July 2011 by Arizona Player

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Reel Reviews Card Room Action Casino Entertainment Lottery News and Draws AZ State Poker Championship Boyd’s Eye View of Video Poker

www.arizonaplayer.com

Vol. 19 No. 7 • July 2011

WWW.ARIZONAPLAYER.COM

PO Box 33393 • Phoenix Arizona 85067 • 602-373-8728 • azplayer@cox.net

Contributing Photography Contributing Writers Kevin Cummings Linda Boyd Alicia Gilmore Kevin Cummings Production Assistants Nicole Gilotti Cindy Esquer Charlie Scheeler Melody Hudson Alicia Gilmore John Olson Rachel Lebo Nicole Gilotti Amy O’Hara Tina Lynn Holt Graphic Design David Ramsey Melody Hudson CommuniGraphics Justin Sullivan TJ Jorgensen Marianne Minneci David Ramsey Special Thanks to Justin Sullivan Tony Averitt and his great marketing staff at Shanna Wolfe Cliff Castle Casino Hotel and also to Alicia Gilmore, Phil Ju, Mike Armitage and the entire team at MOSAK Advertising & Insights for all their help on this July issue of Arizona Player Editor Phil Scudella

The Arizona Player is published the first weekend of each month. All claims or guarantees are the sole responsibility of the advertiser. All comments and views of contributing writers are their own and do not reflect official policy of the Arizona Player which assumes no liability for any advertisement not supplied camera ready by the advertiser. Reproduction or use in whole or in part without written consent from the publisher and Copyright owners is prohibited.

Contents

Vol. 19 No. 7 • June 2011

Gaming News New Marketing Manager at Casino AZ & Apache Gold Slot Tournament

Entertaianment

Cover Story Cliff Castle Casino Hotel “Come Discover the Castle”

Boyd’s Eye View Linda Boyd “The Blame Game”

Blackjack Corner TJ Jorgensen “Hot Seats at the Fort”

Lottery News & Draws

Card Room Action

Gaming News Pascua Yaqui Tribe Develops Leaders & BlueWater’s Divas of Comedy

Reel Reviews Kevin Cummings Slot Machine Reviews

Gaming News Arizona State Poker Championship at Casino AZ

Bingo Directory of Games

Gaming News Harrah’s Disco Bingo and Hotel Grand Opening

Woman’s Point of View Marianne Minneci

David at the Snack Rar David Ramsey “Movie Reviews”

Gaming News Phil Scudella "Hands on Cards - Toes in Sand"

Astrology, Jokes of the Month, & Casino Directory

ARIZONA PLAYER July 2011 3

gaming news CASINO ARIZONA ADDS NEW MARKETING DIRECTOR

TOURNAMENT TUESDAYS AT APACHE GOLD

Casino Arizona and Talking Stick Resort, two enterprises of the Salt River PimaMaricopa Indian Community announced the appointment of Peter Arceo as senior director of sales and marketing for both properties. Arceo, with over 19 years in gaming and hospitality, began his career as a front desk clerk, later was a blackjack dealer and diligently worked his way up the ranks. “In order for us to develop the recently opened Talking Stick Resort into the premier gaming destination resort in the entire Southwest and to continue Casino Arizona’s stellar performance, we require the professional leadership and marketing skills that Peter provides. We are extremely pleased to have Peter join our management team,” said Dennis Leong, President and CEO of Casino Arizona and Talking Stick Resort. As senior director of sales and marketing, Arceo creates marketing strategies to meet the goals of each property, while managing all marketing processes extending to advertising, public relations, interactive, player development and promotions. With nearly two decades experience in gaming and hospitality, he has a vast repertoire from which to draw. Prior to accepting his new position, Arceo spent many years with the Las Vegas Hilton. There, he implemented the property’s casino systems and technology, and later played a large role in the creation of casino marketing strategy. “It is with much excitement that I approach my new role at Casino Arizona

Every Tuesday Apache Gold Casino Resort hosts a slot tournament with a guaranteed first place prize of $1000! Best of all, the top nine finalists are all guaranteed to win cash and promotional credits. The buy- in is small but the prizes are big! Entering is as simple as earning 500 or more points from 2am to 4pm on Tuesdays using your Players Club card or just paying $20 at the cashier cage. The tournament is in its second month and its popularity is rapidly increasing. Join the long list of winners already, like Ken Halle who was a big winner in June and took home that $1,000 top prize. Each week the prize pool is has been steadily growing – Here’s the current prize payout: 1st Place $1,000 cash, 2nd Place 50% of the cash prize pool + $100 in promo credits, 3rd Place 20% of the prize pool + $100 in promo credits and 4th – 9th Place receive 5% of the prize pool + $50 in promo credits. As you can see, there is no shortage of winnings. The tournament begins at 5pm every Tuesday so don’t miss out. Apache Gold Casino Resort offers the latest and hottest paying slots, three restaurants to enjoy a great meal, a Best Western Hotel, and the Apache Stronghold championship golf course. Plus, for your entertainment, live bands every weekend in The Cabaret Lounge where there is never an admission and plenty of drink specials. Stop by the Players Club and sign up for a card and start earning points for all the great promotions that they offer. Membership is free and they even start new players off with promotional credits. Apache Gold Casino Resort is located 5 miles east of Globe on Hwy 70 – Where there’s always something going on!

4 ARIZONA PLAYER July 2011

and Talking Stick Resort. The people I work with on a daily basis offer a wealth of experience and knowledge of the organization that I admire greatly” said Peter Arceo, senior director of sales and marketing for Casino Arizona and Talking Stick Resort. Arceo then added “We have two wonderful and special properties. Talking Stick Resort is one of the most amazing properties I’ve seen. Our room product is upscale and modern providing comfort for the leisure and business guest. Also, the sheer fact that the property received the Four Diamond Award from AAA in its first year of operation is a testament to the investment in both the building and guest service levels. Casino Arizona is no different. The variety of games, dining options and live entertainment make it a true onestop destination for fun.” Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale is a 15-story resort featuring 497 deluxe rooms, a 240,000 sq. ft. casino, spa, 650seat showroom, conference center, grand ballroom, six entertainment lounges and five eateries. Its sister property, Casino Arizona at Salt River offers visitors 100,000 square feet devoted to gaming and entertainment. Amenities include table games, the latest multi-denominational slot machines, keno, a world-class showroom and gourmet restaurants including the Cholla Prime Steakhouse and Lounge.

ENTERTAINMENT Apache Gold Casino Resort

games, drink specials and fun For updated schedule, go to harrahsakchin.com

5 miles East of Globe on Hwy 70 1-800-272-2438 Cabaret Lounge: free live weekend entertainment with bands like: XS Band, Grey Wolf, All Axcess, Lounge Katz and Gone Country

Hon-Dah Resort and Casino

Highways 260 and 73, Pinetop 1-800-WAY-UP-HIGH Free live entertainment In the Timbers Lounge: Mon, Comedy Club Tues-Sat, live bands like: July 12-16, Ronnie & the Classics July 19-23, Jadi Norris

BlueWater Resort and Casino

11300 Resort Dr., Parker 1-888-243-3360 In the Bingo / Concert Hall: July 30 – The Divas of Comedy, featuring headliner Jill-Michele MeLean, along with Shawn Pelofsky and Jackie Fabulous Dig Lounge: live bands, Deejay or Karaoke nightly

Casino Arizona

101 at McKellips, Scottsdale 480-850-7734 In the Showroom: Wed-Sun, “Showstoppers Live” A musical tribute to Elvis, Natalie Cole, The Four Tops and Whitney Houston Pima Lounge: Free live entertainment and dancing nightly The Arizona Room Piano Lounge, free entertainment nightly

Casino Del Sol

5655 W. Valencia Rd., Tucson 520-838-6506 Paradiso Bar: FREE live entertainment weekends with top Arizona bands, plus “Tribute” bands on Thursdays In the Bingo Hall: Cosmic Bingo Saturday nights featuring Bingo, deejay music, light show, wacky games and giveaways AVA Amphitheatre: July 12 – Chris Isaak July 19 – Bob Dylan July 22 – Live Boxing

Willie Nelson entertainment on weekends with bands like: Filabusta, Aces & Eights, Overdrive, Blue Tattoo and Billy’s Gone

Desert Diamond Casino Hotel

7350 South Nogales Hwy, Tucson Toll Free 1-866-DDC-WINS Monsoon Night Club: Live bands or deejay Thurs-Sun

Desert Diamond Casino

1100 W. Pima Mine Rd., Tucson 520-294-7777 or1-866-DDC-WINS Diamond Center: July 30, Comic Joey Medina, along with Adam Hunter and Emilio Rivera

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort and Casino 15406 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa 480-802-5000 Oasis Lounge: Free entertainment on weekends evenings with top local bands along with legendary performers like: Aug 27, Ray Price “Young at Heart” Wednesday afternoon concerts at 1 & 3pm featuring Superstars from the past like: July 27, The Four Lads

