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Card Room Action Arizona Lottery News Casino Entertainment Boyd’s Eye View of Video Poker Blackjack Corner - Tournaments New State Poker Champ Crowned www.arizonaplayer.com
Vol. 19 No. 9 • September 2011
KEEPING REAL COVER STORY ON PAGE 8
COVER STORY ON PAGE 8
WWW.ARIZONAPLAYER.COM
PO Box 33393 • Phoenix Arizona 85067 • 602-373-8728 • azplayer@cox.net
Contributing Photography Contributing Writers Kevin Cummings Linda Boyd Nicole Gilotti Cindy Esquer Production Assistants Georgina Hernandez Georgina Hernandez Charlie Scheeler David Ramsey TJ Jorgensen John Olson Shanna Wolfe David Ramsey Shanna Wolfe Graphic Design CommuniGraphics Editor Phil Scudella
Special Thanks to the marketing department at Quechan Resort Casino and also to Georgina Hernandez and the terrific staff at TLG Gaming for all their help on this September issue
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 September 2011
Contents
Vol. 19 No. 9 •September 2011
Entertaianment
6
Cover Story Quechan Casino Resort “Keeping it real at the Q”
8
Gaming News Arizona State Poker Champ Crowned
10
Lottery News & Draws
12
Boyd’s Eye View Linda Boyd “Go Big or Go Home”
14
Card Room Action
16
Blackjack Corner TJ Jorgensen “Playing in Tournaments”
18
Horsin Around Brian Mulligan “Fun Zone
20
Gaming News Orange Sky Restaurant earns “Award of Excellence”
22
Bingo Directory of Games
24
Travel Hollywood Southwest
27
David at the Snack Rar David Ramsey “Movie Reviews”
28
Astrology, Jokes of the Month, & Casino Directory
30
ENTERTAINMENT Apache Gold Casino Resort
10/15 – Evanescence, 10/18 – Judas Priest, 10/21 – Snoop Dogg 5 miles East of Globe on Hwy 70 Paradiso Bar: FREE live entertainment, 1-800-272-2438 In the Pavilion: Nov 12 - Eli Young Band w/ 9/20 – Hollywood & Vine, 9/23 – Latido, 9/24 – Grupo Fuego, plus “Tribute” bands special guest opening act on Thursdays Cabaret Lounge: free live entertainment: 9/16 & 9/ 17 – Neil Russell, 9/23 & 9/24 – Bingo Hall: Cosmic Bingo Saturday nights The Grind, 9/30 & 10/1 – Jadi Norris, 10/7 featuring Bingo, deejay music, light show, wacky games and giveaways & 10/8 – Primonition, 10/14 & 10/15 – Chaka & Friends, 10/21 & 10/22 – Cliff Castle Casino Grey Wolf, 10/28 & 10/29 – Stateline I-17 at exit 289 in Camp Verde 1-800-381-SLOT BlueWater Resort and Casino Stargazer Pavilion: Sept 10 – Ziggy Marley, 11300 Resort Dr., Parker Sept 16 – Willie Nelson 1-888-243-3360 Dragonfly Lounge: Free weekend At the BlueWater Amphitheater: entertainment with Arizona’s top bands Sept 10, Larry Hernandez Sept 17, TOP RANK Inc. Pro Boxing – Desert Diamond Casino Hotel “Battle at BlueWater 2” – Televised by 7350 South Nogales Hwy, Tucson FOX Sports Toll Free 1-866-DDC-WINS Sept 23, LIT Monsoon Night Club: Live bands or deejay Dig Lounge: live bands, Deejay or Karaoke Thurs-Sun nightly Desert Diamond Casino Casino Arizona 1100 W. Pima Mine Rd., Tucson 101 at McKellips, Scottsdale 480-850-7734 520-294-7777 or1-866-DDC-WINS In the Showroom: Wed-Sun, “Showstoppers Diamond Center: 9/30 – Ron White, 10/8 – Live” A musical tribute to Elvis, Natalie Latin Legends in Concert, 10/29 – Chris Cole, The Four Tops and Whitney Houston Young Pima Lounge: Free entertainment nightly Fort McDowell Casino with bands like: Powerdrive, Smooth N of Shea off Hwy 87, Fountain Hills Groove, True to Life, Srt8up Band, and 1-800-THE-FORT JJ’s Band Outdoors - Under the Stars: The Arizona Room Piano Lounge, free Oct 21 at 7pm, Bad Boy Fight Night entertainment nightly Lucky 7 Saloon: Free live entertainment Casino Del Sol Fri – Sun featuring: Furious George, 5655 W. Valencia Rd., Tucson Cowboy Floyd and the Kenny G project 520-838-6506 Thursdays: “Karaoke with Attitude” Live AVA Amphitheatre: Sept 16 & 17 – Tejano band contest 7-10pm on Sept 15 & 29 with Music Showcase, 9/18 – Train, 9/20 – finals on Oct 6 – Grand prize $1,000 Santana, 10/14 – Godsmack, In the Bingo Hall: Saturday, Sept 17 Lunar Bingo – Music, dancing, crazy games and giveaways For updates – go to fortmcdowellcasino.com
Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort and Casino
Hon-Dah Resort and Casino
Highways 260 and 73, Pinetop 1-800-WAY-UP-HIGH In the Conference Center: Oct 7, Marmalade Skies (Beatles Tribute) Free live entertainment In the Timbers Lounge: Monday - Comedy Night Tuesday-Saturday: Arizona’s top bands, Sept 6-10 – Mike & T band, Sept 13-17 – Skid Rodeo
Lone Butte Casino
202 loop at the Kyrene exit – Chandler, 1-800-WIN-GILA Cascades Lounge: Free live entertainment nightly Mon-Thurs (4-7pm) Fri & Sat (9pm1am) with: Vinny DiJohn, Michael Corollo, Jadi Norris, Chuck E baby, Otis & the Beat, Rags Allen, New Frequency, Taddeus Rose, Jasmine, Smooth Groove and Apex band Thursday Nights: Season 6 of “Lucky Break” singing competition Verona Chophouse: Talia (Fri & Sat), Bridget & the Aug (Sun) Bingo Hall: 11:30pm Saturdays - B.A.D BINGO (Bingo After Dark) 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 Oct. 8, Creedence Relived (Tribute to CCR)
Paradise Casino
Vee Quiva Casino
The West Valley’s only Casino 51st Ave, 4 miles S. of Baseline – Laveen 1-800-WIN-GILA In the Bingo Hall: Every Friday at 11pm – Deejay music, light show & dancing Sept 10 & 24 at 11:30pm – BINGO ECLIPSE - Deejay music, light show, bingo & fun giveaways
Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino
I-10 at Wild Horse Pass exit - Chandler 1-800-WIN-GILA In the Ovations LIVE! Showroom: Sept 16, “49 Laughs” Comedy Show Sept 17, Micki Free (Native American guitar legend) Oct 7, Latin Legends – Malo, Tierra and El Chicano Nov 11, Melissa Etheridge Encore Lounge: Free entertainment (Thurs-Mon) with: Route 66, Hamptons, Eagleheart, Powerdrive, Vinny DiJohn and JJs Band
Yavapai Casino
928-778-7909 450 Quechan Drive, Yuma 1-888-777-4946 Hwy 69 at Heather Heights Rd, Prescott, AZ Sharky’s Bar: Free entertainment, Karaoke In the Cantina: free live entertainment on on Wed, DJs on Thurs, plus live bands Tuesdays in Sept, plus karaoke on Friday Friday & Saturday nights nights Quechan Casino Resort Sept 13 - Kenny James, Sept 20 - Brandon 525 Algodones Rd, Winterhaven CA Shepard, Sept 27 - Essence (5 mi West of Yuma) 1-877-783-2426 In the PIPA Event Center: Call for updated schedule Sidewinders bar: Free live entertainment on weekends
15406 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa 480-802-5000 Talking Stick Resort Loop 101 and Indian Bend Road Oasis Lounge: Free live entertainment Scottsdale 480-850-7777 every weekend Bingo Hall: Sept 16 at 11pm - Disco Bingo, Talking Stick Showroom: Thurs-Sat thru Oct 1, “Jersey Rocks” Tribute show: music deejay music, bingo, food and drink of Billy Joel, Frankie Valli, The Four specials and fun giveaways For schedule update go to harrahsakchin.com Seasons, Bon Jovi and others from the
6 ARIZONA PLAYER September 2011
Garden State - singers and dancers from Vegas and TV Sept 16, Psychedelic Furs w/ the Tom Tom Club “Degree 270” Lounge: live entertainment, dancing nightly and a spectacular view of the city.
