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04 EDITOR’S NOTE
06 PLAYERS TALK
09 GREAT GAMES
14 WINNING WAYS
16 GAMING NEWS
21 FUN FACTS
22 FEATURE STORY
24 CASINO DINING
26 TRIBAL NEWS
28 TRAVEL
30 CASINO ENTERTAINMENT
32 CASINO NIGHTLIFE
34 FUN & GAMES
35 SAMI’S SMACKDOWN
36 CASINO BINGO DIRECTORY
38 CASINO DIRECTORY
DEPARTMENTS
azgamingguide.com | August 2012 | Arizona Gaming Guide 03
KONAMI, ARISTOCRAT,
BALLY & WMS’ HOT SLOTS
We break down where all the differ-
ent slots are and give you the inside
scoop on game play!
DESERT DIAMOND CASINO
& MULTIMEDIA GAMES
In August, they’ll be the first casino
in the state to install the Class III
versions of these popular slots!
POKER TOURNAMENT
PREPARATIONS
How to max your edge while get-
ting ready for poker tournaments
around the state.
2222
1414 1010 0909
Contents AUGUST
GOING GREEN AND GIVING
BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
Alexandra
VOLUME 04 • ISSUE 08
PUBLISHER
Chris Hoft
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Elizabeth Torma
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Alexandra Lang
ART DIRECTOR
Melanie Mueller
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ramses Ja
Mark Novak
Alex Stewart
Samantha Becker
Lana Hartmann
ADVERTISING SALES
Nina Consiglio
Elizabeth Torma
MAILING INFORMATION
Arizona Gaming Guide
P.O. Box 20636
Mesa, Arizona 85277
INTERNET INFORMATION
www.azgamingguide.com
www.facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide
Copyright © 2012 The Arizona Gaming Guide.
All rights reserved.
The Arizona Gaming Guide (AGG) presents casino industry and
gaming related facts as well as personal opinions and expects the
reader to make his or her own decisions. All responses to reader
posts, e-mails and letters are to be considered as advice only. AGG
accepts no responsibility and no liability for any actions of our
readers based on the articles and advertisements presented within
this publication. All pictures, images, logos, trademarks and trade
names, etc. are the sole property of their respective owners.
You must be 21 or older to gamble. Please play responsibly.
Help is available at 1.800.NEXT.STEP or problemgambling.az.gov.
EDITOR’S NOTE
Your Authority On Everything Gaming
Arizona’s State Gaming Regulatory Agency:
Arizona Department of Gaming
1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 450, Phoenix, 85007
1.602.771.4263 or azgaming.gov
Tribal Gaming Funded Problem Gambling Resource:
Office of Problem Gambling
1.800.NEXT.STEP or 1.800.639.8783
1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 450, Phoenix, 85007
1.602.542.8998 or problemgambling.az.gov
04 Arizona Gaming Guide | August 2012 | azgamingguide.com
“Like” us on Facebook because
we “Like” you too!
www.facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide
No Dog Days of Summer for Us!
Wow! According to the Chinese Zodiac, we are in the year of the Dragon and we
are supposed to expect growth. Let me tell you—we are! No boring Dog Days of
Summer for the team here at the AZ Gaming Guide. Our Facebook fan page keeps
growing and growing, our publication continues to evolve with new sections at
our readers’ requests, our e-newsletter has more exclusive content, we keep giving
away gas cards, prizes, concert tickets, and more through Facebook and our web-
site, we are receiving more and more information from all of our casino contacts
and sources every day that we can’t wait to share with you, and all indications
point to Arizona becoming a slot machine battleground because of all the new
games scheduled to arrive in the next few months. I couldn’t be happier with the
direction our publication is headed in and we have our readers, fans, and adver-
tisers to thank for that!
Please visit us at: www.facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide, become part of our com-
munity and share your thoughts and experiences with others who also love the
same casino games you do. You can sign up for our e-newsletter and find current
and back issues of AZ Gaming Guide on our website at www.azgamingguide.com. Let
me know what you think of our August issue and have fun!
Cheers!
Alexandra Lang
Editor-in-Chief
PLAYERS TALK Q&A On Everything Gaming
06 Arizona Gaming Guide | August 2012 | azgamingguide.com
FREQUENTLY ASKED SLOT QUESTIONS
Q: Whenever I leave a machine, somebody else sits
down and hits something after me. It’s so annoying. I
get so mad by this that it’s hard for me to even have fun
after I see somebody else win [on a machine] I was
playing. I feel like it should have been mine!
Maria Ramos – Yuma, AZ
A: Maria, first of all, once you leave a machine NEVER look
back because it’s really not worth the frustration. The likelihood
that you and the person playing after you would have pressed
the spin button at the exact same millisecond is very unlikely.
The random number generator (RNG) is constantly shuffling
through all possible combinations and is perpetually doing so
even when the machine is not being played. The RNG stops on
a combination only when the player presses the “Spin” button.
Just consider that the RNG can go through 100,000 or more
combinations in just one second! Now, imagine reaching into a
bag of 100,000 balls and grabbing the exact same “winning”
ball as the other person. That’s nearly impossible!
Q: Casinos are constantly taking out the games with the
big progressive money after it has been climbing and
climbing. I’m just wondering what happens to that
money? They shouldn’t be able to just remove a bunch
of games just right before one of them will hit. Seems
unfair.
Fred Wilkins – Tucson, AZ
A: Fred, all player contributions towards progressives have to
be returned to players in some way. This is regulation and part
of the Arizona Tribal State Gaming Compact. If a slot machine
manufacturer were to shut down an entire wide area network of
games (the Wheel of Fortune progressives for example), they
wouldn’t be able to! They’d have to keep at least one machine
running until the jackpot was hit. Then they could shut down
the machine and remove it. However, if they were to install a
new network of games, the money would roll over from the old
games to the new games. Ultimately, even if it isn’t a wide-area
jackpot progressive hosted by a slot manufacturer, but rather an
in-house progressive, the casino is still obligated to distribute
all the money onto other progressive games in the casino!
ASK THE EXPERTS and get a $25 gas card if we decide to print your question! Do you have a question for our staff of casino gaming industry professionals and slot experts? Write us with your questions
and comments in any area of gaming and we will make every attempt to publish a response in upcoming issues. Space is
limited so we are unable to print every letter or e-mail we receive. Please include your name and mailing address with all
correspondence. Mail to: Arizona Gaming Guide PO BOX 20636 Mesa, AZ 85277 or E-mail to: [email protected].
Q: When I have to pick something in a bonus to get
credits, I always seem to pick the lowest amount or I’ll
pick the box that will end the bonus right away. Is that
bad picking or is it just set up that way?
Margaret Hobbs – Glendale, AZ
A: Margaret, we can make a large generalization and identify
two types of slot bonuses that involve player choice. The first
type of bonus is where you’re able to see what was behind all
the items when the bonus is over and the second type is where
only your pick is revealed at the completion of the bonus. Here’s
how you can tell the difference: In the first type of bonus, the
slot randomly picks and assigns bonus wins to the items that
are displayed on screen and waits for you to choose from the
options available. Afterwards, the values assigned to all of the
objects are revealed at the conclusion of the bonus. During this
type of bonus your pick DOES matter. If you pick the treasure
chest with 100 credits but the one right next to it showed 1000
credits, well then, that’s what your bonus win could have been!
On the other hand, if you’re playing a game that has what is
called in the industry a “predetermined bonus,” the slot has
already picked and assigned the bonus win for you. The game is
just waiting for you to touch the screen so the computer can
display the animation for your win. Once you make your selec-
tion, the other values behind the objects are not revealed at the
conclusion of the bonus and you can’t see what you “missed.”
In this type of bonus your pick DOES NOT matter. Be careful,
some slot designers can be tricky by showing the values if there
are several levels to a bonus, but then not do a reveal at the very
end. This is a “predetermined bonus” in disguise.
Although it may seem unfair that two different types of bonuses
exist, and some of you may even feel cheated, you shouldn’t!
Remember that it’s all about the way in which the designers
decide to program the games. The math model still reflects an
“average” bonus win over time. So, how it’s presented to the
player doesn’t affect all the outcomes in the long run. $
Our team has many years of experience designing slot
machine math models and we’ll keep sharing all of our
knowledge with all of you! Best of Luck!
