Friday, June 13, 2008
2 0 0 8 Summer
THE
Special Advertising Section
3 Rewards Clubs Joining at Indiana’s casinos is a sure thing
4 Slots simplified A pro shares 10 tips
10 Inside the mind of a one-armed bandit
Any play has a chance to hit the jackpot
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Friday, June 13, 2008
An Advertising Supplement to The Enquirer
Inside the mind of a one-armed bandiT When slot machines were first introduced in the 1890s, they were mechanical contraptions powered by springs, gears, notched disks and spinning reels. But while modern machines may look like their oldfashioned cousins on the outside, things have been much different on the inside for almost three decades. Today, every slot machine 1 has a digital “brain” — essentially a computer that spends its time generating hundreds of random numbers every second. The same computer controls the spinning reels of the game, using short pulses of electricity to determine how far each reel spins and where it stops. Here’s how it works: The machine’s computer ticks away, generating an ongoing series of random numbers even when the machine isn’t being used. When a player pulls the lever or hits the play button, the computer selects the next few numbers that are generated — one for each reel on the machine. The first number determines where reel number one stops, the second stops reel number two and so on. The first digital slot machines were introduced in the 1980s and quickly became popular because of the benefits they offered to both players and casino owners. For example, starting a modern slot machine 1/100th of a second earlier or later produces a completely dif-
ferent set of random numbers. That means that any play has a chance to hit the jackpot, even if the last pull was also a winner. Digital machines also give players more ways to win. The number of winning combinations on older one-armed bandits was limited by the mechanism inside. Modern machines, 100 in contrast, allow for hundreds of winning combinations, or paylines. You can even play 100 hands of video poker simultaneously on some machines. If you’re not nostalgic for the reels and the lever, you can play faster using a machine with an electronic start button or video screen. Digital slots allow gamers to play from a pool of credits so that they don’t have to constantly drop coins into the machine. The system also allows both players and casinos to keep track of a player’s winnings, and to build up credits for incentives like free meals, room stays, golf, spa treatments and even cash rebates. Many players worry that electronic machines make it possible for casinos to program machines to pay out at a particular time, or to change the odds on a given machine at a moment’s notice. Practices like these, however, are forbidden under the regulations of the Indiana Gaming Commission (IGC). Casinos are required to contact the IGC 10 days before making
Starting a modern slot machine / th of a second earlier or later produces a completely different set of random numbers. That means that any play has a chance to hit the jackpot, even if the last pull was also a winner.
Advertorial by T.N.Tumbusch
any kind of change to a machine, even if all they want to do is move it to a different part of the room. Casinos benefit from digital machines as well. For one thing, cheating is far more difficult, but the versatility of electronic slots also saves casinos time and money. In the days of mechanical slots, a machine that wasn’t popular had to be physically removed and replaced with a completely new machine from the manufacturer. Now machines that don’t catch on can simply be reprogrammed with a different game. The only physical elements that need to be replaced are the reels and the glass display panels. The time and expense needed to change a machine is becoming less of an issue as more new slots feature video screens and LED reels. Casinos also like the fact that electronic machines operate on credits, which can be given away for free as incentives to attract players.
RewardS from Page 3
tage members can earn 10 percent more incentive cash for their play absolutely free. As players earn incentive cash in their regular player’s club account, they’ll earn an additional 10 percent in a Vic’s Vault account. This cash will accumulate through Oct. 31 and then given to the guest in the form of a casino coupon that can be cashed or used in December. Find out more about the Players Advantage Club at www.grandvictoria.com. French Lick Resort Casino Indiana’s newest casino and resort invites all players to join the French Lick Rewards Club. According to Amanda Vernon, public relations coordinator, “The French Lick Rewards club has multiple levels, based on average play. Complimentary overnight stays and other benefits are routinely offered to our members, depending on their level of play.” Membership in the club is free, and the member card is used to play slots. “Our slots operate on these cards as opposed to actual coins, and players earn reward points through play good toward additional play,” said Vernon. “Table games players can earn points good for use throughout the resort.” In addition to complimentary stays and benefits based upon player level, discounts on concert tickets are often available to members – regardless of their card level. Get more information on how you can join the program at www.frenchlickresort.com.
Have fun. Play responsibly. Have fun. Play responsibly. Have fun. Play responsibly.
ly.
