Midwest Gaming May 2018 by Gaming and Destinations

2018 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS REVEALED! - PAGE 6! MAY/JUNE 2018 VOL. 20, ISSUE 3 GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

SUBSCRIBE TODAY &

WIN BIG! PAGE 9

BETTING BASEBALL PAGE 28

ACTION IN ARKANSAS PAGE 30

PAT DAY...

AND TOP JOCKEYS IN THE SPORT OF KINGS PAGE 20 PLUS: TIPS ON BLACKJACK • CRAPS • HORSERACING • VIDEO POKER & MORE! Covering Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and the entire Midwest!

TournEvent of Champions® is back in 2018 and bringing unprecedented competition and intensity to casinos across the U.S. − and beyond. Want to get in the game? Visit www.TOURNEVENT.com for participating casinos near you. Could you be the next millionaire?*

Powers the casino floor.™ *Payable in periodic payments over 20 years or in a lump sum, present-day cash value payment.

everi.com

LETTER

from the Publisher

UP FRONT with G. DOUGLAS

PUBLISHER

Gaming Media Group Inc. PRESIDENT

G. Douglas Dreisbach

Let the celebrating begin! Congratulations to all of the winning casino’s from this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards. This issue celebrates their accomplishments by showcasing the winning properties in categories ranging from best suites and rooms to golf courses and spas. We want to thank over 40,000 gaming enthusiasts from throughout the region who took the time to let us know their favorite properties, we couldn’t do it without you! We hope you get a chance to visit some of the winning properties soon and let us know about your visit! Be sure to check out all of the winners starting on page 6. Each year for the awards, we give away the Ultimate Casino Getaway to one lucky voter that includes a trip to their favorite casino, gambling money and travel money to get there. This year’s winning voter is Michael C. from Valparaiso, Indiana. Congrats Michael! We can’t wait to hear all about it! In this issue we also pay tribute to the all-star jockeys of horseracing by highlighting a few of the top earners over the course of their career. We took into account win percentage, top three finish percentages, lifetime purse earnings and general popularity among the public. Our list consists of

the who’s who in racing today, as well as a few that have already hung up the saddle but we are still influential in the sport of kings. With the Triple Crown in full swing, we thought the timing was right to share some of our favorites. One of the most prominent of the group is none other than Pat Day, logging almost 9,000 starters accruing nearly $300 million in purse winnings, four Eclipse awards and nine winners of Triple Crown races. Day retired in 2005 but has remained prominent around racetracks and his hometown track, Churchill Downs. He has focused his time and energy to Jesus Christ and is the president of the Kentucky Race Track Chaplaincy Council. His efforts around the community go far and wide and we are excited to have him on the front cover this issue. Be sure to read thru our full list of top jocks on page 20, and if you see them in the program on your next racetrack visit, be sure to throw a few bucks on them! As always, this issue also includes great gaming tips from some of the best gaming professionals in the world. Whether you play craps, blackjack, poker or some other casino game, we have you covered. We can’t guarantee you will win after reading our tips and information, but by being informed, odds are that you will lose less! Enjoy the issue…and as always, if you can’t be good…be lucky!

FOUNDING PUBLISHER

Larry Bisig LAYOUT AND DESIGN

Hill Harcourt CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS

Erin Aiken Linda Boyd Eric Floyd Phil Hellmuth, Jr. Frank Scoblete Jordan McKenzie Wells Eric Floyd 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 2017 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. Opinions of columnists are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, nor

G. Douglas Dreisbach Publisher & President

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 Horsephotos.com

| G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M

CONTENTS ON THE COVER

WINNING TIPS AND STRATEGIES

20 Racing to Riches:

26 Craps:

Top Jockeys of the Sport of Kings

FEATURE ARTICLES

27 Video Poker:

Readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Choice Awards Revealed:

The results are in! winning properties!

7 Minnesota 8 Michigan 10 Wisconsin 12 Indiana 14 Missouri 16 Ohio 17 Illinois 18 Iowa 19 South Dakota

Darksider, Outsider

Casino Court Part II

28 Betting Baseball:

Taking the Totals

HIGHLIGHTS & HOTSPOTS

31 Action In Arkansas:

Gambling is Twice as Nice in in the Nature State

34 Casino Directory:

Our preferred properties and attractions.

29 Poker:

Finding the Flop

32 Horseracing:

Betting Big Money

36 Sports Wagering:

Future Odds on Major Sporting Events

31 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 |

FACTS & FUN STUFF SIPS WITH GAMING & DESTINATIONS

DID YOU KNOW

WHEN WAS THE FIRST KENTUCKY DERBY? A. 1877 B. 1785 C. 1875

THE FIRST TRIPLE CROWN WINNER WAS: A. Sir Barton B. Whirlaway

C. Secretariat

B. Belmont Stakes

WHAT IS THE OFFICIAL KY DERBY FLOWER? A. Red Rose B. Lily C. Orchid

D. Sea Hero

D. Carnation

WHAT IS THE SIGNATURE COCKTAIL OF THE KENTUCKY DERBY?

1.C 2.A 3.A 4.B 1 1/2 MILES 5.A

A. Mint Julep

ANSWERS:

A. Kentucky Derby C. Preakness Stakes

D. 1901

WHICH RACE IS THE LONGEST OF THE THREE FOR THE TRIPLE CROWN?

B. Manhattan

WOODFORD RESERVE MINT JULEP

C. Martini

With Woodford Reserve being the new

D. Keeneland Breeze

official sponsor of the Kentucky Derby it’s only right that we share the recipe for the traditional Derby Day cocktail. Ingredients: • 2 oz. Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon • 1/2 oz. Simple Syrup • A few sprigs of mint Method:

An average of 150,000 people attend the Derby every year.

In a silver highball cup, add simple syrup

There have been only 12 Triple Crown Winners.

150,000

and a few sprigs of mint. Muddle the mixture to release the oils of the mint. Add crushed ice, and bourbon. Top off with more crushed ice to fill the cup. Stir well and garnish with mint sprig.

120,000 There are roughly 120,000 Mint Juleps served every Derby at Churchill Downs.

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$187 Million

95%

The KY Derby Trophy is made out of 14-karat gold.

In 2012, the Derby set a record for wagering with more than $187 million bets on the races (combined total from both on and offtrack bets). Kentucky produces 95% of the world’s bourbon.

ISLAND With two luxurious new hotel towers, a full-service salon & spa, an action-packed gaming floor and an indoor water park, anything can happen. Visit Treasure Island Resort & Casino, now the second largest hotel in Minnesota, and discover your very own private island.

TIcasino.com | 1 - 8 0 0 -2 2 2-707 7 ÂŠ 2018 Treasure Island Resort & Casino

THE R E S U LT S ARE IN

2018 MIDWEST GAMING

READERS’ CHOICE AWARD WINNERS

THE MID-WEST REGION The great Midwest region of the United States offers just about anything a gambler

would want and covers states ranging from Indiana to Minnesota, and everything in between. Detroit has multiple great

properties within close proximity of each

other but most of the casinos in this region are destination style resorts that casino

enthusiasts can plan a multiple day stay in the lap of luxury.

Our annual Readers’ Choice Awards is designed to showcase the different areas for gaming and options in categories that will introduce gamers of any type

to properties they may not already be familiar with, and to help plan their

next casino visit. A full-list of awards

and contact information can be found at GamingandDestinations.com

With our awards each year, we also give away the Ultimate Casino Getaway to a lucky voter that includes premium

overnight casino stay, gambling money, dinner and travel money to get there.

This year’s winner is Michael C. from

Valparaiso, Indiana. Congrats Michael! We can’t wait to hear about the trip!

Thanks to the 40,000 voters this year for

taking the time to share their opinions. We hope you enjoy this year’s awards and find a few new casinos to add to your ‘favorites’ list.

| G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS OF BEST OVERALL PROPERTIES OF THE MIDWEST INCLUDING (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) TREASURE ISLAND RESORT & CASINO (MINNESOTA), SOARING EAGLE CASINO & RESORT (MICHIGAN), NORTH STAR MOHICAN CASINO RESORT (WISCONSIN) AND BLUE CHIP CASINO RESORT & SPA (INDIANA).

MINNESOTA

BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

1. Grand Casino Hinckley

2. Black Bear Casino Resort

2. Grand Casino Mille Lacs

3. Prairie’s Edge Casino Resort

3. Treasure Island Resort & Casino

1. Fortune Bay Resort Casino

BEST ADVERTISING

BEST NIGHTLIFE

1. Treasure Island Resort & Casino

2. Fortune Bay Resort Casino

2. Fortune Bay Resort Casino 3. Grand Casino Hinckley

3. Black Bear Casino Resort BEST PLAYERS CLUB

BEST THEME

1. Treasure Island Resort & Casino

2. Grand Casino Hinckley

2. Prairie’s Edge Casino Resort

3. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel

3. Black Bear Casino Resort BEST CASINO PERSONNEL Best Overall: Treasure Island Resort & Casino

Best Golf Course: Fortune Bay Resort Casino

1. Grand Casino Hinckley 2. Fortune Bay Resort Casino

BEST RESTAURANT BEST OVERALL PROPERTY

1. Treasure Island Resort & Casino

TREASURE ISLAND RESORT & CASINO

2. Black Bear Casino Resort

GRAND CASINO HINCKLEY

BEST BUFFET

BLACK BEAR CASINO RESORT 3

3. Treasure Island Resort & Casino

3. Grand Casino Hinckley

1. Grand Casino Hinckley 2. Black Bear Casino Resort

Best Pool: Treasure Island Resort & Casino

3. Treasure Island Resort & Casino BEST SPA

SUITES 1. Treasure Island Resort & Casino

1. Treasure Island Resort & Casino 2. Fortune Bay Resort Casino 3. Grand Casino Hinckley

2. Grand Casino Hinckley 3. Black Bear Casino Resort

BEST POOL

ROOMS

1. Treasure Island Resort & Casino

1. Black Bear Casino Resort

2. Fortune Bay Resort Casino

2. Grand Casino Mille Lacs

3. Grand Casino Hinckley

3. Treasure Island Resort & Casino

BEST GOLF COURSE 1. Fortune Bay Resort Casino

BEST CASINO FLOOR 1. Grand Casino Hinckley

2. Treasure Island Resort & Casino

3. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel

3. Grand Casino Mille Lacs

BEST ENTERTAINMENT 1. Grand Casino Hinckley

BEST POKER ROOM

2. Grand Casino Mille Lacs

1. Black Bear Casino Resort

3. Treasure Island Resort & Casino

2. Fortune Bay Resort Casino 3. Grand Casino Hinckley

Best Buffet: Black Bear Casino Resort

BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE

MICHIGAN

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

1. Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort 2. Firekeepers Casino Hotel 3. MGM Grand Detroit

