phoenix, loves any instant scratch game as long as it’s a form of bingo. She recently redeemed a $2 Bingo and used the winnings to purchase a Black Tie Bingo ticket.

Stephanie Kilbarger, of Avondale, purchased two Platinum Crossw ord instant scratch tickets at the counter of a store and scratched them at home. She likes to play crossword games as she feels she gets her money’s worth.

After Stephanie scratched the tickets, she saw that one of them appeared to be a $100,000 winner. She immediately woke up her husband and kids to show them the ticket. Everyone was excited about the win.

Stephanie buys scratch tickets two to three times a week after work because she likes the idea of knowing that there’s a chance for an instant win. Her idea of relaxing is spending time at home. She also enjoys cooking and spending time with her family, including their dog.

The Kilbargers are originally from Ohio and they moved out here to be closer to family. Stephanie and her husband have not had time to plan how they’re going to use the money.

After Barbara scratched the ticket, she could see the bow tie in the area she’d scratched, which told her that she’d won the top prize of $50,000. She kept checking the ticket to make sure she wasn’t dreaming. Barbara showed it to her husband, but he had his doubts. However, at that point, Barbara felt confident that she had a winning ticket and did not have the ticket checked at a store. Barbara said after she signed the back of the ticket she did breathe a sign relief once the Lottery validated the ticket.

Barbara and her husband are thrilled with their win. She buys tickets about three times a week and has been buying the bingo instant scratch tickets since they were first made available.

Barbara is retired from the banking industry. She now spends a lot of her time taking care of a very close friend who is now disabled. The two women have been friends since the fifth grade.

Barbara is going to use the money to pay off some bills and maybe a few extra holiday gifts.

The ticket was purchased at Circle K, 4301 W. Cactus Road, Glendale.

The ticket was purchased at Chevron Food Mart, 3925 N. 107th Ave., Avondale.

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. Please call 1.800.499.3798 for all other areas in Arizona.

18 Arizona Gaming Guide | February 2015 | azgamingguide.com

Keith Doyle, of Cave Creek, recently began to play Fantasy 5 on a regular basis. He purchased a two-line Quick Pick ticket for the November 4 drawing from a Lottery vending machine.

When he checked his numbers online the next day, he saw that his ticket had five matching numbers. His first thought was that the numbers were from an earlier date, but that thought was quickly disproved, which meant his ticket was the $53,000 jackpot winner.

Although Keith and his wife were shocked by their good fortune, he remembered to sign the back of the ticket before they went to the gym. They came to the Lottery immediately following their morning workout.

Keith and his wife are originally from Oregon and are in love with Arizona’s climate, even the summers. He works in software development, so his spare time is limited. However, when Keith can find time, he and his wife enjoy outdoor activities. They also work out every day and watch their two favorite football teams, the Cardinals and the Oregon Ducks. They also manage to fit in an occasional golf game.

Keith and his wife will use the money to take a vacation, to make some home improvements and then save the rest.

The ticket was purchased at Cobblestone Auto Spa, 29650 N. Tatum Blvd., Cave Creek. $

CASINO DINING

By Mike Kintner Director of Marketing & Operations Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino

A NEW WAY TO CELEBRATE Make Harrah’s Ak-Chin Your Destination This Valentine’s Day

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re you lucky in LOVE? Are you currently thinking, “What am I going to do to make Valentine’s Day special this year?” While the go-to staples– a romantic movie, dinner at the same restaurant where you had your first date, cooking a special meal at home, are good options, why not take it up a notch this year? Come out and LOVE Valentine’s Day at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino!

Wine & Dine There’s no better time than Valentine’s Day for a romantic dinner for two. Restaurants Valleywide are offering special prix fixe menus for the evening such as the menu available at The Range Steakhouse. The upscale steakhouse at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino will have live guitar and violin entertainment to set the mood for a LOVELY romantic dinner. The menu, set at $120 for two will include selections between: Scallop Rockefeller or Shrimp and Lobster Cocktail for the Appetizer. Lobster Bisque, Classic Wedge Salad or Spring Harvest Salad for the Soup & Salad course (guests choose two). For the Entrée, options include Surf Meets Turf, Spinach Pine Nut Salmon, How Shrimp Met Chicken or Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass (guests choose two). Six Layer Chocolate Cake will be served for the Dessert course.

Two things to remember: dinner always goes better with drinks, be it your favorite wine or popping some bubbly in celebration of the occasion and always be sure to make a reservation (call 480.802.5000), as this is one of the busiest nights of the year.

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Dance the Night Away End the night on the dance floor! Enjoy free shows in The Lounge by The Company Men, playing at 8 and 10pm. You will LOVE their signature mashups and their new throwbackPOP! These modern gentlemen offer today’s sound with influences from the past six decades. Whether it is Bruno Mars layered with Frankie Valli or an original inspired by Michael Jackson, The Company Men are the perfect way to end the night at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino.

Staycation With Valentine’s Day falling on a Saturday this year, it’s the perfect time to treat your significant other (or yourself) to a LOVELY little getaway – without breaking the bank! After wining and dining and dancing the night away, why not stay the night in one of our luxurious resort and tower guestrooms and enjoy brunch in the buffet? Snuggle up with your sweetheart with a complimentary Sherpa blanket for all Total Rewards members, Saturday, February 14 from 1 – 7pm. When you stay make sure to go the extra mile by asking for champagne and strawberries to be sent up to the room, have rose petals on the bed upon arrival, or any other surprises you have up your sleeve for that special someone.

Make this a Valentine’s Day to remember (and LOVE)!

For more information on all the events happening during Valentine’s Day weekend, please visit HarrahsAkChin.com. $

WINNING WAYS

By Lana Hartmann

TRY A SPECIALTY VIDEO POKER GAME Heat Up Your Action With Something New

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hen you’re tired of your “go to” game and you’re thinking of what to try next, don’t overlook video poker! Consistently one of the highest payback games in the casino at any denomination, you’ll see plenty of opportunities to play on any casino’s floor.

What is even more interesting about video poker is the specialty games. Triple-, Five-, and Ten-Play games have been around for a while, but recently games such as Ultimate X and Super Times Pay are sweeping across the banks of video poker games. Not only do these games provide the potential for multiplied wins, they also have an even higher payback in the long run than traditional single hand, non-specialty, video poker games.

