March 2017 by Arizona Player

I nside

Gaming•Entertainment•Travel www.arizonaplayer.com

this

I ssue

Card Room Action Casino Entertainment MEGA Bingo Bash at THE FORT REEL REVIEWS – World of Wonka Casino AZ Launches Latin Dance Night Blackjack Corner – March Tournaments Vol. 25 No. 3 • March 2017

Kenneth Manuel N amed N ew CEO at G ila R iver G aming E nterprises Cover Story on page 8

WWW.ARIZONAPLAYER.COM

Contents

Gaming•Entertainment•Travel PO Box 33393 • Phoenix Arizona 85067 • 602-373-8728 • azplayer@cox.net Editor Phil Scudella Production Assistants John Olson Graphic Design CommuniGraphics

Contributing Photography Rachel Brockway Kevin Cummings OH Partners John Olson Haley Pinyerd Matt Probst David Ramsey Satara Williams

Contributing Writers Linda Boyd Rachel Brockway Kevin Cummings TJ Jorgensen OH Partners Matt Probst David Ramsey Satara Williams

Special Thanks to: the marketing department at Gila River Gaming Enterprises and everyone at OH Partners for their unbelievable effort in getting this March 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 March 2017

Vol. 25 No. 3 • March 2017

Reel Reviews Kevin Cummings “World of Wonka” by Scientific Games

Cover Story “Kenneth Manuel is Gila River Casino’s New CEO

TJ's Blackjack Corner TJ Jorgensen “March Blackjack Tournaments”

Card Room Action Poker and Blackjack Action Around the State

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

Gaming News “Forbes Travel Guide awards four stars again to Casino Del Sol”

Entertainment Casino Entertainment State-wide

Gaming News “Casino AZ Launches Latin Dance Nights & Fort’s Bingo Bash”

Lottery News “Missing Powerball Tickets worth $50,000 each”

Travel “Biosphere 2 – Tucson getaway”

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

reel reviews by kevin cummings

6 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2017

COVER STORY

Names New CEO Gila River Gaming Enterprises, Inc., operator of three leading casino properties in Arizona has announced that Kenneth Manuel has been selected as the Enterprises’ new Chief Executive Officer. Manuel is the first member of the Gila River Indian Community to hold this position permanently. The announcement comes after an intensive search and selection process by Gila River Gaming Enterprises’ Interim Oversight and Planning Committee, consisting of five Gila River Indian Community tribal council members. “The enterprise is honored to have Mr. Manuel as a leader, who many consider a mentor and highly recognized Gila River Indian Community member,” said Teaya Vicente, Public Relations Manager for Gila River Gaming Enterprises, Inc. “We are confident in Mr. Manuel’s ability to propel our vision to be Arizona’s first choice in casino entertainment for both work and play.”

Manuel’s path to the Chief Executive Officer role included serving in nearly every aspect of the business for the past 22 years. He began his career as a slot manager in 1994 and was immediately promoted to acting slot director. During Manuel’s career, he spent a year in a management position servicing the Sheraton Grand Resort and Spa at Wild Horse Pass, rejoining as a member of the Gila River Gaming Enterprises Inc. Board of Directors, fulfilling the role as Board President.

He was a member of the Casino Expansion Owners Team from 2007 to 2013, Chairman of the Enterprise’s Expense Committee, and a member of the mentorship committee. Continuing his successful career, he joined the Enterprise’s Pathways Mentorship Program as Assistant Chief Executive Officer. During Manuel’s tenure, Gila River Gaming Enterprises, Inc. has experienced unprecedented growth and development, which has contributed to the long-term sustainability and progress of the Gila River Indian Community. Throughout his career, he has been key in the creation and completion of all three gaming properties. He was instrumental in the completion of Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino, which opened in July of 2013, and the Lone Butte Casino renovation project in 2015. “It is an immense honor to have been chosen to serve in the role of Chief Executive Officer,” Manuel said. “The casinos are the primary source of support for the Gila River Indian Community. I see incredible growth potential as premier entertainment destinations and furthermore as great places for employees to grow and develop their skills.” Manuel participated in the Executive Development Program at the University of Nevada at Reno. He continued his education, earning certification from Cornell University’s General Managers Program and a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Management from the University of Phoenix.

Gila River Gaming Enterprises, Inc. operates three Arizona casinos owned by the Gila River Indian Community, including Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, Lone Butte Casino, and Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino. All three casinos offer a combination of slots, table games, bingo, poker and hotels and are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. For additional information visit www.wingilariver.com

8 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2017

COVER STORY

TJ’s Blackjack corner

March Blackjack Tournaments

arch means it’s time for the 13th annual Wild Horse Pass Luck of the Irish by TJ by Jorgensen Blackjack Tournament. It will be held TJ Jorgensen on Friday March 17th St Patrick’s Day at 6 pm. Entry Fee is $60 and the Casino Guarantees first place prize money at $6,500. The Top Prize is not taken out of entry fees, but is put up by the Casino. In this Tournament – Only 2nd through 6th place prize money is taken from the entry fees. This creates a positive value event, or overlay. When these types of events are offered you should always play because you will eventually come out ahead in the long run. When I play positive expectation tournaments I don’t consider it gambling, I call it investing. It is not a question of if you win - it is just a matter of when you will win.

