August 2014 by Arizona Player

I nside

Gaming•Entertainment•Travel www.arizonaplayer.com

this I ssue Casino Entertainment Card Room Action Statewide New Blackjack Tournament at VQ REEL REVIEWS “BeetleJuice” by WMS Arena Poker Room Adds New Director CONTEST - Win a Casino Slot Machine! Vol. 22 No. 8 • August 2014

Something for Everyone Cover Story on page 8

WWW.ARIZONAPLAYER.COM

Contents

Gaming•Entertainment•Travel PO Box 33393 • Phoenix Arizona 85067 • 602-373-8728 • azplayer@cox.net Editor Phil Scudella Production Assistants John Olson Graphic Design CommuniGraphics

Contributing Photography John Aho Kevin Cummings Bree Amber Ellman Melody Hudson David Ramsey Satara Williams Shanna Wolfe

Special Thanks to: The Management and Marketing staff at Cliff Castle Casino Hotel, for all their help putting this August issue of Arizona Player together – Splendid Effort!

Contributing Writers Linda Boyd Kevin Cummings Bree Amber Ellman Cindy Esquer Melody Hudson TJ Jorgensen David Ramsey Satara Williams Shanna Wolfe

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.

4 ARIZONA PLAYER August 2014

Vol. 22 No. 8 • August 2014

Gaming News Talking Stick Resort Adds New Poker Room Director

Cover Story Talking Stick Resort’s Arizona State Poker Championship

REEL REVIEWS Kevin Cummings “BeetleJuice” by WMS

Card Room Action Table Game Action Around the State

AZ Lottery News “James Bond Gambles & Wins & “Lisa Loves Scratching”

Blackjack Corner TJ Jorgensen “New Tournament at Vee Quiva”

Gaming News “Desert Diamond Adds All-New Virtual Gaming”

Entertainment Casino Entertainment State-wide

Contest Page “WIN an IGT Triple Diamond Slot Machine”

Travel “Prickly Pear Festival in Superior”

Boyd’s Eye View of Video Poker Linda Boyd “Slim Pickens”

David at the Snack Bar David Ramsey "Movie & DVD Reviews"

Bingo Directory Complete List of Bingo Games at all Arizona Casinos

Jokes of the Month, Astrology, & Casino Directory

gaming news TALKING STICK RESORT APPOINTS NEW POKER DIRECTOR Talking Stick Resort, an enterprise of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community proudly announced on July 24th the appointment of a new director of poker for the ARENA poker room. With more than 20 years of experience in gaming, Thomas Young takes the reigns as the ARENA celebrates the 10-year anniversary of its famed Arizona State Poker Championship Friday August 15 – Tuesday Aug 19 when the final table competes to see who will reign as the new Arizona State poker Champion. “As the largest poker room in Arizona, the ARENA is a source of pride for Talking Stick Resort,” said Dennis Leong President & CEO of Talking Stick Resort. “In filling the director position, it was essential that we find someone with the ability to lead and a true passion for gaming and customer service. We believe we have found that person in Tom Young and are excited for what he will bring to the room moving forward.” Young’s first foray into gaming was in 1992 when he began as a poker dealer at Foxwoods Resort and Casino in Connecticut. From there, Young worked his way up to assistant shift manager. Later in 2006, when his boss at Foxwoods moved to Las Vegas to serve as the poker director for the Venetian, Young followed and became a shift manager. In addition to his vast experience in large gaming facilities across the country, Young had exposure to poker long before his career in gaming. “My grandfather owned a two table card room when I was kid,” said Tom Young, director of poker for Talking Stick Resort. “My mom didn’t like poker so she didn’t let us go with grandfather too often, but I guess it’s in my blood.”

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Since joining Talking Stick Resort in February, Young has spent time getting to know the ARENA’s loyal staff and regular players. “I’ve enjoyed meeting with the players, and finding out what they want and what they are looking for in games,” said Young. “It’s a very busy room with great clientele. It’s fun seeing the same faces, and I’ve already gotten to know quite a few of them.” As for his plans for the ARENA poker room, Young’s objective is to increase attention on guest service in the room. “My intent isn’t to come in and change everything, I just want to refocus on servicing our guests and make sure everyone is on the same page and that we are consistent,” said Young. “I’m looking forward to my future with the ARENA and welcome the leadership role in working with events like the Arizona State Poker Championship,” said Young. “So far, everyone has been supportive and the staff is really knowledgeable. My goal is to let them be experts in their fields and handle things, but with the assurance that I support them.” Talking Stick Resort is a AAA Four Diamond rated resort located just east of the Loop 101 Freeway and Indian Bend Rd. in Scottsdale. In addition to relaxing in one of the 496 deluxe rooms and luxury suites, guests will enjoy several upscale amenities, including: a rejuvenating spa; six world-class restaurants; live entertainment lounges; a 240,000 square foot gaming floor; two pools and more than 100,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor meeting space. For more information on Talking Stick Resort, please visit www.talkingstickresort.com or call at (480) 850-7777.

Cover story

CLIFF CASTLE CASINO HOTEL: Something for Everyone

estled along Interstate 17 in Camp Verde, Cliff Castle Casino Hotel is just an hour north of Phoenix. It is unique in that it is truly a family casino, with supervised child care at Kids’ Quest, a video arcade for teens and Shake, Rattle & Bowl - a twenty lane bowling alley that everyone can enjoy.Of course there are also the things you usually associate with a casino; 650 of the newest slot machines, as well as live blackjack and poker. To satisfy the hungry player, you'll be pleased to find a variety of dining options, from the 50’s-style diner Johnny Rockets to the awardwinning Storytellers Steakhouse, which, in addition to magnificently prepared steaks, features fresh-daily seafood from the Honolulu Fish Company. Mountain Springs Buffet is a wonderful, affordable eatery with a wide selection of tasty items and daily specials. Three Sisters, with sandwiches, beverages and treats and open 24 hours, is yet another delicious option. As one does not live by gaming alone, there is also the opportunity to enjoy live music at the Dragonfly nightclub on weekends.

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The 80-room hotel has six suites, and features a fully equipped conference and function center. You’ll always enjoy quality accommodations and a responsive staff. To get your day started off right, they offer a complimentary hot breakfast from Cliff Castle Casino Hotel’s central location. Now, add to this a chance for visitors to enjoy many attractions, natural and otherwise in the nearby area. The Verde Valley is the home of Central Arizona’s scenic wine country. You can see pieces of ancient history at Montezuma’s Castle and Tuzigoot. Enjoy the recently resurrected Old Town Cottonwood, the quaintness of Clarkdale, along with the specular views of the valley below, along with wildlife and soaring eagles while riding on the Verde Valley Railway. We can’t leave out the cool, funky vibe of Jerome, a modern day ghost town rising like Brigadoon alongthe edge of Mingus Mountain. And perhaps more well-known to out of town visitors are Sedona’s majestic red rocks and world renowned art galleries that are mere minutes away from the Casino. continued on page 10

cover story continued from page 8 Cliff Castle Casino Hotel also hosts concerts and other events that perform in the Stargazer Pavilion - an outdoor arena located adjacent to the casino. The Pavilion has been host to internationally-known performers such as Willie Nelson, Eddie Money and War. On Sunday, August 31, there will be a Reggae concert featuring acclaimed bands Black Uhuru and Third World. For laughs, Ron White will be in the house September 27. The Casino has a fine comedy tradition, hosting past performances by Larry the Cable Guy and Bill Engvall.

