October 2014

Page 1

I nside

Gaming•Entertainment•Travel www.arizonaplayer.com

this I ssue Casino Entertainment Card Room Action Statewide Ladies State Poker Champion Crowned Reel Reviews: New Slots Coming Soon! New Slot Director at T-Stick & Casino AZ $500,000 Pai-Gow Jackpot Winner at VQ Vol. 22 No. 10 • October 2014




WWW.ARIZONAPLAYER.COM

Contents

Gaming•Entertainment•Travel PO Box 33393 • Phoenix Arizona 85067 • 602-373-8728 • azplayer@cox.net Editor Phil Scudella Production Assistants John Olson Graphic Design CommuniGraphics

Contributing Photography Kevin Cummings Melody Hudson David Ramsey Satara Williams Shanna Wolfe

Special Thanks to: Everyone at St. Joseph’s Health & Wealth Raffle and the staff at R & R Partners for their help on this October issue – We urge readers to support this great cause. Play to Win & Play to Heal”

Contributing Writers Linda Boyd Kevin Cummings Cindy Esquer Victoria Gundersen Melody Hudson TJ Jorgensen David Ramsey Satara Williams Shanna Wolfe

The Arizona Player is published the first weekend of each month. All claims or guarantees are the sole responsibility of the advertiser. All comments and views of contributing writers are their own and do not reflect official policy of the Arizona Player which assumes no liability for any advertisement not supplied camera ready by the advertiser. Reproduction or use in whole or in part without written consent from the publisher and Copyright owners is prohibited.

4 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2014

Vol. 22 No. 10 • October 2014

Gaming News Ladies State Poker Champion Crowned

6

Cover Story "Fall Health & Wealth Raffle Can Make You a Millionaire"

8

TJ's Blackjack Corner TJ Jorgensen “Continuous Shuffle Machine”

10

Boyd’s Eye View of Video Poker Linda Boyd “The Grapevine Part 1”

12

AZ Lottery News “Fantasy Come True & “1,000,000 Powerball 2nd Prize Winner” 13 Card Room Action Table Game Action Around the State

14

Gaming News “T-Stick/CA’s New Slot Director & “New Café at The Diamond”

18

Contest Page “Triple Diamond Slot Winner & New Surprise Casino Getaways”

20

Gaming News “Pai-Gow $500,000 Winner at VQ!”

22

Entertainment Casino Entertainment State-wide

24

REEL REVIEWS/TRAVEL "G2E Show in Vegas showcases newest Slots" 26 David at the Snack Bar David Ramsey "Movie & DVD Reviews"

28

Bingo Directory Complete List of Bingo Games at all Arizona Casinos

29

Jokes of the Month, Astrology, & Casino Directory

30



gaming news 2014 LADIES STATE POKER CHAMPION CROWNED By Satara Williams Over the weekend of September 13-14, and with the finals on Monday September 15th, Talking Stick Resort hosted its 9th annual Arizona State Ladies Poker Championship in the ARENA Poker Room at Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale. Nearly 200 women participated in the three-day competition, vying for the grand title and a share of the $50,760 prize pool. Kathi Gatelis of Scottsdale was the winner, claiming the $12,690 cash prize in less than seven hours on Sept. 15. “This year, 188 women entered the 2014 tournament which proves that poker is growing in popularity among both men and women,” said Tom Young, director of poker at Talking Stick Resort. “Ladies of every skill level took part in the tournament at Talking Stick Resort and the level of talent this year far surpassed previous years. We’re proud to host a tournament of this caliber and happy to see women taking part in the gaming industry.” The finals on Monday featured various twists and surprise plays as 38 women battled it out for the title. After a grueling six hours, Gatelis beat out her opponent, Judy Alto, and was named the 2014 champion. “I play in this competition every year and came in seventh place in 2013,” said Gatelis, who won the championship with pocket queens. “But this morning, I woke up and said ‘I’m going to take it.’ I picked my spots correctly, analyzed where I was supposed to be and it paid off in the end.” According to Gatelis, the earnings will go toward her bankroll and help her compete in future poker competitions. A personal trainer by day, Gatelis said her sights are set on reaching pro status. “I play the events in Vegas because I

6 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2014

truly want to be a professional poker player,” she said. “Also a big priority for me is giving back to my community, charity is really important to me so this is going to be a win-win for everybody.” In addition to the generous payout, she also won a trophy and customized bracelet created by distinguished Scottsdale jeweler, Scott Gauthier of Jewelry by Gauthier. With more than a half-carat of rubies and a half-carat of black diamonds, the bracelet is an exceptional piece. Second place was secured by Alto who won by doubling up with pocket 10s. She also received a customized trophy as well as a cash prize of $9,137. “I’m a regular at Talking Stick Resort so I came into this game with a mission to play smart and play aggressive,” Alto, who moved to Scottsdale in May, said. “I’m proud to come in second place but I’m very competitive, so I would have loved to have that club on the river against her hand.” All top 20 players received payouts of more than $550 each. So they all made almost double their entry fee The final table also included these ladies who fought for the title and came in 3rd - 10th with their earnings; $ 3 Judy Breedlove $5,076 7 Xia Kercheval 2,538 4 Robin Kaufman $4,568 8 Sandra Gibides $2,030 $ 5 Barbara Olson 9 Barbara Holloman $1,523 3,553 $ 6 Stephanie Nolan $3,046 10 Judy Hubbard 1,015 Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale is located just east of the Loop 101 on Indian Bend Road. Talking Stick is a AAA Four Diamond Rated Resort with 496 deluxe rooms, 11 restaurants and lounges, world-class spa, 650-seat showroom, 25,000 sq. ft. grand ballroom, thriving cultural center and more than 100,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor meeting space.



Cover story



TJ’s Blackjack corner “

Constant Shuffle Machine.. Should You Play?

am asked quite often if I would advise playing at a Blackjack Table that uses a constant shuffle machine. Here are some facts and I will let you decide. The constant shuffle machine has no down time for the shuffle so you will get more hands per hour than a six deck shoe game. But if you’re a basic strategy player with a - .057% disadvantage that means you will lose more per hour on average. There are some interesting facts on the constant shuffle machine vs a six deck shoe. The dealer will make more hands by .01% when showing a 2-6 up, and will break .01% more when showing a 7-Ace. The play on a constant shuffle machine is more consistent due to the fact that the cards tend to be completely random. Six decks of cards need to be shuffled approximately 180 times to be completely randomized. Most casinos that use “constant shuffle” machines use the “Shuffle Master One 2 Six Machine”. So how does the machine work? The machine is capable of handling up to six decks of cards. It’s intended to keep the cards in circulation continuously – but that’s not how it works. For example; at a six player blackjack table the number of cards needed for the first hand would be 14. So the Dealer starts with 14 cards in the chute. As the hand is played out the dealer puts the cards in the discard holder. At the end of the hand the dealer takes all the cards that were played and puts them into the machines feeder where they are pulled back into the shuffler. It is impossible for the cards that the dealer uses on each consecutive round to be the same cards that were just played. That’s because the cards have to go through 3 stages inside the machine. Stage one: Cards that were just used are placed into the feeder. Stage two: The random distribution of the cards into the carousel Stage three: the cards appear in the chute ready to be dealt. This is where the machine has a minor flaw which makes the term “Continuous Shuffler” a misnomer from a technical point of view. by TJ Jorgensen

