April 2015 by Arizona Player

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Gaming•Entertainment•Travel www.arizonaplayer.com

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Card room Action Casino Entertainment REEL REVIEWS – BATMAN! Another HUGE Pai-Gow Winner Horsin’ Around – Derby Hopefuls Blackjack Corner – Tournament Play Vol. 23 No. 4 • April 2015

SMALL BUY-IN. HUGE PAYOFF. Cover story on pg 08

Play for $1 million and more by May 14 HealthWealthRaffle.org

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 R & R Partners Satara Williams

Special Thanks to: Everyone at the St. Joseph’s Health & Wealth Raffle and R & R Partners. Remember to invest in a raffle ticket as we “Play to Win – Play to Heal”

Contributing Writers Linda Boyd Kevin Cummings Cindy Esquer Melody Hudson TJ Jorgensen Brian Mulligan David Ramsey R & R Partners 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. 23 No. 4 • April 2015

Gaming News “Wheel of Fortune try-outs at Cliff Castle Casino Hotel”

TJ's Blackjack Corner TJ Jorgensen “Blackjack Tournaments”

Cover Story Health & Wealth Raffle – “Play to Win – Play to Heal”

Boyd’s Eye View of Video Poker Linda Boyd “FAQ – Part 1”

Reel Reviews Kevin Cummings “WMS - BATMAN"

Gaming News “Huge Pai-Gow Winner at Wild Horse Pass”

Card Room Action Table Game Action Around the State

Horsin' Around Brian Mulligan “Derby Hopefuls”

Entertainment Casino Entertainment State-wide

David at the Snack Bar David Ramsey Movie & DVD reviews

Contest Page “Brunch with the Baseball Bunch Winners”

AZ Lottery News “More Big Winners”

Bingo Directory Complete List of Bingo Games at Arizona Casinos

Jokes of the Month, Astrology, & Casino Directory

ARIZONA PLAYER April 2015 3

gaming news “WHEEL OF FORTUNE” CONTESTANT SEARCH! FREE Admission and tryouts at Cliff Castle Casino Hotel! Your entertainment destination, Cliff Castle Casino Hotel in Camp Verde will be the site of an open call contestant search for the tremendously popular television game show Wheel of Fortune. The show, hosted by Pat Sajak and Vanna White, has seen thousands of contestants spin the wheel and buy vowels for over 30 years. The nationwide contestant searches provide a chance for people from all over the country to be on the show, televised locally on KTVK, Channel 3 in Phoenix. The big yellow “Wheel-mobile” searches far and wide for the interesting, often colorful contestants you see on the show. On Saturday and Sunday, May 2nd & 3rd from 1pm to 5pm – That quest for contestants brings them to Cliff Castle Casino Hotel. The stage at Stargazer Pavilion will be abuzz with excitement as prospective contestants come up to test their mettle at solving puzzles. Although Pat and Vanna will not be present, Wheel of Fortune representatives will be on hand to make selections and ensure the proceedings run smoothly. Contestants will fill out a brief application for the chance to be randomly selected to audition, in groups of five, and show off their puzzle-solving skills. All guests can enjoy the proceedings from seats within the Stargazer Pavilion. Don’t miss this chance to audition to be a contestant on America’s Favorite Game Show! Located in the heart of wine country, just south of Sedona in Camp Verde, Cliff Castle Casino Hotel is proudly owned and operated by the Yavapai-Apache Nation. Cliff Castle Casino Hotel is a family destination that offers live-

4 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2015

action poker, blackjack and more than 660 gaming devices, as well as a 20-lane bowling center and fun for the kids at Kids Quest and the arcade. The Dragonfly Nightclub is host to fantastic musical acts every weekend. Their outdoor arena, Stargazer Pavilion, hosts world-class entertainment and large-scale events. Guests can enjoy fine dining at Storytellers Steakhouse, family dining at Johnny Rockets and Mountain Springs buffet, plus Grab and Go meals at the 24-7 Three Sisters Market. Hotel accommodations are available at the adjacent Hotel at Cliff Castle. For more information about Cliff Castle Casino Hotel, visit www.cliffcastlecasinohotel.com

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TJ’s Blackjack corner blackjack tournaments lackjack Tournaments are becoming very popular; you can play several each week. One element that by TJ makes blackjack tournaby Jorgensen TJ Jorgensen ments so attractive is that you are playing against other players instead of the Casino. To be successful in these tournaments – understand a few basic facts. Similar results: Players at your table will tend to have similar results. If the dealer gets a blackjack, everyone loses, if the dealer goes bust, everyone who did not, wins. Bet opposite: If you’re behind, the best way to catch someone is to bet opposite. If they bet $500 and you bet $10, if you both lose you gain $490. This happens 31% of the time. Risk vs Reward: Near the end of a round and you need to catch up – bet one large bet instead of several mid-size bets. Also, wait until your bet has the maximum effect, usually when the betting button has passed you - so you can see what the other players have bet. Choose your battles wisely. Strategy: One key to being successful in tournaments is sizing your bets. Many novice players think that the best way is to bet big and hope they are lucky. While this approach can work, it usually will get you eliminated before the end of the round. The strategy I’ve had success with is to bet at or near the minimum for the first half of the round. I’ve won tournaments because the dealer was hot and I was the only one left with chips. Be Aware of your chip stack: If only one player

6 ARIZONA PLAYER April 2015

small risk

advances on your table - you need to be within one max bet of the leader with five hands left. If you are forced to make a catch up bet try to do it in one hand, reducing the risk. Tournaments are great because of the “risk vs reward” ratio – A small entry fee to win big prize money!

Blackjack Tournament Formats each casino may have a different format of how many hands constitute a round in a session and how many hands are played at the final table. See complete rules posted in the casino. Normally there is a chip count before the final few hands of each round to indicate who the chip leaders are. Monday at 6pm Mazatzal Casino in Payson, $40 Entry fee (Re-entry is $ 25) For every entry player gets a $5 match play coupon good for 1 bet at a live table. Check complete tournament details at casino Rules no surrender; dealer stands on 17; Double after split; split aces once-one card; double on anything - min bet $25; max bet $1000; one hand of each player’s choosing may be a secret bet. Prize fund distribution; 50% - 1st; 25% - 2nd; 10%-3rd; 5% for 4th-6th; Tuesday at Noon Casino Arizona (101 & McKellips) Scottsdale, $ 50 entry fee - Register early for first session, because if you buy a $5 Keno ticket, you’ll get an extra 500 in chips. Complete tournament details are posted Rules: Players start with $5,000 in chips, min bet $25, max bet $2,500 Prize Pool: The casino adds $1000 to the prize pool making it a positive value event. The prize pool is about $3500. Casino returns 96% entries as prizes.1st place about $1,260 - Other prizes paid to 6th place.

