Southern Gaming and Destinations - July 2017 Issue by Gaming and Destinations

JULY/AUGUST 2017 VOL. 20, ISSUE 4 GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

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WIN BIG! PAGE 9

LAS VEGAS:

OUR TOP PICKS

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PROPERTY PROFILE: IP CASINO RESORT & SPA BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI PAGE 25

KENNY ROGERS THE GAMBLER’S LAST DEAL PAGE 6

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

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LETTER

from the Publisher

UP FRONT with G. DOUGLAS

PUBLISHER

Gaming Media Group Inc. PRESIDENT

G. Douglas Dreisbach

The summer is here and we are geared up for fun in the sun and making memories that will last forever. Those memories might take place on a beach, at a cookout or vacation with family or friends. When it comes to finding great getaways this summer, look no further than your favorite casino destinations that are chalked full of fun offering excitement both indoors and outdoors. In this issue we highlight some of our Top Picks for Outdoor Amenities and activities at casinos. When you book your trip, do yourself a favor and check out the web site for what is offered, including outdoor concert venues, hiking trails and ways to get more value out of your trip. Plus a casino with a great pool makes it easy to waste a day away in style. Be sure to check out some of our recommendations on page 22. Another favorite of ours is the ultimate gamblers’ playground, Las Vegas, a city that has grown into a destination that offers much more than gambling. Today the city offers the best shows, chefs and excitement catering to just about any lifestyle, age and budget. Where else can you buy a $10,000 cheeseburger, experience driving exotic cars at ridiculous speeds and have cocktails where The Rat Pack once roamed, all within a few blocks of each other. On page 10 you will find our picks for where to stay and things to do both on the strip and off. Whether you are a high roller, weekend adventurer or just heading to the desert destination to get away from it all, we hope you’ll find some of our suggestions useful. 2

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We are also excited to feature one of the greatest music legends of all time on the cover, Kenny Rogers. In the midst of his final farewell tour, we are honored to have caught up with him for an exclusive interview to talk about some of the highlights of his career, what he will miss the most about touring and what his future plans might be. Rogers has collected hundreds of awards, sold more than 100 million albums and has undoubtedly the most famous gambling song ever with The Gambler. There are plenty of opportunities to check out his final tour this summer, including several stops at casinos throughout the country. Be sure to check out the article on page 6 and make your plans to attend a show!

FOUNDING PUBLISHER

As always this issue is chalked full of great tips and game strategies that will help make your casino sessions more profitable. We pride ourselves with finding the best gaming experts in the world to supply great ways to win for our readers. Whether it is Frank Scoblete for craps, Henry Tamburin for blackjack, Linda Boyd for video poker or John Growchowski for just about any casino game, be sure to check out the tips and practice what they preach on your casino visits!

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Don’t forget to keep spreading the word about The Comps Club by Gaming and Destinations. This premium membership delivers the magazine to your mailbox and casino coupons to your inbox six times per year for just $29. If you are already a member, thank you! If not, be sure to go to TheCompsClub.com and join today!

and in life, and is produced bimonthly

Have a great summer! If you can’t be good… be lucky!

Larry Bisig LAYOUT AND DESIGN

Hill Harcourt CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS

Linda Boyd Eric Floyd John Grochowski Phil Hellmuth Jr. Michelle Nelson Terry Parrett Henry Tamburin Frank Scoblete Matt Willinger GAMING AND DESTINATIONS

640 South Fourth Street Louisville, Kentucky 40202 Fax (502) 583-6487 e-mail: editor@gaminganddestinations.com The goal of this publication is to help drive awareness of the ever-growing popularity of the gaming industry and to assist gamers in enjoying their gaming experience to the fullest. Gaming and Destinations is published for those who seek the best in gaming by Gaming Media Group Inc. of Louisville, Kentucky. Copyright 2017 by Gaming Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved. This publication is printed by Publisher’s Printing Co., Inc. of Shepherdsville, Kentucky. Postage is paid in Lebanon Junction, Kentucky. Opinions of columnists are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, nor does Gaming and Destinations assume liability for claims of advertisers.

G. Douglas Dreisbach Publisher

POSTMASTER:

Send address changes

to Gaming and Destinations, 640 South Fourth Street, Louisville, Kentucky 40202. Kenny Rogers photos courtesy of Piper Ferguson.

CONTENTS ON THE COVER

Kenny Rogers: The Gambler’s Last Stand

WINNING TIPS AND STRATEGIES

HIGHLIGHTS & HOT SPOTS

16 Horseracing:

14 Behind the Scenes:

FEATURE ARTICLES

17 Video Poker:

10 Las Vegas Tour Guide:

22 The Great Outdoors: Our picks for the top outdoor amenities and activities at casinos.

26 NFL Preview and Fantasy Guide:

Get an edge with our look at the 2017 season.

30 Casino Q&A with John G.:

Finding value in your play.

18 Craps:

Winning places to eat, sleep and play in Sin City.

What’s with the Weight?

The seven deadly sins of craps revealed.

19 Blackjack:

Players beware…why you should avoid 6-5 games.

20 Poker:

Booking the Band

Up close and personal with Beau Rivage’s Entertainment Director, Anthony Gibson.

34 Casino Directory:

Our preferred properties and attractions.

35 Reader Review:

Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort D’Iberville, Mississippi (Biloxi-Area)

Advanced Hold ‘Em On the Flop

36 Sports Wagering:

Future odds on major sporting events.

Get the answers you need to succeed in the casino.

10 6

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

FACTS & FUN STUFF

DID YOU KNOW

1 2 PINA COLADA The Pina Colada is one of the most popular drinks on the planet. It is the perfect summer drink to enjoy poolside or watching a sunset. There are a couple of said origins of the drink, one of which dates back to Puerto Rican pirate Roberto Cofresi, who in the 1800’s gave his crew the tasty drink to boost their moral. Another story gives claim to Caribe Hilton bartender Ramón “Monchito” Marrero who is said to have created the drink in 1954 to honor Puerto Rico. Regardless of the real story, you can’t go wrong with this tasty summer drink. We hope you enjoy this recipe. You can always buy the mix, but we feel it is always better making it from scratch! Ingredients (2 drinks): • 1 ½ cup of ice • ½ cup of diced pineapple, frozen • 2 ounces pineapple juice • 2 ounces Coco Lopez coconut cream • 2 ounces ounce dark rum • pineapple slices for garnish Directions: Put the ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth and frosty. Pour into 2 glasses and garnish the rim with pineapple slices.

HOW MANY NUMBER ONE HITS DID KENNY ROGERS HAVE? A. 10 B. 24

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WHAT IS THE FIFTH AND FINAL, CARD TO BE DEALT IN TEXAS HOLD ‘EM CALLED? A.

Last Licks

B. River

C. 31

C. Finale

D. 40

D. Rabbit

WHO IS THE ONLY LEFT HANDED QUARTERBACK IN THE PRO FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME? A.

Steve Young

Michael Vick

Matt Leinart

Tim Tebow

Bar On The Las Vegas Strip

Sidewalk Under An Awning

Movie Theatre

Auto Shop

1864

A. 12% B. 19.40% D. 27.50%

Largest point spread in NFL history. Denver was favored over Jacksonville who covered falling 35-19.

IN BLACKJACK, WHEN STARTING WITH A 10, HOW OFTEN WILL A DEALER BUST?

C. 21.25%

THE FIRST SLOT MACHINE WAS THE LIBERTY BELL. IT WAS NOT LOCATED IN A CASINO. WHERE WAS IT LOCATED?

The year President Abraham Lincoln admitted Nevada to the Union. 4

ANSWERS: 1. B 2. A 3. D-PEOPLE PLAYED WHILE WAITING FOR THEIR CARS. 4. B 5. C

SIPS WITH GAMING & DESTINATIONS

26.5

24 154

Million people visit Las Vegas each year accounting for billions in tourism revenue.

Number of copies (in millions) sold of Kenny Rogers Greatest Hits Album

Number of consecutive rolls in craps by a New Jersey player at the Borgata in Atlantic City. This is thought to be the longest roll ever!

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Photos courtesy of Piper Ferguson.

Performing legend Kenny Rogers wraps up an all-star career with farewell tour.

KENNY ROGERS:

THE GAMBLER’S LAST DEAL by

here’s always a certain amount of skepticism one has when an entertainer announces his or her retirement. Certain groups and individuals have been on their “Final World Tour” for 20 years running, and such announcements are often seen as marketing ploys designed to fill seats. So while it was disheartening to hear that performing legend Kenny Rogers was getting ready to retire, and embarking on his final tour, “The Gambler’s Last Deal”, it was refreshing to hear that unlike so many others in show business, he really meant it. Kenny Rogers’ career spans back to the late 1950’s, when he charted a minor doowop hit called “That Crazy Feeling”. He bounced around through various groups in 6

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TE R RY PA R R E T T

a variety of musical styles before landing first with the The New Christy Minstrels, and then forming The First Edition with a few other bandmates from the Minstrels. The band found success with songs such as “Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In)” and “But You Know I Love You” before being renamed Kenny Rogers and the First Edition, when they scored a hit with “Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love to Town”. Rogers started his solo career in 1976, after the First Edition broke up, and he found success straddling the line between pop and country. His solo career took off with 1977’s “Lucille”, which reached number one status in 12 countries. The success of “Lucille” led to a string of hits, including “Coward of the County”, “The Gambler”, “Lady”, and “Islands In The Stream”.

In the early 1980’s, Kenny showed his business acumen by teaming up with other singers in a highly successful string of duets. Among his singing partners, and long-time friend Dottie West, who credited Kenny with bringing her career to new audiences, as well as Dolly Parton, Kim Carnes, Lionel Richie, Sheena Easton, and Don Henley. Working with performers from different areas in music broadened Rogers’ reach and fan base, and certainly increased his stature in the music world. As his recording career blossomed, Kenny continued touring, and for many cities, an annual highlight was his Christmas concert, “Christmas and Hits”. An unusual and highly popular feature of these concerts was that local school

choral groups would often be invited to accompany Kenny. There are many fans who can proudly boast that they sang alongside Kenny Rogers at one of these events, and it undoubtedly is a cherished memory for families across the country. Kenny’s love of Christmas in general, and Christmas music in particular culminated in 2015’s Once Again It’s Christmas, an album of all-new recordings which included collaborations with Alison Krauss, Jim Brickman, and Jennifer Nettles. Throughout his career, Kenny has been honored with countless awards. Though too numerous to list here, they include several “Top Male Vocalist” awards from the Academy of Country Music and Country Music Association; “Entertainer of the Year” from the ACM; a “Best Male Country Vocal Performance” Grammy Award in 1979 for “The Gambler”; another Grammy for 1988’s duet with Ronnie Milsap, “Make No Mistake She’s Mine”, a TNN Music “Career Achievement Award”; and in 2013, induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. His longevity and accomplishments are of the type rarely seen anymore.

of restaurants featuring chicken. While the chain was a success initially, the highly competitive food industry was eventually sold, and while no longer a presence in the US, is still operating in Asia. In 2015, Kenny announced that he would be embarking on his final tour, appropriately titled “The Gambler’s Last Deal”. The tour eventually expanded into 2017, and as of this writing, upcoming dates will include stops in Las Vegas, Reno, Laughlin, Biloxi, and more. The complete tour itinerary can be found at www.kennyrogers.com/tour. As would be expected, the tour is a retrospective of Rogers’ entire career, featuring an allnew show, and performances during the holiday season have also incorporated his “Christmas and Hits” format. Kenny was gracious enough to take a few minutes out of his tour schedule to answer a few questions for readers of “Gaming and Destinations” magazine.

G & D: First of all, thank you much for doing this interview and taking the time to speak with us. KR: You’re more than welcome. I’m excited to speak with you. G & D: So tell me a little bit about the current tour, “The Gambler’s Last Deal”. KR: Well, the tour has been going on for 2 years. I’ve been working harder since I said I was quitting than I ever did before that. We started the tour in the U.S. last year in April, and prior to that we had done farewell shows in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. We’ve been all over the world. It’s been good. It’s given me a different show than I normally do, a lot of songs I haven’t done in years. It’s a look back for me as well as the fans. I’ve got Linda Davis with me and she is great. We found a lot of good things that we both enjoy doing.

