Oct / Nov 2016 by Arizona Player

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Gaming•Entertainment•Travel www.arizonaplayer.com

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Card Room Action Casino Entertainment REEL REVIEWS – HOT BLOODED TRAVEL – Carefree Pumpkin Festival Boyd’s Eye View – Casino Technology AZ State Women’s Poker Championship Vol. 24 No. 10 • October 2016

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 Casino del Sol Marketing Kevin Cummings John Olson David Ramsey The Riester Agency Satara Williams

Contributing Writers Linda Boyd Rachel Brockway Kevin Cummings TJ Jorgensen Malory Knudson Lyra Manning Teri Morris David Ramsey Satara Williams

Special Thanks to: the professionals at SMP Communications and the marketing team at Cocopah Casino & Resort

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 October 2016

Vol. 24 No. 10 • October 2016

TJ's Blackjack Corner TJ Jorgensen “Keep your money longer”

Cover Story Cocopah Casino & Resort – Just around the corner

Gaming News “The 2016 Arizona State Women’s Poker Championship”

Card Room Action Table Game Action Around the State

Raving Flash Dennis Conrad “Free Craps Advice”

Boyd’s Eye View of Video Poker Linda Boyd “Casino Technology”

Entertainment Casino Entertainment State-wide

Travel “The Enchanted Pumpkin Garden in Carefree, AZ”

Reel Reviews Kevin Cummings "Hot Blooded” by Scientific Games

David at the Snack Bar David Ramsey Film and DVD reviews

Bingo Directory Bingo Games at Arizona Casinos

Jokes of the Month, Astrology, & Casino Directory

TJ’s Blackjack corner

How to Make Your Money Last Longer

o matter what size of bankroll you take to the casino, it is always more fun to win than it is to lose. by TJ by Jorgensen TJ Jorgensen If you agree with this statement, read on because this is for you. People lose because they let the casino take their money from them. They do this by playing the wrong games that have a big “house” edge, they are under-capitalized (bets are too large for the amount of money in their bankroll) or worse they are playing incorrectly. Are you playing Blackjack in such a way that the other players at the table are left wondering if, when you went to school you took the “little yellow bus”? Believe it or not there is a way to play Blackjack to make it a 100% negative expectation game, just hit every hand until you bust. One of the quickest ways to lose all your money at the casino is to play blackjack without any strategy, or worse - follow the dealer’s rules and hit 16 or less and stand on 17 or more. Can’t lose fast enough? Then play hunches or at a continuous shuffle machine table and play more than 1 hand. Recently I saw a player who would not hit 12 or over, then couldn’t understand why he was the only one at the table not winning. When the dealer shows a 7 – ace they only bust about 1 time out of 4 – So if you always stand on 12 and over you will lose 3 out of every 4 hands when the dealer shows 7 – Ace. Even when the dealer shows a 2 through 6 they will only bust approximately 1/3 of the time. So

6 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2016

using a strategy that stands on any hand of 12 and above is a big loser. Gamblers as a general rule want something for nothing, they want to win but aren’t willing to put in the time to learn “how” to win. I want you to make an investment in yourself, learn to play the game correctly. If you are reading my column you probably already know that the game of blackjack has the lowest “house edge” of all the casino games offered at Arizona Casinos. However to get the house advantage down to around -.57, you must play perfect basic strategy, and that will require some studying. In the column to the right is a simple basic strategy chart that will work for most Arizona Casino Blackjack games; Many gamblers play blackjack by hunches or gut feelings. Doing this gives the house about a 10% advantage. In other words you will lose about $10 for every $100 played. Learn to play perfect basic strategy to reduce the amount lost on average to $.57 for every $100 played. By playing perfect basic your money will last a lot longer. Once you have basic strategy mastered you can learn the “Ace- five” Count and reduce the casino “edge” to almost an even gamble. This is a very simple count that assigns a value of -1 to aces and a count of +1 to 5s. You count the aces and fives as they are dealt to get a plus or minus value. Your bet size for the upcoming hand depends on whether you have a positive or negative count. If you want to learn this strategy - go to my web site and learn it for free. Just go to www.freewebs. com/tjsblackjackcorner

SIMPLE BASIC STRATEGY CHART HAND

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 A

5-8

H H H H H H H H H H

H D D D D H H H H H

D D D D D D D D H H

D D D D D D D D D D

H H

H H H H H

13-16

H H H H H

17 or more

A-2, A-3

H H H D D H H H H H

A-4, A-5

H H D D D H H H H H

A-6

H D D D D H H H H H

A-7

D D D D D

H H H

A-8, A-9

2-2

H H H H

3-3

H H H H

4-4

H H H

H H H H H

5-5

D D D D D D D D H H

6-6

H H H H H

7-7

H H H H

8-8

9-9

H H

10-10

A-A

 STAND  HIT  DOUBLE  SPLIT T.J. Jorgensen has been a professional blackjack player for over 20 years. He is well known for his live tournament play. He has competed against, and beaten, some of the top tournament players in the world and has won the prestigious World Series of Blackjack.

COVER STORY

st Around The Corner u J s I n u F

Fun is just around the corner!

Good things are happening at Cocopah Resort & Casino! Cocopah is rewarding its Players Club members with offers for free slot play, free table game play, and other offers. Not only that, players can redeem their points for free Rewards Play, gas, food, and much more. If you are not a member, visit the Players Club booth on your next visit to unlock your rewards. Plus, receive up to $100 in Rewards Play just for joining the club! Cocopah features 500+ slots; including its newest addition, Buffalo Stampede. Of course, the old single line three reels are still there. They also offer Three Deck Blackjack. - with limits up to $500 per wager! Voted the best place in Yuma to play Bingo for ten consecutive years, Bingo is called seven days a week with matinee sessions available on select days.

For players 55 and older, Club 55+ extends even more rewards. Club 55+ offers a 15% discount in the Artisan Restaurant. Plus, Club 55 members receive 250 BONUS points when they earn 5 base points on Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays. The Artisan Restaurant serves an a la carte menu daily. The breakfast buffet is served every morning for only $8.99 per person. On Friday nights, enjoy the Artisan Restaurant’s Prime Rib and Seafood Buffet extravaganza, just $20.99 per person from 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM. Enjoy drinks and entertainment at The Sunset Lounge, Sports Bar or Rivers Edge Bar. The Sunset Lounge offers a comfortable retreat as you wind down from your hectic day, or for a buzzing atmosphere, stop by the lively River’s Edge Bar. Cocopah Casino’s Sports Bar is the perfect place to watch the top sporting events on a 100” projection screen TV.