cover story
KEEPING REAL
Quechan Casino Resort recently made a very smart move when it comes to its poker business. They ripped out the entire 8-table Poker Room (no bluffing) and relocated it, planting it squarely in the middle of their massive gaming floor. The added exposure on the floor resulted in two things: a steady uptick in business, and a lot of satisfied players. The new room is set apart from the remainder of the casino floor by a subtle glass wall enclosure. This makes it a kind of attraction for curious onlookers and gives players a sense of exclusivity. Which brings us to why the room is such a draw Poker at the Q is all about the players. “Our players embrace the game, they love to play real poker. So we try our best to keep the game real for them,” said Patty Taylor, Senior Poker Room Supervisor at the Q. “They like our 8 ARIZONA PLAYER September 2011
friendly dealers, the loose action and the fact drawing players from throughout the region on a that we’re always open to suggestions and mixing consistent basis. things up. It’s what playing poker is all about,” she Poker Room regulars also get perks in the form adds. of Player Comps that can be used towards dining, Moving the Poker Room is only half of the Q’s entertainment and other offerings at the casino. winning formula – they’re also committed to They’re also offered special room rates and No keeping things interesting with a steady stream Limit players can even earn $.90 for every hour of monthly promotions and tournaments that played - which can quickly add up. “Think of it as are both challenging and which offer significant a gift from the casino,” said Taylor. continued on page 25 jackpots, like their $10,000 Hold ‘Em Tournament held every last Saturday of the month. The poker room also offers a weekly $1000 tournament and their rolling jackpot (which was worth $56,000 at press time) keeps the poker aficionados rolling in. This Poker dealers (L-R) Juan Cruz, Claude O’Neal, Tamala Turpin, Javier Barragan and Daniel Sanson strategy has been successful in
gaming news NEW STATE POKER CHAMPION CROWNED After five days of intense play, Talking Stick Resort crowned a winner in the 7th annual Arizona State Poker Championship. Dressed in a lucky boxing robe, the new champion, “Packy” Paulson of Apache Junction, used a pair of threes to beat his competitors and walk away with more than $200,000, a championship bracelet and trophy. Though exhausted, Paulson was thrilled to win, “I think I could live three lifetimes, and never accomplish what I did last night. I’ve played in the state championship twice before, but didn’t know what I was doing. It’s a simple game, but there’s so much information to learn. Play in the No-Limit Texas Hold-Em tournament began on August 12, drawing more than 900 players, and continued on until Paulson won on August 16. Out of the participating players, the top 100 walked away with a minimum of $2,150. Paulson won $202,703, while the second place winner Jason Cronan took home $136,890. In fact, this year’s tournament marks only second time in its seven year history that the total prize pool has hit $1 million. Of Cronan, Paulson said, “Jason was tough. That guy was tough. I have to compliment him. Obviously he was a good poker player. Bad ones don’t get to the last poke table. I was so scared after 4 hours of playing this guy, then all of the sudden he had a lot of my chips, and $136,000 didn’t sound too bad.”
10 ARIZONA PLAYER September 2011
Paulson, who was a professional prize fighter from 1972 -1990 and a four time Golden Gloves champion, wore his boxing robe during his play at the last table. “The boxing robe was from my last professional prizefight in 1990. It’s been hanging on my wall with all my mementos of my boxing past, and I told myself if there’s a chance to get close I’m going to have my wife bring my robe. It had to do with mental strategy. I wanted to show him I’m going to win this thing. I was mentally working on him.” He also sees many similarities between poker and the boxing ring. According to him, “You feel the same result, like someone can push you around. You’re actually being beat up in a mental way as opposed a physical way. Poker is a sport. You can use your acting ability to win. The way you move a finger can send a message.” Prior to winning the Arizona State Poker Championship the largest amount Paulson has won was $5,000. He typically play three times a week, but only at Talking Stick Resort, “That casino, the dealers are like family. These are smart, educated people. I can’t wait to get down New 2011 State Poker Champ “Packy” Paulson, flanked by Tournament coordinator David Smith there. It’s not about gaming, it’s (L) and Poker room Director Kent Odekirk about the camaraderie.”
lottery news THE PICK Date
Record breaking year for the Lottery! The Arizona Lottery closed out fiscal year 2011 with a record-breaking $583.5 million in sales, the highest amount in the Arizona Lottery’s 30-year history and a 5.8% increase over the previous fiscal year. As a result of 2011’s record lottery sales, the state of Arizona received more than $146 million in net profits, which is the largest amount transferred in Arizona Lottery’s history. These dollars were allocated to fund a wide variety of public projects and programs that included: healthcare, programs for the homeless, economic development and education. Fiscal year 2011 marked the first year that every designated beneficiary received full funding up to the caps established by the Arizona Legislature, with an excess of funds also going to the state’s general fund to help balance the budget. “We are proud to report these record-breaking sales figures, particularly as we enter our 30th anniversary year,” said Jeff Hatch-Miller, executive director of the Arizona Lottery. “Transferring more than $146 million in revenue to the state in the midst of a severe recession bodes well for our future performance and is a testament to our commitment to generate revenues that directly impact and improve the quality of life for Arizona residents.” “Through the support of the Arizona Lottery funds, thousands of families who are struggling to raise children have a trusted home visitor who helps them achieve their goals, keep their young children safe and healthy, and strengthen their family life,” said Rebecca Ruffner, executive director, Prevent Child Abuse Arizona and chair of the Healthy Families Arizona Steering Committee. Healthy Families Arizona is a nationally accredited child abuse prevention program that is both highly successful and cost effective.
