Southern & Midwest Gaming and Destinations │ May 2024

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GAMING AND DESTINATIONS

CASINO SCENE

HOT HAPPENINGS AT OUR PREFERRED CASINOS, RACETRACKS AND MORE.

(D’Iberville, MS – Gulf Coast) Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort - If you are looking for a premier Gulf Coast resort with stunning views, decadent dining & dynamic gaming, look no further than Scarlet Pearl. The property claimed several of our top Readers’ Choice Awards including Best Casino Floor, Casino Personnel, Customer Service and more. For sports fans, there is not a better place to watch and wager on your favorite teams than the Scarlet Pearl Sportsbook featuring 23 HD screens including a 144-inch entertainment screen that is awesome! For more information, call 1-888-7529772 or visit ScarletPearlCasino.com

(Vicksburg, MS) Ameristar Casino Hotel - Ameristar is committed to creating a magical experience for every guest, and that goes for their room rates too. In addition to AARP, AAA and other discounts, the property also honors a “Best Rate Guarantee” that ensures you will get the best possible rate when you book your room and if happen to find a lower rate within 24 hours of making your reservation, they will happily match the rate. Plus, don’t miss great live music weekly in the Bottleneck Blues Bar with a seating capacity of 300 and regularly hosts great rock, blues, country, and bands. May Promotion Spotlight: Lucky Treasure Swipe & Win: Sundays in May, PENN members can redeem up to 5 swipes at the promotional kiosks. Earn 100 Tier Points for your first swipe and win up to $1,000 PENN Slot Play. Earn 150 Tier Points for your second swipe up to $1,500 PENN Slot Play. Then, 300 points for up to $2,000 PENN Play, 500 points for up to $3,000 PENN Play and 1,000 points for $5,000 PENN Play. For reservations and more information, call 1-601-630-3786 visit AmeristarVicksburg.com.

(Tunica, MS) Hollywood Casino Tunica – Get a taste of the glitz and glamor of the stars at Hollywood Casino Tunica. After checking out the amazing collection of memorabilia around the property, guests can enjoy the award-winning Fairbanks Steakhouse for one of the best dining experiences in the region and then stay in a 5-story tower overlooking the casino floor or the 8-story tower next to the largest indoor pool in Tunica. When it’s time for casino action, Hollywood Tunica has you covered with over 1,000 slots, almost twenty table games and a sportsbook to get in on the action for the biggest games. For more information, call 1-800-871-0711 or visit HollywoodCasinoTunica.com.

(West Memphis, AR) Southland Casino Hotel – Whether you are looking to play, stay, dine, or do all three, Southland Casino Hotel offers it all. Explore the expansive casino floor with 2,300 slot, 50 live tables, the Betly sportsbook and more. Southland offers eight dining options ranging from the elegant Ignite Steakhouse to the ultimate buffet experience at The Kitchens, and live entertainment at the Charred Oak Bourbon Bar, Chairman’s Bar, and Betly Sportsbar & Grill. For more information call 1-800-467-6182 or visit SouthlandCasino.com.

(Hot Springs, AR) Oaklawn Racing Casino - (Hot Springs, AR) Oaklawn Racing Casino – Oaklawn in Hot Springs is a gamblers paradise. Whether you want to bet on top thoroughbreds at the world renown racetrack or in the lavish Vegas-style casino, you will find all of the action you want. Also enjoy a luxury hotel with a full spa, pool deck with cabanas and fifteen restaurants, bars and lounges suited to fill any craving. Also, the entertainment line-up at Oaklawn is second to none with upcoming acts that include Terry Fator (May 10), Gary Allen (May 24), Buddy Guy (June 22) and Tracy Lawrence (June 29). For more information call 1-800-625-5296 or visit Oaklawn.com.

(Bowler, WI) North Star Mohican Casino Resort – As if you ever needed a reason for a gambling getaway, North Star certainly has plenty of them to ensure your stay is great from the second you step in the lobby. Guests enjoy great gambling with over 1,200 machines, plenty of table games including blackjack, Three Card Poker, Let it Ride, Craps and more. Also, book a room in their luxurious contemporary hotel or the 57-site RV Park with 20-30-and 50-amp service, pull thru sites, picnic table area and pet friendly. Also check out top entertainment and events at North Star including Theresa Caputo (May 3 & 4), Hardwired Metallica Tribute (July 26) and Elvis, Elvis, Elvis (August 3). For more information and reservations, call 1-800-952-0195 or visit NorthStarCasinoResort.com.

TRIPLE CROWN TRIVIA: CELEBRATING THE SPORT OF KINGS

As we embark on a monumental Triple Crown trail kicked off by the 150th Kentucky Derby, we are excited to celebrate the season with some facts and fun stuff to share with your horse racing friends.

150th Kentucky Derby

Saturday, May 4, 2024

Churchill Downs Racetrack - Louisville, KY

The Kentucky Derby is held annually on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs Racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky. Celebrating its 150th running in 2024, the traditions run deep and the winner will have a shot to be crowned crowned a Triple Crown champion by winning the following two jewels of the trail with the Preakness and Belmont.

2024 Purse: $5 million

Race Length: 1 ¼ miles

First Winner: Aristides (1875) – 2:37.75

2023 Winner: Mage – 2:01.57 - 15-1 odds

Trainer: Gustavo Delgado – Jockey: Javier Castellano

Win: $32.42 - Place: $14.58 - Show: $9.08

$2 Exacta: $330.44 - $0.50 Trifecta: $491.18

$1 Superfecta: $15,643.65

Fastest Winner: Secretariat (1973) – 1:59.4 - 3-2 odds

Win: $5 Place: $3.20 Show: $3

Winningest Trainers: Ben Jones and Bob Baffert with 6 each. Jones won in 1938, 1941, 1944, 1948, 1949 and 1952 and Baffert won in 1997, 1998, 2002, 2015, 2018 and 2020.

Winningest Jockeys: Eddie Arcaro and Bill Hartack with 5 each. Arcaro won in 1938, 1941, 1945 and 1952 and Hartack won in 1957, 1960, 1962, 1964 and 1969.

