May 2015 by Arizona Player

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Gaming•Entertainment•Travel www.arizonaplayer.com

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Card Room Action Casino Entertainment Big Winner at the Diamond Blackjack Corner “When to Walk” Horsin’ Around “On to Baltimore” REEL REVIEWS – WMS The Flintstones Vol. 23 No. 5 • May 2015

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 Rachel Brockway Kevin Cummings Melody Hudson David Ramsey Melissa Rowberry Satara Williams

Special Thanks to: Harrah’s Ak-Chin Marketing department, the staff and management in the Poker room and everyone at HMA Public Relations for their over the top help with this May issue of Arizona Player

Contributing Writers Linda Boyd Rachel Brockway 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.

4 ARIZONA PLAYER May 2015

Vol. 23 No. 5 • May 2015

TJ's Blackjack Corner TJ Jorgensen “When to Walk”

Cover Story Harrah’s Ak-Chin “Harrah’s new Poker Room & WSOP Satellites”

Reel Reviews Kevin Cummings “WMS – The Flintstones"

Gaming News “Desert Diamond 3 Million Slot Winner & Comic JL Hughley”

AZ Lottery News “More Big Winners”

Card Room Action Table Game Action Around the State

Entertainment Casino Entertainment State-wide

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

Horsin' Around Brian Mulligan “On to Baltimore”

Contest Page ““Great Prizes for Summer Contest Players””

David at the Snack Bar David Ramsey Movie & DVD reviews

Travel “Exciting Oregon”

Bingo Directory Complete List of Bingo Games at Arizona Casinos

Jokes of the Month, Astrology, & Casino Directory

TJ’s Blackjack corner

When

ust recently I sat down to play some blackjack at one of our local casinos. At the by TJ by table I selected the dealer Jorgensen TJ Jorgensen had just finished shuffling, which is very important to me since I need to see every card from the beginning of the shoe. The first hand was dealt and I received an eleven vs the dealer up card of a six, so I doubled down and caught a two. The dealer then proceeded to make twenty one. My next hand was twelve vs the dealers ten, I hit and caught a ten busting the hand. My third hand was ten vs the dealers’ up card of 6, I doubled and caught a three, the dealer then made another twenty one. The chance of a player losing three hands in a row is only 14% so this was not a good start. My fourth hand was an eighteen that was beaten by a dealer twenty. At this point I left the table for several reasons. First of all, my running count was now negative seven, and with one deck dealt in a six deck game it gave me a true count of over negative one. You will cut your losses in half by not playing in a negative count of -1 or greater. Second, if you lose four hands in a row you will save yourself a lot of money in the long run by switching tables. When the cards are running like this it is best to leave the situation and find a better one. The other three players at my table continued playing and were digging in their pockets for more money as I excused myself. I watched for a while as these players lost at least $100 each. You can be the very best player in the world and lose in situations like this, so being able

6 ARIZONA PLAYER May 2015

Walk

to recognize the appropriate time to walk away can save you hundreds of dollars. I wandered around the casino and found another table with just one player. This time on my very first hand I caught blackjack. My second hand I had a sixteen vs a dealer up card of a ten, I then hit and caught a five for a perfect twenty one. My third hand was a pair of aces which I split and caught tens on both. I won the first twelve hands in a row, making back what I lost at the other table and another $150 on top of that. My point is that by leaving a losing situation I found a table that had a completely opposite flow of cards. I played for about an hour and left over $600 ahead. As I was leaving the casino I walked by my original table and the same three players were still digging in their pockets, who knows how much they were down at this point. It is amazing to me how many players will go down with a sinking ship, throwing more money at money they have already lost. Maybe it’s ego that makes a player continue to play at a table where they are getting destroyed. One of the keys to playing a winning game of blackjack is to keep your emotions out of the game. You must be able to look at a situation objectively and make the appropriate decision. If it’s like the first table I played at, walk away. It’s as simple as that. If things are going south, more than likely they will continue. One thing I have learned in all my years of playing is that blackjack is a very streaky game. I have seen both extremes, I have seen players lose twenty hands in a row and keep playing thinking that things would change....they didn’t. I have

also played when the dealer could not make a hand. Three other players and myself emptied the entire dealer chip tray of all of the reds, greens, and blacks chips in a matter of two hours. The only chips left were the purples. So it can go both ways. Remember hunches, and gut feelings have no place in the game of blackjack. Prayer does not work in blackjack. You must rely on skill. Being able to recognize a losing situation immediately will save you money in the long run. Use my four hand rule, anytime you lose four hands in a row, switch tables. After all it’s easier to end up with a winning session if you only have to make up a little rather than a large amount. Don’t get caught up in the moment, and in the heat of battle lose all your money. Save your bankroll and just walk away. Look for a better situation. Here is another tip: before you sit down to play, walk around and scout the tables. Look for a table where the players appear to have a larger than normal buy in in front of them. If they do, chances are it’s a winning table and is worth a try. Avoid the tables where players only have a few chips in front of them. Losing sessions are part of the game, but if you keep them to a minimum, you will have a lot more winnings at the end of the day 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

Cover story

Go “All-In” With Poker at Harrah’s Ak-Chin By Rachel Brockway

A quiet hush settles over the room, and the only sound you hear is the shuffling of the cards. Players are focused on their hands, trying not to give anything away. A lot is at stake - the chance to qualify for nearly $200 million in prize money. Must be Las Vegas, right? Wrong. This exciting action is coming from the new poker room at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino. Arizona poker players now have access to such features as nine new lush poker tables, upgraded seating and six 55” HDTV’s throughout the room. And just in time for the qualifying rounds of the World Series of Poker™ (WSOP). continued on page 23