10 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2014

The chute at the front of the machine is where the cards are spit out randomly from the carousel. So the moment when the dealer places the cards from the discard tray into the feeder, the cards for the upcoming hand are already in the chute, and no longer in the carousel. So in theory if a player had a way of knowing which cards are in the chute, the machine would become worthless. This is one of the ways that advantage players try to beat this machine. If the cards that were just used in a hand cannot possibly be dealt in the upcoming round, the player has a piece of information to work with, because actually the machine is really not a continuous shuffler. How much of an advantage can you get? Not as much of an edge as a player can get with a deep penetration card on a six deck shoe. So here is a little tip. If you decide to play a table with one of these machines and notice a round where not a single ace or ten were dealt, the cards for the upcoming hand will tend to be a little more likely to include tens and aces – Not much of an edge, but worth noting. T.J. Jorgensen has been a professional Blackjack player for over 20 years. He is well known for his live tournament play and has competed against, and beaten, some of the top tournament players in the world. He also has won the prestigious World Series of Blackjack. His book, “Beating the Casino at Their Own Game,” is available by e-mail: tj21pro@gmail.com



A BOYD’S EYE VIEW OF VIDEO POKER

I

The Grapevine: Part I

’ve learned to keep my ears peeled for snippets of information from by locals, especially if I’m Linda Boyd an out-of-towner. They seem to know where the best video poker (VP) plays are (sometimes staff has changed VP game locations or they have disappeared altogether) and the skinny on the best promotions available. But should I believe all that I hear from other patrons? Of course not - In fact the number of times you hear something through the grapevine has no relationship whatsoever to the odds that it’s correct. Here is part I of a two-part series dealing with recent grapevine issues that are misunderstood by some VP players. Acting on incorrect information can cost you money. Question: I’ve heard that you should avoid playing with a slot card because it diminishes your odds of winning. Is this true? Not only is this oft-repeated statement false but, also, it’s damaging to your bottom line. That’s because you rack up benefits by using your card. Before listing the benefits you are throwing away I can tell you that 100% or no way in the world is there a mechanical connection between the device’s RNG (random number generator) and the apparatus housing the slot club card. Cash for Points: You are literally throwing money in the garbage can if you play without a card in a casino that gives either cash or free play for your slot points. Frequent VP players that refuse to use a card are burning money every session.

12 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2014

Bounceback Cash: You’ll receive this in mailers to get you to come to the casino since it has to be redeemed in person. If you’re not using a card then you’ll get zero bounceback cash for your efforts. Promotional Equity: Most casinos have gone to virtual tickets for drawings and the number you receive will depend on your “coin-in” or the amount of money you run through their slots and VP devices. Of course the more entries the better your odds of winning something in their promotional events. Card Level: Nowadays many casinos are using a color-coded slot club system; the higher the level, the better your perks. Some houses give multiple points, special privileges, like line passes, comped food, show tickets, comped rooms and access to VIP lounges to those with the highest level. You may feel slighted if you’re a frequent player but have never been given any of these things. You should blame yourself, not the casino, if you’re playing without a card. IRS: One of the most compelling reasons to insert a player’s card is that both the Federal government and the state of Arizona allow you to write off your losses against your winnings. Without a crystal ball so you can’t possibly know how many W-2G’s you’ll receive in a calendar year. If you’re not using a card then the casino can’t possibly provide you with a win/loss statement should you hit a big jackpot. You’ll just have to bite the bullet and pay more taxes, both state and federal, than you owe.

Final Thoughts: Not too long ago an acquaintance was complaining that he plays all the time and for hours but never gets invited to “special events” for frequent players. I pointed out that he refuses to use a card during play because he thinks it keeps him from winning. He persisted by saying they see me here all the time and know who I am so they should include him. I bit my lip and didn’t say what I was really thinking. If he truly believes the casino cheats by controlling the VP and slot devices through the player’s cards they issue, then why would he even want to do business with them? The truth is, even if they wanted to control your device from a remote area off the casino floor, the technology doesn’t exist to do so. If the casino is wired for changing the pay schedule or the game from a remote area they can do that (this casino does not have the wiring) but they can’t change the cards dealt or drawn. So go ahead and play without a slot card if you’re really mad at your money, but don’t say you win more that way. You have no way of knowing what would have happened if you had a card inserted (the micro-second in which the button is hit determines your cards) and I hope nobody really believes that they can control dealt hands through mental telepathy. Linda Boyd ,a long-time table game player before turning to video poker, also writes for “Southern Gaming and “Midwest Gaming and Travel” her book, “The Video Poker Edge”, includes free removable pay schedules and strategy cards for the most popular games. See her story in current editions of “American Casino Guide” (ACG) and her YouTube videos, also with ACG. Her radio shows with Southern Gaming will soon be available on iTunes. The Second Edition of her book is available in both paperback and kindle. Available at amazon.com - bookstores or Square One Publishers. www.squareonepublishers.com Toll Free: 877-900-BOOK


lottery news Go West – A Fantasy comes true

Peoria Couple Claims $1 Million Powerball 2nd Prize

Wanda Eagleton plays Fantasy 5 daily. Each time she plays, she randomly chooses a set of numbers. The morning of July 10, Wanda checked her numbers online. When she got over the shock of seeing five matching numbers, she checked them again. Then she went to find her husband to have him also check the ticket. When she told him she thought they’d won, he said, “Are you kidding?” Once they both realized that the ticket was real, Wanda signed the back of it. They were so excited about winning that they drove right down to the Lottery later in the morning to collect their $133,000. Although they now live in Glendale and have lived in the valley since 1976, the Eagleton’s originally resided in Vermont. They’ve considered moving back to be with family, but don’t want to give up Arizona’s beautiful climate. Wanda also plays Fantasy 5, The Pick, and Pick 3 on a regular basis and occasionally plays Powerball when the jackpot is high. One thing Wanda always does is checks her numbers the day after the drawings – that way she never has to worry about misplacing the ticket. She also has her own system for choosing her Lottery numbers. Wanda and her husband have not had time to decide what they are going to do with the money. For now, they’re going to put it in the bank. The lucky ticket was purchased at BJ’s Auto Spa on west Bell Road in Glendale.

On September 22, the Arizona Lottery announced that the $1 million Powerball second prize winning ticket for the draw on Wednesday, September 17, has been claimed. A couple from Peoria, who wishes to remain anonymous, purchased the winning ticket at the QuikTrip located at 9020 N. 91st Avenue in Peoria. The winning ticket matched five out of five numbers drawn, not including the Powerball. “It was great meeting the winners and presenting them with their check,” said Karen Bach, director of budget, products and communications for the Arizona Lottery. “It’s exciting that Powerball is producing more millionaires in Arizona as the jackpot continues to grow.” Players must be 21 years or older to purchase or redeem tickets. Winners have 180 days from the drawing date to claim their prize at an Arizona Lottery office or by mail. Overall odds vary by game. All sales are final. In accordance with the ADA, these materials may be made available in an alternative format. Gambling Problem? Call 1.800.NEXT STEP (1-800-639-8783) Please Play Responsibly. The Arizona Lottery operates entirely from the revenue it generates through the sale of its products; it receives no General Fund dollars from the State. Proceeds from sales of Lottery tickets – nearly $3.4 million per week fund a variety of state programs. Since July 1981, the Arizona Lottery has paid out more than $5.8 billion in prizes to players, more than $3 billion in net funding to the state and more than $686 million in commissions to retailers. Learn more at ArizonaLottery.com.

