fans of
Find out what’s special about these newest Scratchers games and how to enter your tickets for more wins.
Meet Executive Casino Host Mario Cardenas and some of his VIPs in this exclusive interview.
AZ GAMING GUIDE APP
Thanks To Our Fans & Sponsors
As our readers know, since 2009 we have been sharing our casino knowledge with you in a variety of different ways every month. This issue is no different.
Casino del Sol in Tucson has a lot going on, especially because they are busy building a new casino at Grant Road (see the picture below). And don’t miss the MVP Spotlight on Harrah's Ak-Chin Casino. This was a first for us, being granted the opportunity to have an Executive Casino Host and his VIPs speak candidly about their experience.
What we also want to focus on is how we’ve listened to our fans and our sponsors over the years. At the request of our readers, we were the first casino publication on the web, first with digital editions, first with an e-newsletter, first on social media, and now we’ll be first with an app. Because of our readers and sponsors, we continue to incorporate new sections in the magazine. So, thank you! We want to make the Arizona Gaming Guide a shared experience for our fans and sponsors.
To further that goal, we’ll be releasing the first version of our iOS and Android app in October, because you’ve asked for it! The initial version will allow you to read the current issue, plan your next casino trip, and we’ll release hints & tips every month just to our app users. And, if you become a registered user of our app before January 1, 2025, we won’t charge you any fees for the add-on features we expect to release in 2025. So go get the Arizona Gaming Guide app in October on the Apple & Android App Stores and become a registered user! Plus, let us know what features you want us to include in future releases.
Have A Lucky Month!
Your Authority On Everything Gaming
VOLUME 16 • ISSUE 09
MANAGING DIRECTOR & VIDEO POKER GURU
Elizabeth Torma liz@azgamingguide.com
PUBLISHER & SLOT GURU
Chris Höft chris@azgamingguide.com
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Alexandra Lang editor@azgamingguide.com
ART DIRECTOR
Melanie Mueller
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Al Moe
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 Instagram.com/arizonagamingguide X.com/azgamingguide Issuu.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
QUESTION ON PLAYERS CLUB CARD FRAUD
Plus A Follow Up On The “Top Addictions” From Last Month
Q: To the Editor of the AZ Gaming Guide: My wife and I have been reading your magazine for many years. Every month it’s packed with great information. Our favorite section is Players Talk because it seems like there’s always something we learn we didn’t know before. One topic that I don’t recall ever seeing across the years in that section or in Sami is regarding fraudulent activity with the players cards. We always make sure to keep our cards safe with us and guard our pin numbers. However, recently my wife accidentally left her card in a machine. We notified [the casino] and let them know, but they told us they couldn’t issue her a new card number and that we shouldn’t worry because it was no big deal. We have quite a bit of comp dollars so should we be concerned about someone using her card? Have you ever heard of fraudulent activity with casino cards? Thank you, in advance, for your answer to this question.
David
Meyer – Phoenix, AZ
A: Hi David, thank you for being a loyal AZ Gaming Guide fan. We appreciate you! In the 16 years we’ve been in business, we have received thousands of questions/comments from our readers through email and even hand-written letters (back in the day). Rest assured that never, in all these years, have we encountered a single complaint from a casino customer regarding fraudulent activity on a player’s card! Needless to say, it doesn’t mean it hasn’t happened or can’t happen.
You and your wife are very smart to guard your pin numbers. Many players foolishly give their player’s cards and pin numbers to friends and family to play off their free play if they can’t make it to the casino. This is something no player should EVER do! First of all, if a casino catches someone doing this, they can reprimand both parties involved. The reason the casinos are so strict is because they want to avoid the misuse of players cards and prevent any unauthorized use from happening. Second of all, since casinos reward players in the form of free play and comps based on their play, customers who allow others to play with their card could negatively affect the status of their own benefits.
If a patron wants to use comp money on their player’s card at a casino’s establishment, they will be asked to show identification and casino employees are well-trained to verify this infor-
mation. Therefore, in the event someone did pick up your wife’s player’s card, that person will not be able to use her card to pay for a meal, buy an item in the gift shop, purchase a show ticket, etc. without showing proof that they are, in fact, the card holder. In that sense, casinos really do a great job in protecting their patrons from any fraudulent use of the players’ cards.
I’m sure that the Player’s Club printed out a new card for your wife when you explained to them what had happened. Moving forward, you and your wife should just continue to be smart and guard your pin numbers. Also, for the time being, just keep an eye out on your comps and report any suspicious activity to the casino right away. They will be more than happy to help you track down any illegal use of your account immediately.
Always be vigilant both in and out of the casinos. Recently, I read a study that Arizona ranks sixth worst state in the nation for fraud. In the first quarter of this year alone over 90,000 cases were reported to the state. This equates to 1,215 fraud reports for every 100,000 residents. According to the report’s data, the most reported fraud was in health care scams, sweepstakes and travel fraud as areas for locals to be extra aware of with almost $62 million lost to fraud.
Q: Thank you for the informative article in Players Talk [last] month. I was really surprised, and saddened, to read about the level of alcohol addiction in this country right now. I have a couple of family members who have problems with alcohol but are unwilling to seek treatment. Do you have any more statistics you could provide so I can pass it along? I look forward to each Guide that comes in my email. You probably don’t hear this enough, but keep up the great work!
Linda J. – Mesa,
Arizona
A: Linda, thank you for your kind remarks. I’m sorry to hear about your family members and I hope that they will receive the treatment they need soon. Data shows Iowa has the highest level of patients seeking help with alcohol addiction in the nation, with a rate of 254 people per 100,000. Arizona, unfortunately, comes in as the second worst state with a rate of 245 patients per 100,000 people which is 188% higher than the U.S. average. Currently, there are 441 treatment facilities in the state for those who wish to seek help. $
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 Coming Soon & Ready For Play
House Of The Dragon
By Aristocrat Gaming
ristocrat Gaming will introduce the all-new House of the Dragon slot game. Based on the hit HBO® Original drama series, House of the , this new slot game brings to life recognizable characters, icons and dragons! The slot is anticipated to light up casino floors before the end of the calendar year. Ahead of the show's Season 2 finale, the game will cabinet, offering fans a new way to experience the action and excitement of the HBO Original drama series.
