December 2014 by Arizona Player

I nside

Gaming•Entertainment•Travel www.arizonaplayer.com

this I ssue Casino Entertainment REEL REVIEWS – Sphinx 3D Card Room Action Statewide Talking Stick Chef Wins Challenge! Sweet Treats at Gila River Casinos WIN White Mountain Winter Getaways! Vol. 22 No. 12 • December 2014

H igh L imit S lot R oom I s N ow O pen A t L one B utte C asino COVER STORY ON PAGE 8

WWW.ARIZONAPLAYER.COM

Contents

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

Contributing Photography Kevin Cummings Melody Hudson David Ramsey Satara Williams

Special Thanks to: Everyone at MPG Marketing and Gila River Casinos Marketing Department for their support in putting this December issue together.

Contributing Writers Linda Boyd Kevin Cummings Cindy Esquer Melody Hudson TJ Jorgensen Brian Mulligan David Ramsey Satara Williams

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.

Vol. 22 No. 12 • December 2014

Gaming News Talking Stick’s Orange Sky Chef Wins Challenge

Gaming News “Shula’s Named one of America’s Top Steakhouses”

Cover Story “Lone Butte Casino’s New High Limit Slot Room is Open!”

Boyd’s Eye View of Video Poker Linda Boyd “Put Me In Coach”

Reel Reviews “Sphinx 3D” by GTECH

AZ Lottery News “More Big Winners”

Card Room Action Table Game Action Around the State

Gaming News “Sweet Treats at Gila River Casinos”

TJ's Blackjack Corner TJ Jorgensen “Forget Basic Strategy”

Entertainment Casino Entertainment State-wide

Contest Page “WIN Hon-Dah Casino Getaways”

Travel “Biosphere 2”

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

ARIZONA PLAYER December 2014 3

gaming news ORANGE SKY CHEF WINS CHEF’S CHALLENGE Culinary Expert Receives AIGA EXPO Honor For the Second Consecutive Year Talking Stick Resort’s award-winning chef, Ron Dimas, was named the champion of the Arizona Indian Gaming Association’s (AIGA) Expo 2014 Chef’s Challenge on November 6. This marks the second year in a row that the chef de cuisine of Orange Sky was recognized with the “Best of Show” title. “It’s great participating in good will competition with other industry professionals,” said Dimas. “As chefs, we work hard in our kitchens so this has been a good opportunity to get out, stretch our creativity, build our professional relationships with the other casinos, and enjoy some quality conversation with a crowd that is genuinely interested in what we create.” The Expo AIGA is an annual event that allows Arizona tribal enterprise chefs to showcase their cooking technique and compete for top honors. Hosted at We-Ko-Pa Resort & Conference Center, this year’s contest featured a tailgate grill-off theme and called for the chef’s signature go-to recipes. A judging panel ranked entries based on originality, taste and food presentation and, in the end, chose Dimas’ Mesquite Boar Rib with Acorn Squash and Agave-Chile Chutney as the winning dish. “Chef Dimas is a culinary master and we’re thrilled the AIGA Expo honored him with such a prestigious award,” said Steve Gerken, senior

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director of hospitality of Talking Stick Resort. “His efforts were commended two years straight which is an exceptional accomplishment and testament to his high-caliber of talent. We’re thrilled to have him at Orange Sky and to showcase his delicious food offerings on a daily basis.” Last year, Dimas took home the win in the AIGA Expo 2013 Chef’s Challenge with his flavorful Broken Arrow Ranch Venison Loin. He has worked in the food industry for more than 20 years and joined Talking Stick Resort in February 2010. Since his arrival, Dimas has helped provide an exceptional dining experience for all guests, bringing a fresh take on meals with his first-rate entrees and menu development. Towering on the 15th floor of Talking Stick Resort, Orange Sky features just-harvested vegetables, aged steaks and 360-degree views of the orange-colored sunsets. The property’s culinary jewel also boasts a selection of over 300 bottles and 30 wines by the glass, all of which are served in lead crystal glassware, fitting to the varietal. Talking Stick Resort is located at the Loop, 101 and Indian Bend Road in Scottsdale. For more information call 480-850-7777 For more information about Chef Dimas or Orange Sky’s dining options, call (480) 8508606 or visit www.talkingstickresort.com.

gaming news Shula’s Named One of Best steakhouses in America!

There was exciting news in November as Shula’s Steak House inside Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino in Chandler was named one of the 2014 Best Steakhouses in America, according to Open Table Diners. Ovations Food Services, a division of ComcastSpectacor which specializes in food and beverage services and catering, operates this Shula’s Steak House in Chandler, AZ which is the first and only Shula’s Steak House not only in Arizona, but on the entire west coast. According to Open Table, The Top 100 Steakhouses in America awards highlight restaurants that deliver a high-end dining experience that is singular and soothing all at once. The site determines the list of honorees after analyzing more than five million reviews of more than 20,000 restaurants across the country – all submitted by verified diners.

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“Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino is honored to receive this prestigious award. As the flagship restaurant at our property, Shula’s Steak House is popular among our guests and has earned a reputation for providing one of the best cuts of steak available. We invite guests to visit us this holiday season to experience why we were named one of the best steak houses in America,” said Michael Olujic, General Manager of Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino. “I would like to thank our Director of Food & Beverage at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino Wade Gruenwald and Shula’s Steak House General Manager Robert Volpe and their team for their hard work and dedication in achieving this distinction” said Michael Doocey, Ovations Food Services Regional Executive Director at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino. “The focus we place on preparing and serving the world’s finest beef paired with a memorable customer experience really shows.” 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 hotels and are open 24 hours a day,

365 days a year. Additional information on this and other events is available by calling 1-800-946-4452, or on our website at www.wingilariver.com. Ovations Food Services, LP: A nationally ranked food service company, Ovations Food Services (www. ovationsfoodservices.com) delivers fresh menus, fresh management and fresh ideas to public assembly venues, hotels and casinos throughout the United States and Canada. Ovations specializes in food, beverage, merchandise and hospitality services for stadiums, arenas, convention centers, fairgrounds, expo-centers, racetracks, zoos, performing arts centers, amphitheaters, casinos and hotels. Considered by many as the best managed and most innovative company in the industry, Ovations’ results oriented senior management team has been involved in managing almost every major public assembly facility throughout the United States and Canada.

cover story

Luxury & Action

High Limit Slots Room is now open at Lone Butte Casino! Designed for highstakes gamers, High Limit Slots Room features a private and spacious gaming area, well-appointed with exceptional touches such as large, comfortable seating and decorative treatments from floor to ceiling. While playing indulge with food machine-side, and a dedicated in-room cocktail service to elevate our guests experience every visit. USB ports are also available on all machines, combined with the latest in slot technology that also has the ability to charge mobile devices while playing. Most striking, of course, is the action. The excitement. The winning. “Welcome to the new High Limit Slot Room at Lone Butte Casino. Debuting this month, the new room is for players who understand playing big and winning big,” said Carolyn Thompson, General Manager. “We wanted