ARIZONA PLAYER October 2014 13


CARD ROOM ACTION

Apache Gold Casino 800-272-2438

Globe, AZ Dealing blackjack, and poker daily at 3pm

Arena Poker Room at Talking Stick Resort 480-850-7777

Scottsdale, AZ Mon thru Fri, 11:15 am – NLHE $70 buy-in w/ $10 s/c Mon, Thurs & Sun – NFL Football Promotion (Call for details) Mon - Thurs at 7:15pm - NLHE, $115 buy-in w/ $15 s/c Sat, Nov 8 & Dec 13 at 11:15 am – “Super Bounty” NLHE - $200 BI, $25 s/c - $100 Bounties Sat, Oct 25 & Nov 29 at 11:15 am – Last Saturday NLHE – $125 BI w/ $25 s/c Sat, Nov 1 at 11:15am – “Big Stack” NLHE – $300 BI w/$30 s/c (opt$15 dealer Add-0n) Sat, Oct 18 at 11:15 am – Turbo Bounty NLHE - $200 BI w/ $25 s/c - $100 Bounties Sun, Oct 26 at 11:15 am – Jack & Jill No-Limit Hold Em Tournaments $75 BI & 15 s/c Sun, Nov 2 at 11:15 am – Survivor Sunday NLHE $200 buy-in Sun, Oct 19 at 11:15 am – Ladies No-Limit Hold-Em Tournaments $60 BI & 15 s/c Sat, Nov 15 at 11:15 am – 12th Annual Thanksgiving Charity Championship Sat, Nov 22 at 11:15 am – 5th Annual Jack & Jill Championship Weekdays, 2am-10am “Aces Cracked” Win $ 100 rack Food Specials; $4 breakfast and $6.75 Steak & Eggs (2 am – Noon) Mondays $16 Prime Rib Dinner (5-11pm) Also dealing blackjack 24/7

Bluewater Resort & Casino 888-243-3360 Ext#7649

Parker, AZ Poker Room opens at 4pm daily except 2pm on Sun & Wed – closed on Mondays Tues at 7pm, NLHE “Bounty” Tournament $35 buy-in ($5 bounties) Thurs at 7pm, NLHE – High Hand Bounty Tournament $40 buy-in, w/ one $20 re-buy Wed, 2pm – 8pm “High Hand of the Day” pays $50 at 8 pm, plus any straight flush pays $50 Fri – 4 of a kind pays $50 & Full House pays $15

14 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2014

Sat, 5pm – “Big Stack” NLHE Tournament $100 buy-in, no re-buys Sun & Wed – Spreading 2-8 Omaha Daily-“Aces Cracked” pays $40 and Royal Flush pays $200 Also dealing blackjack daily at 9am

Bucky’s Casino 928-771-6779

Prescott, AZ Mon-Sat at 6pm - NLHE $40 Buy-in w/$10 add-on, (top 3-5 cash) top 5 earn points for Player of Month (3 places $300, $200 & $100) Mon – Fri, 10am & 2pm - NLHE Shootouts $20 entry w/$5 dealer Add-on Open Face Chinese Poker – 2, 3 or max 4 players to a table – you’re dealt 13 cards – exciting fun game! NFL Sunday Splash Pots, Now with Direct TV Sunday Package! Plus food specials during the games! also “Random Rewards” Various times and days - see poker room for pay-outs Dealing blackjack 24/7 – Now playing; 3 Card Poker, “Texas Shoot Out” and High Card Flush w/ bonus jackpot

Casino Arizona 480-850-7777

Scottsdale, AZ Blackjack Tournaments: Tues, noon $1,000 added “Break at Noon” $ 50 buy-in Fri, 2:30am - The “Great Late” Tournament, $25 buy-in Dealing blackjack 24/7

Casino Del Sol 520-838-6565

Tucson, AZ $25,000 Guest Appreciation NLHE – Nov 6 - 9 (Qualify w/ 20 hours live play by Nov 5) $50 buy-in w/20 hours or $200 Mon - Fri, 10 am - $800 Guaranteed (with 30 players) NLHE, $10 buy-in w/ $5 chip-up, plus 2 - 10 add-ons Sun & Wed, 7pm - $800 guaranteed NLHE, $15 buy-in/Opt $15 add-on Thurs, 7pm - $5,000 deep stack NLHE, $100 buy-in no re-buys Sun 11am & Tues at 7pm - $1,500 Guaranteed NLHE, $45 buy-in – no re-buys Sat, 9am – Limit Omaha Hi-Lo, $15 buy-in, $5 re-buys + $5 add-on Mon 7pm & Sat noon – $1,000 NLHE - $35

buy-in – no re-buys with opt $5 chip-up Progressive high hands 24/7 – win up to $500 – see poker room for details

Cliff Castle Casino Hotel 928-567-7952

Camp Verde, AZ Mon-Fri, 10am - NLHE Shoot-out, $30 buy-in, w/ no re-buys Wed, 7pm – NLHE Tournament $60 buy-in, no re-buys (Early bird chips available) Wed, 8pm – Mid “$100 Splash pots every hour Fri, 7pm - NLHE Shoot-outs, $ 150 added per table of 10 - $25 buy-in – re-buys thru first level Sat, Noon – $500 added – NLHE $90 buy-in (Bonus chips for early live play) Sat High Hand (4 times a day) 8am – 10pm, Win all 4 and get an additional $1,000 All Week – Royal Flush pays $100 “Aces Cracked” Sun – Fri, Win cash when pocket Aces lose Also dealing blackjack 24/7

Cocopah Casino 800-237-5687

Somerton, AZ Dealing blackjack daily at 10am

Desert Diamond Casino Hotel 520-342-1810

Tucson, AZ Mon & Thurs at 9:30 am, plus Tues & Wed at 7pm $500 added NLHE – $35 buy-in no re-buys (max 40 – 50 players) Daily – Any Royal Flush $200 Hold Em, $100 Omaha, Straight Flush $100 Hold Em, $50 Omaha Special Poker Room menu at ½ off regular prices Dealing blackjack 24/7 with new progressive side bet and 3 card poker side bet

Desert Diamond I-19 Casino 1-866-332-9467 Sahuarita, AZ Dealing blackjack 24/7

Fort McDowell Casino 480-789-4284

Fountain Hills, AZ Mon-Fri at Noon NLHE - $30 buy-in - $20 add-on - No-rebuys Sat at 7pm & Sun at Noon - NLHE Deep

Stack tournament - $50 buy-in w/ opt $30 add-on Tues, Wed, Thurs & Sun at 7pm & Sat at Noon & 4pm - NLHE - $5 buy-in Mon & Fri, 7pm, NLHE - $60 buy-in w/one $10 dealer add-on for additional $5,000 in chips Sun, Oct 19 at 10am - Ladies NLHE Poker Tournament – $60 buy-in w/ $10 dealer Appreciation “Aces Cracked” 24/7 win $100 24/7 “Aces cracked” 7:30 – 9:30 am & 3:30pm – 5:30pm $300 “Easy way Jackpot” Aces full of tens beaten by Quads or better wins Jackpot! “High Hand Spin” – with 4 of a kind or better win up to $1,198 - see poker room for details. Dealing blackjack 24/7 – Now playing FREE BET blackjack

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino 480-802-5138

Maricopa, AZ Mon – Fri at 9am to 10am – Start-Up Pay Back Special, earn money each hour you play from $10 to $25 per hour, you must be seated and playing before 10am. Max of $75 for playing first 6 hours. Tues at 7:30pm, Omaha H/L, $15 buy-in, $10 re-buys + $10 add-on Wed at 7:30pm – NL Omaha Hi, $15 buy-in w/ unlimited $10 re-buys w/ $10 add-on at the break Thurs, 7:30pm – NLHE, $10 Buy-in plus three $10 re-buys & two $10 add-ons Fri, 7:30pm – NLHE, $30 buy-in w/ one $20 re-buy Sat, 12:30pm – Deep Stack Bounty NLHE $45 buy-in, includes $10 bounty chip plus $10 dealer add-on Sun at noon – NLHE - $15 buy-in w/ two $10 add-ons at the break (Maricopa residents have FREE entry) NFL Football Splash-pots (Sunday 3 games, plus Mon & Thurs games) $50 TD, $25 FG (designated team) add $25 to each splashpot if Cardinals score College Football Splash-pots $25 (designated team) Fri & Sat- Selected games Aces Cracked - Black aces $100, Red Aces $50 & Mixed $25 (Bonus 2am-3am =3X payout, mid-2am+double)