In addition to the Arizona Lottery’s sizable contribution to the state in fiscal year 2011, Lottery retailers large and small earned more than $39 million in commissions, which many of them rely upon to support their businesses. “Arizona Lottery tickets are Circle K customers’ favorites,” said Leona Burke, business manager, Circle K. “The Lottery brings many customers through our doors, which in turn, brings in great business for us. More than ever, we appreciate the support we get from our Lottery customers.” Director Hatch-Miller credits much of this year’s financial success to the more than 10% increase in Scratchers ticket sales, the sold-out Millionaire Raffle, and changes to many of the games that now offer bigger prizes, higher payouts and more winners. “We’ve begun working aggressively toward meeting fiscal year 2012 goals and making our 30th anniversary year one to remember,” said Hatch-Miller. “Our focus is on introducing new, innovative products, building partnerships, and using technology that attracts players and delivers sound results for Arizona Lottery beneficiaries throughout the state.” In honor of its 30th anniversary, the Arizona Lottery has developed three commemorative second-chance Scratchers tickets scheduled to launch at various times throughout the year. To learn more, please visit ArizonaLottery.com. The Arizona Lottery operates entirely from the revenue it generates through the sale of its products; it receives no General Fund dollars from the State. Proceeds from sales of Lottery tickets - nearly $3 million per week - fund a variety of state programs. Since July 1981, the Arizona Lottery has paid out more than $4.6 billion in prizes to players, nearly $2.7 billion in net profit to the state and more than $550 million in commissions to retailers.
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
• • • • 12 ARIZONA PLAYER September 2011
Wedding Reunion Theme Party Corporate Function
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602.373.8728
Numbers
August
02-04-16-31-35-43 11-22-23-27-42-44 01-14-15-18-37-40 02-17-24-29-31-36 03-05-10-19-26-33 14-20-33-38-42-44 06-07-09-16-31-43 03-09-10-11-14-16 13-16-29-30-37-44
03 06 10 13 17 20 24 27 31
August
01 02 03 04 05 06 08 09 10 11 12 13 15 16 17 18 19 20 22 23 24 25 26 27 29 30 31
August
02 05 09 12 16 19 23 26 30
POWERBALL Numbers
13-19-21-28-49 25-30-54-57-59 11-18-36-41-46 09-12-35-50-58 18-28-31-48-52 02-17-23-28-47 09-13-47-49-53 02-12-25-54-58 13-19-35-47-57
PICK 3 CASH 4 7-8-9 0-2-6 9-7-8 9-9-4 2-9-2 5-4-7 7-9-9 8-8-7 5-7-5 5-1-5 2-5-9 7-3-0 8-9-8 7-6-6 4-3-2 1-8-3 1-5-3 4-3-5 4-8-0 4-4-1 3-2-3 8-3-4 5-3-2 6-7-4 8-6-3 5-6-3 5-1-2
05-09-11-21 05-08-22-26 01-04-21-26 03-05-15-17 14-18-20-21 06-15-20-24 03-15-25-26 03-15-17-25 04-22-25-26 03-06-13-21 05-14-15-21 04-12-18-22 04-08-15-22 15-16-20-22 03-04-16-20 02-05-19-24 04-06-10-18 01-09-18-24 16-17-22-23 08-12-15-17 01-16-19-25 02-12-13-20 03-09-12-23 11-19-20-24 08-19-22-26 01-17-18-22 01-04-11-17
PB PP
11 06 07 04 06 05 08 14 29
02 03 04 02 04 02 05 03 05
PICK 5 08-12-16-18-24 02-04-08-13-38 11-16-25-34-38 10-13-23-31-33 03-11-16-21-33 01-05-15-26-38 09-10-11-18-39 08-11-12-16-36 01-14-16-21-30 10-13-16-23-34 05-11-17-24-28 15-16-22-24-32 07-08-13-16-36 01-06-38-39-40 04-18-35-36-39 05-10-20-34-38 07-20-29-32-38 01-08-15-30-36 06-10-27-38-40 07-13-19-25-27 05-18-19-21-28 19-24-29-39-40 12-19-22-23-29 04-09-14-16-41 19-22-24-35-39 06-20-21-25-29 13-17-18-24-39
MEGA MILLIONS
MB
MP
14-17-19-20-32 06-24-28-33-42 11-19-39-45-54 09-43-51-54-55 04-38-41-42-43 05-15-53-54-56 11-21-44-48-49 02-03-27-30-47 02-22-25-28-50
28 19 15 13 44 22 23 36 18
4 3 4 4 4 2 3 3 4
In Phoenix catch the winning numbers first on ABC Channel 15 at 10:25 nightly. You can also call the Lottery Hotline at (480) 829-PICK (7425) in Phoenix or (520) 325-9141 in Tucson. For outlying areas in Arizona call 1-800-499-3798. Visit our website at arizonalottery.com or see a participating Lottery retailer for the winning numbers.
A BOYD’S EYE VIEW OF VIDEO POKER
Go Big
love Steven Tyler - so I had to rush out to get his book “Does the Noise in my Head Bother You?” the day it came out. Of course the first thing I did was flip to the pictures. In one Tyler’s tilting a jumbo red concoction accompanied by the caption “My last drink, 2009. Go big or go home.” I had to laugh at the expression--it’s perfect for the gambling industry in many ways. View from the House: Several years ago when the Tropicana in Laughlin was the Ramada Express - a host left me off their Christmas list. Turns out I was betting several times as much as those receiving the gaily wrapped packages; I had significantly more coin-in (this pre-dated ADT or average daily theo) and played higher denominations. So what was the problem? My host said Ramada based bonuses on the increase in patron’s play. In other words she was saying “go big or go home”. I chose the later and apparently so did others since they went out of business. Nowadays casino brass still wants more money from each player, even given the tough economic environment. Sometimes this attitude transfers to their staff and they foolishly fawn over perceived high rollers and may even be rude to those playing “penny” slots. Lots of this comes from poor training by manby Linda Boyd
14 ARIZONA PLAYER September 2011
or
Go Home
agement. For example, being a slave to ADT is a huge mistake, especially in local casinos. The weekly and monthly “theo” (theoretical loss based on the game’s expected return) is far more important to a casinos bottom line. If a person comes once a month, for example, and has a “theo” of $400 is that a better profit margin than an aggregate “theo” of $1000? In Vegas, management teams have learned to be more sophisticated about comps and other perks based on multiple factors. If the house’s objective is to empty your pockets as quickly as possible they’ll be the losers in the long run. Arizona Players: Most players hope to come out ahead but would settle for a few hours out of the heat and a cool drink. For this they’re willing to spend money in their local casino instead of a restaurant or theater. If they’re out of money in say 20 minutes, instead of 2 hours, then they’re likely to stay home or find a better entertainment value. The “go big or go home” attitude - a bad one to be sure, seeped into the casino environment as one possible response to the recession. Players immediately noticed and complained about lower returns on slots and increased denominations (instead of a penny, they became two cent devices) then downgraded video poker and table games and reductions in perks. Simply look at the number to see if the profit was more or less when volume was high.
Management teams should spend more time training staff to avoid chasing customers away with foolish behavior. If a patron has just lost several hundred dollars, then the last thing they want is a chirpy host fawning over them or another player. Going to a machine and offering a comp is a good thing but quite different from extended gushing while others are trying to play. In fact, several players said they were going elsewhere since their play wasn’t appreciated. Summary: Lots of businesses are trying to stay afloat during these hard times. That’s why you’ll see and increase in happy hours offering half-price food and drinks. The casino business has to be realistic about what works instead of just mindlessly following the unproven advice of their consultants. If giving people less for their money while trying to encourage them to increase their gambling bankroll hasn’t been successful - then they should try something else. Tyler has real deep pockets these days with his major American Idol success; he has no worries about having t go home due to no remaining bankroll. Most casino players, however, realize there are actually three, not two, choices; go big, go home or just don’t go. Linda Boyd - a 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 her free strategy cards for the most popular games. Look for her story in the 2011and 2012 Editions of “American Casino Guide”. The 2010 Second Edition of her book is available in both paperback and kindle – also available at amazon.com, bookstores or Square One Publishers. www.squareonepublishers.com Toll Free: 877-900-BOOK
Apache Gold Casino 800-272-2438 Dealing blackjack, daily at 3pm
BlueWater Casino 1-888-243-3360
Poker Room is open daily at 4 pm Tues, 7pm, No-Limit Texas Hold Em - $30 buy-in and one $20 re-buy Thurs, 7pm, No-Limit Texas Hold Em - $60 buy-in, no re-buys Wed night 4pm-close (first 3 each night) – Quads pay $50, Royal Flush $75 and Aces Cracked $25 - same color Aces $50 Dealing blackjack daily starting at 9am
Bucky’s Casino 928-771-6779
Sun, 2 pm, Bounty No-Limit Hold Em Tournament - $60 buy w/ $15 Bounties Mon, Thurs & Sat at 10am, and Mon, Wed & Thurs at 6pm - NLHE $40 entry fee w/ optional $10 re-buy, top 5 in the money and earn points toward $250 Player of the Month award Tues, 6pm, Ladies Only Texas Hold Em Shootouts - $15 buy-in “Aces Cracked” ($50) and “Kings Conquered” ($25) Mon-Thurs 10am-10pm & Fri 10am-4pm, details in poker room Progressive “Aces Cracked” Sat 11am-11pm - Starts at $ 50, increases till hit FREE Sunday buffet for seated poker players Dealing blackjack 24/7 - Now playing 3 card poker & Triple Attack Blackjack
Casino Arizona 101 & McKellips 480-850-7777 Dealing blackjack 24/7 $ 5,000 “Wild Wednesdays” Blackjack Tournament every other Wed, 7pm - $100 buy-in
Casino Del Sol 520-838-6565
$20,000 Free Roll – November 17 & 18 w/ finals Sat Nov 19 - Qualify w/40 hours “Live Play” Sept 13 – Nov 15 (First 160 players) Mon-Fri, 10 am, $800 guaranteed No-Limit Hold Em, $15 buy-in w/ optional $15 add-on Mon 7pm & Sat noon – $1,200 Guaranteed, NLHE - $35 buy-in, $6 entry fee Sun & Tues at 7 pm – $15 buy-in – Optional $15 add-on, $ 1,000 guaranteed Wed, 7pm, NLHE, $1,200 Prize Pool (w/40 players) $35 buyin, $5 re-buys $10 add-on Thurs, 7pm, $3,000 Guaranteed NLHE, $85 buy-in Sat, 9am, $200 added Omaha Hi-Lo, $15 buy-in w/$5 re-buys $ 5 add-on Sun, 11 am $1,500 NLHE, $20 buy-in, $5 re-buys
Cliff Castle Casino Hotel 928-567-7952
Mon, Wed, Fri & Sun, 10am, No-Limit Texas Hold Em Shoot-outs, $25 buy-in Tues & Thurs, 10am, Limit Hold Em Shoot-outs, $25 buy-in Wed, 7pm – NLHE $60 buy-in w/$20 re-buy Sat, Noon, $2,000 added – NLHE $120 buy-in, no re-buys 1st place “Shootout” winners qualify for Free Roll Shootout the last Sunday of each month Aces Cracked wins a $100 rack – Sun-Fri - See poker Room for details Also dealing blackjack 24/7
Cocopah Casino 800-237-5687
Dealing blackjack, Fri & Sat, 10am-3am; Sun-Thurs, 10am-2am
Desert Diamond Nogales Hwy 520-342-1810
Mon & Thurs at 9:30 am “Cup of Coffee” NLHE ($35 buyin) Max 40 players Tues, 7pm, $100 added per table NLHE, $75 buy-in, with one $60 re-buy Also dealing blackjack 24/7
Desert Diamond Casino I-19 866-332-9467 Dealing blackjack 24/7
Fort McDowell Casino 480-789-4284
MEGA Stack Bounty Tournament, Sun at Noon & Fri 7pm, $120 buy-in, $50 Bounties Mon-Fri, Noon, “Bounty” Tournaments $30 buy-in, $5 bounties Sun at 7pm & Sat 4pm $1,000 Guaranteed NLHE - $10 16 ARIZONA PLAYER September 2011
buy-in Sat at Noon and Tues, Wed & Thurs at 7pm, $1,000 Guaranteed NLHE - $5 buy-in Sat 9pm, $3,000 Guaranteed NLHE tournament, $20 buyin, $10 re-buys Mon 7pm, NLHE $50 entry fee & $20 optional add-on “Aces Cracked” win a rack – 24/7 See poker room for details “Spin the Wheel” with Quads or better - win up to $400 cash “Easy way Jackpot” Aces full of anything beaten by Quads or better wins Jackpot Also dealing blackjack 24/7
Lone Butte Casino 800-946-4452
Dealing blackjack 24/7 – with $5 games
Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino 480-802-5138
Pro Football “Splash Pots” last game on Sun & Mon nights - $50 TD & &25 FG Tues, 7:30pm, Limit Omaha H/L, $25 buy-in, $10 re-buys + $10 add-on Thurs, 7:30pm – NLHE, $10 Buy-in plus two $10 re-buys & $10 add-on Fri, 7:30pm, Sat, 12:30 & 5:30pm - NLHE, $40 buy-in, no re-buys Sat, 12:30 & 5:30pm – NLHE, $40 buy-in, no re-buys Sun, 12:30pm – NLHE, $25 buy-in, one $10 re-buy $ 25 Daily Splash pots on ALL tables every ½ hour from 9am-10pm $ 25 early morning Sat & Sun Splash pots on ALL tables every ½ hour from 6am-8:30am Progressive High Hand, daily 5pm-5am, thru September, Plus 2nd chance “Spin” Daily, Omaha & Pineapple Royal Flush pays $100 and straight flush $50 Also dealing blackjack 24/7
Hon-Dah Casino 1-800-929-8744
Mon, 6pm, 50/50, Hold Em & Omaha Hi-Lo, $25 buy-in + one $25 add-on Tues, 2pm – Mid, “Aces Cracked” pays $80 (first 5) Wed, 6pm, No-limit Hold Em, $40 buy-in, no re-buys Thurs, 6pm, Omaha Hi-Lo, $40 buy-in, no re-buys Sat, 4pm, No-limit Hold Em, $30 buy-in, $10 re-buys + $10 add-on Sun, 4pm, Crazy Pineapple $30 buy-in, $10 re-buys + $10 add-on
Mazatzal Hotel & Casino 800-777-7529
Live Poker Wed-Sun - see poker room for details Sun, 1pm, NLHE Tournament, $25 buy-in, no re-buys - $50 added per table Wed & Sun, 6pm, NLHE Bounty Tournament, $50 buy-in High Hands - win up to $500 Dealing blackjack 10am-1am Blackjack tournament, Mon at 6pm, $40 buy-in
Paradise Casino 888-777-4946 Dealing Blackjack 5pm-1am
Quechan Casino & Resort 1-877-QUECHAN
$10,000 “Beat the Boss” Free Roll Tournament on Thursday Oct 6 at 7pm - $25 entry fee – see poker room for details “Beat the Boss” weekly $1,000 free roll tournaments – thru Sept 29, every Thursday at 7:30 pm – drawings every Saturday Mondays 10am-10pm“Aces Cracked” wins $50 Wednesdays, 10am-10pm “Faces Cracked” wins $30 “Splash Pots” 10am-10pm, ALL Live tables get splashed, Mondays $25, Tuesdays $25 & Thursdays $50 Special $59 room rates for poker players. Summer hours: Wed – Sun open at 10am, Mon & Tues at 5pm Dealing blackjack 24/7
Talking Stick Resort 480-850-7777
6th Annual AZ State Ladies No-Limit Texas Hold Em Championship – September 10-12, $100,000 prize pool! $200 buy-in + 25 s/c Sept 17, Oct 8 & Nov 12 at 9am – Super Bounty Big Stack Tournament w/ $100 Bounties - $200 buy-in w/ $25 s/c
CARD ROOM ACTION
Oct 15, 10am - Super Turbo/Super Bounty/Super Big Stack Tournament w/ $100 Bounties - $200 buy-in w/ $25 s/c Sept 24, Oct 29 & Nov 26 at 10am – $20,000 Last Saturday No-Limit Hold Em Tournament -$125 buy-in + $25 s/c Oct 9 & Nov 13, 10am – Ladies No-Limit Hold Em - $60 Buy-in + $15 s/c Oct 30, Nov 6 & Dec 3 - 9am – Jack & Jill Couples Tournament - $50 Buy-in + $15 s/c Mon - Fri, 11am - No-Limit Hold Em, $60 buy-in Tues & Wed, 7pm - No-Limit Hold Em, $115 buy-in + $15 s/c Daily, 2am-10am “Aces Cracked” Win $100 rack Jackpot Extravaganza! – 15 Progressive Jackpots daily, Win up to $10,000 Also dealing blackjack 24/7 $ 5,000 “Wild Wednesdays” Blackjack Tournament every other Wed, 7pm - $100 buy-in
Vee Quiva Casino 800-946-4452 – Ext 1042
Sun - Thurs, 11am, No-Limit Hold Em, $1,000 Guaranteed - $30 buy-in Wed at 7:30pm, No-Limit Hold Em Tournaments, $15 buyin, $10 re-buys & $20 add-on “ACES CRACKED” wins a rack – daily from 6am - max 10 per day Big Money Royals, Any Royal Flush wins $500 Progressive Rolling Cash Fever drawings during live play every other hour - 24/7 D-Backs (& selected Baseball games) Splash Pots – $50 splashed on 4 tables when D-Backs score Mon- Fri, 2am-6am -“High Hand” Promotion, Top 3 hands win $100, $75 & $50 Thursdays 4pm-8pm – “Match your stack” drawings every hour – 1 lucky seat at 3 tables wins up to $100 College & Pro football “Splash pots” Thurs-Mon, $300 TD, $200 safety & $100 FG – see poker room for schedule Also dealing blackjack 24/7 – with $5 games
Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino 800-946-4452 ext 7375
JUST ADDED, Oct 29th - $25,000 “Free Roll” tournament – First 200 players with 120+ documented hours (thru Oct 25th) qualify Mon & Thurs Noon, No Limit Hold Em, $30 buy-in, no rebuys - $150 added per table Tues & Wed at 7:30pm, NLHE Freeze Out - $50 entry fee w/ $10 optional add-on, with $1,000 added to prize pool “Big Hand – Big Money” High Hands Daily, Bonus Aces Cracked, “Splash Down” Splash Pots plus posted MLB Games $50 Splash Pots ALL Tables - Tues, Wed, Fri & Sat 10am2pm - Plus Sun – Thurs, 10pm – 1am “Hot Seat” Drawing - Win up to $200 “Aces” & “Faces” cracked, Mon-Fri, 1-4am win up to $200 $50 NCAA & $100 PRO Football “Splash pots” Thurs Mon posted games – at coin flip, ½ time and final – ALL tables splashed Big Money Royals - Any Royal Flush wins $200 Also dealing blackjack 24/7 – with $5 games and “Triple Attack Blackjack” PREFERRED LAUGHLIN POKER ROOM
Harrah’s Resort Casino 702-298-8529
Sat, Sun, Mon & Tues at 10am - No Limit Hold Em, $40 buy-in Wed & Thurs, 10am, NLHE “Bounty” Tournament, $50 buy-in Fri, 10am, Wed & Thurs 7pm, NLHE, $60 buy-in Sun, Mon & Tues, 7pm, NLHE, $40 buy-in Fri at 7pm, NLHE, $100 buy-in w/ $50 add-on Sat at 2pm, Monster Stack Texas Hold Em, $160 buy in, no re buys Sat at 7pm, NLHE, $60 buy-in Sun at 2pm, “Bounty” NLHE, $70 buy-in
CARD ROOM MANAGERS Please send updates to azplayer@cox.net
TJ’s Blackjack corner
by TJ Jorgensen
Blackjack Tournaments A Great Bet!
f you have ever played in a blackjack tournament – You understand that for a small amount of money for the entry fee, you have an opportunity to make some serious cash, if you make the final table of 5. And making that final it is even sweeter if the casino adds money to the prize pool - let’s say they add $500 making this a positive expectation event, and easily one of the best bets in any casino. It doesn’t really matter what skill level you are at as a blackjack player - because based on just sheer luck, if you enter these tournaments once a week or once a month, in the long run you will come out ahead – Let me explain.
Here’s the math
Let’s say the tournament has an entry fee of $40 and is limited to the first 125 players to sign up. That would consist of 25 qualifying tables with five players seated at each table. In order to advance to the semi final round, you have to finish first at your table with the most chips at the end of…let’s say, twenty-one hands in the qualifying round. In the Semi final round, there would be 25 players remaining (5 tables of 5 players each), and at the end of another twenty- one hands - the player
18 ARIZONA PLAYER September 2011
with the most chips at each of those five tables will advance to the championship or “money round”. Your chance of making the money round based on luck alone, without any skill is 1 in 25. In other words you will get in the money on average once in every 25 tries. The prize money is made up of 125 entry fees of $40 or $5,000, plus the $500 the casino might add to the pot for a total of $5,500. The money round will have an average payout of $1,100 per player since there are five players who will make it to the championship round. If you enter 25 tournaments at $40 per tournament, it will cost you $1,000. The odds are - you will make it to the money round 1 time out of 25 tries by luck alone with an expected average payout of $1,100 - So, in theory you will make $100 for every 25 tournaments played, creating a positive expectation for the player – That’s a terrific bet in any casino.
of the other players have. At the end of 21 hands, the top player at each table advances to the semi finals. In the semi-finals (25 players remaining - 5 tables of 5) – The winner from each of those tables moves on to the Final Table. The “Final Five” can either “Chop” the prize money or play it off for 1st thru 5th place money.
Tournament Strategy There is no one way to win a tournament. Sometimes the players who bet big get a large lead and no one can catch them. Other times you can win a round by losing the least. The point is - most of the time luck determines who advances to the next round. Blackjack Tournaments are a lot of fun to play, even if you don’t make it to the final table – and the small entry fee it is cheap entertainment for several hours of fun. I always make a lot of new friends every time I play tournaments and always have a good time.
Basic rules for blackjack tournaments; Let’s say players start with $1,000 in tournament chips and can bet from $10 to $1,000 on any hand. If a player runs out of chips they are eliminated. Each player takes a turn betting first and players must bet in order. There is a chip count before the final hand, so everyone knows how many chips all
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. He has also 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
HORSIN’ AROUND
THE FUN ZONE
T
he Fairplex Park meet at Pomona just got underway, and will run through Monday, Sept. by 26, but before we get Brian into the nuts and bolts Mulligan of that stand, a word has to go out to the recent winner of the Pacific Classic -- Acclamation. Patrick Valenzuela continues to re-invent himself, and he did it in a huge way in the Classic, with a masterful ride aboard Acclamation when just saving enough gas in the tank to prevail. We have seen this movie before. The maligned rider has been suspended more often than some people change their socks. He out-distanced former Los Angeles Dodger Steve Howe by the length of the stretch, and he was just reinstated 13 months ago, after he was given a lifetime ban to race by the California Horse Racing Board. Many in the game will sit down and tell you that he had the ability to be one of the best ever. And that is beyond The Shoe, Willie Shoemaker, and the Pirate, Laffit Pincay Jr., and some of the other greats. Hopefully someday he’ll get his due, when he eventually hangs up the boots. As far as Acclamation is concerned, trainer Don Warren has his hands on a monster. The runner is already accomplished on grass, but now the options abound, as he could very well have sights set on the Breeders’ Cup Classic. The classy conditioner had this to say about choosing P Val for this mount: “We were looking for a speed-type rider, and he’s always been one of the best in the world at putting a horse on the lead, so it was kind of a natural fit. “That’s what I look for when I’m trying to choose a jockey is will he fit the horse well. You want Eddie Delahoussaye on a big stretch runner, and you want a P Val on a frontrunner. It’s that simple.”
BACK TO FAIRPLEX Pomona has a storied history. In 1933, pari-mutuel wagering was legalized in California. Sept. 15 that year, the Pomona track was the first to present pari-mutuel wagering on thoroughbred horse racing in Southern California. With a 5-furlong oval, races run at Fairplex can be confusing for the rider and the fan. Many a rider has misjudged the finish line over the years, and mistakes were made by some very good journeymen. This is a meeting that can be profitable for the player, if he or she is patient, keeps nose to the ground and tries to not get caught up in taking short prices. Years ago, this meeting was a shot for the little guy to come in and get paid, but as simulcasting came into view and money came rolling in, the bigger barns could not resist the temptation to run here and steal some purses. It is a great track to bring a beginner to for the first time, because it can be so intimate. You can really get a feel for the game, if you venture out to the infield, get to the rail, listen and watch the horses roll by and hear the jockeys screaming and the dirt clods flying. If you can’t become a fan after an experience like that, maybe NASCAR is your thing. Fairplex has always been a haven for horses for courses. If a racer gets a feel of the oval, and even if the performance is less than stellar, it could be much better than a runner who never tried these tight turns. The natural inclination is to just jump on the speed and roll, but you can come from stalking positions at Pomona. It takes a specific kind of athletic horse to maneuver on the tight course, and players should look for long shots to come from places like Boise, Arizona or Oregon, where runners are used to bullring ovals. Horsemen shipping from Del Mar will try to drop many of their horses at this meet. If they can get a horse to graduate, or maybe qualify for a starter event later in
this meet, a purse could be stolen. Droppers will be hammered at the windows, but make sure you examine the pace of the race - be careful before backing cold-stone closers against cheap speed. You can get value if you find a cheap runner with a capable rider that has proven ability on the track. As for the human element, the song will remain the same for guys like Doug O’Neill, who led the league last year and could be loaded for bear this season, as his Del Mar stand was just ordinary. Other guys to watch include Jorge Gutierrez, who had 33 starters last year, caught 10 winners and 9 others were in the money. Pete Miller was 5-for-11. Adam Kitchingman was 4-for-7. Kathy Walsh won with 3 of her 4 starters and the other ran third. As for the riders, Elvis may have left the building, but he has been replaced at Pomona by the King, Martin Pedroza. He crushed the competition last year, winning with 36% of his 126 mounts, capturing the title by 30 winners. David Flores rides the bullring almost as good as anybody. Alonso Quinonez was second in the standings last year, and should offer good value daily. Last but not least, play chalk cautiously here. There are a lot of ways to get pushed wide, get hung out to dry or flat out get beat at this place. If you do like chalk, key that runner in the gimmicks rather than swallowing 4-5 and make lemonade from a sour lemon. Class is not the end-all at the bottom levels. Condition and current form can hold a decided edge. And, therefore, there will be value. And remember it takes a certain kind of horse to win at Pomona. A runner has to be agile enough to handle the tight turns, and he has to have tactical speed most of the time to compete. A race over the abbreviated strip will be a major advantage. Look for some outfits to come from the outposts of the racing community, but run huge after getting a taste of the tricky surface. Good luck.
gaming news ORANGE SKY GARNERS “AWARD OF EXCELLENCE” Orange Sky, the signature restaurant at luxurious Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale has received an “Award of Excellence” from Wine Spectator magazine’s 2011 Restaurant Awards program. The award was announced in the magazine’s August 31 edition and touts the fine dining restaurant’s wine list for “offering a well-chosen selection of quality producers, along with a thematic match to the menu in both price and style.” Highly regarded among wine connoisseurs worldwide, the publication’s Award of Excellence honors restaurants whose wine lists have at least 100 selections, are well-presented and complement the restaurant’s cuisine. In 2011, 3,734 restaurants, located in all 50 states and in 67 other countries, received one of Wine Spectator’s Restaurant Wine List Awards. “Not to sound clichéd, but I raise a glass to toast the dedicated management and staff of our Orange Sky Restaurant for receiving this award from Wine Spectator,” said Steve Gerken, Senior Director of Hospitality for Talking Stick Resort. “The award is particularly gratifying because our restaurant and resort have only been open since the spring of 2010. To receive such a prestigious award after being open for less than two years is a real tribute to our staff. To achieve such a high level of recognition in such a short time acknowledges their dedication and the quality of food, beverages and service we offer our guests.”
