October 2013 by Arizona Player

I nside

this I ssue Card Room Action Casino Entertainment Boyd’s Eye View of Video Poker REEL REVIEWS “G2E’s New Slots” Horsin’ Around at the Breeders’ Cup Thanksgiving Charity Poker Tournament www.arizonaplayer.com

ARE YOU

ARIZONA’S NEXT

MILLIONAIRE? PURCHASE TICKETS BY OCTOBER 30 HealthWealthRaffle.org Cover Story on page 8

Vol. 21 No. 10 • October 2013

WWW.ARIZONAPLAYER.COM

Contents

Vol. 21 No. 10 • October 2013

Gaming News Thanksgiving Charity Poker Tournament at Talking Stick

Cover Story Health & Wealth Raffle “Are you the next Millionaire?”

Boyd’s Eye View of Video Poker Linda Boyd “8/5 Bonus Poker” 10 PO Box 33393 • Phoenix Arizona 85067 • 602-373-8728 • azplayer@cox.net Editor Phil Scudella Production Assistants John Olson Richard Tolway Graphic Design CommuniGraphics

Contributing Photography Mary Brown Kevin Cummings Melody Hudson David Ramsey

Special Thanks to: Everyone at St. Joseph’s Health & Wealth Raffle and the staff at R&R Advertising for their help on this October issue

Contributing Writers Linda Boyd Kevin Cummings Cindy Esquer Sasha Howell Melody Hudson TJ Jorgensen Deborah Perry David Ramsey 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 October 2013

Reel Reviews Kevin Cummings “New Slots at G2E”

Arizona Lottery News "More Big Winners"

Card Room Action Table Game Information Around the State

Blackjack Corner TJ Jorgensen “Play Winning Blackjack”

Entertainment Casino Entertainment State-wide

Horsin' Around Brian Mulligan “Breeders’ Cup & Hollywood Park is closing” 22 Gaming News 14th Annual Halloween Costume Contest at Talking Stick

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

Gaming News 14th Annual Halloween Costume Contest at Talking Stick

Joke of the Month A New Jokes to Lighten Your Day

Contest Page Win a Winter Wonderland White Mountains Getaway

Astrology, Bingo Games and Casino Directory

gaming news 11th Annual Thanksgiving Poker Tournament A great Poker Tournament - an even greater cause By Phil Scudella One of my favorite poker tournaments is coming up Saturday November 16th at The Arena Poker Room at Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale – The 11th Annual Thanksgiving Charity Poker Tournament. It’s certainly is one event I go out of my way to attend - And I am not the only one that feels that way about this tournament. Now, just like any poker tournament the thought of winning first place is paramount, but just participating in this event to most players, seems to be just as important. Sure the $12,500 Guaranteed Prize Pool is attractive, and the $3,100 1st place prize is also nice, but the things that make this tournament really special is the low $75 buy-in ($50 entry fee w/ $25 s/c) Now add-in the fact that $25 of every entry fee goes to the United Food Bank here locally to feed the hungry – That is pretty special. You can say what you want about poker players, (they show no emotion, not friendly, don’t interact, ruthless) but I can attest to this truth - when it

6 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2013

comes to helping out a cause, these men and women are right there digging into their pockets to help. I hope you can be there for this Thanksgiving Charity Poker Tournament. It’s a fun event and they pay all the way down to 40 places. Your buy-in gets you $1,500 in chips – but for a $10 Staff Appreciation fee, you can double your stack to $3,000. Sign-ups begin November 11 – I hope to see you there!

cover story

ARE YOU ARIZONA’S NEXT MILLIONAIRE? The Health & Wealth Raffle is looking to award Arizona’s next millionaire

The Health & Wealth Raffle, benefiting Barrow and St. Joseph’s, is back with great odds to win more than 2,000 amazing prizes. You could win $1 million cash, a 2013 Lexus GS 350 F Sport, a dream vacation valued at $10,000 and unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else. “The Raffle is a unique fundraiser that lets everyone have a little bit of fun, while helping raise much-needed funds for Barrow and St. Joseph’s,” said Terri Hoffman, Health & Wealth Raffle director. “From hiking Machu Picchu to winning a 2013 Harley-Davidson, we really have a prize for everyone.” Last spring’s $1 million grand prize winner is currently traveling throughout Europe on a vacation of her dreams. “When I learned I won the $1 million, I put in my two weeks at work that very same day!” said Dawn L., spring 2013 grand prize winner. “I actually already had a trip booked to Europe over the summer, but it was going to be a tight-budget trip, staying at hostels and eating PowerBars for meals. Thanks to the Raffle, I got to extend my European trip, splurge while I am there, and travel the world, like I’ve been wanting to do for so many years!” The Raffle is more than just prizes. Since its founding, the Raffle has contributed more than $50 million to Barrow and St. Joseph’s. Dollars raised by the Raffle support research into new lifesaving medical care, education for young doctors and nurses, and health care services, both in the hospital and throughout our community. “With 50 years of accomplishment behind us, Barrow Neurological Institute is poised for even greater achievements in the future,” said Dr. Robert Spetzler, director of Barrow Neurological Institute.

“Technological advancements and our expanding knowledge of genetics will enable us to make even greater strides in research, medical education and patient care.” “The Raffle’s tagline – Great Odds. Great Cause. – taps into the heart of the Raffle because it’s your chance to change not only your life, but also the life of a patient,” said Terri. This fall, the Raffle has a number of unique experiences included in its prize mix. Here are a few of these unique prizes: • Meet and greet with Bret Michaels – includes photo op and four concert tickets • Travel to an Arizona Cardinals’ away game – includes airfare, hotel and game tickets for two • Join the stars at Celebrity Fight Night – includes a walk on the red carpet and limo service for two • Join world-renowned brain surgeon Dr. Robert Spetzler during live surgery at Barrow THE THREE GRAND PRIZES ARE: • First place: $1,000,000 cash • Second place: $200,000 cash • Third place: 2013 Lexus GS 350 F Sport, plus cash “The Raffle is known for its grand prizes, but we wanted to up the ante for the other 2,000 prizes,” said Terri. “We have added a broad assortment of quality prizes, including Dolce Salon & Spa packages; concerts to see Beyoncé, Andrea Bocelli and Michael Bublé; and trips to San Francisco, New Orleans and Vegas, to name just a few.”

