Southern Gaming and Destinations - March 2020

MARCH/APRIL 2020 VOL. 22 ISSUE 2 GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM $5.00

TUNICA

CASINOS PLACES TO PLAY PAGE 18

HOT SLOTS

WHAT’S NEW IN 2020

PAGE 10

MICHAEL BOLTON INCLUDES CASINOS ON WORLD TOUR PAGE 6

PLUS: TIPS ON CRAPS, VIDEO POKER & MORE! Covering Mississippi, Louisiana, Indiana, Florida, Alabama and the entire South!

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LETTER

from the Publisher

UP FRONT with G. DOUGLAS

PUBLISHER

Gaming Media Group Inc. PRESIDENT

G. Douglas Dreisbach FOUNDING PUBLISHER

Larry Bisig

Wow...can you believe spring is already here? It won’t be long until the flowers are blooming, the birds are chirping, and we are tuning in to watch the Masters golf tournament and welcoming other rites of passage into the season.

The spring marks an exciting time of year in the sports world. We are wrapping up what has been an exciting NCAA basketball season, we are in full stride to the Kentucky Derby on May 2, and the Preakness and Belmont Stakes soon after, baseball is gearing up with opening day March 26 and, dare I say it, but the XFL seems to be picking up steam as well with their first championship on Sunday, April 26. All of these events have wagering interests and angles for you to explore, and, depending on where you live, it is easier than ever to put down some cash on your favorite matchups. In each issue, we publish the future odds on major sporting events that might be of interest to you. Not only do we publish the current odds, but also the past odds so you can see any revealing trends that might give you a wagering edge. Be sure to check out page 28 for the future odds of the issue and get in on the action if you can. If you see high odds on a team you think has a shot at making some noise, consider making the investment. Good luck!

As you might have noticed, music legend Michael Bolton graces our cover. You might ask, ‘What does Michael Bolton have to do with casinos?” Well, not much. But he has incorporated several casino stops on his current tour and you can catch a show if you play your cards right! He’ll stop at one of our Preferred Properties, North Star Mohican Casino in Wisconsin on April 17, and we highly recommend making the trip to see him. This premium property and amenities, combined with a performance by a music icon, is sure to make for a great night. Bolton has won numerous awards and accolades throughout his career and launched The Michael Bolton Foundation that has raised millions of dollars to help women and children.

Check out page 6 for our exclusive interview with the star himself and be sure to get to a show if you can.

This issue also marks the unveiling of some of the hottest slot machines to hit the market this year. The Global Gaming Expo is the annual show held in Las Vegas where all of the slot manufacturers unveil their latest and greatest games for casinos to put on their floors. It is here where the games are given a shot to be displayed on casino floors far and wide. With so much changing in the industry today, it is more difficult than ever to deliver concepts that not only appeal to the slot players, but also benefit the bottom line of the casino. Check out page 10 for a run down on some of the top slots you’ll see this year at your favorite casino.

We hope you enjoy the issue and will spread the word about all we offer for our subscribers. For just $20 per year, we will send you six-issues of the magazine (one every other month) and email you casino coupons and special offers throughout the year from our preferred properties and partners. Check out GamingandDestinations.com/subscribe for more information and to sign up today.

Good luck on your gaming adventures and as always, if you can’t be good, be lucky!

LAYOUT AND DESIGN

Hill Harcourt CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS

Linda Boyd John Brokopp Alex Chopra Eric Floyd Frank Scoblete GAMING AND DESTINATIONS

136 St. Matthews Ave. #300 Louisville, KY 40207 (502) 212-5177 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

2019 by Gaming Media Group Inc.

All Rights Reserved. This publication is printed by LSC Communications., 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.

POSTMASTER:

Send address changes

to Gaming and Destinations, 136 St. Matthews Ave. #300 Louisville, KY 40207

G. Douglas Dreisbach President & Publisher 2

On the cover: Michael Bolton

includes casino stops on his current tour. (Photo Credit: Andrew

McPherson/Michael Bolton) | G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M

IN THIS ISSUE ON THE COVER

6

Michael Bolton:

Includes Casinos on World Tour

24 Horse Highlight:

22 Video Poker:

FEATURE ARTICLES

A Rising Tide

Our highlight of the hottest new games at casinos world-wide.

Best (and Worst) Bets Revealed

Our preferred properties and attractions.

28 Sports Wagering:

14 Smart Slot Play:

Native Dancer: The Gray Ghost

26 Casino Directory:

23 Craps:

10 Hot Slots of 2020:

HIGHLIGHTS & HOT SPOTS:

WINNING TIPS AND STRATEGIES

Progressive Betting and other Smart Strategies

Find the future odds on major sporting events.

18 Tunica Casino Action:

Where to Stay and Play in Tunica

6

18

10

14

Find us on Facebook

24

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

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FACTS & FUN STUFF

DID YOU KNOW

1 2 POPPIN PEACH FIZZ When the warm weather starts gracing our afternoons, there is nothing better than a refreshing cocktail to compliment the season. This recipe is easy to make and a sure way to ease into Spring. We hope you enjoy this tasty concoction!

IN THE UNITED STATES, SLOT MACHINES RANK AS:

?

A . The most popular casino game.

B.

C.

D.

The second most popular casino game behind blackjack.

The third most popular game casino behind blackjack and craps.

The fourth most popular game casino behind blackjack, craps and roulette.

PLAYING MORE THAN ONE SLOT MACHINE AT THE SAME TIME WILL: A .

B.

C.

Narrows the house edge Ensures the player of finding at least one loose machine Costs the player more in the long run

4 5

INSTEAD OF CASH, EARLY SLOT MACHINES SOMETIMES PAID IN: A .

B. C. D.

A . A higher hit frequency B. A lower hit frequency C. About the same hit frequency D. There is no way to tell

D. Makes you arm really tired

3

COMPARED WITH A THREE-REEL REEL-SPINNING SLOT, A FIVE-REEL VIDEO SLOT MACHINE HAS:

ON AVERAGE, HOW OFTEN WILL YOU HIT A ROYAL FLUSH ON THE FIRST FIVE CARDS? A .

B. C. D.

Once every 267 hands Once every 22,452 hands Once every 649,740 hands Once every 1,274,690 hands

Answers: 1.) A 2.) C 3.) D 4.) A 5.) C

SIPS WITH GAMING & DESTINATIONS

Golf balls Chewing Gum Cigars All of the above

Ingredients: • 1.5 ounces of Deep Eddy’s Peach Vodka • 3.5 ounces of ginger beer • 2-3 slices of fresh peaches • Fresh Mint (for garnish) • Ice Directions:

Number of possible rolls for a two dice combination.

36

44

1. Add ice, vodka and ginger beer to a cocktail shaker and shake well to mix.

2. Strain into a chilled glass, add more ice.

1.2

3. Add peach slices and mint for garnish.

4. Sip and enjoy!

Million 16.67 Probability of rolling a 7 in craps. Compared to just 2.78% for the 2 or 12.

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

70

Percentage of total United States population (age 21 and older) who visited a casino in 2019 Square-feet of space at the WinStar World Casino and Resort in Thackerville, OK. The largest casino in the United States.

Approximate percentage of casino revenue generated by slot machines

Y O U ’ V E A R R I V E D.

Ameristar Casino offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and bridges. Three restaurants provide dining experiences from casual to elegant, and the weekend nightlife is always fun with live music in the Bottleneck Blues Bar. In the casino, play the way you want with over 1,200 slots, 27 table games, and 10 live poker tables. Or, for the ultimate sports betting experience, spend some time at The End Zone, a full-service sportsbook with multiple betting windows, a spectacular viewing area with the largest HD screens around, and an expansive sports bar with lots of brews on tap!

