JULY
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 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
ARIZONA STATE POKER CHAMPIONSHIP AT TALKING STICK RESORT’S ARENA POKER ROOM
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Enjoy random bonus features including the classic road and river crossing course!
Staff writer Lana’s review of the mouthwatering menu has everyone planning a stay and play trip!
The Tohono O’odham continue to practice the traditional method of gathering Saguaro fruit.
FROGGER SLOT EXCLUSIVE AT HARRAH’S AK-CHIN
BLUEWATER’S RIVER WILLOW STEAKHOUSE
CELEBRATING ARIZONA’S SAGUARO CACTUS
azgamingguide.com | July 2016 | Arizona Gaming Guide
03
EDITOR’S NOTE
SUMMER IS HERE
Your Authority On Everything Gaming
I Say: Plan A Trip Out Of The Heat!
VOLUME 08 • ISSUE 07 PUBLISHER Chris Höft chris@azgamingguide.com
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ay really let us know what was in store for us in terms of hot weather for the next few months! I’m glad that’s over! As I write this, I’m enjoying the “cool” high nineties and low hundreds and thinking about how I can escape the summer heat. There are so many great casinos around the state, many in cooler locations, that it’s well worth calling the players clubs and asking for stay and play packages. Even if a cooler location is not for you, check out all of your options around the state. Most casino hotels have pools for the kids, or the grandkids, and there are plenty of casinos right on the Colorado river just for a change of scenery. For those of you who don’t want to leave town, there are so many things going on in the metro casinos that it’s hard to keep track! Most importantly, the brand new slots keep being installed and we can’t get enough of that no matter where our favorite casino is! 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
“Like” us on Facebook because
we “Like” you too!
MANAGING DIRECTOR Elizabeth Torma liz@azgamingguide.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alexandra Lang editor@azgamingguide.com ART DIRECTOR Melanie Mueller CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Al Moe Lee Allen 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 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
www.facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide 04 Arizona Gaming Guide | July 2016 | azgamingguide.com
Tribal Gaming Funded Problem Gambling Resource: Office of Problem Gambling 1.800.NEXT.STEP or 1.800.639.8783 1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 450, Phoenix, 85007 1.602.542.8998 or problemgambling.az.gov
PLAYERS TALK
Q: I see people looking at the side of a slot machine [as if] they see something that tells them [information] about the machine. Do you know what they are looking for? Marilyn Burns – Sun City, AZ A: Excellent question Marilyn! As our staff has built slots at the slot manufacturing companies, we know there are several pieces of information permanently attached to the side of any slot machine. The first piece of information is supplied by the manufacturer of the slot. This metal plate is riveted onto the side of the game and identifies who made it, when it was made, in addition to important serial numbers, model numbers, bar codes, and other manufacturing information. The second piece of information is supplied by the Arizona Department of Gaming (if you are looking at a slot in another gaming jurisdiction not in Arizona, like Nevada, then it will be supplied by the appropriate regulatory agency). This identifies the slot machine for their records but usually only contains a bar code and a serial number.
The final piece of information is applied by the local Tribal Gaming Agency. This also generally contains only a bar code and a serial number for their records. Casino patrons are most likely looking at the side of the machine in order to memorize their favorite slots’ serial number. In the event the device is moved by the casino the player can track down the game by the serial number and know they are still playing on the exact same unit. On some older slot machines, in order to comply with gaming regulations at the time, the sides of the units have physical meters attached to the inside of the device with small windows cut through the sheet metal in order for casino employees to look at the meters. Most of these meters, used for accounting purposes (such as credits wagered, credits cashed out, credits awarded as jackpots, credits paid as wins, etc.) are only available by accessing audit screens or is handled through software and is instantaneously sent via the casino's computer network to the accounting software used by the casino. The old physical meters are hard to see because the sides of slot machines are not well lit. When the meters were still in use, casino employees inserted a key into the slot machine and a light came on for accurate viewContinued on page 8
06 Arizona Gaming Guide | July 2016 | azgamingguide.com
PLAYERS TALK
Continued from page 6
ing of the meters. The information was then copied down and transferred into an accounting system. We hope this answer helps you keep track of your favorite games! Q: Dear friends at the Arizona Gaming Guide, I have a question regarding the random number generator in slot machines because I had two similar incidents happen to me in Las Vegas and in Tucson. I hit two sizeable jackpots and in both cases the [slot] attendant said, “You should get such a jackpot about every 50,000 tries.” How do they figure that out? Will this average out over the life of the machine? Is this just a coincidence? I’m interested to know the answer! Thank you and you already know I enjoy your magazine!
E. J. Martinez – Tucson, AZ A: Thanks for your great question E. J.! The slot attendants are referring to the pulls-to-hit number provided by the manufacturer of the slot machine for gaming regulation purposes. This is not a coincidence! Plus, it makes sense that the casino would want to know how often, on average, over the life of the slot, they will have to pay out a particular jackpot on the slot. The calculation is performed by the slot machine’s game designer, who is a mathematician, as they are creating the game. Our staff has performed these calculations over and over again on the many games we designed working as game designers for several of the major slot machine manufacturers. Good luck! $
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.
08 Arizona Gaming Guide | July 2016 | azgamingguide.com
TABLE GAMES By Al Moe
THE DREADED TAXABLE When A Table Game Win Matters To Uncle Sam
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houldn’t we all be thrilled when we hit a jackpot, regardless of where in the casino Lady Luck shines upon us? Of course we should! But what usually happens is the devil on our shoulder starts yakking about taxes and W2-G’s and what to tell our significant other and that’s understandable because, oh my, taxables are confusing. For years, taxables were all about slots and keno. That’s why so many slots paid a top jackpot of $1,199, to stay under the radar! Keno was at $1,500 and nobody cared much about poker or table games, but then along came Caribbean Stud and regular poker tournaments and the slumbering giant Uncle Sam woke up. Taxables Today Not all games are taxed the same, because not all bets qualify to be taxed, or ignored by The Taxman. Fortunately, you won’t get whacked on regular wins at blackjack or Pai Gow, but if you hit Five Aces or a 7-card Straight Flush, lookout! You can expect any win that is both more than $600 and 300 times your wager (or more) to include a W2-G tax form. And, if your jackpot payout is more than $5,000 you can expect the casino to automatically withhold 25% of your payout. That’s right, you don’t get a choice, and neither will they. The good part is that you will have the ability to stop at the Player’s Club desk and ask for an annual win-loss statement, and if your other losses are greater than your jackpot win, you won’t owe any money – if you can itemize your taxes. Still, it’s always good to know what you will get taxed on. Some of the surprising things include any casino event drawings that add up to $600 over the year, and most poker tournament winnings. Many poker rooms simply give you a 1099 form with your winnings, after getting your Social Security number and checking your ID. As for table games, you have to remember the rule for taxables is a 300 to 1 payoff and $600 or more (yes, both must apply). So, when you make a straight flush on Let it Ride and get paid 200 to 1 on the regular bet, you are not taxed! If you have a $25 bet and win $5,000 it is all yours. The Uncle isn’t told about your win. But, if you have a buck on the bonus bet, you’ll win $2,000 and get taxed, because it pays 2000 to 1.