The FORT also has a BIG event! The following Day, Sat March 18th Fort McDowell Casino will be hosting their second annual 3 Cloves of Cash Blackjack Tournament. Entry Fee is $30 and the Casino Guarantees 1st place prize money at $2000! The Tournament is limited to 72 Players - it sold out last year, so, my advice is - sign up early. This is also a positive value event. You can read the rules for this tournament on my web site - freewebs.com/tjsblackjackcorner I played both of these Tournaments last year and had a lot of fun.

Here’s why it has a positive outcome If a tournament pays through 6 places and has 108 entries. The odds of getting in the money are 1 in 18 based on luck alone. (108 divided 6) If the prize pool is $12,000 paid to the top six players making the average payoff $2000. ($12,000 divided by 6) It would cost 18 entry fees of $60 each for a total of $1080 to get in the money once, which would pay an average of $2000. Simply put, in the long run you will make $920 on average for every 18 tournaments played, ($2000 - $1080 = $920) thus, making it a game in the casino that has a positive expectation for the player.

10 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2017

Other weekly Tournaments Looking for more action? Every Tuesday at noon Casino Arizona 101 & McKellips in Scottsdale has their Blackjack Break Tournament. Entry fee is $50 and Casino Arizona adds money to the prize pool, so that creates a positive value event for this Tournament as well. You can play the trifecta of Blackjack Tournaments the week of March 13th. Start with the Tuesday at noon Tournament at Casino Arizona on the 14th. Then the Luck of the Irish Tournament at 6 pm Friday the 17th followed by the second annual 3 Cloves of cash tournament at Fort McDowell at 2pm Sat March 18th. If you’re lucky enough to win all three tournaments, your prize money would be close to $10,000! Finally, I would like to compliment Lone Butte Casino on their Presidents Day Blackjack Tournament that was held on Monday February 20th - with very little promotion it was a sell out and a huge success. All of the players had a good time and first place prize money was $5,000. There is no doubt - tournaments like these prove how large the community of blackjack tournament players has become, and the popularity of these events. T.J. Jorgensen has been a professional Blackjack player for over 20 years. He’s known for his live tournament play and has beaten, some of the top tournament players in the world and has also 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 April 21, 22 & 23 “Getaway Poker Classic” - $200 Buy-in Fri, $300 buy-in Sat & Sun – Play in all 3 tournaments and receive a complimentary stay at the resort for the weekend! You can “Win a Seat” into this “Getaway Poker Classic” in satellite events on Sundays Mar 26 & Apr 9 Sat, Mar 11, 11:15 am, “Super Bounty” NLHE, $240 buy-in$100 Bounties Sun, Mar 19, 11:15 am - Weekend Tournament 160.00 Sat, Mar 25, Apr 29 11:15am – End of Month-NLHE - $160 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 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 Dealing blackjack 24/7

Casino Arizona 480-850-7777

Scottsdale, AZ Dealing blackjack 24/7 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

12 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2017

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 buy-in, opt $5 chip-up & $10 add-on Mon, 7pm - $1,500 Guar NLHE $40 buy in w/ $5 opt chip up Tues, 7pm - $800 guarantee FREE ROLL – 50 players max (no cost) opt $6 “chip up” Thurs, 7pm - “WSOP 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 - $40 buy-in – no re-buys w/opt $5 chip-up 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, 6pm – Mid “RED Chip Bonus” win live pot, get a Red Chip – most Red chips each hour wins $50 in chips Thurs, 6:30pm – NLHE/Omaha Mixed Tournament $25 buy-in Fri, 7pm - NLHE Shoot-outs, $100 added per table - $25 buy-in 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) Sat, 11am – (EXCEPT 1st & 3rd Sat) 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) $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 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 and 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 Ladies NLHE Poker Tournament March 19, 10am – $60 BI w/ Opt $10 chip-up “Aces Cracked” 24/7 Min $100 up to $300 “Easy way Jackpot” Aces full of tens beaten by Quads or better wins Jackpot! 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 Win a $10,000 Main Event seat 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) Also dealing blackjack 24/7 – including “Push the bet” and others

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

Pinetop, AZ Open daily at 4pm, Sat & Sun at 2pm Mon, 6pm – Double Stack $25 buy-in – 1 $25 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 Fri, 6pm NLHE $25 Bounty Tournament $45 buy-in unlimted $10 re-buys (1st hr) & one 10 Add-on Sat, 4pm - NLHE, $30 buy-in, $10 re-buys + $10 add-on Sun, 4pm, Crazy Pineapple $30 buy-in, $10 re-buys + $10 add-on “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! PAI GOW Jackpot was hit twice recently and it’s growing again.

