Escape Spring/Summer 2018

ESCAPE SPRING/SUMMER 2018

AT

H A R R A H ’ S

R E S O R T

S O U T H E R N

C A L I F O R N I A

It’s the

Summer

of FUNNER! DRINK: Craftastic Creations at Spiked • PLAY: Craps 101• TASTE: Smashburger • STAY: Mayor's Guide to Funner, CA

Perfecting the craft.

Sip for yourself at SR76 Beerworks.

Hours of Operation Monday: 2pm - 8pm Thursday: 2pm - 8pm Friday: 2pm - 10pm Saturday: Noon - 10pm Sunday: Noon - 8pm

Located across the parking lot from Valet at Harrah’s Resort Southern California.

Hopline: 760.651.3009

4

5

LOOK

THE STARS ALIGN IN FUNNER, CA. Photo by Brian Luna

ESCAPE

@HarrahsSoCal

LOOK

6

AIR SUPPLY LIVE AT THE EVENTS CENTER Photo by Brian Luna

ESCAPE

@HarrahsSoCal

7

CONTENTS

8

9

ESCAPE AT HARRAH’S RESORT SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA BRIAN LUNA

Spring/Summer 2018

4

LOOK

Featuring the finest images taken at Harrah’s Resort SoCal

10 INTRO With Luis Briseno, Director of Brand and Service Operations

28

THE MAYORAL TREATMENT

38

FUNNER LIFE

44 14 TRIBE The new Tribal Government Center 16 BEHIND THE SCENES With Fun Supervisor Anita Warren 18 TASTE Smashburger 22 PLAY A beginner’s guide to Craps 26

DRINK

David Hasselhoff’s guide to Funner, CA

Your fun checklist

FEATURED ARTIST

Contemporary mosaic sculptor Jean Wells

46

MAYOR’S MILLIONS

48

CODEGREEN

50

SHOP

52

GIVE BACK

54

RESORT MAP

Craftastic creations at Spiked

More ways to boost your bank roll

On a mission to help the planet

Retail therapy poolside at The Dive Shop

Teammates are becoming Model Citizens

Your guide to fun

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 2018 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED ESCAPE

Your itinerary to fun starts on page 38.

#Funner

INTRO

10

WEARING FUNNER ON OUR SLEEVES Words by Luis Briseno, Director of Brand and Service Operations Photo by Troy Doney

HI THERE! HOW’S IT GOIN’ ?! If you answered, “I’m

funner recipe is what we call, a “Funner Filter,”

our team. The result: confident, authentic, happy

having so much fun!” then I’m smiling right now

and we run just about everything through it.

teammates—a must in creating an effortlessly

and feel pretty good about your answer. If your

When it comes to the teammate experience, one

funner experience for you, our guest.

answer was, “I’m having FUNNER!” I just did

of the most exciting things we run through the

From Golden Tickets to Fun Citations to a

three cartwheels, two back flips and a triple axel

Funner Filter is our uniform program. Over the

Floatapalooza out at Dive to passing out lollipops

jump. I feel better than pretty good about your

past two years we’ve updated more than half

on international lollipop day, we’ll always offer

answer! I feel, funner, about it!

the uniforms you see. It’s one of my personal

experiences that are unexpected and unique,

As Director of Brand and Service Operations

priorities to work with each uniform vendor in

therefore funner.

for Harrah’s Resort SoCal, one of my top

co-designing styles that our teammates feel

priorities is to ensure we’re activating funner

great about wearing.

And the icing on the funner cake is that your experience will be delivered in an authentic

for teammates and guests. What is funner? And

And why stop there? Promoting a “feel good,

way by teammates having funner themselves.

what does it mean to activate it? The answer is

do good” environment for our teammates is a

By the way, the Golden Tickets and Fun Citations

quite simple. Funner is unforgettable fun. It’s an

top priority, so we made some outside the box

mentioned above are two of my personal favorite

elevated level of fun. Say that five times fast!

moves when it came to our dress code. Into the

promotions we have here to deliver funner to

Knowing that fun is subjective, how we go

Funner Filter it went, and out came what you’ve

you. Imagine unwrapping your silverware roll

bringing it to life is critical. In Funner, CA we

been seeing since May 2017—our Casual Chic

at one of our dine-in restaurants and to your

strive to provide experiences that are made

dress code partnered with appearance standards

surprise, and delight, there’s a shiny Golden

memorable because they’re unique, different

that allow our teammates to be more expressive

Ticket gifting you concert tickets, or a free Hotel

and usually include an element of surprise. And

and comfortable. It feels SO good to say “Yes” to

stay? Or how about being approached by a public

they need to feel authentic. So it’s important

denim! And “Yes” to fashion sneakers! And “Yes”

safety officer handing you $5 in free play, just for

that we start with our teammates. Authentic,

to purple hair! And so much more!

having fun and showing it!

funner teammates equals authentic, funner guest experiences.

A tool we use in cook’n up our exclusive

Not confining a teammate to a suit and tie

No need to imagine it! At Harrah’s Resort

and allowing them to fun-up their uniform are

SoCal, in the city of Funner, CA, unforgettable

just a couple ways we embrace the diversity of

fun happens every day.

ESCAPE

FUN IS ON THE MENU

From impeccable skill to whimsical imagination, Chef Amanda Colello brings her culinary creativity to Funner, California. Make a reservation and tempt your taste buds with new menu items. Or just order your favorite steak with perfectly paired wine. Fiore is a 10-time winner of the Wine Spectator “Award of Excellence.”

A

RO F Y IL

M 3-6 P

M

D

R U O H Y P P HA L i gh t house

LUDES HO

OY

EXC

StER BAR & G

RIL

L

L i gh t house

Y A D LI

S

L ighthouse OY

BAR &

SAUTÉED MUSHROOMS • $8 NACHOS WITH CHICKEN • $8 NEW YORK STEAK SANDWICH • $14 FETTUCCINE ALFREDO WITH SHRIMP • $14 FETTUCCINE ALFREDO WITH CHICKEN • $12 LUIS’ ESPECIAL • $18 HOUSE TACO: CHOOSE FISH, SHRIMP OR CALAMARI • $3 OYSTER SHOOTER • $3 OYSTER SHOOTER WITH RICE VODKA • $4 G

RIL

L

StER BAR & G

StER

OY

ALL HOUSE WINES • $5 ALL DRAFT BEERS • $5 CUP OF CLAM CHOWDER • $4 CAESAR SALAD • $7 CEVICHE • $8 CHEESEBURGER WITH FRIES • $10 COCONUT SHRIMP • $9 CALAMARI • $9 SHRIMP COCKTAIL (5) • $10 PEEL & EAT SHRIMP • $10 RIL

L

760.433.1900 | www.lighthouseoceanside.com 262 HARBOR DRIVE SOUTH, SUITE 201 | OCEANSIDE, CA 92054

MAXIMIZE YOUR EARNING POTENTIAL Learn more about the Total Rewards Visa® Credit Card and check to see if you are pre-approved at our Total Rewards Center today.

Cards can be picked up on property if approved. Comenity Bank issues the Total Rewards Visa® Credit Card pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Visa® is a registered trademark of Visa International Service Association and used under license. The Total Rewards Program and Promotions are provided by Caesars Entertainment Services Company, Inc. and the terms may discontinue or charge at any time. See Total Rewards Center for program rules ©2018, Caesars License Company, LLC.

SEIZING THE FUTURE

15

RENORDO BOWEN

14

THE NEW TRIBAL GOVERNMENT CENTER Words by Tanya Duggan

“Band members will have a community facility that’ll bring everyone together and give them pride as both members and residents of our reservation.”