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Likewise, if you hit a Royal Flush at World Poker Tour with a $10 bet on the bonus, the $5000 payoff at 500 to 1 is taxable, but you’ll get the whole five grand. If you bet $15, you’ll win $7,500 but the casino will withhold $1,875 and you’ll get $5625 to take home. Yeah, it’s weird. I think that’s the point. So, don’t be afraid of taxable jackpots, just expect to be confused. And, be appreciative, because they don’t come around too often. Enjoy every one. If you have an interesting taxable story at the tables, please send us an e-mail to editor@azgamingguide.com with “Taxables At The Tables” in the subject line and tell us about your experience! Good luck and have fun! $
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
Frogger Exclusively At Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino
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ecently, Konami Gaming, Inc. announced the arrival of its new Frogger themed slot machines at casinos across the nation and Harrah’s AkChin Casino is the first in Arizona to install the game! Players can enjoy a variety of random bonus features, including a mystery adventure that activates the classic road and river crossing course that has delighted Frogger fans for generations. With captivating slot play and big jackpot progressive prizes, Frogger’s leap into the casino gambling arena is generating strong excitement at debut locations. Konami’s Frogger slot is instantly recognizable, championing the game’s iconic hero character. Popular Konami game features like Action Stacked Symbols and Xtra Reward are included throughout, alongside original new mechanics like leaping full-reel wild symbols that jump down to cover additional reel sets during the free games. “Frogger is generating tremendous interest and we’re thrilled be able to introduce Konami’s famous frog to the casino industry for the first time,” said Matt Reback, Vice President, Marketing at Konami Gaming, Inc. “It has that strong balance of familiarity and mystery to keep players engaged and entertained." Konami’s Frogger five reel video slot games are available now with debut themes Great City Wild s and Wood land Wilds. For more about this and other new releases, visit gaming.konami.com. For more on Harrah’s Ak-Chin, visit harrahsakchin.com, or call 1.480.802.5000. $
The Big Bang Theory At Desert Diamond Casinos
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he #1 comedy on TV has arrived at Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment’s Tucson location on Nogales highway. The Big Bang Theory Slot Game from Aristocrat is fun down to the sub-atomic level, packed to critical mass with your favorite elements from the hit show. The Big Bang Theory theme is highly integrated, with video clips, 3D animations, character images, theme music and unique character bonuses. And, at the max bet, there’s a $250,000 multi-site progressive! One of 10 mystery bonuses can be triggered within the base game at any time with any bet. Additionally, three “Bazinga!” scatters will trigger the Big Bang Theory Bonus Wheel, which awards one of six bonus features:
Large Leonard Hofstadter Collision—offers free Mega symbol spins. Dr. Sheldon Cooper Roommate Agreement—provides 8 Reel Power spins. Penny Friendship Paradigm—offers free scatter pay spins. Howard Wolowitz Mystic Warlords Of Ka’a—offers multipliers and credits. Raj Koothrappali Scavenger Vortex—pick to reveal credits or Win All. The Big Bang Theory Progressive—pick for credits or the jackpots.
The gang’s all here—Sheldon, Leonard, Penny, Wolowitz and Raj. To join in the fun, visit Desert Diamond Casino Tucson! For info, visit ddcaz.com. $ azgamingguide.com | July 2016 | Arizona Gaming Guide
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NEW SLOTS
Concerto Slots Now Available At Casino Del Sol
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asino Del Sol in Tucson, Arizona is installing 10 new Concerto slot machines by Konami Gaming. The game themes include Chili Chili Fire, Dragon’s Law Twin Fever, and Wonder Rose all of which contain free games bonuses with the ability to win additional free games. Chili Chili Fire: This Xtra Rew ard 5 reel game introduces a measure of festive flavor, filled with Action Stacked Symbols and a unique Fade Away mystery bonus feature. Randomly after any spin, lowervalue card symbols catch ablaze and are replaced by a cascade of higher-value picture symbols. This continues until all positions are covered with picture symbols. Any 3 or more scatter Chili symbols trigger the Chili Chili Fire free game feature. Dragon’s Law Twin Fever: This Xtra Rew ard title is a 5 reel game that pays tribute to the popular classic with two long-tailed Dragon’s Law characters displayed in the upper screen—a red dragon and a blue dragon—for double the mystery feature excitement. Randomly before or after any spin, either one or both dragon characters will swoop down to the bottom reel strips to scatter additional wild symbols. The free games are triggered by any 3 or more scatter Yin-Yang symbols. Wonder Rose: Also an Xtra Rew ard with Action Stack ed Sym bols game, Any 3 or more heart symbols trigger the Wonder Rose free game feature. Players can choose from 3 different combinations of free games and bonus multipliers, with lower random multipliers assigned to a higher number of free games, and fewer free games carry higher random multipliers, up to 30x. In the free games, any Wild Rose symbols are transformed into random multipliers for winning combinations. $
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NEW SLOTS
Triple Cash Wheel With Quick Hit Now Available At Hon-Dah Resort Casino And Conference Center
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he new slot from Bally Technologies, a division of Scientific Games, Triple Cash Wheel Featuring Quick Hit is the game players love and it is available for play at Hon-Dah Casino! The Cash Wheel Bonus Feature can award up to 3 spins of the Wheel and the exciting Free Games feature awards 10 Free Games with all pays tripled! There are also 5 Quick Hit style jackpots up for grabs! With three sets of a five reel slot stacked on top of each other, there are a total of 60 pay lines to wager on. Players spinning up three of the Cash Wheel bonus symbols win a spin on the top wheel, towering over the casino floor. Players choose from 21 tiles on screen and win when three tiles are matched awarding one, two, or three spins of the wheel. Look for the 3X Multiplier tile as this will triple the wins on the wheel! But we’re not finished because there’s a 10 spin Free Game feature where all wins are tripled and a chance at five Quick Hit jackpots where you can win a few hundred, or a few thousand dollars! Guests should also check out Hon-Dah Resort Casino and Conference Center’s other brand new slots like Quick Hit Platinum Plus Triple Blazing 7’s and Aristocrat’s Lightning Link games including Magic Pearl and Happy Lantern. For more information about Hon-Dah Resort Casino and Conference Center, call 1.800.WAY.UP.HI or visit hon-dah.com $
azgamingguide.com | July 2016 | Arizona Gaming Guide
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NEW SLOTS
Coming Soon
Super Vault By Aruze Gaming
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ruze Gaming is introducing a brand new game theme, Super Vault, which multiplies excitement by bringing new win possibilities to the 999.9 Gold Wheel series. This 3 Reel, 3 Row Stepper Slot gives the player the experience of “reel” entertainment! The extravagant 999.9 Gold Wheel series has always impressed players with its gorgeous and enormous cabinet. The new, state-of-the-art technology of the HD touchscreen allows the player to be immersed in the wonderful world of wealth. There are four jackpot levels: Grand Jackpot, Major Jackpot, Minor Jackpot, and Mini Jackpot. Three Spin symbols on the pay line trigger the Gold Wheel containing credit prizes and four progressive levels. If the wheel indicates a Jackpot win, the corresponding Jackpot amount displayed is won and the wheel spins again. When the wheel is triggered with the Super Spin symbol on reel 3, a multiplier up to 10x is applied to the credit prize indicated on the wheel. A Wheel Multiplier of either 5x, 8x, or 10x is applied to the credit prize determined on the 999.9 Gold Wheel only. Watch for this game soon at Arizona’s casinos. For more information on this and other games by Aruze Gaming, visit aruzegaming.com. $
18 Arizona Gaming Guide | July 2016 | azgamingguide.com
WINNING WAYS
WINNERS, WINNERS & MORE WINNERS Huge 3 Card Poker Jackpot And Big Winners Playing IGT’s Slots!