The House of the Dragon television series has broken records and engaged a legacy of fans in a new way. We are thrilled to further the epic entertainment of this hit series with the creation of the new House of the Dragon slot said Hector Fernandez, CEO of Aristocrat Gaming. “We are proud of ve had bringing our Game of Thrones slot games to life, and we anticipate this new game to continue the excitement and appeal House of the Dragon slot game will make its worldwide debut in the Aristocrat Gaming booth at the upcoming Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas this October. $
Fortune Trails & Piggy Burst
By Aristocrat Gaming
pin for wins and fortune favors the bold! Put your fortunes to the test in this unique Hold & Spin that features familiar gameplay and new ways to win. Land metamorphic triggers to unlock 7 different Hold & Spin bonuses that dish out big prizes and reward multipliers. For the first time ever in Aristocrat gaming, buy into the hold & spin bonus with the new Instant Feature at any point in the game! [Editor’s Note: May not be available on every installed game.]
In Arizona, at press time, play versions of Coin Trio Piggy Burst & Fortune Trails at: Casino Arizona (Scottsdale), Casino Del Sol (Tucson), Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino (Maricopa), Paradise Casino (Yuma), Quechan Casino Resort (Winterhaven, CA), Talking Stick Resort (Scottsdale), Wild Horse Pass Casino (Chandler), Lone Butte Casino (Chandler), Vee Quiva Casino (Laveen), and We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort (Fountain Hills).
If your favorite casino doesn't have this game, it should! Tell a friendly employee you read about this slot in the Arizona Gaming Guide and your favorite casino should consider installing it.
For more on Aristocrat Gaming’s slots visit aristocratgaming.com.$
SPORTS BETTING
By Mark Novak based on a submission by H&P Law
The
Teams
Most Likely To Get Injured In The Upcoming NFL Season
A BEFORE YOU PLACE YOUR NEXT SPORTS BET
new study has revealed which teams are most likely to get injured in the upcoming NFL season, with the Titans taking the top spot. The research, conducted by Las Vegas personal injury lawyer H&P Law, examined data from the NFL website on the total number of games missed by their players in the 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 seasons, shown by the number of players listed as “out” for regular season games.
The Titans had the most players listed as out during the regular season games, with 224 games missed by their players during the 2020-2023 seasons. The Tennessee Titans played the Super Bowl in 2000, losing to the St. Louis Rams. The team will open their season playing the Chicago Bears on September 8. In second place are the Saints as the team most likely to get injured in the upcoming NFL season. The team had 188 players listed as out for the regular season games in the 2020-2023 seasons. The Saints are set to play their first game of the 2024 season against the Carolina Panthers on September 8. Following closely in third place are the 49ers, with 187 games missed by their players listed as out. The 49ers have won five Super Bowl titles and, after their preseason games, are scheduled to play the New York Jets on September 9.
The Cardinals rank fourth, with 170 games missed by their players. The oldest team in the NFL, the Arizona Cardinals have won two NFL championships, the last in 1947. The Lions are in fifth place. The team had 163 players listed as out for regular season games during the 2020-2023 regular season. The Detroit Lions have won four NFL championships and will play the Los Angeles Rams on September 8. In seventh place are the Commanders, with 150 players listed as out for regular season games. The Washington Commanders have won three Super Bowls, the latest in 1992.
In joint eighth place are the Eagles and the Texans, who both had 140 games missed by their players. The Philadelphia Eagles will meet the Green Bay Packers on September 7, while the Houston Texans will play the Indianapolis Colts on September 8. In ninth place are the Browns, who saw 136 games missed by their players. The Cleveland Browns have won four NFL championships but have yet to appear in a Super Bowl. The team is
scheduled to play the Dallas Cowboys on September 8. Rounding off the top ten teams most likely to get injured in the upcoming NFL season are the Colts, with 128 players listed as out for regular season games in the 2020-2023 seasons. The Indianapolis Colts, who have won the Super Bowl twice, will play the Houston Texans on September 8.
“With the 2024 NFL season set to kick off on September 5, fans will be anxious to know how well their favorite teams will perform, and if they can expect to see their favorite players make an impact in the upcoming games, or if injuries will plague their beloved teams,” said a spokesperson from H&P Law.
“While no one can predict the future without a crystal ball, it’s interesting to see how certain teams have been more affected by injuries and players missing games than others in previous seasons. Whether these teams will continue to see higher numbers of players missing games than others during the 2024 season will be fascinating to see.” $
Sources: https://www.nfl.com/injuries/league/2023/REG1 https://www.courtroomproven.com/
Methodology:
NFL data used to show the total number of games missed by their players in the 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 seasons, shown by the number of players listed as “out” for regular season games.
$50 SCRATCHERS FROM ARIZONA LOTTERY:
Your Shot To Be Set for Life Or Win 500X Fortune
The Arizona Lottery is offering players the opportunity to win millions with two $50 Scratchers tickets. The Set for Life and 500X Fortune Scratchers games offer players the chance to win up to $5 million. With over $295 million in total prizes available, Lottery players are sure to enjoy the thrill of these high-tier games.
Both tickets are available at more than 3,500 retailers across the state. To play, just scratch the ticket to match your numbers to the Winning Numbers on the ticket. If any number is a multiplier (e.g. 10X or 500X), your prize is multiplied by that amount.
Set for Life offers many top prizes of $5 million that still remain, as well as opportunities for bonus cash prizes and the opportunity to multiply winnings by 10 or even 50. Players have a chance to win $250,000 a year for 20 years. With many chances to win, including hundreds of $10,000 prizes, odds of winning a Set for Life prize are 1 in 2.18. 500X Fortune gives players the chance to win a $5 million grand prize and, as the name implies, offers winners the ability to multiply prizes up to 500 times. There are several other high-dollar prizes available in the game, such as 11 $500,000 prizes, 20 $25,000 prizes and nearly 1,000 $5,000 prizes. The overall odds of winning 500X Fortune are 1 in 2.55, and this ticket currently has the best odds of winning $1,000 out of all current Scratchers.
To make the deal even sweeter, each Set For Life or 500X Fortune ticket entered into the Arizona Lottery Players Club earns one entry into the $500K Giveaway. Players can enter their winning and non-winning tickets for their chance to win $500,000 through November 30. Players can also enter Scratchers into Players Club to earn 10 Players Club Points per dollar spent (500 points for each Set For Life or 500X Fortune ticket entered.) Points can be redeemed to enter drawings for cash and other exciting prizes.
In addition to all of the prizes and chances to win, Lottery players can also feel good knowing that a portion of every ticket sold is transferred to state programs that benefit Arizonans every day. From higher education and health and human services, to environmental conservation and business development, eve-
ry ticket purchased helps improve the quality of life here in Arizona.
