February 2017 by Arizona Player

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Card Room Action Casino Entertainment Blackjack Corner – Upcoming Tournaments

Gaming•Entertainment•Travel www.arizonaplayer.com

Cover Story on page 8

REEL REVIEWS – Invaders– Moore Moolah PLANET BINGO Now at Cocopah Casino & Resort Vol. 25 No. 2 • February 2017

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 Jordyn Carias Kevin Cummings John Olson Matt Probst David Ramsey Satara Williams

Contributing Writers Linda Boyd Rachel Brockway Kevin Cummings TJ Jorgensen Malory Knudson Matt Probst David Ramsey Milissa Rowberry Satara Williams

Special Thanks to: the marketing department at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino for their very special effort putting current issue together – In this our 25th year of publishing the most distributed, published and respected gaming magazine in Arizona! 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 February 2017

Vol. 25 No. 2 • February 2017

Boyd’s Eye View of Video Poker Linda Boyd “Stove-piping”

Cover Story “Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino – World Series of Poker Tournaments

TJ's Blackjack Corner TJ Jorgensen “Upcoming Blackjack Tournaments” 10 Card Room Action Poker and Blackjack Action Around the State

Reel Reviews Kevin Cummings “Invaders More Moolah” by Scientific Games

Gaming News “All New Cocopah Players Card and PLANET BINGO Arrives”

Entertainment Casino Entertainment State-wide

Gaming News “Harrah’s Ak-Chin donates to area agency for the Aging Program”

Gaming News “Casino Del Sol Wins First Place Tribal Spirit Of Giving Award”

Contest Page “Win a White Mountain Ski Package Getaway”

Travel “Back to the 16 Century”

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

A BOYD’S EYE VIEW OF VIDEO POKER

VP Progressive Jackpots

imes are getting tough all over and that by includes for video poker Linda Boyd (VP) players. Some of the best remaining plays are for progressive jackpots once they get high. Keep in mind, however, that your expectations have to be reasonable and anytime your expected return (ER) relies on rare hands like the royal flush (RF) or four-of-a-kind (4OAKS), the volatility increases as well. Base Game: Before even considering a VP game, even a progressive, you should make sure that you have a decent base game - If, for example, the best Double Double Bonus (DDB) game available is 8/5 DDB and it’s not even in a progressive format, I would play something else. Even if your game is progressive you should look at the amounts before taking a seat. Sometimes, however, the progressive jackpots are high enough to make it a positive play, even over 100%, giving the player an advantage over the house. Volatility: Referring to Table 1.1 you can see that the variance, a measure of the games volatility or risk to running out of bankroll, is sky high in the progressive example. Be aware that all versions of DDB are risky business considering that 9/6Jacks or Better (9/6JOB) has a variance of 19.51468 by comparison. If you’ve selected a risky game you could quickly run out of money when you fail to get the statistically expected number of rare hands, like a RF or 4OAKS. Even if you’re playing a nonprogressive version it’s a dangerous choice.

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Table1.1: Double Double Bonus (DDB) 9/6 8/5 8/5 Winning DDB DDB DDB* Prog Hand

Royal Flush Straight Flush

4000

6000

250

2000

2500

Four 2’s, 3’s or 4’s w/A-4

800

900

4 Aces

800

900

Four 2’s, 3’s, or 4’s

400

480

4 Fives-Kings

250

300

Full House*

Flush*

Straight

3 of a Kind

4 Aces with 2, 3 or 4

2 Pair

Jacks or Better

Expected Return Variance

98.98%

96.78% 101.95%

41.98498 41.99487 76.69701

I had to use estimates because the meter is constantly changing, but these figures give you an estimate of both the ER and volatility for this game. Adjusting Play: Although progressives will be played much like the base game you will have to change your play for infrequent hands, like a RF. Normally, for example, dealt a high pair or three to the royal you would hold the paying pair; however, with a progressive royal you would hold three to the royal instead when the progressive gets to

a certain point. You should practice on tutorial software (I recommend WinPoker), before going to the casino since the exact amount varies with each VP game. (My book, “The Video Poker Edge” lists the exact amount for the most popular games.) Quitting Time: One of the most important things to keep in mind on progressives is the impact that long shot plays can have on your bankroll. Even if the royal is huge, so is the variance and you should avoid going above your budget with frequent trips to the ATM. Over time you will get your odds by only playing progressives when the amounts are high; however, short term results, like a single session, can be frustrating and devastating to your bankroll. Self-control is an absolute must, especially with long-shot games like Progressive DDB. Once the progressive jackpot is hit, it could be the royal or certain 4OAKS, it’s time to move on. Final Thoughts: Spend some time walking around a casino before deciding what you’re going to play. This is not only true for VP progressive jackpots but also for traditional progressive slot games. You can still find positive plays in your favorite Arizona casino if you’re patient and take your time before inserting those twenties. 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”. Her videos are on YouTube and on American Casino Guide’s web site, 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 including Kindle is available from amazon.com, www.squareonepublishers.com book stores or Toll Free: 877-900-BOOK

COVER STORY

Building You a Bigger

And…..it’s your place for WSOP Satellite Tournaments! Bring your poker face to the WSOP table on your next visit with several satellite tournaments at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino in Maricopa starting February 20th at 7:30pm to win a seat into the BIG EVENT on May 20! With Texas Hold-em and Limit Omaha tournaments happening daily on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Sundays, everyone can join in for a chance to win great prizes including cash and entries into the Las Vegas 2017 WSOP events! For details on tournaments and promotions available in the poker room please visit harrahsakchin.com Are you the outdoorsy type? Well, here’s something for you too! Join us for our 3rd Annual 5K Poker Run on Sat, April 15. Then celebrate your 5K finish at the pool with free entertainment, free food, drink and a chance to win up to $500 in cash! Enter now to receive $10 off your entry fee using promo code, AZP17 and let the fun begin!