As his singing career was becoming white hot, like many singers, Kenny took a chance and branched into acting. Not surprisingly, his first starring role was in the 1980 TV movie, Kenny Rogers as The Gambler, which brought his popular musical creation to the small screen. Several subsequent Gambler movies followed through the years, as well as another movie based on one of his hits, “Coward of the County”. Kenny also starred as himself in a TV biopic about long-time friend Dottie West, 1995’s Big Dreams and Broken Hearts: The Dottie West Story. Perhaps from having seen too many entertainers achieve success and then fritter it away, as his career grew, Kenny looked for additional avenues to pursue. In 1981, he bought a building in Los Angeles, the ABC Dunhill building, and built it into a state of the art recording studio. The studio became very popular among top flight musicians, and in 1985, was used to record the mega-hit “We Are The World”. In 1991, Kenny went far afield from his entertainment roots and founded Kenny Rogers Roasters, a chain

Kenny Rogers was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2013.

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

G & D: What are you going to miss most about performing? KR: I’m going to miss the people I’m with, the people who worked with me. My twin 12 year old sons asked, “’Dad, what are you going to do when you quit singing?’ And I told them, “I’m going to come home and spend all my time with you”, and they both just put their head in their hands... G & D: What are you going to miss least about touring? Anything you don’t enjoy about being on the road? KR: There’s nothing I don’t enjoy. I have to tell you, I just love it. It’s just getting harder for me. If it wasn’t for that fact, I don’t think I would quit. I’ve been at this for 60 years, and I know how to do this, when to do what, and I’m very comfortable doing it, but I realized I wanted to do a farewell tour before it was too late to say farewell. G & D: If you hadn’t been a singer, what do you think you might have done as a career? KR: I don’t know. I used to sell office supplies, it wasn’t glamorous, I’ll admit. G & D: Is there anyone who you never got to do a duet with that you wished you had? KR: I know it sounds funny, but I think I accomplished everything I set out to do. My hero in the music business was Ray Charles, and we did a bunch of stuff together, and everything else, all the other people that I wanted to sing with, I’ve done it in one way or another. I don’t think there are any missed opportunities, and I think that’s what makes it easier to say goodbye. G & D: Were there any songs that surprised you in terms of the way they were received? Any songs you didn’t expect to do well that turned out to be hits? KR:: I t h i n k “ T he Greatest”, about the little baseball player. I mean, I loved it, I thought it was cute, but it really turned out to do much better than I thought it would, and I was thrilled because it was a huge hit. 8

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G & D: How about any songs you thought would do great - the minute you were done recording, you knew you had a monster. KR: Mostly the duets I felt that way, like “We’ve Got Tonight”, and the ones with Dolly Parton. The songs I did with other people, I really felt would do well. I feel like everyone sings better in duets because you have someone that you’re trying to outdo; you pick songs that everyone likes, you get two opinions instead of one, and I’m just thankful I’ve been able to do some great duets. G & D: Even though touring is done, is there any chance you might still record? KR: There have been a lot of people who talked to me about that, and I think back to something I saw. Sting was doing a TV show with Vince Gill, and Vince asked him, “Would you like to have another hit record?”, and Sting said, “I don’t think I have any in me.” And I understand that, because it takes a lot to promote a record; no, when I’m through, I’m through. G & D: Your former duet-mate Lionel Richie is rumored to be up for a judge’s seat on the reboot of American Idol - would you consider something similar?

KR: No, I’ll leave that to Lionel! (laughs) No, I don’t have any interest. It’s one of those things I couldn’t do. Passing judgement on other people is not my goal. G & D: Is there anyone currently performing that you enjoy listening to, or maybe feel is underrated? KR: You know, I’ve never listened to the radio in my life! I’m kind of a news guy, and I just don’t really listen to a whole lot of music; I don’t know why. G & D: I think many people associate you most strongly with the image and song “The Gambler”; I’m sure you’ve been asked many times, but do you consider yourself a gambler? KR: No! I found out very early on, I can’t win enough to excite me, but I could certainly lose enough to make me miserable. G & D: What do you plan on doing in retirement? Are there any hobbies or pursuits you never had time for when you were performing that you are planning on delving into? KR: I’m just going to enjoy my family. At this point, my ultimate goal in my life is to have better, and more, family time. We’re going to take the family out to places like Lake Powell, the Grand Canyon - places that I think are spectacular. It’s the simple things in life, the things that I’ve missed before, that I’m hoping to get to. get to do.

Kenny Rogers Casino Stops: July 21 The Park Theater (Las Vegas) July 28 Silver Legacy Casino (Reno) July 29 Edgewater Casino (Laughlin) Aug. 18 Beau Rivage (Biloxi) Sept. 22 Grand Casino Mille Lacs (Minnesota) See all tour dates at KennyRogers.com/tour

INTRODUCING RISING STAR CASINO’S

NEW RV PARK We proudly introduce our new Full Service RV PARK just in time for you to enjoy summer outings in beautiful Southeastern Indiana on the Ohio River in Rising Sun, Indiana. We’re just 45 minutes from Cincinnati, less than two hours from Indianapolis, Dayton or Louisville and just two hours from Columbus and Lexington. Rising Star makes a great destination as part of a longer journey or a convenient getaway. Whether you’re a seasoned RV enthusiast or just beginning your adventure, you’ll enjoy a quality experience enhanced by the friendliest service and the best amenities of any RV park in the region.

Discover an impressive array of guest amenities: • 56 spaces, each with full hookups including power, water and sewer • Private bathrooms with showers • Washers & dryers • Bocce ball court • Shuffleboard • Playground • Dog park

• Picnic tables & grill area • Fire pit • Cable TV • Wi-Fi • Indoor pool access • The Rising Star golf course • Two adjoining hotels • Access to town docks and boat ramps

• Casino with 939 slots and 25 table games • Variety of restaurants including buffet and steak house • Weekend entertainment • Grocery and convenience stores within walking distance • Three blocks from the charming downtown historic district

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock.

L AS V EGAS:

W H ER E T O S TAY, PL AY A N D PL A N YOU R DAY by

Vegas. In a word, it’s ostentatious. It’s an adult circus with over-the-top, glittery displays of opulence, swank and sin all huddled together – and all pandering your attention – located on a 4.5 mile strip, called “The Strip,” in the middle of a desert. Vegas means many things to different people, and every Vegas experience is unique. It really all depends on the type of Vegas traveler you are. For some, it’s a chance to indulge in the mind-blowing excess that Vegas is known for. For others, Vegas is a foggy piece of a memory that surfaces the next day when you’re trying to recall getting that inner lip tattoo. No matter what you go to Vegas for, you are going for an experience.

Thankfully, Vegas doesn’t mean you have to elbow through the hordes of drunken frat guys on spring break, or broken-heel wearing bachelorette parties to get a drink. Vegas has something for everyone. Whether you’re the High Roller type, seeking premium luxury accommodations, the Weekend Reveler getting away for a “Lost Weekend,” or the Escapist looking for, well, an escape – Vegas offers refuge for all who seek a break from the ordinary 10

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MICHELLE NELSON

routine to entertain your sinful side for a change. This guide is designed to make sure you get the experience you’re looking for in Vegas on your next visit. WHERE TO STAY

High Roller: For those who crave the luxurious lifestyles of the rich and famous, stay at The Wynn. All of the rooms are suites and the hotel features award-winning restaurants and spas, designer boutiques, an 18-hole golf course and holds more Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star awards than any other independent hotel in the world. Plus, if you’re really feeling frugal, high rollers can order the $10,000 cocktail at the nightclub XS called “The Ono,” it comes with cufflinks and a necklace ... order up! Weekend Reveler: For those who are looking for a peaceful sanctuary to rest in while they recover from their weekend decisions, stay at Nobu at Caesar’s Palace. Featuring the largest Nobu restaurant in the world where hotel guests get preferential seating at the famous restaurant, as well as full access to the pools at Caesars Palace. The property

also has a custom-designed app that will handle all of your needs from check-in, room service and even a personal concierge. This boutique hotel was designed by David Rockwell, an award-winning NY-based designer. Tapped by Chef Nobu and Robert DeNiro, Rockwell was tasked to design the world’s first Nobu Hotel, after having designed the first Nobu restaurant. The rooms feature artwork by up-and-coming Japanese artists with a feature wall that displays custom “shodo” style calligraphy. The Escapist: For those who want to remain (sort of) off the grid, stay at El Cortez Cabana Suites in Downtown Las Vegas. An iconic piece of vintage Vegas, the El Cortez is a family-run hotel, located in genuine authentic Las Vegas and is the oldest, continuously run hotel in Vegas. The cheaper rooms are the truly “vintage rooms” built during the 40s. They evoke the feeling that you’ve stepped into a time machine and gone back to the Vegas when the Rat Pack ruled the streets. The Cabana Suites located across the way from the main hotel offer a perfect hideaway from the noise and drunks on The Strip. The property is smoke-free and there isn’t any gaming, but it’s a great place to getaway and relax without having to leave Vegas. The famed mobsters, Bugsy Siegel, Meyer Lansky, Gus Greenbaum and Moe Sedway once owned the hotel in 1945. Other suggestions: Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, Mirage, Caesars Palace, The Cromwell, The Cosmopolitan, Palms, Hard Rock, Red Rock Casino, Flamingo, Golden Nugget, Artisan Boutique Hotel WHAT TO EAT

High Roller: If you’re craving a Parisian escape from the grit of Vegas, look no further than Bardot Brasserie at The Aria. French American fusion cuisine influenced by cafe culture, created by James Beard award-winning chef Michael

Red Rock Canyon offers hiking, biking and more in the Mojave Desert.

The Wynn and Encore are luxury properties in Las Vegas.

Mina. Inspired by Hemingway’s Paris, the Bardot Brasserie features a brass bar and a faux sidewalk cafe outside the restaurant. Go for the brunch, which features the $25 bottomless Everlasting Rose and cult favorites like the Nutella Sticky Bun, Hunter’s Waffle and Croissant Benedicts. Weekend Reveler: If you’re looking to get away from the noise of The Strip go Downtown. Downtown Las Vegas has been steadily developing its art scene and Carson Kitchen is the crowning jewel in what is about to become the new hot spot in Downtown Las Vegas. Hip, trendy, fun and funky, Carson Kitchen is definitely a must-see if you’re ever in Vegas. Dubbed “creative comfort food,” Vegas-based Chef Kerry Simon and restaurateur Cory Harrell wanted to develop the first casual eatery in an area that was pretty much a ghost town in Downtown Vegas. Now Carson Kitchen has eclectic, new neighbors in a sushi bar, tattoo parlor, Pilates studios, and a donut and coffee shop where Chef Simon gets the donuts to make his incredible glazed donut bread pudding. A local treasure, the restaurant has a courtyard outside where you can sip craft cocktails and an upstairs bar complete with food service and a great escape and change of scenery from the loud boisterous strip. Get the bacon jam; you won’t be disappointed. The Escapist: You veer off the beaten path – maybe because you’re lost, maybe because it was intentional. It really doesn’t matter to you, however you ended up where you are, because the purpose of your journey wasn’t about the destination. It was about the escape. If you’re looking for a relatively well-kept local secret, Chada Thai & Wine offers a refuge from the tourist traps and typical Vegas restaurants that you encounter on the main strip. Keep in mind that Chada is off-strip, and the area can be a little “gritty” for some, so be sure to keep in mind that you’re in “local territory” and coordinate G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

transportation. Chada offers South Thai cuisine in a low profile, intimate 45-seat restaurant that packs a big bang in flavor, wine selection and spice. If you’re familiar with its famous sister restaurant, Lotus of Siam, you’ll love Chada Thai & Wine. The former sommelier from Lotus of Siam is the genius behind the wine selection at Chada and every wine on his list pairs beautifully with the dishes on the menu. This hidden gem is hailed as one of the best restaurants off-strip with the average dish around $12. Other Suggestions: Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand, Mastro’s Ocean Club at Crystals City Center, SW Steakhouse at Wynn, Beijing Noodle at Caesars Palace, Top of the World at Stratosphere, Tournament of Kings show at Excalibur, Eiffel Tower Restaurant at Paris Las Vegas WHAT TO DO

