March 2016 by Arizona Player

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Gaming•Entertainment•Travel www.arizonaplayer.com

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Card Room Action Casino Entertainment Casino Revenues Keep Growing Boyd’s Eye View – UPTOWN FUNK REEL REVIEWS – “Crazy Money Deluxe” Blackjack Corner – Blackjack Tournaments Vol. 24 No. 3 • March 2016

Casino Del Sol Resort Announces All-Star Culinary Team

Cover Story on Page 6

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 Tony Deluz Melody Hudson David Ramsey Melissa Rowberry Satara Williams

Special Thanks to: The Marketing team and Management at Casino del Sol Resort and everyone at the Zion & Zion Agency for their help on this project.

Contributing Writers Linda Boyd Rachel Brockway Kevin Cummings Cindy Esquer Melody Hudson TJ Jorgensen Lyra Manning Teri Morris Brian Mulligan David Ramsey Melissa Rowberry Shelley Stewart 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 March 2016

Vol. 24 No. 3 • March 2016

Cover Story Casino del Sol announces their All-Star Culinary Team

Reel Reviews Kevin Cummings “Crazy Money Deluxe”

Gaming News Arizona Casino Revenues are up again & Getaway Poker

Gaming News Talking Stick Resort’s “Getaway Classic” Weekend Poker Event

Boyd’s Eye View of Video Poker Linda Boyd “Uptown Funk”

Card Room Action Table Game Action Around the State

TJ's Blackjack Corner TJ Jorgensen ”Blackjack Tournaments are big!”

Entertainment Casino Entertainment State-wide

Travel “Spring Training – Major League Baseball in the Valley of the Sun”

Contest Page Winners of the White Mountains Winter Wonderland Getaway

David at the Snack Bar David Ramsey Film and DVD reviews

Bingo Directory Complete List of Bingo Games at Arizona Casinos

Jokes of the Month, Astrology, & Casino Directory

COVER STORY

Casino Del Sol Resort Announces All-Star Culinary Team

Award-Winning Chefs Join Forces at Casino Del Sol Resort

Casino Del Sol Resort, Tucson’s premier entertainment destination, has added two award-winning, critically-acclaimed chefs to its culinary team. Chef Norman Nichols has been appointed as the resort’s new executive chef, and Chef Ryan Clark has been named chef de cuisine for the resort’s fine dining restaurant, PY Steakhouse. As executive chef, Chef Norman Nichols will helm the kitchens and lead the culinary teams overseeing the operations at the resort’s nine restaurants including PY Steakhouse, Ume, Tequila Factory, Festa International Buffet, Abuelita’s Taqueria, Moby’s, Streetscape Deli, Wildcats Grille and Sunflower Café (at Casino of the Sun, the resort’s sister property). With more than 40 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Chef Nichols’ impressive resume includes serving as executive chef of multiple tribal gaming properties, and holding a number of chef positions with some of the country’s most esteemed hospitality groups. A graduate of the Pratt Institute in New York, Chef Nichols has completed certification programs through Cornell University, Le Cordon Bleu Paris Cooking School and the Culinary Institute of America. He has also received the prestigious honor of Officier Commandeur after 30 years of service as a member of the world’s oldest culinary society, Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. Additionally, local favorite Chef Ryan Clark is now chef de cuisine for the Forbes Four-Star and Wine Spectator award-winning PY Steakhouse. PY Steakhouse offers traditional steakhouse fare with a modern twist, handcrafted seasonal cocktails, and a wine list rivaled by none. At 31, Tucson native Chef Clark has an abundance of experience in the food and beverage industry. After graduating at the top of his class from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York and being named one of the Top Sixteen Junior Chefs in the U.S. by the

American Culinary Foundation, Clark returned home to Arizona to hone his craft, as a chef at several notable restaurants and resorts. Chef Clark holds the rare distinction of being named Iron Chef Tucson for three consecutive years, as well as holding the title of Copper Chef from Tucson Originals. In 2012, he was nominated by Food & Wine Magazine as one of the Best New Chefs in the Southwest. “We continually strive to elevate guests’ experience at our restaurants,” said Casino Del Sol Resort’s Vice President of Food and Beverage, David

COVER STORY Alvarez. “The addition of award-winning Chef Norman Nichols and Chef Ryan Clark to our team has allowed us to take our culinary offerings to the next level.” Chef Nichols and Chef Clark are a perfect fit for the awardwinning resort. Casino Del Sol Resort has recently been named in the top 2 percent of Best Arizona Hotels by U.S. News & World Report, and is the only casino resort in Tucson that was ranked. Additionally, Forbes Travel Guide has named Casino Del Sol Resort as a Four-Star hotel, and PY Steakhouse as a Four-Star restaurant. To make a dinner reservation at one of Casino Del Sol Resort’s restaurants, visit www.casinodelsol.com or call 1-855-SOL-STAY (765-7829).

Casino Del Sol Resort Adds New Slot Machines to Paradiso Lounge and Casino Floor Located inside Casino Del Sol Resort, one of Tucson’s premier casinos and resorts, the Paradiso Lounge is well known for hosting the best local entertainment in the Old Pueblo. However, guests will now be able to enjoy more than a cold beverage and live music. On both sides of the bar area, 16 bar top video poker machines have been installed. These machines boast 27 different games to choose from, including popular IGT games such as Draw Poker and Deuces Wild. A variety of keno and video poker, and a few slot reels can be played with bets ranging from 5 cents to $1. These machines accept Club Sol player’s cards and accumulate points, just like the machines on the casino floor. Additionally, Casino Del Sol Resort continues to elevate the gaming experience for their guests by frequently replacing older slot machines on the casino floor with the latest touch screen games. Incredible Technology’s Crazy Money Deluxe is the most recent game to be installed. This game features the Skybox Progressive cabinet with 1 cent denomination and a maximum bet of $3. To learn more about Casino Del Sol Resort’s new slot machines, visit www.casinodelsol.com or call 1-855-SOL-STAY (765-7829).

Reel Reviews by Kevin Cummings

gaming news Arizona Casino’s revenue continues to grow!

Getaway Classic Poker Tournament

Casinos in Arizona have seen a growth in revenue for the fourth year in a row, according to the Phoenix Business Journal. Arizona casinos made $1.82 billion in revenue in 2014, marking a fourth straight year of growth. The findings, published in Casino City’s Indian Gaming Report, concluded the industry grew $11 million from 2013, equating to 0.6 percent. The state was ranked No. 5 in the nation for highest gross for states with Indian gaming. California, Oklahoma, Florida and Washington rounded out the top five. The Top five states bring in more than half of all Indian Gaming revenue! According to the report, the top five states in the nation (Indian Casinos operate in 28 states) made up more than 60 percent of the total national gaming revenue in Native American Casinos, which reached an all-time high of $28.9 billion. Even though Arizona boasts one of the highest revenues in the nation, state officials said the growth has been relatively slow. Amanda Jacinto with the Arizona Department of Gaming said in an interview with the Phoenix Business Journal that the growth in casino revenue is a sign of a growing economy in the state .More growth within Arizona Casinos On December 20th the Tohono O’Odham nation (Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment) with casinos in Tucson and Why, Arizona opened their forth casino west of Phoenix in Glendale, Arizona. There are future plans for a hotel, casino expansion and an entertainment complex. Recently, the Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe (Bucky’s Casino and Yavapai Casino) announced they will soon be building a new casino & resort in the Prescott area. Also, the San Carlos Apache Tribe in San Carlos (Apache Gold Casino Resort) 5 miles east of Globe, broke ground in early February for their new Apache Sky Casino in Dudleyville, Arizona, south of Globe and less than one hour from Oro Valley in north Tucson. In addition the Yavapai Apache Nation (Cliff Castle Casino) in Camp Verde broke ground in late January for a 6 story luxury Hotel. And the Ak-Chin Indian Community in Maricopa (Harrah’s Ak-Chin) will soon add 200 more hotel rooms, a multi-use ballroom, a parking garage and additional restaurants to the growing facility.

