hat better reason to celebrate than the independence of America? And that’s why most of us are either firing up the grill at home with family and friends or planning a trip somewhere to watch fireworks. Whatever your plans may be to celebrate July 4th, here are some interesting facts you can pull out of your pocket that will surprise most people.
Remember the original 13 colonies from your American History class? Well, every year on the 4th of July, descendants of the Declaration of Independence signers tap the Liberty Bell (in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) 13 times to honor the original 13 colonies! The last time the bell rang was on Washington’s birthday in February 1846 because a major crack appeared on the bell.
Did you know that (although very popular) it’s technically illegal to wear the American flag, or American themed clothing on the 4th of July? The United States Flag Code says “the flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery.”
Three U.S. presidents – John Adams, Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe – all died on the 4th of July. Adams and Jefferson passed in 1826 and Monroe passed in 1831.
Despite what you might think, only two men actually signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, 1776 and that was John Hancock and Charles Thompson. It wasn’t until weeks later that the rest of the delegates signed this important document.
America’s favorite July 4th tradition, albeit a loud one, fireworks! Americans spend over $1 billion each year on fireworks with over 16,000 fireworks displays taking place every year. And the largest fireworks display in America you ask? The Macy’s 4th of July celebration in New York City.
And, who can have a July 4th celebratory grill without hot dogs? When you’re enjoying your dog on this patriotic day just think you will be consuming one of over 150,000,000 hot dogs that will be eaten on that day alone!
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
100 N. 15th Avenue, Suite 202, Phoenix, 85007 1.602.771.4263 or gaming.az.gov
Tribal Gaming Funded Problem Gambling Resource: Division of Problem Gambling 1.800.NEXT.STEP or 1.800.639.8783
100 N. 15th Avenue, Suite 202, Phoenix, 85007 1.602.542.8998 or problemgambling.az.gov
PLAYERS TALK
By Mark Novak
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS ON:
Digital Magazine, Hit The Royal, Advice From Others & Moving Slots
Q: Why can’t we download the issues of the AZ Gaming Guide? At one time we could but we can’t now. Sure, I can pick the magazine up but when I’m out of town what can I do?
Tom T. – Glendale, Arizona
A: Tom, thanks for being a dedicated fan! We only offer the physical magazine as a hard copy at this time. Although you can’t “download” a copy of our magazine, you can always access a copy from anywhere in one of several ways: On our website (azgamingguide.com), Via our e-newsletter (Signup: azgamingguide.com/index_files/e_news_signup.html), At our bookshelf (Issuu.com/arizonagamingguide) or our social channels (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter / X)
Q: Our friend hit a Royal Flush playing max quarters on the Jacks or Better game. She won $1,125. Had she been playing Triple Double, would the Royal Flush have come out on that hand?
Richard Rik – via email
A: Congratulations to your friend on that win! And yes, the Royal Flush would have hit at that instant on Triple Double.
Q: Sami Becker asked us fellow casino patrons [in a recent issue] how we would have handled the scenario of another patron getting all up in our business about tipping after a big win.
I’m not a slot player, I prefer to play table games, but I have run into people acting in a similar way. These “experts” suddenly decide they need to tell me how to play my cards. I can almost understand it at a Blackjack table as people often feel the play by one “bad player” affects the entire table.
However, my preferred games are Poker and Pai Gow Poker –two games where not knowing how to play usually won’t hurt other players. In the instances where someone is not happy with how I play my hand, I always answer in the same way, “Are these your cards or mine? If you want to tell me how to
play MY cards, then YOU cover my buy-in.” I’ve played both of these games for decades now, and on occasion will still ASK for help, but I will NOT take unsolicited advice while gambling.
Sid
Leckron – Yuma, AZ
A: Sid, thanks for being a fan of ours for a very long time. Excellent advice. We appreciate you. You are the best!
Q: When a slot machine is moved within a casino is it recalibrated to have a different percentage of payouts if it’s been hitting a lot of jackpots resulting in hand pays?
Nola Harr – Sun City, AZ
A: Thanks for the great question Nola! Usually slots are moved to make way for newer games. They generally aren’t moved because of how the game has been paying. A casino’s Slot Director, the executive in charge of overseeing the slots on the floor, wants games to be making the casino money in the long run. In order to have that happen, they’ll look at game performance on a monthly, or sometimes weekly basis. “A lot” of hand pays or jackpots won't be a factor to move a slot as those events are isolated over the course of a week or a month.
The Slot Director at a casino pays attention to a calculation called the average win per unit per day. All slots are then judged against that number. If a slot begins to fall below that number for a long time, the Slot Director may consider moving or replacing the unit. And, it’s pretty easy to move a slot! Just turn it off, move it, and turn it back on again.
What’s more difficult to do is to adjust the payback percentage of the slot because the casino’s Tribal Gaming Agency and the Arizona Department of Gaming both have to oversee and approve the change. That takes time, coordinating schedules, and so on regardless of if the game gets moved. Over the years, the Slot Directors we’ve talked to don’t change payback percentages once the game is installed. Of course, that’s our experience based on what we’ve been told. If there are Slot Directors out there constantly changing the payback of their games, then they are probably continuously chasing their own tail. $
Thank you to our readers for your questions and comments, we appreciate you! Write us at Editor@AZGamingGuide.com or by mail at Editor, AZ Gaming Guide, PO BOX 20636, Mesa, AZ, 85277.
GREAT GAMES Ready For Play
Submitted by Aristocrat Gaming & Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino at press time
A Bank Buster
By Aristocrat Gaming
re you looking for a fun slot with cute characters, multiple bonuses, exciting action, pots to fill up until, hopefully, they all activate at once? If so, look no further than Bank Buster, a game our entire staff enjoys playing!
