DECEMBER
Contents
IN EVERY ISSUE 04 EDITOR’S NOTE 06 PLAYERS TALK 10 TABLE GAMES 14 NEW SLOTS 18 WINNING WAYS
20 DINING 23 FEATURE STORY 26 TRIBAL NEWS 28 GAMING NEWS 34 LAUGHLIN, NEVADA 38 CASINO ENTERTAINMENT 40 CASINO BINGO 42 SAMI’S SMACKDOWN 43 FUN FACTS
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44 FUN & GAMES 46 CASINO DIRECTORY
COCOPAH CASINO & RESORT IN YUMA CELEBRATES ITS 12TH ANNIVERSARY IN DECEMBER
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Players won’t be able to tell the difference between these two types of games with a cursory glance.
Tribal President Mike Jackson Sr. has a lot to be proud of with his tribe’s past, present, and future.
The Glendale casino will open on December 20 and we have the exclusive inside scoop on what’s inside.
CLASS II VERSUS CLASS III SLOT MACHINES
FORT YUMA QUECHAN TRIBE PRESIDENT SPEAKS
DESERT DIAMOND CASINO WEST VALLEY RESORT
azgamingguide.com | December 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide
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EDITOR’S NOTE
COCOPAH CASINO
Your Authority On Everything Gaming
A Hidden Gem Just Outside Of Yuma, AZ
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e all have our favorite casinos we like to frequent, but exploring other gaming options from time to time is fun and exciting! Every casino is unique in their own way and every casino offers their own distinctive games and amenities. Cocopah Casino & Resort is one such hidden gem in the desert just outside of Yuma, Arizona. Cocopah is all about the old meeting the new, offering a variety of the “old” popular games that are disappearing from the casino landscape—games such as the classical three reel steppers, multidenomination and multi-game video poker and video keno. At the same time, Cocopah offers their players new and innovative titles, licensed themes, and even games by slot manufacturers that can’t be found in any other casino in Arizona! This casino is definitely worth the short three hour drive from Phoenix! In this issue, you’ll also find plenty of reasons to make your next trip to any casino a success. We’ve got the lowdown on a ton of new slots and those coming soon, plenty of tips for you to incorporate into casino visits, and much more! Please visit our Facebook at: facebo ok .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 AZGamingGuid e.com. Let me know what you think of this issue and have fun!
Alexandra Alexandra Lang Editor-in-Chief editor@azgamingguide.com
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VOLUME 07 • ISSUE 12 MANAGING DIRECTOR Elizabeth Torma liz@azgamingguide.com PUBLISHER Chris Höft chris@azgamingguide.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alexandra Lang editor@azgamingguide.com ART DIRECTOR Melanie Mueller CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Al Moe Lee Allen Mark Novak Melody Hudson Lana Hartmann Samantha Becker Rodric J. Hurdle-Bradford ADVERTISING SALES Elizabeth Torma liz@azgamingguide.com Nina Consiglio nina@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 and editorial opinions. AGG accepts no responsibility and no liability for any actions of readers based on articles and/or advertisements presented within. Information contained within is not guaranteed to be correct. All pictures, images, logos, trademarks and trade names, etc. are the sole property of their respective owners. Intended for single use. Sale and/or distribution without written consent is not permitted. 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
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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: This question came out of a discussion with a lady sitting next to me because our slots were not hitting, no matter what machines we played that day. In fact, we saw no one hitting anything over $30. I did not know the answer but I told her that I knew someone who could answer this question so she should be sure to check upcoming issues of AZ Gaming. I have faith in you because you expertly answered a previous question of mine. You have referred, many times, to the tight regulation of slots in Arizona. Her question was, “When and how often are these machines checked by the gaming commission?” Personally, I have played for years and at every hour of the day and have never seen anyone check a machine other than a casino employee changing paper or opening it to reset the game. What is to keep someone from tampering with a machine or several machines other than the casino security? Make me feel confident I am just a loser and not a victim!!!!!!!! Thank you! Ron Steinriede—Glendale, AZ A: Ron, you ask a very valid question! The best way for us to provide an answer is to start from the beginning and explain what happens when a slot machine first arrives on the casino floor. Once a new Class III slot machine is delivered to a casino, it is placed in its chosen location on the floor, out of play and roped off from players. The same is true of any slot machine on the gaming floor that has had a change to its software or settings ... the slot must be taken out of play and remain out of play until re-certified. For example, changes to the software could just be updates to the program provided by the manufacturer of the game. Whether it’s new installs or game updates, the slot machines in either scenario have to be certified by both the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) and the tribe’s regulatory office and this is usually done at the same time ensuring things are checked twice. Once a slot machine is certified, meaning ADG technicians have verified its software and settings meet State regulatory standards, then a gaming department tamperproof seal is placed on the access point of the machine that must be entered to make changes. An additional tamperproof seal is also placed by the tribe’s regulatory office ensuring their regulatory standards have also been checked and met. Once the device has been ap-
proved by both groups, the machine is then allowed to be used by players. The Arizona Tribal-State Gaming Compact requires the tribe’s gaming office to perform monthly random inspections of machines and send the results of the inspection to the ADG. In addition to these tribal inspections, the department performs one to five random unannounced machine inspections every year at all 23 Arizona casinos. During these inspections, the tamperproof seals are checked and technicians plug specialized equipment into the machine to ensure the software and settings still meet State regulatory requirements. It is also important to note that slot machines, themselves, are manufactured to resist tampering and to show obvious signs to ADG technicians if they have been altered without their knowledge. For the convenience of players, the department attempts to schedule new installations and inspections during low volume playing times, such as during the very early morning hours, which may be why some players have not seen ADG technicians. The random inspections also occur throughout the day, however the gaming department technicians are not overly conspicuous and try not to disrupt players, which may again account for players not noticing their presence. Q: Dear Experts, you have mentioned many times in “Players Talk” that winning on slot machines depends [on] the random number generator and the number of spins between jackpots. Is there also a time of day component? Many players at my favorite casino have mentioned that no one wins at certain times of day (especially 10-12 noon). I’ve never heard of a time of day component, but that certainly doesn’t mean it may not exist. Thanks, Experts, for your wonderful column! I never miss a word! I’m a great fan and inquisitive player. Margaret Butterly—Phoenix, AZ A: Thank you, Margaret, for your question and your kind words about this column, and our magazine! The random number generator inside a slot machine doesn’t care what time it is, what day it is, how many people have played the game recently, what jackpots have occurred on the game, etc. The random number generators simply continue to output values which the game Continued on page 8
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.