Talking Stick Resort is celebrating the start of spring with an exciting No Limit Hold ’Em tournament and weekend escape. The Getaway Classic will take place in The ARENA Poker Room Friday, Saturday and Sunday, April 15, 16 and 17. This unique Poker Tournament offers three days of competition and a prize pool of up to $120,000. Players who sign up for all three days can also receive a complimentary two-night hotel stay (rooms are based on availability). The tournament will begin each day at 11:15 a.m. and will feature the following buy-ins: April 15 - $200, April 16 - $300 and April 17 – also $300 Participants can sign-up for the three-day package, as well as register for individual days Buy-ins is required at the time of sign-up. Based on 200 entries, the daily prize pools will be as follows: April 15, $34,000; April 16, $53,000; and April 17, $33,000. Players can also score a seat in the event by participating in the Win a Seat tournament on Sunday, March 20 and Sunday, March 27 or the Single Entry Shootouts taking place from March 1 to April 15. The Win a Seat buy-in is $110 and the Single Entry Shootouts buy-in is $100. All participants must be ages 21+ and Player Rewards Club members. For more information, visit www.talkingstickresort.com/ poker-getaway-classictournament.aspx. Talking Stick Resort is located at the 101 Loop and Indian Bend Road in Scottsdale. (480) 850-7784

10 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2016

A BOYD’S EYE VIEW OF VIDEO POKER

Uptown Funk

It’s embarrassing to admit it, but one of my favorite songs of 2015 is “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson/ featuring Bruno Mars. Just picture the raised eyebrows when the band at a Humane Society event by Linda Boyd played a booming version and first-time listeners hearing “uptown funk you up”, swore the word wasn’t “funk”! Absolutely wonderful video and a hysterical mainstream reaction I love that song and think it’s because it has the flavor of Downtown Vegas, which I consider more fun than Uptown Las Vegas Boulevard. In fact, recently a band under the electronic canopy on Fremont Street performed it live and it was A+, almost as good as the original. Maybe it was the throngs of partyers of all stripes and ages singing, dancing and going bonkers that did it for me. Guess this that’s why people add the entertainment factor to their Vegas jaunts, even if their game is video poker. VP Funk: For those Arizonans who crave a dose of Downtown Vegas now and then there are still some good video poker plays but you have to look for them. One casino under the electronic canopy with three excellent VP games is the Four Queens. They have 10/7DB (10/7Double Bonus, ER 100.1725%, variance 25.25554, both figures without the progressive), 9/6JOB (9/6 Jacks or Better, ER 99.5439%, variance 19.51468) and 8/5BP (8/5 Bonus Poker, ER 99.1660%, variance 20.90408). I found vacant seats at all three games even though I was there on a Friday night. Most people just plop down at the nearest machine without even bothering to look at the pay tables. 10/7DB: Progressive 10/7DB is only available in quarters (there were 8 of them on my last visit, on the wall adjacent to Magnolia’s restaurant) but there are 4 dollar machines near the cashier’s cage. You must practice on your tutorial software or by using my strategy cards (free in the back of my book), to get the indicated theoretical return. Be aware that 10/7 BP (in fact

12 ARIZONA PLAYER NMovember arch 2016 2015

all versions of BP) games can be tricky to play accurately and you only get the theoretical return when you play computer-perfect. 9/6JOB: This is an excellent choice because it has such a low variance, meaning you are more likely to hang on to your bankroll than in volatile games, like 9/6DDB (9/6 Double Double Bonus, ER 98.9808%, variance 41.98498). Not only that but 9/6JOB has a relatively intuitive strategy even though you should practice before heading to a casino. 9/6JOB is a great choice if you’re trying to earn food, room comps or get extra entry tickets for a promotion. That’s because you can play longer on your pre-determined bankroll with low variance games, assuming you know the game’s basic strategy. 8/5BP: This, too, is a good game since it is more exciting than 9/6JOB with extra money for special four of a kinds (Aces, Twos, Threes and Fours) while still paying double your wager for two pair, a frequent hand. (Notice that DDB games only pay even money for two pair and that’s why the variance is so high.) You can use the same strategy as you use for 9/6JOB when playing 8/5BP. Make sure you check the pay schedule carefully before depositing money. That’s because people have spotted pseudo versions that only return your bet with two pair, but misleadingly call themselves BP. Final Thoughts: So if you need some authentic “Uptown Funk”, Downtown Vegas is the place to find it. If you’re a VP player, however, don’t get so carried away with the nearly- nude human statues and jumbo street party that you dump your dollars on bad games. You really can have a screaming good time and still play smart on Freemont, one of the most iconic streets on this planet. Linda Boyd, a long-time table game player before turning to video poker, also writes for “Southern & Midwest Gaming” and the latest edition of “American Casino Guide”. Watch her videos on YouTube or view them on American Casino Guide’s web site and her radio interviews are on iTunes. Boyd’s book, “The Video Poker Edge”, includes free removable pay schedules and strategy cards for the most popular games. The latest edition is available from amazon.com, Square One Publishers and book stores - Also at 1-800-877-BOOK. Kindle edition now available. www.squareonepublishers.com

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 Fri, Sat & Sun, April 15, 16 & 17 – Getaway Poker Classic, Play in all three Tournaments and receive a complimentary weekend stay! You can WIN a seat to all 3 tournaments in the Getaway Classic Super Satellite Tournaments on March 20th or 27th. Mon – Fri, 11:15 am – NLHE Tournament - $125 buy-in Mon – Fri, 7:15pm - NLHE, $145 buy-in Fri, 7:15 pm – NLHE Tournament - $200 buy-in Sat, Mar 12 & Apr 9, 11:15 am – “Super Bounty” NLHE - $240 buy-in w/ $100 Bounties Sat, Mar 26, Apr 30 & May 28, 11:15 am – End of MonthNLHE - $160 buy-in Sun Apr 10, 11:15am – Ladies NLHE tournament Sat, Apr 2, 11:15am – “Big Stack” NLHE – $345 buy-in Sat, Mar 19 & May 21, 11:15am – Super Stack NLHE - $500 buy-in Food Specials; Daily $4 breakfast or Steak & eggs $6.75 (2 am – Noon) $16 Prime Rib Dinner (5-11pm on Mondays)

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 Thurs at 7pm, NLHE – $40 buy-in, one $20 re-buy, $5 Bounties and “High Hand” of the Tournament Sun & Wed – Spreading 2-8 Omaha Daily Aces Cracked $40 - max 3 per day Wed, all day – Straight Flush $50 & High hand of day at 8pm pays $50 Fri, all day – 4 of a kind $50, Royal Flush $200 - High hand of day at 8pm pays $50 Bad Beat Hold-em Jackpot (aces full of 10s or better, beaten) was hit recently for over $53,000 – It has re-set and is growing again

Dealing blackjack daily at 9am – JUST ADDED! Earn entries daily for the $10,000 Blackjack Tournament on March 20th at Noon – Drawing on March 13 to name qualifiers. Earn entries every day for any blackjack, 6-7-8 or 7-7-7 blackjacks – Plus entries for hours played and other ways too. First place pays $5,000! Players, put your skills to work and get in on the fun!