WE’LL SEE YOU WHEN YOU GET HERE!

4116 WASHINGTON ST VICKSBURG, MS 39180 | AMERISTAR.COM Must be at least 21. Gambling Problem? Call 1-888-777-9696. ©2020 Penn National Gaming, 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 |

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Photos Courtesy of: Andrew McPherson/Michael Bolton

Michael Bolton has numerous awards and accolades.

M I CH AE L BOLTO N: A N A M ER I CA N M US I C I CO N by

Michael Bolton is an American music icon. Selling more than 65 million albums globally and receiving multiple Grammy Awards, American Music Awards, Songwriter of the Year and many other accolades, today Bolton is out on yet another tour showcasing his musical talents to audiences around the globe. He is bringing his hits to showrooms large and small and has embraced the casino culture and folded in dates that include some of our favorite casinos along the way! In addition to a variety of noncasino venues, he has recently played at casinos in Maryland, Atlantic City, Lake Charles, Louisiana, Tampa, Florida and Washington.

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

G. DOUGL AS DREISBACH

One of Bolton’s upcoming shows we are particularly excited about is on April 17th at North Star Mohican Resort in Bowler, Wisconsin, a Preferred Property of Gaming and Destinations. The property is excited to add Bolton to their long list of entertainment icons that have graced the stage at North Star. His performance will be a part of other big names coming to the property this year that include Jeff Foxworthy in May and Jay Leno in September.

“Michael Bolton has toured all over the world, which will now include Bowler, Wisconsin,” said Michael Bonakdar, General Manager of North Star Mohican Casino Resort. “His work is completely

timeless, and we are privileged to be able to provide our rural area with entertainment from great artists like Bolton.”

We love casino concerts mainly because they let you enjoy the best of both worlds on your gaming getaways. You can plan your evening accordingly and have preconcert cocktails, dinner and socializing, then go to the concert for a couple of hours, followed by what is usually a good crowd in the casino bar area or a hot session in the casino.

We caught up with the star himself to chat about his career, performing and his drive for philanthropic causes and why they are important to him. Enjoy!

Gaming and Destinations: You have had an amazing career covering various music genres and areas of entertainment from rock to adult contemporary, and from performing on stage to writing and acting. Who were some of your early music influences? And where do you find the inspiration to create and perform at the highest level?

Michael Bolton: My brother introduced me to everyone from the Butterfield Blues Band to the Rolling Stones. As a kid I was hearing a lot of Motown on the radio and singing along to the likes of Stevie Wonder. My family watched the Ed Sullivan show and that’s where I first discovered The Beatles, who inspired both my brother and I to keep our long hair. I have a lot of R&B influences including Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder, but Ray Charles is probably my biggest vocal influence. ‘The Hunger’ was the name of my first hit album and that hunger has never waned. That was in 1987. But I had been at it already for 18 years, trying to make it as a solo artist. It was a long and challenging journey. I went through 9 recording deals with no success but kept meeting industry people who believed in me so I would keep going. I think all the perseverance and work ethic of those early years really became a driver in my career.

And when you love what you do there’s no reason to stop!

show know what they’re in for. I’m always gauging the temperature of the audience and adjusting the song selections based on that. My band and crew are world class musicians and technically the best. They have been traveling the world with me for years, so they’re prepared for anything! But you always have to give the fans the Hits because that’s what they came for - the songs that bring them back to important moments in their lives. For many of my fans, these are the songs that have been the soundtrack of their lives, marking their weddings, the birth of a child, or maybe even the loss of a loved one — the good times and the tough times. But through

it all we have shared these songs and emotions together. The greatest energy I feel while singing is from the audience, so every single concert is special and unique for me.

G&D: You started ‘The Michael Bolton Charities’ in the early 90’s with proceeds going to women and children at risk of poverty as well as child abuse, sexual assault and more. You have also been involved with other women and childrenoriented causes. What motivates you to take the time and effort to help with these causes?

G&D: Your current tour covers the United States, Canada, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. Does your performance set list change from city to city, country to country? If so, how?

MB: It’s definitely challenging to put together a setlist, because I aim to really take my audience on a musical adventure during every show. My own love of music is so vast, and I want to share as much of it as I can. So, we have a good mix of the Greatest Hits, some standards we all love.

Some rock, blues, R&B, Big Band and even classical. I accompany the music with stories about the songs and that makes for a cool conversation with the crowd. I love joking around with the fans and the ones that keeping coming back to show after

Bolton’s early music influences were Ray Charles, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder.

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

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MB: Back when I was a struggling musician with a family of five, we didn’t use the word “Homelessness”, but that is an experience that was all too close for me. I vowed that if and when I had any success, I would do what I could to help families in need. Cut to 18 years later, I had my first hit and really had the industry supporting me. I learned quickly about the currency of celebrity as I was asked to perform at various events and fundraisers and for different causes. So, I knew it was time to pursue my own mission. Founded in 1993, the mission and purpose of The Michael Bolton Charities has been to respond to issues which adversely affect

children and women at risk. These include domestic and street violence, poverty, abuse, neglect, homelessness and human trafficking. Collaborations on innovative solutions, initiatives and programs have helped to provide critically needed services responding to immense challenges and compelling needs -- making a difference in individual lives. The Michael Bolton Charities has benefited more than 100 organizations in cities across the country -- highly regarded and accredited agencies providing direct services to children and women at risk. I am especially focused on expanding our new music therapy program which is seeing incredible measurable results by providing music as an outlet for troubled youth.

UPCOMING TOUR DATES:

QUICK HITS WITH MICHAEL BOLTON:

MAY

MARCH 08

Harrah’s Resort SoCal, Valley Center, CA

APRIL 10-12 Special Guest Art on Ice,

Taipei Arena, Taiwan 17

North Star Mohican Casino Resort, Bowler, WI

19

Mystic Lake Casino, Prior Lake, MN

22

The Arcada Theatre, St. Charles, IL

24

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts – Kansas City, MO

26

Brown County Music Center, Nashville, IN

29

ORR Auditorium, New Wilmington, PA

01

Clark State Performing Arts Center, Springfield, OH

Favorite city to relax/vacation? Bali

03

Casino Rama, Orillia, ON

Favorite way to relax? Enjoy the sun

*Multiple international dates thru October in Chile and the

Hobbies? Scrabble Favorite music/bands? (Not your own!): There are many but most recently Dan & Shay and Billie Eilish Favorite sports teams? I grew up a Yankees fan but I appreciate and admire great talent on any team.

Favorite athlete of all time?

Muhammad Ali

United Kingdom.