One of the newest additions to video poker is the Hot Roll variant. By doubling the maximum bet on each hand (10 credits as

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opposed to the traditional 5), you unlock a random multiplier which appears on the deal or the draw. The multiplier is determined by the outcome of the roll of two dice, so anything from 2X through 12X! The dice roll multiplier happens about once every six hands and the payback percentage, regardless of the game you decide to play, will be at least 96% and approaches almost 100%. I don’t think your penny slot is paying back that much! Just imagine hitting a Royal Flush on a quarter video poker with a 12X multiplier! That’s a $12,000 jackpot baby! $

azgamingguide.com | January 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide

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15 Casino Trends

By Rodric J. Hurdle-Bradford

I

n the past generation, casinos have emerged from smokefilled rooms where gamblers convene to entertainment meccas where many of the visitors entertain themselves without even having to play a hand of blackjack, spin the roulette wheel or pull the slot machine handle. This transition to mainstream pop culture and entertainment has led to many trends across the gaming industry, from tribal to commercial casinos all across the country.

As you venture through casinos in 2015, pay attention to these 15 trends that are sure to dominate the industry scene this year: GAMING

Trend tip: Identify the incentives for a casino’s online play before you spend hours spinning that wheel.

3. Asian Influence With many Asian gaming visitors still satisfied by regional gaming options in Macau, Philippines, Cambodia and Vietnam, look for both tribal and commercial casinos to increase their outreach to Asian clientele which will include more Asian-themed games and subtle design factors on-site at a property.

Trend tip: With Asian gaming players having a larger presence at some tribal casinos, this is a great time to learn Pai Gow and other Asian-influenced games!

1. 80s & 90s Nostalgia 4. New Casinos Perhaps the biggest trends on casino floors are the throwback slot machines that reference 80s and 90s pop culture and entertainment. Fans of the movie “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” have been lining up to try their luck on this popular new WMS slot game, and perhaps the biggest break out hit of the 2014 Global Gaming Expo was a game based off the popular 1990s television show “Friends” by Bally Technologies which is coming to Arizona casinos soon!

As the United States continues to be more casino friendly, new establishments continue to pop up all across the country. The Omak Casino Resort will debut in Washington State by the summer and Gentling Resorts World Las Vegas should be done by early 2016. In addition, both Wynn and MGM resorts are building new casinos in Massachusetts.

Trend tip: Identify these slot machine games as soon as you enter a casino because you may have to wait in line to play.

Trend tip: When making vacation plans, try and visit a new casino during or close to its grand opening date as more incentives will be offered to entice new players.

2. Online Games

5. International Flair

Most casinos now enjoy some form of online casino presence to entertain visitors when they can’t find the time to make a run to the brick-and-mortar location. In 2015 expect the incentives of playing these online games to increase dramatically, including deep discounts and vouchers to non-gaming amenities like restaurants, spa salons and nightclubs.

With the monetary exchange rate still favoring foreigners, you will continue to see a large international influence at casino properties across the country, especially during the winter months when the other half of the world is on summer vacation.

24 Arizona Gaming Guide | February 2015 | azgamingguide.com

Trend tip: Plan on summer and early fall travel to avoid spiked casino hotel rates during the winter due to our international friends.

6. Sports Betting As the state of New Jersey battles it out to legalize sports betting, all other states and tribes are keeping a close eye on how the showdown concludes. Expect to see more emphasis on sports watching promotions at both commercial and tribal casinos in 2015.

Trend tip: See what kind of sports promotion raffles your local casino is offering for March Madness and basketball season.

7. Construction Zones You can argue the current state of the domestic economy, but the one thing you cannot argue is that casinos will be spending a significant amount on capital expenditures in 2015.

Trend Tip: Ask to see where the public renderings are of the finished renovation, take a picture, then see how much it resembles the finished product when done.

ENTERTAINMENT

11. Selfies The trend of taking selfie photographs will definitely continue in 2015 everywhere, not just casinos. However, the selfie photograph machines are starting to pop up in more and more areas so expect the same for the casinos.

Trend tip: No selfie etiquette needed here!

12. Pool Parties Pool parties were the craze of 2014 and they will continue to be all the craze this year at both tribal and commercial casinos. The formula: increase in food and beverage revenue along with attracting a new, younger generation of casino visitors.

8. Celebrity Chefs Yes, there will continue to be celebrity chefs opening up restaurants in casinos. The trend continues…

Trend tip: Bring out-of-town visitors to the casino pool parties for a low-budget entertainment activity.

NIGHTLIFE

Trend Tip: Go on a discount site like Groupon to find the best values for these restaurants before your next casino trip.

9. The Great Outdoors Outdoor musical festivals are back with a vengeance. From Life is Beautiful to Rock in Rio; outdoor musical festivals are making casinos synonymous with a scene more like Woodstock than any slot tournament. The gatherings have made Las Vegas even more fun, a trend many casino properties have duplicated, so look for outdoor music festivals and concerts at a casino near you!

Trend Tip: Get your tickets early and use your player cards for discounted ticket prices!

10. Rise of Retail Shopping in Las Vegas is transforming to an indoors restrictive activity to an all-day indoors/outdoors experience. And now, tribal and commercial casinos all across the country are following in Las Vegas’ footsteps. Gone are the days of just one lonely gift shop on property. Watch for retail shops to come to your favorite local casino soon.

Trend Tip: Be smart and notice when a retail store has a clearance and other annual discounts.

13. Just Lounging Casino nightlife has begun to venture away a bit from the mega nightclub scene and into more boutique and ultra lounges for a maturing younger generation. The lounges are more relaxed on dress code and tend to stay open well into the night.

Trend tip: Many of these lounges have great happy hour specials!

14. Female DJs The trend of photogenic female DJs rockin’ the house at casino nightclubs will definitely continue in 2015! This is an equal opportunity position!

Trend tip: Keep your eye out on our “Nightlife” section written by the popular on-air DJ and TV personality Ramses Ja! 15. Maintaining Mixology The younger generation has taken to mixology, an art form of mixing drinks. Look for these bartending mixology contests and promotional drinks during your next visit.

Trend tip: Ask a food and beverage manager for the best mixology recipes upon arrival. $

azgamingguide.com | February 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide

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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 November 2014 Slots

Laughlin River Lodge 800.835.7904 laughlinriverlodge.com 1,000+ guest rooms and suites, over 30,000 square feet of the hottest Vegas-style gaming, four restaurants, fast food options, & more!

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!

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.

