2 016 R E A DE R S ’ C HOICE AWA R D S R E V E A L E D !
PAGE 6
MAY/JUNE 2016 VOL. 18, ISSUE 3 GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM
A W A RD WI N NE R
SUBSCRIBE TODAY &
WIN BIG! PAGE 9
TRIPLE CROWN TRACK BIAS
PAGE 22
STRATEGY SESSION: BETTING OPPOSITES PAGE 26
GARTH BROOKS ...AND THE SUMMER SHOWS OF SIN CITY PAGE 18
PLUS: TIPS BLACKJACK • CRAPS • HORSERACING • VIDEO POKER & MORE! Covering Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, South Dakota, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and the entire Midwest!
CHECK YOUR COAT AND YOUR EVERYDAY LIFE AT THE DOOR. Whether you’re ready to play, relax or make it a night unlike any other, MGM Grand Detroit satisfies any desire.
© 2016 MGM Grand Detroit | Excludes Michigan Disassociated Persons.
GRAND TIMES AHEAD
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© 2016 IGT. The trademarks used herein are owned by IGT or its affiliates, may not be used without permission, and where indicated with a ®, are registered in the U.S. IGT is committed to socially responsible gaming. Our business solutions empower customers to choose parameters and practices that become the foundation of their Responsible Gaming programs.
LETTER
from the Publisher
UP FRONT with G. DOUGLAS
PUBLISHER
Gaming Media Group Inc. PRESIDENT
G. Douglas Dreisbach
the famous strip! Check out some of the most anticipated shows of summer on page 18. Speaking of anticipation, excitement for this year’s Triple Crown is at an all-time high. Coming off American Pharoah’s Triple Crown triumph last year, horse racing enthusiasts feel like it is the night before Christmas as we embark on another racing season. Horseracing expert Eric Floyd gives us the dish on each of the Triple Crown jewels on page 22 to help you capture your next pari-mutuel payday!
At long last, here it is. Ladies and gentlemen, gamers and travelers, we proudly present our annual Reader’s Choice Awards issue. The announcement of properties is one of the most anticipated moments of the year for operators and readers alike. And this edition is especially meaningful because we received the largest number of online and print ballots in our history. So thank you very much to the great many of you who took the time to vote, and congratulations to the deserving casinos and resorts who came out on top. There are several top-quality casinos that may not have won awards, but are definitely premium picks when it comes to planning your next casino visit. But these awards do represent the voice of our readers and we are excited to put them on display for all to see. Check out page 6 for the full list of winning properties and an expanded list of awards at GamingandDestinations.com. In addition to the awards, this issue also features a forecast of the top Summer Shows of Sin City. Led by country music super star Garth Brooks, there are numerous must-see shows this summer in Las Vegas. There is nothing like seeing your favorite artist perform and then enjoying the rest of the night under the neon lights reliving the show as you visit your favorite casino or club or simply walk 2
| G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M
Lastly, what gaming magazine would be complete without giving the greatest gambling tips around? As always, this issue features great tips on craps, blackjack, video poker and more from some of the best gambling authors in the world. Plus, our bonus feature on page 26 highlights John Grochowski’s take on Betting Opposites and why it is a losing wager. Also, don’t forget about our premium membership, The Comps Club. We can now email the coupons straight to you so you don’t have to wait for them to arrive in the mail. For just $29, you will get six Member Coupon Paks with casino discounts and offers as well as six issues of the magazine. We also offer a $20 subscription that does not include the coupons. Spread the word to your gambling buddies! Thanks again, and as always, if you can’t be good, be lucky!
FOUNDING PUBLISHER
Larry Bisig COPY EDITOR
Joseph Grove LAYOUT AND DESIGN
Hill Harcourt CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS
Linda Boyd John Brokopp Eric Floyd John Grochowski Phil Hellmuth, Jr. Frank Scoblete Henry Tamburin GAMING AND DESTINATIONS
640 South Fourth Street Louisville, Kentucky 40202 (502) 583-0333 Fax (502) 583-6487 e-mail: editor@gaminganddestinations.com The goal of this publication is to help drive awareness of the ever-growing popularity of the gaming industry and to assist gamers in enjoying their gaming experience to the fullest. Gaming and Destinations is published for those who seek the best in gaming and in life, and is produced bimonthly by Gaming Media Group Inc. of Louisville, Kentucky. Copyright 2015 by Gaming Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved. This publication is printed by Publisher’s Printing Co., Inc. of Shepherdsville, Kentucky. Postage is paid in Lebanon Junction, Kentucky.
G. Douglas Dreisbach President & Publisher
Opinions of columnists are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, nor does Gaming and Destinations assume liability for claims of advertisers. POSTMASTER:
Send address changes
to Gaming and Destinations, 640 South Fourth Street, Louisville, Kentucky 40202. Cover photo courtesy of MGM Resorts.
CONTENTS ON THE COVER
TIPS & COLUMNS
18 Summer Shows of Sin
36 Blackjack
City: Garth Brooks and other top acts
Numbers Don’t Lie
The Las Vegas concert calendar heats up as we dive into Summer. Check out the hottest shows on the Strip.
6
Drift Spa Opens at Island Resort & Casino. Michigan’s award winning property is getting rave reviews for their new spa.
Confessions of a Female Craps Player
Shake the Shanks
39 Poker
2016 Readers’ Choice Awards Revealed
34 Indoor Oasis:
37 Craps 38 Golf
FEATURE ARTICLES
HIGHLIGHTS & HOTSPOTS
Playing with Nothing
The votes are in! Check out which properties took home the top spots.
42 Casino Directory
Midwest Gaming approved properties are sure bets!
44 Sports Wagering: The Value of Future Odds
16 Tournevent Slot
Get the edge with odds from future sporting events.
Tournaments Heat up
The biggest slot tournament series is back. Get the details and don’t miss your chance to win big!
22
22 Triple Crown Track Comparisons: Finding the Bias
Get the edge for this year’s Triple Crown races by knowing the how the tracks differ.
26 Strategy Session:
Betting Opposites
Should you bet opposites to hedge your bet and get more comps? We’ve got the answer.
30 Top Casino Pools and Amenities:
Beat the Heat this summer
6with these great getaways. 18
16
34
10 Find us on Facebook
@MidwestCasinos G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |
3
FACTS & FUN STUFF
DID YOU KNOW
1 2
?
WHERE WAS GARTH BROOKS BORN AND RAISED? A. Biloxi, Mississippi B. Tulsa, Oklahoma C. Nashville, Tennessee D. Sioux City, Iowa
C. 52
WHAT PERCENTAGE OF VOTERS’ IN THIS YEAR’S READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS PLAY SLOT MACHINES? A. 92.8 B. 74.6
Ingredients: • 1 ½ oz. Kentucky Bourbon (Pick your favorite brand, but it doesn’t need to be an expensive one) • 3 oz. Arnold Palmer Ice Tea Lemonade Mix • Fresh Lemon, Orange or lime wedge. (Optional) • Cherry (Optional) • Cup of Ice Directions: 1. Add the bourbon and Arnold Palmer mix to the cup of ice. 2. Squeeze the fruit wedge into the drink. 3. Garnish with cherry. 4. Give it a stir and enjoy!
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5
3
HOW MANY OF THE 20 LARGEST HOTELS IN THE UNITED STATES ARE LOCATED IN LAS VEGAS? A. 17 B. 19 C. 20 D. 6
WHAT THE ATTENDANCE FOR THE 2015 KENTUCKY DERBY? A. 79,155 B. 190,890 C. 124,408 D. 170,513
Votes received in Gaming and Destinations Reader’s Choice Awards
29,000
12
134
1:59 2/5 Record breaking time of Secretariat’s Derby race in 1973.
4
D. 19
D. 24.9
KENTUCKY TEA
A. 27 B. 30
C. 58.1 Some say that you should never mix a good bourbon, but rather enjoy it neat or at most on the rocks or with a slight splash of water. Well, we believe that if you want to mix it, then mix it! As the great Booker Noe said about Booker’s Bourbon, “I make the best bourbon in the world. If you want to mix it with Coke, you’ll have the best bourbon and Coke in the world!” That said, let us introduce you to a tasty bourbon drink to enjoy on a hot day. It’s called Kentucky Tea and is easy to make and delicious to taste. Bottoms up!
4
HOW MANY HORSES HAVE WON TWO OF THE THREE LEGS OF THE TRIPLE CROWN?
ANSWERS 1)B 2)A 3)D 4)C 5)A
SIPS WITH GAMING & DESTINATIONS
million $3.45 billion
Triple Crown winners since 1919 with the most recent being American Pharoah in 2015.
Number of records/units Garth Brooks has sold. (Surpassing Elvis Presley)
Annual amount wagered on sporting events in Las Vegas sportsbooks.
ESCAPE Set sail on a thrilling adventure just south of The Cities at Treasure Island Resort & Casino. Try your hand at Lunar Poker, blackjack or any of our 2,200 slot machines. Then break for a juicy steak at Tado or an all-you-can-eat feast at our buffet. Finally, end your day relaxing in our spacious hotel or luxury spa. Find your escape today.
T I c a si n o . co m | 1 - 8 0 0 -2 2 2-707 7 Š 2016 Treasure Island Resort & Casino
THE R E S U LT S ARE IN
2016 MIDWEST
READERS’ CHOICE AWARD WINNERS
THE MIDWEST region has an abundance
of great casinos and resorts each featuring their own unique characteristics you won’t
find anywhere else. Whether you are
looking for grand golf courses, magnificent mountain views or outstanding indoor and
outdoor oasis’, you can’t wrong wherever your casino adventures take you.
The area includes Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota, Iowa, and Missouri, so there are plenty of options when it comes to planning your trip.
On the following pages, you will find the award winners from each of these
states. We hope the awards will provide some guidance for your next casino trip and make your planning easy! Also be
sure to check out the full list of awards at
A W A RD WI N NE R
GamingandDestinations.com where you
will find more pictures and information on the winning casinos.
Thanks to everyone who took the time to
vote for this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards and until next time…stay lucky!
