AZ GAMING REVENUE
Tribal Contributions To State Funds
Casino gaming in Arizona is regulated by individual Compacts between the Governor’s office and the Tribes. The Compacts contain the same language, yet they are individual agreements between the Governor and a federally recognized Tribe with reservation land within the boundaries of Arizona. The state regulates casino gaming through the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG), and also receives money in the form of Tribal Gaming Contributions (TGC) to the Arizona Benefits Fund (ABF).
Every quarter, ADG announces the revenue paid to the state. The Tribes paid $43,586,004 in tribal gaming contributions to the ABF for the fourth quarter of Fiscal Year (FY) 2024. Remember, in Arizona FY 2024 is July 2023 through June 2024. This amount represents an approximate 3.3% increase when compared to the same quarter of FY 2023. "Celebrating yet another remarkable milestone in tribal gaming, we are thrilled to announce that Arizona has witnessed yet another record-breaking year," said Jackie Johnson, Cabinet Executive Officer, ADG. "With a record contribution of $157.2 million to the ABF, our tribal partners have once again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to the prosperity of our state and local communities. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our tribal partners for their continued dedication and collaboration. The ABF receives 88 percent of tribal gaming contributions, providing significant dollars to support instructional improvement in schools, trauma and emergency care, tourism, and wildlife conservation throughout the state.”
TGC to the ABF for the 4th quarter of the State’s FY 2024 are as follows:
Instructional Improvement Fund/Education
Trauma and Emergency Services Fund
Arizona Department of Gaming Operating Costs
Arizona Wildlife Conservation Fund
Tourism Fund
Problem Gambling Education, Treatment and Prevention
TOTAL:
$22,474,451
$10,861,632
$ 3,308,133
$ 3,103,324
$ 3,103,324
$ 735,140
$43,586,004
And, just to provide an idea of what has been happening with Tribal Gross Gaming Revenues (net gaming win) for the past few years, here are a few totals I thought our readers might find interesting. In FY 2020, Arizona’s casinos brought in $2,048,877,827, which decreased only slightly to $1,917,852,641 in FY 2021, then skyrocketed to $2,709,320,418 in FY 2022, gained even more in FY 2023 by reaching $2,876,198,661 and we’ll know the FY 2024 number soon. So, a 40% increase in revenue for Arizona’s Casinos from 2020 to 2023. Wow!
The casino business is booming in Arizona!
Alexandra
Alexandra Lang Editor-in-Chief Editor@AZGamingGuide.com
Your Authority On Everything Gaming
VOLUME 16 • ISSUE 08
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
Mark Novak
TJ Jorgensen
Lana Hartmann
Samantha Becker
ADVERTISING SALES
Elizabeth Torma liz@azgamingguide.com
Nina Consiglio nina@azgamingguide.com
MAILING INFORMATION
Arizona Gaming Guide P.O. Box 20636 Mesa, Arizona 85277
INTERNET INFORMATION AZGamingGuide.com Facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide
Copyright © 2009-2024 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, sale and/or distribution in part or in whole in any form without consent is not permitted. Check all details with the respective casino’s Players Club. Unless otherwise noted, AGG does not use AI. 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
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
GAMBLING ADDICTION: A READER SPEAKS
You May Be Surprised To Read What The Number One Addiction Is...
Q: Dear AZ Gaming Guide, I’d like to address an issue that I believe is on the rise and that’s gambling addiction. My wife and I are avid gamblers and we consider gambling as one of our hobbies. We have a very strict [gaming] budget and we never spend more than the money we’ve allocated for each trip. We also have plenty of family and friends who enjoy going to the casinos for fun. And, as far as we can tell, they don’t seem to have a problem. However, when I’m at the casino, all I see are people withdrawing money from the ATMs. I’ve seen the same faces do multiple trips to the machine to get more and more money. Some of the behavior at the slot machines also seems to indicate that there are a lot of people out there that are out of control. They don’t seem to be having fun. In fact, they’re angry and some even go so far as to cuss out loud or hit the buttons. I would say those are signs of a gambling problem, wouldn’t you?
I don’t know what the statistics are, but I would venture to say with all the easy access to casinos, lotteries, online betting and now sports betting, that gambling is probably the number one addiction in America. Maybe you can provide some information and tell me if that’s true. My wife and I read the AZ Gaming Guide every month and we really enjoy all the articles. It seems that we always learn something we didn’t know with each new issue.
David Armistead – Mesa, Arizona
A: David, thank you for your comments. Just like you, my team and I consider casino gaming an extremely exciting entertainment activity as long as limits and boundaries are adhered to (just like with anything). You are correct in saying that gambling addiction is on the rise. However, it is nowhere near to taking on America’s biggest problem and that’s porn addiction.
Since you had mentioned interest in some statistics, my team and I decided to do some research to get insight on how gambling addiction compares to other addictive behaviors. We came across a very interesting study by Origins Recovery, a leading addiction and mental health treatment facility in the United States, that identified which addictions Americans are seeking help with the most.
Origins Recovery analyzed Google Search data relating to America’s various vices, such as gambling, to see which habits people are struggling with the most. A total of 58 common addictions were run through Google Keyword Planner, using search term variations including, “[addictive activity] therapy,” “[addictive activity] recov-
ery,” “help with [addictive activity] addiction,” etc.
In first place is porn, with an average of 30,749 searches per month nationwide from people seeking treatment or help in dealing with and managing the addiction. “Porn addiction recovery” was found to be the most Googled term relating to this issue, with a staggering 14,849 searches per month on average across the country and with “porn addiction therapy” placing second at 6,965 monthly searches.
Second place goes to alcohol, with 9,057 searches on average per month across the country. “Alcohol addiction treatment” was found to be the most commonly searched phrase associated with alcohol addiction, with 2,748 monthly searches nationwide, on average.
Gambling does take the third spot on the list, seeing an average of 6,128 searches per month nationwide by people seeking help with the issue with the phrase “betting addiction treatment” being the most searched for in relation to gambling addiction at 2,644 searches on average per month across the country.
Opioids are in fourth place, with an average of 5,761 monthly searches. “Opiate addiction therapy” is the top-searched phrase relating to this specific addiction, accounting for 2,082 of the monthly average searches across the country.
Food takes fifth place, which was found to have an average of 4,155 monthly searches nationwide relating to treatment and help on the topic. “Food addiction therapy” was the most searched term accounting for 1,380 of the total average monthly searches.