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino 800-777-7529

Payson, AZ Final “Road to Vegas” qualifier Poker Tournament - 6pm, April 5 - $50 buy-in w/ $50 bounties – final 2 winners in this 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 - 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

Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort 928-856-7244

Flagstaff, AZ Dealing blackjack 24/7

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

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 Win a Rack(except during Sports Promotions)“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 Dealing Blackjack 24/7 - Progressive Jackpots for Ultimate Texas Hold EM & Crazy 4 Poker grow daily at all 3 CasinosPAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was hit recently and its growing again!

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 before play for added chips

Sat at noon, Apr 1 & May 6 “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 (caps at $3,000) “ACES CRACKED” Daily 10am-4am –pair of Red or Black Aces pay $100 W/$50 Splash 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 in May 27 High Hand Promo Mon – Fri 3:30 am – 10am, $50 every ½ hour – plus $50 Splash on next hand Dealing blackjack 24/7 Progressive Jackpots for Ultimate Texas Hold EM & Crazy 4 Poker grow daily at all 3 Casinos! PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was hit twice recently and it’s growing again!

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

ARIZONA PLAYER March 2017 13

A BOYD’S EYE VIEW OF VIDEO POKER

Stove-Piping

stove pipe functions as an isolated vertical conduit for smoke, so, metaphorically speaking, it refers to information taken separately instead of in context. Honestly, in the past it was okay to just look at a video poker (VP) by Linda Boyd game’s ER (theoretical expected return) in isolation from other factors because many casinos had full pay options. In other words, it wasn’t too hard to find games like 9/6 Jacks or Better (9/6JOB) with an ER of 99.54% or 8/5Bonus Poker (8/5BP) with an ER of 99.17% in local or Nevada casinos. Times have changed. Now you have to look at the best games available in a casino in context of other player perks to find the best deal for you. VP Pay Schedules: Those that have read this column will recognize this as a familiar topic, only the information has changed with the times. In the past I considered playing only full pay (FP) VP games an absolute given. (A FP game is the highest ER available for that particular game – 9/6 JOB is the FP version of JOB.) Doing that in today’s environment would be the same as not playing at all. Just find the highest version available and that’s usually 9/5JOB, hopefully a progressive version. Given two games with the same exact pay schedule always look for the progressive form and don’t worry about the royal flush jackpot exceeding $1200. ($1200 and more will generate a W-2G with a copy for you and a matching one for the IRS.) Both Federal and Arizona tax laws allow you to write off your losses against your winnings so you probably won’t have to pay a dime in taxes. Player Perks: As time goes on this becomes more important than in the past for smart gamblers. One reason is management brass is continuously expanding the options to include shopping sprees, cruises, shows, special drawings, cash awards at the kiosks, gift shop purchases and more. In fact, management teams are coming up with new incentives as I write this. Slot Card: I feel like a broken record, but I urge you to always play with a card and, if you have a flexible schedule, gamble on multiple point days. In addition, analyze all factors before selecting a casino and focus all your play on one or two casinos instead of spreading the wealth. That’s because your goal is to obtain the highest level available within the casino’s slot club

14 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2017

hierarchy. Most casinos have a smart phone app and you should add it to your phone and carefully read what’s available. Promotions: Be organized in your approach to casino promotional events. First, look at the prizes offered as well as the number of people who will be winners. If there are just a small number of names drawn, say two or three, you may want to skip it; the same is true if the winnings are meager or unappealing. If you’re going to participate read the rules carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear. Point Redemption Options: In the not-too-distant past you had cash or free play as a category and food comps as another. That has changed for the better. Now many casinos allow you to use your non-cash comps in their gift shop and some even offer a discount when you do. Discretionary Comps: These are the most overlooked by players and an important component of choosing your casino and making sure you have a host. If you’ve had a long playing session, especially a losing one, then you can ask your host for a food comp and save your earned comp dollars for another day or to use in the gift shop. Special Events: Here’s another perk that is changing for the better for those who have the highest level slot card available. Sometimes there are prize drawings for only those invited in addition to a dinner, entertainment and any other special treat for those who play the most. What if your host invites people who have the same level card or lower level and don’t play as much but excludes you? You can and should find another host. Gifts: I hate it when I have a card to redeem a gift and they’re all gone before I get there or the present advertised isn’t worth much and doesn’t resemble the picture on the card. This is getting much better now since casino staff get lots of negative feedback when players feel like they were fooled. Final Thoughts: No longer is it wise to stove-pipe by focusing on a single factor when choosing a casino. The categories may remain similar, like slot card and comps, but the current information is mercurial and always changing. Arizona Player will keep you updated on the latest trends in Arizona’s casinos. Linda Boyd, long-time table game player before turning to video poker, also writes for “Southern & Midwest Gaming” plus the latest edition of “American Casino Guide”. Her videos are on YouTube and American Casino Guide’s web site. Linda’s radio interviews are on iTunes. Her 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 at amazon.com, Square One Publishers and book stores.