14 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2016

Bucky’s Casino 928-515-5305

Cocopah Casino 800-237-5687

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, at Noon – Omaha Hi/Lo - $100 added per table $80 buy-in Every Mon & Wed – Spreading Omaha Hi/Lo “Aces Cracked” Wins $75) every day – all day, no limits in any Texas Hold Em game Dealing blackjack 24/7 – Now playing; Texas Shoot Out and High Card Flush w/ bonus jackpot

Somerton, AZ Dealing blackjack daily at 10am –

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 (Starting time 1am) Dealing blackjack 24/7

Desert Diamond I-19 Casino 1-866-332-9467

Casino Arizona 480-850-7777

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 Tues, 7pm - $400 guarantee FREE ROLL – 50 players max (no entry fee) opt Dealer appreaciation fee $6 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 Progressive High Hand 24/7 – Win up to $500 - see poker room for details Basketball Pools on Mon, Tues, Sat & Sun – win more if you play longer – up to 3 hours for $300 PLUS 2nd drawing for 3 hours after the games. Dealing Blackjack 24/7 - New Games featuring; Crazy 4 Poker, Texas Shootout, Casino WAR & Ultimate Texas Hold’Em!

Cliff Castle Casino 928-567-7952

Camp Verde, AZ Mon-Fri, 10am - NLHE Shoot-out, $30 buy-in, w/ no re-buys Wed, 7pm – NLHE Tournament $60 buy-in 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” 24/7 , Win from $50 to $200 – see poker room for details Also dealing blackjack - 9- 2am (Mon-Thurs) 9 - 4am (Fri & Sat)

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 “March Madness” – Splash Pots for selected TV games – see for poker room for details

Dealing blackjack 24/7 w/ 3 card poker, “progressive 6 card bonus” “Push Bet” and “IN BETWEEN” bet 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 Sun, Tues & Thurs, 7pm - NLHE - $5 buy-in Fri, 7pm, NLHE - $60 buy-in w/one $10 dealer add-on for additional $5,000 in chips Sat, Noon & 4pm - NLHE - $5 buy-in Sat, 7pm, NLHE Deep Stack tournament - $50 buy-in w/ opt $30 add-on Sun, Noon & Wed, 7pm – NLHE - $10 buy-in, $5 re-buys & Double $20 add-on at the break Sun, Feb 21 at 10am - Ladies NLHE Poker Tournament - $60 Buy-in + Opt $10 Dealer Appreciation “Aces Cracked” 24/7 Min $100 up to $1,000! See poker room for details

“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 & each live table is splashed with amount

March 17th - “3 Cloves of Cash” St. Paddy’s Day Blackjack Tournament - $30 entry fee, 1st Place pays $3,300 – Call for details. Dealing blackjack 24/7 – w/ Free bet blackjack, split Aces up to 3 times, hit more than once and Double Down after first hit! In addition NEW GAMES HAVE BEEN ADDED! Including the “Push Bet” that pays 10-1 when you push! Check them out.

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino 480-802-5138 Maricopa, AZ

March Basketball Madness - Starting March 15th - $25 Splash Pots on ALL Tables for every 25 point interval! Monday Madness NLHE at 7:30pm - $25 buy-in – unlimited $5 re-buys for the first hour Tues, 7:30pm – Limit Omaha Hi/Lo -$25 buy-in – w/ 3 re-buys

CARD ROOM ACTION and 2 add-ons Wed, 7:30pm – $1,000 WSOP Qualifier NLHE, $80 buy-in w/ no re-buys (min 20 players) Thurs, 5:30pm – NLHE, $20 Buy-in plus three $10 re-buys & two $10 add-ons Sat, 12:30pm – $500 Guaranteed NLHE - $50 buy-in Sun 12:30pm – NLHE - $25 buy-in w/ two $10 add-ons at the break Sun 5:30pm – WSOP Qualifier NLHE, $120 buy-in Min 20 players – Winner of Tournament wins a $1,500 WSOP Seat. Aces Cracked – 24/7 pays $50 All-Day Everyday – Splash pots” every ½ hour 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 –NLHE “Big Stack’ $50 buy-in w/ no re-buys Tues, 6pm - NLHE “Speed Shoot-Out” $15 buy-in (no re-buys) $2 chip-up Wed, 6pm – No-limit Hold Em - $40 buy-in no re-buys 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 Fri & Sat – all day, $100 High Hand (Hold Em)

Lone Butte Casino 800-946-4452

Chandler, AZ Dealing blackjack 24/7 Linked Progressive Jackpots include; Crazy 4 Poker & Ultimate Texas Hold EM grows at all 3 Gila River Casinos! Call for current jackpots. PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot at press time was $269,900 and growing!

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino 800-777-7529

Payson, AZ Live poker Wed –Sun at 10am- includes Omaha on Wed & Thurs morning, and Hold e Fri & Sat nights at 6pm (sign up the day before for all live games. Wed at 6pm NLHE Tournament, $25 buy-in no-re buys Sat & Sun at 3pm, NLHE Tournament, $25 buy-in – no re-buys

Dealing blackjack 10am to 1am, with $5 games including the “Push Bet”, “Texas Shoot-Out” and new “Multiplier” Blackjack 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 Sat & Sun at 10am, Mon &Tues at 4pm, Wed & Thur at 2pm Wed & Thurs at 2pm Fri – Sun at 10am - 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, NLHE Tournaments $25 buy-in, unlimited buy-ins first hour

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 Dealing blackjack 24/7

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

Laveen, AZ Wed, 7:30pm, **NLHE “Humpday”$40 buy-in w/ Opt $10 Staff fee at the break for added chips

Sat, 11:15 am, (weekly except 1st Sat) **NLHE “Big Stack”$40 buy-in w/ Opt $10 Staff fee for extra chips + $20 add-on at break

1st Saturday at 12:15pm – “Super Stack” NLHE ($110 buy-in) Opt $20 Staff fee for extra $5,000 in chips + $20 add-on at the break

Sun 11:15 am, **NLHE “Sunday Brunch”$30 buy-in w/ Opt $10 Staff fee & $20 add-on at break ALL NEW “Quads or Better” Starts at $50 then increases by $25 per day till hit – “Straight Flush” starts at $100 then up by $50 per day till hit! Royal Flush starts at $200 and up $50 per day till hit! “ACES CRACKED” spins the wheel - win up $300 Early Bird Chips” for live play before each tournament - 1st & 2nd place at final table qualify for the “Tournament of Champions” FREE ROLL each quarter. March Madness Pro & College Splash Pots on selected TV games – see poker for details

Dealing blackjack 24/7 – Friday Afternoon Blackjack Tournament at 4pm - $30 buy-in Linked Progressive Jackpots for Ultimate Texas Hold EM & Crazy 4 Poker grows daily at all 3 Casinos! PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot at press time was $269,900 and growing!