New Slots GREAT GAMES
azgamingguide.com | August 2012 | Arizona Gaming Guide 09
Now At Fort McDowell
or the first time ever, one of music’s most influential
and biggest-selling stars appears on casino floors with
the Michael Jackson King of Pop slot machine by
Bally Technologies. The legendary performer moon-
walks across the game screen to some of the most
recognizable tunes in history.
Game Play
This energetic slot game offers an astounding suite of features.
It has Mystery Wilds bonuses and four Free Games bonus
events based on some of Michael Jackson’s most popular singles
including Don’t Stop Till you Get Enough, Billie Jean, Beat It, and
Smooth Criminal.
F
During the Beat It Free Games,
Jackson appears on screen before
every spin, sometimes awarding
Locking Wilds which remain in
place for the duration of the bo-
nus. Billie Jean features the Big
Bang play mechanic in which Jack-
son appears on the top screen and
awards wilds. And, Jackson’s
trademark dance technique, the
“Moonwalk,” takes center stage in
Moonwalking Wilds.
Along with the unforgettable mu-
sic that spans all ages and his dis-
tinctive dance moves, King of Pop
uses favorite icons from Jackson’s
career including the famous white
glove, signature fedora, dance
loafers, and sunglasses. Stunning
imagery and an unprecedented
number of music video clips make
this game as irresistible as the
King of Pop himself! $
GREASEGREASENow At Talking Stick Resort
From Broadway to the big screen to the slot
machine, the ever-popular classic 1950s-
inspired movie, Grease, has finally made its
way to casino floors! Catchy bonus games, a
super-HD experience, and a multi-area pro-
gressive, together with featured movie clips
and music, will have all slot enthusiasts
reliving this upbeat story!
Game Play
Grease, by Bally Technologies, features eight
bonus events including T-Bird Mystery
Wilds, a U-Spin Yearbook Bonus, two pick
features, two styles of free games—The One
That I Want Free Games and the Dance Off
Free Games, and four any-bet progressives.
Grease also offers four exciting bonus levels:
Pink Lady, Rydell High Pick ’Em, Too Pure
to be Pink, and The One That I Want. Players
can use the base game or iDeck on selected
bonuses, with certain picks sending them to
the next level and offering a chance at higher
rewards. $
Play WMS’ new Epic
Monopoly slot at Ma-
zatzal Hotel & Casino
now!
Game Play
This exciting new
theme combines the
Super Multi-Pay base
game action with the
Monopoly mega bo-
nus excitement. And,
the Bonus and Wild
symbols on the main
game transfer to the
smaller reel sets! $
Now At Mazatzal
10 Arizona Gaming Guide | August 2012 | azgamingguide.com
GREAT GAMES New Slots
Desert Diamond First To Install New Multimedia SlotDesert Diamond First To Install New Multimedia Slotss
These brand new Class III slots will be ready for action during the second week in August!
Chamillion
This game has all the non-stop free spins you
crave! The Free Spin symbols turn wild and
the reels will respin ten times during the
bonus and all line awards are doubled! The
free games hit about once every 160 spins
and the game has a medium volatility.
Carnival In Rio
Three or more Free Spin Bonus symbols scat-
tered anywhere on the reels will trigger the
bonus, all stacked Dancer symbols become
wild and you can win up to 70 free spins!
There are stacked symbols and stacked Wild
symbols on all five reels during the game.
Expect the free games every 110 games and
get ready for action as the slot is volatile!
Wild Leopard
With ten free spins initially and a multiplier starting at 2X for all line pays, the bonus
in this slot is for everyone! After each win-
ning free spin, the multiplier is increased for
any remaining spins. If the bonus is retrig-
gered, an additional ten free spins are
awarded up to a total of 60! This is one game
to sink your teeth into! Expect the free games
every 110 spins and for volatile game play!
Crown Jewels
This slot features 40 lines and stacked wilds across a 5 x 4 reel window bringing maxi-
mum excitement for a 40 credit bet. Watch for 3 or more free games symbols to trigger
the bonus roughly every 120 spins. You’ll
start with 7 spins and a sixth multiplier reel,
with values from 2X to 10X, increasing all
your wins accordingly! Retriggers are possi-
ble up to 35 games. Of them all, this slot has
the biggest potential for huge rewards!
Alakazam!
This mystical, low volatility, 9-Reel, 32-
Line slot will grant players wishes with
more bonus features than they can
handle! The genie may mysteriously
appear before the reels stop and place
one to three Wild symbols on the reels.
During the Make-A-Wish Bonus the
genie stops the reels letting the player
choose their own bonus! The Magic
Bottle, The Magic Lamp, or the Free
Spins. Bonuses are also played when
the symbols land on lines 1, 7 or 8! The
Mystery bonus happens about every 20
spins and the other bonuses happen
roughly every 50 spins or so.
Multimedia Games (www.multimediagames.com)
Their innovations have pushed the gaming industry's technology envelope as they
continue to evolve into a leading game content provider, delivering games that play-
ers want to play. They make it their business to understand their customers—and
players—and challenge their developers to continue raising the bar in gaming sys-
tems and content design and development. Incorporated in Texas in 1991, Multime-
dia Games trades on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “MGAM.”
They employ more than 400 full-time and part-time employees and are headquar-
tered in Austin, Texas, with additional offices throughout the U.S. and in Mexico.
azgamingguide.com | August 2012 | Arizona Gaming Guide 11
Brand new from WMS is another extremely entertaining community slot game
called Leprechaun’s Gold—Land O’ Luck. BlueWater Resort & Casino in
Parker, AZ already has the slot on their floor and we’re certain to see this slot
spread across the state in the next few months.
You can join Lucky the Leprechaun as he flies through a dynamic world on
dual overhead 52” monitors, collecting coins and diamonds before triggering
one of sixteen possible outcomes! Lucky careens through the expansive Land
O’ Luck to award mini-bonuses, credit awards or even a Local Area Progres-
sive Cash award to lucky triggering players.
The community bonus on the giant monitors is triggered randomly while you
play on one of the four slots below. The four slots are based on the G+ Deluxe
series of games like Vampire’s Embrace and Dragon’s Fire, so if you enjoy
playing those slots, you’ll love the added entertainment factor with the big
bonus featured in Leprechaun’s Gold!
Our staff played the entire bank as a group for over 60 minutes with only a $20
or $40 bankroll and we played the Land O’ Luck bonus several times. Two
staff members walked away even and one staff member was up $80! $
New Slots GREAT GAMES
What you can win in the Land O’ Luck Bonus:
• Leprechaun Free Spins – 1 of 4 Free Spin amounts
• Clover Field Picks – pick from a field of clovers for credit
awards. Find Gold Pots for additional awards
• Lucky’s Pick Bonus – a picking bonus with a 40% chance
at 250x your line bet
• Local Area Progressive Cash Awards
• Credit Awards
GREAT GAMES New Slots Coming Soon
12 Arizona Gaming Guide | August 2012 | azgamingguide.com
ead the way to great riches and fortunes with Ma-
yan Chief, Konami Gaming Inc.’s latest K2V slot
machine. Mayan Chief is a clone of their game
China Shores, a popular player favorite. You’ll also
find Mayan Chief similar to Rhythms of Rio and
Money Blast, if you recall playing those games.
This slot is a 5-reel game in 20, 25 and 30-lines depending on
which casino you are in. Unless the game forces you to bet all
the lines, the minimum bet is 1 credit. Mayan Chief features
“Action Stacked Symbols” and an entertaining free game bonus.
In the base game any 3, 4 or 5 Relief symbols trigger 8, 10 or 15
free games respectively. All wins during the free games are
doubled and additional free games can be triggered. The
“Balance of Fortune” feature is activated when free games are
triggered. Players may commence playing free games or ex-
change the free games for a credit prize. You’ll have this option
when the number of remaining free games is greater than 20.
The credit prize is a random amount that, on average, is greater
when more free games are exchanged.