High Roller: You are “extra” and you know it. You don’t settle for mediocre because, in your opinion, life is not worth living unless you’re having a showstopping, heart-pounding experience. Living life to the fullest and in style is how you approach travel, and Exotics Racing School at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway can help you do just that. If you ever wanted to see how a multi-billionaire cruises, make sure to add this to your itinerary. Simply book a track day to experience the exotic beauty, performance and speed of the world’s most elite vehicles. You can drive the world’s fastest supercars on a closed track with trained instructors, and they offer courses from lap sessions to actual racing series and challenges for more experienced drivers. Their lineup includes Ferraris, Lamborghinis, McLarens and Porsches. There is also a shuttle service to and from most hotels. Book a track day with trained racecar drivers for an unforgettable experience in some of the most expensive, fastest supercars in the world. Weekend Reveler: If you’re going to tear it up in Vegas, you have to see at least one quintessential Vegas show, and that show should be Absinthe at The Caesar’s Palace. An adult-only, acroburlesque show – it’s Cirque de Soleil meets Rocky Horror Picture Show. This show pushes the boundaries and takes you out of your comfort zone to experience a taste of sin in Sin City.

variations of Elvis, Michael Jackson and Marilyn Monroe impersonators. You can’t stand another clack-clacking of the guys handing out cards with pictures of naked ladies on them. You need an escape from your escape. Get out to Red Rock Canyon for a quick escape from the screaming, selfie-taking hordes of bachelorette parties and 21-year-olds on mind-altering substances. The canyon is a sanctuary, and offers the quiet beauty of red cliffs situated in the Mojave Desert. If you’d rather take in the scenery, there is an option to take the 13-mile scenic drive. When things get too weird, get back to the basics and hike in nature. Other suggestions: Dolphin Trainer for a Day at The Mirage, Grand Canyon Tour in a Helicopter, Rent an Exotic Car for Day, ,Zipline over Freemont Experience, Big Shot at The Stratosphere Top Gold Las Vegas WHERE TO LOUNGE & DRINK

High Roller: If you want to “see and be seen,” but are selective about who you see and are seen by, head to The Pools at The Mandarin Oriental. The Pools offer an outdoor spa-like experience with pool cabanas available for rent each equipped with a 48” flat screen TV and a complimentary mini-bar filled with the non-alcoholic beverages. The Pool Cafe serves breakfast, fresh gelato and pool attendants serve mini-smoothies and frozen fruit throughout the day. After soaking up some rays, head over to the Mandarin Bar located on the 23rd floor of the Mandarin Hotel. The Mandarin Bar is understated yet sexy, and offers an incredible view of the Vegas cityscape. There’s live jazz, which gives it an understated yet sexy vibe – the perfect environment for showing off your summer glow while cooling off with a craft cocktail.

The Escapist: The allure of The Strip has worn off on you. You’ve grown tired of seeing the many Top Golf Las Vegas is located just off of the Strip.

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Weekend Reveler: You’re here to party, and this is where to party – Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis at Caesar’s Palace. The area features seven different pools, each offering something unique and different than the others, ranging from a swim-up blackjack table and bar, to a secluded Europeanstyle pool, you won’t want to leave! Air-conditioned poolside cabana spas can be reserved ahead of time, and feature services such as deep tissue massages and body art. Cabanas come stocked with refreshments, a flat screen TV; a cabana attendant will bring cocktails and snacks as you see fit.

Freemont Street has redefined itself as a hot spot of Las Vegas.

For drinks and to experience something different than The Strip, do yourself a favor and go to Fremont Street. You’ll thank me later. The Fremont Street experience is one that can’t be adequately captured in words, but I’ll give it a shot. It’s like a looking at a light show, through the bottom of an empty glass while recovering from a mild acid trip. You’re not sure if you’re up or down, but you’re still standing.

more of a family environment. To get away from it all (you are The Escapist, after all), The Golden Nugget offers an adult-only pool located on the third floor called The Hideout, which features an infinity pool and poolside bar. It’s a more intimate environment and not as crazy as some of the traditional pools on The Strip. Cabanas and daybeds are available for rent and can be reserved ahead of time on their website.

If you’re in that sweet spot of inebriation where you just want to be somewhere mellow that has a great atmosphere, go to The Commonwealth. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, there’s a speakeasy located inside the bar called The Laundry Room, where there’s reportedly no photography allowed inside, and pardon my French, but no jerks allowed either. They’re pretty dead serious about that last one, which makes it the perfect place to drink without having to deal with the riff-raff.

While out on the town, make sure to grab some drinks at the oldest freestanding bar in Vegas The Atomic Liquor. Opened in 1945 originally as “Virginia’s Cafe” at the end of World War II, The Atomic Liquor, was situated about 50 miles away from a nuclear testing site where patrons used to watch mushroom clouds balloon on the horizon. Formerly a Rat Pack hangout, and one of Hunter S. Thompson’s favorite bars to visit when he was in Vegas (think Fear and Loathing), The Atomic Liquor has been serving its regulars (which have included include Barbara Streisand and Jimmy Hoffa) ever since. For The Escapist, this bar not only offers craft drinks, but a piece of iconic Vegas history that cannot be replicated anywhere on The Strip.

Of course, no speakeasy is worth its salt if you don’t have a secret knock to get in. In this case, you have to text them (ask your server for the number) or look for the red light above the door. When it’s lit, that’s your signal there’s space for you. If you want to experience a Lost Weekend, my advice is to start there. You’ll find a premium whiskey and rum selection, and a killer environment that will set the tone for the night. The Escapist: You want to keep a low profile and we get it. You want the Vegas pool experience without all the Vegas pool revelers. Enter The Hideout Pool at The Golden Nugget. Not to be confused with the main pool at the Golden Nugget that has the main attraction – the shark tank centered in the middle of The Tank. Avoid the main pool if you’re looking for a relaxing environment. Because of The Tank, it’s

However you plan to experience Vegas, always experience it in style. As gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson once wrote, “No sympathy for the devil; keep that in mind. Buy the ticket, take the ride.” No experience is worth having without having a story to go with it. Step lightly and bring your golf shoes if you plan to get out alive (that’s a Fear and Loathing reference for those who care), your Vegas experience is waiting. Other suggestions: Bar Prohibition at Golden Gate Casino, Casa Fuente Cigar Lounge at The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, O’Sheas on The Strip, Hyde at The Bellagio G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

BO OK I NG T H E BA N D: BE H I N D T H E S C E N E S W I T H A N T H ON Y G I B S ON E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R O F E N T E R TA I N M E N T B E A U R I VA G E R E S O R T & C A S I N O ( B I L O X I , M I S S I S S I P P I )

ave you ever wondered how

1999, and in the music business since the

like to open a casino with them. I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t

concerts? Or what might go

knows what he is talking about!

it would be on the strip. But, then they said

casinos decide to have certain

on behind the scenes for the artist when they get there? Do they get to enjoy

the property amenities and have lavish

meals at the steakhouse? We all know casinos have some of the best customer

service on the planet. So when it comes

to delivering entertainment, it is a top priority and requires persistence, planning

seventies, so letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just say that we think he Gaming and Destinations: How did

you get your start in the entertainment business and end up at Beau Rivage in Biloxi?

Anthony Gibson: I hit Los Angeles in

know where it was going to be, I assumed Biloxi, Mississippi. They showed me the

blueprints of the resort and I was sold. It

was such a gorgeous building showcasing the standard of Vegas. So I moved to

Biloxi in 1998 and my office was in a trailer

across the street while we were finishing

1973 with a ten piece horn band. Then I

building and ordering equipment and so

and starting singing and eventually moved

been here ever since.

met a few members of The Platters in 1978

on. We opened March 16, 1999 and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve

We caught up with industry entertainment

to Vegas in 1977. Around 1994 or so, I had

G&D: There have been several changes to

Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi,

job at the Golden Nugget. I wanted to stay

of show business at casinos. Gibson has

so I took a job as a stage tech. Then, Steve

and knowing the customer.

veteran Anthony Gibson from Beau

just got back from Japan and was offered a

Mississippi for a look behind the curtain

home and I was tired of the road by then

been with the property since it opened in 14

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Wynn and Barry Shier asked if I would

the auditorium since the property opened including a new sound system and other

guest enhancement changes. What have been some of the more impactful changes over the years?

AG: We opened with a Cirque du Soleil

route recommendations to me. After that,

a year. We learned that $60 tickets on a

worth doing this?’ and ‘Can we afford it?’

show called Alegria that was here for about

nightly basis was not really something that a family of four was necessarily going

to do. So we had to make some changes to the venue to make it more of a theater

because the floor was all stage for the Cirque du Soleil show. So a lot of those changes were dedicated to make a theater

for any type of show, including headliners. G&D: Beau Rivage is known for first-class

entertainment across the board. What

goes into the process in determining what works best for not only your theatre but

the fan base and what your customers will like?

it is mainly answering questions like ‘Is it It’s a major process that just goes on and

on, and never ends. I’m already booking 2018 and you better be booking 2018

because otherwise your competition is going to get the acts that you want.

G&D: Without naming specific names, what are some of the more outlandish

requests and things you might have gotten

over the years for artists when they come in? AG: I provide what is needed. I think the

other side for me to answer that question is, probably the easiest person I have ever

worked with has to be Jay Leno. Jay Leno

AG: It starts off with me seeing something.

comes in and wants a bottle of water and

that I can relate to to determine show

anyone to carry his luggage. That’s the

I use industry programs and resources

a Nathan’s hot dog and he will not allow

type and ticket prices. That gives me

story I like to tell on that end.

something to base on if this act could work for us or not work for us. It has to

come within a price range where you got

to know your demographic and does this

ticket cost too much or is this enough to be able to deal with? For instance, I put offer letters together and then I will get

with our president and COO, Marcus Glover and our CFO, Paul Herd and

our VP of Marketing. We will sit down and talk about it and when I present something with price range and things that will fit the demographic. That’s the

start of it there. Then it goes from there to reaching the agencies and they start to

G&D: With ticket prices the way they are

today ranging anywhere from $60 to $200 and up for the bigger names, what do you

feel an appropriate length concert is? Can it be too long of a show?

G&D: Do you have a favorite instrument you like to see live in concert? Like Billy Joel on piano or Santana on guitar? AG: I think that would be Stevie Wonder for me. I’m in the bucket list group now. Stevie and keyboard is great, but I always love a good guitarist. Whether that be Santana or Steve Miller or whoever. Styx. I’ve always loved groups like them. I would say overall guitar though. G&D: What makes the Beau Rivage theater such a great place for a concert? AG: Our venue is what I consider small and intimate. That is saying we got 1,595 seats and we have 1,820 if you include the floor. We also have VDos system that cost around $1.3-1.4 million.

AG: That all depends on the artist and

G&D: In what ways does a sound system like that make the biggest difference?

acts I book, I may not be a fan of but I

AG: Well, say to go to a concert and it is at a really huge venue and you are looking forward to a certain type of sound or you bought the album and you get there and it doesn’t sound this way. When you come and see a group at the Beau Rivage it is a beautiful experience with sound and seating. Our seating has swivels and are 23 inches. The average size of a seat in a theater is generally 19 to 20 inches which also delivers comfort in addition to a great sound. I think that’s what type of thing that the fans would like.

how much of a fan you are. Some of the have to think of our customer base and if somebody loves certain group. If they do,

they’ll sit through the show right to the very end and last song. I think that’s why

the sound has to be great and you have to have relaxed seating. Everything has to be perfect.

G&D: Do you have a favorite band or artist?

AG: I lean towards vocalist, but no not really. I like anybody who has enough

talent to be out there touring. Anything that I book in here I wouldn’t be booking Gibson performing at Beau Rivage Ultra Lounge, EIGHT75.