26 Arizona Gaming Guide | February 2015 | azgamingguide.com

Hold % Tables

Hold %

Loose $5

3.33

Craps

17.29

$1

3.89

Blackjack / 21

17.77

25¢

5.03

Roulette

19.79

Multi-Denom 5.84

Pai Gow Poker

23.03

5¢

7.59

Let It Ride

27.68

$25

8.84

Other Table Games 28.20

1¢

10.55

Three Card Poker

31.22

Tight Megabucks

19.81

8.55

Win Amount

Dollars

Race Books

15.41

Slots

32.7 mil.

Bingo

16.26

Tables

2.7 mil.

28.46

Other

1.2 mil.

Other Loose Sports Pools

Tight Live Keno

Hold %

LAUGHLIN, NEVADA

Tropicana Laughlin News

TROP ADVANTAGE CLUB NEW 2015 BENEFITS Beginning February 1, 2015, players achieving Gold, Platinum, or Black Card status in the Trop Advantage Program receive a complimentary three night stay with free slot play at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas, Nevada, and a cruise with Carnival Cruise Lines for up to eight days in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Bahamas.

UP TO 20X POINT MULTIPLIER Each Wednesday in February 2015, players have a shot at up to a 20X point multiplier on reels on that day. Simply swipe your Trop Advantage Card at any one of the brand new promotional kiosks on the casino floor to find out if you hit the 20X! GIFT DAYS—EARN POINTS, GET A GREAT GIFT Everyone loves getting gifts, right? Well the season of gift giving isn’t over at the Tropicana Laughlin because they love giving them! Players earning just 1,000 base points on their Trop Advantage Card on the Gift Day easily receive a voucher from any promotional kiosk. Then, redeem the voucher for your gift at the Players Club on the casino floor. Each new month brings new gifts so make sure to check back at the Players Club.

Feb. 7th—Intex Queen Air Bed Feb. 14th—Puffer Vest (choice of colors) Feb. 28th—Cayman Mattress Topper (choice of King or Queen) $10,000 SWEETHEART MEGA BINGO BASH On Saturday, February 14th at 3:30pm the Tropicana Laughlin Bingo Hall will host a special session, just for Valentine’s Day! The buy-in is $20 per pack for all regular games with a $2 use fee and a 3-pack minimum for electronic units. 9-on packs are $10 each Specials are just $2 each. The minimum prize is $250 and also includes prizes of $500, $1,000, and $1,199 for a grand total of $10,000 up for grabs! Trop Advantage Club members get a free gift too! $10,000 CUPID’S CASH SLOT TOURNAMENT On February 20-21 you can participate in the Tropicana Laughlin’s Cupid’s Cash slot tournament for just $50. The entry fee gets you one entry and a Roundhouse Buffet. Players will have three five-minute rounds to score as many points as they can.

The top prize is $2,500 with prizes through 44th place. $ azgamingguide.com | February 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide

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TRAVEL

CHUMASH CASINO RESORT Santa Ynez, California—In The Heart Of Santa Barbara Wine Country

C

humash Casino Resort is a 190,000-square-foot complex nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara wine country, featuring an 18-and-older, 24-hour gaming floor, live entertainment, award-winning fine dining and legendary hospitality alongside a AAA Four Diamond-rated hotel and spa.

Located on Highway 246 in Santa Ynez, California, the resort is owned and operated by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, which is the only federally recognized Chumash tribe in the nation. It also owns Hotel Corque, Hadsten House Inn and Root 246 restaurant, all located in nearby Solvang.

THE CASINO The gaming floor includes 2,000 slot machines, dozens of table games, bingo, poker, daily cash and prize giveaways, and a weekly car giveaway that places lucky Club Chumash members behind the wheel of the latest luxury automobiles.

The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians opened Chumash Casino in 1994 in a small stucco building and added two temporary buildings in the following years. In 2002, the tribe decided to consolidate the buildings and transform the property into one impressive complex. Two years later, Chumash Casino Resort was unveiled, and it quickly became the hottest destination for gaming and entertainment on the Central Coast.

With sustainability in mind, the Chumash Casino Resort works closely with the tribe’s environmental office to implement a biofuel program, maximize efficient energy and water use, reduce waste and improve the appearance of the grounds through sustainable landscaping.

THE DINING Chumash Casino Resort offers quality comfort food in an oldfashioned diner setting at the Chumash Café, located on the gaming floor. For an unparalleled all-you-can-eat experience, the Creekside Buffet features generous slices of tri-tip, a wide array of side dishes, numerous salad options, and dessert selections that will satisfy any sweet tooth. The buffet, which resides on the third floor, also offers cleverly themed nights that center around specific cuisine on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and most holidays.

For an exquisite fine-dining experience, visit The Willows, a AAA Four Diamond-rated restaurant and lounge on the resort’s

28 Arizona Gaming Guide | February 2015 | azgamingguide.com

third floor. The Willows specializes in mouthwatering prime steaks and seafood, while also featuring an extensive selection of local and imported wines.

THE HOTEL The AAA Four Diamond-rated Chumash Casino Resort Hotel contains 106 newly renovated guest rooms and 17 luxury suites, free wifi access, and the largest full-service spa in Santa Ynez Valley.

Every year since it opened in 2004, the Chumash Casino Resort Hotel has earned Four Diamond ratings from AAA for its superior amenities and unparalleled guest service. Its sister property, Hotel Corque in Solvang, has also garnered the Four Diamond distinction while operating under the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians.

THE TRIP If you are leaving from the Phoenix area, point your car West on the I-10 to Los Angeles and eventually head on the US-101 towards Santa Barbara. Once you arrive in Santa Barbara, take the CA-154 to the CA-246 headed into Santa Ynez. Along the way, you’ll experience some of Southern California’s best scenery.

For more information on the casino, please visit their website at ChumashCasino.com, or call 800.248.6274. $

GAMING NEWS

Shutting Down Illegal Gaming Cafés

The Arizona Department of Gaming teamed up with the Attorney General’s Office, the Phoenix Police Department and the Department of Public Safety to stop illegal gambling at establishments known as “sweepstakes cafés”. These “cafés” pose as coffee shops offering Internet access but they are a disguise for illegal gambling operations.

The investigation began when the Arizona Department of Gaming learned of multiple “sweepstakes cafés” where gambling was allegedly taking place. Undercover agents were dispatched to confirm that customers were gambling, although not all knew they were engaging in illegal activity.

On January 13th, the agencies served warrants at six locations in Phoenix, including three businesses, two residences and a storage facility, in connection with the suspected gambling operation.

