Arizona Gaming Guide Magazine - September 2020 - 12:09 by Arizona Gaming Guide

SEPTEMBER

Contents IN EVERY ISSUE 04 EDITOR’S NOTE 06 PLAYERS TALK 10 GREAT GAMES

14 TABLE GAMES 18 ELECTRONIC TABLE GAMES 20 FEATURE STORY 24 ARIZONA LOTTERY 26 GAMING NEWS 30 TSR’S SUMMER PLAYCATION 34 SAMI’S SMACKDOWN 36 FUN & GAMES 38 CASINO DIRECTORY

BUCKY’S & YAVAPAI CASINOS IN PRESCOTT, AZ ENGAGE COMMUNITY WITH PLAY SAFE

Jackpots available at all bet levels, more frequent free spins, and a respin with a “caged” sixth reel.

Together they release first-ever $2 NASCAR Championship Weekend Progressive Fast Play Ticket.

TSR’s popular summer Playcation package at their Scottsdale resort is now valid through September 30.

BEAST UNCAGED SERIES BY EVERI HITS CASINOS

AZ LOTTERY PARTNERS WITH PHOENIX RACEWAY

TALKING STICK EXTENDS SUMMER PLAYCATION

azgamingguide.com | September 2020 | Arizona Gaming Guide

EDITOR’S NOTE

NEED SOME LUCK? Consider Purchasing One Of These …

lephants are considered to be lucky creatures in many cultures around the world! They have garnered their reputation for magic powers because of their strength, dignity, patience, wisdom, intelligence, happiness and longevity. Elephants are an important religious symbol in the Hindu faith. Customarily, large elephant statues are stationed outside the Hindu temples to welcome and bless all of its visitors. Ganesha, the Hindu god of wisdom, success, and invincibility is always depicted with an elephant’s head. The white elephant is sacred in Buddhism because Buddha assumed this form to enter the womb of his mother, Maya. Therefore, the belief is that the elephant has inherited Buddha’s qualities of patience, tolerance, and wisdom and is the “Jewel of the Law.” In Christian tradition, the elephant personifies the virtues of chastity and temperance. Many Christians believe the elephant is a symbol of Christ trampling a serpent (Satan) underfoot. In fact, since 1874, when Harper’s Weekly published a cartoon by Thomas Nast of an elephant trampling on inflation and chaos, the elephant has been the symbol of the Republican Party of the United States. To bring the luck of the elephant into your daily life, consider purchasing a statue of one with the trunk up. Place the elephant close to the front door and rub the statue on your way out when you start your day. This simple action will continue to bring you luck throughout the day. Have a lucky month!

Alexandra

Alexandra Lang Editor-in-Chief editor@azgamingguide.com Some Interesting Fun Facts: The average weight of an adult male elephant is 15,000 lbs. and the largest male elephant ever measured weighed 26,000 lbs. (13 tons) and stood 14 ft. tall to the shoulder! The average life expectancy for elephants is 70 years. An elephant trunk has more than 40,000 muscles in it and they wave their trunk up in the air and from side to side in order to smell better. They have the longest pregnancy of all animals; 22 months from conception to birth and an elephant calf can weigh up to 230 lbs.

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Your Authority On Everything Gaming VOLUME 12 • ISSUE 09 MANAGING DIRECTOR & VIDEO POKER GURU Elizabeth Torma liz@azgamingguide.com PUBLISHER & SLOT GURU Chris Höft chris@azgamingguide.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alexandra Lang editor@azgamingguide.com ART DIRECTOR Melanie Mueller CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Al Moe Matt Probst Mark Novak TJ Jorgensen Lana Hartmann Heather Foreman Samantha Becker Daniel Cruikshank 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 AZGamingGuide.com Facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide Copyright © 2009-2020 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. AGG is not liable for claims made in articles and/or advertisements. All pictures, images, logos, trademarks and trade names, etc. are the sole property of their respective owners. Intended for single use only. Reproduction in part or in whole in any form without consent is not permitted. Sale and/or distribution in any form without consent is not permitted. Check all details with the respective casino’s Players Club. Our full legal disclaimer can be found at AZGamingGuide.com/index_files/legal_disclaimer.html. 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 Tribal Gaming Funded Problem Gambling Resource: Division 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

The Top 10 Slot Superstitions

We gamblers truly are a superstitious bunch! Across the years, my team and I have received thousands of hand-written letters and emails from our readers about what they believe brings them good luck (and bad luck) while playing the slots. We always have such a wonderful time reading all the stories! Here’s a list of the top ten most common themes amongst all the readers’ letters … 1. The “loosest” slots are in the aisles and crosswalks. Several of our readers believe that the casinos put the “loosest” slots in the aisles, so that people passing by are drawn into the main slot area where the “tighter” machines are waiting to fleece them. Hey, it makes sense—why not? Although many of our sources across all the casino slot departments claim this is not the case, there’s no law that states two of the same games, side-by-side, need to have the same payout percentage. 2. The “tightest” slots are located in secluded areas. Just as our readers, apparently, know where to go play the “loosest” slots, they also know where not to play. The consensus amongst players seems to be that the “tightest” slots are located near the table games and there are two main reasons why: one, because casinos don’t want the table players to be distracted and two, because there’s no reason to try to lure those types of players to the slots because table players aren’t usually slot players. For this same reason, casinos feel that it’s not necessary to place the “loose” slots near the sports bars. Another prevalent hypothesis is that the “tight” machines are placed near the casino entrances. The assumption here is that casinos don’t want to place their highest-paying slots near the doors in fear that players will not explore and play in other areas of the casino. Once again, although these theories have been refuted by casino slot personnel, they are, nevertheless, both interesting theories. 3. The casino employees know which slots are “hot.” Evidently, the first thing many of our readers do when they arrive at a casino is ask the floor personnel to recommend a “hot” machine. Although we know casino employees aren’t able to tell when a machine is going to hit, they are able to observe which slots get played the most and which seem to be hitting the most frequently. 4. If it’s not going well, cash out and insert the ticket back in. There are many casino players that believe there is a “reset” button on slot machines which is essentially the “cash out” button. As one reader wrote, “If things aren’t going well for me, I just cash out the ticket and reinsert it into the machine to change my luck.” Unfortunately, the random number generator