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to create a special place that combined luxury and the most exciting spot for slot players. I think we’ve done that, and we can’t wait to show it off.” First and foremost are the slots. The big limits mean big payouts at the casino that lives up to the phrase, “more winning moments.” “We’re simply giving our players what they want,” Thompson said. “We’ve always taken great pride in the number of games we offer, the variety, and the payouts. The new room just amplifies our offerings.” Players will always find the latest and most popular titles at Lone Butte Casino like Bridesmaids, Bejeweled, The Wizard of Oz, Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory, Sphinx 3D, African Diamond and many more. But the action is not limited to the slots, not by any measure. Lone Butte Casino offers 23 exciting table games—Blackjack, Pai Gow, Ultimate Texas Hold ’em, and more. Because Lone Butte is one of the three Gila River Casinos in Arizona, players can use their complimentary Gila River Players Club card at Lone Butte Casino, as well as at Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino and Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino.

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All Rolled Into One Room In addition, the three casinos offer a linked table game progressive jackpot (for Ultimate Texas Hold ’Em & Crazy 4 Poker), plus the state’s largest linked Pai Gow Progressive, one that can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars. Bingo players enjoy the excitement of the spacious, state-of-the-art, 750seat Bingo Hall that offers fun, high-paying games seven days a week. There are matinee and evening sessions Monday through Friday and morning sessions on Saturday and Sunday. Plus, B.A.D (Bingo After Dark) party sessions with $5,600 cash guaranteed, killer light shows, great drink specials and live DJ’s every Friday and Saturday night. Lone Butte Casino is a favorite spot for locals, as well as out-of-towners, because the excitement stretches beyond the casino. “This is a complete entertainment destination,” Thompson said. “It’s great for date night, a ladies night out, or a gentleman’s night out.” Cities Bar & Grill, currently being created, will be the signature restaurant at Lone Butte Casino. Visit this destination to enjoy popular foods featured in cities across the country. Any appetite at any time is satisfied at Café 24/7 or at a number of casual dining options featured in the Lone Butte Casino Marketplace. For those who love high-energy nightlife, Lone Butte Casino offers the Cascades Lounge which showcases live entertainment Monday through Saturday.

In the V-Bar, you will find video poker machines as well as a fullservice bar, and the Big City Sports Lounge lets you enjoy all the big games on 26 big screens as you play your favorite table games and video poker. But on your next visit, the place you don’t want to miss is the High Limit Slot Room, an exclusive setting for those who like big-time action. “It will have that exclusive feel,” Thompson said. “But it’s open to anyone who is looking for a more personalized experience and lifechanging jackpots.” So come and enjoy, and let the Lone Butte Casino team show you the best casino experience in the Valley. “We are always looking to enhance the experience here for our players,” Thompson said. “Whether it’s new food outlets, our headline entertainment, our exceptional service, and now the High Limit Slot Room - We’re going to give you our very best when you’re here, so come enjoy our vast entertainment options.” The new High Limit Slot Room had its Grand Opening on Friday, December 12. Lone Butte Casino is located just off the Santan 202 at the Kyrene exit in Chandler. For the latest information, visit WinGilaRiver.com or call 800-WIN-GILA.

ARIZONA PLAYER December 2014 9

A BOYD’S EYE VIEW OF VIDEO POKER

by Linda Boyd

Put Me In, Coach

love Fogerty’s anthem to baseball because it’s such a feel-good enthusiastic tune that can apply to almost anything. Sure it was a natural for the film “Bull Durham”, but it was also played on Day 12 of the NASA Space Shuttle Mission for pilot Kenneth Ham. So why not conjure up the lyrics to inspire prospective slot tournament players? Definitely a “can do” attitude is helpful when competing in these events, but beyond that there are other things you can do to increase your odds of finishing in the money.

Getting Ready: There are slot tournaments that are free to players who qualify, the catch is; you must win an entry into it. You will increase your odds of getting into the tournament by maximizing your number of virtual tickets in the drum. Do this by playing either video poker (VP) or slots games with a low variance. In laymen’s terms it means that you can play longer on your VP budget by choosing games that return double your wager on two pair (8/5 Bonus Poker and 9/6 Jacks or better, for example) or slots games with short bonus rounds.

Read the Rules: I can’t emphasize this enough so I will say read the rules several times and then ask questions if there’s still something you don’t understand. If they say, for example, that you should arrive 10 minutes before your round starts then that’s exactly what they mean.

Arrive Early: If my tournament time is 12 noon, I’m smart to be there at 11AM or sooner. That’s because I can take the time to check in, if required, or ask more questions, if I have any. Most of all I can have a look at the location of the tournament machines and carefully watch a few rounds preceding my own. By watching I will know what I have to do to get maximum point opportunities. For example, the announcers may not be gamblers and could instruct you to hit the “Max Bet” and “Play” buttons, when you only need to hit one. I noticed that some players lost time by 10 ARIZONA PLAYER December 2014

“Oh, put me in, Coach, I’m ready to play, today - look at me, I can be Center field” Song/Lyrics: John Fogerty hitting both and they didn’t make it to the next round as a result. You can learn at lot by watching others, especially those with high scores.

Check Buttons: Anybody who has played either slots or video poker already knows that not all machines are created equally. Some devices have buttons that stick or faulty graphics that impede play. If you can select your own machine for the tournament you’ll want one with loose buttons and clear graphics. If you’ve paid an entry fee for either a slots or video poker tournament then you should definitely expect organizers to either honor your request or return your entry fee. Of course if the contest is free then you’ll just have to bite the bullet and try to loosen the button by pressing it several times before play begins. Either that or bring along a can of WD-40.

Persevere: Sometimes slot tournaments with fast-play being rewarded with success can be rather grueling and a test of endurance. That’s because, unlike many VP tournaments, you are allowed unlimited play until your time, say 2 minutes, runs out. (Note that some VP tournaments give you limited credits and time so that when the time runs out you may have some unused credits, a bad thing.) So you should be focused only on tapping the appropriate button as fast as you can. Forget about looking at what others are doing or giving up because you don’t hear your name mentioned as one of the leaders--just keep playing, through the pain, and as fast as you can.

On the Bubble: You may feel like heading home because it looks like you’re not going to make the cut going on to the next round, but hang around anyway. In “The Tournament of Champions” I was ready to leave because only 20 out of 200 were going on to the semi-finals and things were looking grim for me. Lo and behold I squeaked in by finishing 18th out of the top 20. I even made it to the final 10 and ended up coming in 7th for a $1500 pay day.