1. Four Winds Casino New Buffalo 2. Island Resort & Casino 3. MGM Grand Detroit

BEST NIGHTLIFE

BEST ADVERTISING

1. MGM Grand Detroit 2. Four Winds Casino New Buffalo 3. Gun Lake Casino

1. Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort 2. Island Resort & Casino 3. MGM Grand Detroit

BEST PLAYERS CLUB BEST THEME 1. Island Resort & Casino 2. Four Winds Casino New Buffalo 3. Gun Lake Casino

BEST CASINO PERSONNEL Best Overall: Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort BEST RESTAURANT BEST OVERALL PROPERTY

1 SOARING EAGLE CASINO & RESORT 2 MGM

GRAND DETROIT

3 ISLAND

RESORT & CASINO

1. Island Resort & Casino 2. Gun Lake Casino 3. MGM Grand Detroit

1. Island Resort & Casino 2. Gun Lake Casino 3. MGM Grand Detroit Best Suites: MGM Grand Detroit BEST BUFFET 1. MGM Grand Detroit 2. Gun Lake Casino 3. Firekeepers Casino Hotel

BEST SPA SUITES 1. MGM Grand Detroit 2. Four Winds Casino New Buffalo 3. Firekeepers Casino Hotel

ROOMS 1. Firekeepers Casino Hotel 2. MGM Grand Detroit 3. Four Winds Casino New Buffalo

BEST CASINO FLOOR 1. Soaring Eagle Casino & Spa 2. Gun Lake Casino 3. MGM Grand Detroit

BEST POKER ROOM 1. Firekeepers Casino Hotel 2. MGM Grand Detroit 3. Island Resort & Casino

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1. Grand Traverse Resort & Spa 2. Firekeepers Casino Hotel 3. Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort

BEST POOL 1. Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort 2. Four Winds Casino New Buffalo 3. Island Resort & Casino

BEST GOLF COURSE 1. Island Resort & Casino 2. Grand Traverse Resort & Spa 3. Bay Mills Resort & Casino

BEST ENTERTAINMENT 1. Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort 2. Four Winds Casino New Buffalo 3. Firekeepers Casino Hotel

Best Golf Course: Island Resort & Casino

1. MGM Grand Detroit 2. Island Resort & Casino 3. Firekeepers Casino Hotel

THANK YOU FOR VOTING SOARING EAGLE CASINO & RESORT

YOUR #1 CHOICE IN OVERALL CASINO

BEST CASINO FLOOR • BEST POOL BEST ENTERTAINMENT • BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE BEST ADVERTISING

RENOVATIONS COMING SOON! 877.2.EAGLE.2 | SOARINGEAGLECASINO.COM

BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE

WISCONSIN

1. North Star Mohican Casino Resort 2. Lake of the Torches Resort Casino 3. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE 1. North Star Mohican Casino Resort 2. Lake of the Torches Resort Casino 3. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wittenberg

BEST ADVERTISING BEST NIGHTLIFE 1. Menominee Casino Resort 2. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino 3. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells

BEST THEME 1. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells 2. Lake of the Torches Resort Casino 3. St. Croix Casino Turtle Lake

Best Overall Property: North Star Mohican Casino Resort

1. Ho-Chunk Gaming 2. North Star Mohican Casino Resort 3. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino

BEST PLAYERS CLUB 1. Ho-Chunk Gaming 2. North Star Mohican Casino Resort 3. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino

BEST RESTAURANT BEST OVERALL PROPERTY

1. North Star Mohican Casino Resort 2. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino 3. Menominee Casino Resort

NORTH STAR MOHICAN CASINO RESORT 1

HO-CHUNK GAMING WISCONSIN DELLS 2

BEST BUFFET

3 MENOMINEE CASINO RESORT

1. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells 2. Menominee Casino Resort 3. North Star Mohican Casino Resort

BEST CASINO PERSONNEL 1. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wittenberg 2. Menominee Casino Resort 3. North Star Mohican Casino Resort

Best Rooms: Potawatomi Hotel & Casino

SUITES 1. North Star Mohican Casino Resort 2. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino 3. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells

BEST SPA

ROOMS

BEST POOL

1. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino 2. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells 3. North Star Mohican Casino Resort

1. Menominee Casino Resort 2. Lake of the Torches Resort Casino 3. North Star Mohican Resort Resort

BEST CASINO FLOOR 1. Menominee Casino Resort 2. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells 3. Oneida Bingo & Casino

1. North Star Mohican Resort 2. Lake of the Torches Resort Casino 3. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino

BEST ENTERTAINMENT 1. Menominee Casino Resort 2. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino 3. North Star Mohican Casino Resort

BEST POKER ROOM 1. Oneida Bingo & Casino 2. Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells 3. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino

BEST GOLF

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1. North Star Mohican Casino Resort 2. Oneida Casino

Best Golf: North Star Mohican Casino Resort

Best Players Club: Ho-Chunk Gaming

G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

BEST POOL

INDIANA

1. French Lick Resort 2. Belterra Casino Resort 3. Rising Star Casino Resort

3. Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

2. Rising Star Casino Resort

1. Rising Star Casino Resort

3. Belterra Casino Resort

2. Belterra Casino Resort

BEST ADVERTISING

2. Belterra Casino Resort

1. Rising Star Casino Resort

3. Horseshoe Southern Indiana

2. Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa

2. Four Winds South Bend

BLUE CHIP CASINO HOTEL SPA 1

BELTERRA CASINO RESORT 2

RISING STAR CASINO RESORT 3

3. Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg

3. Indiana Grand Racing Casino BEST PLAYERS CLUB 1. Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa 2. Rising Star Casino Resort 3. Belterra Casino Resort

SUITES

BEST NIGHTLIFE

BEST RACETRACK/RACINO

1. French Lick Resort

1. Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg

1. Indiana Grand Racing Casino

2. Belterra Casino Resort 3. Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa ROOMS 1. Belterra Casino Resort 2. French Lick Resort 3. Tropicana Evansville

2. Rising Star Casino Resort 3. Belterra Casino Resort BEST THEME 1. Rising Star Casino Resort 2. French Lick Resort 3. Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg

BEST CASINO FLOOR 1. Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg

Best Customer Service: Rising Star Casino Resort

2. Indiana Grand Racing & Casino 3. Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa BEST POKER ROOM 1. Horseshoe Southern Indiana 2. Horseshoe Casino Hammond 3. Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa BEST RESTAURANT 1. Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa 2. Belterra Casino Resort 3. Rising Star Casino Resort BEST BUFFET 1. Rising Star Casino Resort 2. Belterra Casino Resort 3. Horseshoe Southern Indiana BEST SPA 1. Belterra Casino Resort 2. French Lick Resort 3. Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa

3. Four Winds New Buffalo

1. Four Winds South Bend

1. Belterra Casino Resort

BEST OVERALL PROPERTY

2. Tropicana Evansville

1. Pete Dye Course @ French Lick Resort

BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE

The state of Indiana boasts much more than the Indianapolis 500, professional spor ts teams and John Mellancamp. It is also home to thirteen casinos that stretch from Gary, Indiana in the northern part of the state, to the banks of the Ohio River in the southern part of the state. Whether you are looking for the rich history at French Lick Resort in West Baden, or convenience of having big cities nearby at Horseshoe Southern Indiana, Rising Star Casino or Hollywood Law renceburg, gaming options are robust throughout the state. Enjoy Indiana!

1. Rising Star Casino Resort

BEST GOLF COURSE

BEST ENTERTAINMENT

Best Golf Course: Pete Dye Course @ French Lick Resort

BEST CASINO PERSONNEL (DEALERS, SLOT ATTENDANTS, ETCâ&#x20AC;¦)

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Best Racetrack/Racino: Indiana Grand Racing Casino

2. Hoosier Park Racing Casino

2018 Southern Gaming Readers’ Choice Awards* Thanks for voting Rising Star Casino in these categories!

• 1st CUSTOMER SERVICE 4th Straight year • 1st CASINO PERSONNEL 4th Straight year • 1st BUFFET 3rd Straight year

• 1st ADVERTISING 2nd Straight year

• 1st THEME

• 2nd GOLF COURSE

• 2nd PLAYERS CLUB

• 2nd NIGHTLIFE

Resort Amenities • 294 deluxe rooms and suites • 18 hole “Scottish Links Style” Golf Course • Wide variety of your favorite slot machines • Headliner Entertainment and local bands • Featuring all your favorite table games • Sparkling indoor pool, sauna & fitness center • Great restaurants from Starbucks to fine dining • 12,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space • RV Park ®

RV PARK NOW OPEN: Amenities • 56 spaces, each with full • Picnic tables & grill area hookups including power, • Cable TV water and sewer • Wi-Fi • Private bathrooms • Indoor pool access with showers • The Rising Star golf course • Washers & dryers • Two adjoining hotels • Bocce ball court • Access to town docks and boat ramps • Shuffleboard • Grocery and convenience • Playground stores within walking • Dog park distance

• Casino with 939 slots and 25 table games • Variety of restaurants including buffet and steak house • Weekend entertainment • Three blocks from the charming downtown historic district • Good Sam member with high ratings

BUY 1 GET 1 FREE NIGHT RV STAY Valid thru June, 2018

Please call 800-472-6311 & mention offer code: RSCRV-SG18 Visit www.risingstarcasino.com/rv-park for more information. Rising Star REWARDS membership is FREE. Must present RSC REWARDS card at check-in. Not meant for excluded patrons. Must be 21 years or older. Management reserves the right to cancel or modify this promotion anytime with prior notice to IGC. Promotional offer is non-transferable. RV reservation subject to availability and blackout dates may apply. Request cancellation by 6 pm. When inconsistencies exist between printed collateral & IGC approved rules, the IGC approved rules will supersede.

Rising Star REWARDS, Good Sam & AAA Members receive 10% Off RV Stays.

Must present proof of membership. Rising Star REWARDS membership is FREE. Not valid with any other offers. Must be 21 years or older. Subject to availabily & blackout dates apply.

777 RISING STAR DRIVE • RISING SUN, INDIANA 47040 • 800.472.6311 • RISINGSTARCASINO.COM Based on availabilty. Must be 21 years of age or older. For help with a gambling problem, call 800.994.8448. ©2018 Rising Star Casino Resort. All Rights Reserved.

G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

MISSOURI

BEST ENTERTAINMENT

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

1. Lumiere Place Casino

& Hotels 2. Hollywood Casino St. Louis 3. River City Casino & Hotel

& Hotels 2. Ameristar Casino Resort Spa - St. Charles 3. River City Casino & Hotel

BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE 1. Hollywood Casino St. Louis 2. River City Casino & Hotel 3. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotels BEST NIGHTLIFE 1. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotel 2. Hollywood Casino St. Louis 3. Ameristar Casino Resort Spa- St. Charles

Best Overall Casino: Lumiere Place Casino & Hotel BEST POKER ROOM BEST OVERALL PROPERTY

LUMIERE PLACE CASINO & HOTEL 1

AMERISTAR CASINO RESORT SPA ST. CHARLES

RIVER CITY CASINO & HOTEL 3

1. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotels 2. Ameristar Casino Resort Spa- St. Charles 3. Harrah’s North Kansas City BEST RESTAURANT 1. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotels 2. Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa 3. River City Casino & Hotel

BEST THEME

BEST ADVERTISING 1. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotels 2. River City Casino & Hotel 3. Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa BEST PLAYERS CLUB 1. Ameristar Casino Resort & Spa - St. Charles 2. Hollywood Casino St. Louis 3. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotels

1. Hollywood Casino St. Louis 2. Ameristar Casino Resort Spa- St. Charles 3. River City Casino & Hotel BEST CASINO PERSONNEL (DEALERS, SLOT ATTENDANTS, ETC…) 1. River City Casino & Hotel 2. Ameristar Casino Resort Spa 3. Hollywood Casino St. Louis Best Rooms: Ameristar Casino Resort Spa- St. Charles

SUITES

BEST BUFFET

1. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotel

1. River City Casino & Hotel

2. Ameristar Casino Resort

Spa- St. Charles

3. River City Casino & Hotel

3. Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa

ROOMS

BEST SPA

1. Ameristar Casino Resort

Spa- St. Charles 2. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotels 3. River City Casino & Hotel BEST CASINO FLOOR 1. Hollywood Casino St. Louis 2. River City Casino & Spa 3. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotels

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Spa- St. Charles 2. Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa 3. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotels BEST POOL 1. Ameristar Casino Resort Spa- St. Charles 2. Lumiere Place Casino & Hotels

Best Spa: Ameristar Casino Resort Spa- St. Charles

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

TWO YEARS IN A ROW! • Overall Casino Property • Customer Service • Restaurant

• Hotel Suites • Poker Room • Nightlife

MORE FUN. MORE VALUE. MORE VARIETY. 1-877-450-7711 | LUMIEREPLACE.COM | 999 NORTH SECOND STREET, ST. LOUIS, MO 63102 Void for persons ineligible to game or excluded from Lumière Place Casino for any reason. Must be age 21 or older to gamble. Gambling problem? Call 1-888-BETSOFF. ©2018 Tropicana St. Louis, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

OHIO

BEST CASINO PERSONNEL

BEST ADVERTISING

1. Jack Cleveland Casino

1. Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield

2. Belterra Park Gaming

3. Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield

3. Hollywood Casino Columbus

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

BEST PLAYERS CLUB

1. Hollywood Casino Toledo

1. Hollywood Casino Columbus

2. Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield

3. Miami Valley Gaming

3. Jack Cleveland Casino

Best Buffet: Belterra Park Gaming

Best Theme: Hollywood Casino Columbus BEST BUFFET BEST OVERALL PROPERTY

HARD ROCK ROCKSINO NORTHFIELD 1

JACK CLEVELAND CASINO 2

BELTERRA PARK GAMING 3

BEST CASINO FLOOR 1. Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield 2. Jack Cleveland Casino 3. Belterra Park Gaming

BEST POKER ROOM 1. Hollywood Casino Toledo 2. Jack Cleveland Casino 3. Jack Cincinnati Casino

BEST RESTAURANT 1. Jack Cincinnati Casino 2. Belterra Park Gaming 3. Hollywood Casino Columbus

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1. Belterra Park Gaming 2. Jack Cleveland Casino 3. Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield

BEST ENTERTAINMENT 1. Hard Rock Rocksino

Best Entertainment Venue: Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield

2. Belterra Park Gaming 3. Hollywood Casino Columbus

BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE 1. Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield 2. Belterra Park Gaming 3. Hollywood Casino Columbus

BEST NIGHTLIFE 1. Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield 2. Belterra Park Gaming 3. Jack Cincinnati

BEST THEME 1. Hollywood Casino Columbus 2. Belterra Park Gaming 3. Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield

Best Nightlife: Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield

ILLINOIS

BEST ENTERTAINMENT

BEST CASINO PERSONNEL

1. Harrah’s Metropolis

1. Casino Queen

2. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel

3. Argosy Casino Alton

3. Harrah’s Metropolis

BEST ENTERTAINMENT

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

VENUE

1. Casino Queen

1. Harrah’s Metropolis

2. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel

3. Harrah’s Joliet

3. Harrah’s Joliet BEST ADVERTISING BEST NIGHTLIFE

1. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel

2. Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino

2. Casino Queen

3. Harrah’s Joliet

3. Harrah’s Metropolis BEST PLAYERS CLUB Best Overall: Jumer’s Casino & Hotel BEST RESTAURANT BEST OVERALL PROPERTY

JUMER’S CASINO & HOTEL

2 HARRAH’S

JOLIET

PAR-A-DICE HOTEL CASINO 3

1. Hollywood Casino Joliet

BEST THEME

1. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel

1. Hollywood Casino Aurora

2. Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino

3. Harrah’s Joliet

3. Harrah’s Metropolis

2. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel 3. Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino BEST BUFFET

Best Casino Floor: Casino Queen

1. Casino Queen 2. Argosy Casino Alton 3. Harrah’s Joliet BEST SPA

SUITES

1. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel

2. Harrah’s Joliet

2. Hollywood Casino Joliet

3. Hollywood Casino Joliet

3. Harrah’s Joliet ROOMS

Best Theme: Hollywood Casino Aurora

1. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel 2. Harrah’s Joliet 3. Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino BEST CASINO FLOOR 1. Casino Queen 2. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel 3. Harrah’s Joliet BEST POKER ROOM 1. Jumer’s Casino & Hotel 2. Harrah’s Joliet 3. Hollywood Casino Aurora

G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

IOWA

BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

1. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City

2. Rhythm City Casino Resort

2. Diamond Jo Casino Dubuque 3. Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf

1. Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel 3. Mystique Casino & Resort BEST ADVERTISING

BEST NIGHTLIFE

1. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City

1. Horseshoe Council Bluffs

2. Meskwaki Bingo Casino

2. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City

3. Ameristar Casino Council Bluffs

3. Ameristar Casino Council Bluffs BEST THEME 1. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City 2. Diamond Jo Casino Dubuque

BEST PLAYERS CLUB 1. Horseshoe Council Bluffs 2. Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf 3. Ameristar Casino Council Bluffs

3. Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel Best Overall: Riverside Casino & Golf Resort

.BEST CASINO PERSONNEL 1. Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf

1. 2. BEST OVERALL PROPERTY

BEST RESTAURANT

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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

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2. The Lodge at Deadwood Resort 3. Deadwood Gulch Resort G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

PAT DAY

MIKE SMITH Photos courtesy of horsephotos.com

RACING TO RICHES: TOP JOCKEYS by

There is something about the bustle of a race track that draws crowds of horse lovers and handicappers alike. Perhaps it is the thrill of watching an elite thoroughbred run down another in the final furlong, or hearing the cadence of a galloping herd of horses as they go by. Or maybe it is the adrenaline rush of seeing your horse win, the horse that you have invested your hard earned cash on. Or maybe it is simply the love of the sport, the admiration for the grace and strength that comes from such powerful animals and their human jockeys. While it is the trainer that prepares the horse for the race and the groom who makes sure his tangible needs are met, it is the jockey who best understands and communicates with their mount to bring them down the homestretch in hopes to cash in on the riches of racing. In this article, we have highlighted some of the top jockeys from the modern era of racing, and what sets them apart. We have taken in to account a variety of characteristics from purse earnings, number of starts, win percentages and public popularity. These top jocks have had prosperous racing careers that have catapulted them into the racing elite and the history books forever. 20

| G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M

ERIN AIKEN

PAT DAY To t a l P u r s e W i n n i n g s : $ 2 9 7, 9 1 4 , 8 3 9 Career Starts: 40,299 | Win%: 22% | Top 3%: 53% Triple Crown Wins: 2 0 0 0 Bel mont Sta kes (Commendable); 1996 Preakness Stakes (Louis Quatorze); 1995 Preakness Stakes (Timber Country); 1994 Belmont Stakes (Tabasco Cat); 1994 Preakness Stakes (Tabasco Cat); 1992 Kentucky Derby (Lil E Tee); 1990 Preakness Stakes (Summer Squall); 1989 Belmont Stakes (Easy Goer) Breedersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Cup Wins: 2001 Distaff (Unbridled Elaine);); 1999 Classic (Cat Thief); 1998 Classic (Awesome Again); 1997 Juvenile (Favorite Trick); 1994 Juvenile (Timber Country); 1994 Juvenile Fillies (Flanders); 1991 Distaff (Dance Smartly); 1990 Classic (Unbridled); 1987 Turf (Theatrical); 1987 Juvenile Fillies (Epitome); 1986 Distaff (Ladyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Secret); 1984 Classic (Wild Again) There is no comparison between Pat Day, the all-time leading rider at Keeneland and Churchill Downs, and any other jockey. He was born on a small ranch in

Edwards, Colorado on October 13, 1953. His father taught him to ride at an early age, teaching him to ride a bareback pony with the belief that his son needed to learn “to ride a horse, not the saddle.” As Day grew older, he would go on to assist his father with breaking and training local horses while fueling aspirations of his own as a rodeo cowboy. He traveled briefly around the United States in 1972, getting thrown from bucking broncos until he was pointed towards horse racing due to his small stature. He began working within the Thoroughbred industry that same year and earned his first win at Prescott Downs in 1973. Day would go on to win 8,803 races, a record that places him 4th among the all-time jockey wins list. Of those races, he would go on to jockey notable horses such as 1986 Horse of the Year, Lady’s Secret, Easy Goer, Wild Again, Awesome Again and 1991 Canadian Triple Crown winner Dance Smartly. His wins would include prestigious races such as the 1992 Kentucky Derby aboard Lil E. Tee, the Preakness Stakes five times and the Belmont Stakes three times, with his 1989 win on Easy Goer setting the second fastest time behind Secretariat’s immortal 1973 Belmont win. Pat Day was inducted into the National Racing Museum Hall of Fame in 1991. While the four-time Eclipse Award-winning jockey views his 1992 Kentucky Derby win was an important day, it is the inaugural 1984 Breeders’ Cup Classic win with Wild Again that he considers the most important race of his career. It would propel him to the upper echelons of the sport, landing him 11 more Breeders’ Cup wins and $23 million in Breeders’ Cup earnings. Day would retire in 2005 with earnings of $297,934,732 and now serves as the president of the Kentucky Race Track Chaplaincy dedicating his time to the community and philanthropic causes.

JOHN VELAZQUEZ To t a l P u r s e W i n n i n g s : $ 3 8 2 , 7 2 1 , 4 9 9 Career Starts: 32,254 | Win%: 18% | Top 3%: 46% Triple Crown Wins: 2017 Kentucky Derby (Always Dreaming); 2012 Belmont Stakes (Union Rags); 2011 Kentucky Derby (Animal Kingdom) Breeders’ Cup Wins: 2017 Mile (World Approval); 2017 Distaff (Forever Unbridled); 2014 Turf (Main

JOHN VEL AZQUEZ Sequence); 2012 Mile (Wise Dan); 2011 Juvenile Fillies (Stephanie’s Kitten); 2010 Marathon (Eldaafer); 2004 Sprint (Speightstown); 2004 Distaff (Ashado); 2002 Filly & Mare Turf (Starine); Juvenile Fillies (Storm Flag Flying); 2000 Juvenile Fillies (Caressing); 1998 Mile (Da Hoss) Behind Mike Smith with most Breeders’ Cup wins would be John Velazquez who is tied for wins with Bill Shoemaker’s old rival, Jerry Bailey. With 15 Breeders’ Cup wins under his belt, it is no surprise that the two-time Eclipse Award-winning jockey would have amassed earnings over $382 million and has won over 5000 races, including the 2011 Kentucky Derby on Animal Kingdom and again in 2017 on Always Dreaming. Other remarkable wins on the Triple Crown trail include the 2007 Belmont on Rags to Riches, the first filly to win the race in over a hundred years and again in 2011 on Union Rags. Other mounts to note for John Velazquez include two-time Breeders’ Cup Mile winner Wise Dan, 2017 Breeders’ Cup Distaff winner Forever Unbridled and the upcoming sire, Uncle Mo.

MIKE SMITH Total Purse Winnings: $309,059,585 | Career Starts: 33,068 Win%: 16% | Top 3%: 43% G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

Triple Crown Wins: 2 010 Bel mont Sta kes

(Drosselmeyer); 2005 Kentucky Derby (Giacomo); 1993 Preakness Stakes (Prairie Bayou)

Breeders’ Cup Wins: 2017 Juvenile (Caledonia

Road); 2016 Classic (Arrogate); 2016 Filly & Mare Sprint (Finest City); 2016 Dirt Mile (Tamarkuz);

2015 Juvenile (Songbird); Filly & Mare Sprint (Judy the Beauty); 2013 Juvenile Turf (Outstrio); 2013 Marathon (London Bridge); Ladies Classic (Royal

Delta); 2012 Turf Sprint (Mizdirection); 2011 Classic

(Drosselmeyer); 2011 Sprint (Amazombie); 2009 Classic (Zenyatta); 2008 Ladies Classic (Zenyatta);

2008 Juvenile Fillies (Stardom Bound); 2002 Distaff

(Azen); 1997 Classic (Skip Away); 1997 Distaff (Ajina);

1995 Juvenile (Unbridled’s Song); 1995 Distaff (Inside Information); 1994 Turf (Tikkanen); 1994 Sprint (Cherokee Run); 1993 Mile (Lure)

JAVIER CASTELL ANO

Mike Smith was born in Rosewell, New Mexico – an

JAVIER CASTELLANO

Hall of Fame jockeys. Smith was born into a family

To t a l P u r s e W i n n i n g s : $ 3 0 0 , 5 1 3 , 3 1 0

career on the bush tracks before becoming licensed

Triple Crown Wins: 2017 Preakness Stakes (Cloud

area better known for its UFO sightings than producing that trained horses and started his own unofficial racing

in 1982 and winning his first official race that year at

Santa Fe. In less than ten years, Smith would go on to win European classic races like the Irish 2000 Guineas,

something very few American jockeys have done. “Big

Money Mike” would go on to win the Eclipse Award for Most Outstanding Jockey in 1993 and again in 1994

for his rides on the Horse of the Year, Holy Bull and two impressive victories in the Breeders’ Cup that year.

Mike Smith would become more well-known as being the jockey of extraordinary mares like Zenyatta,

Azeri, and Songbird. Other notable mounts for Smith

would be Holy Bull, Giacomo, Unbridled’s Song, and Arrogate, the 2017 Dubai World Cup and Pegasus

Cup, winner. Mike Smith boasts the highest amount

of wins for the Breeders’ Cup, a monumental 26 wins

after his upset win on Caledonia Road in the 2017 Juvenile Fillies and raising his Breeders’ Cup earnings to $36 million. 22

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Career Starts: 26,807 | Win%: 18% | Top 3%: 49% Computing); 2006 Preakness Stakes (Bernardini)

Breeders’ Cup Wins: 2017 Juvenile Fillies Turf

(Rushing Fall); 2016 Juvenile Fillies Turf (New Money

Honey); 2015 Distaff (Stopchargingmaria); 2015 Mile (Liam’s Map); 2014 Filly & Mare Turf (Dayatthespa); 2013 Juvenile Fillies (Ria Antonia); 2012 Filly & Mare Turf; 2004 Classic (Ghostzapper)

Javier Castellano was born in Venezuela and started

his racing career there until he moved to the United States in 1997, settling in New York in 2001 where

his American career started to take off. By 2004, Castellano was riding Ghostzapper for Fred Stronach and winning that years Breeders’ Cup Classic aboard the Adena Springs mount. His success continued by

winning the 2006 Preakness Stakes and Travers Stakes with Bernardini, which would be followed by four

more Travers wins, including the 2015 Travers with Keen Ice, the only time that Triple Crown champion

American Pharaoh was defeated during his three-yearold campaign. Castellano also won the 2017 Preakness Stakes on Cloud Commuting.

Kentucky Derby (Grindstone); 1993 Kentucky Derby (Sea Hero); 1991 Belmont Stakes (Hansel); 1991 Preakness Stakes (Hansel);

His mount roster has included some impressive horses like the son of A.P. Indy and Land’s End sire, Honor Code and upcoming sire Liam’s Map. During the last couple of years, Castellano has proven himself to be a jockey of fillies by winning at least one Breeders’ Cup race with a filly or mare since 2013 which include excellent mares like Dayatthespa, Princess of Sylmar, Cavorting and his undefeated 2017 Juvenile Fillies mount, Rushing Fall. Castellano was awarded the Eclipse Award for Outstanding Jockey for four consecutive years and has earned over $300 million with over 360 wins in graded stakes races.