8 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2016

COVER STORY Cocopah Casino & Resort includes 101 plush hotel rooms and Wild River Entertainment, a family style fun spot with bowling, darts, and sports bar. Grab your clubs and head to the golf course. Cocopah boasts 2 golf courses - the Cocopah

Bend RV & Golf Resort and the 9-hole “best kept secret”, Rio Colorado Golf Course. RVers can enjoy dry camping adjacent to the casino with over 200 spaces in addition to the Cocopah RV Resort, which features over 800 spaces.

If you are near Yuma, COCOPAH IS JUST

AROUND THE CORNER. Take exit I-8 at 16th Street – go west to Avenue B then south on Highway 95, or set your phone navigation on Cocopah Casino located at 15318 S. Ave B in Somerton, AZ. For more information, visit cocopahresort.com

ARIZONA PLAYER October 2016 9

gaming news

2016 Arizona State Ladies Poker Championship

The Arena Poker Room at Talking Stick Resort gave women throughout the southwest an opportunity to prove their skills to be considered the top women poker players in the state of Arizona.

Final Table of 10 And Pay-Outs 1st

Margery Edwards

Malibu CA

Maria Tibuni

Avondale AZ

$9,283

Terrice Jackson

Surprise AZ

$6,317

Lucy Hargett

Carlsbad CA

$3,997

Linh Nguyen

Scottsdale AZ

$3,172

Ruth Hall

Texas

$2,733

7th

Sandra O’Donnell

Washington

$2,321

Jeannie Johnson-Bourdos

Scottsdale

$1,934

Kathy Chang

Valencia CA

$1,573

Nancy Hellmer

Scottsdale

$1,289

The Final Table

Places 11-20 each earned $986 for their skillful play in this tournament

The 11th Annual Ladies State Poker The eighth place finisher was Jeannie Championship covered two full days – Saturday, Johnson-Bourdos of Scottsdale – she left with Sept. 17 and Sunday, Sept. 18. $1,934 in cash. Day 1 brought out 191 women, who competed Seventh place and $2,321 was not the lucky until there were just 30 players remaining. finish Sandra O’Donnel – from Sedro-Woolley, On Sunday, those 30 women began playing in the Washington, a tiny town in northwest Washington toughest tournament they had ever entered. With this – was looking for. She went all-in with Ace/Queen competitive group, luck only went so suited vs. pocket 3’s for the chip far; true poker skills were required to leader Margery Edwards. The flop make it to the final table. was 3, Ace, 8 rainbow, putting The first three hours were fast Margery ahead with trip 3’s. The and furious as player after player turn card was a 4, and the river went all-in trying to double their was another Ace, giving Sandra stacks in order to compete. By trip Aces, but also giving Margery about 1 pm, the field was already a full house to take out Sandra. down to the final table. Places 11 At 2:15 pm, Ruth Hall from through 20 did cash, with each of Texas, a former Nevada State those 10 players taking home $986. Women’s Champion, went all-in The first player to drop from the with an A/K against the second final table was Nancy Hellmer from biggest stack, Terrice Jackson Scottsdale, who received $1,289. from Surprise with a J/8. The Next, 2010 California State flop helped no one, so Ruth was Champion Margery with winning champion and 2013 Arizona State ahead with her Ace, but an 8 hit hand and chips on table. Champion Kathy Chang from on the turn for Terrice and with Valencia, California, was eliminated ninth and took nothing on the river, Ruth was out sixth with home $1,573. There were four players at the final $2,733. table from California, and when anyone in that Twenty minutes later, Linh Nguyen went all-in group was knocked out of contention, they stayed with A/Q vs. Terrice Jackson’s A/6 suited. The flop closeby to cheer on the remaining Californians. was K-10-8 rainbow, putting Linh ahead till the turn card was a 6, thus giving all of Linh’s chips to add to her already huge stack and send Nguyen home with a fifth place finish worth $3,172. During the next 30 minutes, Lucy Hargett went all-in with a smaller stack and won twice. Then, at about 4pm, Lucy went all-in 9/10 suited vs. the big stack Margery with a 9/K. The flop, turn and river helped neither player, so Margery won with a King high to knock Lucy out of the tournament in fourth place, winning $$3,997. The final 2 players – Margery and Maria 10 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2016

$11,990

3rd

The Showdown at 4:15pm: Big stack Terrice Jackson went all-in with an A/10 against the biggest stack, Margery from Malibu who called with a K/Q. Margery caught a King on the flop, and it held up to send Terrice to the sidelines in third place with a nice payday of $6,317.

Champion Margery Edwards holding trophy and Tom Schneider Poker Room Director

THE BIG HAND TURNAROUND: Time 4:25pm – Margery was all-in with a Queen of Clubs and 9 of Hearts. Maria Tibuni called with a slightly smaller stack and the Queen and Jack of Hearts. The flop was Ace, Jack and 5 of Clubs; the turn card as the 2 of Diamonds. Maria was ahead and about to be the overwhelming chip leader when WHAM! The 8 of Clubs hit the board to give Margery a CLUB Flush, and the win as the 2016 Arizona State Women’s Championship. She took a stunning trophy plus $11,990 back to Malibu. Maria Tibuni of Avondale was also rewarded with a trophy and a second place finish of $9,283 in cool cash for her great play. The tournament came off without a hitch thanks to the professional poker room staff that worked the event, including Matt and Molly Brentlinger along with Jessica Swenson, plus management and the marketing teams at Talking Stick Resort.