RESULT:
Why? Did you see the cute little piggies with the eye masks? We can’t stop giggling over them. More importantly, Bank Buster is all about the next-level multi-game play and excitement over the available jackpots! So, get ready to break the bank with Bank Buster. Players can trigger free games with Expand, Jackpot, and Repeat Win features. Combining thrilling play with repeat wins for the ultimate jackpot chase, players can select between base games Buffalo, Pompeii, or Louie’s Gold. Piggy Coins award Cash-on-Reel prizes, free games, and progressive jackpots you can buy directly into the bonus features. This is fun you can take to the bank! As of press time, play Bank Buster at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, Hon-Dah Resort Casino, Vee Quiva Casino, and Wild Horse Pass Casino. $
Rocket Rumble
ABy Bluberi At Harrah s Ak Chin Casino
re you ready to play Rocket Rumble? Get ready for action, thrills, spills, and the potential for huge payouts with this brand new game by Bluberi available at Harrah’s AkChin Casino in Maricopa, Arizona! The star event in this game is undoubtedly the Free Games bonus, and there are so many ways to make it happen! Whether with free games symbols on reels, by reaching a ‘Must Hit By’ number, or through the Free Games Wheel, you could earn up to 100 exciting Free Games! Accumulate special rocket symbols during Free Games and change all HIGH symbols into TOP symbols. And to add to the excitement, wild symbols may randomly display a 2X or 3X win multiplier, and all symbols from up to 2 reels may randomly RESPIN for higher wins! Bluberi strikes again with Rocket Rumble!
Free Games, Free Games and more Free Games! There are so many ways to win Free Games in Rocket Rumble, with free games symbols on reels, by reaching a "Must Hit By" number or through the Free Games Wheel, all roads lead to up to 100 Free Games! Cute characters Monkey, Mouse, Rabbit and Pig may show up on reels in regular play and each time increase the number in the corresponding category of Free Games by 1. Reach the target number of a category and win 15, 20, 35 or even 100 Free Games! Collect special symbols during Free Games and accumulate enough to change up to 4 major symbols into TOP symbols! Imagine playing as many as 100 Free Games with all these TOP symbols on reels, the possibilities of winning big are HUGE! And to add to the excitement, you could win more Free Games in Free Games, see the wild symbols substitute into win multipliers 2X or 3X, or have all symbols of up to 2 reels RESPIN for an upgraded outcome! $
GREAT GAMES Ready For Play
Submitted by AGS & Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino at press time
T
Knock Knock Guardians
WBy AGS at Harrah s Ak Chin Casino
wo metamorphic cats guard the treasures hidden within the ancient tomb. Knock Knock Guardians Queen & Knock Knock Guardians Raider feature two bonuses that unlock more ways to win at each level. Knock Knock Guardians features a progressive free spins meter that is triggered when a black onyx or white opal gem appears, awarding its respective bonus or both combined. Each time the wheel spins, the meter increments and levels up the next bonus.
Symbol Change Bonus: Before entering, players spin the wheel and are awarded free spins. This bonus is played in 3 levels and upgrades 1 additional symbol to the highest paying symbol at each level.
Reel Grow Bonus: Before entering, players spin the wheel and are awarded free spins. This bonus is played in 3 levels and expands the 1 reel higher at each level. $
VIDEO ALERT!
Visit our website for an exclusive video.
Straight Cash
By AGS at Harrah s Ak Chin Casino
hat you see is what you win in Straight Cash a three-wager, three-reel game with exciting respin and wheel bonus features giving players multiple chances to take home exciting jackpots. Spin into winnings with Straight Cash featuring three unique wager options that activate 1, 2, or 3 reels for a chance at thrilling jackpots in this what you see is what you win-style game.
Respin Bonus: Must play 2 or more reels for the feature to be active. On an initial spin, if a 5 symbol with a spin tag appears on reel 3 and no winning symbols appear on reels 1 or 2, a respin of reels 1 & 2 occurs. During the respin, if a 2 symbol with spin tag appears on reel 1, and no winning symbol appears on reel 2, a respin of reel 2 occurs. Respin is completed if no winning symbol appears on reel 2.
Wheel Bonus: Triggered when wheel bonus symbols appear on 3 active reels. Players are encouraged to touch the spin banner for a chance to win any of the featured prizes including the Grand Jackpot.
Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino also recently installed Rakin’ Bacon (Odyssey & Sahara), Golden Money, Bacon Riches, and Crackin’ Cash by slot manufacturer AGS. $
Submitted
WIN BIG WITH THE AZ LOTTERY’S LADY LUCK:
Women In Country Music Promotion!
The Arizona Lottery is excited to offer an extraordinary opportunity with the Lady Luck: Women in Country Music $500K Getaway promotion once-in-a-lifetime trip to Dollywood for a VIP concert experience and the chance to take home $500,000!
Ten lucky Arizona Lottery winners and their guests will enjoy a 4-day, 3-night VIP trip to Tennessee, culminating in an exclusive performance by country music legend Martina McBride at the Celebrity Theater in Dollywood. This exciting trip promises an unforgettable musical experience against the backdrop of the Smoky Mountains.
Winners will stay at the luxurious Dollywood's DreamMore Resort & Spa, where they will indulge in exclusive events. The VIP trip includes roundtrip airfare, ground transfers, and accommodations at the resort, making it a hassle-free, relaxing getaway. As part of the package, winners will enjoy a private reception, a celebrity dinner, and an array of exciting activities leading up to the main event a private Martina McBride concert.
Join the fun and make your dreams come true!
And that’s not all! One Arizona Lottery player will win an additional $10,000 prize, and every participant stands a chance to win the grand prize of $500,000, announced live during the concert by Martina McBride herself!
HOW TO ENTER AND BOOST YOUR CHANCES TO WIN: Players can participate by entering eligible $10 and $20 Scratchers tickets into the Lady Luck promotion. Each dollar spent on these tickets earns one entry, but the featured $10 Lady Luck ticket gives players 2X entries, increasing the chances of winning this fantastic prize. Entries can be submitted through the Arizona Lottery Players Club until September 30th.
“The Lady Luck promotion offers our players a chance to win an incredible VIP experience and potentially life-changing prizes,” said Arizona Lottery CEO Alec Thomson. “This promotion adds an exciting dimension to our games and provides unique opportunities for unforgettable memories.”
Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to win big and experience the ultimate country music getaway with the Arizona Lottery’s Lady Luck promotion. Visit AZPlayersClub.com to enter your tickets and turn your Lady Luck Scratchers tickets into a spectacular adventure and a life-changing prize.
