Midwest Gaming and Destinations - September 2017 by Gaming and Destinations

SPECIAL EDITION : 2017 CASINO DINING GUIDE

PAGE 6

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017—VOL. 19—ISSUE 5 GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

SUBSCRIBE TODAY & WIN BIG! PAGE 9

5 TASTY

BLACKJACK BASICS: ANSWERS REVEALED PAGE 24

BURGERS: OUR SURE BETS PAGE 20

GIADA DE LAURENTIIS

CELEBRITY CHEFS OF CAESARS' EMPIRE PAGE 14

PLUS: TIPS ON BLACKJACK • CRAPS • HORSERACING • VIDEO POKER & MORE! Covering Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, 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.

GRAND TIMES AHEAD

mgmgranddetroit.com | 21+

LETTER

from the Publisher

UP FRONT with G. DOUGLAS

PUBLISHER

Gaming Media Group Inc. PRESIDENT

G. Douglas Dreisbach

can also see the recipes from all of the chefs at GamingandDestinations.com.

We are excited to unveil our annual Casino Dining Guide featuring some of our favorite casino restaurants, diners, buffets and more. Casino properties around the world have really stepped up their culinary offerings and we think you should take advantage of them all. Whether you are at a mega resort in Las Vegas or a riverboat in Tunica, chances are good you will find an array of dining options to fill your every craving. This year’s guide includes a listing of our preferred properties and the dining options at each, including their fine dining options, casual food finds and the bountiful buffets. We hope you agree with the listings and get a chance to check them out soon. We think you’ll like them! Also in this issue are the results of our Casino Chef Showdown, an annual online recipe contest among some of the top chefs in the casino industry. This year’s contest featured eight chefs from across the region who all entered amazing recipes. After 15,000 votes, the champion and G&D’s Culinary King of the Casino is Anthony Rametta from Scarlet Pearl Casino in D’Iberville, Mississippi. His winning recipe was a Pistachio Encrusted King Salmon that barely edged out Hollywood Casino in Tunica by less than 600 votes! Be sure to check out the editorial on Chef Rametta and the Final Four Chefs on page 20. You

We are excited to feature chef superstar Giada De Laurentiis and her Las Vegas restaurant on the cover of this issue. Located at The Cromwell, a Caesars-owned boutique hotel on the strip, GIADA restaurant is known for its innovative menu, vast wine list and catchy décor, and has been getting great reviews since its opening. The restaurant is one of several Caesars restaurants displaying the creations of celebrity chefs, and we have a pulled together some of our favorites for you. Check out our overview of the Celebrity Chefs of the Caesars' empire on page 14. We are also really excited about our latest and greatest online app, Comps Club Slots where you can win Real Comps to Real Casinos! The app is available to download for free on any device or on Facebook. To get started, simply search CompsClubSlots (no spaces) in your app store and you’ll be on your way! Check out the Rewards Store for everything from free rooms in Tunica to buffets in Biloxi and more. Check it out and let us know what you think! Lastly, we hope you enjoy the great gaming tips in this issue on everything from blackjack and craps to video poker and Texas hold ’em. These are some of the best gaming authors in the world and, by reading their tips, you will be a better gamer. Thank you for your support of Gaming and Destinations. We hope you enjoy reading it as much as we enjoy publishing it! If you can’t be good … be lucky!

FOUNDING PUBLISHER

Larry Bisig LAYOUT AND DESIGN

Hill Harcourt CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS

Linda Boyd Gabe Duverge John Grochowski Phil Hellmuth Jr. Terry Parrett Henry Tamburin Frank Scoblete

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 does Gaming and Destinations assume liability for claims of advertisers. Send address changes

G. Douglas Dreisbach

POSTMASTER:

Publisher

640 South Fourth Street,

to Gaming and Destinations, Louisville, Kentucky 40202. Giada De Laurentiis cover photo courtesy of Caesars Entertainment.

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CONTENTS ON THE COVER

14 Celebrity Chefs of the Caesars' Empire:

WINNING TIPS AND STRATEGIES

HIGHLIGHTS & HOT SPOTS

22 Video Poker:

28 Dining Destination:

Our overview of the star chefs of the Caesars' empire that will make your mouth water.

FEATURE ARTICLES

Realistic Expectations

23 Craps:

Casino Dining Guide:

Great food finds at casino properties from across the region.

The Darkside of the Moon

Gun Lake Casino Wayland, Michigan

Q&A with Henry Tamburin

25 Poker: 26 Keno:

Our top picks for the best burgers at casinos throughout the region.

32 Property Profile: 34 Casino Directory:

18 Casino Chef Showdown: 20 Burgers You Can Bet On:

Fantastic food finds in Arkansas

24 Blackjack:

Check out the winners of our annual Casino Chef Showdown.

Playing Suited Connectors

Finding Value & Payoffs

36 Sports Wagering:

Our preferred properties and attractions.

35 Reader Review:

MGM Grand Detroit – Detroit, Michigan

Future odds on major sporting events

30 Breeders’ Cup Championships:

The best in horseracing compete for $28 million.

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

1 2

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF A RANBERRY IS RIPE?

a. It is firm b. It is dark red

d. Take a bite

d. 80,000-85,000

HOW DID THE POUND CAKE GET ITS NAME? a. It weighs one pound b. Pounding your fists into it will bring good luck

Directions: In a bowl combine the raw sugar and cinnamon. Pour the Grand Marnier into a separate bowl. Dip the rim of the glass in the Grand Marnier to moisten it, and then immediately dip the rim of the glass in the cinnamon sugar. Next, combine the ingredients in a cocktail shaker (minus the cinnamon sticks and apple slices) and shake well. Pour mixture over ice in your rimmed glass, add cinnamon stick and apple slice for garnish … and cheers the welcoming of fall! 4

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IN THE GAME OF BLACKJACK, WHAT IS THE DEFINITION OF A “HARD HAND”? a. A hand with no aces. b. A 10 and a 3 against a dealer 10 or face card. c. A hand you should split. d. A hand you should stand on.

HOW MANY GUESTS PER DAY DOES THE BACCHANAL BUFFET AT CAESARS PALACE SERVE?

ANSWERS: 1.C 2.D 3.D 4.B 5. A

Ingredients (1 drink): • 5 ounces spiced cider • ½ teaspoon lemon juice • ½ ounce Grand Marnier (or Cointreau) • 1-½ ounces mescal or gold tequila • 2 tablespoons raw sugar (for garnish) • 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon • cinnamon sticks • apple slices

b. 60,000-65,000 c. 70,000-75,000

d. The original recipe called for one pound each of butter, sugar, eggs and flour.

We found this interesting twist to one of the most popular drinks in the world, the Margarita! Created by Serena Wolf from domesticate-me.com and author of the book, “The Dude Diet,” you can’t go wrong giving this a try! With fall knocking on the door, the apple and cinnamon flavors really hit home. Enjoy!

a. 50,000-55,000

c. It will bounce like a rubber ball

c. The recipe was created at a dog pound.

SPICED CIDER MARGARITA

HOW MANY POUNDS OF SHRIMP ARE CONSUMED PER DAY IN LAS VEGAS?

a. 500-1,000 b. 1,000-2,000 c. 2,000-3,000 d. 3,000-4,000

Percent of a cucumber that is water

14 Number of betting positions on a Baccarat table. It is numbered to 15 but is missing the unlucky 13.

837 $51

Decks of cards used in Baccarat

Number of consecutive sold-out shows performed by Elvis at Las Vegas Hilton

Cost of the electric bill per hour for The Luxor in Las Vegas

S I N

e d i u G g n i Din 2 0 17

C A S I N O

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AMAZING APPETIZERS, ENTICING ENTREES AND DELECTABLE DESSERTS

Who’s hungry? We are excited to unveil some of the top casinos and their culinary offerings in this year’s Casino Dining Guide. If you aren’t carving out time to check out your favorite casinos dining options, you are missing the boat! Whether you are celebrating something special and go to the white table cloth, fine dining steakhouse, or want something more casual, we got our top picks listed for your consideration and think you’ll enjoy them as much as we do! Bon Appetit!

2017 CASINO DINING GUIDE

DETROIT, MICHIGAN

MGM Grand Detroit 1-877-888-2121 | MGMGrandDetroit.com Food Finds: Wolfgang Puck Steak, Wolfgang Puck Pizzeria & Cucina, Palette Dining Studio, TAP, Breeze Dining Court, The Roasted Bean MGM Grand Detroit is the ultimate gaming experience located in downtown Detroit and offers premium amenities and the ultimate guest experience. The property is home to over 400 rooms, a luxurious spa, an indoor pool, a showroom and dining options that rival some of the finest restaurants in the city.

TAP - Casual Sports Bar

When a name like Wolfgang Puck is associated with a restaurant, you know you are in for a special treat. The celebrity chef’s name is on two of the properties restaurants and both are fantastic. For fine dining, Wolfgang Puck Steak offers an array of grilled steaks and seafood favorites as well as a wine selection for even the avid wine aficionado’s out there. Get started with appetizers of Wagyu Beef Carpaccio or Sashimi Grade Yellowtail Tuna Tartare. For entrees, the filet mignon’s are always popular and are offered in the six and ten ounce sizes, but the money selections have to be either the American Wagyu Filet (8 ounce) or Wagyu Tomahawk Chop (32 ounce). For more casual dining options, consider Wolfgang Puck Pizzeria where you will find house made pastas, several of Puck’s signature oven-baked pizzas and other Italian favorites in a relaxed setting. The restaurant also features live entertainment on Fridays and Saturday’s so be sure to check out their web-site for what’s on the schedule. To catch your favorite sporting events, stop by TAP for comfort food and pub favorites including burgers, sandwiches, wings and more including over 50 beers selections!

TURTLE LAKE, WISCONSIN

St. Croix Casino Turtle Lake 1-800-846-8946 | TurtleLake.StCroixCasino.com Food Finds: Me-Ki-Noc Restaurant, TLC Buffet, Concession Stand St. Croix Casino Turtle Lake offers smoke-free family dining in its Me-Ki-Noc Restaurant and TLC Buffet. The Me-Ki-Noc Restaurant has a mouthwatering menu, featuring steaks, chops and seafood entrees along with sandwiches, salads and more. Menu options include delicious breakfast, lunches and dinner all prepared by superb gourmet chefs. Along with its everyday menu, the Me-Ki-Noc also features daily and weekly dining specials.