Final Thoughts: Maybe you didn’t make the tournament but watched it from the sidelines to pick up some tips. Like the song says, “Well, I spent some time with the Mudville Nine, watchin’ it from the bench”, but one day the side line knowledge you gained will be rewarded and you’ll be “ready to play”, that day. Linda Boyd , a 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 the 2013 and 2014 Editions of “American Casino Guide” (ACG) and her YouTube videos, also with ACG. Her radio shows with Southern Gaming will soon be available on iTunes. The 2010 Second Edition of her book is available in both paperback and kindle at amazon.com, bookstores or Square One Publishers. www.squareonepublishers.com or Toll Free: 877-900-BOOK

reel reviews

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lottery news Money Grows on Trees!

Prospector Strikes the Payload!

Lily Camacho may be 101 years old, but she’s sharp as a tack and loves to play instant scratch tickets, especially ones that are quick and easy. Her son buys the tickets for her about four times a week. They keep her mind occupied. Recently, Lily’s son purchased some tickets for her at Gordon’s Market on Alden Road in her home town of Kearny, AZ. One of the tickets he bought for himself was Money Tree. She hadn’t played it for a while, as she hadn’t been winning with it. However, when Lily saw the Money Tree ticket, she decided she wanted to try it. When he returned a while later, he asked her how she’d done, and she gave him the ticket to check. Lily had won the top prize of $50,000. Five members of the family accompanied Lily when she redeemed her ticket. Lily is outgoing with a quick sense of humor and keeps her family on their toes. She lives for baseball and is a diehard Diamondbacks fan. Lily’s mother lived to 101 and her grandfather to 110, she considers her close-knit family a big contributor to her long and good life. Lily has 7 children and, at last count, 24 grandchildren, 39 great grandchildren, 19 great, great grandchildren, and one great, great, great grandchild. I think we could easily call this a GREAT Life! Lily is going to use the money for some home repairs and share some with her son.

Kingman resident Rickey Short always buys a Bingo instant scratch ticket in the morning before he goes to work at the Gas-N-Grub on East Diagonal Way near his home. For some reason known only to him, he does not buy tickets on the weekends. When Rickey got to the store, the clerk had just sold the last Bingo ticket, so he purchased a Cash and Carry Crossword. When he got home after work, Rickey scratched the ticket. He thought he’d won $50,000, but like most people, wanted to be sure, so he took it to a store to have it checked. However, the clerk couldn’t confirm how much he’d won. It wasn’t until he was at the Lottery that he found out for sure he was a $50,000 winner! Rickey works in construction, and the instant scratch tickets give him something to do when he has downtime. Although Ricky only plays the $5 games, he has purchased $10 and $20 tickets to give as gifts. On weekends when he has time, he enjoys hunting and prospecting. Rickey plans to invest the money.

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The Hunch that Paid Off

William Snitchler of Gilbert, purchased a Crazy Cash Crossword instant scratch ticket from his favorite store – the Quick Stuff Chevron station on South 40th Street in Phoenix. He likes to play crossword games because they take time to play, and the excitement has a chance to build as he looks for words. William usually buys $2 or $5 games, and from time to time he steps it up and as he says is “a $10 game is a luxury.” But, he bought one this time when he saw the ticket in the Lottery vending machine because he just had a “feeling” about it. William scratched the ticket while in his car. At first, he only saw five red words, but then realized that there is no prize for five, so he checked the ticket again and found the sixth word. He immediately called his wife and told her, “Don’t get too excited, but I think I just won $100,000.” Fifteen minutes later, he was at the Lottery to redeem his winning scratch ticket for a cool $100,000! When he has a little spare time, William and his family enjoy camping and fishing. What’s his plan to do with this windfall? He’s going to use the money to pay off some bills and save the rest.

CARD ROOM ACTION

Apache Gold Casino 800-272-2438

Globe, AZ Dealing blackjack, and poker daily at 3pm JUST ADDED: NLHE TOURNAMENTS – Sun 2pm & Wed 6pm – Buy-in $25 w/ one $15 re-buy

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

Scottsdale, AZ Mon thru Fri, 11:15 am – NLHE $70 buy-in w/ $10 s/c Mon, Thurs & Sun – NFL Football Promotion (Call for details) Mon - Thurs at 7:15pm - NLHE, $115 buy-in w/ $15 s/c Sat, Dec 27, Jan 31, Feb 28 at 11:15 am – Last Saturday NLHE – $125 BI w/ $25 s/c Sat, Jan 10 & Feb 7 at 11:15am – “Big Stack” NLHE – $300 BI w/$30 s/c (opt $15 dealer Add-0n) Sat, Dec 20 at 11:15am – 12th Annual Christmas Toy Drive Poker Tournament – Buy-in A new unwrapped $10 (minimum)toy w $25 s/c – optional $10 Staff Appreciation add-on at table for extra 1,500 in chips (doubles your stack) January 2nd, 3rd, and 4th – The 2015 Staycation Weekend Tournament (Play all three – Stay for free) Buy-in Friday $200, Saturday $300 and Sunday $300. Win a seat into this tournament in single table shootouts on these Sundays; Nov 16, 23, 30, Dec 7, 14 & 28 Sat, Jan 17 & Feb 14 at 11:15 am – “Super Bounty” NLHE - $200 BI, $25 s/c - $100 Bounties Sat, Jan 24 at 11:15am – Turbo Bounty NLHE Tournament Feb 21 – 23, at 11:15 am – 4th Annual Arena Winter Poker Tournament (call for details) “Aces Cracked wins a rack” weekdays, 2am-10am Food Specials; $4 breakfast and $6.75 Steak & Eggs (2 am – Noon) Mondays $16 Prime Rib Dinner (5-11pm)

Also dealing blackjack 24/7

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Bluewater Resort & Casino 888-243-3360 Ext#7649

Parker, AZ Poker Room opens at 4pm daily except 2pm on Sun & Wed – closed on Mondays Tues at 7pm, NLHE Tournament - $35 buyin, w/ one $20 re-buy Thurs at 7pm, NLHE – $40 buy-in, w/ one $20 re-buy Wed, 2pm – 8pm “High Hand of the Day” see poker room for details Fri, 8pm - NLHE Tournament - $35 buyin, w/ one $20 re-buy Sat, 5pm – “Big Stack” NLHE Tournament $100 buy-in, no re-buys Sun & Wed – Spreading 2-8 Omaha Daily-“Aces Cracked” pays $40 and Royal Flush pays $200 Also dealing blackjack daily at 9am