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Reel Reviews by kevin cummings

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gaming news “KING OF COMEDY” AT THE DIAMOND Comedian and actor DL Hughley is coming to the Diamond Center for a night of laugh out loud standup on August 1st. Tickets are on sale through Star Tickets, and also available at Desert Diamond’s Rewards Center. One of the most popular and highly recognized standup comedians on the road today has also made quite an impression in the television, film and radio arenas. DL can be heard as host of his own nationally syndicated afternoon radio show “The DL Hughley Show” in over 60 cities including the #1 radio market – New York. First and foremost a standup comedian, his sixth stand-up comedy special Clear aired on Showtime last year. DL also created and starred in the satirical documentary special for Comedy Central DL Hughley: The Endangered List, which premiered to rave reviews. The special was honored with the prestigious George Foster Peabody Award in the 72nd Annual Peabody Awards competition. Known for being astute and politically savvy in true comedian style, DL served as host of his own late night talk show on CNN DL Hughley Breaks the News. Most recently, DL hosted the TBS’s game show Trust Me, I’m a Game Show Host. He also tapped into his playful side and participated in the 16th season of the hit ABC show Dancing with the Stars, alongside partner Cheryl Burke. As the star and producer of his namesake television show that ran on ABC and UPN The Hughleys, DL is also well known as one of the standout comedians on the hit comedy docu-film The Original Kings of Comedy. A veteran of numerous talk show appearances, DL switched the tables in 2005, hosting his own talk show on Comedy Central Weekends at the DL. He is a regular on the late night talk show circuit, including always-memorable appearances on “Real Time with Bill Maher” and The Tonight Show. Treena Parvello, Director of Public Relations and Communications for the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise, said “We are excited to bring one of the Original Kings of Comedy to the Diamond Center for a night of laughs! Don’t miss your chance to see DL Hughley live on August 1!” Doors open at 7, show at 8PM. This is an 18 and older show and for mature audiences only.

$2.5 MILLION WINNER AT DESERT DIAMOND

TUCSON, Ariz. – On April 24, 2015, lucky guest Michael H. visited Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment’s Sahuarita location and struck a spectacular jackpot of more than $2.5 million! Michael hit his massive jackpot playing the Ghostbusters progressive slots from IGT.

Michael H. with his $2.5 million jackpot check Treena Parvello, Director of Public Relations and Communications for the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise, said, “Congratulations to Michael on becoming Southern Arizona’s newest millionaire! This spectacular, two million dollar jackpot shows once again that Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment is the place to play for the biggest wins in Tucson and Sahuarita. We can’t wait to see who will hit the next amazing jackpot.” Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment with three locations in Southern Arizona (Tucson, Sahuarita, and Why), is owned and operated by the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise, an enterprise of the Tohono O’odham Nation. Additional information can be found at www.ddcaz.com or by calling 866-DDC-WINS. 12 ARIZONA PLAYER May 2015

lottery news EXTREME HAPPINESS IN COTTONWOOD

HE HAD LUCK & HOPE ON HIS SIDE

NOT A “CROSS” WORD FROM CESAREO

Greg Perkins, Cottonwood, saw the Xtreme Cash Scratchers ticket while he was at Great Gas on State Route 89A in Cottonwood, so he purchased a few, and scratched the tickets outside. One of the tickets appeared to be a $100,000 winner, but he was afraid to believe it. He went back into the store and used the self-scanner to check it. Once Greg saw that it was a winning ticket, he had the store clerk validate it. Next, he signed the back of the ticket and went to his brother’s house and put it in his safe. He didn’t want to leave the ticket out in plain sight. Greg wasn’t the only one who had difficulty believing the ticket was real. His wife and brother had the same problem. Gregg usually buys the $2 Crossword Scratchers. At the time he redeemed the winning ticket, he still didn’t know what made him buy Xtreme Cash tickets, but he’s very glad he did. Greg and his wife are going to move to a new apartment and save the rest of the money.

Paul Clayton, of Hope, Arkansas, is a long-distance truck driver who makes weekly stops in Arizona. He plays Scratchers because they help him pass the time while traveling. On a recent trip, Paul purchased a Lucky7’s Scratchers at the counter at Pride Travel Center on Sunland Gin Road in Eloy. Paul took the ticket to his truck. and was so shocked when he finished scratching the ticket that it took a few minutes to register he was holding a $50,000 winning ticket. He took it back into the store to have the clerk scan it and when Paul was told that he would have to go to one of the Lottery offices to redeem it, Paul called his wife to tell her the news. She told him to sign the back of the ticket immediately. Paul is going to use some of the money for home remodeling, pay off his wife’s car, and save the rest.

Cesareo Ramirez purchased a Daily Crossword Scratchers ticket from a Lottery vending machine at the Circle K at 4023 N. 43rd Ave in Phoenix and scratched it at home. Even though Cesareo knew it was a $50,000 top prize winner he had a little trouble believing it was real so he had his family also check, and they, too, agreed it was a winning ticket. Cesareo and his family are very excited about his win. Cesareo usually buys Scratchers tickets on Saturday and always from the same store. His favorite games are Crossword and Lucky Life but also plays Powerball. Cesareo won $2,500 on a $2 Crossword ticket four or five years ago. When he has some spare time from his work as a landscaper, Cesareo and his family enjoy hiking. With regard to his winnings, Cesareo already knows how he’s going to use it. He would like a new truck for work and wants to use some to purchase birthday gifts for family members. He’s going to get his daughter a computer, and his wife would like a Kindle.

member state. In May 2002, the multi-state game was given the new name of “Mega Millions,” New York and Ohio became member states, and the game matrix and prize amounts were changed to offer players more excitement. In September 2002, Washington became the 10th member state, followed by Texas in December 2003. In June 2005, California became the 12th member, solidifying Mega Millions as the country’s most widely played multi-state jackpot game.