G. Douglas Dreisbach President & Publisher
ANNOUNCING THE TOP CASINOS OF THE MIDWEST:
(Clockwise from top left) Island Resort & Casino (Michigan), FireKeepers Casino (Michigan), Treasure Island Resort & Casino (Minnesota), Ameristar Casino Resort St. Charles (Missouri)
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MIDWEST
OVERALL READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST OVERALL
BEST GOLF COURSE
BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE
1. Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort 2. Island Resort & Casino 3. Belterra Casino Resort
1. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells 2. Island Resort & Casino 3. Grand Casino Hinckley
BEST ENTERTAINMENT
BEST ADVERTISING
1. Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa 2. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotel 3. Firekeepers Casino Hotel
1. MGM Detroit 2. St. Croix Casino Turtle Lake 3. Treasure Island Resort & Casino
BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
BEST PLAYER’S CLUB
PROPERTY
1. MGM Grand Detroit 2. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells 3. Belterra Casino Resort
1. Belterra Casino Resort & Spa 2. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City 3. Grand Casino Hinckley MGM Grand Detroit BEST RESTAURANT BEST OVERALL PROPERTY
1
MGM GRAND DETROIT
HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO SIOUX CITY 2
AMERISTAR CASINO RESORT-ST. CHARLES 3
BEST SUITES 1. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City 2. MGM Grand Detroit 3. Ameristar Casino ResortSt. Charles
1. Wolfgang Puck STEAK at MGM Grand Detroit 2. Tado Steakhouse at Treasure Island Resort & Casino 3. William B’s at Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa BEST BUFFET 1. World Tour Buffet at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City 2. Aurora Buffet at Soaring Eagle Casino & Hotel 3. Terrace Buffet at Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa
BEST AMENITIES
BEST NIGHTLIFE 1. MGM Grand Detroit 2. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City 3. Ameristar Casino Resort & Spa St. Charles
Best Casino Floor: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City
BEST THEME 1. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City 2. Treasure Island Resort & Casino 3. Island Resort & Casino BEST CASINO PERSONNEL 1. MGM Detroit 2. Rising Star Casino Resort 3. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells
1. French Lick Resort 2. Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort 3. Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel
BEST ROOMS 1. Four Winds Casino Resort 2. Horseshoe Hammond 3. Grand Casino Hinckley BEST CASINO FLOOR 1. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City 2. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells 3. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel BEST POKER ROOM 1. Hollywood Lawrenceburg 2. River City Casino 3. Grand Casino Hinckley
Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort - Larchwood, Iowa G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |
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MICHIGAN AWARDS
BEST OVERALL PROPERTY
Best Golf Course: Island Resort & Casino
BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
MGM Grand Detroit
BEST OVERALL PROPERTY
1
MGM GRAND DETROIT
2 FOUR WINDS CASINO RESORT
ISLAND RESORT & CASINO 3
BEST SUITES 1. MGM Grand Detroit 2. Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort 3. Island Resort & Casino BEST ROOMS 1. Four Winds Casino Resort 2. MGM Grand Detroit 3. Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort
BEST RESTAURANT 1. Wolfgang Puck STEAK at MGM Grand Detroit 2. Sage Restaurant at Odawa Casino Resort 3. 5 Bridges Steak & Seafood House at Island Resort & Casino
BEST BUFFET 1. Aurora Buffet at Soaring Eagle Casino & Hotel 2. Seasons Buffets at Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel 3. The Buffet at Four Winds Casino Resort
BEST AMENITIES
1. Island Resort 7 Casino 2. Firekeepers Casino Hotel 3. Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort BEST NIGHTLIFE 1. MGM Grand Detroit 2. Odawa Casino Resort 3. Firekeepers Casino Hotel BEST THEME 1. Island Resort & Casino 2. MGM Grand Detroit 3. Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel BEST CASINO PERSONNEL 1. MGM Grand Detroit 2. Four Winds Casino Resort 3. Island Resort & Casino
4. Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel 5. Four Winds Casino Resort 6. Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort BEST GOLF COURSE
BEST CASINO FLOOR 1. Four Winds Casino Resort 2. Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort 3. Island Resort & Casino
1. Island Resort & Casino 2. Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort 3. Grand Traverse at Turtle Creek Casino BEST ENTERTAINMENT
BEST POKER ROOM 1. MGM Grand Detroit 2. Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort 3. Island resort & Casino
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1. Firekeepers Casino Hotel 2. Island Resort & Casino 3. Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort
Best Entertainment: FireKeepers Casino Hotel
BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE 1. Island Resort & Casino 2. MGM Grand Detroit 3. Firekeepers Casino Hotel BEST ADVERTISING 1. MGM Grand Detroit 2. Firekeepers Casino Hotel 3. Island Resort & Casino BEST PLAYER’S CLUB 1. MGM Grand Detroit 2. Odawa Casino Resort 3. Island Resort & Casino
WISCONSIN AWARDS
BEST OVERALL PROPERTY
Best Golf Course: North Star Mohican Resort
Potawatomi Hotel & Casino
BEST OVERALL PROPERTY
POTAWATOMI HOTEL & CASINO 1
2 MENOMINEE CASINO RESORT
HO-CHUNK GAMING WISCONSIN DELLS 3
BEST SUITES 1. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino 2. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells 3. Menominee Casino Resort
BEST ROOMS 1. North Star Mohican Casino Resort 2. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino 3. Menominee Casino Resort
BEST CASINO FLOOR 1. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells 2. St. Croix Casino Turtle Lake 3. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino
BEST POKER ROOM 1. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino 2. Oneida Bingo & Hotel 3. St. Croix Casino Turtle Lake
BEST RESTAURANT 1. Dream Dance Steak at Potawatomi Hotel & Casino 2. Copper Oak Steakhouse at HoChunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells 3. Forest Island at Menominee Casino Resort
BEST BUFFET 1. Standrock Buffet at Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisonsin Dells 2. TLC Buffet at St. Croix Casino Turtle Lake 3. The Buffet at Potawatomi Hotel & Casino BEST AMENITIES
BEST NIGHTLIFE 1. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino 2. Oneida Bingo & Hotel 3. Menominee Casino Resort
BEST ADVERTISING 1. St. Croix Casino Turtle Lake 2. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells 3. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino
BEST THEME 1. Menominee Casino Resort 2. Ho-Chunk Wisconsin Dells 3. North Star Mohican Casino Resort
BEST PLAYER’S CLUB 1. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells 2. Menominee Casino Resort 3. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino
BEST CASINO PERSONNEL 1. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells 2. Menominee Casino Resort 3. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE 1. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells 2. Menominee Casino Resort 3. North Star Mohican Casino Resort
1. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino 2. Menominee Casino Resort 3. North Star Mohican Casino Resort BEST GOLF COURSE 1. North Star Mohican Casino Resort BEST ENTERTAINMENT 1. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino 2. North Star Mohican Casino Resort 3. Menominee Casino Resort BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE 1. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino 2. Ho-Chunk Wisconsin Dells 3. Menominee Casino Resort
Best Casino Floor: Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells
G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |
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MINNESOTA AWARDS
BEST OVERALL PROPERTY
Best Casino Floor: Mystic Lake Casino Hotel
BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
Tresure Island Resort & Casino BEST RESTAURANT 1. Tado Steakhouse at Treasure Island Resort & Casino 2. Seven Fires at Black Bear Casino Resort 3. Mystic Steakhouse at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel
BEST OVERALL PROPERTY
TREASURE ISLAND RESORT & CASINO 1
GRAND CASINO HINCKLEY 2
BEST BUFFET 1. Grand Buffet at Grand Casino Mille Lacs 2. The Buffet at Treasure Island Resort & Casino 3. Tamarac Buffet at Fortune Bay Resort Casino
BEST SUITES
BEST AMENITIES 1. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel 2. Treasure Island Resort & Casino 3. Black Bear Casino Resort
BEST ROOMS 1. Grand Casino Hinckley 2. Treasure Island Resort & Casino 3. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel
1. Treasure Island Resort & Casino 2. Black Bear Casino Resort 3. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel BEST CASINO PERSONNEL 1. Treasure Island Resort & Casino 2. Black Bear Casino Resort 3. Grand Casino Hinckley
BEST ENTERTAINMENT
1. Grand Casino Hinckley 2. Grand Casino Mille Lacs 3. Treasure Island Resort & Casino
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1. Grand Casino Hinckley 2. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel 3. Black Bear Casino Resort BEST ADVERTISING 1. Treasure Island Resort & Casino 2. Grand Casino Hinckley 3. Black Bear Casino Resort BEST PLAYER’S CLUB
1. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel 2. Grand Casino Hinckley 3. Treasure Island Resort & Casino
BEST POKER ROOM
10
1. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel 2. Treasure Island Resort & Casino 3. Fortune Bay Resort Casino
BEST GOLF COURSE
BEST CASINO FLOOR 1. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel 2. Grand Casino Mille Lacs 3. Treasure Island Resort & Casino
BEST NIGHTLIFE
BEST THEME
3 MYSTIC LAKE CASINO HOTEL
1. Grand Casino Hinckley 2. Treasure Island Resort & Casino 3. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel
1. Grand Casino Hinckley 3. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel 3. Grand Casino Mille Lacs
BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE
1. Grand Casino Hinckley 2. Treasure Island Resort & Casino 3. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel
Best Rooms & Suites: Grand Casino Hinckley
1. Grand Casino Hinckley 2. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel 3. Treasure Island Resort & Casino
ILLINOIS AWARDS
BEST OVERALL PROPERTY
Best Amenities: Harrah’s Joliet
Jumer’s Casino & Hotel
BEST OVERALL PROPERTY
JUMER’S CASINO & HOTEL
1
2
HARRAH’S JOLIET
PAR-A-DICE HOTEL CASINO 3
BEST SUITES 1. Hollywood Casino Joliet 2. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel 3. Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino BEST ROOMS 1. Harrah’s Joliet 2. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel 3. Hollywood Casino Joliet
BEST BUFFET 1. Flavors Buffet at Harrah’s Joliet 2. Fresh Buffet at Harrah’s Metropolis 3. Epic Buffet at Hollywood Casino Joliet BEST AMENITIES 1. Harrah’s Joliet 2. Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino 3. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel BEST ENTERTAINMENT 1. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel 2. Hollywood Casino Aurora 3. Harrah’s Joliet
BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE 1. Hollywood Casino Aurora 2. Harrah’s Metropolis 3. Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino BEST ADVERTISING 1. Harrah’s Metropolis 2. Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino 3. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel BEST PLAYER’S CLUB 1. Harrah’s Joliet 2. Hollywood Casino Aurora 3. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel BEST RACETRACK 1. Arlington Park 2. Hawthorne Race Course
BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE 1. Hollywood Casino Aurora 2. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel 3. Harrah’s Joliet
BEST CASINO FLOOR 1. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel 2. Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino 3. Hollywood Casino Aurora
BEST NIGHTLIFE 1. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel 2. Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino 3. Hollywood Casino Aurora
BEST POKER ROOM 1. Hollywood Casino Aurora 2. Harrah’s Joliet 3. Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino
BEST THEME 1. Hollywood Casino Joliet 2. Rivers Casino Des Plaines 3. Grand Victoria Casino
BEST RESTAURANT 1. DJ’s Steakhouse at Jumer’s Casino & Hotel 2. The Reserve at Harrah’s Joliet 3. Boyd’s Steakhouse at Par-ADice Hotel Casino
BEST CASINO PERSONNEL 1. Harrah’s Joliet 2. Harrah’s Metropolis 3. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel
Best Casino Floor, Nightlife and Entertainment: Jumer’s Casino & Hotel
G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |
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INDIANA AWARDS
BEST OVERALL PROPERTY
Best Theme: Hollywood Lawrenceburg
Belterra Casino Resort
BEST OVERALL PROPERTY
BEST RESTAURANT 1. William B’s at Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa 2. Wellington’s Steakhouse at Rising Star Casino Resort 3. Bugatti’s at Ameristar Casino East Chicago
BELTERRA CASINO RESORT 1
2
HORSESHOE HAMMOND
AMERISTAR CASINO EAST CHICAGO 3
BEST BUFFET 1. The Buffet at Belterra Casino Resort 2. The Grand Buffet at Indiana Grand Racing Casino 3. The Spread at Horseshoe Indiana
BEST SUITES 1. Belterra Casino Resort 2. Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa 3. Horseshoe Hammond
BEST AMENITIES
BEST THEME
BEST PLAYER’S CLUB
1. Hollywood Lawrenceburg 2. French Lick Resort 3. Rising Star Casino Resort
1. Belterra Casino Resort 2. Horseshoe Hammond 3. Ameristar Casino East Chicago
BEST CASINO PERSONNEL
BEST RACETRACK/RACINO
1. Rising Star Casino Resort 2. Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa 3. Indiana Grand Racing Casino
1. Indiana Grand Racing Casino 2. Hoosier Park Racing & Casino
BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE 1. Ameristar Casino East Chicago 2. Horseshoe Hammond 3. Rising Star Casino Resort
BEST ENTERTAINMENT 1. Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa 2. Belterra Casino Resort 3. Horseshoe Hammond BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE 1. Belterra Casino Resort 2. Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa 3. Horseshoe Hammond
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1. Belterra Casino Resort 2. Indiana Grand Racing Casino 3. Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa
1. Belterra Casino Resort 2. French Lick Resort 3. Rising Star Casino Resort
BEST POKER ROOM 1. Hollywood Lawrenceburg 2. Horseshoe Southern Indiana 3. Horseshoe Hammond
1. Horseshoe Hammond 2. Hollywood Lawrenceburg 3. Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa
BEST GOLF COURSE
BEST CASINO FLOOR 1. Indiana Grand Racing Casino 2. Horseshoe Southern Indiana 3. Hollywood Lawrenceburg
BEST ADVERTISING
1. French Lick Resort 2. Belterra Casino Resort 3. Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa
BEST ROOMS 1. Horseshoe Hammond 2. Belterra Casino Resort 3. Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa
BEST NIGHTLIFE
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Best Casino Personnel: Rising Star Casino Resort
IOWA AWARDS
BEST OVERALL PROPERTY
Best Restaurant: Otis & Henry’s at Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City
BEST OVERALL PROPERTY
BEST RESTAURANT
HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO SIOUX CITY 1
GRAND FALLS CASINO & GOLF RESORT 2
3
AMERISTAR COUNCIL
BLUFFS BEST SUITES 1. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City 2. Riverside Casino & Golf Resort 3. Harrah’s Council Bluffs BEST ROOMS 1. Ameristar Council Bluffs 2. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City 3. Harrah’s Council Bluffs BEST CASINO FLOOR 1. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City 2. Ameristar Council Bluffs 3. Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort BEST POKER ROOM 1. Horseshoe Council Bluffs 2. WinnaVegas Casino Resort 3. Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf
1. Otis & Henry’s Steakhouse at Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo 2. Ruthie’s Steak & Seafood at Riverside Casino & Golf Resort 3. 360 Steakhouse at Harrah’s Council Bluffs BEST BUFFET 1. World Buffet at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City 2. Haritage Buffet at Ameristar Council Bluffs 3. Robert’s Buffet at Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort BEST AMENITIES 1. Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort 2. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City 3. Ameristar Council Bluffs
BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE 1. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City 2. Lakeside Hotel Casino 3. Harrah’s Council Bluffs
BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE 1. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City 2. Riverside Casino & Golf Resort 3. Harrah’s Council Bluffs BEST ADVERTISING
BEST NIGHTLIFE
1. Harrah’s Council Bluffs 2. Riverside Casino & Golf Resort 3. Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo
1. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City 2. Ameristar Council Bluffs 3. Horseshoe Council Bluffs
BEST PLAYER’S CLUB
BEST THEME
1. Ameristar Council Bluffs 2. Harrah’s Council Bluffs Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort
1. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City 2. Horseshoe Council Bluffs 3. Harrah’s Council Bluffs BEST CASINO PERSONNEL 1. Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort 2. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City 3. Lakeside Hotel Casino
BEST GOLF COURSE 1. Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort 2. Riverside Casino & Golf Resort 3. Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf BEST ENTERTAINMENT 1. Harrah’s Council Bluffs 2. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City 3. Lakeside Hotel Casino
Best Amenities: Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort
G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |
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MISSOURI AWARDS
BEST OVERALL PROPERTY
Best Entertainment Venue: River City Casino & Hotel
BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
Ameristar Casino Resort & Spa St. charles BEST POKER ROOM 1. River City Casino & Hotel 2. Hollywood Casino St. Louis 3. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotel
BEST OVERALL PROPERTY
AMERISTAR CASINO RESORT & SPA ST. CHARLES 1
2
BEST RESTAURANT 1. Bugati Steaks & Seafood at Ameristar Casino Resort & Spa St. Charles 2. 37 Steak at Harrah’s North Kansas City 3. Cielo Restaurant at Lumiere Place Casino & Hotel
LUMIERE PLACE
CASINO & HOTEL HARRAH’S NORTH KANSAS CITY 3
BEST NIGHTLIFE 1. Ameristar Casino Resort & Spa St. Charles 2. Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa 3. Harrah’s North Kansas City
BEST ADVERTISING 1. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotel 2. Ameristar Casino Resort & Spa St. Charles 3. River City Casino & Hotel BEST PLAYER’S CLUB
BEST THEME 1. Hollywood Casino St. Louis 2. River City Casino & Hotel 3. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotel
1. Ameristar Casino Resort & Spa St. Charles 2. Harrah’s North Kansas City 3. Hollywood Casino St. Louis
BEST CASINO PERSONNEL BEST BUFFET
1. River City Casino & Hotel 2. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotel 3. Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa
BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE 1. Hollywood Casino St. Louis 2. Harrah’s North Kansas City 3. River City Casino & Hotel
1. Ameristar Casino Resort & Spa St. Charles 2. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotel 3. Harrah’s North Kansas City
1. Terrace Buffet at Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa 2. Landmark Buffet at Ameristar Casino Resort & Spa St. Charles 3. River City Casino & Hotel
BEST ROOMS
BEST AMENITIES
1. Ameristar Casino Resort & Spa St. Charles 2. Hollywood Casino St. Louis 3. Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa
1. Ameristar Casino Resort & Spa St. Charles 2. Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa 3. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotel
BEST CASINO FLOOR
BEST ENTERTAINMENT
1. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotel 2. Harrah’s North Kansas City 3. Ameristar Casino Resort & Spa St. Charles
1. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotel 2. Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa 3. River City Casino & Hotel
BEST SUITES
1. Hollywood Casino St. Louis 2. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotel 3. Ameristar Casino Resort & Spa St. Charles
Best Casino Floor, Entertainment & Advertising: Lumiere Place Casino & Hotel
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SOUTH DAKOTA AWARDS
BEST OVERALL PROPERTY
Best Poker Room: The Lodge at Deadwood Gaming Resort
Gold Dust Casino & Hotel
BEST OVERALL PROPERTY
GOLD DUST CASINO & HOTEL 1
GTHE LODGE AT DEADWOOD GAMING RESORT 2
CADILLAC JACKS GAMING RESORT 3
BEST SUITES 1. Gold Dust Casino & Hotel 2. The Lodge at Deadwood Gaming Resort 3. Cadillac Jacks Gaming Resort BEST ROOMS 1. Gold Dust Casino & Hotel 2. Celebrity Hotel 3. Cadillac Jacks Gaming Resort BEST CASINO FLOOR 1. The Lodge at Deadwood Gaming Resort 2. Cadillac Jacks Gaming Resort 3. Tin Lizzie’s Casino Resort BEST POKER ROOM 1. The Lodge at Deadwood Gaming Resort 2. Cadillac Jacks Gaming Resort
BEST RESTAURANT 1. The Lodge at Deadwood Gaming Resort 2. Cadillac Jacks Gaming Resort 3. Tin Lizzie’s Casino Resort
BEST ADVERTISING 1. The Lodge at Deadwood Gaming Resort 2. Cadillac Jacks Gaming Resort Tin Lizzie’s Casino Resort BEST PLAYER’S CLUB 1. The Lodge at Deadwood Gaming Resort 2. Cadillac Jacks Gaming Resort 3. Gold Dust Casino & Hotel Best Amenities: Gold Dust Casino & Hotel
BEST AMENITIES 1. Gold Dust Casino & Hotel 2. The Lodge at Deadwood Gaming Resort 3. Celebrity Hotel BEST NIGHTLIFE 1. The Lodge at Deadwood Gaming Resort 2. Gold Dust Casino & Hotel 3. Celebrity Hotel
BEST THEME 1. Cadillac Jacks Gaming Resort 2. Celebrity Hotel 3. The Lodge at Deadwood Gaming Resort BEST CASINO PERSONNEL 1. Cadillac Jacks Gaming Resort 2. Gold Dust Casino & Hotel 3. The Lodge at Deadwood Gaming Resort BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE 1. Gold Dust Casino & Hotel 2. Cadillac Jacks Gaming Resort 3. Tin Lizzie’s Casino Resort
Best Theme: Cadillac Jacks Gaming Resort
G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |
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2 016 T OU R N E V E N T OF C H A M P ION S I S
R E A DY T O ROL L by
O
n its own, a slot tournament is an incomparable experience, wonder f u l ly capt u r ing t he excitement and anticipation that the casino environment can create for people. But when you take that slot tournament, structure it as a national competition, invite participation among properties and players across the nation, and hang up a $1 million championship prize, you have the ingredients for a “can’t miss” thrill of a lifetime. That’s what makes the TournEvent of Champions® 2016, coming soon to a casino near you, so special. Tied to no single casino brand, the tournament is a veritable “open” competition for slot enthusiasts as well as the casino properties that host it.
First held in 2012 as regional events in California and Washington, the concept is the brainchild of Linda Trinh, the vicepresident of marketing and promotions for Everi Holdings Inc., a leading provider of content, technology, and gaming-related software to the global casino industry. One of Everi’s award winning products is the trademarked TournEvent®, a slot tournament system that gives casino 16
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J O H N G . B RO KO PP
operators the ability to convert slot machines into tournament mode easily and seamlessly with the click of a mouse.
an experience that most people will never have. The tournaments we hosted on site did just that.”
Trinh’s idea to market the TournEvent system as a solution for casinos to allow software to simplify the creation of the coveted world-class slot tournament was to formulate collaboration between Everi Holdings and casinos across the country through a national slot tournament.
That experience really paid off for their guests.
“I am proud to say TournEvent of Champions is my baby,” Trinh said. “We have seen it grow from a regional event with $25,000 in cash prizes to a national competition with a prize of over $1 million to the champion.” Trinh characterized the involvement of Everi in TournEvent of Champions as a “third party.” This unique industry alliance creates a win-win-win proposition among Everi, the properties, and the players themselves. “We have an opportunity to bring scope and excitement to gaming jurisdictions without taking their business,” Trinh explained. “TournEvent of Champions allows casinos of any size to participate and have an opportunity to create a firstclass tournament environment and the chance for players to compete for a $1 million prize.” Barry McGrady, director of gaming at Little River Casino Resort in Manistee, Mich., knows first-hand what this impact brought to his player base. “Last year was the first year we signed up to participate,” McGrady said. “The resort saw this as an opportunity to generate interest in our property as well as create excitement with our guests by delivering
“They had a great time,” he continued. “The TournEvent program has been great to work with and it really added value to how our tournaments were being run. They are fun, interactive, and create high energy with our guests by giving them the opportunity to engage and challenge other players in each round.” FINALLY FINALISTS Mike and Lori Makowski of Traverse City, Mich., have personal knowledge of the Everi TournEvent of Champions experience. The husband and wife team are past tournament finalists. Lori, representing Turtle Creek Casino in their hometown, finished 10th in 2013 when the championship was held at the Venetian in Las Vegas. Mike was a finalist from Little River Casino last year at Wynn Las Vegas XS Night Club. “I won $2,000 for my 10th place finish and had the time of my life,” Lori said. “It was our first slot tournament experience. We had so much fun. There is nothing to
compare to the excitement. It was truly an unbeatable time.” Lori admitted the competition can be intense, especially the anticipation of progressing through the rounds of play, but she had a way of breaking the tension. “I loved to rub ‘The Money Man’s’ head,” she said, making reference to the iconic face and character of the TournEvent of Champions mascot. “I also loved all the excitement the announcer brought to the competition. He was great.” “I didn’t do as good as my wife in my tournament,” Mike chimed in. “But all the fun we had made up for it.” Mike’s button-pushing technique? “Fast and furious,” he said without a moment’s hesitation. So just what is it about slot tournaments that players crave and casinos are eager to deliver? Slot tournaments are truly in a class by themselves. By the very nature of slot play, success or failure in them is founded on pure luck. But try to explain that to the participants themselves or the rooting galleries behind them! The players can be a study in concentration, their eyes riveted on the reels that spin before them as they ring up combinations of winning and losing symbols. They can be as intensely competitive as poker players as they employ their own particular style of button-pushing in an attempt to lock into a winning rhythm. They can be quiet or they can be loud— VERY loud—as they shout encouragement to their electronic cohorts. They can tap the play button or they can pound it. Players of every persuasion may be found at any given tournament. Some slot tournament participants insist upon wearing a glove on their playing hand to protect their precious digits, the accessory almost an armament to battle. They are the warriors of the casino, pugilists determined to outsmart the computer program against which they’re pitted while at the same time intimidating their opponents, not to mention Dame Fortune. Players may opt to surround themselves with lucky charms of all to entice Lady Luck to smile kindly upon them, or they may engage in mystical rituals, such as wearing certain clothing, eating special foods, or doing something the very same way they did it the last time they won in
fervent hope of a repeat performance. For slot tournament players, the onearmed bandit can be their best friend or their worst enemy, their source of unlimited joy or taunting frustration, their ticket to riches or their bitter disappointment. When you win, you feel like hugging your machine. When you lose, you feel like kicking it. It’s an experience every dedicated slot player deserves to have, and thanks to Everi and TournEvent of Champions, it’s all possible. Even Trinh herself is ecstatic with the leaps and bounds by which her “baby” has grown, knowing its meteoric rise in popularity is an expression of the casinos themselves. REEL GOOD TIMES The first “real” TournEvent of Champions was held in 2013. Eighty-eight players representing 77 casinos competed for the first national title and a $100,000 grand prize. The next year, which saw Wynn Las Vegas XS Night Club host the finals for the first time, 123 finalists from 104 casinos battled for $500,000 in prize money. Last year, the first millionaire was minted from among a quarter of a million players from 99 casinos in the United States, Canada, and even Peru. One hundred and eighty-two finalists went to the championship of the $1.4 million competition, won by Rita Kellerman, who represented Ho-Chunk Gaming in the Wisconsin Dells.
grow. Several new markets are represented by properties eager to create a never-before felt experience for their player bases. Two things are certain. First, The Money Man® will make a personal appearance at each participating property to encourage and cheer on the players, and second, each participating casino will receive a Norwegian Cruise Line package to be given away during the qualifiers. The cruise package is for seven days and is valued at $1,500. Once the individual casino competitions get under way, each winning representative will receive $800 in round-trip airfare for two to Las Vegas; four-night hotel accommodations; transfers to and from McCarran International Airport; food and beverage credit; and of course a seat in the championship finals boasting over $1.3 million in prizes. The championship finals are scheduled for September 28 at the Wynn Las Vegas XS Night Club. So bring along whatever makes you feel lucky to a participating casino and give those reels a spin for a chance to become a millionaire in the gaming world’s true slot championship. FOR A FULL LIST OF TOURNEVENT DATES AND MORE INFORMATION, VISIT TOURNEVENTOFCHAMPIONS.COM
Starting in the spring and continuing through the end of Aug ust, each participating casino has the ability to structure its semi-finals and finals however they choose. Everi’s promotions team provides properties with the general guidelines. An assigned Everi promotions specialist works with each casino to ensure each TournEvent of Champions tournament is a success. Properties are free to schedule the events when they choose. In so doing, some casinos will host a single event while others stretch out the semi-final tournaments over a period of time. Some casinos choose to charge a buy-in for players to participate, some tournaments are free, while still others are by VIP invitation. Many casinos are already on board to participate in this year’s 5th TournEvent of Champions, and the list continues to G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |
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TOP SHOWS OF GARTH BROOKS AND SIN CITY: THE SUMMER SHOWS OF SIN CITY.SOUNDS HOT
SUMMER
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OF
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as Vegas prepares to sizzle with a historic line-up of legendary acts.