Agents seized more than 50 gambling devices, computers, televisions, weapons, surveillance equipment and vehicles including cars, motorcycles and ATV’s. They also confiscated more than $20,000. Evidence gathered suggested violations including operating an illegal enterprise, money laundering and violating multiple gambling statutes. The Attorney General’s Office served a simultaneous seizure warrant for assets and froze bank accounts associated with the operation.

This is the second time owner Eric Stelljes has faced allegations of gambling violations in Arizona. Stelljes is already on pre-trial release and other charges will follow. “We want to send a clear message to the operators of these shops that they are on our radar,” said Attorney General Mark Brnovich. “They will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” All charges are allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. The investigation is ongoing.

“Dismantling unlawful gambling enterprises is a priority for this administration,” added Dan Bergin, Director of the Arizona Department of Gaming. “We will continue to work with our sister law enforcement agencies and prosecutorial authorities to protect our cities.”

To report suspected illegal gambling, contact your local police department or the Arizona Department of Gaming at 602-255-3888. $

30 Arizona Gaming Guide | February 2015 | azgamingguide.com

GAMING NEWS

Bucky’s And Yavapai Casinos In February, Free Play is easy to love (and win) at Bucky’s and Yavapai Casinos in Prescott! “For the Love of Free Play” gives you the chance to earn points daily for entries to win $500 in Free Play each week! They’re sharing the love in February by continuing Veterans Day, Seniors Day, Ladies Day, and Just for Gents. There’s no lack of love at Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos where there’s Twice the Action, Twice the Fun! Recently, one lucky local won $134,800 on a dollar 2X Wild & Crazy three reel slot by WMS at Yavapai casino. One of many progressive slots at both properties, each dollar three reel WMS slot has a $3 max bet qualifying the player for the jackpot on that game. Line up three 2X Wild symbols on the pay line and you’ll walk away a winner too! The winning machine (a similar game is pictured on the right) is in the middle of the smoking section of Yavapai Casino. But if you prefer to play in the comfort of an enclosed smoke-free environment, just a few steps away is an entire bank of the exact same machines in their non-smoking area! The casinos are located across from each other on Arizona Highway 69 in Prescott. For more info visit BuckysCasino.com or call 800.756.8744. $

azgamingguide.com | February 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide

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GAMING NEWS

Apache Gold Casino Resort

BLACKJACK If you are looking for some great action at the tables, don’t forget that Apache Gold recently moved their table games up off the main casino floor over to their new sports bar & grill, The Point. Table hours have now been increased to 10am10pm Sunday through Thursday and from Noon to Midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Check it out!

LOVE IS IN THE AIR On February 13-14, 2015 Apache Gold Players Club members can qualify for a chance to get 30 seconds to grab at $1,000 in cash in the Whirlwind Cash Cube. If you grab less than $100, they’ll still give you $100 in Casino Cash! Earning 300 or more base points from 8am to Noon qualifies players for the 12:30pm grab, from Noon to 4pm qualifies players for the 4:30pm grab, and from 4 to 8pm qualifies players for the 8:30pm grab. $2,000 SLOT CHALLENGE From February 12 through March 26, 2015, players earning 300 base points on their Apache Gold Players Club card every Thursday from Midnight to 1pm can enter the slot tournament. Players advancing to the finals can win their share of cash and Casino Cash. A $20 cash buy-in will also get players a seat in the action. The tournament begins at 2pm and will run until completed. Up to seven players will advance to the final round. First place is $400 in cash, second place wins $300, and third place wins $200. Fourth through seventh places win $100 in cash and all finalists get $100 in Casino Cash too! $

32 Arizona Gaming Guide | February 2015 | azgamingguide.com

GAMING NEWS

College Students: Problem Gambling Affects More Than Grades help. The website offers a broad range of resources designed to help problem gamblers overcome addiction. To reach the Office of Problem Gambling directly, call 602.542.8998.

One of the most effective tools offered to problem gamblers is the self-exclusion program. This is an opt-in process which allows a self-acknowledged problem gambler to voluntarily exclude him or herself from entering all Tribal casinos within the state of Arizona for a specified period of time. Problem gamblers can also sign up to ban themselves from access to casino ATMs and Internet gambling sites.

Problem gambling among college students has become an increasingly difficult crisis with those afflicted with compulsive behavior. Students today are faced with an immense amount of pressure to perform academically and develop a sense of social inclusion. Amidst the weight of adapting to college life, college students are two to three times more likely to develop a gambling problem than older adults.

It is estimated that 6% of college students struggle with problem gambling, three times higher than the national average.

Also, a student receives an average of 50 credit card solicitations per year giving problem gamblers immense opportunities to incur additional debt.

Other resources include the Tribal/State-funded out-patient treatment, a specialized program dedicated to addressing the impact and root of gambling addiction. Gamblers Anonymous and GamAnon are resources that offer fellowship for men and women who share in similar experiences, helping others recover from compulsive gambling.

Students who suffer from the urge to gamble are often faced with feelings of loneliness, depression, and despair. It is through the help of seasoned professionals and like-minded individuals that students can return to a happy and successful college life. $

Students who suffer from problem gambling often exhibit behaviors of: - Depressed or suicidal thoughts because of gambling losses - Social withdrawal - Possible illegal activity to finance gambling - Using student loans for gambling - Repeated, unsuccessful attempts to stop gambling Compulsive gambling, like drug and alcohol abuse, creates increasingly difficult life issues and situations for college students and their families. Despite the increased accessibility and promotion of gambling, help is available to those who suffer. The Arizona Office of Problem Gambling continually provides compassionate care to problem gamblers through the intervention, treatment and recovery of chronic gambling.

Students who struggle with problem gambling should call the Arizona Office of Problem Gambling toll free hotline at 1.800.NEXT.STEP to get free, confidential information. Each caller will be connected with a knowledgeable, caring professional who will listen in an empathetic, nonjudgmental way and connect problem gamblers with resources needed to deal with compulsive gambling.

The Arizona Office of Problem Gambling website, available at ProblemGambling.AZ.gov, is an additional resource to get azgamingguide.com | February 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide

33

TRIBAL NEWS

By Lee Allen

CREATE ART … AND THEY WILL COME 57th Annual Heard Museum’s Indian Fair & Market, March 7-8

I

f you’re serious about Indian arts and crafts, start scheduling some time for a total immersion experience during the Heard Museum’s annual Indian Fair & Market, March 7-8 in Phoenix.