#HarrahsGObig We’re making some serious moves on building you a bigger and better playground! We’re looking forward to a brand new spa, hotel tower, convention space, gym, restaurants, parking garage and a whole lot more gaming space. With many of these projects expected to be completed by fall of 2017 & the final results of the expansion are expected to come together in 2018. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram using the hashtag #HarrahsGObig for frequent updates.

Free Stuff? They say cash is king! Visit us every Saturday in 2017 for free entries based on your tier and enter the yearlong $275,000 Guaranteed Cash Giveaway! Plus, you’ll receive additional entries for every 100 Tier Credits you earn on Saturdays. Visit on Sat March 25 to find out if you are the first grand prize winner of $50,000 in cash given away at 7pm! While you wait, play your favorite sizzling slot machine for a chance to win free slot play prizes every 15 minutes from noon to 6pm. See Total Rewards for complete details.

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Free Play, Reward Credits and Free Gifts! Every Wednesday in February and March you’ll get a guaranteed $10 prize awarded after earning at least one Tier Credit at your favorite slot machine from 8am to 11:59pm. Plus, in February, 1 in 10 guests score even more and win a free gift! Are Handbags more your style? We are giving away one of a selection of Kenneth Cole purses on Tuesday, February 21 in the Ak-Chin Ballroom from 3pm to 7pm! Check your offers to see if you qualify OR earn this gift for 150 Tier Credits! Earning period is 6am - 6:45pm on February 21. Purses must be picked up by 7pm.

COVER STORY

and

Better Playground Entertainment Dance the night away in The Lounge with Firefall on February 17, Alec Davis on February 24, Larry Gatlin on March 3 and Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone on April 7! With all that and much more, 2017 is sure to be a hit! See the full listing of free entertainment online at Harrahsakchin.com.

All this and more! Offering the largest selection of the latest reel and video slots in a range of denominations, Harrah’s Ak-Chin features slot machines, video

poker, video Keno as well as popular statewide progressives and live-action poker and Black Jack. Plus, don’t miss the newest addition, electronic Roulette, now available! See Total Rewards for complete rules regarding all mentioned promotions.

Harrah’s Ak-Chin is the only casino in Arizona that allows guests, through its Total Rewards® program, to unlock benefits and other prizes that can be used worldwide at the Caesars family of casinos. Harrah’s Ak-Chin also boasts the only Bingo hall in the Caesars organization, continuing the proud heritage of William F. Harrah, who opened his first Bingo hall in Reno in 1937. If Bingo is your favorite game, be sure to check back on its new location inside the casino in fall 2017. For more information regarding the expansion layout coming soon – Visit harrahsakchin.com for more details.

TJ’s Blackjack corner

Up Coming Blackjack Tournaments

one Butte Casinos Presidents Day Blackjack Tournaments was such a success last year that they will be having another one on Monday February 20th. The Casino guarantees 1st place money at $5,000. Sign up is at 10am and the first round begins at noon. Entry fee is $50. Register before February 20 and receive an additional $1,000 in Tournament Chips. Each Player starts with $5000 in tournament chips and betting limits are $100 min and $5000 max. Last year the Tournament was a sell out so its a good idea to sign up early. Fort McDowell Casino is having their 2nd Annual 3 Cloves of Cash Blackjack Tournament on March 18th. Entry fee is $30. Registration for seating assignments begins at noon on Sat, March 18 in the Blackjack area. First place prize of $2,000.00 is guaranteed. The tournament will not exceed 72 Guests. The first qualifying round will start at 2 PM. The qualifying round will consist of up to 3 sessions of up to 24 guests each. Three sessions will consist of 4 tables and up to 6 players each, playing 15 hands of blackjack. Two players per table with the most chips after 15 hands will advance to the Semi-Final Round. Semi-Final Round will consist of 1 session of up to 24 guests from the Qualifying Rounds. The

by TJ Jorgensen

10 ARIZONA PLAYER February 2017

session will consist of 4 tables of up to 6 players each, playing 15 hands of blackjack. One guest per table with the most chips and the next two highest chip totals from the remaining players of this round after 15 hands will advance. There will be up to 6 winners. The 6 winners will advance to the Championship round. The Championship Round will consist of 1 session composed of up to the 6 finalists from the Semi-Final round with 1 table of up to 6 players, each playing 21 hands of blackjack. The Dealer will issue each guest $1,000 in tournament chips for use in the session. Guests may not keep any chips remaining at the end of the session for use in later sessions. Tournament chips have no cash value and cannot be redeemed for cash. The Dealer will deal 15 hands of blackjack in the qualifying rounds; 15 in the semi-final and 21 in championship rounds. After 12 hands in the qualifying round and the semi-final and after 16 hands championship rounds have been played, the Dealer will stack each guests remaining chips to facilitate a count of the chips. The Dealer will call out the total for each guest to hear. At the end of each session the Tournament Assistants will log the scores. All bets must be in multiples of $5, with a minimum bet of $10 and a maximum bet of $1000. The Championship

Round will determine the winners of the tournament prizes. Last year was a sell out so it›s a good idea to sign up early.

Why You should Play Recently, whenever a Casino hosts a Blackjack Tournament, it is a sell-out. That’s probably because the risk vs reward is so attractive for Players. For example, I can safely say that if you walked into a casino with $50 and bought in at a blackjack table, it is not very likely that you would walk out $800 to $1000 ahead. But if you take that same $50 and enter a blackjack tournament, your $50 entry fee will get you real close to that amount if you finish in the money. That’s probably why Blackjack Tournaments are getting so popular, and the Blackjack Tournament Players Community is growing so fast. After all, it’s a win-win situation for both the Casino and Players. The Casino gets 100 plus Blackjack Players plus their significant others or friends in the casino plus the Players get a shot at a nice reward if they finish in the money, along with a lot of fun.