“The $50 Scratchers offer players an opportunity to win our largest cash prizes, while also supporting programs that benefit millions of Arizonans,” said Arizona Lottery CEO Alec Thomson. “The Arizona Lottery has made a difference in residents’ lives for more than four decades, and we are proud to offer new, exciting games for our core consumer while also helping to support critical programs for our state.”
Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to win big. Players can purchase $50 Set for Life or 500X Fortune Scratchers tickets at over 3,500 Arizona Lottery retail locations and enter them through the Arizona Lottery Players Club app or through their website 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 or visit PromblemGambling.AZ.gov. Please Play Responsibly Submitted by OH
By Al Moe
HOW ARIZONA & IRS TAX CASINO WINS
Info For First-Timers & Experienced Jackpot Recipients
If you weren’t aware, the IRS and Arizona want a piece of the action should you win at the casino. Arizona casinos are hyper-vigilant in reporting your winnings on 1099 and W2G Tax forms. So, if you’re lucky enough to win big, you may get taxed. Generally, there’s a $600 threshold on the 1099, but some properties are issuing the forms for lower amounts.
This can include drawings, poker tournaments, and Bad Beat Jackpots.
Receiving A Casino W2G Form
Now don’t worry if you’re speeding through the slot aisles and winning some cash. You may or may not get a ticket.
In bingo and slot land you won’t get written up until your jackpot payout is $1,200 or more.
Keno has a threshold of $1,500; for poker tournaments, the threshold is $5,000, but you’ll probably be issued a 1099 for lower amounts.
When good luck smiles and you hit those levels, you’ll need to provide two forms of ID and your social security number. You may need to present your physical social security card.
You’ll also need to sign the tax form to get paid. No exceptions!
Table Game W2G Rules
The casino follows different rules for table game taxes. No matter how much you win, you won’t get tax forms for normal wagers, but bonuses and jackpots are different.
At table games, you’ll be issued a W2G if the payoff is more than $600 and at least 300 times the original wager. If you bet $10 on a bonus and win $2,000, there’s no form involved. But if you bet $5 and get paid 300 to 1 for a $1,500 payout, you will get a W2G form. Again, you’ll need to present your ID and sign the tax form.
The next level is for any payout of at least 300 times the wager and over $5,000. In this case, 24% of your win will be withheld for IRS taxes – but no AZ taxes! You may still be on the hook for the win on your year-end AZ taxes, so be prepared.
The nice folks in the games department are likely to tell you that you can get a win/loss statement at the end of the year and deduct those losses from your big win and get back what was withheld. That’s true, but it’s not accurate.
Filing Taxes Against Withheld Winnings
While the bosses in the Pit told the truth about any W2G withholding, getting money back from Uncle Sam is always tough. Even if you use all your casino win/loss statements.
IRS & AZ Rules That Apply
You must report gambling winnings on IRS Schedule 1040 as “other income.”
To report gambling losses, you need to itemize deductions on Schedule “A.” You may only deduct losses exceeding 2% of your adjusted gross income and claim losses up to your reported earnings.
There’s no separate form or line to record your gambling winnings on AZ tax forms because the Arizona Department of Revenue uses your adjusted gross income from your IRS 1040 form to determine taxable income since it already has your gaming income – should you have any. Just insert your federal adjusted gross income (1040 line 11) onto AZ Form 140 or 140A on line 12 and you are done. $
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
RULE CHANGES & WINNING
Find Out Which Rule Change Hurts You The Most!
Most players, when they walk up to a blackjack table, don't pay any attention to the house rules for the game. But changes in house rules from casino to casino can have a big effect on your long term wins and losses.
Let’s take a look at a basic six-deck game with the following house rules:
Dealer hits soft 17 (Ace-6)
Double on any two cards
Double after split
Re-split to four hands
Player can re-split Aces
Player can hit split Aces
Blackjack pays three to two
In a game with these rules, the house would have about a 0.39% advantage over the player. If we change the rule “Dealer hits soft 17” to “Dealer stands on soft 17,” the house advantage drops to 0.18%. If we change the rule “Double after split” to “No double after split,” the house advantage jumps to 0.54%. If we change that the player can only double on 9-11 the house edge climbs to 0.51%. If we change the rule that the player can only split one time the house edge is 0.51%. If we change the rule that a player can re-split Aces to no re-splitting Aces the house edge is 0.45%. If a player cannot hit split Aces, as is the case in most of the casinos in Arizona, the house advantage grows to 0.57%. But the biggest swing of all of the house rules is changing Blackjack from paying three to two, to paying six to five. This changes the house edge to a whopping 1.75%!
If you don't remember anything else, always pay attention to what Blackjack pays. I have encountered only one six to five blackjack game here in Arizona, but in Vegas and Laughlin casinos they offer single deck blackjack games that pay six to five. If we keep all of the rules and change the game to single-deck paying six to five the house edge is 1.38%. In an eight-deck game with the same rules paying three to two on Blackjack the house edge is 0.41%. So, you would be much better off playing an eight-deck game rather than a single-deck game that pays six to five.
So, what would be the best house rules for the player? A singledeck game where the dealer stands on soft 17, player can double after split, player can double on any first two cards, player can re-split four times, player can re-split Aces, player can hit split Aces, late surrender and Blackjack pays three to two. You
know why this game doesn't exist? Because with these rules the
deck game with all of these rules and just changed the Blackjack payout from three to two to six to five the house would go from being at a –0.22% disadvantage to a huge 1.17% advantage. Again, if you find a blackjack game paying six to five, RUN, do not play it! If all players refused to play those games the casino would have no choice but to offer blackjack paying three to two.
To simplify, I’ve summarized the rules in the tables below.
Rules that help the player and lower the casino edge:
Double after Split
Re-split Aces
Single Deck
Two Decks
Four Decks
+0.14%
+0.07%
+0.50
+0.20%
+0.05%
Rules that hurt the player and increase the casino edge:
Dealer hits Ace-6 –0.20%
Double on 11 only
–0.46%
Double on 10, 11 only –0.09%
Double on 9, 10, 11 only –0.09%
No re-splitting pairs –0.04%
Always give your business to casinos that offer the best rules. After all, you work hard for your money, the casino should have to work hard for theirs too! $
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 in electronic and hard copy formats at Amazon.com.
Submitted by Sandoval Creative on behalf of Casino Del Sol
THE SOL” OF TUCSON, CASINO DEL SOL, CELBRATES
THEIR 30TH ANNIVERSARY!