Although gambling addiction does come in third place, it’s not too far away from the remainder of the top ten addictions which include marijuana in at sixth place with 3,024 average monthly searches, video games in seventh place with 2,734 searches per month, shopping in eight place which receives 2,104 average monthly searches, social media that takes ninth place with an average of 1,488 searches every month and, rounding out the list in tenth place, seeing 1,430 searches across the country every month for people seeking help with benzodiazepines
Interestingly, across all 50 states, porn was found to be the number one addiction that Americans are seeking help for, with alcohol being the second-highest in all but five states. While gambling can be a problem for some, clearly it’s not the top, or only, problem. $
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
AF Devil s Lock All In
By Bluberi Gaming, Now At BlueWater Resort Casino
ire. Family. Fortune. Get ready, one of the most eagerly awaited games in the industry has arrived at BlueWater Resort & Casino in Parker, Arizona. Devil’s Lock All In is on!
Now this little guy has more than one trick up his sleeve. This time, he’s putting his whole family to work to literally blow your mind! Indeed, the most popular Devil in town makes a triumphant return in Devil’s Lock All In with fan-favorite features from the original Devil’s Lock, plus a host of exciting new features like impressive Mirror Free Games, the boosting Twins and Mama’s Bonus. Growing by leaps and bounds, popular little piggies are still ready to burst for up to 12 exciting Free Games or 6 Mirror Free Games with special Piggy Unicorn, where the Devil turns everything upside down to provide HUGE wins! Have you met the Twins? Those 2 little critters turn everything they touch bigger; they could even multiply a Mini or a Minor by up to 20! And wait, listen carefully can you hear Big Mama calling? Yoohoo! Yoohoo! Mama’s got a Bonus for you! All this and even more in brand new Devil’s Lock All In. Devilishly good times await! $
NFL Slots
By Aristocrat Gaming
ristocrat Gaming and the Dallas Cowboys announced a multi-year partnership naming the company an Official Partner of the Cowboys. As an Official Partner, Aristocrat Gaming will have prominent signage throughout the stadium year-round, including in-stadium, on the concourse and in-game branding. Additional features will include in-game promotions, digital integrations and game-day activations at AT&T Stadium. The news of this partnership further accentuates the game-changing multi-year slot licensing agreement with Aristocrat Gaming and the National Football League (NFL). The player-favorite NFL-themed games are available to play at casinos nationwide and have demonstrated proven performance. The team-selectable feature on the games allows fans a new way to engage with their favorite team, the Dallas Cowboys, both in the stadium and on the reels.
“We are proud to be the newest partner of the Dallas Cowboys, one of the world’s premier sports and entertainment organizations with a proud championed history, much like Aristocrat Gaming’s,” said Hector Fernandez, CEO of Aristocrat Gaming. “With the success of the NFL Slots portfolio, we have been able to bring the excitement of fan-favorite teams like the Dallas Cowboys to casino floors across the country. We look forward to bringing even more innovative experiences to fans through this partnership.”
In Arizona, play versions of NFL Slots at: Talking Stick Resort (Scottsdale), Wild Horse Pass Casino (Chandler), Lone Butte Casino (Chandler), Vee Quiva Casino (Laveen), Cocopah Casino (Somerton). For more on the partnership with the Dallas Cowboys, visit aristocratgaming.com.$
GREAT GAMES Coming Soon
Submitted by Aristocrat Gaming
Chief & Miss Kitty
By Aristocrat Gaming
The Jackpot Carnival tent continues to grow and now has new versions of two player-favorite titles: Chief and Miss Kitty by Aristocrat Gaming.
In the Clown feature, players shoot balls into slots that showcase multipliers up to 25x. In the Hammer feature, players collect hammers to knock the credit prizes up towards larger multipliers. During the base game, players can win Cash On Reels starting with the ‘Jackpot Carnival’ symbol on reel one and Cash On Reels symbols from left to right. More great prizes can be won if the Cash On Reels symbols extend to reel 5. On reel 5, the player can win large credit prizes, bonuses, the Clown feature, and the Hammer feature. Each title has a unique Free Games feature. In Chief Free Games, players collect Chief symbols to replace up to 250 reel symbols and multiply winnings with 2x or 5x wilds. In Miss Kitty Free Games, Kitty sticky wilds will remain for the entire free games and can become multiplier positions up to 3x. $
Hot Red Ruby—Rakes In Riches
CBy Aristocrat Gaming
lass II players love Hot Red Ruby, and now the iconic character is back in the all-new Hot Red Ruby Rakes in Riches game that brings Hot Red Ruby to the Neptune Single premium hardware. The game also connects to the exciting, new linked bonus program Frenzy Jackpots Link.
Hot Red Ruby Rakes in Riches is filled with exciting features. Red Screen Free Spins is bigger than ever, with three exciting triple-metamorphic features that can trigger Super Red Screen Free Spins. In Expand Super Red Screen Free Spins, metamorphic enhancement adds rows to the game every red spin. Grow Super Red Spin Screen Free Spins adds a Metamorphic enhancement to Red Screen Free Spins where every spin increases the minimum value of the Cash on Reel. In Collect Reels Super Red Screen Free Spins, when multiple Cash on Reel symbols land, the highest cash on reels copies the lower values and adds them to itself. All of this, plus the Frenzy Jackpot starts at $10,000 on a one cent bet.
What’s your job? If you want to play this game anytime soon, make sure you tell your favorite casino’s employees they should install this slot! Arizona casinos with Class II games at press time include: Cocopah Casino (Somerton), Casino of the Sun (Tucson), Del Sol Marketplace (Tucson), and Desert Diamond Casino Why. $
ARIZONA LOTTERY’S LOTERÍA GRANDE:
Play, Celebrate, and Win Big!
The Arizona Lottery is thrilled to offer an extraordinary new Scratchers game: Lotería Grande! Launching in partnership with the Desert Botanical Garden, this $5 Scratchers ticket is designed to honor Hispanic culture with beautiful imagery and themes inspired by the traditional Mexican game of Lotería.
Lotería Grande Scratchers combine modern Scratchers' excitement with traditional Lotería's cultural richness. Each ticket offers a chance to win significant prizes, including a grande top prize of $50,000, while connecting with Hispanic heritage and traditions. The tickets feature beautiful artwork and iconic Lotería symbols, with artwork unique to Arizona, such as monsoons, coyotes, and prickly pears, and Spanish language instructions making each ticket a game and a piece of art celebrating cultural heritage. With overall odds of winning a prize at 1 in 4.42, every ticket promises fun and excitement.
“The Lotería Grande Scratchers game offers our players a chance to win exciting prizes while featuring an iconic Mexican pastime that has grown to be recognized and embraced across cultures, languages, and within the lottery industry,” said Arizona Lottery CEO Alec Thomson. “This game adds a meaningful dimension to our offerings and provides unique opportunities for our community to come together and celebrate Hispanic traditions.”
Each ticket offers a chance to win great prizes, making it a fun and rewarding experience.
Additionally, players can enhance their engagement and winning potential by joining the Arizona Lottery Players Club. Enter your Lotería Grande tickets into Players Club for points and redeem those points for cash and special drawings for a chance to win an exclusive Lotería-themed prize pack from the Desert Botanical Garden.
