JUNE
Contents
IN EVERY ISSUE 04 EDITOR’S NOTE 06 PLAYERS TALK 10 TABLE GAMES 15 NEW SLOTS 20 WINNING WAYS 22 DINING 24 FEATURE STORY 26 TRIBAL NEWS 30 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
TOURNEVENT OF CHAMPIONS: THERE’S $1,400,000 ON THE LINE THIS SEPTEMBER IN LAS VEGAS!
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Play on many brand new slots by Aruze Gaming which include Go ld Wheel, Ultra Stack Panda & Africa.
We don’t have enough room to show you all of the recent slot jackpots and promotion winners!
The SRPM Indian Community is the first in Indian Country to pass an ordinance about distracted driving.
BRAND NEW SLOTS COME TO BUCKY’S & YAVAPAI
APACHE GOLD CASINO’S RECENT WINNERS
SALT RIVER PIMA— MARICOPA TEXTING BAN
azgamingguide.com | June 2016 | Arizona Gaming Guide
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EDITOR’S NOTE
TOURNEVENT 2016 Qualify For A Chance To Win $1,000,000
Your Authority On Everything Gaming VOLUME 08 • ISSUE 06 PUBLISHER Chris Höft chris@azgamingguide.com
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ournEvent Of Champions 2016 by the slot manufacturer EVERI, formerly Multimedia Games, kicked off last month and we are encouraging all of our readers to participate. This is a great opportunity to enter a slot tournament for free and, if you are lucky, find yourself in Las Vegas competing for the $1,000,000 top prize. Check out the feature story for more details on how you can get in on the action at casinos here in Arizona and in the surrounding states. There’s no reason why you can’t give it a shot at qualifying at more than one casino, right? Also in this issue, you’ll 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 .com /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 the Arizona Gam ing Guide on our website at AZGam ingGuid e.com . Let me know what you think of this issue and have fun!
Alexandra Alexandra Lang Editor-in-Chief editor@azgamingguide.com
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 Mark Novak Melody Hudson Lana Hartmann Rachel Brockway Samantha Becker 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
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Copyright © 2016 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: I’m curious to know if the slot machines in the casinos are set tighter or looser depending on their location on the floor. I was at [a casino] this weekend and I noticed that the video poker machines have different pay schedules depending on their location in the casino. The same game with the same denomination can vary quite significantly from 9/5 all the way down to a 6/5 [full house/flush payback at one coin]!! I can judge how “tight” or “loose” a video poker game is just by looking at the pays, but unfortunately I can’t just look at a slot machine and tell. Do you have any insight on this? Donald Lehman – Litchfield Park, AZ A: In most casinos, in particular larger properties, the placement of slots is carefully thought out all the way down to the payback percentage. How “loose” or how “tight” a slot is set when first brought onto the floor is not a haphazard decision for the slot department executives. As soon as a casino is big enough, say over 750 machines, casino executives put significant thought into how their property is laid out. As a result, patrons respond to their design by having high or low traffic volume areas which is frequently based on desirable and undesirable amenities the casino property offers, like restaurants, an entertainment venue, and so on. Casinos always want to maximize revenues out of every slot in the casino at all times. For this reason, slots in high volume traffic areas near an attractive amenity (Zone A), like the buffet, will see a lot of play. Games with a lot of play are a goldmine for the casino. These games can be set “tight” with high maximum bets and use math models with extreme ups and downs to their game play as they’ll get play regardless of their settings. At the opposite end of the spectrum is an area of the casino where traffic volume is low and there is nothing attracting players to the surrounding area (Zone B). For example, a dark corner near a few Blackjack tables where visitors might be bothered by the rowdy antics of someone who just watched the dealer draw to 21! Logically, the casino has to approach slots in this area differently than those in Zone A. In order to keep the numbers up in Zone B, the slots have to be lower risk, at lower maximum bets, and set “looser” in order to keep players in the area, playing longer, and coming back on the next trip. Then there are the middle ground areas. That is, sections of the casino with high foot traffic volume with unappealing attractions (Zone C), or an
area with an attractive destination but with low traffic volume (Zone D). Slots in Zone C have a low wager, medium game play and tend to be set “tight” to capture a player’s impulse to play on a whim. Slots in Zone D usually have a low bet, medium game play and are set “loose” to keep players in the area. Next time you visit a casino, be observant of what Zone (A, B, C, or D) you might be in. You’ll have to observe the traffic volume and then come to a conclusion about how “loose” or “tight” the slots might be before you sit down and play! Q: I think that I read in your magazine a while back that playing Bingo is healthy, so I’m considering starting to play. Can you confirm this for me and tell me the reasons why again please? I went to your website where you have all the past issues but I gave up trying to flip through them – there were too many. Your magazine provides such interesting information every month. Might I suggest you categorize the information on your website? That would help a lot! Thanks for a great magazine. I don’t miss a month! Joyce Clayton – Phoenix, AZ A: Based on a year-long study conducted at the Southampton University in the UK and research at Chicago’s Rush University, playing Bingo can support brain health and a positive social environment. Both brain health and social interaction, along with good physical health, are keys to independence and longevity in older adults. Obviously, Bingo uses fast hand-to-eye coordination and also relies on fast reaction times in order to recognize and mark random numbers in order to win money. Researchers followed two groups of individuals. One group contained individuals whose ages ranged from 18 to 40 and the other had ages in the range of 60 to 82. Each group was divided into Bingo and non-Bingo players. Based on the tests conducted during the study, Bingo players were faster and more alert than non-Bingo players. In addition, Bingo players frequently scored higher in cognitive and physical tasks over non-Bingo players. So, if you or someone you know could benefit from the social, physical, and mental aspects of playing Bingo, make sure to play in one of the many Bingo games at Arizona’s casinos all over the state. Don’t forget to bring plenty of daubers and a 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
winning attitude – you’ll be guaranteed a fantastic time with your friends and family alike. Plus, you’ll be participating in a healthy activity! Thank you for your kind remarks about our publication and the wonderful idea for an addition to our website. We always welcome suggestions and feedback on how we’re doing from our fans! We hope you continue to read and enjoy the AZ Gam ing Guid e !! Q: My general rule of thumb is to try $20 on a slot machine and if it doesn’t do anything I get up and move to another game. I feel like this used to work for me, but lately all I’ve been doing is losing much quicker than ever before. Even if I lost a $20 here and a $20 there, I would come across a machine that would give me something and make it all back. What do you recommend, going from machine to machine “trying” them out or sticking it out on one game? Maria Estrada – Yuma, AZ A: How much money should you put into a penny slot to “test” a game before you get up and move to another machine if it’s not going well? While most people will agree with you and say $20, this is not nearly enough money to truly experience the new slot games hitting the casino floors. Given that modern slots tend to be more volatile, a $40 initial investment is your best bet—and this is assuming you will be playing the minimum bet. Insert any less than this and you may be setting yourself up for disappointment. The average number of spins (called the pulls-to-hit) it takes to trigger a bonus varies from slot to slot, and it’s up to the mathematician to determine how often a player will get into a bonus. Extremely volatile slots can take over 180 spins, on average, to hit a bonus whereas less volatile slots have much lower pulls-tohits of between 60 and 80 spins. As a slot enthusiast, you should be able to have a rough idea of approximately how many spins it takes to get into the bonuses on your favorite slot games so you can plan your budget accordingly. Let’s assume, for example, that your favorite slot game has medium volatility with an average bonus pulls-to-hit of 120. If you intend on wagering 30¢ per spin and it takes 120 spins to get into the bonus, then you can expect to spend about $36 before you trigger the bonus. Therefore, a reasonable bankroll for this scenario is $40. This amount of money would, most likely, allow you to experience the game’s bonus at least once. If you reach your $40 mark but haven’t triggered a bonus, then it may be time to end the play session and try a different game. Since the “$40 test” is based on a medium volatility game at minimum bet, make sure to adjust the initial stake based on your playing style. If you tend to wager 60¢ per spin, then the appropriate bankroll would be $80, and so on. Always be realistic when setting your budget. Good luck and use your players card! $
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TABLE GAMES By Al Moe
PUSH YOUR LUCK A 10 To 1 Side Bet For Blackjack
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lackjack is great for taking advantage of winning streaks by pushing your luck and making larger wagers. As long as the cards run good, you’ll be happy. When they run bad, you’ll be sad, but you can always reduce the size of your bets and wait for things to improve. And now, you can do something about those pesky pushes too. A New Side Bet Pays 10 to 1 Casinos in Arizona like Bucky’s in Prescott and Phoenix Valley clubs Gila River, Fort McDowell and Talking Stick Resort have installed a new side bet called Push Your Luck. Unlike most side wagers, the bet might make you want to change your style of play, but be careful before you take the plunge, hoping for that 10 to 1 payoff! Push Your Luck is played with whatever standard rules your favorite Arizona casino uses on their blackjack tables. If they have a 6-deck shoe, great, it works there. Two-decks, no problem, it works there too. It’s an optional wager and yes, you win if your final hand of 17 to 21 ties with the dealer. Finally, a push can be a win, and pushes happen about once every 11.5 hands. To play, just bet up to half your blackjack wager in the PUSH spot. The wager doesn’t have anything to do with your regular bet, but you should be slightly more aggressive about making 17 to 21. You won’t have to do that if both you and the dealer have blackjack because you’ll get a push and 10 to 1 on the side bet. If you have a blackjack and the dealer hits out to 21, you won’t get the bonus. Blackjack’s can only push blackjacks; 21’s can only push with 21’s. Of course when you make a 17 to 21 and tie with the dealer, you will win the 10 to 1 payout.