Breeders’ Cup Wins: 2005 Classic (Saint Liam); 2003 Mile (Six Perfections); 2002 Sprint (Orientate); 2000 Filly & Mare Turf (Perfect Sting); 2000 Juvenile (Macho Uno); 1999 Juvenile Fillies (Cash Run); 1999 Filly & Mare Turf (Soaring Softly); 1998 Juvenile (Answer Lively); 1996 Juvenile (Boston Harbor); 1995 Classic (Cigar); 1995 Juvenile Fillies (My Flag); 1993 Classic (Arcangues); 1991 Classic (Black Tie Affair) When Jerry Bailey retired in 2006, he was second only to Pat Day in lifetime earnings with a sum of over $296 million and a winner of over 216 Grade 1 races. Bailey features a record of over 5000 races won, 7 Eclipse Awards (four of them won from 2000 to 2003) and 15 Breeders’ Cup wins. His career started in 1974 where Bailey won his very first race and continued to climb his way to the top pillars of the sport when he captured the second legs of the Triple Crown with wins in the 1991 Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes aboard Hansel. He would go on to get his first Kentucky Derby win in 1993 with Sea Hero followed by another win in 1996 with Grindstone. Bailey would go on to win the Preakness Stakes again with Red Bullet in 2000 and best Triple Crown hopeful Funny Cide with Empire Maker in the Belmont Stakes in 2003.

JERRY BAILEY

Included in his 15 Breeders’ Cup wins are 5 Classic winners which include superb mounts like Black Tie

JERRY BAILEY

Affair (1991) and Saint Liam (2005). But perhaps his

To t a l P u r s e W i n n i n g s : $ 2 9 6 , 1 8 8 , 7 3 5

who had an undefeated season in 1995 which included

Career Starts: 30,857 | Win%: 19% | Top 3%: 47%

Triple Crown Wins: 2003 Belmont Stakes (Empire Maker); 2000 Preakness Stakes (Red Bullet); 1996

most impressive ride would be the charismatic Cigar the Breeders’ Cup Classic and the inaugural Dubai World Cup in 1996. Not one to be idle after a 31-year career, Bailey is now a racing analyst for NBC. G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

VICTOR ESPINOZA

GARY STEVENS

To t a l P u r s e W i n n i n g s : $ 1 9 6 , 8 7 6 , 7 5 2 Career Starts: 21,935 | Win%: 15% | Top 3%: 43%

To t a l P u r s e W i n n i n g s : $ 2 5 5 , 5 1 1 , 4 6 2 Career Starts: 29,202 | Win%: 18% | Top 3%: 48%

Kentucky Derby Wins: *2015 Triple Crown: Kentucky Derby, Preakness & Belmont (American Pharoah); 2014 Kentucky Derby (California Chrome); 2014 Preakness Stakes (California Chrome);

Triple Crown Wins: 2013 Preakness Stakes (Oxbow); 2001 Belmont Stakes (Point Given); 2001 Preakness Stakes (Point Given); 1998 Belmont Stakes (Victory Gallop); 1997 Kentucky Derby (Silver Charm); 1997 Preakness Stakes (Silver Charm); 1995 Kentucky Derby (Thunder Gulch); 1995 Belmont Stakes (Thunder Gulch); 1988 Kentucky Derby (Winning Colors)

Breeders’ Cup Wins: 2015 Classic (American Pharoah); 2014 Juvenile (Take Charge Brandi) Perhaps the most commonly associated name with horse racing today would be Victor Espinoza. His thrilling wins on California Chrome in 2014 in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness brought him and the sport into the media spotlight. Espinoza wasn’t unfamiliar with the Triple Crown trail as he had won both the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes in 2002 with War Emblem before finishing eighth in that year’s Belmont. California Chrome would also fall short in the Preakness Stakes finishing sixth and suffering a small foot injury when coming out of the gate. While prepping for California Chrome’s four-yearold campaign, Espinoza was the selected jockey for American Pharaoh. The two would go on to win the Rebel Stakes and Arkansas Derby before blowing away the 2015 field with wins in the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes, securing the first Triple Crown win in 37 years when Steve Cauthen rode Affirmed to the same feat in 1978. The team would further prove unbeatable when Espinoza won his first Breeders’ Cup race in the Classic and creating the first ever “Grand Slam” win in horse racing.

VICTOR ESPINOZA 24

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Breeders’ Cup Wins: 2016 Distaff (Beholder); 2013 Classic (Mucho Macho Man); 2013 Distaff (Beholder); 2000 Mile (War Chant); 1999 Juvenile (Anees); 1998 Distaff (Escena); 1998 Juvenile Fillies (Silverbulletday); 1996 Mile (Da Hoss); 1994 Distaff (One Dreamer); 1993 Juvenile (Brocco); 1990 Turf (In the Wings) In 2003, Gary Stevens hit the silver screen as the iconic George Woolfe in the movie Seabiscuit. Prior to his acting debut, Stevens won the 1988 Kentucky Derby with the filly, Winning Colors and the 1995 Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes aboard Thunder Gulch and another win the first Saturday in May in 1997 aboard Silver Charm. He went to win his only Eclipse Award the following year and attempted a short retirement before coming back to win the Preakness in 2001 on Point Given, the son of his 1995 Kentucky Derby mount. Stevens would attempt to retire again in 2005, becoming a race commentator for NBC and HRTV. He came out of his second retirement in 2013 and proved that he was still at the top his game by winning the Preakness a third time on Oxbow, the 2013 Breeder’s Cup Distaff on Royal Delta and the Breeder’s Cup Classic the very next day on Mucho Macho Man. Known as the “Bionic Man” for his hip and knee replacements, he added another Breeder’s Cup win in the 2016 Distaff with Beholder, a previous Breeder’s Cup Distaff and Juvenile Fillies winner, giving him a total of 11 Breeder’s Cup wins to add to his tally of Grade 1 wins. Whether it be the likes of two-time Triple Crownwinning jockey Eddie Arcaro on Citation or Whirlaway or Red Pollard and his short-tailed mount Seabiscuit, both serve as reminders that the jockey is remembered just as much as the race or the horse. Who can forget Ronnie Turcotte as he turned to look back at the Belmont field in 1973, realizing that Secretariat was ahead by 31 lengths? It is the jockey who guides the horse down the wire, creating another exhilarating chapter in the sport of kings.

Powers the casino floor.™

everi.com

*Payable in periodic payments over 20 years or in a lump sum, present-day cash value payment. G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

PLAYER STRATEGY

CRAPS: Darksider, Outsider Throughout human history people have been afraid of other people, the outsiders, the strangers, the different. If you are a member of this particular tribe, then the other tribe that appears in your lands is usually feared, sometimes attacked by your tribal members; although sometimes the outsiders are the attackers. Most times we do not, as the bible states, treat a “stranger in a strange land” with love and dignity as Moses had been treated in his exile from Egypt. Indeed, the story of Adam and Eve’s sons Cain and Abel tells us clearly that when God sent the brother-killing Cain out into the outer world, Cain feared he would be killed by the people out there. (Who these people were and where they came from is a whole other story.) Suffice it to say that God had to protect Cain from these outsiders even though Cain was a murderer. In craps there are outsiders as well; these players we call darksiders, players who bet against the shooter and against the making of points and other box numbers. The darksiders are the others, usually the hated few, the interlopers who ruin the game for the typical craps player. The darksiders are a tribe of players most rightside craps players can’t stand. If craps is tribal, the majority of players – indeed the overwhelming majority of players – want nothing to do with the darksiders, also known by the label “don’t players.” In my 30 years of playing craps I haven’t met many rightside players who enjoy the company of darksiders at the tables.

THOMAS: I know that I am to understand that these “don’t” players are not playing against the rest of us but it just doesn’t seem like that. When you are the shooter looking to make your point what player is rooting that the seven shows? The darksider! He isn’t rooting for you and you can see it in their ratty faces. They wish us ill and I wish them to disappear from my table and maybe disappear from the whole casino. BERNARD: On the come-out roll I throw a seven or eleven and they lose, and I win, but really the big part of the game is the point cycle and in this they are going against the rightside player unless they use don’t come bets and then they are in danger a little when I am shooting. Overall their game is not my game or most other craps players’ game. BEN: Do I want them banned from the game as some of my friends do? Not really. They have the right to play their way, but do I like these guys – and they are almost always guys even though there are a few women who play craps – and I do think they look sneaky.

Just listen to the voices of the rightsiders: JAMES: I hate them, I really do, and I am not afraid to say so. That type of betting shouldn’t be allowed in the game and when they are at the table I will often go to another table and that’s how I feel. I can’t even be friends with players who bet against the other players. They ruin a game; they really do. I won’t even talk to them at the table.

You can see from the above statements that there is a somewhat fierce resentment by rightside players against darkside players. There are some rightside players who actually don’t care about darksiders but from my experience these relaxed players don’t make up the majority of players.

PAUL: Come on, you know it and I know it, and every decent craps player knows this; that these

The darksiders are the others, the outsiders and that is a fact.

| G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M

FRANK SCOBLETE

players are a sneaky lot. You never hear them as they are sneaking up to the table and putting their bets out. They are quiet, like assassins. They hope all the rest of us lose so they can win. I see the evil in their faces; hoping I lose? Go away you creeps!