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(RNG) is perpetually at work (even when a machine is not being played) and doesn’t recognize when a player is cashing out. In addition, the ticket printer and the RNG are independent of one another. However, the concept of cashing out a ticket doesn’t seem to be a bad idea from the perspective of a fresh start approach! 5. Don’t play slots that have awarded jackpots recently. Our readers are apprehensive about slots that have paid out recently. However, they shouldn’t be because each spin is independent of the spin before. The RNG has no memory of a slot’s performance and jackpots can literally happen back-to-back! Furthermore, players won’t play a slot if the message on the monitor says the previous player cashed out a large amount. However, if this is your belief be careful, because this can be misleading. My team and I routinely see players put a large ticket in a slot machine (having cashed out from another slot), play a few spins, and cash out. (Continued on page 8)

PLAYERS TALK

The Top 10 Slot Superstitions

(Continued from page 6)

6. Do play slots that have awarded jackpots recently. On the flip side, there are several players who like to try their luck on machines that have already been doing well. I’m one of those believers that if a machine is “hot” it might stay that way for a while. An RNG is never truly random, it can’t be. And that’s why the concept of streaks exists and is absolutely true. But, just as a machine can turn “hot” it can also turn “cold” and stay “cold” indefinitely, so BEWARE! 7. Stand don’t sit. So many people have written in to us saying that they don’t sit down when playing their favorite slot machine, because the slot can sense when they’ve gotten too comfortable. Okay, this one is a little weird. Sorry, but when I play I want to be comfortable! I wonder, how does the slot machine know whether a player is sitting or standing? 8. Only play when the casino is busy. Many players believe casinos make their games loose on the weekends when the casino is busy and attendance is up, so that it appears more players are winning. These same players believe that management tightens their machines during the weekdays when there tends to be less casino visitors. 9. Don’t be the first to play after a “drop.” A “drop” is when the casino personnel comes around to exchange the full cash boxes with empty ones. After this has happened, the slot’s top light is on until a player inserts money or a ticket and begins playing. Most players believe a slot isn’t going to pay out until it has reached a certain amount of play first, called “coin in” by casino employees. 10. If you’re losing on a slot, take out your player’s card. Of all the reader letters we’ve received over the years, this has been the most prevailing theme. Some players believe taking their player’s card out and reinserting it into the game will reset the game and change its outcome, while others don’t want to use a player’s card altogether if the machine is not doing well. I’m as superstitious as they come, but this is one theory I can’t believe in personally. Having worked for a slot machine manufacturer, I know for a fact that the card reader really has nothing to do with the RNG in the game. If you are someone who does this, be careful not to play without your card for too long so you don’t lose out on casino offers that are based on your play. Superstitions are centered around luck and the first step towards being lucky is feeling lucky, so go ahead and do (or don’t do) whatever makes you feel lucky! $

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NEW SLOTS

Beast Uncaged Series By Everi

he Beast Uncaged Series takes the existing Beast series to an entirely new level with the same brilliant 4K content and engaging lighting that brings magnificent and ferocious beasts to life. With jackpots available at all levels, more frequent free spins, and a respin bonus feature that adds a “caged” sixth reel, Beast Uncaged Buffalo, Beast Uncaged Gorilla, and Beast Uncaged Rhino are bankable and linked themes that will keep players engaged. All three games are available on Everi’s new Empire Flex cabinet that features a 49-inch flexed display with eye-popping 4K content, flexible integrated light bars, and a larger enhanced glass button deck. Look for these great new games by Everi during your next casino trip. For more information about Beast Uncaged Buffalo, Beast Uncaged Gorilla, and Beast Uncaged Rhino, or other exciting new games by Everi, visit their website at Everi.com. $

10 Arizona Gaming Guide | September 2020 | azgamingguide.com

NEW SLOTS

Bill$ & Thrill$ Now At Desert Diamond Casino Tucson

atch some bills and earn some thrills at Desert Diamond Casino Tucson. For the first time in Tucson, Konami’s Bill$ & Thrill$ is available for guests. This original new video slot by Konami Gaming, Inc. offers a wealth of winning opportunities including free games, random multipliers, and a Maxi progressive jackpot. With a new, easy to understand win system, Bill$ & Thrill$ gives players what they want—Benjamins and McKinleys! With bills split in two on the screen, players spin to try and match for the dollar amount. The bigger the bill, the bigger the win. Players can win up to 24 free games, with wins multiplied with bill multipliers in the free games. Plus, win the progressive jackpot or one of two non-incrementing bonus prizes during the Jackpot Bonus Feature. Visit Desert Diamond Casino Tucson to try your hand at Konami’s hot new slot game Bill$ & Thrill$. For more information on Desert Diamond Tucson’s latest slots, visit DDCAZ.com, call 1.866.DDC.WINS (1.866.332.9461), or follow on Facebook (@ddcaz), Twitter (@DiamondCasinos), and Instagram (@DiamondCasinos). $