Who’s the Favorite? Forty winners have won as the favorite in the race.

Tasty Tradition: The traditional drink is the Mint Julep, consisting of Kentucky Bourbon, simple syrup, fresh mint and crushed ice. Over 120,000 of the delicious cocktails are sold each year.

Photo courtesy of Churchill Downs.

Trophy Trivia: The trophy for the winning owner weighs 3.5 pounds and is custom made each year for the champion. The owner receives a gold trophy while the trainer, jockey and breeder win a silver half size replica of the main gold trophy.

The first documented trophy for the Kentucky Derby was in 1925 for the 50th “Golden Anniversary” of the Derby. Churchill Downs president at the time, Matt Winn, commissioned artist George L. Graff to design the trophy.

The 18-karat gold horseshoe on the trophy was pointed downward until Derby 125, when the change was made to turn the horseshoe so the ends pointed up. Superstition says the luck will run out of the horseshoe if it’s pointed down.

The completed trophy takes approximately 2,000 hours of labor to make, and 29 parts are combined into 19 components to make the trophy.

Wearing the Roses: A tradition dating back to 1896, the winning horse receives a garland of red roses that is draped over the saddle and prominently displayed for all to see. The garland consists of more than 400 roses, is two and a half yards long and weighs about forty pounds. Historically, the roses were grown in Louisville, Kentucky by the Dreisbach family wholesale florist. The roses are now imported from warmer climates and assembled at a local Kroger grocery store location for fans to see.

Sing the Song: A longtime tradition at the Kentucky Derby is when the entire crowd pauses and sings “My Old Kentucky Home” as the horses prance onto the track for the running of the race. The University of Louisville Marching Band leads the sing-along with the full musical rendition.

149th Preakness Stakes

Saturday, May 18, 2024

Pimlico Race Course – Baltimore, MD

Held annually two weeks after the Derby, the Preakness Stakes is the middle jewel in horse racing’s Triple Crown. Run at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland, it challenges 3-year-old thoroughbreds over a slightly shorter distance of 1 3/16 miles. Nicknamed “The Second Saturday in May,” it features similar traditions like elaborate hats, festive crowds and tasty cocktails.

2024 Purse: $2 million

Race Length: 1 3/16 miles

First Winner: Survivor (1873)

2023 Winner: National Treasure – 1:55.12 – 4-1 odds

Trainer: Bob Baffert - Jockey: John Velazquez

Win: $7.80 Place: $4.00 Show: $2.60

$2 Exacta: $31.80 - $0.50 Trifecta: $12.10

$1 Superfecta: $72.40

Fastest Winner: Secretariat (1973) – 1:53.00 – 1-1 odds

Win: $2.60 - Place: $2.20 - Show: $2.20

Winningest Trainer: Bob Baffert with eight wins in 1997, 1998, 2001, 2002, 2010, 2015, 2018 and 2023.

Winningest Jockey: Eddie Arcaro with six wins in 1941, 1948, 1950, 1951, 1955 and 1957.

What’s with the weathervane? Completely unique to the Preakness is the famed historic weathervane, a tradition since the Preakness’s return to Baltimore in 1909. The weathervane originally sat atop of the member’s clubhouse and when it was destroyed by fire in 1966, a replica of the building’s cupola was built to stand in the winner’s circle in the infield. According to the official Preakness site, “as soon as the Preakness winner has been declared, a painter climbs a ladder to the top and applies the colors of the victorious owner’s silks on the jockey and horse which are part of the weather vane.”

Trophy Trivia: The Preakness trophy, the Woodlawn Vase, is considered the most valuable trophy in sports. It is crafted in silver by Tiffany & Co. and has an estimated value of more than $4 million in replacement value. The vase is named the Woodlawn Vase because during the Civil War it was buried at Woodlawn Farm in Kentucky to not to be discovered and melted into shot for Confederate Army soldiers.

Running the Distance: The Preakness has been run at seven different distances: 1 ½ miles: 1873–1888, 1890; 1 ¼ miles: 1889; 1 1/16 miles: 1894–1900, 1908; 1 mile and 70 yards: 1901–1907; 1 mile: 1909, 1910; 1 1/8 miles: 1911–1924; 1 3⁄16 miles: 1925-present.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Black Eyed Susan Celebration: The winning horse at the Preakness is draped with a colorful blanket made of thousands of yellow daisies, with black centers painted on to resemble Black-Eyed Susan flowers (Maryland’s state flower) that do not bloom until June in Maryland. It takes four people eight hours to create the blanket. This tradition began in 1940.

To honor the tradition, the Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail was created and made with 1 ounce of Kentucky bourbon, 1 ounce of vodka, 1 ounce of peach schnapps, 2 ounces of orange juice, 2 ounces of sour mix and an orange slice and

2024 Purse: $2 million

Race Length: 1 ½ miles

First Winner: Ruthless (1867)

2023 Winner: Arcangelo – 2:29.23 - 7-1 odds

Trainer: Javier Castellano - Jockey: Jena Antonucci

Win: $17.80 Place: $7.20 Show: $4.90

$2 Exacta: $68 - $0.50 Trifecta: $66.62

$1 Superfecta: $133.24

Fastest Winner: Secretariat 2:24.00 (1973)

Belmont Stakes

Saturday, June 8, 2024

Belmont Park – Elmont, NY

The Belmont Stakes, the final leg of the Triple Crown, is the toughest test along the Triple Crown trail with a distance of one and a half miles at Belmont Park in New York. Held five weeks after the Derby, it’s the race where champions are truly forged. Only 3-year-olds can compete, and the winner is famously adorned with a blanket of white carnations. If the winning horse has also won the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes, they will earn the coveted Triple Crown Champion status and a $5 million bonus.

Win: $2.60 – Place: $2.20

James Rowe with eight wins in 1883, 1884, 1901, 1904, 1907, 1908, 1910 and 1913.

Eddie Arcaro with six wins in 1941, 1942, 1945, 1948, 1952 and 1955.