Don brate this culturally rich game. Players can purchase Lotería Grande tickets at over 3,500 Arizona Lottery retail locations and enter their tickets through the Arizona Lottery Players Club app or AZPlayersClub.com.
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 Submitted
By Al Moe
Do You Want To Play With Or Possibly Against An AI-assisted Player?
A ETHICS & POKER SOLVERS
s Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its ramifications in writing and industry make headlines, the use of what is at the heart of AI – Poker Solvers – is only slowly being addressed.
If you haven’t heard of Poker Solvers like GTO Wizard or Pocket Solver, you may not know that some casinos allow players to access stored and incoming poker hand information to make important decisions in live play.
Boiled down, AI is using computer systems to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as decisionmaking. And, making decisions based on previous poker hands and pot odds with game theory is what poker is all about. Unfortunately, using a computer instead of our brains is a gross intrusion into the game and every player’s best interest.
If AI is great for some areas of business, for some areas of medicine, where ethics are considered, perhaps it is good for poker as a learning tool, before play, or after the fact. But is it ethical to use an App in a live game that stores millions of hand outcomes to choose your starting hand, bet size, or strategy to overcome your game inadequacies?
HOW POKER SOLVERS WORK
Poker Solvers give players a very accurate look at their odds of making different hands (pair, two pairs, straights, etc.) before they call or raise. And they can advise bet size and structure for each spot on a live game. Having such immediate information also allows them to know players' odds of beating them and to adjust bet sizes to defeat proper calls.
In addition, users can insert information from each hand during a poker session, thus allowing the computer to interpret each player’s hand range. And unfortunately, that’s at the heart of most pre-flop decisions. Shouldn’t the player be forced to make these decisions with their brainpower and not a computer?
WHY STARTING HANDS AND RANGES MATTER
Experienced poker players remember the kind of hands other players are likely to join the action with – calling, raising, and reraising. This way, as the game goes on, each player will exhibit a range of playable hands from each position.
Tight players may enter hands or raise only with premium hands like AK, AA, KK, QQ, and JJ. Others may raise with small pairs or suited connectors. Would it help to have every player’s hand range in a computer file that is automatically recalled and compared to your starting hand before you call a raise? Do you want to play a game where that information is available on an opponent’s cell phone or tablet?
In blackjack, playing basic strategy reduces the house edge, and playing an advanced point count (counting cards) gives players a small edge if they play accurately and use proper betting strategy. However, the use of any mechanical or computer device to aid their play is prohibited.
Should the same rules apply to poker? Blackjack computers are considered inimical to the casinos' best interests and are outlawed.
Poker Solvers used in live play are detrimental to other guests' best interests, so should they also be outlawed? I don’t think anyone minds a player making notes about their wins and losses, other players, or even bet ranges in a Word App, but live Poker Solvers is a stretch! $
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
CAN YOU WIN WITH SIDE BETS?
Yes, But How Much Are You Losing And How Often?
When the average blackjack player sits down at a table the casino usually has about a 0.57% advantage. If the player uses perfect basic strategy, the house advantage can be reduced to about –0.52% depending on the rules and number of decks used. With more players becoming educated and reducing the house edge, many casinos have added side bets to increase their profit margin. All casinos offer the insurance bet when the dealer has an "up" card of an Ace and most of the casinos that I have been to lately offer side bets in addition to your blackjack wager. So the question is, should you play the side bets?
THE INSURANCE BET
When the dealer turns over an "up" card of an Ace they will offer insurance. You can place up to half of your wager on the insurance line and if the dealer has blackjack you lose your wager but the insurance covers what you lost. For example, if you bet $5 and the dealer turns up an Ace, you can place $2.50 on the insurance bar. If the dealer has blackjack, he takes your $5 wager but pays you 2 to 1 on your insurance bet. You get your $2.50 insurance wager and $5 back and have lost nothing. If the dealer doesn't have blackjack, you lose your $2.50 insurance wager and then you play out your hand. So is this a good bet or a bad bet?
Looking at the numbers, the dealer will have blackjack, on average, approximately 3 out of every 10 times they show an Ace. If your wager is always $5 and you don't take the insurance, you will lose your bet 3 times out of 10 for a loss of $15. If you take the insurance bet at a cost of $2.50 (for a $5 wager), you will lose that bet 7 out of 10 times at a cost of $17.50. Most blackjack books (good and bad!) will tell you not to take the insurance bet under any circumstances.
OTHER SIDE BETS FIRST TWO CARDS TOTAL 20
Some casinos offer a side bet on 20. That is, for an additional side wager, if your first two cards total 20, you are paid on that wager regardless of the outcome of your hand. Most casinos pay 3 to 1 for this wager, however the odds of receiving 20 on your first two cards is 9 to 1. If you play side bets every hand, you can almost guarantee that you will end up losing. The house advantage goes from –0.54% for a perfect basic strategy player to a whopping 24.71% edge on the Lucky Ladies with a six deck game!
. The player is paid when they make this wager if the dealer breaks. Depending upon how many cards it takes the dealer to bust determines the payoff! The more cards it takes, the higher the payout. When the dealer stands on a soft 17, the dealer will bust about 29.1% of the time. When the dealer hits on a soft 17, the dealer will bust about 29.6% of the time. So you will lose this wager, on average, about two out of three times.
PUSH YOUR LUCK
Another popular side bet is if your hand will tie the dealer. When you end up pushing the dealer, this extra bet pays 10 to 1. I was surprised to find that the house edge on this bet is small compared to that of other side bets! If you play the max on your side bet (which is equal to half of your main bet), the house edge goes from 0.51% to around 0.76% for a six deck game. That's a cost of 0.25%. However, you are getting 10 to 1 odds!
If a player plays perfect basic strategy, the house edge can be reduced to –0.54% on a six deck game depending on the rules. If you choose to play side bets, the house advantage will significantly increase and the probability of you walking out a winner will be greatly diminished. While a big payout can be fun to hit, in the long run it will guarantee to make you a loser.
If you want more insight on how to play blackjack, 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.
Submitted by HMAPR on behalf of Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino
ROOMS FROM $125!
Hit the Playcation Jackpot in August with the new Stay, Play, Vacay Package – including luxury accommodations and a $50 room credit you can use to indulge your dining cravings or sip poolside on refreshing cocktails and so much more. And it’s all waiting at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino … Play for All.® Visit harrahsakchin.com online and go to the deals page to start saving on your next Playcation. And, no resort fees!
Win Your Wheels!
Drive away in style with Harrah’s monthly Win Your Wheels Car Giveaway! Join them every last Saturday of the month in 2024, play with your Caesars Rewards® card from 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and you could be the lucky winner of a brand-new ride. The drawing takes place at 7 p.m., must be present to win! Get more details about multiple entry days at harrahsakchin.com.