Recent Set-lists include original hits as well as covers of songs you know by heart. Below are the most songs played over the course of his 2019 tour. (Source setlist.fm) 1. How Am I Supposed to Live Without You 2. How Can We Be Lovers 3. When a Man Loves a Woman

(Percy Sledge cover) 4. (Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay

(Otis Redding cover) 5. Ain’t No Mountain High Enough

(Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrel cover) 6. Nessun dorma (Giacomo Puccini cover) 7. Said I Loved You…but I Lied 8. Soul Provider 9. Stand by Me (Ben E. King cover) 10. Steel Bars 11. Sweet Home Chicago

(Robert Johnson cover) 12. Time, Love and Tenderness 13. To Love Somebody (Bee Gees cover) 14. You Don’t Know Me (Eddy Arnold cover) 15. That’s Life (Marion Montgomery cover) 16. That’s What Love is All About/Missing You

Now/When I’m Back On My Feet Again 17. The Prayer (Celine Dion cover)

Bolton will play North Star Mohican Casino on April 17th. |

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

18. You and I (Michael Lington cover)

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

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HOT SLOTS 2020 OUTLOOK

WHAT’S NEW IN THE WORLD OF SLOTS by

John G. Brokopp is a veteran of nearly 50 years of professional experience in the horse racing and gaming industries. He covered Chicago area Thoroughbred and Standardbred racing in media and public relations for three decades, has been a freelance gaming journalist and weekly newspaper columnist for 25 years, and is the author of two books. He can be reached at jgbrokopp1@gmail.com.

J O H N G . B RO KO PP

Today’s “slot machines” are no more machines than home computers are word processors. They are technological marvels more appropriately referred to as electronic gaming devices. Every game on casino floors around the world were meticulously researched and developed before they ever made their way into the company’s new product line. The competition among slot machine manufacturers is fierce. Their common goal is to see their products occupy as much space on casino floors as possible, and the only way to do that is to convince the owners and operators of the casinos that their machines are the ones that people will want to play.

In addition to coming out with appealing themes using existing technology, a premium is placed on rolling out new and innovative

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

concepts that will attract the players. Being “the first” is a distinction for which the brain trusts of the companies strive. Ideas are developed under top secret conditions so as not to give the competition a heads-up.

In this article, we are excited to highlight some of the newest developments you will see this year on casino floors around the world.

The annual Global Gaming Expo (G2E), the largest exposition of its kind, is held annually in Las Vegas and is an opportunity for gaming developers, researchers, and manufacturers to get together for networking and to unveil their new product lines. The Expo also gives casino-goers a sneak peek at the new games and technologies that will be appearing on gaming floors across the nation soon.

and nudges. The Panda plays similarly in the Wicked Wheel Bonus when the progressive symbols or the Panda is randomly generated.

If you land the Wicked Wheel symbols scattered on reels three, four and five and you are in for quite a surprise when the Panda pops up or even larger prizes “if he’s not satisfied”!

Everi is a manufacturer that always has interesting roll outs at G2E and is a major player in the slot industry. Renowned for their TournEvent of Champions concept, an annual nationwide slot tournament that gives participants the opportunity to qualify for a trip to Las Vegas and compete for a $1-million prize, Everi has a variety of products that cover multiple demographics.

The Las Vegas based company is a world leader in product research, development, and manufacturing and continues to strengthen its position in the market annually with innovative product lines and trail blazing technology. This year is no exception. Slot players can look forward to extensions of the company’s award winning Smokin’ Hot Stuff Wicked Wheel games in the Asian Series on the eye-catching revolutionary Empire Flex cabinet.

It seems Aristocrat Technologies never disappoints at G2E with the showstoppers it unveils, including such iconic games as the wildly popular Buffalo franchise and most recently the Lightning Link concept that has taken slot floors by storm. Last year was no exception with the launch of the next revolution of “hold and spin” in the premier of Dollar Storm, yet another evolution of Lightning Link.

Dollar Storm, which debuted in Aristocrat’s revolutionary MarsX cabinet with modular, interchangeable features to amplify game play, offers five levels of progressive jackpots.

At locations where the multi-site jackpot is available, the progressives can be won on any bet on any denomination played, an industry first. Four new games are included in the Dollar Storm library, including Emperors Treasure, Caribbean Gold, Egyptian Jewels, and Ninja Moon. Each of them

features a unique spin on the popular “free games” bonus.

Slot fans will also be delighted to see their beloved Buffalo slot game introduced in

the MarsX cabinet with Buffalo Gold Revolution, which integrates progressive jackpots into the Buffalo Gold brand for the first time, plus the addition of a bonus wheel.

The company has also “caught lightning in a bottle” with their Lightning Link and follow-up Dragon Link slot play concepts.

Together they are the rage of slot players world-wide. Casinos around the globe are accommodating the demand for the games not only by increasing the number of units on the floors, but also by partnering with Aristocrat to create dedicated “Lightning Link Lounges” which have an electricity and

Both Wicked Wheel Panda and Wicked Wheel Fire Phoenix feature the playerfavorite wheel plus progressive pick bonuses with random multipliers and “nudges” as the original game. In Fire Phoenix, the progressive pick bonus is randomly triggered to reveal either progressive symbols or the Phoenix. The Wicked Wheel Bonus is triggered when three Wicked Wheel symbols land scattered on reels three, four and five. The result is an engaging game with the possibility of random multipliers G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

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personality all their own. The games come in a variety of themes for players to choose from including Heart Throb, Magic Pearl, Moon Race, and Best Bet. There are some new themes, too, including Wild Chuco, Eyes of Fortune, and Dragon Riches.

Scientific Games is one of the most diverse companies in the slot space and, in addition to their casino achievements, have also had great success with their interactive platforms. In January of this year, Green Valley Ranch Resort, Spa, and Casino hosted the official launch of the latest dynamic slot theme creation from Scientific Games, Ultra Hot Mega Link.

The game is an expansion of the company’s ultra-popular Ultimate Fire Link and the brand-new iteration incorporates a feature in which Fireball symbols lock in place and award free spins to players. During the free spins, more Fireballs lock in place and unlock new rows. As new rows unlock, credit values and jackpot levels increase much to the delight of players who are mesmerized as they watch the screen unfold. If Lady Luck smiles upon you and one or more Ultra Hot Fireball symbols lands on the reels, the credits really start to build up and you might even see a Mini Jackpot awarded. If there are five other unlocked Fireballs surrounding it, the size of the feature win increases. The new release promises to be a smashing follow-up to Ultimate Fire Link, which proved to be one of Scientific Games’ most captivating product lines.

Ultra Hot Mega Link is being launched with two themes, Amazon and India, both of which are featured on the TwinStar Wave XL and TwinStar J43 cabinets. Also, in the very near future, look for two additional themes, Rome and Egypt, to make their debut as Ultra Hot Mega Link games.

Konami Gaming, Inc. also continues to make breakthroughs with its stunning catalog of video slot cabinets, upon which it recently launched its All Aboard and 12

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

Silent Hill titles, but it is the company’s love affair with the Sport of Kings that has captured the imagination of players.

Gaming fans might recall the mechanical horse racing game from the 1980’s called Sigma Derby that enjoyed a cult following among niche players. When the games became too expensive to keep in good repair, they fell by the wayside to make room for slots. Thanks to Konami, mechanical horse racing is back bigger and better than ever in casinos across the country with Fortune Cup, a high-tech descendent of the original Sigma product. Now the company has made the game even better with Fortune Cup Derby Deluxe, which adds side-bet functionality, random multipliers, and even rankings on the horses for serious handicappers.

The Fortune Cup Derby Deluxe footprint (or hoofprint) is a nine-foot-wide mechanical track upon which six horses compete.

There’s even a track announcer audio component as well as a large video screen that attracts players as if it were a brick and mortar racetrack. Bettors have the option of making Win and Quinella bets.

A special attraction is the progressive side bet opportunity, which provides big-win jackpot potential for adventurous gamblers without impacting the odds for other players.

Various conveniences for players are available at each of the betting stations, including USB chargers for electronic devices and player’s club card readers. Each Fortune Cup race takes about 40 second to complete.

Between races there is a 60-second break for players to do some handicapping and take note of the odds. Fortune Cup is an exciting new concept to gaming floors so be on the lookout at your favorite casino!