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino 800-946-4452 Ext #7375

Chandler, AZ Hockey “Splash pots” - each goal scored (either team) gets 3 tables splashed for $100 each! Mon – Thurs Noon - NLHE, $30 buy-in, plus opt $10 dealer add-on - no re-buys - $150 added per table – top 10 paid 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 addbefore the break & bonus chips for play before tournament “High Hand” 4am-9am wins $100 each hour “Aces Cracked” Win a Rack – 24/7 (except during sports promotions) Plus a $50 Splash Pot on that table the next hand! “Rolling Cash Fever” Drawing every other hour 24/7, $100 min, increases by $100 if not hit – must go at 11pm on Monday Food specials: ½ price poker room menu March 17th – The 12th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Blackjack Tournament - $60 Buy-in, 1st Place pays $6,500! Call for details. Dealing blackjack 24/7 - PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot at press time was $269,900 and growing! Linked Progressive Jackpots for Ultimate Texas Hold Em & Crazy 4 Poker grows daily at all 3 Gila River Casinos!

CARD ROOM MANAGERS

please send updates to azplayer@cox.net

ARIZONA PLAYER March 2016 15

TJ’s Blackjack corner

Two St. Paddy’s Day Blackjack Tournaments!

his year there will be an additional St. Patrick’s Day Blackjack tournament to choose from on March 17th. First, Wild Horse Pass Casino in Chandler will be presenting their 12th Annual Luck of the Irish Blackjack Tournament at Gila River Wild Horse Pass. At the same time Fort McDowell Casino in the Fountain Hills area will be vying for those Blackjack Tournament players too with their Inaugural Three Cloves of Cash Blackjack Tournament. Wild Horse Pass Casino has an entry fee of $60, with Guarantees first place prize money to be $6,500. Fort McDowell Casino has announced an entry fee of $30 with Guarantees first place prize money to be $3,300. Keep in mind, seating is limited in both tournaments – So it is a good idea to sign up early. Both tournaments will have identical rules and will consist of a Qualifying round, a Semi-Final round and then the Championship round. In the Qualifying rounds players will be given $1000 in tournament chips with betting limits from $10 to $1,000. There will be a chip count after the 16th hand – then at the end of 21 hands the player with the most chips will advance to the semi- finals. If you fail to qualify, there may be an opportunity by TJ Jorgensen

by TJ Jorgensen

to re-buy depending on how many players have entered. In the semi-finals, the remaining players will again be given $1000 in play chips with betting limits from $10 to $1000. At the end of 21 hands, only the player with the most chips at each table will advance to the Championship round. The Championship round will consist of the remaining players, all competing for their share of the prize money. Players will again start with $1000 in tournament chips, betting limits from $10 to $1000. At the end of 21 hands, the player with the most chips will receive first place prize money. When a Casino adds their own money to the prize pool, which is the case here, it creates a positive expectation for the player, making it a must play, here’s why; At Fort McDowell Casino the tournament pays through 6 places and has 108 entries. The odds of getting in the money are 1 in 18 based on luck alone. (108 divided 6) The prize pool is $6,000 paid to the top six players making the average payoff $1,000. If you $6,000 by 6 - It would take 18 entries of $30 each for a total of $540 to get in the money once by luck alone, which would pay an average of $1,000. Simply put, in the long run you will make $460 on average for every 18 tournaments played, ($1,000 - $540 = $460) making it the only game in the casino that has a positive expectation for the

player. When I play positive expectation tournaments I don’t consider it gambling, I call it investing. It is not a question of if you will…..it is just a matter of when you do win. Finally, I would like to compliment Lone Butte Casino on their Presidents Day Blackjack Tournament that was held on Monday February 15th. With little promotion it was a sell out and big success. All of the players had a good time and first place prize money was $5,000! I think this tournament really showed how large the community of blackjack tournament players has become in the valley, and the huge popularity of Blackjack Tournaments. Hopefully some of the other Casinos will follow suite and hold their own blackjack tournaments. 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

entertainment Apache Gold Casino Resort

(5 miles East of Globe on Hwy 70) 1-800-272-2438

The POINT Sports Bar & Grill: Big screens to watch sports & more!

San Carlos Event Center: Mar 12 & 13 – Apache Gold POW WOW - $32,500 prize money awarded Convention Center: March 18 – Ron Stubbs HYPNOTIC MAYHEM (Rock & Roll Hypnotist) The Point Sports Bar: Live bands on various weekends

BlueWater Resort and Casino

11300 Resort Dr., Parker 1-888-243-3360 BlueWater Showroom: BlueWater Amphitheater: Mar 12 – Colorado River Blues Festival & Motorcycle Show (2pm-8pm) featuring Storybook Villains, Levi Platero Band and The Outbacks River’s Edge Cantina: Call for entertainment updates On the Water: March 26 & 27 – Spring Classic Boat Races April 15, 16 & 17 – Lucas Oil Drag Boat Racing Series May 6 & 7 – Supreme Wake Surf Competition Dig Lounge: DJs/live bands & Sports on the big screens

Casino Arizona

101 at McKellips, Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Showroom: Mar 11 & 12 – Iron Maidens (Iron Maiden Tribute Band) Mar 25 &26 – BONFIRE (AC/DC Tribute) Apr 1 & 2 – House of Floyd (Pink Floyd Tribute) Apr 15 & 16 – Led Zepagain (Led Zeppelin Tribute Band) Apr 22 & 23 – WANTED (Bon Jovi Tribute) Apr 29 & 30 – Mistress of Reality (Black Sabbath Tribute Band) May 13 – QUEEN NATION (Tribute to Queen) May 20 – Fan Halen (Van Halen Tribute Band) May 27 – The Long Run (Eagles Experience) Arizona Room Patio Grill: Mon – Chad Freeman and Redline (8pm) Tues– Trivia Tuesdays - $1000 up for grabs (register 5:30-6:30 – action starts at 7pm) Wed – Country dance instruction with Laina Lee, (6-8pm) Daisy Train at 8pm Thurs – Latin Fire Dance Night w/ Dance Lessons (6-8pm) Rhythm of the Sun Band at 8pm Fri – Superhero Band at 8pm Sat – Live bands like; Neon, Shining Star or JJ’s Band April 9 at 5pm – World Welterweight Championship – Pacquiao vs Bradley (Viewing Party)

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, plus every Sunday 80’s & Gentlemen Band AVA Amphitheater: April 1 – Tejano Music Shootout! Featuring AB Quintanilla Electro Kumbia & La Mafia w/ special guest Chris Perez April 16 – WFF/MMA (World Fighting Federation-Mixed Martial Arts) Apr 21 thru 23 – Tucson International Mariachi Conference 2016 May 21 – Snoop Dogg

Snoop Dogg

Conference Center: Mar 11 – Comedian Jim Jefferies Apr 9 – Comedy & Magic of Mac King Paradiso Bar: Free entertainment, with bands every weekend and Tribute bands on Thursdays

Cliff Castle Casino Drag Boat - Lucas Oil

18 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2016

I-17 at exit 289 in Camp Verde 1-800-381-SLOT Stargazer Pavilion: Call for new schedule Dragonfly Lounge; live music on weekends Thursday Nights thru March – Live Band Showcase