MLB Playoff & World Series “Splash pots” Selected games – see poker room for schedule Daily splash pots (various amounts) once per hour 24/7! Also dealing blackjack 24/7 – including “Push the bet”

Hon-Dah Casino 928-369-7555

Pinetop, AZ Mon, 6pm – Monday Night Football “Splash Pots” & FREE pizza during the game Tues, 6pm - NLHE “Speed Shoot-Out” $15 buy-in (no re-buys) Wed, 6pm - NLHE, Double Stack $25 buy-in = 4,000 chips, $25 add-on = 8,000 additional chips Thurs, 6pm - No Limit Omaha Hi-Lo, $40 buy-in (no re-buys or add-ons) Fri, 6pm – NLHE – “$25 Bounty” Tournament, $45 buy-in w/$10 re-buys and $10 add-on Sat, 4pm - NLHE, $30 buy-in, $10 re-buys + $ 10 add-on Sun, 4pm, Crazy Pineapple $30 buy-in, $10 re-buys + $10 add-on Sun - Thurs – $50 Aces Cracked (Hold Em) 7pm-close Open Mon-Fri at 4pm – Sat & Sun at 2pm, also “early bird” tournament chips available daily and double on Tuesday, plus $100 (Hold Em) High Hand on Fri & Sat

Lone Butte Casino 800-946-4452

Chandler, AZ Dealing blackjack 24/7 Linked Progressive Jackpots for “Crazy 4 Poker” & ULTIMATE Texas Hold EM starts at $10,000 and keeps growing at all 3 Gila River Casinos! PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was recently hit for over $500,000!

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino 800-777-7529

Payson, AZ Live poker Wed –Sun at 10am, High Hands, win up to $250 Wed & Sun at 6pm NLHE Tournament, $50 buy-in no-re buys Sat at 3pm, NLHE Tournament, $25 buy-in – no re-buys Aces cracked “wins a rack” various times daily – Max 3 per day (see poker room for details) Dealing blackjack 10am to 1am, with $3 games daily till 3pm Mon - 6pm, Blackjack Tournament $40 buy-in w/two $25 re-buys Bonus Blackjack get a 6, 7 or 8 card “21” win up to $200

Quechan Casino Resort 1-877-783-2426

Winterhaven, CA Open Wed-Sun at 10am, and Mon, Tues at 5pm - spreading 4/8 Hold Em with a kill, 4/8 Omaha hi-low split with a kill also 3-6 & 4-8 limit Texas Hold-Em, plus 1-3 & 2-5 No Limit Texas Hold Em Sat, 1pm $ 2,500 Guaranteed NLHE Tournaments $60 buy-in Sun, 1pm NLHE Tournament $40 buy-in Thurs, 7pm NLHE Deep Stack - $80 buy-in Dealing blackjack 24/7 - Special room rates for poker players

Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort 928-856-7244

Flagstaff, AZ Live Poker Mon-Fri at noon, Sat & Sun at 10am NLHE Tournaments at 7pm, Thurs ($35) Sat at noon ($55)

CARD ROOM ACTION

“Aces & Faces Cracked” – wins up to $50 $25 “Splash Pots” daily – see poker room for details Progressive “High Hand” & Bad Beat Jackpots – also dealing blackjack 24/7

Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino 800-946-4452 Ext#1507

Laveen, AZ Wed, 7:30pm, **NLHE “Freeze Out”$40 buy-in w/ Opt $10 Staff fee at the break for added chips Sat, 11:15 am, **NLHE “Freeze Out”$40 buy-in w/ Opt $10 Staff fee (before play) & $20 add-on at the break Sun 11:15 am, **NLHE “Freeze Out”$30 buy-in w/ Opt $10 Staff fee (before play) & $20 add-on at the break **Tournaments allow “Early Bird Chips” for live play before tournament - Also, 1st & 2nd place at final table qualify for the “Tournament of Champions FREE ROLL” each quarter. Next tournament is Nov 29th Big Money Royals, Any Royal Flush wins $ 200 – Plus “Bonus Royals” Mon-Thurs “Super 77” Progressive Bad-Beat Jackpot – (Quad 7’s or better beaten) Jackpot was over $46,000 at press time “ACES CRACKED” spins the wheel - win up $300 (see poker room for details) MLB, NFL & College “Splash Pots” for Select TV Games Dealing blackjack 24/7 – with $5 games - F.A.T - Friday Afternoon Blackjack Tournament at 2pm - $30 buy-in Linked Progressive Jackpots for “Crazy 4 Poker” & ULTIMATE Texas Hold EM starts at $10,000 and grows at all 3 Casinos! PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was recently hit for over $500,000!

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino 800-946-4452 Ext #7375

Chandler,AZ Mon & Thurs Noon - NLHE, $30 buy-in, no re-buys - $150 added per table Tues & Wed, 7:30pm - NLHE Freeze Out - $50 entry fee w/ $10 optional add-on $1,000 added to prize pool Sun, 3:30pm, NLHE - $30 buy- in, $5 dealer add-on, $20 add-at the break & bonus chips for play before tournament “Super 77” Progressive Bad-Beat Jackpot – (Quad 7’s or better beaten) was over $46,000 at press time MLB & NFL & College “Splash Pots” Select TV Games - See poker room for details “Aces Cracked” Win a Rack - Sun 11pm until Fri at 6pm “Rolling Cash Fever” Drawing every other hour 24/7, $100 min, increases by $100 if not hit Big Money Royals - Any Royal Flush wins $ 200 & a spin - Any straight flush gets to spin the wheel – win up to $1,000 Food specials: ½ price poker room menu Also dealing blackjack 24/7 - including “Push your bet” Linked Progressive Jackpots for “Crazy 4 Poker” & ULTIMATE Texas Hold EM starts at $10,000 and keeps growing at all 3 Gila River Casinos! PAI GOW Progressive Jackpot was recently hit for over $500,000!

CARD ROOM MANAGERS Please send updates to azplayer@cox.net

ARIZONA PLAYER October 2014 15




gaming news TALKING STICK RESORT AND CASINO ARIZONA WELCOME NEW DIRECTOR OF SLOTS Seasoned gaming professional will oversee slot operations and management “I wanted to be where all the action is happenTalking Stick Resort and Casino Arizona, enterprises of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian ing, and in the world of gaming, there is never a dull moment,” Martinez said. “I’m excited to bring my Community (SRPMIC) proudly announced on September 29 the addition of Trenni Martinez as the knowledge to both properties and create new strategies for growth in the slot division. The industry is new director of slots. Martinez, a native of Kansas, continuously transforming so casinos have to keep brings with him more than two decades of casino up with the changes in gaming experience. order to stay current and “The position requires I look forward to being someone who is wellan integral part of that versed in operations manchange.” agement and has a handle Even though his on the new trends in the position requires him to gaming industry,” said assume various manageDennis Leong, President ment tasks, Martinez and CEO of Talking said guest interaction is Stick Resort and Casino the most fulfilling aspect Arizona. “Trenni Martinez of his role. “The more embodies all the qualities relationships we can build we were searching for and with our customers, the we’re thrilled to have him better because it makes on board. With his expertise and passion for gaming, Talking Stick Resort and the experience more satisfying for everyone,” he Casino Arizona will enhance slot performances and said. “When the room is buzzing and players are enjoying themselves, it really does make a differcontinue to offer exceptional guest services.” ence. Optimizing slot operations is of the utmost Martinez graduated from Emporia State University with a degree in Business and joined the importance, but we want to also ensure guests are enjoying themselves as well.” management team at the Isle of Capri Casino in While taking on responsibilities for two locations 1996. During his tenure there he worked his way seems daunting for others, Martinez said he welup, taking on roles as a valet, cook, slot manager comes the challenge. “A lot of employees have been and eventually a senior director of operations. He with the company for many years so that’s a true continued to hone his hospitality skills, serving as assistant general manager at various tourism sectors testament to the organization’s management and including Seminole Coconut Creek Casino for more operations,” he said. “I’m excited to be a part of the team and look forward to providing new strategies than seven years. In June 2014, he joined Talking to maximize profits on the casino floors.” Stick Resort and Casino Arizona.

