November 2013 by Arizona Player

I nside

this I ssue Card Room Action Casino Entertainment Thanksgiving Casino Buffets REEL REVIEWS “IGT’s Dolly” Boyd’s Eye View of Video Poker WSOP Crowns 23 year old Champion! www.arizonaplayer.com

Vol. 21 No. 11 • November 2013

Cover Story on page 8

WWW.ARIZONAPLAYER.COM

Vol. 21 No. 11 • November 2013

Contents

Gaming News WSOP Crowns a 23 Year old Champion

Cover Story Harrah’s Ak-Chin – Drive home a Chrysler 300

Boyd’s Eye View of Video Poker Linda Boyd “8/5 Bonus Poker II” 10 PO Box 33393 • Phoenix Arizona 85067 • 602-373-8728 • azplayer@cox.net Editor Phil Scudella Production Assistants John Olson Richard Tolway Graphic Design CommuniGraphics

Contributing Photography Kevin Cummings Melody Hudson David Ramsey

Special Thanks to: to Nicole Gilotti, Melissa Benner, the entire marketing department and managers at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino for their help on this November issue – and a sincere “Good Bye and Good Luck” to Nicole, after many years of working together – You’ll do great on your new venture!

Contributing Writers Melissa Benner Linda Boyd Kevin Cummings Cindy Esquer Nicole Gilotti Melody Hudson TJ Jorgensen David Ramsey Rachel Brockway Shanna Wolfe

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.

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Reel Reviews Kevin Cummings “IGT’s New DOLLY slot”

Arizona Lottery News "More Big Winners"

Card Room Action Table Game Information Around the State

Blackjack Corner TJ Jorgensen “The House Edge”

Entertainment Casino Entertainment State-wide

Joke of the Month A New Jokes to Lighten Your Day

Contest Page Win a Winter Wonderland White Mountains Getaway

Casino Thanksgiving Buffets

David at the Snack Bar David Ramsey "Movie & DVD Reviews"

Astrology, Bingo Games and Casino Directory

gaming news 23 year old Ryan Riess Wins WSOP Main Event! Michigan State Grad Wins $8.36 Million He said he would win the event back in July when he made it to the final table, and 23-year old Ryan Riess is a man of his word after taking down the world’s largest poker tournament in Las Vegas, becoming the World Series of Poker Main Event champion and the sport’s reigning champion. The trend of crowning a young twenty-something poker professional at the World Series of Poker (WSOP) continues as Riess outlasted a field of 6,352 players who each ponied up $10,000 for the chance to win poker’s most prestigious tournament late this evening at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, a Caesars Entertainment Property The event created a $59.7 million total prize pool with Riess taking home the first place prize of $8,361,570 and the richest prize in all of sports, the $500,000 WSOP gold bracelet. Riess, from East Lansing, Michigan, becomes the sixth consecutive player under the age of 25 to capture poker’s top crown. He also becomes the sixth consecutive poker professional to win the title. This is the third time a player from Michigan has won the event, the most recent being Joe Cada of Shelby Township in 2009. Poker Hall of Famer and Grand Rapid’s Tom McEvoy was first to accomplish the feat in 1983. Riess graduated with a business degree from Michigan State last December and burst onto the poker scene just one year ago in October, 2012 when he finished runner up in a WSOP Circuit event at Horseshoe Hammond in Indiana, winning $239,063 after being coaxed to participate by a friend. It was Riess’ first-ever live poker tournament. This marked Riess’ first time to ever play in the WSOP Main Event.

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“This is a dream come true,” said Riess after his impressive victory. “Ever since I saw Chris Moneymaker win this event in 2003 I knew it was something I wanted to experience too. I’m surprised it came so quickly.” The 2013 Main Event began in July. As has been the custom in the past six years, play was suspended when the tournament reached its final table comprised of nine participants. Play resumed Monday afternoon; after more than eight hours of competition the field of nine remaining players was narrowed to two: Jay Farber, 29, of Las Vegas, an amateur poker player and VIP nightclub host; and professional poker player Riess, 23, of East Lansing, Michigan. Heads-up play began Tuesday evening and lasted more than three hours before we crowned our new champion. Farber was eliminated in second place, winning $5,174,357. A total of 648 players cashed in this year’s WSOP Main Event. Players from 83 different nations and ages ranging from 21 to 92 years old competed in the WSOP Main Event, including dozens of celebrities from the sports and entertainment world. But Riess was able to outlast all 6,351 of them, despite his first-ever attempt in this event. Riess now has $8,658,488 in career WSOP earnings, which moves him into tenth place on the WSOP all-time money list. Tuesday’s WSOP action was carried with a 15-minute delay on ESPN; Monday’s play was covered with a 15-minute delay on ESPN2. (The delay is per gaming regulations to protect the integrity of play.) The 2013 WSOP attracted a record 79,471 participants from 107 countries in a total of 62 events, generating a prize pool of more than $197 million.

cover story

Unlock the Keys at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino

by Rachel Brockway

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino is making sure that in November no one drives home empty-handed. From a 2013 Chrysler 300 giveaway to the all-new Mega Money promotion, guests will want to make sure to try their luck this month! And did you know that by participating in the Total Rewards program, you can unlock the benefits and rewards that can be used throughout the entire Caesars’ family of casinos, worldwide? So, unlike other casinos in Arizona, guests can take the rewards they earn with Harrah’s and redeem them at other Caesars Entertainment properties across the country. Not a Total Rewards member yet? No worries, it’s not too late. Not only is it free to sign up but for the remainder of 2013 new members receive

$15 in free slot play and a free buffet. Check out all the November promotions at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino.

Give me the Keys!

Show me the Mega Money

Do you want to drive home in a 2013 Chrysler 300? Every day during November, guests can stop by Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino to swipe their Total Rewards card at the promotional kiosk for a free drawing entry. Plus, guests will earn one entry for every 25 Tier Credits earned November 1-30. And to make it even better! On Tuesdays, guests will earn double entries. On Saturday, November 30 from noon to 5pm, drawing winners will win free slot play. Winners in the 6pm finale drawing will try their key to see who wins the car.

Starting at 10am on Nov. 11, 18 and 25, all Total Rewards members that visit Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino will receive one game piece containing six numbers (1 through 50) and have a chance to win up to $250,000. If you are not a Total Rewards member and want to participate, simply sign up on or before Monday, November 11th and you can play too! Then every hour, on the hour, between noon and 6 p.m., six winning numbers will be announced. Players will scratch off the numbers on their game piece to see how much they win. The prize depends on how many numbers match, with the chance at the $250,000 jackpot. If a player matches: 1 number = Get $15 in Free Slot Play 2 numbers = $50 in Free Slot Play 3 numbers = $250 in Free Slot Play 4 numbers =$1,000 in Free Slot Play 5 numbers = $10,000 in Free Slot Play 6 numbers = $250,000 CASH! After each round of numbers are called, winners can then decide if they want to redeem the game piece for the prize above. Or they can Take a chance for the Mega Money later in the day. They can hold onto their game card and wait for new numbers to be announced, but - they cannot redeem previous hours’ numbers – because, only one redemption is allowed per guest each day. But everyone is a winner, since all guests that visit will get $5 in free slot play each promotional day!

Let Us Do the Driving Did you know Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino offers free transportation from all over the state? Pick-up areas include Apache Junction, Casa Grande, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Sun City West and Tucson. In November, Total Rewards members who ride the bus receive $10 in free slot play. Visit www.harrahsakchin.com and click Ak-Chin Bus Schedule for specific information on pick-up locations and times.

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cover story

continued from page 8

Wild Wednesdays in November!

Need a little music to keep the cards turning?

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino is giving away up to 2 million reward credits every Wednesday in November. Participants earn one drawing entry for every 25 Tier Credits earned between 6am and 7:30pm – Plus 1 winner will be selected every half hour for 62,500 Reward Credits. Stick around all day and one grand prize winner will be selected at 8pm for one million Reward Credits! Need to make your Wednesday a little more wild? For Total Rewards members, November 13th just may be your lucky day. Simply, insert your card in your favorite machine to see if you are a winner of $1,000.