The Belmont Stakes trophy is a Tiffanymade silver bowl that is 18 inches high, 15 inches across and 14 inches at the base. A silver figure of Fenian, the winner of the third running of the Belmont Stakes in 1869, sits on the top of the bowl. The bowl is supported by three horses representing the three foundation thoroughbreds -- Eclipse, Herod and Matchem. The trophy was originally presented by the Belmont family as a perpetual award for the Belmont Stakes in 1926. The winning owner is given the option of keeping the trophy for the year their horse reigns as Belmont champion. The owner of the winner of the Belmont Stakes also receives, permanently, a large silver tray with the names of the previous Belmont winners engraved on it. There are also trays for the winning trainer, jockey and exercise rider as well as mementos for the groom.

Trying for the Triple Crown: There have been 29 horses enter the Belmont Stakes with a chance to win the Triple Crown. Only 13 have come away with horse racing’s biggest prize. American Pharoah became the first to do so in 2015 since Affirmed way back in 1978.

White Carnation: The white carnation is the traditional flower of the Belmont Stakes and a blanket of the flower is worn by the Belmont Stakes winner. It takes 10 man hours to put together and consists of approximately 700 carnations that are glued onto a green velveteen spread. The flowers are shipped in from either California or Bogota, Colombia.

Big Sandy: Belmont Park is the largest dirt track in North America at one and a half miles long, making the Belmont Stakes the most grueling of the three Triple Crown races. In addition, it is known as one of the most challenging tracks out there because of the sandy terrain, which makes it harder to navigate through earning the nickname ‘Big Sandy’.

Photo courtesy of Belmont Park.

Oaklawn

BETTING THE EXOTICS IN THE TRIPLE CROWN: THE PLAYER’S GUIDE TO WAGERING AND WINNING ON AMERICA’S BIGGEST RACE DAYS

by DEAN KEPPLER

The year was 1993 and I had the pleasure of watching the 119th running of the Kentucky Derby from my parent’s living room at the Jersey shore. It wasn’t exactly the prestigious scenery and vibrant atmosphere of historic Churchill Downs, but it was the next best thing at the time for a single guy in his early 20s. When Jerry Bailey guided Rokeby Stables Sea Hero to a flawless ground-saving trip to the winner’s circle, I’m not sure who was more excited or startled that day. It could have been my father who was bellowing in delight after 11 Miller Lights and a $400 win bet, or our ex-racing Florida Greyhound Turbo who scurried to safe hiding in an empty bedroom when the chants of “Come on Jerry!” “Get Through Jerry!” echoed through the living room during the stretch run. Sea Hero returned a healthy price that afternoon of $27.80 to win, $12.80 place and $8.00 to show. It was enough to make any fan holding a winning ticket happy, and all was well that spring afternoon at the shore.

A lot has changed in the horse racing wagering atmosphere since Sea Hero’s Derby victory. No longer is the standard across-the-board bet enough to compensate and compete against today’s savvy bettor and the ridiculous take-outs of racetracks

nationwide. But don’t despair! Despite facing higher racetrack takeout and more sophisticated players, today’s modern horseplayer has a tremendous opportunity that his counterpart of say two decades ago did not benefit from. Today’s player has an array of betting options beyond the traditional win, place, and show. It’s a huge advantage in day-to-day play but even more so on racing’s biggest days such as the Triple Crown and Breeders’ Cup when the wagering pools are enormous. There’s a flood of amateur and uninformed dollars dancing within reach of your sticky fingertips the first and third Saturday’s in May, and the second Saturday in June. The Triple Crown offers special exotic pools that attract careless money. With some sound handicapping and shrewd exotic betting skills, the goal is to fill our pockets with a nice portion of the millions of dollars available in these big-day betting pools.

Understanding the House Edge and Advantage of Exotic Bets

Here is a quick history lesson regarding betting. Horse racing is a pari-mutuel activity, in which a percentage of the amount bet on a race (or a series of races in

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock

the case of a Pick-3 or a Pick-6) is taken out of the pool to pay state-imposed taxes, provide funding for purses, and allow the racetrack to make a profit. There are multiple “pools” on any particular race. The total amount that gets paid for each particular pool is the remainder of the amount bet in the pool after the takeout. Almost every racetrack in America accepts multi-horse bets—the exacta, trifecta, and superfecta— and several multi-race betting opportunities—a daily double, pick three, four, or six. The multi-race bets allows the bettor to spread the effect of racetrack takeout over several races, so that he is actually facing a smaller nibble per race than if he played them separately. For example: A typical takeout structure on one-horse bets (win, place, and show) in the state of Kentucky are subject to a 16 to 17.5 percent takeout, two-horse bets (daily double and exactas) face a 19 to 22 percent reduction, and all wagers involving three or more horses or races are hit with anywhere from 17 percent at Keeneland to as high as 22 percent at other tracks. If you have already had enough of percentages and other math “mumble jumble,” the most important thing to remember is this: Betting multi-race bets on racing’s biggest days offer the best opportunities to make a huge score. Leave the win, place, and show bets to the less informed betting community, which are likely too busy sipping mint juleps, black-eyed Susan’s and Belmont breezes, and betting on the names of relatives and family pets. Needless to say, for even the sports’ most skilled bettors, making a consistent profit from betting horses is an arduous task—but not an impossible one on racing’s biggest days. Of course, even knowing that the odds are stacked against all of us, it would be almost un-American to allow a Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Belmont Stakes to pass without making a bet! With a small artillery called a bankroll and some familiarity with what wagers are most “bettor-friendly,” you’ll be well on your way to a profitable Triple Crown.

What to Wager

The Pick 3

The pick three is an excellent betting choice on big-race days and is a much smarter alternative to placing just straight win or place bets. Pick-three bets should be confined to a series of races on the big-race days that a bettor has a good opinion on. Cashing in on the pick three requires winning three consecutive races, and like the pick four, usually requires purchasing more than a single combination.