ABOUT THE ARIZONA LOTTERY
Since 1981, the Arizona Lottery and its retail partners have generated more than $5.3 billion in net funding to support programs that help to improve the quality of life for the people of Arizona.
Proceeds from Lottery ticket sales fund programs in higher education, economic development, environmental conservation, and health and human services. The mission of the Lottery is to support Arizona programs for the public benefit by maximizing net revenue in a responsible manner.
Learn more at ArizonaLottery.com. $
Must be 21 or older to purchase or redeem tickets. Overall odds vary by game. All sales are final. Scratchers® is a registered service mark of the California Lottery. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (1-800-639-8783) or text NEXTSTEP to 53342. Please Play Responsibly Scratchers® is a registered service mark of the California Lottery. LADY LUCK WOMEN IN COUNTRY MUSIC FEATURING MARTINA MCBRIDE Atlas Experiences. All Rights Reserved.
By Al Moe
Breaking Down A Strategy For Ultimate Texas Hold ‘Em
S BIG COMP SLOTS & TABLE GAMES
lot machines are tremendously important to casinos. They dominate floor space because they are usually responsible for more than 70% of the gaming revenue in Nevada and over 95% in some Arizona casinos. So, slot players get a big return in comp dollars.
Playing slots also creates dopamine a neurotransmitter and endorphins which contribute to pleasurable feelings. So, you get plenty of that payback while playing.
While Arizona slot machines have a smaller house edge and hold than most table games, they make up for that by allowing players to get in as many as 300 hands per hour, while a blackjack game might only offer 60 hands per hour.
As always, it’s best to find games you love and hope they love you back at least occasionally, but it’s alright to know the odds. Each slot machine holds between 2 and 14 percent of the total action for the casinos. Table games do better, but the gross gaming revenue is vastly smaller.
TABLE GAME TRUTHS
While table games like blackjack and baccarat offer wagers with house odds below 2 percent, you play fewer hands, so your comps will be smaller when wagering the same amount as in slot machines.
However, because of side wagers and many guests’ proclivity to enjoy gambling more than playing games perfectly, the hold (win) at table games runs from about 13% at blackjack to 31% at Three Card Poker.
Ultimate Texas Hold ’Em offers a small 2% edge on the combined Ante and Blind wagers. It’s a good game, exciting to play, and runs at a leisurely pace. However, the house does hold about 20% on the table because the Trips wager (which gets you some nice payoffs) holds about 8%. Of course, the Trips wager and the Blind bet are very similar. Do you need both?
ULTIMATE TEXAS HOLD ‘EM “PLAY” WAGER
The game of Ultimate Texas Hold ’Em is enhanced by the Play wager, which allows you to add chips to your hand after seeing the flop, turn, and river. This, unfortunately, is where many players go wrong. But there’s a simple strategy you can memorize that will help.
PRE FLOP RAISING
Raise the maximum if you hold any two-card starting hand with an Ace.
Raise with any King and second card above five. With King and 2, 3 or 4 only raise when suited.
Raise with Q 6 or higher and J 8 or higher, or any pair except deuces. Otherwise, check.
POST FLOP RAISING
Raise with two pairs or better, or split pairs (one in the pocket and one on the board, except deuces).
Raise with a four-card flush (10 or higher).
If you’ve yet to raise after the river, make the Play bet with a split pair or higher.
Raise if the dealer has fewer than 21 outs to beat you.
CALCULATING DEALER OUTS
Forgetting about two-card outs, count only single cards that can beat your hand. For example, if you have no pair with two cards below Queens and the board is 2-7-9-King-Ace, the dealer can hold any remaining three suits of the board cards representing 15 outs making any split pair. A single Queen (four more outs) also beats you for 19 total outs. This is a call. More than 21 outs, fold. This part will take some practice and includes straights and flushes. $
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
BLACKJACK TOURNAMENTS ARE BACK
At Mazatzal Hotel & Casino In Payson, Arizona
Ihave received quite a few e-mails from our readers asking if I know of any Blackjack tournaments in Arizona. Well, I am happy to report that I do! Mazatzal Casino in Payson, Arizona is now offering a tournament on Monday nights at 7 p.m. Signups start at 2 p.m. and the cost to enter is only $50. And if you get knocked out in the first round you don’t have to worry because they have $20 re-buys for a second chance. The tournament usually has a first round, a re-buy round and a final round. Everyone who makes the 6-person final table gets paid cash where the amounts are determined by the number of entries.
I had a great time playing in the tournament with my friend Landon recently. We both paid our $50 entry fee and were in the first round. There were six players per table and each player received $3,000 in chips with a minimum bet of $25 and no maximum bet. They ran two tables per round (except for the final round) and eleven hands of Blackjack per round. The players with the top chip counts advanced to the final table.
I knew that in an 11-hand round, each player was going to win four to six hands, on average. So, since I was first to bet, I decided to bet the minimum. I figured I would make the minimum bets until the betting button went by me and then I would make a bet large enough to catch any player that had succeeded in getting the lead. Unfortunately, my friend Landon and I were at the same table and I told him to play the same way.
When the betting button came around to me, I only needed to win a $500 bet to get the lead so I bet $700 – but lost. The next hand I bet $1,400 and won so I had the chip lead at hand 9. I margined everyone’s bets and at the chip count after hand 10 (right before the final hand 11), I had the chip lead. Every other player, except Landon, was a couple thousand behind at that point. So, on the final hand, I bet enough that if I won my bet and they won theirs I would still win, and if we all lost, I would win.
The cards came out and I was dealt a 13 against the dealer’s up card of 6. The only player that didn’t have a stiff hand was Landon who had 20. The dealer made 19 and beat everyone except Landon, who won his hand. Since he bet enough that if I lost
and he won he would advance, I was eliminated. I decided not to re-buy since I was doing pretty well at their Blackjack tables which, by the way, feature $10 Blackjack. And, they have some of the friendliest dealers I’ve seen. By the end of the evening, they usually know everyone’s name.
If you’re looking for something to do on a Monday night and want to escape the Phoenix heat for a little while, head up to Mazatzal Hotel & Casino for a fun Blackjack tournament that’s great for any level player. I’m usually playing the tournament a couple times a month so, you never know, you may just run into me up there! While you’re there, don’t forget to check out my picture on the casino wall and tell them TJ with the AZ Gaming Guide sent you.