Gibson got his start with The Platters and still enjoys singing today.

it if I didn’t think it was going to be a successful show or if I didn’t like them.

To check out upcoming entertainment at Beau Rivage, visit BeauRivage.com or call 1-888-750-7111.

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

PLAYER STRATEGY

HORSERACING: What’s with the Weight? There is an ancient axiom in thoroughbred racing that states; “Weight can stop a freight train.” In an effort to paint the proper illustration I’ll now reference a one mile contest run at Aqueduct Racetrack. Soon after the break a horse to the inside veered left, smashed into the rail and dislodged his rider. The field scooted well clear as the fractious entry attempted to regain balance but by the time a proper gait was located, ten lengths separated our straggler from the pack’s rear racer. Most horseplayers are aware that if an entry loses their rider during the course of a bout they are immediately disqualified however a fair percentage of runners who find themselves in this position utterly refuse to give up the ship. Our pony of reference adhered to this inbred mentality to compete and was racing mid-pack by the far turn due to the fact that his back was now free of over a hundred pounds of human flesh. As those still capable of seizing win honors struggled through the lane, the thoroughbred with no accomplice drew away besting his rivals by four lengths. Obviously the referenced example is extreme but it hammers home the point that a horse will run faster when the hindrance of weight is eliminated. If you listen to the “Old Timers” that still scarcely lurk along the fence of most ovals they will declare that for every five pounds a racer sheds, one length or one fifth of a second is annexed. Such a measure might seem inconsequential but in actuality a great percentage of races are decided by less than a single length. So how is the weight carried by a thoroughbred assigned? In handicap races an expert will delegate weight to each entry depending on their perceived ability. Evening out the field in this manner typically creates highly competitive clashes and lucrative prices across the tote board. Interestingly enough, this type of practice forced history’s most celebrated thoroughbred into retirement. Man o’ War carried as much as 138 lbs. during his three-year old campaign, conceding as much as 32 lbs. to hopelessly outmatched rivals. Seeking to halt the barrage carnage left by Man o’ War racing officials sought to pile even more lead onto this “freak’s” back but instead of giving in to such lunacy, owner Samuel D. Riddle opted to retire his racer. Matters of weight are spelled out in the conditions of a race but before citing a specific example know that allowances in burden are typically given due to age, sex, recent lack of success and jockey tenure. 16

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E R I C F LOY D

Below is a typical condition that would appear in the Daily Racing Form: -1 Mile- (1:33.1) CLAIMING. Purse $18,000 3-year-olds and up. Weights: 3-year-olds, 120lbs., older 122 lbs., non-winners of 2 races at a mile or over since Nov. 12th allowed 3 lbs., of such a race since then, 5 lbs. Claiming Price $35,000. In this fictional route the top weight that can be carried by any one horse is 122 lbs. A three-year old participant receives a 2 lb. allowance and racers with resumes failing to feature a pair of victories at a mile or over since November 12th fall under 3 lbs. of grace. The maximum weight concession any runner will obtain is 5 lbs. yet only horses that haven’t succeeded at a mile or more since November 12th qualify for this advantage. A type of weight concession will appear inside a thoroughbred’s running lines when they are being handled by an apprentice jockey. During their first year on the circuit jockeys maintain a weight allowance and while these matters vary from state to state, a rookie in silks usually begins with a 10 lb. allotment. Thoroughbred conditioners often employ even the most unproven “bug boy” simply to ease a racer’s lumbar but as the wins pile up a fledgling’s favor flees. A pre-determined number of triumphs will reduce a novice’s 10 lb. weight allowance to 5 lbs. and here it remains until the inaugural year lapses. If a horse is slated to carry 120 lbs. and their jockey tips the scale at a stealth 109 lbs. then action must be taken to get said equine “up to weight”. The practice of adding lead ingots to pockets in the saddlecloths used to be commonplace but technology has improved this crude methodology. Recently saddles that vary in weight have been introduced so our hero mentioned above would simply acquire an 11 lb. seat from the jock’s room. Consequence of weight toted is probably the single most disputed angle among horseplayers. Some ignore the statistic entirely while others consider this elementary measurement more essential than breeding and Beyer Speed Figures. As with most facets of handicapping individual players must discern for themselves the impact from pounds acquired but putting in my two cents I’ll state that as race distance lengthens, consideration of weight carried should intensify. Finally, one should be wary of betting on a threeyear old thoroughbred who is surrendering weight to a group of older horses.

Eric Vaughn Floyd is a turf writer for various gaming publications and is a consultant to several nationwide media outlets in regards to the Triple Crown. Excerpts of his gambling memoir “The Backstretch (My First Decade Playing the Game)” can be viewed at LULU.com

“ FOR EVERY FIVE POUNDS A RACER SHEDS, ONE LENGTH OR ONE FIFTH OF A SECOND IS ANNEXED.” FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

PLAYER STRATEGY by

LI N DA B OY D

VIDEO POKER: Have We Got a Deal For You (Wink, Wink)

Linda Boyd, a long-time table game player before turning to video poker, writes for “Southern & Midwest Gaming” and other notable publications throughout the country. You can see her videos on YouTube or listen to her radio interviews on iTunes. Boyd’s book, “The Video Poker Edge”, includes free removable pay schedules and her free strategy cards for the most popular games. The latest edition is available from amazon.com, Square One Publishers and book stores. Kindle edition now available.

“THE ODDS OF BEING DEALT A ROYAL FLUSH ARE 1 IN 650 THOUSAND HANDS DEALT.”

FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

Have you ever noticed the cheerful voice that comes over the casino’s PA system announcing the latest big winner or current promotional event and ends with “good luck”? Nice sentiment and good information, even though huge winners make you feel like more of a loser when the chips are down. How about the good luck wishes? My mom always had the same comment, “How can everyone have good luck?’” That brings me to tips separating the wheat from the chaff during your casino adventures. 1. Free Play: It’s not as good as cash, but what is? Getting free play is, however, better than a gift or comped meals or rooms from my point of view. You must be careful to note the expiration of the free play and not make any costly assumptions. Earned free play may stay as long as it’s not used, although some casinos purge unused dollars after a period of time. If you are getting weekly incentive cash in mailers that is automatically downloaded to your player’s card, it’s a different story. Most casinos have an expiration time of one week at which time the next week’s cash is added. Know that every casino has their own policy and you should ask about their rules. Sometimes, for example, they require that you deposit cash of varying amounts to gain access, and some casinos just require that you play the amount downloaded. Once you play the $20, you can cash out the ticket, but if you do so before your unused free play money won’t be on the ticket. Many players don’t receive any free play, although they are frequent players, because they refuse to use a slot club card. 2. Promotional Gifts: This is a mixed bag since some are good while others aren’t worth the drive out there. If the gifts are just for top-level players (call and ask if you’re not sure), they’ll be higher quality. You must make sure you’re an early bird because you’ll see a small-print disclaimer indicating “gifts available while the supply lasts.” Nowadays I’ve noticed that they tend to run out early and there’s no such thing as a rain check. 3. Pays Over 100%: This signage is absolutely accurate and you’ll find it over some video poker devices, but there’s still a potential problem. If you

don’t know basic game strategy, then you won’t get the game’s theoretical return (ER) over time. You must make sure you know the correct holds by practicing at home on tutorial software. (I recommend Dean Zamzow’s WinPoker.) 4. Promotions: The casino will supply you with the promo’s rules upon request and I recommend that you do so. In 2017 most casinos have a policy that entries are virtual tickets and the number you have is based solely on the volume you play. If you only have a few tickets then your odds of winning are minimal and it’s probably not worth the trip to the casino. Also, look for days when the house offers multiple contest entries to increase your odds. For example, one casino offers 100 times entry tickets on Mondays, a slow time for them. Remember that although the casino wants to reward their “best” (meaning their most frequent) players, they also want to get people inside their doors during slow times. It doesn’t cost the house a dime to increase the contest equity for patrons willing to come during slow times. 5. Tournaments: The latest perk is regularly scheduled free tournaments to frequent customers. Even if the odds are long and the returns small, they cost nothing and provide practice for tournaments that require entry fees. If you’re paying for a video poker (VP) tournament, you need to know the exact payouts for each winning hand because they probably won’t resemble a typical VP game. You then must practice the game at home using their pay schedule on tutorial software. 6. Voted Best Slots: I hear players saying they play at certain off-the-beaten-path casinos that have this claim emblazoned on their neon signs. If you don’t know what chip is on their logic board for slots, there’s no way to verify this claim. Also, exactly what’s the definition of “best”? For video poker you can be sure by copying the pay schedule from the device and entering it on your tutorial software for that game. You will see the ER as a percentage and can determine for yourself whether or not you want to play.

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

PLAYER STRATEGY

CRAPS: Seven Deadly Sins Craps is the most exciting game in the casinos. Craps players are an interesting and diverse lot too – from working-class men and women betting a small percentage of their incomes, all the way up to the economic elite of society betting tens of thousands of dollars on a single roll of the dice. “Baby needs a new pair of shoes,” one says. Another says, “I need a new Lear jet!” It doesn’t matter what category you are in, the game holds fascination and thrills galore no matter your betting level. Nowhere do you hear so many screams, cheers, moans, gasps and clapping as in this game. Still there are annoying things about the game – seven of them in fact, and you might want to call these the “seven deadly sins of craps.” Here they are! The quotes are from actual players who have brought these “seven sins” to the fore. They represent typical craps players who want to have their say about other craps players and dealers. 1. Players who throw their bets onto the table just as the shooter is about to throw the dice. This is a no-no and dealers should disqualify the bets. It is certainly bad manners as well. Can such an action affect the throw? No. “The game is random, but shooters enjoy thinking they have some control when they shoot and that the game is not random when they do so,” stated Wayne. “So don’t distract the shooter and everyone at the table by such bad manners.” 2. Players who cash in or color up when the shooter has the dice. This is the antecedent of number one above. Tommy articulated, “The rule is that if the shooter is about to throw and the dice are in his hand, then the other players must respect that moment and not interfere with it in any way.” Again this is considered bad manners. It annoys many players. 3. James said, “I hate when dealers crosstalk while the game is progressing. That shows a lot of disdain for the players. The dealers are there to make sure the game is played properly, not talk about other things.” And what is crosstalk? This happens when the dealers are having private conversations with each other and ignoring the players except to pay their winning bets or remove 18

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FRANK SCOBLETE

their losing bets. James continued, “Crosstalk lacks class and seems to be a way the dealers can put down the players. I tend to leave tables if the dealers do this a lot.” 4. “The players who dangle their hands over the layout when the shooter is about to throw the dice. I find this very annoying. Keep your hands to yourselves!” That was Felix’s biggest annoyance. Again it fits the class of in some way interfering with the shooter. It also seems to annoy plenty of players. Felix summed his view up, “How hard is it for a player to keep his hands away from the layout?” 5. Players who forget what bets they made and start a big argument about them with the dealers. Paul fired off this line, “I find if you can’t remember what you bet, then you should just shut up and stop embarrassing yourself and wasting everyone’s time. Play some other game where they can baby you. How can you not know what you just bet? Can you be that stupid? I also can’t stand it if players don’t know what a winning bet pays off. Again, how stupid can you be?” 6. Players giving advice about what bets to make. Janet said, “I do not want someone telling me what to bet, how to bet, when to bet and how much to bet. I want to play my own game. Worry about your own bets, not mine.” 7. Players who are always arguing with the dealers, the box person, the floor person, even the pit boss about “stuff that is stupid.” John voiced that complaint, “When a dealer makes a decision or the box handles a dispute, then that is it. The call was made and let the game continue.” It seems many players find themselves annoyed by other players who always seem annoyed at the folks who run the game. I am sure that if you are a craps player you can add to this list; perhaps you can add a lot to this list. There are, of course, many superstitions when it comes to craps and maybe in a future article I will handle those. But for now, take heed of those “seven deadly sins” and do not commit them. You’ll help make the game more pleasant for all the other players.