Summer temperatures in Las Vegas regularly top 100 degrees, and this summer is going to be hotter than ever. It’s not due to El Nino, global warming or any other natural phenomenon. Rather, it’s because one of the hottest entertainment line-ups in recent history is set to engulf the gaming and destination capital of the world. From country music’s biggest stars to the greatest legends of comedy, mixed in with some of the most classic of classic rock bands, there’ll be just about something for everyone by the time the pavement starts shimmering with noonday heat along the famous Strip.
Following are some the acts that have us the most hot and bothered for Summer 2016.
GARTH BROOKS When word began to spread of Las Vegas’ newest performance venue, the 20,000 seat T-Mobile Arena, (for more, read below), expectations were high about the artists who would be big enough the venue. And so far, the roster has been as big as expected. Within the first few weeks of opening, Billy Joel, Guns N Roses, Janet Jackson, and Nicki Minaj had all performed, but probably the biggest name announced to date was none other than Garth Brooks. Tickets for the July 2-4 shows sold out so quickly, two more dates in June were added. For country music lovers, just seeing Brooks would be more than enough, but as always, too much is never enough in Las Vegas, so country superstar (and Brooks’ wife) Trisha Yearwood will join Brooks for his performances. Younger fans of Garth Brooks may not recall the shock and disappointment many felt when the country icon announced his retirement in 2001. Brooks decided he wanted to spend time raising his children and dropped the mic on one of the most successful careers in country music history. Brooks earned dozens of
Country Music Awards, 13 Grammy nominations, two Grammy wins and just about every established award and accolade not only in country music, but in the recording industry in general. According to the Recording Industry Association of America, Brooks is either the first or second best-selling solo artist in the 20th century, depending on how they’re feeling about Elvis Presley on any given day. Regardless, Brooks was at the top of his game in 2001 and walked away from it all to raise his family in Oklahoma. In 2005, he began performing occasionally, and released several compilation albums and box sets. Still, fans clamoring for new material were forced to wait. Finally, in 2009, after performing at a concert commemorating Barack Obama’s inauguration, Brooks began approaching a comeback in earnest. In October 2009, he began a limited residency at the Encore Las Vegas. The terms of the engagement allowed Brooks to maintain his family lifestyle in Oklahoma and speed back to Las Vegas for his shows.
Comedian Ron White will perform June 10 and 11 and Mirage.
In 2014, the news Brooks fans had been waiting to hear for years broke: He announced a three-year-tour with wife Trisha Yearwood. The announcement coincided with the release of a new single, “People Loving People,” and his ninth studio album, “Man Against Machine.” The tour included performances all
across the U.S., in nearly every major metropolitan area. The tour is expected to go international in 2017, with dates in Europe, South America and Australia to be announced. Brooks fans who are lucky enough to see the show in Las Vegas can expect to hear a few new songs, but mainly fan favorites such as “Rodeo,” “The Thunder Rolls,” “Friends in Low Places,” and “Two of A Kind, Workin’ on a Full House.” While some musicians and bands try to play as much new music as possible when touring, Brooks seems to know that his fans prefer to hear more of the classics. As he said to one audience, “I’m just like you. I pay my money. I see the guys I like and I want to hear the old stuff.” The obligatory encore set usually includes “The Fever,” possibly a cover or two, and “Much Too Young (To Feel This Damn Old).” R e v ie w s of t h e to u r h a v e b e e n overwhelmingly positive, and while a few critics have mentioned that Yearwood has the better voice of the couple, they also note that years of retirement haven’t caused any drop in either Brooks’ performing abilities or his fans’ response. Brooks will perform at the T-Mobile Arena June 24-25 at 7 p.m., July 2 at 7 p.m., July 3 at 7 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. and July 4 at 5 p.m. All tickets are $85 including all taxes and fees, and as of this writing, some seats are still available. A limited number of VIP packages are also available for the shows, and these packages include tickets, private dinner in a VIP room at the T-Mobile arena, a private tour of the Garth Brooks traveling museum, a custom acoustic guitar personalized by Garth Brooks and a variety of other goodies. Fans wishing to grab one of these packages can expect to pay $3,500 for one person or $5,000 for a couple.
COUNTRY The new T-Mobile Arena will feature several big names in country music, beginning with “King of Country” George Strait. Although Strait officially G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |
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retired from touring in 2014, he will appear in a limited residency at the T-Mobile Arena. Currently Strait has announced eight dates at the Arena, including September 9-10. On July 16, the T-Mobile Arena will host the Dixie Chicks, who will bring their DCX MMXVI World Tour fresh from a spring swing through Europe. Dwight Yoakum will bring his Second Hand Heart to the Venetian for two shows, on June 3-4. And while the unofficial end of summer happens on Labor Day, the summer will continue to stay hot in Las Vegas through the end of September, when the Route 91 Harvest Country Music Festival returns to Las Vegas for a three-day run. This must-see event features a Who’s Who of country music every year, and this year boasts a star-studded lineup including Toby Keith, Brad Paisley, Luke Bryan, and Little Big Town, among others. Now in it’s third year, this three-day extravaganza is becoming the country music cousin to New Orleans’ Jazz Fest, with not only musicians but also vendors, food and all sorts of other attractions. Tickets are $210 and are only available for the entire event; single day passes are not available. But why would you want to miss of it? As audiences age and musical styles go in and out of fashion, many of the biggest bands from the 70s, 80s and even 90s have found new life on the casino circuit. While many of these bands can no longer fill a 20,000 seat arena, their fans will still flock to see them when their schedules coincide with a trip to Las Vegas. Here are a few of the bands that will show that they can still rock with the best of them. As a side note, nearly all of the following bands have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Fresh off their long-awaited induction Hall of Fame, legendary soft-rock band Chicago will visit the Palms Casino’s Pearl Theater on July 9. California’s Jackson Browne will also be appearing at the Pearl on August 20. MGM Grand will see performances by Hall of Famers Black Sabbath, featuring the final tour with front man Ozzy Osbourne and guitarist Tony Iommi; rock and soul legends Hall and Oates will visit MG as well. Hardrocking Annie and Nancy Wilson will 20
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bring their band Heart to Mandalay Bay’s House of Blues venue for three shows, June 2-4, and Brit-Punk Rocker Billy Idol will stop by the House of Blues on August 31. Mandalay Bay will also host 80s radio mainstays Journey, Huey Lewis and the News, Doobie Brothers, and Duran Duran. Canadian rocker Bryan Adams will perform at the Chelsea at the Cosmopolitan on July 2, which also will feature performances by R & R Hall of Famer Steve Miller on August 2, and a double bill pairing Lynyrd Skynyrd and 70s mega-artist Peter Frampton. Caesar’s Palace has featured a residency by Celine Dion since the departure of Bette Midler in 2010; however, Dion is taking the summer off. In her stead, Caesar’s will host a variety of superstars, including Mariah Carey in June, Reba McEntire and Brooks & Dunn in July and Rod Stewart in August.
HEADLINE COMEDY Of course, there are quite a few comedy clubs in Las Vegas, but nothing compares to seeing a nationally known comedian working a “big room.” Summer 2016 boasts one of the best comedy lineups Las Vegas has seen in years. Comedian and ventriloquist Jeff Dunham will bring his cast of zany characters including Walter, Bubba J, Achmed, and of course, Peanut, to Caesar’s Colosseum Theater on June 5 as a stop on his Perfectly Unbalanced tour. Other headliners who will bring the laughs to the desert include Jay Leno, at the Mirage on June 4; Ron White, at the Mirage on June 10-11; Kathy Griffin on July 1, “Let’s Make A Deal’s” Wayne Brady on July 3, followed by Bill Maher on July 22-23, and finally Tim Allen on July 30.
The 20,000 seat T-Mobile Arena will host the Top Acts in Las Vegas.
The Mirage isn’t the only place audiences will be laughing this summer; other casinos will host big name comedians such as Steven Wright and Carlos Mencia (The Orleans); “Mike and Molly” star Billy Gardell (TI); and 2015’s “America’s Got Talent” winner Paul Zerdin at Planet Hollywood. Of course, all of these special events are in addition to the myriad of ongoing residencies, up-and-coming stars and nightly comedy clubs shows that make Las Vegas the entertainment capital of the world. If you’re planning on visiting Las Vegas this summer, consider buying tickets to your favorite acts as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
LAS VEGAS’ NEWEST GAMBLE The construction slowdown that followed the 2008 recession seems like a distant memor y now, as mega-hotels keep expanding, and returning to Las Vegas after only a few months absence greets you with all kinds of new structures. One of the newest and most eagerly awaited is the T-Mobile arena, a state-of-the-art facility that represents a joint venture between MGM Resorts International and entertainment company AEG. The 20,000 seat arena represents the largest fixed indoor seating capacity to date in the city and was built with an eye toward attracting a major league sports team to the area, ideally either an NHL or NBA franchise. To attract a professional sports team, the new arena has been built to accept either an NBA hardwood court or a hockey surface, and there are already a few Zambonis ready to rock.
OFTEN IMITATED. NEVER DUPLICATED.
ARRIVE A WINNER.
LEAVE A LEGEND.
THE MILLION DOLLAR EVENT™* Stake your claim to the title of best slot tournament player as the 2016 TournEvent of Champions® comes to a casino near you. Visit www.TOURNEVENT.com to find out where, when and how to take the first step towards the Million Dollar Grand Prize!*
Powers the casino floor.™
everi.com
*The One Million Dollar Grand Prize will be awarded using periodic payments over 20 years. G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |
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T R I PL E C ROW N T R AC K C OM PA R I S ON S : F I N DI NG T H E BI A S
W
hen it comes to Triple Crowns, I have been trackside for every near-miss over the last two decades. From Silver Charm in 1997 to California Chrome in 2014, and the seven others that fell between. Like many who follow the Sport of Kings closely, there was a piece of me that thought it would never happen again. Then, on June 6, 2015, an equine named American Pharoah blazed across Belmont Park’s sandy straightaway, straight into history. At long last, the wait was finally over. After a 37 year drought, Thoroughbred racing finally had its twelfth Triple Crown Champion. Now, there’s absolutely nothing I can
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by
E R I C F LOY D
pen about American Pharoah that hasn’t already been put down on parchment, probably a thousand times over. Every accolade has already been consigned and rightfully so. Certainly without question, he’s the best I’ve ever seen and that’s saying something because I’ve had the privilege to regard horses like Real Quiet, Point Given, Tiznow, Smarty Jones, Ghostzapper, Afleet Alex, Barbaro, Bernardini, Street Sense, Curlin, Big Brown, Rachel Alexandra, I’ll Have Another and Wise Dan. Even the great mare Zenyatta (active 2008-2010), who came within a breath of going undefeated her entire career, def initively ranks
behind the racer that captured America’s imagination last spring. Sent off to stud duty after his resounding romp in the 2015 Breeders’ Cup Classic, American Pharoah’s retirement induced a plethora of sorrow. See, by year’s end, it had become glaringly apparent that this was a once-in-a-lifetime horse, a freak of nature the likes of which mankind might never see again. And yet for all that, for all the excitement and hoopla, we, the members of Horse Racing Nation, must now turn the page. Indeed, it’s time to start all over again in what might be called our perpetual quest to experience that one fleeting moment of perfection.