Peter Frampton

Cliff Castle Casino

I-17 at exit 289 in Camp Verde 1-800-381-SLOT Stargazer Pavilion: Sept 16 – Willie Nelson Dragonfly Lounge: Free 6 ARIZONA PLAYER July 2011

202 loop at the Kyrene exit – Chandler, 1-800-WIN-GILA Free live entertainment Mon-Sat in the Cascades Lounge with bands like: Powerdrive, Chuck E baby, Otis & the Beat, Marty & the Party, Rags Allen, Greywolf, Mike Torres, Charlene Tarango Band, New Frequency, Taddeus Rose Band and Rhythmn Edition

Lucky Break

Register now for Season 6 of “Lucky Break” singing competition every Thursdays starting Aug 3 Verona Chophouse: Fri & Sat, Talia and Sunday, Bridget & the Aug In the Bingo Hall: Saturday at 11:30pm, B.A.D BINGO (Bingo After Dark) Bingo, music, wacky games and giveaways

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino

1/2-mile S. of Payson on Hwy 87 1-800-777-PLAY www.777play.com July 30, Surfin’ Safari – Tribute to the Beach Boys

Paradise Casino

450 Quechan Drive, Yuma 1-888-777-4946 Sharky’s Bar: Free entertainment, Karaoke on Wed, Deejay on Thurs, plus live bands Friday & Saturday nights

Quechan Casino Resort

July 27 – Peter Frampton July 30 – Joan Sebastian Aug 2 – Chicago Aug 27 – Ramon Ayala Aug 28 – Vince Neil

Crystals Aug 31, The Crystals In the Bingo Hall: July 29, Aug 19 & Sept 16 at 11pm – “Disco Bingo” featuring a DJ w/ music, bingo

I-10 at Wild Horse Pass exit Chandler 1-800-WIN-GILA In the Ovations LIVE! Showroom: July 15 - America

Lone Butte Casino

Fort McDowell Casino

N of Shea off Hwy 87, Fountain Hills 1-800-THE-FORT Lucky 7 Saloon: Free live entertainment Fri – Sun featuring bands like: Furious George, Cowboy Floyd and the Kenny G project In the Bingo Hall: July 16, Lunar Bingo – Music, dancing, crazy games and giveaways For updates – go to fortmcdowellcasino.com

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino

525 Algodones Rd, Winterhaven CA (5 mi W of Yuma) 1-877-783-2426 In the PIPA Event Center: July 15, Ramon Ayala Aug 27, Randy Travis Sidewinders bar: Free entertainment on weekends with bands like: Checkr’d Past, Grupo Alazanes, Downtime and Big Boss Band

America July 16, Rage in the Cage (Cage boxing) July 23, Illusionist Jason Latimer July 29 & 30, Michael Finney’s Magic Show & Comedy All-Stars Aug 5, Blood, Sweat & Tears Aug 10, Happy Together Tour w/ The Turtles (Flo & Eddie) The Association, The Grassroots, The Buckinghams and Mark Lindsey (Lead singer of Paul Revere & The Raiders) Aug 23, Michael Bolton Sept 2, Kenny Loggins In the Encore Lounge: Free live entertainment with bands like: Route 66, JJs Band, Otis & the Beat, Chuck E Baby, Powedrive, Pima Express, Soul Persuasion, Primition Band, Smoke Stack Lightning, Eagleheart, Marty & the Party and The Walkens

Talking Stick Resort

Loop 101 and Indian Bend Road Scottsdale 480-850-7777 Talking Stick Showroom: Sept 16, Psychedelic Furs w/ the Tom Tom Club “Degree 270” Lounge: live entertainment, dancing nightly and a spectacular view of the city.

Yavapai Casino

Hwy 69 at Heather Heights Rd Prescott, AZ 928-778-7909 In the Yavapai Cantina on Thursday nights: 7/14 - Kenny James 7/21 - Brandon Shepard 7/28 - Essence Friday nights: Karaoke

RandyTravis

cover story

Come Discover The Castle!

Play cards this summer at Arizona’s Premier Entertainment Destination – Cliff Castle Casino Hotel to win the Verde Valley’s first Special Edition 2011 Robby Gordon Polaris Ranger RZR 4-wheeler during 4-Wheelin’ and Dealin’, the exciting blackjack and poker promotion running now through August 12. And qualifying to win couldn’t be easier! Poker and Blackjack players are encouraged to come in every day to earn entries. Remember, the more you play, the more entries you can earn and the better your chances are of taking home a brand new 2011 Polaris Ranger. In addition - players can earn double entries every Sunday, Monday and Tuesday! On Friday, August 12 at 7pm the Grand Prize Winner will be randomly drawn - but stick around and keep playing after the Grand Prize Drawing because every hour between 7:30 and 11:30pm, one blackjack or poker player, actively playing during the time of the drawing will win $150 cash.

8 ARIZONA PLAYER July 2011

With great promotions like this one - it’s no wonder Cliff Castle has been named the #1 casino in Arizona for 12 years running. Just minutes from Sedona, Cliff Castle Casino Hotel offers hundreds of the most popular slots, Las Vegas-caliber table games, along with entertainment for the entire family and a variety of restaurants from casual to fine dining. After a big day of winning, try Storytellers Gourmet Steakhouse for awardwinning cuisine, tempting desserts and an extensive wine list. Other great options include three family-friendly restaurants. Visit The Gallery for big breakfasts, hearty lunches and mouth-watering dinners 24 hours a day. The Gathering Restaurant & Bar, located inside the hotel, offers Southwestern and Native American fare, a casual bar and relaxing music to enjoy while you dine. Finally, a family-favorite, Johnny Rockets is Cliff Castle’s 50s-style diner with an All-American menu complete with hand-dipped malts, shakes, apple pie and of course, burgers and fries.

continued on page 27

A BOYD’S EYE VIEW OF VIDEO POKER

The Blame Game WinPoker (www.videopokerpractice.com must have software for all frequent players) I see the theoretical return is around 97%. Not good at all when considering the speed of play along with the 3% casino advantage. Some may disagree, especially considering the unknown ER (expected return) of traditional slots. The important point is that you know the odds before making a decision on whether or not to play.

ost of us can remember a time or two during our lives when we by felt like we got taken and Linda Boyd vowed never again. I can remember congratulating myself for thinking I was sure to win a grand prize by earning thousands of virtual tickets and then being snookered by last minute rule changes. In one instance the casino offered four or five times the number of virtual tickets (a move that cost them zero dollars) on the day of the drawing. That severely diminished my equity in the promotion and my thousands of tickets were insignificant compared to millions earned by last minute enthusiasts. Now I could moan and groan as I licked my wounds or learn by getting burnt. No longer will I try to guesstimate my promotion equity at this establishment until the day of the big event. So who are you going to blame when you think it’s the deal of the century but eventually realize you got taken for a ride? As your mom probably warned you, “If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is”. This doesn’t mean there aren’t still some good plays in Arizona Casinos, but it does mean that the house isn’t Santa Claus.

Bad Buttons:

Often I’ll read something on the net about this amazing video poker game at a casino with unbelievable odds. When I feed the data into

If you notice sticky buttons either use the touch screen or call an attendant to fix the problem. You have only yourself to blame if you continue to play a device with faulty buttons and end up losing a

Video Poker Machines:

10 ARIZONA PLAYER July 2011

“It’s not whether you win or lose, but how you place the blame” Anonymous Making Assumptions: Be aware that changes at the bottom of the pay schedule can have the greatest impact on the game’s ER. For example, when you compare a game that pays double your wager for two pair - a frequent hand, with one that only returns your bet, it’s easy to be deceived. You’ll see several big jackpots when two pair only pays even money but it may not compensate for the short pay on two pair. To be sure simply feed the pay schedule into reliable software or bring the removable ER data from my book, The Video Poker Edge, with you and you’ll quickly know the theoretical return for both games.

big jackpot as a result.

“Due” Hand:

I think all frequent players have had long streaks of bad luck. That’s just the nature of the beast and in no way indicates that the machines are gaffed. I’ve never heard a complaint about an inordinate number of big wins that are close together. A particular hand, say four of a kind, is never due. As for the odds, they remain constant or never changing prior to the time you push the draw/deal button.