The “Action Stacked Symbols” feature happens on every spin
and has rapidly become a player favorite since Konami intro-
duced it into many of their slot games several years ago. On
each of the five reels, Konami set aside a certain number of posi-
tions which can be filled in with any of the base game symbols
at the beginning of each spin. You’ll notice which symbol was
selected while the reels are spinning. One spin will have a large
block of King symbols, the next spin has a block of Bird sym-
bols, then you’ll observe the Nine symbols in a large block on
the reels. Which symbol is selected for the “Action Stacked Sym-
bols” is randomly determined each spin and remember that
gaming regulations and independent testing make sure the slot
never knows what symbol was chosen for the last spin when it
picks a new symbol. $
This slot has a high hit frequency of around
50%, payback percentage around 90% and is
highly volatile due to Konami’s popular “Action
Stacked Symbols.” Be prepared to win big on
this game!
L
14 Arizona Gaming Guide | August 2012 | azgamingguide.com
WINNING WAYS Hints & Tips
Body Language Basics
At The Tables & In Life
Gamblers should set aside time
to watch a History Channel pro-
gram called “Secrets of Body
Language” on the web. While
many body language observa-
tions are certainly subject to in-
terpretation, there are many
common clues the human body
gives off unconsciously while
communicating (or trying not to)
with others. This short report
details the body language intrica-
cies of many world leaders, ce-
lebrities, and other people in a
variety of different situations.
The analysis, conclusions, and science behind body language as
explained during the program serves poker players and the gen-
eral public very well. Here’s a short list of what to watch for at the
tables to assist in determining if an opponent is holding a strong
hand (they will display a positive emotional response) or if they
may be bluffing (they will display a negative emotional response).
This list also serves as a guide for day-to-day human interactions.
Common Positive Emotional Responses Include:
Sitting upright or leaning forward, Glancing down at chips, Lick-
ing one’s lips, Eyebrows (or forehead) shooting up slightly, Glanc-
ing at cards quickly.
Common Negative Emotional Responses Include:
Slouching or sliding back in a chair, Covering one’s mouth,
Chewing on the inside of the mouth, Idle hand movements.
Quick Tips On How To
Ride Out A Cold Streak
1. Come with the right bankroll, or in the case of a tour-
nament, inquire about any bonus buys or re-buys and
already make the decision to use (or not use) them before
starting to play.
2. Stick with one strategy for the tournament or play ses-
sion. Changing strategies can deflate your confidence.
3. Don’t let your emotions take over. Celebrating a win is
one thing, but your strategy relies on logic, facts, and
reason, not emotion.
4. Don’t allow short term results to affect your attitude
and perception of the game. We all want to be on a hot
streak, but the cold streaks are a fact of life too. (Great
advice for all types of gamblers!)
A Winner’s Checklist For Poker Tournaments
If you go into a tournament without a plan of some kind,
you might as well go home if you’re choosing solely to
side with luck. There are far too many other players and far
too many hands to be played during a tournament for you to
survive on luck alone! Here are a few simple, but important,
rules to follow:
Arrive at least 15 to 30 minutes early so you have a
chance to orient yourself, get comfortable, and start
studying your competition.
Familiarize yourself with the casino’s poker room. The
tournament director may completely change the room
layout that day!
Clear your schedule. No calls, no email, no Facebook,
and no Twitter. Make sure you are not hungry and
have comfortable clothes.
Don’t wear unnecessary or flashy accessories; even
consider removing your customary jewelry. Have you
ever noticed the amount of fidgeting inspired by a simple
wedding ring, necklace or watch in a poker room?
If you have difficulties focusing or concentrating, bring
along earplugs or, if allowed, play white noise through
your headphones.
Don’t let your clothes and general appearance indicate
to other players what personality type you are. Look-
ing flashy tends to exude a “risk taker” vibe, while a more
conservative styling can scream “cautious” to other players.
Remember your goal is to survive in a tournament. Be
the tortoise, not the hare. Slow and steady is always a
good rule of thumb.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
16 Arizona Gaming Guide | August 2012 | azgamingguide.com
THE ANNUAL AZ STATE POKER CHAMPIONSHIP THE ANNUAL AZ STATE POKER CHAMPIONSHIP
NOW IN ITS 8TH YEAR AT TALKING STICK RESORT NOW IN ITS 8TH YEAR AT TALKING STICK RESORT
Players from across the country are perfecting their poker faces as they prepare
for the return of the Arizona State Poker Championship to Talking Stick Resort.
An annual fixture on the resort’s poker schedule, the five-day tournament takes
place August 10-14, and is expected to draw more than 1,000 players of various
skill levels, all competing for a share of the $1 million jackpot. “The Arizona
State Poker Championship is a big source of pride for us. It’s our biggest event
and continues to grow each year,” said Kent Odekirk, director of poker at Talk-
ing Stick Resort. “This year we have expanded the championship to run five
days and have taken the final table into our showroom to allow for a larger
viewing audience. We are always looking for ways to enhance it and make it a
better experience for guests.”
The No Limit Texas Hold ‘Em tournament will begin on Friday, Aug. 10 at 9
a.m. This year marks the third time in its eight-year history that the prize pool
has hit $1 million, which ensures the top 100 players walk away with a mini-
mum of $2,250. First place winner will take home a grand total of $208,300, a
championship ring and trophy. Second and third place winners will take home
$127,500 and $85,000 respectively, as well as trophies to commemorate their
win. To enter the state championship, players can pay a $1,000 buy-in, with an
additional $70 entry fee, or they can “win a seat” by participating in Talking
Stick Resort’s daily satellite tournaments or Sunday qualifier tournaments. En-
tries are unlimited, and the buy-in provides each player with $15,000 worth of
tournament chips. Players eliminated on days one or two will be allowed a re-
buy in order to continue play.
For the first time since the inception of the championship, the final table will be
played in the resort’s showroom and broadcasted throughout the property.
Earlier this year, Arizona’s largest poker room transformed into the ARENA
Poker Room and was updated with new arena-style screens with sports tickers
and the capabilities to host satellite tournaments and relay live poker games.
The large screens hang high above the room’s 47 poker tables and provide a
high-quality picture that can be seen from any angle, giving guests a better
gaming experience. For more information about the Arizona State Poker Cham-
pionship and other tournaments, visit the ARENA Poker Room at Talking Stick
Resort, www.TalkingStickResort.com or call (480) 850-7734. $
Tarzan Lord of the Jungle
One Of The Most Frequently
Hitting Slot Jackpots In America! Aristocrat’s Tarzan Lord of the Jungle video
slot game is the most award-winning and
one of the most frequently hitting slot games
in all of North America. Now, the game’s top
progressive jackpot has been hit again for
$309,338 at Buffalo Thunder Resort & Casino
in Santa Fe, New Mexico. This is the 13th
time the top progressive has been hit since
the game was released last year! To date, the
game has paid out more than $4 million in
top jackpot awards since its debut! If you
haven’t played this game yet, we recom-
mend you give this game a spin at Mazatzal
Hotel & Casino in Payson or Bucky’s Casino
in Prescott.
A big congratulations
to Valerie Spicer, the
Executive Director of
the AZ Indian Gaming
Association, for being
one of six women to
receive the prestigious
2011 Great Women of
Gaming Award from
Casino Enterprise Management for her out-
standing Commitment, Drive, Mentorship,
Perseverance and Professionalism.
GAMING NEWS AIGA, Frequent Jackpots & AZ State Poker Championship
azgamingguide.com | August 2012 | Arizona Gaming Guide 17
Big Green Bus At Harrah’s Ak-Chin GAMING NEWS
On Saturday, July 14, thirteen Dartmouth College students
stopped at Harrah’s Ak-Chin for an important mission: To bring
enthusiasm for community involvement through environmental
action and to show off their alternative-fuel powered Big Green
Bus. Maricopa was the 16th stop on their 85–day, nationwide
campaign. The student-run Big Green Bus will cover 12,000
miles across 30 states, spending the entire summer engaging in
dialogue, spreading innovation and inspiring community ac-
tion, all on a waste vegetable oil-powered coach bus. “Harrah’s
Ak-Chin has a long history of implementing environmental
awareness initiatives on property. Through our recycling pro-
gram and CodeGreen efforts, we are continually reminding our
guests and staff about the importance of sustainability,” said
Robert Livingston, general manager of Harrah’s Ak-Chin Ca-
sino Resort. “We are proud to have the Big Green Bus visit us in
Maricopa.”
