Escape Fall/Winter 2015

ESCAPE PREMIERE ISSUE

AT

HARRAH’S

FALL/WINTER 2015

RESORT

SOUTHERN

CALIFORNIA

MILLION DOLLAR GIVEAWAY! Haunted Harrah’s

San Diego's Biggest Halloween Bash

TASTE PLAY

Fiore Steak & Seafood Restaurant

A Beginner's Guide to Baccarat & Pai Gow

SPLASH Dive Day Club & Neon Nights

DRINK

Corked & Spiked

LOOK

A BIRD’S-EYE VIEW OF OUR POOL AREA AND 400-FOOT LAZY RIVER Photo: Zach Cordner/SurfReps.org

4

5

LOOK

WILLIE NELSON PERFORMING LIVE AT OUR EVENTS CENTER ON JULY 24, 2015 Photo: Christopher Donez

ESCAPE AT HARRAH'S RESORT SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Fall/Winter 2015

2

LOOK

Featuring the finest images taken at Harrah’s Resort SoCal

28 RESORT MAP Need to know where everything is?

Check out our map

10 WELCOME TO ESCAPE With General Manager, Janet Beronio

30 SPLASH Experience Dive Day Club & Neon Nights

13 TOTAL REWARDS® Start earning valuable Total Reward Credits today!

34 DRINK A cocktail and craft beer guide for Spiked and Corked

14

THE LUISEÑO TRIBE

A brief history of the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians

16 BEHIND THE SCENES Get to know hotel manager, Alyssa Mendes 18 TASTE Inside Fiore Steak and Seafood Restaurant 22 PLAY A Beginner's Guide to Baccarat & Pai Gow 27

SHOP

Inside Bazaar & Emporium

38 HAUNTED HARRAH'S San Diego's Biggest Halloween Bash 42 YEAR OF THE MILLIONAIRE We’re giving away three million bucks in 2015!

44 AROUND TOWN Visit Palomar Observatory 46 FEATURED ARTIST Introducing muralist Michael Amorillo 50 SUITE LIFE Peek inside our lavish Presidential Suite 54

GIVE BACK

Local charities win big with All-In 4 Change

COVER PHOTO BY ZACH CORDNER ESCAPE AT HARRAH'S RESORT SOCAL MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED BY TRANSITION VISUAL AGENCY, INC. TRANSITIONVISUALAGENCY.COM © HARRAH’S RESORT SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA 2015 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED ESCAPE

TROY DONEY

CONTENTS

6

ZACH CORDNER

The colors of Neon Nights. For more info, please go to page 32.

7

SEASONAL INGREDIENTS

REFRESHING

MARGARITAS Grab a quick bite on your way to the pool or sit down for a Baja influenced entrée.

Must be 21 or older to gamble. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Owned by the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians. Managed by HCAL, LLC. ©2015, Caesars License Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

All active and former military receive 2 FREE Buffets!

Plus, receive a 10% discount on Hotel rates any day.

Please visit the Total Rewards® Center, provide us with an email address and bring your active military ID or DD214 to receive 2 complimentary buffets for joining this program.

Plus, receive special monthly appreciation offers via email!

This offer is non-transferable, non-negotiable and subject to availability. Account must be in good standing. See the Total Rewards® Center for complete rules and details. Must present Total Rewards card and valid photo ID to participate.

Must be 21 or older to gamble. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Owned by the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians. Managed by HCAL, LLC. ©2015, Caesars License Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

10

WELCOME TO

ESCAPE YOU ARE NOW HOLDING the first issue of Harrah’s Resort Southern

California’s new magazine—ESCAPE. Consider this your passport to everything you’ll find and enjoy on your adventure with us.

So why introduce a magazine thirteen years after we opened our doors? Simple—we have so much more to share now than we ever have before. And we know from conversations and surveys with you, our guests, you want an insider’s view of what you can expect from your stay with us. ESCAPE will take you by the hand and offer an “up close and personal” look at Harrah’s Resort SoCal. Some of the stories you’ll find as you peruse the pages of ESCAPE include details about upcoming concerts and events. You can take a deep dive into the workings of our unique pool experience Dive. With eight great restaurants, ESCAPE readers will get the latest updates on menus and even some recipes our chefs recommend you try at home.

If you’re looking for gaming tips, use our tutorials to guide you through the mysteries of Baccarat and Pai Gow. Plus, you’ll have the chance to read all about Harrah’s exclusive donations, sponsorships and volunteer efforts in our community. And to further connect you with the Harrah's Resort SoCal team, we’ve included profiles of our esteemed employees.

I hope that you’ll enjoy the journey ESCAPE has to offer. And please be sure to share feedback on the stories you’d like to read in upcoming issues of the magazine. Your opinions are always welcome!

JANET BERONIO REGIONAL PRESIDENT AND GENERAL MANAGER

11

SLIP AWAY FOR A

SWIRL AND A SIP VISIT CORKED FOR CRAFT BEER, FINE WINE AND A RELAXING VIBE.

YOUR FIRST RESORT FOR CHEERS.

CRAFT BEER & WINE

Must be 21 or older to gamble. Know When to Stop Before You Start®. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Owned by the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians. Managed by HCAL, LLC. ©2015, Caesars License Company, LLC. All rights reserved.

RELAX

GET PAMPERED Visit our spa and take a vacation from your vacation.

For appointments and information call 760-751-7709 or visit HarrahSoCal.com for menu of services.

Must be 21 or older to gamble. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Owned by the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians. Managed by HCAL, LLC. ©2015, Caesars License Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

MAKE YOUR FUN WORK FOR YOU WITH TOTAL REWARDS

13

®

GET MORE BENEFITS EVERY TIME YOU STAY, SHOP OR PLAY Words: Robyn Lass

GOLD

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1A – WHITE OUTER FRAME

169310_3.375x2.125_TR Card Gold Creative_V3.indd 1 2/19/15 169310_3.375x2.125 9:57 AM time you stay, eat or play with us, you earn PLATINUM: 5,000-14,999 TIER CREDITS DO NOT PRINT-Diecut 1A – WHITE OUTER FRAME

AT HARRAH’S RESORT SOCAL we put each guest

first, which means you win! As Your First Resort

Reward Credits that you can redeem for the

for Fun, we're part of an award-winning loyalty

things you love. The best part about your

based rewards program network that literally

Reward Credits is they’re yours to keep! Use

pays you to play—and we’re not just talking

them at any of our locations,Gor online O Lredeem D

about casino games.

from our partners for something really special.

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Through Total Rewards ®, guests at any

Like to play golf? You can use your accumulated credits to treat yourself to a day

the world earn both Tier Credits and Reward

on the green. Need to shop for plane tickets

Credits ® for

or clothes for your kids? Earn additional TR

eating,

shopping

and

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one of our nearly 40 resorts and casinos around staying,

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enjoying themselves. Imagine accumulating

169310_3.375x2.125_TR Card Gold Creative_V3.indd partners online. perks while getting a massage! Yep, every single

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1

membership, download the Play by TR app

Here’s how it works: As soon as you sign up,

for the iPhone or Google. And you can always check your balance at the Total Rewards Center.

at one of our properties, you can start earning

Keep in mind, unlike Reward Credits, your Tier

both Tier Credits and Reward Credits. Tier

Credits are cumulative for year D I the A M Ocalendar ND

credits are used to elevate your membership

from January 1 through December 31—they

through our four Tier Levels (Gold, Platinum,

reset on New Year’s Day.

Diamond, and Seven Stars ® ). The higher your

Ready to start earning? Sign up online or

Tier Status, the more benefits and perks you

or here at the Resort and start earning valuable

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Total Rewards Credits today!

But the real fun comes with your Reward TO SIGN UP, PLEASE VISIT TOTALREWARDS.COM. HARRAHSSOCAL.COM

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THE LUISEÑO TRIBE OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

14

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE RINCON BAND OF LUISEÑO INDIANS

COURTESY OF THE OCEANSIDE HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Words: Rob Shaffer & Stacey Ellison

Luiseño women: Rosara, Tomasa and Vaselia in the 1880s.