If you want more insight on how to play Blackjack tournaments, you can get my book, “How to become a Blackjack Jedi” by TJ Jorgensen on Amazon. $
Writer TJ Jorgensen has been a professional Blackjack player for several decades. 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 book “How To Become A Blackjack Jedi” is available online at Amazon.com.
TALKING STICK RESORT
Prize Pool Estimated At $1.5 Million! Poker Players Worldwide Invited to Experience the Ultimate Poker Challenge in The Arena Arizona s Largest New Poker Room
Talking Stick Resort is excited to announce the return of the 18th Annual Arizona State Poker Championship, taking place fromAugust 15-21. This year's tournament promises to be more thrilling than ever, with a prize pool of up to an estimated $1.5 million and a completely redesigned poker room, setting a new standard for luxury and competitive play.
"We are thrilled to host this year’s Arizona State Poker Championship in our newly expanded Arena Poker Room," said Ramon Martinez, Director of Public Relations at Talking Stick Resort. "This state-of-the-art venue enhances the excitement and prestige of the tournament, providing an unparalleled experience for poker players from around the world. We're looking forward to seeing both new faces and returning champions compete in this setting.
With a $1,100 buy-in, including the service fee, players will start with $30,000 in tournament chips and have the option to purchase $10,000 in bonus tournament chips for a $30 staff appreciation fee Entries, re-entries and late entries are allowed until the end of the second break on all Day One sessions, ensuring ample opportunity for a chance at glory. Players can also earn their entry by playing in one of the Multi-table Milestone Satellites with a $140 buy-in for $10,000 tournament chips.
The tournament will span several days: Four separate Day 1 sessions will be held on August 15, 16, 17, and 18, starting at 11:15 a.m. each day. There is no limit to how many can participate, with players allowed to reenter if they are knocked out. August 19 and 20 will see the remaining players battle it out to secure a coveted spot at the final table. On August 21, the top competitors will vie for the title and grand prize.
Registration for the tournament opens on June 15, and participants can sign up for the State Championship at the Arena Poker Room Cashier or via the Bravo Poker Live website. To register online, players must have a Talking Stick Resort Players Rewards Card ID number, and registrations are non-transferable. Registrations may only be made for the individual playing in the tournament. The deadline for online registration ends at 8:00
a.m. on Friday, August 16. However, entries may continue to be purchased at The Arena Poker Room Cashier, until the end of the second break, on Saturday, August 18.
The Milestone Satellites commence on June 16, offering players a chance to win their way into the main tournament at a fraction of the cost. The Arena Poker Room at Talking Stick Resort will award one entry (valued at $1,100), to the 18th Annual Arizona State Poker Championship, for every 10 entries into the satellite. Players interested in participating in the satellite events cannot buy their entry through Bravo Poker Live.
This year, participants will experience the newly expanded Arena Poker Room, the largest poker room in the Valley and larger than any similar poker room in Las Vegas. The new poker room features 69 tables and is located in a newly constructed area on the northwest portion of the resort.
In addition to the new tables, the Arena Poker Room boasts 130 TV screens, a connected outdoor patio, and a 24-7 restaurant. Players can enjoy meals in a dedicated dining area or right at the poker table, and there are newly constructed bar areas in-
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side and outside the poker room, enhancing the overall experience.
Players can take advantage of exclusive food and beverage offerings, along with special hotel packages tailored for the championship event. Using booking code 25134, guests during the tournament can unwind in one of Talking Stick’s state-ofthe-art hotel rooms starting at $119 plus resort fees and taxes.
Talking Stick Resort is a AAA Four Diamond Rated Resort, offering a blend of luxury accommodations and state-of-the-art amenities. From exquisite dining options and rejuvenating spa treatments to a relaxing dip in one of the resort's three pools, there is no shortage of ways to unwind after an intense day at the poker tables. The resort is also part of the Talking Stick Cultural and Entertainment Destination, featuring attractions such as TopGolf, Talking Stick Golf Club, OdySea Aquarium, Butterfly Wonderland, and more.
"While Championship is the main draw, we hope players take advantage of all that Talking Stick Resort has to offer," said Martinez. "From our top-tier restaurants and nonstop gaming action to our luxurious spa services and entertainment options, there's something for everyone to enjoy."
For more information about the Arena Poker Room at Talking Stick Resort and to stay updated on upcoming tournaments, visit TalkingStickResort.com or call (480) 850-8693. $
GHOSTBUSTERS TAROT DECK & GUIDEBOOK
Let Egon, Peter, Ray, Winston & Ghastly Ghouls Guide Your Tarot Practice!
Inspired by the classic Ghostbusters movies the Ghostbusters Tarot Deck and Guidebook features all-new illustrations of your favorite characters and is a unique addition to any fan’s Ghostbuster collection!
Bring the paranormal fun of Ghostbusters to your tarot readings with this official tarot deck and guidebook! Featuring otherworldly, original illustrations of Gozer, Zuul, Vinz Clortho, Slimer, and many more fan-favorite characters, this spooky tarot deck is a must-have for Ghostbusters fans. This 78-card deck matches the frightening characters, imagery, and themes from the Ghostbusters films with the tenets of tarot.
Including both Major and Minor Arcana, the set also comes with a comprehensive guidebook explaining each card’s meaning. Packaged in a sturdy, decorative gift box, this compelling tarot deck is perfect for fans of Ghostbusters and tarot enthusiasts alike.
Own The Only Official Ghostbuster Tarot Deck: Immerse yourself in the otherworldly comedy movie series Ghostbusters with this collectible deck created in collaboration with Sony Pictures Consumer Products and Ghost Corps.
Original Art: Gain insight into any situation that faces you with this 78-card deck and 128-page booklet featuring stunning original artwork of Slimer, Stay Puft Marshmallow Man, Gozer the Destroyer, and more characters from the classic movies.
A Fun Entry Point Into Tarot: Whether you’re new to tarot or have been practicing since Gozer’s heyday, this unique deck includes a comprehensive guidebook to help tarot practitioners of all experience levels perform fun and informed readings, complete with card meanings and instructions.