Read Frank Scoblete’s books I Am a Card Counter: Inside the World of AdvantagePlay Blackjack, I Am a Dice Controller: Inside the World of Advantage-Play Craps and Confessions of a Wayward Catholic! All available from Amazon.com, on Kindle and electronic media, at Barnes and Noble, and at bookstores. Visit Frank’s web site at www.frankscoblete.com.

“ THE DEALERS ARE THERE TO MAKE SURE THE GAME IS PLAYED PROPERLY, NOT TALK ABOUT OTHER THINGS.” FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

PLAYER STRATEGY by

H E N R Y TA M B U R I N

BLACKJACK: Avoid the 6:5 Tables There’s a cancer growing in the game of blackjack, namely, those abominable blackjack games that only pay 6:5 for a blackjack. If players don’t do something about it, 6:5 payoff games may become the new blackjack standard. However, you can help get rid of this game once and for all, and I’ll show you how in a moment.

Henry Tamburin, Ph.D. is the author of the Ultimate Blackjack Strategy Guide (http://www.888casino. com/blog/blackjackstrategy-guide/), editor of the Blackjack Insider e-Newsletter (www.bjinsider. com), lead instructor for the Golden Touch Blackjack course, and host of smartgaming.com. For a free three-month subscription to his blackjack newsletter, go to www.bjinsider.com/ freetrial. To receive his free Casino Gambling Catalog, call 1-888-353-3234 or visit www.smartgaming.com.

“YOU SHOULD EXPECT TO GET FOUR BLACKJACKS PER HOUR, OR A TOTAL OF EIGHT IN TWO HOURS.”

Historically a blackjack hand has always paid 3:2. That means if you bet $10, you will be paid $15 (a 3:2 payoff). (This assumes, of course, that the dealer doesn’t have a blackjack on the same hand.) When a casino decides to pay only 6:5 for a player blackjack, it increases the house edge by almost 1.4 percent (no, that’s not a typo). Instead of talking percentages, let’s talk dollars and cents so you can really see how much a 6:5 game costs you. Suppose you play two hours of blackjack at $10 a pop and you are dealt an average of 80 hands per hour. A blackjack occurs about once in every 21 hands, so on average you should expect to get four blackjacks per hour, or a total of eight in two hours. Each of those blackjacks should earn you $15 (with a 3:2 payout on a $10 wager), but instead you get paid only $12 in the 6:5 game. You are shortchanged $3 on every blackjack, so in the course of two hours of play, you have been shortchanged $24. That is an atrocity. Casinos also love the 6:5 game because it virtually eliminates those pesky card counters, since many find the house edge too tough to beat with card counting. And get this, many casino bosses have implemented the 6:5 payoff in double-, six- and even eight-deck games (no, I’m not joking). This would increase the house edge, on some games, up to an appalling 2%! The 6:5 games also have these additional pitfalls, which most players are not aware of:

FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

1. If you wager an amount that is not divisible by 5, your payoff for a blackjack actually gets worse. For example, if you bet $8 and get a blackjack, you’ll get paid only $9, which is equivalent to the payoff odds of 5.625:5 rather than 6:5 (casinos will pay 6:5 on the first $5 of your wager, and even money for the remaining $3). When the game was first offered, I had bet a red ($5) and pink ($2.50) chip on a hand and luckily I was dealt a blackjack. At 6:5 payoff odds, a $7.50 wager should pay an even $9, but the dealer paid me only $8.50. I tried to politely explain to the

dealer and then to the shift boss that 6:5 on $5 is $6, and 6:5 on $2.50 is $3 therefore I should be paid a total of $9. My plea fell on deaf ears. 2. In a 3:2 game, a player can take even money if he is dealt a blackjack and the dealer shows an ace. But the math doesn’t work in the casino’s favor on a 6:5 game, so they won’t allow players to take even money. 3. The game is mostly offered on low-limit tables in tourist locations where blackjack players tend to be less sophisticated about the game (“milk the tourists” mentality). Knowledgeable players with limited bankrolls are also faced with this dilemma: either play the 6:5 game with lower betting limits, or play the better 3:2 multipledeck games, but with higher betting limits. If they opt for the latter, they often get less play time because they tap out sooner as a result of overbetting in relation to their modest bankroll. Either way, they get screwed. The bottom line is that unless players do something about it, the 6:5 game will ultimately ruin blackjack. So what can you do to help? 1. Don’t play any 6:5 blackjack games; instead play only on tables that pay 3:2 for a blackjack. 2. Voice your displeasure about the game to a casino supervisor, your casino host and even the casino manager. Be sure to also tell them you are taking your business to casinos that don’t offer this wretched game. 3. Warn your friends and family that are planning to visit a casino, about this outrageous game.

It’s clear that in their attempt to make more money, casinos are ruining one of the best games for players. Don’t let this happen. Just say NO to 6:5 blackjack games!

LEARN HOW TO PLAY AND WIN AT VIDEO POKER On Friday, August 18, Henry Tamburin will be teaching a video poker class in Las Vegas for players that want to learn how to play and win. For more details, visit www.BJInsider. com/video_poker_class_2017

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

PLAYER STRATEGY

POKER: Advanced Hold ‘Em On the Flop Advanced hold ‘em on the flop is really all about

on the flop come down? Are your opponents

as weak and think you might be able to take

sevens or worse? If it does come bet and raised

reading other players. If you read your opponent the pot away from him, then do it! If you have flopped a big hand and you feel that betting will

drive out your opponent when what you want

to do is keep him in the pot, then go ahead

and trap him by checking on the flop. Use your reading ability on the flop to determine what you can and cannot do. You may have flopped

top pair, but if you read your opponent has you beat, just fold your hand, and you have only lost a minimal amount of bets. If you read your

to you in this spot, will you three-bet it or fold? Odds are that you probably have to fold in case, but what does your intuition tell you to do?

I have played with advanced players who have

bet out 8-8 on the end with a board of A-Q7-5-3, simply because they thought they had the best hand, and they proved to be right! In fact, their bet was called on the end by an opponent who couldn’t beat 8-8! How did

they know the 8-8 was the best hand? How

follow through on your steal attempt, unless

in this case? Perhaps they knew their opponent

well. Again, advanced Hold ‘em on the flop is

advanced Hold ’em on the flop, anything goes!

are making a steal on him, then make sure you

could they possibly have value bet their hand

you have a strong hand that has hit the flop as

would never check an ace or queen to them. In

all about reading your opponents.

As you try different things, you will find that

and I can’t teach you how to be intuitive. I can however tell you that a lot of information going into my reads comes from working hard at studying my opponents, both when I’m in a

hand with them, and when I am out. Intuition

springs from a combination of matters that

play Hold ’em, with a twist – some well-timed

intermediate and advanced moves along the way. The jackal player lives in the advanced,

wild and dangerous realm all the time, but it’s very difficult to win when you play this way time in and time out.

If you find a jackal style player at your table,

what an opponent’s hole cards are even if you

you have 3-3 in the fourth position and a jackal

aren’t in the hand. This will help increase your reading abilities.

Suppose you have K-K before the flop and two opponents are also in the pot. If the flop comes

down A-7-2, the advanced player makes his

money by knowing what to do based on the

strength of his read of his opponents. Do either

of the opponents hold an ace, a set of sevens or maybe a set of twos? How does the betting 20

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

Phil Hellmuth Jr. is a 13time World Series of Poker Champion, leading all other poker players in the world. He is the author of two New York Times best sellers, and his latest book, “Deal Me In” is also widely popular. Visit PhilHellmuth.com to check out his latest blog, clothing line and exclusive poker tips and stories. This tip column is an excerpt from his Best Selling book “Phil Hellmuth’s Texas Hold’em” found on Amazon and in bookstores around the world.

the basic top ten strategy is a pretty good way to

you can understand and others that you can’t. A good way to practice this is to try to guess

PHIL HELLMUTH, JR.

capable of raising on the flop with just a pair of

opponent as being weak before the flop and you

I know I keep mentioning reading the opponent,

there are many ways to play against them. Say

“ADVANCED HOLD ‘EM ON THE FLOP IS ALL ABOUT READING YOUR OPPONENTS.”

has raised in the second position. My theory says re-raise (three-bet) and “isolate” the jackal

(play the crazy player one on one) with your

3-3. The “call to build the pot” theory just says call the bet. But even if you subscribe to it, that

theory and the notion of isolating the jackal aren’t mutually exclusive. Nonetheless, people who like to call and build large pots tend not to use the more aggressive isolation play.

FOR MORE FREE TIPS, VISIT GAMINGANDDESTINATIONS.COM

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

The Rooftop Pool at IP Casino Resort & Spa Biloxi, Mississippi

AW E S OM E OU T D O OR A M EN I T I E S: T OP CA SI NO P O OL S , PA R K S A N D MOR E

asinos offer much more than blackjack and slot machines. They learned long ago that the more guests are entertained, the longer they will stay, and the longer they will play. So, today you will find great concerts and shows, fantastic dining, spas and more. With the summer in full swing, we are excited to unveil some of our favorite outdoor amenities and activities at properties throughout the region. So, plan your trip and hit the road, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a casino out there waiting for you!

a hidden treasure on the Gulf Coast. The pool sits on the roof of the parking garage and resembles a Caribbean getaway offering poolside cabanas, Quench Bar & Restaurant serving snacks, frozen drinks and televisions to stay caught up with your favorite sporting events. Plus, there is always

great music piped through the speakers around the pool to help melt the day away. This a sure spot to hang out on your next visit to the Coast. Also at IP: 1,088 hotel rooms, spa, showroom, multiple fine and casual dining options, nightclub

THE ROOFTOP POOL AT IP CASINO RESORT & SPA BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI 228-436-3000 IPBILOXI.COM

Southern Gaming Says: Overlooking the back bay of the Biloxi, IP Casino offers great views, amenities and gaming. However, the property boasts a resort style pool that is somewhat of 22

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

The Pool at Beau Beau Rivage Resort & Casino Biloxi, Mississippi

THE POOL AT BEAU RIVAGE RESORT & CASINO BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI 228-386-7111 BEAURIVAGE.COM

Southern Gaming Says: What can you say? If you are going to Beau Rivage, you are going to find luxury around every corner. The pool area is no exception. The pool level is located below the casino level and a short elevator ride down a few flights is required. But once the elevator doors open, a short stroll through a marble lined promenade of shops and the fitness center and spa areas areas take you to the welcoming pool entrance lined with tropical plants and music for you to stay cool all day. The pool deck overlooks the Mississippi Sound and features tropical landscaping and Romanesque décor. Perfect for lounging with the latest juicy beach read, socializing with friends, amusing the kids or seeing and being seen, the pool offers diversion and entertainment for all. Guests can reserve private cabanas that come with everything you could imagine, and the Pool Bar & Café has fantastic bartenders who make great summer time cocktails! Also at Beau Rivage: 1,740 rooms, golf course, spa, fitness room, concert venue, shopping, multiple fine and casual dining outlets, lounge, night club

THE POOL AT MARGARITAVILLE RESORT CASINO BOSSIER CITY, LOUISIANA 855.346.2489 MARGARITAVILLEBOSSIERCITY.COM

Southern Gaming Says: Wasting away in Margaritaville has never been easier! The heated pool at Margaritaville Casino in Bossier City will take you to the Key West state of mind with palm trees, beach music, a hot tub and even a fire pit to relax at as the sun sets. Also find great food and cocktails at The Busted Coconut, and island-style bar located on the pool deck overlooking Red River and downtown Shreveport. Also at Margaritaville: 395 hotel rooms, spa, fitness center, fine and casual dining, boutique shops