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

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

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

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 & Sun, Feb 11 & 12 “Winter Poker Classic” - $400 Buy-in w/ Finals on Monday Sat, Feb 18, 11:15 am, “Super Bounty” NLHE, $240 buy-in$100 Bounties Sat, Feb 19, 11:15 am - Weekend Tournament 160 Sat, Feb 25, Mar 25,Apr 29 11:15am – End of Month-NLHE $160 buy-in Sun, Feb 26, 11:15am – Omaha Hi/Low - $150 buy-in Player Special (2am - Noon) $4 breakfast Also dealing blackjack 24/7

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

Parker, AZ Poker Room opens at 2pm daily 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 2:30pm, NLHE - $35 buy-in w/ $20 re-buy & $5 Bounties Sat at 2:30pm, NLHE - $60 buy-in w/ no re-buys Daily Aces Cracked $50 - max 3 per day Wed, all day – Straight flush $50 Fri, all day – 4 of a kind $50, Royal Flush $200 Bad Beat Hold-em Jackpot,(13,800)aces full of 10s or better beaten (Quads or better) Dealing blackjack daily at 9am

Bucky’s Casino 1-800-756-8744

Prescott, AZ Tues – Fri, Noon - NLHE Shootouts $20 buy –in Wed/Thurs, 6pm NLHE $40 BI, Opt $10 add-on - Earn points for Player of Month - $600 paid out Sat, Noon – $500 added DEEP STACK, $80 buy-in/opt dealer add-on $20 Spreading $2/$100 Texas hold-em anytime Call for details on tournaments and daily live play Dealing blackjack 24/7

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

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Casino Del Sol 520-838-6565

Tucson, AZ Sunday at 5pm “Deep Stack” $5,000 Guaranteed NLHE, $100 buy-in Sun-Fri, 10am - $600 Guaranteed (w/30 players) NLHE, $25 buyin, opt $5 chip-up & $10 add-on Mon, 7pm - $1,500 Guar $40 buy in w/ $5 chip up available Tues, 7pm - $600 guarantee FREE ROLL – 50 players max (no cost) opt “chip up” of $6 Wed – “Race for Cash” Noon till Midnight thru Jan 25 Thurs, 7pm - “Deep Stack” $5,000 Guaranteed NLHE, $120 buy-in 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 w/ opt $5 chip-up & $5 add-on Mon – Thurs (noon-Mid) Omaha only-Buy in for a “rack”, play 2 hours and get a “stack”! Mon – Thurs (2pm-Mid) Omaha 6/4 Cracked pays $100 – max 5 per day

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/Omaha Mixed Tournament $25 buy-in Thurs, 6pm – Mid “RED Chip Bonus” every live pot won receives a Red Chip – most Red chip each hour wins $50 in chips Fri, 7pm - NLHE Shoot-outs, $100 added per table - $25 buy-in Sat, 11am – (EXCEPT 1st & 3rd Sat each month) NLHE $50 buy-in w/ opt $10 dealer chip up (Play live beginning at 9am and receive additional Tournament chips ($400 per hour w/ max of $800) Sat, 11am – (1st & 3rd Sat each month) NLHE $70 buy-in w/ opt $10 dealer chip up (Play live beginning at 9am and receive additional Tournament chips ($400 per hour w/ max of $800) “ACES CRACKED” wins up to $100 - Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm, & Sat 9am-noon $25 Splash Pots hourly Sun-Wed (2pm-10pm) plus Fri, and every 1st & 3rd Sat (2pm-1am) 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 – $38 buy-in no re-buys Feb 10th thru 12th at Noon – $ 22,000 Chicanos Por La Causa Charity No- Limit Hold Em Poker Tournament – $200 Buy in, 2 Qualifying rounds at Noon Feb 11 & 12, Finals Sun Feb 12 at Noon

Daily – Any Royal Flush $200 Hold Em, $100 Omaha, Straight Flush $100 Hold Em, $50 Omaha Special Poker Room menu at ½ off regular prices Dealing blackjack 24/7 with 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 - 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 SUPER SUNDAY Feb 5th – Call for the “Super” Details! Ladies NLHE Poker Tournament in March – Call for details $60 BI w/Opt $10 chip-up “Aces Cracked” 24/7 Min $100 up to $1,000 between 1am-5pm. “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 WSOP Tournaments are back! Wednesdays at 7:30pm $1,000 NLHE Satellite Event Sundays at 5:30pm - $1,500 NLHE Satellite Event Saturday May 20th $10,000 Main Event Satellite – 10am & 3pm with Finals at 7:30pm 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 Daily $25 Splash pots” every ½ hour- (1:30pm – close) call for details

Also dealing blackjack 24/7 – including “Push the bet”

CARD ROOM ACTION

Hon-Dah Casino 928-369-7555

Pinetop, AZ Open daily at 4pm, Sat & Sun at 2pm Mon, 6pm – Free Pizza and NFL Splash Pots 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 – $100 High Hand at 6pm, 9pm & Mid (Hold Em) Also dealing blackjack Sun thru Thurs 4pm – 10pm, Fri and Sat 2pm – Mid

Lone Butte Casino 800-946-4452

Chandler, AZ Dealing blackjack 24/7 Progressive Jackpots include; Crazy 4 Poker & Ultimate Texas Hold EM at all 3 Gila River Casinos! The PAI GOW Jackpot was hit twice in November for $240,000 and $108,000 and it’s growing again.