A traditional $1 pick-three play might look like this: (First Leg) Race 1: Horse A (one horse) (Second Leg) Race 2: Horses A and B (two horses) (Third Leg) Race 3: Horses A, B, C, D (four horses)

In order for your ticket to stay alive in this example, the A horse must win to keep the sequence going. For a $1 bet, the cost of this ticket would be $8. That is, eight combinations (1 X 2 X 4 = $8). The key to capitalizing on the pick three is to take advantage of some bad betting favorites during your betting sequence, and hopefully get them out of the win slot in one or two races. If you see an opportunity during one of the Triple Crown undercard races where a favorite appears extremely vulnerable, it is a superb opportunity to jump in and build a pick three ticket around that potential underlay in hope he or she disappoints and runs up the track.

The Pick 4

The pick four is one of the most popular bets in American racing and is especially admired on bigrace days when the there’s usually a $500,000 or $1,000,000 guaranteed pool. It requires picking the winners of four successive races and most of the Triple Crown days offers at least two pick fours on the betting menu. I strongly recommend saving a large portion of your Triple Crown bankroll for this multi-race bet as it offers the casual bettor an excellent opportunity for gargantuan payouts for relatively small investments. The cost of the bet escalates accordingly.

Here is an example of a $1 pick-four wager: (First Leg) Race 1: Horse A (one horse) (Second Leg) Race 2: Horses A and B (two horses) (Third Leg) Race 3: Horses A, B, C (three horses) (Fourth Leg) Race 4: Horses A, B, C, D (four horses)

In this example there are 24 possible combinations (1 X 2 X 3 X 4 =$24) at $1 each, this hypothetical wager would cost $24 for a $1 bet. Most of the uninformed betting public will structure their Triple Crown pick 4 plays in this fashion, but it is an inept way to play.

Another betting approach is to play one “main” ticket with your two or three top contenders, along with some backup tickets using a third or fourth horse in each leg with your top two or three contenders in the other three legs. This strategy would look as follows and gives you an opportunity to include a forgotten long shot into your sequence that can cause your pick four payoff to skyrocket. This is a much smarter way to spread your money since the horses selected as your main contenders are likely the same as the guy sitting beside you, and these types of logical candidates will be heavily used in most of the ticket combinations purchased.

Race 1 Race 2 Race 3 Race 4

Main Contenders AB AB AB AB Backup Contenders CD CD CD CD

In this example, five separate tickets are purchased for a total of $80 using $1 increments and we are using two main contenders and two backup contenders in each race.

Main Ticket: AB, AB, AB, AB (2 X 2 X 2 X 2) = $16

Backup Tickets: CD, AB, AB, AB (2 X 2 X 2 X 2) = $16

Backup Tickets: AB, CD, AB, AB (2 X 2 X 2 X 2) = $16

Backup Tickets: AB, AB, CD, AB (2 X 2 X 2 X 2) = $16

Backup Tickets: AB, AB, AB, CD (2 X 2 X 2 X 2) = $16

Plan of Attack

Advantage 1: Fortunately, the past performances for all the Triple Crown races and their undercards are usually widely available on betting apps and web-sites providing adequate time to engulf in not only the day’s main event but also the 10 or 11 other races also scheduled for that afternoon. These races offer plenty of low hanging fruit. Most of the uninformed public, racing handicappers, journalists, and sportswriters have spent countless

hours focusing only on the Triple Crown race itself while ignoring the other dozens of wonderful betting opportunities available the rest of the afternoon. If you start your handicapping early, you will have a tremendous advantage over casual fans that will likely be attempting to handicap 5 minutes to post time and scratching aimlessly in their programs with bets constructed by the seat of their pants.

Advantage 2: It is highly recommended that you put together your multi-race bets the night before to avoid being shut out. There’s nothing worse than standing in a long line and having an extravagant pick 3 or pick 4 ticket never see the light of day because you waited too long to construct your ticket and got blanked at the window. Puting an early strategy together for your multi-race bets also allows you to make last-minute adjustments for late scratches, track conditions, and other unforeseen circumstances that might alter your ticket. Furthermore, the additional betting window staff recruited for big-race days are not always the most proficient in their craft and frequently have little experience punching out multiple exotic tickets.

Triple Crown Betting Tips & Angles

Below are some short but significant handicapping angles that have traditionally stood the test of time during the Triple Crown run. Keep them easily accessible when marching through the Triple Crown trail and you might be able to eliminate a short-priced favorite or include a live longshot that makes your multi-race betting experience a lifelong memorable one.

Good luck!

THE ULTIMATE INDULGENCE: EXPLORING CASINO SUITES AND LUXURIOUS AMENITIES FOR HIGH ROLLERS

In the world of high-stakes gambling, opulence knows no bounds. For those who thrive on the thrill of the game and the allure of luxury, top-tier casino suites offer an unparalleled hospitality experience. From extravagant accommodations to personalized services, these suites cater to the whims of the most discerning clientele. Let’s delve into the world of high rollers and explore the lavish amenities awaiting them.

The Epitome of Luxury: Casino Suites

Scarlet

Pearl Casino Resort (D’Iberville, Mississippi) (Near Biloxi)

Scarlet Pearl is known for excellence throughout the property, and the luxury suites are no exception. The Scarlet Suite sits high above the coast on the 18th floor giving guests unprecedented views through the floor to ceiling windows. There is plenty of room to relax instyle, or even host some friends in the 965 square-foot suite boasting a separate living room and bedroom area, a foyer with a half-bath as well as a full main bedroom marble bathroom with an air-bubble tub, walk-in shower, make-up vanity and a separate, enclosed toilet area. For reservations call 1-888-752-9772 or visit ScarletPearlCasino.com.

Beau Rivage Resort & Casino (Biloxi, Mississippi)

Beau Rivage is known for their pampering of guests and offering the best of the best, so it is no surprise that their selection of suites of plentiful, and they are all amazing. Ranging from 500 square-foot Junior Suites, the 900 square-foot Jasmine Suite or the spacious 1,200 square-

foot Cypress Suite, your high rolling life of luxury will be fulfilled with any of them. The Cypress Suite offers a grand entrance with a foyer leading into the lounge area, dining table, space featuring a wet bar with a refrigerator, expansive marble entrance foyer, spa robes, and custom bath amenities.