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PLAYERS TALK
Continued from page 6
software interprets into a losing or winning outcome whenever a player initiates a spin, deals a hand, casts a die, and so on. The random number generators across all the games at your favorite casino simply don’t care what is happening. While your favorite casino will have times during which many machines are paying out jackpots, or not, collectively, this is purely a coincidence of many random events having a similar outcome. It’s kind of like walking down a busy city street all morning long and seeing nothing but cabs everywhere and then when you want to take a cab across town, there isn’t a single one in sight! Another example, which we use often when discussing random number generators, is the simple coin toss. As we all know, the probability of getting either heads or tails is 50%. However, examining what happens in a small sample set of coin tosses will most likely not provide a number close to 50%. Usually, there are more of one than the other and it’s not until the sample size is much larger (in the millions or billions) can one start to see an approach towards the projected value. You could toss a coin and randomly get all heads twenty times in a row but logically you know that your odds still remain one in two of getting either heads or tails with each coin toss. This is what many people need to understand about random behavior, that sometimes it’s just not truly random. Furthermore, your favorite casino probably has slow and busy times during the day and across a week where there are less (or more) customers playing games. This may also contribute to the impression that no one is winning if the casino is not as crowded or, on the flip side, that many people are winning if it’s full. Thank you very much for being a loyal reader. We hope our answer has given you additional insight into randomness. Q: Dear Folks, I have been playing blackjack in [Atlantic City], Las Vegas, and now in Tucson, Arizona. I have never [observed] a casino official stop a blackjack game to check the cards to see if they took out some 10s and added some 5s. This would help the casino. What say you? Bob Tobin—Tucson, AZ A: Bob, you ask such a great question that my team and I decided to devote an entire article in our “Table Games” section to thoroughly address your concerns—with two parts in fact, one this month and one next month—in order to cover this issue. Cheating at the tables is much more common than in any other area of gaming. However, know that there are regulations in place and the procedures are very strict. I hope this month’s and next month’s article give you a little better understanding of all the controls that are in place. Thank you for a great question. $
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COMMENT: First, I love your magazine. It is informative and I love it. Also, in the October issue there was a question about leaving a ticket in the machine when you leave. I know they are not responsible for it but I must tell you what happened to my husband. We were at Harrah’s AkChin to celebrate my birthday and he was using a scooter. When he left a machine there was a little over $200 on it. He hadn't actually cashed it out. When we discovered it a few minutes later, of course, it had been cashed out. We immediately went to Total Rewards and said, "We guess we will never see it again." The lady called security over and through whatever means they have they started to track it down. We went to lunch and they said they would get back to us. I was so upset I had a big dessert for my lunch! Low and behold, while we were eating, along came a lady and had our money in her hand. Of course she couldn't tell us how they found it but they did. They determined the man who had it and asked about it and he gave it back. He said it was a mistake and they had no priors on him so he wasn't banned, of which we were glad. [Harrah’s Ak-Chin] went above and beyond to help us. We do know they didn't have to do that because it was my husband's neglect that caused the problem. My husband required a lot of medical equipment and stuff due to his illness. They always took care of our car and brought everything to our room. They make it so much easier for those with special needs to play at Ak-Chin and we will always be grateful. I just had to put in a good word for a great casino and their friendly staff. Thanks for a great magazine. Beverly Persson—Buckeye, AZ ANSWER: Beverly, thank you so very much for sharing this story with us and our readers! Harrah’s Ak-Chin truly does go above and beyond for their patrons. My team and I always know that when we visit the property we will be treated with kindness and respect. Whether we’re checking in at the hotel, asking a question at the Players Club, interacting with the slot attendants, being delivered a drink by a cocktail server, or getting a bite to eat at one of their great dining establishments, Harrah’s Ak-Chin employees are upbeat and friendly—in absolutely every department across the entire casino! If you have a positive comment about a casino or a casino employee, please send it to editor@azgamingguide.com.
TABLE GAMES By Al Moe
TABLE GAME CHEATING—PART I The Casino Industry Is Highly Regulated
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ver the years a lot of scams have been perpetrated against unsuspecting casino goers. Slot machines have been redesigned to inhibit jackpots, keno games have been rigged with some heavy ping-pong balls to reduce the odds of those numbers coming up, and weighted dice have been introduced into craps games to weigh the odds more toward the houses’ favor. At card games, crooked dealers have used false shuffles, dealt seconds and miss-paid players to increase the house edge. It’s a jungle out there. Or at least it used to be. Nevada casinos have been regulated for nearly 90 years, but they still had a reputation for cheating in their early years. In fact, during the late 1940’s, the governmental agency that eventually became the Nevada Gaming Control Board held a meeting in Lake Tahoe to tell the casino owners that they better stop all the cheating “or they were going to ruin a good thing for all of the operators.”
any type of cheating and scams, or risk losing their license to offer gaming. Does that make the games safe to play?
Since that time, gaming laws and regulations have become much more stringent and specific about all aspects of game operations, from ownership to game rules and money transactions. Arizona itself used a base-model of operations from both Nevada and Atlantic City when it designed the Arizona Department of Gaming and their regulatory system. Open gaming isn’t legal in Arizona, but the state does recognize the right of Native American tribes to offer gaming through a state compact.
For slot players, machines these days are computer and chipbased software programs that regulate play. The machines and the chips come from billion-dollar organizations like IGT and Bally that are themselves highly regulated. The chips can’t be randomly changed at the casino. Your slot dollars are safe! As for table game players, they have their own concerns.
The compact regulates most every form of gaming and sets specific standards that must be met. The rules inside the casinos start with Minimum Internal Controls (MIC’s). These controls lend themselves to dozens of pages of specific ways that all gaming operations must be checked, balanced and rechecked. Paperwork substantiates all types of transactions, signatures verify the transactions, and at each casino a Tribal Gaming Office is assigned the task of verifying the MIC’s and the compact.
Most every player at one time or another has asked themselves, “How did I lose so many bets? Is some cheating going on, or is this game safe?” It’s a valid question and one we’ll answer in depth next issue!
Internal Regulations Nevada casinos have MIC’s and internal auditors to comply with gaming regulations and they are overseen by the Nevada Gaming Control Board. Arizona, on the other hand, has both the Arizona Department of Gaming and the TOC or CRA (Casino Regulatory Agency) to oversee operations. This added regulatory group further compels casinos to stay vigilant with regard to
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Table Game Safety
Sneak Peek At Part II We’ll discuss specifics about playing cards, storage, how the cards get on the games and what impact a miss-handled deck or decks would have, along with what a player can do if they feel something isn't right. $
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
The Flintstones Ready For Play At Blue Water Resort & Casino
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esides being one of the last remaining casinos in Arizona where my team and I can still play the original Caveman Keno, Blue Water Resort & Casino continues to offer their patrons some of the best assortment of licensed products. Now players can also take a trip to the town of Bedrock while visiting Blue Water Resort & Casino! The sights, sounds, and of course all of the favorite characters from The Flintstones television series are now in this popular slot game! Featuring a 42� horizontal screen over a vertical 32� screen with a mechanical wheel, the 5x4 base game of The Flintstones theme features both a Flintstones and a Rubbles array. It only takes one character symbol landing on the 5th reel to activate one of the following bonuses: Watch as Bamm Bamm bangs symbols to turn them Wild in the Bamm Bamm Bonus, as Dino jumps on Fred and licks him for additional credits in the Dino Bonus, and as reels stretch up to 10 symbols high as Wild reels and multipliers are potentially added in The Flintstones mystery feature. Pick the cutest baby to double your credit prize in the Pebbles Beautiful Baby Contest, or pick bowling balls for credits in the Bedrock Bowling Feature. Wilma? WILMAAAAAAAAAAA! Hurry up, Wilma, and head over to WMS.com to learn more about this and other exciting new WMS slots. $
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Coming Soon
NEW SLOTS
The Blob By Bally Technologies
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he cult classic, The Blo b, by Bally Technologies will be creeping out of the past and onto casino floors here in Arizona and across the country really soon. Housed in Bally's striking Pro V 22/22 Hammerhead cabinet, this electrifying new game entertains just like the movie. Fans of progressive games will absolutely love this slot machine because it contains a five level progressive, including the lifechanging Cash Connection wide-area progressive, as well as some thrilling, innovative features. One of the most exciting aspects of this game is the mechanic of the progressive system. Players have the chance to play for and work their way up through the jackpots for higher wins. In other words, the progressive bonus game is not simply being randomly awarded as is the case in most slot games. Those that have played Jack p o t Party by WMS will be familiar with this game play mechanic. Trust us when we tell you that this exciting new game will infect you with its free spins, expanding Blob feature, randomly awarded bonuses, wild symbols, scatter pays, progressive system, and generous base game payouts. When three or more bonus symbols appear on the reels, the bonus is initiated and 10 free games in addition to 5X to 50X the total credits bet are awarded. Players have the option to choose the free games they would prefer: either 10 free spins with loaded reels where the A, K, Q, J, 10, 9 symbols are removed or wild stacked reels where symbols become wild when three or more of the same symbol land on a reel. The Blob is, simply put, engulfing fun! It's indestructible. It's indescribable. It can't be stopped. Players will be in for the thrill of their lives! For more information about this exciting game, or other new Bally products recently installed or coming soon to a casino near you, visit their website at BallyTech.com. $
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NEW SLOTS
Co m ing So o n
Mythical Warriors By IGT
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he Mythical Warriors series by IGT triples the fun with Mythical Warriors Centaurs, Mythical Warriors Sirens, and the Mythical Warriors Mermaids video slots. Developed for players seeking low-denominational gameplay, the 3 reel, 27 pay line games are each deployed on IGT’s stunning CrystalDual cabinet. Slot enthusiasts begin their mythical adventure with enchanted game symbols that can trigger a bronze, silver or gold progressive win when all three reels are completely filled with the game’s corresponding character image. To elevate player excitement, a free games bonus is triggered when nine bonus symbols black out the reels. The free games bonus can initiate ten initial free games when a major symbol acts as a wild for all the free games, and can also offer big-win potential when a major symbol occupies two symbols in the same reel during a bonus. For more information on this game and other exciting new IGT video slots, visit igt.com. $
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WINNING WAYS By Lana Hartmann
THE REEL DEAL ABOUT CLASS II SLOTS Are They Fair And How Different Are They Really From Class III Slots?