Keep your hips swinging and your feet tapping each weekend night in the newly remodeled The Lounge. Every Friday and Saturday night in November from 8 p.m. – 1 a.m., guests can enjoy free live entertainment. The lineup includes: Nov. 22 & 23 (two shows 8 & 10pm) Nov. 1&2 - Str8up band Nov. 22 – Metalhead - 80s rock hair band Nov. 8 - Quantum Nov. 23 – The Petty Breakers Nov. 9 – The Hamptons Nov. 29 – SWV (Sisters with Voices) Nov. 15 - Rhythm Edition Nov. 30- The Family Stone Nov. 16 - The Walkens

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino opened in Maricopa in December 1994 and was Arizona’s first Indian casino to have a management partner. In addition to the 148 resort rooms and the state-of-the-art 152 room hotel tower, which opened in July 2011, Harrah’s also boasts the only Bingo hall in the entire Caesars organization, continuing the proud heritage of William F. Harrah, who opened his first Bingo hall in Reno in 1937. Harrah’s Ak-Chin was named a 2010 Most Admired Company by Arizona Business Magazine and BestCompaniesAZ, and Phoenix Business Journal has named the property one of the “Best Places to Work in the Valley” in 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011. Harrah’s Ak-Chin was awarded the 2011 Volunteer Service Award from the Arizona Governor’s Commission on Service and Volunteerism. For more information on all of the promotions at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino visit www.harrahsakchin.com.

ARIZONA PLAYER November 2013 9

A BOYD’S EYE VIEW OF VIDEO POKER

8/5 Bonus Poker:

hand frequency

by Linda Boyd

art I of this two-part series gave you some good reasons to play 8/5BP and emphasized the importance of making sure you found the right game. Here in Part II you’ll see the hand frequency data so you’ll understand your odds of receiving each winning hand and the real implications of these numbers. Table 1.1 shows the hand frequency of each winning hand, assuming correct play. Even if your play is not computer-perfect but you follow accurate basic game strategy your long term results will be close to what you see in Table 1.1.\ Table 1.1 (8/5BP) Pay Schedule/Hand Frequency

WINNING HAND

5-Coin Bet Frequency

Royal Flush (RF) Straight Flush (SF) 4 Aces Four 2’s, 3’s or 4’s Four 5’s-Kings *Full House *Flush Straight 3 of a Kind 2 Pair Jacks or Better Expected Return (ER) Variance

4000 40,233 250 9,360 400 5,106 200 1,897 125 610 40 87 25 92 20 89 15 13 10 8 5 5 99.1660% 20.90408

VideoPoker_1/3page_vp ad.qxp 10/12/09 12:31 PM Page 1

The book that Vegas

Expected Return (ER)/Variance:

One of the most important concepts for players to comprehend is the real impact of sacrificing higher payouts for frequent hands in return for large bonuses on infrequent hands. Here you get a return of double your wager for two pair, a frequent hand. In 9/6Double Double Bonus (9/6DDB) you only receive a return of your bet with two pair, called even money. To demonstrate the impact of this pay difference, let’s assume you play 800 hands per hour. Since two pair occurs once every 8 hands you can expect 100 hands of two pair per hour. (800/8=100) That means you will lose 500 coins per hour by choosing 9/6 DDB over 8/5BP, assuming a 5-coin wager. (Note that all versions of DDB only return even money for two pair.) So to compensate for the 500 coin loss you must get some combination of quads (four of a kind), straight flushes or other infrequent hands. Once more, Table 1.1 indicates the odds of each hand so you can see that if you’re on the wrong side of the bell-shaped curve your bankroll will quickly vanish in DDB games.

It’s always important to be aware of both the ER and variance before choosing a VP game. If the ER for a game is 100% you and the house have even odds, if it’s higher than 100% the player has the advantage and less than 100% gives the edge to the casino. 8/5 BP with an ER of 99.1660% plus your slot points and other perks is close to even with the house and therefore a better choice than most options. Even table games give the house an edge and casino rules can widen the gap. For example, the rake in poker may be high and some blackjack rules (hitting a soft 17 is a house advantage) as well as including both a zero and a double zero in roulette increase house odds. In other words don’t assume the felt games are better than VP without examining and comparing the game’s ER. About the variance - The 20.9 variance for 8/5 BP is a good one for hanging on to your bankroll, although slightly higher than JOB games. By comparison the variance for 9/6DDB is 42.0

Full House/Flush/Straight:

The Video Poker Edge

$17.95 • 2-Color throughout • Includes tear-out video poker “strategy cards”

10 ARIZONA PLAYER November 2013

part

Frequent Hands:

Often players complain about not getting their “fair share” of straights and flushes, assuming that they’ll get more of these two hands than full houses because they pay less. You can see from the actual data that full houses occur more frequently than either the flush or the straight in this game. In other words, don’t assume that the payout is in sync with the hand frequency. In fact the payouts are determined by the casino and will vary from place-to-place. That’s why smart players shop around for the best pay schedules availdoesn’t want you to read. able. Arizona requires Start your winning a random number education with generator (RNG) so each virtual card has an equal chance of being dealt or drawn.

Available at bookstores everywhere, or call the publisher toll-free at 1-877-900-2665.

Frequency Data: Just because the royal flush occurs once every 40,233 hands for this game doesn’t mean that you can’t get two or more royals in a short period of time or go several “royal cycles” (the number of hands on average that it takes to get a royal) without one. You should keep in mind that you can never base future expectations on past results; before the deal your odds of receiving each hand on Table 1.1 are as stated and a hand is never “due”. Efforts to find a “hot” machine because it has just had a royal or hasn’t hit one in a long time have no merit whatsoever. Linda Boyd - long-time table game player before turning to video poker, also writes for “Southern Gaming” and “Midwest Gaming and Travel” her book, “The Video Poker Edge”, includes free removable pay schedules and free strategy cards for the most popular games. Look for her story in the 2013 and 2014 Editions of “American Casino Guide” (ACG) and her YouTube videos, also with ACG. The Second Edition of her book is available in paperback and kindle - Also at amazon. com, bookstores or Square One Publishers. www.squareonepublishers.com Toll Free: 877-900-BOOK

Reel Reviews

lottery news Birthdays are Special!

Persistence Pays Huge Reward!

August 28, 2013, was a day of celebration for Vincente Ruiz of Phoenix. He redeemed his Powerball ticket from the draw of August 21, for $1,000,000. Vincente had purchased four lines for the Powerball using his own numbers consisting of family birthdays. He put the tickets in the console of his truck and temporarily forgot about them. A few days later Vincente went to the store to get a soda and check his Powerball tickets. The clerk scanned them and, all of a sudden, the Lottery terminal printed out a vast amount of paperwork. He asked the clerk how much he’d won, but the clerk couldn’t tell him anything except that it was more than she could pay. She gave him the paperwork and told him he would have to go to the Lottery office. Vincente signed the back of the ticket before he left the store, went home, and waited for his daughter. When his daughter arrived, he said, “Something good happened, but I don’t know how good.” He then showed her the ticket. She went to the computer to check the numbers. The next-to-the-last line had five matching numbers; the last line had two matching numbers and the Powerball. At the time, neither knew how much the ticket was worth. At about 5am Vincente couldn’t wait any longer, so he called the Lottery to ask what five matching Powerball numbers were worth. He then told his daughter, “I’m the $1,000,000 winner they’ve been waiting for.” It was a shock for both of them. He didn’t tell his other children because he wanted to be sure that he’d really won. Once he was positive everything was in order, his daughter took a picture of the oversized souvenir check to send to the rest of the family. Vincente knows what he’s going to do with his winnings. After some house repairs and paying off a few bills, the bulk of it is going to be invested. He won’t splurge; he’s well grounded in reality. He said, “Money pays the bills, but doesn’t make you happy.”