13 students, 1 veggie powered bus, 7 times around
the country and counting … All for a greener tomorroAll for a greener tomorroww!!
azgamingguide.com | August 2012 | Arizona Gaming Guide 19
Twin Arrows Navajo Casino GAMING NEWS
ark your calendars for May 2013, because this is the proposed
grand opening date of the brand new $175 million casino and
hotel being built by the Navajo Nation near Twin Arrows about
20 miles east of Flagstaff. Around 800 employees will be hired to operate
the new facility. The Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort, near Interstate
40, will have nearly 1,100 slot machines, blackjack and poker tables, 200
hotel rooms by winter of 2013-2014, a gift shop selling mostly low-price
items, a food court, a sports bar, and ultimately a spa area. Longer-term
plans include parking areas and amenities for high-end motor homes, a
nightclub, a conference center, and a spa with steam rooms, massages and
hot tubs. The casino is expected to draw tourists and outside visitors. It is
not known how much water the casino will use, but it will be supplied
from four wells in the area. The hotel will also go through a certification
system to show it was built with conservation in mind.
The Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort identity is a combined effort of
the Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise Board, staff, chapter officials and
tribal members. The name Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort is trade-
marked and has been an exit on I-40 for many years.
The following concepts were used to design the logo:
Two outward bound arrows to show a proactive ap-
proach to all things as well as the Journey of the Na-
vajo throughout time. There are Four Sacred Moun-
tains in the Navajo culture, beginning with the East,
South, West and North. The mountain represented is
the west sacred mountain known in Navajo as
Dook’o’ooslííd which translates to Abalone Shell
Mountain. In English, the mountain is known as the
San Francisco Peaks. The color of the mountain is
generally yellowish or the reflective shine of an aba-
lone seashell.
The turquoise arches represent the sky, the shape of
the world and the implied shape of a female hooghan.
The Navajo casino basket brand was added to unify
the properties. Overall, the color scheme, white, tur-
quoise, yellow and black incorporates the four sacred
colors of the Diné. $
NAVAJO NATION PLANS MAY 2013 OPENING FOR ITS NEW $175 MILLION CASINO IN AZ.
M
FUN FACTS
azgamingguide.com | August 2012 | Arizona Gaming Guide 21
Amazing Summer Room Specials At
Talking Stick Resort
his summer, Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona is
rewarding those looking to treat themselves to a luxurious
stay at its hotel. The AAA Four Diamond resort is offering ex-
clusive reservation deals and unbeatable seasonal rates that will
make any visit easy to plan.
Talking Stick Resort offers five unique room styles all exuding
modern Southwestern-style and cultural representation of the
Salt River Pima-Maricopa Community. Each room is a blend of
convenience and comfort in a serene and refined environment.
In addition to no resort fees and complimentary Wi-Fi, the re-
sort will offer the following packages now through August 29:
Stay 2, Get $60
Guests looking for the perfect summer getaway need look no further
than Talking Stick Resort. Those who book a two-night stay in one of
the property’s well-appointed accommodations will not only enjoy
rates starting out as low as $119, but also receive a $60 resort credit.
Fit for a King
Those in search of the royal treatment can upgrade to an Executive
King room, with rates starting as low as $149 a night. With a two-
night stay, they will receive $50 in resort credit. Talking Stick Resort’s
Executive King guestrooms are positioned on the north and south ends
of the hotel and feature oversized patios/balconies, offering unob-
structed views of Camelback or Scottsdale's McDowell Mountains. $
T
>>> In the early 1900s, the Bell Fruit Gum Company created
a slot machine that dispensed chewing gum in various fruit
flavors depending on which fruit the player managed to
line up on the pay line. And, the bar symbols were actually
shaped like a stick of gum with the company’s logo written
across! Now, a century later, slot machine manufacturers
are still designing mechanical reel steppers with the same
fruit and bar symbols originally created to promote chew-
ing gum!
>>> The number of slot
machines and card tables
that tribes can have in
their casinos is calculated
by the AZ Department of
Gaming using a popula-
tion based formula!
>>> As of May 1, 2012, the exact number of slot machines in
Arizona totaled 14,267 and 478 table games!
>>> There are plenty of
electronic versions of all
the popular casino table
games such as blackjack,
roulette, and craps. How-
ever, live roulette and live
craps are two games that
are not currently allowed
in the state of Arizona,
because they are not among the list of approved Class III
games in the Tribal-State Compact of 2002!
>>> Sevens are lucky, but who ever heard of lucky eights? If
you’re planning a trip to the Far East, then consider your-
self a winner if you line up a bunch of eights!
The number eight is considered lucky in Eastern
culture because the word for “eight” sounds
very similar to the word for “fortune” and
“wealth.” $
Bet You Didn’t Know …
8
22 Arizona Gaming Guide | August 2012 | azgamingguide.com
arrah’s Ak-Chin Casino Resort is committed to giving
back to the community by not only donating profits to
civic and charitable causes but also by encouraging
employees to donate their time and attention to benefit local
organizations and various earth-friendly initiatives. H.E.R.O.
(Harrah’s Entertainment Reaching Out) is an employee-based
volunteer program in which participants make noteworthy,
visible contributions to the community by lending their time
and skills. From improving the environment by picking up
trash to donating time and funds to support senior citizens, and
from hosting a total wellness community event to collecting
food items to donate to those in need, Harrah’s Ak-Chin is truly
devoted to helping the community in many positive ways.
As an organization, Harrah’s Ak-Chin surpassed their 2010 total
of 4,676 hours by volunteering 9,945 hours in 2011 and are well
on their way to surpassing that in 2012. The property has also
provided monetary and in-kind donations amounting to more
than $20,000 from involvement in events such as Earth Day,
Keep Arizona Beautiful Luncheon, Clean the World campaign,
the Ak-Chin Social Services’ food drives and many more. In
addition, Harrah's Ak-Chin employees have improved their
workplace by ramping up efforts to go green through A.C.E.S.
(Ak-Chin Environmentalist Squad) and teaming up with the
Recycling Association of Maricopa. Altogether, Harrah's Ak-
Chin reduced its waste by 148 tons in 2010, improving both the
resort and the community that supports it. Moreover, the prop-
erty has saved tens of thousands of pounds of oil (yellow)
grease, recycled nearly 58 tons of cardboard, switched hundreds
of employees to electronic pay checks and therefore eliminating
paper waste, and created Harrah’s Ak-Chin’s first ever property
“Green Zone” to recycle paper, cardboard and plastic.
“Not only does this program bring together our employees, but
it’s an amazing way for us to reach out to the community and
give back to the local residents and programs that are most in
need,” said HR Director of Harrah’s Ak-Chin Beth Amoroso.
“With earth-friendly initiatives having been at the forefront in
recent years, it’s truly become a focus of our organization and
for our employees on an individual level.”
Ongoing efforts give back to the community and earth-friendly initiatives
Gives Back by Going Green
H
azgamingguide.com | August 2012 | Arizona Gaming Guide 23
arrah’s Ak-Chin employee Candice Van Etten and her husband Craig Aykroyd
bypass the nearest gas station each week and instead fill up on vegetable oil
from a restaurant to fuel their 1985 Volkswagen Golf with a converted diesel engine.
“After having converted to vegetable oil it saves on fuel cost and air quality, in addi-
tion to emissions being much lower from having an exhaust that is a plant-based
fuel,” said Van Etten. After the one-month project of converting the vehicle Van Etten
now gets approximately 150 miles per gallon and saves $2,900 annually on fuel costs.
And on a lighter note, Van Etten joked “the car smells like French fries, which I’m not
sure is a good or bad thing!”
“The first big step was getting rid of our Audi and purchasing an old 1985 VW Golf
that had a diesel engine. Craig built a makeshift filtration system in our garage be-
cause the car consumes used vegetable oil he gets from a restaurant (but he’s lucky
because lots of restaurants are now selling their used oil). Craig also built a system to
heat the oil with the car engine and installed all the plumbing. There is a valve to
switch between diesel and vegetable oil because you need to start the car and let it
warm up before switching over to the vegetable oil” said Van Etten.
“Aside from lower emissions, we have noticed many people are very interested in the
idea. It was kind of cool because at Harrah’s there are corporate campaigns, including
CodeGreen, encouraging everyone to do their part to be greener. I thought, hey, I
really am doing my part and I’ve been inspired to make more changes – both at home
and within the community” said Van Etten. Her husband Aykroyd is also looking at
what they can continue to do in order to become more green. “While the car is old,
slow, and noisy relative to newer car technology, others in our community are still
very interested in pursuing
the change to a more en-
ergy conscious drive to and
from work. We are even look-
ing into getting a second,
newer car to convert!”