= BIG PAYOFF

Friday morning at 2:30am Casino Arizona (101 & McKellips) Scottsdale, $25 entry fee & re-entry fee “Great Late Blackjack Tournament” Sign-up at 1am, $500 guaranteed - Tournament details are posted Format: 1 player will advance from each table of 6 to final table or semifinal table depending on entries. Prize Pool: $500 – 1st $250, 2nd- $150, 3rd -$100, Prize fund is 93% of entry fees. 1st is 50% of prize fund. Friday at 4pm – FAT tournament Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino - (sign up starts at 2pm) Entry is $45 Rules: limited to 72 players, player starts with $5000 in chips. Bets in multiples of $50 w/ $100 minimum bet / $5,000 the max - Chip count after hand 11.Prize money based on number of entries 1st Wednesday of each month Casino Arizona (101 & McKellips) Scottsdale - $100 entry & re-entry fee – sign up at 6pm Bonus: First round session – buy a $5 Keno ticket, receive an extra $500 in chips. Complete tournament details are posted. Rules Players start with $5,000 in chips, min bet $25, max bet $2,500 Prize Pool: $ 7,100 - Prizes: 1st: $ 2,590, 2nd: $1,480, 3rd: $ 1,180, 4th Place:$890, 5th:$590, 6th:$370 The casino adds $2,000 to the prize pool. The prizes shown are based on 54 entries. More entries= larger prizes These tournaments are a lot of fun to play – I hope I see you at the casino as a player or a spectator – T.J. 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

TOURNAMENTS

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Cover story

2015 MERCEDES-BENZ SLK

HEADS UP! THE RAFFLE’S EARLY DRAW OCCURS ON APRIL 23. Buy your tickets by that early date and you’ll have an exclusive chance at unique prizes including a Lake Tahoe Escape, a 2015 MINI Cooper S, an Opening Night VIP Experience at The Phantom of the Opera and $ 10,000 cash. $ 1,000,000 CASH

MIRACLES AND MILLIONAIRES Think it takes a miracle to win $1 million dollars? Thanks to the Health & Wealth Raffle, supporting Barrow Neurological Institute at St. Joseph’s Hospital, it doesn’t. In fact, with 1-in-25 odds of winning the million-dollar grand prize and thousands of others, you’ve got better chances than you get with any casino game. There’s even more to win than the million-dollar grand prize. This year, players are in the running for eight brand new cars, like a 2015 MercedesBenz SLK and a 2015 Lexus GS 350, to name a few. They’re also playing for dream getaways like a St. Lucia Caribbean resort vacation and a Napa Valley wine tour, and that’s just the beginning. The spring Raffle’s final deadline is May 14. The grand prize drawing will award the million-dollar cash prize, the Orient Express Trip of a Lifetime through Venice, Vienna and London, and thousands more prizes. While it doesn’t take a miracle to win, the Raffle does create miracles in the lives of patients. Tickets support 8 ARIZONA PLAYER April 2015

the medical research, education and patient care that Barrow has become recognized for worldwide. For players like Jeff and Allison, last year’s million-dollar grand prize winners, the Raffle hits close to home. Jeff ’s father was airlifted to Barrow after suffering a brain hemorrhage in 2010. Following a three-week stay, he made a spectacular recovery. Ever since, the young couple has played the Raffle. They were amazed when – on what seemed like a typical Thursday morning – they were presented with an oversized check for one million dollars cash. “It just goes to show that anybody can be winner,” said Jeff. “It only takes one ticket.” According to Erik Stauber, director of the Health & Wealth Raffle, stories like Jeff and Allison’s are what make the Raffle truly meaningful. “It’s absolutely incredible to see the impact that our players have on the hospital. Since it began, the Raffle has contributed more than $ 54 million to Barrow at St. Joseph’s. It’s also made dozens of millionaires in the process.”

Pioneering neurosurgeon and director of Barrow Neurological Institute, Robert Spetzler, had this to say to both new and returning players: “When you buy tickets, you become an integral part of our healing mission. We invite you to take part in a small act of kindness that makes a big difference in the lives of our patients.” It’s a sentiment that illustrates what the Raffle is all about. Of course, don’t forget that that same small act of kindness could make you a millionaire. Tickets are $100 each with a limited number of three-packs for $250. Get yours today at HealthWealthRaffle.org or call 866.658.4068 by May 14 to play.

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A BOYD’S EYE VIEW OF VIDEO POKER

Frequently A sked Questions -Part I

ere are some of the latest technical VP questions to hit my desk. Frankly, there were so many good ones that I had to create a threepart series (April- June) to provide answers. How can I find a “hot” machine? by Sometimes it’s a good idea to switch machines, say Linda Boyd mechanical issues like stuck buttons, or an annoying neighbor is banging on their buttons or display glass. Never, however, should you believe that the device you are playing is either hot or cold based on past performance of the machine. Whether it’s roulette or VP (video poker) you can never predict the future based on past spins or hands. In fact, that’s why Martingale systems don’t work. (As an aside, in blackjack you can certainly base both the size of your bet and your game strategy on previously dealt cards, provided there’s no continuous shuffling device; the fewer the decks and the deeper the penetration, the better.) So, even if a well-meaning mechanic or any member of the casino’s staff tells you which machine is “hot” there is no evidence that their statements are accurate. Just like any other game with a skill component, VP players must rely on their own expertise. Specifically, it means selecting compute- perfect holds rather than hoping to beat the odds on a lucky machine. Millions of VP simulations have clearly demonstrated that future deals are entirely unrelated to past hands. For example, if you’re playing 8/5 Bonus Poker (8/5BP) and you get a Royal Flush, the odds of getting a royal in the next game or any subsequent game before the deal remain unchanged. In the case of 8/5BP they are still one in 40,169, rounded to the nearest whole number. (Note that I differentiate between “deal” and “game”; the odds of being dealt a royal are the same for every game that uses a 52-card deck, one in 649,739.) That’s why when somebody tells you they got two royals close together on the same machine there is no reason to doubt them. However, this information is useless to you as far as strategy because you’ll not know if it’s “hot” until after the fact. You should, however, be looking for the best pay schedule available for your selected game. Also, make sure the games you are comparing are the same. For example, I have a friend who insisted that she found 9/7Jacks or Better (9/7JOB), but when I checked the 9/7 game she found was Double Bonus (9/7DB, a huge difference.