CARD ROOM ACTION Apache Gold Casino 800-272-2438 Globe, AZ Dealing blackjack daily at 3pm

Arena Poker Room at Talking Stick Resort 480-8507777

Scottsdale, AZ Mon – Fri, 11:15am – NLHE Tournament - $125 buy-in Mon – Thurs, 7:15pm - NLHE, $145 buy-in Fri, 7:15pm – NLHE Tournament - $200 buy-in Sat, Nov 12 at 11:15 am, “Super Bounty” NLHE, $240 buy-in$100 Bounties Sat, Oct 29, Nov 26 & Dec 24 at 11:15am – End of Month-NLHE - $160 buy-in Sat, Nov 5 & Dec3 - 11:15am – “Big Stack” NLHE – $345 buy-in Sun, Oct 30, 11:15am – Ladies NLHE tournament Player Special (2am-Noon) $4 breakfast/$6.75 Steak & eggs $16 Prime Rib Dinner on Mondays Also dealing blackjack 24/7

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

Parker, AZ Poker Room opens earlier (at 2pm) daily starting October 1 Tues at 7pm, NLHE Tournament - $35 buy-in, w/ one $20 re-buy, $5 Bounties Thurs at 7pm, NLHE – $40 buy-in, $20 re-buy & $5 Bounties w/ “High Hand” of the Tournament Fri at 8pm, NLHE - $35 buy-in w/ $20 re-buy & $5 Bounties Sat at 8pm, NLHE - $100 buy-in w/ no re-buys 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 (Quads or better) Monday Night Football “Splash-pots” Dealing blackjack daily at 9am

Bucky’s Casino 928-515-5305

Prescott, AZ Mon – Thur, 10am - NLHE Shootouts $25 entry Mon - Thurs, 6pm NLHE $40 buy-in w/ Opt $10 add-on(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 – re-buys the first hour

Last Sunday at Noon – Omaha Hi/Lo - $100 added per table $80 buy-in Mon & Fri at 6pm – spreading $2/$100 Texas hold-em Mon & Wed at 8am – Spreading Omaha Hi/Lo plus $25 High Hand each hour

NFL “Sunday Splash-pots” 3 games each week “Aces Cracked” 24/7 Wins $75 in any Texas Hold Em game Straight Flush pays $50 Royal pays $100 Dealing blackjack 24/7

12 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2016

Casino Arizona 480-850-7777

Scottsdale, AZ Blackjack Tournaments: Tues, noon $1,000 added “Break at Noon” $ 50 buy-in “Great Late” Tournament, $25 buy-in (Starts at 1am Friday morning) Dealing blackjack 24/7

Casino Del Sol 520-838-6565

Tucson, AZ Mon-Fri, 10 am - $600 Guaranteed (w/30 players) NLHE, $25 buy-in, opt $5 chip-up & $10 add-on Tues, 7pm - $800 guarantee FREE ROLL – 50 players max (no cost) opt “chip up” of $6 Wed – “Race for Cash” Noon till Mid Sun 11am - $1,500 Guaranteed NLHE, $55 buy-in – no re-buys Sat, 9am – $200 added Limit Omaha Hi-Lo, $20 buy-in, $5 re-buys & one $10 add-on Sat noon – $ 1,500 Guaranteed NLHE - $55 buy-in – no re-buys with opt $5 chip-up & $5 add-on NFL & College Football boards (Win cash each quarter) NFL “2nd Chance Drawings” $50, $100 & $150 after the game – call for details

Mon – Thurs (noon-Mid) Omaha only-Buy in for a “rack”, play 2 hours and get a “stack”! Dealing Blackjack 24/7 W/ new side bet “Buster Blackjack” You win when the dealer busts!

Cliff Castle Casino 928-567-7952

Camp Verde, AZ Mon-Fri, 10am - NLHE Shoot-out, $30 buy-in, w/ no re-buys Wed, 6pm – NLHE Tournament $30 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-inn/ opt $5 dealer chip up Sat, Noon - NLHE $50 or $100 buy-in tables w/ opt $5 dealer chip up All Week – Royal Flush pays $100 “Aces Cracked” Win from $50 to $200 Dealing blackjack; 9am – 2am (Mon-Thurs) 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 Mon, Thurs, Sat & Sun - “50-50-50 GRIDIRON Splash-pots” (selected TV College & Pro games) Special Poker Room menu at ½ off regular prices Dealing blackjack 24/7 with 3 card poker, “progressive 6 card bonus” “Push Bet” and “IN BETWEEN” bet – featuring three 3-deck shoes along with 6-deck shoes

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, Wed, Thurs & Fri at Noon NLHE - $30 buy-in - $20 add-on - No-rebuys Tues, noon and Sat 4pm – Omaha Hi-Lo, $40 buy-in ($100 added per table) 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 Ladies NLHE Poker Tournament – Oct 16, Nov 13 & Dec 11 $60 BI w/Opt $10 chip-up “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! “Faces Cracked” daily 5pm to 1am – Win $75 hourly Dealing blackjack 24/7 w/ “Free Bet” split Aces up to 3 times & hit more than once & Double Down after first hit! Also playing “Push Bet” that pays 10-1 when you push with the dealer!

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino 480-802-5138

Maricopa, AZ Tues 7:30pm ½ & ½ NLHE & Omaha High - $40 buy-in no re-buys Wed 7:30pm “Crazy Pineapple” w/ $20 Bounties - $40 buy-in – no re-buys Thurs, 7:30pm – 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 Aces Cracked – 24/7 pays $50 “$50 High Hand” hourly Mon-Fri 10am-1pm / Royal Flush pays $50 World Series TV Games - $25 Splash-pots for every score & $100 Splash if home team wins Daily $25 Splash pots” every ½ hour- (1:30pm – close) call for details

NFL and College splash pots – Selected TV games. Also dealing blackjack 24/7 – including “Push the bet”

CARD ROOM ACTION Hon-Dah Casino 928-369-7555

Pinetop, AZ Open Tues & Thurs at 10am, Mon, Wed & Fri at 4pm, Sat & Sun at 2pm Mon, 6pm – NLHE – “$25 Bounty” Tournament, $45 buy-in w/$10 re-buys and $10 add-on 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 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 “Early bird” tournament chips available daily before tournaments Fri & Sat – all day,

Lone Butte Casino 800-946-4452

$100 High Hand (Hold Em)

Chandler, AZ Dealing blackjack 24/7 Progressive Jackpots include; Crazy 4 Poker & Ultimate Texas Hold EM at all 3 Gila River Casinos! PAI GOW Jackpot was hit recently and it’s growing again.