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lass II slots are popping up in casinos all over Arizona. In fact, the new West Valley Resort opening in Glendale this month will have exclusively Class II slots. Players won’t be able to tell the difference between these two types of games with a cursory glance, but there are some very important distinctions between them which is why Class II games even have their own set of rules and regulations separate from Class III games! Class II Slots vs. Class III Slots Visually, it’s very difficult to distinguish between Class II and Class III slots. All the same lights, bells, and whistles that are customarily found on Class III slot machines are also incorporated into the Class II slots. Players even have the option of choosing video or mechanical versions of these games! However, the tiny bingo card located somewhere above the reel window is the dead giveaway that the game is a Class II slot! The main difference between Class II and Class III slots is that Class II slots are connected to one central computer and all the outcomes are based on one random number generator running from the main computer. Essentially, players are competing against each other for prizes—which are just disguised as the winning combinations on the game. For each new game, there are a finite number of possible winning combinations (and losing combinations) that are awarded to the players participating in the bingo game at any particular moment. Imagine playing lottery scratch tickets. Once a certain combination has occurred, it cannot occur again until all the scratch tickets have been used and a new game is started! This is one of the key differences between Class II and Class III slots. Each game on a Class II slot is dependent on the previous game. Class III slots, on the other hand, each have their own random number generator located inside the individual slot machines and each game is completely independent. This is why it’s actually possible to get back-to-back jackpots on a Class III slot because all winning (and losing) combinations are available to players on every spin. Are Class II Slots Fair? The math models behind Class II games are set up in a slightly different way than the math models for the Class III games and that’s all! There is nothing unfair about Class II games! The overall payback percentage of the slot is based on how many
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winning and losing combinations there are in a finite pool of outcomes. When a bingo game is over, the central computer picks a player with a winning bingo and awards a prize from the “electronic” stack that includes a finite number of outcomes. A player doesn’t see what’s going on behind-the-scenes. If their bingo card is a winner, then they will see a winning combination on the screen in the form of three red 7s, for example. Class II Video Poker Steadfast video poker players who are concerned about playing the game on a Class II slot shouldn’t be whatsoever. The result of any video poker hand on a Class II slot is predetermined by the winning patterns on the bingo card. Therefore, for those that haven’t done their homework and studied up on video poker optimal strategy, they can play essentially using perfect strategy. In other words, if the bingo result determines a player should win a prize, they will be awarded that prize even if they make an incorrect play. For example, in one version of Class II video poker, if a player is dealt a three-of-a-kind but decides to hold two cards to the Royal rather than go for the four-of-akind, the machine has a magic genie appear on the screen and change the hand to create a four-of-a-kind win! Why Even Have Class II Slots? Class II slots that mimic electronic bingo were originally invented so that certain jurisdictions that weren’t allowed to operate Class III games could offer and benefit from this form of gaming. With so many great Class II game titles, slot directors in Class III jurisdictions have been intrigued enough to place them on their slot floors too! Don’t be reluctant to give these great games a try! Send us an e-mail to editor@azgamingguide.com and let us know what you think! $
CASINO DINING By Lana Hartmann
5 WAYS TO SURVIVE HOLIDAY DINING A Little Indulgence Doesn’t Have To Affect Your Waistline!
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any of us who have trouble keeping our waistlines in check downright fear the food temptations that are present during the holidays. Whether we are preparing the festivities ourselves, visiting friends and family, or choosing to take advantage of the many wonderful casino dining options, pounds can be packed on easily if we don’t take precautions. As long as we don’t overindulge on a regular basis, a trip to the casino buffet or an extra helping of grandma’s wonderful homemade stuffing (and a piece of apple pie) this holiday season will not upset the delicate balance of our scale. Here are some simple guidelines we can all follow to ensure that the dreaded number on the scale stays exactly where we all want it to both before and after the holidays!
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Don’t Skip Meals If you’re planning a trip to the buffet or having family and friends over for dinner, don’t skip breakfast and/or lunch to “make room.” Going into a meal feeling ravenous is a recipe for disaster. In fact, having a small snack such as a handful of nuts and a small piece of fruit a couple hours before the meal will help satiate your hunger and prevent overeating. Don’t Drink Your Calories A 12 oz. glass of soda can have as many as 200 calories, a glass of sweetened iced tea has about 150 calories, and juices can have up to 250 calories! A 12 oz. glass of beer has approximately 150 calories, a 5 oz. glass of red or white wine has about 125 calo-
ries, and a 1.5 oz. shot of hard liquor has nearly 100 calories! Opt for bottled water, unsweetened iced tea or black coffee instead and save the calories for something else (like dessert)! Always Start With The Soup Although you may not have a choice if you’re invited over to somebody’s house for dinner, always make sure to prepare soup when making the meal yourself at home or start with the soup when visiting a casino buffet or restaurant. Soup fills you up and tends to have less fat than some of the other selections. Choose clear broths such as chicken noodle or tomato-based options such as vegetable or minestrone which have far less calories and bad carbohydrates than do cream-based soups such as clam chowder and cream of potato. Avoid Foods That Are High In Calories The dishes that tend to have the highest amount of calories and fat per serving are those that are drenched in creams and heavy sauces and those that are deep fried. Focus on the low-carb and low-calorie meat dishes such as the ham and turkey and stay away from the highly caloric side dishes such as macaroni and cheese and scalloped potatoes. Saving as many calories during the main course will allow you to indulge in that chocolate cream cake for dessert and not feel guilty! Eat Slowly And Stop Eating When You’re Full Taking your time during a meal makes you feel fuller faster. Savor each bite and chew food thoroughly. Studies have shown that it takes our brains 20 to 30 minutes to register feelings of satiety. A good habit to get into, whether eating out or at home, is to frequently put all utensils down in between mouthfuls. Another benefit of eating slowly is that it aids in digestion. Remember that it’s not all about the food. Enjoyable company is what makes a good meal great! Spending time conversing with family and friends will naturally slow down your eating which will aid in proper digestion. Socializing during a meal will also prevent you from overindulging! Holiday dining, especially when eating out in restaurants and buffets, takes a lot of self-control. It’s so easy to overindulge when eating our favorite dishes. Although we all know it’s not good manners to leave food on your plate, if you feel satisfied or if something just doesn’t taste that appealing, don’t eat it! Every calorie counts! Never forget that it’s easy to gain a pound but so, so hard to lose it! Make sure each bite is worth it! $
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Just a few minutes south of Yuma you will find a hidden gem, Cocopah Casino & Resort.