BET ON

WINNING

HWY 87 - 2 MILES NORTH OF SHEA BLVD | 1.800.THE.FORT | FortMcDowellCasino.com Minimum age to participate in Gaming or Promotions is 21 years of age. Gaming Problem? Call 1-800-NEXTSTEP.

entertainment Cocopah Casino Resort

Mar 25 – Quantum, Mar 26 – John Eric Band April Events: Apr 1 – “THE GARTH GUY” Dean Simmons Tribute to Garth Brooks, Apr 2 – Coldshott & the Hurricane Horns, Apr 8 – Smooth Groove, Apr 9 – Carvin Jones, Apr 15 – GHOST IN THE MACHINE (Police / Sting Tribute Band) Apr 16 – North, Apr 22 – Desert Dixie, Apr 23 – Soundwave, April 29 – The Walkens Special Event: (Free) Sat April 30 – 5 time Grammy winner Marty Stuart (8pm show)

15318 S Avenue B, Somerton, AZ (Yuma area) (928) 726-8066 Sunset Lounge: Thurs, Fri & Sat – Bling Bling Karaoke River Room: The best Live local bands in Arizona

Desert Diamond Casino Hotel

7350 South Nogales Hwy, Tucson 1-866-332-9467 Monsoon Night Club: Live bands or DJ on weekends Fridays – “Old School Mix” w/ DJ Blade Saturdays – “Noches Caliente” Featuring; Los Gallegos, Los Centenarios or Angel Norteno

Mon - Thurs (Happy Hour, 5-8pm) w/bands; Thaddeus Rose, Chuckey Baby Duo , Flavour, Marley Taylor, Mike & Teddy, Karen & Marcus, Walkens Trio, Stanley Serano Duo, Van & Melanie, John Eric Duo, Freddie Duran Duo, Silhoutte or Unique Wed (noon -4pm) featuring; Bandstand Shows, Silhouette, Yesterday Once More, Swingtips, Jukebox 6Marcini the Band or December ’63 (Four Seasons Tribute)

Desert Diamond Casino I -19

1100 West Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita 1-866-332-9467 Diamond Center: Mar 19 – Marisela Mar 25 – MVP Band Mar 26 – Rick Springfeild Apr 2 – Kenny G Sports Bar: Mon – Fri 5pm -2am, Sat/Sun 10am-2am w/ Sports on big screens, Karaoke or DJ nightly & live bands on weekends

Fort McDowell Casino

N of Shea off Hwy 87, Fountain Hills 1-800-THE-FORT Lucky 7 Saloon: weekends with the greatest bands in the southwest; Smokestack Lighting, STR8UP Band, Rhythm Edition, Furious George, Powerhouse Band, The Hamptons and Duane Moore featuring The Mogollon Band OUTDOOR EVENT: April 30 – Creedence Clearwater Revisited Bingo Hall: 1st Saturday of each month – Late Night Lunar Bingo w/ music & giveaways For updates – go to fortmcdowellcasino.com

20 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2016

Sun ( 5-9pm) – Hillbilly Deluxe, Walkens Trio, Paul Wells, Sun City Groove Band, Cowboy Up or the Joe Costello Syndicate

For updates, go to harrahsakchin.com

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort and Casino

15406 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa 480-802-5000 ULTRASTAR Amphitheater – (next door to Harrah’s Ak-Chin) Mar 26 – Frankie Ballard THE LOUNGE: Weekends in The Lounge starting at 8pm (no cover) March Events: Mar 17 – St. Patrick’s Day Bagpipes strolling the casino floor 2-4pm Fri & Sat: (8pm to 1am) Mar 11 & 12 – DSB (Journey Tribute) Mar 18 – Western Fusion, Mar 19 – Mick Adams & the Stones (Rolling Stones Tribute Band)

Hon-Dah Resort and Casino

Highways 260 and 73, Pinetop 1-800-WAY-UP-HIGH Conference Center: Mar 25 – ABBA FAB (Tribute to ABBA) Timbers Lounge: Free entertainment, Monday is Comedy Night, Tues-Sat, Live bands Mar 8 thru 12 – Rockhall Doctors (Classic Rock) Apr 5 thru 9 – Barrio Latino April 12 thru 16 – Doo-Wah Riders Apr 19 thru 23 – Justin Wright & High Octane May 3 thru 7 – Marshall Star Band May 10 thru 14 – Soular Eclipse

THRU

MAR 31

Every Tuesday 1-3p & Thursday 3-6p! Play to Win a share of over $10,000 in Cash & Prizes. Earn 150 Slot Points 12a-2:30p Tues and 12a-5:30p Thurs to play! Get up to 2 Re-buys for an additional 150 Slot Points each! See Castle Club for details

The Perfect Place to Play.

CLIFF CASTLE

CASINO - #1

cliffcastlecasinohotel.com

800.381.7568 | I-17, Exit 289 路 Camp Verde Cliff Castle Casino Hotel reserves the right to modify, suspend and/or cancel this promotion at any time, without notice, with approval of the Yavapai-Apache Gaming Commission. Guests must be 21 or older to participate. Please play responsibly.

YEARS IN A ROW!

entertainment

Lone Butte Casino

202 loop at the Kyrene exit – Chandler, 1-800-WIN-GILA Lone Butte Event Center: Mar 20 – Mick Adams & The Stones (Rolling Stones Tribute) Apr 15 – Born Jovi (Bon Jovi Tribute Band Apr 25 – Catch A Wave (Beach Boys Tribute) Cascades Lounge: Mon, Tues & Fri (4-8pm) Featuring; Marty & the Party, Thaddeus Rose and others Fri & Sat (9:30pm- 1:30am) featuring; JJ Band, Soundwave, Str8Up, Powerdrive, Rhythm Edition, Smooth Groove and others Cities Bar & Grille: Sunday: (10am-4pm) live Jazz during Brunch Buffet Bingo Hall: 11pm Fri & Sat - B.A.D BINGO w/DJ “Rockin’ Rob” music, light show, bingo & giveaways

Paradise Casino

450 Quechan Drive, Yuma 1-888-777-4946 Sharky’s Bar & Bites: DJ or bands on weekends

Quechan Casino Resort

525 Algodones Rd, Winterhaven CA (Yuma area) 1-877-783-2426 Sidewinders bar: Free weekend entertainment w/ bands or deejays

22 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2016

Talking Stick Resort

Loop 101 and Indian Bend Road - Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Showroom: Mar 12 – BoDeans Mar 16 thru Mar 20 – Legends in Concert! 2 shows, 5 & 8pm (except Wed 8pm, 1 show & Sun I show at 5pm) Mar 25 – Tesla Mar 26 – An Evening with David Crosby April 2 – Steve Hackett April 9 – Kathleen Madigan April 22 – HOLY HOLY – Performing David Bowie’s Greatest Hits April 23 – Graham Nash April 30 – Nitty Gritty Dirt Band May 5 thru 7 – Thunder from Down Under (Male Revue) May 14 – Tracy Morgan May 15 – Aaron Lewis June 3 – Blue October June 4 – “The Rides” featuring Steven Stills, Barry Goldberg & Kenny Wayne Shepherd Grand Ballroom: May 29 – Lisa Lampanelli July 16 – Happy Together Tour w/ The Turtles featuring Flo & Eddie, Chuck Negron (of Three Dog Night) Cowsills, Mark Lindsay, Gary Puckett & the Union Gap and the Spencer Davis Group “Release” Pool Parties Return! – The fun begins Saturdays & Sundays in April Sat April 9 – DVBBS, Sun Apr 10 – Lil Jon, Apr 16 – Firebeatz and Apr 17 - tyDi Palo Verde Lounge: Live bands nightly Shadows Lounge: Bands, singles & duos featuring jazz, classic sounds of Frank Sinatra and others Degree 270 Lounge: Fri & Sat, w/ the region’s best DJ’s Orange Sky Restaurant & Lounge: Live jazz

Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort

March 12 – Latin Royale (Tribute to Santana, Selena & Ricky Mar 26 – Motown Magic (Tribute to the music of Motown) Apr 9 (5pm) World Welterweight Championship – Pacquiao vs Bradley (Viewing Party) Apr 16 – Beny Mena & Narcizo Gonzalez Apr 23 – Soul Patrol (Tribute to soul music) V Q LIVE: (Mon – Sat, 4pm-7pm & 9pm-1am, Featuring; Andrea & Gemini, Powerdrive,Eagleheart, Latino Rebel Band, STR8UP, Chaka & Friends, Rhythm of the Sun Band, Walkens Unplugged, Chuck E Baby, Marty & the Party , Priminition, Soul Persuasion and others Bingo Park: Every Saturday at 11pm – BINGO ECLIPSE – Bingo, DJ music, light show & giveaways

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

Ovations LIVE! Showroom:

Mar 12 – 38 Special, Mar 20 – Magic of Manilow, Mar 25 – Jim Jefferies, Mar 26 – Richard Marx Apr 1 – Belinda Carlisle, Apr 2 – AB Quintanilla & Elektro Kumbia All Starz, Apr 8 – Sinbad, Apr 9 – Air Supply, Apr 29 – Clint Black May 13 – Night Ranger, May 14 – WFF / MMA fights live June 4 – Ziggy Marley, June 10 – Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo July 8 - Intocable The Lounge: Mid-day (Mon10am-3pm) w/ Jukebox 6 or Route 66 w/ DJ Danny Davis Late night (Wed – Sun) featuring; Priminition, Shining Star, Smooth Groove, Soundwave, Priminition and others CHROME NIGHT CLUB: Fridays & Saturdays – Arizona’s Newest Hot Spot featuring DJ Medik

22181 Resort Blvd (I-40 @ exit 219) Flagstaff (928) 856-7200 Free Live Entertainment on weekends w/ bands; Stateline, Camille Rae & District 26, Buckit Band, STR8UP and others

Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino

The West Valley Casino 51st Ave, 4 miles S. of Baseline – Laveen 1-800-WIN-GILA Event Center:

AB Quintanilla + Elektro Kumbia All Starz

ARIZONA PLAYER March 2016 23

travel TRAVEL – Spring Training in Arizona How great would it be if you could visit and watch 15 Major League Baseball Teams in about a week and yet not travel more than 30 to 40 minutes by car from your home each day! Why you might even be able to visit 4 major league teams on the same day! How can this be? Pretty easy, now that 15 MLB teams play in stadiums near each other in the Phoenix Metro area during Cactus League play in the month of March. Here’s a look at the teams, where they play and their home schedule. Remember the Spring Training schedule in Arizona ends for most teams on March 30 & 31. Stadium Box Office numbers are listed or you can call Tickets .com at (800) 905.3315 or Ticketmaster at (800) 745. 3000 Arizona Diamondbacks Salt River Fields at Talking Stick – 7555 N Pima Road, Scottsdale, AZ – 480-270-5000 March 8 (Angles) 9 (Padres) 12 (Royals) 14 (Mariners) 16 (Reds) 18 (Dodgers) 19 (Rangers) 21 (Brewers) 22 (Giants) 23 (Giants) 25 (Indians) 27 (Rockies) 29 (Rockies) April 1 & 2 (Royals at Chase Field) Chicago Cubs Slone Park – 2330 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Mesa, AZ – 480-668-0500 March 8 (Dodgers) 9 (Indians) 11 (Reds) 12 (White Sox) 14 (Padres) 17 (D-Backs) 20 (Royals) 25 (Brewers) 26 (Giants) 27 (Mariners) 29 (A’s) 30 (Rockies) Chicago White Sox Camelback Ranch – 10710 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ – 623-3025000 March 8 (Brewers) 9 (A’s) 10 (Royals) 13 (D-Backs) 15 (Dodgers) 18 (Cubs) 19 (Dodgers) 22 (Giants) 23 (Padres) 24 (Angels) 26 (Reds) also 26 (Dodgers) 29 (Rangers) Cincinnati Reds Goodyear Ballpark – 1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear, AZ – 623 – 882-3120 March 9 (Rangers) 11 (Rockies) 12 (Mariners) 15 (Royals) 17 (Indians) 20 (D-Backs) 22 (Cubs) 25 (Rockies) 26 (Indians) 28 (Brewers) 30 (White Sox) Cleveland Indians Goodyear Ballpark – 1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear, AZ – 623 – 882-3120 March 8 (Mariners) 10 (Padres) 13 (Brewers) 14 (Rangers) 16 (Angels) 18 (A’s) 19 (Cubs) 21 (White Sox) 23 (Royals) 24 (Dodgers) 27 (Brewers) 29 (Mariners) 30 (Reds) Colorado Rockies Salt River Fields at Talking Stick – 7555 N Pima Road, Scottsdale, AZ – 480-270-5000 March 10 (Reds) 11 (Indians) 13 (Dodgers) 15 (A’s) 17 (Angels) 20 (Angels) 22 (Brewers) 24 (Mariners) 26 (Rangers) 28 (White Sox) 30 (Brewers) 31 (D-Backs) Kansas City Royals Surprise Stadium – 15930 N. Bullard Ave, Surprise, AZ – 623-222-2000 March 8 (Rockies) 9 (Brewers) 11 (D-Backs) 13 (Indians) 14 (White Sox) 18 (Angels) 19 (Mariners) 22 (Dodgers) 26 (A’s) 28 (Padres) 29 (Giants) Los Angeles Angels Tempe Diablo Stadium – 2200 W. Alameda Drive, Tempe, AZ – 480-350-5265 March 9 (Dodgers) 10 (D-Backs) 12 (Giants) 13 (Rangers) 14 (Reds) 15 (Mariners) 18 (Rockies) 19 (Brewers) 22 (A’s) 26 (Padres) 28 (Cubs) 29 (Indians)