—Steve Stallings, Tribal Council Member

IN JULY OF 2017, the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians

built a group of top-level professionals and

communication

between

tribal management team. “We worked very hard

building could easily be protected in case of

possible energy efficiency. Landscaping will use

broke ground on a new Tribal Government

managers that operate each department with

managers, departments and employees—tribal

to insure the new building is environmentally

emergency; and finally, to serve as an impressive

plants native to the area, as well as integrate

Center. Located on Valley Center Way, this

skill and excellence.”

member services will be improved. “This new

efficient, user friendly and serves our future

gateway for visitors to the reservation.

existing oak trees into the site plan.

and

interaction

new building will bring tribal employees from

Stallings explained that the new Tribal

facility will take tribal government into the

needs as a tribal community. The committee

Tribal Council member Laurie Gonzalez

“The Council looked at Luiseño basket

five different locations under one roof—a step

Government Center would provide employees with

future,” said Stallings. “Band members will

continues to review construction progress and

looked at the building’s placement on the site,

designs, native plants and such cultural artifacts

that’ll eliminate inefficient facilities, while

a work-place environment that’ll be conducive to

have a community facility that’ll bring everyone

costs on a regular basis.”

modernizing the tribe’s infrastructure.

increasing efficiency, thereby improving tribal

together and give them pride as both members

“A primary goal of the Tribal Council is

member services in one central location. “In

and residents of our reservation.”

to make Rincon Tribal Government as strong,

increasing overall efficiency, we can better serve

efficient and professional as any municipal city government in California,” said Councilmember Steve Stallings. “The council believes we have

and how it’ll blend with the surroundings. “The

as ‘metates,’” said Council Member Gonzalez.

Stallings further explained the committee’s

Council wanted the building’s exterior to reflect

“We are pleased the architect’s design of the

goals in designing the building. “When we met

traditional Luiseño culture designs and art.

exterior

Council member Stallings explained that

on building design and location we wanted to

We wanted the building to reflect the hills and

culture and heritage.” The Tribal Government

our members,” said Stallings. “This has always

the design of the building was the product of both

achieve several things, including locating the

colors of our natural surroundings.”

Administration Building will be opening its

been our highest priority,” said Stallings.

the Tribal Council and the Council’s building

building, so it was easily accessible to employees

The building is also designed to incorporate

committee that includes key members of the

and the membership; situated so that the

details and specifications that’ll ensure the best

With

a

floor

plan

ESCAPE

that

maximizes

#HarrahsSoCal

reflects

doors this summer.

these

aspects

of

Luiseño

BEHIND THE SCENES

16

17

WITH FUN SUPERVISOR ANITA WARREN Words by Aaron Schmidt Photo by Zach Cordner

You’d be hard pressed to find a teammate at Harrah’s Resort SoCal having more fun doing their job than Fun Supervisor Anita Warren. From Trivia Nights to Tribute Nights, Warren brings her energy and enthusiasm into everything she does. If you ever get the chance to see her in action, you’ll witness an electricity that sparks everyone around her.

There’s so much to say about Warren and all the hard work she’s put into growing the unique category of resort activities at Harrah’s Resort SoCal. To sum it up, her love for fun and her passion to make guests happy is apparent in the role she’s so invested in here in Funner, CA.

WHERE ARE YOU FROM ORIGINALLY? WHERE

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB IN THE

Activities Supervisor. On my badge it says, “Fun

DID YOU GROW UP?

ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY?

Supervisor.” That’s my exact title.

I’m from Central California—Hollister, California.

About 23 years ago, I worked for a corporate big

I moved to the San Diego area about 30 years ago.

band locally here in San Diego. I did everything

CAN YOU RUN US THROUGH A LIST OF YOUR

from costuming to office work and traveled

DAY-TO-DAY ACTIVITIES AS FUN SUPERVISOR?

WHAT WERE YOU INTO AS A KID?

to high profile ABC/Disney events in Florida.

I plan most of the resort activities for the

in planning Friday night’s tribute acts. Some

overcome them is the key! Keeping a positive

atmosphere. We provide them with the best

Well, I handle entertainment here at the resort, so

It was wonderful! I did that for a long time in

property, so we have something for everyone

of the other activities I run month-to-month

attitude, and knowing you can get through it

gaming, best restaurants, best resort amenities

I liked to sing and dance! Can you imagine that?

the social market. I also worked for another big

that’s not only just gaming. For example,

include a “sip-n-paint” class called Get Crafty,

with a fun spirit is what makes the difference!

and best live music. But more importantly, the

I loved it! I’m from a large family—I’m one of 12

entertainment company in the corporate market.

we have a Sommelier who comes out every

and that’s really fun. Another event I’m really

Providing fun activities at Harrah’s Resort SoCal

people are what make Funner, CA the best place

children and I have very strong family roots there

I’ve done a lot of event planning over the years.

Wednesday and gives wine samples. We also do

excited about is called Movie Under The Stars. I

is so exciting! Dancing, music and art can be a

in the world! We have repeat guests who know

a Trivia Night, which has been very successful.

also MC a little bit, so I’ll go on the gaming floor

great outlet. And it’s fun!

us by name because we make an impression. I’m

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING FOR

On Thursdays, we have Latin Dance Instruction

and make announcements about what’s going on

HARRAH’S RESORT SOCAL?

featuring bachata and salsa dancing and we

at the resort.

WERE YOU THE CAPTAIN OF YOUR

I’ve been working here for around eight years.

follow that up with a Latin DJ and Live Bands.

CHEERLEADING SQUAD?

I started out by handling all the backstage

I’m mostly programming these fun events,

No, I wasn’t captain, but I was most definitely the

entertainment for the headlining acts that

spirit behind it!

perform here. Last year, I became the Resort

[in Hollister]. I graduated from Hollister High and I was a cheerleader—believe it or not. Go Haybalers!

ESCAPE

Fun Supervisor Anita Warren smack dab in the middle of Mick Jagger and Paul McCartney (from tribute bands The Beatles Vs The Stones)

a people person, so I really love interacting with WHAT MAKES FUNNER, CA THE

our guests. We—as teammates—love where

BEST PLACE TO WORK?

we work, and our guests love where they come

WHAT’S YOUR DEFINITION OF FUN?

Funner, CA is a great place to work because we’re

to relax and play. Being the Fun Supervisor for

booking people, making sure everything’s in

Fun to me comes from an inner spirit! Everyone

all here to entertain on one aspect or another!

Funner, CA has been the best job I’ve ever had

place and doing all the legwork. I’m also involved

has troubles and stresses in life, but how you

Our guests choose to come here for the relaxed

in my career!

#Funner

18

19

The Classic Burger in all its glory.

TASTE

SMASHBURGER HEATING THINGS UP IN FUNNER, CA Words by Alondra Figueroa Photos by Zach Cordner

IT’S NO SURPRISE THAT THE BEST RESORT in Funner, CA would have great burgers, but nothing prepares you for the simply delicious and fresh taste of Smashburger, the newest addition the property’s delicious dining options.

In a quest to find the right restaurant fit for the best resort in Funner, CA, the Harrah’s Resort SoCal team selflessly conducted grueling research taste-testing burger after delicious burger. When they got to Smashburger they fell in love with their inventive “Smasher” machine.

The Smashburger process entails literally smashing—utilizing a metal rectangular press that provides that “oh, so special” searing technique—the never frozen, all natural, grass fed beef burger patty onto the buttered grill for exactly 30 seconds. This step ensures that the bottom of the burger is caramelized to a crisp, while pushing all of the juices inside! The cooking technique creates a perfectly well done, yet juicy patty that’s completely customizable to your liking. I saw the sizzling process myself and it was mesmerizing.

While observing the Smasher in action, I noted how impeccable the kitchen was. I’m happy to report that the condiment bar is amazingly fresh. The tomatoes were perfectly

ESCAPE

#HarrahsSoCal

YOU KNOW YOU WANT ME

20

The Bacon Avocado Chicken Club Sandwich

The Funner Burger Cobb Salad

to give a nod to Elvis Presley, the king of fun and fried foods.

Another specialty that is specific to Harrah’s Resort SoCal is the “after hours” milkshakes.

These delights are made with Häagen-Dazs ice cream mixed with various liquors such as Kahlua, Crème de Menthe, Malibu Rum and Amaretto. With flavors like these I’m sure you’re bound to find something you like. I tried the Moe Joe Kahlua and it was so yummy I almost forgot it had alcohol in it—until I realized I was having too much fun waiting to try more Smashburger favorites. Leave it to the resort to find a way to make ice cream even Funner with liquor—what a combo!