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TABLE GAMES By Al Moe

THANK HEAVENS FOR CASINO COMPS During These Difficult Times, Some Comps Are Just What We All Need

etting a free meal or room after a great night at the slots is like the perfect sunset. You see everything so well, the colors are spectacular, and the night ends in beauty. Strangely enough, when you get a comp after a bad gaming session, it can be nice too. Therapeutic even. And we need that, especially during these difficult times. Gaming brings out the best and worst in all of us. It speeds up our hearts, gets the adrenalin going, and can produce muchneeded endorphins. Comps enhance the rush. Gambling is supposed to be fun. And done correctly, you’ll keep your wagers at a level that doesn’t go beyond your entertainment budget. Along the way, you can earn some freebies, but only if you sign up for a player’s club card. It only takes a few minutes and a current ID. Some casinos offer an instant bonus when you get your card. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino in Maricopa, AZ most recently offered $25 in slot play, and they just finished a $180 million renovation. Their Caesars Rewards card is valid at all Caesars Entertainment locations. Down the Beeline Highway near Shea Boulevard, Fort McDowell Casino is building the new We-Ko-Pa Casino, and they offer $10 in slot play right now for new club members. Mazatzal Casino in Payson, AZ also offers $10 in slot play on your next qualifying visit after joining. Additional Rewards The brand new Desert Diamond West Valley Casino offers many nice comps; plus you’ll get a 10% discount for food and gift shop cash purchases when you reach the silver card level of just 250 points. At Casino Del Sol in Tucson, AZ, slot players earn 3 points for every $10 played and 2 points for every $1 spent in bingo. The payoff is $1 for every 100 points earned. Blue Water Resort & Casino in Parker, AZ offers 1 point towards a player’s club account for every dollar in slot play. Two thousand accumulated points earn $5 rewards value. Gila River Hotels & Casinos in the Valley also offer one player’s club point for every $1 in slot play. Their system rewards $1

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cash, $1 comp, and $1 in point play (free slot play) for every 1,000 accumulated points. At Casino Arizona and Talking Stick Resort, players earn $1 cash for every 500 points accumulated at $1 per point in slot play. For most clubs, poker rooms also offer $1 per hour of play, and tables games come in at about a buck an hour for the average $15 per-hand player. Go for the Mailers Keep in mind that every casino has a player’s club that offers rewards. Quantifying and comparing them is difficult. It’s also difficult to compare them fairly if you don’t sign up and receive a casino’s mailers. The market is competitive and the monthly mailers can make a huge difference in what you receive beyond just the standard $1 in slot play. Arizona casinos are great at offering discounted and free hotel nights, free meals, entertainment, and bets at blackjack that don’t cost you a dime. So, sign up for a player’s club card and then keep an eye out for those mailers! $ 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. His book, “Vegas and the Mob," is available online at Amazon.com. He is also the proud father of four beautiful girls.

TABLE GAMES By TJ Jorgensen

DISTRACTIONS How Professional Blackjack Players Can Avoid Them & Use Them

ou practiced playing blackjack at home. You think you have your game ready for the casino. But when you get there the waitress is asking if you want a drink, your friend is bugging you to leave, next thing you know you’re making mistakes and all your money is gone. If you are an aspiring professional player, you need to know what distractions await you in the casino and how to deal with them. When I go to the casino it's for one reason, to make money. I am focused on that from the moment I walk in and nothing will distract me. In the casino you will encounter noise, attractive people, drinks, attitudes from other players, and idle conversation to name a few. To most players the casino is a really cool place and most people like being there. This is what the casino wants. They want you to feel like it’s cool to be a part of what’s going on. They want you to focus on that and not on winning. Men can get easily distracted by attractive women. In fact, some casinos put very attractive women in their high limit rooms to bring men in. Be on your guard, the professional player is at the casino to make money, end of story. I never drink when I play. Drinking affects your judgement and affects your game. There is a reason why Las Vegas casinos give away free drinks, and it’s not because they like you. Save your drinking for when you go home and celebrate after a big win. The casino staff can also be a distraction. They are always nice to you when you’re losing. They want to keep you smiling while you lose. Stay focused on the task at hand, winning. Casinos love amateur gamblers and losers. When you’re at the casino act like one. That’s right! If you’re a professional player, to avoid getting banned, you should always act like you are a loser. You don’t have to have a big “L” on your forehead, just act like you do. When I buy in, it's always for less than $100. That way the dealer doesn't have to call it out and they don't know what you started with. When you’re playing and winning, slip green chips in your pocket, don't ask for black. They know where all the black chips are. Don’t show how much you have won. You don't want to be identified as a winner. Be nice to the casino staff, tip the dealer. Don't call attention to yourself. When I’m playing, you can never tell whether I am winning or not. I don't show any emotions. I always claim to be losing when I play. Don’t ever argue or raise your voice, this will

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attract unwanted attention. I am very good at hiding how much I have won. Remember you are there for one reason, to take money from the casino. The casinos don't like big winners, so make sure you don't act like one. The casino is a dangerous place, keep your eyes open, and your mind alert. Do all this and you will increase your chances of walking out a winner. In my book How To Become A Blackjack Jedi, I teach you how to overcome the house advantage by counting cards and using a playing and betting strategy based on your true count. There are 41 variations from basic strategy. The one most used is when you are dealt a sixteen versus a dealer up card of a ten. When counting cards, there is a point that the correct play is to stand in this situation. I win on average seven out of every twelve times I play. If you want to be more than a recreational player, learning to count cards is the only way to mathematically overcome the casino’s edge. Then it is you, not the casino, that has the edge. You can get my book online at Amazon.com or through my website at FreeWebs.com/TJsBlackjackCorner. $ Writer TJ Jorgensen has been a professional Blackjack player for over 20 years. He is well known for his tournament play and has beaten some of the top tournament players in the world. He has also won the World Series Of Blackjack. His books are available online at: Amazon.com and FreeWebs.com/TJsBlackjackCorner.