On January 31, 2010, 23 more state lotteries joined Mega Millions as an historic crossselling agreement between Mega Millions and Powerball went into effect. With additional lotteries joining since then, Mega Millions is now played in 44 jurisdictions: 42 states plus the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands. On March 30, 2012, Mega Millions made history with the largest jackpot ever: $656 million. The jackpot was split three ways, by winning tickets in Kansas, Illinois and Maryland.

History of Mega Millions Mega Millions, the game that holds the record for the largest jackpot in North American history, began on August 31, 1996 as the Big Game. The first drawing took place on September 6, 1996, with six states participating: Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan and Virginia. After exciting growth of the game in 1997, a Tuesday drawing was added in February 1998. Players were given a larger choice of numbers and a “cash payout” option in January 1999. In May 1999, New Jersey became the seventh

14 ARIZONA PLAYER May 2015

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 Mon - Fri, 11:15 am - NLHE Tournament $ 100 buy-in w/$25 s/c Mon - Thurs, 7:15pm - NLHE, $145 buy-in Sat, May 9, 11:15 am - “Super Bounty” NLHE - $240 buy-in w/$100 Bounties Sat, May 16, 11:15am - NLHE - $200 buy-in Sat, May 30, June 27 & July 25 at 11:15 am Last Saturday NLHE - $160 buy-in Sun, May 24 - NLHE Tournament - $200 buy-in Sat, June 6, 11:15am - “Big Stack” NLHE $ 300 BI w/$30 s/c (opt $15 dealer Add-0n) Sun, 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

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 buy-in, w/one $20 re-buy, $5 Bounties Thur, 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 w/a $ 20 re-buy Sat, 8pm - “Big Stack” NLHE Tournament $ 100 buy-in, no re-buys Sun & Wed - Spreading 2-8 Omaha Wed, all day - Straight Flush $50 (Hold-Em) Max 3/day Fri, all day - 4 of a kind $50 (Hold Em) Max 3 per day Daily-“Aces Cracked” pays $40 and Royal Flush pays $200

16 ARIZONA PLAYER May 2015

Also dealing blackjack daily at 9am

Bucky’s Casino 928-551-5305

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) Sat, Noon - DEEP STACK Tournament - $100 buy-in Last Sunday of the Month - Omaha Hi/Lo at Noon - $100 added per table $80 buy-in Every Mon & Wed - Spreading Omaha Hi/Lo “Aces Cracked” Wins a Rack! ($100) every day - all day, no limits in any Texas Hold Em game 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 ALL NEW! “Hot Poker Spot” Not available at any other casino - a side bet on all Hold-em tables. $1 side bet - Win up to $1,000! Dealing Blackjack 24/7 JUST ADDED: These New Games featuring; High Card Flush, IN Bet and WAR Blackjack

Cliff Castle Casino Hotel 928-567-7952 Camp Verde, AZ Come Visit our all new Poker Room in a new location, just inside the main entrance!

Just Added: Monday, May 25 at Noon - The Jerry Hampton Memorial No-Limit Texas Hold-em Poker Tournament, $160 Buy-in with an optional $50 Add-on, sign-up early on Saturday May 23 - Limited to 5 tables, but alternates will be allowed

Mon-Fri, 10am - NLHE Shoot-out, $30 buy-in, 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 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 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 May 17 & June 14, July 19, Aug 16 & Sept 20, 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 buy-in, $ 10 re-buys + $10 add-on Wed at 7:30pm - WSOP-NLHE Satellite (buyin $110) Win a $1,500 WSOP Event Seat in Las Vegas & $500 cash - other players cash based on entries

Thurs, 7:30pm - NLHE, $10 Buy-in plus three $ 10 re-buys & two $10 add-ons Fri, 7:30pm - $1,000 Guaranteed NLHE, $60 buy-in w/one $20 add-on Sat, 12:30pm - NLHE $ 50 added per table $ 50 buy-in Sun 12:30pm - NLHE - $15 buy-in w/two $10 add-ons at the break (Maricopa 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 mid-9am=double) Mon-Sun, all-day “Pick-Em 50-25-25” Two cards are picked at beginning of the day

CARD ROOM ACTION (& Posted) any player matching those hold cards and winning the hand wins $50, the table is splashed $25 and there is a $25 hot seat drawing. Mon-Sun (9am-6:30pm) $25 Splash pots every ½ hour on 4/8 or higher games “Monday May Day $1,200 Pay Day” Drawings every hour 9pm - 1am, Win cash based on hours played weekly (see poker room for details) All-Day Everyday - “Steel Wheel Bonus” for Omaha & Stud - Win $50 - $200 per suit Also dealing blackjack 24/7 - including “Push the bet”

Hon-Dah Casino 928-369-7555

Pinetop, AZ Open Mon-Fri at 4pm - Sat & Sun at 2pm, “early bird” tournament chips available daily Mon, 6pm - High Hand Hold Em - $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 buy-in, 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)

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 recently 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” Please call for days and times 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 Wed, 7:30pm, **NLHE “Freeze Out”$40 buy - in w /O pt $10 S taff 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 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 Sun 11:15 am, **NLHE “Freeze Out”$30 buy - in w /O pt $10 S taff 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 - 1 st & 2nd place at final table qualify for the “Tournament of Champions” FREE ROLL each quarter. Dealing blackjack 24/7 - 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 recently for over $317,000! I t has reset and is growing again !