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ood things are happening at Cocopah Casino & Resort where the guest’s satisfaction takes the highest priority. As a Cocopah Players Club member, you’ll want to start checking your mailbox. If you are not yet a member, visit the Players Club booth located in the center of the gaming floor on your next visit to unlock your rewards. Cocopah is rewarding its players with offers for free slot play, free table game
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Casino & Resort. Every Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday in December, you could be selected as a winner to choose a stocking to reveal your prize. Stockings are stuffed with assorted prizes including an iPad mini, Wireless Speaker or $50 Free Play. Three winners will be selected randomly each hour Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 2pm to 8:59pm for a total of 24 winners each drawing day. Actively play on slot machines with your card inserted into the machine during the drawings times to become eligible for a chance to win. See the Players Club for more information and complete rules.
play, as well as food discounts and other offers. Not only that, players can redeem their points for free play, gas, food, event tickets, exclusive casino gear, resort rooms, and much, much more! Cocopah Casino & Resort has made the commitment to its guests to provide a safe, well-lit and healthy environment. The casino’s air handling system makes it seem like a non-smoking casino, even when people are smoking…no burning eyes or smelly clothes. Compare Cocopah to other casinos! During the past few months, Cocopah has been busy replacing older slot machines with new games, while keeping the old favorites. Play games like Willy Wonk a, Lion Festival, Wheel of Fortune and of course, the old single line three reels are still there. Cocopah is about the old meeting the new, offering multidenomination & multi-game video poker and keno games that seem to be disappearing from the casino landscape. Plus, the casino offers three deck Blackjack with limits up to $500 per wager. There are new promotions on the floor each month. See your monthly newsletter or the Players Club to find out about current promotions. Super Stocking Stuffer is going on now at Cocopah
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On Saturday, December 12th, Cocopah Casino & Resort is celebrating their 12th anniversary. To reward their players and guests, Cocopah will be giving away door prizes to the first 2500 people to walk through the door. Later in the day, the casino will be serving celebratory cake to each guest. While you’re there, the Stuffing Your Stocking promotion will be going on so be sure to play with your Players Club card for a chance to be selected as a winner. Cocopah Casino has been voted best place in Yuma to play Bingo for ten consecutive years. Bingo is called seven days a week with Monday, Thursday and Sunday matinee sessions available. For players 55 and older, Club 55+ extends even more rewards. Show your Club 55+ card to your server at the Artisan Restaurant each time you dine. Club 55+ offers a 15% off discount to the entire regular priced menu. Not only that, Club 55 members that play with their Players Card on Sunday, Monday and Thursday receive a 250 point bonus when they earn 5 base points. If you’re not a Club 55+ member, sign up on your next visit—membership is free. Just south of Yuma on highway 95, Cocopah is close….too close to not visit! The Artisan Restaurant serves an a la carte menu daily. The breakfast buffet is served every morning for only $8.99 per person available Monday to Saturday from 7am to 11pm and Sunday 7am to Noon. Every Friday night, the Artisan Restaurant serves an all you can eat Prime Rib and Seafood Buffet extravaganza. The Prime Rib & Seafood buffet is only $19.99 per person available Friday from 5pm to 9pm.
Enjoy drinks and entertainment at The Sunset Lounge, Sports Bar or Rivers Edge Bar - three bars for whatever suits your mood. The Sunset lounge offers a comfortable retreat as you wind down from the hectic day or for a buzzing atmosphere, stop by the lively Rivers Edge Bar. Cocopah Casino's Sports Bar is the perfect place to watch all the top sporting events from around the world on their 100" projection screen TV. Cocopah Casino & Resort includes 101 plush hotel rooms with 7 suites and Wild River Entertainment a family style fun spot with bowling, pool, darts, and sports bar with over twenty 42” LCD TVs to watch the games.
hole “best kept secret,” Rio Colorado Golf Course. Cocopah is located within a short drive of the sand dunes, the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park, the Ocean-to-Ocean Bridge and a variety of historical and cultural landmarks. If you are near Yuma, Cocopah is just around the corner. Take I8 west to the exit at 16th Street – go west to Avenue B then south on Highway 95, or set your phone navigation on Cocopah Casino & Resort located at 15318 S. Ave B in Somerton, AZ. For more information, visit CocopahResort.com. $
Motorheads will love Cocopah Speedway! Racing season is in full swing. The Cocopah Speedway Racing Series features IMCA Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Mods, IMCA Stock Cars and IMCA Modifieds. Special events for 2016 include The Winter Heat Showdown with 5 nights of racing January 1st, 2nd, 5th, 8th and 9th featuring 410 Winged Sprint Cars, Monster Truck Madness on Friday, February 26th and Saturday, February 27th, and more. For ticket pricing and the full racing schedule visit CocopahSpeedway.com. Active Military receive a discount on General Admission tickets. Family General Admission packages are also available. Grab your clubs and head to the golf course. Cocopah boasts 2 golf courses - the Cocopah Bend RV & Golf Resort and the 9-
azgamingguide.com | December 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide
25
TRIBAL NEWS Words By Mike Jackson, Sr.—President, Fort Yuma Quechan Tribe Images By Fort Yuma Quechan Tribe
FORT YUMA QUECHAN TRIBE A Rich History Supporting Multiple Enterprises To Benefit Many People
T
he birth of Indian Gaming in Arizona gave tribes the right to a form of free enterprise on their respected tribal land. Tribes accepted the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) definition of free enterprise to enter into the gaming business. Indian Gaming gave tribes advancement to gain economic freedom that provided opportunities to care for their people. Tribal casinos have allowed tribes to be financially independent and prevent themselves from being a burden on state assistance. The economic impact from Indian Gaming on the tribes and the state cannot be argued due to the tribal nations’ partnership with the State of Arizona. Some say Indian Gaming has matured but tribal casinos are still developing, especially rural gaming tribes. The United States took over 200 years to become a great world country and thus it will take years for Indian Gaming to fully develop. Arizona tribes have advanced rapidly despite the minimal amount of time tribal casinos have been in existence. Other tribes are still in their infancy stage of development and are looking forward to their future. I was a tribal leader before gaming; I know the struggles my tribe and the people had to endure as well as the other Arizona tribes. The opening of our Paradise Casino brought economic independence and freedom to the Quechan people. Gaming revenue has allowed our tribe the benefit of self-reliance and to be autonomous as a tribal nation. Our Paradise Casino has been the heartbeat for economic gain for the Quechan Tribe. Revenues generated give our tribe the opportunity to provide optimal care for our youngest and oldest tribal members. This revenue stream has also funded the creation of new departments and allowed for the restructuring of existing departments such as: Social Services Programs, Tribal Courts, Tribal Police Department, Parks and Recreations Department, improve tribal infrastructure projects. We built new homes for our people as well as a new Senior Center where our elders can meet every day for meals and activities. In addition, a new Education Complex was constructed for all our education programs. The Quechan tribe puts education as a high priority in spending our revenue dollars. Our Language Program was also developed where our elders teach our younger generation the lan-
