OUR APP & G2E 2024
Looking Ahead To The Future
s we announced last month, we are releasing our app this month on the Apple and Google app stores. Navigate to either one and enter the search term “Arizona Gaming Guide.” That’s the easiest way to find us. Or, head over to AZGamingGuide.com and find the links at the bottom of the page. Then, download our app and sign up to begin receiving exclusive insider info which we’ll only provide through that platform. Also, we have a number of additional features which we plan on releasing to registered users of the app in 2025. And, if you have a wish list of functionality you’d like to see in our app, let us know. We’ll do our best to incorporate your suggestions. So, stay tuned!
This month there is the big annual gaming trade show called Global Gaming Expo (or G2E for short). We were at one of the first ones back in 2000. A lot has changed, some good, some bad. One of the leaders of change since our first show two-and-a-half decades ago is the gaming company Everi. You love playing their games, both video and stepper (or reel slots), and we love playing them too! Make sure to read the feature story (page 20) on everything they are ready to display at this year’s G2E. Plenty of new games and new technology we’ll experience on the casino floor as patrons very soon.
Have A Lucky Month!
Alexandra
Alexandra Lang Editor-in-Chief Editor@AZGamingGuide.com
Your Authority On Everything Gaming
VOLUME 16 • ISSUE 10
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
QUESTIONS ABOUT CUSTOMER SERVICE
Top Concern: Wait Times!
Q: Hi AZ Gaming Guide. My wife and I [have the highest-level card] at [a local casino] and have been players there for many years. Recently, we’ve noticed that the service on the slot floor isn’t what it used to be. When the machine locks up for a hand pay, it’s taking a lot longer to get our jackpot. The customer service continues to be great but we’re waiting longer than we ever had to wait before. We’ve addressed our concerns with the staff and they do always apologize for the delay. Not sure why this is? We’ve visited some of the other casinos in your magazine that are out of town. Same thing – great customer service usually but long wait times for hand pays. Are the casinos cutting down on their staff to save money?
Q: Dear AZ Gaming, I guess this is more of a comment than a question. Casino employees seem more frantic than they ever have been before. If you’re going to play the games on the floor and hit a taxable, be prepared to wait longer than usual. If you’re going to go out to eat at a restaurant, you may have to wait for a while to be seated. Then, it will take a while before your order is placed and served to you. Same thing at check in.
Q: To the Editor of the AZ Gaming Guide: Enough with [the casinos] who continue to lock their machines at ridiculously low payouts! Who are they trying to fool and why are they still doing that? Do they just want flashing lights so it looks like a ton of people are winning? If you’re going to do that then don’t make us sit there and wait to be paid for 30 minutes! I’m sick of the waiting, and I know I’m not the only one. It’s the 21st century so stop running your business in such archaic ways or hire more people to unlock the games faster so people can continue to play rather than just sit there and wait, and wait.
Q: This is for Players Talk or Sami’s Smackdown. My gripe: the casinos aren’t the way they used to be. Less employees, more time waiting in lines, worse customer service, different employees all the time, grouchier moods. My question: what’s going on? I miss the way the casinos and the employees used to be 10+ years ago. Are we not valuable customers to them anymore? Sometimes I feel like casinos think we’re just cows they can milk for money.
Q: Every time I check into the hotel at [a casino] or go to the Player’s Club or even the deli I see faces I don’t recognize and everything takes longer! This never used to happen before …
A: Thanks for your comments about your experiences. We can’t claim this is true for all casinos but we have had very similar experiences ourselves when visiting casinos as patrons.
In terms of changing jackpot procedures, many casinos are implementing more financial security and money laundering protocols. This takes more time to pay jackpots. Plus, casinos are also preparing for the cashless gaming revolution which is already making its way out from casinos in Las Vegas to the rest of Nevada and across Tribal casinos as well. Soon, players will load their players club accounts with currency from a variety of sources, download funds to slots and upload the funds when they hit the “Cash Out” button. Jackpots will be paid directly to the slot’s credit meter or to the player’s account saving time.
When it comes to staffing, the gaming industry has many of the same issues most other industries are currently facing. There is a shortage of employees who are willing to remain on the job beyond a few weeks, there are a lot of positions open and remaining unfilled, and then it seems managers may be having challenges staffing shifts or predicting customer loads.
And, yes, we are aware of casinos (and non-gaming businesses) who are cutting back on employees, especially full time positions. This is due, in part, to high labor costs and the incredibly large and rising cost of health care.
All we can tell you is find the casino which provides you the best consistent service. And, find a casino which makes an effort to communicate they value you as a guest, regardless of new or familiar faces! Then, patronize that casino.
Patience is a virtue indeed! Personally, our “Patience Tank” is running low as well regardless of if we are visiting casinos as patrons or shopping for groceries! Take a deep breath and say “More Jackpots!” a few times to yourself! $
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 & Coming Soon
Submitted
by Aristocrat Gaming at press time
STRATEGY ALERT!
By Aristocrat Gaming
A Buffalo Ultimate Stampede
fan favorite theme that has just gone ultimate with an ultimate stampede! Introducing Buffalo Ultimate Stampede, where fan-favorite Buffalo Stampede is back with Cash-on-Reel prizes and a new hold & spin bonus with unlocking reel rows. Featuring Classic Buffalo free games with sunset multipliers and Cash-on-Reel symbols. Join the stampede for an ultimate new adventure.
Game features include:
The Ultimate Stampede, where players collect Cash-on-Reel prizes to unlock additional reel rows.
Bonus free games, where players collect multipliers and the chance to trigger the Ultimate Stampede.
A bonus meter, where players collect Cash-on-Reel symbols to fill up the bonus meter.
At press time, the following casino sponsors had the game available for play: Casino Arizona, Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, and Talking Stick Resort. $
Coin Trio Royal
By Aristocrat Gaming
Aristocrat Gaming is giving Coin Trio fans the royal treatment in the all-new Coin Trio Royal Coin Trio Royal builds on the original player experience, blending proven mechanics and game math with innovation with the introduction of a new Golden Metamorphic, allowing players to enjoy two Hold & Spins when triggered. Coin Trio Royal also features jackpots fit for a king. The game comes with a $25,000 Royal Jackpot on top of the standard Grand Jackpot of $10,000.