Special thanks to Candice & Craig
for sharing their story, comments,
and photos with us and to Stephanie
Lough at HMA Public Relations.
On-property CodeGreen initiatives
included:
•The installation of new thermostat tech-
nology in the 152-room hotel tower,
which automatically resets the thermostat
to a set temperature to conserve energy
once guests leave the room;
•The implementation of property elec-
tronics recycling which totaled 70,000 lbs
in 2011;
•An increase in standard recycle streams
to 15 different items, thus increasing by
239% since 2009;
•The recycling of food cans by kitchen
staff, which saved 2,800 lbs in just under a
few months;
•The implementation of front-of-house
recycling for guests, with four bins on the
casino floor and two large wall displays
to show various Harrah’s AK-Chin recy-
cle facts and energy tips.
The innovation in H.E.R.O. volunteer
efforts lies in the vast array of programs
the property supports annually. More
than 320 employees on property (out of
650 total) dedicated time to more than 50
worthy causes last year. In addition to the
community outreach projects already
mentioned, H.E.R.O. volunteers donated
time and funding in support of the
Esperanza Children’s Home, Girl Scouts,
the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Maricopa
Schools, the Ronald McDonald House and
many, many more individual causes.
If an employee is passionate about a
cause, Harrah’s Ak-Chin fully supports
that employee’s dedication of time to that
cause. Each year H.E.R.O. volunteers are
finding new ways to contribute to their
community and volunteers are even in-
spiring their fellow colleagues, family,
and friends to join in their efforts and it
shows because volunteer hours have in-
creased steadily over the past seven years!
Harrah’s Ak-Chin, as well as the entire
Caesars Entertainment Corporation, has a
commitment to its communities to help
make them vibrant places to live and
work. The H.E.R.O. program is a living
embodiment of the company’s commit-
ment to make a positive, real impact in
the community! $
For more information on Harrah’s Ak-Chin and
their H.E.R.O. program, visit their website at
www.harrahsakchin.com or call 480.802.5000.
Candice Van Etten, a veteran poker dealer of seven years at Harrah’s Ak-Chin, her husband Craig Aykroyd and their 1985
VW Golf diesel (pictured above & below) which they converted to run on used vegetable oil.
Harrah’s Ak-Chin’s H.E.R.O. Program
Inspires Couple To Go Green
24 Arizona Gaming Guide | August 2012 | azgamingguide.com
One of our staff members recently attended a business meeting
at the Hammered Hog BBQ Hall & Saloon located at 3230 E.
Thunderbird Road in Phoenix (just West of the 51 at the Thun-
derbird exit, www.hammeredhog.com). The group shared the
Family Platter which consisted of a half rack of ribs, pulled
pork, chopped brisket, hot links, corn bread, and a selection of
sides. The immediate conclusion was that the entire staff has to
go as soon as possible as the food was excellent! This prompted
a discussion of what barbeque options we had all sampled at
Arizona’s casinos and which ones were worth communicating
to our readers. Here’s what we came up with …
If you are headed towards Apache Gold Casino Resort in
Globe, make sure you stop by on a Monday night for the
Apache Grill’s Bottomless Beef Ribs served from 5 to 9pm. They
are meaty, juicy, and bursting with flavor no matter what day
you visit and they even make them available at the Wickiup
Buffet from time to time.
BlueWater Resort & Casino in Parker serves a menu item at the
River Willow that is Asian inspired and well worth ordering.
Try the Chicken Teriyaki which is 10 ounces of grilled chicken
breast served with sauce, pineapple and toasted sliced almonds.
While at Bucky’s and Yavapai casinos in Prescott, make sure
you check out the new restaurant, Icha Maajoh, in the Prescott
Resort adjacent to Bucky’s and order the Grilled Flat Iron Steak
for dinner. The chimichurri sauce is an excellent companion to
the meat and the garlic fries that come with the dish!
At Casino Arizona in Scottsdale, do not miss the Chipotle BBQ
Ribs at the Willows Restaurant. Your order of ribs arrive smoth-
ered with tangy chipotle barbeque sauce (finger-licking good), a
cool order of coleslaw and French fries.
Up at Cliff Castle Casino Hotel in Camp Verde, several mem-
bers of the AGG staff have had the Bone-In BBQ Pork Chop, an
azgamingguide.com | August 2012 | Arizona Gaming Guide 25
Barbeque at Arizona’s Casinos CASINO DINING
excellent bang for your buck for dinner! You’ll get the grilled
pork chop served with a sweet & tangy homemade barbeque
sauce, a roll, soup or salad, and a choice of potato and vegetable
of the day! That’s a lot of food, but our sources tell us that Cliff
Castle’s restaurants and menus may undergo a makeover soon,
so be sure to try this dish while you still can!
The Agave restaurant inside the Desert Diamond Casino at the
Sahuarita location near Tucson serves an awesome version of
Chipotle Ribs which is a half rack of baby back ribs complete
with ranchero beans and French fries. We are in the southwest
after all, so too much chipotle is never a bad thing!
At Fort McDowell Casino near Fountain Hills we strongly
recommend two of their entrees. The first is the Brisket BBQ
Beef sandwich at the Silver Platter by the bingo hall—a steal at
less than $5 and the other is the Honey Glazed Salmon at Café
87. The 8 ounce filet comes with a salad, rolls, vegetables, and a
choice of potatoes combining for a flavorful meal all for less
than $12!
At Harrah’s Ak-Chin in Maricopa, the new menu at the Range
Steakhouse features several barbeque items, but we recommend
getting the mix of meats with the Chicken & Pork entrée. That
way you can enjoy a full rack of ribs and chicken breast, both
Applewood-smoked.
When you are ready for a big meal, make sure you visit Hon-
Dah Resort-Casino near Pinetop and enjoy the Indian Pine’s 12
ounce Ribeye Steak served with a wild mushroom demi glaze.
We guarantee you will leave your table satisfied!
Stop in at Mazatzal Hotel & Casino in Payson and visit the
Cedar Ridge Restaurant for the Ultimate Feast. You’ll dine on a
half rack of slow roasted ribs, a center cut top sirloin steak and
three shrimp.
The Blue Coyote Café at Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale is a
really great choice whenever we are in the area. The Filet Mi-
gnon is always an expensive dish, but it is 8 ounces of the best
cut and they serve it with roasted red pepper butter. The more
grilling the better!
All restaurants have different hours of operation. Please verify all details and any age
restrictions with each casino. We are not responsible for incorrect or outdated information.
26 Arizona Gaming Guide | August 2012 | azgamingguide.com
TRIBAL NEWS Arizona’s Tribal Lands
Courtesy of the Arizona Indian Gaming Association
Arizona is home to 22 Native American tribes that represent more
than 296,000 people. A total of 20 reservations cover more than
19,000,000 acres, ranging in size from the very large Navajo Res-
ervation, which is the size of West Virginia or Ireland, to the small
Tonto Apache tribal reservation that covers just over 85 acres.
Visitors who want to travel to Arizona reservations may do so
without prior permission. But if you want to know where to buy
arts and crafts or observe dances or rodeos, you should contact
the tribal offices in advance of your travel. Many tribes today are
committed to diversifying their economies so in addition to casi-
nos, you can visit and enjoy tribally-owned shopping malls, RV
parks and convenience stores, resort hotels and golf courses
along with trying your luck at the tables and machines.
28 Arizona Gaming Guide | August 2012 | azgamingguide.com
TRAVEL Las Vegas
s of July 10, 2012, Las Vegas locals are now on the win-
ning side of the most fantastically super heroic slot game
ever! Aristocrat’s Superman The Movie slot debuted at all
ten Station Casinos in the Las Vegas Valley and Station Casinos
gave a super hero-sized welcome to the new game. From Noon
until 8 p.m., Boarding Pass members could fly into their favorite
Station Casinos location for a free pull that could reward $4,000
on the amazing new VIRIDIAN HYBRID game.
Participating properties included Green Valley Ranch resort,
Red Rock Resort, Sunset Station, Aliante Station, Fiesta Rancho,
Texas Station, Santa Fe Station, Palace Station, Boulder Station
and Fiesta Henderson. To receive their free play, Boarding Pass
members visited their favorite Station Casinos location and the
rewards center.