18 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2014

DIAMOND CAFÉ NOW OPEN! New Restaurant offers Comfort food with a Twist Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment is excited to announce the opening of the new Diamond Café at its Tucson location on Nogales Hwy, providing a delicious array of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options 7 days a week. The Diamond Café offers Americano comfort food with an urban flair. Breakfast options range from $8 - $13, while Lunch and Dinner options range from $9 - $29. The Diamond Café replaces the Steak House as the premier dining experience at Desert Diamond Casinos’ Tucson location and is open Mon - Thurs, 6am to 11pm, Fri, 6am to 1am, Sat 7am to 1am and Sun from 7am – 11pm. TreenaParvello, Director of Public Relations and Communications for the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise, said “The Diamond Café offers comfort food with a twist: fresh, creative, eye appealing and of course, flavorful. Come by and try our fantastic new menu!” The opening of the Diamond Café isn’t the only change to dining options at Desert Diamond Casinos’ Tucson location. The buffet features new hours, and is now open Thursday thru Sunday. In addition the buffet is featuring special themed dinners from 4pm – 9pm, Thursday thru Saturday. Gulf Coast Seafood, is featured on Thursdays, then it’s the Friday Fiesta, followed by All American on Saturdays. Finally you won’t want to miss the Sunday International Brunch from 10am– 2pm.



September contest WIN CASINO GETAWAYS! 2 GRAND PRIZE WINNERS! CONGRATULATIONS to our WINNERS! Arizona Player and Colson Gaming are proud to announce our newest Grand Prize Winner – Harriet Brickey of Queen Creek, Arizona. Harriet will now be playing at home on her very own IGT Triple Diamond Slot Machine that is still in some casinos right now. Besides our Grand prize winner, 10 lucky runner-up contest players will be receiving $25 gift cards to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at some very nice restaurants or $40 in tickets to the Arizona State Fair! It’s their choice. Those winners are; Maria McKitrick, Bret Andrews, Ronald Buchannan Sr. and Robert Dowis from Phoenix, Mila Bidwell and Henry Agular who reside in Tucson, Carl Utt of Tempe, Tammy Termure from Show Low, Cindy Winger of Payson and Brian Terronez from Gold Canyon, Arizona. What’s next? Just a terrific surprise casino getaway that you will love with TWO lucky Grand Prize winners – Details about these TWO special Getaway packages in the November issue, plus 7 lucky runner-up winners too! Get busy and enter! Here’s how simple and easy it is to do that. Just go to the Arizona Player website arizonaplayer.com Click on the Contest banner – f ill out the entry form completely and you’re entered! Good Luck and thanks for being our friends and supporting Arizona’s most respected, most read and most distributed gaming publication in the state – Arizona Player. Phil Scudella

20 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2014



gaming news

$500,000 Pai Gow Jackpot hit! Phoenix Resident Wins Largest Pai Gow Progressive Jackpot in Arizona History Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino, Lone Butte Casino and Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino have linked the Fortune Pai Gow Progressive jackpot at each property to create the largest progressive table games jackpot in Arizona. The progressive wager gives players an opportunity to win all or part of a large, incrementing jackpot and it has paid off for lucky Phoenix resident Xo Carroll who won $518,315 on October 2nd at Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino. This is the largest Fortune Pai Gow Progressive jackpot payout in Arizona history. Gila River Casinos is the first in Arizona, and only the second casino operator in the country to offer players a progressive jackpot funded by tables at each of their properties. The progressive jackpot system creates higher jackpots for players, and increases the excitement of one of the more popular table games. Since its inception, the Pai Gow progressive jackpot has paid out over a million dollars to lucky winners at all three Gila River Casinos’ properties. Fortune Pai Gow Progressive is a popular title offered by Bally Technologies who provides the global gaming industry with innovative games, table game products, systems, mobile, and iGaming solutions. The company introduced the ability to link Fortune Pai Gow Progressive jackpots across properties early in 2012, and Gila River Casinos is the first in Arizona to offer this multi-property linked progressive. Gila River Gaming Enterprises, Inc. operates three Arizona casinos owned by the Gila River Indian Community including Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, Lone Butte Casino, and Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino. All three casinos offer a combination of slots, table games, bingo, poker and hotel and are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. For more information on this and other events please call 1-800-946-4452, or go to www.wingilariver.com Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino is located 10 miles south of I-10 west on 51st Avenue.

22 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2014



entertainment Apache Gold Casino Resort

(5 miles East of Globe on Hwy 70) 1-800-272-2438 The POINT Sports Bar & Grill: San Carlos Event Center: October 18 - Los Lonely Boys October 31 - The Nirvana Experience (FREE Halloween Concert) November 8 - Dwight Yoakam

BlueWater Resort and Casino

11300 Resort Dr., Parker 1-888-243-3360 Showroom: Oct 25 - Cage Rage 8 Amphitheater: Oct 18 - Dream Show 2014 w/ Paul Wall & Mike Jones River’s Edge Cantina: Sunday evenings Live Reggae music Dig Lounge: Deejays daily at 5pm - Oldies on Sunday & Mondays and Sports on the big screens

Casino Arizona

101 at McKellips, Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Showroom: Oct 16 - Texas Tornados (Native American Recognition Days) Oct 17 & 18 - Bonfire (AC/DC Tribute Band) Oct 23 - Williams & Ree “The Indian and the White Guy” Oct 24 & 25 - The Kenny Cetera CHICAGO EXPERIENCE Oct 30 - The Plateros (Native American Recognition Days) Oct 31& Nov 1 - KISSMANIA (KISS Tribute Band) Nov 7 - LED ZEPAGAIN (Led Zeppelin Tribute) Monday Nights - Football on the big screen w/ food & drink specials

24 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2014

Arizona Room Patio Grill: Mon - Football on the big screens Tues– “Latin Fire Dance Night” w/ free lessons w/ AZTEX Band Wed & Thurs - Country (Tommy Ash Band) and dance instruction with Laina Lee Oct 25 - UFC 179: Aldo vs Mendes2 (Live Viewing Party) Bingo Hall: Fri & Sat at Midnight, L-8 Nite Bingo! Music, light show & dancing!

Casino Del Sol

5655 W. Valencia Rd. Tucson 520-838-6506 Paradiso Bar: Free entertainment, Live bands weekends (Oct 17 - The Kenny Hale Band, Oct 18 - Angel Norteno) and Tribute Bands on Wednesdays; Oct 15 ONE (U2 Tribute) PLUS Monday & Thursday Night Football on the big screens - WIN PRIZES including a $10,000 trip for 2 to the BIG GAME AVA Amphitheater: Oct 18 - Larry Hernandez & Ramon Ayala Conference Center: Oct 24 - Latin Comedy Jam w/ Shayla Rivera, Steve Trevino, Willie Barcena, Roberto Rodriguez and others!