22 ARIZONA PLAYER September 2011
To qualify for an award from the magazine, a wine list must present complete, accurate information, including vintages and appellations for all selections, informs Gerken. In addition, complete producer names and correct spellings are mandatory and the overall presentation of the wine list is considered. Wine lists are evaluated for one of three awards presented by Wine Spectator: Award of Excellence, Best of Award of Excellence and Grand Award. This marks the 30th anniversary of the publication’s restaurant awards. The restaurant’s wine list features a 245 bottle selection with 30 wines by the glass. A dramatic, glass wine room displays more than 100 of its white wine selections in a temperature controlled environment of 47 degrees, while red wines are stored at 62 degrees in hand-crafted, cedar wood wine racks that surround the Sommelier table. All of Orange Sky’s wines are served in lead crystal glassware, appropriate to the varietal. The 200-seat Orange Sky Restaurant, on the 15th floor of Talking Stick Resort, features fresh seafood, aged steaks and just-harvested vegetables. With its 360-degree views of the valley’s signature orange sunsets (and inspiration for its name), the restaurant has a versatile menu that allows guests to eat light, mix and match and share plates, all depending of their appetites.
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Fountain Hills Area SanTan Loop202 & Kyrene Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri: 9am, 12:30pm, Noon & 6:30pm Daily 6:30pm Tue: 12:30pm, 6:30pm "B.A.D. Bingo" (BingoAfterDark) Sat. Sun: 6:45 & 9am, 12:30 & Saturdays @ 11:30pm 6:30pm, Fri & Sat @ Midnight Vee Quiva Casino "Lunar Bingo" every 3rd 51st Ave. 10mi. S of I-10 Saturday @ Midnight Daily: 12:30 & 6:30pm Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino "Bingo Eclipse" every 2nd & 4th 15406 Maricopa Rd Saturday @ 11pm Daily 11:00am, 2:30 & 6:30pm
Phoenix West Elks 5525 W. Colter Tues 7pm, Sun 1pm
Postal Worker’s Social Club 3720 W. Greenway Rd. Tues & Sun 6:30pm
24 ARIZONA PLAYER September 2011
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Statewide Games
Apache Gold Casino • Globe Casino Del Sol• Tucson
5mi E of Globe on Hwy 70 Wed, Thur, & Sun @ noon; Fri & Sat 7pm
Bingo Blowout! Mondays, Aug 1, Sept 5, Oct 3, Nov 7, & Dec 5 BlueWater Casino • Parker 11300 Resort Dr Daily 6:30pm
5655 W. Valencia Mini Sessions 11:30am & 1:30pm Matinee 2:15pm & Eves 7:15pm "Cosmic Bingo" 10:30 & 11:30pm every Saturday
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-Thurs 12:45pm Mon & Tues 6:30pm
Paradise Casino • Yuma
450 Quechan Dr. Daily at 1 & 6pm
continued from page 8 With all of these options the Q has firmly established itself as an entertainment destination. It’s a “player’s casino,” a spot where locals can just get away for a night out on the town, and an anchor for seasonal travelers coming in for the winter. It has all of the fun and amenities a person could ask for. Which brings us back to the beginning of this story… at the Q, they know how to keep the entertainment real. Quechan Casino Resort is conveniently located just five miles west of Yuma, Arizona on I-8 at exit 166. For additional information, please call 1-877-Quechan (783-2426) or visit us online at www.playqcr.com. The Q also offers a vibrant mix of entertainment options to keep visitors satisfied, including 1000 state-of-the-art slots, blackjack tables, and a huge resort-style pool. Not to mention multiple dining options ranging from the sophisticated Ironwood Steakhouse – to more relaxed settings, like the Sidewinders Bar & Grill. The Q is also home to the Pipa Event Center, one of the biggest venues in the region capable of hosting headliner level entertainment and special events like conferences, weddings and Quinceañeras. The property also boasts a beautifully appointed hotel featuring 166 rooms with 24-hour in-room dining, complimentary wired and wireless internet, High Definition TV, On Demand movies and all of the amenities needed for an extra-special stay. Guests can also choose to stay in one of the 8 luxury suites featuring an 800 square foot floor plan with patio access to the pool, whirlpool and
signature Lazy River. Plus, all hotel guests enjoy complimentary valet parking, 24-hour fitness center access and Express Checkout. On-site RV and truck parking is also available.
travel Hollywood Southwest The days of the Hollywood cowboy and Indian films have long passed, but a new film center is emerging, and it’s right in the heart of actual Indian Country. New Mexico went courting for filmmakers, and won some of them over. Some of the filmmakers have even referred to this part of the country as “Hollywood Southwest” Many of the same things that attract filmmakers make the area a great place for recreation. Tourists enjoy the deserts, mountains, quaint towns and modern cities. Names embedded in history are there, too. Travel historic Route 66, near the Pecos River, visit Carlsbad Caverns or Indian Country, home to the Apaches, Navajos, and Pueblos, among others. And the Native Americans in New Mexico do what they do best in the 21st Century - they have invested in resorts, hotels, Cultural Centers and of course casinos. The Mescalero Apaches own the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino, along with the Ski Apache Ski Resort, in the Sacramento Mountains in Ruidoso. Not to be outdone, the people of the Pueblo of Acoma welcome you to Sky City, and bring you a thousand years of culture and a modern Resort
Casino. You can also make use of their full-scale gaming, an RV park, hotel and great buffets. The Sky City Cultural Center at Acoma Pueblo is a part of the oldest continuously inhabited community in North America, it is only a few miles from the Resort Casino and it is open to tour. The tours are a privilege, though, and cameras are restricted, including phone cameras, with an objective of continuing to preserve the heritage. Camera permits can be purchased, so you have a chance to take some memories with you. As you travel to the reservations, you’ll appreciate the rich history of New Mexico. The Indian heritage lives on in such names as the Geronimo Trail National Scenic Byway. Reminders of the famous, and infamous, of the old west, such as Billy the Kid and Poncho Villa, remain in the small villages along the way. In northern New Mexico, the foothills of the largest peaks in New Mexico are the pristine setting of the Taos Pueblo Village. Taos Pueblo is the only living Native American community designated both a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and a National Historic Landmark. The multi-storied adobe buildings have been continuously inhabited for over 1000 years.
-- The residents of the little town of Madrid, near Santa Fe, hosted the cast of “Wild Dogs,” with John Travolta and Tim Allen. -- Scenes in “Seraphim Falls,” with Pierce Brosnan, were shot outside Lordsburg. -- Hollywood stars also invaded Galistro for “Conspiracy.” The views of the unique monolith rock formations are breathtaking. And quickly you will understand why New Mexico is a favorite for film producers. The same things that you will enjoy -- sleepy little towns, salt flats, hills, mountains, the melding of Spanish and Indian cultures, and the great southwestern sun. Want to know what’s “shooting” in New Mexico now? The New Mexico Tourism Department can help. Contact it at www.newmexico.org or give it a call at (505) 827-7400. It’ll have a great tourism opportunity to offer you.
ARIZONA PLAYER September 2011 27
DAVID AT THE SNACK BAR Drive
Driver (Ryan Gosling) is a Los Angeles wheelman for hire, by day he does stunt driving for the movies but at night he is an amazing getaway driver with his own set of rules. A loner by nature, Driver can’t help falling for his beautiful by neighbor Irene (Carey David Ramsey Mulligan), a young mother suddenly put in danger by the return of her ex-convict husband Standard (Oscar Isaac). After a robbery, intended to help Standard pay off protection money, spins out of control, Driver finds himself targeted by deadly serious criminals (Albert Brooks and Ron Perlman). When Driver finds out that they are not only after him, but Irene and her son as well, he has to break all his rules. The direction is mesmerizing with a slow thoughtful mood punctuated by shocking graphic violence that perfectly reflects Driver’s personality. The cast is outstanding and while not for everyone “Drive” is a heck of a film.