The RV Resort and Infinity Pool at Wind Creel Casino & Hotel Atmore, Alabama

THE RV RESORT AND POOL AREA AT PARAGON CASINO RESORT MARKSVILLE, LA 318-253-1946 – PARAGONCASINORESORT.COM

THE RV RESORT AND INFINITY POOL AT WIND CREEK CASINO & HOTEL ATMORE, ALABAMA 866-946-3360 WINDCREEKATMORE.COM

Southern Gaming Says: The Wind Creek Casino properties scattered throughout Alabama are known for excellence in a variety of areas, and outdoor amenities is surely one of them. The Atmore location boasts over 200 rooms, including ‘Level 15’ that is the ultimate suite of all suites, as well as several fantastic dining options. However, if you are an RV’er, you are going to love the set-up at their new RV Park featuring 75ft pull-through RV stations with full hookups and a clubhouse featuring full bath facilities, laundry and a playground. Located conveniently near the hotel, RV Park guests can also enjoy the property amenities including a bowling alley, arcade, spa, fitness center and of course, the casino! But the perfect way to round out a great trip is a fantastic pool area, and the Infinity pool at Wind Creek is an awesome amenity. The large area offers plenty of lounging space as well as cocktail and food service from the Infinity Pool Bar & Grill to make for an easy day chilling out. Also at Wind Creek: 236 hotel rooms, spa, concert venue, culinary studio, casual and fine dining

Southern Gaming Says: Located in the heart of Central Louisiana, Paragon Casino Resort is a great getaway that offers a wide variety of amenities and activities to suit the tastes of nearly everyone. We are excited to highlight their full-service, pet-friendly RV resort has more than 200 slips and 30 cabins. Each slip is equipped with 20/30/50 amp service, free cable TV hookup and complimentary Wi-Fi. The lodge boasts a large sitting area, televisions and laundry facilities, and is adjacent to the a beautiful outdoor pool and splash pad. The grounds also include a volleyball court, shuffleboard, horseshoe pits and a playground. Hotel and RV guests have access to the state-of-the-art fitness center adjacent Paragon’s indoor pool. The RV resort is adjacent to Paragon Casino Resort and Tamahka Trails Golf Club and a free casino shuttle service is provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The RV Resort has received a “flawless” rating of 10/10*/10 for the past several consecutive years in the Good Sam RV Travel & Savings Guide, widely recognized as the gold standard of campground rating systems. Also at Paragon: 500 hotel rooms, spa, fitness center, shopping, indoor and outdoor pools, golf course, casual and fine dining, concert venue, kids quest, cinema

The RV Resort and Pool Area at Paragon Casino Resort Marksville, Louisiana

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

entertainment option that is fun for everyone whether it be with your family, friends, for date night or a birthday party.

SMOKEY MOUNTAINS AND POOLS AT HARRAH’S CHEROKEE CASINO CHEROKEE, NC

More information: Open daily. $15 for adults, $13 for seniors and military. $5$6 for children 11 and under.

828-497-7777 CAESARS.COM/HARRAHS-CHEROKEE

Southern Gaming Says: While Harrah’s doesn’t technically own the Smoky Mountains, they do serve as a great outdoor attraction for their guests! Located in the westernmost region of North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park shapes our northern boundary, and the North Carolina entrance to the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway is only a mile away. Visitors to this premium resort enjoy year-round activities like hiking, whitewater rafting, canoeing, and some of the best trout fishing in America all in one of the nation’s most popular national parks. In addition to the outdoors experiences, guests also enjoy indoor and outdoor pool areas at one of the two resorts Harrah’s offers. One is Harrah’s Cherokee and the other is Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel located about an hour apart.

THE POOL AT BELTERRA CASINO RESORT VEVAY, INDIANA 812-427-7777 BELTERRACASINO.COM

Southern Gaming Says: The pool area at Belterra Casino Resort is an Oasis in Indiana that every guest of the property should take advantage of. Easily accessible from the hotel, guests can enjoy private cabanas and a fully loaded tiki bar to with with tasty frozen drinks and other summer refreshment. The pool also has a lounging shelf in the pool that lets you sit and relax in the water without being totally submerged. The property also has an award-winning Tom Fazio Golf Course and both fine dining and casual dining to round out the evening. Also at Belterra: 608 hotel rooms, golf course, fitness room, show room, boutique shops, spa, fine dining, buffet, sports bar 24

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

Lava Links Mini-Golf at Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort D’Iberville, Mississippi

LAVA LINKS MINIATURE GOLF AT SCARLET PEARL CASINO RESORT D’IBERVILLE, MISSISSIPPI (BILOXI AREA) 888-266-5772 SCARLETPEARLCASINO.COM

Southern Gaming Says: When you think of putt putt, a casino probably doesn’t really come to mind. But, the new Scarlet Pearl Casino in D’Iberville, Mississippi (basically Biloxi) has raised the bar with Lava Links Miniature Golf Club. This layout is second to none and we wouldn’t be surprised if it hosts some major mini-golf tournaments in the near future. The course offers an unequaled experience on the Mississippi Gulf Coast that is vibrant, well-designed and manicured. The holes feature lush gardens, cascading waterfalls, footbridges and great music surround the course centerpiece; an elaborate, volcano that actually erupts every thirty minutes! With two 18-hole golf courses, Lava Links provides a quality outdoor

The Pool at Belterra Casino Resort Vevay, Indiana

Also at Scarlet Pearl: 300 hotel rooms, outdoor pool, fitness center, fine and casual dining, break-out game

NEW RV PARK AT RISING STAR CASINO RESORT RISING SUN, INDIANA 800-472-6311 RISINGSTARCASINO.COM

Southern Gaming Says: Rising Star Casino Resort is excited to unveil their new RV Park as the latest addition to their property that sits on the banks of the Ohio River. The park is the only casino RV Park in the area and has 56 spaces, each with full hookups and power, private bathrooms and showers, bocce ball, shuffle board, grill area, fire pit and more. Plus, guests can also enjoy the resort’s indoor pool, restaurants and of course, the casino! Also at Rising Star: 294 hotel rooms, indoor pool, golf course, outdoor deck with gaming, buffet, fine dining

PROPERTY PROFILE

I P C A S I NO R E S OR T S PA B I LOX I , M I S S I S S I P P I

When the summertime bursts into action, and it’s time to start spreading sunshine and firing up the vacation-planning bug, IP Casino Resort Spa answers the call with an itinerary full of fun for everyone and the service to match. Conveniently located in Biloxi, Mississippi, IP is a great Southern getaway that offers an incredible selection of highly acclaimed restaurants, world-class entertainment, expansive gaming floor and maxed menu of recreational activities. Towering 32 stories over the scenic Back Bay of Biloxi, the IP Hotel holds the prestigious AAA Four-Diamond Award for Hotel Excellence & Service. The commanding tower features 1,088 contemporary, well-appointed rooms and suites with both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections, mini bars and all the extras – including breathtaking skyline and water views. It is the cornerstone of a five-star getaway. Greeted by marble floors and smiling team members, each guest’s experience includes service that exceeds expectations. In 2016, IP received Southern Gaming Magazine Readers’ Choice for Best Overall Property, Best Suites and more. The IP service team, dealers, chefs, servers and all make it their utmost priority to ensure an exceptional stay. The atmosphere at IP is a 24-hour non-stop player paradise with over 1,700 of the most popular themed slots and over 60 of the most sought-after table games, including a ten-table non-smoking poker room. Players are rewarded with excellent perks through the B Connected players club program because, as players soon discover, it’s good to B Connected. In concert with jackpots, the resort offers other exciting ways to win daily for B Connected members through kiosk games, discounted meals and chances to win prizes, Slot Dollars, vehicles and more! In July alone, IP will award a Chevy Camaro®, a Ford Mustang®, and up to four new Jaguar XE®s!

When it comes to resort dining and nightlife, IP soars with eight different ways to dine, including two highly acclaimed AAA Four Diamond restaurants and one AAA Three Diamond venue. Every appetite and craving is satisfied from Italian to all-you-caneat buffet dishes, to steak and seafood and the unrivaled Asian experience, Tien, among others. Inside the signature restaurant, Thirty-two Steak and Seafood, IP’s renowned sommelier oversees the finest wine selection on the coast – consecutively awarded the coveted Wine Spectator Award of Excellence year after year. For a night out on the town, no driving is required! IP showcases the biggest names in music and comedy in Studio A, the 1,400seat on-site theater featuring premium sound and seating. The hottest local bands take the stage in Chill, and Highlights Sports Bar showcases the biggest variety of televised sports in town. IP was voted Best Concerts in 2017, and readers of the Mississippi Gulf Coast’s Coast Observer magazine named Chill Favorite Live Music Venue. Rounding out the expansive resort experience, IP guests can swing in to Shell Landing Golf Course, shop at three different retail venues or relax at Senses full service spa and salon. Senses Spa and Salon treatments are inspired by nature and performed in simple, elegant surroundings. From signature massage therapy treatments to natural and effective skin care services, Senses is a sure bet, receiving the 2017 Covey award for Favorite Spa. Throughout the summer, IP’s outdoor swimming pool is also open and invites guests to cool off with a beach style entrance, water chairs, cabanas and a bar/restaurant featuring poolside tropical treats and entrées. For more information about IP Casino Resort & Spa or to take advantage of special summer room offers and packages, please visit IPBiloxi.com or call 1-888-946-2847. G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock.

2 017 N F L SE A S ON PR E V I E W: A R E YOU R E A DY F OR S OM E F O O T B A L L? by

ith the NFL season right a r o u n d t h e c o r n e r, i t feels like the night before Christmas. How have your favorite teams improved their rosters since last season? Are there key match-ups that you can’t wait for? We are excited to unveil our 2017 NFL Preview outlining some of the rookies we are excited about, veterans and trades, must see match-ups and a few fantasy finds we think you’ll like. So gear up and get ready … because we’re ready for some football!

ROOKIES TO WATCH DESHAUN WATSON, QB, HOUSTON TEXANS Fresh off of winning the National Championship at Clemson, Watson was the No. 12 overall pick. He’s expected 26

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M AT T W I L L I N G E R

to be the quarterback that can take Houston to the next level. The Texans have a great defense and talented skill players on offense. The only problem was that Brock Oesweiler couldn’t get them the ball. With Oesweiler now in Cleveland, Watson should start as a rookie quarterback and could do well with the support cast around him. Watson’s superior talent, confidence and leadership skills should make him a Week 1 starter for the Texans. With DeAndre Hopkins and Lamar Miller capable of making life easier for Watson with their collective playmaking skills, the QB could make a run at the Offensive Rookie of the Year award with a solid season as the starter for a legitimate Super Bowl contender.

LEONARD FOURNETTE, RB, JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS When he was healthy, there wasn’t a more dynamic player in college football than running back Leonard Fournette. The problem was that it seemed like Fournette spent just as much time on the sideline as he did on the field for LSU. Jacksonville took him with the 4th overall pick in April’s draft. The Jags are hoping he can be this season’s version of Ezekial Elliot and find immediate success. Fournette is drenched with big play ability with the size and speed to be an every down back. A 1,000-yard season is definitely a possibility. MITCHELL TRUBISKY, QB, CHICAGO BEARS The Bears shocked the world when they traded up to spend the No. 2 overall pick on quarterback Mitch Trubisky. Pretty

surprising move considering Trubisky started only 13 games in college at North Carolina. Now, he’s expected to save a Bears offense that has struggled to keep up in an offensive powered division that includes Green Bay and Detroit. With Jay Cutler out of the picture, the Bears also signed Mike Glennon, but he’s expected to be a stopgap QB at best. In this day and age of the NFL, first round QBs are expected to play early and often. The other issue working against Trubisky is that he doesn’t have much in the way of a supporting cast. Chicago parted ways with receiver Alshon Jeffrey and will need a year or two to restock its weapons. DALVIN COOK, RB, MINNESOTA VIKINGS Rookie running back Dalvin Cook has big shoes to fill as the expected replacement for Adrian Peterson. Cook is an explosive back with lightning speed and the ability to find the end zone on any carry. He was a star at Florida State and his talent should transfer nicely to the next level. The opportunity is there for Cook to be a star, with several experts picking him as the Offensive Rookie of the Year. He should get plenty of carries in the Vikings backfield and he’s also proven to be a great pass catcher as well.