Nestled amidst the mesquites of the high Sonoran Desert and a short drive from downtown Tucson and the airport, lies
“The Sol of Tucson” — Casino Del Sol. An enterprise of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, the casino resort will celebrate its 30th anniversary this year and boasts a prestigious five-time AAA FourDiamond rating and TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence!
Dining
With 366 rooms, 11 venues and 13 restaurants serving locally sourced cuisine, Casino Del Sol is home to award-winning chefs and has been recognized with the prestigious Wine Spectator award.
From fine dining and Asian fusion to fast and easy Mexican food and Tucson’s finest and most flavorful buffet, Casino Del Sol boasts a dazzling selection of culinary delights.
Enjoy decadent steaks and seafood nightly, along with Tucson’s finest wine list and gracious service at PY Steakhouse. Festa International Buffet brings an array of the world's best foods to guests. Ume presents a blend of unique sushi and one-of-a-kind Asian creations. Moby’s, a 24-hour all-American diner, offers tried and true classics, while Abuelitas turns up the heat for a quick lunch and dinner.
Gaming
Casino Del Sol’s casino floor welcomes guests to a comfortable gaming environment under a bright blue sky and a Mediterranean sun that never sets. With the friendliest and most knowledgeable dealers anywhere, along with a level of service and hospitality you’d expect, Casino Del Sol’s gaming experience is unmatched. Offerings include over 1,300 timeless classic slots, the latest and greatest digital machines and eight different variants of Blackjack and Poker.
AVA Amphitheater
The Pascua Yaqui Tribe spared no expense in conceiving, designing and building AVA, the finest outdoor concert venue in Tucson. Named for one of the Tribe’s visionaries, Anselmo Valencia Amphitheater is truly a masterpiece of performance settings. Approximately 1,700 seats ring the stage in a gently ascending sweep to the grand lawn just behind, where 2,700 more attendees can spread a blanket and immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of an incredible array of artists. With performers spanning various genres, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Sewailo Golf Club
Blending the natural Sonoran Desert landscape of Tucson with picturesque lakes and streams, Sewailo Golf Club measures over 7,400 yards from the championship tees, with five different tee boxes on each hole to allow for players of all abilities. It is universally recognized as one of the top golf experiences in Arizona, public or private. The Pascua Yaqui Tribe hired Notah Begay III and Ty Butler to design Sewailo Golf Club and it has been recognized by Golf Week, Golf Advisor, Golf Digest, Golf Magazine and more.
Hiapsi Spa
At Hiapsi Spa, the Pascua Yaqui Tribe share the beauty aids they’ve relied upon to mediate the harshest elements of life in the desert. Relax in private cabanas or by the pool lounge, surrounded by resort amenities.
Hiapsi (Yop-See) is the Pascua Yaqui word for "heart and soul," an appropriate phrase to explain the physical and spiritual renewal that awaits guests. The spa offers a number of treatments, many featuring healing herbs and traditional healers. In addition to timeless Yaqui health and healing rituals, the spa offers massage and bodywork, specialized skin and nail care, waxing and gentleman’s services including the “Golfer’s massage” and “Man-icure.”
New Casino Announced
The Pascua Yaqui Tribe has unveiled plans for another casino in central Tucson. Set to be completed in the next couple of years, the 65,000 square-foot gaming facility will feature an expansive casino floor complete with a sportsbook, high limit room, slot machines and table games. The property will also boast three food and beverage outlets including a food court, full-service
(Continued from page 21)
restaurant and center bar. In addition, the project includes a new four-level parking garage to accommodate 1,050 vehicles and a surface parking lot with 195 additional parking spaces. This third property will expand the enterprise’s first-class entertainment and gaming options into a new region, just three miles from downtown Tucson.
Tribal & Staff Development
Casino Del Sol’s commitment to excellence goes beyond its guest offerings. Through its Tribal Development Department, Casino Del Sol provides programs that offer professional development, comprehensive support and resources to the more than 700 enrolled Pascua Yaqui Tribal Team Members at Del Sol. The department offers four tracks of upward mobility initiatives including the Future Leader Track, Management Development Track, Executive Development Track and the Executive Career Ladder Track.
The Executive Career Ladder Program and other upward mobility initiatives recognize that sustained success requires a holistic approach. The four tracks are designed to provide team members with the tools and resources necessary to plan and navigate their long-term career journeys. Through implementing strategic approaches to these development initiatives at Casino Del Sol, team members are supported in setting achievable career goals and making informed decisions about their professional growth based on their unique personalities and goals. By nurturing talents and aspirations through these programs, Casino Del Sol fosters an environment where participants can learn, grow, thrive and reach their full potential.
For more information about Casino Del Sol and to experience its award-winning offerings, please visit CasinoDelSol.com or call 1-855-SOL-STAY (765-7829). Follow Casino Del Sol on Insta-
gram, Facebook, and X for the latest updates and exclusive offers.
About Casino Del Sol
Located in southwest metropolitan Tucson, Arizona, the Pascua Yaqui Tribe is a federally recognized tribe with more than 22,000 enrolled members. The Tribe owns and operates several enterprises including Casino Del Sol, a AAA Four Diamond casino resort and one of the Best Hotels in Arizona named by U.S. News & World Report; SolSports, Tucson’s first retail sportsbook; the Casino of the Sun; Estrella at Casino Del Sol, a 151-room hotel; AVA Amphitheater, a 5,000-seat open-air concert venue named Casino Arena/Amphitheater of the Year by Casino Entertainment Awards; Sewailo Golf Club, a par-72 championship course designed by Notah Begay III; the 73-space Casino Del Sol RV Park; and the Del Sol Marketplace. For more information, call them at 1-855-SOL-STAY (765-7829) or visit their website at CasinoDelSol.com. Follow Casino Del Sol on Instagram, Facebook and X. $
Written by Chris Hoft
MARIO CARDENAS & HIS VIPS
Explain Why Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino Is So Special To Them
Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino in Maricopa, Arizona invited me recently for a visit to meet with Mario Cardenas, one of their Senior Executive Casino Hosts, and his guests. Mario is among the first employees hired prior to the casino opening in 1994, making him a part of a select group of individuals who have been working there for 30 years. Some of his VIPs have been visiting Harrah’s Ak-Chin for just as long.
I was incredibly excited for this interview as my team and I do interact with Casino Hosts, both personally as casino gaming enthusiasts and professionally through the business, on a very regular basis. However, since Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino was gracious enough to allow me to meet with both Mario and a group of his guests at the same time, on the record, this was a unique opportunity I definitely wanted to share with all our
readers and fans. Mario and his VIPs spoke candidly with me about their reasons for choosing Harrah’s Ak-Chin, some of their memorable experiences and they even revealed what casino games they play. I’d be willing to make a bet you can’t guess what slot half of the VIPs all play! But first, let’s meet Mario.