This is the 57th presentation of the world-acclaimed cultural event, one of the nation’s best opportunities to meet Native American artists and see samples of their artistry. An estimated 650-700 painters, potters, weavers, jewelers, and other traditional as well as cutting-edge contemporary artists will be on hand to entertain a crowd that usually exceeds 15,000 visitors.

Sponsored by the Heard Museum Guild, proceeds are used to promote greater public understanding of the arts, heritage, and life ways of indigenous peoples with an emphasis on American Indian tribes and other cultures of the Southwest.

While all kinds of creative crafts will be displayed, the 2015 show places special focus on the beauty of basketry. To highlight that specific genre, over a dozen craftsmen and women will discuss, demonstrate, and sell samples of this difficult and time-consuming art form.

Two of the best-known and highly-awarded basket makers will be Jeremy Frey (Passamaquoddy), 2011 Best of Show winner, who will show how brute force and the assistance of an axe helps separate tree rings for basket making, as well as Royce Manuel (Akimel O’odham), recipient of the Spirit of the Heard Award for his work in helping save the ability to weave traditional Pima burden baskets (kiaha) from extinction.

“While it’s gratifying to be honored for trying to resurrect this art form, I’ve just copied what people have done in the past --I’m merely a spokesman for our time,” Manuel says. Listed in Native Peoples magazine as one of a series of artists “who push creative boundaries,” Manuel advises: “History and tradition come back to repeat itself. I want people to understand what was necessary in the past to survive in harsh environments.

They need to step back and look at the old ways of doing things.”

If it’s made out of plant materials harvested from the desert, things like bear grass, yucca, and devil’s claw, Manual has probably built something creative as well as utilitarian from those

34 Arizona Gaming Guide | February 2015 | azgamingguide.com

Tohono O'odham baskets come in all sizes, shapes, and colors (Photo courtesy of Lee Allen) materials. Basketry, possibly the oldest textile art form known to mankind and an early form of unbreakable containers for goods needing to be constantly moved in a nomadic lifestyle, is what many associate Manuel with, particularly creation of burden baskets or wooden frames supporting agave fibers looped together and worn on someone’s back to carry all manner of goods, from mesquite firewood to mesquite beans.

“I’ve never counted the construction steps from start to finish, but the process starts with gathering rough fiber from an agave plant,” says Manuel. “I’ll get a leaf, smash it to expose the stringy fibers and boil it three times to get rid of any irritants. In the old days, they’d bury the fibers along with the edible agave hearts and cook them underground for several days. Once the fibers are boiled, I tear them apart and let them dry like jerky hanging from a tree. Then, whenever I need it, I soak it in water for a few minutes, take the pulp off, and begin restoring cordage that can be coiled, twined, or plaited.”

It’s a process filled with pitfalls. “The craftsman is a byproduct of the project because the project is done by hand and you literally put a part of yourself into everything you make. Fingernails get worn down and fingers get cut while scraping the fibers and you have to wait for the body to heal before you can proceed.”

TRIBAL NEWS

One of the twelve featured basket makers, Jeremy Frey with one of his award-winning creations (Photo courtesy of Lee Allen)

Jilli Oyenque demonstrates baskets at the 2014 Indian Fair (Photo courtesy of Heard Museum/Taylor Peterson)

Manuel has taught native youth at the National Museum of the American Indian the old ways of basket making and says, “Making cordage and then crafting something out of that raw material gives our youth some of their identity back because they can now pass along those skills --- and the products they have made --- on to the next generation.”

the outdoor amphitheater both days along with live performances by Canyon Records recording artists at the Pavilion Stage. Native Chef demonstrations using traditional ingredients (followed by tastings) will take place hourly.

San Carlos Apache Terri Goode is also a part of the generational heritage as she makes Apache burden baskets. “As I weave, I am continually inspired by memories of the laughter of my grandmother who taught me that every basket needs to tell a story.”

Jeremy Frey comes from a line of Maine tribal basket weavers and continues that seven generation family tradition in his ash fancy baskets that perpetuate one of the oldest art forms in North America. “I’ve refined the concept of old utility baskets used by fishermen into an artistic version, using black ash tree and sweetgrass. I try to do cutting-edge traditional and don’t want to deviate far from what my tribe has given me as an art form. I’m helping put basketry on the map and I love that it connects me to my people, to who I am.”

Tribal groups will also be presenting cultural performances at

Fair artists will be demonstrating a variety of art forms like rug weavers working their upright looms, sculptors creating stone and wood marvels, bead workers meticulously stringing their art, or sand painters bringing their tiny grains to life.

The 2-day fair itself begins the night before (March 6) with a Best of Show Reception and Dinner, 5:30-8pm, at the museum, 2301 North Central Avenue. Winners of juried competition in eight categories will be announced at the event which also includes a native couture fashion show, a silent auction, and a drawing for four pieces of art now on display at the museum.

The juried competition is a big part of the event with over 110 cash awards as well as non-cash Honorable Mention ribbons being presented. The best of each of the eight classifications earns $1,500 while the single Best of Show winner pockets a check for $3,500.

Visit HeardGuild.org or call 602.252.8840 for information. $

azgamingguide.com | February 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide

35

CASINO ENTERTAINMENT

Listings The Arizona Room: Latin Fire Dance Nights (Learn to dance)—Tuesdays 6pm The AZTEX Band (Latin, R&B, Old School, Funk)—Tuesdays 8pm Country Dance Nights (Learn to dance)—Wed. & Thu. at 6pm Casino Del Sol—Tucson, AZ—520.838.6506 AVA Amphitheater: No events scheduled at press time.

Cliff Castle Casino—Camp Verde, AZ—800.381.7568 Dragonfly Lounge: Featuring a variety of live bands & DJs on weekends

Marisela Desert Diamond Casino—Sahuarita February 13, 2015 Following her stellar sold out show this past October, Mexican American music icon Marisela is returning to the Diamond Center for a special concert sponsored by La Caliente 92.1 FM. Reserved tickets are $35 and are on sale now through Star Tickets and at the casino Rewards Center, which offers a 10 percent discount to Diamond Rewards members. The doors open at 7pm, and show starts at 8pm. Born in Los Angeles, California, Marisela recorded her first album at the age of 15 in 1984 and continues to release albums into the twenty first century. Marisela’s early career got a boost from the famous Mexican TV show Siem pre en Dom ingo by Raúl Velasco and then later expanded into the United States thanks to many other Spanish broadcasting shows famous in the 80s and 90s such as Cristina, Don Francisco, and Sábado Gigante. Treena Parvello, Director of Public Relations and Communications for the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise, said “After her spectacular performance to a packed house last October, we knew we had to bring Marisela back to the Diamond Center soon for another night of amazing music!”