24 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2016

Los Angeles Dodgers Salt River Fields at Talking Stick – 7555 N Pima Road, Scottsdale, AZ – 480-270-5000 March 11 (Angles) 12 (Cubs) 14 (Brewers) 16 (Rockies) 17 (Royals) 20 (Padres) 21 (Mariners) 25 (Giants) 27 (Reds) 28 (Rangers) 30 (Indians) Milwaukee Brewers Maryvale Baseball Park – 3600 N. 51st Ave, Phoenix, AZ – 602-534-6449 March 10 (Giants) 11 (Rangers) 12 (Rockies) 16 (White Sox) 18 (Reds) 20 (Dodgers) 21 (Angels) 24 (Royals) 26 (D-Backs) 29 (Reds) Oakland A’s Hohokam Stadium – 1235 N. Center Street, Mesa AZ – 480-644-4451 March 8 (Rangers) 10 (Dodgers) 13 (Cubs) 14 (Giants) 17 (Mariners) 19 (Reds) 20 (White Sox) 24 (Rangers) 25 (Angels) 27 (Royals) 28 (Indians) 30 (D-Backs) San Diego Padres Peoria Sports Complex – 16101 N. 83rd Ave, Peoria, AZ – 623-773-8700 March 8 (D-Backs) 11 (White Sox) 17 (Giants) 19 (Rockies) 21 (Reds) 22 (Rangers) 24 (D-Backs) 27 (Angels) 29 (Dodgers) 30 (Mariners) San Francisco Giants Scottsdale Stadium – 7408 E. Osborn Road, Scottsdale, AZ – 480-312-2586 March 8 (Reds) 9 (Rockies) 11 (Mariners) 12 (D-Backs) 13(Padres) 18 (Padres) 19 (A’s) 24 (Cubs) 25 (Royals) 27 (White Sox) 28 (D-Backs) Seattle Mariners Peoria Sports Complex – 16101 N. 83rd Ave, Peoria, AZ – 623-773-8700 March 9 (Royals) 10 (Cubs) 13 (Reds) 14 (Rockies) 16 (Giants) 18 (Rangers) 19 (D-Backs) 20 (Indians) 23 (A’s) 25 (White Sox) 26 (Dodgers) 28 (Royals) Texas Rangers Surprise Stadium – 15930 N. Bullard Ave, Surprise, AZ – 623-222-2000 March 10 (White Sox) 12 (A’s) 15 (Indians) 17 (Brewers) 20 (Angles) 21 (Rockies) 23 (Cubs) 24 (Reds) 25 (Padres) 27 (D-Backs) 30 (Royals) The official start of the 2016 MLB Regular Season is Sunday April 3rd with the St. Louis Cardinals playing a day game against the Pirates in Pittsburgh. There are two big interleague season opening series, The New York Mets open the season against the Kansas City Royals – as last year’s World Series teams meet again and last season’s big surprise playoff team, the Chicago Cubs, who are now pre-season favorites to win it all in 2016, open the season in California against the LA Angels, another team expected to make the playoffs this year. Get set for a real wild scramble in every division in both the National and American Leagues. Could it finally happen? It’s only been 110 years since the Chicago Cubs played the Chicago White Sox in the World Series.

travel

ARIZONA PLAYER March 2016 25

contest page WINTER WONDERLAND WINNERS!

Our Contest Players loved the idea of racing down the snow covered slopes of the spectacular White Mountains – So they entered this exciting getaway to Sunrise Park Resort and Hon-Dah Resort Casino. The Grand Prize Package including a 3 day 2 night stay in the picturesque Pinetop area at Hon-Dah Resort Casino and Conference Center was awarded to Brad Cudler of Surprise, AZ. Brad and his guest will be rewarded lift tickets to Sunrise Ski Resort for one full day plus breakfast and dinner at the Indian Pines Restaurant They will have an incredible amount of fun on the slopes and lots of other outdoor adventures in the beautiful White

26 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2016

Mountains, plus all of the indoor excitement at Hon-Dah Resort Casino including; live entertainment in the Timbers Lounge with the absolute best bands in Arizona along with some nationally known performers too! The winners can enjoy various “live” poker games and poker tournaments daily to play in along with some of the loosest slots anywhere in Arizona, and with a little luck might just bring home a jackpot. Along with the Grand Prize Winners, Arizona Player has some runner-up prizes too: 2nd & 3rd place winners (Susan Croft of Scottsdale and Sandra Lietzau of Tucson) will each receive All-Day Lift Tickets for two people to the Sunrise Ski Resort along with dinner for 2 at the Indian Pines Restaurant! And if that wasn’t

already plenty of winners, Arizona Player added two additional runner-up winners (David Rittenberry of Prescott Valley and J.A. Stevens of Phoenix) each will receive $50 gift cards to Macy’s or to a terrific restaurant. (they have a choice of quite a few near where they reside) Thanks for picking up, reading and passing along copies of Arizona Player to your friends - We love all of your suggestions to make our magazine even better! Look for new exciting announcements coming soon. You are going to like them. What’s not to like in my world with great people like you out there – You’re the best! Phil Scudella

DAVID AT THE SNACK BAR 10 Cloverfield Lane After a car accident Michelle wakes up in a locked bare room chained to the wall. Howard tells her that he rescued her after the accident and by bringing her to this shelter he has saved by her life. He tells her that we David Ramsey have been attacked and the air outside is deadly. Howard claims he is a prepper who saw it coming and was prepared. The other person in the shelter, Emmett, tells her he saw the attack happening and believes the story. Michelle is not so sure. While not a direct sequel to 2008’s “Cloverfield” it does take place in the same Universe. “10 Cloverfield Lane” is at times an intense edge-of-your-seat thriller while at others it’s a mystery with a sci-fi twist. The script is perfect and the cast is ideal.

London Has Fallen When the British Prime Minister dies suddenly the leaders of the western world converge on London to attend the funeral, including the President of the United States. Security is high but not high enough when a coordinated attack by assailants who have infiltrated the police brings London to its knees. While the other leaders are killed President Asher is saved by Mike Banning, the head of his secret service detail, and has to go on the run to safety. This sequel to “Olympus Has Fallen” is better than the original. The story is just as unbelievable but the action the non-stop.

David’s Video Details

Carol

Aspiring photographer Therese is working in the toy department when Carol, a sophisticated older woman catches her eye. There is an immediate spark between them and before she knows what is happening Therese waggles a way to visit her. They start an affair and for awhile its great but then Carol’s estranged husband threatens to take their child using the affair against her. Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara are perfect and the rest of the cast is as good. Director Todd Haynes captures the feel, tone and look of the 1950s perfectly. “Carol” was nominated for 6 Oscars and is worth seeing.

In the Heart of the Sea A young Herman Melville interviews a retired whaler looking for the real story behind a lost ship. What he finds inspires him to write “Moby Dick.” The story is of the Essex a whaling ship that was lost in the Pacific in 1820. An inexperienced Captain and a seasoned First Officer, upset he didn’t get the command, lead the ship on a long journey to bring back as much whale oil as the ship can hold. The ship is attacked by a huge whale that follows it and attacks it again sinking the ship. The whale attack sequences are spectacular but the story is very slow. “In the Heart of the Sea” drags along and the Melville wrap-around just makes it

The Hateful Eight

It’s the dead of winter in Wyoming shortly after the War Between the States, a stage coach with just two passengers is trying to outrun a huge snowstorm. On board is a bounty hunter known as ‘The Hangman’ and his prisoner. He begrudgingly allows two others stranded on the trail to join them. They make it to a way station to wait out the storm with four other stranded travelers. They think they are safe but something is not quite right. The cast is good but the story is nothing new, has too many plotlines and it drags. Quentin Tarantino tries to be artsy and instead adds unnecessary minutes to this incredibly long film. After three hours and seven minutes it comes to a typical Tarantino bloody, cartoonish end. “The Hateful Eight” would have been a little better if it was about forty minutes shorter. 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.