26 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2015 | azgamingguide.com
Mr. Mike Jackson, Sr., President, Fort Yuma Quechan Tribe guage. It is vital not to leave culture and tradition behind when tribes are advancing to the future. In 2009, we had the grand opening of The Quechan Casino Resort. We took advantage of Interstate 8, the route between Tucson, Phoenix and San Diego when constructing our casino. We also considered Mexico as a viable market, which is less than 10 miles away. The Quechan Tribe is a rural gaming tribe, therefore our demographics are uniquely different from metro tribes. Our casino management staff must do additional outreach to our surrounding communities in our gaming business operation. Both tribal casinos brought economic benefit to our people and also, most importantly, employment. The economic stability of our casinos
TRIBAL NEWS
have created the ability to provide future tribal opportunities and growth for our tribe. The Quechan Nation and the City of Yuma joined together to fund the renovation of the historic Ocean to Ocean Bridge. The Colorado River was a raging river before the bridge was built. The bridge was the gateway for travelers to cross from Arizona to California. No other city in Arizona has history like Yuma and the Quechan Tribe. The river runs through us but does not separate us. Our Tribal government will continue to work with the Yuma officials to bring tourism and economic growth to both communities. Our casino economically impacts Yuma County; we hire Yuma citizens, donate to different organizations, schools, and hire local contractors. A high percentage of our casino dollars are spent in Yuma County. The presence of Indian Gaming contributes to the Arizona economy, while progressing where it’s needed the most on tribal land. The next time you visit Yuma, make sure to experience everything the area has to offer. For more on the Fort Yuma Quechan tribe, contact them directly at 760.572.0213. Paradise Casino
Quechan Education Complex, Fort Yuma Indian Reservation (Paradise-Casinos.com) is located at 450 Quechan Drive in Yuma, AZ just a short drive from historic downtown Yuma. Quechan Casino Resort (PlayQCR.com) is located in Winterhaven, California just West of Yuma off Interstate 8. The casinos have a linked players club program allowing patrons to play and earn comps at both properties! $
Quechan Senior Center, Fort Yuma Indian Reservation
azgamingguide.com | December 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide
27
GAMING NEWS By Amanda Jacinto
Quarterly Tribal Gaming Contributions Continue To Rise
The Arizona Department of Gaming announced on November 5, 2015 that statewide tribal contributions increased for a fifth consecutive quarter. Tribal contributions to the State from gaming revenue will be approximately $25.6 million for the quarter ending September 30, 2015. This is a 6.4 percent increase when compared to the same quarter of last year. “An over 6 percent increase in Gaming revenues shows how important working relationships with Tribal Gaming partners are and just how much proper regulation means to the patrons who visit the State’s 23 Class III Casinos.” said Daniel Bergin, Director of the Arizona Department of Gaming. “We feel our rigorous standards directly relate to the confidence players feel when visiting gaming facilities around the State.” The Arizona Department of Gaming, in partnership with Arizona’s tribes, regulates Indian gaming. Under the Arizona
28 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2015 | azgamingguide.com
Tribal-State Gaming Compact, tribes with casinos contribute one to eight percent of their Class III gross gaming revenue to the state, cities, towns and counties. In Arizona, Class III gaming includes slot machines, jackpot poker, blackjack, keno and off-track pari-mutuel betting. There are currently 23 Class III casinos in the state. Tribes send contributions to the Arizona Benefits Fund every three months. $ The quarterly contributions will be distributed as follows: Instructional Improvement Fund/Education: $12,776,904 Trauma and Emergency Services Fund: $6,388,452 Arizona Department of Gaming operating costs: $2,307,226 Arizona Wildlife Conservation Fund: $1,825,272 State Tourism Fund: $1,825,272 Problem Gambling Educ., Treatment & Prevention: $512,717 TOTAL tribal contributions for Q3 2015: $25,635,843
GAMING NEWS Images By Desert Diamond Casino—West Valley
Experience The Possibilities At The New Desert Diamond Casino—West Valley
The Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise’s new Desert Diamond Casino – West Valley is on schedule to open its doors on December 20, 2015. Located at 9431 West Northern Ave, just east of the Loop 101 Freeway near Glendale and Peoria, it is the only casino serving the West Valley of Phoenix. The casino is also conveniently sited within Glendale’s Sports and Entertainment District, which includes the University of Phoenix Stadium—home of the Arizona Cardinals—and the Westgate retail and entertainment complex. “We’re excited to finally offer guests in the West Valley the unique entertainment opportunities at a first-class casino,” said Andy Asselin, CEO of the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enter-
30 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2015 | azgamingguide.com
prise. “Our construction team has done a fantastic job in getting the property ready on a tight schedule, and I think our guests will be very impressed with the beautiful facility.” When it opens, the Desert Diamond Casino – West Valley will offer guests an amazing array of 1,089 gaming devices. The casino will initially open as a Class II property, but visitors aren’t likely to know it. The casino floor is packed with some of the most popular titles, including Bally’s 88 Fortunes, Aristocrat’s 5 Dragons Legend s, and Sm ok in’ 777 from Everi. All of them look and play just like their traditional counterparts, offering guests that familiar gaming experience...and of course, the chance to win big!
GAMING NEWS
“We have a very exciting lineup of some of the hottest games in the industry waiting for our guests to enjoy,” said Don Ayers, Director of Slots for the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise. “With over 1,000 devices to choose from, we have something for everyone.” Just off the casino floor, visitors will also find a two-venue food court offering round-the-clock comfort food to guests seeking to grab a quick bite. Guests looking for the best value will want to sign up for a free Rewards Card at the casino’s Rewards Center. Rewards Card members receive dining discounts, special offers, and other perks. Becoming a member is fast, simple, and easy. Current Rewards Card holders from Desert Diamond Casinos’ other locations are already in the system and able to start earning rewards points right away on the floor. Visitors to the new casino might be amazed to know that a little over a year ago the site was just an empty lot. Ground was broken on the casino site in August 2014 and primary construction started last December. More than 1,300 men and women and 80 companies worked to build the casino’s $200 million first phase.