Play for All.
Visit them at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino in the city of Maricopa, where you’ll find PLAY FOR ALL and friendly people ready to welcome you like family. As The Official Sponsor of Play, and the only casino in Arizona with Caesars Rewards, see what a difference it makes to play where your fun is their top priority.
Play Your Way.
With the latest reel and video slots, video poker, blackjack, live keno, roulette & craps, there’s no better place to play! Add an eager-to-serve staff, exciting promotions, and a variety of your favorite foods, and you’ll see why Harrah’s Ak-Chin is the premier gaming destination in Arizona.
More Multipliers and Fun!
Boost your rewards with a 10X Reward Credit Multiplier every Wednesday in August. Swipe at a Promotional Kiosk from 8 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. to activate and start earning. Plus, enter for a chance to play Pegboard every Wednesday in August and win between $500 and $2,000 in Free Slot Play! Drawings are Noon to 7 p.m. every half hour. Did we mention Happy Hours (yes, more than one)? It’s happening at The Lounge on Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
(Continued on page 22)
(Continued from page 21)
Sign Up and Instantly win $10 in Free Slot Play. Plus, you could win a free STAYCATION!
Sign up for Caesars Rewards at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino & instantly receive $10 in Free Slot Play. Plus, when you earn up to 30 Tier Credits you’ll get three spins for a chance to win up to $6,000 in Free Slot Play. Caesars Rewards at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino is Arizona’s only local players card that lets you redeem for hotel stays and more in Lake Tahoe, Las Vegas, New Orleans and other destinations across the United States and Canada. See Caesars Rewards for expiration details.
When you’re a Caesars Rewards member, you’re plugged into the largest casino and entertainment network. Earn and redeem rewards at over 50 hotels and casinos nationwide while playing, dining, shopping and doing what you love.
Sign up for FREE! Visit the Caesars Rewards Center with your valid photo ID to sign up. Then, insert your NEW loyalty card into a slot machine & press accept to collect your $10 in Free Slot Play. Visit harrahsakchin.com for details.
Game On in Bingo
B-I-N-G-O, let’s go! Harrah’s Ak-Chin continues the proud heritage of William F. Harrah, who opened his first Bingo Hall in Reno, Nevada in 1937. The Bingo Hall is located inside the casino featuring easy access to parking and the main casino floor. Super-size your prize with the Super Spin Double-Dab Coverall games.
See Your Favorite Entertainers, Live!
Dance the night away with Live entertainment at The Events Center and The Lounge featuring a variety of performances from local acts to great tribute bands and national headliners. Enjoy sounds from Hispanic entertainers like Jesse & Joy or Los Tucanes De Tijuana to bands like Dogstar or country music artists, Midland. There’s something for everyone.
Bring Your Appetite
Dine at any one of the five popular dining options. Order up a quick meal or a snack at Copper Cactus Grill or visit Dunkin' for your favorite fresh-brewed coffee, delicious donuts and sandwiches.
Sink your teeth into the very best of Arizona’s fine dining at Chop, Block & Brew or indulge with your favorite meat and cheese selections paired with a glass of fine wine at Oak & Fork. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner any day of the week at Agave’s Restaurant in their bright, modern dining room, or relax on their patio with poolside views.
Don’t miss Friday and Saturday nights at Agave’s and delight in Cantina Night specials on street tacos, street corn, churros and more. Don’t forget to sip a $2 margarita or Dos Equis XX draft with your meal. Visit Harrah’s Ak-Chin for more details.
Spa Time
The Spa at Harrah’s Ak-Chin is a healing space that guides you through traditional and modern treatments. The soothing and calming environment will have you feeling more refreshed than ever. After your service, head down to the pool and take full advantage of your spa experience.
Splash at the Pool
Get ready for some fun in the sun when you stay in the hotel. Take a dip in their spacious, outdoor swimming pool with a fully stocked swim-up bar, hot tub and 12 private cabanas available for rental. The sparkling pool at Harrah’s Ak-Chin is the perfect place for a leisure escape.
Place Your Bet like a Caesar!
Place a bet on everything from professional football, basketball, baseball, hockey, soccer, auto racing, boxing, mixed martial arts and more. As part of the only sportsbook network connecting you to the Empire & Caesars Rewards, you’ll enjoy earning more with America’s #1 sportsbook.
Caesars Rewards App.
Take your rewards on the road by downloading the Caesars Rewards app on your smartphone. The Caesars Rewards app connects you to every Caesars Entertainment property so you can explore restaurants or book a hotel room from anywhere.
Tier Credit Multiplier.
Kick off Labor Day Weekend and upgrade your tier! Swipe at a Promotional Kiosk from 8 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. for a 5X Tier Credit Multiplier, Monday, August 26 through Thursday, August 29, 2024. Visit them online and learn more about earning periods and limits.
30th Anniversary Events!
Harrah’s Ak-Chin is celebrating their 30 Year Anniversary all year with thrilling promotions and lots of wins. On August 30, guests will say, “Cheers to 30 years” with GUARANTEED FREE SLOT PLAY! Simply swipe your card at a Promotional Kiosk from 8 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. to claim your prize. Based on your Caesars Rewards tier, every guest is a winner.
Can’t make it in August? Visit each month on the 30th for more exciting promotions. Your taste buds can celebrate, too. Anniversary food specials can be found each month at select restaurants. In August, Chop, Block & Brew is cooking up Crab Stuffed Mushrooms for the occasion. Join them through the year to finale events culminating around December 27.
Every Great Casino Must Have a Great Gift Shop!
And they do! Their gift shop carries designer handbags, jewelry, souvenirs and more. Whether it’s a special gift for yourself or a present for someone special in your life, Harrah’s Ak-Chin’s gift shop has you covered!
Tier Benefits at Harrah’s Ak-Chin.
Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino is Arizona’s only Caesars Rewards casino destination. With Caesars Rewards Platinum Membership and above, you’ll enjoy between 15% to 25% off cash purchases in their gift shop. All members receive early access codes to every show with a valid email address on file. You’ll earn Reward Credits and Tier Credits when you dine at participating restaurants on cash purchases. The best part, anything you earn can be redeemed at any Caesars Rewards destination across the country.
Find us on the Gram!
If you’re not following Harrah’s AkChin on Instagram, it’s time. Scan the QR code and hit the follow button to be instantly entertained. Check them out on Facebook or X, too. $
See Caesars Rewards for complete rules and restrictions regarding all mentioned promotions. Visit harrahsakchin.com for more details. Caesars welcomes those that are of legal casino gambling age to their website. Must be 21 or older to gamble and take advantage of offers and promotions. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-NEXT STEP or text “NEXTSTEP” to 53342. ©2024 Caesars License Company, LLC.