TABLE GAMES By Daniel Cruikshank

WINNING THE HARDWAY IN CRAPS There Is Only One Way To Win This Bet

he Hardways bet is an extension of the multi-part bets, they may not win or lose on each roll of the dice. The Hardways bet gets its name because there is only one way the number can be made, similar to the 2 or 12. Like the 2 and 12, the odds of the number being rolled is 35:1. However, unlike the 2 or 12, they pay much less, 9:1 for the 6 or 8, and 7:1 for the 4 or 10. The Hardways bets appear in the upper left corner of the betting layout shown to the right. These bets can be made at any time and win, or lose, depending on the next roll of the dice. If the Hardways number you bet on is rolled you win, period. If a 7, or the non-Hardways combination of the number is rolled you lose. If any other number is rolled, the bet remains ON, you do not win or lose. This is why the payout is not 30:1, like the 2 or 12. How did the house come up with these crazy payouts, aren’t the Hardways just doubles like the 2 and 12? No, not hardly, once we examine the odds. Let’s say we place a bet on the Hard 6, which means we are betting that a 3 & 3 will be rolled, not a 2 & 4, 4 & 2, 5 & 1, 1 & 5 or a 7 (there are six possible dice combinations that make a 7). This means there are ten dice combinations that can beat the Hard 6 which makes the odds 10:1. The odds calculation is the same for the Hard 8. Isn’t the Hard 4 and 10 harder to roll? Shouldn’t the payout be more? Let’s figure it out using the Hard 10 (the 4 works out the same way). We are betting that a 5 & 5 will be rolled before a 4 & 6, 6 & 4 or 7. There are only eight dice combinations that can beat the Hard 10 which makes the odds 8:1, and the payout less than the Hard 6 or 8. Many Craps players will place a minimum bet on the Hardways number that matches the established point. For example, if the point is 6, then the bettor makes a minimum bet on the Hard 6. To illustrate my point, let’s look at an example:

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1. The player bets $5 on the PASS line. 2. The Come-out roll is a 6. 3. The player makes a $5 Odds bet on the 6 at true odds of 6:5. 4. The player places a $1 bet on the Hard 6 at 7:1. 5. The next roll is a Hard 6. a. The player wins $5 for the Pass line bet which is on the 6. b. The Odds bet pays $6. c. The Hardways bet pays $7 d. The total payout is $24 ($18 win and an initial bet of $6) No need to wait for a point to be established before making a Hardways bet. Hardways bets can be made at any time. I normally do not make Hardways bets until I am up at least twice my buy in, which is the initial amount of money that I put into the e-Craps machine before making my first bet. If I am playing at a live Craps table, then I will only make a Hardways bet if the shooter is a skilled dice-setter. That is, they are able to throw the dice in such a way that the Hardways come up several times before the 7. $ Writer Daniel Cruikshank lives in Arizona, is retired, and has been an Electronic and Live Table Games player for decades.

COVER STORY—Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos In Prescott

What started as an internal campaign to encourage patrons to “Play Safe” at the newly smoke-free Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos in Prescott, Arizona has hit the pavement as a community-wide initiative in the Prescott area. Members of the local community are also doing the right thing and “Playing Safe” while out enjoying their free time. The Prescott community is doing their part to keep everyone safe. Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos have noticed and say “Thank You!” to businesses and the general public who are taking precautions all across the community. 20 Arizona Gaming Guide | September 2020 | azgamingguide.com

So, what exactly are Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos doing to ensure their staff and patrons are Playing Safe? Smoke-Free Gaming: Smoking and vaping are no longer permitted inside either property for the safety of guests and staff. Designated smoking areas are provided outside. 24/7 Sanitization: Staff is continuously sanitizing machines and touch points throughout the gaming floors. Temperature Checks: Pre-entry temperature checks are required upon entry with a wristband for that day provided. Once you receive a wristband, you are free to come and go for that day. Mandatory Masks: Masks must be worn at all times with the exception of enjoying a meal at the Yavapai Cantina or Bucky’s Café.

In addition, Mr. O’Neill elaborated, “Please be aware that new procedures are in place at both of our properties for the protection of all. All guests and employees will Play Safe by having temperatures checked upon entry, wearing masks at all times and continuing to abide by social distancing procedures while enjoying gaming. As COVID-19 is transmitted by way of micro droplets, we have decided that both properties will be completely smoke-free and vape-free.” “We are being cautious at this uncertain time and your cooperation is requested. In the meantime, please Play Safe, so that you stay safe. It is our pleasure to welcome you back as we navigate this together,” said General Manager O’Neill. Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos are operating 24/7 with their Poker Room temporarily closed and limited seating for Blackjack. Continued on page 23

Social Distancing: Markers have been placed to help facilitate social distancing where lines may form and machines have been turned off where six feet of distance isn’t possible. The Blackjack Pit also has two to three chairs available at each table. Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos have taken measures to ensure the safety of the community. Now they want to encourage everyone in the community to Play Safe to stop the spread of COVID-19! John O’Neill, Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos General Manager said, “The health and safety of our community remains our number one priority during this unprecedented time. Our thoughts are with all of those affected by the COVID-19 virus and, whether it be directly or otherwise, all of us have been impacted.” azgamingguide.com | September 2020 | Arizona Gaming Guide

COVER STORY—Continued from page 21 I am very grateful for the fantastic effort being put forth by the teams at Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos. I also recognize the support and encouragement being given by the vast majority of our guests. These levels of effort and support show that we care for our communities and for one another. Be Safe and Play Safe! John O’Neill—General Manager