gaming news Tucson Casino Hotel and TY Steakhouse Named Four-Star

Forbes Travel Guide has named Casino Del Sol as a Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star hotel, and PY Steakhouse, the casino’s fine dining restaurant, as a Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star restaurant in its official 2017 Star Rating list for the fifth year in a row. Both Casino Del Sol and PY Steakhouse will be showcased with all the Star Rating recipients on ForbesTravelGuide.com. As Arizona’s only Forbes Four-Star and AAA Diamond casino resort, Casino Del Sol offers guests luxurious rooms and suites in addition to Vegas-style gaming, live entertainment at the Event Center and AVA Amphitheater, therapeutic services at Hiapsi Spa, and world-class golf at Sewailo Golf Club. “As the Sol of Tucson, we pride ourselves on providing a phenomenal experience to every guest through the quality of our property and the level of service we provide to match,” said Casino Del Sol’s CEO, Kimberly Van Amburg. “Casino Del Sol received the Forbes Four-Star ranking for the fifth year in a row due to our staff’s dedication to this vision.” Casino Del Sol is also home to the Forbes Four-Star and Wine Spectator award-winning fine dining restaurant, PY Steakhouse. Sourcing the freshest ingredients from local purveyors, along with inventive cocktails and a wine list rivaled by none, dining at PY Steakhouse is unlike dining anywhere else in the state.

16 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2017

“PY Steakhouse continues to receive a Four-Star ranking year after year, and it is due to the combination of the incredible food, drinks and service provided to guests who dine with us” said Casino Del Sol’s Vice President of Food and Beverage, David Alvarez. “We are honored to have Chef Ryan Clark on board as Casino Del Sol’s executive chef, as we continue to elevate our culinary offerings not only at PY Steakhouse, but across all of our food and beverage offerings.” Casino Del Sol and PY Steakhouse are the latest addition to the luxury travel ratings that have been the gold standard in the hospitality industry since 1958. “We are delighted to recognize the 2017 Star Rating recipients, an exceptional collection of hotels, restaurants and spas that demonstrates a strong culture of service,” said Gerard J. Inzerillo, Chief Executive Officer of Forbes Travel Guide. “In an online environment of confusion and clutter, Forbes Travel Guide is the most trusted source of information to assist guests in making informed decisions,” Inzerillo said. “These properties, the largest and most global group in the company’s history, achieve an impeccable standard of excellence in hospitality, underscoring our overall mission of positively contributing to the international tourism industry as well as individual hotel experience. We are proud to congratulate everyone associated with the prestigious properties recognized today.” To make a reservation at the Forbes Four-Star rated Casino Del Sol or PY Steakhouse, visit www.casinodelsol.com or call 1-855-SOL-STAY (765-7829).

entertainment Apache Gold Casino Resort

(5 miles East of Globe on Hwy 70) 1-800-272-2438 San Carlos Event Center: Call for updated schedule The POINT Sports Bar & Grill: Big screens to watch sports & bands on weekends; March 18 - Greywolf March 24 – Southern Reins Band BlueWater Resort and Casino 11300 Resort Dr., Parker 1-888-243-3360 BlueWater Amphitheatre: Call for Spring & Summer schdule BlueWater Showroom New shows coming soon 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: Mar 24 – Cash, Killer & THE KING, Mar 31 & Apr 1 – Wanted (Bon Jovi Tribute band) Apr 21 & 22 – Don’t Look Back (THE Boston Experience) Apr 29 & 30 – Aeromyth (Tribute to Aerosmith) May 5 & 6 – VIVE! Salena (Tribute to Selena Quintanilla) May 26 & 27 – Led Zepagain (Led Zeppelin Tribute) June 2 & 3 – “Britain’s Finest” (Complete Beatles Experience) Bonfire (AC/DC Tribute) ALL NEW! Casino Arizona Club Night – (in the Show Room)The Valley’s Hottest Dance Night! Mar 10 – Barrio Band, Mar 11 – Soul Persuasion, Apr 8 – Powerdrive, May 13 – Rhythm Edition, June 10 – The New Frequency Band – with more dates coming! 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) 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 Mid, L-8 Nite Bingo! Music, light show & dancing w/ host Corina & DJ Kenji!