Thoughtful Gift: The Ghostbusters Tarot Deck and Guidebook comes packaged in a deluxe gift box, the perfect gift for fans of the classic Ghostbusters movies as well as tarot enthusiasts everywhere.
A Unique Addition To Your Ghostbusters Collection: This tarot deck joins fan-favorite Ghostbusters books from Insight Editions, including Ghostbusters: The Ultimate Visual History,
Ghostbusters: The Official Cookbook, Ghostbusters: Artbook, Ghostbusters: Ectomobile, and Tobin’s Spirit Guide.
Author Amy Chase is a comics and prose writer from Southern California who specializes in tales of the fantastic, supernatural, and horrifying. Her work has been featured in anthologies by Archie Comics, Avery Hill Publishing, Cloudscape Comics, and The Daily Drunk. Outside of writing, Amy is an avid tabletop gamer, a rookie Roller Derby skater, and a doting owner of two dart frogs. The illustrations are by Ben Turner. For more information or to purchase, visit InsightEditions.com. $
TRAVEL Las Vegas, Nevada
Submitted by Jeff Wagner Agency on behalf of Circa Las Vegas
$16 MILLION—NO RAKE
Circa Million VI & Circa Survivor Return Largest Payout Ever!
Circa Sports has raised the stakes once again. The Nevada-based sports betting brand has brought back the popular professional football contests Circa Million VI and Circa Survivor with its biggest payout yet – $16 million, no rake. With sign-ups having launched in May at all Circa Sports Nevada locations, this marks the largest prize pool ever for contests of this kind.
“This year, it’s go big or go home with the Circa Sports contests,” said Circa Sports CEO Derek Stevens. “We only have ourselves to top so we’re back with the biggest guarantee yet. With a whopping $16 million, no rake, up for grabs, we are excited to see what craziness this football season holds.”
For the 2024-2025 season, Circa Survivor will return with a $10 million prize guarantee and Circa Million VI with a $6 million guarantee. Sign-ups began in May at all Circa Sports Nevada locations and are open until September 7th at 2 p.m. during the first week of the professional football season.
ABOUT CIRCA SURVIVOR
The Circa Survivor contest winner will win $10 million guaranteed plus more if entries exceed this amount.
Circa Survivor will consist of up to 20 legs throughout the year, one for every week of the football season plus two special holiday weeks. Each week, participants will choose a team to win straight up, but the player cannot pick the same team twice for the duration of the season. Thanksgiving + Black Friday and the Christmas leg (Wednesday/Thursday games) will each be considered their own contest weeks.
Entries are $1,000 each, with a maximum of 10 entries per participant. An entrant can purchase additional entries if they lose their original entries on the opening Thursday night or Friday night games. All entrants will receive a Circa Survivor 2024 hat.
Entries are eliminated from the contest by selecting a team that subsequently loses or ties its game that week. If more than one entry remains after 20 legs, the pool will be split equally amongst all the entries that successfully submitted a selection during the leg. An entrant cannot go into the Saturday deadline with more than ten active entries. Each team can only be select-
ed once for each entry during the contest season.
During the season, picks are due at 4 p.m. PST every Saturday or before kickoff of the selected games. For Thanksgiving and Black Friday, picks are due by 10 p.m. PST the preceding Wednesday night. For Christmas, picks are due by 9 a.m. PST on Wednesday, December 25.
ABOUT CIRCA MILLION VI
Circa Million VI will deliver $6 million guaranteed in total prizes, with a $1 million first place prize that comes with a coveted Circa Sports blue jacket. The contest is no rake, and any extra fees go into the quarter- and full-season prize pools.
$3.65 million will be allocated amongst places two through 100 and $300,000 of prizes per quarter will be awarded every four to five weeks. The last place booby prize winner will receive $100,000 and second to last place booby prize winner will receive $50,000.
Each player will make five picks against the spread each week via the Circa Sports Nevada mobile app, a Circa Sports kiosk or over the counter at any of the six Circa Sports locations in Nevada. One point will be awarded for each correct selection and a one-half point for each push. Each entry for Circa Million VI is (Continued on page 26)
TRAVEL Las Vegas, Nevada
(Continued from page 24)
$1,000, with a maximum of five entries per person. All entrants will receive a Circa Million VI hat.
Cash prizes will be awarded to the top 100 places for the season, the top five places within each quarter of the season, the last place and second to last place full season score and the last place score within each quarter of the season.
Contest point spreads will be posted every Thursday around 10 a.m. PST, with selections due by 4 p.m. Saturday. During Thanksgiving week, point spreads will be posted at 10 a.m. Wednesday.
CONTEST SIGN-UPS LOCATIONS
For more information, visit CircaSports.com. Sign-ups and entries for both contests can be made now at any of the following Nevada Circa Sports locations in Las Vegas and Sparks:
Circa Resort & Casino
The D Las Vegas
Silverton Casino Lodge
Tuscany Suites & Casino
The Pass at Water Street
Legends Bay in Sparks, NV
Players can sign-up for the contests at any of the Circa Sports Nevada locations, and entries for players outside of Nevada can register a proxy to submit picks from within the state. Additionally, Circa Sports will return with their “Contest Weekend” celebrations throughout various locations in Nevada, with more details to come in the following weeks.
In the 2023-2024 contest, a $14 million prize guarantee, no rake, was at stake. Highlights included a $9.26 million split between
four winners for Circa Survivor, and $1 million was taken home by the victor of Circa Million V.
ABOUT CIRCA SPORTS
Helmed by casino owner and downtown Las Vegas developer Derek Stevens, Circa Sports is blazing a new trail in the gaming industry by combining customer-first approach to business with a team of the country's top oddsmakers. Circa Sports boasts one of the most competitive wagering menus in the country and is a leader in the city for sports futures.
The venture currently offers physical betting locations in the world’s largest sportsbook at Circa Resort & Casino, along with three additional southern Nevada locations; a book in Legends Bay Casino in Sparks, Nevada and a new brick-and-mortar book in American Place in Waukegan, Illinois. Its mobile offerings are currently available in Nevada, Iowa, Colorado, Illinois, and Kentucky.