Warrior An ex-Marine haunted by a tragic past, Tommy (Tom Hardy) returns to his hometown of Pittsburgh and enlists his father (Nick Nolte), a recovered alcoholic and his former coach, to train him for an MMA tournament with a five million dollar purse. As Tommy blazes a violent path towards the title prize, his brother, Brendan (Joel Edgerton), a former MMA fighter unable to make ends meet as a public school teacher, returns to the ring to provide for his family. Even though years have passed, recriminations and past betrayals keep the brothers bitterly estranged from each other and their father. But when Brendan’s unlikely rise as an underdog sets him on a collision course with Tommy, they must confront their past while moving up the tournament bracket toward a final showdown. The cast is great but “Warrior” is too long, lacks suspense and is very predictable.
David’s Video Details Hanna
Hanna (Saoirse Ronan) has been raised by her father (Eric Bana) in the frozen wilderness of Finland. She has never been around other people and knows little of the world. Her father taught her everything she knows but concentrated on training her to be a perfect assassin. She has the skills, the strength, the stamina and the smarts to be best. He says she has to be prepared for Marissa (Cate Blanchett), a ruthless intelligence agent, who killed her mother and wants both of them dead. When she turns sixteen Hanna decides it’s time to leave the safety of her isolated home. She journeys stealthily across Europe while eluding agents dispatched after her by Marissa who has secrets of her own. Along the way Hanna faces startling revelations about her existence and unexpected questions about her humanity. “Hanna” is a solid action film with great acting and a great script.
X-Men: First Class
The story of how Charles Xavier (James McAvoy) became friends with Eric Lehnsherr (Michael Fassbender), how they founded the X-Men and became Professor X and Magneto. It started during World War II when young Eric showed a talent that was recognized and cruelly fostered by a madman, Sebastian Shaw (Kevin Bacon). Meanwhile, Charles is becoming an expert in mutant genetics. In 1962 Eric is hunting down Shaw when he runs into Xavier. Realizing that Shaw posses a great threat to humanity they team up to stop him. Shaw has a group of powerful mutants so Xavier and Eric recruit their own army of mutants. It is all set against the tension of the Cuban missile crisis. This is a prequel to the previous X-Men films so there are a few puzzling moments and a couple of eye-catching cameos. “X-Men: First Class” is one of the best super-hero ‘origin’ movies.
Thor
On Asgard Frost Giants break into a secret chamber and attempt to steal a powerful item. They are defeated by Thor (Chris Hemsworth) and his father, Odin (Anthony Hopkins). Thor wants to retaliate by attacking the Frost Giants home planet but Odin prefers diplomacy. Thor disregards his father’s orders and leads an attack that goes wrong. For his arrogance Odin strips Thor of his powers and casts him out of Asgard sending him to Earth to live among humans. On Earth scientist Jane Foster (Natalie Portman) is following a theory involving energy discharges from space. She finds Thor and helps him try to get his powers back by getting his hammer back from SHIELD. Too much of this film takes place on Asgard and nothing much happens on Earth. The cast is good but the writing is lacking. “Thor” is the most disappointing of the Marvel “Avengers” series. 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 for him on the CBS 5 Morning News every Friday just after 6am and on ABC-15’s “Sonoran Living Live” every other Friday at 11am. Read more of his DVD reviews at WildAboutMovies.com. Contact him at David@TheSnackBar.net.
28 ARIZONA PLAYER September 2011
ASTROLOGY & Joke Virgo Aug 24 to Sept 23 Sept 7–14 Sept 15–22 Sept 23–30 Oct 1–6
Eventful month coming Great things are near Lull before the storm Lull before the storm
Libra Sept 24 to Oct 23
Sept 7–14 Sept 15–22 Sept 23–30 Oct 1–6
Stick with convictions
Old friend from the past
Another good decision Really exciting week
Scorpio Oct 24 to Nov 22 Sept 7–14 Sept 15–22 Sept 23–30 Oct 1–6
This week play hunch Great things coming
Stay focused to win Unplanned trip ahead
Sagittarius Nov 23 to Dec 21 Sept 7–14 Sept 15–22 Sept 23–30 Oct 1–6
Go with gut feeling
Odd but happy weekend
A call from the past Things are looking up
Capricorn Dec 22 to Jan 20 Sept 7–14 Sept 15–22 Sept 23–30 Oct 1–6
Believe - it will happen Stay late & play hard Kindness pays off Terrific fun week
Aquarius Jan 21 to Feb 19 Sept 7–14 Sept 15–22 Sept 23–30 Oct 1–6
The news you needed Start on those projects
A feel good week Small investment pays
Pisces Feb 20 to Mar 20 Sept 7–14 Sept 15–22 Sept 23–30 Oct 1–6
Comeback win
Chills & thrills weekend
Good advice from pal Plan that special trip
Aries Mar 21 to April 20
Sept 7–14 Sept 15–22 Sept 23–30 Oct 1–6
You’ll meet a new friend Fun trip for a nice win
Great idea works out Stick to it – success is near
Taurus April 21 to May 21 Sept 7–14 Sept 15–22 Sept 23–30 Oct 1–6
Unreal comeback victory Bluff for huge payoff
Winning ways begin Unexpected excitement
Gemini May 22 to June 21 Sept 7–14 Sept 15–22 Sept 23–30 Oct 1–6
Fun with the family
The dream will come true
Hard work pays big time Strange ending brings a smile
Cancer June 22 to July 22 Sept 7–14 Sept 15–22 Sept 23–30 Oct 1–6
Stand up for your rights Unplanned fun trip ahead
Right place – right time Big changes are coming
Leo July 23 to Aug 23
Sept 7–14 Sept 15–22 Sept 23–30 Oct 1–6
the BIG one happens Persistence pays plenty
Weekend to remember Way to start the month
Jokes of the Month The Big Lie Tony loved playing poker, but he wasn’t really that good…and several nights a week when he arrived home, his wife Rosa would question him “Well, big shot…just how much did you lose this time”? His usual answer was something like “Not that much…maybe 50 bucks”
Then one night, Tony never came home all night and finally stumbled in at 8am. Rosa was furious and began giving him the third degree…”Look at the time… I’ve been up all night waiting for you…YOU BUM”! But before Rosa could say another word, Tony sat down, looked up shook his head back and forth and said…
CASINO DIRECTORY
1. Apache Gold Hotel Resort Casino • (Globe) San Carlos Apache Tribe–slots bingo & blackjack. (800) 272-2438 2. BlueWater Resort Casino • (Parker) Colorado River Indian Tribe–slots bingo blackjack & poker. (888) 243-3360 30 ARIZONA PLAYER September 2011
”Look Rosa, I have something to confess…..I didn’t play poker last night…I went to a bar with some old friends where I drank too much and met two beautiful young ladies, who kept buying me drinks, and later took me to their place. I don’t remember much after that, but I woke up about an hour ago, had to find my way back to the bar - get my car….and that’s why I’m so late.
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“For God’s sake” Rosa snapped. “For once in your life Tony, be a man – fess up…look me in the eye and tell honestly….Just how much DID YOU LOSE playing poker last night?’
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