I joined the Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos team when I was 18 and have worked here for the last 7 years. Going in to 2020 I was due with my first child in the middle of February and was not only struggling with returning from maternity leave, but also struggling with the pandemic. Actually, I was struggling with leaving the house period! Since my return, I drive confidently to work and proudly clock in to a Play Safe workplace. I know that every team member is actively doing their part to Play Safe here at Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos. Casino Cayla—Marketing Media Specialist

Come in, Play Safe and take your mind off things for a while! Andy Van der Ploeg—Cage Manager

It is my experience and observation, since I’ve been back to work, that we are the cleanest and safest casino not only in Arizona but Nevada as well! Richard Garcia—Gold Rush Club

I am working in the Gold Rush Club at both the casinos signing up new members, telling you about our promotions and announcing all the jackpots and winners! I believe we are the cleanest and the friendliest Play Safe casinos in Arizona. Cheryl Meyers—Gold Rush Club

The Blackjack Pit offers traditional Blackjack with side bets of Super Pairs and Bust Bonus, TOP3 with a progressive jackpot, WPT Heads Up Hold ‘Em with a progressive jackpot, High Card Flush also with a progressive jackpot, and Lucky 7s which bonuses a 21 comprised of three Sevens on the 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th of every month!

So, go play in the clear skies and cool pines as both Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos are sure to have your game! Guests will enjoy non-stop action and “BIG WIN!” payouts, with the most exciting and entertaining slot machines in Arizona. A few of the popular titles include Lock It Link, Mighty Cash Double Up, and 88 Fortunes Diamond.

Bucky’s Café and Yavapai Cantina are open for dine-in with limited seating and for takeout. Drafts are $3.25/$4.25 all day every day with Happy Hour from 4 to 7 p.m., and all day long on Sundays, with $1 off drafts, $3 well drinks and appetizers at half the price.

Just drive 90 minutes North of Phoenix for a fun day trip or spend the night in one of the resort-style rooms available at the Prescott Resort & Conference Center adjacent to Bucky’s Casino. For more about Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos and all of their amenities, visit BuckysCasino.com or call 1.800.756.8744. $ azgamingguide.com | September 2020 | Arizona Gaming Guide

ARIZONA LOTTERY

AZ Lottery & Phoenix Raceway Team Up Race Fans Can Play NASCAR Championship Weekend Fast Play Ticket

tart your engines Arizona race fans! NASCAR Championship Weekend is coming to the Valley November 6-8 and to add even more excitement around the event, the Arizona Lottery teamed up with Phoenix Raceway to bring players the first-ever $2 NASCAR Championship Weekend Progressive Fast Play ticket. The NASCAR Championship Weekend Progressive Fast Play ticket is available now and features a progressive jackpot starting at $3,000. Players can win instantly when they match any of their WINNING SYMBOLS to all four symbols in the same lane and if a player sees a 2X symbol in the FAST TRACK BONUS area, they’ll double any prize won in the play area above. The race to winning doesn’t stop there. Players can also enter their eligible winning and non-winning $1, $2 and $5 Fast Play tickets into a special second chance promotion to win monthly cash prizes and a NASCAR VIP experience! Players can enter up to 20 winning and non-winning tickets each day for the second chance drawing in their Arizona Lottery Players Club app. They’ll receive five entries for each $5 ticket, two entries for each $2 ticket and one entry for each $1 ticket, and the $2 NASCAR Championship Weekend Fast Play ticket is worth five times the entries! Throughout September and October, ten lucky winners will take home $5,000 and a VIP experience during NASCAR Championship Weekend. At the end of the promotion, one lucky winner will take home $10,000! “What better way to build upon the excitement around NASCAR Championship Weekend than partnering with the host itself, Phoenix Raceway, to bring our players an all-new NASCAR Championship Weekend themed Fast Play ticket and second chance promotion,” said Arizona Lottery Executive Director Gregg Edgar. “We are always looking for ways to elevate our players’ experience, and with this second chance promotion, we are excited to send 10 lucky winners to this NASCAR spectacle right here in Arizona.” The Arizona Lottery will serve as the title sponsor for the Arizona Lottery 100 ARCA Menards Series West championship race at Phoenix Raceway on Saturday, November 7.

Club app or at AZPlayersClub.com. For more information, please visit ArizonaLottery.com.

Players can purchase Fast Play tickets at all 3,000 Arizona Lottery retail locations, and enter their winning and nonwinning Fast Play tickets through the Arizona Lottery Players

NASCAR® and NASCAR Championship Weekend™ are trademarks of the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, LLC. Scratchers® is a registered service mark of the California Lottery. $

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GAMING NEWS

Bellissimo Ristorante Italiano Now Open At Casino Del Sol In Tucson

There is a new restaurant in Tucson serving up homemade Italian fare. Casino Del Sol’s newest restaurant, Bellissimo Ristorante Italiano is now open. The restaurant features breads and pastas made fresh daily with a pasta making station in the center of the modern Italian eatery. Bellissimo’s signature dish is Spaghetti, made fresh daily by hand with White Sonora wheat from the Yaqui lands of Vicam, Sonora. In addition to Spaghetti paired with a variety of madefrom-scratch sauces such as a Rustic Tomato Sauce, 30-Clove Vodka Sauce, Bolognese, Alfredo and more, the menu also features an array of classic Italian favorites such as Chicken Parmesan, Gnocchi, Chicken Marsala and two varieties of Baked Lasagna, as well as shared plates and starters, bruschetta, salads, soups, sandwiches and homemade desserts. “We are eager to open Bellissimo and share our love for freshly made pastas, breads, sauces and desserts with our guests,” said Casino Del Sol’s Executive Chef Ryan Clark. “We didn’t want to open just any Italian restaurant. We wanted as much as possible to be made by hand daily and to offer only the freshest ingredients by local purveyors.” Bellissimo’s local purveyor partners include Hayden Mills, Pivot Produce, Covilli Brand Organics, Queen Creek Olive Mill, High Energy Agriculture, Molina Pierson De Terrenate, the Pascua Yaqui Tribe and E&R Pork. In addition to the extensive menu, the bar at Bellissimo offers a selection of draft and bottled beer, as well as an assortment of