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One event not to miss is Taste of the Verde Valley, on November 1st that features the best of Arizonaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wines, along with food, music and art.With such a dazzling array of things to do, there is truly something for everyone at Cliff Castle Casino Hotel. Cliff Castle Casino Hotel is located north of Phoenix at exit 289 in Camp Verde, Arizona. For more information go to cliffcastlecasinohotel.com or call 1-800-381-7568

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CARD ROOM ACTION Apache Gold Casino 800-272-2438

Globe, AZ Dealing blackjack, and poker daily at 3pm

Arena Poker Room at Talking Stick Resort 480-850-7777

Scottsdale, AZ 10th Annual AZ State Poker Championship - August 15-19, *$1,100,000 prize pool! $1,100 buy-in or “Win a Seat” in Satellites “Win a Seat into the Tournament Single Table Shoot-outs”(thru Aug 14) ANYTIME 10 players sign up – Buy-in $125 (1 winner) or Double Entry Shootout – Buy-in $235 (2 winners per table) 9th Annual Arizona State Ladies Poker Championship – Sept 13 & 14 w/ finals on Sept 15 – Buy-in $270 + $30 s/c Mon thru Fri, 11:15 am – NLHE $70 buy-in w/ $10 s/c Mondays at 7:15 – Green Chip Bounty $150 Buy-in & $30 s/c - $25 bounties Tues, Wed and Thurs at 7:15pm - NLHE, $115 buy-in w/ $15 s/c Sat, Sept 20, Oct 11, Nov 8 & Dec 13 at 11:15 am – “Super Bounty” NLHE - $200 BI, $25 s/c - $100 Bounties Sat, Aug 23 & Oct 18 at 11:15 am – Turbo Bounty NLHE - $200 BI w/ $25 s/c - $100 Bounties Sat, Aug 30 at 11:15 am – Last Saturday NLHE – $125 BI w/ $25 s/c Sat, Sept 6, Oct 4, Nov 1 & Dec6 at 11:15am – “Big Stack” NLHE – $300 BI w/$30 s/c (opt $15 dealer Add-0n) Sun, Aug 24, Sept 7 & Oct 19 at 11:15 am Ladies No-Limit Hold-Em Tournaments $60 BI & 15 s/c Sun, Aug 31, Sept 28 & Oct 26 at 11:15 am Jack & Jill No-Limit Hold Em Tournaments $75 BI & 15 s/c 5th Annual Jack & Jill Championship – Saturday Nov 22 – Call for details Weekdays, 2am-10am “Aces Cracked” Win $ 100 rack Food Specials; $4 breakfast and $6.75 Steak & Eggs (2 am – Noon) Mondays $16 Prime Rib Dinner (5-11pm) *Based on 1,100 entries - Also dealing blackjack 24/7

Bluewater Resort & Casino 888-243-3360 ext 7649

Parker, AZ Poker Room opens at 4 daily except 2pm on Sun & Wed and closed on Mondays

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Tues & 7pm, NLHE “Bounty” Tournament $35 buy-in ($5 bounties) Thurs at 7pm, NLHE – High Hand Bounty Tournament $40 buy-in, w/ one $20 re-buy Wed, 2pm – 8pm “High Hand of the Day” pays $50 at 8 pm, plus any straight flush pays $50 Fri – 4 of a kind pays $50 & Full House pays $15 Sat, 5pm – “Big Stack” NLHE Tournament $100 buy-in, no re-buys Sun & Wed – Spreading 2-8 Omaha Daily-“Aces Cracked” pays $40 and Royal Flush pays $200 Also dealing blackjack daily at 9am

Bucky’s Casino 928-771-6779

Prescott, AZ Northern Arizona Poker Championship – 2pm, Sunday Aug 31 – 1st Place $10,000 (w/ 200 entries), Qualify on Sundays; Aug 3, 10, 17 & 24 at 2pm – 10 players qualify each week! Maximum - 40 Finalists, Buy-in $100 w/ $25 s/c Mon-Sat at 6pm - NLHE $40 Buy-in w/$10 add-on, (top 3-5 cash) top 5 earn points for Player of Month (3 places $300, $200 & $100) Mon – Fri, 10am & 2pm - NLHE Shootouts $20 entry w/$5 dealer Add-on Open Face Chinese Poker – 2, 3 or max 4 players to a table – you’re dealt 13 cards – exciting fun game! Bonus Poker 24/7 – Paid hourly, get trips or better on a hand and receive a card – make a hand that hour win up to $5,000! “Random Rewards” Various times and days see poker room for pay-outs Dealing blackjack 24/7 – Now playing; 3 Card Poker, “Texas Shoot Out” and High Card Flush w/ bonus jackpot

Casino Arizona 480-850-7777

Scottsdale, AZ Blackjack Tournaments: Tues, noon $1,000 added “Break at Noon” $ 50 buy-in Fri, 2:30am - The “Great Late” Tournament, $25 buy-in Dealing blackjack 24/7

Casino Del Sol 520-838-6565

Tucson, AZ $20,000 Summer Sizzler NLHE – Aug 21 (7pm) & Aug 22& 23 (11am) $220 buy-in ($50 w/ 20 hours live play) Finals, Aug 24 $25,000 Guest Appreciation Free Roll NLHE – Sept 29 – Oct 4 (Qualify w/ 60 hours live play between July 22 & Sept 29)

Mon, Wed & Fri, 10 am - $800 Guaranteed NLHE, $37 buy-in Tues & Thurs, 10am – Free Roll w/ $5 re-buys & a $10 add-on - $800 Prize pool Sun & Wed, 7pm - $800 guaranteed NLHE, $15 buy-in/Opt $15 add-on Thurs, 7pm - $5,000 deep stack NLHE, $100 buy-in no re-buys Sun 11am & Tues at 7pm - $1,500 Guaranteed NLHE, $45 buy-in – no re-buys Sat, 9am – Limit Omaha Hi-Lo, $15 buy-in, $5 re-buys + $5 add-on Mon 7pm & Sat noon – $1,000 NLHE - $35 buy-in – no re-buys with opt $5 chip-up Progressive high hands 24/7 – win up to $500 – see poker room for details

Cliff Castle Casino Hotel 928-567-7952

Camp Verde, AZ Mon-Fri, 10am - NLHE Shoot-out, $30 buy-in, w/ no re-buys Wed, 7pm – NLHE Tournament $60 buy-in, no re-buys (Early bird chips available) Wed, 8pm – Mid “$100 Splash pots every hour Fri, 7pm - NLHE Shoot-outs, $ 150 added per table of 10 - $25 buy-in – re-buys thru first level Sat, Noon – $500 added – NLHE $105 buy-in (Bonus chips for early live play) All Week – Royal Flush pays $100 “Aces Cracked” Sun – Fri, first 4 per day wins a $100 rack Also dealing blackjack 24/7

Cocopah Casino 800-237-5687 Somerton, AZ Dealing blackjack daily at 10am

Desert Diamond Casino Hotel 520-342-1810

Tucson, AZ Mon & Thurs at 9:30 am, plus Tues & Wed at 7pm $500 added NLHE – $35 buy-in no re-buys (max 40 – 50 players) Daily – Any Royal Flush $200 Hold Em, $100 Omaha, Straight Flush $100 Hold Em, $50 Omaha Special Poker Room menu at ½ off regularprices Dealing blackjack 24/7 with new progressive side bet and 3 card poker side bet

Desert Diamond I-19 Casino 1-866-332-9467 Sahuarita, AZ Dealing blackjack 24/7

Fort McDowell Casino 480-789-4284

Fountain Hills, AZ Mon-Fri at Noon NLHE - $30 buy-in - $20 add-on - No-rebuys Sat at 7pm & Sun at Noon - NLHE Deep Stack tournament - $50 buy-in w/ opt $30 add-on Tues, Wed, Thurs & Sun at 7pm & Sat at Noon & 4pm - NLHE - $5 buy-in Mon & Fri, 7pm, NLHE - $60 buy-in w/one $10 dealer add-on for additional $5,000 in chips Sun, Aug 17 at 10am - Ladies NLHE Poker Tournament – $60 buy-in w/ $10 dealer Appreciation “Aces Cracked” 24/7 win $100 24/7 “Aces cracked” 7:30 – 9:30 am & 3:30pm – 5:30pm $300 “Easy way Jackpot” Aces full of tens beaten by Quads or better wins Jackpot! “High Hand Spin” – with 4 of a kind or better win up to $1,198 - see poker room for details. Dealing blackjack 24/7 – Now playing FREE BET blackjack