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino 800-777-7529

Payson, AZ “Road to Vegas” Poker Tournaments at 6pm on Wednesdays March1 & 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

Quechan Casino Resort 1-877-783-2426

Winterhaven, CA (Yuma area) 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

“Aces Cracked” 24/7 (except during Sports Promotions) Win a Rack – “Rolling Cash Fever” Drawing every other hour 24/7, $100 min, increases by $100 if not hit – must go Monday 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 twice recently – call for update!

before play for added chips

Sat, noon, March 4, April,1 & May 6 at noon “Super Stack” NLHE - $110 BI w/ $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 “Red & Black ACES CRACKED” Daily 10am-4am –pair of Red or Black Aces pay $100 W/$50 Splash pot on next hand 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 Feb 25 High Hand Promo Mon – Fri 3:30 am – 10am, $50 every ½ hour – plus $50 Splash on next hand 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 twice recently – call for update!

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

ARIZONA PLAYER February 2017 13

reel reviews by kevin cummings

14 ARIZONA PLAYER February 2017

gaming news NEW PLAYERS CLUB REWARDS & BINGO SYSTEM AT COCOPAH CASINO & RESORT 2017 is a great year for players at Cocopah Resort & Casino! Cocopah is now rewarding its Players Club members even more with free Rewards Play, table game play and other offers – Not only that, players can now redeem their points for rewards play, gas, food, and much more. Not a member? Just stop by the Rewards Club on your next visit to unlock your benefits. Plus, receive up to $100 in Rewards Play just for joining the club! Cocopah Casino & Resort was voted the best place in Yuma to play Bingo for ten consecutive years! And now, the Future of Bingo has made its home at Cocopah Casino – Planet Bingo has arrived and it changes the way you play Bingo. It is exciting, fun and most of all, easy! The hand held PhD™ electronic and OneTouch® fixed base units do all of the work for you. You can even play as many paper cards as you want while letting the electronic cards play away all on their own. All you have to do is sit back, relax and yell BINGO! If you’re in a hurry, you can skip the lines by putting credits on your Bingo account to purchase games through Buy-on-the-Fly™ right from your unit and with Bonanza Trades™, you can trade a card you don’t like for two new cards for just a dollar! If you want to jump in on the fun, join the Planet Bingo games at any time with GemHunt™ where you can play up 36 cards per game and 20 games per hour with five progressive bonus jackpots in all games. Another five progressive Bingo jackpots are offered through QuickPlay™ which has a variety of game themes packed with fast, exciting bingo action and multiple ways with a chance to win up to $8,000 per game! There are plenty of opportunities to play and win with Planet Bingo at Cocopah. Bingo is called seven days a week with matinee sessions available on select days.

16 ARIZONA PLAYER February 2017

For players 55 and older, Prime Time extends even more Rewards. Every Thursday from noon to 6pm you could win your share of $1,400 in cash in Cocopah’s Prime Time drawings every Thursday from Noon to 6pm. Plus, receive a $10 Prime Time Rewards Food Credit when you earn 30 Reward Points. 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. Cocopah features 500+ slots with the latest innovative games. Of course, the old single line three reels are still there. They also offer Three Deck Blackjack, with limits up to $500 per wager. Unlike other casinos Cocopah Casino & Resort offers non-gaming family fun also with 101 plush hotel rooms and Wild River Entertainment, a family fun spot with bowling, darts, and a sports bar. If you’re up for enjoying the beautiful Yuma climate, grab your clubs and head to the golf course. Cocopah has 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, plus the Cocopah RV Resort features over 800 spaces with all the amenities you would expect. If you are near Yuma, or heading in that direction 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 or call 1-800-SLOTS

entertainment Apache Gold Casino Resort

(5 miles East of Globe on Hwy 70) 1-800-272-2438 San Carlos Event Center: March 4 & 5 – Intertribal POW WOW - $37,000 in prize money - $22,500 Drum Contest, Sweethearts Dance, Women’s Fancy Special, Team Dance Special, Men’s Fancy and Women’s Jingle Spotlight Mar 4 Gourd Dancing 11am & 6pm – Grand Entry at 1pm and 7pm Mar 5 Gourd Dancing 11am, Grand Entry at noon The POINT Sports Bar & Grill: Big screens to watch sports & bands on weekends; Feb 18 – Kush Country Feb 25 – Latino Rebel Band Mar 4 – UFC 209 – Woodley vs Thompson-2 World Welterweight Championship Pay per View (21 & over only) Plus Interim Lightweight Championship Khabib vs Ferguson

Trace Atkins

Casino Del Sol

5655 W. Valencia Rd. Tucson 520-838-6506 AVA Amphitheater: New concert schedule coming soon Paradiso Bar: AZ top bands (free) every weekend and Tribute bands on Thursdays; Feb 16 – Marvin Gaye Tribute Feb 17 – Suerte Musical Feb 18 – Kenny G’s Project Feb 24 – Buckboard Feb 25 – XS Band Bingo Hall: COSMIC BINGO – Mar 3, Apr 7 and May 5 – at 11pm Featuring Hilarious Host Lucinda Holiday has Prizes, cash cube and fun galore – log on to the Casino del Sol website and check it out!