Need a little pep in your Häagen-Dazs?

Try the Moe Joe Kahlua milkshake.

The

Classic

Burger

includes

American

cheese, Smash sauce and all the fixings on an egg bun. It was delicious, and the sear is so noticeable, it has a definite crunch to it when you take your first bite. Their famous Smash Fries seasoned with rosemary, garlic and tossed in olive oil were perfectly cooked and the rosemary wasn’t overpowering, which is rare—so good! The tots are extra crispy and scrumptious. The Sweet Potato Fries were a healthy alternative and will become a staple for me from now on.

An alternative to the burger is the Bacon Avocado Chicken Club sandwich—simply fantastic.

They also sear the chicken, so there’s a luscious caramelized shell on the breast along with lettuce, tomato, ranch dressing and mayo on a multigrain bun. I highly recommend it for those not craving a burger. The Cobb Salad was spectacular and came with a fried egg on top, making my day Dinner is served.

that much more special! The chicken was fresh and hot with just the right amount of blue cheese

ripe, juicy and gorgeously red. The lettuce was

dishes. Of course I waned to try Harrah’s

crisp, vibrant and ready to go. Frankly, there

Resort SoCal’s very own Funner Burger, a truly

The bottom line is that Smashburger has

wasn’t a limp condiment in sight. I was so

astonishing collaboration between the brilliant

been an awesome addition to the food court

amazed at their immaculate kitchen and how

culinary minds of the restaurant and the resort.

and has raised the bar for burgers in the area so

delicious everything looked that I couldn’t wait

It consists of that delicious seared burger patty,

high that guests are coming to Harrah’s Resort

to sample some burgers!

and everything you could want.

aged cheddar cheese, a layer of crunchy peanut

SoCal just to get their Smashburger fix. So next

Since I’d never tried their food before I

butter, fried bananas and applewood-smoked

time you’re near Funner, CA, drop by Harrah’s

asked the Smashburger Supervisor Malena

bacon on an egg bun. Super rich and flavorful

Resort SoCal for a Funner time and some mouth-

Torres, to show me some of their most popular

you have to be ready for it. But who wouldn’t love

watering burgers!

ESCAPE

Enjoy relaxation by reservation.

Visit the Concierge or call 760 -651- 3506 to book your private cabana.

PLAY

22

STEP UP TO THE RAIL A BEGINNERS’ GUIDE TO CRAPS Words by Chris Coté Photos by Zach Cordner

Craps is a classic casino table game synonymous with high-energy fun, infectious excitement and Hollywoodstyle glamour. Countless films have showcased the game.

Remember when blonde bombshell Sharon Stone hustled the Craps table crowd in Casino, or Sean Connery’s James Bond threw dice in Diamonds Are Forever, or Demi Moore kissed the dice in Indecent Proposal? These films, and many others, show the electricity that often occurs when a Craps table gets hot.

ESCAPE

23

24

“Craps is actually quite friendly to beginners, and it’s a game that you can casually play for an extended time without a huge entry-level investment”

In the case of Craps, Hollywood hits the

Craps players, we’re just going to cover the basics

their roll. The best/easiest way to start your

Pass Line, but you’re mostly betting against the

hot streak can win the table a lot of money and

mark when it comes to the excitement level

here to give you the confidence to step up to the

So while it’s still fun to watch the dice

Craps schooling is to keep it simple and just play

whole table, so if you want to be a villain—go

keep the roll going for turn-after-turn.

you’ll find at the table. What Hollywood fails

table. The first step to playing Craps is getting

get tossed down the table, the actual business

the “Pass Line” for a while until you can get a feel

ahead and bet there (just kidding, bet with the

Hot rolls can last 10, 20, 30 minutes in some

to explain in these films is that this particular

your spot on the rail. At Harrah’s Resort SoCal

happens when cards get flipped. You’ll see

for the game. The “Pass Line” is where you can

squad!). If the shooter throws the dice and gets

cases—this is when you start to really hear the

game gives players a chance to win—even if

(and most other casinos around the world), Craps

what we’re talking about when you start to play,

be an instant winner when the shooter (person

something other than a 7, 11, 2, 3, or 12, the game

hoots and hollers!

you don’t know what you’re doing. For most first

tables can hold up to 16 players (eight per side)

which is exactly what you need to do to learn

rolling the dice) throws a 7 or an 11, which

moves on “The Point.”

timers, just walking up to the table and getting

and is one of the few games where everybody is

how to play Craps. Sure you can read about it

actually happens more than you’d think. The

This is where things can get a little confusing

hang of Craps. But the good news is even as an

involved in the game can be intimidating. The

on the same team (mostly), hence the reason the

and practice online ’til you get the gist of the

flipside of that is when a shooter rolls “Craps”

for beginners, and also where the action gets

absolute beginner, you can stay playing at the

long tables are covered with numbers and colors,

crowd is cheering for each other when the dice is

game, but actually leaning on the rail and feeling

(2, 3 or 12)—you lose the pass line bet and you

faster paced—but don’t worry, if your bet was on

Craps table for a long time with a minimal bet.

and the pace seems to be frenetic.

about to be rolled.

the excitement is the best path towards Craps

need to wager again to bet on the same shooter

the Pass Line, you’re still in the game. The number

Even though you should keep things simple

proficiency.

(The dice don’t pass until the shooter fails to

that was rolled by the shooter now becomes “The

while you’re still learning, the dealers at Harrah’s

make the “point”).

Point.” A marker is placed on the number and now

Resort SoCal are highly skilled in making first-

this is the number that the players are trying to

timers feel welcome, while keeping the experts

roll. Here’s what can happen:

at the table engaged and excited. So step right up

which cards will reveal the number.

Here’s the thing: Craps is actually quite

If it’s crowded, wedge yourself in and join

friendly to beginners, and it’s a game that

the fun! If it’s mellow, grab some friends and

When playing at Harrah’s Resort SoCal,

you can casually play for an extended time

make it a party. Even amateurs usually know

you’ll see four dealers on the table at all times,

Another fun element to Craps is the fact

without a huge entry-level investment. “Certain

a few common “Craps-isms” like “sevens or

and all will no doubt help you start your game

that everybody gets a turn rolling. That means

craps wagers offer a very small house edge, as

elevens”—exactly what you want to roll when

by telling you when it’s cool to place your bet.

everyone gets a chance to be a Craps hero! There

compared to other games,” said Harrah’s Resort

you start playing the game.

Although you can walk up and bet on any roll of

really is nothing like having a full Craps table

If the shooter rolls “The Point” number, everyone wins!

Harrah’s Resort SoCal Craps is a little bit

the dice, if you wait for the dealer to pick up the

hooting, hollering and cheering for you to roll the

If the shooter rolls a 7, everyone loses

people get the hang of craps, a hot table can be

different (due to California regulations). Here the

point marker (think hockey puck) you can join

dice. There are ways to bet against the shooter,

(rolling 7s is great at the start, but they can

the most fun in the casino”

dice actually dictate which cards will be flipped.

the fun on the “Come-Out Roll”. This is when a

the first one called betting the “Don’t Pass” or

quickly become what you don’t want to see).

A red and green die are thrown to determine

round of Craps begins, and a new shooter starts

“Don’t Come” lines. They’re similar odds to the

ESCAPE

to the rail—you’ll be kissing dice and shooting Craps in no time flat!

SoCal Table Games Manager Tony Wenger. “Once

For the sake of the first-timers or entry-level

In all honesty, it can take years to get the

A hot shooter keeps rolling! A shooter on a #Funner

FOR A HANDS-ON LESSON, STEP UP TO ANY CRAPS TABLE IN HARRAH’S RESORT SOCAL AND ASK THE DEALER FOR SOME POINTERS TO GET YOU STARTED.