Apache Gold Casino—Globe, AZ—800.272.2438 San Carlos Event Center AJ Castillo—Feb. 28 Inter-Tribal Powwow—Mar. 13-15 BlueWater Casino—Parker, AZ—888.243.3360 Dig Lounge: Featuring a variety of live bands, karaoke & DJs—Daily at 5pm Events: Tutankhamun—Now through Apr. 12 The Stars Of Beatlemania—Feb. 14 Rodney Carrington—Feb. 28 Casino Arizona—Scottsdale, AZ—480.850.7777 The Showroom: Fortunate Son (CCR Tribute)—Feb. 20-21 Double Vision (Foreigner Tribute)—Feb. 27-28

36 Arizona Gaming Guide | February 2015 | azgamingguide.com

Cocopah Resort Casino—Somerton, AZ—800.237.5687 Events: Karaoke with Bling Bling/DJ Sosa—Fr at 8pm Desert Diamond Casino I—Tucson, AZ—866.332.9467 Monsoon Nightclub: Dance Fusion with DJ Blade—Fridays Noches Caliente—Saturdays the hottest Tex Mex and Tejano music!

Desert Diamond Casino II—Sahuarita, AZ—866.332.9467 Sports Bar: Karaoke Night—Wednesdays 7-11pm Live music or DJs—Fridays & Saturdays Diamond Center: The Oak Ridge Boys—Feb. 7 Marisela—Feb. 13 Anjelah Johnson—Mar. 7 Lupita D’Alessio—Apr. 4 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: Shining Sta r—6th, AzTex—7th, The Company Men— 13th & 14th, Str8up—20th, Rare Earth—21st, Quantum—27th, Harry Luge—28th Wild Wednesdays Silhouette—4th, Joe Castello Project—11th, Notes From Neptune—18th, Walkens Trio—25th The Lounge Happy Hour Sta rting Februa ry 2nd Mo nda ys thro ugh Thursdays from 5-8pm. Kianna & Greg—Mondays 5-8pm. He Said She Said—Tuesdays 5-8pm. Jake Skeen—Wednesdays 5-8pm. Harry Luge—Thursdays 5-8pm.

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 Lone Butte Casino—Chandler, AZ—800.946.4452 Cascades Lounge: Phoenix area bands & DJs offer free live entertainment throughout the week featuring the Valley's best local bands & DJs

Editor’s Pick Mazatzal Casino—Payson, AZ—800.777.7529 Apache Spirits Lounge: Featuring a variety of live music on the weekends.

Paradise Casino—Yuma, AZ—888.777.4946 Sharky’s Bar & Bites: Featuring a variety of live music on the weekends

CASINO ENTERTAINMENT Harrah’s Ak-Chin Presents:

Jake Skeen Wednesdays in February, 5-8pm

Quechan Casino—Winterhaven, CA—877.783.2426 Sidewinders Bar & Grill: Featuring a variety of live music on the weekends Pipa Event Center: Neil Sedaka—Feb. 27th Talking Stick Resort—Scottsdale, AZ—480.850.7777 The Showroom & Grand Ballroom: Legends In Concert—Feb. 4-8 Raven’s In Love With Mardi Gras—Feb. 14 Lunar New Year—Feb. 15 Divas Starring Frank Marino—Feb. 27-28 BoDeans—Mar. 7 Frank Caliendo—Mar. 14 Elvis Lives: The Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist—Mar. 20-21 Winger—Mar. 29 Twin Arrows Navajo Casino—Flagstaff, AZ—855.946.8946 Featuring a variety of live music on the weekends Vee Quiva Casino—Laveen, AZ—800.946.4452 VQ Live: Featuring a variety of live music on the weekends Event Center: Little Joe Y La Familia—Feb. 14

Having left his native Clearfield Utah near Ogden to pursue a degree in audio engineering at the Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences in Gilbert, Arizona, Jake Skeen remains the blues musician he has become. “My biggest influence right now in trying to get into lyric writing is Bob Dylan for sure, because his lyrics are endless, crazy. I don’t know how he does it. He has a few songs that you would say are blues, but they don’t follow a blues lyrical pattern at all. He just does his own thing, so that’s what I want to go for. I’m still trying to figure it out, but I want to take what I have now and take it in another direction,” said Skeen.

Talking Stick Resort Presents: 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: The Oak Ridge Boys—Feb. 6 WFF Wild Horse Pass Fight—Feb. 7 AbbaFab: Tribute to the music of Abba—Feb. 8 Espinoza Paz—Feb. 13 Engelbert Humperdinck—Feb. 14 Piano Man: Tribute to Billy Joel & Elton John—Feb. 15 Jim Jeffries—Feb. 20 Sedaka Legacy: Tibute to Neil Sedaka—Feb. 22 Jason Latimer—Feb. 27 Billy Ocean—Mar. 6 Lunar New Year Hoa Xuan—Mar. 7 Jenny McCarthy & Friends: Dirty, Sexy, Funny—Mar.14 Paperback Writer—Tribute to The Beatles—Mar. 15 Kathy Griffin—Mar. 20-21 Chance Tinder & Kentucky Rain—Tribute To Elvis Presley—Mar. 22 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.

DIVAS Starring Frank Marino February 27-28, 2015

Talking Stick Resort is bringing a piece of Sin City to Scottsdale when it hosts DIVAS Starring Frank Marino. For two nights, audiences will witness Las Vegas icon Frank Marino and his team of celebrity female impersonators transform into today’s biggest stars including Madonna, Cher, Lady Gaga and Beyoncé. With Marino taking on the likeness of the legendary Joan Rivers and serving as the night’s emcee, this is an opportunity fans can’t miss! $ azgamingguide.com | February 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide

37

CASINO NIGHTLIFE

By Ramses Ja & Tio Gio

NIGHTLIFE AT ARIZONA’S CASINOS DJ Tio Gio Brings Us Along For The Ride

T

io Gio is best known for his work in the Valley of The Sun on the Late Night Show on Power 98.3FM. Not only is it the station that knows how to have a good time, but he’s on when it’s party time!