28 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2016

bingo

Metro Phoenix Games

State-wide Games

Casino Arizona- Scottsdale

Apache Gold Casino - Globe

Daily; 1pm Matinee & 7pm Nightly (Early Birds at 12:30 & 6:30pm) Fri & Sat at Midnight; “Late Night Bingo” w/Music, Light Show and dancing

Fort Mc Dowell Casino - Fountain Hills

Daily; Wed-Mon, 9am, 12:30 & 6:30pm Fri & Sat “Late Night” at 11:30pm Midnight on 1st Sat of each Month; “LUNAR BINGO” Features a DJ w/music, light show and dancing March 19 - Mega Bash 38 game session w/$80,00 in cash and prizes including a 70” LED TV and a Cruise! The FORT features MP Bingo & Planet Bingo NEW BINGO GAMES COMING SOON!

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino - Maricopa Wed-Sun; 11:30am, 2:30, 3:30 & 6:30pm Evenings features MP Bingo & Super Cover All

Lone Butte Casino - Chandler

Daily; Noon & 6:30pm, plus Sat & Sun Morning at 10am & Minis at 3:30 & 5:30pm Fri & Sat “Bingo After Dark” Party at 10:30pm featuresDJ music, light show & dancing Bingo at 11:30pm

Wed-Sun at Noon Fri, Sat & 1st Mon of Month at 7pm

BlueWater Casino - Parker

Mon-Wed at 6:30pm & Sun at 1:30pm

Casino Del Sol - Tucson

Daily; 2pm (Early Birds at 1:30pm) & 7pm (Early Birds at 6:30pm) BINGO PLAYOFFS! Bingo winners Are invited to Playoffs on Saturday to play 5 special games that pay $500 each! JUST ADDED: March 23 Evening Session $ 20,000 Bingo Bash w games paying $1,199 PLUS the final game pays $10,000!

Cocopah Casino - Somerton (Yuma area) Daily; 1 & 6pm

Desert Diamond - Tucson

Daily; 2pm (Early Bird 1:30pm) 7pm (Early Bird 6pm, warm up 6:30pm)

Mazatzal Casino - Payson

Daily; Noon & 6:30pm (sales at 5pm w/warmups) Double Payoffs on 1st Thurs & 3rd Tues

Paradise Casino - Yuma Daily at 1:30 & 6pm

VeeQuiva Casino - Laveen

Daily; Noon & 6:30pm, Sat 11:30pm “Bingo Eclipse” w/DJ, music & dancing

ARIZONA PLAYER March 2016 29

Joke page, ASTROLOGY, Casino directory jokes of the month

Here are a few Irish jokes in honor of this March holiday

A TEXAS SIZE CHALLENGE

Mulligan was flustered not being able to find a parking space in a large Shopping mall parking lot during a huge downpour on St. Patrick’s Day. “Lord,” he prayed, “I can’t stand this. If you open a space up for me, I swear I’ll give up drinking me whiskey, and I promise to go to church every Sunday.” Suddenly, the clouds parted and the sun shone on a single empty parking spot. Without hesitation, Mulligan looked skyward and said, “Never mind……I found one.”

Paddy calls Mulligan on his cell phone and asks him for the quickest way to County Cork. Mulligan says, “Are you on foot or in the car?” Paddy says, “In the car.” Mulligan replies, “That’s the quickest way.”

Mulligan and Mick are walking down the road and Mulligan has a bag of doughnuts in his hand. Mulligan says to Mick, “If you can guess how many doughnuts are in me bag, you can have them both”

A Texan walks into a McGee’s Pub in Ireland and clears his voice to the crowd of drinkers. He says, “I hear you Irish are a bunch of hard drinkers. I’ll give $500 American dollars to anybody in here who can drink 10 pints of Guinness back-to-back.” The room is quiet and no one takes up the Texan’s offer. At that point, Mulligan gets up and leaves the pub. Thirty minutes later Mulligan walks back into McGee’s, taps the Texan on the shoulder and asks; “Is your bet still good? The Texan says yes and asks the bartender to line up 10 pints of Guinness. Immediately Mulligan tears into all 10 of the pint glasses drinking them all back-to-back. The other pub patrons cheer as the Texan sits in amazement. The Texan gives Mulligan $500 and says, “If ya don’t mind me askin’, where did you go for the 30 minutes you were gone?” Mulligan replies, “Oh...I had to go to Clancy’s Pub down the street to see if I could do it first”.

Pisces Feb 20 to Mar 20 Mar 7–13 Mar 14–20 Apr 21–30 Apr 1–7

New relationship ahead Lucky week for you Timing is perfect Wild weekend coming

Gemini May 22 to June 21

Virgo Aug 24 to Sept 23

Sagittarius Nov 23 to Dec 21

Aries Mar 7–13 Mar 14–20 Apr 21–30 Apr 1–7

Don’t leap before looking Long successful trip ahead Time to put plan in action Really fun weekend

Cancer June 22 to July 22

Libra Sept 24 to Oct 23

Capricorn Dec 22 to Jan 20

Scorpio Oct 24 to Nov 22

Aquarius Jan 21 to Feb 19

NO HELP WANTED

Mar 21 to April 20

Taurus April 21 to May 21 Mar 7–13 Mar 14–20 Apr 21–30 Apr 1–7

The idea is sound Stick to your principals Likely outcome – you win Don’t do foolish things

UNWANTED CALLER

“SIMPLE” MATH

Mar 7–13 Mar 14–20 Apr 21–30 Apr 1–7 Mar 7–13 Mar 14–20 Apr 21–30 Apr 1–7

Do nothing different Priorities are important Wait for right moment Sound idea – stick with it

Leo July 23 to Aug 23

Mar 7–13 Mar 14–20 Apr 21–30 Apr 1–7

CASINO DIRECTORY a

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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 (800) 756-8744 5. Casino Arizona @ 101 & McKellips • (Scottsdale) Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community-slots bingo blackjack Keno & Entertainment (480) 850-7777 30 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2016

Time to act is now Story makes no sense Narrow margin win Time out for some fun

Thrilling adventure Strange situation improves Believe, it will happen Great timing for trip

Mar 7–13 Mar 14–20 Apr 21–30 Apr 1–7 Mar 7–13 Mar 14–20 Apr 21–30 Apr 1–7 Mar 7–13 Mar 14–20 Apr 21–30 Apr 1–7

You have waited for this Old friend calls Great things ahead Weekend of fun Patience this will work Play it safe this week Good choice of friend No adjustment needed

Cards will be good to you Green pays off Forgive and forget You were right about him

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 • (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 10c. Desert Diamond West Valley • (Glendale) Slots 11. Fort McDowell Casino • (Fountain Hills) Fort McDowell-Yavapai Nation-slots keno bingo poker blackjack & Entertainment (480) 837-1424 12. Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino • (Chandler) Gila River Indian Community-slots keno blackjack poker & Entertainment (800) 946-4452 13. Gila River Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino • (Laveen) Gila River Indian Community-slots bingo blackjack

Mar 7–13 Mar 14–20 Apr 21–30 Apr 1–7 Mar 7–13 Mar 14–20 Apr 21–30 Apr 1–7 Mar 7–13 Mar 14–20 Apr 21–30 Apr 1–7

Hunch works again Cards are the way to go Act quickly on idea Big Thrill coming Old pal returns Unexpected pleasure Huge win coming Reward for being nice

The win you deserve No better time than now Play it safe this week Late night surprise

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. Talking Stick Resort • (Scottsdale) Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community-slots poker blackjack Keno & Entertainment (480) 850-7777 22. Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort • (Flagstaff) Navajo Nation - Slots, Table Games, Poker, Keno & Entertainment