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino 480-802-5138

Maricopa, AZ Mon – Fri at 9am to 10am – Start-Up Pay Back Special, earn money each hour you play from $10 to $25 per hour, you must be seated and playing before 10am. Receive max of $100 for playing first 6 hours. Mon at 7:30pm – NLHE, $50 buy-in, no re-buys Tues at 7:30pm, Omaha H/L, $15 buy-in, $10 re-buys + $10 add-on Wed at 7:30pm – NL Omaha Hi, $15 buy-in w/ unlimited $10 re-buys w/ $10 add-on at the break Thurs, 7:30pm – NLHE, $10 Buy-in plus three $10 re-buys & two $10 add-ons Fri, 7:30pm – NLHE, $30 buy-in w/ one $20 re-buy Sat, 12:30pm – Deep Stack Bounty NLHE $45 buy-in, includes $10 bounty chip plus $10 dealer add-on Sun at noon – Margarita Sunday NLHE - $15 buy-in w/ two $10 add-ons at the break (Maricopa residents have FREE entry) plus all players receive FREE admission to Pool Party – includes a free Margarita at the pool. Sun at 5:30pm – No-Limit Crazy Pineapple, $25 buy-in w/ unlimited $10 re-buys thru first break

Aces Cracked - Black aces $100, Red Aces $50 & Mixed $25 (Bonus 2am-3am =3X payout, mid-2am+double) MLB “Splash pots” Selected games – see poker room for schedule Daily splash pots (various amounts) at top and bottom of the hour 24/7! Bad Beat jackpots are various amounts based on game limits (3/6, 4/8 & 5/10) pays $1,500 to $3,500) Also dealing blackjack 24/7 – including “Push the bet”

Hon-Dah Casino 928-369-7555

Pinetop, AZ Mon, 6pm - NLHE Double Stack, $25 buy-in w/ $25 re-buy Tues, 6pm - NLHE “Speed Shoot-Out” $15 buy-in (no re-buys) Wed, 6pm - NLHE, $40 buy-in (no re-buys) “early bird” chips available every day & double on Tuesday Thurs, 6pm - No Limit Omaha Hi-Lo, $40 buy-in (no re-buys) “early bird” chips available Fri, 6pm – NLHE “$25 Bounty” Tournament, $45 buy-in (no re-buys) Sat, 4pm - NLHE, $30 buy-in, $10 re-buys + $ 10 add-on Sun, 4pm, Crazy Pineapple $30 buy-in, $10 re-buys + $10 add-on Sun - Thurs – Aces & Faces Cracked & Splash pots win up to $400 daily – see poker room for details

Lone Butte Casino 800-946-4452

Chandler, AZ Dealing blackjack 24/7 Linked Progressive Jackpots for “Crazy 4 Poker” & ULTIMATE Texas Hold EM starts at $10,000 and keeps growing at all 3 Gila River Casinos! PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was over $486,000 at press time!

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino 800-777-7529

Payson, AZ Live Poker Wed –Sun at 10am, High Hands, win up to $250 Wed & Sun at 6pm NLHE Tournament, $50 buy-in no-re buys Sat at 3pm, NLHE Tournament, $25 buy-in – no re-buys Aces cracked “wins a rack” various times daily – Max 3 per day (see poker room for details) Dealing blackjack 10am to 1am, with $3 games daily till 3pm Mon - 6pm, Blackjack Tournament $40 buy-in w/two $25 re-buys Bonus Blackjack get a 6, 7 or 8 card “21” win up to $200

Quechan Casino Resort 1-877-783-2426

Winterhaven, CA Open Wed-Sun at 10am, and Mon, Tues at 5pm - spreading 4/8 Hold Em with a kill, 4/8 Omaha hi-low split with a kill also 3-6 & 4-8 limit Texas Hold-Em, plus 1-3 & 2-5 No Limit Texas Hold Em Sat, 1pm $ 2,500 Guaranteed NLHE Tournaments $60 buy-in Sun, 1pm NLHE Tournament $40 buy-in Thurs, 7pm NLHE Deep Stack - $80 buy-in Dealing blackjack 24/7 - Special room rates for poker players

Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort 928-856-7244

Flagstaff, AZ Labor Day Weekend Bounty NLHE Tournament Sat Aug 30, at Noon Buy-in $110 (includes $10 s/c & $20 bounty chip) players will receive 7,500 Tournament chips Optional $10 dealer appreciation fee for additional 2,500 Chips Minimum

CARD ROOM ACTION

of 10 players, max 40+ players (alternates allowed in till first break) Live Poker Mon-Fri at noon, Sat & Sun at 10am NLHE Tournaments at 7pm, Thurs ($35) Sat at noon ($55) “Aces & Faces Cracked” – wins up to $50 $25 “Splash Pots” daily at Noon,12:30, 1,1:30 ,2,7, 8, 9,10, 11pm and Mid. Progressive “High Hand” & Bad Beat Jackpots – also dealing blackjack 24/7

Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino 800-946-4452 – Ext 1507

Laveen, AZ Wed, 7:30pm, **NLHE “Freeze Out”$40 buy-in w/ Opt $10 Staff fee at the break for added chips Sat, 11:15 am, **NLHE “Freeze Out”$40 buy-in w/ Opt $10 Staff fee (before play) & $20 add-on at the break Sun 11:15 am, **NLHE “Freeze Out”$30 buy-in w/ Opt $10 Staff fee (before play) & $20 add-on at the break **Tournaments allow “Early Bird Chips” for live play before tournament - Also, 1st & 2nd place at final table qualify for the “Tournament of Champions FREE ROLL” each quarter. Next tournament is August 30th Big Money Royals, Any Royal Flush wins $ 200 – Plus “Bonus Royals” Mon-Thurs “Super 77” Progressive Bad-Beat Jackpot – (Quad 7’s or better beaten) Jackpot was over $68,000 at press time “ACES CRACKED” spins the wheel - win up $300 (see poker room for details MLB & NFL “Splash Pots” for Select TV Games Dealing blackjack 24/7 – with $5 games - F.A.T - Friday Afternoon Blackjack Tournament at 2pm - $30 buy-in Linked Progressive Jackpots for “Crazy

4 Poker” & ULTIMATE Texas Hold EM starts at $10,000 and grows at all 3 Casinos! PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was over $486,000 at press time!

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino 800946-4452 –Ext 7375

Chandler,AZ Mon & Thurs Noon - NLHE, $30 buy-in, no re-buys - $150 added per table Tues & Wed, 7:30pm - NLHE Freeze Out - $50 entry fee w/ $10 optional add-on $1,000 added to prize pool Sun, 3:30pm, NLHE - $30 buy- in, $5 dealer add-on, $20 add-at the break & bonus chips for play before tournament “Super 77” Progressive Bad-Beat Jackpot – (Quad 7’s or better beaten) was over $68,000 at press time MLB & NFL “Splash Pots” Select TV Games – See poker room for payouts “Aces Cracked” Win a Rack - Sun 11pm until Fri at 6pm “Rolling Cash Fever” Drawing every other hour 24/7, $100 min, increases by $100 if not hit Big Money Royals - Any Royal Flush wins $ 200 & a spin - Any straight flush gets to spin the wheel – win up to $1,000 Food specials: ½ price poker room menu Also dealing blackjack 24/7 - including “Push your bet” Linked Progressive Jackpots for “Crazy 4 Poker” & ULTIMATE Texas Hold EM starts at $10,000 and keeps growing at all 3 Gila River Casinos! PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was over $486,000 at press time!

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

ARIZONA PLAYER August 2014 15

lottery news JAMES BOND FANTASY IS REAL!

The $68,000 Fantasy 5 jackpot of June 13 was claimed by Bond….James Bond. Specifically - James Bond IV of Maricopa, Arizona - He said he gets comments about his name at least 3 or 4 times a day. Although James buys his tickets on a regular basis, he only checks them when it’s time to purchase new ones. He was caught by surprise when his Fantasy 5 Quick Pick ticket for June 13 turned out to be the jackpot winner. James and his wife are thrilled with their win. John said he wasn’t as emotionally excited as he would have expected; he simply took the win in stride. Bond has two jobs. His main job, the one that pays the bills, is as a building engineer. His other job is his career as a “rock star.” He’s a vocal and guitar soloist. James is serious about his music and practices every day. He also writes his own music. His second album is planned for release in October, and he’s currently reassembling his band. For relaxation, James writes short stories, poetry, and screenplays. He enjoys spending time with his wife and children, as well as in the kitchen; James loves to cook. He plans to use some of the money to pay off his car. The rest will be invested. Bond purchased the winning ticket Fry’s on the John Wayne Parkway in Maricopa, AZ.