The Bellagio, Las Vegas

The Bellagio sets the standard for luxury in Las Vegas. Its exclusive suites boast breathtaking views of the iconic Strip and feature lavish furnishings fit for royalty. The epitome of elegance, these suites offer spacious living areas, marble bathrooms, and state-of-the-art amenities. High rollers can enjoy personalized concierge services, private dining experiences, and access to VIP lounges.

Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort, D’Iberville Mississippi

Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, Biloxi, Mississippi

The recently remodeled 1,536 square-foot Penthouse Suite was inspired by Italy’s Lake Como with accents of violets, bronzes, and other rich fabrics that elevate the stay. Appreciate the timeless beauty of marble foyers, spacious powder rooms, and enclosed steam showers when you retreat to this calming oasis. Relax in a world crafted for comfort with large bathrooms, a separate living room, and a dining area.

The Venetian, Las Vegas

The Venetian is one of the highest regarded luxury casino resorts in Las Vegas, and the suites at the property are one of the reasons why. Tucked on the three highest floors of the massive Four-Star hotel, the Presidential Suites and the Chairman Suite both set the bar at the highest level for compete high roller status. The 5,200 square-foot 2-bedroom Presidential Suite offers luxury accommodations with ample size to spread out, while lush appointments and thoughtful amenities create the perfect space to relax and unwind. If you are looking for a larger suite experience, the Chairman Suite boasts nearly 9,000 square-feet with options of three or four bedrooms and all are fully adequate to make your stay the ultimate luxurious stay. For reservations, call 1-866-659-9643 or visit VenetianLasVegas.com.

The Cosmopolitan, Las Vegas

Modernity meets extravagance at The Cosmopolitan, where high rollers are treated to a sensory feast. Its sleek suites boast panoramic views of the Las Vegas skyline and offer contemporary design elements with a touch of glamour. The Boulevard Penthouses are the pinnacle of exclusivity sitting high above the Las Vegas Strip. Featuring twenty-five magnificent escapes ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 square-feet and commandeering the top five floors, each penthouse was created by world-class interior designers to provide a distinctly different highend experience. From handcrafted 24-karat gold finishes to hand-cut Italian mosaics, every detail works to create an elevated luxury perspective for you, the discerning traveler.

The Cosmopolitan, Las Vegas. Photo courtesy of Thomas Hart Shelby / Goat Rodeo Productions

The Bellagio, Las Vegas. Photo courtesy of O’Gara Bissell Photography

More Premium Perks

Gourmet Dining Experiences

Fine dining is an essential component of the high roller experience, and top casino resorts spare no expense in culinary offerings. Guests can savor world-class cuisine crafted by renowned chefs, with menus featuring exquisite ingredients and innovative flavors. Whether dining in-suite or at award-winning restaurants, gastronomic delights abound.

Luxury Transportation Services

For high rollers accustomed to the finer things in life, transportation is more than just a means of getting from point A to point B—it’s a statement of luxury. Casino resorts offer chauffeured limousine services, private jets, and helicopter transfers to ensure guests arrive in style. Seamless transportation arrangements allow for effortless travel, whether to and from the airport or around the city.

Exclusive Entertainment Options

From star-studded performances to exclusive events, toptier casino resorts provide a plethora of entertainment options for high rollers. Guests can enjoy VIP access to concerts, theatrical productions, and sporting events, with front-row seats and backstage passes available upon request. Private screenings, celebrity meet-and-greets, and curated experiences add an extra layer of excitement to the luxury lifestyle.

In the end, for high rollers seeking the ultimate indulgence, top casino suites and luxurious amenities are ways properties offer unparalleled experience. From opulent accommodations to personalized services, these exclusive offerings cater to every whim and desire. Whether savoring gourmet cuisine, enjoying private gaming salons, or indulging in bespoke entertainment, guests are treated to the epitome of luxury at the world’s premier casino resorts. In this realm of extravagance, the sky’s the limit for those who dare to dream big and play even bigger.

Casino Host Spotlight:

Vicki Haskins – Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort Director of Casino Marketing

The best way for a casino player to receive the lavish perks of a high roller is to have a strong relationship with a casino host on property. Boasting over 30 years in the casino industry, Vicki Haskins has seen it all and knows what it takes to make players happy and coming back to her award-winning property on the Gulf

Coast. We caught with her to hear more about the in’s and out’s of being a casino host and some of the high roller luxuries at Scarlet Pearl.

Gaming and Destinations: What are some on-property perks offered to high rollers at Scarlet Pearl?

Vicki Haskins: We have several things we like to do for Pearl Reward members at the property. For starters, Pearl Reward members have access to the Orchid Room to experience elevated gaming, personal televisions, and complimentary amenities such as warm towels to clean your hands, mixed nuts, shoulder massagers, ballet slippers if your feet need a little relaxing and warm complimentary cashmere shawl. We also have our VIP Lounge that is exclusive and complimentary to E.I.P. and Scarlet Tier guests to enjoy as a respite from gaming with offerings such as light fare presented on a uniquely different menu of fine cuisine or a personalized curated cocktail. This plush lounge is unlike anywhere on the Gulf Coast and we are excited to be able to offer it to our guests.

G&D: Are there any off property perks you offer?

VH: Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort partners with many locally owned businesses where our Pearl Rewards members can use their Comp Dollars toward purchases. From Salons to Coast Aesthetics to Fields Steak & Oyster Bar, Ground Zero Biloxi and coming soon Rouses and Keith’s Superstores are all exclusive to Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort! We also offer guests tickets to sporting events, concerts and other attractions that we think they will like.

G&D: How are comps determined at the property?

VH: While there might be other variables, the overall indication for comps is based on play, and the the average wager over a period of time, typically three to four hours.

G&D: How has casino hospitality changed over the years and what do you think will be different in the future of casino hospitality?

VH: The most significant casino hospitality changes over the years is probably in relation to the advancements in technology that provides real-time offers and is has a greater emphasis on the guest’s personal preferences. AI will play an integral role in casino hospitality in the future as well as in game design and graphics.

G&D: What else would you like to add about Scarlet Pearl and what makes it special?