CASINO DINING
Submitted by GM & Associates on behalf of We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort
FOUR FOR FOUR!
Ember Receives Wine Spectator Best Of Award Of Excellence Once Again
For the fourth consecutive year in a row Ember, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort’s innovative fine dining restaurant, has been bestowed Wine Spectator’s highly coveted “Best of Award of Excellence.” It is one of only 15 restaurants in Arizona to receive this award.
According to Wine Spectator, this prestigious “2 Glass” designation recognizes wine lists that “display excellent breadth across multiple winegrowing regions and/or significant vertical depth of top producers, along with superior presentation. Typically offering 350 or more selections, these restaurants are destinations for serious wine lovers, showing a deep commitment to wine, both in the cellar and throughout their service team.”
Ember has received the “Best of Award of Excellence” ever since the restaurant opened in October 2020. “Over the past four years, Dennis Payne has curated an elevated wine culture that has made the restaurant a ‘must-go-to’ dining establishment for people celebrating special occasions or just looking for a delicious meal with a thoughtful wine pairing,” said Zac Gallo, Executive Director of Food and Beverage for the We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort. “Ember has truly become a culinary destination for local residents as well as visitors to the area, and this success can be attributed in large part to our extensive wine and spirits library as well as our popular wine dinners and bourbon tastings.”
Ember’s wine program continues to be recognized by wine critics and guests as one of the very best lists in Arizona. Over the past year, Payne has expanded the wine list in several areas that target collectors and also appeal to the loyal guests who dine frequently at the award-winning restaurant.
“Ember currently boasts ten verticals (double the vertical selections from the previous year), ranging from amazing 4th Growth Bordeaux wines to Historical Blends from Napa Valley,” added Payne. “Our list now features 800 selections from 30 countries, focusing on each country’s top wine-producing regions and most highly acclaimed vineyards, and more than 60 ports and dessert wines from seven countries. Property Executive Chef Richard Pelz’ inventive menus continue to inspire our wine library acquisitions and pairings, and we look forward to further broadening our guests’ palates with new vintages.”
In addition, Ember has a special page in their 38-page wine list titled “The Century Club,” dedicated to the world’s top 100-
point wines. Curated for fine wine collectors, this list contains 36 critically acclaimed wines spanning more than two decades that have scored a perfect 100 points. No other wine list in Arizona offers so many 100-point wines.
Throughout the year, Ember offers wine dinners that showcase family-owned estate wineries like Albert Bichot and Frias Family Vineyards that give them a unique way to share these limited wines with a discerning, wine-loving audience. Ember has five wine dinners and two bourbon dinners slated for 2024, and Payne plans to continue to expand this program with highly acclaimed producers from around the globe.
Upcoming five-course dinners with five wine pairings will feature Napa Valley’s Peter Franus Wines (October 30, with Peter Franus himself as a guest speaker) and Spain’s Juan Gil (December 4). All by-reservation-only events begin at 7 p.m., and cost $225 per person (plus tax and gratuity).
ABOUT EMBER: An amazing destination dining experience at the We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort’s Ember, run by Property Executive Chef Richard Pelz, features the highest quality USDA Prime and Angus Wagyu beef, game and seafood from around the world, carefully prepared over a custom wood burning grill. Signature items include their Ujih Hot Stone appetizer, Seafood Tower, 32-ounce Tomahawk Steak, Braised Buffalo Short Rib, and Chocolate Truffle Torte. The energetic dining space overlooks the all-scratch kitchen with views of the culinary team, and seasonal outdoor dining by the fireplace is also available. A separate piano lounge with live entertainment five nights a week adds to the dynamic vibe. For more info on Ember, visit wekopacasinoresort.com/dining/ember. $
VISUALIZE & ACTUALIZE SUCCESS
“A Must Read” Says Chicken Soup For The Soul Author Jack Canfield
Author Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino, master life coach and founder of The Best Ever You Network has long espoused that we must redefine success for our authentic selves a one-size, fits-all-concept is not only outdated but unworkable. Success is so much more than data or the dollars in our bank account.
True success is reflected in the smiles that brighten our faces and the peace that settles in our hearts. It's the gratitude we seek in all things and the intention and actions being our very best in each moment. In her newest book, The Success Guidebook, readers will find inspiration, motivation, and a pathway to live their best, most fulfilling life. Your breakthrough to your best success happens when reality intersects with infinite possibilities. When this happens in our real lives, the stars align. It’s time to redefine success for yourself personally and to pursue the life you want by also giving thought and attention comprehensively to various areas of your life, such as health or relationships, which suffer when attention is paid in such a focused manner to another area in the pursuit of “success.”
“I believe traditional measurements for success are unrealistic and largely unattainable,” says Hamilton-Guarino. “This disconnect has created multiple issues on many fronts. Success isn’t one size fits all. We need a new way forward: a new definition of success that is individualized. Imagine taking an express route to excellence and success by learning the art of comprehensive and well-rounded success. Here you have your best awareness for excelling in all areas of your life at a world-class level.”
By implementing Elizabeth’s unique Ten Factors of Success the behaviors consistently exhibited by people who stand out and behave with world-class excellence readers will learn how to finally overcome the stubborn obstacles that have stood in their way and harness the power to move forward with clarity, a renewed purpose, and the personalized confidence to build a life of bold, brave, and infinite possibilities.
Included are profiles of 20 people who exemplify these principles. Here’s the secret: You don’t need to be on a national or international platform to be world-class. You can have it right in your own home, to be and feel successful in each and every moment of your life. This book will help you learn how to tap into world-class behaviors and get the results you desire at last.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino is the founder of The Best Ever You Network and co-founder of Compliance4. Through these companies, she has helped individuals and organizations around the world be their best and achieve world-class excellence with gratitude-based behavior and belief systems. She is one of America's foremost personal and corporate development consultants specializing in mindset, strategy, leadership, and taking action. Elizabeth is also the author of the award-winning books The Change Guidebook: How to Align Your Heart, Truths, and Energy to Find Success in All Areas of Your Life (HCI) and PERCOLATE - Let Your Best Self Filter Through (Hay House) and multiple children’s books as a contributor and author. Visit her website at besteveryou.com/successguidebook for more information. $
FINANCIAL SECURITY & WELLBEING
Research Reveals Arizona Residents Rank Low On Financial Distress
Debt is a major factor that takes a tremendous toll on people’s health. According to a 2021 study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, those struggling with considerable debt are more likely to have serious health concerns such as hypertension, chronic insomnia, cardiac problems, and even psychiatric disorders.