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

Chandler,AZ Mon & Thurs Noon - NLHE, $30 buy-in, no re - buys - $150 added per table Tues & Wed, 7:30pm - NLHE Freeze Out - $50 entry fee w/$10 optional add-on $ 1,000 added to prize pool Sun, 3:30pm, NLHE - $30 buy- in, $5 dealer add - on , $20 add - at the break & bonus chips for play before tournament

“Aces Cracked” Win a Rack - Sun 11pm until F ri at 6 pm “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 G ila R iver C asinos ! PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was hit recently for over $317,000!

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

ARIZONA PLAYER May 2015 17

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! Outdoor Stage: Apache Reggae Jam2 featuring; J.Boog, Stick Figures and Black Bottom Lighters

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: May 22 – Aeromyth (Tribute to Aerosmith) May 29 – Fan Halen (Van Halen Tribute) June 5 – Motley Crue’d (Montly Crue Tribute Band) June 12 –Strange Days (Doors Tribute) June 26 – Bonfire (Tribute to AC/DC) July 3 – The Rising (Bruce Springsteen Tribute) July 10 – Kenny Metcalf as ELTON, July 24 – Iron Maidens (Tribute Band) July 31 – Doobies Inc. (Tribute to the Doobie Brothers) Arizona Room Patio Grill: May 23 – UFC 187 Johnson vs Cormier & Weidman vs Belfort Mon – Redneck Rockstars (8pm) Tues– Latin Fire (dance lessons 6-8pm)

18 ARIZONA PLAYER May 2015

Wed – Country dance instruction with Laina Lee, (6-8pm) 8pm – Daisy Train Thurs – Tommy Ash Band at 8pm 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 520-8386506 Paradiso Bar: Free entertainment, Live bands weekends; Tribute bands on Thursdays AVA Amphitheater: May 29 - Metal May-Hem Featuring Queensryche, Quiet Riot, Slaughter with Special guests Brandon Gibbs, Rikki Rockett, Bobby Dall and CC Deville performing the music of POISON May 31 – 2 Chainz, Kid Ink w/ Baeza June 6 – Banda MS w/ Alfreditos July 4 – Calibre 50 w/ Banda Carnaval

July 10 – Comedy of Cheech and Chong & WAR Aug 12 – JUANES Aug 21 – Peter Frampton & Cheap Trick Aug 26 – “Weird Al” Yankovic Sept 4 – Chayanne Sept 23 – Ricky Martin (One World Tour) Conference Center: June 28 - Comedy of Bill Burr Oasis Pool Bar: May 25 - The Soak Pool Party – 1-6pm w/ DJ Blade fun contests and prizes (18 and over event)

Cliff Castle Casino Hotel

Cheech & Chong

I-17 at exit 289 in Camp Verde 1-800-381-SLOT Stargazer Pavilion: June 27 – The Beach Boys Dragonfly Lounge; live music on weekends featuring: May 15 & 16 – Impacto Equis (latin) May 22 & 23 – Toucan Eddy 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

Beach Boys

Desert Diamond Casino I -19

1100 West Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita 1-866-332-9467 Diamond Center: May 16 – Amanda Miguel & Diego Verdaguer (The Argentinian Legends) June 6 – “Live & Let Die” The music of Sir Paul McCartney featuring actor/ singer Tony Kishman (star of Broadway hit Beatlemania) performing with 4 piece band and full Symphony Orchestra) June 27 – REO Speeswagon

(May 22 & 23) Elvis Tribute w/ Rick Renzi and Roustabout (May 24) Rhythm Edition (May 29 & 30) ) Mogollon Band featuring Duane Moore (May 31) 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 15406 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa 480-802-5000 THE LOUNGE: Weekends in The Lounge starting at 8pm (FREE) May 22 – Leif Garrett May 29 – The Relationship June 19 – Marshall Tucker Band

He Said She Said Friday & Saturday: 8pm – The Stilettoes, Checker’d Past, Quantum, AZ Tex, John Eric Band, Doo Wah Riders, New Wave Order, Rock Lobster or The Walkens POOLSIDE: Margarita Sundays are back every week beginning May 24th from 2-6pm – Music, great food and drink specials. $10 cover charge per adult in includes a free drink! Opening week Band is KUSH COUNTRY For updates, go to harrahsakchin.com

Hon-Dah Resort and Casino

Highways 260 and 73, Pinetop 1-800-WAY-UP-HIGH Festival Grounds: June 6 & 7 – 18th Annual POW-WOW IN THE PINES (FREE Admission!) Timbers Lounge: Free entertainment, Monday is Comedy Night, Tues-Sat, Live bands

Lone Butte Casino REO-Speedwagon July 24 – Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo Aug 1 – DL Hughley 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 entertainment w/ bands; Nine Ball (May 15 & 16) Mogollon Band featuring Duane Moore (May 17) Troubadour Experience – A Tribute to George Strait (May 20) Dyverse Band