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Lisa Loves Scratching! Lisa Loftis of Peoria, doesn’t play any of the Lottery Draw games, but loves to play instant scratch tickets. She recently bought a few of the Crazy Cash Crossword from a Lottery vending machine at The Fry’s Food & Drug on West Olive in Peoria. She said, “I prefer buying tickets from the machines rather than from the counter at the store.” Lisa scratched the ticket at home. It didn’t take her long to discover that she’d won $100,000! Her husband also checked the ticket and then took it to the store to be sure they hadn’t made a mistake. There was no mistake, Lisa had won $100,000. Lisa is originally from Nebraska, but loves

living in Arizona. She is an assistant manager of a law firm and has been with the company for over 25 years. In her spare time Lisa enjoys reading and fishing; and playing instant scratch games. She prefers the $10 games as she likes the payouts. Her favorite game is the $10 Crossword.

New York to Arizona Pays Off! John Edwards, Peoria, bought a Triple Red 7’s instant scratch ticket at a store near 75th Avenue and Cactus in Peoria. He took it home to scratch it – when the scratching was done he knew he had won the top prize of $100,000. What he didn’t know was that it was the last top prize for the game. His family accompanied John to the Lottery while he redeemed the ticket. Everyone was happy for him. John was so excited about winning that he could hardly sit still. He rarely plays any of the draw games, preferring to play the $10 instant scratch tickets because he thinks they have a better payout. John moved to Arizona from New York. He enjoys living in Arizona, especially since

most of his family now lives here. He is a sales manager for a mattress company, so he works long hours with not much spare time. When John can manage some free time, he is a big baseball fan, spectator as well as participant. John plans to take a portion of his winnings for personal use and invest the rest of it.

TJ’s Blackjack corner “

$5,000 Guaranteed Blackjack Tournament

by TJ Jorgensen

or all of you that like Blackjack Tournaments - Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino is hosting a tournament on the last Saturday of each month with a $5,000 guaranteed prize pool. The Tournament starts at noon on Saturday August 30th Entry fee is $100, however, if you place first or second in one of the weekly Friday blackjack tournaments, your entry is free. For an extra $5 you get an additional $1,000 in chips. The Tournament is limited to 72 players, and players start with $5,000 in play chips. Bets must be made in multiples of $50 with $100 being the minimum bet and $5,000 being the max. In the qualifying rounds the participants play 15 hands of blackjack. At the end of 15 hands the player with the most chips the table will advance to the next round. There is a chip count after hand eleven. For those of you who have never played a tournament here are a few basics. To be successful in tournaments you really don’t need to study, just understand a few basic facts. 1) Similar results: All the players at your table will tend to have similar results. If the dealer gets a blackjack, everyone loses, if the dealer goes bust, everyone who didn’t bust wins. This brings us to fact number 2

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2) Bet opposite: If you are behind, the best way to catch someone is to bet opposite. If they bet $500 and you bet $10, if you both lose you gain $490. This will happen 31% of the time. 3) Risk vs Reward: If you are nearing the end of a round and are forced to make a catch up bet, try and do it in one bet. It is better to risk one large bet than to try to make several mid-size bets. You also want to wait until your bet will have the maximum effect - usually when the betting button has passed you so you can see what the other players have bet. Choose your battles wisely. When entering a tournament the first key to success is to read the rules. Different tournaments have different rules so you need to know betting limits and number of rounds, as well as how many players advance from each round. The second key is seat assignment. Most tournaments assign seats, and once yours is assigned you need to calculate what position you will be in on the final hand. If you get to bet last on the final hand you don’t have to be the chip leader to be the favorite to advance, however if you have to bet first it is very important to be the chip leader. Where you will bet on the final hand and how many players advance determines how aggressive

your play must be. 4) Bet Size; the next key is sizing your bets. Most inexperienced players think that the way to approach a blackjack tournament is to bet big and hope they are lucky. While this approach will work once in a while, it usually will get you eliminated before the end of the round. If you run out of chips before the end of the round you are eliminated. The strategy that I have had a lot of success with is to bet at or near the minimum for the first half of the round and see where that gets you. I have won many tournaments because the dealer was hot and I was the only one left with any chips. If only one player advances you need to be within one max bet of the leader with five hands left. If you are forced to make a catch up bet try and do it in one hand, there-by reducing the risk. I hope to see everyone at this tournament, I will be there. T.J. Jorgensen has been a professional Blackjack player for over 20 years. He is well known for his live tournament play and has competed against, and beaten, some of the top tournament players in the world. He also has won the prestigious World Series of Blackjack. His book, “Beating the Casino at Their Own Game,” is available by e-mail: tj21pro@gmail.com

gaming news Desert Diamond Now Offers Virtual Gaming! The leader in Arizona gaming just took another big step up last month when Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment launched an online gaming site on July 21. Slot and systems manufacturer, Aristocrat, developed the nLive virtual casino option for Desert Diamond Casinos. Unique from other free gaming sites, Desert Diamond Casinos’ is truly an extension of its already established operations. Aristocrat’s nLiveLink technology allows the free play site and the in-house system to analyze data between the two sites. The Desert Diamond Casinos site is the first time nLive will connect with a competitor’s system. With more than 30 years in the industry—and three locations in Southern Arizona—Desert Diamond Casinos is broadening its expertise, giving customers the option to experience the same amazing entertainment in the comfort of their homes, all for free. With new games added regularly, guests can log on through the Desert Diamond website www.ddcaz. com or at www.ddcazigaming.com to play a variety of slot and table games, such as: 5 Dragons™, 50 Lions™, Big Red™, Imperial House™, Miss Kitty™, More Chilli™, Queen of the Nile™ Sun and Moon™,

20 ARIZONA PLAYER August 2014

hi lo solitaire, jacks or better, pro blackjack and roulette. Guests will receive 10,000 virtual credits for signing up and can get 5,000 virtual credits just for logging on each day. Treena Parvello, Director of Public Relations and Communications for the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise, said, “We are incredibly excited to deliver this fantastic opportunity to our guests. Desert Diamond Casinos is already Southern Arizona’s entertainment leader, and now with Aristocrat’s nLive our guests can experience the possibilities in a whole new way online. With fabulous games for both online and in-casino play, the fun never has to stop!” nLive—the winner of the “Innovation Award” in the 2013 Gaming & Leisure Gaming and Hospitality Awards, and a Top 20 Most Innovative Gaming Technology Product for 2011 by Casino Journal—is changing the landscape of gaming in Southern Arizona and beyond. Still offering more than 1,800 slot games and live table games at its three locations in Tucson, Sahuarita, and Why, Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment has unmatched amenities, high-tech meeting facilities, fine dining, and world-class music

concerts and comedy sets—and now, online gaming.. Additional information can be found at www. ddcaz.com or by calling 866-DDC-WINS. Follow Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment on Twitter (@DiamondCasinos) and on Facebook (/ DDCAZ). Desert Diamond Casinos Online - Visit www.ddcaz.com and click on “Play Online” or go to www.ddcazigaming.com. Desert Diamond Casinos and Entertainment features 3 locations in southern Arizona: Desert Diamond Casinos Tucson - 7350 S. Nogales Highway in Tucson; Desert Diamond Casinos Sahuarita - 1100 W. Pima Mine Road south of Tucson in Sahuarita, AZ; Desert Diamond Casinos Why - Highway 86, Milepost 55 in Why, AZ.

entertainment Apache Gold Casino Resort

(5 miles East of Globe on Hwy 70) 1-800272-2438 The POINT Sports Bar & Grill (Previously the Cabaret Lounge) Reopening Soon! San Carlos Event Center: August 16 – The Motown Miracles October 18 – Los Lonely Boys November 8 – Dwight Yoakam