Same Winners:

If you think that the same people win promotions more than their “fair share” of the time then you’re probably right. The casino tells you up front that the more you play the more tickets you’ll earn. To me, that’s quite fair. The frequent winners are also those that play and spend the most. Final Thoughts: Gambling isn’t for everyone. It’s supposed to be an amusement and, unless you work for or own a casino, not a way to earn a living. If you’re constantly frustrated and find yourself blaming everyone in sight for your losses then it may be time to take a break. If you return with only discretionary money, then there will be less of a reason to blame the casino or the powers above for the disappearance of your cash. Linda Boyd ,a long-time table game player before turning to video poker, writes for “Southern Gaming” and “Midwest Gaming and Travel” in addition to “Arizona Player, her book, “The Video Poker Edge”, includes free removable pay schedules and free strategy cards for the most popular games. Look for her stories in the 2011and 2012 editions of the “American Casino Guide”. The 2010 Second Edition of her book is available in both paperback and kindle. Available at bookstores, amazon.com or Square One Publishers www.squareonepublishers.com Toll Free: 877-900-BOOK

TJ’s Blackjack corner

by TJ Jorgensen ecently I have found myself playing a lot of blackjack at our local casinos here in Phoenix. It’s always nice to find a good deal for the player and I made just such a discovery on a recent blackjack expedition to Fort McDowell Casino. They now have what they call a “Hot Seat” giveaway, and here is how it works; When you sit down at a blackjack table at the Fort and present your players card - they sign you in. If you play between the hours of noon and midnight you become eligible for their Hot Seat giveaway. Only players at the table games can participate. At random times throughout the day and night, one players name is picked and then flashed upon a big screen. On the night that I was there, and after only an hour of play - much to my surprise, it was my name that was picked. The pit boss came over to my table and presented me with $25. He told me that I could wager between $5 and $25 on the up-coming hand and if I won they would give me another $25 - However if I was dealt a “Blackjack” they would give me $450! The cards were dealt and my first card was an ace, there was hope I thought to myself. My

12 ARIZONA PLAYER July 2011

Hot Seat Promotion second card came out and much to my surprise it was a ten giving me “Blackjack” I did the wave in celebration along with the rest of the table. I was then informed that I was now going to be dealt another hand, and if I received another blackjack - I would be rewarded this time with $4000! The cards were dealt and although I had my fingers crossed, I didn’t receive a blackjack and my participation in the hot seat give away promotion had ended – But as I was slipping the $475 in my pocket I thought….what a great promotion! The nice thing about this give away is that only table game players are eligible. At the hours that I play, which is usually late in the evening there are probably less than thirty players at the tables at any given time and only about half are signed in and eligible for the promotion. Wow! A one in fifteen chance of having your name drawn is great odds. There are no set times when they will pick a name, but they have quite a few drawings, some only 20 minutes apart. The way that I understand it is this - the blackjack jackpot increases each time they play

the promotion and the player does not get a blackjack, so the potential rewards can be very lucrative. I liked this promotion so much I went back out to the Fort a couple nights later and I couldn’t believe my name was drawn again. I didn’t get a blackjack this time but I did pocket fifty dollars from the promotion. Anytime you can get the Casino to reward you for playing Blackjack with a program such as this one it is well worth your time. I personally received $525 from the hot seat give away in just two visits and that was a nice chunk of change to add to my winnings. So, if you’re going to play some blackjack on your next night out - consider stopping by the Fort., you just might catch me there. Until next time, I hope you play winning blackjack. T.J. Jorgensen has been a professional blackjack player for over 20 years. He is well known for his live tournament play. He has competed against, and beaten, some of the top tournament players in the world. He has also won the prestigious World Series of Blackjack His book, “Beating the Casino at Their Own Game,” is available through his web site www. freewebs.com/tjsblackjackcorner or by e-mail TJ4justice1@msn.com

lottery news THE PICK Date

“Everyday People” Get nice win! Four co-workers who consider themselves “everyday people” who work to make ends meet will find the going a little easier thanks to winning the second prize on the May 4, Powerball drawing. The $200,000 was divided equally, with each player receiving $50,000 before taxes. The winning ticket was purchased at the Beaver Dam Station on Old Hwy. 91 in Littlefield, Arizona in the far northwest corner of Arizona where the Nevada / Utah / Arizona borders come together. The closest towns to Littlefield in any direction are Mesquite, Nevada and St. George, Utah. Three of the members hail from Utah, one is from Mesquite, Nevada and he’s the one who purchases the tickets for their small Lottery pool. Lately, they’ve been playing Mega Millions, but since the Mesquite player hadn’t been able to

contact one of the members, and he happened to have an extra $3 after he redeemed a Powerball ticket, he purchased three Powerball tickets. One of the tickets turned out to have five matching numbers worth $200,000. Everyone is glad the fourth member was unavailable, as they probably would not have purchased Powerball. Although he couldn’t be reached until after they discovered they had won, the absent pool member was always considered one of the four. The entire group was thrilled to have a chance to catch up financially, and they look upon their win as a blessing - They all plan to pay off bills and bank the rest.

$5,000,000 The Pick Winner announced An Avondale resident claimed the $5.1 million The Pick jackpot from the drawing on June 8. The winner, who wishes to remain anonymous, purchased the winning ticket at the Circle K located at 3955 E. Broadway Road in Phoenix. “I couldn’t believe I won and my wife thought I was playing a joke on her, even on our drive to the Arizona Lottery office,” said the winner. “This win will help my family and I live a better life, starting with a vacation to Hawaii!” An avid player, the winner purchases Arizona Lottery tickets for every The Pick and Powerball draw, and plans to continue playing after his win. He chose to take the annuity option, which will result in $170,000 for 30 years, before taxes. “This is one of the highest The Pick jackpots we have awarded this year, so it was incredibly gratifying to hear how it will impact the lucky winner’s life,” said Jeff Hatch-Miller, executive director of the Arizona Lottery. “As Arizona’s own jackpot game, we are always thrilled every time someone walks through our doors with a winning ticket.” Winning numbers for The Pick are broadcast Wednesday and Saturday during the 10pm news on Channel 13 (CBS) in Tucson and posted on www.ABC15.com in Phoenix. Players can check their numbers by logging onto www.ArizonaLottery.com or by calling the winning numbers hotline at 480-829-PICK in Phoenix and 1-800-499-3798 in all other Arizona areas. Players can also opt-in to receive winning number text alerts by texting “AZLOT” to 411247. 14 ARIZONA PLAYER July 2011

Players must be 21 years or older to purchase or redeem tickets. Overall odds vary by game. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, these materials may be made available in an alternate format. The Arizona Lottery operates entirely from the revenue it generates through the sale of its products; it receives no General Fund dollars from the State. Proceeds from sales of Lottery tickets fund a variety of state programs. Since July 1981, the Arizona Lottery has paid out over $4.2 billion in prizes to players, more than $2.5 billion in net profit to the state, and almost $510 million in commissions to retailers.

Numbers

June

18-20-28-37-40-44 01-16-18-35-41-43 05-07-12-18-26-33 07-32-33-36-39-42 10-15-16-25-26-44 25-31-32-36-37-38 05-09-15-21-22-26 03-06-15-30-35-39 02-07-08-35-37-41

04 04 08 11 15 18 22 25 29

June

01 02 03 04 06 07 08 09 10 11 13 14 15 16 17 18 20 21 22 23 24 25 27 28 29 30

POWERBALL Numbers

08-18-38-46-56 17-19-39-41-58 14-37-44-45-53 16-18-27-36-50 19-20-38-41-43 12-21-22-38-41 12-15-19-46-59 18-36-39-41-57 24-30-45-57-59

PICK 3 CASH 4 2-0-4 7-9-8 1-5-8 2-6-6 9-2-8 2-0-6 4-7-0 4-6-1 7-8-7 1-6-4 5-0-6 5-8-1 0-6-0 7-5-2 3-7-6 8-5-8 9-9-5 2-9-9 4-1-0 2-5-1 5-5-7 3-0-5 2-3-8 5-8-5 4-1-1 8-0-9

14-18-19-20 19-20-23-24 01-03-17-21 03-08-11-24 03-13-14-21 11-13-15-21 09-17-18-23 18-20-21-25 02-03-14-18 01-08-12-20 06-07-20-24 04-09-22-23 08-19-23-26 02-13-14-20 03-06-12-14 01-09-20-21 09-11-22-26 04-21-24-25 03-06-15-21 01-08-11-18 16-18-21-25 03-04-07-21 07-20-22-26 09-10-22-24 04-09-10-11 02-09-10-22

PB PP

31 21 29 08 29 18 12 12 26

04 05 05 03 04 02 04 04 03

PICK 5 03-04-18-23-28 05-15-21-29-30 06-11-22-23-31 04-16-21-28-34 05-09-22-35-41 03-06-07-16-37 05-15-23-28-33 04-13-33-37-38 06-07-09-10-16 03-12-21-24-34 12-21-26-33-35 04-12-16-23-28 10-17-20-37-41 21-25-28-40-41 06-11-14-19-24 02-12-19-38-41 04-07-21-27-37 02-09-19-23-29 01-21-22-24-40 10-14-29-34-36 13-26-35-36-41 11-16-21-29-37 01-08-14-37-39 10-18-19-31-38 19-32-34-38-41 05-06-09-12-25

June

MEGA MILLIONS

03 07 10 14 17 21 24 28

20-23-41-49-53 29-32-35-47-52 18-21-27-37-38 09-10-20-51-53 12-29-46-47-51 11-24-25-31-46 10-14-40-49-51 12-17-27-47-48

31 13 07 24 24 17 04 33

3 4 3 4 4 3 3 4

In Phoenix catch the winning numbers first on ABC Channel 15 at 10:25 nightly. You can also call the Lottery Hotline at (480) 829-PICK (7425) in Phoenix or (520) 325-9141 in Tucson. For outlying areas in Arizona call 1-800-499-3798. Visit our website at arizonalottery.com or see a participating Lottery retailer for the winning numbers.