DRINK

26

the question! If you want a more intense smoke

went on to explain that there’s a science behind

types of liquors and personality into every

flavor throughout your sipping session, ask for

why they make things a certain way, why it’s

drink they shake, stir or pour-over. It’s all

your cocktail to be shaken with smoke!

presented a certain way (put in a different glass

on the daily, the Spiked team infuses numerous

LET THE FUN BE-GIN IN FUNNER, CA

about versatility, passion and creativity. “We

Words by Shannon Gavin Photos by Zach Cordner

unique. We get the chance to play with a lot of

can muddle the freshness—this makes our bar stuff,” said Mixologist Troy Hermosillo.

After all, being a cocktail master in Funner, Fancy yourself a Rum and Coke? Then expect

CA takes someone who wants more than to just

one that hits the spot in a way you might not

deliver a drink to you—it takes passion to give an

expect. “It all starts from the quality of the Rum

elevated experience.

chosen, to how the drink is prepared, down to the final touch of the garnish,” said Mixologist Jimmy Montes. Sure it sounds like a simple drink, but there’s so much more that Funner, CA bartenders consider. They design a wellrounded sipping experience that raises the bar for your next bar visit.

Not sure what you would like to drink for the evening? The vast world of alcohol is enough to intimidate even the most initiated imbiber, especially when you’re not skilled in the art of the perfect cocktail. It’s safe to say that most of the average bar knowledge starts and ends with cold beer and margaritas. Rest assured, the Spiked team of beverage experts will take excellent care of you if and when you get a wild hair. With a few simple questions (likes, dislikes and profile preferences), your mixologist will be able to whip something up that’ll please your palate—it’s like the best first date you’ve ever been on. From there, our team works hard to construct distinctive flavors and “out-of-theglass” creations tailored to your taste.

Liquor aficionado? Maybe your ears will perk up when we start name-dropping. Don Mixologist Jimmy Montes can "smoke" your drink.

Julio 1942. Whistlepig Boss Hog. Louis XIII. A lot of places can’t get their hands on these bottles.

CRAFTASTIC CREATIONS

than the others) and why it’s stirred or shaken.

MIXOLOGIST VERSUS BARTENDER Two words are being used to describe expert shakers behind the bar these days: Bartender and Mixologist.

Thinking about all of that and considering the details is what makes a mixologist. You’re doing the science of bartending.

SIP WITH US

Sure they may sound like the same thing.

When you’re craving a craft cocktail,

But ask yourself this: Whom are you going to ask

Spiked is the place. Want to learn more about

to make that blissful Manhattan for you? The

what compliments your favorite liquor? Are you

True to the prohibition spirit, Spiked has its very own secret menu, which is a lot easier to find than a hidden bar. The menu offers a variety of flavors and liquors that’ll raise your eyebrows with intrigue. The Fernet About It features Fernet, an Italian type of Amaro, Luxardo, green Chartreuse and lime. If you don’t know what all of that is, we suggest taking a trip to speak with our friends at Spiked.

Each Spiked Mixologist assisted in the creation of the secret menu. “Someone will bring in a new idea and we will work on it together and make something. Then we put in our input. We’re a team when it comes to creating new cocktails for the bar,” said Blackno.

“Create, share with the team, refine (if needed) and put it on the secret menu.” Sounds like a fun process! For example, Montes crafted the Pig In Paradise—Whistlepig 10 Year Rye Whiskey (which was barreled specifically for Spiked!) meets apricot, elderflower, Turbinado and fresh squeezed orange juice creating a tropical flavor balance. Yum! Spoiler alert! They’re all delicious!

Once these rare items are off the shelf—the top shelf—they’re gone. “What Spiked has to offer you might not find anywhere else in San Diego,” said Grescia Skarra, Harrah’s Resort SoCal’s Casino Operations Beverage Manager.

MORE THAN A SMOKE SCREEN You read that right. If you’re feeling adventurous, then ask a Spiked mixologist to smoke your favorite cocktail. Why smoke a cocktail, you ask? Well, why candy bacon and

LET’S GET PERSONAL

put it in a Bloody Mary? Because it’s different,

Ladies and gentlemen we present to you, the Pig In Paradise.

RAISE YOUR HAND if you love fresh ingredients

behind the bar. The mixologists (A.K.A. “Black

and tasty drinks. Lucky for you, Harrah’s Resort

Belt Bartenders”) as coined by Spike Mixologist

higher

Harrah’s Resort SoCal mixologists have

SoCal has exactly what you crave. We’re savoring

Gustavo Ramirez, are formally trained and

quality products. In the words of Bruce Hornsby (as

a ton of cocktails that they can recommend

Clase Azula Ultra Tequila, Pappy Van Winkle

certified by BarSmarts—this means they really

made popular by Tupac Shakur), “That’s just the

if you’d like to try this unique delight. Using a

Reserve and a few other surprises for you to

know their stuff! After all, at Spiked it’s not just

way it is.” With each cocktail also comes a serving

one-of-a kind smoker, they’re able to infuse your

mixologist with that look of concentration while

thirsty to increase your cocktail knowledge?

experience later in the article (or in your glass).

about the delicious handcrafted cocktails—it’s

of personality and knowledge behind the drink.

drink with Hickory, Cherry wood, Apple wood

crafting away, of course! Just ask the experts. “I

Well, then pull up a stool and your bartender will

“Initially, we were learning a couple of

or Mesquite. And if you’re not sure what’ll work

consider them all mixologists! Their knowledge

be happy to answer all of your questions. Cheers!

drinks and putting them out to the guests, but

with your favorite drink, your mixologist will

and creativity is unmatched,” said Skarra.

now we have creativity as a team where we can

be sure to point you in the right direction. Go

“When it was first being used [mixology], I

come up with fresh cocktails on the spot,” said

ahead and mix two smoky flavors together to

thought it was pretentious. Just doing more, caring

Spiked Mixologist Derek Blackno.

create a unique taste for your cocktail—smoking

more and taking pride in what you’re doing is what

spices, herbs and orange peels are not out of

makes you a mixologist,” explained Montes. He

Adjacent to the Gaming Floor next to the High Limits area resides Spiked—a prohibition-

about the entire experience.

esque cocktail bar that pours more than meets

TWISTING THE SPIKED WAY

the eye (or taste buds). Offering a place to sip

Tasty drinks are readily available resort-wide

and sit in style, Spiked is where you want to be

but at Spiked, the crafty cocktail inventors are

to soak up the creativity and knowledge from

ready to put a fresh spin on your “go-to” drink.

ESCAPE

Every cocktail is made the Spiked way—fresh ingredients,

house-made

syrups

and

Making use of their knowledge and background

fun and it tastes delicious!

#HarrahsSoCal

SPIKED IS OPEN DAILY FROM 11AM-1:30AM WITH A TRUE HAPPY HOUR MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 7PM-8PM FEATURING 25% OFF ALL SIGNATURE COCKTAILS AND BOURBON

27

28

29

THE MAYORAL TREATMENT

DAVID HASSELHOFF’S GUIDE TO FUNNER, CA Words by Robyn Lass Photos by Zach Cordner

We can’t all be David Hasselhoff. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a stay at Harrah’s Resort SoCal like David Hasselhoff. For those of you looking to enjoy life the Funner, CA way, Mayor Hoff himself has a few key tips to enhance your trip. Check out this quick guide to some of Hoff’s favorite spots in Funner, CA. Who knows, you might just catch a glimpse of the head cheese himself as he slips into the salt bath or snacks on a Lobster Cocktail.

Dining family-style at Fiore.

HOFF SAYS: “THE BONEIN RIBEYE IS WORLD CLASS AT FIORE. ORDER IT WITH THE TRUFFLED CAULIFLOWER SOUP AND YOU HAVE A WINNING COMBO!”

FIORE RESTAURANT WHERE DINING IS DIVINE THE NUMBER ONE STEAKHOUSE IN FUNNER, CA

perfect pairing to the overall vibe in Funner, CA.

starchy sides like mashed potatoes and mac &

didn’t get this title by accident. Fiore has earned

Aside from delicious steaks crafted to your

cheese, Colello’s menu delivers lighter items

the “Award of Excellence” from Wine Spectator

personal taste, the menu is packed with sharable

like sweet potato purée and sautéed sugar

magazine 10 times. So if you’re going to eat

items as well as meals you won’t want anyone

snap peas plus Vegan and Gluten Free options.

like the mayor, make a reservation and start

else’s fork to touch. If you’re looking to feed

To keep things fresh, Colello updates the

sampling the new menu created by Specialty

yourself like The Hoff, try the Lobster Cocktail or

menu seasonally. To reserve your table visit:

Chef Amanda Colello. Her fun, appetizing and

the Hamachi from the Oyster Bar.