An Advertising Supplement to The Enquirer
Friday, June 13, 2008
Vic’s Vault
Step into Vic’s Vault, a new and exciting way for Players Advantage Club® (PAC) members to earn a 10% incentive cash bonus absolutely free. Slot players of all levels can earn valuable points now through October 31, 2008 and redeem them for cold, hard cash December 1– 23, 2008. Here’s a quick example: if you earn 5,000 PAC Points, you’ll not only have earned $50 in PAC Cash, but you’ll also have earned 500 Vic’s Vault Points and $5 in Vic’s Vault Cash. Now, every point you earn at Grand Vic is more valuable than ever. Through April 30, 2008, Grand Vic players have already earned over $173,000 in Vic’s Vault Cash. Join the thousands who are taking advantage of Southern Indiana’s most
of Southern Indiana EVERY month since May 2005. (Confirmed by monthly revenue reports from the Indiana Gaming Commission May 2005 thru April 2008.) You’ll find a variety of hot new games from penny to $100 machines and all have the player friendly ticket in/ticket out feature. We also have some of the very best video poker tables in the area.
No more waiting in line. Everybody who receives weekly cash coupons can now redeem them directly at the machines.* When it comes to table games, Grand Victoria offers Late Surrender on all Blackjack games except Double Deck Pitch. High rollers can enjoy our Blackjack High Limit Area. There are even Blackjack spin-off games like 21+3 and Spanish 21.
Earn 10% more for your play at Grand Victoria Casino. rewarding cash incentive program available to players of all levels. New members receive a big sign up bonus. Existing members get special rewards too for signing up a friend. It’s all inside Vic’s Vault. See Grand Victoria Casino for minimum qualification requirements, restrictions and complete details. Vic’s Vault is part of Southeast Indiana’s most rewarding players club. It's free. Use your players card to also earn same day cash back plus discounts and complimentaries on food, hotel rooms, entertainment and golf. You’ll also become eligible for weekly and monthly drawings for cash, cars, merchandise, trips and more. Whether you play a penny a pull or a couple of bucks a spin, Grand Vic is THE place to play penny slots. We have had the loosest penny slots in ALL
Rising Sun, Indiana
1-800-GRAND-11
Other table favorites include Craps (with 25 times odds on selected bets and up to a 1000 to 1 payoff on a special “fire bet”), Roulette, Caribbean Stud, Let It Ride, Three Card Poker, Texas Hold’em Bonus Poker and Live Poker.
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now serving Starbucks Coffee. At Big Vic’s Pub & Grub, you can catch the big games while enjoying local menu favorites and a frosty beverage. Of course, Grand Victoria Casino has special live performances too. Elvis and Friends appear weekends at Big Vic’s Pub & Grub. On selected evenings, stars of yesterday and today perform in the Grand Theatre. After a full day, it’s time to relax in one of our 200 well-appointed hotel rooms. You can work out in our fitness center, take a sweat in the sauna, dip into the indoor pool or soak in the whirlpool spa.
Plus, there’s golf.
Southern Indiana’s only Scottish links-style golf course. Call ahead for tee times. So take your fun a little bit further to Grand Victoria Casino on Indiana 56 in beautiful Rising Sun, Indiana. The casino is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Admission and valet parking are free. For more information, directions, tee times and reservations, call 1-800-GRAND-11. Grand Victoria Casino & Resort 600 Grand Victoria Drive Rising Sun IN 47040 1-800-GRAND-11 www.grandvictoria.com Must be 21 or older to enter the casino, pub and theatre. Restrictions apply to all promotions. See casino for complete rules. For help with a gambling problem, call 1-800-994-8448. *Machines with a red sticker do not have this feature. Coupons may still be cashed at a casino cage.
Hungry?
Then, you never had it this good. Our award-winning Wellington’s Steakhouse offers certified Angus beef, succulent seafood selections, unbelievable desserts and an extensive wine list. Enjoy the River View Buffet’s features, like their Friday Seafood Buffet and Steak and Crab Saturdays. Choose from more than 60 menu items at Picadilly’s Deli. Try one of the many tempting delicacies at the Nuthouse Coffee Company,
www.grandvictoria.com
H08VIC203_VIC341_gg.indd a v e f u n . P1 l a y r e s p o n s i b l y . H a v e f u n . P l a y r e s p o n s i b l y . H a v e f u n . P l a y r e s p o n sibly. 5/19/08 2:46:36 PM
SloTS CONFIRMED! We have had the LOOSEST PENNY SLOTS in all of Southern Indiana EVERY MONTH since May 2005!*
*Indiana Gaming Commission monthly casino revenue reports for penny/multi-denomination machines May 2005 thru April 2008.