I began by asking Mario how he became an Executive Casino Host for Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino and he said, “I moved here in 1993 from Chicago where I got my degree in Criminal Justice & Sciences and I heard there was an opening in Security. During my interview, the Human Resources Manager said, ‘You can communicate very well. I don’t think we should put you in a Security position. Let’s see what we can do with you over in Marketing.’ My response was, ‘All right, let’s do it! But I have no experience in Marketing!’ The Manager answered, ‘Don’t (Continued on page 26)
Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino VIPs with Director of Marketing & Operations Samantha Gulick (3rd from R) and Senior Executive Casino Host Mario Cardenas (far R) including (from L): Michelle, Robert S., David W., Linda M. (back), Patti L. (front), Samantha, Cynthia S., and Mario.
(Continued from page 24)
worry, it’s an entry-level position. You’ll be issuing new slot cards, gathering customer information and interacting with them and I think you’ll be great at it!’”
Mario went on to add, “My first assignment was in October of 1994, at the Arizona State Fair, where Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino had a booth and was signing up prospective customers in advance of the grand opening in December. Our VIP Bus Coordinator and I went there to hand out customer applications and, to my surprise, we had over 10,000 signups by the end!”
Elaborating, Mario explained, “After the State Fair, all I did was enter customer information into our database and issue Gold Cards to everyone. Once the casino opened, I was part of the Total Rewards staff [Editor’s Note: now Caesars Rewards] and began to work my way up through several positions to my current job as Executive Casino Host. I love Marketing and I have really enjoyed working with all the Managers and the Executives here ever since.”
I wanted to know what had kept Mario at Harrah's Ak-Chin Casino and in the position he holds now for so many years. When I asked him he responded jovially, “I feel like it has been very easy for me. I want to be around people. I believe I communicate well and can connect with customers by listening because I enjoy it so much. Knowing that this is my purpose and I’m comfortable is why I am here. I don’t look at my job as work. I don’t feel like I’ve worked a day in my 30 years here at Harrah’s Ak-Chin because this is where I belong! I can meet new people every day, including the children and grandchildren of my customers, which is incredible. I remember when they were born decades ago and now they have their own children! At every level I’ve been challenged and it’s been part of an amazing learning experience.“
Next, I asked Mario what he enjoys most about his job and I was not surprised to hear his answer, “Meeting and greeting new people. This goes back to when I first started working at Total Rewards. Now I’m meeting them on the casino floor. I can have one-on-one experiences with guests not just here on property, but off property during VIP excursions. Off property I’m a little more laidback and may have dinner or drinks with my customers. Those events allow me to have a more personal experience with guests and I really enjoy that!”
Then I wanted to dig a little deeper and find out something that our readers might not necessarily know about what an Executive Casino Host does for their clients. Mario was more than happy to answer, “The main thing is when a guest decides to
visit Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, I like to make that trip a special experience for them. I try to add the ‘wow factor’ to each guest’s trip by making sure they stay in their favorite room, for example, and other personal touches like dinner reservations at Chop, Block & Brew, or a limousine ride, and so on. I work hard to make sure there are multiple reasons my guests feel special when they visit Harrah’s Ak-Chin, especially since we are not the only casino in the immediate area.”
Finally, I wanted to ask Mario one last important question which we have asked all our MVP Spotlight interviewees over the years, namely, “What is your favorite casino game to play?” With no hesitation he responded, “I like the slots! I don’t really have a favorite as I play only two or three times a year. So, I’m not up to speed on all the different games that are available. A lot of my guests play Game Kings [IGT’s Video Poker MultiGame Units], Dragon Link and other Link games by Aristocrat Gaming which I like as well. If they are open, I’ll play them for a while. If not, I’m old school, I prefer the original three reel mechanical slots which, as you know, are getting harder to find. I’m not too crazy about the video slots. Maybe because they are lower denomination! I can’t do $25 or $50 bets, but in terms of table games I love Roulette. I play all my Chicago numbers! So, Pippen, Jordan, Sandberg, and so on. All my Chicago guys! I’ve got Chicago football, hockey, and baseball numbers as well! I’m a South-sider, so I’m a Sox fan. I like the old Comiskey Park.”
Mario was a pleasure to speak with, but I was also very excited to meet and talk with his VIPs (Cynthia, David, Linda, Michelle, Patti and Robert) and, most importantly, get down to the bottom of why Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino was their favorite place to play. I used Mario’s answer to my question about his favorite games as a segue for his clients. None of them hesitated (Continued on page 28)
MVP SPOTLIGHT
(Continued from page 26)
to tell me what casino games they enjoy playing. In fact, I could tell we shared the same excitement of casino games as all their faces lit up when discussing their favorite slots.
Patti was the first to chime in by saying, “I love Video Slots, Dragon Link & Lightning Link [by Aristocrat Gaming].” David was quick to comment, “I love Video Slots too like the Link games, Huff & Puff [by Light & Wonder], the Dancing Drums Prosperity [Dancing Drums was originally by Cadillac Jack, then Shufflemaster, then Bally, then Scientific Games, which is now Light & Wonder], and Table Games.” To which Linda added, “Dragon Link, and I wander around a lot!” And then Robert told me, “There are a few games I really like a lot which I always play and then I’ll try something new if it catches my eye.” Michelle enthusiastically declared, “I love all the penny slots!”
So there you have it! The VIPs like Aristocrat’s slots, especially Dragon Link or any of the Link games that company makes.
Next I wanted to know how long these VIPs have been customers at Harrah's Ak-Chin Casino. When I asked, Patti provided us with her experience saying, “I was one of the first Seven Star VIPs when the program first began over twenty years ago. And, I’ve known Mario since the first day the casino opened! My Player’s Card account number is less than 10,000 so I signed up very early on. Mario probably issued my card! I was playing in Laughlin and Las Vegas but received my Player’s Card on opening night here at Harrah’s Ak-Chin. And I only live a mile or so down the road” The others provided a variety of answers. Mainly stating they had become Seven Stars members sometime in the mid to late 2000s. But Robert, like Patti, told me he was a customer since shortly after the casino opened in 1994.
To end my time with the VIPs at Harrah's Ak-Chin, I really wanted to know why all of them had been customers for so long. Why were they this loyal? I was certain Mario had something to do with it as their host, but there had to be more to it than just him. Some of their responses overlapped, but aspects of each of their answers clearly had individual reasons as well.