FOR THREE THOUSAND YEARS before the arrival

Agua Hedionda Creek, north to San Clemente

years. Over t he centur ies, t he populat ion of

of Columbus in North America, the Luiseño

and the San Bernardino County line, east

Topamai f luctuated depending on t he t ime of

had well-established population patterns in

to Temecula and beyond to the San Jacinto

year and weat her patter ns, such as drought

the geographic area we now know as Southern

Mountains from Temecula southeast to the

or f looding.

California. Archaeological evidence indicates

6,000 foot peaks of Palomar Mountain to the

the distant ancestors of the Luiseño had lived in

headwaters of the San Luis Rey River.

The geographical and botanical diversity of the territory covered nearly every ecological

The Spaniards found as many as ten

zone: from the ocean and its sandy beaches,

the

permanent and seasonal villages from the

shallow inlets, freshwater marshes, salt marsh

Indians associated with the San Luis Rey

mouth of the San Luis Rey River eastward along

estuaries and coastal chaparral; to lush interior

Mission as “San Luiseño Indians,” or, more

the river’s edge to the highest elevations on

grassy valleys, valley woodlands, extensive oak

generally, as “Mission Indians.” The name has

Palomar Mountain. Three Luiseño villages were

groves, to the pines and cedars on the peaks of

evolved to simply Luiseño. The Natives called

reportedly located near the Santa Margarita,

Palomar Mountain.

this region for an additional five thousand years.

The

Spanish

themselves

began

referring

to

Payomkawichum—meaning,

“the

Western People.”

including the oldest known inhabited village,

When the Spanish began moving northward

referred to as Topamai, situated roughly nine

through California in the 1760s, the Luiseño may

miles

and

have welcomed the Spanish as trading partners,

population of about 10,000 people living in a

anthropologists who study this ancient village

but with the settlers came germs and microbes

geographic area of about 1,500 square miles.

site estimate that at its peak, Topamai was

that triggered terrible epidemics of influenza,

Traditional Luiseño territory encapsulated the

possibly the largest of ancient Luiseño villages

dysentery, malaria, and measles—all unknown

geographic region from the coastal regions of

with continual habitation for more than 3,000

to the native population’s immune system.

It is believed the Spaniards found a

from

the

coast.

ESCAPE

Archaeologists

Ta'áqwi

Qaqwiimay

Piwipwi Wáa'ash

15

$axá'

Pochappa Noiléngli

Húlvupa

Wanáwna

Náqwu

Paawvi

úva

Hivívi

Hawara

Páyvi

Qaxáalku

Yamiiva

Tuu'uv Ku'aalmo

Koroova

Wihaava Holwuna

Cháppava

U'wuna

Paxa'vxa

Hunaaimo

Chawaywuna

Pótma

Anóomay Kalaawpa

Chéexayam Pum'wáppivu

We'eva

Sóovamay

Táawila

Taraxa

Táakwish Puki' Ara'ra

Qavva

Po'$iinga

Anó

Tu'íttama

Hawiitha

Páayaxchi Wumówmu

Muuta Putée'

Páawishpa

Tóipa Aváxmay

Churúkunuknu

Aocaxa Paa$uku Méexal

$akiwuna$akí$la Kóolu

Muutul

Sáximay

$óoyava

Pámva Pukwálmamay Éxva Temeeku Pávkun Avámay Taqi'wuw

Naháchish

U'úup

Lemki

Po'may$óova

Páchav

Taqw$

Múuta Puteéi ? Takálka

Takw$i

Wéeyaana

Múkpa

Páaxa

Tomniv

Taxátpa Tówvu A$wut Qail'wuna

Piivapa

Toona Péexa Pe'may

Háw'lala

Tée'ishpa

Takálka Tóowvu Káamay Mú'xury Tóovo Amu'ma Té'mal Eekapa Párave Tómaav $ive'$vi naw$ólpa Chée'ev Mo'ónld Yáaraxuv Nécmay Makumay Chokla Sivéemay Uúu$kuv Wáav'am Páakishlampa Pávla Hunáalapel Qawlimay Tómka Yúyma Sunásnga Woli'wuna áhúuya Katúktu $xa T$evnina Páaxa Húywapa Pakápka Témmax Wasiimal Pó'huvaayq Kúuki Tólmo Pomúkuk Tóot Hakanlala Tókya 'Èxla qwayayáqwyash

Puya'law

T$aqaapa

Pá'qwa Tóoviva Tamiymay Siipaw Pá'qwa

Paskal

Páalimay

Ngoriiva Qewéw

Pá$ko

Sówmy

Kayi'

Kúutpamay

ámá'chave

Páa'ume See'éeng

'éngxalash

Ma$ákwila

Wiivay

Wiyówyo Wáwki

Qáwla Pokiú

Kwá'almo

Qeen

Pám$axla

Páalimay

Náaxwalki

piyeevo $iikapa

Panaa'aw

Wixé'tu

Tóomay

Páalaxa

Sevée'ev

ánáavax

Tóota Múuluwuna

Pachxaya Sakishmay

Náa'av

Húlvumay

Chaymay

Siikapa

Pul'áava

Sources: Esri, DeLorme, HERE, TomTom, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, and the GIS User Community Rincon Cultural Resource Dept. / ArcGIS v.10.1 / ESRI MAPS

Luiseño Ancestral Territory

Legend Luiseño Ancestral Territory Outside Luiseño Ancestral Territory Rincon Indian Reservation Orange County Riverside County San Diego County

Miles

River / Streams

0

2.5

5

10

Document Path: C:\RinconGIS\Figures\Cultural\Territory\Luiseno Aboriginal Territory-4.16.15_11x17.mxd

4/16/2015

By 1848, diseases springing from a century

about 500 enrolled members. Established in

the Band uses profits from this and other

of living in close proximity with the Spanish,

1875, the R incon Band is a tr ibal gover nment

commercial

including the priests and soldiers that managed

of democratically elected officials recog nized

government services such as law enforcement

the California missions, had reduced the native

by the United States federal gover nment.

and tribal courts, environmental regulation,

population by as much as two-thirds. Today,

R incon

with

health clinics, and programs geared towards

the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Department of

the federal gover nment, which means it

youth, seniors, recreation and culture, while also

the Interior, in Washington, DC, recognizes six

is responsible for enforcing all applicable

providing avenues for economic development.

bands of the Luiseño people: Rincon, La Jolla,

federal laws from env ironmental regulations

Pauma, Pala, Pechanga and Soboba.

to taxation on the reser vation.

has

a

“trust

relationship”

occupies

The Rincon Band owns Harrah’s Resort

roughly 5,000 acres and has a population of

Southern California. A major revenue generator,

Rincon

Indian

Reservation

HARRAHSSOCAL.COM

enterprises

to

provide

tribal

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE RINCON BAND OF LUISEÑO INDIANS, PLEASE GO TO RINCONTRIBE.ORG.

BEHIND THE SCENES

16

WITH HOTEL MANAGER ALYSSA MENDES Words: Lauren Schroeder Photo: Zach Cordner

BEHIND THE SCENES GIVES YOU AN UP CLOSE

Five years later, Alyssa was offered the

upbeat, positive person, so I tr y to surround

AND PERSONAL LOOK INTO THE LIVES OF ALL THE

position of hotel manager at Harrah’s Resort

myself and my teams with those kind of

AMAZING HARRAH’S RESORT SOCAL EMPLOYEES

SoCal. “I don’t think I did anything out of the

people. It’s fun coming to work and ever yone’s

WHO TIRELESSLY WORK HARD TO MAKE SURE YOUR

ordinary,” she said, addressing her promotions.

laughing with each other and having a good

STAY IS AN ENJOYABLE ONE.