Participants who enter by midnight, Thursday, October 17, are also entered to win additional prizes. These Early Draw prizes include the following: • 2013 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim motorcycle – includes private riding lesson plus cash • St. Thomas, Virgin Islands tropical vacation – includes five nights in a four-star hotel plus airfare for two • $25,000 cash • Andrea Bocelli concert plus a night on the town in style – includes concert tickets, limo service and a $150 Fox Restaurants’ certificate for two To date, the Raffle has awarded more than 134,518 prizes to Raffle participants, including 28 homes, 476 trips, 502 vehicles and more than $17.5 million cash. Remember, the sooner you enter, the more prizes you’ll be eligible for. Entry deadlines for the drawings are: • Oct. 17, midnight for Early Draw deadline • Oct. 30, midnight for the Final Draw to win grand prizes, plus 2,000 other amazing prizes Tickets are $100 each with a limited number of three packs for $250. Don’t miss out on your chance to win. Support Barrow and St. Joseph’s and purchase your tickets at HealthWealthRaffle.org or 1-866-658-4068.

HealthWealthRaffle.org | 866.658.4068 PURCHASE TICKETS BY OCTOBER 30 8 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2013

A BOYD’S EYE VIEW OF VIDEO POKER

8/5 Bonus Poker:

by Linda Boyd

reasons to play

recently attended the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas hoping to find some new options for video poker players. That was not to be--just the classics with a few more format choices. Now, that’s not entirely bad news for those who know the basic playing strategy for these oldies, even though these VP games lack the excitement of the latest slots. (“The Video Poker Edge”, focuses on these games, with free strategy cards for the 8 most popular choices) What I did notice is a downgrading of pay schedules for traditional favorites like 9/6Jacks or Better to 8/5JOB or worse. Keep in mind that you can subtract approximately 1.1% from the expected return (ER) for each coin shorted. For example, 8/5JOB is shorted 2-coins from 9/6JOB (one for the full house and another for the flush) so the ER will return around 2.2% less. Actual figures are 9/6JOB has an ER of 99.5439% and 8/5JOB has an ER of 97.2984%, so there’s a difference of 2.2455%. It’s accurate to nearest tenth of a percent in this case which is close enough. (Be aware that you must play computer-perfect to receive these returns and it’s a long run figure.) Long story short is that you must be diligent to find the video poker game with the best theoretical return available within your favorite casino. One excellent choice that I’ve seen in some casinos in both Arizona and Nevada is 8/5 Bonus Poker (8/5BP). In this, Part I of a two-part series, I’ll give you some good reasons to look for this game and in November’s issue you’ll find hand frequency data and reasons why this is important VideoPoker_1/3page_vp ad.qxp 10/12/09 12:31 PM Page 1 information.

The book that Vegas

First make sure you’ve found the right game by bringing the pay schedule below with you and making sure it’s an exact match with the one on the casino’s machine. Table 1.1 8/5 Bonus Poker (8/5BP) Pay Schedule

WINNING HAND Royal Flush (RF) Straight Flush (SF) 4 Aces Four 2’s, 3’s or 4’s Four 5’s-Kings *Full House *Flush Straight 3 of a Kind 2 Pair Jacks or Better Expected Return (ER) Variance

250 4000 50 250 80 400 40 200 25 125 8 40 5 25 4 20 3 15 2 5 1 5 99.1660% 20.90408

*it’s called 8/5 BP because the return on a full house is 8 times your bet and the return on a flush is 5 times your bet.

Reasons to Play 8/5BP: Game Strategy:

Nothing’s worse for a VP player than to be ready to play a game, having practiced on your software, only to find that it’s no longer available in an acceptable version. Say JOB is no longer 9/6JOB but now it’s 8/5JOB a game not worth playing. doesn’t want you to read. (If it’s progressive then it may be a good choice Start your winning depending on the size education with of the royal.) You can use the same game

The Video Poker Edge

$17.95 • 2-Color throughout • Includes tear-out video poker “strategy cards” Available at bookstores everywhere, or call the publisher toll-free at 1-877-900-2665.

10 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2013

1-Coin Bet 5-Coin Bet

part

strategy for 8/5BP as you use for 9/6JOB (there are a few minor changes for perfect play, but they’re close enough).

Variance:

This refers to the risk of losing your bankroll and the greater the variance the higher the risk. 8/5BP has a relatively low variance (9/6DDB has a variance of 41.98) because you receive a return of double your bet on two pair, a relatively frequent hand.

Expected Return:

The theoretical return for 8/5 BP of 99.1660% is a good one, especially when you add your slot club cash and any other money, like bounceback dollars offered in mailers.

Promotional Equity:

If one of your objectives is to earn many entries into a contest or promotional event, then this is a good way of doing it. Most casinos base the number of entries on “coin in” and you’ll be able to run a lot more money through a device on your given bankroll by playing a low variance game.

Special Quads:

Even though 9/6 JOB has a higher ER than 8/5BP some people think it’s too boring. That’s because all quads return 125 coins on a 5-coin bet. You get paid something extra for four aces, two’s, three’s or four’s in BP, although not as much as in DDB. Since you’re in a casino to have fun and not to earn a living BP is a good choice for many players.

Final Thoughts:

Downgrading, unfortunately, is here to stay. Players need to remain one step ahead of the house by carefully checking pay tables before depositing money into a VP device. 8/5 BP is an excellent choice and often overlooked by players; it’s certainly better than any shorted version of JOB.

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 free strategy cards for the most popular games. Look for her story in the 2013 and 2014 Editions of “American Casino Guide” (ACG) and her YouTube videos, also with ACG. The Second Edition of her book is available in paperback and kindle - Also at amazon.com, bookstores or Square One Publishers. www. squareonepublishers.com Toll Free: 877-900-BOOK

lottery news Checking twice - Pays 52 times!

Thomas Vanko of Glendale buys two Weekly Winnings Quick-Picks twice a week. Recently he went to the Quik-Trip on 91st Avenue in Peoria to purchase his tickets for the next draw. While there, he went to the self-scanner to check his ticket. The machine said he had a winner. However, when he checked his numbers from July 12, against the winning numbers list, he checked the wrong date, so they didn’t match.

14 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2013

Consistency pays off Now, just to be sure, he had the clerk scan the ticket and suddenly the machine spewed forth a lot of paperwork, including a list of the winning numbers. The clerk didn’t know how much Thomas had won, except that it had to be over $599. Thomas checked his numbers against the winning numbers list the machine had just printed and was shocked to discover he’d won the top prize of $1,000 a week for one year, taxes paid. This win made it clear that it would be advantageous for him to always recheck his tickets. This win couldn’t have come at a better time. He wants to pay off some bills, use some for his son’s medical costs, and he and his wife would love to take an anniversary trip to Maui. He also plans to donate to a local food bank. Thomas believes that since he won, he has a responsibility to give something back to the community.