10 ARIZONA PLAYER April 2015

What is expected return (ER)? ER refers to the theoretical expected return, assuming computer-perfect play, over the long run. The exact definition of “long run” may vary from source-to-source, but it means over several royal cycles (a royal cycle is approximately 40,000 hands), and the more royal cycles the better in terms of accuracy. The ER data on the removable tables in my book, “The Video Poker Edge”, can be brought to the casino with you. Although the device will have the pay schedule for each game it will not have the important ER figures. You should keep in mind that cash for slot points and multiple slot points can be added to the games ER, when applicable. Although I would never add comps to the game’s ER most players take casino perks into consideration. Explain “downgrading” pay tables? The term refers to changing the pay tables so the house has a bigger advantage; obviously good for the casino, bad for the player. The problem is there is a point of diminishing returns for the casino since if there’s too much downgrading they may find an empty casino. Of course the best casino managers find the perfect balance between lowering the number of coins returned for winning hands and keeping the banks full of players. An example of downgrading is changing a pay table to 8/5 Jacks or Better (JOB) from 9/6JOB. In this case a full house returns 8 times your wager and a flush 5 times, instead of 9 times for a full house and 6 times your wager for the flush. The ER changes from 99.5439% (9/6JOB) to 97.2984% (8/5JOB), a major drop in theoretical return. If players fail to notice the difference management is encouraged to continue to downgrade. Of course at some point the casino will lose their video poker players either to slots or to another casino. Right now I have seen 6/5JOB on some casino floors (ER 94.9961%) and a few people are actually playing. It’s important to remember that you must still play correctly to get the diminished ER. 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 “American Casino Guide” (ACG) and her YouTube videos, also with ACG. Her radio shows will soon be available on iTunes. The Second Edition of her book is available in both paperback and kindle at 877-900-BOOK, amazon.com, bookstores or Square One Publishers. www.squareonepublishers.com

Reel Reviews by kevin cummings

12 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2015

gaming news $317,817 Pai Gow Jackpot Hit Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, Lone Butte Casino and Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino have linked the Fortune Pai Gow Progressive jackpot at each property to create the largest progressive table games jackpot in Arizona. The progressive wager gives players an opportunity to win all or part of a large, incrementing jackpot and it has paid off for lucky Phoenix resident L. Noval who won $317,817 on April 2nd at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino. Gila River Casinos offers players a progressive jackpot funded by tables at each of their three properties. The progressive jackpot system creates higher jackpots for players, and increases the excitement of one of the more popular table games. “I can’t believe I won, I am so happy,” said Noval of her big win. Since its inception, the Pai Gow progressive jackpot has paid out over a million dollars to lucky winners at all three Gila River Casinos’ properties, and has also paid out the largest Fortune Pai Gow Progressive jackpot in Arizona at a cool $518,315. Fortune Pai Gow Progressive is a guest favorite, and Gila River Casinos is the first in Arizona to offer a multi – property linked progressive. 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 a hotel. For more information on this and other casino events call 1-800-946-4452, or go to their website at www.wingilariver.com.

14 ARIZONA PLAYER April 2015

2015 BMW X3 plus $13,200 cash

THE ROAD TO A MILLION IS PAVED WITH MIRACLES A 1-in-25 chance to win one million dollars cash and thousands of other prizes. You won’t find those odds in a casino. Play the Health & Wealth Raffle, supporting Barrow Neurological Institute at St. Joseph’s Hospital, for a chance to win all the prizes pictured here and thousands more. Plus, your ticket purchase helps heal patients. Play at HealthWealthRaffle.org by May 14. Tickets will sell out, so be sure you play before it’s too late.

One million dollars cash

Washington D.C. monuments tour experience

Cardinals suite tickets

Orient Express trip of a lifetime through Venice, Vienna and London

St. Lucia Carribbean resort vacation

Joya Spa at the Montelucia Resort

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CARD ROOM ACTION Apache Gold Casino 800-272-2438

Globe, AZ Dealing blackjack, and poker daily at noon NLHE Tournaments - Saturdays at 2pm Buy-in $25 w/ one $5 add-on

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

Scottsdale, AZ The Getaway Classic Poker Tournament - April 17, 18 & 19 at 11:15am - Register for all three tournaments (Friday $200 buy-in, Saturday $300 buy-in and Sunday $300 buy-in) and you’ll receive a complimentary stay at Talking Stick Resort for the weekend! You can also win an entry package into all three tournaments at the “Super Satellite” Tournament - Sunday April 5 at 11:15am. Prize packages (one for every 10 entries) includes an entry into all three tournaments, plus (based on availability) a weekend stay! Mon - Fri, 11:15 am - NLHE Tournament $100 buy-in w/ $25 s/c Mon - Thurs, 7:15pm - NLHE, $145 buy-in Sat, Apr 11 & May 9, 11:15 am - “Super Bounty” NLHE - $240 buy-in w/ $100 Bounties Sun, Apr 12, 11:15am - The Winter Paradise Point Challenge (call for details) Sat, May 16, 11:15am - Turbo Bounty NLHE - $235 buy-in w/ $100 Bounties Sat, Apr 25, 11:15 am - Last Saturday NLHE - $160 buy-in Sun, Apr 26 & May24 - NLHE Tournament - $200 buy-in Sat, May 2 & June 6, 11:15am - “Big Stack” NLHE - $300 BI w/$30 s/c (opt $15 dealer Add-0n) Sun, May 3 & June 7, 11:15am - Omaha Hi-Lo Tournament - $150 buy-in Sun, May 17 & June 14, 11:15am - Jack & Jill NLHE Tournament - $110 buy-in per couple Sat, May 23, 11:15am - NLHE “Big Stack” Tournament - $500 buy-in Sun, May 31 & June 28, 11:15am - Ladies NLHE Tournament - $110 buy-in Food Specials; $4 breakfast and $6.75 Steak & Eggs (2 am - Noon) & Mondays $16 Prime Rib Dinner (5-11pm)

Also dealing blackjack 24/7

18 ARIZONA PLAYER April 2015

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

Parker, AZ Poker Room opens at 4pm daily except 2pm on Sun & Wed Tues at 7pm, NLHE Tournament - $35 buyin, w/ one $20 re-buy, $5 Bounties Thurs at 7pm, NLHE - $40 buy-in, w/ one $20 re-buy, $5 Bounties Plus High Hand of the Tournament Fri, 8pm - NLHE Tournament - $35 buy-in with a $20 re-buy Sat, 8pm - “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 Mon - Fri, 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) Saturdays at noon DEEP STACK Tournament - $100 buy-in Sunday Apr 26 & May 31 - Omaha Hi/Lo at Noon - $100 added per table $80 buy-in Every Mon & Wed - Spreading Omaha Hi/ Lo High Hand of the day - See poker room for details 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 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 - $200 added 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 Wed, 8pm - Mid “$100 Splash pots each hour Thurs, 6:30pm - NLHE Tournament $20 buy-in - Max 2 tables - re-enter first 10 minutes Fri, 7pm - NLHE Shoot-outs, $ 150 added per table of 10 - $25 buy-in - no re-buys (re-enter first 15 min) Sat, Noon - $100 added per table of 10– NLHE $50 buy-in (optional $5 dealer appreciation add-on) All Week - Royal Flush pays $100 “Aces Cracked” Sun - Fri, Win $100 –max 4 per day Saturdays - $50 High hand each hour from open till midnight Wednesdays - 8pm-Mid “$100 Splash Pots” / $50 each if 2 tables Also dealing blackjack - 9am - 2am (MonThurs) 9am - 4am (Fri & Sat)