For more information, visit CircaSports.com. $
GAMING NEWS
Submitted by GM & Associates on behalf of We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort
Submitted by HMAPR on behalf of Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino
4th Of July Four Times As Fun At We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort
Enjoy 4 Days Of The 4th at We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort.
JULY 3 Stars and Stripes Rooftop Party
7:30 10:30 p.m.
Firework show begins at 9 p.m. (21+ event)
Food and drinks, live band (Mid Life Vices) and DJ
Tickets available at Ticketmaster
JULY 4 Cadillac CT5 Giveaway and T-Shirt Giveaway
2 6 p.m.
Win a share of more than $20,000 in free play
6 p.m. Grand Prize Drawing: 20 winners total have a chance to select the lucky car key and drive away in a brand-new Cadillac CT5!
JULY 5 Craig Morgan
Doors open at 7 p.m.
Show begins at 8 p.m. (21+ event)
Tickets available at Ticketmaster
JULY 6 Stars & Stripes Bingo Bash
Over $117,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs!
$2,000,000 Heist Kickoff
Chance to win $2 million Saturday drawings from 5 9 p.m.
Win cash and free play $250 to $1500!
We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort
10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, AZ 85264
WeKoPaCasinoResort.com
480.789.4957 $
Security Manager Rachael Reed has been selected as the HarChin Casino HERO of the Quarter. The quarterlybased
volunteer program that enables staff and their families the opportunity to make noteworthy and visible contributions to the community by donating their time, skills, expertise and compassion to dozens of volunteer projects throughout the community. Each quarter, Harrah’s team members as well as community partners are encouraged to nominate the Harrah’s Ak-Chin employees who deserve special recognition for their outstanding acts of volunteerism and support. The HERO of the Quarter receives 10,000 Total Return Credits, a special name tag, personal parking space for three months, a letter of appreciation and recognition from the general manager, and submission for a corporate award at the end of the year.
“I nominated Rachael because she has been a vibrant supporter of and volunteer with the United Way of Pinal County for years,” said United Way of Pinal County Director of Development & Community Engagement Joseph Caruso. “We truly appreciate all that she does for our organization and the community. Her contributions have and will undoubtedly change lives and make a positive difference for those in need. Congratulations on being selected HERO of the Quarter.” In addition to her work with the United Way of Pinal County, Reed volunteers annually at the Stand Down event for HHOP (Helping, Hiring, Honoring our Veterans of Pinal County). She is also a charter member of the Salute Veteran Business Impact Group, where she advocates for veterans and their families. Reed has also volunteered for other HERO projects. For more information, visit HarrahsAkChin.com. $
Bambi Johnson, Michael Kintner and Barbara Achten congratulate Rachael Reed (2nd from right), HERO of the Quarter.
GAMING NEWS
Submitted by HMAPR on behalf of Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino
Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino
Celebrates 2024 Caesars Founders Award Recipients & Team Members For
Caesars Entertainment Years Of Service
Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino hosted its annual Caesars Entertainment Years of Service Event at The Events Center on May 7. In addition to acknowledging 84 Team Members with tenures from 5 to 30 years, the occasion also celebrated the 2024 Caesars Founders Award recipients.
The 2024 Caesars Founders Awards recognize the outstanding achievements and exceptional contributions of exemplary Team Members. This year’s awards recognized individuals who regularly and consistently delivered best-in-class service to Harrah’s Ak-Chin guests and internal Team Members while demonstrating Caesars’ core values in three categories:
Blaze the Trail: Team Member exemplifies leadership, integrity and ownership
All-In On Service: Team Member exemplifies fun, service and connection
Together We Win: Team Member exemplifies inclusion, care and teamwork
“The annual Founders Awards and Years of Service event is my favorite event of the year,” said Senior Vice President and General Manager Michael Kintner. “Now as we approach our 30th Anniversary, we continue to honor and celebrate the dedication of our loyal team members, some of whom have been with us since we first opened our doors in 1994. In addition to length of service, we also honor the outstanding achievements and exceptional contributions of Harrah’s Ak-Chin team members that go above and beyond to ensure that our guests feel like they are a part of our family. The Founders Award recipients represent the best of the best and I am extremely proud of their efforts.”
The 2024 Founders Award honorees are:
Blaze The Trail
Evelina Chavez, Facilities
Anthony Gonzalez, Hotel
Barbara Achten, Casino Cashiering
All-In On Service
Denise Kelly, Transportation
Gustavo Garcia, Beverage
Shelly Christian, Caesars Rewards
Together We Win
Elvira Ramos, Security
Joseph Bedell, Culinary
Shalini Prasad, Hotel
In further recognition of her commitment to customer service, Achten was selected to represent Harrah’s Ak-Chin as its Regional Winner in the Blaze the Trail category and will go on to compete for a companywide distinction at the national level.
“I’m honored to receive this distinction,” said Achten. “While the recognition means a lot and motivates me to continuously find ways to excel in my role, I’m just happy to be a part of an amazing team. They inspire me every day.”
Team Members from the past year who have reached significant Caesars Entertainment employment milestones were recognized during the event as well:
41 Team Members celebrating 5 years
23 Team Members celebrating 10 years
4 Team Members celebrating 15 years
10 Team Members celebrating 20 years
5 Team Members celebrating 25 years
1 Team Member celebrating 30 years
About Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino:
Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, located in Maricopa, Arizona, proudly marks its 30th anniversary as the state's first and only tribal casino with an international management partner. As part of the renowned Caesars Entertainment family, Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino stands out as the sole casino in Arizona to offer guests the opportunity to unlock exclusive benefits and prizes through its esteemed Caesars Rewards program, valid worldwide across the entire Caesars’ family of casinos. The casino offers an extensive array of gaming options, including Bingo, Craps, sports betting, slot machines, video poker, video Keno, statewide progressives, and blackjack. $
Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino honored its 2024 Caesars Founders Award Recipients at its Years of Service Event on May 7. From left: Founders Award Honorees included Evelina Chavez, Barbara Achten, Anthony Gonzalez, Elvira Ramos, Joseph Bedell, Shalini Prasad, Gustavo Garcia, Denise Kelly and Shelly Christian
GAMING NEWS
Submitted by AGS
Submitted by Paul Steinbeck Communications on behalf of Aristocrat Gaming
AGS Enters Into Definitive Agreement To Be Acquired By Brightstar
For Approximately $1.1 Billion
PlayAGS, a global gaming supplier of high-performing slot, table, and interactive products, announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to be acquired by affiliates of Brightstar Capital Partners (“Brightstar”), a middle market private equity firm focused on investing in industrial, manufacturing, and services businesses. The Company’s Board of Directors has unanimously approved, and recommended that the Company's stockholders approve, the agreement.