BlueWater Resort and Casino

11300 Resort Dr., Parker 1-888-243-3360 BlueWater Amphitheatre: Feb 25 – TRACE ATKINS BlueWater Showroom Feb 18 – “Barbara & Frank” Tribute to Sinatra & Streisand Mar 4 – Vegas Country & Neon Circus (Tribute bands) Dig Lounge: DJs/live bands & Sports on the big screens River’s Edge Cantina: Sports on the big screens

Cosmic Bingo

Casino Arizona

101 at McKellips, Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Showroom: Feb 17 & 18 – MASTER OF PUPPETS, Feb 24 & 25 – Police Experience (Tribute Band) Mar 3 & 4 – LA-Vation (U2 Tribute band) Mar 25 & 25 – Cash, Killer & THE KING, Mar 31 – Wanted (Bon Jovi Tribute band)

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Rhythm of the Sun Band at 8pm Fri & Sat at 8pm - Live bands including JJ’s Band, Rhythm of the Sun, STR8UP and Powerdrive Bingo Hall: Fri & Sat at Midnight, L-8 Nite Bingo! Music, light show & dancing w/ host Corina & DJ Kenji!

Arizona Room Patio Grill: Mon – JJ’s Band Tues– Trivia Tuesdays - $1,000 up for grabs (register 5:306:30 - action starts at 7pm) Wed - Country dance instruction with Laina Lee, (6-8pm) Chad Freeman & Redline at 8pm Thurs - Latin Fire Dance Night w/Dance Lessons (6-8pm)

Cliff Castle Casino

I-17 at exit 289 in Camp Verde 1-800-381-SLOT Dragonfly Lounge: Feb 16 – Thursday Night Band Showcase Feb 17 & 18 – Gerardo Mendoza Feb 24 – Apache Spirit Mar 3 - Buckit Mar 4 - UFC 209 – Woodley vs Thompson-2 World Welterweight Championship Pay per View (21 & over only) Plus Interim Lightweight Championship Khabib vs Ferguson Mar 10 – Pima Express Mar 17 – Grupo Reflejo Mar 24 – Latino Rebel Band Mar 31 - Aravaipa

Desert Diamond Casino I-19 1100 West Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita 1-866-332-9467 Diamond Center: Feb 24 - STYX Feb 25 – Easton Corbin Mar 4 – Kathy Griffin Mar 18 – Ambrosia AND Firefall Apr 14 – The Spinners

Cocopah Casino Resort

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort & Casino

15406 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa 480-802-5000 THE LOUNGE: Friday & Saturday 5-8pm and 8pm-1am - BIG NAMES – NO COVER! Feb 17 – FIREFALL Feb 24 – Alec Davis Mar 3 – Larry Gatlin Apr 7 – Herman Hermits starring Peter Noone Great bands on weekends like; Young Country, Soundwave, John Eric Band, Quantum and others Wed (Happy Hour, 5-8pm) featuring; Walkens Trio or the Stanley Serano Trio Wed (noon -4pm) w/ Route 66, Walkens Trio, Mancini, Bandstand Shows, Thaddeus Rose or Silhouette For updates, go to harrahsakchin.com

Hon-Dah Resort and Casino

15318 S Avenue B, Somerton, AZ (Yuma area) (928) 726-8066 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

entertainment

The Spinners Sports Bar: Nightly Sports on big screens, plus Karaoke/ DJ nightly & live bands on weekends

Fort McDowell Casino

N of Shea off Hwy 87, Fountain Hills 1-800-THE-FORT “Lucky 7” Saloon: The top bands in Arizona on weekends; Furious George, the Dave Arnold Band, Tommy Price & the Stilettos, The Walkens and others Bingo Hall: 1st Saturday of each month - Late Night Lunar Bingo w/ music & giveaways Updates - go to fortmcdowellcasino.com

Highways 260 and 73, Pinetop 1-800-WAY-UP-HIGH Conference Center: Mar 17 – DEAD or ALIVE (The Bon Jovi Experience) Apr 21 – Best of Fleetwood Mac by Fleetwood Nicks Tribute Band plus Women of Rock Tribute Show May 19 – COUNTRY ROADS –THE John Denver Tribute Starring Jim Curry Timbers Lounge: The best Arizona Bands live Tuesday thru Saturday!

Lone Butte Casino

202 loop at the Kyrene exit - Chandler, 1-800-WIN-GILA Lone Butte Event Center: Nationally Known acts and Top local bands like; New Frequency Band, Rhythn Edition, Rich Berra Band, Soul Persuasion, Thaddeus Rose and others Cascades Lounge: Mon, Tues & Fri (4-8pm) and Fri & Sat (late night)

ARIZONA PLAYER February 2017 19

entertainment

featuring Marty & the Party, Thaddeus Rose, The Hamptons, JJ’s Band, Smooth Groove, STR8UP, Rhythm Edition 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” w/ light show, bingo & giveaways

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino

1/2-mile S. of Payson on Hwy 87 1-800-777-PLAY www.777play.com EVENT CENTER: Mar 18 – Hot August Nights Apr 15 – Visions of Fleetwood Mac May 5 – EVIL WAZE (Ultimate Santana Experience) May 12 – Bee-line Cruise-in Burger Burn and 50’s Sock Hop Apache Spirits Lounge: Entertainment nightly Thurs Sat (live bands, DJ’s & 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: Mar 3 – Australian Bee Gees Mar 10 – Jerry Riopelle Mar 11 & 12 – ELVIS LIVES! Mar 24 – Jimmie Vaughn

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Apr 22 & 23 – The Mavericks Grand Ballroom: Mar 4 – George Thorogood & the Destroyers Mar 18 – Air Supply Apr 29 – Travis Tritt 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: Featuring: Powerdrive, Uptown Band, Chuck E Baby and Andrea & Gemini V Q LIVE: Open Wed – Sat, Featuring; Powerdrive, Uptown Band, Chuck E Baby, Andrea & Gemini, Reality Band, Chaka & Friends, Latino Rebel Band, Soul Persuation, Marty & the Party, Sound Wave & STR8UP Band Sunday’s; Mariachi Pasion or Mariachi Juarez 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: Feb 19 – The Piano Men (Tribute to Billy Joel & Elton John Feb 23 – Marty Haggard (Tribute to my Dad Merle) Mar 11 - Foghat Mar 19 – ABBA FAB (Tribute to ABBA Apr 21 – Clint Black Apr 28 - SINBAD 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, Chuck E Baby and others Reflections Lounge: Now featuring Live Entertainment CHROME NIGHT CLUB: Fridays & Saturdays - Arizona’s Hot Spot featuring DJ Medik