side bets. The house edge of 5.9% isn’t a rarity, and raises your hourly cost to play the game, so if you are going to try Push Your Luck, make sure you take advantage of a few things to improve your odds. If you hesitate to hit your 12’s against a dealer’s up card of 2 or 3, stop it. Take a card. And, if you stand on a 15 or 16 against a dealer 10 or ace, think again. You’ll make a lot more money hitting and gaining a chance to push with a 17, 18, 19, 20 or 21. If you decide to give this great side bet game a try, please send us an e-mail to editor@azgamingguide.com with “Push Your Luck” in the subject line and tell us about your experience! Good luck and have fun! $
Now the Specifics When you decide to double-down on a hand, the Push Your Luck wager still plays, but depending on the casino’s rules, it may or may not be matched. On the other hand, if you split your cards, you must match the Push Your Luck wager, so make sure you always have enough chips to finish your bet. Another interesting feature is that you can take insurance on your Push Your Luck wager at some clubs. That’s a rarity for
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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
Keno Island Now Available At Desert Diamond Casino Sahuarita
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uests at Desert Diamond Casinos’ Sahuarita location on Pima Mine Road will have a blast monkeying around with this tropical twist on the classic game of keno in Everi’s Keno Island . Available in Southern Arizona for the first time, the game’s entertaining island theme features dancing monkeys, flying bananas, erupting volcanos, and more as you play for the big win! When the last ball drawn is marked 1-80, it turns into a volcanic fireball. If the fireball hits on a selected spot, the game draws 5 extra balls. When 3 bananas are drawn, the game awards 5 free plays and a trigger prize of up to 500 credits. On free play, the game draws 30 balls instead of 20, with extra balls still awarded when the fireballs hits. Free plays can retrigger for a maximum of 80 free plays. When you have 9 or more hits at max bet, progressives are awarded. You’ll go bananas for Keno Island , the latest exciting game at Desert Diamond Casino Sahuarita! And be sure to also stop by Desert Diamond’s Tucson location on South Nogales Highway to try more great new games, including Konami’s Volcanic Rock Fire , Dragon’s Law Twin Fever and Chili Chili Fire, as well as IGT’s Alad din’s Fortune 3D. Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment has locations in Tucson, Sahuarita, Why, and the West Valley. For more info on the latest slots, visit ddcaz.com, call 1.866.DDC.WINS (1.866.332.9461), or follow on Facebook (facebook.com/ddcaz) and Twitter (@DiamondCasinos). $
Diamond Desire By Aruze Gaming
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he new slot by Aruze Gaming Diam ond Desire, dazzles with multipliers in this 999.9 Gold Series game. Any “7” win triggers the Gold Wheel containing credit prizes and 4 Progressive levels. When the Gold Wheel is triggered by white “7” wins and pink “7” wins, the wheel credit prize is multiplied by 3 and 10 respectively. This slot’s main game features include the 999.9 Gold Wheel, which contains credit prizes (100 to 3,000 multiplied by the bet level) and four jackpot levels (Grand, Major, Minor, and Mini). Players who hit one of the four Jackpots are given an additional spin on the wheel. Jackpot starting values are bet dependent. If you come across this slot in pennies, expect the Mini Jackpot’s startup value to be $10, the Minor to be $30, the Major to be $100, and the Grand to be $999. This means at max bet (with a bet level of 10) the Mini’s startup is $100, Minor $300, Major $1,000, and the Grand at $9,999! Obviously with different max bets, the jackpots change as well. Expect a highly volatile experience on this game, but since the Gold Wheel is triggered off of a symbol win, players should get into the bonus frequently! $ azgamingguide.com | June 2016 | Arizona Gaming Guide
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NEW SLOTS
Bags Of Cash Now Available At Bucky’s Casino
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ucky’s and Yavapai Casinos in Prescott, Arizona are getting several new games from the slot manufacturer Aruze Gaming. Probably the first slot of its kind installed in the state, Bags of Cash features the 999.9 Gold Wheel highlighted on the bottom of the previous page. Players will watch their riches pile up as the 999.9 Gold Wheel spins to determine the prize amount! The game is a 5 reel 30 line stepper slot and the symbol-triggered 999.9 Gold Wheel is used to determine 1 or more prizes. Prizes on the 999.9 Gold Wheel consist of Credit Awards and 4 Progressive levels. The minimum bet is $0.50 and the slot is at Bucky’s Casino. Also at Bucky’s is The Gold Legend a $0.50 minimum bet slot, similar to Bags of Cash as it features the 999.9 Gold Wheel but only features two progressive levels. Across the street at Yavapai Casino, players can find the overnight classics from Aruze, Ultra Stack Panda and Ultra Stack Africa. These two games are loaded with stacked symbols and a free games feature that lets players win big with stacks of Wilds and top symbols. With a minimum bet of $0.30, you can’t go wrong! Also at Yavapai Casino is Aruze’s Luck y Big Wheel. This game allows players to bet from $1 to $35 on any of six outcomes on the Big Wheel centered in front of five separate play stations. Each player can spin the Big Wheel by pulling the handle next to their station. This is a great adaptation of the wheel games seen near many table games areas! $
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NEW SLOTS
Quick Shot Now Available At Casino Del Sol
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Scientific Games’ new slot, Quick Shot, is now available at Casino Del Sol! Quick Sho t - Duanwu and Quick Shot - Zhongqiu are impressive games with features that pay big! Showcasing up to 20 Free Games with 20x the total bet on the entry win, a Pick Bonus with multipliers of up to 50x, and a classic Quick Shot Progressive Bonus awarding up to 100,000 credits, Both Quick Shot - Duanwu and Quick Shot - Zhongqiu will make a winner out of every player! While visiting Casino Del Sol, make sure to try one of their other new slot games from Scientific Games such as a variety of themes from their brand new Tw in Star cabinet featuring new and classic titles by Bally Technologies and WMS. Or, players can also try the latest addition to the Gold Fish family, Gold Fish Deluxe! Guests should also check out Casino Del Sol’s and Casino of the Sun’s Arizona Champion of Duo Slots Series. Join free every Tuesday with a friend for a combined high score. Prizes are up to $1,000 in free play! $
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NEW SLOTS
Coming Soon
Friends—I’ll Be There For You By Scientific Games
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oin your favorite Friends at Central Perk for a slot machine brewed to perfection – Friends – I’ll Be There For You. Experience all your beloved moments of this 90’s sitcom classic, with gameplay, free games and bonuses featuring Phoebe, Joey, Rachel, Monica, Chandler and Ross.