Cliff Castle Casino Hotel

I-17 at exit 289 in Camp Verde 1-800-381-SLOT Stargazer Pavilion: Nov 1 - Taste of Verde Valley (Food, Wine, Music and Art) 1pm - 5pm Dragonfly Lounge; live music on weekends (Oct 17 & 18 - Priminition, Oct 24 & 25 - Dread Daze) Friday Oct 31 - Halloween COMICONTEST (Party & Costume Contest) $10 admission w/ $3,800 in Cash Rewards! Nov 1 - The Visitors

Desert Diamond Casino Hotel

7350 S. Nogales Hwy, Tucson 1-866-332-9467 Monsoon Night Club: Live bands or DJ on weekends Oct 31 (Halloween) The Lalas Burlesque (7pm & 9:30pm) Adults 21+ only Nov 11 - The Lettermen (3pm show) Dec 13 - Thunder From Down Under (Male Revue) Fridays - “Dance Fusion” w/ DJ Blade Saturdays - “Noches Caliente Saturdays” Hottest Tex Mex & Tejano music with bands Los Gallegos, Angel Norteno, Los Kabalgantes or Grupo Latido

Desert Diamond Casino I -19

1100 West Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita 1-866-332-9467 Diamond Center: October 25 - Marisela Nov 7 - Polo Polo (Mexico’s #1 Comedian) Nov 29 - Christmas with the Celts Dec 6 - Gary Allen Jan 3 - Willie Nelson Sports Bar: Sports on big screens, Karaoke Wednesdays, Swingin’ Tuesdays, Oldies 0n Thursday, plus DJ music Fri & Sat nights

Fort McDowell Casino

N of Shea off Hwy 87, Fountain Hills 1-800-THE-FORT Lucky 7 Saloon: Free entertainment on Fri & Sat - featuring; Oct 17 - Solid Gold, Oct 18 - Grey Wolf, Oct 24 - Kenny G Band, Oct 25 - Basketball Jones and Oct 31 - Furious George Outdoors: Nov 8 - MEGA Yard Sale (7am - 1pm) $2.99 Breakfast Buffet in the Red Rock Buffet (w/ Fortune club card) Bingo Hall: Saturdays, Oct 18 & Nov 15 - Late Night Lunar Bingo w/ music & giveaways updates: fortmcdowellcasino.com

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort & Casino

15406 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa 480-802-5000 THE LOUNGE: Harrah’s Ak-Chin Entertainment Weekends in The Lounge starting at 8pm Oct. 17, Metalhead A tribute to 80’s hair bands, Oct. 18 - Harry Luge Oct. 24 - Vertical Horizon “Everything You Want” top single of 2000 Oct. 25 - SOS Band Oct. 31, THE British Invasion Tribute Nov 1 & Nov 8 - Chad Freeman & Redline Nov 7 - The OHIO PLAYERS Nov 11 (Tuesday Veterans Day) RECKLESS IN VEGAS Nov 14 - True to Life, Nov 15 - N-FOCUS Nov 21 - Quantum, Nov 22 - Young Country Nov 28 - The Petty Breakers (Tom Petty Tribute) Nov 29 - The Highwaymen (Tribute Country Legends - Waylon, Willie & Johnny Cash) Wednesdays in The Lounge - Noon to 4pm Oct. 15 - Vinny DiJohn, Oct. 22 - Buddy Holly Tribute, Oct. 29 - The XO Band, Nov - Jukebox 6, Nov 12 - Yesterday Once More, Nov 19 - Linda Chorney, Nov 26 Sihouette The Lounge Happy Hour - with live music, Mon-Thurs 5-8pm Amazing Dueling Pianos, Tuesdays & The Sahnas Brothers, Wednesdays For updates, go to harrahsakchin.com

Hon-Dah Resort and Casino

Highways 260 and 73, Pinetop 1-800-WAY-UP-HIGH Timbers Lounge: Free entertainment, Monday is Comedy Night, Tues-Sat, Live bands Oct 14 thru 18 - Kid N’ Nic


Oct 21 thru 25 - Harry Luge Oct 28 thru Nov 1 - GO BIG Nov 4 thru 8 - Doo Wah Riders Nov 11 thru 15 - Creagles “Heartache Tonight” (Tribute to CCR & The Eagles)

Lone Butte Casino

202 loop at the Kyrene exit - Chandler, 1-800-WIN-GILA Cascades Lounge: NEW HOURS for LIVE Entertainment Beginning October 1 Mondays, Tuesdays & Fridays (4-8pm) Wednesdays & Thursdays (6-10pm) Fridays & Saturdays (late night - 9:30pm till 1:30am) Marty & the Party (4-8pm) Oct 10, 13, 17, 20, 24, 27 & 31 Thaddeus Rose (4-8pm) Oct 21 & 26 New Frequency Band (6-10pm) Oct 15, 22 & 29 JJ’s band (6-10pm) Oct 9 & 23 Str8Up Band (6-10pm) Oct 16 & 30 AzTex band Oct 17, 24 & 31 Rhythm Edition (4-8pm) also (late night) Oct 18 - Shining Star and Oct 25 - Reality Band Verona Chophouse: Saturday: Talia 5-9pm & Sunday: (10am-3pm) live Jazz brunch Buffet Bingo Hall: 11pm Fri & Sat - B.A.D BINGO w/ DJ “Rockin’ Rob” music, light show, bingo & giveaways

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino

1/2-mile S. of Payson on Hwy 87 1-800-777-PLAY www.777play.com Apache Spirits Lounge: Oct 30 - Howl-OVeen Vash and Costume Contest (Ladies dress Vampireish) Event Center: Oct 31 - Howl-O-Veen Vash and Costume Contest and Party with DJ Brent

Paradise Casino

450 Quechan Drive, Yuma 1-888-777- 4946 Bingo / Concert Hall: Sharky’s Bar: Live bands or DJ’s on weekends

Quechan Casino Resort

525 Algodones Rd, Winterhaven CA (Yuma area) 1-877-783-2426 PIPA Event Center: Call for updated schedule Sidewinders bar: Free weekend entertainment featuring DJ’s or bands

Talking Stick Resort

Loop 101 and Indian Bend Road Scottsdale 480-850-7734 Showroom: Every Sunday - Football Frenzy Oct 17 - Lonestar Oct 30 - Annual Halloween Costume Contest Oct 31 - Raven’s 9th Annual Halloween Ball & Costume Contest Nov 1 - Darlene Love

Mondays - Tyler Nielson, Thursdays - G ustavo Angeles, also Tues, Wed and Fri Al Rodriguez, Aaron Howard, Jimmy Ray or Gustavo Angeles Shadows Lounge: classic sounds of Frank Sinatra and others Degree 270 Lounge: Fri & Sat, featuring the region’s best DJ’s Orange Sky Restaurant & Lounge: Live jazz

Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort 22181 Resort Blvd (I-40 @ exit 219) Flagstaff (928) 856-7200 Arrows Lounge: live music on weekends

Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino

Darlene Love Nov 8 - Psychedelic Furs & The Lemonheads Nov 18 - Adrian Belew Power Trio Nov 21 - Tracy Lawrence Nov 22 - An Unpredictable Evening with Todd Rundgren Dec 5 - Blue October Dec 13 - Jerry Riopelle Ballroom: Oct 31 - The Wicked Ball at Talking Stick Resort (Halloween Party & $7,000 Costume Contest) Nov 2 - Gloria Trevi Nov 15 - Nick Swardson Nov 16 - KC & the Sunshine Band Nov 29 - Jay Leno New Year’s Eve - Fire & Ice Party, featuring Legendary Soul Man Sam Moore & Boogie Knights Palo Verde Lounge: Saturdays - Paul Wells, Sundays - Jarad Blackstone,