Coin Trio Royal has two exciting game themes for players to choose from: Fortune Trails Royal is a Reel Power game and Piggy Burst Royal is a 50 Lines game. Coin Trio Royal has three exciting features: in the Triple Metamorphic feature, Red, Green, and Blue Metamorphic bonuses from original themes reappear to grant Hold & Spins with Win All, Boosted Value, or Repeat Win coins landing during the feature.
A newly gilded center reel spot offers players the chance at two new features. The new Golden Metamorphic gives players two Hold & Spins instead of one and functions as a fourth metamorphic bonus. Players may trigger one, two, or all three of the standard metamorphics before doubling up on their bonus with the Golden Metamorphic. In Royal Grand Chance, when players land a Royal Grand Chance symbol in the center reel spot, they get a repeat win feature that may award the Royal Jackpot. $
GREAT GAMES Ready For Play & Coming Soon
Submitted by Aristocrat Gaming and Light & Wonder at press time
STRATEGY ALERT!
Visit our website for details.
TDragon Train
By Light & Wonder
he new slot series, Dragon Train, from Light & Wonder is invading U.S shores from the West via Australia. Enjoy four titles including Khutulun Battle Princess, Forever Emperor, Chi Lin Wins and Sun Shots. Classic base game features like a three by five reel window, 243-ways-to-win game, a common hold-and-re-spin feature and free games. Plus, players can select their denomination from low to high. Look for jackpot values starting at $500 and $10,000 depending on how each casino sets up the slots. Landing the Dragon Train Orb in the feature launches a separate hold-and-re-spin bonus where players can win the $1,000 Fortune 8 jackpot.
Trigger the free games bonus and look for clustered orb symbols. Khutulun Battle Princess and Forever Emperor also have nudging wilds in free games. Chi Lin Wins and Sun Shots have sticky reels in the free games.
At press time, the following casino sponsors had the game available for play: Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino and We-Ko-Pa Casino. $
New Slot Cabinet: The Baron
By Aristocrat Gaming
The Baron dual-screen cabinet by Aristocrat Gaming features groundbreaking technological innovations including never-before-seen integrated dynamic lighting, advanced display monitors, and sleek design elements to enhance casino floors. The powerful combination creates a new gaming experience unlike any other. The Baron will make its tradeshow debut at G2E this October with deployment on casino floors to follow. “At Aristocrat Gaming we continually innovate for our customers, and The Baron builds on the global legacy of the market-leading cabinets in our portfolio while showcasing the depth of range we offer to meet our customers’ needs and their player demands,” said Victor Duarte, Executive Vice President of Product for Aristocrat Gaming.
Like all Aristocrat Gaming cabinets, The Baron launches with a portfolio of titles to appeal to a broad range of players. “We’re excited about the roadmap of The Baron and look forward to it illuminating casino floors in the near future,” said Duarte. Leveraging fan-favorite game families, The Baron will launch with three new Game Sales titles: Buffalo Gold Cash Collection, Ju Cai Jin Gui Dragon and Ingot, and Bao Zhu Zhao Fu Ignite Blue Prosperity and Red Prosperity
Buffalo Gold Cash Collection brings the iconic brand to the newest hardware with exciting Cash on Reel features paired with Cash Boost, Gold Collection, and Multiplier bonuses. Ju Cai Jin Gui Dragon and Ingot is the successor to Fu Dai Lian Lian building on the Triple Metamorphic that started it all, to introduce a newly branded member of the portfolio with the addition of a Fourth Metamorphic. Bao Zhu Zhao Fu Ignite Blue Prosperity and Red Prosperity also expand on the Triple Metamorphic mechanic by blending four features into one ultimate package resulting in 15 different bonus combinations! $
THE PERFECT GIFT THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
Arizona Lottery Holiday Tickets Are Back With More Chances To Win!
The holiday season is almost here, and the Arizona Lottery is bringing in the season with its highly anticipated new Holiday Scratchers and Fast Play tickets. With gifts starting at just $1, this year’s collection features seven festive games, offering an ideal gift or stocking stuffer for everyone on your list. From $1 Happy Holidays Scratchers, gingerbreadscented $2 Milk & Cookie Cash Scratchers, a $5 Festive $500s Fast Play ticket, to the $10 Triple Red 7’s Scratchers, there is truly something for everyone.
WIN
UP TO $500K & A HAWAIIAN DREAM VACATION!
Giving the gift of lottery tickets (or just treating yourself) offers a thrilling way to share in the excitement of the holiday season. Plus, this year’s Holiday tickets offer an exciting bonus prize: not only can players win up to $500,000 in prizes, but could also be gifting the ultimate vacation to The Big Island, courtesy of the Arizona Lottery Players Club’s Hawaiian Holiday Giveaway!
Fifty lucky winners will win a once-in-a-lifetime vacation for two, including travel, hotel, meals, special gifts and experiences, and more! Winners will stay in luxury accommodations at the Fairmont Orchid on the Island of Hawaii for six nights in December 2025. Players can enter their eligible holiday tickets into Arizona Lottery Players Club on the mobile app, or online at AZPlayersClub.com and will receive one entry per dollar.
The Arizona Lottery
3,500 locations throughout Arizona, making them convenient, affordable gifts or stocking stuffers for everyone 21 years of age or over.
“Giving the gift of Arizona Lottery tickets is a longtime tradition for many of our players,” said Alec Thomson, Executive Director of the Arizona Lottery. “We are excited to offer players the chance to experience holiday cheer with these tickets and their top prize offerings, as well as to offer players a chance to enjoy the holidays in the beautiful state of Hawaii!” Don’t miss your chance to win big with holiday tickets from the Arizona Lottery this year. Pick up your Scratchers or Fast Play tickets for yourself, family, and friends, and don’t forget to enter to win the Hawaiian Holiday giveaway through the Players Club.
For more information about Arizona Lottery's new holidaythemed games or to participate in the Hawaiian Holiday Players Club promotion, visit 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 8783) or text NEXTSTEP to Submitted
By Al Moe
POKER ODDS & MAXIMIZING WINS
Insights Into My Playing Style
If you jumped in my “Way Back Machine,” you could see me playing blackjack for a living. And although I bet more when I had the edge and less when the cards favored the house, I didn’t win every time I played.
Why, you ask? Because my overall edge was tiny, less than one percent!
I won over 60% of my sessions, but there were many occasions when I lost multiple times in a row, including eight consecutive times at the Peppermill in Sparks, Nevada, and they had singledeck games! The swings at blackjack are harsh, even for a card counter.