Casino Del Sol

5655 W. Valencia Rd. Tucson 520-838-6506 AVA Amphitheater: Apr 19 – Merry Jane .com presents Mount Kushmore Retreat Tour 2017 featuring Snoop Dog & Cypress Hill w/ special guest Berner

18 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2017

Apr 20 – WWF-MMA Live event! Apr 22 – Tejano Shootout 2017 featuring Michael Salgado & Fito Olivaros Sept 2 – THE BIG EVENT! Two of the biggest legends of Spanish music on one stage – Gloria Trevi vs Alejandra Guzman Paradiso Bar: AZ top bands (free) every weekend and Tribute bands on Thursdays; Mar 16 – Hollywood U2 (Tribute to U2) Mar 17 – Kung Fu Grip, Mar 18 – Grupo Synphonia, Mar 23 – Planet Earth (Duran Duran Tribute band) Mar 24 – Jack Bishop Band, Mar 25 – THE GRIND, Mar 30 - VIVE! Salena (Tribute to Selena Quintanilla)Mar 31 – Deejay Obi Wan Kenobi Bingo Hall: COSMIC BINGO – 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!

Cliff Castle Casino

I-17 at exit 289 in Camp Verde 1-800-381-SLOT Dragonfly Lounge: Mar 17 – Grupo Reflejo Mar 24 – Latino Rebel Band Mar 31 - Aravaipa Apr 7 – Kill Babylon Coalition Apr 14 & 15 – Kenny G’s Project Apr 21 & 22 – Grupo Concepto Apr 27, 28 & 29 – Mike Reeves Band

Cocopah Casino Resort

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

entertainment

Hon-Dah Resort and Casino

Desert Diamond Casino Hotel

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 COMING June 23 & 24 – The 8th Annual White Mountain Bike Rally, Poker Run and Concert event Timbers Lounge: The best Arizona Bands live Tuesday thru Saturday! Mar 7 thru 11 – Justin Wright & High Octane, Mar 14 thru 18 – Groove City, Mar 21 thru 25 – CHYNA, Apr 4 thru 8 – Johnny Ray Band, Apr 11 thru 15 – Doo-Wah Riders, Apr 18 thry 22 – Barrio Latino

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

Desert Diamond Casino I-19

1100 West Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita 1-866-332-9467 Diamond Center: Mar 18 – Ambrosia AND Firefall Apr 14 – 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

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!

Peter Noone Apr 7 – Herman Hermits starring Peter Noone Great bands on weekends like; Young Country, Soundwave, John Eric Band, Quantum, Western Fusion and others Wed (noon -4pm) Bandstand Shows, Thaddeus Rose or Silhouette Wed (Happy Hour, 5-8pm) featuring; Walkens Trio or the Stanley Serano Trio Thurs (Happy Hour, 5-8pm) featuring; Mike & Ted or the Chucky Trio For updates, go to harrahsakchin.com

ARIZONA PLAYER March 2017 19

entertainment 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, Rhythm Edition, Rich Berra Band, Soul Persuasion, Thaddeus Rose and others Cascades Lounge: Mon, Tues & Fri (4-8pm) and Fri & Sat (late night) featuring Marty & the Party, Thaddeus Rose, The Walkens, Tick Tick Boom, Smooth Groove, , Rhythm Edition and others Cities Bar & Grille: Saturday’s in March 4-8pm, The Lawrence Zubia Trio, 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

Talking Stick Resort

Loop 101 and Talking Stick Way – Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Showroom: Mar 11 & 12 – ELVIS LIVES! Mar 24 – Jimmie Vaughn Apr 22 & 23 – The Mavericks Grand Ballroom:

Air Supply

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

Quechan Casino Resort

20 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2017

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, The Walkens Unplugged, Latino Rebel Band, Chuck E Baby, Andrea & Gemini, Chaka & Friends, Reality Band, Chaka & Friends, Tyrone D and the Ledge, Soul Persuasion, Marty & the Party, Sound Wave, Uptown Band, STR8UP Band and others 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