The Friends gang is as hilarious as ever in classic clips triggered by nine bonuses, including The Wheel Bonus and exciting features like Bamboozled, the Holiday Pick Bonus, the We Were on Break Free Games and the We Should Get Married Free Games. The game also showcases mystery features and a chance to win a lifechanging Wide Area Progressives jackpot! Plus, there’s high-flying slot action straight from Las Vegas! Feel the pulse-pounding rush of excitement from Kooza, the only slot machine that captures the magic, mystery, and action of the famed Cirque du Soleil show. Take gaming to new heights with a four-level jackpot, engaging bonus events, a wheel bonus, two free games features, a mystery stack, progressive jackpots and an instant win! This is a highflying, spellbinding, by-the-seat-of-your-pants experience with no nets. $
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WINNING WAYS
WINNERS, WINNERS & MORE WINNERS Apache Gold Casino Resort’s Slot Jackpots & Big Money Promotions!
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pache Gold Casino Resort is continuing to have winners on the slots and is also giving away a lot of money during their promotions. Take a look at the latest slot jackpots from May of this year and the winners from the Drive Into Spring promotion. Make sure to take a trip out to their casino near Globe, Arizona and sign up for their Player’s Club program, play some slots, and you could be a big winner too! For more information visit apache-gold-casino.com. $
Ismael—El Paso, TX—$20,159.00—Total Meltdown By Multimedia/EVERI
James—Morenci, AZ—$1,920.00—Four Leaf Clover By IGT Nancy—Thatcher, AZ—$1,500.00—Drive Into Spring Promotion
George—Globe, AZ—$1,500.00—Drive Into Spring Promotion
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Johnny—Phoenix, AZ—$1,705.60—Mystical Bayou By WMS/Scientific Games
CASINO DINING By Lana Hartmann
QUECHAN’S IRONWOOD STEAKHOUSE Offering The 3 Meal Deal: Appetizer, Entrée & Dessert—$20
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reat yourself to quiet, elegant dining where you're a VIP. The Yuma region's premier steakhouse features steaks grilled to perfection by award-winning Chef de Cuisine Ruben Guerra; succulent seafood; farm-fresh vegetables; and a lavish list of fine wines. Relax among leather chairs, sculptural art, and wood & stackedstone walls. The steakhouse also includes a lounge with HDTV and a full bar. As the Ironwood Steakhouse is open for dinner only, guests should make reservations by calling 760.572.1658. The 2016 Summer Hours of operation are 5 to 9pm on Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and 5 to 10pm on Friday and Saturday. Make sure to ask your server to explain the 3 Meal Deal to you. You can select an Appetizer, an Entrée, and a Dessert from the Chef’s special menu and walk away with only a $20 tab! This truly is a deal you can’t pass up while visiting Quechan Casino Resort. Having dined there several times over the past year, my taste buds take me in a certain direction. For the appetizer course, I prefer the Crab Cakes with a Chipotle Aioli. I always get the Salad Caprese which consists of fresh Tomatoes, fresh Buffalo Mozzarella, fresh Basil, drizzled with a delicious aged Balsamic Vinegar reduction and Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Yum! For the Entrées, I’m more open-minded. I love Pork Chops, but I have also been known to eat a Small Filet, especially when upgraded with a Lobster Tail or two! However, I am partial to a great Marsala, especially the Ironwood Steakhouse version which comes with Fettuccini Alfredo, Asparagus, and Wild Mushrooms. For the sides, I’d highly recommend the smashed Yukon Gold Potato with Bacon and Cheddar. But don’t overlook the Asparagus with Hollandaise or the Three Cheese Mac. Finally, arriving at the dessert course, the offerings are classic steakhouse. There are no frills here, just straight up decadence. Personally, I find my pleasure in the Tiramisu, but I’ve also had the Ricotta Cheesecake, the Bread Pudding with Vanilla Bourbon sauce, and the Crème Brulee. No matter what selections you pick, the Ironwood Steakhouse at Quechan Casino Resort won’t disappoint! For more information, make sure to visit their website at playqcr.com or call 1.877.QUECHAN. $
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one are the days of the boring slot tournament where participants hammer away at an old stepper (a three reel mechanical slot) which is about as engaging as yesterday’s leftover cup of coffee. EVERI, formerly Multimedia Games, introduced their TournEvent package of slots onto casino floors back in 2011. This new slot tournament system allowed casinos to run traditional video slots and seamlessly transition into a slot tournament
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whenever they chose. Plus, the TournEvent slots introduced several important features sorely lacking from slot tournaments which have only heightened player entertainment and interest during their experience. These include a leader board showing current scores and standings with names, a built-in camera associating faces, names and scores, in-game bonuses awarded by players touching an icon, the Money Man which takes players to first place, and
Rita Kellerman, 2015’s Winner, With Her $1 Million Check At Encore’s XS Club in Las Vegas, Nevada, The Site Of This Year’s Finals In September.
most importantly, a National TournEvent of Champions with many casinos in the United States and Canada allowing their patrons to participate in qualifying slot tournaments for a spot in the finals every year in Las Vegas, Nevada. This year, the TournEvent of Champions will feature a million dollar top prize for the second year and another $400,000 in additional prize money to be awarded by EVERI during the finals at Encore’s XS Club in late September. Qualifying players from tournaments at local casinos around the country are treated to airfare, luxury accommodations, spending money and a minimum of $500 in prize money no matter how they place during the final competition. In 2015, Rita Kellerman from Wisconsin beat out a total of 182 competitors to become the million dollar winner of the TournEvent of Champions. In order to have a chance at qualifying, and potentially being the big winner of $1 million, players must participate at their local casino. Watch for announcements from a casino’s players club to determine when qualifying slot tournaments begin.
Arizona
Desert Diamond Casinos (All Three Locations) Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino Casino Del Sol California Cache Creek, Eagle Mountain, Elk Valley, Golden Acorn, Jackson Rancheria, Spotlight 29, Sycuan Casino, Tachi Palace, Thunder Valley, Valley View Colorado Monarch Casino Black Hawk Nevada Wynn Las Vegas New Mexico Inn of the Mountain Gods, Sky City (Based on 2015 participation and information available at press time with more locations to be announced online. If a casino is not on the list above, look for the TournEvent games by EVERI, formerly Multimedia Games, on the floor and tell the Slot Department personnel at your favorite casino to participate in TournEvent of Champions!)