Superman The Movie slot transports the original 1978 super hit
film starring Christopher Reeve to the casino floor with incredi-
ble action that plays out in Aristocrat’s amazing VIRIDIAN HY-
BRID with Active Reel Technology.
The slot brings Superman, Clark Kent, Lois Lane, Lex Luthor,
and all of players’ favorite characters together again. In addition
to the fun game and action-packed bonus features, lots of movie
footage further engages and entertains players.
This new slot has triple standalone progressives with a frequent
feature hit rate. Free games and bonuses are waiting to be dis-
covered in five incredible bonus features: Super Strength Rock-
slide, Superman Remix, Lex Luthor Lair, Save Lois Lane, and
the Fortress of Solitude Progressive Jackpot.
The Super Strength Rockslide bonus activates five free games.
The first free game uses a 1X multiplier and if you do not get a
win, the multiplier increases to 2X for the next spin. Additional
losing spins allow the multiplier to climb up to 10X!
Rockslide Bonus—Multiplier increases on losing spins Remix Bonus—Reel symbols are rearranged for extra pays
It’s A bird, It’s A plane, It’s Superman Slots At All Ten Station Casinos In Las Vegas
A
azgamingguide.com | August 2012 | Arizona Gaming Guide 29
Las Vegas TRAVEL
Free Games Bonus—Collect more credits to win progressives
Station Casinos owns and operates 18 properties throughout Southern
Nevada including Aliante Station, Boulder Station, Green Valley
Ranch resort, Fiesta Rancho, Fiesta Henderson, Palace Station, Red
Rock Resort, Santa Fe Station, Sunset Station, Texas Station, Wild
Wild West and several smaller properties under the Wildfire Gaming
division such as Gold Rush and Wildfire Casinos. More information
about Station Casinos can be found on their website at www.sclv.com.
Aristocrat Technologies Inc. is a subsidiary of Aristocrat Leisure Lim-
ited (ASX: ALL), a leading global provider of gaming solutions. The
Company is licensed by more than 200 regulators and its products and
services are available in more than 90 countries around the world.
Aristocrat offers a diverse range of products and services including
electronic gaming machines and casino management systems. For
more information about Aristocrat services and products, visit their
website at www.aristocratgaming.com.
SUPERMAN and all related characters and elements are trademarks
of and © DC Comics.
The Superman Remix bonus gives players a chance to win three
more times when Superman moves all the symbols around on
the reels! In the Lex Luthor Lair bonus, you pick one of three
doors. Once opened, the door takes players to Lex Luthor’s Lair
or to Save Lois Lane. In Lex Luthor’s Lair, players select from
five cases and use Superman’s X-ray vision to reveal the reel
strips behind each case. The Save Lois Lane bonus lets players
play Clark Kent free games and collect additional Superman
free games which have stacked wilds, credits, and multipliers
on every spin!
The final Fortress of Solitude Progressive Jackpot bonus has
players collecting Kryptonite symbols during 10 free games to
win ever larger prizes. 1-5 Kryptonite symbols wins 400 credits,
6-10 Kryptonite symbols wins 600 credits, 11-15 Kryptonite
symbols wins 1000 credits, 16-19 Kryptonite symbols wins 2000
credits, 20 Kryptonite symbols wins the Minor Jackpot, 25 Kryp-
tonite symbols wins the Major Jackpot, and 28 Kryptonite sym-
bols wins the Grand Jackpot! The slot is available in 1¢, 2¢ and
5¢ denominations and has a 50 credit minimum bet and a 250
credit max bet. $
CASINO ENTERTAINMENT
30 Arizona Gaming Guide | August 2012 | azgamingguide.com
Apache Gold Casino—Globe, AZ—800.272.2438
Cabaret Lounge:
Live bands every weekend—Aug. 3 & 4 Chaka & Friends
BlueWater Casino—Parker, AZ—888.243.3360
Dig Lounge:
Variety including live bands, karaoke & DJs—Daily at 5pm
BlueWater Showroom:
Aug. schedule not available at press time.
Casino Arizona—Scottsdale, AZ—480.850.7777
The Showroom:
Aug. schedule not available at press time.
The Arizona Room Piano Lounge:
Features a variety of music styles including the sounds of swing and
jazz. Start times: 4pm weekdays & 5pm weekends
Casino del Sol—Tucson, AZ—520.838.6506
AVA Amphitheater:
Seal & Macy Gray—Aug. 3 at 8pm
Los Tigres del Norte & Banda Recodo—Aug. 4 at 8pm
Pitbull—Aug. 5 at 8pm
All American Rejects—Aug. 9 at 8pm
Duran Duran—Aug. 12 at 8pm
George Clinton & The Masters of Funk—Aug. 17 at 8pm
Lost Eighties Tour—Aug. 18 at 8pm
Crosby, Stills and Nash—Sep. 5 at 8pm
Def Leppard & Poison—Sep. 12 at 7pm
Alejandro Fernandez—Sep. 14 at 8pm
Jeff Dunham—Sep. 15 at 8pm
Marco Antonio Solis—Sep. 21 at 8pm
Brit Floyd—The World’s Greatest Pink Floyd Show—Sep. 26 at 8pm
AVA Amphitheater:
Seal & Macy Gray—Aug. 3 at 8pm
Cliff Castle Casino—Camp Verde, AZ—800.381.7568
Stargazer Pavillion:
Larry the Cable Guy—Sep. 2 at 8pm
Dragonfly Lounge:
Variety including live bands, karaoke & DJs—Ladies Night every Th,
Open late on Fr & Sa.
Cocopah Resort Casino—Somerton, AZ—800.237.5687
River Room:
Zumba Fitness—Mo & Tu at 6pm
Los Tigres Del Norte—Aug. 5 at 7pm
Sunset Lounge:
Live Jazz & Cocktails—Tu 6pm
Karaoke—We-Fr at 8pm
Desert Diamond Casino I—Tucson, AZ—866.332.9467
Monsoon Nightclub:
Friday Night Groove—Join 106.3FM The Groove for a dance party
now through Dec. 28. $5 cover, ladies free! Noches Caliente—
Saturdays the hottest Tex Mex and Tejano music!
Desert Diamond Casino II—Sahuarita, AZ—866.332.9467
Sports Bar:
Friday Night Party—Music & dancing at 8pm or after the featured
game. Saturday Night Party—Music & dancing at 8pm or after the
featured game.
Diamond Center:
Back in Black (AC/DC Tribute)—Aug. 18 at 7pm
Fort McDowell Casino—Fort McDowell, AZ—800.843.3678
Radisson Ballroom:
Bad Boy Fight Night—Aug. 3 at 6pm
Lucky 7 Saloon:
Featuring a variety of live music every weekend including Furious
George, Kenny G Project & Cowboy Floyd
Harrah's Ak-Chin Casino—Maricopa, AZ—800.427.7247
Oasis Lounge:
The Masters—Aug. 3 & 4 at 8pm
The Walkens—Aug. 10 & 11 at 8pm
Desert Dixie—Aug. 17 & 18 at 8pm
Marty Ramirez—Aug. 24 & 25 at 8pm
The Crystals—Aug. 29 at 1 & 3 pm
Young Country—Aug. 31 & Sep. 1 at 8pm
Hon-Dah Casino—Pinetop, AZ—800.929.8744
Timbers Lounge and Showroom:
Munday Funday—Comedy Show
Vol. 1 (Latin Dance Variety)—Jul.31-Aug.4
Affinity (Dance Variety)—Aug. 7-11
Clark County Express (Country)—Aug. 14-18
Barrio Latino (Latin Dance Variety)—Aug. 21-25
Marble Heart (Country)—Aug. 28-Sep. 1
Latin Vida (Latin Dance Variety)—Sep. 4-8
Creagles (CCR/Eagles Tribute)—Sep. 11-15
Clue & the Honkeytones (Variety)—Sep. 18-22
Groove City (R&B Variety)—Sep. 25-29
Tony Marques (Country)—Oct. 2-6
Lone Butte Casino—Chandler, AZ—800.946.4452
Cascades Lounge:
Country Night—We
Industry Night—Th
Latin Night—Fr
Top 40/Dance Night—Sa
Verona Chophouse:
Sunday Jazz Brunch Live—10am to 3pm
Mazatzal Casino—Payson, AZ—800.777.7529
Event Center:
Hotel California (Eagles Tribute)—Sep. 21
Paradise Casino—Yuma, AZ—888.777.4946
Sharky’s Bar & Bites:
DJ Rudy Espinoza—Fr—9:30pm
DJ Anthony—Sa—9:30pm
Also featuring a variety of live music on the weekends.