Marshall Tucker Band June 27 – JT Hodges July 3 – Micky Dolenz (founding member of The Monkees) Aug 7 – Jo Dee Messina Aug 8 – The Wailers Sunday -Thursday: Noon-4pm & 5-8pm w/these bands; Bandstand Shows, Moot Davis, Laura Walsh, Notes from Neptune, Van & Melanie, Silhouette, John Eric Duo, Thaddeus Rose, Joe Costello Project, Al Ortiz, Vinny Dijohn, Stan & Miguel, Western Fusion, The Walkens or

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; Reality Band, Str8Up or the XO Band, Fri & Sat (9:30pm- 1:30am) Featuring; AZ Tex Band, Rhythm Edition, 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

entertainment Mazatzal Hotel & Casino

1/2-mile S. of Payson on Hwy 87 1-800-777-PLAY www.777play.com Event Center: May 15 – Harry Luge Band May 22 – Mogollon featuring Duane Moore 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 w/bands; Str8up (May 8 & 9) Paloma (May 15 & 16) Checker’d Past (May 22 & 23) also DJ Anthony on weekends

Talking Stick Resort

Loop 101 and Indian Bend Road Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Showroom: June 7 – HAIRWARS – Supreme Salon Tour June 11 – Robin Trower July 11 – Keb’ Mo’ Sept 12 – Nils Lofgren Pool at Talking Stick Resort: May 17 – REO Speedwagon May 29 – Chris Young & Thompson Square

ARIZONA PLAYER May 2015 19

entertainment June 5 – Whitesnake June 14 – Peter Frampton & Cheap Trick July 2 – 311 July 19 – Sublime w/ Rome July 30 – The Steve Miller Band Sept 4 – YES w/ TOTO Sept 20 – Lynyrd Skynyrd

Lynyrd Skynyrd Release Pool Party Events at Talking Stick Resort (Sat & Sun afternoons) May 16 – Juicy M, May 17 – Miss DJ Frankie M, May 23 – Morgan Page, May 24 – W & W, May 30 – R3HAB, May 31 – Ashley Wallbridge, June 6 – Posso, June 14 – DJ Zhaldee, June 20 – J Funk, June 21 – Miss DJ Frankie M, June 27 – Jessica Who, June 28 – Danny Stern, July 19 – David Carvalho, Aug 2 – Gareth Emery and Aug 15 – Nicky Romero Palo Verde Lounge: Live bands or DJ’s Shadows Lounge: Bands, singles & duos featuring 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

20 ARIZONA PLAYER May 2015

Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort

22181 Resort Blvd (I-40 @ exit 219) Flagstaff (928) 856-7200 Arrows Lounge: Entertainment on weekends w/ bands; Kung Fu Grip, Rhythm Edition, Country Image or Chad Freeman & the Redline Band

Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino

The West Valley Casino 51st Ave, 4 miles S. of Baseline – Laveen 1-800-WIN-GILA Event Center: May 15 – The Atomic Punks (Tribute to Early Van Halen) May 29 – Dueto Voces Del Rancho June 19 – DSB: An American Journey (Tribute to Journey) June 20 – Powerdrive June 26 – Los Humildes de Los Hermanos Ayala Outdoor Patio: (Mon – Sat) 4pm-7pm & 9pm-1am , Featuring bands; Michael & Manuel, Str8up, Primintion, Rhythm of the Sun Band, Powerdrive, Andrea & Gemini, Reality Band, Latino Rebel Band , Silhoutte, Walkens Unplugged, Marty & the Party, Chuck E Baby, Chaka & Friends, Soul Persuation or Yumi La Rosa (Sun) 4pm-7pm, featuring; Mariachi Fiesta Valle del Sol or Mariachi Rodriguez Bingo Park: Every Saturday at 11pm – BINGO ECLIPSE – Bingo, DJ music, light show & giveaways

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, July 18 – Mexican Comedian Jorge Falcom, Aug 8 – Rodney Carrington, Aug 14 – America, Aug 21 – Pat Benatar w/ Neil Giraldo, Aug 29 - SINBAD Encore Lounge: Mid-day (Mon11am-3pm) featuring; DJ Danny Davis, Swing-tips, Jukebox 6, & Route 66 Late night: featuring bands; Powerdrive, The Hamptons, Andrea & Gemini, Str8up, JJ’s Band, Chuck E Baby, Smooth Groove, Smokestack Lighting, Shining Star or Priminition CHROME NIGHT CLUB: Fridays & Saturdays – Arizona’s Newest Hot Spot featuring DJ Medik

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino

I-10 at Wild Horse Pass exit - Chandler 1-800-WIN-GILA Ovations LIVE! Showroom: May 15 – Eddie Money, May 16 – TINH LA GI (Vietnamese Concert), May 17 – Working Class Hero (John Lennon Tribute), May 22 – Starship featuring Mickey Thomas, May 23 – USA Belly Dance Queen Show, May 29 – Jason Bonhams Led Zeppelin Experience 2015, May 30 – WFF/MMA

Three Dog Night

A BOYD’S EYE VIEW OF VIDEO POKER

Video Poker FAQ: Part II by Linda Boyd

Part 2 of a 3 part series dealing with frequently asked technical questions from Arizona players.

What does “tightening” the machines mean? Often I hear players say the casino has tightened the machines for the holidays or to recoup money spent on a new casino. They mean the players are less-likely to win, but the expression is at best deceptive. Many just assume that there will be fewer winners because that’s what the casino wants but have no idea as to how this happens. In fact, players have said casinos do it by adjusting the machines so that they deal bad hands or so worse cards are received on the draw. This is not the case at all. If, however, the casino changes the pay schedule by returning fewer coins for winning combinations, known downgrading (explained in April’s issue), then the effect is the same. It’s important to know the difference in advance so you can tell if it’s just not your day or downgrading is the problem. That’s why you should check the pay schedule before you find a seat. Don’t simply assume the pay tables are the same as the last time you were there.