Dwight Yoakam

Sept 5 & 6 – Strange Days (Doors Tribute Band) Sept 19 & 20 – Tonight’s the Night (Rod Stewart Tribute) Sept 26 & 27 – Fan Halen (Van Halen Tribute) Oct 2 – Micki Free (Native American Recognition Days) Oct 3 & 4 – Fandango (ZZ Top Tribute) Oct 16 – Texas Tornados (Native American Recognition Days) Oct 17 & 18 – Bonfire (AC/DC Tribute Band) Oct 23 – Williams & Ree “The Indian and the White Guy”

Thursday featuring House of Floyd (Pink Floyd Tribute) Good Question & Vox Urbana AVA Amphitheater: Aug 17 – ZZ TOP w/ Jeff Beck Aug 31 – Frampton’s Guitar Circus featuring; Peter Frampton, BB King, Buddy Guy and Robert Randolph Sept 13 – Marco Antonio Solis Oct 18 – Ramon Ayala Conference Center: Aug 23 – Pascua Yaqui Fights VII (WWF / MMA)

Cliff Castle Casino Hotel

I-17 at exit 289 in Camp Verde 1-800-381-SLOT Dragonfly Lounge; live music on weekends

Desert Diamond Casino Hotel

7350 South Nogales Hwy, Tucson 1-866-332-9467 Monsoon Night Club: Live bands or DJ on weekends Fridays – “Dance Fusion” w/ DJ Blade Saturdays – “Noches Caliente Saturdays” Hottest Tex Mex & Tejano music with bands Los Gallegos, Angel Norteno, Los Kabalgantes or Grupo Latido

Williams & Ree

BlueWater Resort and Casino

11300 Resort Dr., Parker 1-888-243-3360 Showroom: Aug 30 – A Night of Magic with Aaron Radatz River’s Edge Cantina: Sundays Noon to 6pm – Live Reggae music Dig Lounge: Deejays Daily at 5pm – Oldies on Sunday & Mondays

Casino Arizona

101 at McKellips, Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Showroom: Aug 15 & 16 – House of Floyd (Music of Pink Floyd) Aug 22 & 23 – Doobies Inc. – Tribute to Doobie Brothers Aug 29 & 30 – Wanted (Tribute to Bon Jovi)

22 ARIZONA PLAYER August 2014

Oct 24 & 25 – The Kenny Cetera CHICAGO EXPERIENCE Oct 30 – The Plateros (Native American Recognition Days) Oct 31 – KISSMANIA (KISS Tribute Band) Nov 7 – LED ZEPAGAIN (Led Zeppelin Tribute) Arizona Room Patio Grill: Mon – Country music featuring Jordan Benson w/ Heartlyn Rae Tues– “Latin Fire Dance Night” w/ free lessons w/ AZTEX Band Wed & Thurs – Country (Tommy Ash Band) and dance instruction with Laina Lee Bingo Hall: Fri & Sat at Midnight, L-8 Nite Bingo! Music, light show & dancing!

Desert Diamond Casino I -19

1100 West Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita 1-866-332-9467 Diamond Center: Aug 23 – Carlos Mencia

Fort McDowell Casino

N of Shea off Hwy 87, Fountain Hills 1-800-THE-FORT Lucky 7 Saloon: Free entertainment on Fri & Sat – featuring; Kenny G Band, Chaka N Friends, Basketball Jones, Furious George, Apache Spirit & Rhythm Edition Bingo Hall: Saturday, Aug 16 – Late Night Lunar Bingo w/ music & giveaways Outdoors: Sept 13 - Mega Yard Sale (6am-1pm) For updates – go to fortmcdowellcasino.com

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort and Casino 15406 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa 480-802-5000 THE LOUNGE: Wed, Noon – 4pm; Swing Tips, Yesterday Once More, Bandstand Shows, J White, XO featuring Julissa Ruth Fri & Sat nights; free live entertainment Sept 6 - TONIC Sept 12 – JT Hodges Oct 24 – Vertical Horizon POOLSIDE PARTY –“Margarita Sundays” Now – Aug 31 Live Bands 2pm-6pm! 8/17 – Makia Souljahz, 8/24 – Walkens Trio and 8/31- Kush County For updates, go to harrahsakchin.com

Hon-Dah Resort and Casino

Highways 260 and 73, Pinetop 1-800-WAY-UP-HIGH Timbers Lounge: Free entertainment, Monday is Comedy Night, Tues-Sat, Live bands Aug 12 thru 16 – Clark County Band Aug 19 thru 23 – Soul Lads Aug 26 thru 31 – Marble Heart (country)

Casino Del Sol

5655 W. Valencia Rd. Tucson 520-838-6506 Paradiso Bar: Free entertainment weekends and Tribute Bands every

Aug 30 – Super Diamond (Neil Diamond Tribute) Sept 6 – WAR (Legendary Funk, R&B, Jazz & Rock & Roll Band) Sept 19 – Thompson Square Sept 27 – Natalie Cole Sports Bar: Sports on big screens, Karaoke Wednesdays, Swingin’ Tuesdays, Oldies 0n Thursday, plus DJ music Fri & Sat nights

Lone Butte Casino Carlos Mencia

202 loop at the Kyrene exit – Chandler, 1-800-WIN-GILA Cascades Lounge: (4pm-7pm) Mondays

entertainment

Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino

& Fridays - Marty & the Party, Tuesdays - Thaddeus Rose, Wednesdays - Spotlight or Silhouette, Thursdays (4-7pm) Shining Star, Otis & the Beat, The Walkens or The Heat Wednesdays & Thursdays (8pm-Mid) JJ’s band or Str8Up Band Fridays (9pm-1am) AZ Tex Band Saturdays (9pm-1am) Soul Persuasion, Smooth Groove or New Frequency Sundays (3-7pm) Real Tones Band or Route 66 Verona Chophouse: Saturday: Talia 5-9pm & Sunday: (10am-3pm) live Jazz brunch Buffet Bingo Hall: 11pm Fri & Sat - B.A.D BINGO w/ DJ “Rockin’ Rob” music, light show, bingo & giveaways

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino

1/2-mile S. of Payson on Hwy 87 1-800-777-PLAY www.777play.com Event Center: Aug 8 – “One More from the Road” Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute Apache Spirits Lounge: call for entertainment updates

Paradise Casino

450 Quechan Drive, Yuma 1-888-777- 4946 Bingo / Concert Hall: Aug 16 – Zapp Band w/ Special Guest Candyman Sharky’s Bar: Live bands or DJ’s on weekends

Quechan Casino Resort

525 Algodones Rd, Winterhaven CA (Yuma area) 1-877-783-2426 PIPA Event Center: Call for updated schedule Sidewinders bar: Free weekend entertainment featuring DJ’s or bands

Talking Stick Resort

Loop 101 and Indian Bend Road Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Showroom: Aug 22 – The Australian Bee Gees Aug 23 – Queensryche (Farewell tour w/ Geoff Tate) Aug 29 – Asleep at the Wheel Aug 30 – UFC 177 Live Viewing Party Sept 13 – The TUBES

22181 Resort Blvd (I-40 @ exit 219) Flagstaff (928) 856-7200 Arrows Lounge: live music on weekends

Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino

The West Valley Casino 51st Ave, 4 miles S. of Baseline – Laveen 1-800-WIN-GILA Event Center: Aug 15 – Zapp Band Aug 23 – ’56: A 1950’s Rock & Roll Revue Aug 29 – “One of the Nights” (Eagles Tribute Band)

Kathleen Madigan Sept 19 – Kathleen Madigan Sept 25, 27 & 27 – Thunder From Down Under (Male Revue) Oct 3 – Nils Lofgren Oct 17 - Lonestar Nov 1 – Darlene Love Nov 8 – Psychedelic Furs & The Lemonheads Nov 18 – Adrian Belew Power Trio Nov 21 – Tracy Lawrence Dec 5 – Blue October Ballroom: Aug 27 – 8 Man Jam (KMLE Country Concert) Nov 2 – Gloria Trevi Nov 15 – Nick Swardson Nov 29 – Jay Leno POOLSIDE: Release Pool Party every Saturday & Sunday 11am-6pm – Featuring the best DJs from around the world! Palo Verde Lounge: featuring Gustavo Angeles (Mon-Thurs) Paul Wells (Fri & Sat) and DJ Juma after 11pm on Sat Shadows Lounge: classic sounds of Frank Sinatra and others Degree 270 Lounge: Fri & Sat, featuring the region’s best DJ’s Orange Sky Restaurant & Lounge: Live jazz