HarrahsSoCal.com/taste/Fiore and use the Open

unique approach to culinary creations is the ESCAPE

Unlike other steakhouses that offer standard #Funner

Table option or call 760-751-3100.

30

31

THE SPA WHERE RELAXING IS REQUIRED EVERYONE DESERVES SOME ME-TIME. Even the mayor. The spa is the perfect place to hide away from the prying eyes of the paparazzi, treat yourself to some pampering or prepare for your next selfi shoot. To start your relaxation session, browse a menu packed with massages, facials and full-body treatments.

To get camera ready, the full-service salon and barbershop offer men and women head to toe primping and polishing including mani pedis, waxing and soothing shaves. Give yourself the mayoral treatment by scheduling an Intraceuticals Oxygen Facial with the Knesko Collagen Mask add-on. Or schedule a couple’s massage for you and your honey, a favorite of The Hoff and his betrothed.

To browse the menu, check out monthly specials or make your reservation go to HarrahsSoCal.com/ Play/Spa-at-harrahs or call 760-751-7709

HOFF SAYS: “FOR AN OUT OF THIS WORLD EXPERIENCE, TREAT YOURSELF TO THE OXYGEN FACIAL.” ESCAPE

The full-service salon at The Spa.

#HarrahsSoCal

32

33

THE MAYORAL SUITE WHERE HOFF LAYS HIS HEAD EVERY CELEBRITY KNOWS THERE’S NOTHING BETTER for your complexion than a good night’s sleep.

The 2,398 square-foot Mayoral Suite is the only place the mayor of Funner, CA lays his head after a hard day of work. This roomy space can sleep up to six, so bring your friends and take up residence for the day or the week. With two balconies you can soak up the entire Funner, scene with a mountain view on one side and a poolside view on the other.

Designed for the highest level of living, this premium suite includes large rooms for relaxing, entertaining and dining. If you’re really in the mayoral mood, slip off your shoes and into the cozy slippers and robe just like The Hoff enjoys during his stay! Then stand next to the huge hanging portrait of the mayor himself to see how your look compares. To reserve this spot, or any of our luxury rooms and suites, visit: HarrahsSoCal.com/Stay or call 760-751-3100.

HOFF SAYS: “I ALWAYS LOOK FORWARD TO MY SUITE TIME HERE, WHEN I GET TO RELAX, STEP OUT ON THE BALCONY AND SOAK IN ALL THE FUN EVERYONE IS HAVING IN FUNNER, CA.”

Live it up in the Mayoral Suite living room.

ESCAPE

#Funner

34

35

FUNNER BONUS WHERE CITATIONS ARE A GOOD THING The whole experience in Funner, CA is sure to make even the most serious visitor laugh out loud. Or cheer. Or dance. However the fun-bug bites you, the best resort in Funner, CA is the place to show of your enthusiasm—and get rewarded for it. The “Fun Police” is fully stocked with a special kind of citation—Fun Citations.

These special surprises are only awarded to the truly enthusiastic and guarantees those awarded will walk away with a customized prize. Just one more way The Mayor has found to crank up the celebratory vibe and put good times high on the priority list.

READY FOR YOUR OWN MAYORAL MISSION? CHECK OUT EVEN MORE FUN ONLINE THEN BOOK YOUR NEXT STAY AT HARRAHSRESORTSOCAL.COM

HOFF SAYS:”THERE’S NOTHING BETTER THAN GETTING A SURPRISE REWARD IN FUNNER, CA JUST FOR DOING THE THINGS YOU LOVE.”

The Fun Police is always on duty.

Robeks.com ©2017 Robeks Corporation

DELICIOUSNESS BLENDED DAILY Take a break from your busy day of fun and sip on something special.

BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE

Bring your Total Rewards® card to the Total Rewards Center and mention this ad to enjoy this drink special.

Valid May 15, 2018 – December 31, 2018 Limited one offer per person for the duration of the promotion. Offer good on drink of equal or lesser value.

38

39

FUNNER LIFE YOUR CHECKLIST TO FUN

Words by Marlise Kast Photos by Zach Cordner

At some point in life, nearly every international traveler has had that split-second fear of “Where’s my passport?” It’s an easy little booklet to lose when you’re catching flights, crossing borders and changing hotels all for the sake of fun and memories.

But what if fun came to you this summer? What if you could escape to a place where laughter was the language, boredom was outlawed and boundaries were borderless?

Welcome to Funner, California—a place (not a word) where the fun never ends!

Harrah’s Resort SoCal is putting the sizzling heat back into summer (and beyond) with a fun checklist that’ll have you shopping for bikinis and Bermuda shorts in no time. Get ready to play, plunge, partake and party with this season’s passport to fun!

Rock out to your favorite bands…almost with Tribute Nights.

ESCAPE

#HarrahsSoCal

YOUR CHECKLIST TO FUN

40

41

Grab an inflatable unicorn at Dive during FLOATAPALOOZA the last Saturday of every month.

DJs at Dive.

LATIN THURSDAYS

WINE DOWN AT CORKED It’s time to unwind at Corked—the best spot in town to sample local vintages. Join us every Wednesday from 5pm – 7pm to sip on a flight, or your favorite glass. Even if you can’t make it on Wednesdays Corked is the place to sip on highend wines every night.

TRIVIA NIGHT

Who says the Lazy River is just for kids? This

Thursdays with dance instruction and live

spin poolside every Saturday and Sunday

summer, adults can float away their cares every

music at the Courtside Sports Bar. Come feel

from Noon – 5pm. While you work on that

Monday through Wednesday from 7pm – 10pm

the rhythm with beginner lessons at 7pm, and

summer glow (and margarita), master mixers

this summer. Drift through waterfalls, grottos,

then put those moves to work with live music.

drop top 40s, hip-hop and other beats at the

twists and turns—then park your inner tube for

If you’ve ever wanted an excuse to get “steamy”

pool complex. Float down the Lazy River, or

a lap around the Swim-up Bar.

with the Salsa and Bachata—now’s your chance!

relax like a rock star by reserving a daybed or

To keep the mid-week fun going, Corked also

In case you haven’t noticed, the city of Funner

offers a way to test your brainpower every

loves tribute bands. Every Friday, Harrah’s

Wednesday from 7pm – 9pm. Here you can sip

Resort SoCal has a stellar line up of live tribute

a full-bodied red with a side of trivia. Because

bands in honor of music legends, ranging from

let’s face it, who doesn’t want to throw down

The Beatles to U2. Talent hits the stage at 9pm in

random bits of information while glassy-eyed

the Courtside Sports Bar.

and feeling overly confident? Come test your who’s boss. The game is free and the bragging

FLOATAPALOOZA

rights are priceless.

Grab an inf latable unicorn and bob in the

Movie Under The Stars.

pool at Dive! This day club is part of an aqua

GET CRAFTY

(sort of) looks like art, but feels like fun! Create

up and get star str uck with the one you love

Van Gogh’s got nothing on you because you’ve

outside your comfort zone from 4pm – 5:30pm

( just check your teeth for popcorn). Curl

got stencils, wine and pizzazz. Discover your

on the second Saturday of every month.

up in the Courtyard at the outdoor movie

inner

artist

with

monthly

wine-and-craft

venue and watch favor ite blockbuster hits

events that range from watercolor painting to

MOVIE UNDER THE STARS

pen-and-ink magic. This is one art class where

Lights. Camera. Action! It’s show time at

you’re encouraged to color outside the lines. It

Harrah’s Resort SoCal where you can snuggle ESCAPE

from 8pm – 10pm. Snacks and dr inks will be available for purchase to enhance your exper ience.