Clint Black

gaming news Casino donates to Elder Refugee Program Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino recently donated $5,000 to the Area Agency for Aging for its Mosaic Center Elder Refugee Program. This donation is to help the program move to a larger center. “The Mosaic Center is an incredible program that gives back to the community in ways that are especially helpful to our area’s seniors. The Center provides them with the resources necessary to connect with others and help them make tangible progress within their own lives,” said Robert Livingston, regional vice president and general manager for Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino. “Being able to donate to an organization such as the Area Agency for Aging is a tangible way for Harrah’s employees to show their appreciation and support a worthy cause.” The Refugee Program was developed to provide services and support to elder refugees 60 years or older living in Maricopa County. These services include critical needs case management, housing and home management assistance, referrals for aging services, and interpretation and translation services, to name a few. The Center also provides various activities and meals in addition to transportation to those who need it. The Native American Seniors is also housed at The Mosaic Center, a program that enables Native Americans over 60 to connect with one another. Elders from 12 different tribes take part in this program. The Mosaic Center is open four days a week and is located at 1430 E. Indian School Rd., #110, Phoenix, AZ 85014. The Native American Seniors program meets Mondays and Tuesday and the Refugee Program takes place

22 ARIZONA PLAYER February 2017

on Wednesdays and Thursdays. For more information, visit their website at http://aaaphx.org/program-services/mosaic-center/ Celebrating more than 20 years in Maricopa, Arizona, Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino is Arizona’s first and only tribal casino to have an international management partner. Offering the largest selection of the latest reel and video slots in a range of denominations, Harrah’s Ak-Chin features slot machines, video poker, video Keno as well as popular statewide progressives and liveaction poker and Black Jack.

Left to right: Jamie Craig Dove, Area Agency for Aging Senior Marketing Director and Fund Development; Tammy Livingston; Robert Livingston, Harrah’s Regional Vice President and General Manager; Gerry Kroloff, Area Agency for Aging, Vice President of Community Relations; Katie Stevens, Area Agency for Aging Native American Senior Center Coordinator

gaming news CASINO DEL SOL WINS FIRST PLACE TRIBAL SPIRIT OF GIVING AWARD

TUCSON CASINO NAMED ONE OF ARIZONA’S BEST HOTELS

On Feb. 1, the Pascua Yaqui Tribe and their enterprise, Casino Del Sol, was recognized with a first-place honor for their Employee Tribal Cultural program at the Tribal Spirit of Giving Awards ceremony during Raving’s 19th annual Indian Gaming National Marketing Conference. The Tribal Spirit of Giving Awards recognize Tribal organizations and their history of uncommon generosity and support to their Native and non-Native communities. These prestigious awards highlight the acts of giving that Tribal casinos and governments have done on behalf of their communities, employees, and customers. “This award reflects the commitment to community and culture that is so important to Casino Del Sol and the Pascua Yaqui Tribe,” said Kimberly Van Amburg, CEO of Casino Del Sol. “To be recognized for something that we hold so dear to our hearts is a source of great pride for our organization, and is the reason we call ourselves the Sol of Tucson.” Each year since Casino Del Sol opened, more than 22 years ago, the Pascua Yaqui Tribe has implemented an Employee Tribal Cultural Program. For four days during the week of Easter, all casino and Tribal operations are closed, to allow the more than 1,500 employees to participate in the Pascua Yaqui Lenten and Easter ceremonies. The Tribe also pays all employees during this time off, allowing them to spend this time with family and friends without worry of financial hardship. This closure allows employees to focus on their cultural festivities without having to choose between their work responsibilities and cultural responsibilities. In addition to the Easter ceremonies, Casino Del Sol also offers time off to employees to participate in important non-Lenten cultural ceremonies, such as honoring a passed on loved one, or celebrating other cultural holidays. In the nearly 23 years of this program, Casino Del Sol has sacrificed revenue and paid out more than 500,000 man hours during the Easter holiday. Additionally, more than 250,000 man hours have been paid out for other cultural ceremonies. This is over and above the traditional paid time off most other companies provide, and truly shows Casino Del Sol’s appreciation to their employees. For more information about Casino Del Sol, visit www.casinodelsol.com or call 1-855-SOL-STAY (765-7829).

For the second consecutive year, U.S. News & World Report, a nationally recognized publisher of consumer advice and information, named Casino Del Sol one of the Best Hotels in Tucson and Arionza during the publication’s annual evaluation of hotels with the best reputation among guests and experts alike. “We are incredibly proud to be recognized as one of the state’s and city’s best hotels for the second year in a row,” said Kimberly Van Amburg, CEO of Casino Del Sol. “As the Sol of Tucson, we strive to provide an outstanding experience to all who walk through our doors, and this award truly speaks to that. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the continued dedication of our remarkable staff.” The 2017 Best Hotels rankings evaluate more than 3,000 luxury properties across the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. The methodology combines both expert and guest sentiment, in addition to industry accolades a hotel receives, to determine each hotel's rank. "The properties on the U.S. News Best Hotels rankings meet the standards of both everyday travelers and industry experts in offering exceptional customer service and luxury amenities," said Erin Shields, travel editor at U.S. News. For more information about the 2017 Best Hotels, please visit travel.usnews. com/Hotels/ or join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram using #BestHotels17. About Casino Del Sol: Located in southwest metropolitan Tucson, Ariz., the Pascua Yaqui Tribe is a federally recognized tribe with more than 17,000 enrolled members. The Tribe owns and operates several enterprises including Casino Del Sol, Arizona’s only Forbes Four Star and AAA Four Diamond casino resort; Casino of the Sun; AVA Amphitheater, a 5,000-seat open-air concert venue named Casino Arena/ Amphitheater of the Year by Casino Entertainment Awards; Sewailo Golf Club, a par-72 championship course designed by Notah Begay III; and the Del Sol Marketplace. For more information or to book a room at one of Tucson’s best resorts, call 1-855-SOL-STAY (765-7829) or visit www.CasinoDelSol.com. Follow Casino Del Sol on Facebook and Twitter.