I started concentrating on poker and Texas Hold ’Em to combat the vicious trials, but in my first month, I only made $1.98 per hour. I’m happy to say I do better now, but not as well as I could if I was risk-averse.
BANKROLLS & BLUES
Gamblers like to say, “If you go bust, you go hungry.” So, you’re always walking a tightrope. You can’t play without a bankroll. Whether you are a casual player or a World Series of Poker bracelet winner, your play matches your risk tolerance. Most of us gamble more when we’ve got the bankroll. But with conditions.
Phil Hellmuth is the all-time leader with 17 WSOP bracelets, and even he says he can fold a strong hand pre-flop early in a tournament. Pocket Aces against three opponents only have a 65% chance of winning. “In a $10,000 tourney, you can find a better spot to get all in with.”
So, you might pass occasionally with a big hand pre-flop, especially if you are close to the bubble or it’s early in a tournament. That’s a way to maximize your chances of cashing in a large freezeout, not a rebuy. But what about cash games?
GRINDING & MAXIMIZING
For some players, grinding out an income from poker means playing only the best starting cards and constantly forcing players off their draws. Still, that’s passive and defensive. An example would be flopping a set and immediately betting $40 at a
$20 pot, so a player with a straight or flush draw won’t have the pot odds to call. The $40 bet usually wins $20. But if you’re a grinder, like Michael Mizrachi, who never lets a hand get wasted, it’s different. In his context, a grinder looks at his opponent’s stacks and calculates their pre-flop hand.
If the flop comes Ace-Four-Nine, you want a player that flopped a pair of Aces to risk their stack against your set of Nines by the river. And if there are two to a flush, a smaller bet might get someone chasing that too.
If the stacks across the table are deep, you might double or even triple up. That’s the payoff you want. Is it worth giving up the almost guaranteed $20 to win $500? Again, that depends on your risk tolerance. A flush or straight will hit about a third of the time, and you’ll lose that $20. Or your set might still be good. You’ll have to be more careful, but you can still river a full house.
My best advice is to not stop betting on your strong hands; just consider the risk versus reward and maximize when you can! $
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
THE CURRENT STATE OF TOURNAMENTS
The Difference Between Success And Failure
Ithink everyone can agree that the COVID-19 crisis took a toll on the gaming industry. We experienced inconvenient temperature checks at the entrance of the casinos, masks and plexiglass dividers at blackjack tables, and much more.
Before COVID-19 the blackjack tournament community in Arizona was about one hundred and fifty players strong. Players and casinos could count on their support for any local blackjack tournament. Most Arizona casinos would hold at least one or more tournaments per year.
One of the best of those tournaments was Casino Arizona’s Tuesday and first Wednesday of the month tournaments. They were very well run and everyone had a good time. If anyone wanted to know how a successful tournament was operated Casino Arizona could of held a Master Class. Since they don't hold tournaments any longer, most of the tournament players now go to Las Vegas to play, myself included. Apparently the casinos don't feel it’s worth it to have all those blackjack players and their significant others in their casinos!
However, if a casino decides to hold a tournament then a requirement for a successful tournament is to at least have knowledgeable staff organize it. That way it will run smoothly and be an enjoyable experience for everyone.
I encourage all casinos to do some research and find out what makes a tournament fun for the players and easy for the staff. The worst blackjack tournaments are put on by casino managers who try to run them like a poker tournament. This always leads to a disastrous result!
For example, a local blackjack tournament was held recently where it was obvious that the person who organized it had little to no experience. Players and staff alike didn't know the rules for the tournament until the first round had started. Needless to say, this led to a lot of confusion.
The rule sheet should have been completed and available well in advance so everyone was informed of the rules. What does blackjack pay, double or three to two? How many hands per round? Is there a chip count? How many players advance per round? How many rounds? What is the minimum and maxi-
mum bet? What is the starting bankroll for each player? Is a player allowed to double after splitting a pair? Covering all the rules ahead of time makes a tournament run smoothly without disputes.
This particular tournament didn't cover any of that! Players that had never played a tournament probably won't play another one after this recent experience. I think even if a casino has never hosted a blackjack tournament it can be a success if they take the time to do a little research and cover all the required information well ahead of time.
After all, one hundred blackjack players (or more) and their friends and family can't be bad for business!
If a casino uses Casino Arizona as a model for their blackjack tournaments, they can't help but be successful. Casino Arizona had a loyal following for many years and I was sorry that they didn't pick up their blackjack tournaments after COVID-19. But, from what I can recall, they had a twelve year run (at least) of great tournaments. Thank you to everyone involved in those blackjack tournaments at Casino Arizona, players, employees, and management alike! $
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.
Everi’s mission is to lead the gaming industry through the power of people, imagination, and technology. As one of the largest suppliers of technology solutions for the casino floor with an expanding focus into adjacent industries, Everi’s commitment is to continually develop products and services that provide gaming entertainment, improve customers' patron engagement, and help customers operate their businesses more efficiently.
At G2E 2024, Everi will highlight its commitment to provide EVERIthing casino and venue operators need to engage players at higher levels.
G2E Booth #1150 will showcase Everi’s ability to develop entertaining game content, gaming machines, and gaming systems to serve land-based, iGaming, and bingo operators. Strategic investments in new gaming cabinets and depth of content will be on display, aimed at transforming players’ experiences. All of this paired with more than 60 unique themes to be presented at G2E makes Everi’s booth a must-see destination.
Everi is excited to showcase an incredibly deep catalog of game content and new hardware products, which enable operators to generate higher returns on their investment and to create memorable experiences for players. As always, Everi will highlight its player-popular stepper catalog at G2E.
The Company will introduce new hardware products including Player Classic Spin, a for-sale extension of the Player Classic Signature family of cabinets with an eye-catching mechanical wheel. The cabinet will be supported by exclusive, limitedrelease game content built on Everi’s legacy of success in the high-denomination mechanical segment.
More than 20 new themes will be showcased at G2E across Everi’s for-sale video cabinets that will appeal to a variety of players, casual or avid. From three-pot and hold-and-spin to cash-on-reels and expanding reels games, all these themes have Everi’s distinct mark on them. Several titles that will release before the end of the year will be available on both the Dynasty Sol for-sale portrait cabinet and Dynasty Vue cabinet.