CARD ROOM ACTION

Apache Gold Casino 800-272-2438 Casino Arizona 101 & McKellips Dealing blackjack, daily at 3pm 480-850-7777 BlueWater Casino 1-888-243-3360 Dealing blackjack 24/7 Poker Room is open daily at 4 pm Tues, 7pm, No-Limit Texas Hold Em - $30 buy-in and one $20 re-buy Thurs, 7pm, No-Limit Texas Hold Em - $60 buy-in, no re-buys Wed night 4pm-close (first 3 each night) – Quads pay $50, Royal Flush $75 and Aces Cracked $25 - same color Aces $50 Dealing blackjack daily starting at 9am

Bucky’s Casino

928-771-6779

Northern Arizona Texas Hold Em Poker Championship - $25,000 Total Prize Payout*- Preliminary Rounds at 2pm on Sundays; July 10, 17 and 24, with final round on July 31 at 2pm – Buy-in $100 w/ $25 s/c Sun, 2 pm, Bounty No-Limit Hold Em Tournament - $60 buy w/ $15 Bounties (except in July) Mon, 10am & 6pm, Hold Em, $30 buy-in w/ $10 re-buys - winners advance to “free roll” Tues, 6pm, Ladies Only Texas Hold Em Shootouts - $15 buy-in Sat 10am, Hold Em, $30 buy-in, $10 re-buys - Pays 3 places, winners advance to “free roll” “Aces Cracked” $50 & “Kings Conquered” $25, Mon-Thurs 10am-10pm, Fri 10am-4pm see poker room for details Progressive “Aces Cracked” Sat 11am-11pm - Starts at $50, increases till hit FREE Sunday buffet for seated poker players *Prize payout based on 200 entries Dealing blackjack 24/7 - Now playing 3 card poker & Triple Attack Blackjack

16 ARIZONA PLAYER July 2011

for Free Roll Shootout the last Sunday of each month Aces Cracked WINS $100 rack – Sun-Fri See poker Room for details $ 5,000 “Wild Wednesdays” Blackjack Tournament every other Wed, 7pm - $100 buy-in Also dealing blackjack 24/7

Casino Del Sol 520-838-6565

Mon-Fri, 10 am, $200 added, No-Limit Hold Em, $13 buy-in, $5 re-buys Mon 7pm & Sat noon – $1,200 Guaranteed, NLHE - $35 buy-in, $6 entry fee Sun & Tues at 7 pm – $15 buy-in – Optional $15 add-on, $1,000 guaranteed Wed, 7pm, NLHE, $1,200 Prize Pool (w/40 players) $35 buy-in, $5 re-buys $10 add-on Thurs, 7pm, $3,000 Guaranteed NLHE, $85 buy-in Sat, 9am, $200 added Omaha Hi-Lo, $15 buy-in w/$5 re-buys $5 add-on Sun, 11 am $1,500 NLHE, $20 buy-in, $5 re-buys $35,000 Free Roll, Wed – Fri, Sept 14 -16 w/ finals Sat, Sept 17. Qualify w/50 hours of “Live Play” July 1 – Sept 12. (First 180 players)

Cliff Castle Casino 928-567-7952

Win a 2011 Limited Edition Robby Gordon Polaris Ranger RZR Rally during the 4 Wheelin’ and Dealin’ promotion – earn entries every day just by playing Poker or blackjack, now thru Aug 12 – see poker room for details Mon, Wed, Fri & Sun, 10am, No-Limit Texas Hold Em Shoot-outs, $25 buy-in Tues & Thurs, 10am, Limit Hold Em Shootouts, $25 buy-in Wed, 7pm, No-Limit Hold Em, $60 buy-in w/$20 re-buy Sat, Noon, $2,000 added No Limit Hold Em, $ 120 buy-in, no re-buys 1st place winners in $25 Shootouts qualify

Cocopah Casino

800-237-5687

Dealing blackjack, Fri & Sat, 10am-3am; Sun-Thurs, 10am-2am

Desert Diamond Nogales Hwy 520-342-1810

Mon & Thurs “Cup of Coffee” Tournament – 9:30am ($35 buy-in starts at 8am) Max 40 players Tues, 7pm, $100 added per table Hold-Em, $ 75 buy-in, with one $60 re-buy Wed, 7pm, $10,000 guaranteed* Hold-Em, $ 110 buy-in, no re-buys (*w/100 players) Sun, Noon, $5,000 guaranteed* Hold-Em, $ 50 buy-in, $15 re-buys (*w/ 50 players) Also dealing blackjack 24/7

Desert Diamond Casino I-19 866-332-9467 Also dealing blackjack 24/7

Fort McDowell Casino 480-789-4284

MEGA Stack Bounty Tournament, Sun at Noon & Fri 7pm, $120 buy-in, $50 Bounties Mon-Fri, Noon, “Bounty” Tournaments $30 buy-in, $5 bounties, BONUS, with up to 3 hours of live play, Bounties increase up to $50 Sun, Mon at 7pm, and Sat at 4pm $1,000 Guaranteed NLHE - $10 buy-in Sat at Noon and Tues, Wed & Thurs at 7pm, $1,000 Guaranteed NLHE - $5 buy-in Sat 9pm, $3,000 Guaranteed NLHE tournament, $20 buy-in “Aces Cracked” win a rack – 24/7 See poker room for details “Aces & Kings Cracked” by pocket pairs “Progressive payout” Win from $100

–$2,000 for Super Progessive “Spin the Wheel” with Quads or better win up to $400 cash “Easy way Jackpot” Aces full of anything wins Jackpot and everyone playing live in the room wins $50 “Mega Poker Jackpot” Quad 5s beaten by 4 of a kind or better wins Jackpot – On June 27, the Jackpot was hit for $114,750 – The complete story is on page 26 of this issue – The jackpot was re-set at $40,000 Also dealing blackjack 24/7

Lone Butte Casino

800-946-4452

Dealing blackjack 24/7 – with $5 games

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino 480-802-5138

Mon, 7:30pm, NLHE Tournament, $60 buy-in + 1 $25 re-buy Tues, 7:30pm, Limit Omaha H/L, $25 buy-in, $10 re-buys + $10 add-on Thurs, 7:30pm & Sun 5:30pm – NLHE, $10 Buy-in plus two $10 re-buys & $10 add-on Fri, 7:30pm, Sat, 12:30 & 5:30pm - NLHE, $40 buy-in, no re-buys Sat, 12:30 & 5:30pm – NLHE, $40 buy-in, no re-buys Sun, 12:30pm – NLHE, $25 buy-in, one $10 re-buy $ 25 Daily Splash pots on ALL tables every ½ hour from 9am-10pm $ 25 early morning Sat & Sun Splash pots on ALL tables every ½ hour from 6an-8:30am Progressive High Hand, daily 5pm-5am – Plus 2nd chance “Spin” see poker room for details Daily, Royal Flush (9am-5pm) pays $100 and straight flush $50 Aces Cracked wins $50 (In a NLHE game – 6 per day) Aces Cracked (Mid- 4am) wins Pot Match (up to $100) Also dealing blackjack 24/7