According to EVERI’s TournEvent of Champion’s website, some qualifiers have already begun in May, but most will happen in June, July, and August. On the day of a qualifier, EVERI actually sends out a bus filled with a team of EVERI promotion and event staff. The entire bus unleashes an exciting party on the casino floor including The Money Man and the MGirls, all ready to bring the excitement of a shot at winning one million dollars in Las Vegas without having to pay for an entry fee to participate. That’s right, as if it wasn’t clear already, TournEvent of Champions is free to participate in! Some of the casinos hosting TournEvent of Champions qualifiers have extensive slot tournaments set up using the TournEvent slots allowing players multiple opportunities to punch their ticket for the local qualifier. These slot tournaments can also include prize money for participants during the qualifier, even for those who don’t make the cutoff for the finals in Las Vegas. So get your game face on and get ready to play! For more information about TournEvent of Champions, visit their website at tournevent.com. $
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TRIBAL NEWS Story By Lee Allen Photos Courtesy Of Darin Lowery
SAN CARLOS APACHE TRIBE Independence Day—June 18
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he time has come once again for members of the San Carlos Apache Tribe to celebrate Independence Day, a festive occasion that began June 18, 1954, when the tribe was established by executive order. Apaches are descendants of the Athabascan family who migrated to the Southwest centuries ago. Today the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation spans three counties in southeastern Arizona covering a landscape ranging from alpine meadows to desert landscapes, 1.8 million acres in all, much of it heavily forested or wooded. In previous day-long festivities honoring their independence, Tribal Chairman Terry Rambler welcomed tribal members, neighboring communities, and all visitors who considered themselves friends to a day set aside to celebrate the establishment and recognition of the San Carlos Apaches and their independence. “We are Apaches and we stick together. We are a sovereign nation and celebrate this recognition,” added former Vice Chairman John Bush. Tao Etpison, a Councilman from Gilson Wash and current tribal Vice Chairman, is also a former Master of Ceremonies at the event: “Everyone is invited,” he says. “This is a special commemoration for us as part of the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 that had two sections that were pretty important to tribes. One allowed them to organize under their own constitution while the other involved a corporate charter to operate as a business. We have both that give our tribe recognition and independence and we celebrate that.” The event has grown from earlier, more simple, festivities that featured traditional Apache songs and social dances and a rodeo. Recent iterations included an early morning walk followed by breakfast and the building of Apache wickiup-type temporary shade houses. Today food and arts and craft vendors are also on hand. Local dignitaries, including royalty, present speeches while games and tournaments are held throughout the day at various locations. “Independence Day targets the whole community and is a way for everyone to come together and get to know one another,”
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Leotha Chatlin Performing During The 2015 Independence Day Celebration
says Etpison. “It’s an opportunity to tell who we are as a people, how our land came to be and what our ancestors did to help in that process as well as how the tribe is doing today.” Although a non-Native, Niann Emerson Chase was raised on four different reservations including San Carlos Apache lands where she lived and taught for 15 years. “Most of my close friends in my youth were Apaches and San Carlos felt like home to me. I have lots of fond memories of being invited to Coming of Age ceremonies and pow wows in the middle of nature. It meant a lot for the community to share with me their ceremonies, prayers, and songs.”
TRIBAL NEWS
That sense of community sharing has come full circle for the teacher who’s used to incorporating Native American myths and stories with classical Greek legends. One of her students was a (then) young man named Wendsler Nosie, Sr., who learned the power of politics early and went on to become chairman of his 15,000 member tribe from 2006-2010. He is currently serving his third term representing the Peridot District. The Independence Day gathering is a big deal for a small community. “It’s a block-party-style all-day event from late afternoon through late evening,” says the Vice Chairman. “People are coming and going throughout the day and beSan Carlos Apache Dancing In The Streets During The 2015 Independence Day Celebration cause a third of our tribal members live on the reservation, they’re active participants in events like lunch? While food vendors will be on hand throughout the day, this. We expect a crowd turnout of about 2,000 including several a free community meal will be offered in the evening “to whomhundred children that stick around all day to enjoy the pageantever shows up,” according to Etpison. This year’s menu has not ry --- and the fact that we set up a water slide for them to enyet been set, but last year the attendees were served traditional joy.” Apache foods like acorn dumplings. “We block off a street. The elders come and sit under a shade house to listen and observe. Some will spend time in a card games house playing traditional card games. Our tribal departments set up booths to let the community members know who they are and what they do. If it’s a hot day, our community water trucks will be on hand to spray the kids to cool them down. We’ll have Apache singing contests and traditional attire contests to encourage people to celebrate their tribal heritage. At night we bring in four local bands [Chaka Friends, Arivaipa, Sneezy Boys, Gray Wolf] to play rock and country music. Elders will share their memories of what June 18th historically means to them. Dignitaries from our tribe and other nations will speak before a late-evening finale of fireworks.” The aroma of tortillas and fry bread will permeate the area in cooking contests. And who said there’s no such thing as a free
Known in the community as “A Day Made for the Apache,” June 18th belongs to all who would like to join their San Carlos Apache brothers and sisters. “It’s a day to be celebrated by everybody,” Etpison says. “The more the merrier. We want to educate the world about who we are as descendants of the Athabascan family who first migrated to the Southwest in the 10th century.” As descendants of the Ancients, many bands of Apache (Nde or ‘the people’) were relocated to the reservation from their traditional homelands that extended from Texas through California and Mexico. Today the Ndeh nation lists 11 tribal members including the San Carlos Apache. In addition to inviting visitors to learn more about their tribe, members are also hopeful that attendees will allow time for a visit to the nearby Apache Gold Casino Resort’s several hundred slot machines and table games on their way home. $
azgamingguide.com | June 2016 | Arizona Gaming Guide
27
TRIBAL NEWS Story By Angela Salazar-Willeford
SALT RIVER PIMA—MARICOPA First Tribal Nation To Adopt A No Texting While Driving Ordinance
O
n Wednesday April 20, 2016 the Young River People’s Council, a branch of the Office of Congressional and Legislative affairs for the Community government, initiated and passed an ordinance that would prohibit texting while driving on tribal land. Ms. Dione Dallas, President, Young River People’s Council said, “This is a great accomplishment to know that we are the first community in Indian country to adopt such an ordinance. I hope other tribal communities will see the importance of this issue. I am proud our elected leaders listened to our concerns in adopting this ordinance.” Jacob Willeford, a member of the Young River People’s Council, who initiated the development added, “When I was an intern for the Community’s fire department I became more aware of the dangers and the results of when drivers are distracted. Since we are so close to the Phoenix metropolitan area, I see many people drive through our community texting and driving. I wanted our people to be safe.”
28 Arizona Gaming Guide | June 2016 | azgamingguide.com
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 10 percent of all drivers 15 to 19 involved in a fatal crash were reported to be distracted at the time of the crash. In 2014, 3,179 were killed and 431,000 injured due to distracted drivers. The ordinance prohibits drivers from texting while driving a vehicle in motion on a roadway in the Community. In its implementation, the Salt River Police Department will have a 90 day educational period. The Young River People’s Council is the Community’s youth council and is composed of 14 to 24 year-old enrolled Community members who wish to take a proactive role in government and community leadership. The development of the No Texting While Driving Ordinance began in 2014 and evolved into its final form after extensive Community input. For more information on the Salt River Pima—Maricopa Indian Community, visit srpmic-nsn.gov or call 480.362.7400. $ Editor's Note: Don’t Drive Distracted Or Impaired!
GAMING NEWS By Rachel Brockway
Relax Poolside During Margarita Sundays At Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino
As the temperatures are heating up this summer, relax and cool off with cold drink and food specials, fun pool parties and great music at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino during Margarita Sundays.
THE FROZEN SANGRIA: Need to cool off? Try our Frozen Sangria - made with Cabernet, Peach Schnapps, Razzmatazz, Sweetened Lime Juice, Strawberry Puree, and a splash of Sierra Mist blended to perfection.
