July 2014 by Arizona Player

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this I ssue Card Room Action Casino Entertainment Northern AZ Poker Championship Blackjack Corner - Fort's Free Bet CONTEST - Win a Casino Slot Machine!

Gaming•Entertainment•Travel www.arizonaplayer.com

Vol. 22 No. 7 • July 2014

Cover S tory

on page

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 Kevin Cummings Melody Hudson David Ramsey Melissa Rowberry Satara Williams Shanna Wolfe

Special Thanks to: The Management and Marketing staff at Talking Stick Resort, plus everyone at RIESTER for their “over the top” efforts on this July issue of Arizona Player

Contributing Writers Linda Boyd Kevin Cummings Cindy Esquer Melody Hudson TJ Jorgensen David Ramsey Melissa Rowberry 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 July 2014

Vol. 22 No. 7 • July 2014

Blackjack Corner TJ Jorgensen “FREE BET at The Fort”

Cover Story Talking Stick Resort’s Arizona State Poker Championship

REEL REVIEWS Kevin Cummings “QUICK HITS” from Bally

Card Room Action Table Game Action Around the State

Gaming News “Super 77 Poker Jackpot hit at Wild Horse Pass”

Boyd’s Eye View of Video Poker Linda Boyd “2 pair holds in Deuces Wild” 18 Arizona Lottery News “Dream Road Trip & Volunteer Work Pays Off”

Gaming News “Bucky’s Northern Arizona Poker Championship”

Contest Page “WIN a Triple Diamond Slot Machine & Harrah’s Ak-Chin Winners” 22 Travel “Sedona & Northern Arizona”

Entertainment Casino Entertainment State-wide

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

TJ’s Blackjack corner “

“Free Bet” Blackjack

ree Bet” Blackjack is a Blackjack game invented by Geoff Hall. This variation has a by TJ twist to it.The player doesn’t Jorgensen have to risk his money when doubling or splitting most of the time. For example if you have the hand of 11 and have a bet of $10 and double down, the Casino provides the additional $10. If you win you get paid $20, if you lose you just lose your original bet. The catch is this; if the dealer busts with the hand of 22……all bets left standing push – he must bust with 23 or more. Here is the way the game works:”Free Doubles” on hard totals of 9, 10, or 11. With a “free double,” the player’s original bet is matched with a “free bet” button and the player receives one additional card. At the end of the hand:If the dealer wins, the player loses his original wager only.

If the hand results in a push, the player gets back his original wager only. Otherwise, if the player wins, the player gets back his original wager plus winnings equal to double that wager. Remember the dealer pushes on 22 - If the player has 21 or less and the dealer busts with 22, then the player’s wager is a push. Free Splits”on all pairs – except 10s….With a “free split,” the player’s two cards are divided into two one-card hands. The player’s original wager is placed with the first hand and a “free bet” button is placed with the second hand. The player plays out each hand one at a time and is entitled to a “free double” or “free split” on both hands. For winning hands, each “free bet” button is replaced with real chips equaling the original wager. On hands resulting in a player loss or push, the dealer takes back the “free bet” button.

FREE HAND HARD 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 A h h h h h h h h h h 4 to 8 9 to 11 fd fd fd fd fd fd fd fd fd fd h h h s s h h h h h 12 h s s s s h h h h h 13 h s s s s h h h h h 14 s s s s s h h h h h 15 s s s s s h h h h h 16 s s s s s h h h s h 17 18 to 21 s s s s s s s s s s SOFT 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 A 12 to 15 h h h h h h h h h h h h h h d h h h h h 16 h h h d d h h h h h 17 h h d d d s h h h h 18 s s s d d s s s s s 19 s s s s d s s s s s 20 s s s s s s s s s s 21

REAL MONEY HAND HARD 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 A h h h h h h h h h h 5 to 8 9 to 11 fd fd fd fd fd fd fd fd fd fd h h h s s h h h h h 12 h s s s s h h h h h 13 h s s s s h h h h h 14 s s s s s h h h r r 15 s s s s s h h r r r 16 s s s s s s s s s rs 17 18 to 21 s s s s s s s s s s SOFT 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 A 12 to 15 h h h h h h h h h h h h h h d h h h h h 16 h h h d d h h h h h 17 s s s d d s h h h h 18 s s s s s s s s s s 19 s s s s s s s s s s 20 s s s s s s s s s s 21

6 ARIZONA PLAYER July 2014

Basic Strategy: Playing this game requires a different strategy because you play differently - if you are playing the real money bet as opposed to the free bet. There is a difference because a push is just as bad as a loss on a free bet, thus causing a more aggressive strategy.The house edge for the game is about .79%, not bad when you consider a normal 6 deck game house edge is about .57%. Currently only Fort McDowell casino offers this game. The three tables included show strategy for “real money” hand, “free bet” hand, and “pairs” hand respectively. 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 PAIR 2s 3s 4s 5s 6s 7s 8s 9s 10s As