“Splash Pots” 10am-10pm, ALL Live tables Hon-Dah Casino 1-800-929-8744 Mon, 6pm, 50/50, Hold Em & Omaha Hi-Lo, get splashed, Mondays $25, Tuesdays $25 $ & Thursdays $50 25 buy-in + one $25 add-on Tues, 2pm – Mid, “Aces Cracked” pays $80 Special $59 room rates for poker players. Summer hours: Wed – Sun open at 10am, (first 5) Mon & Tues at 5pm Wed, 6pm, No-limit Hold Em, $40 buy-in, Dealing blackjack 24/7 no re-buys Thurs, 6pm, Omaha Hi-Lo, $40 buy-in, no Talking Stick Resort 480-850-7777 re-buys 7th Annual AZ State No-Limit Texas Hold $ $ Sat, 4pm, No-limit Hold Em, 30 buy-in, 10 Em Championship – August 12-16 with a re-buys + $10 add-on $1,000,000 Prize Pool! $1,000 buy-in + 70 Sun, 4pm, Crazy Pineapple $30 buy-in, $10 s/c optional $15 add-on (Staff apprecia$ re-buys + 10 add-on tion) for Bonus Chips “Win a Seat” to the AZ State ChampionMazatzal Hotel & Casino ship in “Single Table Shootouts” any day, 800-777-7529 anytime 10 players sign up – It’s a ShootLive Poker Wed-Sun - see poker room for out $107 Buy-in + $13 s/c details Sun, 1pm, NLHE Tournament, $25 buy-in, “Win a Seat” to the AZ State Championship in “Multi Table Shootouts” (limited no re-buys - $50 added per table to 100 players on Sunday July 17 & 31 at Wed & Sun, 6pm, NLHE Bounty Tourna11am) $107 buy-in + $23 s/c ment, $50 buy-in 6th Annual AZ State Ladies No-Limit High Hands - win up to $500 Texas Hold Em Championship – SepDealing blackjack 10am-1am tember 10-12, $100,000 prize pool! $200 Blackjack tournament, Mon at 6pm, $40 buy-in + 25 s/c buy-in Aug 20 & Sept 17, 9am – Super Bounty Big Paradise Casino 888-777-4946 Stack Tournament w/ $100 Bounties - $200 Dealing Blackjack 5pm-1am buy-in w/ $25 s/c Quechan Casino & Resort Oct 15, 10am - Super Turbo/Super Bounty/ Super Big Stack Tournament w/ $100 1-877-QUECHAN $10,000 “Beat the Boss” Free Roll Tourna- Bounties - $200 buy-in w/ $25 s/c ment on Thursday Oct 6 at 7pm - $25 entry July 30, 10am – $20,000 Last Saturday No-Limit Hold Em Tournament -$125 fee – see poker room for details buy-in + $25 s/c “Beat the Boss” weekly $1,000 free roll July 2 & Aug 6, 10am - $60,000 “Big Stack” tournaments – Now thru Sept 29, every Tournament (w/ 200 entries) - $300 buy-in Thursday at 7:30 pm – drawings every + $30 s/c Saturday Mondays 10am-10pm“Aces Cracked” wins Oct 15 at 10am - Super Turbo/Super Bounty/Super Big Stack Tournament $50 Wednesdays, 10am-10pm “Faces Cracked” Aug 21, 10am – Ladies No-Limit Hold Em $60 Buy-in + $15 s/c wins $30

CARD ROOM ACTION

Aug 28 & Oct 30 - 9am – Jack & Jill Couples Tournament - $50 Buy-in + $15 s/c July 16 & Sept 3 - 10am – Omaha Hi-Lo Limit 8 or Better - $120 Buy-in + $30 s/c Mon - Fri, 11am - No-Limit Hold Em, $60 buy-in Tues & Wed, 7pm - No-Limit Hold Em, $115 buy-in + $15 s/c Daily, 2am-10am “Aces Cracked” Win $100 rack Jackpot Extravaganza! – 15 Progressive Jackpots daily, Win up to $10,000 Also dealing blackjack 24/7 $ 5,000 “Wild Wednesdays” Blackjack Tournament every other Wed, 7pm - $100 buy-in

entry fee – no re-buys Wed at 7:30pm, No-Limit Bounty Tournament, $10 0 buy-in “Big Hand – Big Money” High Hands Daily, Bonus Aces Cracked, “Splash Down” Splash Pots plus Selected MLB Games Splash Pots – Selected days & nights - Plus “Hot Seat” Drawing - Win $200 just by playing in a “Live Game” Big Money Royals - Any Royal Flush wins $ 200 Also dealing blackjack 24/7 – with $5 games and “Triple Attack Blackjack”

Sun - Thurs, 11am, No-Limit Hold Em, $ 1,000 Guaranteed - $30 buy-in Wed at 7:30pm, No-Limit Hold Em Tournaments, $15 buy-in, $10 re-buys & $20 add-on “ACES CRACKED” wins a rack – daily from 6am - max 10 per day Big Money Royals, Any Royal Flush wins $ 500 Progressive Rolling Cash Fever drawings during live play every other hour - 24/7 D-Backs (& selected other Baseball games) Splash Pots – $50 splashed on 4 tables when D-Backs score Mon- Fri, 2am-6am -“High Hand” Promotion, Top 3 hands win $100, $75 & $50 Also dealing blackjack 24/7 – with $5 games

Sat, Sun, Mon & Tues at 10am - No Limit Hold Em, $40 buy-in w/ $5 Bonus buy Wed & Thurs, 10am, NLHE “Bounty” Tournament, $50 buy-in w/$5 Bonus buy Fri, 10am, Wed & Thurs 7pm, NLHE, $60 buy-in w/$5 Bonus buy Sun, Mon & Tues, 7pm, NLHE, $40 buy-in w/$5 Bonus buy Fri at 7pm, NLHE, $100 buy-in w/ $50 add-on Sat at 2pm, Monster Stack Texas Hold Em, $ 160 buy in, no re buys Sat at 7pm, NLHE, $60 buy-in, w/ optional $5 Bonus buy Sun at 2pm, “Bounty” NLHE, $70 Buy-in w/$5 Bonus buy

Vee Quiva Casino 800-946-4452 – Ext 1042

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino 800-946-4452 ext 7375

Mon & Thurs Noon, No Limit Hold Em, $30 buy-in, no re-buys Tues at 7:30pm, No-Limit Freeze Out - $50

PREFERRED LAUGHLIN POKER ROOM

Harrah’s Resort Casino 702-298-8529

CARD ROOM MANAGERS Please send updates to azplayer@cox.net

ARIZONA PLAYER July 2011 17

gaming news Pascua Yaqui Tribe Develops Leaders

THESE LADIES ARE A GAS! On July 30, BlueWater Resort & Casino presents the “Divas of Comedy” – This side-splitting Comedy Show in the Bingo Hall features headliner Jill-Michele Melean AKA “Jilly” recently seen on SHOWTIME’s stand-up special “Hot Tamales plus Comedy Central’s “Reno 911” playing George Lopez’s girlfriend, FOX’s “Til Death”, E!, TBS, VH1, BET, SiTV’s “Latino 101”and host of SiTV’s “Inside Joke”. The evenings host is Shawn Pelofsky a regular at the world famous Comedy Store on Sunset Blvd. and performs there every weekend, now add another very funny lady, Jackie Fabulous “Find your Fabulous” and you have one laugh filled evening - Showtime for the “Divas of Comedy” is 8pm Tickets are $15 presale and $20 day of show

DASH 4 CASH AND GAS

Alex Amador, who has been working for Sol Casinos for nearly seven years, has recently accepted the position of assistant director of marketing. This new challenge will allow him to obtain well-rounded training and experience in the casino gaming industry, and prepare him for future executive management positions at the properties. Amador is an example of how the Pascua Yaqui Tribe is developing leaders from within by positioning Tribal members in senior leadership positions in every department of Sol Casinos. “Through this initiative, we are showcasing the talent that the Pascua Yaqui Tribe has within its own community, and that the future of our Tribe is resilient and promising,” said Wendell Long, CEO of Sol Casinos. Amador moved to Tucson after graduating from California State University, Fresno, to learn more about his tribe, his culture and to give back to the community that supported him with scholarships throughout his college career. Joining Sol Casinos in 2004, Amador has held the positions of senior operations analyst, controller, interim director of finance and operations, director of financial operations, and now assistant director of marketing. “Both of my maternal grandparents are fullblooded Pascua Yaqui Tribal members, so it’s very meaningful for me to advance in my career at a place that encourages the professional and personal growth of its employees and the Tribe,” said Amador. Sol Casinos houses more than 1,100 employees, approximately 57 percent of which are Tribal members. The new 215-room, 161,000-square-foot Casino Del Sol Resort, Spa and Conference Center, scheduled to open to the public 11/11/11, will provide 350 new jobs to citizens of the Tucson area and Pascua Yaqui Tribe. For more information, visit www.11-11-11Tucson.com. 18 ARIZONA PLAYER July 2011

Dash over to BlueWater Resort and Casino in Parker to swipe your VIP Club Card for a chance to instantly win FREE Gas for a Year along with other great giveaways! Earn FREE entries daily to the BLUEWATER Cash 4 Gas drawing on August 28. And save your game pieces to win up to $200 GAS CASH! To win, be one of the 50 lucky players chosen for the Cash 4 Gas Giveaway final drawing on August 28. Each Sunday at noon thru August 21, five Lucky players will be chosen to spin the Cash 4 Gas wheel and instantly win $100 Cash plus a spin for Free Slot Play, $100 or $200 Cash! On August 28, fifteen additional lucky players will be chosen to spin the wheel! These players will become part of the 50 finalists who will vie for the “BlueWater FREE GAS FOR A YEAR” Grand Finale! Visit the VIPclub for full details.

3 Card Poker is here! BlueWater has expanded its live table game selection with the addition of Three Card Poker, the most popular specialty game of all time. 3 Card Poker features head-to-head play against the dealer and an optional bonus bet that combines a high hit frequency with attainable payouts. 3 Card Poker’s fast pace and exhilarating game play is unmatched among today’s popular live table games and features three ways to play and four ways to win. 3 Card Poker is the newest live action table game at BlueWater.