Susan Hopkins of Chandler purchases Lottery tickets on a regular basis from the same Circle K store on East Williams Field Road in Chandler and, if possible, from the same clerk every time. She’d purchased two Mega Millions Quick-Picks, but hadn’t checked them when she went to the store to buy tickets for the next draw. The clerk told her that they had sold a $250,000 Mega Millions ticket for the draw of June 25, 2013. She remembered that she hadn’t checked her ticket, so she went home and gave the ticket to her husband to check. He called the Arizona Lottery to get the numbers, wrote them down, and began to check their numbers. He didn’t see any matching numbers until he checked the second line, where he found five matching numbers for a $250,000 win. He went into the other room and handed the ticket and slip of paper with the winning numbers on it to his

wife. He was in shock, so he didn’t say anything. She wondered why he had such a strange expression on his face. It didn’t take her long to discover the winning line. After they got over the shock, they talked with their financial advisor. Just a few months earlier, they had met with him about some financial matter and asked what would happen if they won the Lottery. He just smiled and told them to call him. As you can imagine, he was the first person they called. He laughed, thought it was wonderful, and they set up an appointment for a later date. Susan and her husband plan to pay off some bills, visit their daughter who lives out of state, and invest the rest.

CARD ROOM ACTION Apache Gold Casino 800-272-2438

Globe, AZ Dealing blackjack, daily at 3pm

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

Scottsdale, AZ Mon - Fri, 11:15 am - NLHE, $70 buy-in w/$10 s/c Tues & Wed, 7:15pm - NLHE, $115 buy-in w/$15 s/c Sat Oct 5, Nov 2 & Dec7 at 11:15am - Big Stack NLHE Sat, Oct 12, Nov 9 & Dec 14 at 11:15 am - “Super Bounty Super BIG Stack” NLHE $200 Buy in w $25 s/c - $100 Bounties Sat, Oct 19, 11:15am - Super Bounty Big Stack Turbo NLHE - $225 buy-in Sat, Oct 26, Nov 30 & Dec 28 at 11:15 am - Last Saturday NLHE - $125 Buy in w/$25 s/c Sat, Nov 16 at 10am - 11th Annual Charity Turkey Tournament Sat Nov 23 at 11:15am - 4th Annual Jack & Jill NLHE Championship Sat Dec 21 at 10am - 11th Annual Holiday Toy Drive NLHE Tournament Pro Football Promotions (free tickets for all live games) every Sat, Sun, Mon & Thurs - see poker room for pay-outs each quarter Get a Royal Flush, Spin the wheel - win up to $500 Daily from 2am-10am “Aces Cracked” Win $ 100 rack Food Specials; $3 breakfast! (2 am - Noon) also $12 Prime Rib dinner Monday nights

Also dealing blackjack 24/7

16 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2013

BlueWater Resort & Casino 1-888-243-3360

Parker, AZ Poker Room opens at 4pm, except Sun, Mon & Wed at 2pm Mon - $50 buy-in for $40 Tues, 7pm, NLHE “Bounty” Tournament - $35 buy-in w/one $20 re-buy ($5 bounties) Wed - Quads or Straight Flush pays $50 also “High Hand of the Day” pays $50 at 8 pm Thurs, 7pm, NLHE - $30 buy-in, w/2 re-buys at $20 Fri - Any Full House pays $15 Sat - Double player points all day Sun - Spreading 2-8 Omaha Daily- Any Royal Flush pays $200 also “Aces Cracked” pays $40 also Dealing blackjack daily at 9am

Bucky’s Casino 928-771-6779

Prescott, AZ Mon-Thurs, 6pm - NLHE $40 entry w/$10 re-buy, (top 3-5 cash) & top 5 earn points toward the $250 Player of Month award Mon - Thurs, 10am - NLHE $15 entry w/$5 dealer Add-on, House adds $10 per entry Nov 17, 2pm - Omaha Hi-Low Tournament, $80 buy-in “NFL Spash Pot Sundays” 3 games every Sunday - every table is splashed $10 FG, $50 safety & $20-$200 for every touchdown Progressive “Aces Cracked” Sat 11am-11pm - increases by $50 each hour till hit Fridays, all day “Aces Cracked” wins a Rack “Random Rewards” Various times and days, 6 card flushes, splash pots and “Aces Cracked” see poker room for pay-outs Dealing blackjack 24/7 - Now playing “Texas Shoot Out” w/Bonus jackpot and 3 Card Poker

Casino Arizona 480-850-7777

Scottsdale, AZ Dealing blackjack 24/7 Tournaments: Tues at noon $1,000 added “Break at Noon” $ 50 buy-in & Fri at 3 am The “Great Late” Tournament, $25 buy-in

Casino Del Sol 520-838-6565

Tucson, AZ Mon-Fri, 10 am - NLHE, $15 buy-in w/optional $15 add-on Mon 7pm & Sat noon - $1,200 NLHE - $35 buy-in Sun 11am - $1,500 Guaranteed NLHE, $45 buy-in - no re-buys Sun & Wed, 7pm - $1,000 Guaranteed NLHE, $15 buy-in - Opt $15 add-on Tues, 7pm $2,000 NLHE - $55 buy-in Thurs, 7pm - $5,000 deep stack NLHE, $100 buy-in no re-buys Sat, 9am - Limit Omaha Hi-Lo, $15 buy-in, $5 re-buys + $5 add-on Sat, Sun & Mon, College & Pro football promos (Free tickets to players in live games) win $100 - $ 500 (selected games) 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 - $500 Added NLHE Tournament $ 40 buy-in, $5 re-buy Fri, 7pm - NLHE Shoot-outs, $ 150 added per table of 10 - $25 buy-in - no re-buys Sat, Noon - 1,000 added - NLHE $105 buy-in, w/dealer bonus add-on All Week - Royal Flush pays $100 “Progressive Aces Cracked” wins $50 - $200 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 Wed & Thurs at 7pm $500 added NLHE - $35 buy-in (max 40 players) NFL & College Football Promotion (free tickets) & Splash Pots - Sat, Sun, Mon & Thurs (3 times a week) selected TV games 24/7 - any Royal Flush $200 Hold Em and $100 Omaha, Straight Flush $100 Hold – Em $50 Omaha Special Poker Room menu at discounted prices Also 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 & Sun at 7pm - NLHE - $30 buy-in - $20 add-on - No-rebuys Sat at 7pm & Sun at Noon - NLHE Deep Stack tournament - $50 buy-in w/$20 add-on at the break Tues, Wed & Thurs at 7pm & Sat at Noon & 4pm - NLHE - $5 buy-in Mon & Fri, 7pm, NLHE - $60 buy-in w/one $5 add on Sun, Oct 20, 10am - Ladies NLHE Poker Tournament - $60 buy-in w/$5 add-on Daily “Aces Cracked” win $200 (pays double 8am-11am!) loser wins $100 winner takes pot & $50 - plus next hand is splashed $50