TAblE GAmES • Blackjack with Late Surrender • 2 Deck Pitch Blackjack • Craps & Roulette • Caribbean Stud • Let It Ride • Three Card Poker • 21+3 & Spanish 21 • Texas Hold’em Bonus Poker • Live Poker
Take your fun a little bit further. From the elegant casino to the lush green rolling hills of our 18-hole Scottish links-style golf course, it feels like you’ve entered a whole different world. It’s somewhere more exciting. It’s someplace more fun. It’s something extraordinary. Experience how this gaming resort goes a little bit further for you.
RESoRT AmENITIES • 200 room hotel • 12,000 sq. ft. full service conference, meeting and banquet space • Indoor pool • Fitness center • Whirlpool & sauna • 18-hole Scottish links-style golf course • Live entertainment (selected dates) • Gift shop RESTAuRANTS • Wellington’s - Serving certified Angus beef • River View Buffet • Picadilly’s Deli • Big Vic’s Pub & Grub • Nuthouse Coffee Co. now proudly serving Starbucks® coffee
Rising Sun, Indiana
1-800-GRAND-11 www.grandvictoria.com
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*Restrictions apply to all promotions. See casino for rules. Must be 21 years of age or older. For help with a gambling problem, call 1-800-994-8448. 08VIC203_VIC341_gg.indd 2
5/19/08 2:46:42 PM
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Friday, June 13, 2008
An Advertising Supplement to The Enquirer
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Have fun. Play responsibly. Have fun. Play responsibly. Have fun. Play responsibly.
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An Advertising Supplement to The Enquirer
Friday, June 13, 2008
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Rewards Clubs Offer Incentives to Play People love a game of chance, but joining the rewards clubs at Indiana’s casinos is a sure thing. There are many reasons people go to gaming venues – fun, excitement, entertainment, the chance to win. But the opportunity to get free stuff may be the most powerful incentive of all. All casinos offer some kind of rewards program and each offers perks to members, and those perks grow the more you use them. Here is a brief description of each program. Argosy Preferred Club If continuous excitement is in your cards, the Argosy Preferred Card is your “ticket” to more cash and valuable rewards. Use it every time you play your favorite machines to earn points to redeem for cash back. According to Argosy’s Brandy Rorabacher, “Based on your level of Preferred Card play, you can receive invitations to exciting player parties and special events – all for you and a guest – at no charge. You may even qualify for coupons to redeem for free cash.” In addition to earning cash back, as a Preferred Club Member, you may qualify for even more Preferred perks, including: • Advance notice of special promotions • Cash and hotel offers • Complimentary dining certificates • Complimentary valet parking • Gift shop discounts Get more information about Argosy’s Preferred Club at www.argosy.com/cincinnati.
Belterra Casino Resort & Spa When you join the Champions Club at Belterra, you’re always a winner. You’ll earn valuable rewards like complimentary accommodations and dining every time you use your Champions Club card when you play your favorite slot machines or table games. Earn points you can redeem for cash or free play, and you’ll be invited to special members-only events and tournaments. Join the Champions Club — it’s free, it takes only minutes to sign up, and once you enroll, you can start earning points immediately. Just insert your card before each session at a slot machine. The Champions Club also has three levels of membership determined by the level of credits you’ve earned. Gold and Platinum Champions Club members enjoy even greater levels of rewards. Get more information about Belterra’s Champions Club at www.belterracasino.com. Caesars Indiana Caesars Indiana offers Total Rewards®, one of the best casino player-loyalty programs in the industry. According to Neil Walkoff, assistant general manager, “Total Rewards is Harrah’s award-winning casino loyalty program that lets you earn Reward Credits every time you play with your card at any casino that participates in the Total Rewards program. It’s free to join. Play any game – slots, tables or race betting at nearly 40 casinos across the United States and Canada to build rewards in a
—Advertorial by Dave Etienne
single account.” Keep your card inserted at the slot machine the entire time you play, or hand it to the dealer when playing table games. While you play, you’ll get closer to the next level of status and benefits. You’ll generate a Reward Credit comp balance that you control and won’t ever expire as long as you earn one Reward Credit every six months. And, based on your play, you’ll receive offers in the mail for cash, hotel stays, meals and event invitations. Visit www.caesarsindiana.com for more information about Total Rewards. Grand Victoria Casino Visitors to Grand Victoria may join the Players Advantage Club. Director of Marketing Bryce Kendrick explains that the program’s benefits grow the more you play. “We have four card levels: Blue, Gold, Platinum and Diamond. Benefits are based on tracked play and include such perks as cash coupons and special offers, discounts or comps for rooms, the gift shop, entertainment and meals, promotional entries for drawings, free valet parking and free casino admission for all levels.” Benefits grow the more you use your card and advance through the levels. “Vic’s Vault is the newest addition to the Players Advantage program,” said Kendrick. “It’s a lucrative cash incentive program available to all club members who play slots.” Now through Oct. 31, 2008, Players AdvanPlease see REWARDS Page 10
Join the club Vincent Smith and Carolyn Caldwell off to Grand Victoria, the casino of choice the time out. Photo by Andrew Ward/Moonlight Photography
For retiree Vincent Smith, joining the rewards clubs offered by the casinos of Southeast Indiana is a no-brainer. “As soon as I retired, I joined the rewards clubs right away – you’re silly not to join. It’s free and you get a lot of perks,” said the Newport, Ky., resident. Among the perks are free meals, participation in special prize drawings, a regular newsletter, free room stays and even free chances to play games. “You can earn coupons that you put in machines just like cash,” said Smith. “And I once won $1,500 in a contest just for rewards club holders.”