“I just was driven. I knew I wanted to get

time, but still getting the job done. I think

somewhere. I liked it.” Outwardly expressing her

it starts from the top down. If you come to

passion and drive invited mentors to guide her

work positive, it’s going to rub off on your

and open doors along the way.

employees.”

A s hotel manager for Har rah’s Resor t SoCal,

A lyssa

Mendes

has

a

hand

in

manag ing g uests’ exper ience from when

Originally

from

La

Mesa,

relocating

t hey f irst step onto t he proper t y unt il t hey

After a year in her new position, Alyssa

leave, overseeing valet, t he bell desk, front

won “Manager of the Quarter” award. “When

to Harrah’s Resort SoCal was “like coming

desk and Diamond Lounge.

I started, a lot of improvements needed to be

home,” said Alyssa. The beach is one of her

done,” she said. The resort was in the midst

favorite places. She also likes hiking, biking

was living in San Francisco and working at

of

and camping. “Anything where I can spend

different retailers, including Coach, Nordstrom

tower. Alyssa handled the opening of the new

and Jos. A. Bank, trying to find a job she liked.

tower as well as the jump from managing 662

Around 2008, the economy’s decline prompted

rooms to 1065. In that time, she also built the

creating memorable guest experiences. She

her to question her career path. Her husband

Concierge department from the ground up, and

loves a good vacation herself, and wishes her

suggested they move to Tahoe, enjoy a season

has recently taken over managing the Diamond

guests to have the same. If a guest can look

of skiing, and figure out what their next step

Lounge. “There’s always a new curve ball coming

back and say, “Wow, my stay was amazing!” To

would be. To earn a paycheck when she wasn’t

at you,” she said.

Alyssa, that means a job well done by giving

Alyssa started her career in retail. She

snowboarding, Alyssa got a job as a front desk agent at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe.

completing

construction

on

its

second

Alyssa strives to foster an enjoyable work environment for her employees. “I’m a ver y ESCAPE

time in the sunshine,” she said.

At

work,

Alyssa

is

passionate

about

guests an experience they'll always remember and tell others about.

EXPERIENCE

AWARDWINNING

FINE DINING

Must be 21 or older to gamble. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Owned by the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians. Managed by HCAL, LLC. ©2015, Caesars License Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

TASTE

18

Fiore Steak and Seafood Restaurant Words & Photos: Lauren Schroeder

Chilean Sea Bass

FIORE HAS A LONG - STANDING REPUTATION for

Steakhouses

aren’t

typically

known

Califor nia

peaches,

spinach,

herbs

and

ser v ing extremely high qualit ies of meat.

for their in-house creations, but Fiore touts

local baby gem lettuce make frequent menu

Over t he last decade, t he restaurant has

both house-made bacon and house-made

appearances.

developed a successful relat ionship w it h

mozzarella. The bacon, after cur ing for eight

Carlsbad up to Santa Monica.

New por t Beef Company, its main distr ibutor.

days, is r insed and then smoked. It’s used in

Fiore’s pr ime g rade cer t if ied A ng us 12 oz.

the asparagus and bacon hash, wedge salad

garden

New York str ip is aged for 45 days. “It has

and loaded mashed potatoes.

caulif lower, tomatoes, cor n, leeks, onions

Oysters

are

sourced

Produce is also g row n in located

on

from

t he resor t’s

proper t y.

Broccoli,

one of t he best f lavors,” said Execut ive

To make the mozzarella, first whole milk

and chiles have f lour ished. “ The soil is

Sous Chef Israel Or t iz. The ¾ inch t hick 28

is heated. Citr ic acid and rennet (an enzyme

so r ich in t his par t of tow n, it g rows like

oz. Por terhouse is aged 25 days. “ These t wo

that separates whey from protein) are then

w ildf ire,” said Chef Or t iz. The garden has

items are our best f lavored steaks,” Chef

added.

minutes,

supplied tomatoes for g uacamole, jalapenos

Or t iz cont inued. The cer t if ied A ng us pr ime

the curdling liquid is brought back up to

for salsa and var iet y of vegetables for t he

r ib is roasted over night to br ing it to a

temperature. The curd is strained from the

buffet. “We just dr ied hatch g reen chili seeds

per fect medium rare t he next mor ning. Said

liquid and then stretched into mozzarella. Tr y

so t hey can sprout for next year. I’m looking

Chef Or t iz: “We have a ver y good qualit y of

the Di Stefano Fresh Mozzarella appetizer,

for ward to t hat,” he said.

beef. We stand behind it.”

featur ing sweet pepper jam, fr ied Marcona

The menu changes twice a year, and

almonds and micro herbs, for a taste of this

specials change weekly. Two different seafood

delicious house-made cheese.

specials are usually on offer, including fresh

Twice per year, Fiore is able to get A5 Japanese Kobe. This top-grade beef—even sold in 4 oz. cuts—doesn’t last long. “It’s so rich, four ounces is all you need,” Chef Ortiz said.

After

sitting

for

a

few

seasonal

local opah, halibut, tuna and red snapper.

and local ingredients as much as possible.

Halibut cheeks, when available, are a big seller.

Fiore

takes

advantage

ESCAPE

of

ZACH CORDNER

19

22 oz. "RR" Signature Bone-in Ribeye

Di Stefano Fresh Mozzarella appetizer

Executive Sous Chef Israel Ortiz

Desig ning the specials encourages the

comes in once or twice a month, just to have

staff to get creative. “The whole staff gets

escargot. And I keep it in the back, just for

involved,” said Chef Ortiz. “We put our heads

him,” he said.

together and say ‘What do we want to do this

The Fiore staff is always up for a challenge.

weekend? ’” It’s a great way for Chef Ortiz to

Occasionally, a guest will declare, “I’m dining

connect with his team.

at the mercy of the chef tonight.” It doesn’t requests,

happen often, but a few returning customers

the chefs and cooks r ise to the occasion. If

regularly make the request. “It’s really fun

you’re vegetar ian, gluten free, have a tree nut

for us,” said Chef Ortiz. “They get to interact

allerg y, or just don’t care for pecans—let the

with the chef, or myself, and really take

staff know. “We have the liberty and ability

their experience to a higher level. If there’s

to work with any type of request,” said Chef

something special that somebody wants, we’re

Ortiz. “We have really good chefs here and

more than willing to accommodate.”

When

it

comes

to

special

good cooks that are willing and able to put anything out special they like.”

Chef Ortiz will even special order offmenu items for guests. “I have a guest that

CONTACT: (760) 751-3100 HARRAHSSOCAL.COM/TASTE

Jumbo Lump "East Coast Style" Crab Cakes

20

TASTE

HOW TO MAKE OUR WORLD-FAMOUS MAINE LOBSTER MAC & CHEESE WITH FIORE'S EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF ISRAEL ORTIZ Photos: Zach Cordner

Every issue of ESCAPE will feature a special recipe from Fiore's menu. Our top chefs recommend you try this at home, so break out those saucepans and get cooking!

MACARONI MIX 7 oz.

White cheddar (grated)

3 oz.

Gruyere (grated)

5 oz.

American cheese (cubed)

16 oz.

Heavy cream

1 lb.

Cooked macaroni pasta

12 oz.

Cooked and chopped Maine

lobster meat

(Salt and pepper as needed)

MACARONI TOPPING 3 oz.

White cheddar (grated)

3 oz.

Gruyere (grated)

3 oz.

Pecorino Romano (grated)

DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.

2. In a medium-sized saucepan, bring cream to a boil and reduce heat to medium-high.

3. Cook cream for six to eight minutes.

4. Lower heat to the lowest setting and slowly whisk in all the cheeses until completely melted. Keep your cheese at room temperature before use and whisk cheeses in gradually so that your sauce is smooth and completely melted when done.

5. Mix in the macaroni & cheese and fold in your chopped lobster meat (you can use any type of seafood or protein of your choice).