ADULT SWIM

Come make a splash at Dive where live DJs

TRIBUTE NIGHT

knowledge, win some prizes and show ’em

DJS AT DIVE

For something hot hot hot, check out Latin

paradise complete with VIP cabanas and SoCal’s only Swim-up Bar. Hop on a “f loatie” (cute and creative ones available for sale at The Dive Shop!) and soak up some rays the last Saturday of every month. It’s Funner’s coolest spot where you can work on that summer tan

private cabana in advance.

REGGAE SUNDAYS One love, one fun! Good vibes come to Dive every

DIVE AFTER DARK Things heat up when the sun goes down at Dive.

Dance the night away every Friday and Saturday from 8pm – Midnight as the resident DJ spins poolside. Definitely one of Harrah’s Resort SoCal’s most popular “after dark” summertime shindigs.

COWBOY BOOTS & SWIMSUITS Summer at Dive just got hotter! Every Thursday strut your stuff in boots and bikinis with featured country acts like Diamond Rio, Devin Dawson, CAM and Anderson East. Plus play poolside games, enjoy drink specials and even try out the floating bull. Get tickets and complete info at Ticketmaster.com.

and feel like a kid again.

#Funner

Sunday from Noon to 5pm with DJs taking us back to the roots of reggae. Mellow out poolside with cocktails and music all summer long. On Sundays you can party after the sun goes down with special guests Tarrus Riley and Toots and the Maytals. Tickets and info available at Ticketmaster.com.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON RESORT ACTIVITIES AND SHOWS INCLUDING TICKET PRICES AND AVAILABILITY, PLEASE VISIT HARRAHSSOCAL.COM/EVENTS

11,000 SQUARE FEET OF PRISTINE RELAXATION With salt baths, a barber shop and a full-service salon The Spa at Harrah’s has raised the ante on relaxation. Say cheers with a champagne split as you get an up-do or sip a Manhattan during a manscaping session. Don’t worry, our complete menu of massages and facials will keep you looking and feeling refreshed.

Call to make your reservation today at 760 -751-7709.

FEATURED ARTIST

44

45

JEAN WELLS

Words by Aaron Schmidt Photos by Zach Cordner

“You get kind of hooked on everyday items and then you want to make them stand out by making them special and different”—Jean Wells

Wells' "Traveling Tree"

If you’ve checked in to Harrah’s Resort SoCal lately, then you’ve seen something special sparkling in the Resort Lobby. The glittering mosaic slot machine on display is a unique design by local artist Jean Wells.

Originally from the Pacific Northwest, Wells is a San Diego contemporary mosaic sculptor whose work has been featured in solo art shows around the world.

Her fun designs include Pop Art mosaic sculptures of regular household items, and her bright, flashy style was a perfect fit for Funner, CA.

my family, I’d say Andy Warhol, Wayne Thiebaud,

be outside all the time and withstand any kind

and grandfather, and then also studying Andy

machine before, so they invited me out to the

Jeff Koons and a lot of Pop Art. I went from

of weather. It’s been in 120-degree heat in Santa

Warhol and some the other Pop Artists who are

Resort. I was just overwhelmed by the casino—

working with my dad on traditional-style art for

Fe and sleet and snow in Chicago. I also did a taxi

graphic designers, too. You get kind of hooked on

with all the flash and sparkle I knew I was where

churches to incorporating my mosaic glass art

that was also featured at OMA. Lifesavers candy

everyday items and then you want to make them

I belonged. I mean, there’s a food truck coming

with Pop Art. It was just a perfect crossover.

motivated me to do that sculpture. Why don’t we

stand out by making them special and different.

out of the wall on the way to the pool area! I’d

WHAT’S THE LARGEST MOSAIC SCULPTURE YOU’VE DONE?

WHERE DID YOU GROW UP AND

really started getting involved more with mosaic

My largest sculptures are about 18 feet tall.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO ART?

art around 2010.

One is a Hershey Kiss and it was featured at the Oceanside Museum of Art. In fact, it smells like

I grew up in Seattle, Washington. I’m a third-

can’t we have something fun? I also did a Jenga

HOW OFTEN DO YOU USE “FOUND” ITEMS FOR

sculpture that’s around 10-feet tall. Everything

YOUR MOSAICS?

very inspired. It’s an older, antique-type slot ma-

is “monumental.”

I use found objects about 20 percent of the time.

chine and then I just added all the excitement,

I once bought an old airplane from an aviation

flash and color. It took me about 10 months to

WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR INSPIRATION TO DO

junkyard. My plan was to create a 21st Century-

complete it. It’s very labor intensive, as all the

YOUR POP ART-STYLE MOSAICS OF EVERYDAY

style Noah’s Ark with all the animals coming

glass tiles in my mosaics are hand cut—I slice

HOUSEHOLD ITEMS?

down off the wing. When the economy crashed

my fingers up all the time. It was such a won-

There’re three factors that drive my art. When I

in 2008, I had to get rid of it because it just sat

derful project to do—probably one of my most

graduated from college, I was a graphic designer

in our yard for a while. Just like people have old

favorites.

junky cars in their front yard, we had a plane.

generation mosaic artist and all my family lived

DO YOU DABBLE IN ANY OTHER

chocolate on the inside. Four couples got married

in Seattle. I started doing mosaic art when I

KIND OF MEDIA?

using that Hershey Kiss, too, I might add. I also

was in my teens. I got into it because of my dad.

I’ve gone through some painting and ceramic

did a tree sculpture that is 17 and-a-half feet tall

He did a large mosaic for the Greek Orthodox

phases, but I usually go back to my mosaic art

and 11 feet across. It’s been my “Traveling Tree.”

so I was working with everyday items helping to

Church and so he’d have me help him by giving

roots. I’ve always been an artist.

It’s been featured in front of OMA’s building, at

advertising them. I had to make money because

the San Diego Convention Center, La Jolla and

me wood squares to work on. I was his assistant.

have that at my house if I could.

have Lifesavers hubcaps or donut hubcaps—why

you just can’t expect to start selling sculptures

WHAT WAS YOUR INSPIRATION FOR THE SLOT

My grandfather was a mosaic artist as well. We

WHO ARE SOME OF YOUR MAIN INFLUENCES?

then it went to other cities like Chicago and

right out of college—you’ve got to put food on the

MACHINE MOSAIC?

have so many artists in our family. Even before I

My father, grandfather, my uncle and my aunt

Sante Fe New Mexico. I used exterior building

table. So there was the crossover of that. Then

I was approached to do a custom order for

went to kindergarten we were doing art as kids. I

were some of my earliest influences. Outside of

materials from high-rises to create it, so it can

there’s my early mosaic training from my father

Harrah’s Resort SoCal, and I’d never done a slot

ESCAPE

#Funner

Once I was in this environment, I became

TO SEE MORE OF WELLS’ MOSAIC ARTWORK, PLEASE VISIT HER WEBSITE WELLSART.COM

46

WIN A PAY DAY FROM THE MAYOR OF FUNNER, CA! Words by Brian Luna Photos by Christopher Donez

Kathy Ice, February

Tracey Blix, March

SO YOU NEED SOME TRAVEL MONEY to visit Funner,

presence within Funner and guests associate him

any Promotions kiosk between 6am and 10:30pm

California? Harrah’s Resort SoCal will do you one

with our brand. He was here on New Year’s Eve

on drawing day and all of those tier credits you’ve

better and give you a chance to win money from

2017 to award and present our Millionaire Winner

earned will go towards the hourly drawings.

the Mayor of Funner California. Mayor’s Millions

with their check and the guests went wild! It

The fun kicks off at noon with one lucky

is here and with it comes the chance to go home

seemed almost natural to bring together our fun

winner collecting $5,000 in FREE play. An

$50,000 richer each month and $100,000 richer in

successful promotion of Year of the Millionaire

additional $1,000 in free play will be given to 5

June and December!

with our even Funner Mayor.”

winners every hour from 1pm to 10pm. If you’re

What a nice mayor Funner, CA has! Similar

Play your favorite game, rack up Tier

lucky enough to snag a cool $1,000 in free play then

to the popular Year of the Millionaire giveaway,

Credits, win a boatload of cash and have a

here’s a tip: play more! The earning period for the

Mayor’s Millions takes the best of Year of the

Funner time doing it. Sounds like a Funner deal,

$50,000 grand prize closes 30 minutes before the

Millionaire and serves it to you every month.

huh? Harrah’s Resort SoCal definitely thinks so.