VH: Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort really is a special place. It is a single family-owned and multi-award-winning property that really focusses on the community that we live and work in alongside our guests and our associates. It really feels like family and I think our guests feel that way too, which makes them feel comfortable and relaxed when they visit.

by ERIC FLOYD

BETTING HORSES: Swinging for the Fences

As a horseplayer, I have a skeleton hanging in my closet that I am deeply ashamed of. In spite of the fact that I have dedicated a good part of my years on this Earth to honing my thoroughbred handicapping skills, I have never “signed” a ticket. For those who are not familiar with this term, a patron who cashes a ticket that returns a payoff of at least 600-1 must report their winnings to the IRS and in turn “sign” a tax form. Now don’t get me wrong, I am certainly not eager to pay more taxes. My point is that hitting a “signer” means you have knocked one out of the ballpark and in some cases, achieved the life changing score that all gamblers eternally yearn for.

There are few games inside of the gambling universe that if conquered can enable you to bid farewell to your job. For example, there is not a soul among us that has not dreamed of winning the lottery. Unfortunately we all know deep down that buying a “quick pick” at the corner Quick Mart, and agreeing to the 13,000,000-1 odds that goes along with it, only allows us to fantasize about what we would do with our own Caribbean island until the drawing is over.

Other strategies to strike it rich might include entering the World Series of Poker main event, betting a ten-team sports parlay or dumping the maximum amount of silver dollars required into a slot machine in order to capture a progressive jackpot. Though all of these plans hold a smidgen of merit, it takes ten grand to enter the main event, predicting ten sporting events correctly requires perfection within a ten-game span (YEAH RIGHT!) and you are at the mercy of a computer chip when it comes to the slots.

Many patrons have resigned themselves to the fact that their best opportunity for supplementing their income lies at certain casino tables where the house edge can be ground down to practically nothing. If you are playing blackjack with perfect strategy, the banker space in baccarat or the pass line at the craps table with maximum free odds, then you have indeed achieved nearly a coin flip’s chance on your checks. Even though in these scenarios the player has done all that they can to win, unless they are betting a significant amount of money there will be nothing to write home about.

As I look back at my years of playing the ponies, I can emphatically state why I have never inked my John Hancock on the line of an IRS form. The reason is that I simply do not wager the type of ticket that it takes to do so. To hit a “signer”, one must typically cash a long shot laden exotic bet or take down a Pick 6.

I have always been a player that relied heavily on the black and white numbers in the Daily Racing Form in order to try and find value in the win pool. Even when I do go out on a limb and play a trifecta or superfecta, I seldom place a 40-1 shot on top of the ticket. These types of runners usually do not produce the type of past running lines that can convince me they are worthy of my hard earned lettuce. That being said, I throw them out early on in the selection process. There is a problem though that goes along with playing the horses with this kind of mind set. Undoubtedly, I will reap profitable sessions along the way but on the same token, I am denying myself a shot at “THE BIG MONEY”. It simply comes down to the old adage “You can’t win if you don’t play”.

It is in this part of the column that I want to emphatically say, “Proceed with caution!” Even though it is true that you are not going to cash an $8,000 trifecta unless you take a major leap of faith, chasing these types of payoffs with too much enthusiasm will lead a horseplayer straight to the poor house. A fine line between picking your spots and reckless gambling certainly exists so I want to offer a blueprint on how to discover the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow without turning into a complete degenerate.

What if you dedicated a small percentage of your bank roll every session towards “signing” a ticket. This means that if you walk into the track with $50 to bet the card with, set aside $5 to swing for the fences. Use $45 of your budget to wager in a disciplined rational manner applying sound handicapping methods, but just have some fun with that other nickel. Whether it is betting lucky numbers or putting the longest shot on the board on top of a superfecta, force yourself to bet a ticket that no rational person would. The goal is to produce a betting slip that guarantees you a profit for the year.

Remember that you can lose 24 out of 25 bets during a session of betting thoroughbreds and still walk out of the track with heavy pockets. Scan the results from any racetrack across the country on any given day and you will find that there is a laundry list of four and five digit payouts for a mere $2 wager. If nothing else, play outlandish prospects in marquee races where the handle exceeds several million dollars. Remember that the $1 superfecta for the 135th Kentucky Derby in 2009 with 50-1 shot Mine That Bird leading the way paid $278,503.20! Do yourself a favor this year and go for broke (conservatively speaking), it just might change your life!

YOU CAN LOSE 24 OUT OF 25 BETS DURING A SESSION OF BETTING THOROUGHBREDS AND STILL WALK OUT OF THE TRACK WITH HEAVY POCKETS.

by LINDA BOYD

Linda Boyd, a long-time table game player before turning to video poker, writes for Southern and Midwest Gaming and Destinations and other media outlets. Her book, “The Video Poker Edge”, includes free removable pay schedules and her free strategy cards for the most popular games.

VIDEO POKER: Budget- Boosting Tips

It is important to unwind and escape from the dayto-day stresses brought on by economic woes. For the ever-growing number of average Joes who go to casinos this means heightened awareness of budget constraint. There’s plenty that video poker players can do to let their hair down without busting the bank and I want to let you know about a few ways to stretch every dollar.

Use Comps/Special Offers: Coupons, comps and any incentives the casino is using to draw people should be considered. So, keep your eyes and ears open for ads run by casinos, there are plenty, and even jot them down. If you’re not sure go to their web site or call the casino before leaving home to get the full run down. The less you spend for dinner, for example, the more you can add to your gambling budget.

carefully check instead of making assumptions. If your favorite machines aren’t where they used to be, your best bet is to find local players and ask. I find they usually know more about specific games than casino staff. In addition, if there’s a special promotion going on they usually know all the details.

Use Slot Card: Some players have pointed out that full pay video poker games may not include slot club points any more. Still, you may need your win/ loss record for tax verification and the casino may offer comps but not cash. I know it’s disappointing that some games no longer pay cash but they’re still a better deal than those with lower ERs (expected returns). Nowadays everybody, including the casino, is cutting back and you have to accept what’s available.

THE BETTER THE PAY SCHEDULE, THE LONGER YOU’LL BE ABLE TO PLAY ON YOUR BUDGET.