Everi will also launch Dynasty Luna, a fully featured banked product that takes premium video to new heights with a custom 36-inch square main display and a 49-inch J-shaped display positioned above.
At G2E, Everi Digital, the online gaming business of Everi Holdings Inc., will debut online titles derived from playerpopular themes in the Company’s land-based library as well as arcade-style instant win games. Everi Digital’s footprint spans
North America and Europe with a catalog consisting of over 80 money online casinos and social s portfolio of iGaming content is Remote Game Server.
The Company’s display of digital content at G2E 2024 will also include games and other offerings from Video King, a provider of integrated electronic bingo gaming tablets, video gaming content, instant win games, and systems. Both Video King and Vi – a revolutionary, on-property mobile gaming solution with Everi’s Class II digital games – signify an expansion of the addressable market for Everi’s player-popular digital gaming content.
As a leading innovator and provider of trusted financial technology solutions, player loyalty solutions, as well as digital casino gaming content and products, Everi’s core focus from a FinTech perspective remains on patron engagement and assisting customers to operate more efficiently. With an emphasis on convergence and connectivity, operators and venues can count on Everi’s self-service solutions to deliver optimal performance and reliability.
With its FinTech offerings at G2E, Everi continues to position itself as the technology partner of choice for Tribal casino operators. Building on its “Digital Neighborhood” product portfolio, Everi will showcase the BeOn Mobile Services Platform, industry-leading RegTech such as the Entegrity fourth-generation Anti-Money Laundering solution, as well as a comprehensive suite of additional mobile, financial access, loyalty, and en-
(Continued on page 22)
(Continued from page
hanced marketing solutions.
Everi consistently reinforces a commitment to enhancing the patron journey by providing friction-free and memorable experiences. Powered by the BeOn Mobile Services Platform, which utilizes all of the Company’s mobile services, Everi helps drive increased patron engagement for operators and venues in the casino, sports, entertainment, and hospitality industries.
As part of its ongoing pledge to develop frictionless technology solutions, Everi also aims to combine its services with existing casino infrastructure to help operators reach peak efficiency levels. That is why Everi’s Vi is a key part of the company’s strategy to work with operators to enhance their ongoing digital transformation. Vi combines Everi’s Spark Remote Game Server and digital games, CashClub Wallet, and the Company’s Mobile technology solutions to extend the player’s gaming experience beyond the casino floor, within the allowable gaming footprint.
With industry-leading cashless and cash access payments solutions driving additional volume while improving operational efficiencies, Everi empowers operators and venues to successfully deliver on various additional aspects of the mobile ecosystem. At G2E, Everi will showcase how its payment solutions are designed to maximize funds to the floor, optimized to how patrons access their funds, and enabled for casino operators to monitor and control player activity with an eye towards responsible gaming.
Operators can count on Everi’s self-service solutions to deliver optimal performance and reliability. Empowering operators to successfully deliver on various aspects of the mobile ecosystem, CashClub Wallet is a digital wallet that elevates patron engagement with frictionless, omni-channel payments. Incorporating more funding sources than ever before, such as PayPal and Apple Pay, CashClub Wallet transforms the traditional cash approach into modern, seamless experiences for enhanced patron journeys.
Everi’s cash management solutions automatically count, store, and sort cash, eliminating dual-control loading, manual counting, and handling by cashiers. As a result, operators can minimize cash inventory and tighten cash controls that positively impact casino operations. These solutions also provide flexibility for casinos to grow and adapt services to meet evolving customer demands.
For more info, visit Everi.com and Everi’s G2E Booth #1150. $
Submitted by the Arizona Department of Gaming
ADG WARNS OF GAMING SCAM CALLS
Don’t Fall For These Reel Lies!
The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) is warning the public that gaming scam calls are on the rise in Arizona and nearby states. These scammers are pretending to be affiliated with ADG, the National Indian Gaming Commission, and the Indian Gaming Association, among many other organizations, in an effort to steal patrons' personal information and hard-earned money. Other notable references include, but are not limited to: the Arizona Gaming Commission, the Arizona Indian Gaming Association, the New American Dream Foundation, the Publisher's Clearing House, etc.
Legitimate organizations such as the ADG, its partner Tribal gaming regulators, and national gaming regulatory agencies will never call a patron to alert them of a "win" or "sweepstakes." In addition, these legitimate organizations will never call a patron to alert them of delinquent taxes or fees owed to the State of Arizona or the Internal Revenue Service. If someone claims to work for one of these organizations and makes any demands or threats relevant to the information above, they are a scammer. Keep your money safe and secure, pass the information along to others, and report the scammer immediately.
Tips To Avoid Falling Victim To Scams:
• Verify Information: Before taking any action, hang up the phone and independently verify the legitimacy of the caller by directly contacting the organization they claim to represent by calling those organizations' official listed phone number(s). Never use the contact details the caller provides call whoever they claim to represent directly. Scammers can mask numbers making it appear that a legitimate company or organization is calling you.
• Be Skeptical: Always be skeptical of unsolicited calls, especially those asking for immediate action involving financial transactions. A government agency will never ask you to remove money from your accounts to send via bitcoin, wire transfer, or gift cards.
• Only Scammers Demand Payment in Cryptocurrency: No legitimate business is going to demand you send cryptocurrency in advance not to buy something, and not to protect your money. That’s always a scam!
• Secure Your Personal Information: Never share personal information like your social security number, bank account de-
tails, or passwords over the phone with unknown callers or give anyone real-time access to your computer. Never click on a link from an unexpected text, email, or social media message, even if it seems to come from a company you know.
• Consult Trusted Individuals: Always consult with a trusted family member or friend before making any substantial financial decisions, especially those involving digital currencies like bitcoin.
• Report Suspicious Activity: If something feels off, it probably is. Report the call to local law enforcement and file a complaint with the Arizona Attorney General’s Office.
Business, Government, Or Job Impersonator Scams:
In a business, government, or job impersonation scam, the scammer pretends to be someone you trust to trick you into sending them money. They might claim that there's been fraud detected on your accounts and that your money is at risk. To resolve the issue, they may instruct you to send money or cryptocurrency. They might also tell you that there's a legal problem, that you owe money, or that your accounts or benefits have
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Submitted
by
Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino
(Continued from REEL LIES on page 24)
been frozen as part of an investigation. They then advise you to buy cryptocurrency to fix the problem or protect your money. These are clear warning signs of a scam.