Quechan Casino—Winterhaven, CA—877.783.2426
Sidewinders Bar & Grill:
Featuring a variety of live music on the weekends.
EDITOR’S PICK
azgamingguide.com | August 2012 | Arizona Gaming Guide 31
Talking Stick Resort—Scottsdale, AZ—480.850.7777
The Showroom & Grand Ballroom:
Con Funk Shun—Aug. 3
Lakeside—Aug. 11
Yes & Procul Harum—Aug. 17
Patti LaBelle—Aug. 18
Gipsy Kings—Aug. 19
David Cassidy—Aug. 24
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy—Aug. 25
Little Feat—Sep. 15
Joe Walsh—Sep. 21
TOTO—Sep. 23
Asia—Nov. 13
Coffee Garden:
Dueling Pianos—Th, Fr & Sa from 8-11pm
Wild Horse Pass Casino—Chandler, AZ—800.946.4452
Encore Lounge:
Featuring a variety of live music.
Showroom:
Los Tigres del Norte—Aug. 3
Cinderella—Aug. 4
Friday Night Comedy—Aug. 10
America—Aug. 11
Tracy Morgan—Aug. 17
Friday Night Comedy—Aug. 24
Air Supply—Aug. 25
Latin Legends Live! - Sep. 7
Blood, Sweat and Tears—Sep. 14
49 Laughs—Sep. 15
Merle Haggard—Sep. 21
Psychedelic Furs—Sep. 27
Yavapai Casino—Prescott, AZ—800.756.8744
Yavapai Cantina:
Karaoke with Cruisin’ Susan—Fr—8pm-Midnight
Trivia—We, Live Bands—Th & Sa
THE GIPSY KINGS at TALKING STICK RESORT
Sunday, August 19 at 7:30pm
The Gipsy Kings consist of two bands of brothers – The Reyes
and The Baliardos – both the offspring of Spanish gypsies that
fled to France to escape Spain’s civil war. Their music pays
homage to their Gitano heritage, blending Romani rhapsody
with Spanish flamenco and salsa funk. The Gipsy Kings have
made progressive flamenco popular across the world, and on
Sunday, August 19, they’ll bring their signature sound to Talk-
ing Stick Resort.
In 1989, Gipsy Kings released their self-titled album in the
United States, and it spent 40 weeks on the charts. Fan favorite
songs include “Bamboleo,” “Djobi Djoba” and “Volare” as well
as the band’s more recent remake of “Hotel California.” The
Gipsy Kings will play those and more in a special appearance
showcasing the emotional vocals, fast flamenco guitar leads and
rhythmic strumming that has made them a worldwide sensa-
tion.
The 2010 film Toy Story 3 featured a version of "You've Got a
Friend in Me" performed and recorded by the Gipsy Kings; the
Spanish release featured the Spanish version, titled "Hay un
Amigo en Mi" and played in a flamenco style. They performed
the song along with “Bamboleo” on Dancing With the Stars
(ABC) in May of 2010 and are currently on a North American
Tour. The Gipsy Kings plan to release their new album in the
near future. Recently they collaborated with Yugoslavian born
musician Goran Bregović on two songs “Presidente” and
“Balkaneros” for his new album “Champagne for Gypsies.”
The Gipsy Kings’ performances are always passionate and full
of energy, an experience that is not to be missed! For tickets,
starting at $45, call the Talking Stick Resort Box Office at 480-
850-7734 or visit www.talkingstickresort.com/gipsykings.aspx.
Verify all details & age restrictions for each event. Venues, times, dates, & ticket information are subject
to change. Photos/images copyright of the individual artist(s), photographer(s), or venue(s). All Rights
Reserved. We are not responsible for incorrect/outdated info.
32 Arizona Gaming Guide | August 2012 | azgamingguide.com
CASINO NIGHTLIFE Exclusively Featuring Ramses Ja
f you have ever been to the Wild Horse Pass Hotel &
Casino in Chandler, you already know that it is easily
one of the best casinos in the Southwest! This beauti-
fully-designed property has a casino floor that rivals
(and in some cases surpasses) those found in Vegas. In addition,
the dining that is available is unmatched, the entertainment is
always top-tier, and the hotel's amenities are among the best in
the business. With this being the case, it's easy to see why this
casino is one of the more popular destinations in the city!
It isn't until you consider the fact that this property is also home
to Airia Nightclub that you realize that Wild Horse Pass seeks
to offer a world-class experience on all levels! The evolution of
the nightlife can be experienced at this 5,500 sq. ft. party palace
every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night! Chandler’s upscale
nightclub treats partygoers to the best in House, Top 40, and
Hip-Hop from some of the Valley’s best DJs including Benjamin
Cutswell and 101.5 JamZ mixmaster DJ Decipha!
For those who prefer the VIP treatment, Airia has the means to
make sure you party like a rock star! Table and bottle service are
available to those who want to own the night! Airia Nightclub is
I
By Ramses Ja
also prepared to receive parties of up to 100 people and offers
cabanas, booths, and tables depending on your needs. The
club’s spacious and modern design ensures that there is plenty
of room for dancing and socializing.
There is no need to travel to Nevada for the Las Vegas nightlife
experience. Be sure to check out this crown jewel that sits atop
the Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino every Thursday night
through Saturday night! Visit airiathenightclub.com for more
information and to learn more about both DJ Benjamin Cutswell
and DJ Decipa visit their websites at www.deciphacity.com and
www.cutswell.com. $
Ramses Ja hosts 6pm-12am weekdays on 101.1
FM The Beat in Phoenix! He is the resident DJ
for Your Life A to Z Fridays at 10am on KTVK
3TV Channel 3, & Resident DJ for Talking Stick
Resort.
Visit www.ramsesja.com
for more information.
AZ CASINO OFFERS UPSCALE NIGHTCLUBAZ CASINO OFFERS UPSCALE NIGHTCLUB
azgamingguide.com | August 2012 | Arizona Gaming Guide 33
FUN & GAMES
SUDOKU Each of the columns, rows, and nine 3 x 3 grids must contain
all of the digits 1 - 9. None of the digits may appear more than
once in each column, row, and 3 x 3 grid.
(Solution on page 38)
CASINO MATH 101
On a recent flyer from a local casino in Arizona, there was an offer for
free slot play. The letter told a member of the editorial staff to place
her player’s card into any slot machine and then to choose either a
guaranteed amount of $70 or choose to “Risk It” and receive either
$50 or $100 in free play. Let’s assume that $70 is the expected value
for the game regardless of the decision a player makes. What are the
chances of winning the $50 and the $100?
Hints: Remember that to calculate expected value for this game you multiply
the probability of getting a prize by the value of the prize and add it to the
probability of the other prize multiplied by the value of the other prize. If you
play this game you should keep the $70 unless you are feeling lucky because
the chances of getting the $100 are less than the chances of getting the $50!
(Solution on page 38)
WORD SEARCH
Find these words chosen to honor August—National Golf
Month! Ace, Bogey, Caddie, Driver, Eagle, Fore, Green,
Handicap, Irons, Links, Mulligan, Par, Rough, Scratch, Trol-
ley, Woods
Words appear left to right, right to left, top to bottom, bottom to top,
and diagonally in any direction. (Solution on page 38)
FUN WITH
NUMBERS
Place the numbers 1—9 in the circles so that
each side of the triangle adds up to 17.