Sept 6 – ABBAFab (ABBA Tribute) Sept 12 – Los Lobos Sept 20 – 49 Laughs (Comedy) Sept 26 – Sawyer Brown Oct 4 – Bella Donna (Stevie Nicks & Fleetwood Mac Experience) Oct 17 – Los Invasores de Nuevo Leon Outdoor Patio: (Mon – Sat, 4pm-7pm & 9pm-1am) Featuring these bands; Powerdrive, Str8Up, New Frequency Band, Marty & the Party, The Walkens, Chuck E Baby, Eagleheart, Michael and Manuel, Latino Rebel Band, Andrea & Los Guys, Shining Star, Reality Band, Priminition, Rhythm Edition & Chaka & friends (Sun 4pm-7pm) Rhythm of the Sun Band, Mariachi Rodriguez or Mariachi Pasion Bingo Park: Every Saturday at 11pm – BINGO ECLIPSE – Bingo, DJ music, light show & giveaways

I-10 at Wild Horse Pass exit - Chandler 1-800-WIN-GILA Ovations LIVE! Showroom: Aug 15 – Peter Frampton Aug 16 – December ’63 (Frankie Valli Tribute) Aug 17 – Justin Shandor (World’s Ultimate Elvis Tribute) Aug 22 – TNT (The AC/DC Tribute) Aug 23 – Vietnamese Music Concert and Dance Aug 24 – Lila Downs Aug 29 – Great White & Slaughter Aug 30 –KOOL-FM’s Lost 80’s Live w/ Flock of Seagulls, Men without Hats, Bow Wow Wow, Naked Eyes, Animotion, Dramarama and the Flirts Sept 7 – Piano Man (Tribute to Billy Joel & Elton John Sept 19 – Joan Jett & The Blackhearts Sept 20 – WFF/MMA Fights Sept 26 – DSB (Journey Tribute) Oct 3 – Latin Legends (featuring Malo, Tierra and Thee Midnighters Oct 4 – Survivor Oct 17 – Ramon Ayala Oct 31 – Ziggy Marley Nov 7 – Merle Haggard Nov 29 – Big Bad Voodoo Daddy CHROME NIGHT CLUB –Arizona’s Newest Hot Spot is Open with the Top DJ’s in Arizona! Encore Lounge: Mid-day entertainment Monday’s 11am-3pm & late night entertainment w/ bands; Powerdrive, Hamptons, Bobby & Charlene Freeman, Andrea & Los Guys, Str8up, Michael & Manuel, JJ’s Band, Yuvonne Brooks band, The Walkens, Chaka and Friends, New Frequency, Smooth Groove, Eagleheart, Smokestack Lightning, Rhythm Edition, Pima Express & Route 66

Yavapai Casino

1505 East Hwy 69 Prescott 1-800-756-8744 Yavapai Cantina; Fri – Karaoke w/ Cruisin’ Susan, Saturdays – Live Bands

ARIZONA PLAYER August 2014 23

august contest WIN A “REEL” CASINO SLOT MACHINE! Here is something we have never done this before! For the first time ever in our over 22 year history – Arizona Player is giving our readers a chance to win a full size – right out of a Las Vegas Casino Slot Machine! As a matter of fact this very popular TRIPLE DIAMOND slot machine from IGT is still in many casinos today. Phil Scudella, our publisher actually plays the $5 version at a local casino every month and has hit a nice jackpots over the years! You can take this beauty home and enjoy playing it for free all you want, compliments of Arizona Player & Colson Gaming – the home of affordable slots, video poker machines, blackjack tables, poker tables and more. Stop by say hello and even enter there for an extra entry in their store.

24 ARIZONA PLAYER August 2014

But you can also enter by going to the Arizona Player website arizonaplayer.com then click on the Contest banner. Just fill out the entry form completely and you’re entered! For an extra entry, go to the Arizona Player/Facebook page and “like” Arizona Player Magazine and you double your chances to win! And remember you can triple your chances by entering at Colson Gaming located at 3819 N. 3rd Street (just south of Indian School Rd.) Enter the parking lot off 4th Street going north. There is a limit of 1 entry per person and 2 per household each month at the store. What a concept! Contest winner must pick up the Grand Prize Triple Diamond Slot Machine at Colson Gaming. Because of gaming laws, you must be an Arizona resident. We will announce the Grand Prize winner in the October issue along with 10 lucky runner-up contest players that will win $25 gift cards to restaurants, stores or choose tickets to sporting events or concerts that we have available! Good Luck and thanks for being our friends and supporting Arizona’s most respected, most read and most distributed gaming publication in the state – Arizona Player.

travel PRICKLY PEAR FESTIVAL IN SUPERIOR All images courtesy of ©John Aho Celebrate the lore, the flavors and the challenges of gathering Arizona’s iconic prickly pears at the Third Annual Prickly Pear Festival on Saturday, August 23rd in the historic and picturesque old mining town of Superior, Arizona – just a short scenic drive from Apache Junction. Visitors to the festival--the only all-day event of its kind in the country-- will learn to identify the most edible of the hundreds of prickly pears in the state, gather and prepare the luscious purple fruit and the nutritious green pads. Experts will guide visitors in how to turn the pears into tasty salads, entrees and desserts, brew a light melon like pale ale and make wine from the fruit. Events begin at 6:30 a.m. with a choice of two hikes through prickly pear territory, timed so hikers can return in time to enjoy a sumptuous outdoor breakfast prepared by members of the Superior Fire Department. One of the walks will be a tour of Old Pinal City, led by Tonto National Forest Ranger Scott Wood, an expert on the history of the area and its native foods and people. The second hike, led by Lost Trail steward Bill Vogler, will loop from the Picket Post Trailhead to Arnette Canyon. Wear Sturdy Shoes And Bring Sunscreen And Plenty Of Water For Both Hikes!

26 ARIZONA PLAYER August 2014

7am – 11am, The Superior Fire Department hosts a pancake breakfast on the patio at Porter’s Café w/ Ham, eggs, pancakes, prickly pear syrup, juice, milk and coffee, all for a donation of $6. Proceeds benefit the firefighters. Speakers include Jean Groen, cookbook author, who conducts regular programs at the nearby Boyce Thompson Arboretum; Natalie McGee, of the Arizona Cactus Ranch in Green Valley, a nationallyknown advocate for the amazing health benefits attributed to the plant, and Gabriel Garfio, a executive chef whose culinary creations at his Mesa restaurant incorporate prickly pears in both traditional Mexican and Native American dishes.

In the potable area, Pete Rendek, will repeat his popular three-hour class in brewing prickly pear India pale ale. Globe winemaker Jerry Temanson will talk about making wine from the prickly pear fruit and Randy Childers, of Gold Canyon, will reveal the secrets to making a modern Southwest version of the ancient drink made from honey and prickly pear fruit. Tasting samples will be available to try all three. Reservations and a $25 fee are required for the prickly pear ale brewing class; all other festival events are free. To register for the brew class call Lynn Heglie at Porter’s Cafe, 520-827-9398. Spaces are limited. Desert food specialists, crafters and artists will offer a unique assortment of wares, from prickly pear lip balm, handmade jewelry to juices, syrups, jams and an array of desert

and prickly pear-based products. Local restaurants will add special items featuring the fruit, or “tunas,” or the pads, “napoles,” to their menus on festival day, and downtown shops will offer discounts to festival goers. For those who would like to stay overnight, the Copper Mountain Motel, on Hwy 60, offers a special rate for Friday and Saturday nights. The event is from 9am to 4pm (hikes earlier) on Main Street in Downtown Superior. The first 100 visitors to register at the Chamber of Commerce office will receive a free prickly pear pad. Superior is located off Hwy. 60, about an hour east of Phoenix and three miles east of the Boyce Thompson Arboretum. The festival is sponsored by the Superior Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with the Arboretum. For schedules, contact the Chamber at 520-689-0200 or go to www.superiorarizonachamber.org or on Facebook For those of you who would like to add a little gambling to your adventure – The Apache Gold Casino Resort is nearby – Take Hwy 60 east to Globe (20 miles) then 5 miles east on Hwy 70 to the casino/hotel. There you will find slots, blackjack, poker, entertainment and several restaurants to add to your enjoyment.