"You've Won" scams are a bit different. You may get a call, letter, email, or text saying that you have won. Perhaps it’s a vacation, cruise, lottery, or sweepstakes. They cannot wait for you to get your winnings, however, they advise that there are fees, taxes, or customs duties to pay. Then, they ask for your credit card number or bank account information. In some cases, they might even ask you to pay with cash, gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. If you pay a scammer or share your information, your financial and personally identifiable information have now been breached. There is no prize. Instead, you might even receive more requests for money, and more false promises that you've won big.
If you believe you or someone you know has been the victim of fraud, file a consumer complaint by visiting azag.gov/consumer. If you need a complaint form sent to you, contact the Attorney General’s Office in Phoenix at (602) 542-5763, in Tucson at (520) 628-6648, or outside the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas at (800) 352-8431.
It is important to note that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) frequently educates the public about avoiding and reporting scams, such as "You've Won" scams. If you spot a scam, please report it to the FTC. Call 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357) or TTY 1-866-653-4261. You can also visit ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Your report can help protect other people. By reporting fraud, you assist the FTC’s investigators to identify scammers and stop them before they can steal someone’s hard-earned money. Visit the FTC’s website, consumer.ftc.gov/scams, for more information. Additionally, if you believe you have been the victim of identity theft, get help from the FTC by visiting their website identitytheft.gov or by calling (877) 438-4338.
ADG takes complaints about illegal gambling seriously. To report suspected illegal gambling activity, visit gaming.az.gov, call (602) 255-3886, or email publicaffairs@azgaming.gov. You can remain anonymous. $
Established by the Arizona State Legislature in 1995, ADG is the state regulatory agency for tribal gaming, event wagering & fantasy sports contests, racing and pari-mutuel/ simulcast wagering, and unarmed combat sports.
ADG also provides and supports education, prevention, and treatment programs for people and families affected by problem gambling through its Division of Problem Gambling and 24-hour confidential helpline, 1-800-NEXTSTEP.
Harrah’s
Ak-Chin Guests Donated Nearly $20K To Local Nonprofits In
Guest Donations @ Harrah
Harrah s Ak-Chin Casino guests donated nearly $20,000 to local area nonprofits through their NRT kiosk donations during Q2 2024. The NRT kiosk machines provide an opportunity for guests to give back in a meaningful way by donating their $0.99 or less change when cashing out their slot machine voucher via the NRT machines. “Giving back to the community is important to us at Harrah’s Ak-Chin and we love that our guests have the opportunity to join us in the mission,” said HERO Committee Chair Barbara Achten. “The NRT kiosks have spotlighted their generosity and just how big an impact our guests make with just a little bit of change. We are grateful for their support.” Since the slot donation program began in October 2022, the program has raised more than $104,760 for local nonprofit organizations. Local organizations supported by the NRT donations in Q2 2024 included Against Abuse, Boys and Girls Club, F.O.R. Maricopa, and Meals on Wheels.
October Promotions @ Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino “Get Toasty” with the October Tier Credit Hot Seats that will be held on October 5 from 1 to 7:30 p.m., where every 30 minutes one lucky guest can win 1,000 Tier Credits, yes you read that right TIER credits, all the way up to 20,000!
Is the NFL one of your favorite pastimes? Participate in Pigskin Pick ‘Em at the promotional kiosks [Editor’s note: Sorry, we just couldn’t help ourselves!] on Tuesdays or Wednesdays each week during the season. The top 10 guests with the most correct picks win from $100 to $400 in free play each week.
And don’t miss the Spooky 777 Sweepstakes on Wednesdays in October. The casino will give away $777 every 30 minutes from 12:30 to 7 p.m.! Visit HarrahsAkChin.com for details. $
Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino team members pose in front of one of the many NRT kiosk machines located throughout the casino.
GAMING NEWS
Submitted by Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino
Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino Announces Promotions On Operations Team: Samantha Gulick & Nathan Kinstlinger
“
Samantha Gulick and Nathan Kinstlinger, two long term Harrah
Gulick has been promoted to Director of Marketing and Operations. In her new role, she will continue to oversee all marketing efforts including advertising, public relations and outreach strategies that drive traffic and build brand awareness for the casino and will now also oversee all casino operations, including slots, table games, bingo and the sportsbook. Gulick has been with Caesars Entertainment for more than 10 years, most recently as the Director of Marketing and Hotel Operations. She is an active participant in the company s HERO program, a team member-based volunteer program in which Harrah’s staff and their families make noteworthy and visible contributions to the community by donating their time, skills, expertise and compassion to dozens of volunteer projects throughout the community. Gulick currently serves on the board of directors for the Chandler Chamber of Commerce.
Kinstlinger has been promoted to Director of Hospitality. In addition to overseeing all food and beverage, banquets and retail operations, he will also be responsible for hotel and spa operations. Kinstlinger has been with Caesars Entertainment for more than 12 years, most recently as Director of Food and Beverage which highlighted his ability to elevate the culinary and service standards, setting new benchmarks within the industry. In his expanded role, Kinstlinger will leverage his extensive experience to enhance the holistic hospitality offerings of Harrah’s Ak-Chin, further solidifying the company's reputation for world-class service and guest satisfaction. Kinstlinger is an active supporter and volunteer with the organization’s HERO program.
velopment, said Michael Kintner, Senior Vice President and General Manager.
sponsibilities underscore our dedication to nurturing talent from within and highlight both Sam and Nate s exceptional leadership qualities. Their contributions have been pivotal in driving our success and will continue to shape the future growth and evolution of Harrah
About Harrah
Harrah Chin Casino, located in Maricopa, Arizona, proudly marks its 30th anniversary as the state's first and only tribal casino with an international management partner. As part of the renowned Caesars Entertainment family, Harrah Chin Casino stands out as the sole casino in Arizona to offer guests the opportunity to unlock exclusive benefits and prizes through its esteemed Caesars Rewards program, valid worldwide across the entire Caesars’ family of casinos. The casino offers an extensive array of gaming options, including Bingo, Craps, sports betting, slot machines, video poker, video keno, statewide progressives, and blackjack. In addition to its diverse gaming offerings, Harrah’s AkChin provides a delightful culinary experience with dining options that include the Copper Cactus Grill, Chop, Block & Brew, Oak & Fork, Agave’s Restaurant, and Dunkin’®. With 529 luxurious resort and tower guestrooms, a spa and fitness center, and an outdoor swimming pool featuring a swim-up bar, Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino offers an unparalleled resort experience.