With 7 million Americans having at least one credit account where they are late on their payments (or have been allowed to delay them), WalletHub just released its 2024 ranking for the “States with the Most People in Financial Distress” to shed light on the financial troubles experienced by people across the United States, and to show where those difficulties are most pronounced. Taking into account such factors as credit scores, number of accounts in distress, as well as bankruptcies, one of the key takeaways from the study is that several Arizona cities rank extremely low on financial distress. Although Phoenix ranked #17 out of 100 cities, several other Arizona cities ranked very low on the list (Mesa #90, Glendale #92, Chandler #97, Gilbert #98 and Scottsdale #99).
Michigan residents are the most financially distressed people in the country, according to WalletHub. “In Q1 2024, Michigan had the most accounts per person in financial distress, meaning accounts where the holder was temporarily allowed to not make payments due to financial difficulty. Michiganians also had the second-highest increase in the share of people with distressed accounts between Q1 2023 and Q1 2024, at over 70%,” said Cassandra Happe, Wallet Hub Analyst.
“Measuring the share of residents in financial distress is a good way to take the pulse of a state and see whether people are generally thriving or having trouble making ends meet,” said Happe. “When you combine data about people delaying payments with other metrics like bankruptcy filings and credit score changes, it paints a good picture of the overall economic trends of a state,” she added.
How To Reach Financial Security
Financial security is the ability to afford your expenses, live comfortably on your income and also be able to save for the future. Spending some time getting your finances in order now can bring you peace of mind and, above all, prevent stress and worry down the road. Here are a few steps you can take to get you there:
Create A Budget
The only way you will get an accurate picture of your finances is to put pen to paper and start doing the math. Take a look at your net income and then document all of your obligatory expenditures (rent/mortgage, auto, insurance, phone, gas, food, etc.) and make sure that your basic living expenses amount to no more than half of your net income. This is one popular budgeting tactic which dictates 50% of your income should go towards all of your “needs,” 30% should go towards your “wants” (Starbucks Frappuccino, please) and 20% towards savings.
Cut Back On Spending
Once you figure out what 30% of your income is for your “wants,” practice financial discipline. Now it’s time to modify your spending habits. We love our gaming and other entertainment options so that may mean we just have to invest in a highquality coffee machine at home to circumvent that daily Starbucks run. Or, delete apps from our phones and unsubscribe from tempting sales emails to cut down on our online shopping for items we don’t really need.
Start Saving
Take each paycheck and set aside 20% towards savings. Put it away and forget about it. This is one of the best ways to not only build financial security for your future, but to also have an emergency fund that will cover the unexpected. The assurance of having money tucked away will help you feel calmer and more resilient about facing the future. $
Submitted by Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos
Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos In Prescott August Promotions, Specials & More
Rush in to Win! Roll the dice, spin the wheel, and enjoy the newest slot machines at Bucky’s and Yavapai Casinos in beautiful Prescott! Enjoy all the fun, laughter, excitement, and good times their smoke-free, relaxed and friendly casino floors have to offer. August celebrates the finale of their summer Cash Me If You Can promotion where players may win their share of up to $185,000! Bucky’s and Yavapai Casinos are offering two delicious dining styles! This or That, you choose!
The Grey Room, on the 3rd floor at Bucky’s Casino, offers a fresh take on casual dining created from locally sourced ingredients, made from scratch. Or that … Yavapai Casino Cantina where you may enjoy all your classic favorites, add an ice draft or beverage of choice and kick back to watch your favorite sports.
and receive $10 in Gold Rewards. Visit the Gold Rush Club to qualify from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
In August, The Grey Room is creating an exotic, one evening culinary event, a Caribbean Rum Dinner! A limited seating event, August 15, offered at $70 and served at 5:30 p.m., prepurchase tickets are encouraged. The Caribbean Rum Dinner will include three intriguing courses: Tropical Kale Salad, Ropa Vieja with Congri Rice Crisp, and Black Grouper with Malanga. Each course will be paired with a perfect Rum accompaniment and finished with a decadent dessert of Guanabana Cake and Cream, paired with Bacoo Café Rum.
August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, and 31: Will you accept your Secret Mission at Bucky’s and Yavapai Casinos?! Cash Me If You Can continues in August with their final cash drawing on Saturday, August 31. Win your share of up to $185,000 in available prizes! Enjoy Hot Seats every Friday at both casinos with cash prizes up to $1,000. The cash drawing takes place at 7 p.m. on Saturday, August 31. Winners may receive up to $5,000 cash or a trip valued at $9,000. Rush over for your share of fun, excitement, and incredible prizes!
August 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31: Table Games Monsoon Madness is back! Saturdays in August, winners participating in Table Games may receive up to $150 in chips, plus a mystery gift valued at approximately $50, 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. August is filled with exciting promotions and lots of cash prizes at Bucky’s and Yavapai Casinos.
August 5, 12, 19, and 26: Merchandise Mondays, a Preskitt favorite promotion at Bucky’s and Yavapai Casinos, is back by popular demand! Wear your authentic logoed Bucky’s or Yavapai Casino APPAREL, t-shirts, jackets, or caps, on Mondays
Cantina Karaoke Mondays: Join the fun at Yavapai Casino Cantina Karaoke, Mondays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. hosted by Fire and Rose Entertainment. Leave the self-critic at home, pick your favorite song, and sing along. Food service is available until 8 p.m., enjoy your favorite beverage and an endless song library! Yavapai Casino Cantina on Mondays! Where Preskitt Plays!
Veterans Appreciation Tuesdays: Bucky’s and Yavapai Casinos celebrate Veterans and active-duty military Gold Rush Club members every Tuesday! Veterans receive 3X points, $10 Gold Rewards, and a $10 food comp. Also receive a complimentary entry into the end-of-month Veterans drawing for $100 cash.
Seniors Day Wednesdays: Seniors are Special at Bucky’s and Yavapai Casinos! Gold Rush Club members age 55 and older are eligible to earn $10 in Gold Rewards and may win $100 cash in Seniors Hot Seats from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., as well as enjoy food specials every Wednesday at both casinos.
Ladies Day Thursdays: Ladies Day is celebrated on Thursdays at Bucky’s and Yavapai Casinos! Ladies Day Hot Seat winners may receive $250 cash from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., are eligible to earn $10 in Gold Rewards and may enjoy food specials at both casinos! Must be a Gold Rush Club member to participate.
Bucky’s and Yavapai Casinos are only 90 miles north of Phoenix, offering historic charm with a hometown atmosphere where you can relax in the beautiful pines and enjoy smokefree gaming. Let’s Play Preskitt! Visit buckyscasino.com. $
GAMING NEWS
Submitted by GM Associates on behalf of We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort
Submitted by Sandoval Creative on behalf of Casino Del Sol
We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort Receives Numerous Awards
For the third time in four years, the We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort has been selected as Best Casino in PHOENIX Magazine’s annual Best of the Valley edition. Winners were determined by an online public vote from May 1-21, 2024, and revealed in the July/August 2024 issue. A Best Casino recipient in the popular Readers’ Choice section of the Best of the Valley issue for 2021 and 2023, We-Ko-Pa bested five other area casinos this year, including the winners of the 2020 and 2022 awards. Also receiving accolades was We-Ko-Pa Golf Club, named Best Golf Club. Thanks to its two multiple-award-winning courses, Saguaro and Cholla, the golf club has received that top honor in four of the past five years. It also was recognized as Best Driving Range in 2023, the first year the category was included.