TLC BUFFET

The TLC Buffet, with its wide variety of fresh salads, piping hot entrées and decadent desserts, is everyone's favorite all-you-caneat dining option. Weekly specials include a Champagne Brunch the first and third Sundays of every month, a Brunch Buffet on the second and fourth Sundays of every month, the buffet’s signature Thursday Surf and Turf Buffet and the popular Friday All-You-Can-Eat Fish Fry. Check St. Croix Casino Turtle Lake’s website, turtlelake.stcroixcasino.com, for information on all of the weekly specials in the Me-Ki-Noc Restaurant and the TLC Buffet. The Chef Says: “The quality of the food we prepare is testimony to the passion for food we have here. Nothing is more rewarding than seeing guests enjoy every last bite of the food they order- and then return to dine with us again.” - Carmen Leoso

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2017 CASINO DINING GUIDE

SIOUX CITY, IOWA

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino 1-844-222-7625 | HardRockCasinoSiouxCity.com Food Finds: Main + Abbey, Anthem, Fuel American Grill, World Tour Buffet, Hard Rock Food Truck The electric vibe in Sioux City can be attributed to Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. With non-stop headlining entertainment and promotions, there is never a dull moment at this boutique-style hotel with 54 unique rooms. In the casino, you will find almost 900 slot machines and all of your favorite table games, but if dining is your jam, you are in for a treat!

Main + Abbey - American Fare

Main + Abbey is one of the top restaurants in the city and one that suits both big and small appetites. The menu offers what is described as light, gastropub cuisine with a London flair and American fare. Starters include flatbreads, tacos and bar staples and the entrée selections are even more impressive. From the grill there are filets, rib-eyes and NY Strips, and if you are in a seafood mood, don’t miss the ‘Land + Sea’ menu with Double Crunch Chicken, Pane Seared Seabass or the Diver Scallops. For quick and casual, you can’t go wrong with Fuel American Grill where you will find everything from themed-sandwiches like the The Reuben Ramone, Burning Down the House Grilled Chicken and the Crowd Surfer Club. There is also a variety of cheeseburger selections ranging from the classic to the Road Warrior with smoked bacon, caramelized onion and swiss cheese. Hard Rock is always an innovator when it comes to trends and also recently opened a food truck serving a limited, but convenient menu of cheese burgers, chicken tenders and an Oreo cheesecake that always his the spot. Another big property announcement is the recent opening of the Wine Bar located conveniently off the casino floor. The welcomed wine offerings include over 125 bottles, 20 of which are by the glass, in an upscale lounge setting.

WAYLAND, MICHIGAN

Gun Lake Casino 1-269-792-7777 | GunLakeCasino.com Food Finds: Harvest Buffet, Sandhill Café, Johnny Rockets, Villa Italian Kitchen Gun Lake Casino may not be your typical mega resort, but once you step onto the property, you’ll know why it is so popular among guests. After recently completing a $46 million expansion, including a new buffet area, this should be a sure stop on your next road trip.

The All-New Harvest Buffet

Part of the expansion included the Harvest Buffet which now features 300-seats and multiple cooking stations offering cravings like chicken fajitas, pizza, oysters, prime rib and more. The new dining room is set in a contemporary, open setting where guests can dine without feeling like they are sitting on top of the people eating next to you. There are also specialty themed nights throughout the week including Crab Legs on Fridays. Sandhill Café also offers a casual dining experience with a lot of great variety including a breakfast menu as well as a small and big plate menu for lunch and dinner. And, don’t miss the famous Johnny Rockets where you’ll find shakes and malts, and of course, some of the best hamburgers on the planet. Be sure to try the various French fry options including sweet potato, chili cheese or bacon and cheese! The Chef Says: “From a brand new buffet that offers fajitas, crab legs, and prime rib to a Café offering a casual dining experience – we have something for every guest! We’re proud to use local, seasonal ingredients in our kitchens and extend an invite to anyone looking for a great meal.”

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F O E N O S A D E T O V

BEST CASINOS I N

T H E

U N I T E D - U S A

S T A T E S

T O D A Y

1 0 B E S T

It’s time to crank up the volume on your getaway. With 883 slots, 28 table games, restaurants for every taste, and entertainment at every turn, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City delivers a megawatt experience that you’ll only find in rock and roll.

SIOUX CITY HARDROCKCASINOSIOUXCITY.COM Must be 21 or older to gamble. If you or someone you know needs gambling treatment, call 800.BETS OFF. ©2017 Hard Rock International (USA), Inc. 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 |

2017 CASINO DINING GUIDE

WELCH, MINNESOTA

Treasure Island Resort & Casino 1-800-222-7077 | TICasino.com Food Finds: Tado Steakhouse, Tradewinds Buffet, Currents Restaurant, Mongo Bay Grill, Prime Thyme Sub Shop, Xtreme Café, Island Perk When a casino has a marina offering private cruises, an elaborate RV park, an enchanting spa, indoor and outdoor pools, seven dining options, headlining entertainment and a hopping casino, you know you are in the right spot. Picture a Caribbean getaway less than an hour drive from Minneapolis and you’ll be ready to roll.

Tado Steakhouse - Steaks & Seafood

Dining is a premium at The Island and excellence can be found at Tado Steakhouse. The fresh and contemporary designed ding room offers table or booth seating options and makes for a relaxed setting to enjoy steakhouse staples as well as some more obscure offerings. Get started with Caribbean Shrimp Skewers ($16) or Beef Tips and Chips ($12) or interesting soup and salad options. Main entrees include favorites from the land and sea and each features suggested wine pairings listed on the menu. Popular items include the Signature Hereford New York Strip ($34), Bone-n Rib Eye ($46), Pork Tenderloin Medallions ($26) the Filets with Scallops or Lobster. For a casual dining option, check out Currents Restaurant where you will find favorites like eggs benedict, omelets and steak and eggs for breakfast, signature salads, sandwiches and pizzas for lunch and mouth-watering entrees for dinner such as Pad Thai, Chicken Tetrazzini and Walleye Fillet for dinner. You will also find a great buffet experience at Tradewinds and tasty treats at Mongo Bay Grill or Prime Thyme Sub Shop.

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN

Potawatomi Hotel & Casino 1-800-729-7244 | PaysBig.com Food Finds: Dream Dance Steak, Bella Italiana, Ruyi, The Fire Pit Sports Bar & Grill, Canal Street Café, The Buffet, Menomonee Valley Food Court Potawatomi Hotel & Casino offers something for everyone including an array of restaurants, bars and nightlife. The property is home to 2,500 slots and nearly 100 table games in a contemporary casino setting and offers breathtaking views of downtown Milwaukee from around the property.

Dream Dance Steak - Steaks & Seafood

While there are several great dining options here, the fine-dining steakhouse is Dream Dance Steak where they take pride in fresh ingredients and the finest meat and seafood selections. In addition to premium steak cuts, other interesting menu items include a Ricotta and Filet Meatball ($10), a Japanese A5 Miyazaki Waygu Beef New York Strip and a Berkshire Pork Tenderloin ($30). If you are a wine connoisseur, don’t miss the wine menu featuring over 600 premium bottles that should fit just about any request! The property also offers traditional Italian favorites at Bella Italiana, located on the third floor of the casino. Don’t miss the Meatball Sliders (2 for $7) or the Bruschetta ($) to get things started or share a one of several flatbread offerings ranging from an Italian Sausage and Mushroom to the traditional Italian. When it comes to entrees, you will feel like you hit the jackpot with Classic Lasagna ($15), Gnocchi ($16) or Shrimp Scampi ($18). Be sure to save room for dessert that include housemade specialties like Tiramisu ($6), Cannoli’s ($4) and a Ricotta Cheesecake ($6). Also check out Ruyi for fresh sushi, Fire Pit Sports Bar for a beer and burger while watching your favorite sporting events and the Canal Street Café or Food court for quick and casual offerings. 10

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ISLAND Set sail on a thrilling adventure just south of The Cities at Treasure Island Resort & Casino. Try your hand at 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 at our luxury resort and spa. Find your escape today.

TIcasino.com | 1 - 8 0 0 -2 2 2-707 7 ÂŠ 2017 Treasure Island Resort & Casino

2017 CASINO DINING GUIDE

RISING SUN, INDIANA

Rising Star Casino Resort 1-800-472-6311 | RisingStarCasino.com Food Finds: Wellington’s, Big Vic’s Pub & Grub, River View Buffet, Queen City Market Rising Star sits on the banks of the Ohio River near Cincinnati, Ohio and prides itself on customer satisfaction and outstanding service. Featuring an all-new RV Park, a links-style golf course and rooftop bar and gaming space overlooking the river, gamers will feel like they’re at home.

Wellington's - Steak & Seafood

Enjoy fine dining at Wellington’s, a traditional steakhouse serving premium steaks and seafood as well as other guest favorites. Get started with the delicious Lobster Bisque topped with a fresh lobster claw ($13) or the Seared Scallops ($20) and you’ll be on your way. Steak favorites include the filet mignon offered in both 7 and 9 oz. portions, and the 14 oz. New York Strip, or consider the Maple Mustard Grilled Duroc Pork Chops ($40) as well. Be sure to try one of their signature cocktails, the Black Jack, featuring Chivas Regal, Kahula, Triple Sec and lemon. Casual dining includes Big Vic’s Pub & Grub featuring one of the most interesting variety of named items ranging from Skin Deep (potato skins), Salty Lil Germans (mini pretzel bites), I’d Eat That (sirloin steak) and more. Plus, cocktails are just as creative with the Up All Night (Jaeger and Red Bull) and the Sweet Tart (gin, raspberry liqueur, cranberry and sour). The Chef Says: “Hurry in because we’ll be launching new menu very soon…and you’re going to love it!” – F&B Director Chris Baulo

SHELBYVILLE, INDIANA

Indiana Grand Racing & Casino 1-877-386-4463 | IndianaGrand.com Food Finds: Center Cut Steaks, Seafood, Martinis, Winner’s Circle Brewpub, The Grand Buffet, Sidewalk Café Indiana Grand is the closest casino to Indianapolis, Indiana and offers an action packed gaming floor with 2,200 slots and e-table games, as well as a live action poker room and a variety of great dining options you are sure to enjoy.