International Game Technology (IGT) first released Wheel of Fortune themed slots in 1996 and since then has created more than 260 variations of the game in 20 countries worldwide. The games have created more than 1,000 millionaires and delivered more than $3 billion in jackpots in casinos around the world throughout their 23-year history.

The newest Wheel of Fortune is housed in IGT’s CrystalCurve TRUE 4D cabinet with a 50-inch, curved, ultra-HD upper display to create one unified graphic of

the Wheel of Fortune wheel. It offers

players glasses-free 3D entertainment and the ability to interact with the game’s 3D

graphics, including gesture recognition

technology which enables you to manipulate the game’s 3D objects and the mid-air haptic technology gives a tactile feedback experience from the game’s graphics.

We look forward to seeing how IGT

continues to grow this exciting line of

products.

TH E MI LLI ON DO L L A R EV EN T ÂŽ * FOMO. The Fear of Missing Out. And believe us when we say this is NOT an opportunity you want to miss. Contact your Everi Promotions Specialist now or visit www.TOURNEVENT.com for more information on how your casino can take part in the premier slot tournament in North America.

Get off the sideline. Get in the game. The Million Dollar Event.

everi.com

Let’s Go! *Payable in periodic payments over 20 years or in a lump sum, present-day cash value payment.

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

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SMART SLOT PLAY: PROGRESSIVE BET TING AND OTHER SMART STR ATEGIES by

J O H N G . B RO KO PP

Progressive betting systems by their very

betting strategy is actually designed to be

average recreational gaming enthusiasts on

not a losing streak.

nature are fraught with danger, especially for

John G. Brokopp is a veteran of nearly 50 years of professional experience in the horse racing and gaming industries. He covered Chicago area Thoroughbred and Standardbred racing in media and public relations for three decades, has been a freelance gaming journalist and weekly newspaper columnist for 25 years, and is the author of two books. He can be reached at jgbrokopp1@gmail.com.

a budget, because they involve putting more money at risk often above one’s comfort level.

However, there is a rather ill-advised progression system when you are on a

instead of losing, puts you in a position to take advantage of a fortuitous session of gambling, something you are unable to do if you continue betting the minimum

incremental amounts when you’re losing,

advantage that the casino takes on slots and

here is “when you win”. It would be better

you down over the long haul.

you continue to increase your wager in

when you’re on a roll. The inevitable house

you’ll recoup it all when you win. The catch

all of its house-banked table games will wear

phrased “if you win” because more often

The more time you devote to playing the

spin that will get you out of the hole never

more money at risk which in turn means

comes and you’re out much more money than you ever planned to be. This progressive | G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M

Increasing your wager when you’re winning,

losing streak. The theory behind it is if

than not, the winning hand or the winning

14

utilized when you’re on a winning streak,

slots or a table game equates into putting that the casino is going to “grind” you

out of a profitable session unless you are

willing to capitalize on smaller windows of opportunity and call it a day.

Today we’ll explore using a progressive betting strategy on a multi-line, multi-coin,

penny video slot. Our example will employ

the strategy of always betting max lines with the option of playing 40, 80, 120, 160, 200, or 240 credits (pennies) per line.

If you are comfortable playing the minimum

(40 cents per spin) that’s fine. But if you start seeing your credits add up with some

solid line plays or a nice bonus round, now

is the time to think about increasing your wager using a progressive betting system.

The more credits you wager per line, the greater your multiplier will be on winning spins. Get into a bonus round and you have a

chance to really make a nice score. Denying yourself the opportunity to “hit a big one” by

restricting your wager to the minimum or a similar lower amount is not the thing to do when you are money ahead.

For example, try a progression by starting

with a 40 credits spin, followed by 80 credits, then 120 credits. If you see things start to

slow down or you are watching your profits diminish, go back to 40 credits or your comfort level.

credits all the way up to 240 credits means

dedicated dollar machines. Which begs the

$8.40 at risk. The rewards are there if you

game that has an 88 percent payback, when

that in one minute’s time you will have put utilize the system wisely, especially if you get into a bonus round with max coins played.

The revenue generating might of low-

denomination video slots makes them the foundation of modern-day casino economics. Their entertainment value and

sensory appeal have won over traditional

The amount at which you choose to cash

spinning reel players and at the same time

preserve some of the profit you have made,

“Generation X” gamblers.

question, “Why wager dollars on a penny

I can play that same money in a dollar slot that has 94 percent payback?”

Sure, it’s possible to wager a coin or two on every spin, but the chances of winning that

way are thoroughly compromised because

each unit’s hit frequency and pay back percentage is calculated on the entire screen grid. The failure by a player to activate the

out is a personal decision. You may wish to

have attracted an entire new crowd of

or simply cash out at what you bought in

But video slots can be “one-armed bandits

a possible winning combination. With that

a thorough knowledge of what they’re all

number of lines on the machine. How many

and games, quite often without realizing it.

economic decision.

for and move on to another machine or call it a session and wait until next time.

Always remember that progressive betting

means you are putting more money at risk,

something you have to be comfortable with before giving it a try.

said, it’s always best to activate the maximum

about. Gamblers pay a hefty price for the fun

coins you wish to play per line is your own

A big part of the reason video slots can have

such a harmful impact on the bankrolls of

people who play them is the harsh fact their

make a play every 10 seconds which means

cloak of thrift. They’re marketed as penny

spin in our example, you can conservatively

appetite for money is concealed behind a

you are betting $2.40 per minute. If you start

games when in fact it is dollars they crave.

you will increase your betting to $4.80 per

minute. Take a step progression from 40

play excludes that player from collecting on

in Play Station clothing” unless you have

If you play the minimum of 40 cents per

a progression of 40, 80, 120 on your spins

maximum number of lines on any given

The high win percentage that casinos

extract from money wagered on the games is quite often more than double the hold on

Here’s another weapon that video slots use to engage players in psychological warfare: The goal is to get into bonus rounds. Because this

occurs with greater frequency than jackpots

on traditional reel spinners, people are enticed to play longer and gamble more. The

bonus rounds are where some of the bigger

jackpots can be won on penny games, but they can also play out as “duds”, much to the G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

15

knowledge as possible when you play them.

of time, the more the casino’s advantage is

casinos no matter what we do. That’s the

at your bankroll.

The edge will always tip in favor of the nature of the business. Some of us will win

over the short term, but over the long haul the casinos will always win and players as a collective group will always lose.

dismay of players who eagerly wait for them.

It’s also important to keep in mind that the spinning reel play action and the sequential

left to right stops of video slot games are an

illusion in the decision reaching process and

merely a component to stimulate the senses and to add an element of intrigue.

Just the same as their electronic spinning

reel cousins, the entire outcome of each

event on a video slot is predetermined. The

virtual reels do not spin independently of one

another. If you hit the button on the panel to instantly stop the video reels, you’ll get the same configuration as you would have had

you allowed the process to play out. On that

note, you’re doing yourself a disservice if you play video slots using the stop feature. All

you’re doing is playing at faster rate which translates into more decisions per playing session. The result is you’re wagering more

and exposing a larger percentage of your bankroll to the high hold percentage. The

best advice is to wager your money in low-

denomination video slots only to the extent you value it as entertainment. As a serious

and practical gambling medium, they have little value.