Bucky’s Casino 928-771-6779

Prescott, AZ Sat & Sun in Dec, Jan and Feb 1 “Full House Frenzy” Win your share of thousands during playoff games & the BIG Game NFL Sunday Splash Pots, thru Dec 28 -Now with Direct TV Sunday Package! Food specials during the games! Mon – Thurs, 10am - NLHE Shootouts $25 entry Mon – Thurs , 6pm NLHE $50 buy-in(top 3-5 cash) top 5 earn points for Player of Month (3 places $300, $200 & $100) Tuesdays in Dec – Pay $10 in advance (after 10am Shoot-out Tournament) and play all day with no house rake! Saturdays at noon DEEP STACK Tournament - $100 buy-in Sundays Dec 28, Jan 25 & Feb 22 at Noon - $100 added per table $80 buy-in Every Mon & Wed – Omaha Hi/Lo 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 Sat Jan 10 at 6pm - $12,000 Guaranteed Duncan Celebrity NLHE Poker Classic - $200 buy-in (Benefits Tucson Youth Baseball Assn) Mon - Fri, 10 am - $800 Guaranteed (with 30 players) NLHE, $10 buy-in w/ $5 chip-up, plus 2 - $10 add-ons 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 - $1,500 Guaranteed NLHE, $45 buy-in – no re-buys Sat, 9am – Limit Omaha Hi-Lo, $15 buy-in, $5 re-buys + $5 add-on Mon 7pm & Sat noon – $1,000 NLHE - $35 buy-in – no re-buys with opt $5 chip-up

Cliff Castle Casino Hotel 928-567-7952

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 per table of 10 - $25 buy-in – re-buys thru first level Sat, Noon – $500 added – NLHE $90 buy-in (Bonus chips for early live play) Sat High Hand (4 times a day) 8am – 10pm, Win all 4 and get an additional $1,000 All Week – Royal Flush pays $100 “Aces Cracked” Sun – Fri, Win cash when pocket Aces lose Also dealing blackjack 24/7

Cocopah Casino 800-237-5687

Somerton, AZ Dealing blackjack daily at 10am

Desert Diamond Casino Hotel 520-342-1810

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

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

Fort McDowell Casino 480-789-4284

Fountain Hills, AZ Mon-Fri at Noon NLHE - $30 buy-in - $20 add-on - No-rebuys Sat at 7pm & Sun at Noon - NLHE Deep Stack tournament - $50 buy-in w/ opt $30 add-on Tues, Wed, Thurs & Sun at 7pm & Sat at Noon & 4pm - NLHE - $5 buy-in Mon, 7pm, Omaha High - $5 buy in w/$5 re-buys – plus at the break $5-$20 add-on Fri, 7pm, NLHE - $60 buy-in w/one $10 dealer add-on for addt'l $5,000 in chips Ladies NLHE Poker Tournament – (call for details) “Aces Cracked” 24/7 win $100 first 2 hours of live, $200 the 3rd hour, $300 the 4th hour $300, and each hour after that pays $400 “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 $599 Dealing blackjack 24/7 – Now playing FREE BET blackjack

CARD ROOM ACTION Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino 480-802-5138

Maricopa, AZ Tues at 7:30pm, Omaha H/L, $15 buy-in, $10 re-buys + $10 add-on Wed at 7:30pm – NL Omaha Hi, $15 buy-in w/ unlimited $10 re-buys w/ $10 add-on at the break Thurs, 7:30pm – NLHE, $10 Buy-in plus three $10 re-buys & two $10 add-ons Fri, 7:30pm – NLHE, $30 buy-in w/ one $20 re-buy Sat, 12:30pm – Deep Stack Bounty NLHE - $45 buy-in, includes $10 bounty chip plus $10 dealer add-on Sun at noon – NLHE - $15 buy-in w/ two $10 add-ons at the break (Maricopa residents have FREE entry) NFL Football Splash-pots (selected games in Dec, plus Playoffs in Jan and BIG Game on Feb 1) Call for details add’l $25 to each splash-pot if Cardinals score College Football Bowl Game Splash-pots Call for details, Selected games Aces Cracked - Black aces $100, Red Aces $50 & Mixed $25 (Bonus mid9am=double) Progressive High Hand Payouts (Quads or better) Also dealing blackjack 24/7 – including “Push the bet”

Hon-Dah Casino 928-369-7555

Pinetop, AZ Mon, 6pm – Monday Night Football “Splash Pots” & FREE pizza during the game Tues, 6pm - NLHE “Speed Shoot-Out” $15 buy-in (no re-buys) Wed, 6pm - NLHE, Double Stack $25 buy-in = 4,000 chips, $25 add-on = 8,000 additional chips Thurs, 6pm - No Limit Omaha Hi-Lo, $40 buy-in (no re-buys or add-ons) Fri, 6pm – NLHE – “$25 Bounty” Tournament, $45 buy-in w/$10 re-buys and $10 add-on 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 – $50 Aces Cracked (Hold Em) 7pm-close Open Mon-Fri at 4pm – Sat & Sun at 2pm, also “early bird” tournament chips available daily and double on Tuesday, plus $100 (Hold Em) High Hand on Fri & Sat

Lone Butte Casino 800-946-4452

Chandler, AZ Dealing blackjack 24/7 Linked Progressive Jackpots for “Crazy 4 Poker” & ULTIMATE Texas Hold EM starts at $10,000 and keeps growing at all 3 Gila River Casinos! PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was recently hit for over $500,000!

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino 800-777-7529

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

Quechan Casino Resort 1-877-783-2426

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

Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort 928-856-7244

Flagstaff, AZ Live Poker Mon-Fri at noon, Sat & Sun at 10am NLHE Tournaments at 7pm, Thurs & Sat at noon “Aces & Faces Cracked” – wins up to $50 $25 “Splash Pots” daily – see poker room for details Progressive “High Hand” & Bad Beat Jackpots – also dealing blackjack 24/7

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

Laveen, AZ Wed, 7:30pm, **NLHE “Freeze Out”$40 buy-in w/ Opt $10 Staff fee at the break for added chips Sat, 11:15 am, **NLHE “Freeze Out”$40 buy-in w/ Opt $10 Staff fee (before play) & $20 add-on at the break Sun 11:15 am, **NLHE “Freeze Out”$30 buy-in w/ Opt $10 Staff fee (before play) & $20 add-on at the break **Tournaments allow “Early Bird Chips” for live play before tournament - Also, 1st & 2nd place at final table qualify for the “Tournament of Champions FREE ROLL” each quarter. Next tournament is in February Big Money Royals, Any Royal Flush wins $ 200 – Plus “Bonus Royals” Mon-Thurs “ACES CRACKED” spins the wheel - win up $300 (see poker room for details) NFL Playoffs & College Bowl Games “Splash Pots” for Select Games – Call for details Dealing blackjack 24/7 – with $5 games - F.A.T - Friday Afternoon Blackjack Tournament at 2pm - $30 buy-in Linked Progressive Jackpots for “Crazy 4 Poker” & ULTIMATE Texas Hold EM starts at $10,000 and grows at all 3 Casinos! PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was recently hit for over $500,000! And it’s growing again!