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino 800-777-7529

Payson, AZ “Road to Vegas” Poker Tournaments First Wed of each month at 6pm thru April 5 - $50 buy-in w/ $50 bounties – 2 winners per tournament are seeded into the “Tournament of Champions” on April 26 – Grand Prize $1,000 cash and a seat into a 2017 WSOP Tournament in Las Vegas Live poker Wed–Sun at 10am- includes Omaha on Wed & Thurs morning, and Hold em Fri & Sat nights at 6pm (you can sign up the day before for all live games. Wed, 6pm, plus 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 & 8 “21” win up to $200

Quechan Casino Resort 1-877-783-2426

Winterhaven, CA Open 10am Sat/Sun, 4pm Mon/Tues, 2pm Wed/Thurs Wed/Thurs at 2pm & Fri thru 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 ($20) bounty tournament $60 buy-in, unlimited buy-ins first hour Sun, 4pm, “Deep Stack” NLHE $100 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 Sat 11:15 am, NLHE “Big Stack $10 bounties”-$50 buy-in /Opt $10 Staff chip up & $20 add-on Sun 11:15 am, NLHE “Sunday Brunch”$30 buy-in w/ Opt $10 Staff “chip-up” & $20 add-on break Wed, 7:30pm, NLHE “Humpday”$40 buy-in w/ Opt $10 Staff fee

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

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

NFL & College “Splash pots” Thurs. Sat & Sun & Mon – selected TV games “Aces Cracked” Win a Rack – NFL “Splash Pots” are back! “Rolling Cash Fever” Drawing every other hour 24/7, $100 min , increases by $100 if not hit – must go M onday night Food specials: ½ price poker room menu Progressive Jackpots for Ultimate Texas Hold EM & Crazy 4 Poker grow daily at all 3 Casinos! The PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was hit recently and it’s growing again .

before play for added chips

Tues 7:30pm, Limit Omaha Hi-Lo $40 BI w/ Opt $10 Staff fee before play for added chips

1st Sat of the month at noon “Super Stack” NLHE - $110 BI, $20 Staff “chip up” & $20 add-on “Quads or Better” Starts at $50, up $25 a day till hit – “Straight Flush” starts at $100 up by $50 per day till hit! Royal Flush starts at $200 up $50 per day till hit Quads or better progressive increases daily “ACES CRACKED” spins the wheel - win up $300 Early Bird Chips” for live play before any tournament - 1st & 2nd place at final table qualify for the “Tournament of Champions” FREE ROLL each quarter. Next one is Nov 26 NFL & College “Splash pots” Sat, Sun, Mon & Thurs – selected TV games Dealing blackjack 24/7 – Friday Afternoon Blackjack Tournament at 4pm - $30 buy-in Progressive Jackpots for Ultimate Texas Hold EM & Crazy 4 Poker grow daily at all 3 Casinos! The PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was hit and it’s growing again.

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

ARIZONA PLAYER October 2016 13

raving NEWS

Some Free Craps Consulting

usually don’t mind anyone challenging my marketing creby dentials. After over 40 Dennis Conrad years in the gaming business, I feel pretty secure in my skills and knowledge. But if someone tries to tell me that I don’t know what I’m talking about when it comes to the culture, operations or marketing of the game of craps, I do admit to getting a little testy. I guess that’s what 10 years of dealing and supervising the game, nearly 20 years of consulting on it and over 40 years of playing it, have done. It’s make me feel like a true expert on the craps experience. I realize that too few of you would agree with me on that, or would at least be thinking, “Who cares?” Well I care. And I’m tired of seeing the proud and glorious casino game of “dice” having its reputation tarnished by complexity, misunderstanding, inefficiencies and plain old “bad attitudes.” So I’m going to do something about it that I rarely do. I’m going to give you some free, comprehensive craps consulting advice (My Business Development VP hates when I do this).So here you go, some straight talk on craps:

You don’t pace the craps game right for the

You scold dice players too much.

maximum combination of efficiency and player

“Hands off the table” Throw the dice to the end!” “No late bets!” “Keep the dice over the table!” “Set your drink down!” Yes, you have rules and protocols at your craps tables, but you don’t have to be a Nazi in enforcing them.

Your craps game is too expensive

Think your players like coming into a party to which they weren’t invited?

I’m not referring here to high minimum bets or large game buy-in requirements. I’m referring to all of those craps bets with the huge house advantage (“the sucker bets”). Their high house rake, along with the rapid speed of the game (usually), makes for deadly erosion of playing time at the dice table. Dennis Conrad is the President and Chief Strategist of Raving Consulting Company, a uniquely effective solutions resource for the gaming industry, which he founded in 1998. Dennis’ gaming career spans more than 40 years and includes experience on the front line, mid-level management, and senior executive levels. He has been a Casino Marketing Director, Institute Director, and Corporate Vice President of Employee Programs, as well as featured speaker at gaming conferences all over the world. His table game experience includes several years working as a dealer and floor-person, being one of the first “table game instructors” in the industry, and heading up table game promotions at a major Las Vegas Strip property. He has consulted with table games inventors and had a financial interest in a table game development 14 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2016

experience.

You let slow players (string betters, dice setters, newbies, etc.) slow the game down and you let “in a hurry” dealers speed the game up and run over players and their betting patterns because they want to go home, the craps boss wants the “dice in the air,” a craps player has ticked them off, or they just aren’t paying attention

You don’t know how to teach or sell the game of craps. Don’t believe me? Go up to any craps table and ask any dealer “How do you play this game?” I guarantee you’ll get a response that is confusing, erroneous, inadequate, or disinterested (and sometimes all of these!)

You don’t welcome new players to the game (see #3). In fact, truth be told, you don’t do a very good job of welcoming old players to the game

Your craps dealers BS too much with each other and too little with the dice players.

Your dice dealers get jaded over time. That is evidenced in robotic movements, lack of “good luck” wishes, flat attitudes, phony smiles, or short and curt conversations with craps players.

company. He is the creator and developer of the Table Games Conference and the Best New Table Games Competition, both of which he sold to BNP Media in 2012. In addition, he has been an avid table games player for over 40 years and has played tables in hundreds of casinos all over the world. Dennis, a graduate of Stanford University and former member of their golf team, has authored two books on the casino industry and casino marketing – Conrad’s Corners: Observations on Casinos, Marketing and Life, as well as Conrad on Casino Marketing. He also received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Casino Marketing and Technology Conference in 2015 He has been married to his wife Becky, the coowner of Raving, for over 40 years and they have a son, Casey, and a daughter, Amy

You are missing an opportunity with millennials with the game of craps.

The game is social, fast-paced, intriguing, plus usually provides as many drinks as a “20 something” could want. I currently see quite a few millennials playing (or at least trying) craps, but very few embraced as new players – This could save you from buying “skill-based” games and building nightclubs.