SPLITS 5 6

9 10 A

fp fp

fd fd fd fd fd fd fd fd fd fd fp

fp fp

s stand h hit  d real money double  fd free double 

r surrender if you can, otherwise hit  rs surrender if you can, otherwise stand  fp free split 

wizardofodds.com

Cover story

10th ANNUAL ARIZONA STATE POKER CHAMPIONSHIP

This August marks the 10th anniversary of the Arizona State Poker Championship and to celebrate Talking Stick Resort will hold a milestone event in its ARENA Poker Room. The Championship, held over five days beginning August15, has become a signature event, not only for the card room, but also for the entire resort. Originally launching the summer of 2004 at Casino Arizona 101 & Indian Bend, the No Limit Hold’em tournament, as it was called started with less than 500 participants and a prize pool of $200,000. Only three years later, the event’s jackpot grew to $750,000 and 700 entries. “The growth of the Arizona State Poker Championship has been meteoric,” said Ramon Martinez, director of public relations for Talking Stick Resort. “What started as a somewhat small event for our local pokers players has turned into a nationally recognized tournament attracting players from across the country.” In 2010, the Championship experienced its first monumental shift with the opening of Talking Stick Resort following the closing of the tents of Casino Arizona 101 & Indian Bend. With the new resort came the ARENA Poker Room, which became the largest poker room in Arizona. Also with the new resort came one of the biggest jackpots in the casino’s history. “It was during our sixth tournament, and the kick-off of the event at Talking Stick Resort, that we took our prize pool to a new level, offering players their share of $1 million,” said Martinez. “The increased jackpot enhanced our visibility and brought us to the attention of many professional players.”

8 ARIZONA PLAYER July 2014

Since then, the Arizona State Poker Championship has kept the prize pool at the $1 million level and beyond. In addition to the varied prize pool amounts, the winners and overall participants of the tournament have been equally varied. They have included a four-time Arizona Golden Glove champion, Arizona State University college student and professional players. In recent years, professional poker players haven’t just played in the tournament they also have been enlisted as hosts. In 2012, professional poker player, actress and TV personality, Tiffany Michelle, served as emcee of the final table. Last year, 13-time World Series of Poker champion, Phil Hellmuth, acted as host and will resume the role again this year. “Enlisting well-known professional poker players as hosts of our tournament really adds a level of excitement to an already well received event,” said Tom Young, director of poker for Talking Stick Resort. “Their analysis and commentary also keep it interesting for those watching on the sidelines.” Hellmuth isn’t the only colorful element occurring at the year’s 10th anniversary tournament. Talking Stick Resort also enlisted a new designer to create the winner’s bracelet. Renowned Scottsdale jeweler, Scott Gauthier of Jewelry by Gauthier has designed a custom bracelet for this year’s winner. continued on page 10

Cover story continued from page 8 Gauthier created two bracelets for the event, one for a male winner and one for a female winner. The female bracelet features more than a halfcarat of rubies and a half-carat of black diamonds. It is also accented with white diamonds. Similarly, the male bracelet is handmade with 14-carat white gold with more than two and a half carats of rubies and of black diamonds. It also features a one-of-a-kind 2014 closure. The bracelet will be a nice bonus for the winner of the 2014 championship who in addition to a trophy will also take home more than $211,000 of the $1.1 million prize pool. The second and third place winners will earn trophies as well as $143,000 and $110,000 respectively. Moreover, the top 110 placed players will also earn a payday. The Arizona State Poker Championship will kick off Friday, Aug. 15 at 9 a.m. and run through the final table on Tuesday, Aug. 19. The first three days are qualifying tournaments with the semifinal tables on Monday. Aug. 18. The final 10 players will then compete in the finals. The buy in cost for the tournament is $1,000 with a $100 service fee, which includes 16,000 chips. Players also have an option to purchase an additional 10,000 chips for $30. Those who are eliminated during Friday, Saturday and Sunday play can also reenter the tournament for an additional $1,100.

10 ARIZONA PLAYER July 2014

Now, let’s say you would like to play in this prestigious event, but don’t have the $1,100 to enter - Well, good news! You can WIN A SEAT into the Arizona State Poker Championship by participating in Single Table Shoot-outs any time there are ten players that sign up! Here how it works; sign up at the poker board anytime 24/7 right up until 6am on Sunday August 17th. You have 2 options; Single Table Shoot-Out (1 winner) $110 buy-in + $15 s/c – Total $125 Double Entry Shoot-Out (2 winners/table) $220 buy-in + $15 s/c - Total $235 Players must be 21 years of age to participate in the Arizona State Poker Championship. Prize pool amounts are based on 1,100 entries. Arizona State Poker Championship Schedule Friday, Aug. 15, 9 a.m. to approximately 9 p.m. (Qualifying Play) Saturday, Aug. 16, 9 a.m. to approximately 9 p.m. (Qualifying Play) Sunday, Aug. 17, 9 a.m. to approximately 9 p.m. (Qualifying Play) Monday, Aug. 18 9 a.m. (Semi-Finals) Tuesday, Aug. 19, 10 a.m. (Finals, 10 Players) For players that want to hone their skills before the championship, Talking Stick Resort is hosting 2014 State Championship Warm Up Tournaments. The warm up games will take place at 11:45 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 11, Tuesday, Aug. 12 and Wednesday, Aug. 13. The buy-in costs for each day are as follows: Monday, Aug. 11 - $100 due at signup with a $20 service fee Tuesday, Aug. 12 - $200 due at signup with a $25 service fee Wednesday, Aug. 13 - $300 due at sign up with a $30 service fee As part of the warm up buy-in, participants will get 7,500 in tournament chips and have the option to purchase an additional 2,500 chips for $10. For more information on the Arizona State Poker Championship and the 2014 State Championship Warm Up Tournaments, visit www.talkingstickresort.com or call the ARENA Card Room at (480) 850-8693.

12 ARIZONA PLAYER May 2014

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, $1,000,000 prize pool! $1,100 buy-in or “Win a Seat” in Satellites Sunday Super Satellites - June 15, July 6, July 13 & Aug 10 “Win a Seat” into AZ State Poker Championship- $110 buy-in w/$30 s/c Thursday, Aug 14 at 11:15 - Last Chance Super Satellite into AZ State Poker $ Championship - 110 buy-in w $30 s/c Daily thru August 14th - “Win a Seat” Single Table Shoot-outs ANYTIME 10 players sign up - Buy-in $125 (1 winner/table) or Double Entry Shootout - Buy-in $235 (2 winners/table) Mon thru Fri, 11:15 am - NLHE $70 buy-in w/$10 s/c Mondays at 7:15 Bounty $200 Buy-in & $35 s/c - $100 bounties Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 7:15pm - NLHE, $ 115 buy-in w/$15 s/c Thursdays at 7:15pm - “Survivor” NLHE $ 200 buy in Sat, July 12, Aug 9, Sept 20, Oct 11, Nov 8 & Dec 13 at 11:15 am - “Super Bounty” NLHE - $200 BI, $25 s/c - $100 Bounties Sat, July 19, Aug 23 & Oct 18 at 11:15 am - Turbo Bounty NLHE - $200 BI w/$25 s/c $ 100 Bounties Sat, July 26 at 11:15 am - Last Saturday NLHE - $125 BI w/$25 s/c Sat, Aug 2, 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, July 20 at 11:15 am Ladies No-Limit Hold-Em Tournaments $60 BI & 15 s/c Sun, July 27 at 11:15 am Jack & Jill No-Limit Hold Em Tournaments $100 BI & 15 s/c NEW! $100,000 Bad Beat Jackpot - Qualify w/4 jacks or better beaten - see poker room for details High Hand Promotion (Mon - Fri, 2am10am) $100 winner every ½ hour! Weekdays, 2am-10am “Aces Cracked” Win $ 100 rack Daily Surprise $100 Splash Pots - Various hours, see poker room for times Food Specials; $3 breakfast! (2 am - Noon) also $12 Prime Rib dinner Mondays & $15 Steak & Lobster dinner Thursdays (5-11pm) Also dealing blackjack 24/7

14 ARIZONA PLAYER July 2014

Bluewater Resort & Casino 888-243-3360

Parker, AZ Poker Room opens at 2pm, Wed, Fri, Sat & Sun and 4pm on Tues & Thurs Tues, 7pm, NLHE “Bounty” Tournament $ 35 buy-in ($5 bounties) Thurs, 7pm, NLHE - $40 buy-in, w/one $20 re-buy Wed, 2pm - 8pm “High Hand of the Day” pays $50 at 8 pm also any straight flush pays $50 Fri - 4 of a kind pays $50 & Any Full House pays $15 Sat, 5pm - NLHE Tournament Sun - 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 Aug 31 - Northern Arizona Poker Championship - Qualify on these Sundays at Noon; Aug 3, 10, 17 & 24 - 10 players qualify each week! Max 40 Finalists, Buy-in $125 - $10,000 1st Place w/200 total entries. Sundays at Noon (in July) - NLHE “Bounty” Tournament - $80 buy-in ($20 Bounties) Mon-Sat at 6pm - NLHE $40 entry w/$10 add-on, (top 3-5 cash) & top 5 earn points toward the Player of Month award (3 places $300, $200 and $100) July 1 - 31, $25,000 Texas Hold Em Bad Beat Jackpot(see poker room for details) 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! Progressive “Aces Cracked” Fri & Sat 11am-11pm - increases by $50 each hour till hit “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 $ 25,000 FREE ROLL - July 22-26 (Qualify until July 21) 60 hours of live play needed) see poker room for details $ 20,000 Summer Sizzler NLHE - Aug 21 (7PM) Aug 22& 23 (11am) $220 buy-in ($50 w/20 hours live play) Finals on 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 add-on Progressive high hands 24/7 - win up to $500 - see poker room for details

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 add'l $5,000 in chips Sun, July 27 at 10am - Ladies NLHE Poker Tournament - $60 buy-in w/$10 dealer Appreciation for extra 5,000 in chips “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

Cliff Castle Casino Hotel 928-567-7952 Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino 480-802-5138 Camp Verde, AZ

Mon-Fri, 10am - NLHE Shoot-out, $30 buyin, 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/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/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 rebuys (max 40 - 50 players) Daily - Any Royal Flush $200 Hold Em and $ 100 Omaha, Straight Flush $100 Hold - Em $ 50 Omaha Special Poker Room menu at ½ off standard prices Dealing blackjack 24/7 with new progressive side bet and 3 card poker side bet

Maricopa, AZ Mon at 7:30pm - NLHE/Omaha HI - $15 buy-in - Unlimited $10 re-buys thru 1st break & 1 $10 add-on at the break Tues at 7:30pm, Omaha H/L, $15 buy-in, $10 re-buys + $10 add-on Wed at 7:30pm - NLHE Eliminator, $35 buyin/ no re-buys - At each break the smallest chip stack is eliminated 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 bounty chip - $10 dealer add-on Sun at noon - Margarita Sunday NLHE - $15 buy-in w/two $10 add-ons at the break Sun at 5:30pm - No-Limit Crazy Pineapple, $ 25 buy-in w/unlimited $10 re-buys thru first break (appx 45 min) Aces Cracked - Black aces $100, Red Aces $ 50 & Mixed $25 (Bonus 9-10am & 2am-3am =3X payout, 10am-noon, mid-2am+double) MLB Playoff “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

CARD ROOM ACTION based on game limits (3/6, 4/8 & 5/10) pays $ 1,500 to $3,500) Progressive High Hand (9am-11am) Aces full of 2’s or better qualifies 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 - Now playing “Push your Bet” JUST ADDED; 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 $ 540,000 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/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 3pm - 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 Sunday Splash Pots during selected MLB games Thurs, 7pm NLHE Deep Stack - $80 buy-in “Beat the Boss” Tournament every Wed - see poker room for details Dealing blackjack 24/7 - Special room rates for poker players

Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort 928856-7244

Flagstaff, AZ Live Poker Mon-Fri at noon, Sat & Sun at 10am NLHE Tournaments at 7pm, Tues ($55) & Thurs ($35) Sat at noon ($15) & Sun at noon ($35) Fri at 7pm, Omaha hi/lo ($35) - Please note for ALL tournaments a $5 dealer add-on gets you an extra $1,000 in chips Sat at 5pm NLHE single table “Shoot-outs”

20 buy-in (Please note for ALL tournaments a $5 dealer add-on gets $1,000 in chips) “Aces & Faces Cracked” - wins up to $50 see poker room for details $ 25 Morning and Evening “Splash Pots” daily at Noon,12:30, 1,1:30 ,2,7, 8, 9,10, 11pm and Mid. Progressive “High Hand” & Bad Beat Jackpots - see poker room for payouts - 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 **These 3 tournaments allow “Early Bird Chips” for live play before the tournament (see poker room for details) PLUS 1st and 2nd place at these tournaments qualify for the “Tournament of Champions” each quarter. 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 $39,000 at press time “ACES CRACKED” spins the wheel - win up $300 MLB “Splash Pots” Select TV Games - See poker room for payouts Dealing blackjack 24/7 - with $5 games NEW! 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 $ 540,000 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/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 $ 130,000 at press time MLB “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 $ 540,000 at press time!

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

ARIZONA PLAYER July 2014 15

gaming news Poker Jackpot Hit at Wild Horse Pass!

Winning a hand of Texas Hold ‘Em with four-of-a-kind, is a pretty good bet. However, as Waylon W. discovered, losing that hand can be much more rewarding. The Valley resident took home the largest share of a $155,000 jackpot when his unlikely loss triggered the Super 77 linked progressive jackpot at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino on Sunday June 29. The Super 77 jackpot is triggered when a hand of four-of-a-kind featuring sevens or better is beaten by another player at the table. Called a “bad beat” because of the incredibly low probability of losing the hand, it turned into the “best beat” Waylon W. and Michael C. could have hoped for.

16 ARIZONA PLAYER July 2014

The Super 77 linked progressive jackpot which connects Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino and Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino was at $155,000 when Waylon W.’s four-of-a-kind NINES was beaten by Michael’s STRAIGHT FLUSH and thus, triggering the amazing Super 77 jackpot that was shared between the six players at the table. Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino is located at 5040 W. Wild Horse Pass Blvd. in Chandler. Gila River Gaming Enterprises, Inc. operates three Arizona casinos owned by the Gila River Indian Community including Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, Lone Butte Casino, and Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino. All three casinos offer a combination of slots, table games, bingo, poker and hotel and are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Additional information on these and other events is available by calling 1-800-946-4452, or on their website at www.wingilariver.com

A BOYD’S EYE VIEW OF VIDEO POKER

Two Pair Holds

ractically every casino that has video poker games will have some form of Deuces Wild by Linda Boyd (DW) game, but it’s a big mistake to assume that you can play all versions of this popular game the same way. Here are two excellent DW games, but you must carefully check to be sure you have the right game before depositing your money. The best of the two is Full Pay Deuces Wild (FPDW) but it’s tough to find outside of Nevada and, even there, it’s in lower denominations (quarters) and getting scarcer. Not-So-Ugly Deuces (NSUD) can be found both in Nevada and elsewhere. True, you’ll have to be diligent to hunt this game down, but it’s worth the effort. Table 1.1 shows you the payout for each winning hand; make sure you have an exact match for everything on the table. Table 1.1 Full Pay Deuces/Not-So-Ugly Deuces FPDW NSUD Royal Flush/No Deuces 4000 4000 4 Deuces 1000 1000 Royal w/Deuces/Wild 125 125 5 of a Kind 75 80 Straight Flush 45 50 4 of a Kind 25 20 Full House 15 20 Flush 10 15 Straight 10 10 3 of a Kind 5 5 Expected Return (ER) 100.76% 99.72% Variance 25.834 25.780

Winning Hand/ 5-Coin Bet

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Once you’ve located your game, (although both are great finds, of course FPDW is better), you must use the correct playing strategy to get the expected return (ER) indicated. I recommend that you use Dean Zamzow’s tutorial software (WinPoker) for practice at home. Some players aren’t interested in taking the time to play computer-perfect, but they would still like to get close to the ER indicated on my pay tables. (Be aware that the pay tables in the “see pays” page on the machine will indicate the payout for each winning hand, but will not give you either the ER or the game variance. Both of these figures can be found on removable pay tables in my book, “The Video Poker Edge”.) If you have found either of these two games and don’t know the perfect game strategy you should at least know the correct holds for two dealt pair. Be aware in one of the games you hold both pair, but in the other game you hold just one pair. Holds for Two Pair: Notice that for FPDW 25 coins are returned for 4OAK and 15 for a FH (5-coin bets); for NSUD both 4OAK and a FH return 20 coins (5-coin bets). As a result of the different returns for these two hands you will hold just one pair (either one) for FPDW but you would hold both pair when playing NSUD. Because this is a relatively frequent hand it will be costly to play the two pair deal incorrectly. Statistics: Just to give you some sense of the magnitude of making a mistake on the correct hold - dealt

Deuces Wild

two pair consider the percent of the each game’s return for both the FH and 4OAK as indicated in Table 1.2. Table 1.2 Full Pay Deuces/Not-So-Ugly Deuces FPDW NSUD 4 of a Kind 32.47% 24.42% Full House 6.37% 10.45% You can see that a whopping 38.84% of FPDW’s return (32.47% +6.37%) of the 100.76% ER comes from the two hands impacted by the two pair hold. With NSUD 34.87% (24.42% + 10.45%) of the 99.73% ER comes from the FH and 4OAK hands. I’m certainly not implying that you’ll lose these percentages entirely, but you can not expect the indicated ER for either game unless your play is accurate. Making a mistake on the hold for two dealt pair will have a significant and negative effect on your theoretical return for these two games. Remembering the correct way to play this hand is so simple to do that nobody should make a mistake. Be aware that I am only referring to these two games. You must learn the key plays for any of the many other deuces wild games you will find on the casino floor. Percent of Return

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 1-877-900-book - amazon.com bookstores or Square One Publishers. www.squareonepublishers.com

lottery news Lottery Win Makes “Dream Road Trip” Possible Robert Powell of New River had played Weekly Winnings every day for about four consecutive weeks. He purchased a Quick Pick for the May 13 drawing at the Fry’s on North Daisy Mountain Drive in Anthem, then the following morning checked the numbers at 6am - The next thing he did was yell to his wife, “Guess where we’re going this morning?....To the Lottery.” Robert plays other draw games when the jackpots get high. Although he considers himself an occasional player of instant scratch tickets, he enjoys playing Lucky Life. Robert and his wife, who previously owned a video store, have lived in Arizona for 28 years. The couple is now retired, and they have big plans for the $52,000 they just won. They are planning to take a cross-country road trip to visit friends and family they haven’t seen in more than 20 years. When they return, they hope to move to Tucson, as Robert has family living there.

VOLUNTEER WORK PAYS OFF! Elda Pierpan, of Scottsdale, works as a volunteer; driving people to doctor’s appointments, or anywhere else they need to be. Since some of the doctor’s appointments tend to be lengthy, she usually buys some instant scratch tickets to take with her while she’s waiting. On one of her recent trips, she partially scratched a Cash Club instant scratch ticket that she purchased at the Safeway on Scottsdale Road & Pinnacle Peak because it was a new game. She finished scratching it at home and was in shock when she realized that she was looking at a $50,000 winning ticket. Since her husband was not due back until the end of the week, she knew she would have to wait until he came home before she could share the good news. After he returns, they’ll decide what they’re going to do with their winnings. Elda is a regular player of instant scratch games; her favorite ones being Bingo or Crossword. She’s retired and does volunteer work about three to four days a week. She and her husband love to take road trips on their Honda Goldwing motorcycle. The motorcycle has its own trailer, so they’ve taken it on the road and gone to Vancouver, Quebec, California and up and down the East coast. They moved to Arizona in 1999 and thoroughly enjoy our wonderful climate.

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gaming news NORTHERN AZ POKER CHAMPIONSHIP The 6th annual Bucky’s Casino Northern Arizona Texas Hold’em Championships will be held in August this year. You can qualify the first 4 Sundays in August for this biggest poker tournament in Northern Arizona with an estimated $10,000 1st Place prize* - Those Qualifying Sundays are; Aug 3, 10, 17 and 24 at 2pm. Every Sunday 10 players will qualify for the August 31st Championship! Only 40 players will make the final day of action! These are great odds for this kind of prize pool. On August 31 - All final day players start the day with $10,000 in chips and a hope of capturing the huge first place prize money. Bucky’s Poker Room would like to thank the participants in all the previous five tournaments and look forward to this year’s Northern Arizona Poker Championship to be the biggest and best ever. Keep in mind there is always something going on at Bucky’s poker room - for example; every Sunday in July at noon they host a No-Limit Hold ‘Em “Bounty” Tournament - $80 buy-in ($20 Bounty for each player you knock out) Mon – Fri, 10am & 2pm - NLHE Shootouts $20 entry w/$5 dealer Add-on Monday thru Saturday at 6pm - NLHE $40 entry w/$10 add-on, the top

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3-5 cash & top 5 earn points toward the Player of Month award that pays 3 places each month $300, $200 and $100 Also during July, don’t miss the $25,000 Texas Hold Em Bad Beat Jackpot (see poker room for details) Progressive “Aces Cracked” Fri & Sat 11am-11pm – increases by $50 each hour till hit and “Random Rewards” Various times and days - see poker room for pay-outs With the lowest rake in the State, plus promotions running 24/7 Bucky’s Poker Room is a great place to head for to enjoy the refreshing Prescott weather and have some fun playing poker anytime. Bucky’s and Yavapai Casinos are located in cool pines of Prescott, Arizona – From Phoenix - Take I-17 north to Highway 69, then west the casino – (a scenic 90 minute drive) for more information go to buckyscasino.com or call 1-928-771-6779 *with a total of 200 entries

July contest WIN A “REEL” CASINO SLOT MACHINE!

It’s time to announce our June & July Harrah’s Ak-Chin Sweepstakes Winners! Arizona Player Magazine and Harrah’s Ak-Chin partnered to allow our readers to win not one but two terrific Grand Prize Packages! Plus 8 lucky runner-up prize winners of lunch or dinner at the Harvest Buffet! Our Grand Prize winners are; Michelle Gray from Phoenix and Sara Hill from Gilbert, AZ. Here’s what you will win - A Grand prize Package that includes; an overnight stay in a luxurious room on July 19th at Harrah’s Ak Chin Casino Resort, plus Dinner for 2 at the fabulous Range Steakhouse, along with 2 reserved seats to see the band Color Me Badd, then add to this, a pair of “Meet and Greet” Back Stage Passes to chat with the band Color Me Badd that night! Be sure to bring a camera to take pictures, so you can post them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social media to do a little bragging to all your friends about this special night! We also had 8 lucky runner-up winners, who will receive Dinner for two vouchers good anytime this year at one of the truly great buffets in the state – Harrah’s Ak Chin Harvest Buffet! Those lucky winners are; Julie McCray from Sun City, Renee Warnecke and Frank Maisano both from Peoria, AZ, Karen Torres from Surprise, Kathy Hinojos of Litchfield Park, Barbara Florek from Anthem, Antonio Guerrero Jr. who resides in Yuma and Melton Beauvais from Flagstaff, AZ. Harrah’s Ak-Chin

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Casino Resort is more than just a hotel with premium rooms and a casino with the newest slots, live poker, blackjack, bingo, keno, great restaurants along with top acts in the entertainment business that you get to see for FREE in an intimate setting of THE LOUNGE – you’ll also find on the property, a luxury theatre with the latest movie releases, plus a bowling center and more! It is a true resort destination where you will enjoy a memorable evening or an entire weekend! WHAT’S NEXT? How about winning 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 most Arizona Casinos today. You can take this baby 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 an extra entry right there in the store. Here’s how to enter; Go to the Arizona Player website arizonaplayer.com and 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 you chances to win! You can even triple your chances by entering at Colson Gaming. What a concept! Colson Gaming is located at 3819 N. 3rd Street (just S. of Indian School Rd. Enter the large parking lot off 4th Street going north. 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 Sedona, Northern Arizona & Summertime Fun Sedona is the home of Oak Creek Canyon, where you can travel on Arizona’s first designated scenic highway. This area is a treat for your eyes as you travel through the beautiful red rocks that wind along world famous state highway 179. Take time to check out famous “Slide Rock” with natural rock slides and pools…burr, the water is really cold - even in the middle of summer. Imagine yourself riding a horse atop the amazing red rock formations overseeing a Hollywood movie being shot in the valley below. There you are, back to the days of yesteryear where legends like John Wayne, Joan Crawford, Elvis, Burt Lancaster, Rock Hudson and many more stayed, played and acted in a hundred films like; Stagecoach, Broken Arrow, The Rounders, Harry and Tonto, 3:10 to Yuma and so many more. Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross that is built into the side of a mountain! The paradox and enchantment of Sedona are the luxurious resorts nestled along beautiful Oak Creek, plus some of the best Bed and Breakfast establishments anywhere to – “Straight out of the Old West” historic hotels dating back to the 1800s in nearby towns like Prescott, Jerome and others. Take in the impressive world renowned art galleries, performing arts, unique boutiques and fine restaurants, all nestled in a rugged canyon surrounded by the nearly two million acres of the Coconino National Forest. Is that it – Heck no Partner! Visit a real living Ghost Town in Jerome. It is quite an experience. It’s just south of Sedona and this town is built on the side of a mountain with narrow streets and amazing views. There are plenty of great restaurants and even a few wine bars in this tiny town that hosts thousands of visitors every year. And yes there is a certified haunted hotel – where you can find several ghost sighting caught on tape – Check it out on Google. Need more adventure? Then Cottonwood is for you. It’s just minutes away and you can hop aboard the Verde Canyon Railway – What a hoot! Travel along the side of a mountain and enjoy some spectacular views including wild life and soaring eagles!

Nearby, enjoy the cool breezes in downtown Prescott – Where “Whiskey Row” is straight out of the old Wild West. Position yourself in one of the Saloons, a boot on the foot-rail while the bartender slides you a cold beer - hang with some real cowboys, cowgirls and some city slickers. The invigorating mountain air will have you thinking of horse-back riding, hiking, rock climbing or maybe sailing, kayaking or fishing nearby at Watson, Goldwater or Willow Lakes. There are a plethora of historic places to see in Northern Arizona like Montezuma’s Castle in Camp Verde, plus let us not forget The Grand Canyon is near-by with “white water” rafting and so much more it would take several more articles to cover all the fun you can have up here, and that’s what we will be doing in the future. So much to do, including all the casino action you would ever want nearby in Prescott at Bucky’s and Yavapai Casinos – Plus in Camp Verde at Cliff Castle Casino Hotel. You’ll find poker and poker tournaments, blackjack, slots, entertainment, restaurants and family fun like bowling – lots of enjoyment for everyone! Spend a day or an entire week or more in this area – You’ll love it!

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) Will Open Soon! Convention Center: July 26 – Nightrain (Guns & Roses Tribute) San Carlos Event Center: (previously The Pavilion) August 16 – The Motown Miracles

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

lessons w/ AZTEX Band Wed & Thurs – Country (Tommy Ash Band) and dance instruction with Laina Lee Bingo Hall: Fri & Sat at Midnight, L-8 Night Bingo! light show, music & dancing!

Casino Del Sol

5655 W. Valencia Rd. Tucson 520-838-6506 Paradiso Bar: Free entertainment weekends and Tribute Bands every Thursday AVA Amphitheater: July 23 – BOSTON July 26 – Keith Sweat w/ GINUWINE & AL B SURE Aug 2 – Los Tigres Del Norte Aug 6 – Counting Crows

Casino Arizona

101 at McKellips, Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Showroom: July 18 & 19 – Crimes of Passion (Pat Benatar tribute) July 25 & 26 – Aeromyth (A tribute to Aerosmith Aug 1 & 2 – RIO (Tribute to Duran Duran) 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) 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 3 & 4 – Fandango (ZZ Top Tribute) Oct 17 & 18 – Bonfire (AC/DC Tribute Band) Oct 24 & 25 – The Kenny Cetera CHICAGO EXPERIENCE Arizona Room Patio Grill: Aug 8 – Sapphire Sky Sundays – Marley Taylor Band (Classic Rock & Top 40) Mon – “Pure Country Night” featuring Jordan Benson w/ Heartlyn Rae Tues– “Latin Fire Dance Night” w/ free

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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

Desert Diamond Casino I -19

1100 West Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita 1-866-332-9467 Diamond Center: July 18 – Chris Isaak Aug 9 – Pink Floyd laser Spectacular (in 3D) Aug 23 – Carlos Mencia 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

Fort McDowell Casino

Aug 9 – Prince Royce Aug 17 – ZZ TOP & Jefff Beck Aug 31 – Frampton’s Guitar Circus featuring; Peter Frampton, BB King, Buddy Guy and Robert Randolph Sept 13 – Marco Antonio Solis Conference Center: July 20 – Roaring 20’S Party - Come As A Flapper, Gangster Or In 20’S Attire And Dance The Night Away! 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

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, July 19 & Aug 16 – Late Night Lunar Bingo w/ music & giveaways Outdoors: July 19 - Mega Yard Sale (8pm-Mid) Aug 1 – B ad Boy Fights (MMA & Boxing) Aug 2 – MWF (Micro Wrestling Federation) 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 July 19 – Color Me Badd Aug 1 – Jason Michael Carroll

Sept 6 - TONIC Sept 12 – JT Hodges Oct 24 – Vertical Horizon POOLSIDE PARTY –“Margarita Sundays” Now – Aug 31 Live Bands 2pm-6pm! 7/13 – Desert Beach, 7/20 – Volcano, 727 – Kush County, 8/3 – Desert Beach, 8/10 – Cheeseburgers in Paradise (Jimmy Buffet Tribute) 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 July 15 thru 19 – Ronnie and the Classics July 22 thru 26 – House of Steel July 29 thru Aug 2 – Johnny Ray Band

Lone Butte Casino

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

entertainment

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 Talking Stick Showroom: July 24 – Kenny Wayne Shepard Band Aug 8 – Dr. John

Dr. John

Nov 1 – Darlene Love Nov 8 – Psychedelic Furs & The Lemonheads Nov 18 – Adrian Belew Power Trio Nov 21 – Tracy Lawrence Dec 5 – Blue October Grand Ballroom: July 18 – Russell Peters July 23 – Replay America w/ The Go Go’s $ The Motels Aug 1 – Slash w/ Myles Kennedy and the Conspirators Aug 2 – COMIC Lisa Lampanelli Aug 4 – Deep Purple Aug 10 – Tedeschi Trucks band Nov 15 – Nick Swardson Nov 29 – Jay Leno POOLSIDE: Release Pool Party every Saturday 11am-5pm – Top Deejays from LA, Vegas and worldwide! TSR Lounge: DJ Juma, DJ Theresa and others – Weekends 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, Top local DJ’s and from the West Coast

Orange Sky Restaurant & Lounge: Live jazz

Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort

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

Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino

Aug 22 – The Australian Bee Gees Aug 23 – Queensryche (Farewell tour w/ Geoff Tate) Aug 29 – Asleep at the Wheel Sept 13 – The TUBES Sept 19 – Kathleen Madigan Sept 25, 27 & 27 – Thunder From Down Under (Male Revue) Oct 3 – Nils Lofgren

The West Valley Casino 51st Ave, 4 miles S. of Baseline – Laveen 1-800-WIN-GILA Event Center: July 13 – Soccer Viewing Party July 18 – Banda Machos July 26 – “Workin’ Hard” (James Brown Tribute) Aug 1 – “Working Class Hero” (John Lennon Tribute) Aug 8 – “Turn The Page” (Bob Seger & the Silver Bullet Band Tribute) Aug 23 – ’56: A 1950’s Rock & Roll Revue Aug 29 – “One of the Nights” (Eagles Tribute Band)

Sept 6 – ABBAFab (ABBA Tribute) Sept 12 – Los Lobos Sept 20 – 49 Laughs (Comedy) Outdoor Patio: (Mon – Sat, 4pm-7pm) Featuring these bands; Powerdrive, New Frequency Band, Marty & the Party, The Walkens, Chuck E Baby, Eagleheart, Michael and Manuel, Latino Rebel Band, Arroz Con Mango band, Shining Star, Reality Band, Priminition, Rhythym Edition & Chaka & friends Bingo Park: Every Saturday at 11pm – BINGO ECLIPSE – Bingo, DJ music, light show & giveaways

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino I-10 at Wild Horse Pass exit - Chandler 1-800-WIN-GILA Ovations LIVE! Showroom: July 19 – Chris Isaak July 20 – “One Gunn, One Love (Bob Marley Tribute) July 26 – Paquita La Del Barrio Aug 1 – Los Tigres del Norte

Aug 15 – Peter Frampton Aug 16 – December ’63 (Frankie Valli Tribute) Aug 17 – Justin Shandor (World’s Ultimate Elvis Tribute) Aug 24 – Lila Downs Aug 29 – Great White & Slaughter Aug 30 – Lost 80’s Live w/ Flock of Seagulls, Men without Hats, Naked Eyes, Animotion, Dramarama and the Flirts Sept 7 – Piano Man (Tribute to Billy Joel & Elton John OUTDOORS at Festival Park: call for updated schedule CHROME NIGHT CLUB –Arizona’s Newest Hot Spot is Open! Fridays in July – DJ Soulman Saturdays in July – DJ Medik 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

Los Tigres del Norte

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DAVID AT THE SNACK BAR Transformers: The Age of Extinction After the battle of Chicago in the last film the work is recovering and hunting down the remaining decepticons while keeping a watchful eye on the sky for more alien by invaders. A top-level CIA executive has David Ramsey made a deal with an alien bounty hunter to find Optimus Prime and rid the world of all Transformers. Cade is an inventor trying to save his farm when he buys a rusted out truck for parts only to discover that it is Optimus bringing the government down on him and his family. On the run with the help of the few remaining auto-bots in hiding they realize they have find out what is happening and stop it before the next invasion ends mankind’s existence on the planet. Director Michael Bay has thankfully dropped the childish humor but we could have done without the over-protective father and daughter on the run with her secret boyfriend story line. At almost 3 hours “Transformers: The Age of Extinction” covers a lot of ground and leaves it open for at least 2 more. It is the best of the series but that’s faint praise.

Begin Again Dan has just been fired from the record label he founded when he stumbles into the last of a long line bars only to find Greta performing at an open mic night. She thinks she was terrible but he sees something in her. They decide to work together with him producing her first album. With limited funds Dan comes up with the

idea to record it on the streets of New York using the natural sounds of the city. Dan is trying to reunite with his estranged wife and teen daughter, while Greta is trying to get over the love of her life, as he has gone on to be a big rock star. This is a wonderful film with amazing music. The cast is perfect and the writing is genuine. “Begin Again” is one of the best films of the year. 28 ARIZONA PLAYER July 2014

David’s Video Details Noah

Noah has a dream that the world is going to be flooded so he goes to his grandfather, Methuselah, to seek guidance. He realizes that God wants him to build an ark to save the animals of the world while it it cleansed of mankind. He gets help form an unlikely source, that makes some of the scenes appear to come straight out of “The Lord of the Rings,” and faces opposition from the local warrior-king. When the rain starts he gathers this family and tells them the final plan. The special effects are not that special and the story strays from what most of us remember being told. “Noah” is a disappointment.

The Other Woman Carly thinks she has found the love of her life but when she stops by to surprise him she discovers he is married. She is devastated and then surprised when the wife comes to see her. When they discover there is yet a third woman they arrange to meet her. Soon all three have teamed up to get revenge. There are some funny moments but the slapstick ending almost ruins it. While not brilliant “The Other Woman” is worth a couple hours of your time.

Sabotage

Breacher leads an elite DEA task force that finds the squad being picked off one by one. They took down a drug cartel safe house and took some of the money for themselves. When the shortage is noticed they are suspended but nothing can be proven so they are back on the job. When they go to get the money they discover it is gone and they begin to distrust each other. Not sure who is after them this tight-knit elite squad starts to come apart as he bodies pile up. The story doesn’t hold up, the acting is over the top and the ending is predictable. “Sabotage” has enough action for a desperation rental. 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.

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)

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Joke page, ASTROLOGY, Casino directory Jokes of the Month MISTAKES CAN HAPPEN

TRUE LOVE

Last Night a good friend of mine went gambling in Vegas with his brother in law, who is a novice at gambling, but is an expert on drinking too much. At 3 in the morning they got kicked out of a casino because his inebriated brother in law completely misunderstood the meaning of Crap Table.

I saw this headline recently in a supermarket tabloid “88 year old Playboy publisher Hugh Hefner to wed 24 year old Playmate!” This will add new meaning to the phrase “Walker down the aisle”

Cancer June 22 to July 22

Libra Sept 24 to Oct 23

Capricorn Dec 22 to Jan 20

Leo July 23 to Aug 23

Scorpio Oct 24 to Nov 22

Aquarius Jan 21 to Feb 19

Taurus April 21 to May 21

Virgo Aug 24 to Sept 23

Sagittarius Nov 23 to Dec 21

Pisces Feb 20 to Mar 20

Gemini May 22 to June 21

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

Forget what has happened You make right choice Cards work this week Great choice for big win Rewards are near Good time with friend Time to travel and relax Go for it your time is here Big trip and nice payoff Terrific weekend Cards are good choice Rare chance – take it

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

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 July 2014

Happy days ahead Romance returns Adventure coming Expect only good things

Strange idea works Learn from past mistakes Old pal returns Back to basics Time to make a choice Things are looking up Great chance to win big Play game your way

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

Forget past – new future New friend is a value Rare opportunity – take it Good things will happen Lucky streak ahead Get ready to take leap Great advice from friend Make good choices A very lucky week You will be surprised Crazy weekend coming Old pal has great plan

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

Aries Mar 21 to April 20

Jul 7–14 You guessed correctly Jul 15–22 Playing hard pays off Jul 23–31 Favorite spot this week Aug 1–7 Plan that big trip now

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

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

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