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asino Arizona, an enterprise of the Salt River PimaMaricopa Indian Community, has added a new victor to the facility’s winner circle. Scottsdale resident Jordan B. tried his luck at the property’s 3 Card Poker game on May 19 and hit the progressive jackpot for a whopping $281,602. “Casino Arizona already has a reputation for frequent jackpots and one of this dollar amount always sends a surge of excitement through the gaming floor,” said Ramon Martinez, Director of Public Relations for Casino Arizona. “Winning nearly $300,000 is huge news!” A fan favorite, 3 Card Poker challenges players to showcase their best poker hand with only three cards. They can try their luck against the dealer and place an Ante bet and also choose to bet their own hand for a Pair Plus wager. With the Ante bet, players must fold or place a Play bet equivalent to their ante, while dealers must possess a queen or higher to advance. If the dealer doesn’t meet the requirement, then the player will receive money on the Ante wager and also move forward with the Play bet. If the dealer qualifies, then the cards are compared and the best poker hand secures the win. As a progressive game, the jackpot starts at a set amount and increases until it is hit. Other hopefuls will have an opportunity to win as the jackpot has now been reset to $100,000. Located in Scottsdale, Arizona at the Loop 101 Freeway and McKellips Rd., Casino Arizona is independently owned and operated by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, and offers visitors more than 100,000 square feet devoted to gaming and entertainment. For more information on Casino Arizona’s gaming options and prizes, call 480.850.7777 or visit casinoarizona.com.
Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment, with three locations in Southern Arizona (Tucson, Sahuarita, and Why) and one in the West Valley, is owned and operated by the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise, an enterprise of the Tohono O’odham Nation. Additional information can be found at ddcaz.com or by calling 866.DDC.WINS. Follow Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment on Twitter (@DiamondCasinos) and on Facebook (/DDCAZ).
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nternational Game Technology (“IGT”) enriched its jackpot legacy and awarded six lucky players with lifechanging jackpots, totaling more than $7.4 million in combined payouts. IGT awarded the following million dollar-plus jackpots on Wheel of Fortune slots across the U.S. in May:
A $1,630,387 jackpot was awarded on Wheel of Fortune Dou-
ble 3x4x5x Pay slots at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, on May 24
A $1,578,198 jackpot was awarded on Wheel of Fortune Double Diamond at Graton Resort & Casino in Rohnert Park, California, on May 14
A $1,066,981 jackpot was awarded on Wheel of Fortune Triple Diamond at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, on May 13
A $1,027,739 jackpot was awarded on Wheel of Fortune Dou-
ble 3x4x5x Pay slots at Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, on May 6
A $1,053,283 jackpot was awarded on Wheel of Fortune Dou-
ble Diamond slots at New York-New York Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, on May 2
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esert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment’s latest big jackpot winner won $764,684 on May 17 at the Tucson location. The lucky winner hit the jackpot on IGT’s Wheel of Fortune Jackpot 7s slots. This spectacular win comes less than two weeks after another large jackpot win at Desert Diamond’s Sahuarita location; that guest won $112,500 on May 6 playing IGT Triple Stars slots. Treena Parvello, Director of Public Relations and Communications for the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise, said, “We always love seeing our guests win big! May has turned out to be a great month for large jackpot winners—first $112,500 and now $764,684! We can’t wait to see who our next big winner will be at Desert Diamond Casinos!”
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addition, IGT awarded $1,134,575 on Megabuck s Red White Blue WildStar at Buffalo Thunder Resort & Casino in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on May 18 No one pays jackpots like IGT. Launched in 1996, IGT’s Wheel of Fortune slots have minted more than 1,000 millionaires and delivered over $3 billion in jackpots throughout its illustrious history. IGT continues to enrich its Megabuck s mega-payout legacy, which totals more than $1 billion since its inception in 1986. IGT enables players to experience their favorite games across all channels and regulated segments, from Gaming Machines and Lotteries to Interactive and Social Gaming. For more information, visit IGT.com or go to Facebook at facebook.com/IGT, follow them on Twitter, twitter.com/IGTnews or watch IGT videos on YouTube at youtube.com/igt. Play IGT’s DoubleDown Casino on Facebook or at doubledowncasino.com. $
CASINO DINING By Lana Hartmann
BLUEWATER’S RIVER WILLOW Steakhouse Delights With Wide Variety Of Classic Food
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If you're looking for delicious food and a meal you won't soon forget, be sure to visit the River Willow Steak House at the BlueWater Resort & Casino in Parker, Arizona. They're right on the Colorado River and they offer only the finest cuts available, from USDA "Top Choice" Beef to "All Natural" Veal and Chicken. The River Willow finds the freshest Produce and Seafood to round out their fine dining menu. Their skilled chefs have very high standards and make every effort to exceed patron expectations, from the first taste of an appetizer to the last bite of a dessert! Indulge in the mouthwatering Peppered New York Strip Charbroiled and topped with Mushrooms, Bacon, Scallions, Garlic, Cracked Pepper, drizzled with a White Wine, or their local favorite Petite Filet with Skewered Shrimp or Petite Lobster Tail. Menu items also include Appetizers and delectable Desserts. River Willow is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or to enjoy a memorable night out. Begin the dining experience with an extensive selection of wines. From Merlots to Zinfandels, River Willow has the right wine for you. Of course, if patrons would like recommendations, the staff is more than happy to make suggestions. Recently, I was tasked with this review and was very excited to
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drive out to BlueWater’s River Willow. I always enjoy heading West from Phoenix and experiencing the build up to the beautiful scenery and the Colorado river in Parker, Arizona. Many of you may know my tastes by now, so it may come as no surprise that for my appetizer I selected the Broiled Maryland Crab Cakes and my guest picked the Caprese Salad, mainly so that we could share both dishes! The crab cakes were made with roasted bell peppers and were served with a Lemon Dill Aioli. The Caprese Salad was a delicious combination of the classic Mediterranean blend of Mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic vinegar, yum! While my guest had the Veal Oscar (two veal cuts with crabmeat, asparagus, rice, and Béarnaise sauce), my mouth was watering over the Bacon Wrapped Scallops. Simple, elegant, and tasty, the five scallops were pan seared and served over Risotto. And for dessert, my guest and I shared the Bourbon Pecan Pie and the Tiramisu. Both were equally unique and well executed by the pastry chef! Reservations are recommended by calling 1.928.669.7003. For more information about BlueWater Resort & Casino, visit their website at bluewaterfun.com or call 1.928.669.7777. $
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he temperatures have reached the triple digits, which means summer is truly upon us. Talking Stick Resort has Arizonians covered this season, offering various indoor and outdoor entertainment options—all in the heart of Scottsdale. Home to an array of luxury amenities, the AAA Four Diamond property features 496 guest rooms, a 650-seat Showroom, more than 113,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor meeting space, an open-air spa and four pools. In addition, the resort boasts a nearly 300,000 square foot casino, fitness center, outdoor pool stage complete with a capacity for 4,500+, Salt River Grand Ballroom and 12 restaurants and entertainment lounges. For a limited time only, guests can stay on property and take advantage of the venue’s exclusive Summer Playcation package.