As the casino celebrates its 30th anniversary, Harrah’s Ak-Chin remains committed to providing a world-class entertainment experience while contributing positively to the local community. For more info 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.
GAMING NEWS
Submitted by Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos
Submitted by Catalyst on behalf of Paradise Casino
Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos
Celebrate Their 32nd Anniversary With Cash, Prizes & Fireworks!
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. Bucky’s and Yavapai Casinos are celebrating 32 incredible years and thank their players! Win your share of $72,600 in cash and prizes during October! Join in the fun and excitement of Cash, Cash and more Cash! $320 Hot Seats on Fridays and $1,000 cash drawings on Saturdays! The 32nd Anniversary celebration comes to an exciting crescendo on Saturday, October 26th with $3,200 cash drawings, Table Games Hot Seat winners may receive up to $320 in chips and a Grand Prize winner will receive a trip valued at $32,000! Plus, enjoy the dazzle and splendor of fireworks at 8 p.m.!
• October 4, 11, 18, 25 Celebrating 32 incredible years!
Bucky’s and Yavapai Casinos invite you to help them Celebrate their 32nd Anniversary! Hot Seat winners will receive $320 cash every Friday in October hourly, 12 to 4 p.m. at Yavapai Casino and 6 to 10 p.m. at Bucky’s Casino.
• October 5, 12, 19 32nd Anniversary Celebration! Win your share of $72,600 in cash and prizes. Be one of five $1,000 weekly cash drawing winners on Saturdays at 7 p.m.
• Plus don’t miss their ongoing promotions including Merchandise Mondays (Wear your authentic logoed Bucky’s or Yavapai Casino apparel, t-shirts, jackets, or caps, on Mondays and receive $10 in Gold Rewards.), Veterans Appreciation Tuesdays, Seniors Day Wednesdays, and Ladies Day Thursdays. $
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! Rush in to Win! Visit BuckysCasino.com for details. Must be 21 or older. Please play responsibly. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-NEXTSTEP.
Loteria Mondays Every Monday in October from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Loteria will be played at the top of each hour for your chance to win $100 in Rewards Play. Earn up to 3 cards per day, earn 100 points for your first card, 200 points for your second card, and 300 points for your third card.
October Earn a Gift Now earn your gift at either Quechan or Paradise Casinos! Sundays, October 6th-27th from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. earn 100 points at either casino to receive an item from the Ramen & Shabu-Shabu Chef’s Kit. The kit includes Ramen Bowls, Rice Dispenser, Dual Shabu-Shabu Pot and an Electric Hot Plate. Tuesdays or Wednesdays, October 1st to 30th from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. earn 125 points at either casino to receive an item from the Sunrise Breakfast Set. The set includes a Waffle Maker, Crepe Maker, 15oz Blender, and Omelet Maker. In the 5th week of October receive a 5th gift, the Tea Kettle & Cups!
Dining Specials The Cove $1.99 Breakfast Specials, Monday through Friday, 7 to 10 a.m. The Reef Late Night Menu, available Sundays through Thursdays from 9 p m to midnight Plus, food and drink specials during all live NFL games.
Sharky’s Lounge Live entertainment every Friday and Saturday from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. including:
• 10/4, 5, 18, 19, 25 & 26 DJ Bobby Mac
• 10/5 UFC 307: Alex Pereira vs Khalil Rountree Jr
• 10/11 & 12 Bobby G and the Time Machine
• 10/18 Comedy Night: Diva Danielle Williams & Keith Ellis
Hero Wednesday Day Every Wednesday Hero Player Rewards Club members get $10 in Rewards Play & Double Hero Club benefits at the hotel, gift shops and restaurants. For more info visit Paradise-Casinos.com. $
GAMING NEWS
Submitted by Sandoval on behalf of Casino Del Sol
Submitted by Catalyst on behalf of Quechan Casino Resort
Casino Del Sol Entertainment, Bingo & Casino Promotions
Entertainment at AVA Amphitheater: Godsmack Saturday, October 5
Bret Michaels Parti-Gras Saturday, October 26
Bingo Specials: The new Saturday daily special in October is 20% off Buy-Ins. On October 4, participate in Cosmic Bingo Breast Cancer Awareness where the Best Dressed wins $300, $200, $100 for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, hosted by the hilarious Lucinda Holliday. And on October 31, enjoy Halloween Bingo including free holiday daubers, bingo stop signs and candies!
Little Wheel Big Money: Club Sol members can participate in the Little Wheel Big Money Promotion every Saturday October 6 through November 30. Club Sol members have a chance to win up to $1,000 in free play at Del Sol and up to $500 at Casino of the Sun. Plus, receive an invite to the Grand Finale on Saturday, November 30th for a chance to win up to $10,000 cash at Casino Del Sol!
Slots O’ Fun Tournament: Club Sol members who earn 50 slot or table base points on Tuesdays can participate in the Slots O’ Fun Tournament at Casino Del Sol. Participants have a chance to win a share of $5,000 in free play each tournament day.
Tip Jar Tuesday Hot Seats: Club Sol members can join Tip Jar Tuesday Hot Seats every Tuesday for a chance to win up to $1,000 free play. Casino Del Sol selects carded Club Sol winners Tuesday evenings from 5 to 9 p.m. Any prize not claimed from 9 p.m. goes into the Rollover Tip Jar and will be given away immediately after the 9 p.m. selections.
For more information visit CasinoDelSol.com $
Quechan Casino Resort Entertainment, Dining Specials & More
Summer Hotel Special Book your stay for only $89 a night Sunday–Thursday!
Prince Again The Q is thrilled to announce Prince Again: A Tribute to Prince, live at the Pipa Event Center on October 26th! Dive into the vibrant world of Prince with an electrifying performance that will make you feel like you’re front row at one of his iconic concerts. Tickets available at PlayQCR.com.
Ace Frehley Ace Frehley, an original member of KISS will be performing at Quechan on October 31st! Catch the hits from KISS, “I Was Made for Lovin’ You,” “Crazy Crazy Nights” and songs from his solo albums like “New York Groove” and “Ozone.” Tickets available at PlayQCR.com.