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 NFL Regular season, Playoffs and The Big Game, also College Bowl Games “Splash Pots” Select Games - See poker room for details “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 recently hit for over $500,000! And it’s growing again!

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

ARIZONA PLAYER December 2014 17

gaming news Your “Sweet Treat” Awaits at Gila River Casinos The holidays are officially underway at Gila River Casinos, which means festive decorations, luminous lights, holiday shows, and plenty of sweet treats to make your holiday joyful and magical. If you’ve never been to a property at Gila River Casinos during the holidays, this visual experience is something that you do not want to miss now thru December 31 – And this year, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino and Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino are sharing a visual display of gingerbread houses that will delight the senses.

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino Out of the kitchen and into the hotel lobby, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino will round off the perfect beginning to the holiday season with

18 ARIZONA PLAYER December 2014

its Dr. Suess-themed gingerbread “Whoville”. Certified Executive Pastry Chef, Jennifer Sedig, and Executive Chef, Chip Romig came up with the concept of recreating “Whoville” from the beloved Dr. Seuss story “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”. The village captures the true essence of Whoville with over four feet high snowcapped mountains filled with the trademark Seussical bent trees. Down below, is a scenic Christmas village with over fifteen individual candy adorned houses, many Whoville residents, and a large, spinning, fully bent Christmas tree. At the front of the village is the Grinch himself, along with his “reindog’’ and new friend, Cindy Lou Who. The village was constructed with well over twohundred pounds of marshmallow fondant, gingerbread, and over fifty types of candy. All in all, the skilled pastry department worked in excess of two hundred hours to bring this Christmas vision to fruition.

Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino

Guests will be impressed with this traditional old-fashioned village complete with a three and a half foot tall sugar castle, skating pond, carousel, gingerbread houses, and a farm. The whimsical

sugar castle is made of over fifty pounds of granulated sugar, twenty two pounds of confectioners’ sugar, and seventy egg whites. Villagers enjoy time on the sugar glass skating pond while gingerbread men and women stroll about the display between snowmen and evergreen trees. This whimsical village will definitely be a joy to admire. Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino is located at the Wild Horde Pass exit off the I-10 East at 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd in Chandler, AZ. Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino is located 4 miles south of Baseline Road off 51st Avenue at 15091 South Komatke Lane in Laveen, AZ. For information about other exciting events, call 1-800-WIN-Gila or visitWinGilaRiver.com

TJ’s Blackjack corner “

Forget Basic Strategy

have been playing blackjack in Arizona since it became legal around 2003. In all my by TJ years of playing I have Jorgensen seen probably ten players who played Basic Strategy perfectly. However there always seems to be that one guy at the table who thinks he is an expert trying to tell the other players how to play their hand. The truth is this guy seldom knows basic strategy himself perfectly. In fact I have had people like this try to correct my play when I am counting cards. I just smile. This is usually the same idiot that tells players that the object of the game of blackjack is to get as close to 21 without going over. Wrong! The object of the game is to beat the dealer. If you look at a basic strategy chart there are around 250 plays that you need to memorize to play it perfectly. To most players this is probably over-whelming and I don’t think most individuals are willing to put in that much time on a game they play once in a while. In light of this I am going to give you the charts for a very simple strategy. Instead of memorizing 250 plays you only have to learn 21. This strategy is not correct 100% of the time, and you will give the casino an additional .14% advantage by playing it. However the cost of your imperfect play will amount to about one hand for every twelve hours of play, which for the recreational player is very small.

20 ARIZONA PLAYER December 2014

On the chart you will see “Hard 4 to 8”. A hand is called hard if it is made up of cards that have no aces, or aces that count as 1 point or the hand would bust. So if you have a “hard” 4 to 8 according to the chart you would hit the hand if the dealer has a 2-6 or 7-Ace showing. When the chart shows an “H” that means to hit the hand. A “Soft” hand is one that has an ace that can be counted as 1 or 11 points. For example a six and an ace would be called a soft 17 because the ace could be counted as a one or eleven. The player would actually have a seven or seventeen. If you have a “hard” 9 the chart tells you to Double if the dealer has a 2-6 showing, and to “hit” if the dealer up card is a 7 through ace. “Double down” means that a player can push out an additional bet equal to or less than their original bet, however you only get one more card An “S” in the box means to stand on the hand, waving the dealer off. So on the chart you see 12-16 and an “S” in that box, means to stand on the hand if the dealer is showing a 2-6 as an up card. You will notice the bottom of the chart is says splits, and it has a green “Y”. A “Split” is - If the player has a pair, or any two 10-point cards, then he may push an equal amount of his original bet out and split the hand into two seperate hands. The dealer will then give the first hand an additional card and the player can stand, hit, double, or split again if he gets another pair. The player may resplit up to four times. If you are dealt a pair of aces you may split them however you only get one card on each.

Also in the “split section you will notice an “N”. This means don’t split the hand, just play it as though you don’t have a pair. Hopefully this simple strategy will entice some players into playing the game, after all Blackjack has the best player odds in the casino.

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

entertainment Apache Gold Casino Resort

(5 miles East of Globe on Hwy 70) 1-800272-2438 The POINT Sports Bar & Grill: Call for updated entertainment line-up San Carlos Event Center: Feb 28 – A.J. Castillo

The Whip Its

BlueWater Resort and Casino

11300 Resort Dr., Parker 1-888-243-3360 Showroom: Dec 20 – Jersey Boys Celebration starring the California Boys Coming soon thru April 12 – Tutankhamun Exhibit (Wonderful thing from the Pharoahs Tomb) Amphitheater: Feb 14 – The Stars of Beatlemania Feb 28 – Rodney Carrington

Rodney Carrington

Casino Arizona

101 at McKellips, Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Showroom: Now thru Dec 20 (Wed – Sat ) Showstopper Live! Holiday Spectacular Dec 26 & 27 – Pyromania (Def Leppard Tribute)

22 ARIZONA PLAYER December 2014

I-17 at exit 289 in Camp Verde 1-800-381-SLOT Stargazer Pavilion: Call for upcoming events Dragonfly Lounge; live music on weekends Dec 19 & 20 – Stateline, Dec 26 & 27 – Sneezy Boys New Year’s Eve – Priminition Outdoors under the heated Portecochere: New Year’s Eve – Party with DJ Point Blank (No Cover Charge)

Desert Diamond Casino Hotel New Year’s Eve – The Whip Its Monday Nights – Football on the big screen w/ food & drink specials Arizona Room Patio Grill: Mon – Football on the big screens Tues– “Latin Fire Dance Night” w/ free lessons w/ AZTEX Band Wed & Thurs – Country (Tommy Ash Band) and dance instruction with Laina Lee Bingo Hall: Fri & Sat at Midnight, L-8 Nite Bingo! Music, light show & dancing w/ Host Corina Dotson & DJ Kenji!