Check Pay Schedules: I remain surprised at how many people still plop down at the first available chair in the bank of video poker devices. The better the pay schedule, the longer you’ll be able to play on your budget. You should pay special attention to the payout for full-houses and flushes, since these are the hands that are most likely to vary. For example, 9/6 Jacks or Better (9/6 JOB) , the full-house pays 9 for 1 and the flush pays 6 for 1; 8/5 JOB the flush pays 8 for 1 and the flush 5 for 1. Most or all of the other hands pay the same, since that’s how the various names, like Double Bonus (DB) are derived. Removable pay schedules are in my book, “The Video Poker Edge”, and should be brought to the casino for reference.

Choose Progressives: I’ve noticed people playing non-progressives instead of progressives even though both have the same pay schedules, except the royal or four of a kind (quad) hands are progressive. For example, if the best Double Double Bonus (DDB) is 8/5DDB, then look for a progressive version. Most DDB progressives are six-way progressives, meaning they pay extra for all quads as well as for the royal. JOB and Deuces games as well are frequently found on progressive banks. Just be sure the rest of the non-progressive pay table matches.

Listen to Locals: Players often point out that machines are moved or pay schedules changed from previous visits. True, so make sure you

Read/Organize Mailers: I’ve definitely noticed an increase in mailers but a decrease in overall value. Since there will be a greater quantity it’s more important than ever to have a good filing system so you can use them on your next visit. Make sure you pay attention and note the small print; for example, some offers are only good on weekdays.

Check Slot Desk: Most people are anxious to start playing as soon as their feet hit the carpet. Instead it’s worth the time to stop by the slot club and read any flyers, signs or brochures available. Make sure you have your slot card with you; if not staff will make a new one. Ask any questions including clarifying their definition of a “day”. Be aware that this varies from place-to-place and you’ll want the session to remain within their day. The definition has a direct impact on the quality of your mailers.

Game Volatility: You’ll be able to play longer on your pre-determined budget if you select a less volatile or risky game. For video poker check the payout for two pair, a frequent hand. If you’re returned even money instead of double your wager then the game is a potential budget-buster. That’s because it relies on infrequent hands, like four Aces, to achieve the ER. If you fail to get the required rare hands then you will not be able to play very long. For example, DDB only returns your bet on two pair (risky) whereas JOB returns double your wager for the same hand (less risky).

by PHIL HELLMUTH

POKER: Three-Betting with Suited Connectors

In this column we talk about advertising – a way of messing with players’ heads in order to confuse them and induce action later on: threebetting someone with a suited connected hand like 6-7 suited. Why suited connectors? A suited connector is the kind of hand that you might hit easily when you’re out there making a play. It’s said that timing is everything in life, so how do you time this crazy move?

Before I go any further, I want to stress that it is a play that you should not try too often, and, further, that it is important to use this play against the right people. I would never use it on a mouse for two reasons. First, a mouse is set in his ways and won’t give you any extra action no matter what you do. Second, why take 6-7 suited against a big pair (which is probably what he has), when it’s so hard to win a pot? Early in the evening is the perfect time and situation to use this play, because then you may get extra action all night long! Why use it when only a few more hands are to be played when you won’t get the benefit of extra action?

In general, three-betting an opponent with suited connectors is a losing play for that one hand, but you make the play occasionally anyway because it will bring you extra action for an hour or two after you play it. This extra action will ultimately bring you more money, but it may also cause you to lose some pots that you ordinarily would have won when someone who now thinks you might be in there with any piece of junk runs you down with a weak hand. Still, re-raising with this type of hand will certainly mess up the other players’ attempts to read you. In the future, when you three-bet preflop, they will begin to wonder whether you have 6-7 suited or not.

If you win one of these pots without having to show down your hand, then I recommend folding your hand facedown and trying the same play again soon. As long as the play keeps working and you don’t have to show your hand, continue to use it. But when you have been caught bluffing with one of these hands on the end, flip it up and say, “I have nothing.” Even better is when you do hit your hand, flip it up at the end of the hand

and say, “I have a straight!” It’s pretty funny to watch the players at the table study your hand and realize you three-bet before the flop with your suited connectors! When you show down weak suited connectors that you three-bet with preflop, make sure that you’re ready to play really tight for a while, since you will get extra action for a time afterward. Just make sure that you have a strong hand when they do call you down later.

Suppose that you are about one hour into a poker game that figures to last about six hours or so. You have 8d – 9d in late position and a jackal has just made it two bets in front of you. You now decide to make it three bets, and everyone folds except the jackal. The flop comes down Ah – Ks – 4d, and the jackal bets out into you. Of course, you now go ahead and raise the jackal on the flop attempting to take the pot away from him right then and there. If the jackal folds, just throw your hand away facedown. But if he calls, make sure that you try to bluff him on fourth street and the river. If he calls you down, then say, “Nine high” and flip your hand faceup. Just the look of the other players at the table will be worth the money that you lost in this hand! Well, maybe not just the look, but the look combined with the advertising is welcome! If the jackal folds his hand at some point, then fold your own hand facedown and try the same play again soon.

Suppose the jackal calls preflop and the flop is 6h – 7h – 2s (assume that you’ve three-bet him preflop with 8d – 9d). This is a great flop for you because if you hit a five or a ten you make a straight, and if you hit an eight or a nine, you’ve made a pair of eights or nines, which would be top pair on the board. Of course you need to play this hand aggressively (ram and jam), and whether you hit the winning hand or miss your hand, just flip it faceup at the end when the jackal calls you down. Obviously, it works out pretty well for you when you do win the pot while making your “suited-connectors three-bet advertising play.” Just remember that advertising is usually pretty expensive, so make sure to look for ways to make it pay big dividends. And don’t advertise too often!

Phil Hellmuth, Jr. is a 17time World Series of Poker Champion leading all poker players in the world. His books, “Deal Me In,”“Play Poker Like the Pros” and “Bad Beats and Lucky Draws” are all best sellers and the standard in poker strategy. Also find his clothing line, blog, tips and more at PhilHellmuth.com. This column is an excerpt from “Play Poker Like the Pros.”

AS LONG AS THE PLAY KEEPS WORKING AND YOU DON’T HAVE TO SHOW YOUR HAND.