Here’s what Patti had to say about Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino and Mario, “I like coming here because you get the best service. I’ve been to casinos all over the city, but no one provides service like Harrah’s Ak-Chin. They really make you feel like you are family. And the personal service I get is special. I walk in the door and the employees know my name. They greet me with big hugs. They make me feel like I am special. I really enjoy it here. Whereas at other casinos, they don’t stop and say ‘Hi’ to you. Here you get personal service. I feel very safe here as well.
I’ve come by myself without my husband. And if I happen to win a big jackpot, the staff here is so good they’ll tell me ‘When you get ready to leave, just put the service light on and we’ll have the Security team walk you to your car.’ That’s service!”
David said, “I live in Chandler, and I live very near two other casinos. But there are many reasons why I choose to play at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino. Mario is a big factor. But, it’s also the Caesars Rewards program, where you can enjoy benefits at many casinos across the United States. It’s a very good loyalty program, and even when compared to all the other casinos in the area, this place has a very homey and hospitable feel to it. The employees are very personable, everyone recognizes and acknowledges you. This casino, under the Caesar’s brand, is run very well. I’ve gambled all over the world, and this casino is one of the best.”
Linda had a few practical comments including, “I really like the Rewards Credits I earn and the Gift Shop. So, at Christmastime, I enjoy shopping for gifts. I like the food here. And I like Mario! When Mario doesn’t hear from us, he checks in and makes sure we are okay especially around Holidays. He’ll always make a phone call. Even during COVID, he was constantly in communication with us.”
Robert wanted to make sure I understood the following, “I’ve played in Las Vegas, at Caesars for example, and the staff is good but not great like they are here. They are always friendly. I’m not sure what training the employees go through here, but it’s exceptional. You really feel like you are with a bunch of friends. At this casino, they define hospitality. I can’t tell you where it starts but there isn’t another casino in Arizona, and very few in Las Vegas, that have employees that are this good.
Like Mario, he’s very good at his job. He could teach classes. This place is exceptional, and you are treated at a higher level.”
I think Cythia’s comments are an excellent way to wrap up what I learned during my time with all these wonderful people at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, “I ‘ditto’ on everything everyone has said, but I must tell you another reason. I come down from the North Scottsdale area, so that’s a fair hike to drive. This may sound a little weird, but I like the association with the Ak-Chin Indian Community. When I was studying Health Care Administration, one of the things I remember was that the Pima Indians have the highest incidence of diabetes of any group in the world. I just like the fact that money from the casino is going to help the health and welfare of Tribal members. On top of that, you can go practically anywhere in the country and use your benefits at any of the Caesars Rewards properties. One of my favorite places to visit is their property in New Orleans. And the staff here is very good with ‘old people.’ They put up with us! I mean, we can get kind of weird at times! They are concerned about their customers, and it’s obvious. For example, if you’re in need of assistance, if one employee can’t help they will immediately find someone who can. They make you feel special. I think beyond the training, it’s part of the employees’ personalities who work at Harrah’s Ak-Chin. You just can’t teach this level of customer service! “
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. For more information, visit HarrahsAkChin.com. $
Guests must be 21 or older to gamble. Remember to "Know When To Stop Before You Start.®" If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1-800-NEXT STEP. ©2024, Caesars License Company, LLC.
GAMING NEWS
Submitted by Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos
Submitted by Catalyst on behalf of Paradise Casino
Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos Cash, Prizes, Fireworks & More
Paradise Casino Win His & Hers Harleys, Free Play & 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. September is all about the CASH! Double The Cash drawings take place Fridays in September and winners receive $500 cash! Yavapai Casino drawings happen at 5 p.m. and Bucky’s at 7 p.m. There will be five Double The Cash winners at each casino every Friday in September. Help them celebrate their 32nd Anniversary in October and win your share of up to $72,600 in cash and prizes, fireworks and more!
On September 26, 27, and 28, experience three delectable days of International Cuisine from Around the World at The Grey Room at Bucky’s Casino. Each day will be a global culinary adventure consisting of an authentic three course meal paired with a regional cocktail and representing a different world location. September travels will take you to Taiwan, Thursday, September 26th, Pakistan, Friday, September 27th and Serbia, September 28th. Service begins at 4 p.m. daily, offered at $38 and Around the World creations will be available while supplies last. Indulge in your favorite or all three!
On September 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30, participate in 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 and receive $10 in Gold Rewards. Bucky’s and Yavapai Casinos are only 90 miles north of Phoenix, offering historic charm with a hometown atmosphere. Relax in the beautiful pines and enjoy smokefree gaming at Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos. Let’s Play Preskitt! Visit their website BuckysCasino.com for details. $
Late Night At Paradise Casino in Yuma
Paradise Casino is continuing to upgrade their property to become the go-to entertainment destination in Yuma. On top of having a newly expanded gaming floor and event center, the casino rolled out a late-night menu at The Reef Bar. Mango habanero wings, carne asada fries and elote bites are just a few of the new offerings as a part of the late-night menu. Available Sundays-Thursdays from 9 p.m. to midnight, there are numerous food choices for any cravings! With Paradise Casino’s new line up of live entertainment every week in Sharky’s Lounge, featuring live Comedy Night and Watch & Wager events, plus the newly upgraded Sportsbook, the new menu at the bar is the perfect companion. Visit their website online at Paradise-Casinos.com to stay up to date on all upcoming events.
Fall Ride, His & Hers Harleys – September & October 2024
Every Friday & Saturday in September & October, play for the chance to win a share of over $127,500 in Rewards play and a His & Her’s Harley Motorcycle set during their Fall Ride Giveaway. Drawings will take place every 30 minutes on Fridays and Saturdays to win $500 in Rewards Play from 3 to 10 p.m.! On October 25 at 10:30 p.m., one winner will receive a His & Hers Harley Set of Motorcycles! Plus, earn double the entries on Tuesdays!
Thirsty Thursdays – Now through December 2024
Paradise Casino will offer complimentary beverage packs to eligible Player Rewards Card members. As part of this promotion, members will have the option to select their preferred beverage, choosing between beer or soda. Earn 100 points every Thursday from now – December to win a free 6 pack of beer or soda! $
We-Ko-Pa Conference Center Partners With USDA Forest Service To Battle Sand Stone Fire
To support their efforts in containing the Sand Stone Fire spreading along SR 87, the Southwest Incident Management Team 4 is utilizing the Conference Center at We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort to serve as a command center and provide accommodations for the Southwest Incident Management Team 4 firefighters battling the blaze.