11pm drawing. So rack up more of those entries

It’s a bankroll of over $3 million dollars in

Here’s how it works.

and give yourself a leg up on bringing home the big one.

cash and prizes given out over the course of

An earning period is announced each month

the year. “After 5 amazingly successful years

and with it are the dates to accumulate tier credits

Mayor’s Millions gives away $50,000 to

of Year of the Millionaire, we decided to put a

for the monthly $50,000 drawing. If you’re not sure

one lucky winner on the last Saturday of each

‘Funner’ twist on the program and expand the

about the earning period dates then be sure pay a

month and ten lucky winners will win $100,000

opportunity to give more guests a chance to win

visit to the Promotions Center. Every Tier Credit

each in June and December! Be sure not to miss

throughout the year.

earned between 6am on the first of each month

those dates.

So now in 2018, we will have 20 guests that

and 10:30pm on the last Saturday of each month

Do you have that winning pose ready? Good.

will win $100K, plus our monthly winners of

earn an additional entry. The last Saturday of each

You’ll need to strut your stuff for the winning

$50K cash!” says Events and Promotions Manager

month is when all of that hard work and serious

photo with your enormous check… and maybe

Melissa Fry. “Hasselhoff has become an iconic

gaming pays off. Swipe your Total Rewards card at

the Mayor himself!

Jack Williams, January

Mary Gie Gilbert, April

ESCAPE

FILL YOUR SUITCASE WITH STYLE We’ve packed in your favorites so you don’t have to. It’s ok if you “forgot” something. Bazaar has what you need to look great from the dining table to the craps table.

Michael Kors Brighton Tommy Bahama Brixton Nixon Volcom

CODEGREEN

48

ON A MISSION TO HELP THE PLANET

SHANNON GAVIN

Words by Jace Gardenier Photos by Brian Luna

WHAT’S COOKING? Delicious dining experiences are a mainstay at Harrah’s Resort SoCal. And so is saving the planet. So it makes perfect sense to bring the two together! From filling you up to cleaning your plate—and everything in between—Harrah’s Resort SoCal has come up some unique ways to go green in the kitchen.

When you think of Harrah’s Resort SoCal, what color comes to mind?

Purple, you say? We thought you’d say that. But what you might not know is that underneath all of this purple, you’ll find a heart of green!

Through its CodeGreen program, Harrah’s Resort SoCal (and its parent company Caesars Entertainment), have aimed to bring about real solutions to the environmental problems facing the planet today. As new issues arise, the CodeGreen solutions grow and expand, offering new branches containing innovative ways to help continue to care for Mother Earth.

You’ve heard the saying, “Nothing goes to waste,” but with CodeGreen in the kitchen Harrah’s Resort SoCal really means it. Scraps of food and leftovers are kept out of the landfills and

Specialty Chef Jason Luke approving local produce.

instead are fed into a hungry Biodigester. This fancy machine naturally processes up to one ton of food in a 24-hour cycle. The end result is liquid waste, which is then sent to our on-site water treatment plant where it’s treated for reuse.

A TREE IS ONLY AS STRONG AS ITS ROOTS Harrah’s Resort SoCal treats the CodeGreen program with the same love and care it’d give to any living thing, which is why the program’s foundation eco-initiatives continue to aid in the fight against on-going environmental issues.

For starter’s, Harrah’s Resort SoCal takes full advantage of the great weather in Funner, CA

THE BUZZ ABOUT BEES

Tending to our hive of VIBs.

Bees are a big deal. Did you know that honeybees

by soaking up the sunrays and turning them into clean energy. The property was the first casino in SoCal to go solar, and today, this 5.5-acre solar

pollinate 80% of crops in the U.S. each year?

field generates energy that’s used property-

And on average, humans consume 285 pounds

wide. In fact, the amount of power generated in

of honey annually? Sadly, however, 1/3 of all

2017 was enough to run 113,096 computers for

bee colonies have disappeared since 2006. To

one whole year!

help keep the bee population growing, Harrah’s

Pastry Chef Matt Lawa testing tomatoes in our garden.

The grass (or veggies in this case) is always

Resort SoCal has found a creative way to help—

greener on the other side, especially, in the

by sponsoring a special colony just down the

resort’s on-site garden. This special site provides

road in Valley Center.

yummy fresh ingredients like tomatos, herbs

Each of the resort’s five hives is home to

and peppers that zest up some favorite dishes,

40,000 - 60,000 bees! And just like the guests

while helping the planet go green in a tasty way.

who visit Funner, CA, Harrah’s Resort SoCal is

So just remember that while purple may

giving these bees the royal treatment. The top-

Harrah’s Resort SoCal signature color—green is

notch resort beekeepers keep these little buzzers

by far the most important!

happy, healthy and full of honey! Speaking of honey, buzz over to the Café or Spiked to treat

2017 CODEGREEN STATS * Harvested 597 lbs of fresh grown produce (coming to a salad near you) * Collected and recycled 6,250lbs. of electronic waste (old technology isn’t only slow… its heavy) * Generated 2.46 gWh (we don’t know what that means either, but that’s how they measure solar energy)

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ALL THE PROPERTY’S CODEGREEN EFFORTS, GET THE WHOLE STORY ONLINE AT HARRAHSSOCAL.COM/CODEGREEN

your taste buds to some Harrah’s Resort SoCal honey in select menu items.

ESCAPE

* Recycled 315 tons of various materials (Renew. Re-use. Recycle. Duh!)

SHOP

50

David Hasselhoff @DavidHasselhoff Come get lazy with me on the Lazy River!! We all need a break @HarrahsSoCal #Funner #HARRAHSSOCAL

Bruce Buffer @brucebuffer IT’S TIME! to KO me for your shot at the title! Come play poker against me TODAY at @HarrahsSoCal @UltimatePoker @ufc

RETAIL THERAPY POOLSIDE AT THE DIVE SHOP Words by Elizabeth Schwartze Photos by Zach Cornder

Farmers Ins Open @FarmersInsOpen There are no “Quiet” signs at this party. @HarrahsSoCal

Dane Cook @DaneCook I’m just hearing about this ;) @HarrahsSoCal

A picture perfect way to spend a warm Funner, CA day is poolside at Dive.

Whether it’s the award-winning Main Pool, SoCal’s only Swim-up Bar or the 400ft Lazy River, Harrah’s Resort SoCal offers crystal-clear water, supurb suning spots and essential relaxation options.

While you’re enjoying the pristine waters, why not stop by The Dive Shop?

Located adjacent to the Lazy River, The Dive Shop offers everything from pool toys, sun hats and snacks to other sunning essentials.

Ron White @Ron_White A little Sat pool time w @HarrahsSoCal. The weekend is here kids!

Price Is Right Live @TPIRLIVE Great to be back at @HarrahsSoCal. One of our favorite casinos.

Your guest host this weekend is #JerrySpringer

The Romantics @romanticsrock Check, one two! @HarrahsSoCal

The Dive Shop has everything you need to have fun in the sun.

FLOAT YOUR WAY TO FUN

King Mo @KingMoFH @HarrahsSoCal is my new spot! #HarrahsSoCal

SEE WHAT THE HYPE IS ALL ABOUT. @HarrahsSoCal

Add a little extra fun to your day in the sun with a variety of unusual pool floats. “Our goal is to Nick Hardwick @hardwina @HarrahsSoCal has got it going on! This place will be packed. Line up is huge!

find the ‘must-have’ and exclusive pool floats of the season with a new selection each year,” said

Nick Swardson @NickSwardson Tonight me and the boys @AdamSandler @DavidSpade @RobSchneider are at @HarrahsSoCal JOIN US!