You don’t celebrate enough with your dice players. Heck, every dice roll could be a celebration opportunity, if you weren’t worried about how much the craps game is winning or losing, if someone might be trying a “controlled dice shot,” or if a dealer is due for their break. So there you have it – my free consulting report. My free consulting “advice” would be “Do something about it.” because you have a great business development opportunity with the game of craps and the industry as a whole is “leaving millions on the (craps) table.” I’d be glad to help. That part is not quite free.

Editor’s note; Dennis Conrad is someone I admire, and a person I think of as a friend in this industry. He always takes time to chat when I have a question about anything, especially in the realm of table games since I have been playing Craps for about 40 years. My dad Harry taught me the game (he was a dealer at a “Speak-Easy” my Grandparents owned in Calumet City during prohibition) And although most articles I receive are directed to casino management, from time to time I will include one in the magazine that I feel would interest my readers. I found this article enlightening and agreed with him on almost every point – but you may have a favorite place to play that always greets you and treats you like a special player every time you go there – I know I have several places that do exactly that – and if you lose that day, you don’t feel quite so bad.

A BOYD’S EYE VIEW OF VIDEO POKER

New Technology

had to have the first iPhone to hit the nearby Apple store even though it meant waiting in a long line of millennials wondering why somebody over 30 was even there. Since then there by has been exponential growth in technology that has Linda Boyd spilled into the gaming industry. Here are some of the latest upgrades that found their way through casino doors. Casino Apps: One of the best and most comprehensive sources for casino information is the American Casino Guide (ACG) app. It’s free and easily downloaded to any smart phone. Here you’ll find a list of their book coupons, instant coupons, nearby casinos, gambling tips, their YouTube videos and much more. In addition to the ACG app you will find many local casinos have their own app giving you specifics about your own account. Here you’ll find your benefits, reward dollars, your free play amount, promotional event details and your current tier level. Many even give you a sign-up bonus along with contact phone numbers. Just like the ACG app all that I have seen are free of charge. Kiosks Upgraded: In days gone by it was a big deal just to see a kiosk and be able to access your account without standing in line at the slot club desk. Nowadays you can print coupons, participate in a virtual drawing, enter your tickets into a promotional event and get your latest account information. Even people who shun computers have no problem using their casino’s kiosk. Tournament Standings: I can remember standing around while I wondered whether or not I made the cut for the next round of tournament play. With today’s technology you will see where you stand instantly at the conclusion of each round of play. In fact, you will even be able to gauge the approximate score needed to advance in future tournaments when it’s a recurring event. Slot Games: Here is where the technology gets most interesting and creative. From vibrating seats (something that I really dislike) to 3-D graphics, the latest slot machines to hit the casino floor are extremely creative and high tech. In fact, one company is ready to introduce a game with a skill component that rewards dexterity. Some games offer participatory options forcing you to make choices in the course of playing the game. By doing so you are altering the variance of the game itself while playing. For example, during

16 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2016

a bonus round you can select fewer games, say 8 instead of 20, with a higher multiplier for each game. Many low rollers like this option because it gives somebody with a 60 cent wager a chance to win a few hundred dollars. Look for even more innovative choices in the future. Win/Loss Records: It’s hard to believe, but there are still some who refuse to use a slot club card during play. They may think it will alter the game’s outcome (completely untrue) or that big brother is watching them (any win of $1200 or more generates a hand pay and an accompanying W-2G with a matching copy going to the IRS). I’m sure there are myriad other reasons for refusing to use a player’s card, none of them valid. In addition to receiving cash and advancing to higher tiers with increased benefits, you can write your losses off against your winnings both on your Arizona tax return as well as on your federal return. If your card is not inserted in the device the casino has no idea as to your actual win/loss record but, by law, will still hand you a W-2G for every jackpot at or over the $1200 threshold. You really have no way of knowing whether you will hit a big win in the future and once you choose to not use a card it’s too late to track your losses during the calendar year. Just ask at the slot club desk about how the casino handles win/loss statements and you’ll be able to use it when completing your tax returns. Game Changes: Some casinos installed wiring under the carpet enabling them to change both the games and the pay schedules. This is legal and they cannot in any way alter the specific hands you’re dealt (VP) or icons on slot games. They can change the pay schedules for VP and that’s why you should check the table before inserting money. Most casinos chose not to do this for several reasons, one is the expense of replacing the carpet.I’ll keep you posted on future technological changes in casinos through this column! 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”. You can see 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. Kindle edition now available. www.squareonepublishers.com Toll Free: 877-900-BOOK

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! The Point Sports Bar: Live bands on weekends;

BlueWater Resort and Casino

11300 Resort Dr., Parker 1-888-243-3360 On the Water: Oct 14, 15 & 16 – Lucas Oil Drag Boat Racing Series BlueWater Showroom: Oct 22 – Cage Rage XII “On the River”

Oct 28 & 29 – RHOADS TO OZZ (Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne & Randy Rhoads) Nov 11 & 12 – Led Zepagin (Led Zeppelin Tributr) Nov 25 & 26 – Aeromyth (Aerosmith Tribure) Arizona Room Patio Grill: Tues– Trivia Tuesdays - $1,000 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 (call for update) Bingo Hall: Fri & Sat at Midnight, L-8 Nite Bingo! Music, light show & dancing w/ host Corina & DJ Kenji!

Casino Del Sol

Thunder from Down Under Dec 3 – “Thunder from Down Under” (Male revue for the ladies!)2 Shows 6 & 9pm. Dig Lounge: DJs/live bands & Sports on the big screens River’s Edge Cantina: Sports on the big screens

Casino Arizona

101 at McKellips, Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Showroom: Monday Night Showroom Football! Call for exciting details Oct 21 & 22 – The Ultimate Stones (Rolling Stones Tribute)

18 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2016

5655 W. Valencia Rd. Tucson 520-838-6506 AVA Amphitheater: Oct 21 – Intocable & Ramon Ayala Nov 5 – Carlos Mencia Dec 3 – The 12th Annual Tamal Fest (FREE ADMISSION) Oct 22 & 23 -Casino del Sol Pool Lawn: The 1st Annual OCTOBERFEST with proceeds to benefit Boys & Girls Club of Tucson w/ German food, giant pretzels, beer, cheese, brats, schnitzel and lots more! Paradiso Bar: AZ top bands (free) every weekend and Tribute bands on Thursdays;

Cocopah Casino Resort

15318 S Avenue B, Somerton, AZ (Yuma area) (928) 726-8066 Cocopah Casino Event Lawn: Oct 22 - Bridget’s Gifts presents Thompson Square w/ special Guest Lauren Alaina Sunset Lounge: Fri & Sat - Bling Bling Karaoke River Room: Best live bands in Arizona