Josh Shields of Phoenix likes to buy Million Dollar Cash Bonanza Scratchers because of the million dollar top prize. Recently he purchased several Scratchers at a Lottery vending machine inside Fry’s Food Store on Combs Road in Queen Creek. After scratching them, he was really excited because one of the tickets showed that he was a $1,000,000 winner! He checked his ticket several times, then signed the back of it and went home. He checked online and realized that the Lottery had closed at 5pm and that he would have to wait all weekend before he could redeem it. In the meantime, he had his parents and a friend check the ticket. Then, sat back to wait out what seemed to be a very long weekend. Josh, a city government employee, chose the annuity rather than the lump sum. Once he saw the actual check, the shock set in. He wants to purchase a house, and the annuity gives him a guaranteed income of about $50,000 for the next 20 years! In his spare time, Josh enjoys spending time with his family and participating in outdoor activities such as basketball and camping. Real people do win, but Josh is finding it hard to believe that he is one of them.

14 ARIZONA PLAYER November 2013

CARD ROOM ACTION Apache Gold Casino 800-272-2438

Globe, AZ NOW Dealing Poker! Call for details Dealing blackjack, daily at 3pm

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

Scottsdale, AZ Mon - Fri, 11:15 am - NLHE, $70 buy-in w/ $10 s/c Tues & Wed, 7:15pm - NLHE, $115 buy-in w/ $15 s/c Sat Dec7 at 11:15am – Big Stack NLHE Sat, Dec 14 at 11:15 am – “Super Bounty Super BIG Stack” NLHE - $200 Buy in w $25 s/c - $100 Bounties Sat, Nov 30 & Dec 28 at 11:15 am – Last Saturday NLHE – $125 Buy in w/ $25 s/c Sat, Nov 16 at 10am – 11th Annual Charity Turkey Tournament Sat Nov 23 at 11:15am – 4th Annual Jack & Jill NLHE Championship Sat Dec 21 at 10am – 11th Annual Holiday Toy Drive NLHE Tournament Pro Football Promotions (free tickets for all live games) every Sat, Sun, Mon & Thurs – see poker room for pay-outs Get a Royal Flush, Spin the wheel – win up to $500 Weekdays from 2am-10am “Aces Cracked” Win $100 rack Food Specials; $3 breakfast! (2 am – Noon) also $12 Prime Rib dinner Mondays & $15 Steak & Lobster dinner Thursdays (5-11pm)

Also dealing blackjack 24/7

BlueWater Resort & Casino 1-888-243-3360

Parker, AZ Poker Room opens at 4pm, except Sun, Mon & Wed at 2pm Mon - $50 buy-in for $40 Tues, 7pm, NLHE “Bounty” Tournament - $35 buy-in w/one $20 re-buy ($5 bounties) Wed – Quads or Straight Flush pays $50 also “High Hand of the Day” pays $50 at 8pm Thurs, 7pm, NLHE - $30 buy-in, w/ 2 re-buys at $20

16 ARIZONA PLAYER November 2013

Fri – Any Full House pays $15 Sat – Double player points all day Sun – Spreading 2-8 Omaha Daily- Any Royal Flush pays $200 also “Aces Cracked” pays $40 also Dealing blackjack daily at 9am

Bucky’s Casino 928-771-6779

Prescott, AZ Mon-Thurs, 6pm - NLHE $40 entry w/$10 re-buy, (top 3-5 cash) & top 5 earn points toward the $250 Player of Month award Mon – Thurs, 10am - NLHE $15 entry w/$5 dealer Add-on, House adds $10 per entry Nov 17, 2pm - Omaha Hi-Low Tournament, $80 buy-in “NFL Spash Pot Sundays” 3 games every Sunday - every table is splashed $10 FG, $50 safety & $20-$200 for every touchdown Progressive “Aces Cracked” Sat 11am-11pm – increases by $50 each hour till hit Fridays, all day “Aces Cracked” wins a Rack “Random Rewards” Various times and days, 6 card flushes, splash pots and “Aces Cracked” see poker room for pay-outs Dealing blackjack 24/7 – Now playing “Texas Shoot Out” w/ Bonus jackpot and 3 Card Poker

Casino Arizona 480-850-7777

Scottsdale, AZ Dealing blackjack 24/7 Tournaments: Tues at noon $1,000 added “Break at Noon” $ 50 buy-in & Fri at 3 am - The “Great Late” Tournament, $25 buy-in

Casino Del Sol 520-838-6565

Tucson, AZ $10,000 Holiday NLHE Free Roll! (Dec 17 – 21) Play 20 hours between Nov 27 and Dec 16 to qualify. (limited to first 180 to qualify) Sat, Jan 11, 2014 at 6pm - The $12,000 Duncan Celebrity Poker Classic – Call

for details on the fun Charity event benefitting the Tucson Youth Baseball Assn. Mon-Fri, 10 am - NLHE, $15 buy-in w/ optional $15 add-on Mon 7pm & Sat noon – $1,200 NLHE - $35 buy-in Sun 11am - $1,500 Guaranteed NLHE, $45 buy-in – no re-buys Sun & Wed, 7pm - $1,000 Guaranteed NLHE, $15 buy-in – Opt $15 add-on Tues, 7pm $2,000 NLHE – $55 buy-in Thurs, 7pm - $5,000 deep stack NLHE, $ 100 buy-in no re-buys Sat, 9am – Limit Omaha Hi-Lo, $15 buy-in, $5 re-buys + $5 add-on Sat, Sun & Mon, College & Pro football promos (Free tickets to players in live games) win $100 - $ 500 (selected games) Progressive high hands 24/7 – win up to $500 – see poker room for details

Cliff Castle Casino Hotel 928-567-7952

Camp Verde, AZ Mon-Fri, 10am - NLHE Shoot-out, $30 buyin, w/ no re-buys Wed, 7pm – $500 Added NLHE Tournament $40 buy-in, $5 re-buy Fri, 7pm - NLHE Shoot-outs, $ 150 added per table of 10 - $25 buy-in – no re-buys Sat, Noon – 1,000 added – NLHE $105 buy-in, w/ dealer bonus add-on All Week – Royal Flush pays $100 “Progressive Aces Cracked” wins $50 - $200 Also dealing blackjack 24/7

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 Wed & Thurs at 7pm $500 added NLHE – $35 buy-in (max 40 players) NFL & College Football Promotion (free tickets) & Splash Pots – Sat, Sun, Mon & Thurs (3 times a week) selected TV games

24/7 – any Royal Flush $200 Hold Em and $100 Omaha, Straight Flush $100 Hold –Em $50 Omaha Special Poker Room menu at discounted prices Also dealing blackjack 24/7 with new progressive side bet and 3 card poker side bet

Desert Diamond I-19 Casino 1-866-332-9467 Sahuarita, AZ Dealing blackjack 24/7

Fort McDowell Casino 480-789-4284

Fountain Hills, AZ Mon-Fri at Noon & Sun at 7pm - NLHE $ 30 buy-in - $20 add-on - No-rebuys Sat at 7pm & Sun at Noon - NLHE Deep Stack tournament - $50 buy-in w/ $20 add-on at the break Tues, Wed & Thurs at 7pm & Sat at Noon & 4pm - NLHE - $5 buy-in Mon & Fri, 7pm, NLHE - $60 buy-in w/ one $5 add on Sun, Oct 20, 10am - Ladies NLHE Poker Tournament – $60 buy-in w/ $5 add-on Daily “Aces Cracked” win $200 (pays double 8am-11am!) loser wins $100 winner takes pot & $50 - plus next hand is splashed $50 “Easy way Jackpot” Aces full of tens beaten by Quads or better wins Jackpot! Dealing blackjack 24/7

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino 480-802-5138

Maricopa, AZ Nov 28, Thanksgiving Day – High Hand Contests – 9am to 5pm, call for details Holiday BIG 4 Tournaments; Thursday Nov 28 at 7:30pm – Pick your Stack ($5 to $15 buy-in) NLHE (no re-buys) Friday Nov 29 at 3pm – Freeze Out Deep Stack NLHE, $25 buy-in (no re-buys) Saturday Nov 30 at 3pm – Bounty Deep Stack NLHE, $25 buy-in includes one $10 Bounty Chip (no re-buys) Sunday Dec 1 at 3pm – H.O.P.E Deep Stack (Hold-em, Omaha High, Pineapple & Omaha 8 or better) $25 buy-in (no re-buys) Pro Football Splash Pots every Sun, Mon & Thurs and College on Saturdays

Tues, 7:30pm, Omaha H/L, $15 buy-in, $10 re-buys + $10 add-on Thurs, 7:30pm – NLHE, $10 Buy-in plus three $10 re-buys & two $10 add-ons Fri, 7:30pm - NLHE, $40 buy-in, no re-buys Aces Cracked - Black aces $100, Red Aces $50 & Mixed $25 (Bonus 9-10am & 2am3am =3X payout, 10am-noon, mid-2am Faces Cracked ($50) 8pm – Mid, Jacks $20, Queens $30 & Kings $40 ($300 max per session) Start-up special – first 6 players each day, $20 back after 2 hours of play Also dealing blackjack 24/7

Hon-Dah Casino 928-369-7555

Pinetop, AZ Mon, 6pm - NLHE “$25 Bounty” Tournament, $45 buy-in (no re-buys) Tues, 6pm - NLHE “Speed Shoot-Out” $15 buy-in (no re-buys) Tues, all day – Aces Cracked wins $25 – $100 cash or various other prizes Wed, 6pm - NLHE, $40 buy-in (no re-buys) “early bird” chips available Thurs, 6pm - No Limit Omaha Hi-Lo, $40 buy-in (no re-buys) “early bird” chips available 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

Lone Butte Casino 800-946-4452

Chandler, AZ Dealing blackjack 24/7 – with $5 games PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was over $155,000 on Sept 16th

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino 800-777-7529

Payson, AZ Live Poker Wed –Sun at 10am, High Hands, win up to $250 Wed & Sun at 6pm NLHE Tournament, $ 50 buy-in no-re buys Sat at 3pm, NLHE Tournament, $25 buy-in – no re-buys Aces Cracked “wins a rack” various times daily – Max 3 per day (see poker room for details) Nov 7 & Dec 5 at 6pm, “Ladies Only” NLHE tournament - $25 buy-in Dealing blackjack 10am to 1am, with $3 games daily till 3pm Mon - 6pm, Blackjack Tournament $40 buy-in w/two $25 re-buys

Quechan Casino & Resort 1-877-783-2426

Winterhaven, CA Open Wed-Sun at 10am, and Mon, Tues at 5pm - spreading 4/8 Hold Em with a kill, Pro Football Splash Pots ($15 - $50) Thurs, Sun & Mon during selected TV games 4/8 Omaha hi-low split with a kill also 2-4, 3-6 & 4-8 limit Texas Hold-Em, plus 1-3 & 2-5 No Limit Texas Hold Em Sat & Sun, 1pm NLHE Tournaments $40 buy-in Thurs, 7pm NLHE Deep Stack - $75 buy-in (extra chips for “live” play before tournaments) Dealing blackjack 24/7 - Special room rates for poker players

CARD ROOM ACTION

Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort 928-856-7244

Flagstaff, AZ Live Poker Mon-Fri at 10am, Sat & Sun at 8am NLHE Tournaments, Tues $50 & Thurs $30 at 7pm - Also Sat $15 & Sun $50 at Noon College & Pro Football splash pots every Sat, Sun & Mon – on all tables $25 - $50 “Aces Cracked – wins a rack (call for details) Progressive “High Hand” & Progressive Bad Beat Jackpots Dealing blackjack 24/7

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

Laveen, AZ Tues, 7:30pm NLHE, $50 buy-in w/ $10 add-on at break (receive early bird chips – for live play before tournament) Wed, 7:30pm, NLHE, $15 buy-in w/ $10 re-buys & $20 add-on Sat, 11am - NLHE, $20 buy-in w/ $10 re-buys & $20 add-on Sun 11am - NLHE, $30 buy in$20 add-on NCAA & NFL football Splash pots - Sat, Sun, Mon & Thurs (selected tables) $100 touchdown $50 FG and $200 for a safety Big Money Royals, Any Royal Flush wins $ 200 – Plus “Bonus Royals” Mon-Thurs “Super 77” Progressive Bad-Beat Jackpot - Quad 7’s or better beaten wins at least $25,000 “ACES CRACKED” wins a rack, Mid – Noon with unlimited winners Dealing blackjack 24/7 – with $5 games - PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was over $180,000 on Oct 7th

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino 800-946-4452 ext 7375

Chandler,AZ Mon & Thurs Noon - NLHE, $30 buy-in, no re-buys - $150 added per table Tues & Wed, 7:30pm - NLHE Freeze Out - $50 entry fee w/ $10 optional add-on $1,000 added to prize pool Sun, 3:30pm, NLHE - $30 buy- in, $5 dealer add-on, $20 add-at the break & bonus chips for play before tournament “Super 77” Progressive Bad-Beat Jackpot – Quad 7’s or better beaten wins at least $25,000 “Aces Cracked” Win a Rack - Sun 11pm until Fri at 6pm NFL Football Splash pots every Sun, Mon & Thurs - $200 for a safety, $100 for a TD & $50 for a FG “Rolling Cash Fever” Drawing every other hour 24/7, $100 min, increases by $100 if not hit Big Money Royals - Any Royal Flush wins $ 200 Food specials: ½ price poker room menu all day Also dealing blackjack 24/7 - PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was over $180,000 on Oct 7th

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

ARIZONA PLAYER November 2013 17

TJ’s Blackjack corner

The House Edge for Blackjack

hen most players walk up to by TJ a Blackjack Jorgensen table they may not pay any attention to the house rules for the game. But changes in house rules from Casino to Casino can have a big effect on your long term win or loss. In a basic 6 deck game with these house rules; Dealer hits soft 17 (Ace-6) Double on any two cards Double after split Re-split to 4 hands Player can Re-split Aces Player can hit split Aces Blackjack pays 3 to 2 In the game with these rules the house would have about a .39% advantage over the player. If we change the Dealer hits soft 17 to the Dealer stands on soft 17 the house advantage drops to .18%. If we change the Double after split to no Double after split the house advantage jumps to .54%. If we change that the player can only double on 9-11 the house edge climbs to .51%. If we change the rule that the player can only split one time the house edge is .51%. If we change the rule that a player can re-split aces to no re-splitting aces the house edge is .45%. If a player cannot hit split aces as is the case in most of the casinos in Arizona

18 ARIZONA PLAYER November 2013

the house advantage grows to .57%. But the biggest swing of all of the house rules is changing blackjack from paying 3 to 2, to paying 6 to 5. This changes the house edge to a whopping 1.75%. If you don’t remember anything else, pay attention to what blackjack pays. I haven’t run across a 6 to 5 game here in Arizona, but in Vegas and Laughlin - casinos they offer single deck blackjack games that pay 6 to 5. If we keep all of the rules and change the game to single deck paying 6 to 5 the house edge is 1.38%. In an 8 deck game with the same rules paying 3 to 2 on a blackjack the house edge is .41% so you would be much better off playing an 8 deck game rather than a single deck that pays 6 to 5.

The best house rules for the player A single deck game where the dealer stands on soft 17, Player can Double after split, Player can Double on any first two cards, Player can re-split 4 times, Player can Re-split Aces, Player can hit split Aces, Late surrender and Blackjack pays 3 to 2. You know why this game doesn’t exist? Because, with these rules a player would have a .22% advantage over the Casino – However, if the Casino offered a single deck game with all of these rules and just changed the blackjack payout from 3 - 2 to 6 - 5 the house would go from being at a -.22% disadvantage to a huge 1.17% advantage. Again if you find a blackjack game paying 6-5, “RUN”,

do not play it. If all players refused to play those games, casinos would have no choice but to offer Blackjack paying 3-2. Changes that decrease the casino edge Double after split +.14% Re-split Aces +.07% Single Deck +.50 Two decks +.20% Four Decks +.05% Changes that hurt a blackjack player Dealer hits Ace-6 -.20% Double on 11 only -.46% Double on 10,11 only -.09% Double on 9,10,11 only -.09% No re-spliting pairs -.04% Always give your Business to casinos that offer the best rules, after all you work hard for your money, the casino should have to work hard for their money too. 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. His book, “Beating the Casino at Their Own Game,” is available through his web site www.freewebs.com/tjsblackjackcorner or by e-mail TJ4justice1@msn.com

entertainment Apache Gold Casino Resort

5 miles East of Globe on Hwy 70 1-800-272-2438 Apache Gold Pavillion: Nov 9 - Daryl Worley & Aaron Tippin Convention Center: Nov 23 - Katastro also featuring Colton Avery Cabaret Lounge: Free live entertainment every weekend Nov 8 & 9 - Apache Spirit Nov 15 & 16 - The Visitors Nov 22 & 23 - The Cromatics Nov 29 & 30 - AZTEX band

BlueWater Resort and Casino

11300 Resort Dr., Parker 1-888-243-3360 Outdoor Amphitheater: Nov 16 - “MJ Live” The Michael Jackson Tribute - direct from Las Vegas

Wynonna

Arizona Room Patio Grill: Nov 16 at 6pm - UFC 167 (St-Pierre vs Hendricks) Tuesdays - “Latin Fire Dance Night” w/ free lessons Mon & Thurs - Deejay Rogger Fri & Sat; Live bands early and DJ’s till 2am Bingo Hall: Friday & Saturday at Midnight, L-8 Night Bingo! Including light show, music, dancing and fun!

Casino Del Sol

5655 W. Valencia Rd., Tucson 520-838-6506 AVA Amphitheater: Nov 9 - Heart Nov 16 - BATTLE of the BADGES BOXING! Local law enforcement and Public safety officers duke it out for charity Dec 7 - Tucson Tamal & Heritage Festival (10am - 5pm) Event Center: Nov 22 - AJ Castillo w/ special guest Monica Castro Nov 23 - PPV Boxing Pacquiao vs Rios Paradiso Bar: Free weekend entertainment w/bands; Nov 7 - ABBA Tribute, Nov 8 - Elaine Stepter & Nov 9 The Maker Bros.

Cliff Castle Casino Jan 25 - Wynonna & The Big Noise Mar 22 - Kenny Rogers Dig Lounge: FREE Classic Movies Mondays at 10am & Free popcorn NEW! Live bands featuring Classic 50s & 60s music; Mon & Thurs at 2pm, Tues & Wed 3pm Deejay 8pm-2am Thurs thru Sun and Karaoke Mondays - PLUS, Sun & Mon Night Football on the BIG screen

Casino Arizona

101 at McKellips, Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Showroom: Monday Night Showroom Football - (every Monday) Nov 8-10 - Fan Halen (Van Halen Tribute) Nov 22 & 23 - Bonfire (AC/DC Tribute) Nov 28 thru Dec 21 - Showstoppers Live Holiday Spectacular

20 ARIZONA PLAYER November 2013

I-17 at exit 289 in Camp Verde 1-800-381-SLOT Dragonfly Lounge: Free live entertainment on weekends; Nov 8 - The Mods Nov 9 - Powerdrive Nov 15 & 16 - XS Band Nov 22 & 23 - Uproot Nov 29 & 30 - Priminition

Desert Diamond Casino I -19

1100 West Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita 1-866-DDC-WINS Diamond Center: Dec 14 - Sylvia Browne (Renowned Psychic & author) Dec 28 - “Stayin’ Alive” The #1 Bee Gees Tribute Jan 17 - STYX

Chris Young

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort and Casino 15406 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa 480-802-5000 THE ALL-NEW LOUNGE Nov 29 - SWV - FREE Concert! Nov 30 - The Family Stone - FREE! Dec 31 (New Year’s Eve) The Rat Pack Returns! FREE!

Jan 18 - Chris Young Sports Bar: Sports on big screens & music w/ Fiesta and Desert DJs on Fri & Sat nights plus Wed night - Karaoke

Fort McDowell Casino

N of Shea off Hwy 87, Fountain Hills 1-800-THE-FORT Wassaja Ballroom: Nov 22 - Bad Boy Boxing / featuring Little People MMA Radisson Ballroom; Nov 23 - Ambrosia w/ Firefall and POCO Nov 24 - The 5th Dimension New Year’s Eve - Featuring the band CAMEO Lucky 7 Saloon: Free entertainment on Fri day & Saturday nights featuring

Cocopah Casino

The Rat Pack Returns! Additional Free Lounge entertainment Wed, Noon - 4pm; Pizzaz or Swingtips Thursday - Saturday at 8pm featuring bands; Srt8up, AzTex, Quantum, The Hamptons, The Walkens, Metalhead, The Petty Breakers and Rhythm Edition For updates, go to harrahsakchin.com

Hon-Dah Resort and Casino

Highways 260 and 73, Pinetop 1-800-WAY-UP-HIGHt Timbers Lounge: Free entertainment, Monday is Comedy Night, Tues-Sat, Live bands; Nov 5 thru 9 - Barrio Latino Nov 12 thru 16 - Walker Williams Nov 19 thru 23 - Western Fusion Conference Center: Nov 29 - Neon Circus (Brooks & Dunn Tribute) New Year’s Eve - The Sensation Show Band

15318 South Avenue B Somerton, AZ (Yuma area)1-800-237-5687 Fri & Sat - Live bands in the lounge

Desert Diamond Casino Hotel

7350 South Nogales Hwy, Tucson 1-866-DDC-WINS Monsoon Night Club: Live bands or DJ, Thurs - Sat “Groovin’ Fridays” (Old School) “Noches Caliente Saturdays” featuring; Nov 9 - Los kabalgantes Nov 16 - Centenarios Nov 23 - Angle Norteno Nov 30 - Grupo latido

top bands; Solid Gold, Basketball Jones, Chaka & Friends, Apache Spirit, Grey Wolf, Furious George and Kenny G Project Bingo Hall: Saturday, Now 16 & Dec 21 - Late Night Lunar Bingo w/ music, games & giveaways Radisson Resort Parking Lot: Nov 30 & Dec 1 - Silver Car Auction - WIN a 2001 Ford Mustang Convertible! Call for details For updates - fortmcdowellcasino.com

The 5th Dimension

Lone Butte Casino

202 loop at the Kyrene exit - Chandler, 1-800-WIN-GILA Cascades Lounge: Live Bands, (9pm1am) featuring Andrea & Los Guys, Soul Persuasion, Smooth Groove, Davis Highway band, CONTREband, AzTex Band, Str8up, Cowboy UP, Shining Star, JJ’s Band & Desert Dixie Sun- Fri (4-7pm) Live bands; Otis & the Beat, Kenny’s Project, Spotlight, The Heat, Marty and the Party, Thaddeus Rose & Silhouette Verona Chophouse: Saturday: Talia 5-9pm & Sunday: live Jazz brunch Buffet Bingo Hall: 11pm Fri & Sat - B.A.D BINGO w/ DJ “Rockin’ Rob” music, light show, bingo & giveaways

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino

1/2-mile S. of Payson on Hwy 87 1-800-777-PLAY www.777play.com Event Center: Dec 31 (New Year’s Eve) Night Groove Band Apache Spirits Lounge: New Year’s Eve Torres & Hendrix

Paradise Casino

450 Quechan Drive, Yuma 1-888-777- 4946 Sharky’s Bar: Live bands on weekends Bingo / Concert Hall:

Quechan Casino Resort

525 Algodones Rd, Winterhaven CA (5 mi West of Yuma) 1-877-783-2426 Sidewinders bar: Free weekend entertainment; Nov 8 & 9 - Tropic II, Nov 15 & 16 - Downtime, Nov 22 & 23 Mirage, Nov 29 & 30 - Frogman Down

Talking Stick Resort

Loop 101 and Indian Bend Road Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Talking Stick Showroom: Nov 8 - Sawyer Brown Nov 9 & 10 - TESLA Nov 15 - An Evening w/ George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic Nov 30 - Loverboy Nov 29 - Kool & the Gang Nov 29 - Kool & the Gang Nov 30 - Loverboy

Dec 6 - Aaron Lewis Dec 7 - Vincente Fernandez Jr Dec 27 - Roger Clyne & Peaacemakers Jan 18 - STYX Jan 24 - Hot Tuna & Leon Russell Feb 1 - larry the Cable Guy Mar 1 - George Thorogood & the Destroyers TSR Lounge: Live Deejays and your favorite drinks on Fri 8pm-2am and Sat 5pm-2am Degree 270 Lounge: Thurs - Sat, live bands & Top DJ’s from the West Coast! Nov 8 - Big Syphe (L.A.) Nov 15 - Turbulence (L.A.) Nov 22 - DJ Crykit (San Fran) Nov 29 - DJ C-LA (Vegas) Dec 6 - DJ V-Tech (L.A.) Dec 13 - Panic City (San Fran) Orange Sky Restaurant & Lounge (15th Floor)

Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort 22181 Resort Blvd (I-40 @ exit 219) Flagstaff (928) 856-7200 The Ballroom: Call for updated schedule Casino Floor: on weekends: Nov 8 & 9 - Rhythm Divine Nov 15 & 16 - Kung Fu Grip Nov 22 & 23 - Two Bit Shot Gun Nov 28 thru 30 - Voodoo Rhythm band

Guys, Soul Persuasion, Western Fusion, Unstoppable Band, The Hamptons, Jadi Norris, Rhythm of the Sun Band, Shining Star, Reality band and New Frequency Band Watch Football on the BIG Screens, Monday & Thursday Nights, plus Saturdays & Sundays all day 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: Nov 8 - Quiet Riot & Lita Ford Nov 9 - America Nov 15 - Cedric the Entertainer Nov 21 - Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo Nov 22 - DSB (Journey Tribute) Nov 23 - Rage in the Cage #169 Nov 29 - Latin Comedy Jam IV Nov 30 - Andrew Dice Clay Dec 6 - Eddie Money Dec 13 - Ana Barbara w/ Mariachi Sol de Mexico Jose Hernandez Dec 27 - Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Dec 28 - Comics Chris Simpson and Adam Gropman

gaming news entertainment New Year’s Eve - POWERDRIVE Jan 11 - Squeezeebox (Polka party) Jan 18 - Mo’Nique Jqan 25 - CHARO AIRIA - “Nightlife Unplugged”, live entertainment - Fri & Sat featuring bands on Fridays; B Platinum, Shining Star, Platinum Hi-Fi, JJ’s Band, Static, Powerdrive and Deejays on Saturdays: DJ BKNY, DJ Identaty, DJ Raya, DJ Nerd, & DJ Raia, Encore Lounge: Mid-day entertainment Monday’s 11am-3pm & late night entertainment w/ top bands; Powerdrive, Hamptons, Swingtips, Str8up, Michael & Manuel, Heartbreak Alley, Smooth Groove, Tyrone D & the Ledge, Robert Street Band, Eagleheart, Shining Star, JJ’s Band, Route 66 and Grey Wolf

Yavapai Casino

1505 East Hwy 69 - Prescott 1-800-756-8744 Yavapai Cantina; Fridays - Karaoke with Cruisin’ Susan, Saturdays - Live Bands; Nov 9 - Little Larry Nov 16 - Sky daddy Duo Nov 23 - Little larry Nov 30 - Mikel A

Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino

The All-New West Valley Casino 51st Ave, 4 miles S. of Baseline - Laveen 1-800-WIN-GILA Event Center: Nov 8 - Ghost in the Machine - Tribute to Sting & the Police Nov 22 - Belladonna (Stivie Nicks & Fleetwood mac tribute) Nov 23 - PPV Boxing Pacquiao vs Rios Nov 28 - New VQ Comedy Series featuring Adan Gropman & Chris Simpson Outdoor Patio: (Mon-Fri, 4pm-7pm) Featuring; Marty & the Party, Michael & Manuel, The Walkens Unplugged, Alexia, Powerdrive, Big Black & The Crew, Chaka & friends, Tyrone D & the Ledge, Alexia, XO w/ Julissa Ruth, Cowboy UP, Rhythm of the Sun Band (Wed-Sat, 9pm-1am) Featuring; Str8up band, Rhythm Edition, Andrea & Los

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

ARIZONA PLAYER November 2013 21

Joke page

Jokes of the Month

I love Church Bulletins! Sometimes little typing errors give us an un-expected laugh during the church service These announcements were in church bulletins or were mentioned at a church service: The upcoming Fasting & Prayer Conference includes meals. Ladies, remember the rummage sale. It’s a chance to get rid of things not worth keeping - Bring your husbands. Low Self Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7pm - Please use the back door. Irving Benson and Jessie Carter were married on Oct 24, So ends a friendship that began in their school days. The pastor would like ladies of the Congregation to lend him their electric girdles for the pancake breakfast next Sunday. Miss Charlene Mason sang ‘I will not pass this way again - giving obvious pleasure to the congregation. Next Thursday there will be try-outs for the choir. They need all the help they can get.

22 ARIZONA PLAYER November 2013

A bean supper will be held on Tuesday evening in the church hall. Music will follow. At tonight’s evening service the sermon topic will be ‘What Is Hell?’ Come early and listen to our choir practice. Please place your donation in the envelope along with the deceased person you want remembered. Our Pot-luck supper is Sunday at 5:00 PM - prayer and medication to follow. The ladies of the Church have cast off clothing of every kind. They may be seen in the basement tonight. The Weight Watchers group will meet at 7pm Wednesday. Please use side entrance double doors. The Associate Minister unveiled the church›s new campaign slogan Sunday: “I Upped My Pledge - Up Yours.” The sermon this morning: ‹Jesus walks on the Water. Tonight’s sermon: “Searching for Jesus”›

contest page WINTER WONDERLAND GETAWAY SWEEPSTAKES Are you ready for some Wonderful Winter Fun in the Majestic White Mountains? Well, if you answer is “absolutely Positively, Sign me up coach” Then here’s exactly what you have been looking forward to doing.

This Grand Prize Package includes; a 3 day 2 night stay in the spectacular White Mountains at Hon-Dah Resort Casino and Conference Center in Pinetop, Arizona. The winning entry will also receive Breakfast and Dinner for two people for two days! Then add to that, Lift tickets at Sunrise Ski Resort for two people for one full day. There are also some additional surprises when you arrive and check in.

You’ll have lots of fun on the slopes and plenty of indoor excitement too including; live entertainment in the Timbers Lounge featuring some of the top bands in Arizona along with some nationally known performers. There is also “Live” poker and poker tournaments to play in, plus blackjack and some of the loosest and newest slots around so that you can bring home a jackpot.

The Grand prize winner along with 5 runner-up winners who will receive gift cards to some great restaurants or department stores will be announced in the December issue. It’s easy to enter, just go to FACEBOOK and “Like” Arizona Player Magazine or send a 3X5 card in an envelope with your name, address and phone number to; Arizona Player – Winter Wonderland Contest PO Box 33393 Phoenix, AZ 85067

ARIZONA PLAYER November 2013 24

thanksgiving buffets Apache Gold Casino Resort

Cocopah Casino

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort and Casino

5 miles East of Globe on Hwy 70 1-800-272-2438 The Wickiup Buffet and Apache Grill will feature traditional Thanksgiving selections as part of their menu

15318 S. Ave. B, Somerton, AZ Yuma area 1-800-237-5687 (please call for information)

15406 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa 480-802-5000 Harvest Buffet: Buffet will include traditional Thanksgiving entrees like roast turkey and dressing plus an incredible selection of entrees like; honey glazes ham, fried chicken, baked maple and pecan crusted salmon, mussels and clams in a white wine cream sauce, Pee King Duck, Korean short ribs, tamales, chicken Posole, shrimp cocktail and more, plus desserts - Adults $ 25.99 Range Steakhouse: Start with Pumpkin bisque soup or the soup of the day, then enjoy roasted Turkey (white and dark meat) along with sliced prime rib w/au jus, homemade cranberry and orange relish/sauce, garlic/herb/parmesan mashed potatoes, giblet and Sage gravy, sausage and sage stuffing, Broccoli and mushroom casserole candied Yams w/pecan and marshmallow Brulee, Hawaiian sweet rolls plus Pumpkin cheesecake for dessert - Adults $39.99

BlueWater Resort and Casino 11300 Resort Dr., Parker 1-888-243-3360 or (928) 669-7003 River Willow: Traditional Thanksgiving dinner 5pm-10pm, features soup or salad, roast turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, turkey gravy, candied yams, Cranberry sauce plus pumpkin, apple, cherry or pecan pie w/whipped cream Adults $19.95

Cliff Castle Casino

Casino Arizona 101 at McKellips, Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Eagles Buffet: Thanksgiving Day from 10am-10pm, features; Roast turkey, seasoned dark turkey meat, mashed potatoes, gravy, large selection of vegetables, salads, Tomato Florentine soup, plus additional entries; Lemon Pepper Chicken, grilled sirloin steaks, beef Lasagna, Coconut crusted fresh Salmon, fresh steamed Tilapia, beer battered cod, iced shrimp, fried shrimp, Cheasapeake Bay Oysters on the half shell, assorted breads, cheeses and so much more including fine pastries, desserts, pies and the pastry chef’s Chocolate fountain Adults $ 27.95 & Children $14.95

Casino Del Sol

Bucky’s Casino 1500 East Hwy 69, Prescott 1-800-756-8744 The Café will feature a traditional Thanksgiving dinner including dessert for just $8.99 from 10:30am-10pm

26 ARIZONA PLAYER November 2013

5655 W. Valencia Rd., Tucson 520-838-6506 A Special Thanksgiving Eve Buffet on Wednesday November 27, from 10am to 6pm - featuring traditional roasted turkey and side dishes, plus a Steamship of Beef carving station, baked ham, smoked and grilled chicken, pan seared chicken breast, slow roasted pork loin, along with a seafood station, pasta station and Asian Kitchen station plus various desserts - $28

I-17 at exit 289 in Camp Verde 1-800-381-7568 The Mountain Springs Buffet open from 11am-10pm featuring a traditional Thanksgiving menu with roasted turkey, baked ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, sweet potatoes, assorted vegetables, a full salad and dessert bar - $19 adults and kids $9.50

Desert Diamond Casino Hotel 7350 South Nogales Hwy, Tucson 1-866-DDC-WINS The Steak House and Diamond Buffet: Please call for Thanksgiving menus

Desert Diamond Casino I -19 1100 W. Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita 1-866-DDC-WINS Thanksgiving Buffett 10am-7pm, Chef’s Carving Station featuring herb roasted Turkey, slow roasted Prime Rib, baked ham plus other entrees including baked salmon, stuffed pork loin plus pasta, traditional sides, plus a full salad and dessert bar - $19.99

Fort McDowell Casino N of Shea off Hwy 87, Fountain Hills 1-800-THE-FORT Red Rock Buffet: Thanksgiving brunch and dinner from 10am-8pm featuring traditional roast turkey and dressing, also Prime Rib Carving station, baked ham, roast loin of pork, chicken, shrimp, vegetables along w/a salad and dessert bar - Adults $19.95

thanksgiving buffets

Quechan Casino Resort

Vee Quiva Casino The West Valley Casino

525 Algodones Rd, Winterhaven CA (5mi W of Yuma) 1-877-783-2426 Ironwood Steakhouse: Call for details on Thanksgiving menu

51st Ave, 4mi s. of Baseline - Laveen 1-800-WIN-GILA Café 24/7: 11:00am-8:00pm, includes; salad, roasted turkey with stuffing, sweet potatoes, traditional vegetables and choice of pumpkin pie or apple pie ala mode - $12.95/person Ditka’s: - The Mike Ditka Thanksgiving meal includes; assorted salads to choose from, 8 oz. cut of roasted turkey or 12 oz. cut of Linz Heritage Prime Rib, mashed potatoes, stuffing and gravy, sweet mashed potatoes, green beans and more plus your choice of various desserts including pies, cheesecake or Creme Brule - $29.95/person

Talking Stick Resort

Hon-Dah Resort and Casino Café 24/7: 11:00am-8:00pm, includes; Highways 260 and 73, Pinetop 1-800-WAY-UP-HIGH Indian Pines Restaurant: 11am- 9pm Thanksgiving buffet menu includes roasted turkey, baked ham, plus all the fixings including vegetables and delicious desserts. Adults $12.95; kids 4-7 yrs $6.95 Please note a special breakfast buffet will be served from 6am-10am (no regular breakfast menu) Timbers Lounge: Serving the same buffet menu from 10am-4pm

Lone Butte Casino 202 loop at Kyrene exit - Chandler 1-800-WIN-GILA Verona Chophouse: Thanksgiving Brunch from 11:00am-6:00pm, featuring made to order omelets and other breakfast items, plus roasted turkey, Virginia baked ham, slow roasted Prime Rib, mashed potatoes, vegetables, plus apple, pumpkin or pecan pie - $29.99/person

salad, choice of roasted turkey or Country style baked ham with traditional vegetables and choice of pumpkin or pecan pie - $12.99/person

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino 1/2-mile S. of Payson on Hwy 87 1-800-777-PLAY www.777play.com Cedar Ridge Restaurant: 11am-8pm, Special menu features Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey, slow roasted Prime Rib, baked Virginia Ham, vegetables, soup and salad bar, plus home baked desserts, coffee and soft drinks, Adults - $15.95 per person (Kids 6-10 just $7, under 6 years-free)

Paradise Casino 450 Quechan Drive, Yuma 1-888-777- 4946 Seahorse Restaurant: Thanksgiving dinner 11am-10pm (Turkey or baked ham) w/all the fixings - $14.95/person

Loop 101 and Indian Bend Road Scottsdale 480-850-7777 Wandering Horse Buffet: 10am8pm, Thanksgiving selections include; Herb and garlic roast turkey, slow roasted prime rib, Peach marinated roasted chicken, Brandy glazed ham, walnut cherry oat crusted Salmon, grilled sturgeon, lamb chops, pumpkin truffle raviolis, baked lobster Diavolo, Agave marinated pork chops, charbroiled American Kobe steaks, iced jumbo shrimp, Atlantic oysters, King Crab legs, plus desserts of all kinds and glass of champagne $ 43.95 adults, $17.00 children Blue Coyote Café: 11am-11pm, choose from soup or house salad, plus roasted turkey breast, whipped potatoes, turkey gravy, green beans, cranberry fig dressing and pumpkin tart w/ cinnamon whipped cream for dessert - $18.95/person ARENA Poker Room: offers a special Thanksgiving dinner from 11am-11pm featuring Herb roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, vegetables, cranberry orange chutney and house made pumpkin pie w/whipped cream - $12

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino I-10 at Wild Horse Pass exit - Chandler 1-800-WIN-GILA Shula’s Steak House: A special Thanksgiving turkey dinner plus pumpkin pie for dessert will be served from 3pm-8pm, $45.99/person Café 24/7: 11am to 8pm - Traditional Thanksgiving dinner plus pumpkin pie for dessert - $14.95/person

ARIZONA PLAYER November 2013 27

DAVID AT THE SNACK BAR Thor: The Dark World An ancient evil has returned and Asgard can’t stop them. The Dark Elves ruled the universe before Odin’s grandfather defeated them many eons ago but now they are back and more powerful. Meanwhile, Jane Foster and her team have found unusual anomalies by David Ramsey on Earth that lead her back to Thor. After the Dark Elves and their leader, Melekith, attack Asgard Thor must free the imprisoned Loki and unite with him to defeat them. Of course, everything leads to a show down on Earth and Thor must save Jane and the Universe. “Thor: The Dark World” is the better of the two Thor films, it has lots of action, some romance and just the right amount of special effects.

Last Vegas Four lifelong friends reunite to give the only single member a bachelor party in Las Vegas. The main reason to see this film is the cast: Michael Douglas, Robert De Niro, Morgan Freeman, Kevin Kline and Mary Steenburgen. They are all terrific and work together bril-

David’s Video Details Man of Steel

Clark Kent has always kept to himself and hidden his superpowers but when another from his home planet attacks Earth he has to become involved. This re-boot of the Superman series doesn’t get any of the comic book mythos right, in fact at the end it completely violates what Superman has always stood for. There is a of action but even that goes too far with a climatic fight scene going so long it becomes anti-climatic. The overuse of CGI is disturbing..