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

Desert Diamond Casino Hotel 5 20-342-1810

Tucson, AZ Mon & Thurs at 9:30 am, plus Tues & Wed at 7pm $500 added NLHE - $35 buy-in no re-buys 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 Mon at 7pm, Omaha High/Low - $5 buy in w/ $5 re-buys - plus at the break $5 -$20 add-on Tues, Wed, Thurs & Sun at 7pm - NLHE $5 buy-in Fri, 7pm, NLHE - $60 buy-in w/one $10 dealer add-on for additional $5,000 in chips Sat at Noon & 4pm - NLHE - $5 buy-in Sat at 7pm, NLHE Deep Stack tournament - $50 buy-in w/ opt $30 add-on Sun, Noon & Wed at 7pm - NLHE - $10 buy-in, $5 re-buys & Double $20 add-on at the break Sun April 19, 10am - Ladies NLHE Poker Tournament - $60 Buy-in Plus Opt $10 Dealer Appreciation “Aces Cracked” 24/7 win $100 during first 2 hours of live play, $200 during 3rd hour, 4th hour and after 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, w/ Free bet blackjack, also split Aces up to 4 times & hit more than once and Double Down after first hit!

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino 480-802-5138

Maricopa, AZ Mon at 7:30pm - WSOP-NLHE “Sit & Go” ($50 buy-in) Win an entry into the $10,000 Satellite Main Event in June at Harrah’s Ak-Chin –Winner of that tournament gets a $10,000 WSOP Main Event entry in Las Vegas Tues at 7:30pm, Limit Omaha H/L, $15 buyin, $10 re-buys + $10 add-on Wed at 7:30pm - WSOP-NLHE Satellite (buy-in $110) Win a $1,500 WSOP Event Seat in Las Vegas & $500 cash - other player cash based on entries 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 add-on 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

CARD ROOM ACTION residents have FREE entry) Sun 5:30pm - NLHE - WSOP $1,000 Event Tournament ($75 buy-in) Win a $1,000 WSOP Event seat in Las Vegas Aces Cracked - Black aces $100, Red Aces $50 & Mixed $25 (Bonus mid9am=double) Mon-Fri (9am-6:30pm) $25 splash pots every ½ hour Daily 7pm till 1am - High Hand each hour $50 Also dealing blackjack 24/7 - including “Push the bet”

Hon-Dah Casino 928-369-7555

Pinetop, AZ Mon, 6pm - High Hand Hold - $40 buy-in no re-buys Tues, 6pm - NLHE “Speed Shoot-Out” $15 buy-in (no re-buys) $2 chip-up Wed, 6pm - NLHE, Double Stack $25 buy-in (4,000 chips) $25 add-on=8,000 chips Thurs, 6pm - Omaha Hi-Lo - $40 no re-buys 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 Fri & Sat - $100 High Hand (Hold Em) on Fri & Sat Open Mon-Fri at 4pm - Sat & Sun at 2pm, “early bird” tournament chips available daily

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 grows at all 3 Gila River Casinos! PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was hit on April 2nd for over $317,000! It has reset and growing again!

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 dealt 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; Thurs at 7pm & Sat

at noon “Aces & Faces Cracked” - wins up to $50 $25 “Splash Pots” daily - Each ½ hour from Noon thru 2pm, also from 7pm till Midnight Aces & Faces Cracked (Sun-Wed) & daily Royal Flush promotion - also dealing blackjack 24/7

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

Laveen, AZ Just Added; 1st Saturday of each month at 12:15pm - “Super Stack” NLHE ($110 buy-in for $10,000 in chips) Optional $20 Staff fee (before your first hand) for Add’l $5,000 in chips, also $20 add-on at the break for additional $8,000 in chips Wed, 7:30pm, **NLHE “Freeze Out”$40 buy-in w/ Opt $10 Staff fee at the break for added chips Sat, 11:15 am, (weekly except 1st Sat)**NLHE “Freeze Out”$40 buy-in w/ Opt $10 Staff fee (before 1st hand) $20 add-on at break Sun 11:15 am, **NLHE “Freeze Out”$30 buy-in w/ Opt $10 Staff fee (before play) & $20 add-on at the break 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) **Tournaments allow “Early Bird Chips” for live play before tournament - 1st & 2nd place at final table qualify for the “Tournament of Champions” FREE ROLL each quarter. Dealing blackjack 24/7 - F.A.T - Friday Afternoon Blackjack Tournament at 4pm - $30 buy-in (registration starts at 2pm) 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 hit on April 2nd for over $317,000! It has reset and is 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 “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 grows at all 3 Gila River Casinos! PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was hit on April 2nd for over $317,000 - It has reset and is growing again!

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

ARIZONA PLAYER April 2015 19

HORSIN’ AROUND

derby picture crystallizing

ith just a few major preps left before the May 2 Kentucky Derby things are quickly crystallizing as to who are the serious players and who are those in supporting roles. International Star took one more step on his by way to glory by taking the Louisiana Derby on Brian Mulligan February 28 at the Fair Grounds. He wore down a very tenacious Stanford to win by a neck with War Story 4 and half-lengths farther back in third. He earned a career best 98 Beyer Speed Figure. He closed into some very moderate splits and the pace in the Kentucky Derby will be much faster which should only help. His rider, Miguel Mena, was beside himself, Mena: “We got another good trip, had a clean run. He was the best horse in the race again today.” And maybe most importantly, he showed the will to win, something that can’t be taught. International Star took 2 of his 6 starts in 2014 and he opened 2015 winning the LeComte at Fair Grounds going away with a 90 Beyer. In his prior race before the Louisiana Derby International Star took all the worst of it in the Risen Star as he had to break from post 10 but he made the lead at the top of the lane and extended a bit to win by a length with a 93 Beyer. This runner still has some upside to him. Since he won the Grey Stakes at Woodbine last year, his next 5 Beyers have gotten better and the best may be yet to come. At Gulfstream Park on February 28, the Florida Derby was renewed and over the years, this race has been a major prep. This race has always been important. Spectacular Bid won this race in 1979 and others that made the Florida Derby/ Kentucky Derby double include Swale, Unbridled, Barbaro, Big Brown and the 2013 winner Orb. Last year Constitution was coming off an allowance win when he got the perfect trip in the Florida Derby to win by a neck with a 98 Beyer Speed Figure. This year’s Florida Derby came down to a 2-horse race and it was a dandy. Upstart was the deserving favorite after running third in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, winning the Holy Bull and then finishing first in the Fountain of Youth before being disqualified. He ran hard but Materiality had his number. That Todd Pletcher trainee opened his career this year winning at Gulfstream