Retail Manager Bonnie Quintero. “This season we anticipate the unicorn pool float to be the Patti Stanger @pattistanger Thx @HarrahsSoCal for an amazing time! #Peprally for your staff was so much fun. Love you!

most popular accessory in the pool. Our product is super fun and our guests are even Funner!”

Donuts, flamingos and rubber duckies are just the start to what’s available for purchase.

And you can give your lungs a break—a teammate at The Dive Shop will inflate any float for you when you buy it, so don’t hesitate to ask.

EYES ON THE ESSENTIALS

SUN CARE WITH SUN BUM

George Lopez @georgelopez #SoCal #Chingons, catch me at the @HarrahsSoCal this Friday!

The Dive Shop is fully stocked to supply the coverage you need from a collection of Sun Bum

Matt Iseman @mattiseman Riding around the city with @Uber_LA giving free UberPool rides from @HarrahsSoCal #SantaInANissan

Smashburger @Smashburger Delicious burgers smashed to order! @Smashburger @HarrahsSoCal

products. In fact, this local suncare company is the exclusive sunscreen provider for Harrah’s

Poolside necessities available for the whole

Resort

family include sun hats, towels, wraps, Tropix

established in 2015. Each product is crafted using

flip-flops and a wide-variety of pool toys for all

only the finest ingredients and made in the USA.

Southern

California,

a

ages. Convenience items such as swim diapers,

“It was a no-brainer to partner with

eye drops, hairbrushes and bug spray also fill the

Harrah’s Resort SoCal because of our similar

racks. Hungry? There are tasty snacks, ice cream

philosophies—work less, live more,” said Sun

and popsicles ready to fill you up or cool you off!

Bum’s Senior Sales Executive Phil Demangone.

Family-friendly, cold, non-alcoholic beverages

“It’s a great way to get the Vegas experience

are also chilling in the cooler.

without leaving the county, and is a mutually

And if reading is your ideal pool-time

beneficial partnership because their success

past-time, The Dive Shop is stocked with

is our success. We want to make sure they’re

books and magazines from the informative to

happy by providing the right sun care products

the imaginative.

for their guests.”

ESCAPE

Heart @officialheart @HarrahsSoCal we had a blast!!! #HarrahsSoCal #MusicEqualsLoveTour

partnership

Billy Idol @BillyIdol See u at @HarrahsSoCal

HOP IN AND SHOP Ready to take the plunge? The Dive Shop takes all forms of payment, including Total Rewards ® Credit. So feel free to “forget” to pack some of

Jimi Hendrix @JimiHendrix Don’t miss tonight’s all-star @JimiHendrix #concert at @HarrahsSoCal.

Urijah Faber @UrijahFaber San Diego Scrappers! Excited 2 c what the future of #MMA has to offer at @HarrahsSoCal tonight! #FSLeague

your favorite poolside playthings. So feel free to “forget” to pack some of your favorite poolside playthings.

DIVE SHOP IS OPEN DAILY FROM 10AM TO 6PM MARCH – SEPTEMBER.

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. ©2018, Caesars License Company, LLC. All rights reserved.

GIVE BACK

52

53

TEAMMATES ARE BECOMING MODEL CITIZENS Words by Elizabeth Schwartze Photos by Christopher Donez

“In its inaugural year, Environmental Services Supervisor, Yesenia Guzman, was the lucky grand prize winner. She donated a total of 59 hours of her time!”

Can we get a ride? Harrah’s Resort So Cal executive team and EVS teammates congratulate Yesenia Guzman for her Model Citizen win.

Yesenia Guzman and her brand-new 2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.

COMMUNITY SERVICE DOESN’T JUST MEAN SERVING

work puts them in the running to win the grand

(environmental

volunteerism,

and American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life.

every Model Citizen participant has an equal and

didn’t win the car.” Guzman chose a 2018 Toyota

the community, it means acting as a good

prize at the end of the competition. In 2017, that

responsible gaming and employee well being). The

Other charities that are favored by the passion

fair chance to win.

RAV4 Hybrid to help with her commute. With

citizen to grow, contribute and celebrate with

grand prize was a new car!

program—open to all non-management employees

of teammates include ONF for Autism, Rady’s

sustainability,

In

its

inaugural

year,

Environmental

such a worthwhile experience, Guzman and her

family, friends, neighbors and co-workers. To

This year, to spread the love even further,

over the age of 18—has taken off and even created

Children’s Hospital and the Helen Woodward

Services Supervisor, Yesenia Guzman, was the

family have already participated in activities

encourage good community stewardship, while

four grand prizes will be awarded when the

some friendly competition. Approximately 702

Animal Center.

lucky grand prize winner. She donated a total of

toward this year’s Model Citizen Program.

establishing healthy habits for the team Harrah’s

competition

30,

employees—around 50-percent of the staff—

Entries into the Model Citizen program

59 hours of her time! Guzman said she embraced

Resort Southern California kicked off the Funner,

2018. The Model Citizens will be announced in

have participated. This equates to roughly 9,700

are calculated by utilizing electronic entries

the Model Citizen program and volunteering

teammates are racking up volunteer hours and

CA Model Citizen Program in 2017. This unique

December at Harrah’s Resort SoCal’s annual

total volunteer hours donated by Harrah’s Resort

for

because, “it was an excellent way to spend time

Sebastian is proud of the favorable outcome the

reward system encourage teammates to live a

holiday party and those four lucky winners

SoCal employees in the first year.

employee will receive five electronic entries for

with my three children.”

program has produced in such a short amount

positive life.

will each receive a $5,000 “design-your-own-

Teammates can choose to volunteer their

participating in a company-sanctioned event,

The Guzman family’s favorite event to date

of time: “The Model Citizen Program is a way for

How does one become a Model Citizen? It’s

vacation” package, plus the PTO time to enjoy it!

time at a variety of ways. “It’s important that

like monthly Meals On Wheels deliveries or

was A Walk To Cure Arthritis at Waterfront Park

Harrah’s Resort Southern California to recognize

easy. Every time a teammate volunteers their

The Model Citizen Program is the creation of

we support individual efforts to stimulate

Harrah’s Resort SoCal sponsored beach clean-

in San Diego. With heartfelt honesty, Guzman

and reward our teammates’ efforts to improve

time or makes a donation in the community,

Corporate

Citizenship

volunteerism,” said Sebastian. Some of the

ups. After a teammate attends the event, they fill

said, “I actually didn’t do it to win the car. I did

both the community in which we live and work,

engages in a company-sponsored wellness event,

Manager

Sheryl

volunteer

by

out documentation, submit it to Sebastian and

it to spend time with my kids. I’m a single mom

andtheir own personal well-being.”

or participates in earth-friendly CodeGreen

Sebastian, the purpose of the program is to

Harrah’s Resort SoCal and support well-known

their allotted entries are entered into a computer.

and it’s an opportunity to spend quality time

conservation efforts, they can earn entries to

increase employee and guest awareness of

local causes and events, such as I Love A Clean

The computer designates the five quarterly

with my family and show them diversity in the

win exciting quarterly prizes. Plus their good

Harrah’s

San Diego, Toys for Tots, Race for the Cure

winners and the grand prize winners—ensuring

community. would do it all over again, even if I

culminates

Resort

on

and

Sebastian.

SoCal

November

Communications According

citizenship

ESCAPE

to

activities

opportunities

are

organized

different

activities.

For

example,

an

#Funner

With

the

second

year

in

full-swing,

GUIDE GUIDE TOYOUR FUN TO FUN ATM Machine(s) ATM Machine(s) Bars Bars Cell Phone Charger Cell Phone Charger Courtyard Courtyard Diamond Lounge Diamond Lounge Elevator Lobby (EL) ElevatorTheLobby Events(EL) Center The Events Center Gaming GamingGaming (Non-Smoking) GamingHotel (Non-Smoking) Hotel Services Nature Phone Trail (Hotel Operator) (Hotel Operator) Phone Restaurants Resort Restrooms Rooms Shops Resort Retail Services Nature Trail Restrooms Restaurants Retail Shops

RESORT REGISTRATION

AVAILABLE AT HARRAH’S RESORT SOCAL