Can a casino change the pay schedule or the games on a video poker or slot machine remotely? Every now and then an odd-sounding situation turns out to actually be true. And so it is with casino staff having the ability to change either pay tables or games on a video poker device with just the flick of a switch. I’ve heard players say they’re in the “backroom” right now making it harder to win or a similar version of the same sinister theme. With the relatively new server-based technology they can do that and it’s perfectly legal. The technology has been available for some time but slow to arrive at many casinos due to the cost. It’s less expensive in new casinos that are wired for the system then for older ones where the carpet has to be ripped out to install the wiring. So expect it to get easier for the house to change both pay schedules and games in the future. You may find better pay tables for players during non-peak times like weekdays and the opposite on weekends and holidays. Once more, players must take the time to check things out before plopping down and inserting their money. When a mechanic checks my machine due to a technical problem can he change future hands? You may wonder why I even bring this up, but I have heard so many people make this statement that I think this misconception should be addressed. I’ve always recommended that you call a mechanic as soon as a technical problem, say a stuck button, is discovered. Some players claim that after they called the mechanic their hands changed for better or worse and insist that’s because of something the mechanic did while their machine was open. You should know that this is absolutely impossible even if the mechanic had a reason to do so. In fact, if your luck changes for better or worse then it’s simply a coincidence and has nothing whatsoever to do with anything the mechanic did. Even if you didn’t lose money due to a stuck button you should call a mechanic unless there’s another machine available at the bank you’ve selected. That’s because you have a warning that you could lose money on future hands for mechanical reasons and there’s no guarantee that the casino will pay you when the malfunction occurs. While it’s true that today’s VP devices can go back in memory and determine the dealt hands along with your holds (the newer devices are capable of going back further) you are still at the mercy of the casino. The same is true of malfunctioning free play. I played a device that subtracted the free play but never downloaded it to my machine. I lost $40 worth of free play and it was never returned, even though staff was notified and agreed the device malfunctioned. I should have sat there until they fixed the problem – I did not, and lost the free play. Stay there till it’s fixed. Linda Boyd – a long-time table game player before turning to video poker, also writes for “Southern Gaming” along with “Midwest Gaming and Travel” – Linda’s 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

22 ARIZONA PLAYER May 2015

Cover story continued from page 8 Every week in May, Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino is making sure that every player has the chance to qualify for their very own seat at the annual WSOP tournament in Las Vegas, qualifying from their hometown casino right here in Maricopa! Now in its 46th year, the WSOP is a series of tournaments, held at the Rio® All-Suite Hotel & Casino, May 27 – July 14, open to anyone 21 years of age or older competing for nearly $200 million in prize money. At Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino there are two chances each week for players to earn an entry into either a $1,000 or $1,500 WSOP seat. Sunday night’s $1,000 seat (plus $250 in cash) begins at 5:30 p.m. and will cost each player $75 to enter. Wednesday night’s $1,500 seat (plus $500 in cash) begins at 7:30 p.m. and will cost each player $110 to enter. Each of these qualifying events culminates in the final round, set for Saturday, June 6. This $350 buy-in event is a qualifier for the $10,000 buy-in main event, held in Las Vegas on July 3. There will be three starting times for this tournament; 10 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. where the top 20 players from the day will return on Sunday, June 7 for the final round. And if tournament action is not what you are going all-in for, Harrah’s continues its daily poker schedule so visit https://www.caesars.com/harrahsak-chin/casino/poker for all games and times. Is music where you like to place your bets? Every day in May and June, guests can enjoy free live entertainment in The Lounge. The starting lineup includes hits from Leif Garrett on May 22 and The Relationship on May 29 at 8pm!

Want to raise the stakes and drive away in a Ford Mustang? To celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Ford Mustang, Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino is giving away two Mustangs, a 2015 red Mustang V6 Coupe in May (drawing at 7 p.m. on May 30) and a 1966 classic Mustang Coupe in June (drawing at 7 p.m. on June 27). Join Total Rewards to have a chance at winning both cars as well as great free slot play prizes! It’s free to sign up and new members start earning entries right away. Just swipe your Total Rewards card at the promotional kiosk for a free drawing entry. Plus, guests will earn one entry for every 50 Tier Credits earned May 1 – 30 and June 1 27. Earn triple entries on Thursdays. And not only can you qualify for the car giveaway, but by participating in the Total Rewards program, you unlock the benefits and rewards that can be used throughout the entire Caesars’ family of casinos, worldwide. So, unlike other casinos in Arizona, guests can take the rewards they earn with Harrah’s and redeem them at other Caesars Entertainment properties across the country. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino is celebrating more than 20 years in Maricopa and is Arizona’s first and only tribal casino to have an international management partner - Offering the largest selection of the latest reel and video slots in a range of denominations. For more information on all the WSOP events and the Mustang giveaways, please visit www.harrahsakchin.com.