Steve Neely, CMO (left) and Ciro Rivera, Director of Community Relations with the Tribal Spirit of Giving Award ARIZONA PLAYER February 2017 23

contest page WINTER WONDERLAND SWEEPSTAKES CONGRATULATIONS to our grand prize winner – Lisa Hagen from Queen Creek, Arizona and the 6 runner-up winners in our Winter Wonderland Sweepstakes. Lisa’s Grand Prize Package (valued at $500) includes; a 2 night stay in the picturesque Pinetop area at Hon-Dah Resort Casino. Lisa and her guest will receive breakfast and dinner at the Indian Pines Restaurant. Plus lift tickets to Sunrise Ski Resort for both adults! And to sweeten the pot – Arizona Player is including $100 in spending cash!

24 ARIZONA PLAYER February 2017

Lisa and her guest will have fun on the slopes, plus all of the indoor excitement at Hon-Dah Resort Casino including; live entertainment in the Timbers Lounge featuring Arizona’s best bands! Plus some of the loosest slots in Arizona to bring home a nice jackpot along with “live” poker, poker tournaments and blackjack. Along with the Grand Prize Winner, Arizona Player is awarding 6 runner-up winners that will receive Arizona Renaissance Festival tickets or they can opt for gift cards to the Olive Garden, Chili’s, Cracker Barrel or Macy’s department stores. Those winners are David Rittenberry of Prescott Valley Arizona, Karen Judd from Glendale, Barbara Bonnette of Tolleson, J Stevens of Phoenix, Katie Sikora from Gilbert and Melton Beauvais who resides in Flagstaff. Congratulations to all our winners - 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 new things coming in 2017. You are going to like them!

travel BACK TO THE 16TH CENTURY You do not need a passport to time travel to the 29th annual Arizona Renaissance Festival & Artisan Marketplace – Put your daily cares aside and escape to the Royal Faire, located just east of Apache Junction on US Highway 60, near the Superstition Mountains. You will find life in the 16th century is festive and fun in a 30-acre medieval playground with five great attractions all rolled into one. There are thirteen Stages of continuous live entertainment, each stage setting packed with a unique mix of comedy, music, and mischievous antics. Don Juan & Miguel brandishing whips and swords will have you laughing till your stomach hurts. The Ded Bob Sho is a real trip too – but you better think before you heckle this guy, or you’ll find yourself on stage as part of the act.

Just some of the other hilarious acts include; The Washing Well Wenches, Hey Nunny Nunny, Zilch the TorySteller, London Broil, The Tortuga Twins along with many, many more! This is an Outdoor Circus of acrobats & merrymakers, for the entire family, where you never know what will happen next, on stage or off. You want more than just Comedy? Here are some other events that will peak your interest:

Jousting Tournaments, three performances daily with armored knights on noble steeds challenging one another, re-create history’s original Super bowl bash in the 5,000 seat arena. A Medieval Arts and Crafts Fair with over 200 storybook shops, charming tents, and carts plus artisan demonstrations of the fine skills of weaving, woodcarving, blacksmithing, glassblowing, pottery and jewelry. 26 ARIZONA PLAYER February 2017

A Day-Long Feast with hearty foods to satisfy your appetite plus beer and wine to quench your thirst. You can also make reservations for The Pleasure Feast - a one and a half-hour extravaganza! Savor five courses of fine food and drink with a side order of raucous live entertainment - Admission ticket and souvenir goblet is included with Feast price. Kids love the interactive games and people-powered rides: Da Vinci’s Flying Machine, the Slider Joust, Piccolo Pony - a rocking horse bigger than an elephant - the Dragon Climbing Tower, Castle Siege, a Maze, Archery Range and much more, and the NEW ride: Steam Pirate’s Airship One of the special features of the Festival is that entertainment takes place throughout the day right in front of your eyes on the streets of the village, as a costumed cast of 2,000 medieval commoners, knights and royalty celebrates a 16th century day of play. You can even look like you have been whisked back to the 16th Century by renting a costume for the day! Transform yourself into a knight, jester, damsel, wench, King or Queen or many other characters by renting a costume for the day! Hours: 10 am to 6pm every Sat and Sun, Feb 11 – April 2, Plus Presidents Day, Mon, Feb 20. Advance discount tickets are available at Fry¹s or online – Print tickets at home. Fry’s Prices are Adults $22 and $12 for ages 5-12. Tickets at the gate are $2 more. Parking is FREE courtesy of FRY’S Food & Drug Stores. INFO LINE: 520-463-2700 or go to the website: www.RenFestInfo.com Pick a weekend and put some medieval fun into to your life – You’ll love it - HAZZAH!

DAVID AT THE SNACK BAR John Wick: Chapter 2 Picking up where the first one left off Wick tries to go back into retirement when an old 'friend' comes calling with a marker to cash in. John rejects the marker turning down the job and brings the wrath of the organization he thought he had left. Left with no options he reluctantly by accepts the job which only complicates things David Ramsey more. The action is non-stop and the fights are spectacular in this sequel that rivals the original. After watching "John Wick: Chapter 2" I can›t wait for Chapter 3.