MUST SEE MATCH-UPS PITTSBURGH STEELERS AT KANSAS CITY CHIEFS Week 6: Sunday, October 15 at 4:25 p.m. ET on CBS Speaking of rematches, how about this game between two teams that gave us one of last season’s most exciting post-season games. Two titans of the AFC in what will be a showcase game on CBS. If you remember, last season’s match-up in the AFC semi-final wasn’t decided until the final plays when Pittsburgh defense came up with a crucial 4th down stop to crush the Chiefs’ Super Bowl hopes. ATLANTA FALCONS AT NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS Week 7: Sunday, October 22 at 8:30 p.m. ET on NBC How about this tasty treat? A rematch of last season’s Super Bowl smack dab in the middle of the regular season. Kind of surprised this game isn’t the seasonopening Kickoff Game, but this midseason match-up is definitely the highlight of the league’s regular season schedule.

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS AT GREEN BAY PACKERS Week 7: Sunday, October 22 at 1 p.m. ET on FOX Set your calendar for Week 7 because before the Super Bowl rematch, the NFL has given us this appetizer featuring two of the game’s Hall of Fame quarterbacks. If you like offense, this game will be for you. Aaron Rodgers vs. Drew Brees. The last time Rodgers and Brees squared off, they combined for 765 yards and 7 touchdowns. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS AT PITTSBURGH STEELERS Week 15: Sunday, December 17 at 4:25 p.m. ET on CBS Two of the NFL’s all-time best franchises going head-to-head a week before Christmas? Sign me up! There’s too much star power on both sidelines to not include this match-up. A rematch of last season’s AFC Championship, the best thing to hope for in this game are two healthy rosters. The Pats and Steelers faced each other twice last season, but Le’Veon Bell and Tom Brady were suspended for the first match-up, and Bell was sidelined in the first quarter of the AFC title game. If everyone is healthy and ready to go, this match-up means Christmas comes early for football fans. DALLAS COWBOYS AT OAKLAND RAIDERS Week 15: Sunday, December 17 at 8:30 p.m. ET on NBC This match-up is for the old-school football fan – two classic franchises with two of the more exciting young offenses in the game. Oh yea, they also have 8 Lombardi Trophies between them. Both the Cowboys and Raiders were just a few plays away from the Super Bowl last year. Dallas has a deadly one-two punch in second-year phenoms Ezekial Elliott and Dak Prescott. To counter, Oakland has a surging Derek Carr and also signed Marshawn Lynch out of retirement. G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

FANTASY CORNER Are you looking for a few under-theradar picks to help you win your league? Well, keep reading! Everybody knows the superstar names when it comes to fantasy football. Of course, you want guys like Antonio Brown, Julio Jones, Cam Newton and Ezekiel Elliot, but here’s a list of some under-the-radar picks that will help you dominate your draft. LEGARRETTE BLOUNT – EAGLES Blount had the 9th-best fantasy season among running backs last year, and that was playing for the pass-heavy Patriots. Despite Tom Brady averaging more than 40 pass attempts per game, Blount still rushed for 1,161 yards and a league-high 18 touchdowns. Now in Philadelphia, Blount should see more carries than he has at any point in his career. Don’t be fooled by trendy names or sexy rookie running backs, Blount is a workhorse and primed for another big season. Don’t expect him to replicate his 18-touchdown effort, but do expect him to surpass the 1,000-yardage mark. Plus, the big 260-pound bruiser is a great goal line option. ELI MANNING – GIANTS Eli makes the list because of the sheer upgrade in talent around him this season. The Giants went shopping in the offseason and added receivers Brandon Marshall and Evan Engram to join Odell Beckham, Jr. Playing in a passheavy offense, Manning now has a full complement of weapons to throw to and his stats should reflect that in the upcoming season. Let others waste early round picks on Russell Wilson and Aaron Rodgers. There is plenty of value in ole reliable Eli. BILAL POWELL – JETS Let’s face it, somebody is going to have to score for the Jets this season. The Jets enter the upcoming season practically devoid of any star power. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t fantasy points 28

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

to be found for New York’s “other” team. For the second straight season, Powell was a factor in the championship weeks of the playoffs. In Week 14, he had 179 combined yards with two TDs and five catches. The following week he had 162 combined yards with 11 catches. That’s the type of stat line that wins you fantasy championships. ADRIAN PETERSON – SAINTS True, he’s not the same AP that we knew and loved in Minnesota. And yes, he’s now 32 years old and has a lot of miles on his body. Still, Adrian Peterson has a little left in the tank and a lot left to prove on the field. No longer a top 10 pick, Peterson should be available later in your draft and he won’t disappoint. Playing in the backfield behind Drew Brees will afford him many opportunities to find the end zone. He won’t be the workhorse stud you’re used to, but he’ll still put up a very productive season and as long as he stays healthy, he’ll be an every week starter. JAMEIS WINSTON – BUCS In his second season in the NFL, Winston proved to be a very productive fantasy quarterback. Much like Manning, Winston also received an upgrade in his supporting cast during the off-season

when the team signed big play threat DeSean Jackson. Pair him with breakout star Mike Evans and you can see where there will be opportunities aplenty for Winston through the air.

OLD FACES IN NEW PLACES Ryan Fitzpatrick – Tampa Bay Bucs from Jets Adrian Peterson – Saints from Vikings LeGarrette Blount – Eagles from Patriots Jamal Charles – Broncos from Chiefs Chris Long – Eagles from Patriots Brandin Cooks – Patriots from Saints

MORE ON THE MOVE Dontari Poe – Falcons from Chiefs Latavius Murray – Vikings from Raiders Eddie Lacy – Seahawks from Packers Brandin Cooks – Patriots from Saints Martellus Bennett – Packers from Patriots Alshon Jeffrey – Eagles from Bears Geno Smith – NY Giants from NY Jets DeSean Jackson – Tampa Bay from Redskins Lawrence Timmons – Dolphins from Steelers Brandon Marshall – NY Giants to NY Jets Micah Hyde – Bills from Packers Manti Teo – Saints from Chargers

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C A S I NO Q& A W I T H JOH N G. F I N DI NG T H E A NS W ER S T O H E L P YOU W I N! by

s a game that allows players to exercise their skill along with having a strong element of chance, blackjack has more subtleties than most casino games. It also leaves plenty of room for question and comment. Let’s try to answer a few questions and relay a few comments submitted by readers. Q. A weird thing happened at the blackjack table the other night. Some guy wanted to double down on blackjack when the dealer had a 6. The dealer told him it was against house rules to double on

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

JOHN GROWCHOWSKI

blackjacks. It became this whole big thing. The pit supervisor came over and told the guy sorry, they don’t allow it.The dealer busted, the player complained some more, but I told him we didn’t know if the dealer would have busted if the player had taken a card for his double. Just for discussion, how bad is doubling with blackjack vs. 6? Does it make a difference if blackjacks pay 3-2 or 6-5? A. Doubling on Ace-10 value vs. a dealer 6 brings an average profit of 53.6 percent of your original bet. So if you started with a $10 bet and doubled down on blackjack,

your average profit would be $5.36. Sometimes you’ll win $20, but sometimes you’ll lose your bet and sometimes you push. If you draw a 10 value, you’re left with an ordinary 21 that pushes if the dealer also draws 21 instead of having that blackjack that wins regardless of the dealer’s draw. If you just smile and accept the payoff on your blackjack and take no more cards, your $10 bet brings back a $15 profit if blackjacks pay 3-2 and $12 if blackjacks pay 6-5. Risking that to double down is … um … not optimal. Q. I have a blackjack story for

you. Full table, low-limit game, one guy was hitting everything but 20s and 21s every time the dealer had a 10 up. The first time, he signaled to hit King-9, and the whole table went “NO!” along with “You can’t hit that” and “Is that a serious play?”He insisted, and the dealer called out, “Hitting hard 19,” like they have to do when anyone makes a really weird play. He busted, of course, and he busted a couple of hard 18s, a 17 or two. Two or three players left, but it had kind of a morbid fascination. He said he didn’t know what the fuss was about. He was just hitting when the dealer had 10 and was trending to 20. I asked if he noticed he wasn’t winning any of those hands and he said he wouldn’t have won anyway. That probably wasn’t true. The dealer had some low cards down sometimes, which we pointed out. But it’s hard to convince someone who’s sure he’s right. A. I’ve seen a lot of strange plays at blackjack tables, including one man who insisted on hitting hard 17 vs. 10. Just as with the player you encountered, no one could convince him it was a bad play. But the only time I recall anyone signaling to hit hard 19 it was a long hand with a lot of low cards and the dealer said, “Sir, you’re hitting hard 19,” and the player said, “Oooops! Thanks. I misread the hand.” Deliberately hitting

hard 19 is a new one on me. Q. I play a lot of blackjack, often in the $50 range. On innumerable occasions I have seen players who were hundreds or even thousands of dollars ahead go away empty-handed because they simply could not leave at a timely point, apparently having set no “win” targets or “stop loss” points, or else just plain unable to stop. Player fatigue is also an important factor in judgment. I thought perhaps you might address the general topic. A. Making sure you leave the casino with at least part of any big win is an important concept in any casino game, and fatigue absolutely is a factor. Card counters and other advantage players live by a different set of money management rules than most players. An advantage player who has won a lot isn’t likely to cut short a session when he still has an advantage. Nonetheless, many such players keep sessions short to give casinos less time to recognize their methods. The overwhelming majority of players don’t have an advantage over the casino. No matter how much you’ve won, the most likely result going forward is to give some back. For blackjack players who don’t count cards, I give the same

recommendation I give slot players, roulette players or those who play any other game. If you have a large win, protect it. Go ahead and take a shot at winning even more, but take at least half of any big win, put it in your wallet or purse and don’t take it out again until you leave the casino. How much is a big win? That’s a goal you have to set for yourself. Certainly, a $50 bettor who finds himself $1,000 ahead should consider putting part of that away. As for fatigue, that affects everyone, including advantage players. When I notice myself making strategy mistakes, I know it’s time to go. Fatigued players often make bad bankroll decisions, steaming through extra money when they should be walking away. Be aware of the fatigue factor. Take breaks, get some rest and don’t play tired. Q. I played at one of those blackjack tables where a dealer dealt the cards, but you bet by touching the screen. All the payoffs were automatic. As soon as the hand was over, the credits were added or deducted from your screen. I still like handling the chips myself, but I liked this better than I thought I would. It was all pretty easy and didn’t intrude on the game. Can you think of any negatives for players? A. I like handling chips, too, G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

but touch-screen betting has its advantages. Payoff mistakes are all but eliminated. The dealer isn’t going to take your chips by mistake, nor are you going to be overpaid or underpaid. Touchscreen betting also enables the casino to offer side bets that are paid as quickly as the main bet. Side bets almost always have a house edge higher than the main game, so I avoid them. But for players who like to chase bigger jackpots, the side bets can be offered without slowing the deal. One thing that should leave players wary is that since the dealer doesn’t have to make payoffs, games with electronic betting move faster than games with chips. More hands per hour means faster losses for most players. In blackjack, touchscreen payouts often require use of a card-reading shoe to relay results to the payout program.

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

Card counters are wary of systems that have accurate records of wagers and of cards played, but for most players the main worry is speed of play. Q. You know what blackjack hand makes me queasy? It’s when I have Ace-7 and the dealer has a 10. The basic strategy card says to hit that hand, but I always seem to make it worse. Sometimes I get a 7 or 8, and then I have a 15 or 16 and have to hit again, and when I hit again there’s a good chance I bust. Why should I take the chance on busting when I have a nice, safe 18 when I stand? A. That soft 18 might feel like a nice, safe hand, but the dealer makes 19 or better to beat you more than half the time when starting with 10. Assume a common six-deck game in

which the dealer hits soft 17. When starting with 10, the dealer busts on 21.25 percent of hands, makes 17 on 11.19, 18 on 11.17, 19 on 11.19, 20 on 34.00, 21 with three or more cards on 3.48 and blackjack on 7.71. So if you stand, you win on 32.44 percent (dealer busts and 17s), push on 11.19, lose to nonblackjack dealer hands on 48.67 and lose to blackjacks on 7.71. You have no opportunity to hit when the dealer has blackjack, but you can try to improve your hand to beat dealer 18s, win against a smaller portion of dealer 19s and 20s and occasionally push a dealer 21. To put it in dollars and cents, if you stand on Ace-7 against a dealer 10, you lose an average of 18 cents per $1 wagered. If you hit, you’ll improve the hand often enough that you trim the losses to 14.3 cents per $1 wagered. You can’t turn this losing hand into an overall winner, but you can cut your losses a bit. Similarly, if you have Ace-7 and the dealer’s up card is an Ace, your losses average 22.5 cents per $1 if you stand, and drop to 16 cents per $1 if you hit, If the dealer shows a 9 against your Ace-7, your losses per dollar average 18.3 cents if you stand and are cut to 9.8 cents if you hit. That’s why the basic strategy card calls for you to hit soft 18 if the dealer shows a 9, 10 or Ace.