6. Add salt and pepper for taste and then transfer your mix to an oven-safe baking dish.

7. Top your mac & cheese with the remaining cheeses and place in your preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes. Serve and enjoy as a side dish or as a main entrĂŠe, Bon Appetit!!

ESCAPE

TAKE A BREAK& HIT THE GREEN

Encinitas Ranch Oaks North Rancho Bernardo Inn Reidy Creek Temecula Creek Inn Twin Oaks Harrah’s Resort SoCal is proud to partner with JC Golf. Please contact your concierge for more information.

Must be 21 or older to gamble. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Owned by the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians. Managed by HCAL, LLC. ©2015, Caesars License Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

22

PLAY

A BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO BACCARAT AND PAI GOW UNLEASH YOUR INNER JAMES BOND Words: Chris Coté Photos: Zach Cordner

Walking into a casino as a rookie of the gaming floor can be intimidating. Many novice gamers seek the comfort and relative ease of slot machines, while others find solace in simple to understand games like Blackjack or Roulette. But why not branch out? Set aside a little slice of funds and get out of your casino comfort zone, saddle up at a Baccarat table or Pai Gow and unleash your inner James Bond.

ESCAPE

23

HARRAHSSOCAL.COM

PLAY

24

BACCARAT BACCARAT (PRONOUNCED BAH-KARAT, NOT BACKOR-ACK) is an ancient game that dates back to the Middle Ages where it was first played on tarot cards. In the 1400s, Baccarat was popularized in France, and played by royalty, as well as “common people.” It wasn’t until 1911 that Baccarat was played in the USA in a few small pockets, but in the 1950s when the Sand’s Hotel made it a smash hit in Vegas, Baccarat became the game of choice for the coolest of the cool—think Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.

Baccarat has more in common with a flip of a coin than with Poker, making it a game that beginners as well as full-on Casino Royale-type high-roller pros can enjoy. The simple crux of

point. If in the first two cards are dealt and the

At Harrah's Resort SoCal, there are “One Up”

Baccarat is this—the table of players are betting

point total is eight or nine for either the Player or

and "Fortune 7” side bets, as well as a multitude

on either the banker or the player to win. Before

the Banker, this is referred to as a “natural win”

of other ways to play that players learn with

the cards are dealt, you (and the rest of the

and the game is over. Whoever has the natural

experience. On that note, there are many other

people playing) place bets on either the Player,

win is the automatic winner.

rules and details that go into Baccarat, but the

Banker, or Tie, spots on the board. The Banker

that

good news is the game isn’t super fast paced, so

and the Player each get two cards and each hand

appeals to a wide array of players. You may find

feel free to talk to your dealer and explain that

is added up. If the number is double-digits, the

yourself sitting at a bilingual table immersed

you want to learn. The dealers will be more than

first number is taken off.

in an array of superstitious actions and buzz

happy to help you have fun and learn the game.

Baccarat

is

an

interesting

game

For example, if you get a Queen and a three

words. Embrace the multi-cultural experience

would equal 13, but your total is three when you

and yell “Monkey” at the dealer every once in a

FUN FACT: THERE IS NO #4 ON THE TABLE, AS BACCARAT

take off the first number. Tens and face cards

while. That signifies that you want whomever

IS VERY POPULAR WITH CHINESE PLAYERS. THE #4

all are worth zero points, while all other cards

you voted against to get a 10, which would be a

IN ENGLISH SOUNDS A LITTLE TOO CLOSE TO THE

are worth their face value with aces worth one

big fat zero, and you’d probably win.

CHINESE WORD FOR DEATH.

ESCAPE

25

PAI GOW MUCH LIKE BACCARAT, Pai

Gow

Poker

at

first glance can appear intimidating for the uninitiated player. Think again! Pai Gow Poker is a game with a mellow pace, lots of pushes and plenty of ruckus fun with the r ight group of people at the table. Pai Gow Poker is a mash up of the ancient game of Pai Gow and traditional 7-Card Poker.

Pai

Gow

was

or ig inally

played

on

domino-like t iles in B.C. China. In 1985, t he legendar y Sam Torosian, came up w it h t he br illiant concept to pair Pai Gow w it h Poker, and viola—Pai Gow Poker was bor n.

Players w it h a basic understanding of Poker hands w ill pick up t his game quickly, and like Baccarat, Pai Gow Poker can be played and enjoyed by gamers rang ing from a total w ide-eyed “newbie” to 90-year-old Pokerfaced professionals.

A common nickname of Pai Gow Poker is “double handed Poker” because of the way you play your hands. It goes like this: The game starts with 53 cards (deck includes a Joker) no matter how many people are at the table. Dice are rolled to see which player position gets the first hand. Bets are placed, and then each player is dealt seven cards. Do not touch your cards until the dealer says so! That’s a total rookie mistake — don’t be that guy (or g irl).

When it’s your tur n to play, you need to look at your cards and you need to break the seven cards into two Poker hands—highest and second highest (as marked on the table).

The two-card hand must not be better than the five-card hand. In straight Poker, you’re playing against the other gamers on the table.

In Pai Gow Poker, you’re playing against the dealer, so there’ no real Poker face needed— although some Pai Gow Poker players get V ERY animated and will take to yelling “Pai Gow” just before the dealer tur ns his hand.

Pai Gow means “Zero,” and when you yell it at

cool with helping new players set their hands.

the dealer you’re hoping the dealer is tur ning

The house will only take a cut when the player

over lame cards so you have a better chance

wins outr ight, while the house also gets a

of winning.

small commission throughout game play. Pai

One great thing about Pai Gow Poker for

Gow Poker is typically a low-r isk game that

beg inners is the pace is slower than most

you can play for a long time without breaking

other card games, and the dealer is always

your budgeted bank.

HARRAHSSOCAL.COM

CHRIS COTÉ IS A MODERN-DAY RENAISSANCE MAN. HE’S CURRENTLY A COMMENTATOR FOR THE WORLD SURF LEAGUE TRAVELING TO THE WORLD’S MOST EXOTIC DESTINATIONS WITH PROFESSIONAL SURFERS. HE’S ALSO AN ESTABLISHED ARTIST, MUSICIAN, AND IS THE EDITOR-INCHIEF OF ENCINITAS MAGAZINE. FOLLOW CHRIS ON ALL HIS LATEST ADVENTURES ON INSTAGRAM: @CHRISCOTE

SHOP

27

EMPORIUM AND BAZAAR Words & Photos: Lauren Schroeder

Only the best brands are found at Bazaar.

IF YOU’RE A REGULAR GUEST at Harrah’s Resort

Get all of your one-stop shopping needs at Emporium.

product offering hard to find elsewhere.

think most people expect world-class service,”

recent

“When people are traveling, I think they

said Briseno, who took on the position of retail

improvements to its shopping experience. The

want to be able to take something home that

manager earlier this year. “I’m on a mission to

former retail store, The Shop, has given way to

they can’t get at home or any of the other places

change that.”

two new stores: Emporium and Bazaar.

they’re traveling to,” said Luis Briseno, retail

Increased retail floor space has relieved

The two different shops host two distinct

manager of Harrah’s Resort SoCal. “One priority

cramped stockrooms, allowing more products to

paces of shopping—fast and slow. Emporium, a

in the planning and execution of Bazaar was to

be stocked on the floor at any given time. Two new

one-stop necessities shop, offers quick access to

really try to work with locally based brands and

fitting rooms give you the option to try before you

drinks, snacks and sundries—all the things you

vendors to give our guests something unique,

buy, and an ample amount of associates are on

need or forgot to pack. Bazaar, a fashion apparel

something different.”

hand to help you find what you’re looking for.

SoCal,

you

may

have

noticed

the

boutique, encourages leisurely browsing of a wide array of clothing and accessories.