Now by the time most of you read this, the results for the 2016 Kentucky Derby will have become official. Moreover, an all-consuming debate will have started concerning the prospect of a succeeding Triple Crown Champion. Hence, the Preakness Stakes will commandeer the spotlight, and seeing as how this engagement is (traditionally) an excellent investment opportunity, let’s take timeout to review a few tried and true betting angles. I’ve often said that within the makeup of the Triple Crown series, the Preakness Stakes is the only race which resembles, well, a regular race. Because so much hype surrounds the Kentucky Derby, thought patterns tend to go haywire. For example, the antiquated handicapping principle known as dosage invariably becomes salient doctrine around the First Saturday in May. Something to remember also is the fact that punters are virtually never asked to figure a 20 horse field except on that day when they run for the roses. On the flipside of the coin, we have the Belmont Stakes. Distinct in its own right, the Test of Champions is the only annually written 12 furlong (1 ½ mile) route for 3-year-olds in all of North America. That unique distance makes it poles apart from the tracks for the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes. The 1 3/16 mile Preakness is run exactly two weeks after the Kentucky Derby. A race which more often than not runs to form, the Triple Crown’s middle jewel is a virtual haven for chalk players—gamblers who prefer to bet the favorite. Case in point, over the last 15 years, the posttime favorite has won the Preakness nine times. That’s a winning percentage of 60 percent. To put this into perspective, on regular basis at tracks across America, favorites win only 33 percent of the time. Also worth mentioning is the fact that the Preakness favorite has hit the board (finished 1st, 2nd or 3rd) in 16 out of the last 19 years.
Since the Kentucky Derby Champion almost always ships to Pimlico Race Course (the home of the Preakness) to continue the pursuit of the Triple Crown, said horse embodies phase one of our handicapping process. Incidentally, since only 10 of the last 20 Kentucky Derby Champions have gone on to win the Preakness, it’s wise to think twice before you blindly bet the mortgage on that racer who ran roughshod over Louisville. Typically, I find that you can gauge the Derby champ’s strength by counting how many also-rans enter the Preakness. Truly,
One last point of interest on the Preakness is that the exotics are usually rather predictable. For example, in 2012 the Kentucky Derby exacta (I’ll Have Another/ Bodemeister) repeated verbatim in Baltimore to the tune of $18.60 for a $2 wager. One year later in 2013, the Preakness superfecta (Oxbow/ Itsmyluckyday/My Lute/Orb) included the Derby champ and three also-rans yet paid $1817.80 for a $1 wager! Three weeks after the dust settles in Baltimore, Horse Racing Nation’s collective attention turns toward that locale known as the Big Apple. Pegged
The Preakness Stakes Pimlico Race Course: Baltimore Maryland
if only a few Louisville losers try their luck at Pimlico, then what transpired beneath the Twin Spires was likely legitimate. On the other hand, if a slew of them enter the Preakness, it’s a tale-tell sign that the Derby result was probably a fluke. Another Preakness axiom to keep in the forefront of your frontal lobe is: If you’re betting to WIN, avoid the new shooters! Since 1997, only three non-Derby starters have worn the blanket of Black Eyed Susan’s: Red Bullet (2000), Bernardini (2006) and the acclaimed filly Rachel Alexandria (2009).
by horsemen, the media and casual observers as the third and final leg of the Triple Crown series, the Belmont Stakes marks the end of a mini-season and therefore serves as a fiscal finale for those who characterize themselves as punters. What I’m really trying to say is that for those souls who’ve already invested in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, the Test of Champions generally ends up being a make-or-break endeavor. Inaugurated in 1867, the Belmont Stakes was originally contested at Jerome Park Racecourse in the Bronx, NY. This now G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |
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defunct hippodrome was the brainchild of one Leonard Jerome, a powerful, late 19th-century financier otherwise known as the King of Wall Street. Just in case you were wondering), the Belmont Stakes is named after Leonard Jerome’s closest confidant, one August Belmont. An influential politician and avid racing enthusiast, Belmont also holds the distinction of being The Jockey Club’s foundational chairman. Subsequent to Jerome Park’s eradication in 1890, the Belmont Stakes was held at nearby Morris Park Racecourse. Ultimately, it became a permanent part of Belmont Park ’s landscape in the year 1905. Now since we’re talking history, here are some more fun facts from the index labeled “In Case You Didn’t Know.” The Belmont’s distance varied between nine and 13 furlongs (one furlong equals an eighth of a mile) for the first 59 years of its existence. The current 1 ½ mile distance became standard in 1926. National antigambling legislation actually led to the cancellation of the Belmont in 1911-1912. During Belmont Park’s vast renovation,
The Belmont Stakes Belmont Park: Elmont, New York
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which lasted from 1963 to 1967, the Triple Crown’s third jewel was held at Aqueduct Racetrack. The f irst-ever American post-parade occurred prior to the 1880 Belmont Stakes. Finally, up until 1921, the Test of Champions was run clockwise, like the majority of today’s international competitions. Presented next in no particular order, here are my three favorite premises for betting the Belmont Stakes. Take up with an experienced Belmont jockey. Seldom do I obsess over which soul is in the irons, except when it comes to the Belmont Stakes. See, due to Belmont Park’s uncommon 1 ½ circumference, your typical rookie will precipitately accelerate. Consequently, their mount ends up foundering mid-way down the straightaway. Any entrant capable of obtaining an uncontested lead is live. Because closing types are so concerned with making a premature move, the Belmont’s pacesetter often gets away with soft early fractions. As a result, that equine on the engine
often goes wire-to-wire. A prime example
of this occurred in 2008, when Da’ Tara loped along for a mile before he pulled away to win by 5 ¼ lengths at odds of 38-1.
Consider fresher horses. It’s an enormous
understatement to say that the Triple
Crown Series physically taxes a 3-yearold Thoroughbred. Normally, horses don’t participate in three different races over
three different surfaces within a five week period, so even an extremely fit equine
will be marginally fatigued by the time
they touch down in New York. Nine out
of the last ten Belmont Stakes Champions have sat out the Kentucky Derby and/or
the Preakness Stakes: Jazil (2006), Rags to Riches (2007), Da’ Tara (2008), Summer
Bird (2009), Drosselmeyer (2010), Ruler On Ice (2011), Union Rags (2012), Palice Malice (2013) and Tonalist (2014).
Friends, it’s my sincere hope that this article helps put a few extra sawbucks in
your pocket. Best of luck to all as together
as we continue down the 2016 Triple Crown trail.
G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |
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S T R AT E GY SE S S ION: BE T T I NG OP P O S I T E S
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hat opposites attract is a given if you’re talking magnetic poles, but do opposites attract casino comps without also attracting the risk of substantial gambling losses? Players have tried to let opposites attract freebies without losing money on the games for decades, ever since casinos started giving rooms, meals, show tickets and more to keep the customers coming back. For example, in roulette, you could bet red while a partner bets black, or you could bet odd where a partner bets even. In craps, you could bet pass while a partner bets don’t pass. And in baccarat, you could bet banker while a partner bets player.
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by
JOHN GROCHOWSKI
The theory is that your wins cancel out your partner’s losses, the partner’s wins cancel out your losses, and you both pad your comp accounts. Does that really work? Let’s take a look at how this plays in some popular games. ROULETTE On a busy casino night, I sat at a coffee shop counter and overheard a man and a woman planning their roulette attack. One would bet red, the other black. Wins would balance losses. They wouldn’t lose any money, but they’d get their comps for free. Or so they thought. What they’d neglected to take into account was that whenever the spin was 0 or 00, they’d lose
BOTH bets! Let’s say the two of them were each betting on the same side, each wagering $5 on red, for $10 at risk on each spin of the wheel. In a perfect sequence of 38 spins that brought one of each number, 1 through 36 plus 0 and 00, they would risk a total of $380. On the 18 red numbers, they’d collect $180 in winnings plus keep their $180 in wagers. So at the end of the sequence, they’d have $360, and the house would have $20 of the original $380. Divide the $20 in losses by $380 in risk, then multiply by 100 to convert to percent, and you have the normal 5.26 percent house edge for double-zero roulette.
Now let’s move into opposites mode, where one wagers $5 on red and the other wagers $5 on black. On 36 of the 38 numbers, the red and black wagers would cancel out. One bet would win, the other would lose. That leaves two more numbers, 0 and 00. On those, both red and black lose, meaning the couple loses $10 on 0 and $10 more on 00. That’s a total of $20 in losses. At the end of our 38-spin sample, the couple has $360 of its original $380 in wagers, and the house has $20, the same as if they’d not bet opposite sides. Those $20 in losses from $380 in wagers comes to 5.26 percent in the casino coffers. Yep, the same house edge we’ve been talking all along. Both would build comps while they played, but they’d be paying for them in normal losses. VERDICT: No free comps from opposites in Roulette. CRAPS Here’s one that a friend actually proposed to me. “You’re always looking for an edge, right?” he said. “How about if we dine in the steakhouse for free tonight? I’ll bet
pass, you bet don’t pass. Then we settle up wins and losses afterwards, and we’re all even. We can bet it up, $25, $50, and get the comp fast. We don’t lose anything.” I laughed. His suggestion is one I’ve heard from craps players in emails dozens of times, and dozens of times before that when the questions used to come via snail mail. But it doesn’t work, for a similar reason betting opposites doesn’t work in roulette. Most of the time, when a Pass bet loses, a Don’t Pass bet wins. However, when the shooter rolls a 12 on the come-out, Pass bets lose, but Don’t Pass bets merely push. For that roll, the Pass loss is not offset by an opposite win. If you bet $5 on Pass and I bet $5 on Don’t Pass, on 35 of 36 possible come-out rolls our bets will cancel out. But on the 12, your Pass bet will lose and my Don’t Pass bet will push. That gives us a net $5 in losses from our $360 in wagers per 36 come-outs. Divide 5 by 360, then multiply it by 100 to convert to percent, and you have a house edge of 1.39 percent. That’s the average of the 1.41 percent house edge
on the Pass line and the 1.36 percent house edge on Don’t Pass. VERDICT: Opposites don’t attract free comps on this system, either. You just spot the house the same edge it gets on Pass and Don’t Pass bets from different bettors all day long. B A C C A R AT. H e r e ’s o n e m o r e opportunity to bet opposites that I once saw a player try to pull off by himself instead of working with a partner. A man who appeared to be in his early 50s, wearing a jacket and tie, bought in at a mini-baccarat table where I was already playing. He then put down a $10 bet on banker, then surprised everyone by also putting down a $10 bet on player. The dealer did a double take, then said, “Choose.” The player said, “Excuse me?” And the dealer replied, “Choose. You can’t bet against yourself.” There was a low-key exchange of words, the pit supervisor was called in for a ruling, but eventually the player took down his player bet and let his banker bet stay.
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If he had left both bets up, his opposites still wouldn’t have offset each other. The arithmetic is a little more complicated than in craps or roulette because there are more possibilities when you’re dealing with eight decks of cards than with 38 roulette numbers or two six-sided dice. There is also another complicating factor in that bettors must pay the house a 5 percent commission on any winning bets on banker, while they pay no commission on winning bets on player. That’s because banker bets win more often than player bets. If the house didn’t charge a commission, customers would have an edge on banker bets, and that doesn’t fly in casinos! Per 1,000 hands, banker bets win about 459 times, player bets win about 446 times, and the remaining 95 hands are ties. If you’re betting banker or player, ties push, so we can disregard them in this bit of number play. There’s some rounding in that there are nearly five quadrillion possible combinations in eight-
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deck baccarat, and if we wanted pinpoint precision the numbers we’d be using would be 2,292,252,566,437,888 banker winners and 2,230,518,282,592,256 player winners, according to wizardofodds.com, but for a quick, easy example, working with the rounded percentages will do Let’s isolate the 905 times in which there is a banker or player win, and say I bet $10 a hand on banker and you bet $10 a hand on player. Between us, we risk $20 a hand, or $18,100. On your 446 player wins, you keep your $10 bet and get $10 in winnings, leaving you with a total of $8,920. On my 459 banker wins, I start by keeping the $10 bet and get $10 in winnings for a total of $9,180. Those add up to the $18,100 we risked, so if that’s all there was to it, our opposites-attract-comps scheme would work to perfection. However, I have to pay a 5 percent commission on my winning bets. That’s a 50-cent surcharge on each of my 459 winners, or a total of $229.50 in commissions. My $9,180 is reduced to $8,950.50, and our total is reduced to $17,870.50.