ALEX: I like knocking them out of the game. That is fun. I also don’t bet on them when they roll; they have negative energy. I mean the darksider is rolling hoping that he doesn’t make his point but sevens out. I find that crazy, yes, I do, it is nuts. There might be something fundamentally wrong with darkside players. I am with the rightside and they are with the darkside. So who are the heroes here? My team!

In the scheme of things, the darksider is merely betting against the house and faces a negative expectation just the way the rightsiders do. But quite often the darksider will win when the rightsider loses. This is intolerable to many rightsiders who often delight in knocking darksiders out of the game by hitting a series of numbers that the darksider is betting against.

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.

“FALSE NOTIONS ARE EVEN SPREAD BY INDIVIDUALS WHO SELL SUCH NOTIONS.”

FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

PLAYER STRATEGY by

LI N DA B OY D

VIDEO POKER: Casino Court Part II Casino Court Part I (March/April issue) examined court and casino decisions resolving slots and some table game disputes. I expected consistent findings with video poker (VP) but that was not the case at all. It’s important to know what you can and can’t do since making mistakes can cost you large sums of money. Here are few more examples to reflect on, and be aware of!

Linda Boyd, a long-time table game player before turning to video poker, writes for Southern & Midwest Gaming and Destinations ,and other national media outlets. Boyd’s book, “The Video Poker Edge”, includes free removable pay schedules and her free strategy cards for the most popular games. The latest edition is available from amazon.com, Square One Publishers and book stores. Kindle edition now available.

“YOU SHOULD WRITE DOWN THE PAY TABLE AND DETERMINE THE ER USING SOFTWARE OR TABLES.”

FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

Video Poker (VP): There are actually two types of VP glitches that can result in a player advantage. First, the floor techs installing video poker devices sometimes make errors on pay schedules and the second is an unintentional manufacturing bug. Pay Schedule Mistakes: If you don’t know a VP game’s expected return (ER) then you should write down the pay schedule and either enter it on your software or look it up on the tables in my book, The Video poker Edge. Most frequent players know the return percentage for the games they play and an anomaly will stick out like a sore thumb, especially if it’s returning more credits than expected for a given hand. When this happens, you should write down the pay table and determine the ER using software or tables. In addition, make sure you practice on tutorial software (WinPoker is my favorite) at home before returning to the casino. Never share this information with anybody, especially the casino staff, or it will quickly disappear. Regardless of how big the error you will never have to return your winnings. Manufacturer Errors: Here’s where things are both tricky and surprisingly contradictory to the Ivey “card sorting” litigations. In a case parallel to the Punto Banco (Ivey) scenario, two friends were allowed to keep their winnings when they discovered a software glitch and exploited it to the tune of unknow sums. Software Bug: Frequent VP player John Kane stumbled upon the error while playing video poker at the Fremont Casino on an IGT Game King. He was cashing out when the machine paid a $1,000 jackpot for no discernable reason. He told the attendant but she thought he was kidding and paid him anyway. Kane went home where he owned a similar machine and figured out how to trigger the win. He then called his friend, Andre Nestor, who determined that the Double Down feature had to be engaged for the series of button pushes to pay the jackpot. If you have a winning

hand, say four-of-a-kind, you could replay it at a higher denomination and collect the payout, up to ten times the original bet. Not only that, if you saw a winning hand on the screen, then you could repeatedly do the same thing. Although Kane and Nestor had a falling out (Kane wanted half of Nestor’s winning’s even though Nestor had to pay the IRS on the full amount), both continued to rake in mega cash on the play. Kane played in Vegas and Nestor in Pennsylvania. Eventually they both went to the well once too often and Kane was arrested; he warned Nestor but he didn’t believe it and was also nabbed. Legal Case: First, it’s important to note that the Kane/Nestor law suit preceded the Ivey case (it began in 2009 and lingered until 2011) and, surprisingly, wasn’t used by his lawyers to exonerate him. Perhaps that’s because Ivey’s card sorting took place in the UK and the IGT error was in the US. The IGT case started as a state litigation but soon became federal with the FBI getting involved. The Feds tried to use the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA, 1986) but that didn’t work because the two didn’t “hack” into the EPROM, insert bytes or have a magnet in their boot. Eventually the FBI settled on lesser charges (wire fraud) but needed one defendant to testify against the other. Both refused and both got off with the charges dismissed. Nestor claims he has nothing to show for it because of his enormous IRS bill and Kane is silent on the issue. I’m surprised that the casinos didn’t sue IGT for this SNAFU since they were responsible for the glitch. Final Thoughts: If you’re playing video poker it’s okay to take advantage of a pay schedule glitch but spread your wealth between several devices with the same error and keep the play on the down low so it’s not detected. On the other hand, discovering manufacturer bugs, like the one exploited by Kane and Nestor, is both rare and risky. These guys were indeed lucky that they didn’t have to return the money (Nestor got close to 500K from the Meadows Casino alone and Kane 225K from the Wynn in just one repeated play on four 9’s over several days) or, worse, have to serve jail time. Finally, realize that casino law is still in its infancy and both logic and consistency are lacking. The best you can do is research any cracks in the system and err on the side of caution because gambling jurisdictions are still company towns, especially in Nevada. G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

PLAYER STRATEGY

SPORTS: Betting Baseball Totals In the course of a baseball summer, we are offered almost 4,900 opportunities to choose a winning side. That is 30 teams playing 162 games each. What most bettors fail to take advantage of is that it also means there are almost 4,900 opportunities to cash winning tickets by playing the totals in each of these games. I’m here to offer a brief primer into betting baseball totals and the main factors that influence the outcome of the total scores. First and foremost is pitching. The old baseball adage remains true today, “Good pitching beats good hitting.” Translating that into betting totals, “Good pitching keeps the other team from scoring runs and leads to UNDERS.” Linesmakers set the totals based on the starting pitchers for each team. You can read in the newspaper or on multiple websites what each pitchers ERA is for the year and use that as a baseline to try and determine how many runs will be scored. But this is where Mark Twain’s quote of “There are three kinds of lies – lies, damn lies and statistics” comes into play. In today’s game, starting pitchers rarely go the entire game and therefore how they pitch only influences part of the game. Bettors must also study how each team’s bullpen performs. And again, these stats can be misleading because in our Sportscenter world the only relievers that get publicity are “closers.” Middle relief is an important phase of the game because in most cases, these pitchers account for about 9 outs per game. Doing your homework about middle relievers can offer a decided edge for totals bettors. Another factor for totals is the home plate umpire. The person calling balls and strikes has more control over a game than any other official in sports. An umpire who has a wide strike zone, or one who always gives the outside corner a couple of extra inches, changes how pitchers approach getting hitters out and thusly influences the final score. These factors are usually not discernable to the average fan and most don’t even know the name of the person calling the game. Randy Marsh, Ed Montague and Larry Poncino are historically umpires that have a lot of OVERS in the baseball games they call. Bruce Froemming, Ed Rapuano and John Hirschbeck are three umpires that have called more UNDERS in their 28

| G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M

careers. One thing that is important to point out however, is whether an umpire calls more games that go over or under is not an indication of being good or bad. It only indicates one thing, and it is a very important item that all handicappers and professional gamblers look for: consistency. Most umpire’s strike zones do not change. They don’t change from game to game, or even year to year. This is why following the past history of specific umpires can be a huge advantage when determining the total score (over or under). The third factor that influences totals is the stadium in which the game is played. In basketball the rim is always 10 feet high and in football the field is always 100 yards long, but each Major League stadium is different. Totals in most stadiums will be set at between 8 and 10 based on the first two factors I mentioned, mostly based on starting pitching. The two stadiums that have higher totals more frequently are Coors Field and Wrigley Field. Coors Field totals usually hover around 12 or higher because of the thin air. Wrigley Field totals are based completely on whether the wind is blowing in or out. In fact, most sportsbooks won’t post a total on Cubs home games until the weather report is released. One important thing about Wrigley Field, the wind blows in about as much as it blows out- so don’t think you can just play the OVER and be successful at the end of the year. Another thing to keep in mind about stadiums is the amount of foul territory. Some fields have seats that don’t allow much extra ground (besides inside the white lines), while others have expansive foul ground territory. Balls that would be in the stands for a Home Run in one stadium, may actually be caught for just a long out in others. Obviously, the quicker a team can record 27 outs, the less chance the other team has to score. So remember, there are multiple opportunities to take advantage of winning totals during a baseball season. Doing your research on pitchers, starters and relievers, home plate umpires and stadiums can make you a winner just as quickly or perhaps even quicker than if you picked only the outright winner. All things considered, betting the totals in baseball is just another reason why I love the long dog days of summer!

W AY N E A L LY N R O O T

Wayne Allyn Root is the President of Winning Edge International. He is the creator of the popular handicapping web site www.WinningEDGE. com. He is the author of “The King of Vegas’ Guide to Gambling” (Penguin Books). For a FREE play every day, call Root Sports Advisors at (877) 611-7668(ROOT).

“THE OLD BASEBALL ADAGE REMAINS TRUE TODAY, “GOOD PITCHING BEATS GOOD HITTING.”

FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

PLAYER STRATEGY by

PHIL HELLMUTH, JR.

POKER: Finding the Flop In this column, we look at some examples of how to play the flop efficiently and effectively when you have a top ten hand after the flop. This is an excerpt from Phil Hellmuth’s best selling book, Phil Hellmuth’s Texas Hold ‘em.

well raise it and find out if you have the best hand. You already know that you probably have Jim beat, because he’s a jackal who always raises when he has any kind of hand and he didn’t raise Jerry’s $5 bet.