AGS is a global company focused on creating a diverse mix of entertaining gaming experiences for every kind of player. Powered by high-performing slot products, an expansive table products portfolio, and highly rated online casino content, the Company believes it offers an unmatched value proposition for its casino partners. “We are very pleased to reach this agreement, which we believe provides our stockholders with compelling, certain cash value. Joining forces with Brightstar represents an exciting new chapter for AGS and our mission to provide exceptional gaming solutions for our operator partners,” said David Lopez, CEO & President of AGS. “With Brightstar’s resources and strategic guidance, we believe AGS will be well-positioned to make targeted investments in R&D, top talent, operations, and industry-leading innovation, which should accelerate our global footprint.”
The proposed transaction, which is expected to close in the second half of 2025, is subject to customary closing conditions, including the receipt of regulatory approvals and approval by a majority of AGS stockholders. Upon completion of the transaction, AGS will become a privately held company and shares of AGS common stock will no longer be listed on any public market. $
Vancouver, WA Resident Hits $1.7 Million Jackpot On NFL Super Bowl Jackpots By Aristocrat Gaming
On Monday, May 20, Casey of Vancouver, WA, hit a jackpot for $1.7 million on the NFL-themed slot game, Super Bowl Jackpots, by Aristocrat Gaming in Grand Ronde, Oregon. Celebrating his birthday weekend, Casey, an avid Atlanta Falcons fan, was drawn to Super Bowl Jackpots. Following a $3 bet on the Atlanta Falcons theme, he initially thought he had won $1,700, but was shocked to learn it was in fact the $1.7 million jackpot.
This win marks the first jackpot over $1 million dollars on an NFL-themed slot machine and is the largest wide area progressive (WAP) jackpot awarded by Aristocrat Gaming in the state of Oregon.
The season never ends with NFL Slots by Aristocrat Gaming. Super Bowl Jackpots launched the NFL Slots portfolio, with a customizable feature allowing casino players the ability to play any of the 32 professional teams nationwide. Players have the chance to win a $1 million progressive jackpot, where permitted, and experience additional gameplay including a timed 2-Minute Drill, a field goal-kicking bonus, favorite stadium anthems, and more. For more information on NFL Slots, please visit: aristocratgaming.com/us/play/nfl-slots.
Aristocrat Technologies Inc. is a subsidiary of Aristocrat Leisure Limited (ASX: ALL), a global entertainment and content creation company with over 7,500 employees working in more than 20 locations across the globe. Aristocrat Gaming is the leading designer, manufacturer, and distributor of Class III games as well as Class II Innovations for Native American casinos and emerging markets. The company’s mission is to bring joy to life through the power of play. $
CASINO ENTERTAINMENT
APACHE GOLD CASINO RESORT Globe
Shows scheduled on weekends at 8 p.m. Contact casino.
APACHE SKY CASINO Winkelman
Shows scheduled on weekends at 8 p.m. Contact casino.
BLUEWATER CASINO Parker
Karaoke Nights Dig Lounge Wednesdays 7 to 11 p.m.
DJ River’s Edge Cantina Sundays 4 to 8 p.m.
Hotel California (The Eagles) August 3
Carbonaro Lies On Stage August 17
BUCKY’S & YAVAPAI CASINOS Prescott
Live music at the Prescott Resort 6-9 p.m. Saturdays.
Cantina Karaoke Mondays 6-9 p.m.
World’s Oldest Rodeo July 1-7
CASINO ARIZONA Scottsdale
Project Presley July 5 & 6
Vegas McGraw July 12 & 13
Rock & Roll All Over (KISS) July 26 & 27
Wizard of Ozz (Black Sabbath & Ozzy) August 2 & 3
CASINO DEL SOL Tucson
Slash S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival July 14
UB40, Inner Circle & Third World August 4
Alice Cooper August 17
Dustin Lynch September 13
Godsmack October 5
Bret Michaels Parti-Gras October 26
COCOPAH CASINO Somerton
Karaoke Saturdays 8:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.
DESERT DIAMOND CASINO Sahuarita
Thirsty Thursday Tribute Concert Series
Jeff Foxworthy July 13
The Marshal Tucker Band / Jefferson Starship July 26
Gipsy Kings Feat. Nicolas Reyes August 10
Little River Band August 23
Josh Turner September 21
HARRAH’S AK-CHIN CASINO Maricopa
Live at The Lounge Series Wed. Fri. Sat. Contact Casino.
Dogstar September 21
Wheel Of Fortune Live! October 26
HON-DAH RESORT CASINO Pinetop
Monday Funday Comedy Shows at 7 p.m.
Various Acts At The Timber’s Showroom at 8 p.m. (Tu-Sa)
Jim Curry (John Denver) July 5
MAZATZAL CASINO Payson
One Of These Nights (Eagles) July 27
24K Magic (Bruno Mars) August 10
Ben Bailey Comedy Show September 27
TALKING STICK RESORT Scottsdale
Song Ca Lối đi Riêng July 14
The Happy Together Tour July 19
Spyro Gyra August 2
Jay Leno August 30
Josh Turner September 15
Bret Michaels September 21
Little River Band September 27
Jimmie Vaughan October 17
WE-KO-PA CASINO RESORT Fountain Hills
Live Music In Ember Steakhouse
Live Music In WKP Sports & Entertainment
Craig Morgan July 5
WILD HORSE PASS RESORT & CASINO Chandler
Rick Springfield & Richard Marx July 13
Bret Michaels @ Casino Del Sol & Talking Stick Resort
Happy Together Tour 2024 @ Talking Stick Resort
Air Supply Wild Horse Pass Casino August 2
With timeless melodies that linger in the heart and lyrics that resonate through the ages, Air Supply has crafted a musical legacy that transcends time. Iconic duo Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock explore the themes of love and longing with a captivating blend of soft rock, adult contemporary, lush melodies, and heartfelt lyrics, creating an emotional resonance that has made them a timeless presence in the music industry.