“Easy way Jackpot” Aces full of tens beaten by Quads or better wins Jackpot! Dealing blackjack 24/7

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino 480-802-5138

Maricopa, AZ Pro Football Splash Pots every Sun, Mon & Thurs and College on Saturdays Tues, 7:30pm, Omaha H/L, $15 buy-in, $10 re-buys + $10 add-on Thurs, 7:30pm - NLHE, $10 Buy-in plus three $10 re-buys & two $10 add-ons Fri, 7:30pm - NLHE, $40 buy-in, no re-buys Aces Cracked - Black aces $100, Red Aces $50 & Mixed $25 (Bonus 9-10am & 2am3am =3X payout, 10am-noon, mid-2am Faces Cracked ($50) 8pm - Mid, Jacks $20, Queens $30 & Kings $40 ($300 max per session) Start-up special - first 6 players each day, $20 back after 2 hours of play MLB Baseball playoff Splash Pots - any day –up to 2 games per day - $25 any inning any score any team! Also dealing blackjack 24/7

Hon-Dah Casino 928-369-7555

Pinetop, AZ Mon, 6pm - NLHE “$25 Bounty” Tournament, $45 buy-in (no re-buys) Tues, 6pm - NLHE “Speed Shoot-Out” $15 buy-in (no re-buys) Tues, all day - Aces Cracked wins $25 $100 cash or various other prizes Wed, 6pm - NLHE, $40 buy-in (no re-buys) “early bird” chips available Thurs, 6pm - No Limit Omaha Hi-Lo, $40 buy-in (no re-buys) “early bird” chips available 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

Lone Butte Casino 800-946-4452

Chandler, AZ Dealing blackjack 24/7 - with $5 games PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was over $155,000 on Sept 16th

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) Nov 7 & Dec 5 at 6pm, “Ladies Only” NLHE tournament - $25 buy-in Dealing blackjack 10am to 1am, with $3 games daily till 3pm Mon - 6pm, Blackjack Tournament $40 buy-in w/two $25 re-buys

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 2-4, 3-6 & 4-8 limit Texas Hold-Em, plus 1-3 & 2-5 No Limit Texas Hold Em Sat & Sun, 1pm NLHE Tournaments $40 buy-in Thurs, 7pm NLHE Deep Stack - $75 buy-in (extra chips for “live” play before tournaments) Dealing blackjack 24/7 - Special room rates for poker players

CARD ROOM ACTION

Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort 928-856-7244

Flagstaff, AZ Live Poker Mon-Fri at 10am, Sat & Sun at 8am NLHE Tournaments, Tues ($50) & Thurs ($30) at 7pm - Also Sat ($15) & Sun ($50) at Noon College & Pro Football splash pots every Sat, Sun & Mon - on all tables $25 - $50 “Aces Cracked - wins a rack (call for details) Progressive “High Hand” & Progressive Bad Beat Jackpots Dealing blackjack 24/7

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

Laveen, AZ Tues, 7:30pm NLHE, $50 buy-in w/$10 add-on at break (receive up to $1,500 early bird chips - for live play before tournament) Wed, 7:30pm, NLHE, $15 buy-in w/$10 re-buys & $20 add-on Sat, 11am - NLHE, $20 buy-in w/$10 re-buys & $20 add-on Sun 11am - NLHE, $30 buy in$20 add-on NCAA & NFL Splash pots - Sat, Sun, Mon & Thurs (selected tables) $100 for a touchdown $50 FG and $200 for a safety Baseball “Slugfest Splash-pots” during playoffs & World Series (see poker room for details) 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 wins at least $25,000 “ACES CRACKED” wins a rack, Mid - Noon with unlimited winners

Dealing blackjack 24/7 - with $5 games PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was over $180,000 on Oct 7th

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino 800-946-4452 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 wins at least $25,000 “Aces Cracked” Win a Rack - Sun 11pm until Fri at 6pm Baseball “Slugfest” $50 splash pots for every score selected TV Games NFL Football Splash pots every Sun, Mon & Thurs - $200 for a safety, $100 for a touchdown and $50 for a field goal “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 Food specials: ½ price poker room menu all day Also dealing blackjack 24/7 - PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was over $180,000 on Oct 7th

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

ARIZONA PLAYER October 2013 17

TJ’s Blackjack corner Are You a

Good Gambler?

Take this quiz to find out

1. You’re playing roulette and the last 10 numbers have been red. What color should you bet on the by TJ Jorgensen next spin? ABlack because it’s overdue B Red because this is the trend C Doesn’t matter 2 You're playing blackjack and someone is playing foolishly what should you do? A leave, because by playing foolishly he’s disrupting the natural flow of the cards causing the dealer to win B Ignore him C Verbally taunt him so he leaves 3. There are two identical slot machines - One just hit the jackpot - the other - not in a long time. Which do you play? A doesn’t matter B Play the machine that is overdue for a jack pot. It’s ready to pay off C Play the machine that just hit, it will hit again 4. When should you take insurance in blackjack? Assume you›re not counting cars A Always B Only when I have a blackjack (Even Money) C Never 5. The blackjack dealer is breaking almost every hand - you’re dealt a 16 vs. the dealers up card of a 10. What should you do? A Stand the dealer will likely break again B Hit C Double down

18 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2013

6. You're dealt an ace seven, the blackjack dealers up card is a ten. What should you do? A You have 18 stand B Hit C Double down 7. What should you do after losing a bet, assuming that goal is to maximize the rate of return on future bets? A Bet more B Bet less C Doesn’t matter 8. You have doubled down on 11, five times in a row and lost. Your again Dealt 11 vs a Dealer up card of ten, what should you do? A Play the trend and just hit. B Double down C Just hit until you get 17 or better 9. Which is the worst bet in the casino? A Roulette B Slots C Keno 10 Where can you get the best gambling advice and information? A A good friend, a gambling guru who just filed bankruptcy B The know it all next to you at the casino C Arizona Player Magazine Answers (1) C; doesn’t matter, the previous results have no effect on future outcomes

(2) B; Ignore him, in the long run it doesn’t matter (3) A; Doesn’t matter, previous results mean nothing, each spin is random (4) D; Never, insurance is always a bad bet unless you’re counting cards (5) B; Hit, always make the mathematically best play (6) B; Hit, always make the mathematically best play (7) C; Doesn’t matter, there is no betting system that can add or subtract from the house edge (8) B; double down, always make the mathematically best play (9) C; Keno the house has an edge of 25-30% (10) C; Arizona Player Magazine, with advise on how to play, and information on local casinos it’s always your best bet

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 and has won the prestigious World Series of Blackjack.