At Bazaar, you’ll find the jewelry creations

Just as you might fondly remember an

of Kim Yang, a locally based designer in

incredibly helpful concierge or a wonderful

The recently re-invented Bazaar boutique

Escondido, as well as Lafonn—a Southern

server at Fiore, Briseno wants your shopping

offers well-known brands including Michael

California-based jewelry brand. Coming soon to

experience at Bazaar and Emporium to be

Kors, Billabong, Volcom, Tommy Bahama, Ray

Emporium will be a liquor selection including

memorable. “Expect service, engagement and a

Ban, Brighton and Flojos. In addition, more and

locally distilled and uncommonly found spirits.

really fun shopping experience.”

more products from local designers are making

“When you think about shopping at a hotel

their way onto the shelves, giving guests a

casino resort or a ‘gift shop,’ I honestly don’t HARRAHSSOCAL.COM

H

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Elevators to Resort Tower North

Valet Desk

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Bell Desk/ Concierge

Bus Center/ Box Office

Cashier $

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To Garage

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SPLASH

30

DIVE DAY CLUB

Words: Chris Coté Photos: Zach Cordner

"Harrah's Resort SoCal offers an experience you just can’t get anywhere else—not even Vegas."

THREE YEARS AGO, Har rah ’s Resort SoCal set

that people have a good time. By pair ing

out to redef i ne t he San D iego par t y scene.

the incredible “adult-style” aquatic theme

It was a daunt i ng task to at tempt to lure

park that Harrah’s created with this panel

reveler s away f rom Las Vegas and create a

of experts, you had lightning in a bottle —an

one-of-a-k i nd ex per ience t hat would f ir st

incredible party exper ience was inev itable.

br i ng ’em i n, and second —keep t hem com i ng back ever y Sat urday dur i ng t he summer.

In 2013, Dive Day Club t hrew 12 epic par t ies and instant ly made Har rah’s Resor t

Dive Day Club started to take shape

SoCal a player not only in t he San Diego

when the Resort adopted a Field Of Dreams

scene, but also by Vegas par t ygoers. First

ethos of, “If you build it, they will come.” But

off, t he venue is stunning, t he pool area is

as impressive as the property was, word had

massive, t here’s a laz y r iver t hat’s open

to get out and the parties needed to be next

to anyone who comes to t he par t y, and of

level. That’s where Omid Sabet and the Five

course, t his Resor t has t he only sw im-up bar

Group came in.

in all of Sout her n Califor nia.

Five Group is a coalition of five partners

Adding

to

t he

day/night

exper ience

who have over 50 years of nightlife/day

are t he LED screens, which are “next level.”

party exper ience in San Diego. They’re like

A nd don’t forget t he water cannons t hat no

a Special Forces unit dedicated to ensur ing

one else has! You put all t hat toget her and ESCAPE

31

DJ Snoopadelic was one of the many highlights at this summer's Dive Day Club.

EXPERT TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME DIVERS DRINK WATER: Staying hydrated is key. Even though you’re in a pool, lazy river, or sitting at a swim-up bar—you still need water. Mix in lots of H2O between adult beverages for the best results possible.

PARTY RESPONSIBLY: Don’t be that guy, or girl.

Har rah’s offers an exper ience you just can’t

(fear of missing Dive), don’t worr y—with

Make it a point to have the best time possible

get anywhere else—not even Vegas.

the incredible summer successes Dive has

without becoming a liability to your friends—

achieved over the last three summers, they’ve

passing out at a pool party is not a good idea.

extended the pool party season well into fall.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Read the rules and

You still have time to get in the mix!

regulations. Know what you can and can’t

Early on, word started to spread about this

Vegas

alter native

and

the

crowds

followed. VIP clients now f ly in v ia helicopter,

bring in. Come prepared.

headlining DJs come in from all around the

No longer in the shadow of Las Vegas

globe and the audience has gotten more

pool parties, Dive Day Club has become the

GO BIG: Get VIP bottle service if you can—do

diverse with each summer.

place to be not only for San Diegans looking

Dive Day Club the right way and see what it’s

Dive Day Club’s 2015 Summer was the

for an escape from the grind, but also for

like to be pampered.

best yet, with highlights ranging from mem-

“destination partiers.” “We have a lot of

PREPARE TO GET WET: Dress accordingly and

orable sets from the likes of Snoop Dogg (DJ

people that come out for the day,” said Sabet.

experience everything from the swim-up bar

Snoopadelic) to the Labor Day Bash, as well

“But more and more, we have people taking

to the lazy river.

as a legendar y set by the L.A. based superstar

advantage of the incredible property and

DJ—TJR. For those of you who are now suffer-

making Harrah’s Resort SoCal their choice for

ing from the new form of FOMO called FOMD

a mini-staycation.”

HARRAHSSOCAL.COM

TO SCHEDULE YOUR OWN HELICOPTER CHARTER VIP EXPERIENCE TO DIVE DAY CLUB, PLEASE CALL (760) 651-3064.

SPLASH NEON NIGHTS

ZACH CORDNER

Words: Chris Coté

"The Neon Nights phenomenon happens only one Friday a month throughout the summer, making these events that much more anticipated and exclusive."

RIDING HIGH ON THE INCREDIBLE SUCCESS OF

river. Of course, the parties became legendar y,

summer, making these events that much

DIVE DAY CLUB, Harrah’s Resort SoCal and

and with popularity—you need to grow. So

more anticipated and exclusive. So don’t let

Five Group have partnered up yet again and

Neon Nights hit the high seas of San Diego

another Neon Night pass you by. Stay tuned

added Neon Nights to their growing list of

Harbor, taking over the 550-passenger yacht,

for details on next summer’s Neon Nights

“must attend ” events. Neon Nights br ings the

Adventure Hornblower, for a sensational series

schedule and get your day-glow gear ready for

excitement and entertainment of Dive Day

of five events called Neon Nights At Sea. And

another season of br ight lights and big fun on

Club and electr ifies it after dark. This ser ies

judging by the epic tales of adventure Neon

land and sea— or both!

of nighttime parties cranks up the music,

Nights At Sea guests came back to shore with,

tur ns down the lights, and welcomes the

these cruises made histor y. After all, this is a

electr ic neon explosion onto the dance f loor.

Neon Nights party we’re talking about, people!

Neon Nights started its run in 2014 as a

The Neon Nights phenomenon happens

great way to utilize the Resort's incredible lazy

only one Fr iday a month throughout the ESCAPE

FOR INFORMATION ON HOW TO DO DIVE DAY CLUB AND NEON NIGHTS, GO TO DIVEDAYCLUB.COM.

JACE GARDENIER (4)

FUN FACTS MAX CAPACITY OF LAZY RIVER Technically 292 people, but the whole pool will fit approximately 2,100 people.

NUMBER OF TOWELS USED IN THE POOL AREA PER DAY (Weekdays) 1,000-1,250 (Weekends) 2,000-2,500 NUMBER OF TIMES PER DAY STAFF IS ASKED, “WHERE’S THE RESTROOM?” Ten to twelve.

NUMBER OF STAFF IT TAKES TO CLEAN DIVE AFTER DIVE DAY CLUB (Slow day) 2.5 hours (Busy day) 4 hours

TRUE OR FALSE There is a chemical that turns pool water purple when it’s peed in.

False, but we’d like this!

HARRAHSSOCAL.COM

33

DRINK

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CORKED CRAFT BREW AND WINE BAR Words & Photos: Lauren Schroeder

CORKED, a beautiful circular bar in the smoke-

from $15 to $60, courtesy of the cuvenee system.

planet. The difficult part is choosing which brands

free section of the casino, offers high-end wines

Corked uses a cuvenee system to preserve

to work with.” Bell’s Brewery of Kalamazoo,

by the glass through a state-of-the art wine

its wine with pressurized nitrogen. With this

Michigan—creators of the highly acclaimed Two-

preservation system, craft beers from San Diego

system, more expensive wines—usually only

Hearted Ale—made the cut in part because of its

and beyond, as well as specialty beer and wine

served by the bottle—can be served by the

exceptional farm-to-table style program, in which

unique to Harrah’s Resort SoCal.

glass, or even half glass, without damaging the

barley grown in fields adjacent to the brewery is

product over time.

used to make its beer.