Desert Diamond Casino Hotel

7350 South Nogales Hwy, Tucson 1-866-332-9467 Monsoon Night Club: Flashback Fridays: featuring Classic Hip-Hop and Old School w/ Primetime Deejays Saturdays: Hottest Live Latin bands like; Angel Norteno, Los Gallegos and others

Cliff Castle Casino

I-17 at exit 289 in Camp Verde 1-800-381-SLOT Dragonfly Lounge: live music on weekends;

Carlos Mencia

entertainment Desert Diamond Casino I-19

Ramon Ayala

1100 West Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita 1-866-332-9467 Diamond Center: Oct 28 - LaArrolladora Oct 29 – Mick Adams & The Stones (Renowned Rolling Stones Tribute) Nov 18 – Chubby Checker Nov 19 – 38 Special

Fort McDowell Casino

Dec 3 – Gary Allan Dec 9 – GooGoo Dolls w/ SafetySuit Desert Diamond Casino Sahuarita Plaza: Oct 23 & 24 – The Bluegrass Festival with Peter Rowan and guests (10am till 6pm) on Saturday and Morton Twins and Guests (10am till 4pm) on Sunday – aboks and lots of fun! Sports Bar: Nightly Sports on big screens, plus Karaoke/DJ nightly & live bands on weekends

20 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2016

N of Shea off Hwy 87, Fountain Hills 1-800-THE-FORT “Lucky 7” Saloon: The top bands in Arizona on weekends; Mogollon Furious George, the Dave Arnold Band, Fates Highway, Statline, Tommy Price & the Stilettos, The Walkens, Marty & the Party and Levi Platero OUTDOOR EVENT: Oct 22 – Ramon Ayala Y Sus Bravos Del Norte Bingo Hall: 1st Saturday of each month - Late Night Lunar Bingo w/ music & giveaways Oct 22 (Evening Session) Bingo & Halloween Costume Contest $600nin prizes Updates - go to fortmcdowellcasino.com

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort & Casino

15406 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa 480-802-5000 THE LOUNGE: Friday, Saturday & Sunday in THE Lounge (5-8pm and 8pm-1am) BIG NAMES – NO COVER! Oct 28 - Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Great bands on weekends featuring; Powerdrive, Young Country, Cold Shott & Hurricane Horns, Furious George, Smooth Groove, Walkens, Soundwave, Silhouette, Doo Wah Riders, Queen Nation, Quantum and Super Hero Mon, Wed & Thurs (Happy Hour, 5-8pm) featuring; John Eric Duo, Stanley Serano Trio, Western Fusion, Karen & Marcus, The Walkens Trio, Chuck E Duo, John Eric Duo, Freddie Duran Duo and others Wed (noon -4pm) featuring; Route 66, Walkens Trio, Mancini the band, Bandstand Shows, Thaddeus Rose or Silhouette For updates, go to harrahsakchin.com

Hon-Dah Resort and Casino

Highways 260 and 73, Pinetop 1-800-WAY-UP-HIGH Conference Center: Oct 29 – Hon-Dah’s Haunted Halloween Party with $3,000 in Cash & Mountain Moolah – Costume Contest at 10pm $1,500 in cash prizes! Plus dance and party with The ROYAL PURPLE ROCKERS BAND! Timbers Lounge: Free entertainment, Monday is Comedy Night, Tues-Sat, Live bands: Oct 11 thru 15 – Rockhall Doctors, Oct 18 – 22 – The Strip Kings, Nov 1-5 – Doo-wah Riders, Nov 8 thru 12 – Barrio Latino

entertainment

Feb 10 – Gino Vannelli Feb 17 – Arsenio Hall Feb 18 – Johnny Rivers Grand Ballroom: Oct 29 – Raven’s Annual Halloween Bash ($10,000 in cash prizes!) Nov 18 – Terry Fator

Lone Butte Casino

202 loop at the Kyrene exit - Chandler, 1-800-WIN-GILA Lone Butte Event Center & Cascades Lounge: Mon, Tues & Fri (4-8pm) and Fri & Sat (late night) featuring Marty & the Party, Thaddeus Rose, Smooth Groove, Reality Band, Uptown Band, Lane Change and Soundwave 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

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino

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

Paradise Casino

450 Quechan Drive, Yuma 1-888-777- 4946 Sharky’s Bar & Bites: 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

Talking Stick Resort

Loop 101 and Talking Stick Way - Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Showroom: Nov 9 – Kris Kristofferson Dec 2 – Leon Russell Dec 9 – Jonny Lang Jan 7 – Dave Mason Feb 4 – Kenny Wayne Shepard Band

22 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2016

Terry Fator Nov 20 – Gabriel Iglesias Jan 14 – Andrew Dice Clay Jan 15 - STYX THE POOL AT Talking Stick Resort Nov 19 - Journey Palo Verde Lounge: Live bands nightly Shadows Lounge: singles & duos featuring jazz, classic sounds of Sinatra Degree 270 Lounge: Fri & Sat, w/the region’s best DJ’s Orange Sky Restaurant & Lounge: Live jazz

Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort

22181 Resort Blvd (I-40 @ exit 219) Flagstaff (928) 856-7200 Free live entertainment on weekends with the Top Bands like: Rebel Heart, Uptown Band, Country Road 5, Buckit, Matt Farris, Latino Rebel, Stateline, John Eric Band and Outside the Line

Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino

The West Valley Casino 51st Ave, 4 miles S. of Baseline - Laveen 1-800-WIN-GILA Event Center: Oct 29 – Metalachi, Nov 5 – Pacquiao vs Vargus (World Welterweight Championship, Nov 12 – UPROOT Reggaa Tribute) Nov 18 – Grupo Yndio, Dec 17 - , Dec 17 – Yolanda Del Rio New Year’s Eve – Paperback Writer (Beatles Experience)

Paul Rodriguez V Q LIVE: Open Wed – Sat, Featuring; STR8UP Band, Powerdrive, Rhythm of the Sun, Marty & the Party, Priminition, Chaka & Friends, Latino Rebel Band, Rhythm Edition and others Sunday’s; Mariachi Rodriguez or Mariachi Fiesta Valle Del Sol Bingo Park: Every Saturday at 11pm - BINGO ECLIPSE - Bingo, DJ music, light show & giveaways