specialty cocktails. The restaurant’s wine list features a large selection of highly rated wines from Italy. Happy hour is offered seven days a week from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and features discounted beer, wine and specialty cocktails including the FrozenCello, made with house-made Limoncello and Bellissimo Frozé both for only $5. Lunch specials are also available daily and range from $8$12.50. Bellissimo also features Endless Spaghetti Tuesday for $15 and the Sunday Sauce, a three-course meal for only $20. “Casino Del Sol and the Pascua Yaqui Tribe are constantly thinking of ways we can improve our visitors’ experience,” said Kimberly Van Amburg, CEO of Casino Del Sol. “We also want to make sure we are evolving, by periodically incorporating new ideas into the award-winning property. This led us to create a new restaurant concept centered around an American and Italian staple, spaghetti.” Bellissimo is located inside Casino Del Sol next to Ume and is open seven days a week, from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. SundayThursday and 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Casino Del Sol, Casino of the Sun and Estrella at Casino Del Sol have strict cleaning and safety protocols in place to ensure the safety of guests and team members. The casino restaurants are operating with distanced seating and limited occupancy. For more information about the safety protocols put in place, visit CasinoDelSol.com/Your-Safety-Matters. $

26 Arizona Gaming Guide | September 2020 | azgamingguide.com

GAMING NEWS

Hot Gaming Promotions Throughout September At Casino Del Sol

‘Tis The Season For Talking Stick Resort Or Casino AZ To Host Your Next Event

There’s no better time than now for a visit to Casino Del Sol in Tucson. With over 1,000 slot machines and live poker, blackjack, bingo and more, Casino Del Sol has all the games you want to play all day (and night) long with amazing promotions throughout the month of September.

We can all use a bit of holiday cheer this year! So, when you’re ready to plan your holiday event or if you need a professional meeting space, Talking Stick Resort and Casino Arizona are thrilled to welcome you back. Their team of catering professionals are ready to make your event shine bright and they are dedicated to providing the best possible experience during your time at both of their properties. Each location offers a variety of indoor and outdoor event venues, festive holiday menus, professional event staff, luxury accommodations and flexible contract terms.

BLACKJACK Sol Run 21 Hot Seat Drawing—Lucky winners will be drawn at random to participate in a fun & interactive “game show” style promo where participants can win up to $500 in Free Bet Chips during each drawing. Make 1 hand of “21” without busting & win $100, make 2 hands of “21” without busting & win $250, make all 3 hands of “21” without busting & win $500! Drawings will be every hour beginning at 5:15pm & ending at 9:15pm every Monday & Tuesday in September. See Pit for more details. POKER Poker Weekly Tournament—Sunday at 2pm, $40 buy-in, $5 Dealer appreciation, $5 add-on. Monday & Thursday at 6pm, $40 buy-in, $5 Dealer appreciation, $5 add-on. Tuesday & Wednesday at 1pm, $40 buy-in, $5 Dealer appreciation, $5 add-on. Badbeat Jackpot—Qualifying hands: Hold’em – aces full of jacks or better beaten by 4 of a kind or better; Omaha – quad fives or better beaten; Big O – quad tens or better beaten; Seven card stud – any four of a kind or better beaten; Pineapple/crazy pineapple – any four of a kind or better beaten. PROMOTIONS Fast Cash Pick—Club Sol Members can swipe their cards daily to enter September 1st–26th for weekly drawings & the Grand Finale drawings. Saturday drawings every hour 12pm-4pm for a chance to win $250 Freeplay (restricted credits) or cash prizes. The Grand Finale will be at Casino Del Sol on September 26th with a chance to win $25,000 CASH & Freeplay prizes! Every slot/table point earned is an additional entry into the drawings.

For more information about these and other great promotions at Casino Del Sol this month, visit CasinoDelSol.com. $

28 Arizona Gaming Guide | September 2020 | azgamingguide.com

Both casinos have implemented new policies and procedures to ensure your event is executed in a manner that is safe for your staff and attendees. In creating these guidelines, both of the casinos have worked diligently to follow protocols that coincide with directives from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). They have also worked with the Arizona Lodging and Tourism Association to meet its requirements for its AZSafe + Clean Certification. Just a few of the safety policies and procedures currently in place (in addition to temperature checks, deep cleaning and sanitization) include: Meeting and event rooms set up per social distancing guidelines; Apple Pay available at all the banquet bars for touchless payment; State-of-the-art HVAC system technology that cycles outside air into the meeting rooms through HEPA filtration; Use of antimicrobial utensils, just to mention a few. For more information about planning your next party or event, just call 1.480.270.5533 or visit their website for all the details at TalkingStickResort.com/Meetings/Holiday-Parties. $

TSR’S SUMMER PLAYCATION

TALKING STICK RESORT Extends Its Summer Playcation Package Through September 30

Summer may be ending, but the desire to escape continues. Fortunately, Talking Stick Resort has a solution as the property announces an extension to its popular summer Playcation package through September 30. In addition to the new date, the package will also feature a new entertainment partner from the Talking Stick Entertainment District. “Our summer Playcation package has been hugely popular among our guests,” said Ramon Martinez, Director of Public Relations for Talking Stick Resort. “The pandemic has made people more reluctant to travel by plane, but their desire to escape has not diminished. It made sense for us to extend this package so our loyal guests could take advantage of it.”