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With a minimum two-night stay, visitors will receive a daily $25 food and beverage credit that can be redeemed at the pool, Blue Coyote Café and Blue Coyote Cantina. Stays are available now to September 30, 2016 (special rates apply Sun.–Thu.) only. “Talking Stick Resort is the place to be for all things entertainment,” said Ramon Martinez, Director of Public Relations for Talking Stick Resort. “Our staff is well-versed in the art of hospitality. We enjoy surpassing our guests’ expectations in all sectors, from leisure to dining.” The resort’s culinary experts are known for curbing every appetite. While onsite, guests can savor a delectable dish and wine selection at Orange Sky—Talking Stick Resort’s fine-dining restaurant nestled on the 15th floor. The restaurant has 360-degree views of the Sonoran desert and a romantic décor. Named after the Valley’s signature sunsets, the eatery features an eclectic mix of cuisine—from robust steaks to well-seasoned seafood. Orange Sky’s wine list includes a 245-bottle selection that has
earned Wine Spectator Magazine’s coveted “Award of Excellence” for five consecutive years. Foodies interested in a more down-home casual feel won’t have to look far. Wandering Horse Buffet is located on the casino level and offers an array of dishes that will satisfy any appetite including herb rubbed chicken, king crab legs, jumbo shrimp and garlic crusted roasted rack of lamb. Black Fig Coffee & Bistro delivers an express service for American cuisine like wings, fruit baskets and more. The 16-seat Cajun bar Ocean Trail has the right blend of spice and seafood with notable dishes like gumbo, crawfish étouffée and Sea Bass in a rich lobster sauce. On the lower level, Blue Coyote Cantina offers a wide selection of premium tequila and delicious fare with a Southwestern flair. Blue Coyote Café is open 24 hours a day and is the ideal location for sushi, specialty sandwiches, salads, cocktail specials and views of the pool area. Poker enthusiasts are in luck, as well, as the property is gearing up for its 12th Annual Arizona State Poker Championship. The No Limit Hold ’Em tournament will take place in The ARENA Poker Room, which is the largest card room in Arizona, on Aug. 12-16. Registration is currently under away and the multi-day match is open to beginners and professionals alike. Challengers will battle it out for a share of more than $1 million in prizes. “Each year, the number of participants continues to break records,” said Tom Young, Director of Poker for Talking Stick Resort. “And just as the number of competitors continue to grow, so does the level of talent. It’s an exciting tournament to watch because you never know who is going to walk away with the win. We’re always surprised by the gameplay and look forward to crowning the 2016 champion.” Hopefuls can join in on the action with just a $1,100 buy-in. Competitors will start the match with $16,000 in tournament chips and have the opportunity to purchase an additional
$10,000 chips for $30. The multi-day match will commence at 9am on Aug. 12, 13, 14, 15 and 10am on Aug. 16. On the final day, the remaining 10 challengers will pull out all their best moves in hopes of snagging the grand title. Four-time World Series of Poker champion Tom Schneider will return once again and emcee the final table, sharing his colorful commentary with spectators. The ARENA Poker Room also offers a food menu so players won’t need to step away from all the action to grab a bite. The 2016 tournament will feature one one-hour dinner break on Aug. 12, 13 and 14 from 5:45-6:45pm. Players eliminated during the first three days will also have the option to rejoin the game the same day—up until the first break at 11:15am—or the following morning. An annual favorite, players travel from across the country to participate in the No Limit Hold ‘Em showdown. Last year’s event featured 1,580 competitors vying for top honors. After several hours and twists and turns, Vance Fitzgerald, a resident of Surprise, Arizona, was declared the 2015 champion. He earned a Rolex watch, a customized trophy and $253,600 in cash. His opponents Chad Mizner and Jake Balsiger also earned trophies and payouts of $189,600 and $134,300 respectively, for their efforts. The 2015 event also featured household poker names like Dennis Phillips, Karina Jett and Kenna James. Entries are currently being accepted for the 12th Annual Arizona State Poker Championship in The ARENA Poker Room. All participants must submit their $1,100 buy-in during the signup process. To register by credit card or phone, call the Talking Stick Resort Box Office at 480.850.7734. For more information about the 2016 tournament, visit talkingstickresort.com or call the Poker Board at 480.850.8693. Must be 21 or older to participate. A special room rate will be offered to participating players on Aug. 12-16. To learn more information, call the reservation desk at 480.270.5555. $
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TRIBAL NEWS Story And Photos By Lee Allen
A SAGUARO CELEBRATION The Tohono O’odham People Harvest Fruit Of The Desert
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rying to survive off what the Northern Sonoran desert provides in the way of edibles involves feast or famine, so you take advantage of the seasonal good times. Despite what forager Euell Gibbons noted in his Stalking the Wild Asparagus book, that “the outdoors is a restaurant,” Mother Nature can be a stingy seasonal grocer in providing meals that are ready-to-eat. “It’s possible to live off of nature’s bounty,” writes Carolyn Neithammer, author of American Indian Cooking, “but it’s not an easy way to make a living. While our landscape can be productive, there is a difference between eating for pleasure and eating to survive.” Native Americans in this part of the Southwest did both when it came time for a seasonal cactus harvest and it’s that time of year again to enjoy the fruits of the desert, the sweet and juicy ripeness of the saguaro cactus. Tohono O’odham (Desert People) tribal members have conducted such harvests for centuries of summers and you’re invited to join them before the monsoons ultimately arrive in full force. “The fruit is afraid of the storms and often spoils if it gets too wet,” says long-time picker Stella Tucker who has been harvesting the ruby red offerings since early childhood. “My grandmother would send me out in the morning with a picking pole and firm instructions not to come back to camp until my bucket was full.” The Tohono believe the saguaro was first created when an O’odham child sank into the ground and became the first of its species --- thus establishing a kinship between tribal members and the giant cactus. “There’s meaning and tradition in the saguaros --- they’ve been part of my people forever,” Tucker says. She counts many years of watching as the saguaros’ white blossoms appear in late spring, then shrivel into fruit buds in the heat of June, ready to offer their fruity nectar shortly thereafter. Fellow tribal gatherer, Lois Liston, celebrates the process as an annual connection between her people and their relationship to the earth: “You may slow down, but you never retire from the harvest because it’s always fun.” Tohono O’odham tribal elder Edward Encinas has also endured
26 Arizona Gaming Guide | July 2016 | azgamingguide.com
the heat and humidity during the harvest. “The desert returns to life with the arrival of the rain,” he says. “We gather the fruit to make jams, jellies --- and process some of it into wine --- as part of our rain feast ceremony to give thanks to the Creator for nature’s bounty.” Timing is part of the process. Tucker notes: “The saguaro fruit is afraid of the storms. Once moisture comes, the fruit may become damaged,” ergo, beat the monsoon downpour and pick prior to the monsoon downpours when possible. For the modern day adventurer, a word of advice: each saguaro pod yields a mere tablespoon of fruit, so don’t plan on feeding the neighborhood after just one short outing.