sprinting in the slop. The son of Afleet Alex stretched out the win a $60,000 stakes at 9 furlongs by nearly 6 lengths and he was making his Graded race debut in the Florida Derby. Jockey John Velazquez had him on his high horse early as he chased the early leader, took over quickly, had a length lead at the top of the lane after a mile in 1:38 2/5 and was inching away late to win in 1:51 1/5. He had a sensational 110 Beyer and his future is extremely bright. Materiality is now a perfect 3 for 3 but he didn’t race as a juvenile and it’s been an impossible thing to overcome for decades as far as winning the Kentucky Derby is concerned. This looks to be a strong sophomore crop but, of course, that will only play out later in the year when sophomores take on older horses – But there is quality here all over the place. Dortmund and American Pharoah still have preps to overcome to get to Kentucky but these 2 Bob Baffert students are talented and fast. Firing Line, who game Dortmund all he could handle in the Robert Lewis, destroyed the Sundland Derby field in his next race by over 14 lengths. Looking for a Kentucky Derby wild card? Look no farther than Mubtaahij. He lost his first couple of races but they were on grass. Switched to the dirt in Dubai on New Year’s Eve, he beat a dozen rivals despite breaking poorly. Raced back 15 days later, he again beat a dozen foes winning by 5 lengths. Trained by world-class conditioner, Michael de Kock, he made his stakes debut in a Group 3 and did everything but win when on the wrong end of a photo but tons best of the rest. On March 7, he raced in a mile and three-sixteenth $250,000 affair at Meydan, tracked the leaders and prevailed. The horse that ran second in that race was a perfect 10 for 10 going into the event. And late in February, Mubtaahii took to UAE Derby and will be going to Kentucky. The value should be there. Brian Mulligan was the Daily Racing Form’s main West Coast line-maker for nearly two decades writing under the non de plume of “SWEEP.”He continues to contribute to the Daily Racing Form writing “A Closer Look” analysis.

ARIZONA PLAYER April 2015 20

entertainment Apache Gold Casino Resort

(5 miles East of Globe on Hwy 70) 1-800272-2438 The POINT Sports Bar & Grill: Big screens to watch your favorite teams and lots more! San Carlos Event Center: May 2 – Texas Tornados (Cinco de Mayo Celebration)

BlueWater Resort and Casino

11300 Resort Dr., Parker 1-888-243-3360 BlueWater Showroom: June 20, 7pm – MMA-Cage Rage 9 River’s Edge Cantina: Sunday evenings – Live Reggae music Dig Lounge: Deejays at 5pm – Oldies on Sun & Mon and Sports on the big screens Outdoors: Wakeboard Island is OPEN!

Casino Arizona

101 at McKellips, Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Showroom: Apr 10 – House of Floyd (Music of Pink Floyd) Apr 24 – WANTED (Ultimate Bon Jovi Tribute) May 1 – Evil Wayz (Santana Experience) May 5 – VIVE! Selena (Tribute to Selena Quintanilla May 9 – Bella Donna (Tribute to Stevie Nicks & Fleetwood Mac May 22 – Aeromyth (Tribute to Aerosmith) May 29 – Fan Halen (Van Halen Tribute)

Arizona Room Patio Grill: April 25, 7pm – UFC 186: Dillashaw vs Barao 2 May 2, at 5pm – LIVE Viewing Party: Mayweather vs Pacquiao Mon – Daisy Train (8pm) Tues– Latin Fire (dance lessons 6-8pm) 8pm - La Propuesta de Mexico (Latin band) Wed – Country dance instruction with Laina Lee, (6-8pm) 8pm – Daisy Train Thurs – Country dance instruction with Laina Lee, (6-8pm) 8pm – Tommy Ash Band Bingo Hall: Fri & Sat at Midnight, L-8 Nite Bingo! Music, light show & dancing w/ host Corina & DJ Kenji!

Casino Del Sol

5655 W. Valencia Rd. Tucson 520-838-6506 Paradiso Bar: Free entertainment, Live bands weekends; Tribute bands on Thursdays April 9 – Selena Tribute, April 10 – Conjunto Bravo, April 11 – Sun City Groove, April 16 – DSB (Journey Tribute), April 17 – Reality Band, April 18 – Risque Band, April 25 – Mtzterio, April 30 – Mark Barnett (Roy Orbision Tribute) AVA Amphitheater: April 9 – Tucson International Mariachi Conference April 17 – Tejano Music Shootout April 24 – Earth Wind & Fire April 25 – Noche de Las Estrellas (Mariachi / Folklorico Festival Conference Center: April 11 - Tucson International Mariachi Conference and Fiesta De Garibaldi Oasis Pool Bar: April 19 (outdoors) The WET Pool Party – 1-6pm (18 and over event)

Cliff Castle Casino Hotel

Bella Donna

22 ARIZONA PLAYER April 2015

I-17 at exit 289 in Camp Verde 1-800-381-SLOT Stargazer Pavilion: April 25 – The Band Perry Dragonfly Lounge; live music on weekends featuring: April 10 & 11 – Aces & Eights April 17 & 18 – Los Nuevos Rivales April 24 & 25- Mike Reeves Band

The Band Perry May 1 & 2 – Chaka & Friends May 29 & 30 - Greywolf

Desert Diamond Casino Hotel

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

Desert Diamond Casino I -19

1100 West Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita 1-866-332-9467 Diamond Center: Apr 30 – Michael McDonald Sports Bar: Mon – Fri 5pm -2am, Sat & Sun 10am-2am w/ Sports on big screens, Karaoke Wednesdays, DJ nightly, plus DJ or live bands on Fri & Sat nights

Fort McDowell Casino

N of Shea off Hwy 87, Fountain Hills 1-800-THE-FORT Lucky 7 Saloon: Free weekend entertainment w/ bands; Furious George, Nine Ball or Rick Renzi and Roustabout Wekopa Resort & Conference Center

Ballroom: Bingo Hall: 1st Saturday of each month – Late Night Lunar Bingo w/ music & giveaways Updates – go to fortmcdowellcasino.com

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort and Casino Mazatzal Hotel & Casino