Given the fact you can’t beat the slots, it’s

important to arm yourself with as much 16

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

going to work against you and grind away Make players club cards work for you by deriving benefits based upon play that’s

comfortable for you. Even though player’s club cards exist primarily for the casinos

What follows are a few tips for average

to create databases, track play, and serve as

to keep the factors that work against them

the player’s advantage to always use them.

recreational gaming enthusiasts who wish

their most important marketing tool, it is to

in slot machine play as minimal as possible.

Use a money management system.

In most cases it takes considerable self-

One disciplined approach is to start with

those qualities in most players that keeps the

machine. If you have any winnings to collect

control and discipline, but it is the lack of

a $20 buy-in. Play the entire $20 in one

casino gaming industry thriving.

after playing, cash them out and split the

Always play in affordable increments

other half for another playing session on the

to derive as much mileage as you can from your outing. If you bring $100 to the casino, break your bankroll down into five $20

sessions. You can always put in another twenty-dollar bill if you fail to generate profits on your first attempt. Loading up a machine with too much “out of pocket” money at one time creates the temptation to play too much too fast.

Play at a comfortable pace. Playing

off credits at a feverish pace increases the vulnerability of your money to the “house edge”. The more you play in a given period

money 50-50: Half to put aside and the same machine. Repeat the process as often as luck will allow. When you have depleted

your original buy-in, preserve the profits you have put aside and go on to another machine with your next $20 bill.

Cash out big wins and put them aside. The level at which you do this is an

individual matter, but certainly if you hit for $100 or more it’s the wisest thing to do.

Keeping your winnings on the machine in credit form makes it too easy to play them

down and watch them disappear right before your eyes.

With award-winning restaurants and national recognitions, our resort’s innovative amenities are sure to exhilarate every visit. Discover your winning experience.

E Sample premium, hand-selected wines with our EnoMatic® Wine Dispenser system at 850 Wine and Spirits E Bayview Café named one of the Best 24-Hour Restaurants in Mississippi by MSN E Indulge yourself in the AAA Four Diamond luxury hotel Don’t Let The Game Get Out Of Hand. Gambling Problem? Call 1-888-777-9696.

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

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DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT: TUNICA, MISSISSIPPI by

T

unica, Mississippi was one of the first counties in the Southern region to embrace the full expansion of casino gaming. The opening of Splash Casino in 1992 marked what would be decades of increased visitation and revenue to an area that needed some good luck in many ways.

Splash was the only game in town for just over a year and gaming enthusiasts from miles around came to not only test their luck, but to pay a cover charge to do so!

After great success, it didn’t take long for others to move in and Harrah’s, Bally’s and other all jumped in on the action. The expansion would continue until reaching the pinnacle of eleven casinos in the late 1990’s.

In addition to the fast casino action and luxurious amenities of the casinos, Tunica also expanded the area offerings to include a

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

ALEX ANDER CHOPRA

county operated golf course and tennis center with Tunica National, a quaint downtown with shops, local eateries and more, that all make a visit to Tunica much more than just rolling the dice or playing the slots.

Today, Tunica is home to six casinos, each possessing their own flair and charm that collectively caters to just about any type of gamer. We are excited to highlight a few of our favorite properties and places to check out on your next visit. Enjoy!

Gold Strike Casino Resort GoldStrike.com 1-888-245 -7829 Gold Strike Casino Resort is an MGMowned property and is one of the most prestigious casino resorts in the region. Like its sister property on the Gulf Coast, Beau Rivage, perfection is around every corner

and there is always something happening at Gold Strike. Ever since its lavish grand opening in 1994, gaming enthusiasts have flocked to the 31-story golden hotel towering over Tunica to be pampered and live the life of luxury while playing in the 50,000 squarefoot casino. At the time it was constructed, Gold Strike was the tallest building in the state of Mississippi and to this day it remains the third tallest building in the state.

From the moment you enter the marble floored hotel lobby, you know you are in for something special with a sleek, marble laden entrance that lead to hotel check-in or the casino floor and restaurants. Clear the calendar and stay for a few nights in your choice of over 1,100 rooms and 125 suites that are modern, with bright interiors and equipped with all the essentials you may need.

Moneyline Book, Bar & Grill at Gold Strike Casino Resort.

The casino at Gold Strike offers all your

offering a more relaxed area for a glass of

service sportsbook, nearly 1,200 slots and

or even main course.

favorite gaming options including a fulla variety of table games in a well-spaced and placed casino floor. Whether it is your

traditional blackjack and craps or the more

contemporary games and slots, you’ll find it at Gold Strike.

When it comes time to place your sports

bets, no need to look any further than

wine or cocktail paired with an appetizer, If you are looking for more of a buffet-style

experience, Buffet Americana is a must-visit spot! This Las Vegas-style buffet serves up

a variety of world-cuisine from American classics to Asian and Italian in a relaxed

dining room style table layout with different

areas to enjoy your feast.

If you feel like taking a break from the tables,

there are numerous other amenities offered

at the complex including a full-service spa, indoor pool, Top Golf Swing Suite,

and multiple nightlife and entertainment options. Be sure to check their web-site regularly as headlining entertainment is always making a stop at Gold Strike!

the Moneyline Book, Bar & Grill located

conveniently near the casino floor. Find your game, place a wager then sit back and enjoy

the show. After the game, simply head down

to the claims window and cash out- easy as pie. You can bet on just about any sporting

event, horse race or other wagering interest at

Moneyline so be sure to stop in on your visit.

We all know casino dining is some of the

best you will find anywhere, and Gold

Strike has a lot to offer. For fine-dining, Chicago Steakhouse is always spot on. This classic Chicago-inspired steakhouse has a

great premium steak and seafood selection with one of the largest wine selections in

the region. There is also a bar and lounge area separate from the main dining room

Chicago Steakhouse at Gold Strike Casino Resort.

The sportsbook at Gold Strike Casino Resort in Tunica, Mississippi.

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

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Hollywood Casino Tunica HollywoodCasinoTunica.com 1-800-871-0711 The next stop on our tour of Tunica takes us to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood with the exciting gaming action, amenities and memorabilia of Hollywood Casino.

You never know what you’ll see on your visit as they take great pride in treasured Hollywood movie memorabilia ranging from authentic outfits worn in hit movies to famous cars including the DeLorean from Back to the Future and the Batmobile from Batman.

However, don’t let the visual attractions fool you, behind it all is a solid property offering fantastic accommodations, delectable dining, great gaming action and more to make your stay ‘star worthy’!

Offering 500 rooms, as well as a 123-space RV park, overnight guests have no trouble making Hollywood feel like home. The rooms have been renovated and updated on the last few years and offer both interior facing rooms (overlooking the casino floor) as well as exterior facing rooms overlooking the golf course and landscape of the area.

The hotel also features one of the largest indoor pools in the state and is great spot to relax in the climate-controlled area or take a dip in the hot tub.

As one of the premiere casinos in town, Hollywood Casino offers over 50,000 square-feet of gaming space including a

The Pool at Hollywood Casino

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

stage area for evening entertainment and a poker room with a full spread of live games at various levels. The casino floor is welllaid with ample space between games and machines with high ceilings to give a nice open feeling that you don’t see very often in casinos.

In addition to the casino, be sure to check out The Sportsbook at Hollywood. You can enjoy the biggest names in sports while sipping on a beer or other beverage in the lounge, which have some of the best video screens around.

Dining is a premium at Hollywood and you can experience that first hand at the awardwinning Fairbanks Steakhouse. Located on the second floor, the restaurant offers some of the best steak, seafood and service around in a welcoming dining area. Escape to a big city style steakhouse just steps away from your favorite casino games.