entertainment Apache Gold Casino Resort

5 miles East of Globe on Hwy 70 1-800-272-2438 Apache Gold Pavillion: Oct 19 - The Kentucky Headhunters Nov 9 - Daryl Worley & Aaron Tippin Cabaret Lounge: Free live entertainment every weekend

BlueWater Resort and Casino

11300 Resort Dr., Parker 1-888-243-3360 Outdoor Amphitheater: Nov 16 - “MJ Live” The Michael Jackson Tribute - direct from Las Vegas

Wynonna

Jan 25 - Wynonna & The Big Noise Mar 22 - Kenny Rogers Showroom: Oct 26 - “Cage Rage on the River” (Live MMA fights) Dig Lounge: DJ, Karaoke or live bands Plus Sunday & Monday Night Football on the BIG screen River’s Edge Cantina: Reggae Sundays (Noon-6pm)

Casino Arizona

101 at McKellips, Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Showroom: Monday Night Showroom Football - (every Monday) Oct 18 - Plateros Oct 19 - Fortunate Son (John Fogerty & CCR Tribute) Oct 25 & 26 - Dust ‘n Bones (Guns & Roses Tribute) Nov 1 & 2 - Double Vision (Foreigner Tribute) Nov 8, 9 & 10 - Fan Halen (Van Halen Tribute) Nov 22 & 23 - Bonfire (AC/DC Tribute) Nov 28 thru Dec 21 - Showstoppers Live Holiday Spectacular

20 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2013

Arizona Room Patio Grill: Oct 19 - UFC #166 - Velaquez vs Dos Santos Nov 16 - UFC #167 - St. Pierre vs Hendricks Mondays & Thursdays - Deejay Rogger Tuesdays - “Latin Fire Dance Night” w/ free lessons Fridays & Saturdays; Live bands early and DJ’s till 2am Bingo Hall: Friday & Saturday at Midnight, L-8 Night Bingo! Including light show, music, dancing and fun!

Casino Del Sol

5655 W. Valencia Rd., Tucson 520-838-6506

Vince Neil

Cocopah Casino

15318 South Avenue B Somerton, AZ (Yuma area) 1-800-237-5687 Fri & Sat - Live bands in the lounge

Desert Diamond Casino Hotel

Cliff Castle Casino

I-17 at exit 289 in Camp Verde 1-800-381-SLOT Stargazer Pavilion: Call for new fall Schedule Dragonfly Lounge: Free live entertainment on weekends

15406 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa 480-802-5000 THE ALL-NEW LOUNGE IS OPEN! Nov 29 - SWV - FREE Concert! Nov 30 - The Family Stone - FREE!

7350 South Nogales Hwy, Tucson 1-866-DDC-WINS Monsoon Night Club: Live bands or DJ, Thurs - Sat “Thursday Rocks” Concert series “Groovin’ Fridays” (Old School) “Noches Caliente Saturdays” featuring Tex Mex & Tejano bands

Desert Diamond Casino I -19

1100 West Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita 1-866-DDC-WINS Sports Bar: Sports on big screens & music w/ Fiesta and Desert DJs on Fri & Sat nights plus Wed night - Karaoke Diamond Center: Oct 26 - Purple Reign (Prince Tribute) Dec 28 - “Stayin’ Alive” The #1 Bee Gees Tribute

Fort McDowell Casino

AVA Amphitheater: Oct 11 - Vince Neil Oct 12 - Ramone Ayala & Pancho Barraza Oct 24 - Pit Bull Oct 25 thru 27 - The Desert Bluegrass Festival - (FREE Admission!) Nov 9 - Heart Paradiso Bar: Free weekend entertainment & Tribute bands Thursdays

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort and Casino

N of Shea off Hwy 87, Fountain Hills 1-800-THE-FORT Lucky 7 Saloon: Free entertainment on Fri day & Saturday nights; Oct 11 thru 14 - Fortoberfest Birthday Bash - free refreshments and entertainment with bands Kenny G Project (Oct 11) Furious George (Oct 12)

Rhythm Edition and Rhythm Edition (Oct 13) plus Free Food Friday 4-8pm, Saturday noon - 6pm and Sunday 4-8pm! Drawings all 4 days PLUS a CAR GIVEWAY at 8pm on Monday Oct 14! Bingo Hall: Saturday, Oct 19 - Late Night Lunar Bingo w/ music, games & giveaways For updates: fortmcdowellcasino.com

The Rat Pack Dec 31 (New Year’s Eve) The Rat Pack Returns! FREE! Additional Free Lounge entertainment Wednesdays Noon - 4pm; Pizzaz or Swingtips Thursday - Saturday at 8pm; 10/11 - The Walkens, 10/12 - Western Fusion, 10/17 Salena Tribute, 10/18 & 10/19 - Chad Freeman & Redline, 10/25 & 10/26 Doo Wa h Riders, 10/31 - Checker’d Past For updates, go to harrahsakchin.com

Hon-Dah Resort and Casino

Highways 260 and 73, Pinetop 1-800-WAY-UP-HIGHt Timbers Lounge: Free entertainment, Monday is Comedy Night, Tues-Sat, Live bands; Oct 8 thru 12 - Latin Vida Oct 15 thru 19 - Kid & Nic Conference Center: Oct 25 - Alice in Cooperland Costume Contest and Dance! (Alice Cooper Tribute) Nov 29 - Neon Circus (Brooks & Dunn Tribute) New Year’s Eve - The Sensation Show Band

Lone Butte Casino

202 loop at the Kyrene exit - Chandler, 1-800-WIN-GILA Cascades Lounge: Live Bands, (9pm-1am) Wednesdays; (Country) Thursdays; (Industry Night) Fridays; (Latin dance) Saturdays; (Top 40) Sun- Fri (4-7pm) Live bands; Kenny’s Project, Spotlight, The Heat, Marty and the Party, Thaddeus Rose & Silhouette

Verona Chophouse: Saturday: Talia 5-9pm & Sunday: 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: Dec 31 (New Year’s Eve) Night Groove Band Apache Spirits Lounge: New Year’s Eve Torres & Hendrix

Paradise Casino

450 Quechan Drive, Yuma 1-888-777- 4946 Sharky’s Bar: Live bands on weekends Oct 11 & 12 - Gruuve Masters Oct 11 & 12 - Tropic II Bingo / Concert Hall: Oct 19 - UFC #166 - Velaquez vs Dos Santos

Quechan Casino Resort

525 Algodones Rd, Winterhaven CA (5 mi West of Yuma) 1-877-783-2426 Oct 11 - Thunder from Down Under (Male Revue) Oct 18 - Intocable Sidewinders bar: Free weekend entertainment

Talking Stick Resort

Loop 101 and Indian Bend Road -Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Talking Stick Showroom: Oct 11 - Blue October Oct 19 - Tate Stevens (X-Factor Winner) Oct 24 - Buddy Guy Oct 25 - Jonny Lang Oct 30 - 14th Annual Halloween Costume Contest Oct 31 - Raven’s Halloween Ball & Costume Contest Nov 8 - Sawyer Brown Nov 9 & 10 - TESLA Nov 15 - An Evening w/ George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic Nov 29 - Kool & the Gang Dec 6 - Aaron Lewis TSR Lounge: Live Deejays and your favorite drinks on Fri 8pm-2am and Sat 5pm-2am Degree 270 Lounge: Thurs - Sat, live bands & Deejays Atrium & Fire Garden; Oct 3 - 5 Phoenix Fashion Week Orange Sky Restaurant & Lounge (15th Floor)

Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort

22181 Resort Blvd (I-40 @ exit 219) Flagstaff 1-855-946-8946 or (928) 856-7200 Oct 4 - Survivor Nov 1 - Oak Ridge Boys (40th Anniversary Tour) Also weekend entertainment on the Casino Floor

Chuck E Baby, Pima Express, Swingtips and Smokestack Lightning (Wed-Sat, 9pm-1am) Featuring; Desert Dixie, Str8up band, Rhythm Edition, Andrea & Los Guys, Soul Persuasion, Western Fusion, Marbleheart, The Hamptons, Jadi Norris, Chuck E Baby, Shining Star and New Frequency Band Watch Football on the BIG Screens, Monday & Thursday Nights, plus Saturdays & Sundays all day Bingo Park: Every Saturday at 11pm - BINGO ECLIPSE - Bingo, DJ music, light show & giveaways

ild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino

I-10 at Wild Horse Pass exit - Chandler 1-800-WIN-GILA Ovations LIVE! Showroom: Oct 12 – Rage in the Cage MMA Oct 18 – “Fall in Love Jam” w/ En Vogue AL B Sure & Evelyn “Champagne” King Oct 19 – Anthony Jeselnic: The Jeselnik Offensive Tour, Oct 20 – Steve Vai, Oct 25 – Under a Blood Red Sky (U-2 Tribute) Oct 26 – Air Supply Oct 27 – Josh Turner, Nov 1 – Viva Antonio Aguilar Nov 2 – Craig Ferguson

Nov 21 – Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo Nov 22 – DSB (Journey Tribute) Nov 29 – Latin Comedy Jam IV Dec 13 – Ana Barbara w/ Mariachi Sol de Mexico Jose Hernandez Dec 27 – Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy AIRIA – “Nightlife Unplugged”, live entertainment – Fri & Sat featuring bands on Fridays; B Platinum, Shining Star, Platinum Hi-Fi, JJ’s Band, Static, Powerdrive and Deejays on Saturdays: DJ BKNY, DJ Identaty, DJ Raya, DJ Nerd, & DJ Raia, Encore Lounge: Mid-day entertainment Monday’s 11am-3pm & late night entertainment w/ top bands; Powerdrive, Hamptons, Rhythm Edition, Str8up, Michael & Manuel, Robert Street Band, Eagleheart, Soul Persuation, New Frequency, Shining Star, Chuck E Baby, JJ’s Band, Route 66, Priminition and Honest Soulz

Yavapai Casino

1505 East Hwy 69 - Prescott 1-800-756-8744 Yavapai Cantina; Karaoke with Cruisin’ Susan, Fridays and bands Saturdays Oct 12 - Little Larry Oct 19 - Mikel A Oct 26 - Twang & Angst

Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino

The All-New West Valley Casino 51st Ave, 4 miles S. of Baseline - Laveen 1-800-WIN-GILA Event Center: Oct 11 - Pancho Barraza Oct 19 - UFC #166 - Velaquez vs Dos Santos Oct 25 - Soul Sacrifice Oct 26 - VQ Comedy Series w/ Barry Neal & Debbie Praver Outdoor Patio: (Mon-Fri, 4pm-7pm) Featuring; Marty & the Party, The Walkens Unplugged, Eagleheart,, Powerdrive, Big Black & The Crew,

gaming news entertainment

Craig Ferrguson Nov 8 – Quiet Riot & Lita Ford Nov 9 – America Nov 15 – Cedric the Entertainer

ARIZONA PLAYER October 2013 21

HORSIN’ AROUND

Cup Runneth Over

t’s hard to believe but racing fans around the world will be delving into Breeders’ Cup action by Brian Mulligan very soon - so let’s take a look at some divisions and see how they are shaping up for the showdown in Arcadia. There will be 14 races spread out starting Nov1 and at Santa Anita with the finale, the $5 million mile and a quarter Breeders’ Cup Classic. There is no sense starting at the bottom, so how are the Classic contenders coming up to the race? All the young dudes will be trying to beat Game on Dude in the Classic. His sire, Awesome Again, won the BC Classic in 1998 at Churchill and Game on Dude has never been better. He is fresh from a smashing win in the Pacific Classic when he just toyed with his rivals. He broke the record for the largest winning margin and he did the same thing in the Santa Anita Handicap this winter. Dude has raced 8 times at Santa Anita in his career and he has won 7 times. Ironically, Dude will not scare anybody away and a solid field is in prospect for the Classic. Palace Music, 2nd in the recent Jockey Club Gold Cup, is pointing to the race and Mucho Macho Man, who won the prep for the Classic at Santa Anita, the Awesome Again Stakes and Macho is trying to get revenge for running second in the Classic last year. Aidan O’Brien, who knows

22 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2013

a thing or two about shipping from Europe and succeeding in the Breeders Cup, has a classy Classic hopeful in the making. Declaration of War is a seasoned pro for O’Brien. He has won 3 of 7 this year; two were Group 1s and 7 of 12 in his career. One of the best things that Declaration of War has in his favor is his excellent pedigree. His dam was a triple winner but more importantly her dam is kin to Belmont Stakes winner and over $1.7 million earner Union Rags. The Breeders’ Cup Juvenile is always highly anticipated because the winner will be one of the early favorites for the 2014 Kentucky Derby. This year, the Champagne Stakes could play an important role in the Juvenile. The winner Havana was getting a little tired but he ran well going long but the horse that ran second in the Champagne figures very tough if he goes. That runner is Honor Code, who had a horrible trip but still was coming on strong late. In the mile and a half BC Turf, only the strong will survive and Little Mike will try to use his speed to steal the race. He just won the Grade 1 Joe Hirsch Classic and he will try to defend his Turf title. Indy Point, Big Blue Kitten, Real Solution and European, The Fugue all figure to be very tough with the right trips. The say speed kills but don’t tell the contenders and the pretenders aiming for the BC Sprint at 6 furlongs. The $1.5 million event will bring together the fastest horses on the planet and there is no margin for error.