15406 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa 480-802-5000 THE LOUNGE: Weekends in The Lounge starting at 8pm (FREE) April 10 & 11 – Travis LeDoyt (Ultimate Elvis Tribute) Apr 18 – The Lovin Spoonful June 19 – Marshall Tucker Band Monday -Thursday: Noon-4pm & 5-8pm w/ bands; Harry Luge, Stan & Miguel, Bandstand Shows, Yesterday Once More, Jake Skeen, Western Fusion, The Walkens and He Said She Said Friday & Saturday: 8pm – Heartbreak Alley, The Walkens, Daisy Train, Rock Lobster, Nashville Gold, Smooth Groove or Troubadour Experience (Tribute to George Strait) 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 Apr 7-11 – DooWah Riders Apr 14-18 – Rock Hall Doctors Apr 17 – Journey Unlimited (Journey Tribute) Apr 21-25 – Shirts & Skins Apr 28-May 3 – Clark County Band

Lone Butte Casino

202 loop at the Kyrene exit – Chandler, 1-800-WIN-GILA Cascades Lounge: Mon, Tues & Fri (4-8pm) Featuring; Marty & the Party or Thaddeus Rose Wed & Thurs (6-10pm) featuring; JJ’s Band, New Frequency Band, Str8Up or the XO Band, Fri & Sat (9:30pm- 1:30am) Featuring; AZ Tex Band, Rhythm Edition, Shining Star , Rhythm of the Sun Band, or Smooth Groove 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

1/2-mile S. of Payson on Hwy 87 1-800-777-PLAY www.777play.com Apache Spirits Lounge: Entertainment nightly Thurs – Sat (live bands, Deejays and Sporting Events)

Paradise Casino 450 Quechan Drive, Yuma 1-888-777- 4946 Sharky’s Bar & Bites: Live bands 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, plus free Salsa Lessons on Thursday nights

Talking Stick Resort

Loop 101 and Indian Bend Road Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Showroom: Apr 22 – Al Di Meola & Billy Cobham May 2 – Greg Allman May 7, 8 & 9 – Thunder From Down Under (Male Revue)

June 7 – HAIRWARS – Supreme Salon Tour June 11 – Robin Trower July 11 – Keb’ Mo’ Sept 12 – Nils Lofgren Pool at Talking Stick Resort: Apr 24 – Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers Apr 26 – ZZ Top May 8 – Moody Blues May 17 – REO Speedwagon May 29 – Chris Young & Thompson Square June 5 – Whitesnake June 14 – Peter Frampton & Cheap Trick July 2 – 311 July 19 – Sublime w/ Rome July 30 – The Steve Miller Band Sept 20 – Lynyrd Skynyrd Palo Verde Lounge: Sun thru Thurs, 4pm – Gustavo Angeles, Miguel De Maria or Paul Wells Sun thru Thurs 8pm – Paul Wells, Tyler Neilson, Lee Perreira Curt Cichon, Alexander Hristov or Marley Taylor Trio Fri & Sat, 4pm – Gustavo Angeles, 6pm – Marley Taylor Trio & DJ Pulse at 10pm 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

Moody Blues

entertainment Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort 22181 Resort Blvd (I-40 @ exit 219) Flagstaff (928) 856-7200 Arrows Lounge: live bands on weekends;

Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino

The West Valley Casino 51st Ave, 4 miles S. of Baseline – Laveen 1-800-WIN-GILA Event Center: April 10 – Richard Villa w/ Keith Ellis

Sheila E April 17 – Sheila E April 25 – Diamond in the Rough (Neil Diamond Tribute) May 15 – The Atomic Punks (Tribute to Early Van Halen) Outdoor Patio: (Mon – Sat) 4pm-7pm & 9pm-1am , Featuring bands; Primintion, Rhythm of the Sun Band, Powerdrive, Andrea & Gemini, Reality Band, Latino Rebel Band , Silhoutte, Str8Up, New Frequency Band, Walkens Unplugged, Marty & the Party, Chuck E Baby, Eagleheart, Reality Band and Soul Persuation (Sun) 4pm-7pm, featuring; Mariachi Pasion, Mariachi Fiesta Valle del Sol or Mariachi Rodriguez Bingo Park: Every Saturday at 11pm – BINGO ECLIPSE – Bingo, DJ music, light show & giveaways

ARIZONA PLAYER April 2015 23

entertainment Kenny Rogers

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

Ovations LIVE! Showroom:

Apr 11 – Morris Day & the Time April 17 – DSB: An American Journey (JourneyTribute) April 18 – Michael Salgato & Albert Zamora April 19 – Turn The Page (The Bob Seger Experience) Apr 25 – Kenny Rogers May 2 – Michael McDonald May 9 - WAR May 15 – Eddie Money May 16 – TINH LA GI (Vietnamese Concert) May 29 – Jason Bonhams Led Zeppelin Experience 2015 May 30 – WFF/MMA fights June 5 – Banda MS June 2 – Mariachi Vargas June 13 – Hannibal Burgess June 19 – Tears for Fears June 20 – Air Supply June 26 – Three Dog Night June 27 – Intocable July 4 – American Hitmen & GI’s of Comedy July 10 – Creedence Clearwater Revisited July 11 – Boz Skaggs July 17 – Under the Sun Tour w/ Sugar Ray, Uncle Cracker, Eve 6 & Better than Ezra Encore Lounge: Mid-day entertainment (Mon11am-3pm) featuring; DJ Danny Davis, Swing-tips, Jukebox 6, & Route 66 Late night entertainment featuring bands; Rock Hawgs, Powerdrive, The Hamptons, Andrea & Gemini, Str8up Band, JJ’s Band, The Walkens, Chuck E Baby, Chaka and Friends, Eagleheart, New Frequency Band, Smooth Groove, Smokestack Lighting, Shining Star & Rhythm Edition, CHROME NIGHT CLUB –Arizona’s Newest Hot Spot is Open with the Top DJ’s in Arizona!