Opening the doors on schedule for December 20 is a tremendous accomplishment for the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise and the construction team, and there is more to come. In order to begin creating jobs and offering entertainment opportunities more quickly, the Desert Diamond Casino – West Valley is being built in phases. The first phase opens this month, but in the coming months and years there will be additional expansions to the property. First on the agenda will be construction of a larger primary gaming floor, including the bingo hall and poker room. That will be followed by the hotel, spa, additional restaurants, retail space, and other amenities. Once fully complete, the Desert Diamond Casino – West Valley will create 3,000 permanent jobs in the community and generate more than $300 million in annual economic impacts for Arizona. The Desert Diamond Casino – West Valley has been years in the making, but on Dec. 20, the first guests will be able to experience the possibilities at this beautiful new facility. For more information make sure to visit WestValleyOpportunity.com and DDCAZ.com. $
azgamingguide.com | December 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide
31
GAMING NEWS By Melody Hudson
Guests Win Big At Wild Horse Pass Casino
Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino guest Kelly P. won over $400,000 recently while playing the popular Triple Double Stars slot machine at the Chandler casino. The prize was triggered when Kelly hit the progressive jackpot on the popular slot machine, and the local Phoenix resident could not have been happier. “This is the best holiday gift I could have hoped for, I am beyond grateful this Thanksgiving season,” said Kelly. “We love to come to Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino and feel so lucky to have won such a large jackpot.” The Triple Double Stars progressive slot machines are some of the most popular on the floor at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino and their progressive jackpots routinely hit in the six figures. Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, Lone Butte Casino and Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino have linked the Fortune Pai Gow Progressive jackpot at each property to create the largest progressive table games jackpot in Arizona. The progressive wager gives players an opportunity to win all or part of a large, incrementing jackpot and it has paid off for lucky Phoenix resident D. Parker who won $223,363 recently at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino. Gila River Casinos offers players a progressive jackpot funded by tables at each of their three properties. The progressive jackpot system creates higher jackpots for players, and increases the excitement of one of the more popular table games. “I am thrilled I won, I love to play at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino,” said Parker of his big win. Since its inception, the Pai Gow progressive jackpot has paid out over a million dollars to lucky winners at all three Gila River Casinos’ properties, and has also paid out the largest Fortune Pai Gow Progressive jackpot in Arizona at a cool $518,315. Fortune Pai Gow Progressive is a guest favorite, and Gila River Casinos is the first in Arizona to offer a multi-property linked progressive. Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino is home to many of the most popular titles in slot machines offering 950 slots. In addition to the latest slots, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino also hosts 75 table games, 5 lounges and a nightclub, a 1,400 seat showroom, a AAA four diamond hotel and a wide range of restaurants and live entertainment options. For more information, please visit WinGilaRiver.com. $
azgamingguide.com | December 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 September 2015 Slots
Hold % Tables
Hold %
5.25
Craps
12.92
25¢
5.68
Roulette
18.66
$5
5.73
Blackjack / 21
18.81
$1
5.74
Pai Gow Poker
22.46
Multi-Denom 5.74
Let It Ride
25.35
$25
7.39
Three Card Poker
30.24
1¢
12.48
Other Table Games 31.54
Tight Megabucks
14.35
Loose 5¢
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 troplaughlin.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.
34 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2015 | azgamingguide.com
Other Loose Sports Pools
Hold % 9.06
Win Amount
Dollars
Bingo
8.72
Slots
33.2 mil.
Live Keno
26.86
Tables
3.2 mil.
15.53
Other
0.6 mil.
Tight Race Books
LAUGHLIN, NEVADA By Mark Novak
TROPICANA LAUGHLIN HAS GOT GAME Check Out The New Life Of Luxury Progressives
W
hen I saw the Tropicana Laughlin was hosting Country Music star Toby Keith as a part of Veterans Day celebrations in early November, I knew I had to come check out the property for myself and take in a great show at the same time. Yes, I am a Toby Keith fan, what can I say! To my delight, right at check-in, I noticed the brand new Life of Luxury Progressive slot machines by WMS just off the hotel lobby near the street entrance! I have been waiting to try this game since I saw it at G2E in Las Vegas and it does not disappoint!
For fans of the original Life of Luxury Progressive game, you’ll immediately recognize all the same aspects of the classic game. But, there are several important improvements since the original. First, the slots are multi-games! This allows us players to choose from several different game themes to play on including Colossal Bier Haus, Colossal Jungle Wild, Far East Fortunes, Jungle Cats, and Raging Rhino. While all of these games are exciting in their own right, in my opinion, Raging Rhino is a fantastic game which takes the concepts found in the slot Buff alo to a whole new level. And, you can choose to play the Colossal games, or not, as well. And second, all the graphics were updated and a huge monitor is being used to display the progressives above the bank. As if the game didn’t pop before, it certainly pops now! Life of Luxury Progressive’s game play is exactly as before. Each game has its own bonus game, but the fifth reel has a scattered trigger for the Life of Luxury Bonus where players are awarded 10 free games. The free games are played on different reels with different symbols, including a progressive trigger symbol on each reel. Each reel’s progressive trigger symbol matches with one of five progressives. The first reel has an Opal, triggering the Opal Progressive (the lowest value). The second reel has a Ruby, triggering the Ruby Progressive (the next highest value). The third reel has an Emerald, triggering the Emerald Progressive (the next highest value). The fourth reel has a Sapphire, triggering the Sapphire Progressive (the second highest value). And, finally, the fifth reel has a Diamond, triggering the Diamond Progressive (the highest value). Play max bet (240 credits or $2.40) to automatically win the progressive when the corresponding
36 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2015 | azgamingguide.com
LAUGHLIN, NEVADA
symbol shows up. Or, when betting less than max bet, your chances for winning the corresponding progressive is determined by your bet level. When betting the minimum, players receive one pick on a screen of eight jewels to find the progressive. Increase your bet to get more picks. Remember that this game lets you win more than one progressive during the free games! And, you can win the same progressive multiple times! Check out Life of Luxury Progressive and many, many more brand new slots at the Tropicana Laughlin. Every month, they have something new on their floor. I used their buy one get one free promotion to get a great rate. Just call 800.343.4533 and use the offer code 4150 to get your deal! For information about the Tropicana Laughlin, their specials, and a lot more, visit their website at TropLaughlin.com. $
Do you have a question for a Marketing Director? Have you ever wondered about the people working behind the scenes? Do you want to find out how it really works? We know you do and here is your chance to find out! Send your question in an email with “Ask Joe” in the subject to our address at editor@azgamingguide.com and if Joe selects your question to be answered in an upcoming issue, you’ll get a $25 gift card! (If you prefer to send a letter, you may mail it to the following address: “Ask Joe” Arizona Gaming Guide PO BOX 20636 Mesa, AZ 85277)