Winner's Circle Brewpub Casual Sportsbar

Check out Center Cut Steaks, Seafood, Martinis for fine dining in a sophisticated dining room accented by a glowing amber bar, piano lounge and an extensive wine library that was just recognized with a 2017 Wine Spectator Award. The main dining menu Hawaiian Ahi Tuna Tartare ($15) and a Chilled Ocean Tower loaded with lobster, crab legs and more that you won’t find anywhere else! Entrée selections range from made to order pasta and lamb chops to sea bass and glazed salmon and are moderately priced from $21 to $32. When it comes to steaks, consider the 7 oz. filet ($26) or the 48 oz. Tomahawk Chop for two ($85), you won’t be disappointed. For more casual options, Winner’s Circle Brewpub & OTB is the perfect match of your favorite sports bar meets an OTB, and it’s fantastic! The menu includes Baja Fish Tacos ($9.95), Breaded Pork Picatta ($13.95) and Seared Salmon ($13.95) as well as more classic burgers, sandwiches and wings.

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INTRODUCING RISING STAR CASINO’S

NEW RV PARK We proudly introduce our new Full Service RV PARK just in time for you to enjoy summer outings in beautiful Southeastern Indiana on the Ohio River in Rising Sun, Indiana. We’re just 45 minutes from Cincinnati, less than two hours from Indianapolis, Dayton or Louisville and just two hours from Columbus and Lexington. Rising Star makes a great destination as part of a longer journey or a convenient getaway. Whether you’re a seasoned RV enthusiast or just beginning your adventure, you’ll enjoy a quality experience enhanced by the friendliest service and the best amenities of any RV park in the region.

Discover an impressive array of guest amenities: • 56 spaces, each with full hookups including power, water and sewer • Private bathrooms with showers • Washers & dryers • Bocce ball court • Shuffleboard • Playground • Dog park

• Picnic tables & grill area • Fire pit • Cable TV • Wi-Fi • Indoor pool access • The Rising Star golf course • Two adjoining hotels • Access to town docks and boat ramps

• Casino with 939 slots and 25 table games • Variety of restaurants including buffet and steak house • Weekend entertainment • Grocery and convenience stores within walking distance • Three blocks from the charming downtown historic district

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CELEBRITY CHEFS OF CAESARS' EMPIRE Fine Dining Mecca In The Desert by

There was a time when, if someone mentioned Las Vegas cuisine, it instantly conjured up visions of 99cent shrimp cocktails, lukewarm allyou-can-eat buffets, and seven-dollar late night Surf and Turf specials at the Stardust. Those days are long gone, and currently Las Vegas is proud to match its culinary offerings against any other city in the world. With the advent of the “mega casino,” restaurants upped their game as well. And today a visitor to Las Vegas can sample some of the finest food anywhere, prepared by some of the world’s greatest celebrity chefs. Caesar’s Entertainment, the company that owns Caesar’s Palace and several other properties in Las Vegas, has assembled an All Star roster of chefs, making a visit to Las Vegas the ultimate “foodie” pilgrimage. Pack your bags and bring your appetite! 14

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GIADA

TE R RY PA R R E T T

Our first stop is GIADA, owned by and named for Giada De Laurentiis. Fans of Giada’s numerous Food Network shows will probably know that she actually hails from a show business family. Her mother, Veronica De Laurentiis, is an actress and her siblings are all involved in film in some capacity. Of course, her maternal grandfather is legendary film producer Dino De Laurentiis, but she decided to venture down the culinary path when she moved to Paris to study at “Le Cordon Bleu,” the world famous French culinary academy. Although she originally planned on becoming a pastry chef, after leaving Le Cordon Bleu she returned to the U.S. and worked in restaurants in Los Angeles. She came to the attention of executives at The Food Network, and in 2003 her first show, “Everyday Italian” debuted.

Some viewers felt that she was so good on screen, they accused the network of bringing in a ringer. They claimed she wasn’t actually a chef; they thought she

Giada De Laurentiis at The Cromwell

was either a model or actress playing the part of a chef. Her unbeatable combination of culinary talent and on-screen charisma led to other shows, most notably “Giada at Home,” and eventually a Daytime Emmy Award. When Caesar’s bought the property that became The Cromwell, the boutique casino resort that sits across the Strip from Caesar’s Palace, GIADA seemed like a natural fit. The site is one of the busiest corners in the city, and Giada is one of the first female chefs in Las Vegas to have her own restaurant, so Caesar’s clearly had a lot of confidence in Giada’s ability to win big with the restaurant. Unlike many casino-based restaurants, GIADA isn’t a dark, somber windowless venue. Instead diners can enjoy a stunning view of the Bellagio fountains, surrounded by light woods and contemporary art prints. Giada was personally involved in nearly every aspect of the design, execution and ongoing activity at the restaurant. GIADA offers Italian cuisine with a California inf luence, recognizing Giada’s heritage along with her years of working in Los Angeles. Pine nuts, almonds, pesto or other California cuisine staples will often accompany traditional Italian dishes. Guests can choose from a full brunch or dinner menu, or if they prefer sample from a variety of selections from the “Tasting Menu,” which currently offers such delights as Bucatini (a thick pasta with a hole running down the center) with Calabrian Chili Pomodoro and Fresh Ricotta, or Branzino with Fennel Puree and Orange Herb Salad. First time visitors who are true Giada fans will probably want to opt for the one dish that is more associated with Giada than any other, Chicken Cacciatore. At GIADA, the traditional dish is transformed into something new. Instead of using the usual chicken pieces in a stew-like dish, Giada’s take on the Italian classic uses the entire bird, which is rubbed with red wine butter and then roasted with fennel, cherry tomatoes and other spices, making the dish a visually stunning

and mouth-watering meal for two. Brunch diners are also invited to try the “Limitless La Marca Mimosa,” which is certain to add to a memorable brunch experience. In keeping with current dining trends, the restaurant even offers vegan and gluten-free options. In another break from Las Vegas tradition, GIADA features an open kitchen, so diners can actually watch the chefs preparing the food. GIADA is located on the second story of The Cromwell, and even features live music on Friday and Saturday evenings. NOBU

Our next stop on our gustatory journey is directly across the street from The Cromwell, on the other side of Las

Nobu at Caesar's Palace

currently has two important distinctions that set it apart from the rest of the Nobu pack. It is largest Nobu restaurant in the world, boasting over 11,000 square feet, and it is the first and only Nobu restaurant in the U.S. to offer teppan tables. For those unfamiliar, teppan, short for teppanyaki, is a style of Japanese cooking where the chef uses a large flat solid grill to cook in front of the guests, making the meal a complete experience. According to the Nobu website, the most popular dish is Chef Nobu’s signature black cod with sweet miso, served in bite size pieces over garlic chips and ginger in a butter lettuce cup. For those who want the full experience and are feeling adventurous, consider the “Omakase” option. Loosely translated, it means “I’ll leave it to you,” and you will be treated a multi-course meal made of the Chef ’s daily selections. GORDON RAMSEY STEAK

Vegas Boulevard inside the iconic Caesar’s Palace complex. Chef Nobu Matsuhisa opened his first restaurant, Matsuhisa, in 1987. As a chef Matsuhisa strived to fuse Asian dishes with the influences he gleaned from his travels to Peru, Argentina and Alaska. Shortly after opening, Matsuhisa became one of the most popular restaurants in Beverly Hills, and it quickly became a hangout for Hollywood celebrities. Actor Robert DeNiro became so enamored with the restaurant that he partnered with chef Nobu to open the first “Nobu” restaurant in Tribeca, New York in 1993. The prestigious James Beard Foundation named the Tribeca location “Best New Restaurant.” Other Nobu locations soon followed around the world in trendy locations such as Milan, Dubai, Honolulu and Hong Kong. The Las Vegas location of Nobu

Our epicurean adventure takes us back across the Strip again, this time to Paris Las Vegas, and renowned (and sometimes feared) TV chef, Gordon Ramsay. Ramsay’s edgy TV persona with his quick-tempered bootcamp attitude and occasionally “salty” language have made him a fan favorite. This attitude serves him well, however, in the highly demanding world of high-end restaurants. His take-noprisoners approach has earned the man and his restaurants many accolades, including a “Top Restaurant” award in the London Zagat Survey, as well as a Three Michelin star rating for his first venture, “Restaurant Gordon Ramsay.”

Gordon Ramsey Steak at Paris Las Vegas G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

Guests dining at Gordon Ramsay Steak have a variety of options. The food, as the name implies, leans heavily toward steaks and chops. Those celebrating a special occasion might take a peek at the “Hell’s Kitchen Limited Edition Tasting Menu,” which includes a pub favorite, Scotch Egg, followed by an Heirloom Beet Salad, Peas and Carrots Risotto, and the main feature, a Roasted Beef Wellington. Wine pairings with each course are available for an additional charge, and of course for dessert the Tasting Menu features a British favorite, Sticky Toffee Pudding. Other items for those with a slightly smaller appetite include Lobster Wellington, Kurobuta Double Pork Chop and a Fisherman’s Grill featuring lobster, mussels, scallop and seasonal fish. The dining room is open daily from 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. and reservations are recommended. MESA GRILL Amidst the lights and glitz of the Neon City, it’s sometimes easy to forget that you’re actually in the middle of the

Bobby Flay's Mesa Grill at Caesar's Palace American Southwest. For a palatepleasing way to remember where you are, there’s no place better than Bobby Grill located in Caesar's Palace. Flay has been in the restaurant industry since the age of 17, when upon dropping out of high school, he worked in various restaurants in New York City. He was a member of the first graduating class of the French Culinary Institute in New York, and was noticed by a restaurateur who was looking to open a Southwestern style restaurant. Flay started working at Mesa Grill as executive chef, but was soon made a 16

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Steve Martorano's at Paris Las Vegas