Paradise Casino

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

Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort

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

I-10 at Wild Horse Pass exit - Chandler 1-800-WIN-GILA Ovations LIVE! Showroom: Mar 19 – ABBA FAB (Tribute to ABBA April 1 – Piff the Magic Dragon Apr 21 – Clint Black Apr 28 - SINBAD Jun 8 – Average White Band Reflections featuring: Delphine Cortez and Jazz Alive, Tony Vacca Trio, Joe Costello Project, Pete Pancrazi Trio, WE3 with Nichole Pesce, Mike Vax Trio and others Mid-day (Mon10am-3pm) w/ Jukebox 6, Swingtips or Route 66 w/ DJ Danny Davis CHROME NIGHT CLUB: Fridays & Saturdays - Arizona’s Hot Spot featuring DJ Medik

gaming news CASINO ARIZONA LAUNCHES MONTHLY CLUB NIGHT Latin Dance Night Kicks Off March 10 & 11 in the Showroom Already known as one of the hottest destinations for entertainment in the Valley, Casino Arizona is proud to announce the addition of a new diverse nightlife experience to its roster. Casino Arizona Club Night is a reoccurring Latin dance night in the property’s showroom one weekend each month. Launching on Friday, March 10 and Saturday, March 11 from 8pm to 1am, Casino Arizona Club Night will feature some of the area’s best Latin bands. The inaugural weekend features The Barrio Band on Friday and Soul Persuasion Saturday evening. Mega 104.7 radio host James Rivas, The Manic Hispanic, hosts the event. The Showroom at Casino Arizona is a 250-seat entertainment venue. Equipped with state-of-the-art audio and visuals also has a full dance floor and is ideal for any type of party or show. For more information on Casino Arizona Club Night call (480) 850-7777 or visit casinoarizona.com.m Guests must be 21 years or older to attend and the cover charge is waived for a limited time. Casino Arizona, located in Scottsdale at the Loop 101 Freeway and McKellips Road is independently owned and operated by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. Spanning more than 100,000 square feet, the property features an exciting gaming floor, entertainment venues and an assortment of dining options.

Upcoming Casino Arizona Club Night Performers: May 13 - Rhythm Edition March 10 - The Barrio Band June 10 - New Frequency Band March 11 - Soul Persuasion April 8 - PowerDrive

MEGA MARCH BINGO BASH The Fort is doing it again! Fort McDowell Casino is offering over $100,000 in cash and prizes on Saturday March 18! The fun begins at 6:30 pm – This is an increasable 39 game session! 1st pack is $75 – Additional packs are $7 or 3 for $17. Over $5,500 will be won in Early Birds, Warm-ups and Minis. $22,000 will be given away in large pack payouts – And over $75,000 is up for grabs in special payouts! PHD’s are limited – So make your 9 pack, 6 pack or slim pack reservations in person or call 480-789-4380 And there’s more…lots more, so don’t miss your chance to bring home a bundle of CASH at Fort McDowell’s BINGO BASH! Fort McDowell Casino is just 2 miles north of Shea Blvd on Hwy 87 in the Fountain Hills area, just minutes from Scottsdale or Mesa.

For more information about this BINGO BASH event or anything else going on at Fort McDowell Call 1-800-THE FORT or go on-line at fortmcdowellcasino.com and start having some FUN!

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

• • • •

22 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2017

Wedding Reunion Theme Party Corporate Function

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

602.919.7700

lottery news Do you have a $50,000 Powerball Ticket in your possession? Here’s the reason for this question – there are five (5) unclaimed $50,000 POWERBALL tickets out there somewhere, just since those Powerball drawing held during the last four months!

And some of these tickets will be expiring soon! Please check your junk drawer, dresser, wallet, purse and the glove compartment in your vehicle. This is a great reward for just a little searching! Here are drawing dates and winning numbers for those $50,000 POWERBALL tickets – Happy Hunting! Drawing Date Oct 29, 2016 - Nov 5, 2016 Nov 23, 2016 Dec 24, 2016 Feb 18, 2017

Winning Numbers w/ PB 19-20-21-42-48 PB # 23 21-31-50-51-69 PB # 8 07-32-41-47-61 PB # 3 28-38-42-51-52 PB # 21 03-07-09-31-33 PB # 20

Expiration Date April 27, 2017 May 4, 2017 May 22, 2017 June 22, 2017 August 17, 2017

Good luck finding your fortune – then, join these recent winners since Feb 13, who kept their tickets close-by

Joseph Conklin won $100,000 on his Powerball ticket, Johnetta Jackson also took home $100,000 on her 50X Scratchers ticket and

24 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2017

“One Cool Football Fan” from Tucson who wanted to remain anonymous, hit the top prize on the $200 Million Cash Explosion ticket – that $20 ticket was worth 2.5 million dollars for this Tucsonan! In addition to these life changing big money winners, there were so many $500 to $10,000 winners during this same time period, there would not be enough room to mention their names in this article. When you buy an Arizona Lottery ticket, proceeds from that purchase go directly to help needed programs in this state. Proceeds from the Arizona Lottery have donated over 206 million back to the state in fiscal year 2016, and that’s a sizeable increase over fiscal year 2015. These much needed funds support 18 beneficiaries including; economic development, art and education, Health and Human Services, Public Safety and many other programs that benefit Arizona