Sparked in the Tonto National Forest on July 25 by an unknown cause, and burning northeast of Fountain Hills, the Sand Stone Fire has grown from just over 3,200 acres to nearly 23,000 acres. It is spreading north and east, including along the Beeline Highway, with containment hampered by lack of precipitation and wind gusts up to 10-15 mph.
Southwest Incident Management Team 4 is comprised of 200 firefighters and support staff who will occupy a significant amount of the guest rooms over the next two weeks. In addition, several meeting rooms have been secured to set up a base of operations during their stay.
“We were contacted by the USDA Forest Service regarding available guest and meeting rooms due to a fire near Payson,” stated Resort Management. “This is happening right up the road from us, potentially impacting both neighboring communities and the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, so we immediately began securing space for them. It is our privilege to do whatever we can to give the firefighters a restful place to eat and sleep after a long day and serve as a base of operations to help contain the spread of this devastating brush fire.”
For more information on the We-Ko-Pa Conference Center at We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort visit WeKoPaCasinoResort.com. $
GAMING NEWS
Submitted by GM Associates on behalf of We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort
Submitted by Catalyst on behalf of Quechan Casino Resort
Quechan Casino Resort
$250,000
Pro Football Challenge, “Back to The Q” Pomotion & More
Quechan Casino Resort Donates Meat To Local Food Banks
Quechan Casino Resort is proud to announce a substantial donation of 127 pounds of meat to the Yuma Community Food Bank and Crossroads Mission. The meat was purchased from the tribal youth and San Pasqual students participating in the 4-H program. With a surplus of various cuts, the Quechan Casino Resort has decided to share this bounty with the local community. This generous contribution will provide essential protein to families and individuals facing food insecurity in the Yuma area.
$250,000 Pro Football Challenge
Experience the excitement of the $250,000 Pro Football Challenge at Quechan Casino Resort! Starting Now through Sunday, January 5, 2025, Rewards Players can simply swipe their Players card at any of the football kiosks and start making their picks on who they believe will win. There will be 10 weekly winners of Cash & Rewards play! The Grand Prize of $250K will go to the first player to accurately predict the outcomes of 206 out of 243 games.
Back to The Q
Great Scott! Get a blast from the past with the Back to the Q Delorean Giveaway at Quechan Casino Resort! Fridays and Saturdays in September and October (5 to 10 p.m.), play for the chance to win a share of $180,000 in cash and prizes and the grand prize of a classic Delorean on October 26 at 10:30 p.m.! Plus, earn double the entries when you play on Tuesdays, it’s like getting struck by lightning twice! Leading up to the grand prize drawing on October 26, there will also be additional drawing dates October 22 – 25 from 5 to 10 p.m. For more information visit their website PlayQCR.com. $
CASINO ENTERTAINMENT
APACHE GOLD CASINO RESORT Globe
Shows scheduled on weekends at 8 p.m. Contact casino.
Los Lonely Boys October 19
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.
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
Serpentine Fire (Earth, Wind & Fire) September 6 & 7
El Chicano (Fiesta De La Noche) September 12
The K-Tell All Stars (Celebrate the 1970s) September 20 & 21
Savor (Santana) September 27 & 28
Cannibal & The Headhunters October 3
CASINO DEL SOL Tucson
Dustin Lynch September 13
Godsmack October 5
Bret Michaels Parti-Gras October 26
The Black Crowes November 1
COCOPAH CASINO Somerton
Karaoke Saturdays 8:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.
DESERT DIAMOND CASINO Sahuarita
Thirsty Thursday Tribute Concert Series
Josh Turner September 21
Joel McHale October 18
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)
MAZATZAL CASINO Payson
Ben Bailey Comedy Show September 27
Clay Walker October 4
Ludacris October 5
TALKING STICK RESORT Scottsdale
Jo Dee Messina September 7
Max Gomez September 12
Josh Turner September 15
Bret Michaels September 21
Little River Band September 27
QUECHAN CASINO RESORT Winterhaven, CA
Bruno & The Hooligans (Bruno Mars) September 14
Prince Again October 26
Ace Frehley October 31
WE-KO-PA CASINO RESORT Fountain Hills
Live Music In Ember Steakhouse
Live Music In WKP Sports & Entertainment
Mick Adams & The Stones (The Rolling Stones) October 5
WILD HORSE PASS RESORT & CASINO Chandler
Morris Day & The Time September 7
Chase Matthew September 12
George Lopez September 14
Luis Fonsi September 20
The Black Crowes @ Casino Del Sol
Little River Band @ Talking Stick Resort
Bret Michaels Parti-Gras
Casino Del Sol October 26
Bret Michaels is hitting the road for a limited run of live dates for his 2024 Parti Gras Tour. Michaels has created this tour with a Mardi Gras feel in celebration of his great fans and hit music. The renowned rockstar will bring a few of his rocker friends along for a mashup of all killer, no filler hits featuring special guests Dee Snider (Twisted Sister), Steve Augeri (former lead singer of Journey) and Mark McGrath (Sugar Ray). The tour promises to be a modern day throwback to epic tailgate parties, positive energy, and a much needed nothing but a good vibe.
Michaels states, "I created Parti-Gras as a sincere and grateful thank you to the fans, friends, and family who have rocked with me over the years. I promise to deliver positive energy, live, raw, real music, and all the bands will deliver sing-a-long hit after hit songs. Your voice will be hoarse after an epic, big, fun stage show."
The Pascua Yaqui Tribe spared no expense in conceiving, designing and building AVA, the finest outdoor concert venue in Tucson. Named for one of the Tribe’s visionaries, Anselmo Valencia Amphitheater is truly a masterpiece of performance settings. Approximately 1,700 seats ring the stage in a gently ascending sweep to the grand lawn just behind, where 2,700 more attendees can spread a blanket and immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of an incredible array of artists.
Tickets can be purchased through the casino’s website by visiting CasinoDelSol.com. $
By Sami Becker Reprinted
STILLETO NAILS
A Fashion Trend That Has No Place In A Casino
Sami, I was just served by a waitress at [a casino] that had the longest, pointy nails I have ever seen in my life! They must have been over two inches long! I was appalled that a person with those nails was serving our food. Her thumb nails were touching our food! God only knows what bacteria she had under her nails! I’m shocked that her supervisors allow her to have those kinds of nails. I talked to the manager on duty and they said there was nothing they could do about it. Seriously?! I, for one, and everyone I was with that day are never going back to that restaurant again! That is so unhygienic and completely disgusting! What do you think?