BY BILL BURTON

FOUR CARD POKER: Basics for Beginners

Hand Rankings

Order is based on the mathematical frequency of hands and is made using just four of your five cards. The hand rankings are as follows:

Four of a Kind- Four cards of the same rank.

Straight Flush- Four cards of the same suit in sequence.

Three of a Kind- Three cards of the same rank.

Flush- Four cards of the same suit.

Straight- Four Cards in sequence.

Two Pairs- Two cards of equal value and Two other cards of equal value.

Pair of Aces- A pair of aces.

There are many new table games becoming popular with the players. Four Card Poker is one of those games. Developed by Roger Snow of ShuffleMaster, developer of Three Card Poker, it is played on the same type of table and utilizes a similar shuffling machine. While there are some similarities between the two games, there are some distinct differences in the game and strategies.

be equal to your original bet but you can elect to make a bet up to three times the amount of your original Ante bet.

After all the players have made their playing decisions the dealer will turn over his hand and then the player’s hands. If the player’s hand beats the dealer’s hand they win the Ante bet and the Play bet. If the dealer wins the hand the player loses both bets. In the event of a tie the player will win. Ties are based on four cards only and the fifth card is never used to break a tie.

Bonus Payment

Four Card Poker also offers an Ante Bonus that is paid in addition to the Ante and play bet, based on the player’s hand for the Ante game. If you have a three of a kind you are paid 2 to 1. If you have a straight flush you are paid 20 to 1. If you have four of a kind you are paid 25 to 1.

Strategy

If you decide to continue playing you should bet either one time your Ante Bet or three times your Ante Bet. Never bet two times. You want to have as much money wagered when you have the advantage which you will have when strategy dictates making the larger bet.

THE MINIMUM BET YOU CAN MAKE MUST BE EQUAL TO YOUR ORIGINAL BET.

Four Card Poker is similar to Three Card Poker in the fact that it is two games in one. The base game is the Ante-Play where you compete against the dealer. The second portion of the games is called Aces Up where you receive payment on a hand of a pair of aces or better based on the pay table.

How To Play

Four Card Poker is played with a 52-card deck on a Blackjack type table. There are three circles in front of each player marked: Aces Up, Ante and 1x to 3x Ante. The play begins with the player making independent wagers on either the Aces Up or Ante portion of the game or both by placing the bet in the corresponding circle. You must bet the same amounts on each game if you chose to play both games.

Although it is called Four Card Poker the player is dealt five cards face down and must make the best four card hand. The dealer is dealt six cards which are used to make the best four card hand. One of the dealer’s cards is dealt face up and the dealer does not have to qualify in order to continue the game.

After looking at your cards you can fold and lose your Ante bet or make an additional Play bet to continue. The minimum bet you can make must

Shuffle Master has published a basic strategy that gives the players a 98.41 percent return on the game based for the combined Ante/Pay and Ante Bonus. It is very simple to remember.

Bet three times your Ante if you have a pair of Tens or better.

Bet one times to your Ante if you have a pairs of 3 through 9.

Fold if you have less than a pair of 3’s.

Based on this strategy you will find that you will fold about 47 percent of the time. You will bet one time 24 percent of the time. You will bet three times about 29 percent of the time. The player can expect to win about 70 percent of the times they bet the maximum.

Aces Up

The Aces Up bet is not affected by the dealer’s hand. If the player has a pair of aces or better they will be paid for the Aces Up bet based on the pay out schedule posted on the table. Even if you lose your Ante bet you can still collect for the Aces Up bet. The pay table for the Aces Up bet varies from casino to casino. Three of the tables are listed below.

Four Card Poker is a fun game with a simple strategy that is easy to use. Why not give it a try.

FUTURE ODDS

NBA CHAMPIONSHIP – JUNE 2023

DEFENDING CHAMPIONS: DENVER NUGGETS DEFEATED MIAMI HEAT 4 GAMES TO 1

MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL WORLD SERIES

OCTOBER 22 – NOVEMBER 2 (BEST OF 7)

DEFENDING CHAMPIONS: TEXAS RANGERS BEAT THE ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS IN 5 GAMES

Team May

LA Dodgers 4/1

Atlanta Braves 5/1

New York Yankees 7/1

Houston Astros 11/1

Philadelphia Phillies 15/1

Baltimore Orioles 12/1

Texas Rangers 12/1

Toronto Blue Jays 23/1

Chicago Cubs 26/1

*All others are higher than 30/1

**Odds courtesy of VegasInsider.com in April 2024

NFL – SUPER BOWL LIX

FEBRUARY 9, 2025 – CAESARS SUPERDOME – NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

DEFENDING CHAMPIONS: KANSAS CITY CHIEFS DEFEATED THE SAN FRAN 49ERS 25 - 22.

Team May

San Francisco 49ers 6/1

Kansas City Chiefs 7/1

Baltimore Ravens 10/1

Detroit Lions 13/1

Buffalo Bills 13/1

Dallas Cowboys 16/1

Cincinnati Bengals 16/1

Philadelphia Eagles 18/1

Miami Dolphins 21/1

Houston Texans 26/1

Green Bay Packers 26/1

*All others are higher than 30/1

**Odds courtesy of Vegasinsider.com in April 2024

Tampa Bay Rays 26/1

Arizona Diamondbacks 29/1

*All others are higher than 30/1

**Odds courtesy of Vegasinsider.com in April 2024

PGA – 124TH UNITED STATES OPEN GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP JUNE 13-16, 2024 PINEHURST RESORT & C.C. (COURSE NO. 2)

PURSE: $20,000,000

DEFENDING CHAMPION: WYNDHAM CLARK (-19)

Player May

Scottie Scheffler 6/1

Jon Rahm 13/1

Rory McIlroy 13/1

Ludvig Aberg 17/1

Brooks Koepka 18/1

Xander Schauffele 22/1

Patrick Cantlay 25/1

Will Zalatoris 25/1

Dustin Johnson 29/1

Matt Fitzpatrick 29/1

Cameron Smith 29/1

*All others are higher than 30/1

**Odds courtesy of Vegasinsider.com in April 2024