To start the week or end the weekend right, Sundays in Maricopa are being “served with a side of lime and salt” with the return of Margarita Sundays! Margarita Sundays are poolside parties with live music held each Sunday, from 2-6pm. Guests will enjoy live music, great food and drinks, all while relaxing poolside. Upcoming entertainment includes One Love Bob Marley Tribute (June 5), Quantum (June 12), The Walkens (June 19) and Desert Beach (June 26).
THE DOLCE: A twist on the traditional pina colada is The Dolce - made Malibu Rum, Absolut Vanilla, colada mix, and salted caramel drizzle served frozen.
There is a $15 cover charge per person and can be purchased at the gift shop inside the Casino. Adult admission includes one drink (beer, wine or margarita) and children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. This year, guests can also purchase a souvenir 18oz margarita glass, filled with a delicious margarita for $10 and receive $6 refills every time they return to the pool during Margarita Sundays throughout the summer.
Want someone else to do the driving for you? Did you know Harrah’s offers free transportation to and from the casino? We offer convenient pickup locations throughout Maricopa, Pinal and Pima counties. For more information point your browser to: caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin/casino/free-ride-free-play.
But why save all the fun for the weekends? Want to attend but margaritas are not your thing? No worries! Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino has many frozen drinks to keep you “cool” all for only $8 each along with a wide variety of beer and wine selections. Some of our favorite drinks include: THE HARRAHCANE: Start your afternoon right with our signature drink the Harrahcane - made with Captain Morgan Original Spiced and Malibu Coconut rums with pineapple, orange and cranberry juices.
30 Arizona Gaming Guide | June 2016 | azgamingguide.com
THE CHOCOLATE MARTINI: To add a little “007” to your summer day try the Chocolate Martini – made with vodka, Godiva Chocolate Liqueur and white crème de cacao drizzled with chocolate.
Celebrating more than 20 years in Maricopa, Arizona, Harrah’s Ak-Chin is the only casino in Arizona that allows guests, through its Total Rewards program, to unlock benefits and other prizes that can be used worldwide at the entire Caesars’ family of casinos. Guests can also enjoy live entertainment in The Lounge and a variety of dining options including the Copper Cactus Grill, Agave’s Restaurant, The Range Steakhouse, The Buffet and Dunkin Donuts®. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino features 300 luxurious resort and tower guestrooms and an outdoor swimming pool with swim-up bar. For more information, contact Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino at 480.802.5000 or visit harrahsakchin.com. $
GAMING NEWS By Amanda Jacinto
Arizona Department Of Gaming: Quarterly Tribal Gaming Contributions Decrease In First Quarter FY2016 The Arizona Department of Gaming announced that statewide tribal contributions decreased for the fiscal year quarter ending March 31, 2016. Tribal contributions to the State from gaming revenue will be approximately $23.9 million for the quarter. This is a 5.1 percent decrease when compared to the same quarter of last year. “We are disappointed in the year over year comparison. We hope this is an aberration and we will continue to track this trend,” said Daniel Bergin, Director of the Arizona Department of Gaming. “Nevertheless, over the course of the State’s fiscal year, we have been able to disburse $82.5 million to State agencies.” The quarterly tribal contributions to the Arizona Benefits Fund will be distributed as follows:
Instructional Improvement Fund/Education: $11,897,903 Trauma and Emergency Services Fund: $5,948,951 Arizona Department of Gaming operating costs: $2,148,498 Arizona Wildlife Conservation Fund: $1,699,700 State Tourism Fund: $1,699,700 Problem Gambling: $477,444 TOTAL for the quarter ending March 31: $23,872,196 The Arizona Department of Gaming, in partnership with Arizona’s tribes, regulates Indian gaming. Under the Arizona 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. $
azgamingguide.com | June 2016 | Arizona Gaming Guide
33
LAUGHLIN, NEVADA
Directory & Gaming Statistics
Aquarius Casino Resort 800.662.LUCK aquariuscasinoresort.com. 1,250+ slots, no smoking slot area, high limit slots area, blackjack, table games, roulette, craps, keno, race/ sports book.
Avi Resort & Casino (Fort Mojave Tribe) 800.430.0721 avicasino.com. 1,000+ slots, bingo, blackjack, table games, craps, roulette, poker room, keno, race/sports book, KidsQuest.
Colorado Belle Hotel Casino 877.460.0777 coloradobelle.com. 750+ slots, blackjack, table games, craps, roulette, poker room, keno, race/sports book. Build your own amazing burger at Pint’s Brewery!
Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino 800.227.3849 riversideresort.com. 1,300+ slots, no smoking slot area, high limit slots area, bingo, blackjack, table games, craps, roulette, poker room, keno, race/sports book.
Edgewater Hotel Casino 800.677.4837 edgewater-casino.com. 750+ slots, no smoking slot area, high limit slots area, blackjack, table games, roulette, craps, race/sports book. Great all-around casino!
Golden Nugget Laughlin 800.237.1739 goldennugget.com/laughlin 850+ slots, blackjack, table games, craps, roulette, race/sports book, live keno. Sign up for the player’s club and spin for guaranteed 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 March 2016 Slots
Hold % Tables
Hold %
5.58
Blackjack / 21
17.06
5.97
Roulette
18.68
Multi-Denom 6.09
Pai Gow Poker
18.92
$5
6.64
Craps
20.64
5¢
7.41
Let It Ride
28.31
Megabucks
9.72
Other Table Games 28.77
1¢
11.58
Three Card Poker
33.15
1.47
Win Amount
Dollars
Race Books
15.86
Slots
38.6 mil.
Bingo
22.84
Tables
4.0 mil.
29.25
Other
0.6 mil.
Loose $1 25¢
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 | June 2016 | azgamingguide.com
Tight $25 Other Loose Sports Pools
Tight Live Keno
13.79
Hold %
LAUGHLIN, NEVADA By Mark Novak
THE GOLDEN NUGGET HAS GAME Promotions In Laughlin And Winners In Las Vegas
W
ith the Golden Nugget family of casinos, you can play all over the country, but most importantly for us, in Laughlin and in Vegas! To sweeten the deal even further, the Golden Nugget Laughlin is offering guests an exclusive stay and play package during the Brad Paisley concert on June 18. Plus guests can participate in the $30,000 Tipsy Turvy Slot Tournament held June 23-25.
goldennugget.com/Laughlin, or call 1.800.950.7700 for rooms, or call direct at 1.702.298.7111. For more information on the Golden Nugget in Las Vegas, visit goldennugget.com/LasVegas, or call 1.800.634.3454 for rooms, or call direct at 1.702.385.7111. $
The wheels keep on turning at Golden Nugget Las Vegas, where a visitor from Texas won big on one of the property's popular Wheel of Fortune slot machines. William Hunt of Mansfield, Texas hit the $1,027,738.63 jackpot the morning of Friday, May 6. Another big win happened several months ago when Big Bertha paid big bucks at Golden Nugget Las Vegas on Wednesday, March 16. The sizeable slot machine, known for its mass, as much as its weight, rewarded one lucky guest, Penny O. from Baytown, Texas, with a $50,000 jackpot when she won with a $5 Max Bet. What’s with these Texans winning at the Golden Nugget? The gigantic novelty machine, also known as "Colossus," has long served as a treasured photo opportunity for casino guests. Located near the Fremont Street entrance to the casino, it continues to attract players as well as onlookers with its formidable size. Golden Nugget Las Vegas paid out more than $37.9 million in jackpots in 2015. To date in 2016, Golden Nugget Las Vegas has awarded winners $13.9 million in jackpot earnings, several of which have been paid out by the Wheel of Fortune machines. Since its creation in 1996 by International Gaming Technology, the Wheel of Fortune brand of slot machines has become one of the most popular games in the world. In 2015, Golden Nugget Las Vegas paid out more than $37.9 million in jackpots. As the jewel of downtown, Golden Nugget Las Vegas has received several accolades including "Best Downtown Hotel" by the Las Vegas Review-Journal. For information on the Golden Nugget Casino in Laughlin, visit William Hunt Of Texas And The Winning Wheel Of Fortune Sot Machine
azgamingguide.com | June 2016 | Arizona Gaming Guide
35
LAUGHLIN, NEVADA By Mark Novak
VETERAN’S DAY WEEKEND @ TROPICANA November 10—13th, 2016
J
oin the Tropicana Laughlin this Fall for the Annual Tropicana Laughlin Veteran’s Day Celebration! Plan ahead to spend Veteran’s Day at the Trop with the special Veteran in your life – incredible perks, live events and much more as a sincere Thank You for your service! EARLY BIRD ROOM & POKER RUN PACKAGE – $149.98 Includes 2 nights, Friday and Saturday, November 11 and 12, 2016 and one (1) Charity Run Rider Entry. Guests must book the Early Bird Package by August 31, 2016. Call 1.800.343.4533 and mention Promo #4138. Guests can add Sunday night, November 13 for an additional $49.99!