We’re the Millers

David is a low level drug dealer who has is stash and bankroll stolen much to the dismay of his distributor. Owing a lot of money that he cannot repay he agrees to smuggle some marijuana into the country from Mexico. He thinks that if he looks like a family man he has a better chance of getting past customs at the border. He sets about recruiting a fake family, a stripper as his wife, a runaway as his daughter and a neighbor as his son. Things go just fine until he finds out they have actually stolen from a drug lord. This crime-comedy has some action but it/s mostly a comedy and, at time, a pretty funny one. ‘We’re the Millers” may not be a classic but it does have its funny moments.

White House Down liantly. If you are expecting a geriatric “Hangover” you will be disappointed. While there are some hilarious moments it is brought down by a stupid and time consuming tiff between Douglas and De Niro’s characters. “Las Vegas” is worth a matinee just to see those great actors together.

Cale, an off-duty capital policeman, takes his daughter on a tour of the White House shortly after he has been turned down for a job in the Secret Service. While he is there the White House is taken by a group of heavily armed invaders. While everyone else is caught off guard Cale springs into action to save the President and his daughter. There is a lot of action and I preferred this White House is attacked action flick over the one from earlier this year, “Olympus has Fallen.” Channing Tatum continues to show why he is going to be a huge star.

David Ramsey is the President and co-founder of the Phoenix Film Critics Society and a member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association (The Critics Choice Awards). Watch his reviews on the CBS 5 Morning News every Friday between 5:30 and 6:30am and on ABC-15’s “Sonoran Living Live” every other Friday. Read more of his DVD reviews at WildAboutMovies. com. Contact him at David@TheSnackBar.net. 28 ARIZONA PLAYER November 2013

ASTROLOGY, Bingo & Casino directory Scorpio Oct 24 to Nov 22

Aquarius Jan 21 to Feb 19

Taurus April 21 to May 21

Sagittarius Nov 23 to Dec 21

Pisces Feb 20 to Mar 20

Gemini May 22 to June 21

Virgo Aug 24 to Sept 23

Capricorn Dec 22 to Jan 20

Cancer June 22 to July 22

Nov 7–14 Nov 15–22 Nov 23–30 Dec 1–6 Nov 7–14 Nov 15–22 Nov 23–30 Dec 1–6 Nov 7–14 Nov 15–22 Nov 23–30 Dec 1–6

Lady Luck is smiling Double-Up, Then GO Great new friends Great time with old pal Play your favorites Strange fun weekend It’s like a reunion Fun time - finally Conservative play Big things coming! Family fun & Games Nice little win

Phoenix Metro Bingo Games

Casino Arizona 101 & McKellips Daily: 7pm (early birds: 6:30pm) Sat & Sun Matinee: 1pm (early birds: 6:30pm) Fri & Sat: Midnight - L8 Nite Games! Bingo, Music, Lights, Dancing & FUN Fort McDowell Casino Fountain Hills Area Mon,Wed,Thu,Fri: 9am,12:30pm, 6:30pm Tue: 12:30pm, 6:30pm Sat. Sun: 6:45& 9am,12:30 & 6:30pm, Fri & Sat: Midnight 3rd Sat of each month at Midnight "Lunar Bingo"

Nov 7–14 Nov 15–22 Nov 23–30 Dec 1–6 Nov 7–14 Nov 15–22 Nov 23–30 Dec 1–6

Nice profitable time Take friendly advice Terrific weekend New special friend

Aries Mar 21 to April 20

Nov 7–14 Nov 15–22 Nov 23–30 Dec 1–6

Play your numbers The big one is near WOW-What a week Nice trip and a jackpot

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino 15406 Maricopa Rd Wed-Sun: 11:30am, 2:30, 3:30 & 6:30pm Lone Butte Casino SanTan Loop202 & Kyrene Daily: Noon & 6:30pm "B.A.D. Bingo" (Bingo After Dark) Fri & Sat: 11:30pm Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino 51st Ave. 10mi. S of I-10 Daily: 12:30 & 6:30pm "Bingo Eclipse" 2nd & 4th Sat 11pm

CASINO DIRECTORY a

1. Apache Gold Hotel Resort Casino • (Globe) San Carlos Apache Tribe–slots bingo & blackjack & Entertainment (800) 272-2438 2. BlueWater Resort Casino • (Parker) Colorado River Indian Tribe–slots bingo blackjack poker & Entertainment (888) 243-3360 3. Bucky’s Casino • (Prescott) Yavapai–Prescott Indian Tribe–slots, poker & blackjack (800) 756-8744 3a. Yavapai Casino & Gaming Center • (Prescott) Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe–slots & Entertainment (800) 756-8744 30 ARIZONA PLAYER November 2013

Think positive! Plan that special trip Exciting adventure Stick to your principals

Nov 7–14 Nov 15–22 Nov 23–30 Dec 1–6 Nov 7–14 Nov 15–22 Nov 23–30 Dec 1–6 Nov 7–14 Nov 15–22 Nov 23–30 Dec 1–6

Surprise, even to you Cards flop favorably A week to remember Unexpected experience Good times ahead Kick back a little Goal is reachable Hard work pays off

Stick with your plan Ship is coming in! Fun family trip You’ve waited for this

Statewide Bingo Games

Apache Gold Casino • Globe 5mi E of Globe on Hwy 70 Wed, Thu, & Sun: Noon; Fri & Sat: 7pm Bingo Blowout! 1st Mon: 7pm BlueWater Casino • Parker 11300 Resort Dr Sun 1:30pm, Mon-Thu 6:30pm Special Sessions:Birthday Bingo Call for Details Casino Del Sol • Tucson 5655 W. Valencia Mini Sessions: 11:30am & 1:30pm Matinee: 2:15pm Eves: 7:15pm

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

Leo July 23 to Aug 23

Nov 7–14 Nov 15–22 Nov 23–30 Dec 1–6 Nov 7–14 Nov 15–22 Nov 23–30 Dec 1–6

Look back & smile Plan that big trip Week of real fun Good advice – take it

Change of fortune A needed trip is near Nice call from the past Crazy thing called luck

Libra Sept 24 to Oct 23

Nov 7–14 Nov 15–22 Nov 23–30 Dec 1–6

Risk pays off What a run of luck! Take the plunge Tide is changing

Cocopah Casino•Yuma 15136 South Ave B Somerton Daily: 1 & 6pm Desert Diamond • Tucson 7350 S Nogales Hwy Daily: 1:30 & 7:15pm Mazatzal Casino• Payson Hwy 87 at mile post 251 Mon-Thu: Noon Tue & Thu: 6:30pm 1st Thu & 3rd Tue: 6:30pm Double Payouts all night! Paradise Casino • Yuma 450 Quechan Dr. Daily: 1:30 & 6pm

13. Gila River Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino • (Laveen) Gila River Indian Community–slots bingo blackjack poker & Entertainment (800) 946-4452 14. Gila River Lone Butte Casino • (Chandler) Gila River Indian Community–slots bingo blackjack & Entertainment (800) 946-4452 15. Golden Ha’ San Casino • (Why) Tohono O’Odham Nation–Slots 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 blackjack poker & Entertainment (800) 929-8744 18. Mazatzal Hotel Casino • (Payson) Tonto Apache Tribe - slots bingo poker blackjack & Entertainment (800) 777-7529 19. Paradise Casino • (Yuma) Fort Yuma Quechan Tribe - slots bingo.& Live Entertainment (888) 777-4946 19a Quechan Casino Resort • (Winterhaven, CA) Fort Yuma Quechan Tribe - slots table games poker & Entertainment 20. Spirit Mountain Casino • (Bullhead City) Fort Mohave Indian Tribe–slots (888) 837-4030 21. Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort • (Flagstaff) Navajo Nation - Slots, Table Games, Poker, Keno & Entertainment