Seven assumptions will apply to the four examples that follow:

Assuming that you do raise, if Jerry reraises you here, he probably has you beat, but it’s not certainty: he could have a hand like a pair-and-aflush draw, such as 10d-Qd, or a straight-and-aflush draw with a hand like Qd-Kd. You should call his reraise on the flop, since it is only $5 more to you, and you want to see what he does right after the next card is turned. If Jerry then bets out after the next card, where the limits are now doubled (he can bet $10 now and on the last round of betting), then it is time for a decision. You have to analyze what kind of hand Jerry is likely to have.

You’re playing a $5-$10 online game. 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.

“IF YOU PLAY TOO MANY HANDS IN A PRO-LEVEL POKER GAME, YOU JUST CANNOT WIN.”

FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

You have J-J, also known as pocket jacks. Jim (a jackal) raises before the flop in the first position (the first player to act after the blinds, usually referred to as “under the gun”). You reraise, making it three bets ($15) with your J-J in the third position. Dumbo (an elephant) calls on the button. Jerry (unclear profile) calls in the big blind. Jim (the jackal) calls your raise. The Flop Comes Down 10d-7d-4s Jerry checks and Jim bets out $5. This is a very good flop for you, because there are no “overcards” (Q-K-A) to your pair of jacks (an overcard creates a reasonable possibility of pair for someone who entered the pot with two big cards in his hand), and therefore there is an excellent chance that you still have the best hand. Clearly, a raise is in order here. You raise because you probably have the best hand at this point, but your hand is vulnerable to overcards, and you want to try to drive out (force the player to fold) a hand like Q-K that can hit a queen or a king on either of the next two cards, and thus beat you. Your raise may also drive out someone with 5-5, who would otherwise call for the relatively cheap #5 and perhaps end up beating you because he hit a five on the next card or caught a sic and then a three to make a straight. In other words, right now your riae is all about “protecting” your hand from losing by driving out opponents who, though trailing at the moment, have reasonable chances to beat you on the turn or river, if you let them stay in the hand. Your raise makes it too expensive for players facing weak draws to stay in the hand. The Flop Has Come Down Ad-10s-4d Jerry bets out and Jim calls. Now what do you do? A raise at this point is a great idea. Clearly , you cannot fold right here, because the pot is fairly large and you may still have the best hand. As long as you’re going to play, you might as

Does Jerry have a drawing hand that you can beat or a hand like A-Q (a pair of aces; remember the flop is A-10-4) that beats you? Did the flush card or a king or queen hit the board on the turn? (Note, by the way, that even though a jack on the turn would appear to be great card for you, because it would give you three jacks, it could also present some danger, if it is the jack of diamonds, or if someone had K-Q and has now made his straight.) If so, then can you beat anything anymore? Perhaps a “blank” card (a harmless card that helps neither a straight draw nor a flush draw) like the 6c comes off and Jerry checks his drawing hand to you. Why has he checked? Because your raise on the flop scared him off from betting the 6c. (If so, then your raise on the flop has accomplished its mission!) If he does bet here after a “blank,” then you must watch the way he makes the bet (look for body language that might show confidence or fear) and make your best decision. On fourth street (after the fourth card is dealt). If something in your head (intuition or instinct) tells you that Jerry is bluffing, then call. If you feel that he is has a real hand, then fold. Trust your instincts and you will find that they keep improving as you continue to play Hold’em. You will also find that your ability to read others will get better as you gain experience, especially if you work specifically on watching how people bet their hands. One of the best times to do this is when you have folded your own hand and so no longer have to concentrate on your own tactical considerations: you can focus entirely on studying your opponents (and the outcome!) for information that will come in handy later. G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

GOOD TIMES HAPPEN HERE.

s g in r p S ot H g in m a G d Oaklawn Racing an YOUR FAVORITE VEGAS-STYLE GAMES, GREAT FOOD AND DRINK, LIVE MUSIC â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ALL THE INGREDIENTS FOR A MEMORABLE WEEKEND ARE HERE. PLAN YOUR TRIP TODAY AT ARKANSAS.COM.

Arkansas.com

R EGION A L ROU N D -U P: GAMING IS TWICE AS NICE IN ARK ANSAS

If your idea of a good time includes a day or night of exciting gaming, coupled with first-class entertainment and delicious dining options, then plan to spend some quality time in Arkansas. The Natural State’s two gaming facilities – Oaklawn Racing & Gaming in Hot Springs National Park and Southland Park Gaming & Racing in West Memphis – will please even the most discerning gamer.

wagering records. An average of 6,000 races are run each year, with live racing six days a week and simulcast wagering seven days a week (except on Christmas and Easter). But man does not live by racing and gaming alone, so when you’re ready to give Lady Luck some time off, there is plenty else to explore in and around the Hot Springs and West Memphis areas.

Each of the two gaming facilities feature large, recently-expanded gaming areas with more than 1,000 video gaming machines, table games, fun promotions, a high limits area and multiple restaurants and bars. Both venues are open seven days a week, year-round. As an added bonus, Oak lawn and Southland offer some of the finest racing action in the country. Oaklawn’s live Thoroughbred racing runs from January through April, culminating with one of the richest weeks of racing in America – the Racing Festival of the South, featuring the $1 million Arkansas Derby.

Oaklawn, located in Hot Springs National Park, gives you quick recreational access to the Ouachita Mountains, five clear mountain lakes, three rivers and five Arkansas State Parks.

Southland Park, just across the river from downtown Memphis, features year-round greyhound racing, boasts one of the largest kennel compounds in the nation and enjoys an exceptional reputation as one of the best greyhound racing programs in the U.S. Southland Park holds some of the industry’s all-time attendance and

During your time in downtown Hot Springs, stroll along Bathhouse Row and pamper yourself with a luxurious spa treatment. Stop by the jug fountains to taste or fill up on water straight from the hot underground springs. Make time to take in the picturesque view of the town from atop Hot Springs Mountain Tower.

AND HERE.

And don’t miss the opportunity to dine at one of the popular local restaurants along Central Avenue to complete your Hot Springs experience. To the west, within an easy drive from Hot Springs, you’ ll f ind Mountain Harbor Resort and Spa. It’s a paradise for campers, hikers, bikers, boaters and fishing enthusiasts on the shores of Lake Ouachita. Luxurious, modern cabins and cozy lakeview guest rooms dot the mountain landscape above the pristine lake, and the resort’s famous Lodge Restaurant serves up tempting “home cooking” daily. Less than an hour’s drive from Hot Springs, Arkansas’s capital city Little Rock offers endless possibilities for food, entertainment, fun and culture. Neighborhood restaurants and breweries are worth exploring for delicious local cuisine and microbrews. Dining choices run the gamut from barbecue joints and pizza parlors to fine dining. Spend time at the Clinton Presidential Center, explore the eclectic River Market and South Main districts in downtown Little Rock, and check out the native treasures offered by local vendors. These are just a few suggestions for your next trip to Arkansas. So in addition to gaming, be sure to sure to carve out enough time for the one-of-a-kind attractions and activities that make The Natural State unique!

emphis M t es W g n ci a R & g in Southland Park Gam

YEAR-ROUND GAMING AND SEASONAL LIVE RACING IS ALWAYS A WINNING COMBINATION IN THE NATURAL STATE. PLAN YOUR TRIP TODAY AT ARKANSAS.COM.

Arkansas.com G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

PLAYER STRATEGY

Horseracing: Betting Big Money Like most horseplayers, I can be classified as a low roller. I travel to my local racetrack with around $40 in my pocket then proceed to bet five bucks a race in the hopes of eventually doubling my bankroll. However when a major race rolls around, I somewhat break out of my conservative shell. I am not suggesting that you could ever label me as a whale, but I have purchased a few tickets over the years that would make the average person’s heart race. The two largest wagers of my life are as follows: A $500 win bet on Real Quiet in the 1998 Belmont Stakes (lost in a photo) and a $600 win bet on Street Sense in the 2007 Preakness Stakes (again lost in a photo). This is not to say that disaster has ensued every time I have decided to up the ante. On more than one occasion I have pushed a few c-notes through the window and lived to tell about it. Though these sums might seem fantastic to many, I know there are others who would find my resume less than stimulating. In fact I have lots of acquaintances who regularly bet $50 to $100 per race and then go in with $5,000 when the first Saturday in May rolls around. This is still small change to some though for the high rollers who frequent the glamorous racetracks in Florida, New York and California regularly have ten large in play each time the gates open. I do not want to focus too much on these numbers though, for as Albert Einstein once said, “It’s all relative.” The truth is that the term “big bet” will not yield the same definition for all of us. It just depends on what the size of one’s bank account and risk threshold happens to be. In my opinion a “big bet” equals approximately 10% of a gambler’s liquidity. If you are betting more than this then you are crazy, poor or both! Now it is time to answer a very difficult and personal question, “As a horseplayer, should you place a big bet?” Well whether you want to believe it or not, a large percentage of big wins come as a direct result of big bets. We all dream of hitting a $2 superfecta that changes our life but to realistically ascend into the next tax bracket, you better be ready to part with some serious lettuce. Before you commence a reckless trip to the ATM though, scout the problematic territory that lies ahead because putting $500 or more on a horserace takes guts. I am not referring to bridge jumping either. Wagering $500 on a 1-9 shot to show only proves that you skipped the economics class when the professor lectured on risk vs. reward. If you can sustain the nerve to saunter up to the 32