azgamingguide.com | December 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide
37
CASINO ENTERTAINMENT
Listings Chad Freeman And Redline (Country)— Mon. 8pm, Arizona Room Trivia—Tue. 7pm, Country Dance Instruction (Learn to Dance)— Wed. at 6pm, Daisy Train (Country)—Wed. 8pm, Latin Fire Dance Nights (Learn to Dance)—Thu. at 6pm, Superhero Band—Fri. at 8:30pm, Sapphire Sky—Dec. 31 6pm Casino Del Sol—Tucson, AZ—520.838.6506 Paradiso Bar & Lounge: Featuring a variety of live bands & DJs on weekends Cliff Castle Casino—Camp Verde, AZ—800.381.7568 Dragonfly Lounge: Featuring a variety of live bands & DJs on weekends Cocopah Resort Casino—Somerton, AZ—800.237.5687 Events: Ka ra o k e w ith Bling Bling/DJ So sa —Th & Fr at 8pm
Rock ‘N’ Roll Legend Johnny Rivers Desert Diamond Casino—December 19, 2015 The renowned singer/songwriter/producer Johnny Rivers is performing live at the Diamond Center on Saturday, December 19. Tickets start at $15 and are on sale through Star Tickets and also available at the Desert Diamond’s Rewards Center. Doors open at 5pm and the show starts at 6pm. Born in New York City and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Johnny Rivers began playing professionally at age 14. In the early 1960’s, Rivers hooked up with Jimmy Bowens and Capitol Records Producer Nick Venet. While under Bowen’s wing, Rivers recorded his first album, “The Sensational Johnny Rivers,” for Capitol, produced by Venet. In January of 1964, Rivers opened the now world-famous Whisky à Go Go, where he recorded “Johnny Rivers Live at the Whisky à Go Go” and released his first #1 single “Memphis.” With 17 Gold records, 29 chart hits, two Grammy Awards, and more than 30 million records sold, he continues to perform before sellout crowds. Apache Gold Casino—Globe, AZ—800.272.2438 Events: Clinton Anderson Horsemanship Clinic—Jan. 8-10 BlueWater Casino—Parker, AZ—888.243.3360 Dig Lounge: Featuring a variety of live bands, karaoke & DJs—Daily at 5pm Events: Williams & Ree—Dec. 18 (Two Shows) Casino Arizona—Scottsdale, AZ—480.850.7777 The Showroom: Showstoppers Live! Holiday Spectacular—Dec. 2-23, Loveshack— Dec. 31, Monday Night Showroom Football—Mondays at 5pm The Arizona Room:
38 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2015 | azgamingguide.com
Desert Diamond Casino I—Tucson, AZ—866.332.9467 Monsoon Nightclub: Groove Live with DJ Blade—Fridays, Old School Mix! Noches Caliente—Saturdays, The hottest Tex Mex and Tejano music! Desert Diamond Casino II—Sahuarita, AZ—866.332.9467 Sports Bar: Karaoke Night—We 7-11pm, Live music or DJs—Fr & Sa Diamond Center: Josh Turner—Dec. 12, Johnny Rivers—Dec. 19, Martina McBride— Jan. 30, 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 Featured Entertainment: Dw ight Yo a k a m,—10th, Gin Blossoms—19th, New Year’s Eve party with Pop Vinyl—31st The Lounge: Bo rn Jo vi (Bo n Jo vi Tribute)—4th & 5th, Chad Freeman & Redline—11th, Solace—12th, One Of These Nights (Eagles Tribute)—18th, Smooth Groove—19th, ZGF—25th, The Walkens— 26th Wednesdays In The Lounge: Enjoy live music from Noon—4pm. Guy Pennachio—2nd, Joe Costello Syndicate—9th, Bandstand Shows—16th, Silhouette—23rd, Buddy Holly Tribute—30th The Lounge Happy Hour: Enjo y Ha ppy ho ur a nd live music Tuesdays & Wednesdays from 5 – 8pm. Stanley Serano Trio—1st, 9th, 16th & 23rd, Western Fusion Trio—2nd, John Eric Duo—8th, Karen & Pat—15th, Flavour—22nd & 29th, The Walkens Trio—30th. Hon-Dah Casino—Pinetop, AZ—800.929.8744 Timbers Lounge and Showroom: Munda y Funda y—Comedy Show 7pm, Clacrk County Band (Country)—Dec. 1-5, Groove City Band (R&B)—Dec. 8-12, Creagles (CCR & Eagles Tribute)—Dec. 1519, Vol. 1 (Latin Variety)—Dec. 22-26, Firstborn (Variety)—Dec. 2930 & Jan. 1-2 Events: The Tribute (Sha nia Tw a in & Tim McGra w Tribute)— Dec. 18, New Year’s Eve Party with Ronny and The Classics—Dec. 31
Editor’s Pick 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 Cities Bar & Grille: Sunday Brunch featuring live entertainment from 10am-4pm Events: Yo la nda del Rio w ith Ma ria chi Azteca de Oro —Dec. 11, Mariachi Fiesta Valle Del Sol—Dec. 27, New Year’s Eve with Str8Up Dance Party & Squeezebox Polka Party—Dec. 31
CASINO ENTERTAINMENT DWIGHT YOAKAM Harrah’s Ak-Chin—Ak-Chin Circle Field Thursday, December 10, 2015
Mazatzal Casino—Payson, AZ—800.777.7529 Apache Spirits Lounge: Featuring a variety of live music on the weekends. Events: New Yea r’s Eve Party with Liquid Blue—Dec. 31 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: Fea turing a va riety o f live music o n the w eek ends Talking Stick Resort—Scottsdale, AZ—480.850.7777 The Showroom & Grand Ballroom: Sunda y Fo o tba ll Frenzy— Sundays during football season, Tracy Lawrence—Dec. 4, Carl Palmer’s ELP Legacy—Dec. 5, New Year’s Eve 2015 At Talking Stick Resort—3 Parties 1 Night—Dec. 31, Raven’s Annual New Year’s Eve Gala—Dec. 31, Jerry Riopelle—Jan. 2, An Evening With Todd Rundgren—Jan. 8, STYX—Jan. 17, Dave Mason’s Traffic Jam—Jan. 22, Jim Norton—Jan. 23, Trace Adkins—Feb. 12, Frank Caliendo— Feb. 13, The Mavericks—Feb. 27, Joe Satriani—Mar. 5, Kathleen Madigan—Apr. 9, Tracy Morgan—May 14 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 Event Center: Ma ria chi Ro driguez—Dec. 26, One Of These Nights (Eagles Tribute)—Dec. 31, Catch A Wave (Beach Boys Tribute)— Dec. 31, Brenton Wood—Jan. 30, Little Joe y La Familia—Feb. 13
Yoakam is a pioneer of country music with more than 21 albums and compilations. Yoakam has sold more than 25 million records including some of his biggest hits: “Guitars, Cadillacs,” “Honky Tonk Man,” “Streets of Bakersfield,” and “A Thousand Miles from Nowhere.” He is also an actor and film director in addition to his career as a singersongwriter. The concert is free for all ages and lawn seating is available on a first come first serve basis. The doors open at 4:30pm and the show starts at 7pm.
GIN BLOSSOMS Harrah’s Ak-Chin—UltraStar Amphitheater Saturday, December 19, 2015 The Gin Blossoms are a rock band formed in Tempe, Arizona in the 1980s. The band’s breakout album, “New Miserable Experience” featured hit singles “Hey Jealousy,” “Allison Road,” “Until I Fall Away,” “Mrs. Rita,” and “Found Out About You.” The doors open at 12:30pm and the show starts at 1:30pm. $
Wild Horse Pass Casino—Chandler, AZ—800.946.4452 Chrome Nightclub—Fri & Sat 9pm-2am, The Lounge—Featuring a variety of live music nightly, Festival Park—Live music outdoors Showroom: Ta nya Tuck er—Dec. 4, Motown Holiday Show—Dec. 6, Craig Ferguson—Dec. 11, Ho’okena Holiday Show—Dec. 12, LeAnn Rimes—Dec. 18, Vegas Country (Shania Twain & Tim McGraw Tribute)—Dec. 20, Powerdrive—Dec. 31, The Piano Man (Elton John Tribute)—Jan. 2, ‘56 Rock & Roll Revue—Jan. 3, Donny Osmond—Jan. 8, Squeezebox & Mollie B—Jan. 9, Tenn Idols Tribute—Jan. 10, The Temptations—Jan. 16, Magic Of Motown—Jan. 17, Burton Cummings—Jan. 22, Norm MacDonald & Kevin Nealon— Jan. 23, Europe—Jan. 25, Lou Nelson (Tom Jones Tribute)—Jan. 31, Engelbert Humperdinck—Feb. 5, Smokey Robinson—Feb. 13 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 | December 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide
39
CASINO BINGO
PARADISE CASINO BINGO Holiday Events
C
ongratulations to Verla Chism who won $5,419 on October 14th on the Letter H Progressive at Paradise Casino Bingo. That’s an awesome early Holiday present! Christmas Ugly Sweater Kozmic Bingo—Saturday, December 19th at 10pm. $75/$125/$100 specials and a free set of specials when you use your VIP card at the time of purchase. Christmas Day Bingo—Friday, December 25 at 6pm only. $25 paper/$47 & $77 electronic. 10 main games paying $300/$500 Specials/$1,199 Double Action Coverall. Free Christmas Day daubers while they last. Make sure to bring in your Reindeer Bucks for a chance at $200-$500! New Years Eve Bingo—Thursday, December 31 at 6pm only. $16 paper/$26 electronic. 10 main games paying $116/$216 Specials/$516 Double Action Coverall. Daubers & drawings too! $
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
Th-Su at 6:30pm
350
Yes*
Yes
No
Desert Diamond I
We-Mo 1:30, 2, 6, 6:30 & 7pm
300
Yes
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: 10, Noon, 3:45, 5:30pm. Daily: 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
Daily at 1:30pm. Mo-Fr at 6pm.