Dining Specials Ironwood Steakhouse: Steak and Shrimp Filet served with Argentine Red Shrimp, Mashed Potatoes and Vegetables for $29.95. Open Tuesday through Saturday 5 to 9 p.m. For reservations call 1-760-572-1658.
Sidewinders Live Entertainment on Fridays and Saturdays:
• 10/4 & 10/5 Blue Fire Revival
• 10/11, 10/12 & 10/25 DJ Phat Albert
• 10/18 & 10/19 Rebolution
• 10/26 DJ Phat Albert/Prince Tribute After Party
• 10/31 Blue Fire Revival/Ace Frehley After Party
If you are looking for a “reel” value meal, order Sidewinders’ Double Down Cheeseburger and Fries for just $7.77 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. And, All-You-Can-Eat Seafood is at the Ocotillo Buffet on Fridays and Saturdays from 4 to 9 p.m. for $29.95 per person with a Players Card. For info visit PlayQCR.com. $
CASINO ENTERTAINMENT
BLUEWATER CASINO Parker
Karaoke Nights Dig Lounge Wednesdays 7 to 11 p.m.
DJs Dig Lounge Fridays & Saturdays 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Cheap Trick October 5
BUCKY’S & YAVAPAI CASINOS Prescott
Live music at the Prescott Resort 6-9 p.m. Saturdays.
Cantina Karaoke Mondays 6-9 p.m.
Anniversary Celebration October 26
CASINO ARIZONA Scottsdale
Rockin’ The Paradise (STYX) October 4, 5 & 6
L.A. Vation (U2) October 18, 19 & 20
Aeromyth (Aerosmith) October 25 & 26
Sweet Home Alabama (Lynyrd Skynyrd) November 1, 2 & 3
No Quarter (Led Zeppelin) November 15, 16 & 17
CASINO DEL SOL Tucson
Godsmack October 5
Bret Michaels Parti-Gras October 26
Gary Allen November 8
19th Tamal Festival December 7
COCOPAH CASINO Somerton
Karaoke Saturdays 8:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.
HARRAH’S AK-CHIN CASINO Maricopa
Live at The Lounge Series Wed. Fri. Sat. Contact Casino.
Wheel Of Fortune Live! November 7
Midland December 31
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
Clay Walker October 4
Ludacris October 5
Pow Wow October 18 & 19
TALKING STICK RESORT Scottsdale
8 Man Jam October 6
Jimmy Vaughan October 17
Joel McHale October 20
Oktoberfest October 26
Scott McCreery November 1
ZZ Top November 3
The Smithereens w/ Robin Wilson –November 15
Matt Fraser November 23
Billy Prine December 6
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
Gary Allen @ Casino Del Sol
ZZ Top @ Talking Stick Resort
Talking Stick Resort
October 26
Oktoberfest at Talking Stick Resort: Cheers to German Traditions, Fun, and Big Wins! Join them for Oktoberfest on October 26, 2024 from noon to 8 p.m. at the Fire Garden at Talking Stick. Enjoy live music from Festmeister Hans und die Saurkrauts, games, raffles, and authentic food and beer. Free admission, so don't miss out!
Think You’re Strong? Prove it in their Steinholding Contest! Hold a liter of ice-cold beer in a heavy glass stein longer than anyone else and win bragging rights and prizes! Take your chance to be a champion! Prizes include a one night hotel stay with breakfast for two, Dbacks game tickets, golf passes, cash & more!
Dress to Beeindrucken (meaning “to impress” in German): Will Your Oktoberfest Attire Take the Spotlight? Dust off your dirndls and lederhosen and get ready for their Oktoberfest Attire Contest! Show off your best Bavarian attire for a chance to win up to $500.
Taste the Tradition: Don’t Miss the Authentic German Flavors at Oktoberfest! Indulge in authentic Bavarian delights at their Oktoberfest, where every bite and sip is a celebration of tradition. Savor warm, buttery pretzels and savory grilled brats paired with an exceptional selection of draft beers, including classics like Spaten Lager, Weinhenstephan's Dunkel and local seasonal favorites from Four Peaks. A special nod to Four Peaks for providing the mugs Prost! Don’t just hear about it join them and taste the legendary flavors for yourself! $
Spice Up Your Fall Amethyst Spa
We-Ko-Pa Casino
No, this isn’t a band, it’s We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort’s Fall Refresh Spa Specials! Treat yourself to one (or all!) of these energizing, reinvigorating treatments that are perfect for pampering this time of year:
Aromatherapy Massage 60 minutes $140 (was $160)
Relax mind, body and spirit as you invigorate your senses with your choice of one of their healing, therapeutic aromas. As an added bonus, seasonal scents like clove or cinnamon boast anti-inflammatory benefits to help with circulation and detoxification.
Autumn Glow Facial 60 minutes $140 (was $180)
This anti-aging pumpkin facial incorporates fall’s most popular fragrance – along with Circadia by Dr. Pugliese’s professional skincare line that combines pure botanicals, stem cells, vitamin and innovative peptide technology – to cleanse, exfoliate, hydrate and protect your skin. Hot towels, ice globes and a variety of targeted massages further elevate this luxurious experience.
Pumpkin Mani/Pedi 90 minutes $100 (was $125)
Pamper hands, feet and nails with this fabulous pumpkininfused combo using Dazzle Dry, a natural gel alternative developed by a local Chandler-based company. Enjoy the ultimate relaxation as nails are made fall-ready, with your treatments capped off with their signature sugar scrub and relaxing moisturizing massage. $
Valid now Through November 30, 2024. Services are subject to availability. 20% gratuity not included. Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. 24-hour cancellation fee will be applied. Visit WeKoPaCasinoResort.com for info.
EXECUTIVE CASINO HOSTS
One Reader’s Experience & Ours
Hi Sami, I decided to write in to you after I read this month’s article on Mario Cardenas, the Executive Host at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino [Editor’s note: September 2024 issue]. He sounds like he does everything right as a host! I wish he were my host! I don’t get out to Maricopa as often as I would like, but I’m thinking of starting to play there more and maybe I get lucky and he’s assigned to me. I have not had good luck with hosts at all. When I reach the top tier at a casino, and I’m contacted by a host, they’re so nice in the beginning – friendly, willing to offer me a steak dinner, a free room, you name it. However, it doesn’t take long for them to disappear off the face of the earth. Am I doing something wrong? As a high-level player, I guess I would like the relationship with my hosts that Mario obviously has with his guests. I’ve thought about going to talk to the hosting departments to ask why I get VIP offers but I’m never contacted by a host, offered any perks (like a dinner at a fine dining outlet) or anything? If you have any suggestions, please let me know. Thanks for all of your interesting articles. I’m so excited to read your articles that I go to your page first every month when the new issue comes out.