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HORSIN’ AROUND

Next Stop Baltimore

he Kentucky Derby was pretty much what it was cranked by up to be as both of Brian Mulligan Bob Baffert’s runners fired with American Pharoah, under rider Victor Espinoza, showing heart and guts and even when the game was on the line he was inching away late from Firing Line. Just like Floyd Mayweather Jr. showed the same day in his win vs. Manny Pacquiao that styles make fights, American Pharoah showed that a tactical speed style is the way to go in the Kentucky Derby. Mayweather danced around, stayed out of trouble and put in his own mix of jabs and power punches and American Pharoah used his speed to stay out of trouble and have enough fight left to finish the job. The way the Kentucky Derby unfolded this year was unusual to say the least, as the top 3 finishers were one/two/three all the way around but in different order. Last year, California Chrome also sat third early in the Derby but the horse that ran second last year Commanding Curve came from next to last and the third finisher Danza was 12th early on.

24 ARIZONA PLAYER May 2015

I don’t recall ever seeing a Kentucky Derby run like a merry-go-round with horses staying pretty much in the same position. The interior fractions of the Derby was very similar to the 2014 time with American Pharoah getting home in 2:03.02, a bit faster than California Chrome’s time of 2.03.66. And we all know how good a horse California Chrome turned out to be. The top 3 finishers in the Derby will make the trip to Maryland for the Preakness on May 16. Firing Line, under Hall of Famer Gary Stevens, ran super to complete the exacta while Dortmund tasted defeat for the first time in his career but will be back to try his stablemate again. As for Firing Line, he had not raced for 6 weeks before the Derby and his prior race was a clever win in the Sunland Derby. Coming back in 2 weeks should be no problem for him fitness-wise and he did not change leads in the Derby and that may have been one of the reasons he could not close the deal. As is usually the case, the Preakness field shrinks because the cards are now on the table and connections have to weigh what is good for the horse against any money that can be had on the Triple Crown Trail. Danzig Moon is a possibility for the next race as is Materiality, who had a horrible trip in the Derby.

Materiality’s trainer Todd Pletcher is still on the fence as far as this student but he has respect for the runner, Pletcher: “I was very pleased with the way he finished. I was obviously disappointed with the start of the race. It kind of left him in a position where he had too much to do turning for home. It’s kind of frustrating to think what may have been had he gotten off to a better start. But he came out of it very well. He proved his class anyway.” Looking toward the second jewel of the Triple Crown, one thing Baffert has in his favor is that he knows exactly what it takes to get horses to progress in this race. He won the Preakness in 1997 with Silver Charm, the very next year with Real Quiet, in 2001 with Point Given, the very next year with War Emblem and in 2010 with Lookin at Lucky. In the last 18 years, 9 times the Kentucky Derby winner has added the Preakness to his resume – American Pharoah makes it 10. What you saw from Baffert on Derby Day was a kinder, gentler horseman. Gone is the bravado but the talent to train the best horses in the world is still 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.

contest CONTEST UPDATE

Our recent Grand Prize packages 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” Both Grand Prize winners; Shirley Schreiner of Gilbert and Carole Spotts from Mesa, received 2 tickets to see a great Spring Training game; Shirley went to the L.A. Dodgers / Oakland A’s game at Camelback Ranch in Glendale, and Carole took in the Chicago White Sox / Seattle Mariners game at Camelback Ranch also. These two winners 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, 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 that received $20 restaurant gift cards. To enter our contest; go to the Arizona Player website arizonaplayer.com click on the Contest entry form remember to fill it out completely (it takes less than a minute) in addition to receive an extra entry, just go to the Arizona Player/ Facebook page and Like Arizona Player – it’s that simple. Limit 1 contest entry form per person per month. Good luck, we will announce the May/June winners in the July issue of Arizona Player and will have some great prizes like Diamondbacks tickets, Concert tickets and gift cards to some terrific places to shop or dine! We will have 1 Grand Prize

winner and 10 runner-up winners – So get busy and enter. Phil Scudella Publisher Arizona Player

ARIZONA PLAYER May 2015 25

DAVID AT THE SNACK BAR Avengers: Age of Ultron In the opening battle The Avengers secure Loki’s scepter from HYDRA. Tony Stark and Bruce Banner use the scepter’s infinity stone to implement a program called Ultron, intended to protect the Earth from alien invaders. Naturally, the program interprets it’s programming differently and thinks it by has to destroy the Avengers and then all of mankind. David Ramsey He has HYDRA’s genetically enhanced twins on his side and they create havoc within the Avengers that give Ultron the advantage. The action is non-stop and even though we find out more about all the heroes it feels like the story is lacking something that all the action is supposed to make up. While not the best film in the Marvel Universe it is entertaining and moves the continuing storyline forward. If you are a fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe “Avengers: Age of Ultron” is a must see.

Age of Adaline Adaline Bowman stopped aging at the age of twenty-nine. Over the past eight decades she has had to move and change her identity every ten years. She has not been able to keep any friends or fall in love and she has lived a lonely life. It is almost time for her to move again and while she is making the necessary arrangements she meets someone who she could fall in love with. If she decides to stay and try to make a life with him her secret will get out and the repercussions could be disastrous. The cast is brilliant and the story is very engaging. This one of the rare romantic films that I truly enjoyed, “Age of Adaline” is worth paying full price to see.

David’s Video Details

American Sniper

Chris Kyle became a legend as a sniper who saved countless lives. Based on the autobiographical book by Kyle “American Sniper” is more than the story of war hero. It is the story of a man and his family who have to deal with what four tours of active duty have done to him. “American Sniper” is a powerful story that is well told.