If you want to recreate the classic Vegas experience, you can check out the Epic Buffet- which is truly epic, with a variety of stations and cuisines that will fill any craving.

Options like roast beef, shrimp, and sushi rolls, alongside decadent desserts will have you ready for anything.

Other Amenities In addition to all of the features mentioned above, the casino is also an entertainment hub for the area. If you want to catch a show before, after, or even during your gaming time, you can check out The Stage Bar, which hosts local and national music acts in front of a live audience. Have a drink and play some video poker while you listen to eclectic music styles from blues, to rock to country.

Other Casinos and At tractions While Gold Strike and Hollywood top our list of “Preferred Properties” of Gaming and Destinations, there are other options in Tunica including Horseshoe, 1st Jackpot, Sam’s Town and Fitz. Each property has its own niche offering guests an all-around casino offering for just about any gamer.

In addition to the casinos, the area offers several great attractions to keep you busy.

Be sure to stop by these popular attractions on your next visit. A resource for ‘All that is Tunica’ is TunicaTravel.com where you will find information about the area attractions.

Gateway to the Blues Museum

The Hollywood Café TheHollywoodCafe.com 662-363-1225 No trip to Tunica is complete without a trip to The Hollywood Café. You may have heard the song Walking in Memphis referring to Muriel playing the piano at the Hollywood on Friday nights. Well, this is the Hollywood referred to in the song.

While she may not still play, it is always a sure bet to get a great meal for a fair price so be sure to stop in for lunch or dinner. They are also home to the famous Fried Pickle so be sure to get an order for an appetizer, you won’t be disappointed! The Café is open until 9:00 pm during the week and 10:00 on weekends.

Gateway to the Blues Museum TunicaTravel.com/Blues 888 - 488 - 6422 If you are a fan of the Blues, or just a music lover in general, you need to make the Gateway to the Blues Museum your first stop when arriving in Tunica. Located on Highway 61, stop by and see the story of the blues come to life in all its tormented and anguished glory. You’ll experience interactive exhibits, artwork and more — including a recording studio where you’ll

The sportsbook at Gold Strike Casino Resort in Tunica, Mississippi.

learn the basics of blues music with a chance to record your very own blues song. This must-see attraction for all music lovers, will tell the remarkable story of how The Blues was born and the role Tunica played in building the genre’s legacy.

operated and is always in great shape for a

Downtown Tunica

miss the indoor, clay court facility located

Located just a few miles from the casinos is a quaint downtown area with unique boutiques, antique shops and more. There are also festivals throughout the year so be sure to check out TunicaTravel.com for more information.

quick round. Designed by PGA tour player

Mark McCumber, players will find water

features, long carry shots and undulated

greens that will make you bring your top game to the course. For tennis players, don’t on the property. For more information visit TunicaNational.com or call 662-357-0777.

River Bend Links offers a Scottish-links

style layout over 6,900 yards of lakes, bunkers

and other obstacles for a challenging round.

This privately owned resort style course

Golf at Tunica National or River Bend Links

is conveniently located near Hollywood

Don’t miss your chance to tee it up at one of the areas two golf courses. Tunica National Golf & Tennis is country owned and

For more information and tee-times visit

Casino for a great stay and play experience.

RiverBendLinks.com or call 662-363-1005

River Bend Golf Links G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

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PLAYER STRATEGY

VIDEO POKER: A Rising Tide John F. Kennedy, a lover of all things associated with sailing, is credited with the adage that “A rising tide lifts all boats”; meaning that when the economy is thriving then all people benefit. That’s also true in the glittering world of casino gambling, especially video poker (VP).

Casinos: Some management teams seem to believe that the more they gouge patrons the bigger their bottom line, especially given the fact that government entities are now allowing huge corporate ownerships stymieing competition. In fact, both monopolies and extreme casino advantage games are actually bad for the industry in the long run. Here’s why.

Local Competition: Once upon a time Vegas was the only game in town and it remains the most well-known gambling mecca and party town on the planet. Still, other venues globally are now giving them a run for their money. Although Sin City has the best entertainment in the world, after a few visits, players need additional good reasons to make the trip. Local Midwest and Southern venues along with many on both coasts are now offering the same odds as most Vegas casinos. In terms of video poker (VP), your expected return (ER) is based on the pay schedule (assuming a random number generator or RNG, as required in most jurisdictions) with a minor emphasis on the perks. If Vegas removes all their full pay games (those with the best ER for that game) then players will “buy local”.

Software: Most casino brass along with players look at the ER and think that’s going to be the return for that game over time. Wrong. You must be able to play computer-perfect to receive the theoretical return and that’s in the long run. Most people don’t use the software (WinPoker by Dean Zamzow is my recommendation) to practice and, therefore, make many errors. Management should take this fact into consideration before downgrading VP games. Empty casinos are bad for everyone in the industry.

Entertainment Value: Bells and whistles are great on VP tutorial software and on the creative new slots making their way to the gaming floor.

If the ER, however, is dismal those “entertaining” and expensive devices soon lose their glamour and will be mostly unoccupied. Players will return more often when they can stay awhile on their session budget.

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

Staff: When business is sluggish casino employees simply can’t make a living so they have to find jobs elsewhere. This is bad for patrons for a number of reasons.

VP Technicians: Aging VP devices become a problem when technicians can’t find replacement parts. Asking management to replace them with games that have identical pay schedules is like talking to the wall. In addition, most casinos only have level I and level II techs on site and some are unable to fix the device. As a player you should avoid pounding on the buttons to keep the best games around longer.

VP Manufacturers: Gaming manufacturers must share some of the blame for lowering the tide, especially on glitzy slots, when the price to buy or rent goes into the stratosphere. If the mechanism is devouring the cash too fast, eventually patrons won’t play them and before too long they’ll be hauled off the gaming floor. In fact, that’s one reason why casinos often rent rather than buy fancy new devices.

Jurisdiction Taxes and Owner Profits: Unfortunately, everybody and their uncle has their hands stuck out for a piece of the gambling pie, but many entities don’t understand that any percent of zero is still zero. Right now, in their greed, profit sharers seem ready to cook the goose that lays the golden eggs by trying to increase their portion (owners, as well as local, state and federal agencies) simply killing the returns for players. This is truly a bad idea.

Maximum/Minimum Laws: Every jurisdiction has maximum/minimum laws regulating the ERs on VP, slots and all table options. You should check the percentages by calling your local gaming commission. I have charts indicating the limits in my book, “The Video Poker Edge”, but they are subject to change. Politicians may think they’re crafty by decreasing the minimum, say from 85% to 75%, but lowering the tide too much will eventually damage the ship.

Final Thoughts: Prosperity isn’t just great for the economy, it’s also good for the casino industry.

The important thing to remember is that when the gaming industry’s decision-makers get too greedy and forget about the players then it has a negative impact on everybody involved. That’s the manufacturers, casino employees, taxing entities, advertising outlets (print and electronic) and the players. There’s a good way to accommodate them all because, as JFK stated, “A rising tide” does “lift all boats”!

by

LI N DA B OY D

Linda Boyd, a long-time table game player before turning to video poker, writes for “Southern Gaming and Destinations”, “Arizona Player” and the latest edition of “American Casino Guide”.

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.

“ONCE UPON A TIME VEGAS WAS THE ONLY GAME IN TOWN.”

FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

PLAYER STRATEGY by

FRANK SCOBLETE

Frank Scoblete is the #1 best-selling gaming author in America. His website is at www.frankscoblete.com.