“On behalf of the We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort and the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, we’re thrilled and honored to receive PHOENIX Magazine’s Best Casino award once again,” said Harold Baugus, Acting General Manager. “Ever since we unveiled our state-of-the-art casino in October 2020, our goal has been to create an exceptional gaming experience that is accessible to everyone.”
“Not only do we have 930 slot machines, a 750-seat Bingo Hall, and table games like blackjack, poker and roulette, we also offer sports betting at our WKP Sportsbook powered by Betfred Sports,” added Baugus. “And when our guests want to take a break from the exhilaration of gaming, they can enjoy a delicious meal at our casual and fine-dining outlets, a relaxing treatment at the Amethyst Spa, or a luxurious stay in our AAA Four Diamond hotel. As PHOENIX Magazine’s readers have recognized, we truly offer something for everyone.” For more information on the We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, visit wekopacasinoresort.com. $
Tribal Leaders In Place After 2024 Election At The Pascua Yaqui Tribe
In June, leaders of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe were elected to office to serve on the Tribal Council following the Tribe’s 2024 election cycle. During a June ceremony, eleven leaders were sworn into office. New leaders include Thomas J. Cupis, Rosa Soto Alvarez, Jose-Enrique Saldana, Julian Hernandez, Gloria Alvarez Gomez, Irene R. Sanchez, and Rolando Flores. The new leaders will begin new terms in accordance with the Tribe’s Constitution; they will join incumbents Andrea L. Gonzales, Herminia “Minnie” Frias, Francisco Munoz, and Peter S. Yucupicio. Julian Hernandez was elected as Tribal Council Chairman, and Peter Yucupicio will serve as the ViceChairman of the Council. The Tribal Council is an elevenmember body elected to oversee the Pascua Yaqui Tribe’s daily operations, including stewarding social and economic development, carrying out the Tribe’s laws and directives, protecting its governmental and business interests, and exercising the sovereignty of the Tribe.
The Pascua Yaqui Tribe is a federally recognized tribe with a reservation southwest of Tucson, Arizona, with a 2,216-acre Reservation, established for the exclusive use and benefit of the tribe’s 22,000 members. The Pascua Yaqui recognize cultural affiliation with the Ancestral Sonoran Desert People and with their related cultural communities throughout the Greater Southwest region, including the areas that now make up the United States Southwest and Northwest Mexico. Prior to the establishment of the Pascua Yaqui Association in 1963, Yaquis in Old Pascua initiated a request for land primarily to protect their culture and seek a permanent home. In 1964, the U.S. Government deeded 202.76 acres to the Pascua Yaqui Association and in 1975, the Pascua Yaqui Association sought federal recognition from Congress. On September 18, 1978, the Pascua Yaqui Tribe was officially recognized by Congress. $
CASINO ENTERTAINMENT
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
Hunks: The Show August 31
BUCKY’S & YAVAPAI CASINOS Prescott
Live music at the Prescott Resort 6-9 p.m. Saturdays.
Cantina Karaoke Mondays 6-9 p.m.
CASINO ARIZONA Scottsdale
Wizard of Ozz (Black Sabbath & Ozzy) August 2 & 3
The Latin Breed (Fiesta De La Noche) August 8
Rock N Roll Band (Boston) August 16 & 17
Gypsy Roses (Guns ‘N’ Roses) August 23 & 24
Creedence Revelation (CCR) August 30 & 31
CASINO DEL SOL Tucson
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
Gipsy Kings Feat. Nicolas Reyes August 10
Josh Turner September 21
HARRAH’S AK-CHIN CASINO Maricopa
Live at The Lounge Series Wed. Fri. Sat. Contact Casino.
Jesse & Joy September 20
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)
ABBA FAB August 2
MAZATZAL CASINO Payson
24K Magic (Bruno Mars) August 10
Ben Bailey Comedy Show September 27
Clay Walker October 4
Ludacris October 5
TALKING STICK RESORT Scottsdale
Spyro Gyra August 2
Jay Leno August 30
Jo Dee Messina September 7
Max Gomez September 12
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
WILD HORSE PASS RESORT & CASINO Chandler
Los Lobos September 6
George Lopez September 14
Carbonaro @ BlueWater Resort Casino
Hunks @ BlueWater Resort Casino
Tribal Anniversary Concerts
Mazatzal Hotel & Casino
October 4 & 5
October 4, join Mazatzal Hotel & Casino in celebrating the Tonto Apache Tribal Anniversary with Country Music star Clay Walker. Over the last 30+ years, Clay Walker has racked up 11 No. 1’s and more than 30 charted singles in his career including What’s It To You, Live Until I Die, If I Could Make A Living, Dreaming With My Eyes Wide Open, This Woman And This Man, Hypnotize The Moon, Rumor Has It, Then What?, I Can’t Sleep and She Won’t Be Lonely Long
And the next day, October 5, join them in celebrating with iconic rapper and actor, Ludacris. The career of the multitalented CHRIS “LUDACRIS” BRIDGES can best be described as remarkable. As a recording artist, he has sold more than 24 million albums worldwide, thanks to the blockbuster success of such singles as Stand Up, Get Back, Southern Hospitality, Number One Spot, Money Maker and My Chick Bad. All of these records were accompanied by ingenious videos that demonstrated Bridges’ far-reaching imagination, and his willingness to stretch the boundaries of what rap videos should look and feel like.
These are outdoor concerts (East Parking Lot) rain or shine and open to the public of all ages (all attendees ages 2 and up must have ticket to enter event area). Concert tickets and more info available online at mazatzalcasino.com or at the cashier cage.
Clay Walker on October 4 and Ludacris on October 5, only at Mazatzal Hotel & Casino, Arizona’s Friendliest Casino! $
By Sami Becker
THE SLOT IS PLAYING ITSELF!
A Reader Wants Us To Issue A Warning
Dear Arizona Gaming Guide, we were wondering if you were interested in doing an article warning your readers about slot machines in Arizona that revert to max bet and even play themselves if not actively being played.
My wife and I travel to casinos all over Arizona and we have noticed more and more of these rip-off slots. An informative article by your magazine could warn your readers and save them some money.
Vito Tedeschi – Peoria, Arizona
Hi Vito, thanks for writing us about your concerns. You are correct, most slots do revert back to certain settings if not being played. This can include automatically selecting the maximum wager, changing the denomination to a different value, and putting the volume level to the highest setting.