David’s Video Details The Edge of Seventeen

Nadine has always been an outsider with only one friend. School has always been difficult and it›s even worse in High School. When her only friend falls for her annoyingly perfect brother her life falls apart. Then she accidentally sends an inappropriate text to a boy she has a crush on. She goes to the only person she trusts, a teacher with a dry sense of humor. This teen angst film is one of the funniest films of the year. The cast is perfect, the writing is witty and spot on hilarious. If you are looking for a funny film this is the one for you.

Hacksaw Ridge

The LEGO Batman Movie The Joker breaks everyone out of Arkham Asylum to get Batman›s attention. Batman is a lonely egomaniac, but then we all knew that. When he tells the Joker he is not his arch rival it causes him to go after an even bigger weapon that could destroy the world. Meanwhile Batman accidentally adopts and orphan who becomes Robin and has to come to terms with being part of a family. There are some funny, witty moments but this spin-off misses the mark set by "The Lego Movie" in every way.

Desmond Doss enlists in the army against is father›s wishes but pledges to never touch a weapon or kill anyone. He becomes an Army Medic and proves himself when his unit is assigned to take Hacksaw Ridge on Okinawa. The battlefield carnage is overwhelming but Doss never stops saving the wounded. The action is spectacular and the direction is perfect. Based on the true story "Hacksaw Ridge" is an inspiring story of a man›s conviction and heroism.

Allied

A British intelligence officer infiltrates Casablanca in 1942 where he teams up with a beautiful French resistance fighter to accomplish a deadly mission. They fall for each other and he arranges for her to travel back to England with him. Their relationship grows while the war rages around them. It›s not long before they are married and have a child but the pressure of the war intrudes on their happiness. The writing goes from action to romance to tension and back. ‹Allied› is one of the best war movies in a long time. 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.

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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 Mini-Session at Noon and 2pm & 7pm sessions (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 February 2017 29

Joke page, ASTROLOGY, Casino directory Little Travis and His Favorite Animal

Our teacher asked what my favorite animal was, and I said, “Fried chicken.” She said I wasn’t funny, but she couldn’t have been right, because everyone in class laughed. My parents told me to always tell the truth. I did. Fried chicken is my favorite animal. I told my dad what happened, and he said my teacher was probably a member of PETA. He said they love animals very much. I do, too, especially chicken, pork and beef. Anyway, my teacher sent me to the principal’s office. I told him what happened, and he laughed, too. Then he told me not to do it again.

jokes of the month

The next day in class, my teacher asked me what my favorite live animal was. I told her it was chicken. She asked me why, so I told her it was because you could make them into fried chicken. She sent me back to the principal’s office. He laughed, and told me not to do it again. I don’t understand. My parents taught me to be honest, but my teacher doesn’t like it when I am. Today, my teacher asked me to tell her what famous person I admired most. I told her, “Colonel Sanders.” I’ll bet you can guess where I am again!

Need a quick one liner? Here are a few; Life is all about perspective. The sinking of the Titanic was a miracle to the lobsters in the ship’s kitchen. I find it ironic that the colors red, white, and blue stand for freedom until they are flashing behind you. Someone asked me what was my favorite mythical creature? I said “an honest politician.” I’d like to die peacefully in my sleep, like my grandfather – Not screaming like the passengers in his car.

Aquarius Jan 21 to Feb 19

Feb 10–16 Persistence brings jackpot Feb 17–16 Terrific turn-around Feb 24–28 You do well this week Mar 1–7 Keep focused all weekend

Taurus Apr 21 to May 21

Feb 10–16 Luck is holding up Feb 17–16 You make right choice Feb 24–28 Great things ahead Mar 1–7 Stick with your decision

Pisces Feb 20 to Mar 20

Gemini May 22 to June 21

Virgo Aug 24 to Sept 23

Sagittarius Nov 23 to Dec 21

Aries Mar 21 to Apr 20

Cancer June 22 to July 22

Libra Sept 24 to Oct 23

Capricorn Dec 22 to Jan 20

Feb 10–16 Favorable flop wins big Feb 17–16 More fun than expected Feb 24–28 Good things happen Mar 1–7 Powerful week ahead Feb 10–16 Close to home win Feb 17–16 Go with your guts Feb 24–28 Don’t be misled Mar 1–7 The win you needed

Feb 10–16 Profitable adventure Feb 17–16 Fun time with friend Feb 24–28 Why not try it? Mar 1–7 Lucky place due to hit

Feb 10–16 Take friend with on trip Feb 17–16 Best friend may be right Feb 24–28 Careful – use your head Mar 1–7 Friend wins and so do you

Feb 10–16 Hard work brings praise Feb 17–16 Excitement ahead Feb 24–28 Fun is just beginning Mar 1–7 Great time with new friend

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 February 2017

Leo July 23 to Aug 23

Feb 10–16 Fun trip ahead Feb 17–16 Follow your plan Feb 24–28 Unexpected pleasure Mar 1–7 You were right again

Feb 10–16 Persistence earns reward Feb 17–16 Favorite machine pays Feb 24–28 Nice turn of events Mar 1–7 Some will be shocked

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

Scorpio Oct 24 to Nov 22

Feb 10–16 Call from the past Feb 17–16 Plan needed trip now Feb 24–28 Make the right choice Mar 1–7 Believe and it will work

Feb 10–16 Help comes in strange way Feb 17–16 Late night excitement Feb 24–28 Right place – right time Mar 1–7 A well deserved rest Feb 10–16 Cards flop in your favor Feb 17–16 Dinner and a winner Feb 24–28 Dream is realized Mar 1–7 Wild wicked weekend

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