PATRIOTIC PIG ROASTS – VICTORY PLAZA Named after the fallen heroes and their victorious actions fighting for our country, celebrate their sacrifices with a feast and live entertainment outside underneath the new Trellis Bar. Friday and Saturday, November 11 and 12, 2016. $10.99/person, or earn 500 base points on your Trop Advantage Card for one (1) free pig roast ticket. On Veterans Day, November 11, 2016, qualifying Veterans will receive one (1) free complimentary pig roast for themselves and one (1) guest. Guests must have a Trop Advantage Veterans Player’s Card, or must sign up for one by Thursday, November 3, 2016 to qualify. All event details subject to change without prior notice.
VIETNAM MEMORIAL TRAVELING WALL Thursday, November 10 – Sunday, November 13, 2016 Open each day for free public viewing.
Plus, there will be the Second Annual Charity Poker Run hosted by Tropicana Laughlin, VFW Riders of the Colorado River and Men of Fire CH6 on Friday, November 11, 2016. $
36 Arizona Gaming Guide | June 2016 | azgamingguide.com
CASINO ENTERTAINMENT
Listings Dance Instruction (Learn to Dance)—Wed. 6pm, Daisy Train (Country)—Wed. 8pm, Latin Fire Dance Nights (Learn to Dance)— Thu. 6pm, Superhero Band—Fri. 8:30pm
Jorge Falcon Desert Diamond Casino—June 25 Renowned Mexican comedian Jorge Falcon is coming to the Diamond Center for a special Spanish-language show on Saturday, June 25, 2016. Tickets start at $15 and are on sale through Star Tickets and also available at the Desert Diamond Rewards Center. Jorge Falcon started his comedy career in bars, cabarets, and then on to international shows performing tours in Chile, Spain, Costa Rica, the U.S. and other countries. His unique style is what makes him unique and successful as a comedian. Falcon has a vast repertoire, delivered in a very original way. “Jo Jo Jorge” Falcon gained his fame through appearances on popular Mexican television programs, Alegrias d e m ed iod ia, Le hora del Loco, and En vivo in the 1980s. He went on to participate in international shows with the late Sammy Davis. In recent years, he has appeared on programs such as La Casa De La Risa and Los Comediantes. Treena Parvello, Director of Public Relations and Communications for the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise, said, “We’re so excited to welcome comedy legend Jorge Falcon to the Diamond Center! Don’t miss out on what is sure to be a night of incredible laughter!” Apache Gold Casino—Globe, AZ—800.272.2438 Events: DJ Ma ttD—Jun. 4, Chaka & Friends—Jun. 18, Apache Reggae Jam 3 (with Stick Figure, The Holdup, and Arise Roots)—Jun. 4 BlueWater Casino—Parker, AZ—888.243.3360 Dig Lounge: Fea turing a va riety o f live music. Events: Ca ge Rage 11—Jun. 25 Casino Arizona—Scottsdale, AZ—480.850.7777 The Showroom: Pa ra dise City (Guns N’ Roses Tribute)—Jun. 3-4, The Who Generation (The Who Tribute)—Jun. 10-11, L.A.Vation (U2 Tribute)—Jun. 24-25 The Arizona Room: Chad Freeman And Redline (Country)— Mon. 8pm, Arizona Room Trivia—Tue. 7pm, Country
38 Arizona Gaming Guide | June 2016 | azgamingguide.com
Casino Del Sol—Tucson, AZ—520.838.6506 Paradiso Bar & Lounge: Mö tley 2 (Mö tley Crüe Tribute)—Jun. 2, Pride Through Strife (Reggae, Ska, Alt. Rock)—Jun. 3, Soundwave (Variety, Top 40, Tejano)—Jun. 4, Depeche Mode Tribute (Strange Love)—Jun. 9, Priminition (Variety)—Jun. 10, Conjunto Bravo (Tejano, Conjunto)—Jun. 11, Nashville Gold (50yrs of Country music)—Jun. 16, La Nueva Onda (Tejano)—Jun. 17, Zona Libre (Top 40, Dance, Variety)—Jun. 18, James Brown Tribute (The Godfather of Soul)—Jun. 23, Kings of Soul—Jun. 24 & 25, The Killers Tribute (These Killers)—Jun. 30, SR 80 Band (Espanol, 80's, New Wave, Rock)—Jul. 1, Grupo Synphonia (Latin Variety)—Jul. 2 AVA Amphitheater: Sa mmy Ha ga r & The Circle—Jun. 10, Father's Day Tejano Blowout—Jun. 17, Hombres G & Los Enanitos Verdes—Jun. 18, Ballet Folkorico Tapatio presents Gran Festival de Folklor y Mariachi—Jun. 19, I Love the 90's Tour—Jun. 23, Gabriel "Fluffy" Iglesias—Jun. 24, Enrique Iglesias—Jul. 2, KISS—Jul. 4 Cliff Castle Casino—Camp Verde, AZ—800.381.7568 Dragonfly Lounge: Greywolf (Rock)—Jun. 3 & 4, Country Image Band (Country)—Jun. 10 & 11, Grupo Sueno (Latin)—Jun. 17 & 18, Aces & Eights (Rock, Blues, Country)—Jun. 24 & 25 Cocopah Resort Casino—Somerton, AZ—800.237.5687 Events: Ka ra o k e w ith Bling Bling—Th & Fr at 8pm Desert Diamond Casino I—Tucson, AZ—866.332.9467 Monsoon Nightclub: No ches Ca liente—Fridays & Saturdays, The hottest live Latin music! Desert Diamond Casino II—Sahuarita, AZ—866.332.9467 Sports Bar: Dub So unds DJs—Fr & Sa Diamond Center: Kansas— Jun. 18, Jorge Falcon—Jun. 25 Fort McDowell Casino—Fort McDowell, AZ—800.843.3678 Lucky 7 Saloon: UFC 199—Jun. 4 Events: The Beach Boys—Jun. 25 Harrah's Ak-Chin Casino—Maricopa, AZ—480.802.5000 Featured Entertainment: Pia no Ma n (Billy Jo el & Elto n Jo hn Tribute)—Jun. 8, Reckless In Vegas (Vegas Golden Era Tribute)— Jun. 10, Listen To the Music (Doobie Brothers Tribute)—Jun. 17 Fridays & Saturdays In The Lounge: Enjo y live music fro m 8pm to 1am. Troubadour—Jun. 3, Cold Shott & The Hurricane Horns— Jun. 4, Soundwave—Jun. 11, Diana Preston—Jun. 18, Quantum— Jun. 24, Chuck E Baby & The All Stars—Jun. 25 Wednesdays In The Lounge: Enjo y live music fro m No o n—4pm. Bandstand Shows— Jun. 1, Thaddeus Rose—Jun. 15, Jukebox—Jun. 22, Silhouette—Jun. 29, Miguel Trio—Jun. 29 Sundays In The Lounge: Enjoy live music from 5—8pm. Freddy Dura—Jun. 5, Flavour—Jun. 19 Sunday Poolside Entertainment: Enjo y live music fro m 2—6pm. One Gunn One Love—Jun. 5, Quantum The Lounge Happy Hour: Enjoy Happy hour and live music Monday—Thursday from 5 – 8pm. Walkens Trio—Jun. 2, 8 & 15, Western Fusion Trio—Jun. 6, Karen &
Editor’s Pick Marcus—Jun. 14, Chuck E Duo—Jun. 16 & 23, John Eric Duo—Jun. 20 & 27, Freddie Duran Duo—Jun. 28 Hon-Dah Casino—Pinetop, AZ—800.929.8744 Timbers Lounge and Showroom: Munda y Funda y—Comedy Show 7pm, Apache Spirit (Variety)—Jun. 7-11, Groove City Band (R&B Variety)—Jun. 14-18, Joey Leone Band (Variety)—Jun. 21-25, Johnny Ray Band (Variety)—Jun. 28-Jul. 3 Events: 7th Annual White Mountain Bike Rally—Jun. 24 & 25, Marmalade Skies (Beatles Tribute)—Jul. 3