From multi-platinum albums to chart-topping singles such as “Lost in Love” to the soul-stirring “All Out of Love,” the magical symphony of Air Supply tells a tale of love and melody. Known for serenading audiences across the globe, their nostalgic sounds transport you to a world of enchantment, melody, and magic.
Feel the love with every note, and don’t miss the chance to make memories that will last a lifetime with Air Supply’s ode to love!
VIP Package includes premium ticket, photo meet & greet, attend sound check, and VIP laminate.
Other Shows at Wild Horse Pass Casino include:
Martin Lawrence July 19
Ziggy Marley July 25
KC & The Sunshine Band July 28
UB40 August 3
Rodney Carrington August 9
Gipsy Kings (Featuring Nicolas Reyes) August 11
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band August 16 $
By Sami Becker
“A 3-DAY TRIP COST US $620 IN TIPS ALONE!”
Make Sure To Account For Tips In Your Travel Budget
Sami, I just got home from a trip to [a casino in California]. My husband and I wrote all of our expenses down, including all the tips we gave. We were shocked that our 3-day trip cost us $620 in tips alone!
Don’t get me wrong, we don’t mind tipping service employees because we know that their wages are usually very low and tips account for a large portion of their overall earnings. The problem is there are so many service employees to tip and we don’t want to come across as being cheap or ungrateful.
We parked our own car so we didn’t use the valet service, but we did need some assistance from a bellhop with our bags. That was our first tip of the weekend but far from our last.
From the servers in the restaurants each time we sat down to have a meal, to the cocktail waitresses and the slot attendants on the floor (we did get a small jackpot hand pay), the bus and taxi drivers, housekeeping, the coffee baristas and the bellhop service again at checkout, we were shocked by the amount of money we handed over in tips by the end of our trip!
I am not complaining, so please don’t misunderstand me. These are all hard-working people who deserve to be paid way more than they are paid. There are so many inconsiderate customers who don’t even give these service employees the minimum required tip and some don’t give anything at all!
I think most of us budget our trips (hotel, gas, gambling money, food, drinks, shows, etc.) but we don’t really include tips in the budget. It used to feel like tips were a small part of an entertainment experience, but with everything so much more expensive, percentage-wise the tips have also increased quite a bit.
So, maybe you can do an article and give people advice about making sure to account for the tips when they budget for their next vacation. I love your column. You are always spot-on about everything. Thanks for a great read and for always keeping it real.
Josie in Arizona via email
Josie, thank you for your kind remarks and for being an AZ Gaming Guide fan! You are the one that is spot-on about the tips! Because it’s not just about a couple dollars here and a couple dollars there anymore. Tips do add up very quickly and should, most definitely, be accounted for in someone’s budget before a trip.
Three of us went to eat at a casino steakhouse recently for a birthday celebration and the bill was $500! Of course, 20% of the bill was $100 which we left as a tip. And you mention being at a casino on holiday for three days – that’s quite a few meals and quite a bit of money in tips when the customary tip amount is 15% to 25% of the total bill.
I usually tip 2.5% of any jackpots I win. A very few casinos still lock up games for “jackpots” at $200 or $400. 2.5% of those amounts are $5 and $10. And I’m firm about taxable jackpots and above. $1,200 at 2.5% is a $30 tip. By extension, I’ll tip $50 for a $2,000 win. I think that’s more than reasonable. I read somewhere that patrons should tip up to 10% of the taxable jackpot! Yeah, I’m sure you’d tip $100,000 on a $1,000,000 win! Not realistic enough? How about $200 on $2,000? Seriously? I think that website was either run by people who are clueless (welcome to the internet folks!) or have family who are slot attendants. A 10% tip for a hand pay, that’s ridiculous!
Switching gears to the waitstaff who deliver custom drinks (even if it’s just a diet with ice) right to where you are playing, I’m tipping $2 per drink post-COVID. What do you think? I can’t wait to hear from our readers! $
WORD SEARCH
To Celebrate National Tapioca Day on July 15, Find: TAPIOCA, VANILLA, CHOCOLATE, STARCH, CASSAVA, ROOT, JULY, FIFTEENTH, NATIONAL, PUDDING, DAY, UNIQUE, TEXTURE. Words appear in any direction. (Solution on page 38)
U T L O R J F W M X X K C V V
T E X T U R G Y H X A W P E I
I
G
X
Z T K E L G V A N I L L A C O
A W N N R O N A I Y U H L M D
L T F C I O L A B L A S B G I
H R M P D Q D T I Y S D T O U
F K A Z E V W O T F P Q D J T
U T L H U Z S U U D X M B T V
R I W G Q Y H E P E H F G G D
O K Q H I E L C O H C K O T A
A Q Y M N R N I T A N E O L A
F D O J U J A S A C Y V S A V
Jokes & Quotes
Research shows that laughing stimulates the immune system and may help prevent or reverse some medical conditions.
Perhaps this isn’t so much a joke, but rather a funny episode, to me at least. So bear with me.
I’m visiting at a casino, on the VIP floor and am assigned one of the rooms I usually stay in. Big, comfy, gaudy, top floor, $1,500 per night (on a weekday), you get the idea.
As I’m walking down the hall to the room, I pass a set of double doors leading to the “Presidential Suite” (almost $5,000 on a weeknight) which is a monstrous multi-bedroom suite. I’ve stayed in that suite before, on occasion. And, to be clear, I always stay comped.
On the double doors is a white sheet of copy paper with writing on it in relatively large letters, “Content Creation Guru.” So, now I know, 1. The “guru” paid for the room, and B. what an ego, right? Yeesh! The casino didn’t put the sign up for you, that’s for sure!
A few days pass and I’m walking from my room to head down to the casino floor and I see some additional writing on the Content Creation Guru’s “sign.” The letters are handwritten and they clearly announce, “Oh great Guru, I suppose we have you to thank for the ridiculous s#@tshow the internet has devolved into.”
Someone on my floor must have stated what we all know to be true.
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.