A BOYD’S EYE VIEW OF VIDEO POKER

The R isk Factor Part II

wo months ago I explained the risk factor, or variance, for deuces by wild games. In Part II, Linda Boyd of the series you’ll see that you have to look at a different part of the pay schedule to gauge the likelihood of running out of money on non-deuces wild games. It’s important that players have reasonable expectations before choosing a video poker device to play. Tables 1.1-1.2 5-coin Bet Pay Schedule

HAND

9/6 DDB

9/6 JOB

Royal Flush 4000 4000 Straight Flush 250 250 4 Aces w/2, 3 or 4 2000 NA Four 2’s, 3’s or 4’s w/A-4 800 NA 4 Aces 800 NA Four 2’s, 3’s, or 4’s 400 NA Four 5’s-Kings 250 NA Four of a Kinds NA 125 *Full House 45 45 Flush 30 30 Straight 20 20 3 of a Kind 15 15 2 Pair 5 10 Jacks or Better 5 5 Expected Return (ER) 98.9808% 98.5439% Variance 41.98498 19.51468 *Note that non-deuces wild video poker games derive their labels from the payout for the fullhouse and flush hands, respectively. For example a 9/6 DDB pays the same for all hands except the

full-house and flush as does a 9/6 JOB game. The flush pays 9 times the coins wagered on a full house and 6 times the coins wagered on a flush. Understanding Pay Tables: You should always have a look at the game’s pay schedule before inserting money into the device. If it’s a multi-game machine simply select the game and then push the “see pays” button. Be aware that this will give you the amounts returned for each winning hand, but will not indicate either the all-important expected return or the variance. For that you’ll have to bring a table with you to the casino. Free removable tables can be found in my book “The Video Poker Edge”. Tables 1.1 and 1.2: Referring to Tables 1.1 and 1.2 you’ll notice that 9/6JOB has a variance of approximately 19.51 and an ER of 99.54% while 9/6DDB has a variance of 41.98 and an ER of 98.98%. In layman’s terms, it means 9/6 JOB has a higher return and a significantly lower risk to your bankroll. In fact, you are more than twice as likely, even with correct play, to run out of money in 9/6DDB than in 9/6JOB. In my latest YouTube video in conjunction with American Casino Guide I give 10 good reasons to play 9/6 JOB rather than a high risk game. Now, guess which game is infinitely more popular with players? It’s DDB and never mind that the version found in most casinos is 8/5DDB (ER 96.7861% and variance 41.99487, assuming computer-perfect play)! It’s true that getting special 4-of-a-kinds (4OAKS) is great fun, but you shouldn’t have unrealistic expectations or accuse the casino of gaffing the machines if you

choose a high risk game. Estimating the Risk: It would be nice if you carried around pay schedules with both the ER and variance, since the casino’s machines have the pay schedule but not the ER or variance, but that’s unrealistic, so what can you do to get a general idea of the game’s risk to your bankroll for nondeuces games? Check out the payouts for 4OAK hands, especially “special” 4OAKS, like Aces with a kicker in DDB. If these pay large bonuses and frequent hands less, then expect a high variance number. An even bigger give away is the return for two pair. If the game returns double your wager, like any version of JOB as opposed to just even money like any version of DDB then the variance is low and you can hang in there longer. Be sure you don’t confuse the variance with the ER or theoretical return. If the game’s ER is low, say 7/5JOB (ER of 96.1472%), then that’s a good reason not to play even though the variance (19.17910) is low as well. Final Thoughts: If you want to play longer sessions without running out of money, your odds are better with a low variance game. If you choose a non-deuces wild game - look for good versions of JOB or Bonus Poker (BP). To me this means 9/6JOB or 8/5JOB progressive or 8/5BP. Linda Boyd – long-time table game player before turning to video poker, also writes for “Southern Gaming and “Midwest Gaming and Travel” her book, “The Video Poker Edge”, includes free removable pay schedules and strategy cards for the most popular games. Look for her story in current editions of “American Casino Guide” (ACG) and her YouTube videos, also with ACG. The Second Edition of her book is available in both paperback and kindle. Available toll free at 1-877-900book - amazon.com bookstores or Square One Publishers. www. squareonepublishers.com

ARIZONA PLAYER August 2014 27

DAVID AT THE SNACK BAR Guardians of the Galaxy Peter Quill is kidnapped as a child and taken to a strange galaxy. Years later he is an intergalactic thief calling himself ‹Star Lord›, but no one else does much to his disappointment. He steals an orb that everyone wants and he ends up having to by David Ramsey save the galaxy from a madman bent on revenge and the ultimate evil that is controlling him. He teams with an alien temptress and three criminals: a strongman with a grudge, a genetically enhanced raccoon and walking, talking (sort of) tree that he meets in prison. There is plenty of action but its the humor and style that make this a great summer movie. I can’t wait for the sequel and to see how it all plays out in the Marvel universe. Disney and Marvel have done it again.

David’s Video Details Divergent

In a post-apocalyptic society, yes another one, a teenage girl is about to come of age and she has to choose a ‹faction› to join. In this society you are placed in a ‹faction› where you spend your life based on testing. The society is run by one of the factions and another is the security force, while others are farmers, etc. The leaders are terrified of anyone who does not fit into one of the factions labeling them divergent. Tris learns she is divergent but has to hide it so she chooses to join the security faction. Everything falls apart when she is discovered and one the factions tries to take control. This is the first of at least three films in the series and while the cast is good the story is very tired.

The Amazing Spider-Man 2

The Hundred Foot Journey When Hassan and his family are displaced from their home and restaurant in India they end up Europe. While travelling through France their car breaks down the father notices an empty restaurant for sale. He decides they will settle there, the only problem is that directly across the street is a Michelin starred restaurant run by Madame Mallory who is obsessed with getting another star and does not take kindly to the new competition. Hassan›s natural talent as a chef is soon apparent to everyone and when an incident changes everything Madame Mallory changes her tune. Meanwhile, Hassan and his father both embark on possible romantic adventures. The Hundred Foot Journey is a wonderful film about family, friendship and food.

Peter and Gwen have reached a crossroads in their relationship, Peter›s old friend Harry returns to take over Oscorp, Peter finds our more about his father and a series of super-villains show up to challenge Spider-Man. There is a lot going on in one of the few super-hero movies where the story doesn›t take second place to the action. Oh, there is plenty of action what with Electro, the Green Goblin and the Rhino all out to get the web-slinger and it is spectacular, but it›s the relationships that are the heart of the story and the film. If you don›t know the comic book series you will be in for a shock, and if you do - don›t tell anyone. The cast is terrific and the writing just might be the best in the Marvel Universe so far.