— Advertorial by Dave Etienne
He’s a member of every rewards club offered, and visits the casinos on a regular basis. “My friend Carolyn Caldwell and I try to go two to three times a month. We make a day of it – we get to know everyone there and it’s a great way to spend the day.” He’s even a gold cardholder at Grand Victoria, where they offer the Windsor Room for their Gold and above members, providing continental breakfast, lunch and appetizers. “Go in and join right away – it’s free, and even if you only go once a month it’s worth it,” Smith said.
The Gaming Guide special advertising section is a production of The Enquirer’s Advertising Division.
Content Direction Jo Ann Kovach Advertising Promotional Content Editor The Enquirer
Photo Contributors Contributing Advertorial Writers To advertise contact John F. Berry Argosy Casino Key Account Advertising Sales Manager Dave Etienne Andrew Ward/Moonlight Photography The Enquirer Mark Pilarski jupiterimages.com 513.768.6965 | jberry@enquirer.com T.N.Tumbusch
Art Direction Judy Crist Creative Designer The Enquirer
Questions or comments? Please call Jo Ann Kovach at 513.768.8019. Or e-mail jkovach@enquirer.com.
Have fun. Play responsibly. Have fun. Play responsibly. Have fun. Play responsibly.
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Friday, June 13, 2008
An Advertising Supplement to The Enquirer
Deal Me In
Slots simplified
—Advertorial by Mark Pilarski
Here are some of my favorite slot tips. These tips will not guarantee that you’ll become an instant winner, because it’s tough to beat a house edge that generally runs well over 10 percent, but it also doesn’t have to be so tough on your bankroll. Let’s get started. The only true skill to playing slots is machine identification. Example: progressive machines offer the opportunity to compare and shop around for the best value. One 25-cent “slot machine carousel” can have a progressive jackpot of $2,600 and another bank of machines — exactly the same and standing side by side — $1,900. You should always be looking for the best slot opportunities possible.
You deserve your share of the hefty dollars in comps casinos give away each year. Casinos now offer you the ability to “comp yourself” by using one of their player’s club slot cards. It is generally based on the number of coins you cycle through a machine, so you might as well get credit for all those quarters you’re inserting. Shop casinos for comp value and find out what you are worth to them.
You always want to treat “comps” as a form of profit, but you never want to gamble just to receive them. It’s much better to play a 98-percent payback machine and increase your winning opportunities than play machines with a poor return that cycle more of your coins. Remember that you’re there to stay in action and possibly win, not lose your bankroll for a free buffet.
If you cannot afford to play the maximum amount of coins, you should not be playing that denomination of machine. If dollar slots are too rich for your blood, drop down to a quarter machine. It is always better value to play five quarters versus one dollar, or five nickels instead of one quarter.
I recommend not playing back the credits you have accumulated. Cash out and take stock. The problem with playing back credits is that the longer you stay, the machines’ built-in advantage eats away at them. It doesn’t take long to zero out.
Can’t decide which type of slot machine to play? If you are going to choose between video poker and slots, play video poker. Even poor play on a video poker machine will have a better payback than most “reel” slot machines.
Before you walk away from a machine, don’t forget to press the cash-out button. Millions are lost each year by gamblers forgetting their winnings (stored credits).
It is your responsibility if destiny favors you that you receive full payment when hitting a jackpot. Even with some relatively small jackpots, if the slot is short coins in the hopper, you will receive only a partial cash payment in the tray, with the balance to be paid by a slot attendant. If you were to insert more coins and pull the handle, say good-bye to the remainder of your jackpot.
Read all the posted material on a slot machine. It is your responsibility to fully understand all printed information concerning the number of coins to insert, lines needed to be lit, prizes or awards. In most cases, when someone calls a slot attendant over and complains the machine “just ripped me off,” that individual generally did not read the pay schedule correctly.