People look to Tio to have the scoop on what’s happening in the city. And, as he is always up on what’s down, DJ Tio Gio took us through some of his experiences while visiting several Arizona casinos’ night life hot spots. “I have been visiting the Valley’s best night spots so you can know what’s up before you head out for a night on the town,” said Tio. “One of the best parts of living in Arizona is the diversity of the nightlife. There’s truly something for everyone!”

CASINO ARIZONA One of the many aspects of nightlife at Casino Arizona includes the opportunity for visitors to be transported to the sexy world of Latin dance without having to leave the Valley! Located in south Scottsdale, near the 101 and McKellips, the casino's Arizona Room hosts Latin Fire Dance Night every Tuesday from 6 to 8pm. You don’t even need a partner - only comfy clothes and your dancing shoes! And, don’t worry about having two left feet because the club’s renowned dance instructors will lead you through the dances step-by-step. After having a blast at your free dance lesson, you can head over to the Patio Grill, where Tio enjoyed and recommended the Casino’s Prairie Fire cocktail: Fireball whiskey with just a hint of Tabasco. “It was the perfect fiery ending to a hot and spicy night!”

“Though they may be different, all the spots I visited had one thing in common:

massive amounts of fun!” did a great job creating an enjoyable atmosphere. “I went to see the AzTex Band and man, did they have energy! The friendly bartenders kept the crowd loose and ready for the live entertainment. With such a variety of bands playing in a given week, I’ll be sure to come back to Cascades for more!” said Tio. DESERT DIAMOND CASINO Of course the Valley of the Sun is not the only place poppin’ in Arizona. If you’re headed South towards the border, you have to check out the Monsoon Night Club at Desert Diamond Casino in Tucson. You have to dress up for this one, but who wouldn’t want to look their best for this club’s live DJs and amazing bands. “While I was grooving at Dance Fusion Fridays with DJ Blade, the club also offers Tex Mex and Tejano music at their Saturday night event: Noches Calientes. Though I would argue, from observing the crowd, that every night is a hot night at Monsoon!” said Tio.

WILD HORSE PASS Next on the list is the Chrome Nightclub at Wild Horse Pass. If you’re looking for an upscale party with well-dressed guests, this is the spot for you. Head to Chandler, where the casino is off of the I-10 and south of the 202, for some amazing bottle service and VIP treatment. DJ Gio commented, “You can’t miss the bar, which is lit up in the club and decorated with, of course, chrome, giving it a really sexy, futuristic kind of look. While they’re open on Fridays too, DJ Medik was in the house Saturday night, holding it down with an eclectic and appropriate mix of all kinds of music that’s perfect for you to unleash those dance moves you’ve been practicing in the mirror all week!”

TALKING STICK RESORT Last but not least, DJ Tio Gio was able to check out the club that makes you feel like you’re on top of the world: Degree 270 at Talking Stick Resort. Located on the 14th floor of the elegant casino in Scottsdale off the 101 at Indian Bend Road, Degree 270 offers amazing views of the Valley. Tio had several comments including: “The bottle service and VIP sections of this club are unparalleled. The service and the drinks were great and I could not decide which was the better view: the city or the guests! A great feature of this club is its open-air balconies. When you get too steamy from moving to the sounds of the resident DJs, just step out for some fresh air, some fresh conversation, or maybe even something more!”

LONE BUTTE CASINO Also located in Chandler, this is the best place to go to see local, live bands in a comfortable but cool lounge setting. Cascades Lounge is part of the recent expansion of the casino, and they

Tio’s tour of the Valley’s hottest nightlife spots had him feeling blessed. “Only Arizona’s casinos give you groovin’ music, tasty drinks, delicious eye candy, and good vibes! Pick one and head out with your squad this weekend! You won’t regret it!” $

38 Arizona Gaming Guide | February 2015 | azgamingguide.com

CASINO BINGO

By Mark Novak

FRIDAY & SATURDAY NIGHT BINGO This Game Is Not Just For Seniors Anymore

Y

ou have probably seen or read about all the action in the casino bingo halls but perhaps you’ve never actually decided to participate. I’m here to tell you bingo is a great option at the casino, basically a party complete with music, dancing, and drinks. Friday and Saturday night bingo sessions are a real alternative to a nightclub.

Think about it, the only line you stand in is to buy your bingo pack. There’s no bouncer telling you and your friends you can’t come in even if you are over 21. The drink and food prices are reasonable. The dress code ranges from a t-shirt and jeans to club wear. You could walk out a winner and you will have a great time. Intrigued yet? Check out the list below for those casinos near you offering late night bingo. $

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

100

No

Yes

No

BlueWater

Mo-We 6:30pm. Su at 1:30pm.

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

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

300

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 11:30pm.

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 Fr & Sa at 11:30pm.

Mazatzal

Mo-Th at Noon.

Tu & Th at 6:30pm.

280

Yes

Yes

No

Paradise

Tu-Su at 1:30pm Mo-Fr 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 01/15/15 & 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.

40 Arizona Gaming Guide | February 2015 | azgamingguide.com

FUN & GAMES

WORD SEARCH In honor of Do A Grouch A Favor Day on February 16th, find: BEAR, BELLYACHER, CRAB, CRANK, CURMUDGEON, FAULTFINDER, FAVOR, GIFT, GRIPER, GROUSER, GROUCH, GROWLER, PRESENT, SOREHEAD, SOURPUSS, WHINER. Words appear in any direction. (Solution on page 46)

X

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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 46)

2

4

5

6

1

9

9

8

7

6

2

8

3

1

3

4

8 4

7 1

4

5

9

6 4

3 8

42 Arizona Gaming Guide | February 2015 | azgamingguide.com

SAMI’S SMACKDOWN

By Sami Becker

DON’T TOUCH MY SLOT How A Friendly Neighbor Messed Up A Bonus

A

s you all know by now, I get a lot of mail every month.

I have to pick and choose which situations to write about. I want to print every letter and e-mail I get but it becomes really challenging when our readers give us so much amazing material to write about.

So, before we get into this month’s Smackdown, I want to thank each and every one of you for writing, and please keep writing.

But, by the time you finish reading this month’s article, I think you’ll understand why I just had to pick this reader’s gutwrenching topic. I feel so bad for what happened to this reader because just when you thought you’d seen or heard it all at the casino, or you think surely it can’t be any worse, you come across something new.

Dear Sami, Thank you for your excellent columns every month. I thought you’d feel my pain when I tell you what happened to me [recently at my favorite casino] when I was playing my lucky Konami game. All night long this lady was playing next to me and she was cheering me on. I don’t normally like this but she was really nice and was always so happy for me when I hit the bonus.