His books are available at bookstores, smile.Amazon. com, Barnes and Noble, Kindle and on e-books.

CRAPS: Some of the Best and Worst Bets at Craps So this simple article had me in a conundrum – which I solved the following way. I will use “house edge” as the primary criteria of judgment of what is or isn’t a good craps bet but I will mention the speed of the game as well to give you a more complete picture. I will also just report on bets that are found in almost all casinos so some of the worst bets might not actually make it to this list since those bets have not made it to most (or almost any) casinos.

As for electronic games, I’m skipping them.

I am also foregoing many of the “don’t bets” as very few craps players care about them so why waste space?

With that said, here we go – worst list first.

The 10 Worst Bets 1. Fire Bet: A waste of money as the house has between a 20 and 25 percent edge over the players. This bet has caught on like fire, but more like the fires in Australia and California.

“WITH ‘ANY CRAPS’, EACH AND EVERY ROLL WILL COST YOU $11.11 PER $100 WAGERED, AND THAT IS A LOT.”

2. Any Seven: This is a one-roll bet that the next number rolled will be a seven. The house edge is a monstrous 16.67 percent. If you make this bet on every roll, even if you only make it for a measly dollar, you can lose about $20 per hour! The seven is the crusher in this game whether you bet it or hope it never shows up and then it does.

3. 2 and 12: Snake eyes (2) and boxcars (12) come in with house edges of 13.89 percent. These are one-roll bets for the unwary and unwise craps player. If you bet them every roll you will be rolling snake eyes in your head and wind up as the last car on the train!

4. Whirl or World: A multiple number (2, 3, 7, 11, 12), one-roll bet that has a house edge of 13.33 percent. Pea-yew!

FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

5. The Horn: Another multiple number (2, 3, 11, 12) one-roll bet that comes in with a house edge of 12.5 percent.

6. 3 and 11: If there were only the 11 bet I could make a mystical announcement that the number 11 at craps has an 11.11 percent house edge and

isn’t that something? Unfortunately so does the 3 and so does other bets.

7. Hard 4 and Hard 10: Yes, here are two other bets with 11.11 percent.

8. Any Craps: Here’s the irony and the irony is on us. Another bet with an 11.11 percent house edge. These 11.11 percentage bets should have no interest for you since making them on each and every roll will cost you $11.11 per $100 wagered and that is a lot.

9. Hard 6 and Hard 8: Finally we have left the double-digit house edges behind us, but these two bets are still pretty bad as they come in with a house edge of 9.09 percent. They are not active on every roll, which helps a little.

10. Place the 4 or 10: Forget it, The house edge is 6.67 percent.

The Nine Best Bets 1. 2. The Pass, 3. Don’t Pass, 4. Come, 5. Don’t Come with 6. Odds: Some casinos in America are still offering craps games with 100X, 20X, 10X and 5X odds and the house edge is a small fraction of a percent on these games if you utilize the odds bets. Without odds, the house edge on the above bets is about 1.4 percent – still very good. Since you will not be on every number using these bets, not every roll impacts you, that’s a good thing too. Most players will be on about 50 percent of the decisions betting this way.

These are the absolute best bets at the game of craps and maybe should be the only bets craps players make.

7. Place the 6 or 8. (yes, 8 for 8) 8: This bet must be made in multiples of $6. It pays $7 on a win since the house has a 6 to 5 edge on the bet. The house edge is 1.52 percent and the bet is active on 11 of 36 decisions – which means most of the time you will not have your money acted upon.

9. Lay the 4 and 10. (yes 10 for 10) 10: You are betting that the 7 will appear before the 4 or 10.

The house edge is 2.44 percent.

Okay, there you have it – some of the worst bets and the best bets at craps.

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

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Native Dancer loses by a head to Dark Star in the 1953 Kentucky Derby.

Photos courtesy of Churchill Downs.

HORSE OF THE ISSUE:

NATIVE DANCER: THE GRAY GHOST R AC I N G C A R E E R : 1 9 5 2 – 1 9 5 4

O

n March 27th, 1950, a little gray foal that would go on to shake the very foundation of American

thoroughbred racing was birthed along the outskirts of Lexington, Kentucky inside the confines of a palatial property named Scott Farm. Bred by distinguished horseman Alfred G. Vanderbilt and sired by 1945 Preakness Stakes Champion Polynesian, that equine who carried the

Affectionately nicknamed the “Gray

those victories occurring at Saratoga Race

considered a “Maryland-bred” due to

That being said, the “Gray Ghost’s” piece

Ghost”, Native Dancer is technically

the fact that he was raised on Alfred G.

Vanderbilt’s very own Sagamore Farm in

Glyndon, Maryland. Eventually maturing to 16.3 hands tall, Vanderbilt’s virtuoso

was often described as a “Jekyll and Hyde” type by his trainer Bill Winfrey however

given his on-track performances; Winfrey was easily able to overlook his equine’s

name Native Dancer continues to (and will

eccentricity.

forever), garner gross reverence from those

As a two-year-old in 1952, Native Dancer

who truly idolize the “Sport of Kings”.

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

won all nine of his starts with four of

Course’s prestigious summer meeting.

de resistance as a sophomore occurred on September 27th, 1952 when he tied the

world record time for 6 ½ furlongs (1:14 2/5) in the esteemed Belmont Futurity.

Ending the year with then record earnings for a two-year old ($230,495), Alfred

G. Vanderbilt’s red-hot racer as a result easily captured a rarified double (i.e.

both American Champion Two-Year old

Honors and American Horse of the Year Honors).

On the heels of a well-deserved six-

Guerin respond by talking about how his

no surprise when Alfred J. Vanderbilt’s

off his three-year old campaign with

over. Nevertheless, most newspaper men

hallmarked, “American Three-Year Old

month sabbatical, Native Dancer kicked easy victories in both the Gotham Stakes and the Wood Memorial. Turned into a television sensation overnight (since the Gotham and Wood had both aired on

NBC), the “Gray Ghost” hence had an

entire nation in his corner as he was loaded into stall #1 as the “odds-on” (less than even money) favorite for the 79th

mount didn’t care for the strip he had run blamed Guerin for the loss with one even saying, “…he took that colt everywhere

trophy case gained a gaudy piece that was Horse of the Year”.

Ultimately competing three times as a

on the track except the ladies room.”

Whatever the case was, the fact remained;

the “Gray Ghost” had lost for the first (and what would be the only) time in his storied career.

four-year old, Native Dancer won each

time out including a gutty victory in

Belmont Park’s Metropolitan Handicap (this despite giving up between 13 to

24 lbs. to each of his eight rivals). Now

although he’d dreamed of entering his

running of the Kentucky Derby at

barn’s ace in Europe’s premier routes

Churchill Downs.

(races like: the King George VI, the

Queen Elizabeth Stakes and the Prix de

Breaking from post #10 in an

l’Arc de Triomphe) Alfred G. Vanderbilt

eleven-horse field, Dark Star (a

humanely took the high road and retired

25-1 long shot) quickly sprinted to the lead beneath the Twin

the “Gray Ghost” when a reoccurring

Native Dancer struggled to find

Conclusively riding off into the sunset

position. Bumped hard by Money

22 starts, Native Dancer thus boasts

Spires while a slow starting

foot injury came back worse than ever.

his footing way back in eighth

with a race record of 21 wins from

Maker as he rounded the first turn,

a résumé that would make most any

Alfred G. Vanderbilt’s fan favorite

nevertheless inched his way through

the pack and into third place as the field

swung onto the straightaway. Finally able to find some clear running room near the

eighth pole (a vertical marker which stands an eighth of a mile from the finish line)

jockey Eric Guerin then went to the whip several times but to no avail; at the wire,

it was Dark Star over Native Dancer by a head.