30 Arizona Gaming Guide | September 2020 | azgamingguide.com

TSR’S SUMMER PLAYCATION

Long a summer staple for Talking Stick Resort, the Playcation package offers room rates starting at $129 per night Friday and Saturday and only $99 Sunday through Thursday. Guests taking advantage of the package also score discounts to some of the Valley’s hottest destinations at the nearby Talking Stick Entertainment District, including Top Golf, Talking Stick Golf Club, OdySea Aquarium, Butterfly Wonderland, iFly, Octane Raceway and Medieval Times. And for the first time, the resort has welcomed a new partner, 3D Mini Golf. This indoor, glow-in-the-dark course consists of 18-mini holes with beautiful hand-painted murals throughout. Players wear 3D glasses, following hidden scavenger hunts, during play. The 3D effect not only makes each round more challenging, but also offers fun for all ages. Those who visit 3D Mini Golf as part of their Playcation package will receive one free adult admission with the purchase of an adult admission. “As Talking Stick Entertainment District continues to grow so does our ability to enhance this package,” said Martinez. “The addition of 3D Mini Golf could not have come at a better time as we expand the availability of Playcation. It will be a fun stop during your visit to Talking Stick Resort.” In addition to discounts outside the resort, more are offered inside. The package includes a $25 food and beverage credit. Guests can use this credit at one of the three restaurants available on property including Black Fig, Blue Coyote and Ocean Trail, each serving grab and go items. They can also use it during their contactless room service order. Limited dining and contactless room service are just a couple of the safety measures the resort has implemented as part of its commitment to mitigating the spread of Coronavirus. Other measures in place throughout the property include social distancing on its gaming floor and in the ARENA Poker Room. Seating at slot machines, table games and in poker is limited and acrylic dividers are in place. Social distancing is also in place at the resort’s three pools. Further, all guests and Talking Stick Resort employees will have their temperature taken upon entry and are required to wear masks while on property. Smoking has also been temporarily prohibited. For more information on the Talking Stick Resort’s safety measures and about its Playcation offerings, please visit their website at TalkingStickResort.com. $

32 Arizona Gaming Guide | September 2020 | azgamingguide.com

azgamingguide.com | September 2020 | Arizona Gaming Guide

SAMI’S SMACKDOWN By Sami Becker

GAMBLING LINKED TO GOOD HEALTH Studies Show Gaming Reduces Harmful Health Effects Of Stress

he Coronavirus pandemic has been very stressful on all of us and public health actions, such as stay-at-home orders, mask-wearing and social distancing, have only made people feel more isolated and lonely leading to even higher levels of anxiety. A visit to the casino, during these unprecedented times, may just be what the doctor ordered! Many of us enjoy visiting casinos and it’s easy to understand why our engagement in such a fun leisure activity can elevate our moods and happiness levels. Numerous studies across the years have shown that gambling is not only a great form of entertainment, but that it can actually be a therapeutic diversion. A great deal of research has been conducted over the years which includes studies from Yale, Harvard, Southern Illinois University, and many others, indicating that casino gaming (regardless of whether it’s slots, keno, table games, or bingo) has

34 Arizona Gaming Guide | September 2020 | azgamingguide.com

tremendous positive psychological and physiological effects on people—especially on elderly gamblers who are 65 years of age and older. The findings indicate individuals who gamble recreationally have lower rates of depression, are in better physical health overall, are more inclined to be self-reliant, and have a larger social support network than their non-gambling peers. Furthermore, higher levels of concentration, improved memory and increased problem solving skills were all attributed to the positive side effects of gambling. In addition, those studies showed gamblers tend to be optimistic people. Therefore, the theories suggest those people with a positive outlook are able to cope with stress better which, in turn, reduces the harmful health effects of stress on the body. $

FUN & GAMES

WORD SEARCH

SUDOKU

To Celebrate Elephant Appreciation Day On September 22, Find: ASIAN, AFRICAN, BANANAS, EAR, ELEPHANT, HERD, IVORY, LUCKY, MUDBATH, PACHYDERM, PRESERVE, ROAR, SANCTUARY, SMART, STAMPEDE, SWIM, TRUNK, TUSK, WATER, WISE, WRINKLES, ZOO.

Each of the columns, rows, and 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: MILD (Solution on page 38)

Words appear in any direction. (Solution on page 38)

N N

A W N

C N H

A U

A W C

N N O

N O

M C

H V

W L

D G

N M

G W Q

H W C

U M

W H

2 9

2 3

7 1

4 8

7 6

2 5

8 1

3 1

Jokes & Quotes

Zodiac Lucky Numbers

Research shows that laughing stimulates the immune system and may help prevent or reverse some medical conditions.