Velocity will be the key and none of the entrants can afford to get stopped with poor racing luck and still succeed. The edge over the years when the Cup has been run in California has been given to the horses from that state so logic says start with Pointsoffthebench, Goldencents and the Santa Anita Sprint Championship third Distinctiv Passion. When handicapping the Cup this year, try to settle in and have a game plan long before heading out to the track or booting up that computer. Look for value and don’t be scared to shoot for the life changing score.

ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST

On a somewhat sad note, after racing for 75 years and bringing fans some major thrills and spills, Hollywood Park will be running its last and final race meeting this fall. The track opens November 7 and closes for good on December 22. It was sold several years ago to real estate development firm but is just now ending because of the financial picture that has strangled most big projects. Hollywood Park opened in 1938 and some of the biggest names in movies were original shareholders in the track. The exploits of Seabiscuit, Citation, Swaps, Seattle Slew and Cigar all were witness on the hallowed ground. If you have been holding off a vacation to California, one could do much worse than trying to attend Hollywood’s Last Stand. Brian Mulligan was the Daily Racing Form’s main West Coast line-maker for nearly two decades writing under the non de plume of “SWEEP.” He continues to contribute to the Daily Racing Form writing “A Closer Look” analysis.

gaming news A Screaming Good Time! Remember the creepy scene from the movie Poltergeist when little Carol Ann whispered…

”They’re here” Well they’re all back – the ghosts, ghouls, goblins, witches, werewolves - Where Wolves? THERE WOLVES! Sorry, had a flashback from Young Frankenstein…..Back to the story. The 14th Annual Halloween Costume Contest is back at Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale on Wednesday, October 30th, with $10,000 in cash and prizes for all that attend in costume for this spooky event. You must register between 6pm and 8:30pm in the Talking Stick Showroom. Please keep in mind - This Halloween costume contest is limited to the first 150 people to sign up. Then, starting at 8:30pm judges will choose 1st, 2nd & 3rd place in the 3 categories; Most Original, Most Creative and Most Scary Those three winners in each category will take home; $1,000 plus memorabilia for 1st Place, $300 for second and $200 for third. In addition one person in costume will be

judged the “Best of Show” and take home $3,500 in cash plus somel memorabilia. You may wear your costume in the casino or in the restaurants or cocktail lounges to dance and party all-night…but masks are only allowed in the Talking Stick Showroom during the costume contest. Talking Stick Resort is located at the 101 and Indian Bend in Scottsdale. For more information about this and other events, call 480.850.7777 or go to talkingstickresort.com

2,600 halloween cash giveaway

2,600 IN CA$H

will be given away Friday Oct 26 thru Halloween Night Wednesday Oct 31 St! 200/day Oct 25-Oct 30th with 4 - $50 random cash drawings 11aM - 10pM

On Halloween - 5 Cash Drawings: 11aM $50, 2pM $100, 7pM $200, 9pM $250 and at 10pM $ 800 CAH!

Wear a costume on Halloween Night and receive a FREE Spirit Mountain T- Shirt (No masks allowed)

928.346.2000

8555 S. Highway 95 • Mohave Valley, AZ See ruleS in caSino – MuSt be 21 or older ManageMent reServeS right to cancel any proMotion

24 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2013

DAVID AT THE SNACK BAR Gravity -

When a disaster destroys their shuttle in orbit two American astronauts are left drifting in space. Matt is a seasoned veteran with a jet pack but Ryan is a scientist on her first mission. Matt has to find Ryan who is floating powerless deeper into space but first he has to by keep her calm. Even if he can get to her how David Ramsey will they get back to Earth? "Gravity" is an edge of your seat thriller. Sandra Bullock and George Clooney are both at the top of their game and the special effects, including the 3D, are amazing.

David’s Video Details Much Ado About Nothing

Joss Whedon's adaptation of Shakespeare's classic romantic comedy is simply brilliant. The cast is wonderful and Whedon's script is perfect. The setting has been changed to take place in modern times but the story of two pairs of lovers is still witty, funny and touching. A huge gathering turns into a romantic weekend full of intrigue. "Much Ado About Nothing" is one of the best movies made from a Shakespeare play.

The Way Way Back

Rush Niki Lauda was one of the greatest Formula One drivers in Gran Prix history. His intense rivalry with James Hunt reached its zenith n 1976 when they both were after the World Championship. Lauda and Hunt are complete opposites with Lauda being very precise and pragmatic while Hunt is more of a free-wheeling playboy. The men meet early in their career but this film focuses on the 1976 circuit. The action is intense with great racing sequences but this is more than a racing movie. It is a film about two men that are driven to win and how it affects every aspect of their lives. "Rush" is one of director Ron Howard's best films.

Duncan is a shy 14-year-old who reluctantly goes on vacation to the beach with his mother, her boyfriend and his daughter. He has a hard time fitting in until he discovers the local water park. The manager, Owen, befriends Duncan hiring him to help out for the summer. This coming of age film is funny and touching. The cast is great and the writing is sharp and insightful. "The Way Way Back" is one of the best indie films of the year.

The Heat

Sarah is an extremely ambitious FBI agent who doesn't get along with her co-workers. She is uptight, very thorough and focused on a promotion. When she is sent to Boston to question a drug lord she finds out he is in the custody of a local detective, Shannon, who is very territorial and antisocial. Of course, they don't get along and must team up. It's a typical buddy cop premise but it’s executed brilliantly. "The Heat" is a fun two hours. 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

26 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2013

gaming news VeeQuiva wins Championship! Where are the best poker players….On the East side of town or perhaps the West? That question was answered recently as poker players at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino and VeeQuiva Hotel & Casino fought to be one of the top 5 players for their respective poker rooms.The $120 buy-in got you into the tournament, or players had a chance to “win a seat” into this tournament by playing in single table shootouts at either casino for just a $15 buy-in. On Sept 28that 2pm, the “East/West” No-Limit Hold Em Poker Tournament began simultaneously at both casinos - And after a long hard fight, featuring some great play and a little luck - there were only 5 players remaining at each respective poker room. These top players congratulated each other as they were thrilled to be part of the “Final Table” playoff set for October 5th at the VeeQuiva Casino Hotel Poker Room. On Saturday October 5th, When the tournament director announced “Get those cards in the air” - Bragging rights were not the only thing these final 10 poker players were after - They also had their eyes on the Guaranteed First Place Prize of $10,000!