The West Valley Casino 51st Ave, 4 miles S. of Baseline - Laveen 1-800-WIN-GILA Event Center: Oct 17 - Los Invasores de Nuevo Leon Oct 24 - Southbound - The Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute Nov 1 - Vive Selena (Tribute to Selena) Nov 8 - The new VQ Comedy Series w/ Manny Hernandez featuring Greg Freiler Nov 21 - The Rising (Tribute to Bruce Springsteen) Nov 28 - One Gun, One Love (Bob Marley Tribute) Nov 29 - Ruben Ramone & The Mexican Revolution New Year’s Eve - Paperback Writer (Tribute to the Beatles) Outdoor Patio: (Mon - Sat) 4pm-7pm & 9pm-1am and (Sun) 4pm-7pm, Featuring these bands; Powerdrive, Str8Up, New Frequency Band, Marty & the Party, The Walkens, Chuck E Baby, Eagleheart, Michael and Manuel, Latino Rebel Band, Andrea & Los Guys, Shining Star, Reality Band, Priminition, Rhythm Edition & Chaka & friends (Sun 4pm-7pm) Rhythm of the Sun Band, Mariachi Rodriguez or Mariachi Pasion Bingo Park: Every Saturday at 11pm BINGO ECLIPSE - Bingo, DJ music, light show & giveaways

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino I-10 at Wild Horse Pass exit - Chandler 1-800-WIN-GILA

Ovations LIVE! Showroom:

Oct 17 - Ramon Ayala Oct 18 - Damage Inc (Metallic Tribute)

entertainment Oct 24 - Kansas Oct 25 - Latin Comedy Jam VII Oct 31 - Ziggy Marley Nov 1 - The Nirvana Experience (The ultimate NIRVANA Tribute Band) Nov 2 - Time in a Bottle (70’s Rock & Pop Tribute) Nov 7 - Merle Haggard Nov 8 - TINH THU - Vietnamese Concert Nov 14 - Felix Calaliere’s Rascals Nov 21 - Don Rickles Nov 22 - WFF/MMA Fights Nov 29 - Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Dec 5 - Bob Newhart Dec 6 - Patti Labelle Dec 7 - A MOTOWN Christmas Party Dec 12 - Three Dog Night Dec 13 - Vikki Carr

Vikki Carr Dec 31 - New Year’s Eve w/ POWERDRIVE CHROME NIGHT CLUB –Arizona’s Newest Hot Spot is Open with the Top DJ’s in Arizona! Encore Lounge: Mid-day entertainment Monday’s 11am-3pm & late night entertainment w/ bands; Powerdrive, Hamptons, Andrea & Los Guys, Str8up Band, JJ’s Band, The Walkens, Chuck E Baby, Rhythm of the Sun band, Chaka and Friends, New Frequency, Smooth Groove, Eagleheart, Shining Star, Rhythm Edition, Pima Express, Swingtips & Route 66

Yavapai Casino

1505 East Hwy 69 - Prescott 1-800-756-8744 Yavapai Cantina; Fri - Karaoke w/ Cruisin’ Susan, Saturdays - Live Bands

ARIZONA PLAYER October 2014 25


Reel Reviews & travel

26 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2014


Reel Reviews & travel

ARIZONA PLAYER October 2014 27


DAVID AT THE SNACK BAR Fury

Its 1944 and the Allies are advancing through Germany. A tank unit is sent to help capture a village let by veteran Wardaddy and his crew that have been together since the beginning of the war. Just before they head out they are joined by a new member, a by young soldier who has never been in actual David Ramsey war. The story is told as a contrast between the veterans and the wide-eyed rookie, something that apparently never gets old to screenwriters. Despite knowing what is going to happen as if I had already seen it I was still taken in by the blight of the characters. While the writing of “Fury” may be reminiscent of many other war movies the acting is terrific and the director makes you care.

The Judge Hank is a successful criminal attorney who learns of his mother’s death in the middle of a trial. He goes home to the small town he grew up in to attend the funeral where he has to deal with his family including his estranged father, the local Judge. Just as he is about to return home the Judge is charged with a hit-and-run murder so he stays on the defend him. While I really like Robert Downey, Jr. as an actor here he is just playing Tony Stark as an attorney. Billy Bob Thornton steals the film as the prosecuting attorney. The courtroom scenes were great and I wish there had been more but most of the movie is about the dysfunctional father and son relationship - like we haven’t seen enough of those films. There are some great parts but “The Judge” is too long and concentrates on the wrong story.

Gone Girl - When Nick’s wife, Amy, goes missing he is frantic to find her, the police don’t have any leads and soon the search becomes a media circus. In a short time suspicion falls on Nick and public opinion turns against him. Caught in a nightmare Nick doesn’t know where to turn, with only his sister standing by him. Flashbacks give us a look at the marriage of Nick and Amy through her diary. When the police find that diary, things really start to look bad for him. At this point you begin to think it’s just a well done story about a man who killed his wife and tries to get away with it but then maybe it’s not. The entire cast is very good, Ben Affleck is perfect and Rosamund Pike is remarkable. The adaptation of the bestselling novel “Gone Girl” has a twist that you won’t see coming. David Ramsey is the President and co-founder of the Phoenix Film Critics Society and a member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association (The Critics Choice Awards). Watch his reviews on the CBS 5 Morning News every Friday between 5:30 and 6:30am and on ABC-15’s “Sonoran Living Live” every other Friday. Read more of his DVD reviews at WildAboutMovies.com. Contact him at David@TheSnackBar.net. 28 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2014

David’s Video Details Edge of Tomorrow

Aliens have invaded Europe and appear to be unstoppable. Major Cage suddenly finds himself in a unit about to hit the beach in an all out assault on the alien invaders. He is killed in the first few minutes but wakes up with a jolt the previous day unable to stop events from repeating themselves. After a few times of this happening he lives long enough to see a war hero, Sgt Rita Vrataski, die in an explosion. The next time he saves her and she tells him to find her when he wakes up again. As he repeats more days he survives longer and eventually he and Rita determine they might be able to win the war by working together. The effects are very good and not over done. “Edge of Tomorrow” is the best sci-fi action film of the year with a great cast and a well written story.

Begin Again

Dan has just been fired from the record label he founded when he stumbles into the last of a long line bars only to find Greta performing at an open mic night. She thinks she was terrible but he sees something in her. They` decide to work together with him producing her first album. With limited funds Dan comes up with the idea to record it on the streets of New York using the natural sounds of the city. Dan is trying to reunite with his estranged wife and teen daughter while Greta is trying to get over the love of her life who has gone on to be a big rock star. This is a wonderful film with amazing music. The cast is perfect and the writing is genuine. “Begin Again” is one of the best films of the year.

X-Men: Days of Future Past -

In the near future mutants and human who help them are hunted and killed by powerful robots Sentinels. Professor X uses Kitty Pryde’s power to send Wolverine back to 1973 to stop the creator of the Sentinels from getting DNA from Mystique that he use in his creation. Wolverine is the only one who can survive the time travel but once there he has to convince the younger Professor X and Erik Lehnsherr, a.k.a. Magneto, to work together to with him to stop the Dr. Bolivar Trask’s Sentinel program from ever happening. The way both the older and younger casts are blended works perfectly. Everything about “X-Men:Days of Future Past” is great.