Fifty Shades of Grey

Anastasia’s life changes when she meets billionaire Christian Grey. He basically stalks her until she agrees to go out with him. He explains that he doesn’t have relationships and has very particular tastes. When he explains to her that he is into BDSM and shows her his playroom, she doesn’t run, so he pursues her asking her to sign a contract detailing their potential relationship. The writing is terrible, the characters are not believable and that there are at least two sequels on the way is heinous – Having said that, it was better than the “Twilight” series.

Mortdecai

Mortdecai is a debonair art collector who has gotten himself into a financial bind that could cause him to lose his estate. He is asked to help recover a stolen painting and he agrees to do it for enough money to get him out of debt. There are angry Russians, the British MI5, an international terrorist and his wife to deal with. Intended to be an action comedy it just misses on both fronts. “Mortdecai” could have been a good film with a couple script tweaks, i.e. lose the unfunny running gag about his mustache, and a different cast. 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 May 2015

gaming news Get “Shanghaied” in Oregon When the hot Arizona summer rages on – maybe it’s time to “Shanghai” the family to a spot where real Shanghais were a way of life – in Oregon. Buried beneath the streets of Portland, left over from the 1800s, are tunnels, where drunken and drugged visitors were transported to waiting ship captains for about $50 a head.. They arrived in the tunnels when they carelessly stepped on trapdoors in the bar floors above.

If you’re a rock climber – check out all the rock formations like Monkey Face at Smith Rock State Park it looks like an exciting climb! Continue the adventure to nearby Hood River, where you’ll find the century old Hood River Railroad, at the foothills of Mt. Hood. There are themed rides, including the Western Train Robbery – A trip back in history, with spectacular views. For a memorable adventure, head northwest to the Columbia River Gorge near Astoria, Oregon and the bridge over Multnomah Falls – What a

Center your trip in the Portland and you can tour some of those old bars and tunnels. For some wild excitement, just east of Portland is Hellgate Canyon, and the Rogue River - Take a boat tour along the same route where they filmed “Rooster Cogburn,” and “Gunsmoke.” One tour includes a breathtaking journey over white-water rapids Get ready to get wet - It’s quite a trip.

28 ARIZONA PLAYER May 2015

spectacular view! Then further north into Washington - to Mt. St. Helens, one of America’s active volcanoes - Tour on foot, by road, or helicopter. The last major eruption was captured on film, and is there for your viewing. While the area is remote, many of the activities are free, and food and gift items are available including jewelry made from the volcanic ash. To plan your Cool Oregon adventure just go to www.traveloregon.com for all the help you will need

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 May 2015 29

Joke page, ASTROLOGY, Casino directory Jokes of the Month Late Night Levity

Louise and Lester, a long retired couple are home were switching channels one late night when they came across a TV Evangelist when the preacher walked up to the camera and announced “My friends, I’d like to share my healing powers with everyone watching this program right now – Please place one hand on top of your TV & the other hand on the part of your body which ails you and I will heal you.” Louise had long been having terrible stomach problems, so she gets up and places one hand on the television, and her other hand on her stomach.

With a sly smirk on her face his wife says, “Lester, he’s talking about healing the sick, not raising the dead.”

Educational Event

Tammy and Tim were attending a rock concert at an outdoor event when they both noticed a very affectionate couple siting on a blanket in front of them, running their hands over each other passionately. Suddenly Tim turns to his wife and says “I don’t know whether to watch them or the band on the stage?”

Like he was taking a cue from his wife, Lester got up from his recliner, approached the TV screen, placing one hand on the TV and his other hand on his groin.

“Watch them!” she said, “You already know how to play the guitar!”

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

Cancer June 22 to July 22

Capricorn Dec 22 to Jan 20

May 7 - 13 May 14 - 21 May 22 - 31 Jun 1 - 6 May 7 - 13 May 14 - 21 May 22 - 31 Jun 1 - 6 May 7 - 13 May 14 - 21 May 22 - 31 Jun 1 - 6

Odd way to win Terrific experience Memorable week Stars may be right

Question reason why That old pal returns Exactly as you thought Get yourself out an about Make that move Fabulous week Hunch pays off Could be telling truth

May 7 - 13 May 14 - 21 May 22 - 31 Jun 1 - 6 May 7 - 13 May 14 - 21 May 22 - 31 Jun 1 - 6

Suspicions answered Special week ahead Lady could fill need Take good friend’s advice

Libra Sept 24 to Oct 23

May 7 - 13 May 14 - 21 May 22 - 31 Jun 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 May 2015

Life is turning around Go, now is the time Wild Weekend ahead Never underestimate luck

Positive thinking wins Opportunity ahead Great time with friends Unexpected pleasure

May 7 - 13 May 14 - 21 May 22 - 31 Jun 1 - 6 May 7 - 13 May 14 - 21 May 22 - 31 Jun 1 - 6 May 7 - 13 May 14 - 21 May 22 - 31 Jun 1 - 6

Advice proves beneficial Cards flop in your favor Now you know Great month ahead Stay close for nice win Plan that special trip Exciting new friend Time to act is now Celebration is coming BIG surprise coming Right place, right time Stick to your plan

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

May 7 - 13 May 14 - 21 May 22 - 31 Jun 1 - 6 May 7 - 13 May 14 - 21 May 22 - 31 Jun 1 - 6

Old pal is back Fun with family Weekend of wins Confide in good friend

Time for great fun soon You’ll be thrilled Perfect plans works Slow play is right call

Aries Mar 21 to April 20

May 7 - 13 May 14 - 21 May 22 - 31 Jun 1 - 6

Work hard then play Excitement coming Time to call in favor Winning streak 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