THE

the difference At Indiana Grand Racing & Casino, we know you come to WIN. That’s why our Las Vegas-style casino floor boasts Indiana’s highest paying slots and e-table games. We know you desire entertainment that makes your heart skip a beat. That’s why we have high-energy, wire-to-wire Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing. We know you seek the perfect combination of quality and creativity. That’s why our culinary team prepares award-winning flavors across our dining collection on a daily basis. And, we know you long for the exhilaration of first-class entertainment. That’s why we’re always putting on the show! The difference is at Indiana Grand Racing & Casino - and your experience is waiting! Visit Club Centaur in the casino and mention MIDWEST GAMING 777 to receive a Buy One, Get One FREE Buffet!* Valid NOW through Saturday, December 30, 2017.

LIVE THOROUGHBRED & QUARTER HORSE RACING

NOW - OCT. 28 Don’t Miss the 23rd Running of the Grade III Indiana Derby on July 15! TUESDAYS, WEDNESDAYS, FRIDAYS 2:05PM | SATURDAYS 6:05PM | THURSDAY RACING 2:05PM • JULY 6 - AUG. 24

Just 20 Minutes from Indy! I-74 East, Exit 109 in Shelbyville 877-FUN-4-IND | www.IndianaGrand.com *Must be a Club Centaur member to redeem. Membership is FREE! Valid at Indiana Grand Racing & Casino’s The Grand Buffet only. Limit one (1) offer per person, per valid promotional period. Highest slot payouts claim based on state reported data in 2015. Must be 18 or older to race wager and enter OTB. Must be 21 or older to enter casino. Management reserves all rights. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-9-WITH-IT.

HOME OF THE

SOU THERN

CASINO DIRECTORY

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

WEBSITE

PHONE NUMBER

*CC PARTNER

TABLES

MACHINES

BELTERRA CASINO RESORT

belterracasino.com

812-427-7777

•

1,473

RISING STAR CASINO RESORT

risingstarcasino.com

800-472-6311

•

1,000

INDIANA GRAND CASINO

IndianaGrand.com

877-386-4463

2,000+

FITZ CASINO & HOTEL

fitzgeraldstunica.com

662-363-5825

1,268

GOLD STRIKE CASINO RESORT

goldstrike.com

662-357-1111

1,400

HOLLYWOOD CASINO TUNICA

hollywoodcasinotunica.com

662-357-7700

•

1,079

RESORT’S CASINO

ResortsTunica.com

866-706-7070

•

1,052

•

1,275

1,200

1,800

INDIANA

TUNICA •

MID-SOUTH: INCLUDES LOUISIANA, MISSISSIPPI AND ALABAMA CYPRESS BAYOU CASINO HOTEL

cypressbayou.com

337-923-7284

MARGARITAVILLE RESORT CASINO

margaritavillebossiercity.com

318-698-7177

PARAGON CASINO RESORT

paragoncasinoresort.com

318-253-1946

SILVERSTAR HOTEL & CASINO

pearlriverresort.com

866-447-3276

1,200

GOLDEN MOON HOTEL & CASINO

pearlriverresort.com

866-447-3277

1,150

WIND CREEK ATMORE

WindCreekAtmore.com

866-946-3360

N/A

1,600+

WIND CREEK MONTGOMERY

WindCreekMontgomery.com

866-946-3360

N/A

2,200+

WIND CREEK WETUMPKA

WindCreekWetumpka.com

866-946-3360

N/A

2,500+

BEAU RIVAGE RESORT & CASINO

beaurivage.com

228-386-7111

2,100

IP CASINO RESORT & SPA

ipbiloxi.com

228-436-3000

•

1,900

SCARLET PEARL CASINO RESORT

scarletpearlcasino.com

888-266-5772

•

1,350

SILVER SLIPPER CASINO HOTEL

silverslipper-ms.com

228-469-2777

•

965

CALDER CASINO & RACE COURSE

caldercasino.com

305-625-1311

•

RACING

1,200

SEMINOLE HARD ROCK & CASINO TAMPA

seminolehardrocktampa.com

813-627-7625

171

5,000

SEMINOLE HARD ROCK & CASINO HOLLY.

seminolehardrockhollywood.com

866-502-7529

130

2,200

Caesars.com/harrahs-cherokee

828-497-7777

120

3,600

•

PEARL RIVER RESORT

GULF COAST

FLORIDA

NORTH CAROLINA HARRAH’S CASINO CHEROKEE

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

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

# OF ROOMS

ENT. VENUE

GOLF

SPA

POOL

608

•

OUTDOOR

294

•

506 1,131

•

494

•

201

•

INDOOR

•

INDOOR

•

INDOOR

•

INDOOR

•

OUTDOOR INDOOR

102

•

395

•

531

•

OUTDOOR

•

BOTH WATER PARK

500

•

OUTDOOR

571

•

BOTH

236

•

OUTDOOR

123

•

OUTDOOR

283

•

1,740

•

OUTDOOR

1,088

•

OUTDOOR

Reader Rating: 100%

Scarlet Pearl Casino resort D’Iberville, MS (Biloxi) ScarletPearlCasino.com - 1-888-266-5772 Standard Room Rates: $67 – $117

Property Overview: Scarlet Pearl is the newest casino on the Gulf Coast. It opened last year and has received raving reviews since day one. The property is located across the bay from Biloxi and can be seen from miles away as it towers over the surrounding area. The casino has an open floor layout and is bright and fresh with a contemporary feel. Butler’s Bar & Lounge greets guests as they enter the front of the casino and Scarlet’s Steaks and Seafood is a must on your visit. The property also has the only professional grade miniature golf course in the region, Lava Links, so be sure to check it out on your visit!

129

Reader Comments: When I first walked in it took my breathe away. It was absolutely gorgeous. The staff was so friendly and I love the way check-in and the casino is setup. I attended a show that night and again the next night. I stayed on a Saturday with a friend and we both loved it. We really liked the host and hostess’, they were so friendly and very eager to please. Can’t wait to come back!

250

•

OUTDOOR

Property Overview: • Overall experience: 100 • Check-in: 100 • Staff: 100 • Price: 100 • Expectations: 100 • Cleanliness: 100

481

•

OUTDOOR

1,108

•

IN & OUT

OUTDOOR

300

OUTDOOR

•

Will you return? Yes Review by: Tammy F. from Angie, LA Want to review a casino? Let us know about your recent casino visits at GamingandDestinations.com G A M I N G A N D D E S T I N AT I O N S . C O M |

FUTURE ODDS FIND YOUR EDGE … PLACE YOUR BET!

Check out the latest odds for major sporting events. For the latest up to the minutes odds, visit GamingandDestinations.com

2017 PGA CHAMPIONSHIP – AUGUST 10-13, 2017 QUAIL HOLLOW GOLF CLUB (CHARLOTTE, NC)

2017 MONSTER ENERGY CUP SERIES – NOVEMBER 26, 2017

Player Odds

Driver

April

June

Jimmy Johnson Kyle Busch Kyle Larson Kevin Harvick Martin Truex Jr. Brad Keselowski Joey Logano Chase Elliot Denny Hamlin Matt Kenseth

8/1 6/1 10/1 6/1 N/A 6/1 6/1 13/1 13/1 14/1

5/1 11/2 13/2 7/1 7/1 8/1 8/1 10/1 14/1 25/1

Dustin Johnson

9/1

Rory McIlroy

10/1

Jordan Spieth

12/1

Jason Day

17/1

Hideki Matsuyama

19/1

Henrik Stenson

23/1

Justin Rose

23/1

Sergio Garcia

29/1

Rickie Fowler

29/1

*All others higher than 30/1

Clint Bowyer

January

April

June

Houston Astros

15/1

14/1

5/1

Chicago Cubs

7/2

4/1

6/1

Washington Nationals 12/1

12/1

7/1

Boston Red Sox

10/1

13/2

15/2

Cleveland Indians

10/1

15/2

8/1

Los Angeles Dodgers 12/1

21/2

17/2

New York Yankees

N/A

25/1

14/1

Colorado Rockies

N/A

30/1

18/1

Arizona Diamondbacks N/A

N/A

18/1

New York Mets

15/1

14/1

25/1

St. Louis Cardinals N/A

30/1

25/1

*All others are higher than 30/1. *Odds courtesy of Vegasinsider.com

25/1

*All others higher than 25/1. **Odds courtesy of VegasInsider.com

2017 MLB WORLD SERIES – NOVEMBER 2, 2017 Team

N/A

2017-2018 NFL SUPER BOWL – FEBRUARY 4, 2018 MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA Team June New England Patriots 18/5 Dallas Cowboys 11/1 Green Bay Packers 12/1 Seattle Seahawks 12/1 Atlanta Falcons 13/1 Houston Texans 15/1 Oakland Raiders 15/1 Denver Broncos 18/1 Pittsburgh Steelers 18/1 New York Giants 22/1 Kansas City Chiefs 25/1 Indianapolis Colts 30/1 Minnesota Vikings 30/1 Arizona Cardinals 32/1 Carolina Panthers 35/1 *All others higher than 35/1. **Odds courtesy of VegasInsider.com

For the latest sports odds, updated every 5 minutes, visit GamingandDestinations.com 36

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

POKER

Located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Classic

AUGUST 2 - 13, 2017

$100K POKER CLASSIC AUGUST 2 - 13, 2017

REGISTRATION • CASINO CAGE August 2 - August 12, 2017 | 9:30AM - 9:30PM Daily August 13, 2017 | 10AM - 4PM

SPECIAL POKER ROOM RATES AVAILABLE

$69 Sunday - Thursday | $99 Friday and Saturday Mention Code: POK0803 Please call the Poker Room on 228-207-8428 to book.

BIG SLICKS $100K POKER CLASSIC SATELLITES MAY 19, 2017 – JULY 29, 2017 Registration begins at 4PM. The tournament begins at 6PM.

FRIDAYS | $45 SATELLITES FOR ENTRY INTO THE BIG SLICKS 30K GUARANTEE #1 EVENT One entry to the Big Slicks 30K Poker Open awarded for every $255 in the prize pool.

SATURDAY - THURSDAY | $70 SATELLITES FOR ENTRY INTO THE BIG SLICKS 100K POKER CLASSIC 100K GUARANTEE MAIN EVENT One entry to the Big Slicks 100k Main Event awarded for every $360 in the prize pool. 888-752-9772

ScarletPearlCasino.com

9 3 8 0 C e n t ra l Ave n u e , D ’ I b e r v i l l e , M S 3 9 5 4 0

4 Hours of cash play or tournament registration for the 100k event is required to receive the poker room rate. If not achieved, the charge will be adjusted | 37 for G A M Ibe N G21. A NSee D D Ethe STIN AT I ORewards N S . C O M Club back to rack rate. Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort reserves all rights to cancel or modify any program at any time. Must Pearl promotional rules and details. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-522-4700.

WSOP® GLOBAL CASINO CHAMPIONSHIP AND CIRCUIT EVENT OVER 3 MILLION IN GUARANTEES! 13 epic days of poker August 2-14 Visit WSOP.com for additional event details.

Caesars.com

#harrahscherokee

Subject to change or cancellation. Must be 21 or older to enter casino floor and to gamble, and must present a valid state or federal photo ID upon request. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-522-4700. An Enterprise of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. ©2017, Caesars License Company, LLC.

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