The wine list offers a varied selection from regions around the world. “We typically

If beer is your beverage of choice, Corked

have something to offer everybody,” said Mike

offers 12 drafts and anywhere from 12 to 20 craft

may spice up the list, but beers from San Diego

Lewis, beverage manager. “We carry quite a few

bottles. Mike, a self-professed “certified beer nerd”

breweries are the Resort’s bread and butter.

‘staple’ wines by the glass that people typically

and Certified Cicerone ®, takes very seriously

Ballast Point, Stone, Ironfist and Mother Earth

look for that are usually out of range of by-

his task to find new and exciting or hard-to-find

can regularly be found on tap. A few of these

the-glass programs.” Always wanted to try

beers to offer guests. “Harrah’s is a relatively big

breweries have even created custom beers for

Chateauneuf du Pape or Far Niente cab? Choose

brand, so many people want to work with us,”

the Resort. Mother Earth crafted a vanilla bean

from 12 higher-end wines by the glass ranging

said Mike. “We have access to every brand on the

porter now aging in a 4 Roses whiskey barrel

ESCAPE

Standout

brands

from

far-flung

places

TROY DONEY

35

"If beer is your beverage of choice, Corked offers 12 drafts and anywhere from 12 to 20 craft bottles." that was sent to the brewery from the Resort’s

way that’s iconic, fun and meaningful to our

cocktail bar, Spiked.

slice of the world,” said Mike. between

Try something new or familiar, unique or

Harrah’s Resort SoCal and San Diego brands

high-end at Corked. Knowledgeable bartenders

extend to local wineries as well. Escondido-

and sommeliers are on staff to assist with your

based winery Orfila custom blends a wine

selections. Regular entertainment is also offered,

labeled after Fiore specifically for the resort.

including live music and dueling pianos in the

“We want to be able to support the community,

lounge and pay-per-view UFC showings and

help build it, and deliver [their offerings] in a

comedy nights on the patio.

These

unique

relationships

HARRAHSSOCAL.COM

ZACH CORDNER

DRINK

36

SPIKED COCKTAIL LOUNGE Words: Lauren Schroeder

SPIKED, A CRAFT COCKTAIL BAR, is a delight to the

version, first the cocktail is built. It’s then aged

raspberry

eyes and the palate. Large shaded chandeliers

in a whiskey barrel, allowing the ingredients to

beverage manager. And that’s just naming a

hang from lofty ceilings over high-backed

emulsify, resulting in more continuity between

few. Most traditional mixes, like simple syrup

lounge chairs. Behind the long bar, more than 80

the flavors, and the imparting of additional

and brown sugar reduction syrup are made in-

whiskey bottles are cast in a colorful silhouette

qualities from the oak. The result? Spiked’s Bar-

house, as well as adaptations of those recipes

by a wall of glowing purple light. The menu

rel-Aged Vieux Carré, a sophisticated version

such as rosemary-lime simple syrup and fig

features prohibition-era cocktails classically

of the New Orleans classic that exudes notes of

preserve reduction syrup. “We basically have

crafted with a modern twist.

charred oak and vanilla.

a chemistry lab in the back with a giant hot

Take Vieux Carré, for example, a classic cocktail made with cognac. To create the Spiked

“We have our own recipe for making Kahlua,

Fireball,

bacon-fat ESCAPE

bourbon

and

moonshine,”

said

Mike

Lewis,

plate and a skillet where they make all of this stuff,” said Mike. “It’s pretty wicked.”

TROY DONEY TROY DONEY

“WE HAVE OUR OWN RECIPE FOR MAKING KAHLUA, FIREBALL, BACON-FAT BOURBON AND RASPBERRY MOONSHINE.” moving,” said Mike. “They play very well off of each other because Jeff is very classic and Armando is very modern in their mixology preferences.” In addition to designing the drink program and crafting the mixers, syrups and liqueurs found in their recipes, both Jeff and Armando can be found tending the bar.

Banquet events, pairing dinners and other events requiring custom cocktails keep the crew at Spiked on their toes. One of their recent concoctions included ingredients Ballast Point Three Sheets spiced rum, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, brown sugar syrup and hopped grapefruit bitters—intense and aromatic on the nose, creamy yet sharp on the tongue. “It was a mouthful for sure,” said Mike.

Guests who come to the bar normally fall into one of two categories. “You get people who like liquor and like cocktails, but don’t like cocktails that taste like liquor,” explained Mike.

“Whereas other people, myself included, very The Spiked version of a Long Island

Mixologists Jeff Lambkin and Armando

much enjoy drinking whiskey or scotch straight

requires ditching the sweet and sour or cola

Torres, with a combined three decades of

up.” Spiked offers a huge selection of whiskeys

mixer. Its recipe calls instead for the herbal

bartending and mixology experience, are the

in particular, including Willett, Michter’s, Pappy

liqueur Averna Amaro, which, when mixed

creators of the cocktail menu. “Jeff’s the one

Van Winkle and Ballast Point Devil’s Share.

with

who built [Spiked] from the ground up, and

seltzer,

takes

characteristics of cola.

on

the

“caramel-ly”

Armando is the one who keeps it fresh and HARRAHSSOCAL.COM

Saddle up to the bar at Spiked. You’ll be sure to find a drink to tickle your taste buds.

37

38

HAUNTED HARRAH’S

San Diego's Biggest Halloween Bash Words: Chris Coté Photos: Troy Doney

ESCAPE

39

HARRAHSSOCAL.COM

HAUNTED HARRAH'S

40

IT'S FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30—TIME TO CELEBRATE ALL

Haunted

Harrah’s

is

a

collaboration

HALLOWS EVE. You’re dressed up like a sexy nurse

between Five Group and Harrah’s Resort SoCal

and your friend is a vampire wearing stiletto

and has already solidified itself as the best adult

heels and a tight black mini skirt. You’re in a party

Halloween party in town… if not the world. Part

bus that is raging. You pull up to what you thought

Haunted House, part Burning Man, part Playboy

was a massive party at Harrah’s Resort SoCal. You

Mansion, this crazy, sexy, cool party isn’t just

thought wrong. San Diego's favorite Resort has

held in a ballroom or portion of the Resort—it's

been transformed into something frighteningly

everywhere. We’re talking acres of awesomeness

awesome—Haunted Harrah’s. You step off the

all dressed up in its Halloween best.

bus and into a world of terror, wonder, pleasure and freaky fun. Enter … if you dare!

ESCAPE

With Hollywood

production

and

professionals

decoration

and

from

entertainment

JEFF MORRIS

41

Ice Cube performing at last year's Halloween bash.

by the best of the best, last year’s Haunted Harrah’s featured the legendary Ice Cube, the EDM sensation 3LAU and over 30 DJs rocking four stages ’til 3am! This year the entertainment is going to be next level and the environment is going to be absolutely insane.

Tickets are on sale now for Haunted Harrah’s 2015, and don’t wait—this event sells out for good reason. Guests are encouraged to dress in full costume, and if last year’s costumes were any indication of what we’ll see this year— the outfits are world-class on both the sexy and scary scale.

“

Part Haunted House, part Burning Man, part Playboy Mansion, this crazy, sexy, cool party isn’t just held in a ballroom or portion of the Resort—it’s held in the whole thing.

”

As always, the Resort staff will be “all hands on deck” to provide full gaming and VIP services!

When was the last time you played Poker while dressed like a mummy? Well, this is your chance.

If you can only go to one party this year—make it Haunted Harrah’s. Unless you’re scared… you’re not scared of a good time are you?

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TICKETS, GO TO HAUNTEDHARRAHS.COM.

42

HARRAH’S RESORT SOCAL IS GIVING AWAY THREE MILLION DOLLARS IN CASH AND FREE PLAY IN 2015!