Casino Del Sol

River’s Edge Cantina: Sunday evenings – Live Reggae music Dig Lounge: Deejays daily at 5pm – Oldies on Sunday & Mondays and Sports on the big screens

Cliff Castle Casino Hotel

5655 W. Valencia Rd. Tucson 520-838-6506 Paradiso Bar: Free entertainment, Live bands weekends; Tribute bands on Thursdays PLUS Monday & Thursday Night Football on the big screens – WIN PRIZES including a $10,000 trip for 2 to the BIG GAME Conference Center: Dec 31 - New Year’s Eve Party with “80’s and Gentleman (free to the public 10pm-1am) Bingo Hall:: New Year’s Eve – Tejano New Year’s Eve Bash with David Lee Garza, Grupo Alamo & Marco Orozco FREE Event 8pm-1am AVA Amphitheater: Call for updated schedule

7350 South Nogales Hwy, Tucson 1-866-332-9467 Monsoon Night Club: Live bands or DJ on weekends New Year’s Eve – Party with Angel Norteno 9pm-1am 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: Jan 3 – Willie Nelson Jan 10 – Winter Dance Party (Tribute to Buddy Holly, Richie Valens & The Bog Bopper Jan 28 – Gary Lewis & the Playboys (3pm show) Feb 7 – The Oak Ridge Boys Feb 13 – Marisela

Mar 7 – Angelah Johnson Sports Bar: Sports on big screens, Karaoke Wednesdays, Swingin’ Tuesdays, Oldies 0n Thursday, plus DJ music Fri & Sat nights

Fort McDowell Casino

N of Shea off Hwy 87, Fountain Hills 1-800-THE-FORT Lucky 7 Saloon: New Year’s Eve: Free entertainment all night; 5pm – 9pm (Neon Nation) 9pm – 1am (Undercover) Complimentary food casino wide from 4pm-10pm, plus Midnight toast and party favors! Free entertainment on Fri & Sat – featuring; Grey Wolf, Kenny G Band, Furious George, Chaka N Friends, Rhythm Edition or Apache Spirit Red Rock Buffet: New Year’s Eve Buffet $21.99 from 3pm – 11pm Bingo Hall: Saturday, Dec 20 – Late Night Lunar Bingo w/ music & giveaways for updates – go to fortmcdowellcasino.

com

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort and Casino

15406 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa 480-802-5000 THE LOUNGE: Dec 27 – Aaron Lewis Weekends in The Lounge starting at 8pm Dec 19 – Shining Star, Dec 20 – JJ’s Band, Dec 26 – Born Jovi (Bon Jovi Tribute) Dec 28 – Stars of Beatlemania, Dec 29 – Laura Walsh, Dec 30 – Cold Shott Dec 31 – New Year’s Eve – Party with the band Grooveline Wednesdays in The Lounge - Noon to 4pm, Dec 17 – Walkens Trio, Dec 24 – J White The Lounge Happy Hour – with live music - Amazing Dueling Pianos, Tuesdays & Sahnas Brothers, Wednesdays For updates, go to harrahsakchin.com

Hon-Dah Resort and Casino

Marisela

Highways 260 and 73, Pinetop 1-800-WAY-UP-HIGH Timbers Lounge: Free entertainment, Monday is Comedy Night, Tues-Sat, Live bands New Year’s Eve – Country Nation Conference Center:

New Year’s Eve – Reall Deall Band

Lone Butte Casino

202 loop at the Kyrene exit – Chandler, 1-800-WIN-GILA Cascades Lounge: NEW HOURS for LIVE Entertainment New Year’s Eve: Str8UP Band 9pm-2am Mon, Tues & Fri (4-8pm), Wed & Thur (6-10pm), Fri & Sat (9:30pm- 1:30am) Featuring; Marty & the Party, Thaddeus Rose, New Frequency Band, JJ’s band, Str8Up, Latino Rebel Band, Andrea & Los Guys, Shining Star, Rhythm Edition, Smooth Groove, Rhythm of the Sun Band Thursdays Noon – 3pm – Polka Bands (Sylvia’s AZ Dance Band, Music Connection, Squeeze Box w/ Mollie B and The Softones) 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

Apache Spirits Lounge: Event Center:

Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort

22181 Resort Blvd (I-40 @ exit 219) Flagstaff (928) 856-7200 Arrows Lounge: Call for Schedule

Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino

The West Valley Casino 51st Ave, 4 miles S. of Baseline – Laveen 1-800-WIN-GILA Event Center: New Year’s Eve – Paperback Writer (Tribute to the Beatles) Jan 23 – Brenton Wood Feb 14 & 15 – Little Joe Y La Familia

Paradise Casino

450 Quechan Drive, Yuma 1-888-777- 4946 Bingo / Concert Hall: Sharky’s Bar: Live bands or DJ’s on weekends

Outdoor Patio: (Mon – Sat) 4pm-7pm & 9pm-1am and (Sun) 4pm-7pm, Featuring; Powerdrive, Str8Up, New Frequency Band, Marty & the Party, The Walkens, Chuck E Baby, Shining Star, Soul Persuation, Silhoutte, Latino Rebel Band, Reality Band, Yumi La Rosa, Rhythm Edition & Chaka & friends PLUS on Sundays; Mariachi Rodriguez or Mariachi Fiesta Valle del Sol Bingo Park: Every Saturday at 11pm – BINGO ECLIPSE – Bingo, DJ music, light show & giveaways

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino

Quechan Casino Resort

& late night entertainment w/ bands; Powerdrive, Hamptons, Andrea & Los Guys, Str8up Band, JJ’s Band, The Walkens, Chuck E Baby, Rhythm of the Sun band, Chaka and Friends, New Frequency, Smooth Groove, Eagleheart, Shining Star, Rhythm Edition, Pima Express, Swingtips & Route 66

Yavapai Casino

1505 East Hwy 69 – Prescott 1-800-7568744 Yavapai Cantina; Fri – Karaoke w/ Cruisin’ Susan, Saturdays – Live Bands

I-10 at Wild Horse Pass exit - Chandler 1-800-WIN-GILA

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

Ovations LIVE! Showroom:

Talking Stick Resort

Loop 101 and Indian Bend Road Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Showroom: Every Sunday – Football Frenzy Ballroom:

entertainment

New Year’s Eve – Fire & Ice Party, featuring Legendary Soul Man Sam Moore & Boogie Knights Palo Verde Lounge: Saturdays – Paul Wells, Sundays – Jarad Blackstone, Mondays – Tyler Nielson, Thursdays – G ustavo Angeles, also Tues, Wed and Fri – Al Rodriguez, Aaron Howard, Jimmy Ray or Gustavo Angeles Shadows Lounge: classic sounds of Frank Sinatra and others Degree 270 Lounge: Fri & Sat, featuring the region’s best DJ’s Orange Sky Restaurant & Lounge: Live jazz

Little Joe

Dec 13 – Vikki Carr Dec 19 – Na Leo Kupono Dec 20 – Mix 96.9 Jingle Rock w/ Fitz & the Tanrums Dec 26 – Bella Donna Tribute to Stevie Nicks &Fleetwood Mac Dec 27 – Bret Michaels Dec 31 – New Year’s Eve w/ POWERDRIVE CHROME NIGHT CLUB –Arizona’s Newest Hot Spot is Open with the Top DJ’s in Arizona! Encore Lounge: Mid-day entertainment Monday’s 11am-3pm

ARIZONA PLAYER December 2014 23

WINTER WONDERLAND CONTEST

WIN A Hon-Dah Casino White Mountain Getaway! Not just one – But TWO GRAND PRIZE WINNERS! And 14 runner-up Winners!