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino

I-10 at Wild Horse Pass exit - Chandler 1-800-WIN-GILA Ovations LIVE! Showroom: Oct 22 – Latin Comedy Jam featuring Paul Rodriguez and a host of comics, Oct 29 – Halloween Party w/ REDFOO & the Party Rock Crew, Nov 12 – Sinatra & Friends (Bob Anderson) Nov 19 – WFF Live Mixed martial Arts fights, Nov 20 – One of these Nights (Eagles Tribute) The Lounge: Mid-day (Mon10am-3pm) w/ Jukebox 6, Swingtips or Route 66 w/ DJ Danny Davis Late night (Wed - Sun) featuring; The Walkens, Chaka & Friends, Shining Star, Rhythm of the Sun band, Smokestack Lightning, New Frequency and others CHROME NIGHT CLUB: Fridays & Saturdays Arizona’s Hot Spot featuring DJ Medik

travel preservation and lit by LED lighting. Ray will carve multiple “colossal” 400 lb. pumpkins. Visitors are welcome to ask questions while

from the pumpkin patch and register for the pumpkin pie eating competition. You’ll be able to enjoy a local craft beer garden along with culinary food trucks. On Halloween, costumes are encouraged and kids are welcome to trick or treat at various stations throughout the gardens. Based in Arizona, Ray Villafane is an internationally acclaimed American sculptor who has travelled throughout the globe fashioning exceptional figures and scenes out of pumpkins, sand and snow. Mr. Villafane has been called, “The Michelangelo of pumpkin carving,” by Martha Stewart, and has had the privilege of carving pumpkins for the President at the White House.

ENCHANTED PUMPKIN GARDEN IN CAREFREE The Halloween Spirit invades Carefree, Arizona for its second year in the form of whimsical pumpkin carvings from master sculptor Ray Villafane in his Enchanted Pumpkin Garden that is woven throughout the four acre Carefree Desert Gardens. This special event is in the historic area just a few miles north of Phoenix in Carefree, and to make it even more special it’s FREE to the public. This one-of-a-kind fall festival celebrates incredible artistry and enchantment of the Halloween season for all ages and runs October 17-31, from10am – 10pm at 101 Easy Street in Carefree, Arizona – The home of the world’s largest Sundial! New in 2016 will be the unveiling of Ray’s life size scarecrows which are hand crafted mostly of organic materials. Visitors are invited back to stroll and experience the many new mischievous pumpkin characters, artfully imagined and frolicking in their magical garden home. In addition to the playful pumpkins, Ray and his team will carve ten 3D pumpkin faces preserved and displayed in tanks that resemble Saguaro cacti, sculpted and immersed in a pickling solution for

kids can carve with him up-close and personal. Other special weekend highlights include family carving nights with Ray Villafane and the YMCA on October 26 & 27 – Reservations are recommended. New this year, Jelly Belly will invite visitors to take the “Bean Boozled Challenge” and get their picture taken with the Jelly Belly pumpkins. Easy Street Galleria will offer kids crafts along with face painting by a local artist. Adopt a pumpkin

This one of a kind artist has appeared on numerous national TV programs and holds two world records in the Guinness Book of Records. He’s also known for his Food Network’s Pumpkin Challenges, which he won in 2008, 2009, and 2010. For more information call 480-488-3686 or visit Carefree.org or CarefreePumpkinGarden.com For more information on Ray Villafane and Villafane studios visit Villafanestudios.com.

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

• • • •

24 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2016

Wedding Reunion Theme Party Corporate Function

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

602.919.7700

reel reviews by kevin cummings

26 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2016

DAVID AT THE SNACK BAR The Girl on the Train Story is told by three women from their perspective, at times from the past. Rachel, is an alcoholic who rides the train into work and back every day where she becomes fixated on a young couple who live on the route. by She imagines them to be the perfect David Ramsey couple but when something she sees shatters that image and the woman goes missing everything starts to fall apart. Megan is the wife who goes missing but has secrets of her own. Anna is a new mother connected to the other women in different ways. The mystery of Megan's disappearance and the investigation that follows will keep you guessing. Based on the best seller novel. "The Girl on the Train" almost lives up to its hype but falls apart at the end.

David’s Video Details X-Men: Apocalypse

The first Mutant has been buried under a temple for thousands of years, when he released he is unkillable and his powers are extinction level. Meanwhile, Raven is travelling the world freeing and uniting mutants. She brings one of them, Nightcrawler, to Professor Xavier's school where she brings them information on the new threat. Apocalypse rounds up his four horsemen, including Magneto and tries to destroy the world. Naturally, the X-Men unite to stop him. There are a back stories of many of the X-Men that will make a lot of the other movies make more sense. The story is too formulaic, "X-Men: Apocalypse" is just another superhero movie.

Cafe Society

Miss Peregrine›s Home for Peculiar Children Jake grew up on fantastical stores told by his grandfather when he dies Jake is unable to cope. He suggests taking a trip to the location of the stories to learn the truth and his doctor agrees it could help. While there he discovers the now ruined home where is grandfather was raised but when he takes a closer look he finds peculiarities. Then he finds a secret entrance that takes him back in time where he meets the residents of his grandfather's stories. He not only uncovers the truth he learns that the danger is real. Based on the young adult novel "Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children" left me hoping the sequel doesn't take long to hit theatres. 28 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2016

Set in the 1930s, Bobby moves from the Bronx to Hollywood hoping for work for his Uncle Phil, a big time theatrical agent. He falls in love with his Uncle's secretary but she has a boyfriend, then things get complicated. Meanwhile, back in the Bronx his older brother buys a nightclub. When Bobby moves back he takes over managing the club and it becomes the talk of the town. The often very funny story of true love and compromise is very well done with a great cast. The only drawback is the pointless and often annoying narration. "Cafe Society", while not Woody Allen's best, is worth seeing.