travel TRAVEL Biosphere 2 By Kevin Cummings

Located just 35 miles North of Tucson in Oracle Arizona is an oasis in the desert, quite literally - Biosphere 2, one of the top 50 “World Wonders”. Built in the 1990’s Biosphere 2 was the largest sustainable ecological system. With the airtight doors everything that was needed to suppose an entire ecosystem was in housed within the over 3acre facility. The main mission of the project was to; research environmental changes and impact as well as test the possibilities of space colonization. While the two missions were somewhat successful there, Biosphere 2 is shrouded with controversy and criticism...not to mention an idiotic but hilarious cult classic film; Bio-Dome. Since 1995 Biosphere 2 has been open to visitors while colleges and scientists continue to conduct research. The Under the glass tour is impressive and lasts around 60 to 75 minutes depending on the group. Within Biosphere 2 visitors will see each of the representative biomes; Desert, Savannah Grassland, Rainforest, Wetlands, and the Coral Reef Ocean. The tour takes you throughout the Bio-Sphere as well as around the perimeter. Tour guides explain each of the sections and were happy to answer questions. Most of the tour guides are volunteers from University of Arizona... who is the current owner of the facilities.

This is definitely a one of a kind experience as Biosphere 2 is still the largest fully contained eco-system. It was also listed as one of the top 50 “World Wonders” from Time Life magazine. So take friend and family and be amazed at this special place. Open every day of the year, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, 9 am to 4 pm – and prices for admission are very reasonable. After your Biosphere 2 adventure, no road trip is complete without tasting the local fair, and one of the really special places to dine is nearby in north Tucson on the southwest

corner of Ina Road and Oracle Rd. This was very first Sam Fox restaurant in Arizona and he named it Wildflower (not the bread company) and it is listed as one of the top 20 restaurants by TripAdvisor out of nearly 1,700 restaurants in Tucson, Arizona. Their menu changes with the season and there is something for everyone at this one of a kind restaurant with seating inside or on the patio. You’ll have a great dining experience and won’t drain your wallet. 26 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2017

travel

Here are two terrific choices for breakfast and lunch – both near the corner of Broadway & Swan. For breakfast, Try The Hungry Fox Restaurant and Country Store (no relation to Sam Fox) It has been there for many decades, bakes their own hand sliced country bread and is the home of the “double yoke egg”, it’s open for breakfast and lunch with tasty food and exceptional service and is reasonably priced. For Lunch, picnic or late night snack, give The Lucky Wishbone a try, now with 7 locations. This unique “fast food” restaurant has been a local favorite for over 60 years! Their menu should please everyone – from their signature fried chicken (I love the Wishbone – center breast) to Steak fingers, fried shrimp, sandwiches, yummy cole slaw, potato salad and other sides and desserts and every order comes with French fries and garlic bread. If you’re looking to stay overnight there are great hotels, dozens of quaint bed and breakfast places and even two terrific Casino Hotels nearby. So if a little gambling is in your plan, you will have a memorable stay at Desert Diamond Casino and Hotel, around the corner from the Tucson International Airport at 7350 south Nogales Highway in Tucson. Or you can stay and play at Casino del Sol Resort just off I-19 at the Valencia West exit – just 5 miles off the freeway - Great choices for gambling, dining and entertainment! Enjoy your trip to the “Old Pueblo” – There is so much to see in this historic southern Arizona town. We plan on introducing our readers to plenty of one-of-a-kind adventures in Southern Arizona that was known as the Wild West when legends like Poncho Villa, Johnny Ringo, Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday and Geronimo roamed this area

DAVID AT THE SNACK BAR Logan In the not too distant future there are no mutant super-heroes left and the world has moved past them to the point of writing comic books about them. An aging Logan, aks Wolverine is driving a limo and taking care of an elderly and by inform Professor Xavier. They are hiding David Ramsey out in Mexico to avoid the authorities. Suddenly, a little girl with Wolverine like powers needs help. At the urging of the professor and very reluctantly Logan agrees to help. While there is action it is the story and the humanity that makes this more than just another super-hero movie. Hugh Jackman has said "Logan" will be his last appearance as the Wolverine and after seeing the film I believe him. He is going out on a high note with his best performance in one of the best super-hero movies.

David’s Video Details Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

Newt Scamander arrives in New York, seventy years before Harry Potter reads his book at Hogwarts. He is carrying some fantastic beasts with him, which is illegal in the United States. Soon he’s under the watchful eye of a former Auror who arrests him. Some the creatures in his bag escape and he accidently involves a no-maj, American for muggle, and gets himself involved in sinister events that threaten to expose the magical world to everyone. The cast is great, the story is fun and the creatures are amazing.