(Solution on page 38) 2 3
6
1 3
8
3
4 9
7
6
2
9
5 1
3 7
5 4
8
6
1
8
6 4
I W N H A N D I C A P H
X W L I N K S X T I M C
S P G S N N N B C R G T
D G A R R I P O K O L A
O A O P E S B G L N X R
O U C S A E Z E S S C C
W Q U E F U N Y J R Q S
O H H G U O R E L G A E
Q Y H R E V I R D P A R
F O R E G K C A D D I E
C A W L O Y E L L O R T
M U L L I G A N B Q N F
34 Arizona Gaming Guide | August 2012 | azgamingguide.com
By Sami Becker
azgamingguide.com | August 2012 | Arizona Gaming Guide 35
SAMI’S SMACKDOWN
Waiter! There’s a fly in my soup! Sami, my wife and I frequent [casinos] in Arizona and
[casinos] in Laughlin regularly. A few friends think we are
neat freaks, but we just like things clean, clean, clean. Always
looking at a dirty table in all the same casino restaurants with
flies, stained and old carpets or tiles, crumbs in all corners,
and what looks like today’s and yesterday’s food all over the
chairs, booths, and floors is just gross to both of us. Why don’t
casinos pay more attention to this? I don’t think we have un-
reasonable expectations. Robert J.—Flagstaff
Oh! I totally agree Robert! Disgusted does not even begin to
describe how your observations make me feel! The only way to
make a casino pay more attention to the cleanliness of their res-
taurants, and their property in general, is to communicate your
observations and opinions to them. There are generally a wide
variety of methods to do this. Most casinos have comment cards
which can be filled out anonymously and returned back to a
casino representative. But I always think a face to face conversa-
tion is better than a comment card. Talk to the restaurant man-
ager or go back to the Player’s Club and talk to a representative
there.
Ultimately the situation will resolve itself because one would
hope the message is passed along to the restaurant manager
who is concerned about cleanliness and will ensure workers
will take the time to put in the necessary effort to keep the din-
ing area looking spotless at all times. If the situation is not cor-
rected within one week or so, I’d say try communicating your
discontent one last time. If nothing has changed during your
next visit, skip that restaurant or casino altogether. If the restau-
rant isn’t up to your standards of clean, neither is the kitchen,
nor the rest of the casino, so it’s time to move on to a casino that
takes clean seriously. You and your entertainment dollars
should go elsewhere! $
Do YOU have something to rant about?
Write me at: [email protected]
Casino Sessions Seats Smoke-Free Area Electronic Late Night
Apache Gold Su, We, Th at Noon. Fr & Sa at
7pm. 1st Mo of the month at 7pm 1000 No No No
BlueWater Su at 1pm. Mo-We at 6pm. 350 Yes Yes No
Casino Arizona Arriving Oct. 2012! n/a n/a n/a n/a
Casino del Sol Daily at Noon, 1:30, 2:15, 6:30 &
7:15pm 694 Yes Yes Cosmic Bingo Sa at 11pm.
Cocopah Daily at 1:30 & 6:30pm 350 Yes* Yes No
Desert Diamond I Th-Mo 1:30, 2, 6, 6:30 & 7pm 270 No Yes No
Fort McDowell Sa & Su at 6:45am. We-Mo at
9am. Daily at 12:30 & 6:30pm. 1275
Yes
(2 sections: enclosed
or in general seating)
Yes
Fr & Sa at 12:10am. Lunar Bingo
8/18, 9/15, 10/27, 11/17,
12/22 & 12/31.
Harrah’s Ak-Chin We-Su at 11:30am, 2:30, 3:30,
and 6:30pm 470 Yes Yes No
Lone Butte
Sa & Su at 10am, Noon, 3:45,
5:30 & 6pm. Daily at Noon &
6:30pm.
750 Yes Yes B.A.D. Bingo 2 Fr at 11:30pm &
B.A.D. Bingo Sa at 11:30pm.
Mazatzal Mo-Th at Noon. Tu & Th at
6:30pm. 280 Yes Yes No
Paradise Daily at 1:30 & 6pm. 300 Yes Yes Sa at 11pm varies-888.777.4946.
Vee Quiva Daily at 12:30 & 6:30pm. 366 Yes Yes Bingo Eclipse Sa at 11pm.
Sources: Arizona Department of Gaming—Current Tribal Gaming Status as of 5/01/12, casino websites & direct inquiries by press time. We are not responsible for incorrect, missing, or outdated information.
Contact [email protected] to make updates. *Cocopah Resort Casino offers “Smoke-Free Sundays” which is a casino-wide non-smoking experience every week from 4am Sunday to 4am Monday.
36 Arizona Gaming Guide | August 2012 | azgamingguide.com
CASINO BINGO DIRECTORY
CASINO DIRECTORY
38 Arizona Gaming Guide | August 2012 | azgamingguide.com
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Sources: Arizona Department of Gaming—Current Tribal Gaming Status as of 5/01/12, casino websites & direct inquiries by press time. We are not responsible for incorrect, missing, or outdated information.
Contact [email protected] to make updates. *Cocopah Resort Casino offers “Smoke-Free Sundays” which is a casino-wide non-smoking experience every week from 4AM Sunday to 4AM Monday
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01. Apache Gold Casino Resort Hwy. 70, 5 mi. E. of Globe Globe 800-272-2438 634 Y Y Y Y Y Y
02. BlueWater Resort & Casino 11300 Resort Drive Parker 888-243-3360 493 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
03. Bucky’s Casino 1500 E. Hwy. 69 Prescott 800-756-8744 303 Y Y Y
04. Casino Arizona 101 & McKellips Scottsdale 480-850-7777 931 Y Y Y
05. Casino del Sol 5655 W. Valencia Rd. Tucson 855-765-7829 324 Y Y Y Y Y Y
06. Casino of the Sun 7406 S. Camino De Oeste Tucson 855-765-7829 966
07. Cliff Castle Casino & Hotel I-17, Exit 289 Camp Verde 800-381-7568 656 Y Y Y Y Y
08. Cocopah Resort Casino 15318 S. Ave. B Somerton 800-237-5687 504 Y Y Y Y Y* Y Y Y
09. Desert Diamond Casino I 7350 S. Nogales Hwy. Tucson 866-332-9467 1,065 Y Y Y Y Y Y
10. Desert Diamond Casino II I-19, Exit 80 Tucson 866-332-9467 738 Y Y
11. Desert Diamond Casino-Why Hwy. 86, Milepost 55 Why 866-332-9467 66
12. Fort McDowell Casino Hwy. 87 & Ft. McDowell Rd. Fort McDowell 800-843-3678 906 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
13. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino 15406 N. Maricopa Rd. Maricopa 480-802-5000 1,089 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
14. Hon-Dah Casino 777 Hwy. 260 Pinetop 800-929-8744 802 Y Y Y Y Y Y
15. Lone Butte Casino 1077 S. Kyrene Rd. Chandler 800-946-4452 850 Y Y Y Y
16. Mazatzal Hotel & Casino Hwy. 87, 1/4 mi. S. of Payson Payson 800-777-7529 407 Y Y Y Y Y Y
17. Paradise Casino 450 Quechan Dr. Yuma 888-777-4946 470 Y
18. Quechan Casino I-8, Exit 166 Winterhaven, CA 877-783-2426 1,000+ Y Y Y Y Y Y
19. Spirit Mountain Casino 8555 Hwy. 95 Mohave Valley 928-346-2000 247
20. Talking Stick Resort 101 & Indian Bend Scottsdale 480-850-7777 732 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
21. Vee Quiva Casino 6443 Komatke Ln. Laveen 800-946-4452 846 Y Y Y
22. Wild Horse Pass Casino 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd. Chandler 800-946-4452 990 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
23. Yavapai Casino 1505 E. Hwy. 69 Prescott 800-756-8744 236 Y
Word Search Solution Sudoku Solution
2 3 8
4 7 1
9 6 5
7 4 9
6 5 2
1 3 8
1 6 5
8 9 3
4 2 7
5 2 3
7 4 9
8 1 6
4 1 7
3 8 6
9 2 5
9 8 6
2 5 1
3 7 4
3 9 7
6 5 4
1 8 2
8 6 4
2 9 1
5 7 3
5 1 2
7 3 8
6 4 9
H A N D I C A P H
L I N K S I C
S G B R T
D R O O A
O A E G N R
O C E E S C
W E N Y S
H G U O R E L G A E
R E V I R D P A R
F O R E C A D D I E
Y E L L O R T
M U L L I G A N
Casino Math: 50 x 60% + 100 x 40% = 70
The chances are 60% for $50 and 40% for $100.
Fun With Numbers: Starting at the top and
moving around clockwise 1,4,9,3,7,5,2,8,6.