Just as in craps and roulette, baccarat has a built-in defense against players who think they can get their dinners for nothing and their rooms for free. The zeroes in baccarat, the “12s push on Don’t Pass” rule in craps and the commission on banker winners in baccarat bring a rapid halt to the notion that opposites attract comps, without risk of gambling losses. VERDICT: Betting opposites in baccarat doesn’t work either. Instead of breaking even, our system has lost $229.50. Good luck at the tables and keep these verdicts in mind the next time you think betting opposites will get you a free comp. About the writer. John Grochowski is a renowned gambling columnist and author. In 1994, the monthly Las Vegas Advisor reported that Grochowski was the first casino gambling columnist at a major U.S. newspaper. He also contributes articles to magazines and online publications.
Rising along the shore of the mighty Ohio River in scenic Rising Sun, IN, is a spectacular resort casino. Step aboard our 322 ft. long, 40,000 sq.ft., casino...all ship-shape in the style of a Victorian sternwheeler. As soon as you walk through the door at Rising Star Casino Resort you receive the Star treatment. Check into one of our 294 rooms, splash into our sparkling indoor pool, hit the fitness center, make a tee time at our Scottish links-style golf course or try your luck in Rising Star’s exciting casino. Our casino features nearly 1,000 of the most popular slot machines or you can sit with one of our friendly dealers & play your favorite table game. Rising Star Casino has weekly live entertainment in the Pub & Pavilion, a wonderful selection at the River View Buffet, mouth watering specialties at Wellington’s Steakhouse & fast choices at Queen City Market & Jack’s Deli.
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POOLS &OUTDOOR AMENETIES
GUIDE 2016
TOP POOLS & OUTDOOR AMENITIES of 2016
C
asino hotels and resorts are increasingly trying to attract visitors who are interested in a variety of outdoor activities, in addition to their indoor gaming, entertainment, and dining options. More and more properties are now offering a broad range of outdoor amenities, such as luxury pools, championship golf, and full-service RV parks. For a casino vacation that can cater to a romantic getaway or with a group of friends, check out our list of top spots in the South and Midwest that each offer various outdoor amenities, activities, and entertainment options. You are sure to find some exciting casino action and relaxing poolside fun at these top spots.
BEAT THE HEAT THIS SUMMER
with stone tiles, fountains, and greenery.
Baton Rouge skyline. VIP cabanas are also
Sitting near the Ohio River, it feels like
available for parties of 12 featuring all the
being on a Greek getaway, but closer to
same amenities, plus a private sunbathing
home.
deck, assorted snacks, and a rooftop view
For breathtaking views of the mighty
of the Mississippi River.
Mississippi, the rooftop pool at L’Auberge
The pool at L’Auberge Casino and Hotel
Casino and Hotel in Baton Rouge,
in Lake Charles, Louisiana can only be
Louisiana cannot be matched. Relax on
described as a little slice of tropical heaven
floating lounge rafts in the rectangular
in the heart of Bayou Country. Grab an
pool while soaking up the southern
inner tube and drift your way through the
sun in style. The private cabana area is
lazy river that wraps itself around the palm
where all the action happens with a full-
tree lined patio. A sunken pool bar sits in
service bar and friendly attendants. You
the lazy river where you can enjoy a frozen
can reserve an eight-person club cabana
cocktail on your way around. There is a
and enjoy an inside sofa, poolside chaise
large heated pool for the whole family and
lounges, towels, flat screen TV, ceiling fan,
a serene adults-only pool. Here you can
magazines, and panoramic views of the
rent luxury cabanas with full-bar service,
SOUTHERN REGION CASINOS Belterra Casino Resort & Spa in Vevay, Indiana has a seasonal outdoor pool surrounded by comfortable lounge chairs and individual cabanas. The heated, rectangular pool is the perfect length for morning laps, and a sunken bench runs the length of the pool for chatting with friends before playing the slots. The covered cabanas feature cushioned lounge chairs and tables for private pool parties. There is also a large outdoor whirlpool for hot soaks after hitting the links at nearby Belterra Golf Course and Clubhouse. The design scheme features a blue and white décor
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BELTERRA CASINO RESORT & SPA - VEVAY INDIANA
tiles and features a seasonal bar and grill for cocktails and snacks. Cabana rentals include cushioned lounge chairs, ceiling fans, and a private deck with whirlpools. The entire patio area sits in the middle of a man-made lake with decorative spraying fountains and lush greenery. Across the lake is the open-air amphitheater, which is visible from the pool area. This 2,500 seat venue attracts national acts, such as Reba McIntyre and Big & Rich, so you can enjoy a live show while relaxing poolside.
MARGARITAVILLE RESORT CASINO - BOSSIER CITY, LOUISIANA refrigerator, safe, and TV. The Blue Crush Grill offers appetizers, burgers, snacks, and shaved ice to cool down on hot Louisiana afternoons. The outdoor pool of Margaritaville Resort Casino in Bossier City, Louisiana is like an island oasis in the middle of the city. The beautiful teardrop-shaped pool and hot tub are surrounded by bright red cushioned lounge chairs, palm trees, thatched roof patios, and pergolas covered with pink floral vines. Lounging on the patio, you have a beautiful view of the downtown Shreveport skyline and the Red River below. The heated pool is open yearround for hotel guests only, and no one under 21 is allowed after 6:00 p.m. During the warmer months, you can also enjoy cocktails, appetizers, lunch, and dinner at The Busted Coconut, an island-style bar and grill located next to the pool. Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville, Louisiana features three guest pools. The indoor pool has a year-round island oasis feel with palm trees and waterfalls. This large swimming area has individual lagoons inside the tropical atrium and a swim-up bar. The atrium is also home to the resort’s live alligators, but not in the pool, with wildlife shows every
Saturday. The outdoor pool can be enjoyed seasonally for those who want to take in a little sunbathing. There is also a 200 campsite RV park where the kids can enjoy another outdoor pool, bathhouse, playground, and volleyball courts. Each parking space features individual green space areas for picnics, all within walking distance of the casino. Wind Creek Casino and Hotel in Atmore, Alabama has a large infinity pool with luxurious lounge chairs and covered cabanas. Accessible to hotel guests only, it is beautifully decorated with stone
MIDWEST REGION CASINOS Ameristar Casino Resort and Spa located in St. Charles, Missouri near St. Louis, has an indoor/outdoor pool area separated by a curtain of falling water. The indoor pool sits inside a glass atrium with a gorgeous blue tiled floor, and long enough for laps. There is a raised whirlpool attached to the pool and plenty of lounge chairs for year-round relaxation. Swimmers can pass through the waterfall to access the outside pool area. The gorgeous urban-style setting is located beneath the hotel tower and is viewable from all of the rooms on that side. The sprawling tiled patio area has a Mediterranean feel with cozy fire
GRAND FALLS CASINO RESORT - LARCHWOOD, IOWA G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |
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pits, hot tubs, and cushioned lounge chairs for relaxing on warm summer nights. A short walk to the pool cabana café offers pool side cocktails and great food finds and with the luxurious ara spa located just steps away, wasting away an afternoon here is always a treat. Lumière Place Casino, also in St. Louis, features two on-site hotels in the heart of downtown St. Louis, Missouri. The HoteLumière features a sparkling indoor pool, relaxing hot tubs, world-class fitness center, and luxurious spa. The climate controlled indoor pool complex is perfect for year-round laps. The Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis features a spectacular rooftop pool with the best views of the Arch in the city. This large outdoor patio area gives guests breathtaking views of the city while lounging poolside, relaxing in a private cabana, or snuggling up in a cozy covered loveseat. Cielo Restaurant and Bar shares the rooftop space and has outdoor dining with spectacular nighttime views of the city skyline and Mississippi River below. Grand Falls Casino Resort in Larchwood, Iowa is a gaming and golfers’ retreat, just outside of Sioux Falls. The hotel has an indoor pool and hot tub for year-round lounging, and the seasonal outdoor pool and patio area sits between the hotel and the golf course. Rattan tables and chairs, covered lounge areas, colorful raised flower
beds, and cooling spray fountains make for a relaxing retreat between poker hands. It is also the perfect place to rest after a round of golf on the 18-hole course designed by legendary designer Rees Jones. This world-class golf course is 7,100 square yards of rolling green with a 30-foot waterfall, 12-acre lake, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The Island Resort Casino in Harris, Michigan is located in the northernmost part of the state, between Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. This resort features a variety of indoor activities and amenities, including gaming, dining, entertainment, and a spa. There are two RV parks with 53 modern pads and access to a nearby shower and laundry facility. RV guests also have access to the resort’s indoor pool, whirlpool, and fitness center. The Sweetgrass Golf Club is right next to the resort property and features 18 holes of championship golf. Regularly rated one of Michigan’s top courses, this challenging parkland-style layout is known for its unique greens and signature island green at the 15th hole. The ultra-swanky Potawatomi Hotel and Casino in Milwaukee, Wisconsin is smack dab in the middle of the busy streets of Milwaukee, so outdoor amenities are not available. Located near the banks of Lake Michigan, the weather would probably inhibit outdoor activities most of the year
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anyway. There is no pool or spa in the hotel either, but their suites offer some excellent amenities that can bring the feel of the outdoors into your lavish accommodations. The Presidential Suite is a sky-high luxury room featuring an 800-square-foot outdoor patio that offers sweeping views of the city. This 2,200-square-foot suite also features a Jacuzzi and two fireplaces for an upscale, indoor camping experience. Treasure Island Resort and Casino in Welch, Minnesota, near St. Paul, just opened its doors to their brand new Lagoon Water Park and Wave Spa in 2016. The $19 million expansion now includes two waterslides, zero depth entry pool, and smaller slides for toddlers. A lazy river surrounds the park and features waterfalls and rapids. In the adults-only section, there is a large pool, hot tubs, and the swim up Barefoot Bar where adults can enjoy frozen cocktails. While the waterpark is mostly inside, there are other outdoor amenities, including an 18hole golf course, 95-pad RV park, 137-slip marina, and passenger cruise liner that takes guests on lunch and dinner tours of the Mississippi River. Turtle Creek Casino and Hotel is just minutes away from the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa in W i l l iamsbu rg, Michigan. Together these properties offer a wide variety of indoor and outdoor activities. The resort has a 100,000-squarefoot health club, indoor water playground, pools, hot tubs, and tennis courts. The nearby Private Beach Club provides access to Grand Traverse Bay on Lake Michigan for paddle boarding and kayaking. There are three championship golf courses, including The Bear, a Jack Nicklaus designed course. The resort offers endless outdoor seasonal activities, including biking, water sports, ice skating, and crosscountry skiing. A shuttle runs between the resort and the casino where you can enjoy gaming, dining, and entertainment.
I N D O OR OA S I S :
DR I F T SPA AT I SL A N D R E S OR T & CA S I NO
A
s if you needed another reason to visit the Island Resort &
Casino, the Drift Spa now awaits your presence so you can enjoy a luxurious and
that mark the Island Resort & Casino as the most desirable destination within the state.
relaxing experience that will make you
THE DRIFT SPA – THE
eager for more. Whether you are in town
PERFECT COMPLEMENT
to enjoy the resort and casino offerings
TO THE ISLAND
or you are lucky enough to live nearby,
RESORT & CASINO
the Drift Spa will be opening soon with
A peaceful and relaxing oasis of tranquility conveniently located amid all the hustle and bustle that is characteristic of a busy casino and resort, the Drift Spa provides the ideal place to take both a mental and a physical break. You will feel any tension or stress that you might be harboring
a full menu of services that are designed to pamper you into oblivious perfection. Nestled within the highly-desirable Upper Peninsula of Michigan, the Drift Spa provides a welcome addition to the array of top-notch services and amenities
flow easily out of your body, mind and soul the minute you enter the Drift Spa. Imagine the soft and welcoming blend of wood finishes and plush fabrics that beckon you to shed all your worries. You will be instantly transported to a place of relaxation and tranquility that is difficult to find anywhere else. You will drift away to a more luxurious refuge that provides a buffer between you and the busy world of today.