Heavily criticized for his ride aboard

Native Dancer in the Derby, jockey Eric

Age

Equally efficient in the stud barn as he

five others in the Preakness Stakes,

was on the strip, Native Dancer wound up

Native Dancer scored a neck victory in

the Triple Crown’s third and final leg, the

siring 43 stakes winners from 306 foals.

momentous since there had never been a

is the fact that every starter in the 2008

Maryland.) A torrid summer campaign

somewhere in their breeding lineage! An

broke a sweat en route to capturing: the

in modern pedigrees, Native Dancer died

Stakes, the Travers Stakes and the

subsequently buried where he was raised at

Belmont Stakes. (This feat was particularly

Perhaps even more impressive though

“Duel Classic Winner” from the state of

Kentucky Derby had the “Gray Ghost”

ensued however the “Gray Ghost” never

equine who remains “all but universal”

Dwyer Stakes, the Arlington Classic

on November 16, 1967 at age 17 and was

American Derby. Consequently, it was

Sagamore Farm in Glyndon, Maryland.

Native Dancer Lifetime Statistics

horseman grossly salivate.

Subsequent to defeating Dark Star and

Starts Firsts

Seconds

Thirds

Earnings

2 9 9 0

0

$230,495

3 10 9

1

0

$513,425

4 3 3 0

0

$41,320

0

$785,240

Totals 22 21

1

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

25

SOU THERN

CASINO DIRECTORY

Below is a list of our preferred properties of the South showcasing some of the great things that each property has.

WEBSITE

PHONE NUMBER

*CC PARTNER

TABLES

MACHINES

KYDerby.com

502-636-4400

BELTERRA CASINO RESORT

belterracasino.com

888-235-8377

•

42

1,150

FRENCH LICK RESORT

FrenchLick.com

888-936-9360

•

37

1,000

GOLD STRIKE CASINO RESORT

goldstrike.com

662-357-1111

53

1,400

HOLLYWOOD CASINO TUNICA

hollywoodcasinotunica.com

662-357-7700

28

1,079

41

1,563

34

1,275

54

1,224

57

1,800

KENTUCKY CHURCHILL DOWNS RACETRACK INDIANA

TUNICA •

MID-SOUTH: INCLUDES LOUISIANA, MISSISSIPPI AND ALABAMA AMERISTAR CASINO VICKSBURG

ameristar.com/vicksburg

601-638-1000

CYPRESS BAYOU CASINO HOTEL

cypressbayou.com

337-923-7284

MARGARITAVILLE RESORT CASINO

margaritavillebossiercity.com

318-698-7177

PARAGON CASINO RESORT

paragoncasinoresort.com

318-253-1946

PEARL RIVER RESORT

pearlriverresort.com

866-447-3276

79

2,350

WIND CREEK ATMORE

windcreekatmore.com

866-946-3360

N/A

1,720+

WIND CREEK MONTGOMERY

windcreekmontgomery.com

866-946-3360

N/A

2,200+

WIND CREEK WETUMPKA

windcreekwetumpka.com

866-946-3360

N/A

2,550+

BEAU RIVAGE RESORT & CASINO

beaurivage.com

228-386-7111

96

1,800

IP CASINO RESORT & SPA

ipbiloxi.com

228-436-3000

•

60

1,475

SCARLET PEARL CASINO RESORT

scarletpearlcasino.com

888-266-5772

•

30

950

SILVER SLIPPER CASINO HOTEL

silverslipper-ms.com

228-469-2777

•

25

965

CALDER CASINO & RACE COURSE

caldercasino.com

305-625-1311

•

RACING

1,200

SEMINOLE HARD ROCK & CASINO TAMPA

seminolehardrocktampa.com

813-627-7625

171

5,000

SEMINOLE HARD ROCK & CASINO HOLLY

seminolehardrockhollywood.com

866-502-7529

130

2,200

lumiereplace.com

877-450-7711

55

1,600

caesars.com/harrahs-cherokee

828-497-7777

100

3,300

• •

GULF COAST

FLORIDA

MISSOURI LUMIERE PLACE CASINO AND HOTELS NORTH CAROLINA HARRAH’S CHEROKEE CASINO RESORT

26

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

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

# OF ROOMS

ENT. VENUE

GOLF SPORTSBOOK SPA

POOL

LIVE & SIMULCAST RACING

608

•

• •

•

•

OUTDOOR

757

•

•

•

•

BOTH

1,131

•

•

•

INDOOR

494

•

•

•

INDOOR

150

•

102

•

395

•

531

•

•

1,071

•

•

236

•

OUTDOOR •

OUTDOOR

•

BOTH

•

BOTH

•

•

OUTDOOR

123

•

•

OUTDOOR

283

•

1,740

•

•

•

•

OUTDOOR

1,088

•

•

•

•

OUTDOOR

•

OUTDOOR

300

•

OUTDOOR

129

OUTDOOR

250

•

•

OUTDOOR

481

•

•

OUTDOOR

294

•

•

INDOOR

1,108

•

•

BOTH

•

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

27

FUTURE ODDS Check out the latest odds for major sporting events. For the latest up-to-the-minute odds, visit GamingandDestinations.com NCAA BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP – APRIL, 6, 2020 MERCEDES-BENZ STADIUM – ATLANTA, GEORGIA Team

March

January November

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NBA CHAMPIONSHIP – JUNE, 15, 2020 Team Los Angeles Lakers Milwaukee Bucks Los Angeles Clippers Philadelphia 76ers Houston Rockets Denver Nuggets Boston Celtics Utah Jazz Toronto Raptors Miami Heat Dallas Mavericks

March 9/4 11/4 3/1 20/1 20/1 20/1 20/1 30/1 30/1 30/1 40/1

January November 5/2 4/1 5/1 6/1 5/2 7/2 8/1 8/1 8/1 8/1 18/1 16/1 18/1 25/1 40/1 14/1 40/1 100/1 60/1 100/1 50/1 100/1

*All others higher than 40/1. **Odds courtesy of Vegasinsider.com

MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL WORLD SERIES – NOVEMBER 1, 2020 Team March

New York Yankees Los Angeles Dodgers Houston Astros Atlanta Braves Washington Nationals Minnesota Twins New York Mets St. Louis Cardinals Philadelphia Phillies Tampa Bay Rays Chicago Cubs Cincinnati Reds Cleveland Indians Los Angeles Angels Oakland Athletics Arizona Diamondbacks Chicago White Sox Boston Red Sox Milwaukee Bucks

3/1 7/2 8/1 14/1 16/1 18/1 18/1 20/1 25/1 25/1 25/1 30/1 30/1 30/1 30/1 40/1 40/1 40/1 50/1

*All others higher than 50/1. **Odds courtesy of Vegasinsider.com

THE SOUTH’S PREMIER SPORTSBOOK 28

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HOLLYWOODCASINOTUNICA.COM Resort fee & taxes not included. Offer subject to availability. Blackout dates apply, including holidays and other dates. Call 1-800-871-0711 to reserve. Must make reservations by April 30, 2020. Valid through June 30, 2020. Offer not valid for self-exclusion program enrollees in jurisdictions which Penn National Gaming, Inc. operates or who have been otherwise excluded from the participating property. Must be 21 or older. Gambling Problem? Call 1-888-777-9696.

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

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