Why? So a player becomes accustomed to playing the maximum wager possible on the slot, which frequently can provide the best chances of winning.
The volume level resetting is also to the advantage of the slot’s manufacturer. The next guest will have an enjoyable audio experience while playing the slot.
As far as slots playing themselves, I’d like to break this up into three parts. And, I’m guessing, you are aware of all the topics. I just want to make sure all our readers understand how slot machines function, as you suggested.
First, if there are no credits on a slot machine and there is no player interaction with the buttons or touchscreen monitors, the game will enter what in the industry is referred to as Attract mode (sometimes labeled Demo mode on the monitors). The purpose of Attract mode is to, you guessed it, attract the player into playing the slot! The slot’s display will cycle through a depiction of some of the more entertaining aspects of the game. This might include base game play, bonus games, jackpot games, or big wins. On older reel slots, without screens, you may be able to observe a light pattern or other behavior which might constitute Attract mode. On older video slots, Attract
mode may be as simple as a few full screen images with plain text descriptions about the game.
Second, if the game does have credits on it, players must be extremely careful when placing parts of their body near the buttons and touchscreen monitors. Many buttons malfunction by becoming stuck, activating spin after spin after spin. If that happens to you, alert casino personnel to the issue.
And touchscreens are very sensitive (you can try this for yourself) so be careful with those fingers, the palm of your hand, putting a drink down on the newer touch panels, and so on. We have managed to make a slot spin through the clothes we are wearing and even through a napkin. So be careful! Once you initiate a spin, even if the game malfunctions producing the outcome of that spin, as they say, all bets are off! That’s why you see the disclaimer “Malfunction voids all pays and plays” everywhere!
Third, some slots do offer an Autoplay feature. Usually, the Autoplay won’t initiate without a confirmation screen on which a player must select “Yes” (to initiate) or “No” (to cancel) prior to the commencement of Autoplay. In order to exit Autoplay, most slots have a “Stop Autoplay” button which must be activated in order to resume player initiated spins.
If our readers ever encounter a slot which they believe is behaving in an unusual manner, such as (but not limited to) buttons not working, a touchscreen which is inoperable or damaged, please alert casino personnel immediately. Thanks for your input and feedback. I’m looking forward to hearing from all of you! $
Thank you to our readers for your questions and comments, we appreciate you! Write us at Sami@AZGamingGuide.com or by mail at Sami’s Smackdown, AZ Gaming Guide, PO BOX 20636, Mesa, AZ, 85277.
WORD SEARCH
To Celebrate National Senior Citizens Day on August 21, Find: SENIOR, CITIZEN, ELDERLY, RETIRED, PENSION, EXPERIENCE, WISE, MATURE, MATRIARCH, PATRIARCH, GRANDMOTHER, GRANDFATHER. Words appear in any direction. (Solution on page 38)
X M F P J D V H P H B A E I K
M J G R A N O H E R H P T D M
H
E
P Y P A I D W B N U I I P N Q
M Z Q E I T X I J K D R K R X
V V W J R R O F E E T P B I Z
H C D C Q I R A W L A Y R T Z
H J E A F N E T Y D P Z E E A
T A Z L W J M H Q E A Y N Z N
P C Z H X E C E V R J W D Z Z
O P Z O A S F R P L O T E K M
R E T I R E Q O C Y Z R S D O
W A Y X B X N I S N E P O G N
Jokes & Quotes
Research shows that laughing stimulates the immune system and may help prevent or reverse some medical conditions.
A country preacher decided to skip Sunday services to go bear hunting. As he rounded the trail, he and a bear collided, sending the preacher tumbling down the mountainside. His rifle flew one way and he flew the other, breaking both legs when he landed. Unfortunately, the bear was charging right at him.
“Oh, Lord,” the preacher prayed. “Forgive me for skipping church today. Please grant me one wish make a Christian out of that bear!”
That instant, the bear skidded to a halt, fell to its knees, and began to pray, “Dear God, bless this food I am about to receive.”
A family was hosting a dinner for the minister and his family of 10. At the table, the hostess turned to her youngest daughter and said, “Would you like to say the blessing?”
“I don’t know what to say,” she replied.
“Just say what you hear Mommy say.”
The youngster bowed her head and said, “Dear Lord, why on earth did I invite all these people to dinner?”
When you start to look like your passport picture, you know you need a vacation.
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: HARD (Solution on page 38)
Zodiac Lucky Numbers
Aries (March 21 – April 19): 7, 21, 24, 38, 49, 61
Taurus (April 20 – May 20): 10, 13, 17, 38, 44, 60
Gemini (May 21 – June 20): 2, 4, 16, 28, 52, 64
Cancer (June 21 – July 22): 1, 7, 21, 35, 43, 62
Leo (July 23 – August 22): 12, 16, 24, 30, 54, 66
Virgo (August 23 – September 22): 5, 21, 26, 28, 47, 60
Libra (September 23 – October 22): 4, 11, 13, 30, 54, 61
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): 1, 4, 21, 37, 55, 58
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): 4, 9, 19, 41, 51, 61
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): 5, 12, 13, 37, 54, 67
Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): 4, 10, 19, 31, 49, 59
Pisces (February 19 – March 20): 7, 19, 20, 39, 46, 65
Green Wood Dragon Year
Ask for good luck: 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 20, 21, 22, 28, 31.
Travel: 1, 3, 7, 10, 11, 12, 16, 22, 24, 26, 28, 31.
Meet with someone: 3, 6, 22, 23, 26.
There is overlap on these days this month: 3 and 22.
Other Auspicious Days in July
Wedding: 1, 2, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 20, 22, 28, 31.
Buying A Car: 1, 3, 20, 21, 28, 31.
Moving: 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 20, 21, 26, 28, 31.
Treatment / Surgery: 8, 30.
CASINO DIRECTORY
13. Desert Diamond Casino-W.V. 101 & Northern Ave. Glendale
14. Desert Diamond Casino-Why Hwy. 86, Milepost 55
15. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino 15406 N. Maricopa Rd. Maricopa
16. Hon-Dah Casino 777 Hwy. 260 Pinetop 800-929-
17. Lone Butte Casino 1077 S. Kyrene Rd. Chandler
18. Mazatzal Hotel & Casino Hwy. 87, 1/4 mi. S. of Payson Payson
19.
21. SanTan Mountain Casino 7101 S
23. Talking Stick Resort 101 & Indian Bend Scottsdale
24. Twin Arrows Navajo Casino 1-40, Exit 219 Flagstaff
25. Vee Quiva Casino 6443 Komatke Ln. Laveen
26.
28. We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort Hwy. 87 & Ft. McDowell Rd. Fort