Air Supply

24 ARIZONA PLAYER April 2015

Chart-Topping Acts to Hit Talking Stick Resort’s Pool Stage Summer performances heat up the music scene when the sun goes down Party revelers can also enhance their experiTalking Stick Resort, an enterprise of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, proudly ences by taking in the show from the comfort of a canopy daybed or luxury cabana. Touting upscale announces the launch of its Summer Concert patio furniture and ceiling fans, cabanas also Series – kicking off on April 24! The five-month include flat-screen TV’s, refrigerators packed with extravaganza will feature today’s leading enternonalcoholic beverages and state-of-the-art misttainers on the property’s pool stage. Combining ing systems. Cabana rentals, VIP bottle service as the sunny weather with cocktail specials and a well as general admission tickets will be available. capacity of 4,500, this series has the makings of Pricing for all outdoor concerts will vary. Even all-around good time! “Our entertainment lineup includes musicians some of those Summer Concert Series shows of all genres and therefore, appeals to all musical that are General Admission will include a limited number of chairs that will be available on a firsttastes,” said Ramon Martinez, director of public come, first-served basis. relations at Talking Stick Resort and Casino To purchase tickets or learn more information Arizona. “We’re excited about this year’s event and look forward to seeing it become a long-time tradi- about the Summer Concert Series, visit talkingtion in Scottsdale.” stickresort.com/outdoor-phoenix-concerts.aspx or call Leading the pack, Arizona favorites Roger the Talking Stick Resort box office at (480) 850Clyne & The Peacemakers are slated to command 7734. For details on cabana reservations, please the pool stage on April 24 followed by esteemed call Reservations at (866) 877-9897. You must be trio ZZ Top on April 26, The innovative English 21 or older to attend outdoor concerts. band Moody Talking Stick Resort (TSR) is an AAA Four Diamond Blues on May 8 Rated Resort and a central landmark within the and the iconic emerging Talking Stick Cultural and Entertainment REO Speedwagon Destination. Located in Scottsdale, just east of the Loop 101 on Indian Bend Road, TSR is locally owned and ZZ Top on May 17. Also booked for the caringly operated by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa summer months are Chris Young and Thompson Indian Community. The property offers culturally rich Square on May 29, Whitesnake on June 17 and experiences and luxury accommodations throughout both Peter Frampton & Cheap Trick on June 14. its 496 deluxe rooms, 240,000 sq. ft. property, 11 restauBack by popular demand, 311 will bring their rants and lounges, world-class spa, 650-seat showroom, fusion of reggae, funk and rock to the property’s 25,000 sq. ft. grand ballroom, thriving cultural center outdoor venue on July 2. But opportunities for and more than 100,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor fun in the sun don’t end there as the legendary meeting space. band Sublime with Rome is scheduled to deliver Lynyrd Skynyrd a captivating performance July 19. Additionally, The Steve Miller Band will wow audiences with their raw energy on July 30 while Lynyrd Skynyrd will perform their impressive catalog of hits on September 20. Yes and Toto will also participate in this series - details for their show will be announced soon!

DAVID AT THE SNACK BAR Furious 7 Picking up where the last one left off as Deckard Shaw sets out to avenge his brother by killing Dom and everyone else involved in what happened. Everyone is back and the story circles back to “Tokyo Drift.” The direction is at times cartoony, the diaby logue is painful to listen David Ramsey to and it seemed like everyone forgot how to act. The action is non-stop to the point that it feels like a stunt reel more than a complete film. “Furious 7” is the worst of the series and has me cringing at what the next one will bring. The highlight is a very nice and tear-inspiring tribute to Paul Walker at the end.

David’s Video Details

Interstellar

The Earth is becoming a barren planet and officially space travel has never happened. Former astronaut Cooper stumbles upon a secret government installation and ends up leading a mission thru a stable worm hole to another galaxy. He leaves his family, including a young daughter, behind promising to come back for them. The special effects are spectacular and the science is believable but the story veers into the surreal a little too much. The build-up was huge but the film doesn’t live up to it.

Big Eyes

Get Hard Millionaire James King is on his way to San Quentin and he is terrified. He comes up with the idea to hire someone to teach him how to act in prison so he will be able to survive it. Unfortunately, he makes the mistake of assuming Darnell has been in prison when he offers him the job in a very insulting way. Rather than tell him he has not idea because he has never been to prison he goes about faking it. Along the way they get involved in with real criminals and decide to try and clear King’s name. There are a couple laughs but overall “Get Hard” is a disappointment.

The paintings of the waif with the big eyes were a big hit in the 50s and 60s making Walter Keane a household name and a lot of money. The true story of how those paintings became a worldwide phenomenon and who actually painted them makes for a good story. Did Walter or his wife, Margaret, actually do the paintings? They were both struggling painters when they met but they soon capitalized on the popularity of the big eyed waif. The story is intriguing and well told with a great cast.

Taken 3

Bryan Mills is back. This time he is wanted for the murder of this ex-wife, Lenore. On the run from the authorities with help from his daughter he tries to find out who could have killed Lenore and framed him. There is all the action you expect and it is better than the previous one but has too many holes and you can guess who did it pretty quickly. Hopefully, this is the last time we will see Bryan Mills and his long suffering daughter. David Ramsey is the President and co-founder of the Phoenix Film Critics Society and a member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association (The Critics Choice Awards). Watch his reviews on the CBS 5 Morning News every Friday between 5:30 and 6:30am and on ABC-15’s “Sonoran Living Live” every other Friday. Read more of his DVD reviews at WildAboutMovies. com. Contact him at David@TheSnackBar.net.

26 ARIZONA PLAYER April 2015

contest

Spring has sprung…the grass has riz, I wonder where the ball players is? Apologies to Ogden Nash and his famous poem I did take some liberties to drive a point home. CONTEST UPDATE: Our Grand Prize packages in February included two terrific up close seats to see four teams that look like serious contenders for the American and National League pennants! We called these Spring Training Grand Prize Packages; “Brunch with the Baseball Bunch” One of our Grand Prize winners (Carole Spotts) actually entered the contest and included this poem; Please take me out to the ball game - Don’t even care if the team has fame I want to yell, scream and even boo - At umps that make calls that aren’t true I love the snacks – especially the really Big Hot Dog - Pretzels, popcorn, sodas, ice cream – call me a hog Listen to the bats crack a big Home Run - Now that’s just plain down home Fun!

When the man in black makes that call - I really get excited when I hear “PLAY BALL” Both Grand Prize winners; Shirley Schreiner of Gilbert and Carole Spotts from Mesa, received 2 tickets to see a great Spring Training game; Shirley and the person of her choice took in the L.A. Dodgers / Oakland A’s game at Camelback Ranch in Glendale on March 16, Carole took a special someone to the Chicago White Sox / Seattle Mariners game at Camelback Ranch on St. Paddy’s day March 17. These two winners each also received a lucky $77 check for a brunch of their choice that included but was not limited to; hot dogs, brats, burgers, fries, tacos, burritos, nachos, Italian sausage & roast beef sandwiches, even Asian stir fry plus soft drinks, regular and craft beers, popcorn, ice cream… you know, the entire gamut of stadium food. As always we also had 7 runner-up winners; Robert Faino from Mesa, Sandy Lietz of Tucson, John Bauch from Tempe, Barry Chester from Phoenix, Charles Gies from Apache Junction and two winter visitors; Sandy B. from Denver and Chicagoan Darlene Emrik, these baseball fans will receive $20 restaurant gift cards. To enter our monthly contest; go to the Arizona Player website and click on the Contest entry form or go to the Arizona Player/Facebook page and Like Arizona Player – it’s that simple. Good luck and see you at the ballpark – There’s about 80 or so home games at a Major League Ballpark nearby. Phil Scudella Publisher Arizona Player

ARIZONA PLAYER April 2015 27

lottery news THE RIGHT PICK

$100,000 Winter Visitor Bonus - You Betcha!