bingo

Bingo Games Statewide

Apache Gold Casino - Globe Noon (Wed, Thu & Sun) 7pm (Fri & Sat & 1st Mon) BlueWater Casino - Parker 6:30pm (Mon- Wed) & 1:30pm (Sun) Casino Arizona - Scottsdale 1pm & 7pm (Daily) Casino Del Sol - Tucson 2:15 & 7:15pm (Daily) (Daily mini Sessions at noon & 1:30pm) Cocopah Casino - Somerton (Yuma area) 1pm & 6pm (Daily) Desert Diamond Casino - Tucson 2pm & 7pm (Daily) Fort McDowell Casino - Fountain Hills *9am, 12:30pm & 6:30pm (Mon - Fri, *except Tues) 6:45am, 9am, 12:30PM, 6:30pm (Sat & Sun) Midnight (Fri & Sat) & Midnight (3rd Sat - Lunar Bingo Party) Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino - Maricopa 11:30am, 2:30pm, 3:30pm & 6:30pm (Wed - Sun) Lone Butte Casino - Chandler Noon & 6:30pm (Daily) 11:30pm - B.A.D. “Bingo After Dark” Party (Fri & Sat) Mazatzal Casino - Payson Noon (Mon-Thurs) 6:30pm (Tues & Thurs) (Double Payouts 1st Thurs & 3rd Tues) Paradise Casino - Yuma aily) 1:30 & 6pm (D oker_1/3page_vp ad.qxp 10/12/09 12:31 PM Page 1 Vee Quiva Casino - Laveen 12:30 & 6:30pm (Daily) 11:30pm - Bingo Eclipse Party (2nd & 4th Sat)

The book that Vegas doesn’t want you to read. Start your winning education with

The Video Poker Edge $17.95 • 2-Color throughout • Includes tear-out video poker “strategy cards” Available at bookstores everywhere, or call the publisher toll-free at 1-877-900-2665.

ARIZONA PLAYER October 2014 29


Joke page, ASTROLOGY, Casino directory Jokes of the Month

Questions and answers from the Hollywood Squares’ game show when responses were spontaneous not scripted

Q: When you pat a dog on its head he will wag his tail. What will a goose do? A: Paul Lynde: Make him bark? Q: You’re going to make a parachute jump, how high should you be A: Charley Weaver: Three days of steady drinking should do it. Q: Paul, why do Hell’s Angels wear leather? A: Paul Lynde: Because chiffon wrinkles too easily. Q: Which of your five senses tends to diminish as you get older? A: Charley Weaver: My sense of decency. Q: You want to grow strawberries. Are you going to get any the first year? A: Charley Weaver: Of course not, I’m too busy growing strawberries. Q: Who stays pregnant for a longer period of time, your wife or your elephant? A: Paul Lynde: Who told you about my elephant? Q: According to Ann Landers, is there anything wrong with getting into the habit of kissing a lot of people? A: Charley Weaver: It got me out of the army.

Q: Back in the old days, when Great Grandpa put mashed potatoes on his head, what was he trying to do? A: George Gobel: Get it in his mouth. Q: According to Ann Landers, what are two things you should never do in bed? A: Paul Lynde: Point and laugh

Have you had people say “You really tell the funniest jokes” Well, now’s your chance to cash in on that talent! Just e-mail your funny joke (under 200 words please) to azplayer@cox.net (under subject type FUNNY JOKE) and if we use it - Cha-Ching – You win $50 CASH! – Hey, that’s no joke. Plus, the TOP 3 JOKES over the next 6 months (November – April) will win an additional $300, $200, and $100! Winners will be announced in the May 2015 issue. Not bad pay for just joking around.

Libra Sept 24 to Oct 23

Capricorn Dec 22 to Jan 20

Scorpio Oct 24 to Nov 22

Aquarius Jan 21 to Feb 19

Taurus April 21 to May 21

Sagittarius Nov 23 to Dec 21

Pisces Feb 20 to Mar 20

Gemini May 22 to June 21

Virgo Aug 24 to Sept 23

Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6 Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6 Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6

You meet a special person Don’t be discouraged Great time with friends Change of plans helps Fun time with best pal A beneficial meeting Creepy weekend pays Give it a second chance Call it beginners luck Nice win nearby Week of laughs You make a discovery

Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6 Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6 Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6

CASINO DIRECTORY a

a

a

1. Apache Gold Hotel Resort Casino • (Globe) San Carlos Apache Tribe-slots bingo & blackjack & Entertainment (800) 272-2438 2. BlueWater Resort Casino • (Parker) Colorado River Indian Tribe-slots bingo blackjack poker & Entertainment (888) 243-3360 3. Bucky’s Casino • (Prescott) Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe-slots, poker & blackjack (800) 756-8744 3a. Yavapai Casino & Gaming Center • (Prescott) Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe-slots & Entertainment (800) 756-8744 30 ARIZONA PLAYER October 2014

Forget the past – move on That hunch was correct Strange weekend Very lucky week Get busy livin’ Plan needed trip Surprise reunion You meet a special person Play favorite numbers Fun time with old pal Take friends advice You guess right - again

Aries Mar 21 to April 20

Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6 Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6 Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6

Relax, big win is near Unexpected event Screaming good time Yes – your plan will work Have faith in yourself Re-living memories Hard work pays off Toast that big win

Adventure of a lifetime Head for favorite spot Thrillin’Chillin’fun For once and for all

4. Casino Arizona Talking Stick Resort • (Scottsdale) Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community-slots poker blackjack Keno & Entertainment (480) 850-7777 5. Casino Arizona @ 101 & McKellips • (Scottsdale) Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community-slots bingo blackjack Keno & Entertainment (480) 850-7777 6. Casino Del Sol Resort • (Tucson) Pascua Yaqui Tribe-slots bingo poker blackjack & Entertainment (800) 344-9435 7. Casino of the Sun • (Tucson) Pascua Yaqui Tribe-slots (520) 883-1700 8. Cliff Castle Casino Hotel • (Camp Verde) Yavapai-Apache Nation-slots blackjack poker & Entertainment (800) 381-7568 9. Cocopah Casino • (Yuma) Cocopah Tribe-slots bingo blackjack & Entertainment (800) 237-5687 10. Desert Diamond Casino Hotel• (Tucson) Tohono O’Odham Nation-Old Nogales Hwy slots keno bingo poker & Entertainment (520) 294-7777 10a. Desert Diamond - I-19 • (south of Tucson) slots blackjack & Entertainment (520) 294-7777 11. Fort McDowell Casino • (Fountain Hills) Fort McDowell-Yavapai Nation-slots keno bingo poker blackjack & Entertainment (480) 837-1424 12. Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino • (Chandler) Gila River Indian Community-slots keno blackjack poker & Entertainment (800) 946-4452

Cancer June 22 to July 22 Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6

Out of town adventure Persistence Pays! Profitable trip Go with gut feeeling

Leo July 23 to Aug 23

Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6 Oct 7–14 Oct 15–22 Oct 23–31 Nov 1–6

Stick by your convictions Stay late for the big one More fun than expected Nice change coming

You meet a cool new friend Keep positive thoughts Outrageous fun weekend You stay on a roll

13. Gila River Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino • (Laveen) Gila River Indian Community-slots bingo blackjack poker & Entertainment (800) 946-4452 14. Gila River Lone Butte Casino • (Chandler) Gila River Indian Community-slots bingo blackjack & Entertainment (800) 946-4452 15. Golden Ha’ San Casino • (Why) Tohono O’Odham Nation-Slots 16. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino (Maricopa) Ak-Chin Indian Community - slots keno poker bingo blackjack & Entertainment (480) 802-5000 17. Hon-Dah Resort-Casino • (Pinetop) White Mountain Apache Tribe - slots poker & Entertainment (800) 929-8744 18. Mazatzal Hotel Casino • (Payson) Tonto Apache Tribe - slots bingo poker blackjack & Entertainment (800) 777-7529 19. Paradise Casino • (Yuma) Fort Yuma Quechan Tribe - slots bingo.& Live Entertainment (888) 777-4946 19a Quechan Casino Resort • (Winterhaven, CA) Fort Yuma Quechan Tribe - slots table games poker & Entertainment 20. Spirit Mountain Casino • (Bullhead City) Fort Mohave Indian Tribe-slots (888) 837-4030 21. Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort • (Flagstaff) Navajo Nation - Slots, Table Games, Poker, Keno & Entertainment




Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.