When you insert coins, don’t assume all the tokens register before you pull the handle. Played five but only four recorded? SORRY. You will get a sympathetic pat on the back from the casino, but no money.
As a recognized authority on casino gambling, Pilarski worked 18 years in the casino industry, for seven different Nevada casinos. Mark now writes a nationally syndicated gambling column, is a university lecturer, and a reviewer and contributing editor for numerous gaming periodicals. Pilarski has worked in the following gaming areas: Keno, Slots, Soft Count, Hard Count, Cashiers Cage, Sports Book, Dealer of all Table Games, Boxman, Floorman, Pit Boss, Games Shift Manager and Casino Shift Manager.
Have fun. Play responsibly. Have fun. Play responsibly. Have fun. Play responsibly.
uirer An Advertising Supplement to The Enquirer
ly.
Friday, June 13, 2008
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ENTERTAINMENT The best names in show business play here. Start your evening with dinner. Finish with a nightcap at the Lobby Bar. In between, join us at the 1,500-seat CenterStage SM Showroom for one of our upcoming shows: Wynonna
June 20
The Pointer Sisters
June 21
Wayne Newton
July 12
Toni Roi and The Elvis Experience
August 15–17
Alice Cooper
August 23
Chicago
September 12–13
Kool & The Gang
September 19–20
Have fun. Play responsibly. Have fun. Play responsibly. Have fun. Play responsibly.
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Friday, June 13, 2008
Have fun. Play
An Advertising Supplement to The Enquirer
responsibly. Have fun. Play
responsibly. Have fun. Play
responsibly.
An Advertising Supplement to The Enquirer
Have fun. Play
responsibly. Have fun. Play
Friday, June 13, 2008
responsibly. Have fun. Play
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responsibly.
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Friday, June 13, 2008
An Advertising Supplement to The Enquirer
The Legend Has Arrived A TOTAL REWARDS ® CASINO HARRAH’S ® • CAESARS ® • HORSESHOE ® • PARIS ® • SHOWBOAT ® • RIO ® • FLAMINGO ® • BALLY’S ® Must be 21 years or older to gamble. Know When to Stop Before You Start®. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-9-WITH-IT ©2008, Harrah’s License Company, LLC.
Have fun. Play responsibly. Have fun. Play responsibly. Have fun. Play responsibly.
ly.
An Advertising Supplement to The Enquirer
Friday, June 13, 2008
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The Legend Has Arrived Nearly 60 years ago, a legend was born. One of the first great casinos ever created. And now, the most legendary name in gambling excitement has a brand new destination. Introducing the grand opening of Horseshoe Casino and Hotel in Southern Indiana.
Serious gamblers and casual players alike will enjoy
Horseshoe has always been famous for bringing
world-class action featuring the best odds, highest
gamblers the very best in headline entertainment
limits, and biggest jackpots. And nobody does
from the biggest names in music to the best in
gambling better than Horseshoe.
regional acts. All in a uniquely intimate venue
Discover over 90,000 square-feet of incredible casino
where guests can truly experience the music. And don’t miss the Outdoor Summer Concert Series
action including nearly 100 big-time tables and a
where all your favorite rock bands, oldies acts,
30-table poker room offering the kind of legendary
and country performers play the hottest music
gambling that’s made Horseshoe famous. For those
under the sun.
who are serious about slots, there are over 1,600 new and exciting machines including exclusive slots
After all the excitement, enjoy the luxurious
you won’t find anywhere else.
accommodations of their 500-room hotel offering
Along with the finest in gambling action, Horseshoe
plush beds, huge TVs, marble baths, and much, much more. It’s all part of Horseshoe Casino’s
is also known for its luxurious casino experience
simple philosophy of always making it right
where you’ll enjoy exceptional service and the best
for the gambler.
cash and comps in the business. So if you’re looking for legendary excitement, Gamblers in the mood for a fabulous dining experi-
generous comps, and service that’s second-to-
ence will certainly find it at Jack Binion’s Steak
none, come and discover the ultimate gambling
House. Lauded in reviews and recognized by the
experience. Only at Horseshoe Casino and Hotel.
Distinguished Restaurants of North America, this is
From Cincinnati, take I-71 South. Horseshoe is
quite simply, one of the best steak houses in the
conveniently located just 20 minutes from
country.
Louisville off I-64. For more information or reservations call 1-866-676-SHOE or visit us online at horseshoe.com.
Must be 21 years or older to gamble. Know when to stop before you start®. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-9-WITH-IT. ©2008 Harrah's License Company, LLC.
Have fun. Play responsibly. Have fun. Play responsibly. Have fun. Play responsibly.