Phoenician Joe DeSilva of Phoenix purchased his usual multi-draw Quick Pick tickets at the Quik Trip at 27th Ave and Thunderbird in Phoenix. THE PICK is the only game he plays. As he usually does, he threw the ticket onto his computer desk, where it was quickly buried under paperwork. Days later, while talking to his mom on the phone, Joe began to straighten out his desk and discovered the ticket. While still on the phone, he went online to check it and was stunned to discover he had six matching numbers for the January 24 drawing of THE PICK. Joe checked the ticket several times. Those six matching numbers made him the winner of the $2.8 million jackpot. Not only was Joe in disbelief, so was his mom. Joe took a few days to make some important decisions before coming to the Lottery to redeem his ticket. He decided to take the lump sum payment of $1,902,903.80 before taxes. He has already been in contact with a financial advisor and an attorney. Joe is going to invest the money so he can take care of his family and his future.

Grand Forks, North Dakota resident Rodney Stegman, purchased a Jumbo Bucks instant scratch ticket from a Lottery vending machine at the Quik Trip on East McDowell Road in Mesa. He plays scratch tickets on a weekly basis. Rodney always buys the $10 and $20 tickets as they seem to have better payouts. Rodney scratched the ticket at home. He could tell as soon as he scratched the ticket that he’d won $100,000, so he did not have it checked at a store. Rodney, a retired realtor, has been a winter visitor in Arizona for about four years. He gets tired of the cold winters back home. When he’s here, Rodney can golf three to four times a week, something he can’t do back in Grand Forks. Occasionally, when the jackpots are high, he will buy a Powerball ticket. Rodney is going to use some of the money to pay off bills and use the rest toward a new home.

Make your Special event a Fun Filled party to reMeMber! Deejays with Years of On-Air Broadcast Experience will work with you to personalize your

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28 ARIZONA PLAYER April 2015

Wedding Reunion Theme Party Corporate Function

“Music and Emcee for Any Event“ taylored M uSic Phil Taylor

602.919.7700

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

Paper & Electronic buy-ins; Matinee session daily at 1pm (Early birds at 12:30pm) Nightly session at 7pm (Early birds at 6:30) Late Night Bingo – Fri & Sat at Midnight (With music, light show & dancing!)

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

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

Paper & Electronic buy-ins; Daily at Noon & 6pm (mini session at 5:30pm) Bingo Eclipse Party (Sat at 11pm) Monday – 50% off electronic pack* (early bird) Tues – Senior’s, 50% off electronic package* Wed – 5 free bonus packs*, Thurs - $500 Monitor bingo*, Fri – 5 free bonus packs & Free Herbie t-shirt w/ 3 Fireball tickets* Sat – 50% off electronic packs*, Sun – Second Chance Sunday* *see Bingo Park for details

*9am, 12:30pm & 6:30pm (Mon - Fri, *except Tues) 6:45am, 9am, 12:30pm, 6:30pm (Sat & Sun) Midnight (Fri & Sat) & Midnight (1st Sat - Lunar Bingo Party)

ARIZONA PLAYER April 2015 29

Joke page, ASTROLOGY, Casino directory Joke of the Month The Will

Farley Frumpsteed III is on his deathbed and knows the end is near. His nurse, some friends, along with his wife, daughter and two sons, are with him at the hospital. He asks for two witnesses to be present and a video camera in place to record his last wishes, and when all is ready, he begins to speak:

“To my eldest son, Bernie, I want you to take the Mayfair houses.” “Sybil, our only daughter, you take the luxury apartments on the upper west-side.” “My son, Jamie; for always being there when I needed you, take the offices in City Centre.” “And finally, Sarah, my dear wife, I saved the best for you - please take all the high rise residential buildings along the banks of the east river.”

Aries March 21 to Apr 20 Cancer June 22 to July 22

Apr 7-13 Apr 14-21 Apr 22-30 May 1-6

Good advice from friend Short trip worth taking Very pleasant week Fun getaway you need

Apr 7-13 Apr 14-21 Apr 22-30 May 1-6

Things are looking up Believe in yourself Beware of a stranger Plan for a short trip

The nurse and witnesses are blown away as they did not realize his extensive holdings, and as Farley slips away, the nurse says, “Mrs. Frumpsteed, your husband must have been an unbelievably hard-working man to have accumulated all this property.” Sarah is noticeable stunned and replies, “Property? This goofball had a paper route!”

(Thank you Larry Angelini for this submission – a tasty gift card is heading your way) GOT A FUNNY STORY OR JOKE? Send it to: Arizona Player – Nowthat’s Funny - PO BOX 33393, Phoenix AZ 85067 – or e-mail it to: goodguyphil@yahoo.com If we use it, we’ll not only give you credit- we’ll send you back something from our prize closet! Could be; concert, sports tickets or a gift card – so include an address and phone number.

Libra Sept 24 to Oct 23

Capricorn Dec 22 to Jan 20

Apr 7-13 Apr 14-21 Apr 22-30 May 1-6

Lucky streak begins Good friend was right Set aside some playtime Take a break this week

Apr 7-13 Apr 14-21 Apr 22-30 May 1-6

Terrific way to end trip Second chance pays off Good times are coming More than ever expected

Taurus April 21 to May 21

Leo July 23 to Aug 23

Scorpio Oct 24 to Nov 22

Aquarius Jan 21 to Feb 19

Gemini May 22 to June 21

Virgo Aug 24 to Sept 23

Sagittarius Nov 23 to Dec 21

Pisces Feb 20 to Mar 20

Apr 7-13 Apr 14-21 Apr 22-30 May 1-6 Apr 7-13 Apr 14-21 Apr 22-30 May 1-6

Time to make that choice Serious situation ahead Great trip - nice win Quite a comeback You’ll be relieved An old friend returns Weekend of real fun Old friend is back

Apr 7-13 Apr 14-21 Apr 22-30 May 1-6 Apr 7-13 Apr 14-21 Apr 22-30 May 1-6

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 April 2015

Good idea reaps reward The trip you needed You bet you’re right Nice time with good pal Trust is a must Unexpected meeting Go with your hunch You will have it clicking

Apr 7-13 Apr 14-21 Apr 22-30 May 1-6 Apr 7-13 Apr 14-21 Apr 22-30 May 1-6

Unplanned excitement Nice trip with friends Short trip pays A great flop is coming

Play cautious this week Trip works out fine Voice inside is right This time you did it

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

Apr 7-13 Apr 14-21 Apr 22-30 May 1-6 Apr 7-13 Apr 14-21 Apr 22-30 May 1-6

Make correct choice Uncharted fun trip New friends are terrific You get lucky

Play your favorite game Timely win out of town Listen to friendly advice Happy times coming

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