TRIBAL NEWS
If you do give it a try, make sure the still-flowering cacti aren’t on private property before heading out with some simple tools. You’ll need something to knock the crimson quarry into your bucket. Native authenticity calls for use of a kuibit, a pole fashioned from two saguaro ribs joined together with bailing wire and a creosote branch attached to the tip. Truthfully, any lightweight “T-” or “L-“ shaped tool that can be held upright and reaches the tall fruit will do the job. “You can make pickers as tall as you want,” Tucker says, “but the longer the poles are, the harder they are to handle, especially when the wind blows.” Instead of taller poles, look for shorter cacti. Ideally, one harvester knocks the fruit free while the other tries to position a catch bucket underneath so the fast-falling redness drops into the bucket. It doesn’t always happen that way and the fruits that don’t fall into the container generally splatter beyond recognition on impact --- much to the benefit of the birds, javelina, coyotes, rodents, and other desert critters who also seek a bit of sweetness in their own diets. For the one-time adventurer, retrieving handfuls of fruit to be eaten immediately will probably complete the experience. Use the hard stems of the pod to slice open the skin of the bloody red fruit if you insist on adhering to the authentic process, but a sharp Swiss Army knife provides a good alternative. (Note to denture wearers: the sugary pulp of each fruit contains as many as 2,000 seeds. You’ve been forewarned!). If you’re interested in going a step further and spending a day in the outdoors gathering, make sure your picking pole is comfortable in your hand and bring a bucket, wide-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirt, sunscreen, and plenty of water. And while you’re getting excited about all the discoveries above you, be sure to also keep an eye on the ground around you. This is the desert and we’re not the only ones who make our homes here.
nutritious juice. Regardless of how you process your bucket full of natural sweetness, please remember that as you open the succulent saguaro fruit and taste its rich contents, be sure to offer thanks to the cactus for sharing its bounty. $
For the hardcore, bring the day’s yield from the field back to an area with a large cooking kettle where the fruit can be boiled and mashed. Skim off the seeds, grass, stones, and other unwanted items with a strainer and separate liquid and fiber with a close-meshed screen. Pectin-packed fiber can be dried into a tasty fig-like byproduct. The syrup is boiled a second time and strained through cheesecloth into a very pure, thick, and very
azgamingguide.com | July 2016 | Arizona Gaming Guide
27
GAMING NEWS By Rachel Brockway
Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino Donates Portion Of 5K Poker Run To Three Local Nonprofits
Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino donated $1,000 to the United Way of Pinal County, $1,000 to Girls on the Run – Maricopa County and Pinal County and $1,000 to the Ocular Melanoma Foundation from a portion of the proceeds raised from the 5K Poker Run, held in April. “We are so grateful to Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino for their generous support,” said Meagan Kukowski, Executive Director for Girls on the Run – Maricopa County and Pinal County. “This donation will enable us to educate and empower more girls in need, teaching them to be the authors of their own stories and inspiring them to activate their limitless potential.”
a range of denominations, Harrah’s Ak-Chin features slot machines, video poker, video keno as well as popular statewide progressives and live-action poker and Blackjack.
The 5K Poker Run was organized by Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino and included a 5K run, poolside poker promotion and a pool party with live entertainment, free food and drinks. “The leadership in these nonprofit organizations are doing wonderful work in the community and all of the Harrah’s employees couldn’t be happier to be involved,” said Michael Kintner, Director of Marketing and Operations for Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino. “Being able to donate to these nonprofit organizations was the ideal way for us to get involved with the local community and support worthy causes.”
Casino 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.
Celebrating more than 20 years in Maricopa, Arizona, Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino is Arizona’s first and only tribal casino to have an international management partner, Caesars Entertainment. Offering the largest selection of the latest reel and video slots in
28 Arizona Gaming Guide | July 2016 | azgamingguide.com
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. Harrah’s Ak-Chin also boasts the only Bingo hall in the Caesars organization, continuing the proud heritage of William F. Harrah, who opened his first Bingo hall in Reno in 1937.
Harrah’s Ak-Chin has been named a Most Admired Company by Arizona Business Magazine and BestCompaniesAZ, and Phoenix Business Journal has named the property one of the “Best Places to Work in the Valley” four consecutive years. Harrah’s Ak-Chin was also awarded a Volunteer Service Award from the Arizona Governor’s Commission on Service and Volunteerism. For more info contact Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino at 480.802.5000 or visit harrahsakchin.com. $
GAMING NEWS By Lyra Manning
The Spa At Talking Stick Resort Offers Deep Discounts For Local Residents
The Spa at Talking Stick Resort is offering locals a chance to take advantage of amazing savings and experience premier spa treatments. Valley residents can book an appointment to enjoy select luxury treatments along with access to all the spa has to offer: breathtaking views, a serenity lounge, spacious steam room, fully equipped fitness center and more. As the Valley’s only 14th floor spa, guests are treated to an experience like none other. Luxury for Locals specials include:
Renew and brighten the body’s complexion and get that pretty glow just in time for summer, bikinis and RELEASE pool parties. 60 minutes. $89; regular price $149
Simply Essential Massage Experience complete relaxation with a massage that is truly an escape for the senses. This treatment includes a hydrating facial serum to replenish the skin during the hot summer months. 60 minutes. $89; regular price $139
These offers are valid now to September 15 (Sun. – Thurs. only) and cannot be used in combination with an additional promotion. A 20 percent gratuity will automatically be added to each service. Must be 18 or older to participate. To book your next spa visit, call 480.850.4065. For more information on Talking Stick Resort or the Spa, call 480.850.7777, or visit their website at talkingstickresort.com. $
Brilliant Body Polish
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Complexion Essential This custom facial focuses on repair, prevention and anti-aging (including an eye-lift treatment). It’s designed to meet the needs of all skin types. 60 minutes. $89; regular price $149
GAMING NEWS By Malory Knutson
Casino Del Sol Celebrates 22 Years With Weekend-Long Bash
July marks the 22nd anniversary of Tucson’s premier entertainment destination, Casino Del Sol. The award-winning casino resort is throwing an epic celebration for the books! Packed with extraordinary events and entertainment, this is a party that can’t be missed. “Let’s Get It Started” on July 1 with a free performance for those 21 and older from Black Eyed Peas tribute band, Black Eyed Tease in the Casino Del Sol Event Center at 9pm. On July 2, the king of Latin pop, Enrique Iglesias takes the stage at AVA Amphitheater at 8pm, performing his chart-topping singles such as “Bailamos,” “Hero,” and “I Like It.” Tickets start at $65. Sunday, July 3, join Casino Del Sol for its annual fireworks display at AVA. This free, all ages fireworks show includes
food specials, music, and more. Doors open at 7pm, and the event begins at 8pm. Celebrate the 4th of July with a double dose of KISS. If you want to “Rock and Roll All Nite,” watch KISS perform at one of the most intimate venues they’ll play on their 2016 “Freedom to Rock” Tour live at AVA at 8pm. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see the world’s most famous rock band perform their hits such as “Shout It Out Loud” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You.” Great tickets are still available starting at $100. After KISS’ rockin’ show, head to the Casino Del Sol Event Center for MiniKiss, a high energy KISS tribute band of little people. This is a free 21 and over show that starts at 10:30pm. For more information about Casino Del Sol’s spectacular 22nd birthday weekend and to purchase tickets, visit their website at casinodelsol.com or call 1.855.SOL.STAY (765.7829). $
azgamingguide.com | July 2016 | 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 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 April 2016 Slots
Laughlin River Lodge 800.835.7904 laughlinriverlodge.com 1,000+ guest rooms and suites, over 30,000 square feet of the hottest Vegas-style gaming, four restaurants, fast food options, & more!