20th Century Women

Get Out Rose is taking Chris, her African-American boyfriend home to meet her parents. He worries that she has not told them he is black but she says they are very liberal and won›t have a problem with it. Upon arriving at the family estate in a very white rich suburb Chris starts to notice things are a bit off. The only other AfricanAmericans he sees are servants who seem to act very weird. They have arrived in time for an annual event that brings a lot of rich white folks to the house who are delighted to meet Chris. He is very uncomfortable and then something strange happens. Before long he discovers that all is not as it seems and maybe his friend was right in telling him not to go. A mix of horror, social commentary and a little humor make this one of the best horror films I have seen. "Get Out" will surprise you. 28 ARIZONA PLAYER March 2017

James lives with his mother and her tenants in a large house in Southern California in the late 70s. He gets to see and experience the women who live there go through life›s trying moments including his mother. His best friend is Julie, a girl he goes to school with and with whom he is completely smitten. She a beautiful, emotionally damaged teen who dates a lot but won›t go out with him because it would ruin their friendship and she needs him as a friend. Abbie is feminist who teaches him to respect women. It is a slice of life movie about interesting characters who overcome their issues to help each other. The cast is terrific, the story is compelling and the direction is personal.

Passengers

While on a trip to colonize a planet Jim wakes up from cryo-sleep 90 years early. A ship malfunction that may have further repercussions is to blame. His only companion is a robotic bartender. After some time his loneliness gets to him and he wakes up Aurora, telling her that it was another malfunction. Everything is great until she finds out he woke her, rightfully enraged she won›t have anything to do with him until more malfunctions start to happen and they have to team up to save themselves, the ship and all the other colonists. A great cast makes "Passengers" a good film but not a great one. 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 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 March 2017 29

Joke page, ASTROLOGY, Casino directory

jokes of the month

SHOW ME THE MONEY!

Mafia Godfather finds out that his bookkeeper, Guido, has embezzled him out of $100,000 His bookkeeper is deaf. That was the reason he got the job. It was assumed that since Guido was not able to hear, if he was issued a subpoena to testify, he would tell a court appointed person who knew sign language he knew nothing When the Godfather confronted Guido about his missing 100 grand, he took along his lawyer who knew sign language. The Godfather said to the lawyer, “Ask him where the money is!” The lawyer signs Guido, “Where’s the money?” Guido signs back, “what are you are talking about?”

The lawyer tells the Godfather, “He says he doesn’t know what you’re talking about.” The Godfather pulls out a pistol, puts it to Guido’s head and says, “Ask him again, if he doesn’t spill his guts…I’ll spill his brains all over the wall! The lawyer signs to Guido, “He’ll pull the trigger in 10 seconds if you if you don’t tell him where the money is!” Guido trembles and signs “OK! You win! The money is in a garbage bag, buried behind the shed at my house under a 50 gallon drum”. The Godfather asks, “What did he say…where’s my damn money?”

The lawyer replies, “He says, you are a cheap SOB who never paid him what he was worth. So, he took the money and spend almost all of it on a fling in a Las Vegas Penthouse suite, playing Craps and roulette with 2 gorgeous ladies by his side for 2 days taking them to shows and having dinner at places he could never afford, but he says there might be about $100 bucks or so on his dresser at home.

BA-DA -BING

Moral of the story Guido; in your next life, carry a pen and tablet – and be sure the Godfather’s lawyer is not of a different breed, one that rhymes with greed, with a brain that acts at lighting speed!

Pisces Feb 20 to Mar 20

Gemini May 22 to June 21

Virgo Aug 24 to Sept 23

Sagittarius Nov 23 to Dec 21

Cancer June 22 to July 22

Libra Sept 24 to Oct 23

Capricorn Dec 22 to Jan 20

Scorpio Oct 24 to Nov 22

Aquarius Jan 21 to Feb 19

Mar 7–13 Mar 14–20 Apr 21–30 Apr 1–7

Make up your mind Loads of good luck New friend coming soon Fun and profitable trip

Aries Mar 21 to April 20

Mar 7–13 Mar 14–20 Apr 21–30 Apr 1–7

Right place – right time Finally, it has happened Time to make right choice More fun than you expected

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

The big one is just ahead No better time than now life changing win soon The $$$$$ you needed

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

Do it! It will work Persistence pays Just what you needed Never give up that idea

Leo July 23 to Aug 23

Mar 7–13 Mar 14–20 Apr 21–30 Apr 1–7

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 March 2017

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

Make that call today Go for the green Exciting adventure The break you needed

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

Do it! Great deal Leap into action Way to the end month Hey, no joke this is good!

Sort of weird but really OK Lots of time for that New relationship ahead Really fun trip coming Cards will be good to you Green pays off Forgive and forget You new nickname “Lucky”

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

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

Unplanned fun time Cue up the band! Act quickly on idea Big Thrill coming

Reward for being nice Unexpected pleasure Your terrific week Nice hit for a small bet Great choice Surprising event Act now – it’s time New thrill coming

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