Cantina Fun Every Sunday in July, don’t miss “I’m Too Sexy for My Speedo” where men in Speedos get half off well drinks and beer plus get to enjoy $2 shot specials. There is a DJ Thursday thru Saturday starting at 7pm. Play ping pong or watch your favorite sporting event on the new flat panel TV’s. Enjoy a “Bucket of Fun” a playful sand pail - which you get to keep - filled with your choice of a Mai Tai, Daiquiri or Big Sticks specialty drinks. Or try the “River Ripper,” the hottest new drink on the River. Become a member of the Cantina Can Club by purchasing a Cantina Can Club Koozie and get all domestic beer thereafter at a special price. There are Summer Sunday Specials, including $2 Bloody Mary’s and $4 Hangover Burritos. Enjoy Taco Tuesday with a Maggie with $1 chicken or ground beef tacos and $2 margaritas. The River’s Edge Cantina is open daily from 10am-2am and sits on the beach of the BlueWater Resort & Casino in Parker and can be accessed by car or boat. BlueWater Resort & Casino is located right on the Colorado River in Parker, Arizona – for more information or reservations, call 1-888-243-3360 or go to www.bluewaterfun.com

REEL REVIEWS by Kevin Cummings

20 ARIZONA PLAYER November 2010

gaming news 7th ANNUAL STATE POKER CHAMPIONSHIP Talking Stick Resort dominates the poker scene with its jammed packed tournament schedule and hefty prize pools. This summer will be no different as the property’s poker room prepares for its largest tournament of the year, the Arizona State Poker Championship. An annual fixture on the Talking Stick Resort poker schedule, this tournament welcomes and attracts players of all skill levels. Each will be vying for the chance to not only be crowned as champion, but also to walk away with thousands of dollars. Nearly 1,000 players are expected to participate in the 7th Annual Arizona State Poker Championship. Held on Aug. 12-16, this No-Limit Texas Hold-Em tournament will, for only the second time, have a prize pool of $1 million. Buy-in is $1,000 plus a $70 service fee. For that amount, players receive $15,000 starting tournament chips, as well as the opportunity to purchase an additional $5,000 staff appreciation bonus chips for just $15. Play in the tournament begins at 9am Aug. 12, 13 and 14 with 300 players each day. If a player is eliminated one of those days, they will have the one-time opportunity to re-buy for $1,070 on the following days. The semi-final tables will begin on Aug. 15, with the finals at 1pm Tuesday, Aug. 16. “Our early championships were only three days, but with the continued growth and popularity of the tournament we decided to expand it to five so to save our players and staff from exhaustion,” said Kent Odekirk, poker director of Talking Stick Resort. “We want this to be a serious com-

22 ARIZONA PLAYER July 2011

petition, but we also want our guests to have fun. Entertainment is what Talking Stick Resort is all about.” Last year, Phoenix resident, Ted Goldstein, 24, walked away as the new champion. His winnings included a championship ring and trophy and more than $300,000. This year’s winner will win $200,000. Second and third places will earn $130,000 and $100,000 respectively and a trophy. Additionally, Casino Arizona has Ted Goldstein - 2010 Winner ensured that top 100 players will walk away with cash. The minimum win of this year’s tournament is $2,100. “Our goal with this year’s championship is really to spread the wealth,” said Odekirk. “We wanted to give substantial prizes to the top three winners, while also giving more opportunities to win. It’s a real incentive to know even if you place 100 that you still take home more money that you put in.” The new Card Room in Casino Arizona at Talking Stick remains one of the largest in the State. The non-smoking room has more than 40 tables dealing a variety of games including Texas Hold’em, Seven Card Stud and Omaha Hi-Lo. Players in the room enjoy 24-hour table-side food service from Talking Stick Resort’s Black Fig Bistro as well as several large plasma screen televisions playing the all the sports action they can handle. For information about the 7th Annual Arizona State Poker Tournament, the Arizona State Ladies Poker Tournament and Casino Arizona at Talking Stick’s other tournaments, visit www.casinoarizona.com or call (480) 850-8693. Guests must be at least 21 years old to play.

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3720 W. Greenway Rd., Phx • (602) 978-2040 Bingo Locations

American Legion #29

Casino Games – Phx Area Fort McDowell Casino

6821 N. 58th Ave Mon & Thurs 6:45pm Wed 11:45am

Fountain Hills Area Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri: 9am, 12:30pm, 6:30pm Tue: 12:30pm, 6:30pm Phoenix West Elks Sat & Sun: 6:45 & 9am, 5525 W. Colter 12:30 & 6:30pm, Tues 7pm, Sun 1pm Postal Worker’s Social Club Fri & Sat @ Midnight "Lunar Bingo" every 3rd 3720 W. Greenway Rd. Saturday @ Midnight Tues & Sun 6:30pm

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino

15406 Maricopa Rd Daily 11:00am, 2:30 & 6:30pm

24 ARIZONA PLAYER July 2011

Statewide Games Lone Butte Casino

SanTan Loop202 & Kyrene Noon & 6:30pm Daily "B.A.D. Bingo" (Bingo After Dark) Saturdays @ 11:30pm

Vee Quiva Casino

51st Ave. 10mi. S of I-10 Daily: 12:30 & 6:30pm "Bingo Eclipse" every 2nd & 4th Saturday @ 11pm Bingo Halls - To get your games listed call 602-373-8728 or E-mail Phil Scudella atazplayer@cox.net

Apache Gold Casino • Globe

5mi E of Globe on Hwy 70 Wed, Thur, & Sun @ noon; Fri & Sat 7pm Bingo Blowout! Mondays, Aug 1, Sept 5, Oct 3, Nov 7, & Dec 5

BlueWater Casino • Parker 11300 Resort Dr Daily 6:30pm

Casino Del Sol• Tucson

Cocopah Casino•Yuma

15136 South Ave B Somerton Daily 1 & 6pm

Desert Diamond • Tucson 7350 S Nogales Hwy Daily: 1:30 & 7:15pm

Mazatzal Casino• Payson Hwy 87 at mile post 251 Mon-Thurs 12:45pm Mon & Tues 6:30pm

5655 W. Valencia Paradise Casino • Yuma Mini Sessions 11:30am & 1:30pm 450 Quechan Dr. Matinee 2:15pm & Evening 7:15pm Daily at 1 & 6pm "Cosmic Bingo" 10:30 & 11:30pm every Saturday

gaming news DISCO BINGO IS COMING! Did someone say…DISCO BINGO? That’s right – It’s BINGO like you’ve never seen before! Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino is going to rock the house on July 29, Aug 19 and Sept 16 with Disco BINGO. Each Friday night includes; 11 Bingo games, beginning at 11pm in the Ak-Chin Bingo Hall. Players will enjoy traditional BINGO (LtoR) Michael Kintner, Director of Marketing; Beth Amoroso, Director games with $2,500 in of Human Resources; Robert Livingston, VP and General Manager; prize money awarded Angie Groeneveld, Director of Hotel, Food and Beverage; each night, plus drink Alan Tratina, Director of Finance specials and a DJ playing fun party music. The snack bar will also be open with great snacks, made fresh daily. So pull out the trunk from the storage room and snag that polyester leisure suit or those bell bottoms, hot pants, jump suits, platform shoes and that peace sign necklace - Then boogie on over to Harrah’s Ak-Chin for Disco BINGO. The first of these fun nights is Friday July 29th. So….Be Square or Be There! Remember - You must be 21 or older to attend. The remodeled Ak-Chin Bingo Hall provides the latest in Bingo technology, including electronic handheld gaming machines. Harrah’s Ak-Chin has the only Bingo hall in the Caesars organization, continuing the proud heritage of William F. Harrah, who opened his first Bingo hall in Reno in 1937.

Maricopa is growing up!

Five stories up, to be exact. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino Resort unveils its new hotel tower with a Grand Celebration on July 15. The $20 million expansion, which began construction in June 2010, nearly doubles the size of the hotel, offering 152 new rooms including five suites. “We are very fortunate that our hotel is always full”, said Robert Livingston, general manager. “By adding these additional rooms, we will be able to welcome more Harrah’s guests to enjoy the warm hospitality we provide.” Major changes include a new front desk and lobby area with sparkling floors, modern seating areas and artistically-placed light. The front desk is designed so there is no barrier between the guest and staff,

creating an easy way to communicate. Harrah’s held nothing back in quality, including only the best and the latest in hotel features. Each of the spacious rooms in the new five-story tower includes top-ofthe-line amenities such as granite counter tops, jumbo flat screen TVs, and a centralized media/technology hub. Beds boast luxurious linens and pillowtopped mattresses. With spacious showers and large closets, Harrah’s Ak-Chin is redesigning what it means to be a resort. The suites feature two 50-inch flat screen TVs, one perfect for viewing from your bed and another in the off-set living area. The bathroom has an extradeep porcelain tub letting guests submerge in ultimate relaxation. With rooms like these, why would you want to ever leave your room? Because Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino Resort is truly an oasis in the desert with lush greenery, an idyllic courtyard plus an exotic swimming pool featuring a swim-up bar. The 40,000-square-foot casino has the largest selection of reel and video slots, video poker, live keno, plus table games from blackjack to a poker room featuring live games and tournaments - everything you need for a thrilling gaming experience. plus live music in the Oasis Lounge and add to this - the Southern Dunes Golf Club is just a few miles away! Guests also have their choice of four places to eat, from The Range Steakhouse to a recently remodeled buffet. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino prides itself in customer satisfaction and hospitality, and ranked highest in gaming customer satisfaction among casinos in southern Arizona by J.D. Power and Associates’ Indian Gaming Casino Satisfaction Study. In addition, the casino was named a 2010 Most Admired Company by Arizona Business Magazine and BestCompaniesAZ. Phoenix Business Journal has also named the property one of the “Best Places to Work in the Valley” in 2008, 2009 and 2010. Whether you are looking to win big or relax poolside, practice your golf swing or play a poker hand - Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino Resort has something for everyone to enjoy. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino Resort is located just south of Chandler at 15406 North Maricopa Road in Maricopa, Arizona. Please call 1-800-CAESARS or visit www.harrahsakchin.com to reserve a room. ARIZONA PLAYER July 2011 25