Kathy Wallace Glendale, AZ
Kathy, thank you for your kind words about my column. I am very grateful to have you as a fan and I appreciate you taking the time to write me.
Every casino has a loyalty program that’s based on tier levels. The more points you make in a casino’s fiscal year, the higher your card level will be and the more “perks” you will be offered. When a player reaches the top tier level in any casino, and in some cases the second highest level, they are entitled to an Executive Casino Host (ECH). It’s this person’s responsibility to reach out to you and to stay in communication with you, not the other way around. You are doing nothing wrong. First of all, I would strongly suggest that you do go and visit each casino’s VIP Services department and verify that your play has earned you the benefit of a host. Then set up a time to talk with that host. Establishing a relationship with an ECH is essential for you to obtain the maximum benefits as a higher-level player. Hosts are able to provide comps, make reservations, and from time to time (based on your play), comp a steakhouse dinner, get you tickets to shows and sporting events, etc.
When you come across an amazing host who truly understands that their job is one of the most important positions in the casino, it makes you want to visit that property more often. Unfortunately, most casinos do the following: they don’t put the right people in those positions (because this is sales after all), the peo-
t trained properly, and the few and far between ones that are doing a phenomenal job are overwhelmed with too many customers to keep up.
Between me and all of my team members at the AZ Gaming Guide, we maintain six highest tier level player’s cards in Arizona and several more at the second highest level. I’m going to tell you, and all my readers, that my colleagues and I have minimum requirements for an ECH, as well as the casino in general. If those requirements are not met, we DO NOT PLAY at that casino. Here in Arizona, we’re lucky to have a plethora of gaming options to choose from. Don’t choose a casino just out of convenience. Take the time to carefully choose which casino provides you with the best benefits and customer service. Drive the extra mile and give them your business because they show appreciation for you. And, don’t forget the numerous out-oftown gaming options here in the state.
I’m extremely fortunate to have some amazing ECHs who immediately respond to my texts and emails and greet me when I’m visiting their properties. I turn to them for hotel and dinner reservations and, in turn, they keep me updated on all the casino’s promotions and VIP events on a regular basis.
On the flip side, I had one of the worst experiences at a casino in Arizona after I surpassed the top level. Nobody reached out to me personally for an entire year. One day, I had really poor customer service on that casino’s floor. So, I decided to finally track down an ECH and have them look at my account. I explained my experience and then asked, “Give me just one reason to keep playing here.” I was expecting something, anything, but got no answer. Now, I don’t play there anymore. $
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 Octoberfest, Find: OKTOBERFEST, GERMAN, BAVARIA, MUNICH, BEER, CELEBRATION, PROST, DANCING, FOOD, MUSIC, MUG, PARTY, DIRNDL, LEDERHOSEN. Words appear in any direction. (Solution on page 38)
N A T S O R C N U M K P I P H
N E S O H R E B W S O D L E D
C E L E B R A I O N J J J N T
Z O X C I S U T A L Z M T U M
M F L G M U O R K Q F C J G E
A N H O K T E R F E S T H O B
D I A J U S I J C H P E G E Y
G V R K R G C A D W P T N N I
Q G R A T G V H F W A J Y S S
K C Z D V B J T G W R E G Q O
Q W R O I A F E I L T H V B H
G B E O G Y U F R Z Y E U B K
T M E F D I D Z Y M I M L R N
H I B K S M B G O U A U V M D
E O O L V C F N T R T N Q U J
Jokes & Quotes
Research shows that laughing stimulates the immune system and may help prevent or reverse some medical conditions.
Oktoberfest: where the beers are big and the pretzels are bigger.
I’m a hop-timist: I always see the pint glass half full.
Wurst käse scenario: the bratwurst is overcooked.
Why did the lederhosen go to school? To be a smarty pants.
Time to beer witness to the best festival ever!
I’m exploring the hop-portunities in beer tasting.
I must-ard you a question, but first, I need some pretzels.
You think you dough it all? Pretzel logic dictates otherwise.
Don’t go bacon my heart – stick to bratwurst!
Wurst things first: where’s the mustard?
Lederhosen: putting the ‘leather’ in laughter.
The only correct answer at Oktoberfest is, “Yeast, please!”
Each of the columns, rows, and 3 x 3 grids must contain all of the digits 1 - 9. None of the digits may appear more than once in each column, row, and 3 x 3 grid.
Level: MILD (Solution on page 38)
Zodiac Lucky Numbers
Aries (March 21 – April 19): 2, 16, 17, 35, 47, 59
Taurus (April 20 – May 20): 2, 22, 22, 42, 50, 67
Gemini (May 21 – June 20): 12, 19, 25, 33, 51, 65
Cancer (June 21 – July 22): 10, 17, 23, 40, 48, 69
Leo (July 23 – August 22): 7, 14, 15, 32, 52, 69
Virgo (August 23 – September 22): 7, 8, 14, 33, 47, 66
Libra (September 23 – October 22): 3, 6, 20, 35, 48, 60
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): 25, 13, 15, 34, 55, 63
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): 3, 14, 24, 28, 48, 59
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): 6, 9, 21, 30, 43, 65
Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): 2, 3, 16, 29, 52, 61
Pisces (February 19 – March 20): 2, 15, 22, 38, 49, 67
Green Wood Dragon Year
Ask for good luck: 4, 7, 9, 11, 14, 23, 24, 25, 30.
Travel: 1, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 21, 23, 25, 26, 30.
Meet with someone: 4, 8, 13, 15, 20, 27. There is no overlap this month!
Other Auspicious Days this month: Wedding: 1, 7, 9, 13, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 30.
Buying A Car: 2, 15, 2.
Moving: 2, 7, 9, 21, 23, 25.
Treatment / Surgery: 1, 6.
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.
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 855
25. Vee Quiva Casino 6443 Komatke Ln. Laveen
26.
28. We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort Hwy. 87 & Ft. McDowell Rd. Fort