Tara F Gilbert, AZ
Tara, I completely agree with you! In fact, the long, pointy nails you refer to (called stiletto nails) have no business on any employee in a casino. Period. Whether the workers are serving food, checking customers in at the hotel, cleaning rooms, dealing cards, or paying jackpots on the floor, it’s not appropriate. The main reason, as you mention, is the health hazard.
In a recent article in USA Today Jeffrey Kaplan, a Biology Professor at American University, emphasized, “The longer the nail, the more surface area there is for microorganisms to adhere to. Studies have found 32 different bacteria and 28 different fungi underneath fingernails.” One study even found MRSA, an antibiotic-resistant bacteria that causes serious infections underneath half of the fingernail samples collected.
Besides the obvious health risks to both the customers and the employees, there is another reason why management really needs to institute a policy against extremely long nails and it boils down to efficiency. Most employees with the outrageously long nails are just not as efficient when performing their duties (and please note that I did emphasize the word most here and I did not say all employees).
Personally, from a customer prospective, I have experienced a tendency for increased mistakes and slower service when being helped by employees with stiletto nails or something similar. For example, when checking in at a casino hotel, I’ve noticed the difficulties the employees exhibit just with basic tasks like using a keyboard, touching a screen, or holding a pen in their hands. Everything seems so much slower and laborious as a result of the long nails.
As another example, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve received a taxable hand pay at the slots and cringed watching a
Arizona Gaming Guide | September 2024 | azgamingguide.com
slot attendant count and recount (sometimes up to three times) the money into my hands while fumbling around with the long
pot on the slot machine’s player tracking system as they contort their hands in what looks to be such unnatural positions.
For those who are squeamish (like me), you may want to stop reading now and skip over to the next paragraph. One day I was playing my favorite slot game when the person’s machine next to me froze. I’m not exactly sure whether the machine went into a tilt because of a paper jam or some other reason. To make a long story short, a slot attendant (with stiletto nails, btw) had to open the machine to take care of the problem. The earpiercing scream, followed by a long shriek was the first reason I nearly peed my pants from fright. The second reason was because of what I saw when I looked over (and I really, really wish I didn’t). Two nails got caught on the door (yes, two not just one), were bent backwards and ripped off along with half of her original nail beds. And the blood, oh the blood! I almost fainted at the sight of her hands and the thought of the pain and agony she must have been going through! Don’t say I didn’t warn you!
I can’t say that I don’t understand these women because I, like almost all women, have sacrificed health, time, money and comfort all in the name of fashion. Contacts, high heels, underwire bras, tight jeans, slimming undergarments, tanning booths, I’ve done it all. But when fashion is so painful and trendy equals torture, all of us women really have to think twice about the decisions we’re making and why? Especially when crazy fads pose serious health risks and dangers to us and those around us. Plus, I would seriously hope that casino management wants to minimize the potential for unsafe situations as stiletto nails are a definite health hazard and can cause workplace injuries. Furthermore, they can cost the casinos a lot of money and time due to inefficiency in the long run. $
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 Arizona’s Native American Tribes, Find: AK-CHIN, APACHE, COCOPAH, COLORADO, GILA, HAVASUPAI, HOPI, HUALAPAI, KAIBAB, MARICOPA, MOJAVE, NAVAJO, O’ODHAM, PAIUTE, PASCUA, PIMA, QUECHAN, TOHONO, YAQUI, YAVAPAI, ZUNI. Words appear in any direction. (Solution on page 38)
P Y T G T A A C E U Q F H E N
H A V A S U I Q S A A C L P A
M T H R M A H O O G E P P T D
L O G S R N A O S A O I J A V
C
L
T I P R O E U W O E A P Q B C
O B A S T M Y B K H M I P O J
H A L E L Z I P A V A Y A N B
O B A E H C A D N Y O C V A P
N P U A K C N Q C F S M B H I
O D H K N Z D R O L O C A C O
L Z U N I P A O C O C I P K H
P Y Y A Q U A L F I Y R E I C
Jokes & Quotes
Research shows that laughing stimulates the immune system and may help prevent or reverse some medical conditions.
A man was on trial for murder. There was strong evidence against him, but the victim’s body had never been found. The defendant’s lawyer, knowing that his client would probably be convicted, stood before the jury for the closing statement.
“Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, I have a surprise. Within one minute, the person presumed dead in this case will walk into this courtroom.” He looked at the courtroom door. The jurors followed his glance. A minute passed but nothing happened.
“Actually, I made that scenario up,” the lawyer confessed. “But everyone of you looked at the door because you have reasonable doubt as to whether there is a victim in this case. I insist you return a verdict of not guilty!”
The jury, clearly confused, left to deliberate. A few minutes later, they returned and pronounced a guilty verdict.
“I don’t understand,” the lawyer said. “I saw all of you stare at the door.”
“Yes, everyone looked,” the jury foreman explained. “Everyone, that is, except your client!”
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: EASY (Solution on page 38)
Zodiac Lucky Numbers
Aries (March 21 – April 19): 2, 3, 13, 32, 48, 68
Taurus (April 20 – May 20): 6, 8, 22, 39, 54, 60
Gemini (May 21 – June 20): 9, 15, 24, 30, 48, 61
Cancer (June 21 – July 22): 3, 19, 25, 35, 46, 64
Leo (July 23 – August 22): 7, 11, 24, 34, 50, 66
Virgo (August 23 – September 22): 10, 13, 17, 34, 53, 58
Libra (September 23 – October 22): 3, 8, 18, 39, 44, 59
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): 2, 19, 21, 27, 53, 58
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): 4, 10, 16, 35, 43, 59
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): 4, 9, 21, 30, 54, 68
Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): 6, 16, 24, 38, 51, 57
Pisces (February 19 – March 20): 10, 22, 24, 33, 50, 59
Green Wood Dragon Year
Ask for good luck: 1, 2, 5, 6, 10, 13, 22, 26.
Travel: 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 10, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 22, 25, 30.
Meet with someone: 2, 15, 27.
There is no overlap this month!
Other Auspicious Days in September Wedding: 2, 3, 5, 10, 13, 15, 17, 19, 22, 25, 27, 29.
Buying A Car: 1, 2, 10, 13, 14, 20, 22, 26.
Moving: 1, 2, 5, 10, 13, 17, 20, 22, 25.
Treatment / Surgery: 24.
CASINO SPONSOR DIRECTORY
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14. Desert Diamond Casino-Why Hwy. 86, Milepost 55 Why
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.
20. Quechan Casino I-8, Exit 166
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