Tropicana Laughlin 800.243.6846 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 | July 2016 | azgamingguide.com
Hold % Tables
Hold %
Loose $5
4.34
Blackjack / 21
15.27
$1
5.19
Craps
16.90
Multi-Denom 5.58
Roulette
20.40
25¢
6.09
Pai Gow Poker
22.83
Megabucks
7.88
Other Table Games 27.16
5¢
8.13
Let It Ride
28.90
1¢
10.71
Three Card Poker
32.97
6.93
Win Amount
Dollars
Bingo
14.11
Slots
36.7 mil.
Race Books
16.49
Tables
3.8 mil.
22.81
Other
0.6 mil.
Tight $25 Other Loose Sports Pools
Tight Live Keno
13.66
Hold %
LAUGHLIN, NEVADA By Mark Novak
THE GOLDEN NUGGET LAUGHLIN Casino Offers Many Options For Players This Summer
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he Golden Nugget Laughlin has plenty of promotions, specials, and all of your favorite casino games from slots, to video poker, to a long list of table games, to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Plan your Laughlin getaway to the Golden Nugget right now! For starters, guests can take advantage of a Stay and Play Getaway with rates as low as $34.99 per night. Call 1.800.950.7700 or just visit goldennugget.com/Laughlin for all of the details. The Golden Nugget Laughlin is also offering Room and Concert packages for September’s hottest tickets! Hank Williams Jr. is performing at the Laughlin Event Center on September 24. Then, Dolly Parton performs on September 30. New patrons to the Golden Nugget’s 24 Karat Club (their player’s club card valid at the Laughlin property, as well as at Golden Nugget properties in Las Vegas, Nevada, Atlantic City, New Jersey, Biloxi, Mississippi, and Lake Charles, Louisiana) are invited to spin a traditional three reel slot machine for a chance to win up to $1,000 in free play on the spot! On Thursdays and Fridays, the Golden Nugget in Laughlin is offering an additional 100 coin bonus to its members for any natural Four-Of-A-Kind! Each Thursday and Friday, a card of the day is displayed at the 24 Karat Select Club (where you can inquire about all the details of this, and any, promotion) and natural Four-Of-A-Kinds matching the card of the day are eligible for the 100 coin bonus. Also, don’t forget about the 24 Karat Select Club’s Tier Upgrade Bonus! Bring in a valid competitor’s tiered card in your name and not only will that tier level be matched, but also upgraded an additional tier! The 24 Karat Select Club has four available tiers including: 24 Karat (0-3,999 credits), Premier (4,000-23,999 credits), Chairman (24,000-99,999 credits), and Elite (100,000 credits and above). In addition, on Fridays, the table games department is hosting a Moonlight Madness Blackjack Tournament. So, sharpen your card playing skills and get ready to win! From Monday through Wednesday, slot players have their chance at winning in the Spin-To-Win Daily Slot Tournament. A
$10 entry fee guarantees you a play session anytime between 7am and 10pm with a $1,000 guaranteed prize daily! The Golden Nugget Laughlin really has it all for the gaming enthusiast, regular and high-stakes casino classics like Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Three Card Poker, Pai Gow Poker, hundreds of slot machines in every imaginable denomination from the classic to the brand new! Plus, for patrons looking for an excellent race and sports book in Laughlin, the Golden Nugget’s race and sports book links to their sister property in Las Vegas, granting access to the most pari-mutuel tracks in Laughlin. This tropical-themed casino is a must see! For information on the Golden Nugget Casino in Laughlin, visit goldennugget.com/Laughlin, or call 1.800.950.7700 for rooms, or call direct at 1.702.298.7111. $
azgamingguide.com | July 2016 | Arizona Gaming Guide
35
LAUGHLIN, NEVADA By Mark Novak
2016 BULLHEAD RIVER REGATTA August 11—14 & Tropicana Laughlin Is The Official Registration Site!
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oin the Tropicana Laughlin this August for the 2016 Bullhead City River Regatta. The Tropicana Laughlin is the official registration site for the fun filled floating adventure weekend and the event will be here before you know it so book early and save! With the cool summer breeze in your hair, friends & family all around, and the entire Colorado River as your playground, this is why everyone’s #GottaRegatta! The Tropicana Laughlin has exclusive room rates that’ll splash away the competition! Pay just $149.99 per night for Friday and Saturday (plus taxes & fees) and just $39.99 per night for Thursday and Sunday (plus taxes & fees)! Guests must book Friday & Saturday together. The Bullhead City River Regatta registration location is located in the Pavilion Theater and is open on August 11 from Noon–
36 Arizona Gaming Guide | July 2016 | azgamingguide.com
8pm, August 12 from 8am–10pm, and August 13 from 7am– 12pm. Guests can pre-register or purchase tickets online at the bullheadregatta.com and find detailed event information, rules and regulations, safety tips, and more. Guests registering or purchasing online will receive a paper ticket with a QR code via e-mail which must be presented at registration. All participants must sign their own waivers. $
CASINO ENTERTAINMENT
Listings Train (Country)—Wed. 8pm, Latin Fire Dance Nights (Learn to Dance)—Thu. 6pm, Superhero Band—Fri. 8:30pm
Martina McBride Desert Diamond Casino—July 29 Award-winning Country star Martina McBride is bringing her amazing voice to the Diamond Center on Friday, July 29, 2016. Multiple Grammy nominee Martina McBride has sold over 18 million albums to date, which includes 20 Top 10 singles and six #1 hits. On February 26th she released her first single, Reck less, the title track from her new album due out this spring. McBride has earned more than 15 major music awards including four wins for Female Vocalist of the Year from the Country Music Association and won three Academy of Country Music for Top Female Vocalist. Martina has been awarded 14 Gold Records, nine Platinum honors, three Double Platinum Records, and two Triple Platinum Awards. Martina was awarded the Covenant House Beacon of Hope Award and Music Business Association’s prestigious 2015 Harry Chapin Memorial Humanitarian Award for her philanthropic efforts on behalf of domestic violence. Treena Parvello, Director of Public Relations and Communications for the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise, said, “Country fans are in for a real treat this July when Martina McBride takes the stage at the Diamond Center. Be sure to get your tickets early—this is one show you won’t want to miss!” Apache Gold Casino—Globe, AZ—800.272.2438 Events: All America n Tribute fo r Independence Da y—Jul. 4 BlueWater Casino—Parker, AZ—888.243.3360 Dig Lounge: Fea turing a va riety o f live music. Events: 4th Annual Southwest Nautique Regatta—Sep. 16 & 17 Casino Arizona—Scottsdale, AZ—480.850.7777 The Showroom: Stra nge Da ys (The Do o rs Tribute)—Jul. 15-16, Pick Your Poison (Poison Tribute)—Jul. 22-23, Fooz Fighters (Foo Fighters Tribute)—Jul. 29-30 The Arizona Room: Chad Freeman And Redline (Country)— Mon. 8pm, Arizona Room Trivia—Tue. 7pm, Country Dance Instruction (Learn to Dance)—Wed. 6pm, Daisy