FROM A WOMAN’S POINT OF VIEW

Lightning Strikes at The Fort!

onsoons may have been raging in the Phoenix area, but lightning struck at Fort McDowell on Monday June 27th when young Zach Rome hit the “Mega Bad Beat Jackpot” in the poker room. This win was made even more special by the fact that it was Zach’s 21st birthday and this was his first time playing at a casino! Zach’s parents brought him to Fort McDowell to celebrate his special day. During their visit they tried their luck at the slots and the Blackjack tables and to complete the total experience he and his dad decided to play a little Texas Hold-em. This turned out to be the best decision of the night. When two seats opened up at a 3-6 table, Zach and his father sat down. After playing for about two hours, Zach was dealt the 5c, 5s. The flop came out As, 5d Qs. This gave Zack a set of 5’s, but something else was brewing at the other side of the table. The turn was a Ks which gave Fort regular Richard S. a Royal Flush. The river brought the 5h which gave Zach quad fives. Richard bet, and Zach just called. When the cards were turned over, I’m sure the sound that resounded from the table out did any thunder clap on the outside. The $114,750 had been hit.

26 ARIZONA PLAYER July 2011

Zak with the losing hand received $57, 375.00 and Richard S. with the winning hand received $28,687.00. The remaining seven players, one being Zak’s dad, received $4,098.00. Congratulations also go out to poker room dealer Damien for dealing the winning jackpot. I had the pleasure of speaking with Zack Rome about his win. He said at first he didn’t know what had happened, but soon realized he was a lot richer. Zach is a student at U of A majoring in math and computer sciences. He plans to use his winnings to further his education and help pay for his graduate degree. I’m sure this is a birthday he won’t soon forget. Congratulations to you Zack and all the best to you in your future endeavors. For those of you out there, myself included, that were not part of the Mega Jackpot, have no fear, the new jackpot amount is currently over $42,000 and growing. Remember lightning can strike twice - so make sure you are there when it happens again. In addition to the Mega Bad Beat Jackpot, the Fort has the Easy Way Jackpot, which is Aces full or better beaten by 4 of a kind or better. Bad beat gets $400, winning hand $200 and room share, that’s right room share all active players in jackpot poker games win $50.

Other promotions are “Aces Cracked Win a Rack’. 4-8 Hold-em win $100 and 8-16 Hold-em win $200 all day-everyday. 3-6 Hold-em win $100 on Mondays only. There is also AA Cracked with 13 Progressive Jackpots. If a player loses with Pocket AA against Pocket 22 thru pocket KK, The player with pocket AA will win the posted jackpot. Let’s not forget the ever popular “High Hand Spin” where you can win up to $599 for any 4 of a kind or higher in Hold-em or Stud, In Omaha get any 4 nines or higher. Posted rules apply. As you can see, there is a lot going on in the Fort McDowell poker room. If you haven’t been there for a while what are you waiting for? The money is yours for the taking. Until next time, “Have a Lucky Month” write me at azpokerlady@ cox.net.

Cover Story continued from page 8

After dinner, you’ll find exciting nightlife in the Dragonfly Lounge with live acts every Friday and Saturday night. The shows are free and the music rocks! Plus, check out the upcoming Stargazer Pavilion schedule. At this beautiful open-air venue, the sky’s the limit. The stars have shined brightly down on the likes of headliners such as Dwight Yoakum, George Jones, Styx, REO Speedwagon and many other great shows. This fall, Cliff Castle has a “September to Remember” in store for you! The legendary Super Star Willie Nelson is headlining on September 16. This is a show you don’t want to miss. Tickets are on sale now! Plus, you can win FREE concert tickets and cash during the “Hot Seat” giveaways every Friday until September 9. Call the Castle Club at 928.567.7999 for details. Cliff Castle even has action for the kiddos. Next time you visit, let the kids play while you play. Cliff Castle is the only casino in Arizona

with Kids Quest, a supervised childcare center full of games and activities for children six weeks to 12 years old. The entire staff at Kids Quest is certified in CPR and first aid. The kids will also love The Alley arcade. Open 24 hours and with over 30 of the most popular video games, they could spend all day battling aliens, shooting hoops, racing cars and saving the world. Enjoy time as a family too at Shake, Rattle & Bowl - Cliff Castle’s 20-lane bowling center. The weekends really heat up during “Cosmic Bowling” on Friday and Saturday nights when the lights go down, the music goes up and the whole place glows. It’s perfect for all ages, so let your inner-child shine through! When you’ve had enough action, take a break in the comfort of one of Cliff Castle’s 80 wellappointed rooms and suites. This summer The Hotel is offering three unbeatable Play & Stay Packages starting at just $79.95. Don’t let these offers pass you by. The kick back, relax and Wine Down package includes One Night Stay, One Bottle of Wine from a Verde Valley Vineyard, Two Wine Glasses, One “Playcation Funbook” per adult, One $12 Breakfast Coupon for The Gathering and a Touring Map of Local Wineries, Vineyards and Tasting Rooms. As always, Cliff Castle Casino Hotel is offering special deals to families this summer! The Family Fun package includes One Night Stay, One “Playcation Funbook” per adult, along with two Free Bowling Games with shoes and One Free Hotdog per guest at the Gutter Bar inside

Shake, Rattle & Bowl. Finally, after your big win, go ahead and sleep in! The Bed & Breakfast package includes One Night Stay, Two $10 Cash Coupons to use at the Casino and One $12 Breakfast Coupon for The Gathering. Reservations are required for all packages and availability is limited, so call 928.567.6611 today to book your next getaway! Some restrictions and black-out dates may apply. Cliff Castle Casino Hotel is proudly owned and operated by the Yavapai-Apache Nation and is located just off I-17 at exit 289 in Camp Verde. Guests must be 21 or older to play. Please play responsibly.

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DAVID AT THE SNACK BAR

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Part 2

Harry, Hermione and Ron are in hiding while Lord Voldemort’s Deatheaters have taken over the Ministry and Hogwarts. Snape is the new headmaster and has turned the school into a strict training by ground for new Deatheaters. Harry and David Ramsey his long-time friends know the only way to stop Voldemort is to destroy all the Horcruxes, but they must find them first. They learn that one of them is hidden at Hogwarts and break in to find it. Once inside the castle they are reunited with their followers starting a revolution in the school. It turns into an all out battle between Voldemort’s followers and Harry’s supporters. It is fast moving and spectacular. Everyone is back and it’s good to see them no matter how briefly. Fans of the series could not have asked for a better ending.

David’s Video Details Rango A chameleon gets lost in the desert and ends up in the town of Dirt where water is precious. Through a serious of funny and dangerous events he ends up saving the town from a hawk and then must face a rattlesnake. He is a little crazy but it works for him. The town is populated with small lizards, rodents and birds. They are all battered by life and live in fear of running out of water. Rango must find out what is happening to the town’s water and he uncovers a conspiracy that will rock the town to its foundation. The writing is brilliant with references to many classic films and film icons. The voice actors are perfectly matched to the characters. There are downright hilarious moments in this very good animated film.

Arthur

Horrible Bosses Nick, Dave and Dale all have bosses that they can’t bear working for any longer. Dale is constantly being sexually harassed, while Dave’s boss is not only ruining his career but the company as well, and Nick is denied the promotion he has worked hard to get. Over too many drinks they decide to kill their despicable bosses and seek a professional to help them. They decide that if they kill each other’s boss there will be no motive for the police to find. Their plan seems solid but even the best-laid plans are only as good as the people behind them. There are plenty of laughs in the very R-rated comedy. The cast allows you to overlook the implausibility of what is happening and enjoy the humor.

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Arthur is a rich overgrown child with a penchant for alcohol. He has been able to indulge his every whim his entire life. Hobson, his former nanny, takes care of him. His mother is forcing him to marry a former girlfriend or lose his billion dollar inheritance. Then he meets Naomi and falls in love. Now he doesn’t know what to do. I really liked this remake, in many ways it is better than the original including the cast and the way they interpret their characters. The audience I saw it with laughed so much I missed more than a few lines. If you have not seen the original this is a funny endearing romantic comedy and if you have seen the original, I think you will enjoy the new interpretation.