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THE DRIFT SPA EXPERIENCE providing its guests with an exceptional
• Embrace the healing traditions of Native American healers, Drift Spa is dedicated to mind, body and spirit renewal
experience. Of course, the Drift Spa is
• Opening in May
The Island Resort & Casino is known for
only going to increase that feeling to make your overall time there one of supreme enjoyment and luxury. The Drift Spa is much different than your typical, run-ofthe-mill spa, though. Skilled therapists -whose focus is to help you relax -- deliver nature-based treatments to restore and refresh your mind-body-synergy. • Tucked away in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a refreshing and tranquil oasis at Island Resort & Casino’s Drift Spa • Nature-based treatments and skilled therapists will help you relax, refresh and restore mind-body-synergy • To enhance your experience we also have an indoor pool and f itness center including a co-ed sauna, separate steam rooms and locker rooms
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• Offering massage, facia ls, body treatments, pedicures, manicures, salon services, day spa packages, wedding party events, couple’s treatments and seasonal treatments • Relax in an Oasis of Calm
SERVICES AT DRIFT SPA At Drift Spa, you will find the services that are designed to help you rejuvenate, refresh and relax. Body treatments, pedicures, massages, facials and manicures are just a few of the luxury services they offer. A spa often has the reputation of being the domain of mostly females. That is the wrong impression to have of a place like the Drift Spa. In addition to day spa packages, bridal events and spa gateways, the Drift Spa offers couple’s treatments.
There are few things that are as relaxing and bonding as having a couple’s treatment with that special someone. Opening in May, the Drift Spa is sure to provide you with an experience that will live up to its name. You will drift away to a peaceful, restful and soothing place that will make you forget all of the busyness of your life. You won’t want to come back to reality ever again. For more information and to book a Spa visit islandresortandcasino.com/drift-spa or call 1-800-682-6040.
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Must be 21 or older. If you or someone you know needs gambling treatment, call 800.BETS.OFF.
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PLAYER STRATEGY
BLACKJACK: Numbers Don’t Lie I’m a firm believer that if know some of the more important statistics about the game of blackjack, it can help you better understand the fundamentals of winning blackjack strategies. However, I also understand that most folks find statistics boring; therefore, I prepared the following fun quiz, which I hope you will find entertaining as well as informative. 1.Ignoring ties, the percentage of hands that you can expect to win when you play blackjack is about: a. 45 percent b. 48 percent c. 50 percent ANSWER: b. When you ignore the 9 percent of the hands that tie, you can expect to win 48 percent of the hands dealt to you, and lose 52 percent. Notice that you will lose significantly more hands than you win. So how do you win money playing blackjack? For starters, the average amount of money that you win on the winning hands is slightly greater than a single betting unit because the latter are sometimes hands where you get a blackjack and are paid at 3-2, or you double down and win double the amount of your bet. Losing hands, on the other hand, often lose only a single betting unit. The result is that monetarily you will be close to, but not quite even when you play (this assumes that you use the basic playing strategy for all your hands). If you want to go a step further and win much more money on winning hands compared to the amount you will lose on losing hands, so that overall you show a gain, then you’ve got to learn card counting. 2. If you are dealt three consecutive hands, what is the chance that they will all lose, excluding ties? a. 1 percent b. 14 percent c. 30 percent ANSWER:b. You have about a 14 percent chance of losing three hands in a row when you play blackjack. Surprised? Most players probably guess 1 percent because they figure the chance of this happening is very low. Well it isn’t, so don’t panic and abandon the basic playing strategy when it happens.
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by
H E N R Y TA M B U R I N
3. How frequently does a player get a blackjack? a. Once every 15 hands b. Once every 21 hands c. Once every 30 hands ANSWER: b. The game is 21 and you can expect to get a blackjack once in every 21 hands. This brings me to the point why I harp that you should never play any blackjack game that pays 6-5, instead of 3-2, for a winning blackjack. Suppose you play two hours’ worth of blackjack on one of the heavily advertised, $10 minimum, 6-5 single deck games. Let’s assume you are dealt 100 hands per hour, so over the course of two hours you played 200 hands of blackjack. Getting a blackjack once every 21 hands means that you should theoretically have gotten about 10 blackjacks. Sometimes you’ll get more blackjacks in two hours of play, sometimes less, but on average you’ll get 10. Each of those blackjack hands cost you $3 on a 6-5 game (the difference between getting paid 3-2 vs. 6-5, or $12 instead of $15, for your $10 wager). So you forked over $30 to the casino for the privilege of playing a single-deck game (yeah, right). Save your money and avoid playing any 6-5 single- or multi-deck games. 4. How frequently does a basic strategy player bust? a. Once every six hands b. Once every eight hands c. Once every ten hands ANSWER: a. A basic strategy player can expect to bust about 16 percent of the time or once every six hands. When a player busts, he always loses. Not so with the dealer (see next question). Knowing the numbers in blackjack will greatly benefit you in the long run and help you make the right decisions at the right times. Keep these concepts in mind the next time you sit down at a blackjack table. Good luck!
Henry Tamburin, Ph.D. is the author of the Ultimate Guide to Blackjack (http:// blog.888casino.com/ casino-guides/blackjack), editor of the Blackjack Insider e-Newsletter (www. bjinsider.com), lead instructor for the Golden Touch Blackjack course, and host of smartgaming.com. For a free three-month subscription to his blackjack newsletter, go to www.bjinsider.com/ freetrial. To receive his free Casino Gambling Catalog, call 1-888-353-3234 or visit www.smartgaming.com.
“IT’S NOT THE PLAYER’S RESPONSIBILITY TO ENSURE THAT THE DEALER IS FOLLOWING THE CASINO’S DEALING PROTOCOLS.”
FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM
PLAYER STRATEGY
CRAPS: Confessions of a Female Craps Player
Frank Scoblete is the author of several books on gaming. His most recent titles include, “I Am a Dice Controller: Inside the World of Advantage-Play Craps”; “Confessions of a Wayward Catholic”; and “I Am a Card Counter: Inside the World of Advantage-Play Blackjack.” All are available online and at bookstores.
“THE NUMBERS DON’T LIE. BUT THE NUMBERS ARE MISLEADING.”
If you play craps you know one major truth: Most craps players are men. In fact, over 90 percent of them are, by my estimation. It’s not at all rare to examine tables—one after another after another—where women are neither seen nor heard.
ashamed to say this—on occasion I will throw out a Hardway bet. Not a lot but enough to give me a zinger in the emotions. When those hit it is fun, but overall I have lost money on them. But I see players make those bets and even worse bets all the time.”
Still, there are some intrepid women craps players out there, and they are not shy about it, either. Marie is one such individual.
Amy is another an inveterate craps player.
“I used to play the slots just like all my friends, but other than pressing a play button I didn’t feel engaged in the game,” she said. “I always heard the shouting and clapping and encouragement at the craps tables. So I got a book by you (meaning me!), learned the basics of the game and headed to the tables.” How did she do? “I was nervous at first. Really nervous. I was the only woman at the table and some of the men gave me the look.” She defined the look as something on the order of “What are you doing here?” It took Marie several turns at the table to get comfortable. “Once I understood the game and I could ignore the look, everything fell into place. I love the game.”
“Ever since I went to my first casino when I was 21 craps has fascinated me,” she said. “I have no interest in any other game. I did try just about all of them and all I have to say is they didn’t appeal to me at all. Craps was and is my game.” And how do the men react to her? “Nowadays I don’t find many who get upset with me at the table. Maybe some of the older guys when I was a kid, but that generation is just about gone. I cheer with everyone and moan and have a great time. I am not married so I go to the casinos with my girlfriends, all of them slot players. We go a couple of times a month for a couple of days on each trip. I unwind and have loads of fun.” How does Amy bet? “Oh, I am a wild one after a few drinks. I go for some of those proposition bets in the middle of the table. I don’t bet as much on those as I do on the Pass Line or my Place
What is Marie’s style of play? “I generally only bet the Pass Line with odds, and two Come bets with odds. I am conservative except—I am almost
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PLAYER STRATEGY
GOLF: Tips to Shake the Shanks Who in their golfing career has not hit the occasional shank? When you shank a ball, one of two things is going to happen next; you will either be able to ignore the fact that you just ‘hosel rocketed’ a ball and get back on track to hit good golf shots, or you will be unable to overcome what just happened continue shanking the ball. The later scenario is commonly referred to as “The Shanks.” Some golfers can immediately overcome a shanked shot and not let it affect their game. I played college golf at Methodist University and a good friend of mine would shank one shot almost every day. The shank would always occur on the range and would never affect her on the golf course. For the record, she was a 4-time Division III National Champion and ranked #1 in the country for 2 years! But, most people are not so lucky. What is a shank? A shank occurs when the hosel of the golf club strikes the ball. Since the hosel is round, a shank may fly off in any direction. The most common result is a shot that flies low and sideways. (To the right for right-handed golfers. Left for lefthanded golfers.) What causes a shank? A shank is caused by the club head moving further from the body in the golf swing than it was at address. If you slice the ball, you have a much greater chance of hitting a shank than someone that draws the ball. This is because a slice is caused the an over-the-top swing path (one in which the club head is further away from your body at a point in your downswing just prior to impact than is necessary) with an open clubface. Any time you are striking the ball with an open clubface you are effectively moving the hosel closer to the ball than it would be with a square clubface. • Here are some common causes of the shank: • Arms too close to body at address. • Standing too tall at address. • Shaft is too upright.
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| G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M
by
COLBY WOLLITZ
• Weight is not evenly distributed (from heel to toe) at address. • Weight shifts towards toes during downswing. • Over the top swing path with an open clubface. How do you cure the shanks? It is extremely important to pinpoint which of the above factors is causing you to shank the ball. As with most mistakes in the golf swing, trying to guess what you are doing wrong and attempting to “fix” your problem with the wrong solution will ultimately lead to a long recovery. I recommend first using a mirror to see if any of the below causes and cures applies to you. If you cannot diagnose your own problem, consult with your local PGA Professional.
Colby is a member of the PGA of America is a lead instructor at The Golf Academy in Louisville, Kentucky. He believes there is no perfect golf swing, only a series of acceptable positions that WILL change from player to player. For more information, visit thegolfacademypr.com
Causes and Cures Arms too close to body at address- At address your arms should be hanging from your shoulders and reaching slightly toward the ball. Be sure that your arms are not hanging straight down to the ground or inside your shoulder line. Standing too tall at address- Standing too tall at address will cause you to go down after the ball to achieve more power, which will also result in the club head moving further from the body at impact than it was at address. The easiest way to ensure that you are bending properly from the waist at address is as follows: Start with your feet shoulder width apart with slightly flexed knees. Place your hands on the top of each thigh with your arms straight. Bend at the waist with a straight spine (feel like your raising your tailbone to the sky) sliding your hands down your thighs until your fingertips touch the tops of your knees. Shaft is too upright- If at setup your shaft is pointed above your belt line then it is too upright. This position causes the hands and arms to be rigid and tense. Furthermore, the more upright the shaft is, the closer you move the hosel to the golf ball. Use a mirror to make sure that your shaft point near your belt buckle in your set-up.
“A SHANK OCCURS WHEN THE HOSEL OF THE GOLF CLUB STRIKES THE BALL.” FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM
PLAYER STRATEGY by
PHIL HELLMUTH JR.
Phil Hellmuth Jr. is a 13time World Series of Poker Champion, leading all other poker players in the world. He is the author of two New York Times best sellers, and his latest book, “Deal Me In” is also widely popular. Visit PhilHellmuth.com to check out his latest blog, clothing line and exclusive poker tips and stories. This tip column is an excerpt from his Best Selling book “Phil Hellmuth’s Texas Hold’em” found on Amazon and in bookstores around the world.
“SOMEONE WHO USES THIS THEORY WELL CAN ACCUMULATE A LOT OF CHIP VERY QUICKLY!”
FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM
POKER: Playing with Nothing Some great NLH players like to call an opponent’s raise with any two cards, because they think they can outplay the raiser later on in the hand. I will single out Daniel Negreanu as a player who uses this strategy. (Sorry Danny.) In many NLH tournaments I have watched Daniel apply this strategy, knowing full well what he is doing! The key to the strategy lies in recognizing who the preflop raiser is. If the preflop raiser is a weak player (if you are new to the game, it is more fair to call you “inexperienced” than “weak”), look out for Daniel, because he will be coming at you! Many weaker or inexperienced players do not know how to bet or how to disguise their actions when they hit or miss the flop. They may, for example, jump out of their seats or bet in a very confident manner when they hit a flop. Conversely, they may telegraph their actions when they miss the f lop, by betting with doubt or uncertainty written all over their faces. If they do hit, then Daniel folds (unless one of the “goofball” 6-8 off-suit hands of his actually hits). If they miss their hand, then Daniel bluffs them out and wins the pot. Of course, Daniel occasionally hurts his opponents or himself in a big pot when he and his opponent hit the flop.