38 Arizona Gaming Guide | July 2016 | azgamingguide.com
Casino Del Sol—Tucson, AZ—520.838.6506 Paradiso Bar & Lounge: Thursday Tributes: Sw eet Ho me Ala bama (Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute)—Jul. 7, Gregory Wolfe (Rod Steward Tribute)—Jul. 14, Petty Breakers (Tom Petty Tribute)—Jul. 21, Turn The Page (Bob Seeger Tribute)—Jul. 28 Friday Nights: Suerte Musical (Tejano, Latin)—Jul. 8, Grind (Variety, Pop, Funk, Dance, Rock, Country)—Jul. 15, Juke Box (50s, 60s)—Jul. 22, Blue Monsoon (Country Rock, Modern Country)—Jul. 29 Saturday Nights: Grupo Synphonia (Latin, Variety)—Jul. 2, Conjunto Elegantes—Jul. 9, Uptown Band (Top 40, Old School, R&B, Tejano, Country)—Jul. 16, Sun City Groove Band (Variety)—Jul. 23, Angel Norteno (Norteno) —Jul. 30 AVA Amphitheater: Enrique Iglesias—Jul. 2, 22nd Anniversary Fireworks—Jul. 3, KISS—Jul. 4, Brandi Carlile & Old Crow Medicine—Aug. 17, Alice Cooper—Aug. 26, Hank Williams Jr.— Sep. 25 Event Center: Black Eyed Tease (Black Eyed Peas Tribute)— Jul. 1, Mini KISS (KISS Tribute)—Jul. 4, Frank Caliendo—Sep. 2 Cliff Castle Casino—Camp Verde, AZ—800.381.7568 Dragonfly Lounge: Mike Reeves Band (Top 40, Country, Rock)—Jul. 1-2 Stargazer Pavilion: All America n Week end—Jul. 1-3, Un Noche de Lluvias de Estrellas 2—Jul. 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: Fla shba ck Frida ys—Classic Hip-Hop and Old School fun with primetime DJs, Noches Caliente—Saturdays with the hottest live Latin music! Desert Diamond Casino II—Sahuarita, AZ—866.332.9467 Sports Bar: Dub So unds DJs—Fr & Sa Diamond Center: Cage Rage —Jul. 16, Hugo Cortes—Jul. 23, Martina McBride—Jul. 29, Gloria Trevi—Sep. 24 Fort McDowell Casino—Fort McDowell, AZ—800.843.3678 Lucky 7 Saloon: Featuring a variety of live entertainment. Events: John Michael Montgomery—Jul. 4 Harrah's Ak-Chin Casino—Maricopa, AZ—480.802.5000 Featured Entertainment: Ma rsha ll Tuck er Ba nd—Jul. 2, Fortunate Son (CCR Tribute)—Jul. 4, Petty Breakers (Tom Petty Tribute) —Jul. 22, Turn The Page (Bob Seeger Tribute)—Jul. 29 Fridays & Saturdays In The Lounge: Enjo y live music fro m 8pm to 1a m. Checker’d Past—Jul. 1, Sun City Groove Band—Jul. 3, Soundwave— Jul. 8, Furious George—Jul. 9, Quantum—Jul. 15, John Eric Band— Jul. 16, Stilettoes—Jul. 23, Static—Jul. 30 Wednesdays In The Lounge: Enjo y live music fro m No o n—4pm. Guy Pennacchio—Jul. 6, Walkens Trio—Jul. 6, Route 66—Jul. 13, Walkens Trio—Jul. 13, Thaddeus Rose—Jul. 20, Stanley Serrano Trio—Jul. 20, Silhouette— Jul. 27, Stanley Serrano Trio—Jul. 27 Sunday Poolside Entertainment: Enjo y live music fro m 2—6pm. Kush—Jul. 3, Margarita Villains—Jul. 10, Silhouette—Jul. 17, Rock Lobster—Jul 24, Sound-
Editor’s Pick wave—Jul. 31 Hon-Dah Casino—Pinetop, AZ—800.929.8744 Timbers Lounge and Showroom: Munda y Funda y—Comedy Show 7pm, Ronnie And The Classics (Oldies)—Jul. 5-9, House Of Steel (Variety)—Jul. 12-16, Justin Wright & High Octane (Country) —Jul. 19-23, The Strip Kings (Variety)—Jul. 26-30 Events: Marmalade Skies (Beatles Tribute)—Jul. 3, Hot August Nights (Neil Diamond Tribute)—Aug. 26, Desperado (Eagles Tribute)—Sep. 2
CASINO ENTERTAINMENT ALICE IN CHAINS Talking Stick Resort The Pool—September 30
Lone Butte Casino—Chandler, AZ—800.946.4452 Cascades Lounge: Pho enix a rea ba nds & DJs o ffer free live entertainment throughout the week. 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, Southbound (Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute)—Oct. 8 Paradise Casino—Yuma, AZ—888.777.4946 Sharky’s Bar & Bites: Fea turing a va riety o f live enterta inment. Event Center: Slaughter—Jul. 3, Ziggy Marley—Aug. 20 Quechan Casino—Winterhaven, CA—877.783.2426 Sidewinders: Fea turing a va riety o f live enterta inment. Pipa Event Center: Lo s Lo bo s—Sep. 16 Talking Stick Resort—Scottsdale, AZ—480.850.7777 The Showroom & Grand Ballroom: Ha ppy To gether To ur—Jul. 16, Robert Cray—Jul. 22, Jay Leno—Aug. 5, The Four Phantoms— Aug. 12 & 13, Tedeschi Trucks Band—Sep. 2 Gregg Allman—Sep. 17, , Alice In Chains—Sep. 30, 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. Fireworks all month long—Jul. 4, 8, 15, 22 & 29 at 10pm! Vee Quiva Casino—Laveen, AZ—800.946.4452 Events: UFC 200—Jul. 9, Banda Pachuco—Jul. 16, Ernesto Sosa Naranjo Y Su Grupo Vennus—Aug. 13, Los Muecas—Sep. 10 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: Into ca ble—Jul. 8, An Evening With Delilah—Jul. 9, Gregory Wolfe (Rod Stewart Tribute)—Jul. 17, Rodney Carrington— Jul. 22, Kansas—Aug. 5, Jay Mohr—Aug. 13, Those British Girls (The Best Of British Women Tribute)—Aug. 21, Boyz II Men—Sep. 2, Sara Evans—Sep. 24
Alice in Chains is slated to perform at The Pool at Talking Stick Resort on September 30. Alice In Chains’ most recent release was the Grammy nominated album The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here, which entered Billboard’s Top 200 at No. 2 and debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Alternative Albums Chart. Rolling Stone gave the record three stars, as did USA Today, who praised it as an album of “undeniable power.” Spin called it “an assured, diverse, heated record with galvanized hooks,” Pitchfork said it’s “as insistent as [landmark album] Dirt,” and the Seattle Times wrote, “Jerry Cantrell, William DuVall, Mike Inez and Sean Kinney continue to defy expectations” and that “Alice In Chains is better than ever.” Over the course of their remarkable career, Alice In Chains has garnered multiple Grammy nominations, sold more than 20 million albums worldwide and amassed a diehard international fan base whose members number in the millions. They remain one of the most successful and influential American rock bands of all time. Tickets for the performance are available now. 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 | July 2016 | Arizona Gaming Guide
39
CASINO BINGO
BINGO AT PARADISE CASINO Yuma, Arizona Is The Place To Be This July For Bingo Fans!