Alice Through the Looking Glass

Alice returns from a trip around the world to find her life turned upside down. When she sees Absolem she follows him through a mirror back to Wonderland. Once there she finds that things have changed, it seems the Hatter has lost his muchness. Mirana, the March Hare and everyone askes Alice to talk to him, telling her that she is the only one he will listen to. She gives it a try but it only gets worse. With help she steals a machine from Time and goes to the past to set things right. There is not as much action nor as much absurdness as "Alice in Wonderland" but it is a better film; the effects are spectacular. David Ramsey is the President and co-founder of the Phoenix Film Critics Society and a member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association (The Critics Choice Awards). Watch his reviews on the CBS 5 Morning News every Friday between 5:30 and 6:30am and on ABC-15’s “Sonoran Living Live” every other Friday. Read more of his DVD reviews at WildAboutMovies.com. Contact him at David@TheSnackBar.net.

bingo Apache Gold Casino – Globe, Wed thru Sun at Noon Fri, Sat – plus 1st Mon of the month at 7pm BlueWater Casino – Parker, Mon thru Wed at 6:30pm & Sun at 1:30pm Casino Arizona – Scottsdale, Daily at 1pm and 7pm plus “Late Night Bingo” Midnight Fri &Sat Casino Del Sol – Tucson, Daily 2pm & 7pm (early Birds ½ hour earlier) Cocopah Casino – Yuma, Daily at 1pm & 7pm Desert Diamond Casino – Tucson, Daily at 2pm & 7pm (early Birds ½ hour earlier) Fort McDowell Casino – Fountain Hills, Wed – Mon at 9am, 12:30pm & 6:30pm, Fri & Sat at 11:30pm and Midnight on the 1st Sat of the month for “Lunar Bingo” featuring a DJ, music, light show, dancing and Bingo. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino – Maricopa, Wed thru Sun 11:30 am, 2:30pm, 3:30pm & 6:30pm (Super Coverall & MP Bingo each evening) Lone Butte Casino – Chandler, Daily at Noon & 6:30pm, Sat & Sun at 10am, “Mini’s” at 3:30 & 5:30pm – also “Bingo After Dark” Fri & Sat at 10:30pm featuring a DJ, Music, light show, dancing and bingo. Mazatzal Casino – Payson, Daily at Noon & 6:30pm – DOUBLE Payoffs on 1st Thurs and 3rd Tues Paradise Casino – Yuma, Daily at 1:30 & 6pm Vee Quiva Casino – Laveen, Daily at Noon & 6:30pm, Plus “Bingo Eclipse” each Sat at 11:30pm, eaturing DJ music, dancing and bingo

ARIZONA PLAYER October 2016 29

Joke page, ASTROLOGY, Casino directory jokes of the month A LESSON IN SEX AND GRAMMER

On his 75th birthday, Charlie got a gift certificate from his wife - it was for a visit to a medicine man with a circus in town. She had been told this ancient potion maker had a wonderful cure for erectile dysfunction. Charlie drove to the event, handed his certificate to the medicine man. The old man handed him a potion in a vial and with a grip on Charlie’s shoulder, warned him, “This is a powerful potion, during the next full moon, which is tomorrow night, take only one drop on your tongue and then say aloud the numbers 1-2-3, then you will become more of a man than you have ever been and able to perform as long as you want.” Charlie was excited, but as he left, he turned and

asked, “what if I’ve had enough - how do I stop the medicine from working?” To get it to stop working - your partner must say aloud the numbers 1-2-3-4” he responded, “but when she does, the medicine will not work again until the next full moon.” Charlie was very eager to see if it worked, so the next evening he invited his wife to join him in the bedroom. When she came in he put a drop of the potion on his tongue, dropped his robe and yelled, “1-2-3!” Immediately, he was the manliest of men. His wife was excited and began removing her nightgown – then she smiled and said “Charlie, this is unbelievable …but, why were you yelling the numbers 1-2-3….for?” That’s why you never end sentences with a preposition, because you might end up with a dangling participle.

A LESSON IN HORSE BETTING

John was at the breakfast table when his wife walked up behind him and whacked him on the head with a rolled-up magazine. “What the hell was that for?” he asked. “That was for the piece of paper in your pants pocket with the name Mary Lou written on it,” she replied. “But sweetie” John said,” you don’t understand when I was at the track testerday, Mary Lou was the name of a horse I was told to bet on in the last race.” “Honey, I’m sorry,” she said. “I should have known there was a good explanation.” That weekend Jim was watching TV when his wife walked up and hit him in the head again, this time with a fry pan, Jim looked up and asked nicely “What was that for?” “Sweetie” she said “Your horse just called!”

Scorpio Oct 24 to Nov 22

Aquarius Jan 21 to Feb 19

Taurus April 21 to May 21

Sagittarius Nov 23 to Dec 21

Pisces Feb 20 to Mar 20

Gemini May 22 to June 21

Virgo Aug 24 to Sept 23

Capricorn Dec 22 to Jan 20

Cancer June 22 to July 22

Oct 17–23 Oct 24–31 Nov 1–8 Nov 9–16 Oct 17–23 Oct 24–31 Nov 1–8 Nov 9–16 Oct 17–23 Oct 24–31 Nov 1–8 Nov 9–16

Profitable adventure Surprising weekend Call from the past Small trip pays big

A very lucky weekend Crazy fun with new friend Your golden opportunity You make right decision Unexpected adventure Strange exciting time Very unusual week Things are improving

Oct 17–23 Oct 24–31 Nov 1–8 Nov 9–16 Oct 17–23 Oct 24–31 Nov 1–8 Nov 9–16

Cards flop in your favor Old friend re-appears Being nice pays off Celebration is near

Aries Mar 21 to April 20

Oct 17–23 Oct 24–31 Nov 1–8 Nov 9–16

CASINO DIRECTORY a

b 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 (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 October 2016

Make plans for that trip Smilin’ fun weekend Great new acquaintance Unexpected adventure

The news you needed Last minute plan works Change will be rewarding Great choice

Oct 17–23 Oct 24–31 Nov 1–8 Nov 9–16 Oct 17–23 Oct 24–31 Nov 1–8 Nov 9–16 Oct 17–23 Oct 24–31 Nov 1–8 Nov 9–16

About time to win big Screaming fun weekend Needed trip ahead Cool adventure ahead Nice win near-by Play favorite game Risk pays off big Friend has good idea

Nice time and win too Scary great time Nice turn of events Go with first hunch

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 poker & Entertainment (800) 946-4452

Leo July 23 to Aug 23

Oct 17–23 Oct 24–31 Nov 1–8 Nov 9–16 Oct 17–23 Oct 24–31 Nov 1–8 Nov 9–16

Great things are near Thrilling, chilling fun Never underestimate luck New pal was right Needed changes arrive Out of town excitement Keep thinking positive Now your cookin’

Libra Sept 24 to Oct 23

Oct 17–23 Oct 24–31 Nov 1–8 Nov 9–16

Old friend is back Excitement out of town Terrific plan really works Beyond your wildest dreams

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