Dave “Devilfish” Ulliott’s Theory of NLH The Devilfish is a great PLH and NLH player from Hull, in the United Kingdom. He has won PLH and NLH titles in the United States and Europe. Devilfish thrives on coming into a pot raising with almost anything before the flop. He may raise with 4-7 off-suit or 2-5 off-suit. He will almost always bet out at you on the flop, whether he misses the flop or hits it. This gives all the others a chance to fold their hand and gives Devilfish his second chance to win the pot with a bet or raise. (His first chance was before the flop with a raise.) He is very good at reading players, and that is one thing that all tough NLH strategies have in common. They all consider reading the other players well an essential ingredient.
I DON’T LIKE TO PUT A LOT OF PRESSURE ON MYSELF TO “READ” MY OPPONENTS.
I give Daniel Negreanu and Huck Seed a lot of credit for being able to use this strategy successfully. Of course, if you ever travel the poker-tournament trails, you will see other top players, such as Layne Flack, Ted Forrest, Men Nguyen and Amir Vahedi, using this dangerous strategy to good effect. But it is a bit too risky for my taste; I just don’t like to always put a lot of pressure on myself to “read” my opponents and then fold my hands after I hit them on the flop. (Hitting a flop and then folding your hand because you read your opponent as being strong is a hard thing to do.) But someone who uses this theory well can accumulate a lot of chips very quickly!
If you do hit something and call Devilfish on the flop, then the pot has only just begun. If he thinks you will fold your hand before risking a big bet on fourth street, then he will bet big on fourth street, trying to bluff you. If he feels you will fold your hand for an all-in bet, then he will risk his whole tournament and bet it all. Likewise, he will bet all your chips when he feels he has the best hand. This constant power-play pressure is also used by Men “The Master” Nguyen, Erik Seidel, Layne Flack, John Bonetti and many other successful NLH tournament players. I used to use this approach myself, but once my opponents took calling me down consistently, I began showing them only big hands. If they are going to call you, be ready to bust them. If Devilfish wins a few pots before the flop, a few pots on the flop and a few pots on the end with a bluff, he will be way ahead of the game. This is a good theory of NLH play, but if used wrongly it can be disastrous for the player who is applying it. You can bluff at the wrong times and lose a lot of chips quickly. As with the good NLH theories, if you use this one well you will accumulate a lot of chips quickly, but if you use it badly you will cough them up just as quickly.
G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |
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S L O T S P O T L IGH T:
A
A F IC ION A D O ’ S N E E D T O A P PLY
re you a slot aficionado? If so, you need to continue reading this column.
board games. Two of the most popular slot machines in history are Monopoly and Wheel of Fortune.
Let’s start by understanding what the word ‘aficionado’ actually means. The definition per the highly acclaimed MerriamWebster Dictionary is ‘a person who likes, knows about, and appreciates a usually fervently pursued interest or activity.” A person can be a movie aficionado, a food aficionado or even a wine aficionado. One of my favorite magazines is called Cigar Aficionado published for cigar enthusiasts. And, if you are reading this magazine, you are probably a casino aficionado.
W hen it comes to designing and manufacturing these machines, slot developers turn to aficionado’s like you to give them feedback on what you like, and don’t like, before they go into full scale production.
According to reliable sources, approximately seventy percent of casino gamers enjoy playing slot machines and slot revenue for casinos accounts for nearly the same percentage. Just take a look around the next casino you visit and notice the amount of floor space dedicated to the machines. You will find machines with the basic three reels, machines with amazing graphics and touch screens and even machines dedicated to popular movies, television shows, game shows and 40
| G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M
So, are you a slot aficionado? If so, your time has come to voice your opinion, and get rewarded for it too! One of the largest slot manufacturers in the world, IGT, is looking for your input about everything from colors and sounds to design and
reward levels, and is giving away great prizes to join their Player Advisory Team. Plus, you will get the first look at some of their games that are currently in production! What’s in it for you? A lot! Go to PlayerAdvisoryTeam.com today to join the conversation and you will be eligible for 1 of 75 $200 cash prizes as well as the grand prize of the Ultimate Casino Getaway that includes three nights at the casino of your choice, food and $500 of spending money! Good luck and be sure to join the Player Advisory Team today!
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Join the Conversation for a Chance to Win!
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© 2016 IGT. The trademarks used herein are owned by IGT or its affiliates, may not be used without permission, and where indicated with a ®, are registered in the U.S. IGT is committed to socially responsible gaming. Our business solutions empower customers to choose parameters and practices that become the foundation of their Responsible Gaming programs.
MIDWEST
CASINO DIRECTORY
Below is a list of our preferred properties of the Midwest showcasing some of the great things that each property has.
WEBSITE
PHONE NUMBER
AMERISTAR.COM/EAST-CHICAGO
855-888-7289
*CC PARTNER
TABLES
MACHINES
41
1,953
INDIANA AMERISTAR CASINO HOTEL EAST CHICAGO TROPICANA EVANSVILLE
TROPEVANSVILLE.COM
800-342-5386
40
1,000
BELTERRA CASINO RESORT & SPA
BELTERRACASINO.COM
800-472-6311
•
40
1,600
HORSESHOE CASINO HOTEL
CAESARS.COM/HORSESHOE-SOUTHERN-INDIANA
812-369-6000
•
140
1,750
RISING STAR CASINO RESORT
RISINGSTARCASINO.COM
812-438-1234
30
1,400
AMERISTAR CASINO HOTEL, COUNCIL BLUFFS
AMERISTAR.COM/COUNCIL-BLUFFS
712-328-8888
22
1,584
RIVERSIDE CASINO & GOLF RESORT
RIVERSIDECASINOANDRESORT.COM
877-677-3456
32
1,150
MYSTIQUE CASINO, DUBUQUE
MYSTIQUEDBQ.COM
563-582-3647
22
1,000
HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO, SIOUX CITY
HARDROCKCASINOSIOUXCITY.COM
712-226-7600
25
839
SOARING EAGLE CASINO & RESORT
SOARINGEAGLECASINO.COM
888-732-4537
79
4,200
MGM GRAND DETROIT
MGMGRANDDETROIT.COM
877-888-2121
98
4,000
MOTORCITY CASINO HOTEL
MOTORCITYCASINO.COM
866-782-9622
59
2,900
FIREKEEPERS, BATTLE CREEK
FIREKEEPERSCASINO.COM
877-352-8777
84
2,900
ISLAND RESORT AND CASINO, HARRIS
ISLANDRESORTANDCASINO.COM
800-682-6040
15
1,200
IOWA
•
MICHIGAN
MINNESOTA MYSTIC LAKE CASINO, PRIOR LAKE
MYSTICLAKE.COM
952-445-9000
76
3,883
TREASURE ISLAND RESORT & CASINO
TICASINO.COM
888-867-7829
41
2,219
GRAND CASINO HINCKLEY
GRANDCASINOMN.COM
800-472-6321
44
450
GRAND CASINO MILLE LACS
GRANDCASINOMN.COM
800-626-5825
30
2,300
AMERISTAR CASINO HOTEL KANSAS CITY
AMERISTAR.COM/KANSAS-CITY
816-414-7000
115
2,300
LUMIERE PLACE CASINO AND HOTELS
LUMIERE.COM
314-881-777
73
2,000
RIVER CITY CASINO & HOTEL, ST. LOUIS
RIVERCITY.COM
888-578-7289
54
2,000
HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO, TULSA
HARDROCKCASINOTULSA.COM
800-760-6700
40
2,600
WINSTAR CASINO & RESORT
WINSTARWORLDCASINO.COM
580-276-4229
97
7,400
HO-CHUNK GAMING, WITTENBERG
HO-CHUNKGAMING.COM/WITTENBERG
715-253-4400
HO-CHUNK GAMING, BLACK RIVER FALLS
HO-CHUNKGAMING.COM/BLACKRIVERFALLS
800-657-4621
HO-CHUNK GAMING, TOMAH
HO-CHUNKGAMING.COM/TOMAH
866-880-9822
HO-CHUNK GAMING, WISCONSIN DELLS
HO-CHUNKGAMING.COM/WISCONSINDELLS
800-746-2486
HO-CHUNK GAMING, MADISON
HO-CHUNKGAMING.COM/MADISON
608-223-9576
HO-CHUNK GAMING, NEKOOSA
HO-CHUNKGAMING.COM/NEKOOSA
800-782-4560
MENOMINEE CASINO RESORT, KESHENA
MENOMINEECASINORESORT.COM
800-343-7778
11
100
PAYSBIG.COM
800-729-7244
100
3,000
MISSOURI
OKLAHOMA
WISCONSIN
POTAWATOMI HOTEL & CASINO
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517 10
634 96
50
1,832 1,200
50
650
PICS FROM THE MIDWEST
GOLF
SPA
POOL
FPO
•
•
•
•
•
•
• •
• •
Ameristar Casino Resort Spa St. Charles (St. Charles, MO)
* CC Partner means the property provides coupons and special offers to members of the Comps Club. For more information, visit Thecompsclub.com
# OF ROOMS
ENT. VENUE
288
•
243 689 606 294
160 201 116 54
517 400
• • • • •
• •
•
•
• • • •
• •
• •
•
• •
243
• •
275
•
•
•
•
586
• •
• •
• •
•
• •
•
•
• •
•
•
400
496 967 967
184 294 200
• • •
1,500
• •
140
•
302
• •
103
•
391
•
454
• •
•
• •
Luxury Suite at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. (Sioux City, IA)
Oggie’s Sports Bar at The Lodge at Deadwood. (Deadwood, SD)
• •
•
• Tado Steakhouse at Treasure Island Resort & Casino (Welch, MN) G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |
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FUTURE ODDS FIND YOUR EDGE…PLACE YOUR BET!
Check out the latest odds for major sporting events. For the latest up to the minutes odds, visit GamingandDestinations.com
2016 NBA CHAMPIONSHIP – JUNE 2, 2016 (SEVEN GAME SERIES) Team May 2016 Golden State Warriors 1/2
March 2016 January 2016 4/5 5/1
Cleveland Cavaliers
4/1
Oklahoma Thunder
20/1
12/1 8/1
50/1
40/1 30/1
San Antonio Spurs
Los Angeles Clippers Toronto Raptors
4/1
3/1 3/1
40/1
*All others 75/1 or higher.
3/1 3/1
30/1 10/1
**Odds courtesy of VegasInsider.com
2016 WORLD SERIES – OCTOBER 2016 (SEVEN GAME SERIES) Team Chicago Cubs
San Francisco Giants New York Mets
May 2016 9/2
March 2016 7/1
January 2016 10/1
10/1
14/1
10/1
8/1
10/1
20/1
Kansas City Royals
12/1
Over 25/1
Los Angeles Dodgers
14/1
16/1
16/1
12/1
12/1
Texas Rangers
20/1
15/1
12/1
St. Louis Cardinals
22/1
18/1
12/1
Detroit Tigers
20/1
Boston Red Sox
14/1
Toronto Blue Jays
16/1
Washington Nationals
16/1
Houston Astros
New York Yankees
Cleveland Indiana
Pittsburgh Pirates
20/1
20/1 25/1
*All others higher than 25/1
8/1
18/1
18/1
10/1
15/1 16/1
Over 25/1
Over 25/1 18/1
**Odds courtesy of VegasInsider.com
8/1
10/1
16/1
12/1
2016 U.S. OPEN – JUNE 16-19, 2016 OAKMONT COUNTRY CLUB (PLUM, PENNSYLVANIA) Player Jordan Spieth Rory McIlroy Jason Day Bubba Watson Dustin Johnson Rickie Fowler Justin Rose Adam Scott Danny Willett Henrik Stenson Hideki Matsuyama Phil Mickelson
May 2016 15/2 8/1 9/1 28/1 18/1 20/1 20/1 22/1 30/1 30/1 30/1 35/1
*All others higher than 35/1. **Odds courtesy of VegasInsider.com
2016 NASCAR SPRINT CUP SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP Driver Jimmie Johnson Kevin Harvick Kyle Busch Joey Logano Brad Keselowski Carl Edwards Matt Kenseth Denny Hamlin Kurt Busch Dale Earnhardt Jr. Martin Truex Jr.
May 2016 5/1 5/1 5/1 6/1 9/1 10/1 10/1 12/1 14/1 15/1 18/1
*All others 30/1 or higher. **Odds courtesy of VegasInsider.com
For the latest sports odds, updated every 5 minutes, visit GamingandDestinations.com
GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM
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