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ingo at Paradise Casino is a big part of the gaming fun. Enjoy daily games and monthly promotions every time you visit. Play to win in the bingo hall and at over 500 new and classic slot machines while you are there! Some of the current promotions include: Monday 4th of July 6:00pm evening session—$14 Paper Buy-In, $30 Electronic Buy-In, $144 payouts, $244 Specials, $544 Double Action Special. Make sure to bring in your Fire Cracker Bucks for a chance at $200-$500. Free 4th of July Day daubers while they last. Start collecting your Anniversary Bucks for a chance at $620, $720, $820, $920 & $1,020 during our “20” Year Anniversary Session. Patrons must have a valid buy-in. For complete rules and details, please visit the Paradise Casino Bingo Hall.
Mon. thru Fri. 1:30pm Matinee Session—$10 Paper Buy-In, $17 Electronic, $22 Manager’s Special, $75 payouts, $100 Specials. Monday 6pm session All Paper Nite Session—$20 Paper Buy-In, 5 Extra Books, 5 games paying $125 each, 5 games paying $150 each, $175 Specials, $200 Cash Ball available. Thursday Nites 6pm No Split Bingo—Tired of sharing your bingo winnings? This is your night! No matter how many winners on our main games, each winner will receive $100 each. Friday Nites 6pm 2x Points Bonanza Gold Nite—The Bonanza Special will pay out a $500 consolation. $1 each and $1 Trade In. Have fun and good luck at Paradise Casino! $
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 06/01/15 & 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 | July 2016 | azgamingguide.com
azgamingguide.com | July 2016 | Arizona Gaming Guide
41
SAMI’S SMACKDOWN By Sami Becker
WHY YOUR CASINO OFFERS ARE BAD Calculate Your Average Points Per Trip And Think Like “Them”
L
ast week I was waiting my turn in line at the Player’s Club at a casino in Arizona when I overheard a very interesting conversation between a patron and a representative of the casino. Essentially, the patron was attempting to make the point to the employee that her offers were consistently bad. The employee, to their credit, remained composed and friendly as I’m quite sure they deal with this situation all the time. What struck me was the clear and succinct manner in which the explanation was made to the patron. Allow me to summarize what is conclusively affecting your offers: 1. Every time you show up and present your player’s club card to be swiped in any way at the casino you are presenting the casino with a record of your value to them. 2. Think about how many times you actually earned a lot of points on your card as opposed to the times when you earned
42 Arizona Gaming Guide | July 2016 | azgamingguide.com
just a few (or perhaps none because you just got a comped meal or a free gift). What, exactly, is your average number of points earned per trip to the casino over the past 12 months? 3. Look at it from the casino’s perspective. What does it take to get you through their doors? Is it $10 in free slot play, a free $15 buffet, or a free $20 gift? (retail price—not the casino’s cost!) 4. Finally, examine exactly what the casino is getting from you. Are you a consistent player, or are you a fly by night player? $
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 ROULETTE This Popular Gambling Game Has Roots To 1796 In Paris, France
oulette is French for “Little Wheel” and as many of you know players place wagers on one or more numbers, the color of the number (red or black) or whether the outcome is odd or even.
R
made gambling illegal in the 1860s, Roulette moved to Monte Carlo, the last country in Europe to allow legalized gambling. Since the 1860s, the game has continued to flourish across the globe in countries allowing legalized gambling.
A croupier determines the winning number by spinning a wheel in one direction and then spins the ball (used to determine the outcome) in the opposite direction! Eventually the ball falls into one of 37 (for French or European Roulette including the outcomes 0-36) or 38 (for American Roulette including the outcomes 00 and 0-37) colored and numbered pockets of the “Little Wheel.”
Interestingly enough, the casino employee who directs the game is referred to as a “croupier” which originally meant “one who stood behind a gambler” in order to provide access to additional funds during a gambling session. The word was derived from “croup” which means the rump of a horse. But not in the sense of the rear end and all of those negative connotations, but in the sense of riding behind on horseback in support of someone else.
The current game of Roulette was played in Paris in 1796. In the 19th century, Roulette became popular and spread across Europe and the United States. When the German government
In Europe, casino employees employed at table games typically learn Roulette first and then progress to other games. In the United States employees tend to learn Blackjack first. $
azgamingguide.com | July 2016 | Arizona Gaming Guide
43
FUN & GAMES
WORD SEARCH To Celebrate Independence Day On July 4th, Find: BRITISH, COLONY, DECLARATION, FIREWORKS, FLAG, FOURTH, FREEDOM, JULY, LIBERTY, PATRIOTS, REVOLUTION, THIRTEEN, USA, PARADE . Words appear in any direction. (Solution on page 46)
L
F
L
C
G
H W H
F
Y W
B
I
O
L
U N
Q
R
G
Z
G
L
F
F
P
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S
P
L
Q
A
O
J
O
K
A
O
J
F
T
I
K
A
T
C
D
U
I
E
G
U W C
U
D
T
R
T
V
W L
E
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T
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V
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F
E
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Y
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J
C
T
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P
A
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A
S
W
I
F
E
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P
H
L
O
L
Z
A
L
S
H
E
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R
R
T
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D
N
A
B
O W R
U
J
R
T
E
B
H
K
Y
L
P
R
V
V
R
A
V
I
S
E
X
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V
I
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Y
A
Z
E
K
D
F
Q D
Q
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K W
B
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Y
S
T
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R
M
E
S
V
T
B
U
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A
X
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A
Y
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M M
C
E
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F
R
V
B
P
H
R
O
N N
X
O
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E
Y
G
T
F
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H
N
C
I
X
V
N
R
F
Y
R
O
N N
C
F
G
Z
J
X
O
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)
9
6
1 5
5
4
8
2
7 3
3
6
7
4
7
8 5
2
6 7
9
7 8
4
3
6
1
44 Arizona Gaming Guide | July 2016 | azgamingguide.com
101 & McKellips
Scottsdale
480-850-7777 898
Y
Y
05. Casino Del Sol
5655 W. Valencia Rd.
Tucson
855-765-7829 1,058
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
Hwy. 86, Milepost 55
13. Fort McDowell Casino
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 828
Hwy. 87, 1/4 mi. S. of Payson
Payson
800-777-7529 416
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
N O J D U I L E T Y C T H L T N H Y L I I R B T E E R E T N Y
A G U R U L O L A R
F B L F R S O I K C T R O I O P A S W A S H E O R U R V A I A E D F T R E I O N
P A T R I O T S
800-946-4452 908
Y
800-946-4452 950
Y
1505 E. Hwy. 69
Prescott
800-756-8744 235
F R E E D O M
1
6
2
5
4
5
4
7
6
9
8
4
5
6
8
2
9
3
7
1
1
8
5
6
9
3
4
2
7
3
6
9
2
7
4
8
1
5
7
2
4
1
8
5
9
3
6
6
9
2
4
5
1
7
8
3
5
4
7
9
3
8
1
6
2
8
1
3
7
6
2
5
4
9
46 Arizona Gaming Guide | July 2016 | azgamingguide.com
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Laveen Chandler
3
Y
Y
Y
Y
1
Y
Y
Y
8
Y
Y
Y
3
Y
Y Y
Y Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y Y
Y
Y
855-946-8946 1,088
7
Y
Y
480-850-7777 765
2
Y
Y
Flagstaff
9
Y
Y
Scottsdale
Sudoku Solution
Y
Y
Y
Y Y
6443 Komatke Ln.
Word Search Solution
Y
Y
I-40, Exit 219
facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide
Y
Y
Sources: Arizona Department of Gaming—Current Tribal Gaming Status as of 06/01/16 & 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 905
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