Chicken Cutlet Parmagiana and Veal Marsala. In true Philly neighborhood fashion, the menu even features a lighthearted(?) warning from Chef Steve, “No alterations, this is the way I cook. Don’t Break My B****!” MR. CHOW

partner in the business. Flay opened the Las Vegas location of Mesa Grill in 2004 in Caesar’s Palace, and diners hankering for real Southwestern food have been flocking there since. The menu features Vegas mainstays such as a 22-ounce Ribeye and Angus Prime Filet Mignon, but for an authentic experience guests should consider the Cascabel Chile Crusted Rabbit, Sixteen Spice Chicken or the Ancho ChileHoney Glazed Salmon. The Spirits menu offers a tantalizing selection of cognac, brandy and of course tequila. Mesa Grill offers a lunch menu from 11 a.m. through 2:30 p.m. on weekdays, dinner from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., and a Brunch menu on weekends from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. MARTORANO’S Readers over a certain age who have visited Vegas in years past may miss the glamorous “Rat Pack” vibe missing from the pool and club scene of today’s Sin City. However, there’s no better way to relive the attitude that made Vegas famous than dining at Martorano’s. Unlike some properties that seem to have forgotten Vegas’ colorful past, owner and chef Steve Martorano celebrates the city’s storied history. Located in Paris Las Vegas, the atmosphere is “classic Vegas,” with films such as “Casino” playing on screens, along with music and videos featuring Vegas icons such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Bobby Darin. Martorano, known affectionately as the “Godfather of Italian American Cooking,” brings his South Philadelphia attitude and recipes to the desert. The menu is classic old country Italian, featuring comfort foods like Rigatoni with Sunday Gravy,

Our final destination on our dining pilgrimage is Mr. Chow. Located on the second f loor of Caesar’s Palace, and overlooking the stunning “Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis,” Mr. Chow features an integrated Chinese dining experience. From the kinetic sculpture in the center of the restaurant to the famous “Champagne Trolley,” every detail adds up to an unforgettable dining experience. Mr. Chow is the brainchild of Michael Chow. Unlike the other restaurateurs we’ve visited, Michael Chow is not a chef by training. Born in Shanghai, Chow originally studied to be an architect and went on to become a painter. He opened his first restaurant in London in 1968, as a way of trying to bridge the cultures of China and the West. His genius for design melded with sumptious Chinese cuisine has made his restaurants a favorite of the Jet Set around the world. Mr. Chow opens daily at 5 p.m., and first-time

Mr. Chow at Caesar's Palace visitors should consider the Beijing Duck, Chicken Satay, and Green Prawns. All dishes at Mr. Chow are served family style, allowing all guests to experience the food and ambiance. These are just a few of the many celebrity chefs of the Caesars Empire. Be sure to check them out, as well as so many other all-star chefs in Sin City! For a full list of dining options at Caesars Properties in Las Vegas, visit Caesars.com/las-vegas/restaurants.

COMING TO YOUR CASINO! Powers the casino floor.™

everi.com

CASABLANCA and all related characters and elements © & ™ Turner Entertainment Co. (s17) G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

2017

The real magic at restaurants happens in the kitchen. Far removed from the fancy dining room full of hungry customers is a team of chefs working together to prepare the perfect meal for all who wait. All having their specific tasks at hand, somehow, magically, your meal, and meals of others at your table, come out at the same time, precisely how your ordered them. To celebrate this talented group, G&D hosts an annual online recipe contest to showcase the top casino chefs in the industry as they present their favorite recipes in our Casino Chef Showdown. This year’s contest garnered over fifteen thousand votes and we are excited to present to you this year’s winner, and our latest Culinary King of the Casino, Anthony Rametta from Scarlet Pearl Resort & Casino in D’Iberville, Mississippi. Check out his chef profile, as well as the other chefs who finished in the final four of the competition. Be sure to visit their restaurants and ask for them by name, you just might get a special treat! Congrats to all who participated, your recipes were fantastic! Also, as a ‘thank you for voting’ we give away a Culinary Casino Getaway to a lucky voter each year. This year’s winner was Wendy B. from Mobile, AL who appropriately chose to go to Scarlet Pearl to have a meal prepared by Chef Rametta himself! We can’t wait to hear all about it! Congrats Wendy! We hope you get a chance to check out these great restaurants, as well as the other fine establishments at your favorite casinos. If you find something you really like, let us know…we would love to hear from you about your visits! Thanks to all of the chefs who participated and those who voted! G. Douglas Dreisbach Gaming & Destinations

THE WINNING RECIPE: PISTACHIO ENCRUSTED KING SALMON WITH ROASTED YUKON GOLD POTATO PEARLS, SAUTÉED RAMPS, AROMATIC TOMATO SAUCE & BASIL OIL

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

CHEF

Chef Rametta

THE 2017 CULINARY KING OF THE CASINO SCARLET’S STEAKS & SEAFOOD SCARLET PEARL CASINO, D'IBERVILLE, MISSISSIPPI (BILOXI AREA) SCARLETPEARLCASINO.COM | 1-888-266-5772

About Chef Rametta and his recipe: This year's winning recipe actually was created humbly as an amuse-bouche—literally translated from French as “mouth-amuser" - or small samples given to by chefs to guests as a 'gift' and represents their style of cooking. In other words, Rametta—who said he has been “playing around with the recipe for years”—was so enamored of his complex medley of flavors and textures that he would bestow it as a present to a lucky few. No wonder the full serving of the recipe has become a star on a menu at Scarlet’s Steaks & Seafood that was pretty spectacular already. Rametta’s career spans three decades with stops at The White House Hotel, Hard Rock Casino (executive chef) and IP Casino Resort (assistant executive chef). Among everything he prepares, he said, rib-eye steaks are his favorite. He once said he could eat them every day. “Don’t be afraid to experiment,” he said. “There is no right or wrong way to cook a steak.” He recommends putting a good sear on both sides of a steak, covering it in 3-5 ounces of butter and putting it into the oven. The most important thing, he said, is to let the meat rest for between three and five minutes before cutting it into it. “Otherwise,” he said,” all the juices will just run out onto the plate.” How does he stay passionate after all these years? “A lot of people give thanks for the food. They consider it a blessing, and I like to be a part of that blessing. To see the joy on people’s faces, with families and with the guests? To me it means the world. It’s my way of giving back.” About the recipe: “It has a little of bit of everything I like,” he said, “especially ramps.” The cross between a leek and garlic is available only a couple of months in the year, he said, “but they are great with so many dishes because of the flavor they pack.”

THE RUNNER UP CHEFS

FAIRBANKS STEAKHOUSE HOLLYWOOD CASINO (TUNICA MISSISSIPPI) HOLLYWOODCASINOTUNICA.COM 1-662-357-7700

Crab-Stuffed Soft Shell Crab with corn pudding, wilted spring greens, and orange buerre blanc sauce

About the recipe: Like any true artist, the Chefs at Hollywood trust their judgment. Clearly those judgements were spot-on when it came to their contest entry CrabStuffed Soft Shell Crab entrée, which placed second in our 2017 competition. The popular dish features lumped crab, bread crumbs, creole seasoning and (of course) soft-shell crab. He credits his upbringing for the inspiration to develop such creative and memorable palettepleasers. The recipe reflects the creativity and thoughtfulness that goes into every menu item on the menu at Faribanks. The Entry: Fortunately for chefs whose patrons all sit around the family dinner table, this is a recipe that features features ingredients and processes that can be easily replicated at home. So, if our guests like what they have, they can go home and try it themselves!

CHEF

Christopher Brandt (cq)

CHEF

Debbie Dear

CENTER CUT AT INDY GRAND RACING & CASINO

TWAIN’S STEAKHOUSE AT SAM'S TOWN CASINO TUNICA

INDIANAGRAND.COM | 1-877-386-4463

SAMSTOWNTUNICA.COM | 1-800-456-0711

Fischer Farms pork belly with cranberry beans, peaches, maple cracklings, Kim chi BBQ sauce

Lemon Lime Herb Grilled Chicken with Grilled Ratatouille

About Chef Brandt and his recipe: “For me pork was an easy decision to make,” he said. “It is such a versatile ingredient that can withstand any number of techniques.” Once he decided on pork belly, he wanted to build a dish that was exciting yet familiar. Pork and bean are a match made in heaven, he said. To them he added a little crispy pork skin for texture, some early-season peaches to provide just a hint of tartness to help cut through all the richness. He added Kim chi as a base for the barbeque sauce to add an interesting spice and acidity to round out the whole experience. “I don’t know that I have had a recipe that is ‘’exactly right,’ Brandt said. “I am always trying to find ways to improve my final product.” The Entry: Start with a quality pork belly with a good meat-to-fat ratio, fresh peaches, cranberry beans and Kim chi.

About Chef Dear and her recipe: Don’t let the smooth, comforting sound of Chef Debbie Dear’s voice fool you: It masks an appetite to look at just about any recipe and dream up ways to add “a little more kick to it.” That passion for flavor is what drove her to start with an already excellent piece of chicken and then, just for the fun of it, begin mixing in lemon. When she saw that was good, she went a step further and added lime. Now she was onto something. After a few trusted culinary friends agreed, it earned a coveted spot on Twain’s Steakhouse— and a place among the top honorees of our Culinary King (or Queen) competition. The Entry: “I always like to work with herbs and spices,” she said. “Here, the lemon and lime keep the chicken really juicy, and the last f lavor that comes through is the lime.”

FIND THE FULL RECIPES FOR ALL OF THE CONTESTANTS at, GamingandDestinations.com/chefshowdown2017. G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

Legendary Burger at Hard Rock Sioux City's Food Truck

BIG CHEESE: BURGERS YOU CAN BET ON !

here are several thoughts of

ORIGINAL LEGENDARY

There are even more stories

ROCK FOOD TRUCK ($8)

origin for the classic hamburger.

BURGER AT THE HARD

as to who claims to have discovered the

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

cheeseburger. But one thing is for sure,

when you find one you like, there isn’t a better meal on the planet to satisfy your hunger and you are sure to find some great burgers at your favorite casino. Be sure to

check out some of the casual dining outlets on your next casino visit and you just might

find a great burger you can bet on! We have

rounded up a few of our favorites, we hope you get a chance to check them out and agree with our selections!

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(Sioux, City, Iowa)

It seems that there is a food truck craze going on across the country with new concepts coming out daily. Hard Rock

decided to take advantage of the popularity

cake. A juicy half-pound Certified Angus Beef® burger topped with smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, golden fried onion ring, crisp lettuce and vine ripened tomato. THE HANGOVER BURGER AT TAP SPORTSBAR MGM Grand Detroit (Detroit, Michigan)

of it and recently unveiled its own and this

When it comes to curing the repercussions

their truck, also known as, ‘The burger that

nothing better than a perfect burger, and

might not be a lot of bells and whistles, but

The Hangover Burger has two prime

is the Original Legendary® Burger from

of a long night out on the town, there is

started it all!’. It isn’t too fancy, and there

Tap Sportsbar at MGM Detroit has that!

sometimes the a classic approach takes the

beef patties topped with a fried egg,

bacon, whiskey caramelized onions and

onion and served on a warm toasted bun,

muffin. Throw in the fact that Tap also has

classic gets the job done.

American cheese all served on an English more than fifty draught beers and over

and it hits the spot. Again, sometimes the

forty flat screens, and you will be on your

DOUBLE TROUBLE BURGER

way to recovery in no time!

AT BIG VIC’S ($15)

MUSHROOM SWISS BURGER AT

(Rising Sun, Indiana)

CURRENTS RESTAURANT ($10) Treasure Island Resort & Casino (Welch, Michigan)

Treasure Island always aims to please

and they have certainly went out of their way with the burger selections at

Currents Restaurant. Also offering a

Triple Cheeseburger, Bacon Cheddar Burger and a Patty Melt, we had to go

with the Mushroom Swiss Burger. The burger is a juicy third-pound Angus beef

topped with grilled Portobello mushrooms and Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato and red

Rising Star Casino Resort

If you are looking for a hidden gem, you’re

in luck at Rising Star Casino. Everything from dining, gambling, golf and more is

at your fingertips. So when we stumbled upon this creation, it was another welcome

surprise! The Double Trouble Burger is a

Breakfast Burger at Winner's Circle Brewpub

one pound patty loaded with quadruple

(lettuce, tomato, onion) to protect the bun

double garden on the bottom only and

bun also toasted with mayo. Both are

American cheese, quadruple bacon,

double brioche bun toasted with mayo.

There is also a ‘Standard burger’ ($12) option that is has two eight ounce patties, double American cheese, double garden

at both the top and bottom and a Pretzel amazing and worth the trip to check out! BREAKFAST BURGER AT WINNER’S CIRCLE BREWPUB ($13) Indiana Grand Racing & Gaming (Shelbyville, Indiana)

Let’s get this straight. A place to eat

great food while playing the betting on live horseracing from around the

globe? Sign us up! The Winner’s Circle

Brewpub at Indiana Grand offers a great beer selection, several televisions

playing the hottest sporting events and

live horseracing all in the heart of the

casino! The Breakfast Burger is certainly a show stopper and probably one of the

most unique combinations you’ll find anywhere. A glazed donut bun is the

home to two, 5 ounce seasoned beef patties and loaded with cheddar cheese,

peppered bacon, a sunny side up quail egg and served with house made kettle chips. I think we just hit the jackpot!

Double Trouble Burger at Big Vic's

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

VIDEO POKER: Realistic Expectations Recently another video poker (VP) player started grumbling about how the casino had the machines “turned off” and others chimed in saying they noticed the same thing. Suddenly it became a “fact” to be passed on to others, and newbies (new players) took it to heart as the gospel. Of course, there’s no legal way to manipulate the machines (VP or traditional slots) in a way that favors either the house or the players. This means the complainers are accusing the casino of cheating since VP and slots have random number generators (RNGs) on their logic boards. (A few jurisdictions allow non-random video lottery terminals or VLTs that operate like scratch tickets. These are explained in detail in my book “The Video Poker Edge,” available at Amazon and all major bookstores.) The truth is casino management doesn’t have to cheat to have the edge over players.

then you will have been dealt 3,200 hands. Now refer to Tables 1.1 and 1.2 and you can see the odds of getting any of the infrequent hands. Also, you can go several royal cycles (number of hands it takes to get a statistical RF) and come up blank; the same is true of any other result on these two tables.

1. Compare ERs: Sometimes people tell me they were playing JOB (Jacks or Better) or DDB (Double-Double Bonus) but fail to tell me which version, and want to know if it’s a good game. Nobody can give you an accurate answer unless they know the exact pay schedule. Some experts claim they never play a game with an ER less than 100%, but even if you add the cashback (CB) on your slot club card, those pay schedules are tough to find. You should, however, know the game’s ER before finding a seat so your expectations are reasonable.

9/6 JACKS OR BETTER PAY (JOB) TABLE/HAND FREQUENCY

2. Maximum and Minimums (Max/Min): In the olden days there were no max/min limits imposed by legislators within each jurisdiction. Times have changed. You can make a few phone calls to find these parameters or refer to the tables in my book. (These are subject to change so make sure they’re current.) Many states forbid games with a max at or over 100% so some VP pay schedules are illegal. You can get around this with high progressive jackpots since the laws apply to the ER at reset. Just remember that the greater the reliance on infrequent hands like the RF the higher the variance. Make sure you think about this when your bankroll is evaporating and understand it’s reasonable to lose quickly when a game is volatile.

3. Compare Variances: Most informed players understand the ER percentage and will use that figure when selecting a VP game. Many gamblers, however, fail to consider the game’s variance and that’s why they believe the house has engaged in some serious hanky panky. I included the final hand frequency data so you can have an accurate idea of how often each hand will occur, assuming correct holds. For example, if you play 800 hands per hour and a session is four hours, 22

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4. Expectations: It’s true that players get frustrated when they land on the bottom of the bell-shaped curve, especially when everyone around them seems to be dealt no-brainers and these players are violating every game strategy rule in the book. Once every 650,000 hands somebody will be dealt a RF, but that may never happen to you. If the oven is too hot with 9/6 DDB you should consider a VP option with a lower, slower bankroll erosion expectation, like 9/6JOB. Table 1.1:

Hand: 9/6 JOB 9/6 JOB 5-Coin Return Hand Frequency: Royal Flush 4000 1 in 40,391 Straight Flush 250 1 in 9,148 4 of a Kind 125 1 in 423 Full House 45 1 in 87 Flush 30 1 in 91 Straight 20 1 in 89 3 of a Kind 15 1 in 13 Two Pair 10 1 in 8 Jacks or Better 5 1 in 5 Expected Return (ER)99.5439% Nothing: 1 in 2 Variance * 19.51468 Occurrences Rounded to nearest whole number Table 1.2 DOUBLE-DOUBLE BONUS (DDB) PAY TABLE/HAND FREQUENCY Hand 9/6 DDB 5 9/6 DDB Coin Return Hand Frequency: 1 in: Royal Flush 4000 1 in 40,799 Straight Flush 250 1 in 9,123 4 Aces with 2, 3 or 4 2000 1 in 16,236 Four 2’s, 3’s or 4’s with A-4 800 1 in 6,983 4 Aces 800 1 in 5,761 Four 2’s, 3’s, or 4’s 400 1 in 2,601 4 Fives-Kings 250 1 in 613 Full House 45 1 in 92 Flush 30 1 in 88 Straight 20 1 in 78 3 of a Kind 15 1 in 13 2 Pair 5 1 in 8 Jacks or Better 5 1 in 5 Expected Return 98.9808% Nothing: 1 in 2 Variance* 41.98498 Occurrences Rounded to nearest whole number

LI N DA B OY D

Linda Boyd, a long-time table game player before turning to video poker, writes for Southern & Midwest Gaming and Destinations, as well as several other national publications. You can see her videos on YouTube or view them on American Casino Guide’s web site and her radio interviews are 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 bookstores. Kindle edition now available.

“MOST INFORMED PLAYERS UNDERSTAND THE EXPECTED RETURN PERCENTAGE AND WILL USE THAT FIGURE WHEN SELECTING A GAME.” FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

PLAYER STRATEGY by

FRANK SCOBLETE

CRAPS: The “Darkside” of the Moon Only the astronauts have seen the dark side of the moon, which is the side that always faces away from us and cannot be seen from our earthly vantage point. For the rest of us, the dark side of the moon is a mystery and I am guessing that most people would not want to go there.

Visit Frank's web site at www.frankscoblete.com. Frank Scoblete’s newest books are I Am a Dice Controller: Inside the World of Advantage-Play Craps!, I Am a Card Counter: Inside the World of AdvantagePlay Blackjack! and Confessions of a Wayward Catholic. Frank’s books are available on Amazon.com, Kindle, Barnes and Noble, and at bookstores.

“THE DARKSIDE SHOOTER IS CONTENT AND QUITE HAPPY IF THE SHOOTER GOES DOWN IN FLAMES BY THROWING A QUICK SEVENOUT.”

In the game of craps there is also a darkside (also known as the “don’t” side) and like the small contingent of astronauts who have seen the darkside of the moon, only a small percentage of craps players play it. For most craps players, the darkside of craps is not where they want to go. Most people who play craps are called right side players. (also known as “do” players.) They are playing with the shooter or, at the very least, they are hoping the shooter hits their particular numbers before the appearance of the dreaded 7. Not so for the darksider. While the other players want the shooter to shoot forever (a truly impossible dream), the darksider is content and indeed quite happy if the shooter goes down in flames by throwing a quick seven-out. In most instances when a darksider wins, the rightsider loses. On the come-out roll to establish a point, if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, the rightsiders win. However, if the shooter rolls a 2, 3 or 12, the rightsider loses. In such a case, the darksider wins on the 2 or 3, but loses on the 7 or 11 (the 12 is a tie for the darksider on the come-out roll). The rooting in such a case pits one type of player against the other type of player. When a point is established, the rightsiders want the shooter to hit that point (along with other numbers) while avoiding the 7. On the darkside of the game, the player wants that 7 to wipe the shooter out thereby winning the bet for the darksider. Now there are times when a darksider and a rightsider can both win, but the structure of the game far more often than not pits the desires of one player against the desires of the other player. It would not be much of an exaggeration to state that darksiders are disliked by rightsiders. In fact, some rightside players can throw fits when a darksider comes to a table and there is often great joy in watching a darksider hit the deck. (“Ha! Ha! I nailed him! I wiped the creep out!”)

FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

I’ll be generous here: Maybe five percent of craps players are darksiders. I’m guessing there are several reasons for this. First the general dislike by the other players is certainly one. Craps tends to be a somewhat

communal game and someone who is perceived as betting against the community can cause such community angst. The feeling is that the darksider is the enemy, a person hoping the rightsider will lose. I also think the darksider can only make money if shooter after shooter sevens-out (in most cases) relatively quickly. It is rare to get on a “run” of darksider good luck on a single shooter. Rightsiders do not have that problem. One hot or blazingly hot shooter can bring in the big bucks. I am not sure that what I am about to write is absolutely true, but my experience with darksiders shows them to be somewhat quiet (my friend calls them “sneaky”) when they play. They tend to take the end-table positions and many of them will not shoot the dice when it is their turn. Only a few times in my quarter century of play (and that entails 130 days in some years) have I seen darksiders cheering and screaming at a table and is not usually in the darksiders’ responses to the game. My best advice to darksiders is relatively simple. It goes step-by-step as follows: · Wait for the new shooter to establish his point. · Then make a “don’t come” bet. If the shooter rolls a 7, he loses but you also lose. The good news is that a new shooter takes the dice. · If the shooter rolls an 11, you lose. DO NOT make any more bets on this shooter. Wait for the next shooter. · When the bet goes on a number take the maximum odds (or the odds that you can afford). · Do not make any other bets. · If the shooter rolls a 7, you win. Wait for the next shooter to establish his point and proceed to bet the same way as above. · If the shooter hits his point, do not make any more bets against this shooter. In short, you’re making one bet per shooter. This is a safe, money-efficient way to play. No single shooter can destroy you. It would take a fairly long series of shooters to do you any devastating damage. So do you think you want to go to the darkside? It will take a little bit of courage – the kind of courage our astronauts displayed when they went to the dark side of the moon. 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

BLACKJACK Questions to stump and amaze your friends The next time you belly up to the bar with a friend or co-worker who thinks he knows everything about the game of blackjack, ask Mr. Know-It-All a few of these questions. How did the game of blackjack get its name? When “21” was initially introduced in the United States in gambling houses, it wasn’t very popular. So casino operators offered a 10-1 bonus payout if a player received an ace of spades and a black-colored jack (a jack of spades or jack of clubs). This hand was called a “blackjack” and the name stuck to the game even though the bonus payout was eventually abolished and subsequently replaced with the traditional 3-2 bonus payout. In a single-deck game, what is the maximum number of cards that could comprise a dealer’s hand of 18? Ten cards. The dealer would have to receive the cards in this order: 2, 2, 2, 2, 3, A, A, A, A, 3. Who were “The Four Horsemen of Aberdeen,” and what important contribution did they make to the game of blackjack? The Four Horsemen were Roger Baldwin, Wilbert Cantey, James McDermott and Herbert Maisel. In 1956, using nothing more than desk calculators, they developed and published the first reasonably accurate basic playing strategy for blackjack. Who invented and published the first card counting system for blackjack? Dr. Edward Thorp is universally regarded as the father of blackjack card counting. What was the name of Thorp’s classic book on card counting? The name of the book is “Beat the Dealer.” The book was published in 1962 and it quickly made the New York Times list of best-selling books. It still is one of the all-time best-selling blackjack books. What does a new 52-card deck of Bee playing cards weigh? It weighs 3.4 ounces. How frequently does a player get dealt a blackjack hand? About once in every 21 hands, or roughly 4.8 percent of the time for single-deck (for six-decks it’s 4.7 percent).

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

H E N R Y TA M B U R I N

What is the chance that you could lose three consecutive hands at blackjack, if pushes are excluded? You have a 14 percent chance of losing three hands in a row, excluding pushes. For every 100 hands that you play, using proper basic strategy, how many will you bust? You will bust about 16 hands on average out of every 100 hands played, using proper basic strategy. What is the more profitable hand for a blackjack player, a two-card hand that totals 11 or a pair of aces? The 11 is more profitable. It has an average net expectation of +0.176, whereas the pair of aces is +0.160. What was the name of the famous flamboyant professional blackjack card counter who was interviewed by Harry Reasoner on the TV show “60 Minutes”? In 1961 Kenny Uston appeared on “60 Minutes,” and he was the first player to demonstrate on national TV how card counting works. If the dealer has an Ace upcard, what is the chance she will have a 10 in the hole for a blackjack? The dealer will have the 10 roughly 31 percent of the time (that’s about four times out of 13). You can overcome the casino’s edge in blackjack by using a progressive betting system. True or false? False. Progressive betting systems will not alter your long-term expectation in blackjack. Who invented the first personal blackjack computer, and what were the names of his famous computers? Keith Taft invented the blackjack computer. His second-generation computer was named “George.” (It was smaller and it had more memory than his original brass computer.) George also used a vibrating signal, like a buzzer, rather than the LED lights housed in the player’s eyeglasses to transmit the strategy information to the player. Taft’s third-generation blackjack computer, which contained updated software, was named “David,” and it was sold to other blackjack players for $1,000.

Henry Tamburin, Ph.D. is the author of the Ultimate Blackjack Strategy Guide (http://www.888casino. com/blog/blackjackstrategy-guide/), editor of the Blackjack Insider e-Newsletter (www.bjinsider. com), lead instructor for the Golden Touch Blackjack course and host of smartgaming.com. To receive his free Casino Gambling Catalog, call 1-888353-3234 or visit www. smartgaming.com.

“MOST INFORMED PLAYERS UNDERSTAND THE EXPECTED RETURN PERCENTAGE AND WILL USE THAT FIGURE WHEN SELECTING A GAME.” FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

PLAYER STRATEGY by

PHIL HELLMUTH, JR.

POKER: Playing Suited Connectors Calling with Suited Connectors

Phil Hellmuth Jr. is a 13-time 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 TWO OTHER PEOPLE HAVE CALLED TWO BETS, A RAISE, THEN I'LL CALL WITH MY HAND ASSUMING THAT IT'S ABOVE THE 4-5 LINE.”

FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

The idea behind calling two bets with suited connectors is to try to win a big pot. So I'm looking for a lot of opponents when I consider calling two bets with this hand. It doesn't make sense to me to call two bets with 8H-9H when no one else has called before the flop. In other words, I'm looking for good pot odds for this type of drawing hand. An occasional big pot pays for a lot of failed attempts. Suppose that someone raises before the flop in early position and now two other people call the raise in front of me. I'm on the button with 4D-5D. I simply fold this hand, because 4-5 is below the suited connector line that I like to maintain. In this same situation, if I have 7-8 suited then I'll go ahead and call the raise, trying to get lucky on the Flop or later. Suppose that a mouse in early position makes it two bets to go and now two other players call the two bets in front of me. I'm on the button with 9C-10C. In this case, although to other players have already called the raise, I'll probably fold my hand because the original raiser is a mouse. When a mouse raises in early position, I'm always looking for an excuse to fold as soon as possible! If the original razor isn't a mouse, I would call with my 9C-10C. My rule for playing suited connectors is this... If two other people have called two bets, a raise, then I'll call with my hand assuming that it's above the 4-5 line. Calling with Suited Connectors in the Blind Usually, I will call two bets in the big blind with any suited connectors, even the weak ones like 2-3, after all, in the big blind it will cost me only one more bet to call, since I have posted one bet already. In the small blind, too, I will defend with most suited connectors, but I'll usually draw the line at 4-5 suited because it will probably cost me one and a half bets more to call the two bets in the small blind. With 10-J or J-Q suited, I'm usually willing to call three bets in the blind.

If I have 6-7 suited in the big blind and a mouse has made it two bets to go, I will call if at least one other opponent calls, and will call if I'm the only one left in the pot. Although I don't like to mess with a mouse is raised, the 6-7 suited in the big blind may bring a big reward for me if I hit the Flop, and of course it will cost me only one more bet to see if I hit it. Moreover, a mouse is generally easy to read... He probably has a big pair or A-K when he raises before the flop. By risking one more bet to call before the Flop, I may win a lot of bets from the mouse. And if I run into a troublesome flop like 10-6-4, then I can usually figure out fairly easily whether the mouse has beaten me or not. Again, in general I don't like to mess with the mouse's pre-flop raise, but being in the big blind, a discount, with suited connecting cards is the time and place to do it. If I have any suited hand in the big blind before the Flop, then I'll call someone's raise (two bet) period. If I have J-Q or 10-J suited (they're both worth about the same before the flop) in the blinds, then I will in general call three bets (a reraise) before the flop. Of course there are exceptions: a mouse’s three bets will force me to lay down my hand for sure! I have learned that it's very hard to beat Q-Q , K-K, A-A or A-K with Q-J or 10-J suited! Use your own discretion when you're deciding to call three beds with J-Q or 10-J suited in the small blind. If you have a bad feeling that the three better has a big pair, then just throw your hand away before the Flop. Remember, you're getting only a half-bet discount, not much compared with the two and a half bets you would need to add, and you'll be playing the hand out of position for every betting round. The same thing applies to Q-J or 10-J suited in the big blind, although calling isn't ever a terrible play unless it's someone who is a consistent mouse.

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

KENO: Finding Value and Payoffs The game of live Keno may have originated in Italy almost 500 years ago. A similar game was also popular in China, and eventually came to Nevada with the Chinese who worked in the silver mines and helped build our railroads. Today, with the aid of computers, Keno is still a fun, fast- paced and exciting part of the casino gaming scene. At most casinos with live Keno action, two types of games are available to choose from – a live game where a machine draws 20 ping-pong balls out of 80 balls numbered 1 to 80 and a computergenerated game which randomly generates 20 numbers between 1 and 80. Keno tickets can be played by picking 1 number up to 15 numbers; even a 20-number ticket is offered. If enough of your numbers are drawn, you can win various amounts up to the top payout of $100,000 or more. Keno games are played approximately every 5-7 minutes, and you can play multiple games from 1 up to as many as 1000 games. Playing 1 to 20 games allows you 72 hours or 4 days to collect your winnings, and playing 21 to 1000 games allows you up to 365 days or 1 year to collect. OVERALL BEST STRATEGIES AND TIPS FOR SUCCESS

Straight Tickets: Five Spot tickets are by far the best bang for the buck. Payoff: $750 or more. Try Six & Seven Spot straight tickets for a chance at very large payoffs of $2,000 up to $10,000. Most casinos offer progressive payoffs for straight tickets of 8, 9 or 10 numbers. These jackpots build up over time (until hit) and can become quite large. A recent progressive of $1,927,000 was hit at the Atlantis Casino in Reno by a California woman playing 9 numbers for $1.50 per game. Personally, I like more sophisticated types of Keno Tickets, such as Way Tickets and King Tickets. These types of tickets give you a much better chance of hitting smaller groups of numbers played together that add up to larger groups. Way Tickets allow you to combine the best features of Keno on one ticket with more frequent small payouts that help pay for your tickets, while giving you the chance to hit a really big payoff. There are literally thousands of different combinations that can be played on Way Tickets. All casinos allow you to play for lower minimums when multiple ways are played. Most regular single game rates are $1 or $2 per game. But when you combine and play multiple ways on the same 26

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

ticket, some casinos offer rates as low as 10 cents per way up to 50 cents a way depending on the number of ways you choose to play. This may seem complicated, but Way Tickets will soon become your favorite way to play Keno. King Tickets are a variation of Way Tickets I particularly enjoy playing. Single numbers are circled where each number is its own group. For instance, if you circle 8 single numbers you will get paid for hits of any 3 or more of these numbers all the way up to all 8 numbers. Payoffs can add up quickly in this scenario. I hope this short expose has increased your interest enough to give Live Keno a try the next time you visit any of the gaming establishments across the country offering this fun and relaxing game. Best of luck and I hope you win big! Although live Keno is not offered at all Casino establishments, it still thrives and is very popular at many Casinos in Las Vegas, Reno, Laughlin, Atlantic City and on the Gulf Coast. Let’s explore where the best live Keno is offered and which venues offer the most value for your money.

DAV I D G R E E R

About the Author: David has been an avid Keno enthusiast and student of the game for over 30 years. He continues to work on winning Keno strategies & frequently participates in tournaments offered at various casinos across the country and is based in Louisville, Kentucky.

“I LIKE MORE SOPHISTICATED TYPES OF KENO TICKETS SUCH AS WAY TICKETS AND KING TICKETS”

PLACES TO PLAY:

Las Vegas: • Boyd Gaming Properties offer some of the very best Live Keno values in Las Vegas: The Orleans, Gold Coast, Sun Coast, Sam’s Town, Freemont, California and Main Street Station. • Harrah’s Properties offers three locations in Las Vegas: Harrah’s, Bally’s and Rio. • MGM Grand Properties offers only one location at this time, Excalibur. • Smaller Casinos Downtown such as El Cortez, The D and Four Queens also offer good values. Reno: • Downtown Properties: Eldorado, Silver Legacy, Cal-Neva, Harrah’s, El Cortez and Virginian. • Outside Downtown: Peppermill, Atlantis, Grand Sierra and Nugget are my favorites in that order. Laughlin: • Harrah’s is currently the only property still offering Live Keno. • Foxwoods, Harrah’s Atlantic City and Silver Slipper in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.

FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

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

GR E AT E AT S I N A R K A N S A S : A TA S T E OF W I N N I NG

ot Springs, Arkansas, is a great destination to appease your itch for gaming, relaxing and dining. In addition to Oaklawn Park Racing and Gaming, Bathhouse Row, the historical national park, a presidential library and more, there are also several great local restaurants that will fill just about any craving. In addition to Hot Springs, the Delta region of Arkansas is known for its blues and barbecue, as well as the oldest greyhound racing track in the Mid-South, Southland Park Racing & Gaming, which also hosts a variety of games of skill. Here is a quick run-down of the best bets for dining in Arkansas, because you’ve earned it. Enjoy. BARBECUE CRAIG’S BROTHERS CAFÉ

Three generations have kept brothers Wes and Lawrence Craig’s legacy alive at this classic dive in Devalls Bluff. Craig’s barbecue is served modestly on a white Styrofoam plate, but when the food is this good it doesn’t need fancy presentation. Dig right on into your chopped pork or beef covered in that savory sauce with a side of beans and slaw. Open 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m. daily; 15 W. Walnut Street, Devalls Bluff; 870-998-2616.

JONES’ BAR-B-Q DINER

Believed to be the oldest black-owned restaurant in continuous operation in the South, this James Beard Award-winning barbecue is as good as it gets. Meats are smoked onsite and served with traditional white bread, thin vinegar sauce and coleslaw. Jones has appeared in Saveur magazine and on CBS This Morning. Open 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. daily; 219 W. Louisiana Street, Marianna; 870-295-3807.

MCCLARD’S BAR-B-Q

Family owned and operated since 1928, Scott McClard is the fourth generation to operate the world-famous restaurant known for its hand-rolled tamales, tamale pie, pork, beef, ribs and award-winning sauce. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m; 505 Albert Pike, Hot Springs; 501-623-9665.

GREAT FOOD & FUN ATMOSPHERE CAPITAL BAR AND GRILL

Located inside Little Rock’s finest hotel, the Capital Bar and Grill is an establishment known for its great cocktails and Southern bar snacks like pimento cheese, candied pecans and crunchy blackeyed peas. CBG offers a wonderful lunch and dinner menu in a sophisticated but never stuffy setting. Open 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; 111 W. Markham, Little Rock; 501-370-7013.

DELUCA’S PIZZERIA

In Hot Springs, Deluca’s is the place to go for the best pizza in town, arguably in the state. Proprietor and Brooklyn native Anthony Valinoti is the man behind the pie, and he takes great pride in – and puts a good amount of love into – everything that goes into and comes out of that oven. Open Thursday-Sunday, 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; 401 Park Avenue, Hot Springs; 501-609-9002.

LOST FORTY BREWING

Lost Forty gets its name from the historic storied forest that stands on 40 acres of Arkansas’s last truly virgin soil in Calhoun County. The brewery is where the magic happens (tours are available), but it’s also a fun beer hall with a killer Sunday brunch and many other inspired snacks, sandwiches and desserts. Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. daily; 501 Byrd Street, Little Rock; 501-319-7275.

ROLANDO’S RISTORANTE

Rolando’s serves lively colorful Latino cuisine in a fun dining room and on the beautiful outdoor patio in the heart of Hot Springs National Park.

Open Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; 210 Central Avenue, Hot Springs; 501-318-6054.

MORE WAYS TO PLAY IN ARKANSAS. With our combination of thrilling seasonal live racing and year-round gaming at two of the south’s premier venues, there are more ways to play than ever in the Natural State. Plan your gaming getaway today.

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

Arkansas.com

CELEBRATIONS Naturally Made

With our combination of year-round gaming and seasonal live racing, winning celebrations are a pretty common occurrence in The Natural State. In addition to the thrill of cashing in, our gaming venues throw in some pretty great food and plenty of live entertainment to ensure your trip to Arkansas is one youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll never forget. See how we make winning moments every day in Arkansas. Plan your trip 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 |

Del Mar Racetrack will host the Breeders’ Cup for the first time ever on November 3 & 4, 2017. **All photos courtesy of Eclipse Sportswire / Breeders’ Cup Photos ©

THE R ICHEST T WO DAYS IN R ACING COMES TO DEL M AR by

or some, horse racing’s peak season starts on the f irst Saturday in May and lasts five weeks. But for both casual observers and true handicappers, the Breeders’ Cup World Championships that take place every November are just as important. Often called the “Super Bowl of Horse Racing,” the Breeders’ Cup is the perfect end to the American thoroughbred racing year. It is a unique and exciting two-day celebration of everything that makes horse racing great, featuring the best horses and the biggest names in the sport. It’s the richest event in North American sports and the 2nd richest in the world. This year marks the 33rd annual Breeders’ Cup, with the competition taking place at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club just north of sunny San Diego on November 3rd & 4th.This is the first time that the charming Del Mar will hold the event. 30

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GABE DUVERGE

HISTORY OF THE BREEDERS' CUP The inception of the Breeders’ Cup dates back to 1982, when prominent owner and breeder John R. Gaines presented the concept at the annual “They’re Off” luncheon celebrating the start of the year’s Kentucky Derby Festival. He envisioned a day of racing where the best jockeys, trainers, and horses would assemble for championship level races occurring backto-back. The most controversial detail was an idea that this event should have no permanent home, and could rather rotate around the country to be accessible to all fans of the sport. Gaines’ dream was met with plenty of skepticism, but after the support of a several key figures in the industry it was ready to become a reality. Two years after pitching his idea, Gaines held the inaugural Breeders’ Cup at the now closed Hollywood Park in California. The world had never seen so much equestrian star

power assembled in one place for one day of racing. With the bright lights came the big purses. From that first event until 2006, the Breeders’ Cup remained a one-day event. That was when Greg Avioli took over as President and CEO of the event, and helped it evolve into the event it is today. Avioli’s first move was to add a second day to the cup, with a set of races devoted to female horses. The overall purse for the races grew to $25 million, making it the richest racing event on earth. The Breeders’ Cup trophy comes with a bit of history as well. The award is an authentic bronze reproduction of the original Torrie horse sculpture made by Giovanni da Bologna in the late 1580s. The first trophy was cast from the original sculpture located at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, and was approved for use by the Breeders’ Cup. The largest version of the trophy is then replicated for

the winners of each Breeders’ Cup World Championship race every year. By 2009, the Breeders’ Cup had truly become a world championship. The races at that point were televised in over 140 countries with entrants coming to compete from across the globe. A deal with TVG’s parent company Betfair made betting available to international bettors for the first time in that year. To further grow international interest, the “Win and You’re In” system was introduced in 2009. This allowed horses from North America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia automatically qualification to the Breeders’ Cup Championships simply by winning one of a list of major races. This added immense interest to the cup and the 2010 event brought the highest profits in Breeders’ Cup history. Over $200 million was bet in America that year, and over $23 was wagered internationally over Betfair.

THE BREEDERS’ CUP TODAY After more than three decades in existence, the Breeders’ Cup has truly hit its stride. Both the “Win and You’re In” Challenge Series and the two racing days of the Cup itself are broadcasted on the NBC Sports Network. The events have begun to take place outside of old standbys like Churchill Downs and Santa Anita Park to smaller tracks like Keeneland and Del Mar. Recent years have seen plenty of uniquely exciting races. There was Zenyatta’s dominance in the 2008 Distaff and the 2009 Classic, followed up by her crushing loss to Blame in the 2010 Classic under the lights at Churchill Downs. Who could forget Goldikova’s three straight wins in the Breeders’ Cup Mile? And of course there was the 2015 performance from Triple Crown winner American Pharoah, who ended his career with an exclamation mark at Keeneland. This year, over the two days of racing, the total purse for the event will reach $28 million.

MORE THAN JUST A BIG PURSE As it has evolved, the Breeders’ Cup has become more than just a rich day at the track. The event is a marquee event on the sports calendar, and now attracts both the casual supporter and the diehard horse racing fans. There has long been a strong relationship between horse racing and fashion, the Breeders’ Cup is no different. Attendees take the occasion to show off red carpet looks, worthy of the biggest award shows.

Zenyatta ridden by Mike Smith captures the 2009 Breeders’ Cup Classic at Santa Anita Park. The Breeders’ Cup even has an official milliner, keeping the tradition of hats at the track alive and strong. Women can be seen every year sporting glamorous hats and fascinators. With the bright lights come big names, and the cup has always had its fair share of celebrity attendees. The festivities have evolved into a week of parties, dinners and galas with plenty of celebrity hosts. The Breeders’ Cup even has a roster of celebrity ambassadors who are huge fans of the event and serve as spokespeople including Kate Upton, Bobby Flay, Elizabeth Banks, Toby Keith and many more.

THE CUP COMES TO DELMAR When the Breeders’ Cup announced Del Mar as the 2017 event hosts, it was the culmination of over a decade of work. In 2014, the track completed a $4.5 million widening project and removal of synthetic track and additional luxury seating and upgrades were added to accommodate the large VIP groups that will attend. The track will even add temporary seating, including two trackside “chalets” and 900 box seats just for the event. Del Mar’s unique proximity to the ocean, makes it a special home for the event. The track is referred to as “where the surf meets the turf ” and will offer an intimate setting for the races, with just 37,500 tickets sold per day. But Del Mar knows that the Breeders’ Cup is more than just racing. The community has planned a week long festival in honor of the races. Events include concerts, a golf scramble and even a 10k run for attendees and residents. The area is even erecting a tent just two minutes from the racetrack. Dubbed “the Barn at the Beach,” the

7,000-square-foot venue will hold a series of dinners, parties and tastings for guests. Del Mar mayor Terry Sinnott told the San Diego Union Tribune, ““My recommendation for people is to come early. It will be fun. Come and enjoy the entire week, not just the races but the whole environment.” It is clear that Del Mar is going to make a great host for the Breeders’ Cup World Championships. There is going to be a unique feel at this year’s event that make it a can’t miss weekend for both the casual fan and the racing diehard.

TWO-DAY RACE SCHEDULE: Friday, November 3, 2017 • Juvenile Turf

• Las Vegas Dirt Mile

• The Juvenile Fillies Turf • The Longines Distaff

Saturday, November 4, 2017

• 14 Hands Winery Juvenile Fillies • Filly & Mare Turf • TwinSpires Sprint • Turf Sprint

• Sentient Jet Juvenile • Longines Turf

• Filly & Mare Sprint • Breeders’ Cup Mile

• Breeders’ Cup Classic G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

GU N LAK E CASINO U NV EILS $76 MILLION E X PA NSION

Build it and they will come. Gun Lake Casino, located in Wayland, Michigan, recently announced the completion of a $76 million expansion that includes more gaming space, a new bar and a major overhaul of their popular Harvest Buffet. With the expansion the casino is now home to more than 2,000 of the latest and greatest slot machines and nearly 50 table games. The gaming f loor also features wider aisles for easier accessibility and overall flow through the casino. The property has also added a state-of-the-art ventilation system to reduce smoke and maximize airflow for the comfort of guests. “ We’re excited to offer these new amenities for our guests. We think they are really going to enjoy the new offerings we have,” commented Brent A rena , v ice president a nd general manager. 32

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The addition also includes a new Stage 131 bar, which will replace the former Stage 131 and is nearly double in size. Stage 131 is known for live, local music seven nights a week with no cover charge; it offers guests a great entertainment option before, during or after their gaming session. When hunger sets in guests can enjoy a fully renovated Harvest Buffet that now seats about 300 people, offers six cuisine stations, “live-action” cooking stations, two private dining rooms for small groups to rent and more. The buffet offers lunch, dinner and specialty nights, including steak and crab legs. Gun Lake Casino will continue its expansion endeavors, with additional table games, a high-limit room and another bar planned to open late summer into early fall. “We’re thankful to the community, our guests and over 900 team members

who have supported Gun Lake Casino over the years and have made it what it is today,” commented Scott Sprague, chairman for the Gun Lake Tribe. “ We’re pleased to offer a fantastic regional entertainment destination, along with employment opportunities and economic growth for our friends and neighbors here in West Michigan.” The property is owned by the Match-EBe-Nash-She-Wish Band of Potawatomi Indians and is operated by the Tribe’s management partner, MPM Enterprises, LLC, owned by an affiliate of Station Casinos, Inc. and private investors from Michigan. For more information, visit www.gunlakecasino.com or call 269-792-7777.

THE BEST DAYS. With 24/7 slots, table games and dining, hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one more thing to love about West Michigan.

gunlakecasino.com Must be 21 or older to game. ÂŠ2017 Gun Lake Tribal Gaming Authority.

269.792.7777 | US 131 - EXIT 61

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

TROPICANA EVANSVILLE

TROPEVANSVILLE.COM

800-342-5386

BELTERRA CASINO RESORT & SPA

BELTERRACASINO.COM

800-472-6311

RISING STAR CASINO RESORT

RISINGSTARCASINO.COM

INDIANA GRAND CASINO

*CC PARTNER

TABLES

MACHINES

1,000

1,600

812-438-1234

1,000

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

MYSTIQUE CASINO, DUBUQUE

MYSTIQUEDBQ.COM

563-582-3647

1,000

SOARINGEAGLECASINO.COM

888-732-4537

4,200

INDIANA •

IOWA •

MICHIGAN SOARING EAGLE CASINO & RESORT 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

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

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

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517 10

634 96

1,832 1,200

650

READER REVIEW * CC Partner means the property provides coupons and special offers to members of the Comps Club. For more information, visit Thecompsclub.com

ENT. VENUE

GOLF

SPA

POOL

689

•

294

•

# OF ROOMS

Reader Rating: 97%

243

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201

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•

275

• • •

•

• • •

496

•

967

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•

116

517 400

967

184 294 200

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•

184 294

MGM Grand Detroit Detroit, MI MGMGrandDetroit.com – 1-877-888-2121

Property Overview: MGM Grand Detroit is a luxury casino resort located in Detroit, Michigan. The lavish property has over 400 rooms, a 1,200-seat theatre and several great restaurants including Wolfgang Puck Steak, TAP and Palette Dining Studio. The property also has an enchanting indoor pool and spa area and they also recently opened a Top Golf Swing Suite that will let you stay on top of your game over the winter! Casino Layout: Cleanliness: Slot Selection: Table Game Selection: Staff: Casino Décor:

99 99 99 92 95 99

Did you win? YES

200

1,500

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140

•

302

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161

•

391

•

454

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•

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•

INDOOR

Notes: We love this property! It is conveniently located and once inside you will feel like you are in Las Vegas instead of Detroit. Everything was fresh and we had great service at the restaurant too. The blackjack and craps tables had higher minimums than we were used to but it was busy and understand why they were higher. I did find a few of my favorite slot machines, and even played a new one that I loved! We will be back! Review by: Lisa A. – Ann Arbor, Michigan Want to review a casino? Let us know about your recent casino visits at GamingandDestinations.com 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

2017 MLB WORLD SERIES – NOVEMBER 2, 2017 Team

January

April

June September

Los Angeles Dodgers

12/1

21/2

17/2

Chicago Cubs

7/2

4/1

6/1

27/4

7/1

8/1

Houston Astros

Cleveland Indians Washington Nationals

15/1 10/1

14/1

15/2

12/1

Arizona Diamondbacks

N/A

Boston Red Sox

Kansas City Royals

10/1

N/A

2/1

5/1

19/4

8/1

13/2

15/2

N/A

18/1

27/4 9/1

25/1 25/1

*All others are higher than 30/1. *Odds courtesy of Vegasinsider.com

2017 MONSTER ENERGY CUP SERIES – NOVEMBER 26, 2017 Driver

April

Jimmy Johnson

8/1

Kyle Busch

6/1

Kyle Larson

10/1

Martin Truex Jr.

N/A

Joey Logano

6/1

Kevin Harvick Brad Keselowski Chase Elliot

Denny Hamlin

Matt Kenseth

Ryan Blaney *All others higher than 25/1. **Odds courtesy of VegasInsider.com

6/1

June September 5/1

13/2

11/2

11/2 7/1 7/1

6/1

8/1

13/1

10/1

13/1 14/1

N/A

4/1 8/1 7/2

8/1

18/1

14/1

25/1

N/A

16/1

18/1

25/1

2017-2018 NFL SUPER BOWL FEBRUARY 4, 2018 MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA Team

New England Patriots Dallas Cowboys Atlanta Falcons Green Bay Packers Seattle Seahawks Oakland Raiders Pittsburgh Steelers New York Giants Houston Texans Denver Broncos Kansas City Chiefs Carolina Panthers Tampa Bay Buccaneers

June September 18/5 11/1 13/1 12/1 12/1 15/1 18/1 22/1 15/1 18/1 25/1 35/1 N/A

13/4 9/1 10/1 10/1 10/1 11/1 12/1 16/1 18/1 20/1 25/1 28/1 33/1

*All others higher than 35/1. **Odds courtesy of VegasInsider.com

2017 COLLEGE FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME JANUARY 8, 2018 – TAMPA, FLORIDA Team September

Alabama 3/1 Ohio State 15/2 USC 15/2 Florida State 8/1 Oklahoma 10/1 Michigan 14/1 LSU 16/1 Penn State 20/1 Clemson 25/1 Oklahoma State 28/1 Auburn 28/1 Washington 28/1 Georgia 33/1 Louisville 33/1 Florida 33/1

*All others higher than 35/1 **Odds courtesy of VegasInsider.com

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

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

H O-C H L E V UN A R

WIN A $10,000 TRIP AND $5,000 CASH SEPTEMBER 1, 2017 – NOVEMBER 30, 2017

Travel to all six Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin locations and be rewarded up to $200 Rewards Play and multiple chances at landing a trip of a lifetime to destinations including ROME, SCANDINAVIA, BAHAMAS, AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND. For each location you visit, simply play with your Rewards Club Card and earn the required point level. Once your card is complete, stop by all the participating locations you choose to pick up 10 free entry tickets into that location’s Grand Prize Drawing where you could win their ultimate vacation package including $5,000 cash. Hit up all the Grand Prize Drawings and you could travel the world with all ﬁve vacations! *See Rewards Club Booth to receive your travel card. **Tomah is excluded from all drawing tickets.

WISCONSIN