300
Yes
Yes
Call for Kozmic Bingo & Other Special Dates
Twin Arrows
Th-Su at 7pm & Su at 3pm.
100
No
Yes
No
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 11/01/15 & 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 | December 2015 | azgamingguide.com
SAMI’S SMACKDOWN By Sami Becker
AM I SAFE AT THE CASINO? Sami Reassures A Reader With Casino Safety Tips
D
ear Sami, I have more of a question for you rather than a rant or a rave. Last night I was at the casino and a security guard approached me and informed me that I need to hold my purse in my lap. At the time, I had it sitting in between my machine and the other person’s machine. I asked him why and he said that he didn’t want my purse to get stolen. Of course I understand and it makes sense that someone can snatch my purse a lot easier if I’m not holding on to it. However, I guess I just didn’t feel I needed to be that overly cautious. Somehow I’ve always just felt safe at the casinos with all the guards and the employees running around all the time. Do I have a false sense of security? I’ve never personally witnessed any occurrences at any of the casinos I go to, so I was wondering if you know whether theft is a problem at these places. How safe are the casinos? I really enjoy your column and I wanted you to know that your article is the first I read whenever I pick up a new Gaming Guide each month. Thank you and keep up the good work. Francis Lawson – Phoenix, AZ Francis, thank you very much for your kind words about my column and for being an Arizona Gam ing Guid e fan! If you’ve seen the movie Casino, then you surely remember Robert de Niro’s character as a casino manager and his narration about casino security – The dealers are watching the players. The pit bosses are watching the dealers. The shift bosses are watching the pit bosses. The floor manager is watching the shift bosses. The casino manager is watching the floor manager. And, the “eye in the sky” is watching them all! Let’s face it, a casino is probably one of the safest places to be. Anyone who tries to do something there they shouldn’t be doing will most likely get caught. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take precautionary measures to keep yourself safe! Often times the holidays make people feel desperate, so here are some simple and practical tips to protect yourself while at the casino: Watch Your Purse And Wallet Just as the casino security personnel cautioned our reader, pay close attention to your purses and wallets! Ladies, the safest way to carry a purse or hold it in your lap is in a crisscross fashion over the shoulder. It is much more difficult for someone to snatch the purse and run. Men, never carry your wallet in your back pocket. It’s in a much more secure location when in a front pocket!
42 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2015 | azgamingguide.com
Put Away Your Money Don’t hold your money in your hand. When you’re at the cage or ticket machine, make sure to put away your money safely into your purse or wallet immediately before you walk away. Guard Your Tax Slip Keep the tax slip you receive for hand pays in a secure location. Your name, address, social security number and other personal information is contained on tax slips given out by the casinos. Take Advantage Of Casino Services Use the valet parking because a small tip, or even a small fee, is an insignificant price to pay for the added safety and peace of mind. Ask for a security escort to your car if you’ve won a large sum of money. Then, make sure you’re not being followed home. Be Aware Of Your Surroundings Always be aware of the people that are playing next to you and standing around you. Be cautious of any person that is behaving in a suspicious manner. Have fun and stay safe! $
Do YOU have something to rant or rave about? Write me at: sami@azgamingguide.com
FUN FACTS By Lana Hartmann
HISTORY OF THE ‘ONE-ARMED BANDIT’ The First Slot Machine Ever Invented Was Called The Liberty Bell
S
lot machines sure have come a long way since their inception in 1895 when a car mechanic from San Francisco, California by the name of Charles Fey created and set the standard for the first modern day slot machine. In fact, his three reel model is still used today! Fey called his slot the Liberty Bell and the three reels on his popular game contained the following symbols: Horseshoes, Diamonds, Spades, Hearts, Stars and a Liberty Bell. After depositing a nickel, the lever on the side of the machine could be pulled and the reels would start to spin with three random symbols landing on the center pay line. If the same symbol landed on all three reels, a bell would ring and the player would be awarded with coins. The largest payout the Liberty Bell offered was 50 cents (10 nick-
els) when a player managed to line up three Liberty Bell symbols. Other payouts were 40 cents for three hearts, 30 cents for three diamonds, and 20 cents for three spades. While the Liberty Bell was popular, other inventors and companies began making more slot machines a lot faster than Mr. Fey was able to make. In addition, many cities and states began to outlaw gambling, San Francisco among them, pushing Mr. Fey out of business. There are very few of the Liberty Bell machines left and are a hot item for collectors. The Liberty Bell slot machine is a rarity at auctions. $
azgamingguide.com | December 2015 | Arizona Gaming Guide
43
FUN & GAMES
WORD SEARCH To celebrate the Holidays, find: APPLE PIE, APPLE SAUCE, BAKED HAM, PUDDING, GRAVY, CANDY CANES, CHEESE CAKE, CHERRY PIE, CRANBERRIES, KUGELS, LATKES, POTATOES, CHESTNUTS, TURKEY, YAMS, STUFFING, NUTMEG, PUMPKIN PIE, CINNAMON, EGG NOG Words appear in any direction. (Solution on page 46)
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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. Level: Medium. (Solution on page 46)
7
5 3
6
1 4
8
9 5
7
6 2
1
7
3
6
5
4
9 8 1
9 4
3
6
44 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2015 | azgamingguide.com
101 & McKellips
Scottsdale
480-850-7777 898
Y
Y
05. Casino Del Sol
5655 W. Valencia Rd.
Tucson
855-765-7829 1,068
Y
Y
7406 S. Camino De Oeste
Tucson
855-765-7829 288
07. Cliff Castle Casino & Hotel
I-17, Exit 289
Camp Verde
800-381-7568 655
15318 S. Ave. B
Somerton
800-237-5687 509
7350 S. Nogales Hwy.
Tucson
866-332-9467 1,089
I-19, Exit 80
Tucson
866-332-9467 674
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
Y
800-946-4452 786
Y
Y
Payson
800-777-7529 420
Y
Y
Y
Y
450 Quechan Dr.
Yuma
888-777-4946 486
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 235
Y
Y
Chandler
Y
101 & Indian Bend
Scottsdale
480-850-7777 765
Y
I-40, Exit 219
Flagstaff
855-946-8946 1,087
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 243
21. Twin Arrows Navajo Casino 22. Vee Quiva Casino 24. Yavapai Casino
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 898 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
Spa
04. Casino Arizona
Golf
800-756-8744 319
RV Park
888-243-3360 525
Prescott
Hotel
Parker
1500 E. Hwy. 69
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 11/01/15 & 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!
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Word Search Solution P P U M M O S E A T A H C A N A D T H P O E U E P K R R A K B S L E G U G N I F F G R A Y A M S S E K T C H E S T
P K I N P I E N A C Y D N A C C H P E E T P G E M O L G S L A E E N E R E N S S O C E Y P N G A G A K Y P I I E U K U T S I E C M C E V Y E T E P U D D I N G U A L N U T S
Sudoku Solution S E I R R E B N A R C N
4
3
7
6
2
5
1
8
9
8
9
2
4
3
1
5
7
6
5
6
1
8
7
9
4
2
3
2
5
4
3
1
6
8
9
7
3
1
8
2
9
7
6
4
5
9
7
6
5
8
4
3
1
2
6
8
9
1
5
2
7
3
4
1
2
5
7
4
3
9
6
8
7
4
3
9
6
8
2
5
1
46 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2015 | azgamingguide.com
Smoke-Free Area
Y
11300 Resort Drive
Y
Arcade
Y
02. BlueWater Resort & Casino
Poker Room
Y
800-272-2438 590
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 Y