CASINO ENTERTAINMENT ZZ TOP Talking Stick Resort October 16
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 & Events: So undw a ve—Jun. 3, Andrea & Gemini—Jun. 4, Rhythm Edition—Jun. 17 Mazatzal Casino—Payson, AZ—800.777.7529 Apache Spirits Lounge: Fea turing a va riety o f live music. Events: Mick Ada ms & The Sto nes (Ro lling Sto nes Tribute)— Jul. 2, The Troubadour Experience (George Straight Tribute)—Aug. 13, Desperado (Eagles Tribute)—Sep. 3 Paradise Casino—Yuma, AZ—888.777.4946 Sharky’s Bar & Bites: Fea turing a va riety o f live enterta inment. Tropic II—Jun. 3 & 4, Checker’d Past—Jun. 10 & 11, Los Salgados— Jun. 17 & 18, Paloma—Jun. 24 & 25 Quechan Casino—Winterhaven, CA—877.783.2426 Sidewinders: Fea turing a va riety o f live enterta inment. Talking Stick Resort—Scottsdale, AZ—480.850.7777 The Showroom & Grand Ballroom: Blue Octo ber—Jun. 3, The Rides (featuring Stephen Stills, Barry Goldberg & Kenny Wayne Shepherd)—Jun. 4, 3 Doors Down—Jun. 10, Tommy James and The Shondelles—Jun. 25, Tommy James & The Shondelles—Jun. 25, Happy Together Tour—Jul. 16, Robert Cray—Jul. 22, The Four Phantoms—Aug. 12 & 13, Tedeschi Trucks Band—Sep. 2, Alice In Chains—Sep. 3 Gregg Allman—Sep. 17, Cyndi Lauper—Oct. 7, ZZ Top—Oct. 9, Foreigner—Oct. 16 Twin Arrows Navajo Casino—Flagstaff, AZ—855.946.8946 Featuring a variety of live entertainment. Vee Quiva Casino—Laveen, AZ—800.946.4452 Events: Purple Life (Prince Tribute)—Jun. 11 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: Ma ria chi Va rga s—Jun. 3, Ziggy Marley—Jun. 4, Pat Benetar & Neil Giraldo—Jun. 10, WAR—Jun. 11, Turn The Page (Bob Seeger Tribute)—Jun. 19, Intocable—Jul. 8, Rodney Carrington—Jul. 22, Kansas—Aug. 5, Jay Mohr—Aug. 13, Boyz II Men— Sep. 2, Sara Evans—Sep. 24
Back by popular demand, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame trio ZZ Top will perform their classic rock songs, infused with Texas blues, live at the pool on October 9. With a career spanning over forty years, the group is arguably one of the leading bands of all time and has the longest running intact personnel line up of any major act in music history. The musicians have released thirteen multiplatinum albums, sold fifty million records and produced well-known singles like Gimme All Your Lovin’, Sharp Dressed Man, La Grange, Tush and Legs. Formed by guitarist Billy Gibbons, bassist Dusty Hill and drummer Frank Beard, ZZ Top released its debut album, appropriately entitled, ZZ Top’s First Album, in 1971. Known far and wide as “The Little Ol’ Band From Texas,” their distinct musical style is as instantly recognizable as lengthy beards sported by Gibbons and Hill. Paradoxically, Frank Beard is typically just a mustache and some cheek scruff. The group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004 by Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones and to date, has six number one hits on the Mainstream Rock chart and eleven gold records. Tickets for the live show are available. Please call the Talking Stick Resort Box Office at 480.850.7734 or visit their website at talkingstickresort.com for more information. Must be 21 or older to attend. $ 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 | June 2016 | Arizona Gaming Guide
39
CASINO BINGO
BINGO AT CASINO ARIZONA So Many Jackpots And So Many Ways To Win
B
ingo at Casino Arizona is the place where locals rule and their Bingo Hall certainly backs up that claim easily. During any given month Bingo at Casino Arizona offers around a half dozen promotions, L8NITE Bingo, over ten Bingo Jackpots, and a lot more for guests with Player Rewards Cards! Some of the current promotions include: Bouncing Bingo Machine—Every Friday guests could get an extra shot at a bingo win. Bingo Bonus Game—Guests can turn their bingo cards into a chance to win $500 the second Sunday of every month during the Matinee and Evening sessions. Bingo Hot Potato—During L8NITE Bingo guests have an extra opportunity to win it big.
Bingo Frame Game—If the last number called earns a player a bingo and matches the game board in the Bingo Hall, that player will get a chance at an extra prize. The jackpots, ranging in value from just a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, climb and climb with each bingo session played and are hit frequently judging by the Bingo Hall’s Winners page on their website. Plus Casino Arizona’s Bingo Hall Bonanza Jackpot is the easiest to win in Arizona! And Casino Arizona’s Bingo Hall has the lowest minimum pricing on electronic PHD’s with no rental fees. For more information about Casino Arizona and their bingo hall, visit their website at casinoarizona.com. $
Casino
Sessions
Seats Smoke-Free Area Electronic
Apache Gold
Su, We, Th at Noon. Fr & Sa at 7pm. 1st Mo of the month at 7pm
200
No
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
No
Yes
No
Desert Diamond I
We-Mo 1:30, 2, 6, 6:30 & 7pm
300
Yes
Yes
No
Fort McDowell
We-Mo at 9am. Daily at 12:30 & 6:30pm.
1200
(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 05/01/15 & direct inquiries by press time. We are not responsible for incorrect, missing, or outdated information. Contact editor@azgamingguide.com to make updates.
40 Arizona Gaming Guide | June 2016 | azgamingguide.com
SAMI’S SMACKDOWN By Sami Becker
THE BASICS OF CUSTOMER SERVICE What Customers Take For Granted Is Sorely Lacking In Many Casinos
R
ecently I found an email in my inbox which highlighted yet again the importance of customer service and the significant role it plays when gamblers choose which casino to regularly play at and never visit again. This longtime reader of ours, who didn’t want to be identified, went on to state, “If I get a large enough win for a hand pay [the slot attendants] at [the casino] are right there to pay me a jackpot, but they don’t smile, aren't happy for me, don’t talk to me, don’t thank me for coming, and [the employees] behave that way across the board at [the casino].” Adding, “At [another casino] I’m welcomed and treated so graciously and I’m not a high roller at either casino.” The main point made by our reader was that she limits her visits to the casinos where their direct lack of customer service makes her feel unwelcome.