Words: Robyn Lass SO YOU WANT TO BE A MILLIONAIRE? For the third

the

become

SoCal. “It’s also t he largest pr ize t hat we've

year in a row, Harrah’s Resort SoCal is the place

millionaires. One winner is announced in June

ever g iven away, so naturally we do have

to do it. This year, several lucky guests will

and the other in December. But t hat’s not t he

many more entr ies. The nights we g ive away

collectively take home $2.7 million cash thanks

only way to line your pockets w it h cash! A ll

t he million dollars are our most popular

to the Year of the Millionaire.

year long players can snag a big check t he

nights here.”

Entr y into this big event is available to any Total Rewards® member. Each month

year,

two

lucky

people

will

Guests must be present to win, so the

last Saturday of t he mont h. “ This promot ion has a larger ear ning

casino f loor tends to be a big party in June

guests earn entries by playing any of their

per iod

ever

and then again on New Year’s Eve. There is no

favorite games at the Resort. The more you

done in t he past,” said Heat her Jurgensen,

limit to how many times guests can enter, so

play the more entries you earn. Throughout

promot ions

they really can stack the odds in their favor.

t han

any

promot ion

manager

at

ESCAPE

we’ve

Har rah’s

Resor t

43

Look how happy our June winner, Zhi is!

“THE ENTIRE FLOOR IS BUZZING WITH THE ANTICIPATION OF SOMEONE WINNING A MILLION DOLLARS.”

2015 WINNERS JANUARY Lynn FEBRUARY Frankie MARCH Dale, Shio and Caryn APRIL May C. MAY Tracy E. On each of the Year of the Millionaire drawing days, winners are chosen every hour

into a memorable experience for the guests,” Jurgensen said.

JUNE Zhi H.

from 1pm to 10pm. Five people will win $1,000

“We host a VIP dinner for over a thousand

in free play and have one hour to claim their

guests and make the gaming f loor come alive

JULY

prize. At 11pm, a total of three winners will win

with entertainers. We also theme the events

$50,000 each ($150,000 total CASH) for March and

Maria S.

and decorate. The entire f loor is buzzing

September, and for January, February, April, May,

with the anticipation of someone winning a

July, August, October and November—the cash

million dollars.”

prize is also $50,000 dollars.

So join in the Year of the Millionaire fun!

“This is my favorite promotion we do.

Remember, any entries you’ve earned from July

Not only does someone walk away with a

1 st will get your name in the drawing for one

million dollars, but we turn the entire night

million dollars!

HARRAHSSOCAL.COM

AUGUST Tam Q. SEPTEMBER John V., Patricia W. and Tien N.

AROUND TOWN

44

PALOMAR OBSERVATORY Words: Eric & Alyson Klier

“What Hale and his team of experts built while enduring the national hardships of the Great Depression and World War II is now known as the Hale Telescope.”

DURING YOUR STAY AT Harrah’s Resort SoCal you

accomplished is truly fascinating. George Hale,

wide variety of research programs. The Hale

should definitely take some time to venture out

the mastermind behind this project, initiated

Telescope, the most famous and largest of the

and experience some of the natural beauty of

the process of building the world’s largest

group, is considered one of the most important

the surrounding area. As you floated down the

telescope of the time in 1928.

scientific instruments of the past 100 years.

lazy river, you probably noticed the gorgeous

During the 1930s, Hale and a team of

The second largest is a 60-inch telescope that

chaparral hillside, which enjoys warm weather

scientists, engineers, and designers created

was built to take some of the demand off the

and sunshine almost year-round.

a

a

Hale. The 48-inch Samuel Oschin telescope is

Only 30 minutes away from the Resort,

productive scientific facility to this day. What

the smallest and is used to survey and map the

you can also experience the alpine beauty of the

Hale and his team of experts built while

entire northern sky nightly.

Palomar Mountain Range. With a peak elevation

enduring the national hardships of the Great

of over 6,000 feet, it offers stunning views,

Depression and World War II is now known as

Technology,

along with occasional snow cover during winter

the Hale Telescope, and it has been an important

as a valuable research facility. Visitors are

storms. Located on top of Palomar Mountain

tool in the advancement of astronomy and

welcome to explore public areas on their own

is the world-famous Palomar Observatory. Its

astrophysics since Edwin Hubble exposed the

self-guided tours or enjoy guided tours of the

close proximity to the Resort makes it a fun and

first images from it in 1949.

200-inch Hale Telescope dome on weekends

triumph

of

innovation

that

remains

Owned by the California Institute of Palomar

Observatory

is

used

To truly understand the amazing historical

from April through October. The tours are

The elevation of Palomar Mountain made

achievement and current significance of the

roughly one hour long and limited availability

it the perfect location for one of the world’s

Palomar Observatory, a trip to see it in person

tickets are sold exclusively on a first come, first

most iconic telescopes. The history behind

is

Observatory

served basis. Guests can also explore the A. W.

the building of the observatory and how it was

has three active telescopes that are used in a

Greenway Jr. Visitor Center, gift shop, museum,

unique day trip.

highly

recommended.

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The

45 The world-famous Hale Telescope.

and visitor’s gallery (where you can see the Hale Palomar Mountain gets its fair share of snow every winter.

Telescope in action).

Because of the elevation of the Observatory, it’s always advised you call or check their website to make sure they are open before heading up the mountain. The area can get chilly, even when it’s in the 80s in other areas of San Diego County. The

PHOTOS COURTESY OF PALOMAR OBSERVATORY/CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Hale Telescope is kept at a consistent nighttime temperatures ranging in the 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit, so dress accordingly.

Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or just curious about the Observatory, people of all ages will enjoy visiting the museum and visitors center and exploring the facility. You won’t want to miss this chance to experience a piece of history—just a short drive away from Harrah’s Resort SoCal.

THE VISITOR’S GALLERY, VISITOR’S CENTER AND MUSEUM ARE OPEN DAILY FROM 9AM TO 3PM AND FROM 9AM TO 4PM DURING DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME (WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE HOLIDAYS AND FOR POSSIBLE WEATHER CLOSURES).

PLEASE CALL (760) 742-2119 FOR ROAD CLOSURE INFO. DRIVING DIRECTIONS AND MORE CAN BE FOUND AT WWW.ASTRO.CALTECH.EDU/PALOMAR. YOU CAN ALSO FIND A LINK AT HARRAHSSOCAL.COM UNDER “THINGS TO DO.” HARRAHSSOCAL.COM

FEATURED ARTIST MICHAEL AMORILLO

MULTI MEDIA MURAL ARTIST Words: Aaron Schmidt  Photos: Zach Cordner

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This is the first installment of Harrah’s Resort SoCal’s Featured Artist series in which we invite local artists to create exclusive works on property as a way to support them and shine a spotlight on their talents.

Michael “Monstrinho” Amorillo is an Encinitas-based multi-media artist with roots based in New York. His artistic style not only mixes an original blend of graffiti and street art, but also is influenced by his love of surfing and the ocean. His murals are epically large scale and his range of work features abstract-style paintings and illustrations to intricate watercolors. These days, Michael has recently released a children’s book called Monstro And The Kelp Kids.

In addition to the ocean themes Michael presents through his work, he was also chosen to create a mural in our family-friendly area of Dive because of his dedication of time and effort to children in the community.

WHERE ARE YOU FROM ORIGINALLY AND HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN DOING ART? I’m originally from Long Island, New York and I’ve been doing art since I was a kid. The thing that attracted me the most to actually do art was reading comic books and trying to copy them.

Then just being in New York and being around graffiti a lot really got me into street art. On walls, I like to use everything, but traditionally I like to use aerosol because it’s fun to work with. But when it comes to studio stuff, I’m into acrylics, inks and things of that nature.

HOW LONG DID IT TAKE YOU TO CONCEPTUALIZE AND PAINT THE MURAL? I like to do a lot of aquatic-based imager y at times and this concept seemed to be a really good fit. The actual physical labor was 11 days. I had one person help me get things organized, but I did all the painting. I’d start at like six or seven in the mor ning and then crank it out until sunset. I started the mural on Februar y 26th, 2014 and completed it on March 9th, 2014.