The Arizona Player staff came up with a great idea. Offer a HUGE CONTEST to wrap up the year 2014! So, that’s just what we are doing. This special Winter Wonderland package will include TWO Grand Prize winners! Along with 14 Runner-up winners! Grand Prize Winners receive a 3 day 2 night stay at the picturesque Hon-Dah Resort and Conference Center in the specular White Mountains in Pinetop, Arizona. When you arrive, you’ll think you were transported magically into a Currier & Ives Winter Wonderland lithograph. Included in the Grand Prize package is dinner for two in the Indian Pines Restaurant, plus two all-day lift tickets to ski or snowboard at Arizona’s premier ski resort – Sunrise Park Resort, just minutes from the casino.

24 ARIZONA PLAYER December 2014

You will also receive 25% discount on ski and snowboard rentals, other discount coupons and a $20 gas voucher to the Hon-Dah Convenience store and gas station located right next to the casino. Each Grand Prize packages is valued at over $400! And that’s not all – 7 lucky runner-up winners will receive a Family Four Pack of admission tickets ($68 value) to the Arizona Renaissance Festival being held February 7 thru March 29. Now add to this 7 additional runner-up winners receive a $20 gift card to some terrific restaurants. That’s nearly $1,500 in prizes for this contest! All winners will be notified on January 5th and announced in the January 2015 issue of Arizona Player. GOOD LUCK – Here are the rules; You are allowed a maximum of 2 total entries per person (and 2 persons per household) for this contest. Enter just one time on the Arizona Player website by the end of December You will also be granted one entry on the Arizona Player FACEBOOK Page (just like Arizona Player and that’s it – also same time-line as website) Please do not enter multiple times or under variables of your name or address – this is a contest for Arizona Player readers – not professional contest players, additional entries over the max will result in disqualification. You can’t win if you don’t play fair. Thanks for reading and supporting Arizona Player for decades, now in its 22nd year of being Arizona’s most-respected, most read and most distributed gambling magazine of any kind in Arizona. Good Luck! Phil Scudella

travel Biosphere 2 – By Kevin Cummings

Located just 35 miles North of Tucson in Oracle Arizona is an oasis in the desert, quite literally - Biosphere 2, one of the top 50 “World Wonders”. Built in the 1990’s Biosphere 2 was the largest sustainable ecological system. With the airtight doors everything that was needed to suppose an entire ecosystem was in housed within the over 3acre facility. The main mission of the project was to; research environmental changes and impact as well as test the possibilities of space colonization. While the two missions were somewhat successful there, Biosphere 2 is shrouded with controversy and criticism...not to mention an idiotic but hilarious cult classic film; Bio-Dome. Since 1995 Biosphere 2 has been open to visitors while colleges and scientists continue to conduct research. The Under the glass tour is impressive and last around 60 to 75 minutes depending on the group. Within Biosphere 2 visitors will see each of the representative biomes; Desert, Savannah Grassland, Rainforest, Wetlands, and the Coral Reef Ocean. The tour takes you throughout the Bio-Sphere as well as around the perimeter. Tour guides explain each of the sections and were happy to answer questions. Most of the tour guides are volunteers from University of Arizona...who is the current owner of the facilities.

26 ARIZONA PLAYER December 2014

This is definitely a one of a kind experience as Biosphere 2 is still the largest fully contained eco-system. It was also listed as one of the top 50 “World Wonders” from Time Life magazine. So take friend and family and be amazed at this special place. Open every day of the year, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, 9 am to 4 pm – and prices for admission are very reasonable. After your Biosphere 2 adventure, no road trip is complete without tasting the local fair, and one of the really special places to dine is nearby in north Tucson on the southwest corner of Ina Road and Oracle Rd. This very first FOX restaurant in Arizona is called Wildflower and it is listed as one of the top 20 restaurants by TripAdvisor out of nearly 1,700 restaurants in Tucson, Arizona. The menu changes seasonally and there is something for everyone at this one of a kind restaurant with seating inside or on the patio. You’ll have a great dining experience and won’t drain your wallet. If you’re looking to stay overnight there are great hotels, dozens of quaint bed and breakfast places and even two terrific Casino Hotels just minutes away. So if a little gambling is in your plan you will have a memorable stay at Desert Diamond Casino and Hotel, just around the corner from the Tucson International Airport at 7350 south Nogales Highway in Tucson. Or you can stay and play at Casino del Sol Resort just off I-19 at the Valencia West exit – just 5 miles from the freeway. Both are great choices for gambling, dining and entertainment! Enjoy your trip to the “Old Pueblo” – There is so much to see in the historic southern Arizona town.

DAVID AT THE SNACK BAR

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies

When we last left Bilbo and the company of dwarves they had retaken their homeland, the kingdom under the mountain, from the dragon Smaug who attacks Laketown with firey destruction. The by survivors retreat to the empty village next David Ramsey to the mountain where an elvan army arrives led by the Elvan king. The dwarves barricade the entrance to their city preparing to fight. Gandolf arrives and warns of an orc army marching toward them, soon a dwarf army arrives and the scene is set for an epic battle with the survivors of Laketown caught in the middle. Meanwhile, Bilbo keeps a secret from the dwarves. The final chapter in the Hobbit trilogy is a perfect ending that leads to the beginning of another amazing trilogy.

David’s Video Details Guardians of the Galaxy

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

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes Into the Woods The butcher and his wife are lamenting their inability to have children when the witch who lives next door breaks in. She reveals that they are under a family curse that can only be removed once in a lifetime with her help in three days. She sends them into the woods searching for four simple items necessary to break the curse. While there they run into Cinderella, Rapunzel, Little Red Riding Hood and Jack, of beanstalk fame, getting involved in their stories. The story is creative; the large cast is amazing and the music sensational. The big screen adaptation of the Stephen Sondheim musical is fun rousing and uplifting for the first half then it gets dark and a little stupid. As much as I liked the first half the ending left a bad taste in my mouth.

The Imitation Game In 1952 a minor robbery leads to the downfall of war hero, Alan Turing. Benedict Cumberbatch gives a brilliant performance as Turing and the rest of the cast is equally great. Based on the true story of the man who shortened World War Two by at least two years by creating what would eventually become computers. Turing led the team that broke the Nazi›s Enigma code allowing the Allies to know what Germany was doing. How he did it makes an engrossing story that everyone should know. "The Imitation Game" is one the best movies this year. 28 ARIZONA PLAYER December 2014

JA few years after the Simian flu just about wiped out humanity Caesar leads a settlement of intelligent apes near San Francisco. A small group of human survivors arrives an uneasy truce is reached. To survive the humans needs to restart a hydro-electric dam that happens to be in the apes territory. Caesar agrees to help the humans but his lieutenan, Koba, doesn't feel that same way. He leads a full scale attack on the human city. It is up to Caesar and the human leader to find a way to re-establish peace. "Dawn of the Planet of the Apes" does not advance the story and while it is a good film it was a disappointment.

The Hundred Foot Journey

When Hassan and his family are displaced from their home and restaurant in India they end up Europe. While travelling through France their car breaks down and the father notices an empty restaurant for sale. He decides they will settle there, the only problem is that directly across the street is a Michelin starred restaurant run by Madame Mallory who is obsessed with getting another star and does not take kindly to the new competition. Hassan's natural talent as a chef is soon apparent to everyone and when an incident changes everything Madame Mallory changes her tune. Meanwhile, Hassan and his father both embark on possible romantic adventures. The Hundred Foot Journey is a wonderful film about family, friendship and food. 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 Lone Butte Casino - Chandler Noon (Wed, Thu & Sun) Noon & 6:30pm (Daily) 7pm (Fri & Sat & 1st Mon) 11:30pm - B.A.D. ingo After Dark” Party (Fri & Sat) “B BlueWater Casino - Parker 6:30pm (Mon-Wed) & 1:30pm (Sun) Mazatzal Casino - Payson Noon (Mon-Thurs) 6:30pm (Tues & Thurs) Casino Arizona - Scottsdale (Double Payouts 1st Thurs & 3rd Tues) 1pm & 7pm (Daily) Paradise Casino - Yuma Casino Del Sol - Tucson 1:30 & 6pm (Daily) 2:15 & 7:15pm (Daily) (Daily mini Sessions at Vee Quiva Casino - Laveen noon & 1:30pm) 12:30 & 6:30pm (Daily) ingo Eclipse Party (Saturdays at 11pm) B 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)

ARIZONA PLAYER December 2014 29

Jokes page, ASTROLOGY, Casino directory Jokes of the Month

The Fisherman

Lecture Tour

It was Christmas Eve, and Mulligan was in no shape to drive after a night of celebrating at Clancy’s Pub, so he left his car in the parking lot and started to walk home. As he was staggering along, a police car pulled up next to him on the curb, the officer rolled down the passenger window and shouted “ Hey, what are you doing out here at three o’clock in the morning?”.

It was a week before Christmas and the cold rain was pouring down for the second day in a row in the Chicago area. It was 2am and Bernie tossed down his last shot of Jameson at his favorite pub on Rush Street wished everyone a Merry Christmas and headed out to hail a cab since he was in no shape to drive. As he stepped outside he almost knocked down an old man in ragged clothes holding a fishing pole with a line dropped into a huge puddle of water on the curb in front of his pub. “What the hell are you doing?” Bernie asked. “Fishin’” the old man replied.

Mulligan leaned into the window, took a deep breath and explained “I’m on my way to a lecture.” He replied

“Poor old fool” he thought and invited the old fellow back into the pub for a drink.

“And who on earth, in their right mind, is going to give a lecture at this time on Christmas Eve?’ enquired the officer sarcastically.

He figured he’d try to start a conversation with the old man as the bartender served them - As they sipped their drinks, Bernie looked over and trying not to laugh asked the old man “So…..you were out there fishin’ – how many have you caught?

“That….would be my wife.” slurred Mulligan

Capricorn Dec 22 to Jan 20

Aquarius Jan 21 to Feb 19

Pisces Feb 20 to Mar 20

Dec 10–16 Dec 17–23 Dec 24–31 Jan 1–7 Dec 10–16 Dec 17–23 Dec 24–31 Jan 1–7 Dec 10–16 Dec 17–23 Dec 24–31 Jan 1–7

You make correct move Great idea – Go with it Fun trip in near future Stick to your convictions

Old friend has answer Now is the right time A weekend to remember A trip worth taking Strange weekend Safe but sure bet Good time & nice win Tough times ending

Aries Mar 21 to April 20

Cancer June 22 to July 22

Taurus April 21 to May 21

Leo July 23 to Aug 23

Scorpio Oct 24 to Nov 22

Gemini May 22 to June 21

Virgo Aug 24 to Sept 23

Sagittarius Nov 23 to Dec 21

Dec 10–16 Dec 17–23 Dec 24–31 Jan 1–7 Dec 10–16 Dec 17–23 Dec 24–31 Jan 1–7 Dec 10–16 Dec 17–23 Dec 24–31 Jan 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 December 2014

“Well, so far….You’re the eighth” the old timer replied.

Hunch will pay off Interesting encounter Out of town win Timing is perfect

Best friend needs help Big $$$ coming soon Persistence is rewarded Things are looking up Great attitude pays off In the nick of time First thought was right Trust is a must

Dec 10–16 Dec 17–23 Dec 24–31 Jan 1–7 Dec 10–16 Dec 17–23 Dec 24–31 Jan 1–7 Dec 10–16 Dec 17–23 Dec 24–31 Jan 1–7

Big thrills on the way Good news this week Hard works pays dividend Old friend returns Think positive Repair old friendship Really great new friend Smiles for you all week Old pal is back Try your favorite game Go with gut feeling Big successful trip soon

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 10b. Desert Diamond • (Why) Tohono O’Odham Nation-Slots 11. Fort McDowell Casino • (Fountain Hills) Fort McDowell-Yavapai Nation-slots keno bingo poker blackjack & Entertainment (480) 837-1424

Libra Sept 24 to Oct 23

Dec 10–16 Dec 17–23 Dec 24–31 Jan 1–7 Dec 10–16 Dec 17–23 Dec 24–31 Jan 1–7 Dec 10–16 Dec 17–23 Dec 24–31 Jan 1–7

Do not underestimate luck Best pal has great idea Call from the past Plan that needed trip Why not try it New game hits big Terrific week A lucky week ahead

Think positive, always Repair old friendship Rip roaring win soon Smiles for you all week

12. Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino • (Chandler) Gila River Indian Community-slots keno blackjack poker & Entertainment (800) 946-4452 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 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