That’s until she totally screwed me over and I didn’t know what to say or do. I was so pissed I was screaming inside ready to pull my hair out but I just couldn't let on anything was wrong because she was so sorry. Practically on the verge of tears, she kept telling me how sorry she was for what she had done to me.

I hit the free games bonus with 240 spins. I was lucky enough to get several more sets of spins for probably 400 spins total. But when I had around 80 spins left with about $320 as a bonus win my cheerleader did something unimaginable.

She made a comment about how nice the last win was (I think it pushed me up by about $40) and started to point at the screen. I have to believe she accidentally touched the upper corner of the screen and got the game to show the scales where you pick for credits or free games [See the Balance Of Fortune feature pictured to the right]. She was on my left and she touched the screen again! This ended the bonus and paid me another $8 as a random prize for the 80 or so spins I still had. I can’t remember exactly how many I had but it was around 80.

Can you imagine the horror I felt? I could have had so much more in

44 Arizona Gaming Guide | February 2015 | azgamingguide.com

the bonus and this lady knew it too. She was so sorry but it was too late. She ended my bonus early just by touching my slot.

Please tell your readers to keep their fingers away from other people’s screens so this doesn't happen again to me or anyone else.

-Marge James via e-mail Marge, I am so sorry to hear of your story. Literally my heart breaks for you because with around 80 spins left on that type of Konami game, anything was possible. A sequence of huge pays making for an absolutely huge bonus win, or even another 400 spins on top of the 400 you already had! While it is really hard to believe another casino guest would do this on purpose, I can understand how this might happen accidentally. Let this be a warning to all slot and video poker players! Remember what your Mom taught you. Don’t point! Not only is it rude, but at the casino, you could cost your neighbor a bonus, a royal flush, or other significant win, just by touching the screen. $

Do YOU have something to rant or rave about?

Write me at: sami@azgamingguide.com

FUN FACTS

By Mark Novak

THE OTHER WAY TO WIN AT CASINOS Game Designers Cash In Every Day

W

hen I first started working in the casino gaming industry, I had no idea what happened up in the game design department of the company I worked for. I guess I understood someone, even a team of people, had to be cooking up the ideas I saw being assembled on the production line and shipped out the door. Our sales force was out of the office every day bringing in money for the company with a variety of deals for the casinos they were assigned to. I never realized I could cash in as well!

Blackjack and poker are among the most popular and familiar card games in the casino. Most gamblers and non-gamblers are at least aware of the games and their basic rules. If you can come up with a new twist on these popular games that produce a significant house edge for the casino yet still are entertaining for players and offer a chance at some large payoffs, you just might have what it takes to get your game on the casino floor. Sure, there are lots of regulatory hurdles to overcome but, if successful, your game could bring you a royalty check for $2,000 per table every month! How does that sound? $

azgamingguide.com | February 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide

45

101 & McKellips

Scottsdale

480-850-7777 905

Y

Y

05. Casino Del Sol

5655 W. Valencia Rd.

Tucson

855-765-7829 1,079

Y

Y

7406 S. Camino De Oeste

Tucson

855-765-7829 290

07. Cliff Castle Casino & Hotel

I-17, Exit 289

Camp Verde

800-381-7568 648

15318 S. Ave. B

Somerton

800-237-5687 509

7350 S. Nogales Hwy.

Tucson

866-332-9467 1,079

I-19, Exit 80

Tucson

866-332-9467 675

Hwy. 86, Milepost 55

Why

08. Cocopah Resort Casino 09. Desert Diamond Casino I 10. Desert Diamond Casino II 11. Desert Diamond Casino-Why 12. Fort McDowell Casino

Hwy. 87 & Ft. McDowell Rd.

13. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino

480-802-5000 1,089

777 Hwy. 260

Pinetop

800-929-8744 825

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

Chandler

800-946-4452 786

Y

Y

Payson

800-777-7529 416

Y

Y

Y

Y

450 Quechan Dr.

Yuma

888-777-4946 473

Y Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

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

Y

101 & Indian Bend

Scottsdale

480-850-7777 758

Y

I-40, Exit 219

Flagstaff

855-946-8946 1,085

Y

Y

6443 Komatke Ln.

Laveen

800-946-4452 950

Y

Y

5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd.

Chandler

800-946-4452 950

Y

1505 E. Hwy. 69

Prescott

800-756-8744 242

21. Twin Arrows Navajo Casino 22. Vee Quiva Casino 24. Yavapai Casino

Y Y Y

Y Y* Y

Y

1077 S. Kyrene Rd.

20. Talking Stick Resort

Y

Y

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

17. Paradise Casino

23. Wild Horse Pass Casino

Y

Fort McDowell 800-843-3678 896 Maricopa

15. Lone Butte Casino

Y

Y

58

15406 N. Maricopa Rd.

14. Hon-Dah Casino 16. Mazatzal Hotel & Casino

866-332-9467

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 01/15/15 & 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

Word Search Solution G R O U B S E W R R H E I S C E N R N C T A N K S

Sudoku Solution

B A G I F T R E A R C E G O P DWO R U L R E M E E P R R H U I E G E A R R D R G O

O R S F A V O R U

S U P R U O S

N G R E H C A Y L L E B C

F A U L T F I N D E R

8

7

2

4

6

3

5

9

1

3

5

6

1

2

9

8

4

7

9

1

4

8

7

5

3

6

2

6

4

9

2

8

1

7

5

3

1

3

5

7

9

4

2

8

6

7

2

8

3

5

6

9

1

4

2

6

1

5

3

8

4

7

9

4

8

7

9

1

2

6

3

5

5

9

3

6

4

7

1

2

8

H

46 Arizona Gaming Guide | February 2015 | azgamingguide.com

Smoke-Free Area

04. Casino Arizona

Golf

800-756-8744 314

RV Park

888-243-3360 526

Prescott

Hotel

Parker

1500 E. Hwy. 69

Y

Spa

Y

11300 Resort Drive

Y

Arcade

Y

02. BlueWater Resort & Casino

Poker Room

Y

800-272-2438 608

Table Games Y

Globe

Live Keno

Y

City

Hwy. 70, 5 mi. E. of Globe

06. Casino of the Sun

Slots

Y

Location

01. Apache Gold Casino Resort 03. Bucky’s Casino

Phone

Bingo

Casino

High Limit Area

CASINO DIRECTORY

Y Y