Aries (March 21 – April 19): 18, 37, 44, 50, 70 Taurus (April 20 – May 20): 10, 13, 24, 42, 54 Gemini (May 21 – June 20): 2, 18, 23, 58, 64 Cancer (June 21 – July 22): 1, 30, 36, 62, 69 Leo (July 23 – August 22): 8, 46, 48, 54, 71 Virgo (August 23 – September 22): 16, 44, 47, 55, 66 Libra (September 23 – October 22): 11, 39, 52, 56, 64 Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): 1, 5, 28, 63, 67 Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): 2, 30, 36, 53, 69 Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): 2, 8, 42, 54, 62 Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): 2, 19, 23, 37, 58 Pisces (February 19 – March 20): 6, 10, 21, 42, 73

There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies and statistics. There are few things that are so unpardonably neglected in our country as poker. The upper class knows very little about it. Now and then you find ambassadors who have sort of a general knowledge of the game, but the ignorance of the people is fearful. Why, I have known clergymen, good men, kind-hearted, liberal, sincere, and all that, who did not know the meaning of a "flush." It is enough to make one ashamed of one's species. It is sound judgment to put on a bold face and ply your hand for a hundred times what it worth; forty-nine times out of fifty nobody dares to 'call', and you roll in the chips. Of all the animals, man is the only one that is cruel. He is the only one that inflicts pain for the pleasure of doing it. —Mark Twain (American Author and Humorist, b. 1835 d. 1910)

36 Arizona Gaming Guide | September 2020 | azgamingguide.com

Lunar Year For The Month Of September 2020—Year Of The Rat Best days to ask for good luck: 1, 2, 7, 10, 15. Best days to travel: 1, 2, 6, 7, 14, 15, 16, 19, 22, 27, 28. Best days to meet with someone: 13, 19, 20, 24. There is Luck & Travel overlap on the 2nd, 7th & 15th! Ranking first in the Lunar zodiac, the rat represents wisdom. The people born under the Rat sign are intelligent, charming, quick-witted, practical, ambitious, and good at economizing as well as social activities. Dates for Year Of The Rat: 02/05/1924-01/23/1925, 01/24/36-02/10/37, 02/10/48-01/28/49, 01/28/60-02/14/61, 02/15/72-02/02/73, 02/02/8402/19/85, 02/19/96-02/06/97, 02/06/08-01/25/09, 01/25/20-02/11/21.

888-243-3360 571

1500 E. Hwy. 69

Prescott

800-756-8744 191

05. Casino Arizona

101 & McKellips

Scottsdale

480-850-7777 832

06. Casino Del Sol

5655 W. Valencia Rd.

Tucson

855-765-7829 1009

08. Casino Of The Sun

5405 W Valencia Rd

Tucson

855-765-7829

7406 S. Camino De Oeste

Tucson

855-765-7829 273

I-17, Exit 289

Camp Verde

800-381-7568 320

09. Cliff Castle Casino & Hotel 10. Cocopah Resort Casino

15318 S. Ave. B

Somerton

800-237-5687 328

Tucson

866-332-9467 720

12. Desert Diamond Casino-Sah.

I-19, Exit 80

Sahuarita

866-332-9467 353

13. Desert Diamond Casino-W.V.

101 & Northern Ave.

Glendale

866-332-9467 745

14. Desert Diamond Casino-Why

Hwy. 86, Milepost 55

Why

15. Fort McDowell Casino

Hwy. 87 & Ft. McDowell Rd.

16. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino

Fort McDowell 800-843-3678 618 Maricopa

480-802-5000 823

777 Hwy. 260

Pinetop

800-929-8744 369

1077 S. Kyrene Rd.

Chandler

800-946-4452 860

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

Payson

800-777-7529 230

Yuma

888-777-4946 294

18. Lone Butte Casino 20. Paradise Casino

450 Quechan Dr.

21. Quechan Casino

I-8, Exit 166

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

22. Spirit Mountain Casino

8555 Hwy. 95

Mohave Valley 928-346-2000 125

23. Talking Stick Resort

Y Y

Y Y Y

Y Y

480-850-7777 689

Flagstaff

855-946-8946 1,090

6443 Komatke Ln.

Laveen

800-946-4452 1,010

5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd.

Chandler

800-946-4452 951

1505 E. Hwy. 69

Prescott

800-756-8744 133

Y Y

azgamingguide.com

facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide

Word Search Solution E L R E S E E E P L Y M Y K R R R N O E A I V D U R I Y T W H C T T C N R R A A U A P S NM F K S A

T S H K

R S

A S I A N AW H E R R A E B A I N AW A S N E N U T V A R T N R S A A E C O S I M R E I R W P H T A B D U M

Sudoku Solution

D S T A M P E D E

Y K C U L O O Z

38 Arizona Gaming Guide | September 2020 | azgamingguide.com

Sources: AZ Dept. of Gaming—Current Tribal Gaming Status as of 08/10/20 & direct inquiries at press time. Not responsible for incorrect information. Contact editor@azgamingguide.com to make updates.

Use the QR codes for our website & Facebook Page!

Scottsdale

27. Yavapai Casino

I-40, Exit 219

25. Vee Quiva Casino

101 & Indian Bend

24. Twin Arrows Navajo Casino 26. Wild Horse Pass Casino

15406 N. Maricopa Rd.

17. Hon-Dah Casino 19. Mazatzal Hotel & Casino

866-332-9467

7350 S. Nogales Hwy.

11. Desert Diamond Casino-Tuc.

04. Bucky’s Casino

07. Casino Del Sol Marketplace

Smoke-Free Area

800-272-2438 301

Parker

Spa

Dudleyville

11300 Resort Drive

Arcade

Slots

Golf

Milepost 127 on Arizona 77

03. BlueWater Resort & Casino

Phone

Poker Room

800-272-2438 479

Table Games

Globe

Live Keno

City

RV Park

02. Apache Sky Casino

Location Hwy. 70, 5 mi. E. of Globe

Hotel

01. Apache Gold Casino Resort

Bingo

Casino

High Limit Area

CASINO DIRECTORY

Y Y Y

Arizona Gaming Guide Magazine - September 2020 - 12:09

Articles inside

ARIZONA LOTTERY

ELECTRONIC TABLE GAMES

GAMING NEWS

PLAYERS TALK

FEATURE STORY

TSR S SUMMER PLAYCATION

EDITOR S NOTE

GREAT GAMES