Draft Day

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 his reviews on the CBS 5 Morning News every Friday between 5:30 and 6:30am and on ABC-15’s “Sonoran Living Live” every other Friday. Read more of his DVD reviews at WildAboutMovies. com. Contact him at David@TheSnackBar.net. 28 ARIZONA PLAYER August 2014

Sonny is the General Manager of the Cleveland Browns and today is the day that could decide his future in football. He is under a lot of press to have a great draft by picking an offensive favorite but he has his eye on a lesser known defensive player. How he maneuvers through the day juggling his family, a girlfriend, the owner of the team, a hostile coach and the media is a thing of beauty - but not really believable. Draft Day is a more than a sports film it has something for everyone.

bingo

Bingo Games Statewide

Apache Gold Casino – Globe Noon (Wed, Thu & Sun) 7pm (Fri & Sat & 1st Mon) BlueWater Casino – Parker 6:30pm (Mon- Wed) & 1:30pm (Sun) Casino Arizona – Scottsdale 1pm & 7pm (Daily) Casino Del Sol – Tucson 2:15 & 7:15pm (Daily) (Daily mini Sessions at noon & 1:30pm) Cocopah Casino – Somerton (Yuma area) 1pm & 6pm (Daily) Desert Diamond Casino – Tucson 2pm & 7pm (Daily) Fort McDowell Casino – Fountain Hills *9am, 12:30pm & 6:30pm (Mon – Fri, *except Tues) 6:45am, 9am, 12:30PM, 6:30pm (Sat & Sun) Midnight (Fri & Sat) & Midnight (3rd Sat – Lunar Bingo Party) Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino – Maricopa 11:30am, 2:30pm, 3:30pm & 6:30pm (Wed – Sun) Lone Butte Casino – Chandler Noon & 6:30pm (Daily) 11:30pm – B.A.D. “Bingo After Dark” Party (Fri & Sat) Mazatzal Casino – Payson Noon (Mon-Thurs) 6:30pm (Tues & Thurs) (Double Payouts 1st Thurs & 3rd Tues) Paradise Casino – Yuma 1:30 & 6pm (Daily) Vee Quiva Casino – Laveen 12:30 & 6:30pm (Daily) 11:30pm – Bingo Eclipse Party (2nd & 4th Sat)

ARIZONA PLAYER August 2014 29

Joke page, ASTROLOGY, Casino directory Jokes of the Month Really Good Advice

Three nuns were attending a college do is go to North Korea with Dennis Password Problems Letter Perfect – sort of baseball game in the Chicago area. Rodman, I’m sure there can’t be Harry and Helen were changing A young couple was waking up on the Three men were sitting directly many nuns there!” their passwords for their bank morning of their anniversary when behind them near the third base The third and most obnoxious guy accounts on their computer the wife asked “Billy, how would you of all then yelled even louder, “Hey dugout. And because their habits because of a recent story on TV describe me?” Penguins, maybe should go to Alaska, about criminals hacking into were partially blocking the view, and Billy answered “ABCDEFGHIJK” because they didn’t want to move I hear there are less than a hand-full accounts and stealing personal Wendy asked “What does that of nuns up there….and the other information. Harry’s password for from such great seats, they decided mean?” penguins are only about 2 feet tall, to heckle the nuns, in hopes they most of his accounts was 1234, “Adorable, beautiful, cute, delightful, and wouldn’t block our view. would move to different seats. so he changed it to mypenis – as elegant, fashionable, gorgeous and The first guy yelled out in a loud voice The mother Superior, noticeably he entered in the new password, hot!” said bill “Maybe we should go to Montana annoyed slowly turned to the men Helen fell on the floor laughing Wendy smiled and said “Aw, thank - I hear there are very few nuns up and in a very calm and sweet voice hysterically, because the reply you, but what about I-J-K?” replied “Why don’t you all go to Hell, there!” There was no response from back from the bank was “Error, not Billy replied….”I’m Just Kidding” there are no nuns there! the ladies in black and white habits. long enough” A second guy yelled, “What we should

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

Capricorn Dec 22 to Jan 20

Cancer June 22 to July 22

Aug 7-14 Aug 15-22 Sep 23-31 Sep 1-7 Aug 7-14 Aug 15-22 Sep 23-31 Sep 1-7

You’re back to normal You prove you’re right Trip you need is coming Back to your roots Great play is rewarded New friend will be fun Unexpected travel Surprise visit from past

Libra Sept 24 to Oct 23

Aug 7-14 Aug 15-22 Sep 23-31 Sep 1-7

Conservative betting works Be careful of a trap The big one is near Really fun trip ahead

Aug 7-14 Aug 15-22 Sep 23-31 Sep 1-7 Aug 7-14 Aug 15-22 Sep 23-31 Sep 1-7 Aug 7-14 Aug 15-22 Sep 23-31 Sep 1-7

CASINO DIRECTORY a

1. Apache Gold Hotel Resort Casino • (Globe) San Carlos Apache Tribe-slots bingo & blackjack & Entertainment (800) 272-2438 2. BlueWater Resort Casino • (Parker) Colorado River Indian Tribe-slots bingo blackjack poker & Entertainment (888) 243-3360 3. Bucky’s Casino • (Prescott) Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe-slots, poker & blackjack (800) 756-8744 3a. Yavapai Casino & Gaming Center • (Prescott) Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe-slots & Entertainment (800) 756-8744 30 ARIZONA PLAYER August 2014

You have Instant success Only you know the truth Call from past surprises Good times around corner Go for it – you’re ready Chance meeting fills need Right time-right place Stay close for nice win Results are what matters Great flop for big win Good news coming soon Big family plans ahead

Aug 7-14 Aug 15-22 Sep 23-31 Sep 1-7 Aug 7-14 Aug 15-22 Sep 23-31 Sep 1-7

Who cares what they think Early arrival is the key Excitement all weekend Finally, what you needed Kindness pays big time Surprising turn of events Plan fall trip now Get back to basics

Aries Mar 21 to April 20

Aug 7-14 Aug 15-22 Sep 23-31 Sep 1-7

Stay late for big payoff New pal was correct Investigate suspicions Out of town trip coming

4. Casino Arizona Talking Stick Resort • (Scottsdale) Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community-slots poker blackjack Keno & Entertainment (480) 850-7777 5. Casino Arizona @ 101 & McKellips • (Scottsdale) Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community-slots bingo blackjack Keno & Entertainment (480) 850-7777 6. Casino Del Sol Resort • (Tucson) Pascua Yaqui Tribe-slots bingo poker blackjack & Entertainment (800) 344-9435 7. Casino of the Sun • (Tucson) Pascua Yaqui Tribe-slots (520) 883-1700 8. Cliff Castle Casino Hotel • (Camp Verde) Yavapai-Apache Nation-slots blackjack poker & Entertainment (800) 381-7568 9. Cocopah Casino • (Yuma) Cocopah Tribe-slots bingo blackjack & Entertainment (800) 237-5687 10. Desert Diamond Casino Hotel• (Tucson) Tohono O’Odham Nation-Old Nogales Hwy slots keno bingo poker & Entertainment (520) 294-7777 10a. Desert Diamond - I-19 • (south of Tucson) slots blackjack & Entertainment (520) 294-7777 11. Fort McDowell Casino • (Fountain Hills) Fort McDowell-Yavapai Nation-slots keno bingo poker blackjack & Entertainment (480) 837-1424 12. Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino • (Chandler) Gila River Indian Community-slots keno blackjack poker & Entertainment (800) 946-4452

Aug 7-14 Aug 15-22 Sep 23-31 Sep 1-7 Aug 7-14 Aug 15-22 Sep 23-31 Sep 1-7 Aug 7-14 Aug 15-22 Sep 23-31 Sep 1-7

Bad advice - why not do it Surprising turn of events You prove you were right New road ahead

Celebration coming Lots of smiles all week Interesting new friend Unplanned adventure soon

Big changes are near Right time to get out Promise kept pays dividends Terrific hunch brings victory

13. Gila River Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino • (Laveen) Gila River Indian Community-slots bingo blackjack poker & Entertainment (800) 946-4452 14. Gila River Lone Butte Casino • (Chandler) Gila River Indian Community-slots bingo blackjack & Entertainment (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 & Entertainment (480) 802-5000 17. Hon-Dah Resort-Casino • (Pinetop) White Mountain Apache Tribe - slots poker & Entertainment (800) 929-8744 18. Mazatzal Hotel Casino • (Payson) Tonto Apache Tribe - slots bingo poker blackjack & Entertainment (800) 777-7529 19. Paradise Casino • (Yuma) Fort Yuma Quechan Tribe - slots bingo.& Live Entertainment (888) 777-4946 19a Quechan Casino Resort • (Winterhaven, CA) Fort Yuma Quechan Tribe - slots table games poker & Entertainment 20. Spirit Mountain Casino • (Bullhead City) Fort Mohave Indian Tribe-slots (888) 837-4030 21. Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort • (Flagstaff) Navajo Nation - Slots, Table Games, Poker, Keno & Entertainment