| G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M

teller and turn over a weeks pay, you should know that only half the battle is over. The next dilemma concerns the timing of the play. I believe the opportune instance to bet big arrives at the advent of a major race and here are a few reasons why. First of all, thoroughbreds of higher quality are easier to handicap. They tend to be more consistent and are usually handled by experienced connections. Secondly, the betting pools in these races can handle a sizable bet with no adverse effect on your payout. Going heavy on a runner during a weekday card at a smaller track could potentially reduce the odds on your choice by several points. Being that the Triple Crown Series is here, now may be the time to act if you have been mulling over the idea of “letting it ride”. The Kentucky Derby in particular offers the perfect scenario for a large scale wager and not just for the two reasons listed in the previous paragraph. The most unique thing about this race is the amount of uneducated money that enters into the pools. The event is pure Americana and even people who don’t watch a horserace all year long still wager a sawbuck or two on the “Most exciting two minutes in sports.” These once a year bettors usually let a catchy name, lucky number or television “expert” guide their decision. This gross ignorance usually leads to inflated prices on entrants that only skilled handicappers have a chance of locating. As lucrative as the Kentucky Derby is, I want to be sure and reiterate that it is the most difficult race in the world to win. Normally the program boasts a twenty horse field which means if you bet a 10-1 shot to show and he comes in fourth (like I did last year) you have defeated 16 rivals but will still be in possession a worthless ticket. If this prospect sounds daunting then you might want to hold off until the second jewel of the Triple Crown to empty your pockets. The Preakness is limited to 14 entries and almost always runs closer to form than the Kentucky Derby. I am going to end this column with a disclaimer because the topic we have just discussed is not for everyone. Know that these “big bets” should only be put down a few times over the course of a lifetime, I waited nine years between mine. In the end this is gambling and the odds are against you, but I believe whole heartedly in the following axiom, “fate loves the fearless”.

E R I C F LOY D

Linda Boyd, a long-time table game player before turning to video poker, writes for “Southern & Midwest Gaming” and other notable publications throughout the country. You can see her videos on YouTube or listen to her radio interviews on iTunes. Boyd’s book, “The Video Poker Edge”, includes free removable pay schedules and her free strategy cards for the most popular games. The latest edition is available from amazon.com, Square One Publishers and book stores. Kindle edition now available.

“BETTING POOLS IN THESE RACES CAN HANDLE A SIZABLE BET WITH NO ADVERSE EFFECT ON YOUR PAYOUT” FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

TAKE ALL YOUR FAVORITES FOR A SPIN!

PlayRivers4Fun.com | RIVERSCASINO.COM 3000 S. River Road | Des Plaines, IL 60018 Virtual Credits have no cash value and are redeemable at www.playrivers4fun.com only. Not valid for any participant of the Illinois Gaming Board Statewide Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program. Must be 21 years of age or older. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537). G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

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

*CC PARTNER

TABLES

MACHINES

BELTERRA CASINO RESORT & SPA

BELTERRACASINO.COM

800-472-6311

•

1,600

RISING STAR CASINO RESORT

RISINGSTARCASINO.COM

812-438-1234

1,000

INDIANA GRAND CASINO

INDIANAGRAND.COM

877-386-4463

2,000+

HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO, SIOUX CITY

HARDROCKCASINOSIOUXCITY.COM

712-226-7600

839

RIVERSIDE CASINO & GOLF RESORT

RIVERSIDECASINOANDRESORT.COM

877-677-3456

1,150

RHYTHM CITY CASINO RESORT

RHYTHMCITYCASINO.COM

844-852-4386

824

INDIANA

IOWA •

MICHIGAN SOARING EAGLE CASINO & RESORT

SOARINGEAGLECASINO.COM

888-732-4537

4,200

MGM GRAND DETROIT

MGMGRANDDETROIT.COM

877-888-2121

4,000

ISLAND RESORT AND CASINO, HARRIS

ISLANDRESORTANDCASINO.COM

800-682-6040

1,200

GUN LAKE CASINO

GUNLAKECASINO.COM/

269-792-7777

1,600

BLACK BEAR CASINO RESORT

BLACKBEARCASINORESORT.COM

888-771-0777

1,800

TREASURE ISLAND RESORT & CASINO

TICASINO.COM

888-867-7829

2,200

GRAND CASINO HINCKLEY

GRANDCASINOMN.COM

800-472-6321

3,500

GRAND CASINO MILLE LACS

GRANDCASINOMN.COM

800-626-5825

3,100

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

2,000

RIVER CITY CASINO & HOTEL, ST. LOUIS

RIVERCITY.COM

888-578-7289

2,000

MINNESOTA

MISSOURI

OHIO JACK CASINO CINCINNATI

JACKENTERTAINMENT.COM/CINCINNATI

513-252-0777

100

2,000

HOLLYWOOD CASINO COLUMBUS

HOLLYWOODCOLUMBUS.COM

614-308-3333

2,200

JACK CASINO CLEVELAND

JACKENTERTAINMENT.COM/CLEVELAND

216-297-4777

100

1,600

HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO, TULSA

HARDROCKCASINOTULSA.COM

800-760-6700

2,600

WINSTAR CASINO & RESORT

WINSTARWORLDCASINO.COM

580-276-4229

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

650

NORTH STAR CASINO RESORT

NORTHSTARCASINORESORT.COM

800-952-0195

1,200

ST. CROIX CASINO TURTLE LAKE

STCROIXCASINO.COM

800-846-8946

1,095

POTAWATOMI HOTEL & CASINO

PAYSBIG.COM

800-729-7244

100

3,000

OKLAHOMA

WISCONSIN

| G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M

517 10

634 96

1,832 1,200

* 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

GOLF

SPA

POOL

689

•

294

•

201

• •

•

328

• • •

408

•

496

•

967

• •

•

• •

•

• •

116

517 400

967

184 294 200

•

• • •

• •

INDOOR

•

• • •

INDOOR

184 294 200

454 1,500

• •

86 140

•

302

• •

129

•

161

•

391

•

• INDOOR

G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

FUTURE ODDS FIND YOUR EDGE … PLACE YOUR BET!

Check out the latest odds for major sporting events. For the latest up-to-the-minute odds, visit GamingandDestinations.com

NBA FINALS - JUNE 15, 2018 Team

MONSTER ENERGY CUP- NASCAR

May March January

Golden State Warriors

5/4

10/17

2/3

Houston Rockets

8/5

5/1

13/2

Toronto Raptors

10/1

12/1

N/A

Philadelphia 76ers

12/1

N/A

Cleveland Cavaliers

15/1

5/1

9/2

Oklahoma City Thunder

35/1

25/1

20/1

Boston Celtics

80/1

12/1

10/1

N/A

Utah City Jazz 85/1 *All other teams are higher than 85/1 odds.

MLB WORLD SERIES -NOVEMBER 1, 2018 Team

May

March

January

New York Yankees

13/2

5/1

9/2

Los Angeles Dodgers

8/1

6/1

5/1

Cleveland Indians

9/1

8/1

7/1

Boston Red Sox

10/1

12/1

14/1

Chicago Cubs

10/1

8/1

Washington Nationals

10/1

8/1

10/1

New York Mets

12/1

20/1

N/A

Arizona Diamondbacks

16/1

25/1

N/A

Los Angeles Angels

16/1

20/1

16/1

San Francisco Giants

20/1

N/A

20/1

Houston Astros

5/1

St. Louis Cardinals 25/1 *All other teams are higher than 25/1 odds.

6/1

13/2

Name May Kevin Harvick 3/1 Martin Truex Jr.

7/2

Kyle Busch

11/2

Brad Keselowski

17/2

Joey Logano

10/1

Kyle Larson

Chase Elliot

Denny Hamlin

Jimmie Johnson

Clint Bowyer

8/1 9/1

13/1 15/1

25/1

Ryan Blaney

25/1

Erik Jones

35/1

*All other racers are higher than 35/1 odds.

NFL SUPER BOWL LII – FEBRUARY 3, 2019 MERCEDES BENZ STADIUM – ATLANTA GEORGIA Team May New England Patriots

6/1

Los Angeles Rams

10/1

Philadelphia Eagles

10/1

Minnesota Vikings

Green Bay Packers

10/1 12/1

Pittsburgh Steelers

12/1

Houston Texans

16/1

San Francisco 49ers

14/1

Atlanta Falcons

20/1

Los Angeles Chargers

20/1

Jacksonville Jaguars New Orleans Saints Oakland Raiders

*All others teams are higher than 25/1 odds.

20/1 20/1 25/1

For the latest sports odds, updated every 5 minutes, visit GamingandDestinations.com 36

| G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M

ESCAPE TO THE EXCEPTIONAL! ®

Rhythm City Casino Resort is your one-stop destination for entertainment, food and fun! Located in the beautiful Davenport, Iowa!

• Nearly 35,000 sq. ft. of casino! Includes slot and video gaming, table games and poker.

• Three dining choices to satisfy any appetite! • The Spa at Rhythm City: services to pamper and relax. Rhythm City Casino Resort

• Luxurious & Modern Hotel: play longer when you stay in style.

• Live Entertainment every Friday & Saturday nights!

7077 Elmore Avenue  Davenport, IA 52807 844.852.4FUN or 563.328.8000 rhythmcitycasino.com

G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

MAKE MEMORIES THAT LAST A LIFETIME With six unique destinations to choose from, you are sure to have a location in your very own backyard. Experience top of the line gaming, dining, and lodging only with Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin.

Visit ho-chunkgaming.com to Experience the Difference. Ho-Chunk Gaming welcomes anyone 21 or older to play at any of our locationss. Ho-Chunk Gaming reserves the right to alter or cancel offers or promotions at any time without notice. Gaming & Accommodations vary by location.