Each of these top players at the final table started with $10,000 in chips, with blinds at $100 - $200 the tournament ended at about 10pm with the only lady finalist in this prestigious group winning the $10,000.00 first place

prize. This was especially sweet for Marci Hinojos, since she was playing on her home turf at VeeQuiva Hotel & Casino. Congratulations to all who participated, and next year looks to be even bigger and better!

Bottom Row (L-R): Marci Hinojos (Tournament Winner), Steve Hoang, Wally Michael & Ron Mills Top Row (L-R): Joe Popescu, Ted Strey, Gary Wilson, Luis Guillen, Don Cross & Angel Medrano

ARIZONA PLAYER October 2013 27

Joke page

Jokes of the Month

FATHER KNOWS BEST

SELECTIVE HEARING

Father O’Malley picks up the phone in the Rectory “Hello, can I help you?” “Hello, Father this is the IRS, do you know a man named Sean Milligan?” “I do” “Is he a member of your congregation?” “He is” “Did he donate $5,000 to the church?” “He will”

Having lost most of his hearing years ago, Harry finally goes to the doctor to be fitted with state of the art hearing aids which promise to allow him to hear like he did in the prime of his life. A month later, he returns to the doctor for a check up on his progress. The doctor tells him that his hearing is near perfect and asks if his family is pleased.

BABY STEPS TO START A room full of Mothers-to-be and their husbands are in a birthing class when the birthing coach suggests “All you moms-tobe should realize that talking walks while you’re pregnant is quite beneficial.” She continued “And you soon-to-be-dads, it wouldn’t hurt you guys to take a little time out of your busy lives to go walking with your partners.” From the back of the room, Bob chimed in “Is it OK for her to carry a golf bag?”

28 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2013

Harry replies, “Oh, I haven’t told them about the hearing aids yet. I just sit around and listen to them talk, most of the time about me. Often I will shout out…”What was that?” They just reply,” We’re not talking to you Harry.” “Hey, I’m having fun with this” says the old codger to his doctor, “and I’ve changed my will twice in just the last month!”

contest page WINTER WONDERLAND GETAWAY SWEEPSTAKES Are you ready for some Wonderful Winter Fun in the Majestic White Mountains? Well, if you answer is “absolutely Positively, Sign me up coach” Then here’s exactly what you have been looking forward to doing.

This Grand Prize Package includes; a 3 day 2 night stay in the spectacular White Mountains at Hon-Dah Resort Casino and Conference Center in Pinetop, Arizona. The winning entry will also receive Breakfast and Dinner for two people for two days! Then add to that, Lift tickets at Sunrise Ski Resort for two people for one full day. There are also some additional surprises when you arrive and check in. You’ll have lots of fun on the slopes and plenty of indoor excitement too including; live entertainment in the

Timbers Lounge featuring some of the top bands in Arizona along with some nationally known performers. There is also “Live” poker and poker tournaments to play in, plus blackjack and some of the loosest and newest slots around so that you can bring home a jackpot. The Grand prize winner along with 5 runner-up winners who will receive gift cards

to some great restaurants or department stores will be announced in the December issue. It’s easy to enter, just go to FACEBOOK and “Like” Arizona Player Magazine or send a 3X5 card in an envelope with your name, address and phone number to; Arizona Player – Winter Wonderland Contest PO Box 33393 Phoenix, AZ 85067

ARIZONA PLAYER October 2013 29

ASTROLOGY, Bingo & Casino directory Scorpio Oct 24 to Nov 22

Aquarius Jan 21 to Feb 19

Taurus April 21 to May 21

Sagittarius Nov 23 to Dec 21

Pisces Feb 20 to Mar 20

Gemini May 22 to June 21

Virgo Aug 24 to Sept 23

Capricorn Dec 22 to Jan 20

Cancer June 22 to July 22

Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6 Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6 Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6

Favorite spot is bes Exciting weekend Call from the past Small trip pays big

Profitable adventure Crazy fun weekend Your golden opportunity You make right decision Cards flop in your favor Old friend re-appears Being nice pays off Celebration is near

Phoenix Metro Bingo Games

Casino Arizona 101 & McKellips Daily: 7pm (early birds: 6:30pm) Sat & Sun Matinee: 1pm (early birds: 6:30pm) Fri & Sat: Midnight - L8 Nite Games! Bingo, Music, Lights, Dancing & FUN Fort McDowell Casino Fountain Hills Area Mon,Wed,Thu,Fri: 9am,12:30pm, 6:30pm Tue: 12:30pm, 6:30pm Sat. Sun: 6:45& 9am,12:30 & 6:30pm, Fri & Sat: Midnight 3rd Sat of each month at Midnight "Lunar Bingo"

Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6 Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6

Old friend returns Unexpected adventure A terrific idea really works Your dream come true

Aries Mar 21 to April 20

Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6

Wow! Quite a week Last minute plan works Change will be rewarding Nice choice under pressure

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino 15406 Maricopa Rd Wed-Sun: 11:30am, 2:30, 3:30 & 6:30pm Lone Butte Casino SanTan Loop202 & Kyrene Daily: Noon & 6:30pm "B.A.D. Bingo" (Bingo After Dark) Fri & Sat: 11:30pm Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino 51st Ave. 10mi. S of I-10 Daily: 12:30 & 6:30pm "Bingo Eclipse" 2nd & 4th Sat 11pm

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 October 2013

Make plans for that trip Smilin’ fun weekend Great new acquaintance Unexpected adventure

Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6 Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6 Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6

Nice time and win too Nice win near home Howling good time Fun adventure ahead Nice win near-by Play favorite game Risk pays off big Friend has good idea

Nice time and win too Scary great time Nice turn of events Go with first hunch

Statewide Bingo Games

Apache Gold Casino • Globe 5mi E of Globe on Hwy 70 Wed, Thu, & Sun: Noon; Fri & Sat: 7pm Bingo Blowout! 1st Mon: 7pm BlueWater Casino • Parker 11300 Resort Dr Sun 1:30pm, Mon-Thu 6:30pm Special Sessions:Birthday Bingo Call for Details Casino Del Sol • Tucson 5655 W. Valencia Mini Sessions: 11:30am & 1:30pm Matinee: 2:15pm Eves: 7:15pm

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

Leo July 23 to Aug 23

Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6 Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6

Great things are near Thrilling, chilling fun Never underestimate luck New best pal was right Changes are coming Out of town excitement Keep thinking positive You are on your way

Libra Sept 24 to Oct 23

Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6

Plan for needed trip Unexpected adventure A terrific idea really works Beyond your wildest dreams

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-Thu: Noon Tue & Thu: 6:30pm 1st Thu & 3rd Tue: 6:30pm Double Payouts all night! Paradise Casino • Yuma 450 Quechan Dr. Daily: 1:30 & 6pm

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 blackjack 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