42 Arizona Gaming Guide | June 2016 | azgamingguide.com
I have to say I agree with her. I’ve visited more than my fair share of casinos across this great country, and also around the world. Honestly, some casinos I dread returning to. There is no customer service, employees don’t smile, sometimes I feel like I am troubling them to redeem a comp at the Players Club! But then I’m not surprised when the casino floor is always empty regardless of the day of the week. My take on all of this is to play where you are welcomed, period. $
Do YOU have something to RANT
OR RAVE about that you feel is worth a $25 gift card?
If so, write me at: sami@azgamingguide.com or by mail at: “Sami” Arizona Gaming Guide PO BOX 20636 Mesa, AZ 85277. If I pick your topic for publication in a future issue, you’ll get a $25 gift card!
FUN FACTS By Lana Hartmann
FUN FACTS ABOUT SLOT MACHINES The Nevada Gaming Control Board Regulates Reel Strips
T
here is a particular regulation in effect in Nevada regarding the reel strips for electro-mechanical slot machines, that is the slots generally referred to as reel slots. Typically these slots have pull handles and players can clearly see a physical reel revolving behind Plexiglas. Each reel is controlled by a stepper motor to which a physical reel strip must be attached. These games are extremely common in casinos around the world. The best known examples are Bally’s Blazing Sevens, and IGT’s Wheel of Fortune . Staff favorites include IGT’s Double Diamond and Red White And Blue.
blank space must occupy a minimum of (L/N)*0.4 units. These blank symbols must be completely free of any portion of any adjacent symbol.” And “2. All non-blank and blank symbols must be centered in their respective space allocation.”
Among many other regulations concerning the operation of a slot machine the Nevada Gaming Control Board in their Technical Standards For Gaming Devices And Associated Equipment—Standard 1—1.100 Reel Strips states “1. Given a physical reel strip of length L units containing N physical stops, each
Specifically, if the physical reel strip is 22 inches long (the L units) and contains 22 physical stops (the N), each blank space must occupy ( 22 inches / 22 ) * 0.4 = 0.4 inches and must be centered within the space on the reel. Change the reel strip length or the number of stops, and the blank space size changes too! $
What does this mean? First, and perhaps of utmost importance, is that yes, in fact, slot machines are regulated. Second, when displaying a game outcome to a player, that outcome cannot be misleading, especially when it comes to a blank, generally associated with a losing spin.
azgamingguide.com | June 2016 | Arizona Gaming Guide
43
FUN & GAMES
WORD SEARCH To Celebrate Flag Day On June 14th, Find: STARS, FOURTEENTH, RED, AMERICAN, CEREMONY, CONGRESS, OLD GLORY, ALLEGIANCE, RESPECT, STRIPES, FIFTY, WHITE, PATRIOTIC, MEMORIAL, PARADE, UNION, BANNER, THIRTEEN, JUNE, BLUE, BETSY ROSS, HOLIDAY, PLEDGE, SYMBOL, HISTORY. 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: Easy. (Solution on page 46)
4
6
5
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3
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44 Arizona Gaming Guide | June 2016 | azgamingguide.com
9
101 & McKellips
Scottsdale
480-850-7777 898
Y
Y
05. Casino Del Sol
5655 W. Valencia Rd.
Tucson
855-765-7829 1,062
Y
Y
7406 S. Camino De Oeste
Tucson
855-765-7829 279
07. Cliff Castle Casino & Hotel
I-17, Exit 289
Camp Verde
800-381-7568 656
15318 S. Ave. B
Somerton
800-237-5687 512
7350 S. Nogales Hwy.
Tucson
866-332-9467 1,016
I-19, Exit 80
Tucson
866-332-9467 563
101 & Northern Ave.
Glendale
866-332-9467 1,089
08. Cocopah Resort Casino 09. Desert Diamond Casino I 10. Desert Diamond Casino II 11. Desert Diamond Casino-W.V. 12. Desert Diamond Casino-Why 13. Fort McDowell Casino
Hwy. 86, Milepost 55
Why
Hwy. 87 & Ft. McDowell Rd.
14. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino
17. Mazatzal Hotel & Casino
Maricopa
480-802-5000 1,089
777 Hwy. 260
Pinetop
800-929-8744 820
Chandler
800-946-4452 786
Hwy. 87, 1/4 mi. S. of Payson
Payson
800-777-7529 420
Yuma
888-777-4946 484
18. Paradise Casino
450 Quechan Dr.
19. Quechan Casino
I-8, Exit 166
Winterhaven, CA 877-783-2426 1,000+
8555 Hwy. 95
Mohave Valley 928-346-2000 245
20. Spirit Mountain Casino 21. Talking Stick Resort 22. Twin Arrows Navajo Casino 23. Vee Quiva Casino 24. Wild Horse Pass Casino
Y
Y
Y Y
Y
S S O R Y S T E B
T C E P S E R
I E R N I Y
T P E A R T
E I M I O F Y H T N N O I E N U N J E R R A L P P H
Y R O G M I R E N N A E I N
A T N E E F O E U A D D S A
D I L S Y L L A M R S L G D T R U B E E R G O R T I B C O E L T H I
O H T A
L O Y E M U
O F M Y L
S C O N G R E A S S S B
800-946-4452 950
Y
800-946-4452 950
Y
1505 E. Hwy. 69
Prescott
800-756-8744 235
C I T O I R T A R P
E D R T E E N
3
2
1
9
5
1
7
6
4
3
8
8
1
3
9
5
4
7
2
6
9
8
4
7
6
1
2
5
3
5
7
1
3
2
8
9
6
4
3
6
2
5
4
9
8
1
7
6
3
9
2
8
7
5
4
1
4
2
8
6
1
5
3
7
9
1
5
7
4
9
3
6
8
2
46 Arizona Gaming Guide | June 2016 | azgamingguide.com
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Laveen Chandler
8
Y
Y
Y
Y
5
Y
Y
Y
6
Y
Y
Y
9
Y
Y Y
Y Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y Y
Y
Y
855-946-8946 1,088
4
Y
Y
480-850-7777 765
2
Y
Y
Flagstaff
7
Y
Y
Scottsdale
Sudoku Solution
Y
Y
Y
Y Y
6443 Komatke Ln.
Word Search Solution WH S C E E C L A
Y
Y
I-40, Exit 219
facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide
Y
Y
Sources: Arizona Department of Gaming—Current Tribal Gaming Status as of 05/01/16 & direct inquiries by press time. We are not responsible for incorrect, missing, or outdated information. Contact editor@azgamingguide.com to make updates.
azgamingguide.com
Y
Y
Y
Y
101 & Indian Bend
For information on the casinos & much more, scan our QR codes with your smartphone!
Y
Y
Y
5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd.
25. Yavapai Casino
Y
Y
58
1077 S. Kyrene Rd.
16. Lone Butte Casino
Y
Fort McDowell 800-843-3678 901
15406 N. Maricopa Rd.
15. Hon-Dah Casino
866-332-9467
Y
Y
Spa
04. Casino Arizona
Golf
800-756-8744 330
RV Park
888-243-3360 526
Prescott
Hotel
Parker
1500 E. Hwy. 69
Y
Smoke-Free Area
Y
11300 Resort Drive
Y
Arcade
Y
02. BlueWater Resort & Casino
Poker Room
Y
800-272-2438 564
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
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y Y
Y
Y
Y Y Y