Limitless

Eddie has a book contract but is suffering from a terrible case of writer’s block. His job changes instantly when an old friend gives him a new drug, NZT. It enables him to tap into his full potential he can recall everything he has ever read, seen or heard. He can learn a language in a day, comprehend complex equations and charm everyone he meets. He completes his novel in record time and makes huge money as a day trader. It’s not long before he is making huge deals and winning. The only problem is he has to keep taking the drug and there are other people after his dwindling supply. There is some action in this thought-provoking film. If not for the annoying narration this would have been a very good film. David Ramsey is the President and co-founder of the Phoenix Film Critics Society and a member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association (The Critics Choice Awards). Watch for him on the CBS 5 Morning News every Friday just after 6am and on ABC-15’s “Sonoran Living Live” every other Friday at 11am. Read more of his DVD reviews at WildAboutMovies. com. Contact him at David@TheSnackBar.net.

gaming news HANDS ON CARDS – TOES IN SAND By Phil Scudella I slept in on Friday morning June 24th, woke at 9am had coffee bedside (Thanks Sherry) and watched Pat McMahon’s Talk Show on AZ-TV (This “60 something” former KRIZ deejay from the 60’s played that annoying brat Gerald, along with OZOB the Clown, Captain Super and lots of other characters for about 35 years on “Wallace & Ladmo” the world’s longest running kid’s Show in television history) I will say this, The McMahon Group is easily the most interesting talk show of any kind in Arizona. After the show, I went to the kitchen for some breakfast and checked the thermometer on the patio, what! It’s already 104 degrees at 10am! I checked the calendar; yes, it’s time for a “Cool down” in Carlsbad. I called a favorite spot close to the beach just north of San Diego – No rooms available today…but there was a cancellation for Saturday - I took it. Then it hit me, I was thinking about playing in a poker tournament near Yuma that very next day, so I called to secure a room at a special poker room rate of $69 – I’m in! We packed and headed for the Quechan Casino

in Winterhaven, California, (about 5 miles west of Yuma) and spent some well earned leisure time floating on tube on their “Lazy River” adjacent to the pool. That evening I played some “live” poker, blackjack and a few slots before hitting the sack. After breakfast the next morning played “live” again right up till the 1pm tournament - Oh, I could tell you I was the “big stack” till I got knocked out on the bubble with pocket aces – but the fact is I was short stacked with 3 tables remaining and went all in with pocket Queens and hoped anyone would call.

Poker dealers (L-R) Juan Cruz, Claude O’Neal, Tamala Turpin, Javier Barragan and Daniel Sanson Well not one person called - not one but TWO players went all in, and both with more chips than me. I thought GREAT – I will triple up! I was so proud to show those Queens down and smiled at the other two players. The player to my left showed Ace/King suited and the other showed pocket Kings, OUCH - the flop, turn and river came out in about 10 seconds, the Kings held and 10 seconds later I was saying so long to everyone and wishing them good luck. Poker Room manager Patty Taylor really felt bad when those Queens didn’t hold up, she was hoping I would make the final table. When the final table got to the top 7, they chopped the remaining prize money of $5,460 for a nice payday of $780 each. The next big Poker Room promotion is the “Beat

Top 3 chip leaders (L-R) Ramon Reyes, Roy Quintero & Jose Jaimes the Boss” tournament with weekly $1,000 free roll tournaments every Saturday culminating with the “Beat the Boss” $10,000 Free Roll Tournament on Thursday October 6 – Call the poker room for details Now, we could hit the road for San Diego, then north to Carlsbad where after checking in, we stayed on the beach till long after sunset letting the tide roll in to cool our sand cover toes. Sunday, it was back to the beach - then off to the “Gas Lamp” district of San Diego and the craziest places to ever have lunch or dinner Dick’s Last Resort with the most irreverent servers in the world. If you have never been there – you must go – UNLESS, you don’t have a sense of humor, in that case - go somewhere else. This visit to Dick’s last Resort was pretty tame - but about a year ago, I wound up using an oversized beverage straw as a pea shooter and fired pieces of corn about 100 feet across the room at the band on stage and hit the guitar player in the chest. He just flicked the corn off with his guitar pick and kept playing. It was like something out of a “Blues Brothers” movie with people tossing wadded up napkins across the room at other tables, and servers sitting at your table to take a break and munch on some of your French Fries. If this is not your type of entertainment – then head for the piano bar at the Holiday Inn.

ARIZONA PLAYER July 2011 29

ASTROLOGY & Joke Cancer June 22 to July 22

Libra Sept 24 to Oct 23

Capricorn Dec 22 to Jan 20

Leo July 23 to Aug 23

Scorpio Oct 24 to Nov 22

Aquarius Jan 21 to Feb 19

Taurus April 21 to May 21

Virgo Aug 24 to Sept 23

Sagittarius Nov 23 to Dec 21

Pisces Feb 20 to Mar 20

Gemini May 22 to June 21

Jul 7–14 Jul 15–22 Jul 23–31 Aug 1–7 Jul 7–14 Jul 15–22 Jul 23–31 Aug 1–7 Jul 7–14 Jul 15–22 Jul 23–31 Aug 1–7

Forgive those who matter Great time at favorite spot Best be careful this week Weekend to remember You’ll be rewarded Terrific time with old pal Plan that vacation Now is the time, go for it Unexpected trip ahead Fun time and you win Cards are the way to go Rare chance – take it

Jul 7–14 Jul 15–22 Jul 23–31 Aug 1–7 Jul 7–14 Jul 15–22 Jul 23–31 Aug 1–7 Jul 7–14 Jul 15–22 Jul 23–31 Aug 1–7

Happier days are near Think positive to win Nice pleasant trip Expect a call from past

Play to win always Good friend was right Why not? You’re ready Unplanned adventure For now, a good choice Things are looking up A short trip pays off Play favorite numbers

Jul 7–14 Jul 15–22 Jul 23–31 Aug 1–7 Jul 7–14 Jul 15–22 Jul 23–31 Aug 1–7 Jul 7–14 Jul 15–22 Jul 23–31 Aug 1–7

Silly idea works Past mistakes help here Test the water, soon Go back to basics

New friend is good choice Get ready to take leap Get some needed advice Make that plan work Do not get discouraged You will be right Cards flop in your favor Old friend returns

Aries Mar 21 to April 20

Jul 7–14 Jul 15–22 Jul 23–31 Aug 1–7 Jul 7–14 Jul 15–22 Jul 23–31 Aug 1–7 Jul 7–14 Jul 15–22 Jul 23–31 Aug 1–7

You guessed correctly Keep trying, win is near Favorite spot this week Persistence finally pays

Best is yet to come Believe – it will happen Try cards this week luck has returned Do not get discouraged You will be right Cards flop in your favor Old friend returns

Joke of the Month

Three quick Jokes you can tell anywhere: Billy: “Mommy, when I was on the bus with dad this morning, he told me to give up my seat to a lady.” Mom: “Well, Billy….you did the right thing.” Billy: “But mom…..I was sitting on daddy’s lap.”

CASINO DIRECTORY

1. Apache Gold Hotel Resort Casino • (Globe) San Carlos Apache Tribe–slots bingo & blackjack. (800) 272-2438 2. BlueWater Resort Casino • (Parker) Colorado River Indian Tribe–slots bingo blackjack & poker. (888) 243-3360 30 ARIZONA PLAYER July 2011

A married older man asked new young wife, “Sweetie, would you have married me if my father hadn’t left me a fortune?’

Cindy asked her husband: Jerry, what do you like most about me….my pretty face or my sexy body?’

“Honey” the young lady replied smiling “I would have married you….no matter WHO left you a fortune!”

Jerry scanned his wife from head to toe and replied “I like your sense of humor!”

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12. Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino • (Chandler) Gila River Indian Community–slots keno blackjack & poker. (800) 946-4452 13. Gila River Vee Quiva Casino • (Laveen) Gila River Indian Community–slots bingo blackjack & poker. (800) 946-4452 14. Gila River Lone Butte Casino • (Chandler) Gila River Indian Community–slots bingo & blackjack. (800) 946-4452 15. Golden Ha’ San Casino • (Why) Tohono O’Odham Nation–Slots 16. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino (Maricopa) Ak-Chin Indian Community–slots keno poker bingo & blackjack. (480) 802-5000 17. Hon-Dah Resort-Casino • (Pinetop) White Mountain Apache Tribe–slots blackjack & poker. (800) 929-8744 18. Mazatzal Hotel Casino • (Payson) Tonto Apache Tribe–slots keno bingo poker blackjack (800) 777-7529 19. Paradise Casino • (Yuma) Fort Yuma Quechan Tribe–slots keno bingo poker & blackjack. (888) 777-4946 20. Spirit Mountain Casino • (Bullhead City) Fort Mohave Indian Tribe–slots. (888) 837-4030 21. Yavapai Casino & Gaming Center • (Prescott) Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe–slots (800) 756-8744