WHAT IS YOUR CONNECTION TO CHILDREN IN YOUR COMMUNITY? I think the connection is that a lot of my art has a “child-like” inf luence. The book that I wrote, Monstro And The Kelp Kids, is directed toward both children and adults. I like to tell stories with my art.

HARRAHSSOCAL.COM

TROY DONEY

FEATURED ARTIST

48

“ ”

For me, it’s always been more about life experience and how I integrate that into my artwork.

HOW INVOLVED ARE YOU IN CHARITIES FOR CHILDREN?

HOW DO SURFING AND THE OCEAN INFLUENCE YOUR ART?

I was pretty involved with the Michael Fux Family

I grew up in Long Island, New York and was

Center at Miami Children’s Hospital. I got involved

raised by the water. I started surfing there and

with that Center because it’s similar to the Ronald

soon began integrating ocean-based themes

McDonald House in that families all over Florida

and characters into my body of work. Surfing is

have a place to go with their kids while they’re

a lifestyle for me and it’s a major reason why I

working through serious procedures.

live in Leucadia—it’s part of my life. For me, it’s

Monstro And The Kelp Kids is not only a book; it’s also a commercial project. It’s a concept that I’m currently pitching to television. Basically,

always been more about life experience and how I integrate that into my artwork.

and interact with kids through the medium of

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT HARRAH’S RESORT SOCAL? The staff is really cool and t hey were ver y

art and donate my time in that way. That’s what

suppor t ive and accommodat ing. I also liked

I did for Miami’s Children’s Hospital; I painted

t he pool. I didn’t realize how big and nice it

for the kids and worked with them. I’ve always

is! A lso, I met a ton of nice families while

worked as a physical therapist, so it just came

I was paint ing t he project. It was a good

naturally for me to integrate the two.

exper ience for me.

my goal is to be able to tour with the concept

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TO SEE MORE OF MICHAEL’S WORK, GO TO MICHAELAMORILLO.COM OR VISIT MONSTROANDTHEKELPKIDS.COM TO GET MORE INFO ON HIS CHILDREN’S BOOK. HIS INSTAGRAM IS @KELPKIDSTUDIO TO SEE THE TIME LAPSE VIDEO OF THE CREATION OF MICHAEL’S MURAL, PLEASE VISIT HARRAH’S RESORT SOCAL‘S YOUTUBE PAGE: YOUTUBE.COM/HARRAHSSOCAL

50

Suite life!

TAKE A PEEK INSIDE HARRAH’S RESORT SOCAL’S LAVISH

PRESIDENTIAL SUITE

Words: Robyn Lass Photos: Zach Cordner SURE, SNEAKING AWAY FOR A MINI VACATION in Southern California is easy with Harrah’s Resort SoCal right around the corner, but did you know luxury lies on the 21st floor? Step into the Presidential Suite and see what the good life is really like!

At 2,398 square feet, this two-bedroom suite is so enticing you may never want to leave.

Newly renovated, the décor is contemporary, calming and extremely comfortable. We’ve thought of everything, from flat screens in every room, to scenic views out every window.

Through the double door entry, you’ll walk directly into the large, chic sitting room, complete with couches, chairs and a fireplace.

The perfect place to set the mood for your stay!

Plan on bringing a few friends? The Presidential Suite sleeps six, and includes a convenient wet bar area—perfect for creating a

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HARRAHSSOCAL.COM

SUITE LIFE

52

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"At 2,398 square feet, this two-bedroom suite is so enticing you may never want to leave."

few of your favorite homemade cocktails for the crowd. On the opposite end of the main room there’s a sleek dining table, ideal for a little pre-Blackjack warm-up or partaking in some in-room dining before hitting the gaming f loor.

You seriously can’t beat the view from up here! Every angle offers a unique look at the surrounding hillside. And the two private

warm, relaxing bubbles while soaking up the

Updike. Plus, there’s a complete audio system

balconies off each of the rooms are perfect for

scenery—with Champagne in hand, of course.

built in so you can kick back in your own way.

relaxing, or people watching.

This is definitely what luxurious looks like.

There’s plenty of room for pre-game primping

with

bathrooms,

square inch. Not only are each of the closets

complete with glass showers that are the

huge, but there are also plenty of cabinets in

perfect

the bar for stocking up and staying a while!

size

for

two two.

separate

We've gone the extra mile with every

But

the

piece-de-

resistance is the sunken whirlpool tub in

Need something to read? The shelves are

the master bedroom. Here you can soak in

stacked with books from Robert Frost to John HARRAHSSOCAL.COM

Once you’re up here relaxing and enjoying the glamorous life, you may never want to leave!

MODELS: COLIN WHITBREAD AND LEXI COHEN WOMEN'S STYLING: ALISON CHOI/SHOPROYALIE.COM PHOTO PRODUCER: ALONDRA FIGUEROA PHOTO ASSISTANT: CHRISTOPHER DONEZ

GIVE BACK

54

HARRAH'S RESORT SOCAL DONATES $67,000 TO CAUSES YOU CARE ABOUT Words: Robyn Lass Photos: Troy Doney

WITH A LONG HISTORY of generous community support and outreach efforts, we've come up with an exciting new way to broaden our reach in 2015. In the spirit of friendly competition, Allin 4 Change was designed to allow select nonprofits from San Diego, Riverside and Orange counties to go head-to-head and compete for their share of $67,000.

“While we’ve had a successful community relations program for the past thirteen years, we wanted to create a world-class program that incorporated a sense of fun and excitement while keeping to our Code of Commitment,” said Sheryl Sebastian, Harrah’s Resort SoCal's communications

and

community

relations

manager and brains behind this program. “All-In 4 Change gave us the opportunity to do that by expanding our outreach to a number of Southern California non-profit organizations—many of which were new to us—plus, it let the community have a voice in helping us select organizations that needed our support.”

All-In

4

Change

was

a

two-phase

“America’s Got Talent" style competition that

Harrah's Resort SoCal's Vice President and Assistant General Manager Darrell Pilant with CEO of San Diego Blood Bank David Wellis and CBS News 8 San Diego anchor Carlo Cecchetto at the All-In 4 Change award presentation.

invited charities to apply for a chance to “win” a cash donation. After kicking off in June, 37 nonprofits submitted applications for consideration.

The team at Harrah's Resort SoCal conducted a strict weeding out process, and by June 29, 2015, twenty charities made the cut.

The

final

winners

were

determined

based on a score that combined the local community’s popular vote for 50 percent and the Harrah’s Resort SoCal Selection Committee considerations for the remaining 50 percent.

ONCE ALL WAS TALLIED, THE FOLLOWING ORGANIZATIONS WERE THE BIG WINNERS: 1ST PLACE: The San Diego Blood Bank, $30,000 2ND PLACE: Children’s Nature Education Foundation, $15,000

Second place winners Children’s Nature Education Foundation

Third place winners The Seany Foundation

In addition, fourth and fifth place (along

and we’re ver y pleased with the results,” she

with five honorable mentions) were awarded

said. “We definitely envision building upon

cash prizes.

All-In 4 Change and making it a bigger and

According to Sebastian, Harrah’s Resort SoCal couldn’t be happier with the results

3RD PLACE:

of this inaugural event. The team is already

The Seany Foundation, $5,000

making plans for 2016. “Since this was our first year, it was ver y much a grassroots campaign ESCAPE

more visible part of our overall community relations program.”

FOR IMAGES AND DETAILS ON ALL TEN DESERVING CHARITIES, PLEASE VISIT THE ALL-IN 4 CHANGE PAGE ON HARRAH’S WEBSITE AT HARRAHSSOCAL.COM/ALL-IN-4-CHANGE

TAKE A

CULINARY TRIP

around the world then come back for more Must be 21 or older to gamble. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Owned by the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians. Managed by HCAL, LLC. ©2015, Caesars License Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved.