Arizona Gaming Guide Magazine - December 2019 - 12:12...er card games, new slot installs, as well as...
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Transcript of Arizona Gaming Guide Magazine - December 2019 - 12:12...er card games, new slot installs, as well as...
20 COCOPAH CASINO & RESORT
WHERE “FUN IS JUST AROUND
THE CORNER!”
04 EDITOR’S NOTE
06 PLAYERS TALK
08 NEW SLOTS
14 TABLE GAMES
18 ELECTRONIC GAMES
20 FEATURE STORY
24 LAUGHLIN, NEVADA
26 GAMING NEWS
32 CASINO ENTERTAINMENT
34 SAMI’S SMACKDOWN
36 FUN & GAMES
38 CASINO DIRECTORY
azgamingguide.com | December 2019 | Arizona Gaming Guide 03
MIGHTY CASH DOUBLE UP
NOW IN PRESCOTT
Brand new slots are roaring their
way onto the casino floor of Bucky’s
& Yavapai Casinos in Prescott.
WIN BIG AT THE GOLDEN
NUGGET LAUGHLIN
Golden Nugget Laughlin is giving
away over $20,000 on New Year’s
Day. Don’t miss out!
24 08
IN EVERY ISSUE
Contents DECEMBER
HOW TO PLAY OMAHA
POKER
Try your luck with Omaha, a game
that is similar to Texas Hold ‘Em
and just as much fun.
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any of our readers probably recognize the trend of positivity we
infuse into our publication every month because we strongly be-
lieve life is too short to be a grouch, or grumpy, or act like a Grinch
(it is the Holidays!) all the time. The period leading up to, during, and after the
Holidays can provide for an additional source of stress for many individuals
so I’d like to remind you of the many, many, many positives you, our precious
readers, have going for you.
• Every day is a gift! You are alive and can experience this wonderful life this
month in December of 2019 and every other month moving forward!
• The message of the Holidays reminds all of us to be thankful and grateful,
not just now, but all year long. Being grateful improves your mood and the
mood of those around you.
• You are fortunate to participate in casino gaming. Not everyone has the
means or the time to participate in entertainment activities. Furthermore,
you are fortunate in many areas of your life and bringing those to mind will
bring positivity into your life every day.
We’ve got a great issue for you packed full of gaming news stories to keep you
updated, information on how to play both electronic table games and live pok-
er card games, new slot installs, as well as hints and tips to make your casino
experience a winning one!
We hope you enjoy this issue of the Arizona Gaming Guide magazine. Please
visit us on social media, become a part of our online community 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 the Arizona Gaming Guide on our website at AZGamingGuide.com. Let
me know what you think of this issue and have fun!
Thank You!
Alexandra Lang
Editor-in-Chief
Alexandra
VOLUME 11 • ISSUE 12
MANAGING DIRECTOR & VIDEO POKER GURU
Elizabeth Torma
PUBLISHER & SLOT GURU
Chris Höft
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Alexandra Lang
ART DIRECTOR
Melanie Mueller
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Al Moe
Matt Probst
Mark Novak
TJ Jorgensen
Megan Conner
Lana Hartmann
Samantha Becker
Daniel Cruikshank
ADVERTISING SALES
Elizabeth Torma
Nina Consiglio
MAILING INFORMATION
Arizona Gaming Guide
P.O. Box 20636
Mesa, Arizona 85277
INTERNET INFORMATION
AZGamingGuide.com
Facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide
Copyright © 2019 The Arizona Gaming Guide. All rights reserved.
The Arizona Gaming Guide (AGG) presents casino industry and gam-
ing related facts and editorial opinions. AGG accepts no responsibility
and no liability for any actions of readers based on articles and/or
advertisements presented within. AGG is not liable for claims made in
articles and/or advertisements. All pictures, images, logos, trademarks
and trade names, etc. are the sole property of their respective owners.
Intended for single use only. Reproduction in part or in whole in any
form without consent is not permitted. Sale and/or distribution in any
form without consent is not permitted. Check all details with the re-
spective casino’s Players Club. Our full legal disclaimer can be found at
AZGamingGuide.com/index_files/legal_disclaimer.html.
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:
Division 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 | December 2019 | azgamingguide.com
HOLIDAY SPIRIT Recognize The Positives In Life
M
PLAYERS TALK
06 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2019 | azgamingguide.com
Q: I’d like to know what happens to all the money in the me-
ters in the top when a progressive slot is removed from the
casino floor? Can you tell me? I’ve asked the slot floor people
and some don’t know and others just seem to give a vague
answer that I can’t comprehend! Sometimes it feels like the
casino just removes the slots once the progressives climb very
high so they don’t have to pay out the large amounts. Any
truth to this theory?
George Wiley – Eloy, AZ
A: A percentage of all the wagers placed by players on a slot
machine connected to a progressive belongs to the players and
not the casino! Every single-level or multi-level progressive has
starting values established by the slot manufacturers that are
referred to as base values. These are the reset values that occur
after a progressive has been hit. All gaming regulations state
that if a casino decides to remove a stand-alone progressive slot
machine or a bank of slot machines that are connected together,
the money accumulated in the meters (above the base values on
the progressive) must be given back to the players. The casinos
tend to redistribute this money by adding it to other existing
progressive machines on the floor. If a casino is replacing one
progressive title with a new title, then the easiest thing to do is
just add the money into the meters of the new game!
DID YOU KNOW… Large progressives (usually $100,000 or more) are paid by the
slot manufacturers and not the casinos!
Although it’s highly unlikely, progressive values can keep
growing and growing in value forever and never be hit!
The Top Award on a progressive must occur, statistically speak-
ing, once in every 50,000,000 plays according to Arizona’s Tribal
State Gaming Compact!
The largest payout on a slot machine was on a Megabucks ma-
chine made by IGT at the Excalibur in Las Vegas. A software
engineer from Los Angeles won $39.7 million in 2003.
All progressive systems are tested by an independent laboratory
before they ever make their way to the casino floor.
There is absolutely no way for a casino to plan for and know
when a progressive will hit! Since the progressive win is based
on the outcome of a random number generator, no one has any
control or influence over when that event will happen.
Caution: Make sure you carefully read the help screen when
you choose to play on a slot machine offering a progressive.
Understand exactly what has to happen on the game for you to
win a progressive and the bet you must make to qualify for the
progressive win. Otherwise, you may lose out on a great oppor-
tunity! $
08 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2019 | azgamingguide.com
NEW SLOTS
Mighty Cash Double Up Now At Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos In Prescott
Wheel Of Fortune Cash Link Now At Apache Gold Casino Resort In San Carlos
he player-favorite Cash Link feature is combined with a multilevel progressive, a free
games bonus and thrilling base games which make for an engaging and immersive
experience all on the classic Wheel of Fortune slot machine game!
If a Cash Link symbol lands on reel five and gold coins land anywhere on the reels, players are
awarded the credit values from each coin. A meter on the top screen shows the total value
from the collected coins. Players can also be awarded a wheel spin. The Second Chance fea-
ture is randomly triggered when players land at least one gold coin symbol or a Wheel sym-
bol on reels one through four without a Cash Link symbol on reel five. Reel five will then re-
spin for another evaluation and a chance to land a Cash Link symbol. A wheel spin is awarded
when a Cash Link symbol lands on reel five, with a wheel coin on reel one. Up to seven point-
ers are awarded for wheel spins, based on the bet level from the triggering game. During the
wheel bonus, players can be awarded credits, multipliers, and any of the three progressive
jackpots. All three multipliers can be won on a single wheel spin for up to 35X the Cash Link
prize. All three progressive jackpots can be won on a single wheel spin at max bet. The free
games bonus is triggered when free games symbols land on reels one, three and five. The
bonus can be retriggered for a total of up to 200 free spins. Cash Link coins are collected into
the meter in the top screen for the duration of the free games. For more information about
Apache Gold Casino Resort, visit Apache-Gold-Casino.com. $
T
ristocrat’s new Mighty Cash Double Up Dragon and Tiger video slots are
roaring their way onto the casino floors in Prescott, Arizona this month!
If you haven’t had a chance to play the latest Mighty Cash slot machine,
now is your time.
To quote Aristocrat, the makers of the game, Mighty Cash Double Up is “The
grand premier of a new brand. You'll love the Hold & Spin. Mighty Cash Double
Up doubles the focus, so no money or game play are wasted in the base game. It’s
an industry-revolutionizing feature that will captivate Mighty Cash fans.”
The Mighty Cash series of slots features free games and the Hold & Spin feature
which awards players credits and or jackpots.
Play these games right now at Bucky’s and Yavapai Casinos in Prescott! For more
information about Bucky’s and Yavapai Casinos, visit BuckysCasino.com. $
A
10 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2019 | azgamingguide.com
NEW SLOTS Coming Soon
he brand new slot machine game The Vault by Everi is the new
and thrilling series on the high-performing, fully-featured
banked product Empire Arena that includes a heart-pounding
bank-wide bonus feature and unique community style play.
The theme features three exciting base games with an Empty the Vault
re-spin bonus where gold from the vault can get awarded, significantly
increasing credit prizes that are locked on the screen. The bank-wide
Diamond Rush bonus feature immediately grabs the attention of all
players at the bank, prompting them for a new adrenaline-pumping
rate of play. Steal diamond credits from other players at the bank and
lock them in for big wins during the Diamond Heist!
Keep an eye out for this game because it will be coming to your favorite
casino soon. You’ll definitely want to give it a spin! To learn more about
this slot and other exciting products by Everi, visit their website at
EVERI.com. $
T
The Vault By EVERI
azgamingguide.com | December 2019 | Arizona Gaming Guide 11
Coming Soon NEW SLOTS
his brand new slot game puts a proven performer on the casino floor with IGT’s
Hexbreaker 3 Video Slots. The title offers players a new spin on a classic IGT
theme with its unique dual-layer persistence element and frequent big win op-
portunities.
Hexbreaker 3 challenges players to break the hex and change their luck. During the base
game, when a horseshoe symbol lands on a reel, the reel expands by up to six positions.
If a reel grows tall enough to reach a Luck Zone prize, players are awarded the corre-
sponding bonus credits, free games, or progressive jackpot.
This thrilling title features an 80-credit cost to cover and is offered on the versatile Crys-
talCurve gaming machine. It’s guaranteed to keep you sitting on the edge of your seat
and holding your breath with anticipation!
For more information about this thrilling new slot game and other new products by
IGT, visit their website at IGT.com. $
T
Hexbreaker 3 By IGT
14 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2019 | azgamingguide.com
Other cards that morph into big Full Houses can be strong too,
such as King-King-6-6 where you have two chances to make
your hand. Just keep in mind that you need one of your cards to
show and you need the board to pair. With that in mind, any
pair on board means a Full House is possible, and your 6’s full
might not be good.
Also, remember that it is great to start with Ace-2, but if your
other cards are poor (like 6-9, K-7, etc.) you’ve got a one-way
hand. You’re going to be shooting to make the low only most of
the time, and that’s a killer in Hi-Low because you won’t make
the nut low often enough to make it profitable.
When you’ve got the nut high with a Flush or Full House, you
can raise, knowing you’re getting half the pot. But don’t raise
with just the nut low because you might be splitting it more
than one way. Even one other low winner means you’ll only get
back one quarter of the pot and if you raise $16, you only get
back $12.
Good luck and have fun! $
Writer Al Moe has worked in the casino industry for many years.
He has lived and worked in Las Vegas, Reno, and Lake Tahoe. He
also attended the University of Nevada, Reno. He is an avid writer
and blogger. His book, “Vegas and the Mob," is available online at
Amazon.com. He is also the proud father of four beautiful girls.
By Al Moe
maha Poker is played like Texas Hold ’Em with four
cards. And, each player must use exactly two of their
down cards with three of the five community cards.
In Omaha Hi-Low Split, half of the final pot goes to the best
high hand, and half goes to the best low hand, which must be
five different cards of eight or lower. Aces can play as high or
low.
The best low hand is a wheel or Ace-2-3-4-5. Straights and
Flushes don’t matter; they are still low. You must use two down
cards, but you can win both the high and low hands (and scoop
the whole pot) with the same or different cards.
Suppose you are holding Ace-2-3-4 which is a very nice starting
hand for Hi-Low split games. The board is 2-4-3-J-Q of mixed
suits, so there’s no Flush. At first glance, you might think you
have the high and the low, but your lowest hand is Ace-2-3-4-Q,
and that doesn’t qualify. You’ve got to have five different cards
8 and below.
You do have two pair as a high hand, 3’s and 4’s with a Queen,
but you’ll most likely get beat for high by a Straight – perhaps a
wheel, or 2-3-4-5-6. Even Jacks and 2’s beats you.
Omaha Hi-Low’s Best Starting Hands
About 30% of all hands in Omaha Hi-Low will not qualify for a
low (boards like 7-7-4-K-J), so there are times when a one-way
start will win, but mostly you’ll want four cards that can win
the low and might make a high Flush or Straight.
To that end, the best starting hand is Ace-Ace-2-3 double suited,
meaning you can make the nut Flush with two suits (such as
Ace-2 in clubs, Ace-3 in hearts).
Most of the top 300 starting hands in Omaha Hi-Low include a
combination of Ace-Ace and two babies (2, 3, 4, 5), an Ace with
three babies, or an Ace with two babies and a face card (so you
can make the nut straight).
It’s also preferable to have the Ace-baby suited and the face-
card suited with the other baby card. These combinations will
win most hands.
O
HOW TO PLAY OMAHA—PART III Omaha Hi-Low Split
TABLE GAMES
16 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2019 | azgamingguide.com
Let’s take, for example, a typical $5 Blackjack game. The follow-
ing is what you can expect playing a six deck game. For every 3
hours of play, you would expect to make around $22.00. What
will actually happen is 68.3% of the time you will have wins of
$191 or losses of -$147. Then 95% of the time you will have wins
of $360 and losses of -$316. If you are to be a successful player,
you have to be able to absorb losses and if you are not prepared
for them you can get frustrated and quit.
Since I am not a person who just talks about the game, I went
out and played 50 hours of Blackjack across multiple play ses-
sions and recorded my results. Blackjack is not a slow consistent
way to make money. Your bankroll will resemble a roller coast-
er, up and down. But if you don't blow your cool, you stand a
good chance of making some money. The chart above shows my
bankroll and play sessions. And, it shows my actual outcome.
I teach what it takes to be a card counter in my brand new book
How To Become A Blackjack Jedi, available for sale now. You will
learn everything you need to know and some things that you
haven’t even thought of before. Order it on my website at
FreeWebs.com/tjsblackjackcorner/mybook.htm. $
Writer TJ Jorgensen has been a professional Blackjack player for over
20 years. He is well known for his tournament play and has beaten
some of the top tournament players in the world. He has also won
the World Series Of Blackjack. His book “Beating The Casino At
Their Own Game” is available by email at: [email protected].
hen you walk into a casino, each and every game
has a negative expectation for the player. If you
play any game long enough you will lose. It's not a
question of if you will lose, just when. In the short run players
will win sometimes, but if they play long enough the outcome
will be a loss. The casino knows that a gambler only has to win
once every 22 trips to keep them gambling, and that's about
how most of the games are set up.
There is one game in the casino that a player can actually over-
come the house edge. The game of Blackjack can be beaten if a
player is willing to take the time and learn to count cards. A
player who uses Basic Strategy is at about a 0.56% disad-
vantage. A card counter who plays a flawless game will have
about a 1.25% advantage over the casino, and then it's not a
question of if the player will win just when.
If I flip a coin there are two possible outcomes, a heads or a tails.
On a random flip, each is as likely as the other to be the result so
it's a 50/50 gamble. If you flip the coin 10 times you would ex-
pect to get 5 heads and 5 tails, but the reality might be 4 heads
and 6 tails or somewhere in between. The reality of that out-
come is called the standard deviation. This would be the result
about 68.3% of the time if you did hundreds of trials. What
would be unusual is if you ended up with a lot of trials that
ended in 5 heads and 5 tails. Understanding standard deviation
is a must to survive the mental anguish caused by the losses
that are a part of the game.
Card counters who have studied hard have an unrealistic ex-
pectation to win every time they play. When they have several
losing sessions they tend to forget what they learned and start
deviating from the way they should play, like not splitting or
over betting. Nothing has caused card counters to give up the
game than a lack of understanding about normal everyday vari-
ance—what most people call luck.
If you learn to count cards, what's the worst that can happen?
You could lose your money. But if you play proper strategy at
all times and don't over bet, it's not a question if you will win,
just when. I have been extracting money from casinos month
after month, year after year. I record when I play, how much I
play, how much I win or how much I lose.
If I didn't make money I wouldn't do it! Plain and simple!
THE REAL WORLD Basic Strategy + Counting Cards + Flawless Play = Winner!
TABLE GAMES By TJ Jorgensen
W
18 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2019 | azgamingguide.com
SEVEN (BIG RED)—A one-roll bet the 7 will be rolled next. At
4:1 it pays better than the PASS line. True, but there is a better
way to bet the 7.
It may sound as if I’m attempting to discourage you from mak-
ing one roll bets. Not at all. I make these bets; however, I only
bet them on a come-out roll, when a point is not established.
There are five numbers that win on the come-out, the 2,3, 12 (C),
the 11 (E) and 7 (LAY). These numbers are referred to as
“Naturals”.
This is how I bet the naturals on a come-out roll:
•$1 on C and E to cover the craps numbers at 4:1 and the 11 at
7:1
•Lay the line, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9 and 10 at $1 each, for a total of $6, at a
blended payout of 4:6 minus the commission which works out
to $9.74 on InterBlock ($9.78 on Aruze).
•My total bet is $7 but I am only risking $2. The EC bet either
wins or loses. If my bet wins then I press it until it loses. $
Writer Daniel Cruikshank lives in Arizona, is retired, and has been
an Electronic and Live Table Games player for decades.
ne-roll bets, aka Proposition Bets, can make or break
the craps player. The blue border in the image to the
right highlights the one-roll bets on the betting layout.
These bets can be made at any time and win, or lose, based on
the next roll of dice. If the number you bet is rolled you win,
otherwise you lose. These bets pay the most, because they are
the least likely to be rolled.
The following list explains each one-roll wager.
FIELD BET—A popular bet because it appears to include seven
of the eleven possible numbers that can be rolled. The odds ap-
pear to be 7:4 in your favor. Wrong! There are 36 possible com-
binations that can be rolled by two dice containing six numbers
each. The four numbers (5, 6, 7 and 8), not included in the field
bet, account for a total of twenty of the thirty-six combinations,
making the odds 5:4 in the casino’s favor. The payout is even
money, except for the 2 and 12, which pay double.
Note: InterBlock machines pay triple for the 12.
THE HORN—You can bet the 2, 3, 11 or 12 individually or as a
group. The layout shows you what you can win. The 2 or 12 can
only be rolled one way, thus the odds for either are 35:1. The 3
or 11 can only be rolled two ways, thus the odds are 17:1. Notice
the payout is only 30:1 or 15:1, respectively. If you bet the group
then your bet is divided by four. Should any of the four num-
bers be rolled you win one fourth of the actual payout. For ex-
ample, a $1 Horn bet pays $7.75 for the 2 or 12, whereas a $4 bet
pays $31.
C AND E (CRAPS OR ELEVEN)—A Craps bet covers the 2, 3 or
12 and pays 3:1. A common misconception is that the 7 is also
considered Craps. This originated from the term “Crapped out”
when a 7 is rolled after a point is established. The correct term is
“Seven Out.” In live Craps etiquette, saying the word “Seven” is
a no-no. The Eleven bet covers the 11 and pays 7:1. The 11 is aka
YO, a less confusing term as the words “Seven” and “Eleven”
are easily mistaken for each other when said aloud in a noisy
casino!
ANY CRAPS (Wager not shown)—This one-roll bet covers
CRAPS (2, 3, and 12) and pays 7:1.
NATURALLY CRAPS—ONE ROLL BETS Find Out All You Need To Know About Proposition Bets!
TABLE GAMES By Daniel Cruikshank
O
20 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2019 | azgamingguide.com
COVER STORY—Cocopah Casino & Resort
2019 is winding down, but Cocopah Casino & Re-
sort is ramping up! There are many new, exciting
changes at the best casino in Yuma and we cannot
wait to share them with you!
The Resort at Cocopah has been remodeled and you can expect the same outstanding ser-
vice but with a fresh, new look. As you walk in, you will notice that the business center
has been upgraded with new computers and high-speed internet. You can now also enjoy
your favorite drinks from the new indoor-outdoor-lobby bar and watch your favorite
shows on one of the many high definition TVs. And who says that you can only have pool
time during the summer? Come on in, the water is just fine at Cocopah! The Cocopah pool
area includes a jacuzzi hot tub and a heated pool along with furniture so comfortable
you’ll want to lounge outside all day. Lastly, each room has been updated to include new
beds, smart HD TVs and cable.
COCOPAH CASINO & RESORT FUN IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER!
azgamingguide.com | December 2019 | Arizona Gaming Guide 21
Within walking distance of Cocopah Casino is the Wild River
Family Entertainment Center, the first of its kind in the Somer-
ton and Yuma areas. This state-of-the-art facility features 24
lanes of bowling, laser tag, bar with fire pit and a large arcade
room.
Grab your clubs and head to the golf course. Cocopah boasts 2
golf courses - the Cocopah Bend RV & Golf Resort and the 9-
hole “best kept secret” Rio Colorado Golf Course. RVers can
enjoy dry camping adjacent to the casino with over 50 spaces in
addition to the Cocopah RV Resort, which features over 800
spaces.
For the foodies out there, the Artisan Restaurant offers a variety
of American and Southwestern entrees. The Artisan Restaurant
serves an a la carte menu daily. The breakfast buffet is served
every morning for only $10.99 per person. The Artisan at Co-
copah now features Seafood & BBQ Buffet on Fridays for only
$23.99, available from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The latest addition to Cocopah Casino is the new Triple Seven’s
Café, conveniently located in the breezeway between the Resort
and the Casino. You can grab classic favorites like burgers and
sandwiches but, for a real treat, try the Carne Asada Fries or a
Specialty Coffee.
Sit back and enjoy drinks and entertainment at the Sunset
Lounge or Rivers Edge Bar, both featuring a bar menu with
lighter fare. The Sunset Lounge offers a comfortable retreat as
you wind down from your hectic day. For a lively atmosphere,
stop by the River’s Edge Bar located right in the heart of the
casino. Catch the game on one of the 8 large screen TVs or just
kick back and play at the bar on one of the bar-top multi-game
slot machines. The River’s Edge features a wide selection of
specialty drinks, wines and draft beer. And on Thursday, Fri-
day, and Saturday nights, you won’t want to miss their bar spe-
cials!
Cocopah Casino boasts over 550 of your favorite video and reel
slot machines. They have single, multi-denominational & multi-
game video poker and keno. Try your luck on some of the most
popular games around like Colossal Diamonds, James Bond Casino
Royale, Wizard of OZ, Dancing Drums Explosion, Zeus Unleashed
and many more. Plus, Cocopah Casino offers a non-smoking
slot section, which features some of your favorite machines, all
in a clean, smoke-free environment!
Cocopah has some of the most generous slots anywhere, but if
you’d really like to experience all Cocopah has to offer, their
Rewards Club is free to join and has some amazing perks and
benefits. You could receive $100 in Rewards Play just for sign-
ing up! The Club offers four card levels, each with unique re-
wards and incentives for guests to play with their card. As you
earn points, you work your way up to the Plus level, which in-
cludes great benefits including discounts on retail items and
restaurants.
Cocopah Casino isn’t just about the slots! They also offer Table
Master Fusion virtual 3-Card Poker and, of course, live Blackjack
with limits up to $200 per wager. They are also the exclusive
home of Planet Bingo in Yuma, the future of bingo technology.
Planet Bingo’s electronics have changed the way we play bingo
and it’s exciting, fun, and most of all—easy! You can even play
as many paper cards as you want as well while letting the elec-
tronics play for you. All you have to do is sit back, relax and yell
“BINGO!”
(Continued on page 22)
COVER STORY—Continued
22 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2019 | azgamingguide.com
(Continued from page 21)
Voted the best place in Yuma to play bingo for ten consecutive
years, bingo is called seven days a week with matinee sessions
available on select days. Now, you can skip the lines by putting
credits on your account to purchase games through Buy-on-the-
Fly right from your handheld unit. And, with Bonanza Trades,
you can trade a card you don’t like for two new cards for just a
dollar! Join the game at any time with GemHunt where you can
play up to 36 cards a game and 20 games per hour with pro-
gressive bonus jackpots in all games. Other progressive jackpots
are offered through QuickPlay which has a variety of game
themes packed with exciting bingo action and multiple ways
with a chance to win up to $8,000 per game!
In addition to Planet Bingo, Cocopah Casino exclusively offers
Planet Poker and Planet Keno. These amazing additions to your
bingo experience allow you to play the hottest poker and keno
games from your Planet Bingo unit. You can buy in or cash out
whenever you’d like. Play keno and poker at the same time as
your bingo game, on the same screen, so you’ll never miss a
bingo! Last but not least, is VIPick’em, a favorite electronic pick
game. Play with paper, electronics or both. You can save your
favorite numbers to your account to save time.
Cocopah Casino & Resort values, respects and salutes our vet-
erans and active military, which is why they are proud to offer
the Patriot Card. The Patriot Card includes all the benefits of the
Plus level and has a unique look to distinguish the men and
women who have served our country. Rewards Club members
receive exclusive offers, rewards and promotions each month,
but in addition to that, Cocopah offers Prime Time Rewards
every Thursday. Guests 55 years or better earn 2X Reward
Points and qualify for a $10 Food Credit when they earn just 30
Reward Points.
To make the most of your Rewards Club account, Cocopah has
also created the MyCocopahRewards.com player portal. Now,
you can see up-to-the-minute information on your favorite
smart device. The website gives you access to view your current
offers as well as point balances towards your tier level. Sign up
today, verify your e-mail and you can receive a complementary
tote bag!
So how can you stay tuned to all these new changes? Get all the
information you need on all things Cocopah Casino on their
mobile-friendly website CocopahResort.com. Good things are
happening at Cocopah Casino & Resort! Cocopah is rewarding
its Club members with exciting promotions and other offers. If
you are not a member, visit the Club on your next visit to un-
lock all that Cocopah has to offer.
With all these changes, the only thing you will recognize is the
friendly staff, top-notch customer service and a safe, clean envi-
ronment where you can relax and enjoy yourself.
If you are near Yuma, COCOPAH IS JUST AROUND THE
CORNER! Take exit I-8 at 16th Street – go west to Avenue B
then south on Highway 95, or set your phone navigation on
Cocopah Casino & Resort located at 15318 S. Ave B in Somer-
ton, Arizona. For more information, visit CocopahResort.com. $
COVER STORY—Continued
24 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2019 | azgamingguide.com
By Heather Foreman
LAUGHLIN, NEVADA
olden Nugget Laughlin is kicking off the New Year by
giving away $20,000 cash in their $20K on New Year’s
Day Giveaway.
Earning entries into Golden Nugget Laughlin’s $20K on New
Year’s Day Giveaway is easy. All you have to do is play your
favorite slots with your 24K Select Club Card from December
20, 2019 to January 1, 2020 for your chance at a spot in their
New Year’s finale. Golden Nugget Laughlin will be giving eight
lucky players a spot in their New Year’s finale on January 1,
2020. All finalist are winners in Golden Nugget Laughlin’s New
Year’s finale! One finalist will win $20,000 cash while the other
seven finalists will each receive $520 in free slot play.
Before the finale, Golden Nugget Laughlin will be giving a few
lucky players a spot in the finale during their preliminary draw-
ings. These preliminary drawings will take place at 7:20 p.m.,
G
WIN BIG @ GOLDEN NUGGET LAUGHLIN $20K On New Year’s Day Giveaway
9:20 p.m., and 11:20 p.m. on December 31, 2019. The remaining
finale spots will be given away at 10:20 a.m. on January 1, 2020
in their finale drawing, right before the New Year’s finale.
For more information about Golden Nugget Laughlin’s upcom-
ing promotions or to book a stay at Golden Nugget Laughlin,
visit GoldenNuggetLaughlin.com or call 1.800.237.1739. $
PLAY THE HOTTEST SLOTS &
VIDEO POKER AT THE GOLDEN
NUGGET LAUGHLIN! The atmosphere at the Golden Nugget in Laughlin may be
laid back, but the slot action is always white hot. Feel the
winning energy and nonstop thrills of nearly 800 reel, vid-
eo, progressive slot machines and video poker games. From
your favorite classic slots to games with the latest themes,
bonus events and life-changing jackpots, they offer the best
slots in Laughlin. Choose your play level, from penny slots
to $10 games, and take your luck for a spin!
Plus, there’s free slot play! Convert Slot Points into Free
Slot Play right at your favorite slot machine. Insert your
Golden Nugget 24K Select Club Card into any slot machine
with Free Slot Play enabled, enter your pin and follow the
on-screen instructions. You can convert your Slot Points to
Free Slot Play as often as you like. $
26 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2019 | azgamingguide.com
Everi Congratulates TournEvent Of Champions Winner
Following Thrilling Finale At XS Nightclub In Las Vegas On October 16
Tamar M. From Del Lago Resort & Casino Awarded $1 Million Grand Prize
Everi, the casino gaming industry’s only single source provider
of gaming products and financial technology and loyalty solu-
tions, crowned Tamar M. the winner of its seventh annual
TournEvent of Champions The Million Dollar Event on October 16
at XS Nightclub in the Wynn/Encore Las Vegas Resort. Tamar
M., representing del Lago Resort and Casino in Waterloo, New
York, walked away with the grand prize of One Million Dollars
(prize is paid in installments over 20 years), bringing to a con-
clusion the industry’s premier slot tournament.
“Congratulations to Tamar M. from del Lago Resort and Casi-
no for winning this year’s TournEvent of Champions The Million
Dollar Event,” said Ed Peters, Executive Vice President, Sales
and Marketing, at Everi. “Since its start as statewide slot tour-
naments in California and Washington in 2012, we have
offered the premier slot tournament in North America filled
with memorable experiences for all of the players and finalists.
As we have expanded the campaign across the U.S. and Cana-
da, with hundreds of thousands of players participating on an
annual basis, we have had many unforgettable nights at each of
the partnering casinos’ qualifying events and unmatched enter-
tainment and excitement at The Million Dollar Event in Las Ve-
gas every year. This success is not possible without the com-
mitment of our partner casinos, our promotions team, and
sponsors.”
The 2019 TournEvent of Champions kicked off in May 2019 fea-
turing two tour buses traveling more than 20,000 miles across
North America with The Money Man, Everi’s iconic brand am-
bassador, to visit 86 partner casinos. More than 230,000 partici-
pants competed in TournEvent qualifiers to identify the top 153
players who competed in The Million Dollar Event on October
16 for a share of more than $1.3 million in cash prizes, includ-
ing the One Million Dollar top prize. The 2019 TournEvent of
Champions was sponsored by Effinet, PC Promotions, Unistar-
Sparco Computers, and others.
This year’s event also included a charity slot tournament be-
tween rounds 1 and 2 of The Million Dollar Event during which
$10,000 will be donated to the winners’ charities of choice.
Everi is a leading supplier of imaginative entertainment and
trusted technology solutions for the casino, interactive, and
gaming industry. With a focus on both customers and players,
the Company develops entertaining games and gaming ma-
chines, gaming systems and services, and is the preeminent
and most comprehensive provider of core financial products
and services, player loyalty tools and applications, and intelli-
gence and regulatory compliance solutions. Everi’s mission is
to provide casino operators with games that facilitate memora-
ble player experiences, offer seamless and secure financial
transactions for casinos and their patrons, and deliver software
tools and applications to improve casino operations efficien-
cies and fulfill regulatory compliance requirements. For more
information, please visit Everi.com, which is updated regular-
ly with financial and other information about the Company. $
GAMING NEWS
Tamar M. (center) With EVERI Executives Dean Ehlich (left) & Ed Peters (right)
2019 TournEvent Of Champions Winner Tamar M. With Family
By Tina Lynn Holt
GAMING NEWS
28 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2019 | azgamingguide.com
Escape To BlueWater Resort & Casino In Parker, Arizona.
December At BlueWater Is Filled With
Food, Fun & Tons Of Your Favorite Gaming Action.
As we move toward the Holidays and the New Year, Blue-
water Resort & Casino would like to take this time to wish eve-
ryone Happy Holidays and a Prosperous New Year. December
at BlueWater is filled with food, fun and tons of your favorite
gaming action. Come to BlueWater – and come to play!
Bingo At BlueWater
Drop into the bingo hall for some relaxing bingo action
through the Holidays. BlueWater’s bingo hall comfortably
seats 400 guests and offers both paper and electronic bingo.
The buy-in is $12, Progressive Balls are $3, Electronics are $46
minimum, and the Electronic Fee is $2. All Promo Packs pay
$60. On Sundays, the doors open at 11:30 a.m., the session
starts at 1:30 p.m. Monday to Thursday, the doors open at 4:30
p.m. and the session starts at 6:30 p.m. Visit BlueWaterFun.com
for more details on bingo at BlueWater Resort & Casino.
Earn & Get – Arizona Scratchers Tickets
Earn then redeem 200 base points on Mondays in December to
win a Holiday 7 Scratchers Ticket with a chance to win up to
$50,000! Play on December 30 and earn an additional 200 base
points to get a second Holiday 7 Scratchers Ticket. Learn more
on how to win Holiday 7 Scratchers Tickets by visiting the-
Club.
Snowman Slam
Each Tuesday in December all theClub members who earn 100
base points are able to play Snowman Slam for a chance to in-
stantly win up to $30 in Free Slot Play. Swipe your theClub
card at any promotional kiosk to play Snowman Slam.
7x & 5x Point Wednesdays
Multiply your points…even on Christmas Day! On Wednes-
days in December, theClub members can earn 7x points when
playing any slot machine and 5x points on video poker. Visit
theClub for all promotional details.
December Slot Tournaments
Win up to $850 more of holiday spending money by entering
their Thursday Slot Tournament. Once you earn your 50 base
points, register at theClub to reserve your seat. The Slot Tour-
naments run from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. with rounds every 15
minutes. Visit theClub for official rules and details.
Holiday Ham Earn & Get
Let BlueWater help you with your holiday dinner menu! Sun-
day, December 15, the Holiday Ham Earn & Get takes place.
All theClub members who earn 250 base points are eligible to
receive a Holiday Ham. Come early as this is a one day pro-
motion and only while supplies last.
December Food Specials
Visit the BlueWater Grille on December 25 for a Christmas
Buffet that will be sure to please even Grandma. The Blue-
Water Grille will also be offering a special New Year’s Eve
Buffet and a New Year’s Day Brunch. Visit BlueWaterFun.com
for pricing and holiday menus offered.
It’s a Party – A New Year’s Eve Party
BlueWater Resort & Casino knows how to host a party, espe-
cially when it comes to ringing in the New Year 2020. Special
entertainment Kendra Daniels Band will begin to play at 9
p.m. in the Dig Lounge. There will be a host of party favors,
balloon drop and Champagne toast at midnight. Don’t miss
the best party along the Colorado River this New Year’s Eve!
BlueWater Resort & Casino is located at 11300 Resort Drive, in
Parker, Arizona along the banks of the Colorado river. For
more information on BlueWater Resort & Casino, visit their
website at BlueWaterFun.com or call 1.888.243.3360. $
GAMING NEWS
30 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2019 | azgamingguide.com
Gila River Hotels & Casinos
Listens To Their Electronic Table Game Players (ETG)
And Creates The Game Room—Arizona’s Only Exclusive ETG Room
Recently, Lone Butte Casino, one of the three properties within
the Gila River Hotels & Casinos group, launched The Game
Room on their casino floor. The new area features electronic
table games appealing to all players and are the hottest prod-
ucts available from luxury gaming manufacturer Interblock.
“We listened to our Electronic Table Game (ETG) players. We
wanted to provide a comfortable area where players can enjoy
themselves watching sports on our high definition flat screens
while enjoying a drink at our full-service bar. Lone Butte Casi-
no’s The Game Room is the only exclusive ETG room in Arizo-
na, with a stadium style ETG platform, independent Craps,
Roulette, Baccarat, Big 6 station, plus video poker. Lone Butte’s
ETG room is the place to be, with great ambiance, game selec-
tion and comfort,” said Ismael Barrera, Corporate Director of
Slots at Gila River Hotels & Casinos.
In addition, Interblock recently announced they had taken vic-
tory at this year's Global Gaming Awards Las Vegas, securing
the prize in the Land-based Product of the Year category for its
Stadium product available for play at all three of the Gila River
Hotels & Casinos properties (Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino,
Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino, and Lone Butte Casino). Stadium
was chosen ahead of nine competing products that were also
nominated. The category was decided by an esteemed Judging
Panel made up of 100 leading industry executives. The Awards
were presented at a prestigious ceremony held at the Sands
Expo Convention Center as part of the 2019 G2E show.
John Connelly, Interblock CEO, said, “When gaming execu-
tives across the industry are voting, it gives Awards such as
this, all the more significance. We’re very honored the indus-
try has recognized the innovation of our Stadium product and
intend to take this to the next level in 2020.”
Play Interblock’s award winning electronic table games right
now at Gila River Hotels & Casinos and make sure to visit the
brand new The Game Room at Lone Butte Casino. For more on
Gila River Hotels & Casinos, visit PlayGila.com. For more on
Interblock’s games, visit InterblockGaming.com. $
32 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2019 | azgamingguide.com
CASINO ENTERTAINMENT Editor’s Picks
Little Joe Y La Familia Harrah’s Ak-Chin—Maricopa
December 28
Make sure you visit the Events Center at Harrah’s Ak-Chin
Casino on Saturday, December 28, 2019 as Little Joe Y La Fa-
milia takes the stage. Tickets start at $24.50 and are on sale
now through Ticketmaster, with doors opening at 7 p.m. and
the show starting at 8 p.m.
Little Joe Y La Familia, a dynamic and lively Tejano band, is a
Grammy-winning group led by Temple, Texas native Joe Her-
nandez. Known as Little Joe, Hernandez has been performing
for half of a century and credits his fans for helping him sus-
tain his 50-year career.
“It’s an incredible feeling to see men and women in the audi-
ence who get sentimental and sing, cry and dance,” says Her-
nandez. “I’m so impressed with the positive energy of our
crowds, there’s always a lot of love in the audience.”
“Our fans get the most excited about our signature song, Las
Nubes, which some people also call the Chicano National An-
them,” says Hernandez. Not many artists get to have a signa-
ture song in their lifetime, so we’re very honored.”
Off stage, Hernandez is passionate about giving back to his
community and is involved in several organizations that help
children. As a diabetic, he is passionate about educating peo-
ple on how to avoid the disease, which led him to found a
diabetes and obesity prevention program. “After being diag-
nosed with Type II diabetes 10 years ago, I noticed people
were embarrassed to talk about the disease,” says Hernandez.
“I didn’t have all the facts before my diagnosis, so I started
this program to help people not feel embarrassed to talk about
it and want to find answers.”
For more info about this show and other great performances
coming to the Events Center, or Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino,
visit Caesars.com/Harrahs-Ak-Chin or call 1.800.502.8000. $
The Temptations Desert Diamond Casino—Sahuarita
January 11
Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment welcomes The
Temptations back to the Diamond Center on Saturday, Janu-
ary 11, 2020. Tickets start at $25 and are on sale now. Tickets
can be purchased through Star Tickets and at Desert Diamond
Casino’s Box Office. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts
at 8 p.m.
The history of The Temptations is the history of contemporary
American pop. An essential component of the original Mo-
town machine, The Temptations began their musical life in
Detroit in the early ‘60s. It wasn’t until 1964, however, that the
Smokey Robinson written-and-produced “The Way You Do
the Things You Do” turned them into stars. An avalanche of
hits followed, including “My Girl,” “Since I Lost My Baby,”
and “I Wish It Would Rain.”
The Temptations were able to change with the times, hitting a
more serious tone in the ‘70s with “Runaway Child” and
“Papa Was a Rolling Stone,” and releasing smash hits in the
‘80s such as “Treat Her Like a Lady.” More recently, The
Temptations released Reflections in 2005, which earned a
Grammy nomination, and in 2006 released Get Ready, one of
the largest selling music DVDs ever. The current lineup in-
cludes Otis Williams, Ron Tyson, Terry Weeks, Larry Braggs,
and Willie Greene Jr.
Treena Parvello, Director of Public Relations and Communica-
tions for the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise, said,
“Tucson loves The Temptations! They played to a sold out
crowd at their last Diamond Center show, so be sure to get
your tickets early to see them on January 11!”
For more info about this show and other great performances
coming to the Diamond Center, or Desert Diamond Casinos &
Entertainment (Tucson, Sahuarita, Why and West Valley),
visit DDCAZ.com or call 1.866.DDC.WINS. $
GILA RIVER HOTELS & CASINOS RINGS IN THE NEW YEAR
WITH TWO MONTHS OF JAM-PACKED ENTERTAINMENT
Gila River Hotels & Casinos, Wild Horse Pass and Lone Butte, will
ring in the new year with two months of exciting jam-packed enter-
tainment starting January 3. Celebrate the new year with performanc-
es by R&B group Rose Royce with special guest Evelyn King, the
handsome Chippendales, and hilarious comedian George Lopez. The
full entertainment schedule is as follows:
Friday, January 3: Rose Royce and Evelyn “Champagne” King
(Wild Horse Pass, Tickets start at $37, Show at 8 p.m.)
Rose Royce’s first album, Car Wash, which went double platinum, has
stayed fresh over the years attracting new fans all around the world.
Many famous artists have covered Royce’s classic songs such as “Love
Don’t Live Here Anymore” (Madonna) and “I’m Going Down” (Mary
J. Blige). Disco star, Evelyn King is an amazing performer who contin-
uously had hits throughout the 1980s. Since her rise, she has released
many albums including “Girl Next Door” and “Open Book.”
Sunday, January 12: Paperback Writer
(Wild Horse Pass, Tickets start at $20, Show at 3 p.m.)
The Beatles Experience takes its audience on a trip through the musi-
cal years of the world’s most popular rock group of all time. Hear the
hits from the Ed Sullivan Show through the colorful Sgt. Pepper’s
years and on the roof tops of “Let it Be” performed with “spot-on”
vocals, looks and sounds.
Saturday, January 18: Mick Adams & The Stones
(Wild Horse Pass, Tickets start at $20, Show at 8 p.m.)
Mick Adams & The Stones is the world’s most authentic Rolling
Stones tribute band. According to AXS TV’s “The World’s Greatest
Tribute Bands,” this eight-piece, live re-creation has been recognized
as having the greatest Mick Jagger impersonation.
Friday, January 24: Saturday Night Fever – Bee Gees Tribute
(Wild Horse Pass, Tickets start at $20, Show at 8 p.m.)
Saturday Night Fever is a sensational production featuring dance hits
such as “Night Fever,” “Jive Talkin’,” How Deep Is Your Love,” You
Should Be Dancing” and “Nights of Broadway” along with iconic Bee
Gees ballads such as “Started a Joke,” “Massachusetts,” “Words,”
“How Can You Mend a Broken Heart?” and “To Love Somebody.”
Saturday, January 25: Chippendales
(Wild Horse Pass, Tickets start at $25, Show at 7 & 10 p.m.)
Enjoy the ultimate girls’ night out by attending a performance of the
one-and-only Chippendales. These are the guys that made exotic male
dancing famous, and they’re still as hunky and talented as ever. Excite
all your senses as these handsome performers seduce and entertain,
all in good fun. The show embraces a wide range of fantasies to pro-
vide a sensuous and fast-paced performance that offers the perfect
blend of music, hot dance moves and sensual theatrics. This show is
sexy, and always tasteful.
Saturday, February 1: George Lopez
(Wild Horse Pass, Tickets start at $47, Show at 7 & 10 p.m.)
George Lopez’s multi-faceted career encompasses television, film,
stand up comedy, and late-night television. Lopez is currently on the
road, bringing his stand-up comedy tour to arenas across the country.
He also recently completed his standup comedy tour, The Comedy
Get Down, with Eddie Griffin, D.L. Hughley, and Cedric the Enter-
tainer. Lopez can be seen in the recent film El Chicano, which was
released this year, alongside Raúl Castillo, Aimee Garcia and Emilio
Rivera.
Saturday, February 8: Queen Nation
(Wild Horse Pass, Tickets start at $20, Show at 8 p.m.)
Queen Nation’s live 90-minute production of Queen’s greatest hits
preserves the image, sound, and stage persona of vintage Queen.
Audiences are amazed at the accuracy of Queen Nation’s live retro-
spective journey through such popular Queen songs such as “We Will
Rock You,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Are the Champions,” “Crazy
Little Thing Called Love,” “You’re My Best Friend,” “Another One
Bites The Dust,” “Under Pressure” and many more.
Sunday, February 16: AbbaFab
(Wild Horse Pass, Tickets start at $20, Show at 3 p.m.)
AbbaFab is a stunning tribute to the music of ABBA. This production
is a tribute to some of the greatest music produced in the 70s and 80s
including monster hits such as Waterloo, Fernando, Honey Honey,
Dancing Queen and countless others. From earlier hits to Mamma
Mia, AbbaFab will take you on a journey that is unmatched.
Sunday, February 23: Led Zepplified
(Lone Butte, Tickets start at $20, Show at 3 p.m.)
Led Zepplified brings not only the sounds, but most importantly the
vibe of a Led Zeppelin concert. “The Hammer of the Gods” is a phrase
closely associated with Led Zeppelin, that aptly sums up the power
and aura of their live shows.
Discounts are available for Gila River Indian Community members,
group sales and hotel sales package clients, Gila River Hotels & Casi-
nos Team Members, and Players Club card members at the Players
Club and Box Office. Gila River Hotels & Casinos—Wild Horse Pass
guests are also encouraged to book a hotel room and dine at the
award-winning Shula’s Steak House and Ling & Louie’s restaurants.
For all shows, guests under 21 must be accompanied by a ticketed
adult 21 or older. For more information, visit PlayAtGila.com. $
azgamingguide.com | December 2019 | Arizona Gaming Guide 33
Editor’s Picks CASINO ENTERTAINMENT
id you receive a W-2G form for gambling winnings at
the casino this year? Do you vaguely recall a slot
attendant handing you a piece of paper that you had
to sign? Maybe you showed all your friends and family, had it
hanging on the refrigerator for a while, and then tucked it away
in a drawer and forgot about it. Well, income tax time will be
here again soon and you may have forgotten about those win-
nings but Uncle Sam hasn’t! Lady Luck always makes sure to
inform Uncle Sam so he can get his cut too!
Reportable Gambling Winnings
Winnings (not reduced by the wager) of $1,200 or more on a
single spin on a slot machine or bingo game must be reported to
the IRS. Video poker and video keno machines are considered
slot machines and fall into this category. Before the win is paid
out, the gaming establishment will require a current picture id
and social security number to complete the W-2G form. This
information will then be passed along to the IRS.
Only winnings of $1,200 or more that occur during a single spin,
or event (such as a bonus), require a W-2G form. In other words,
if the credit meter on a slot machine has risen to $1,200 or more
because of accumulated winnings during regular play, the gam-
ing establishment is not required to complete a W-2G form.
However, the machine may lock up upon cashout rather than
print a ticket of such large cash value in which case a slot
attendant will come by to do a hand pay.
Winnings (reduced by the wager) of $1,500 or more at a live
keno game and winnings (reduced by the wager or buy-in) of
$5,000 or more at a poker tournament will be reported to the IRS
by the gaming establishment. In addition, other winnings (not
from slot machines, bingo, keno, or poker tournaments) that
might occur at the horse track, for example, of $600 or more and
at least 300 times the amount of the wager, will be reported to
the IRS. Winnings that are non-cash payments, such as a car or a
cruise, must be taken into account at their fair market value
(FMV) for purposes of reporting. The FMV must be reported as
additional income to the IRS.
All casino visitors who enjoy gambling as a recreational activity
must be prepared if Lady Luck ever comes smiling. It’s not all
about fun and games when it’s time to report gambling win-
nings to the IRS. The full amount of your gambling winnings for
the year must be reported on the IRS Form 1040. Be careful to
note that you cannot use Form 1040A or Form 1040EZ. This rule
REPORTING GAMBLING WINNINGS Lady Luck Always Makes Sure To Inform Uncle Sam For His Cut
By Sami Becker
SAMI’S SMACKDOWN
applies regardless of the win amount and regardless of whether
or not you received a Form W-2G. Make sure to note, you can’t
reduce your gambling winnings by your gambling losses and
report the difference. Your records should always show your
winnings separately from your losses. In other words, you must
report the full amount of your winnings as income and claim
your losses as an itemized deduction (but only up to the
amount of your winnings). When you itemize deductions, you
can deduct your gambling losses for the year on Schedule A
Form 1040. And, remember that you cannot deduct gambling
losses that are more than your winnings! For an in-depth expla-
nation on income tax laws and how they relate to gambling,
take a look at Publication 529 called “Miscellaneous Deduc-
tions” from the IRS. We highly recommend consulting with a
Certified Public Accountant regarding any tax issues resulting
from your gambling wins and losses. $
D
34 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2019 | azgamingguide.com
azgamingguide.com | December 2019 | Arizona Gaming Guide 35
36 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2019 | azgamingguide.com
6
7
9
5
8
3
9 1
3
6
2 1
4 7
8
2
4
8
1
7 5
2
9
4
6
2
SUDOKU Each of the columns, rows, and 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.
Level: HARD
(Solution on page 38)
WORD SEARCH
To National Card Playing Day on December 28, Find:
ACES, BACCARAT, BLACKJACK, CASINO, CLUBS,
DEALER, DECKS, DEUCE, DIAMONDS, GAMBLE,
HAND, HEARTS, JOKER, KING, POKER, QUEEN, RED,
SHUFFLE, SPADES, SUITS, TABLE, WIN. Words appear in any direction. (Solution on page 38)
S L T A B L D I D O N W P E P
P O K E R R B D E V E J Q L N
D E U C E N L E W I C D L S G
S T R A E H T Z K E F E A K J
O G A M B L A F S A F D S E O
N A D M W Y R D S Z L U A C K
I B M N Z V T E A N H Q E H P
S V L W A Q C S G R S S O M R
A M N A B H C N E E U Q M T Z
C G K I C A A G K B N S A L D
T J X Q W K B V S A E P I J R
P V L B N U J D L C U G D J V
Y F S B U L W O A F N O K C A
Q R E D J O C L E I M H W S A
A E O S U I E M K R Q E K T S
FUN & GAMES
CHINESE HOROSCOPE—Year Of The Pig For December 2019: Pray for good luck on these dates: 3, 5, 9, 10, 13, 15, 18, 24, 27, 30. The best days to travel: 3, 4, 9, 13, 18, 24, 25, 28,
30. The best days to meet a friend or relative: 7, 13, 18, 19. Overlap on 13 only! The people born under the Pig sign are: Warm-hearted, honest, tolerant, highly valued and have many friends, help friends without hesitation, and like to share what they have with others.
Dates for Year Of The Pig: 02/04/35-01/23/36, 01/22/47-02/09/48, 02/08/59-01/27/60, 01/27/71-02/24/72, 02/13/83-02/01/84, 01/31/95-02/18/96, 02/18/07-02/06/08, 02/05/19-01/24/20.
Jokes & Quotes
Research has discovered that the act of laughing stimulates the immune system, may help prevent disease, and may actually reverse
some medical conditions. We suggest you consult with your doctor and perhaps you can show him or her these jokes & quotes!
Why do ships from Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Iceland have barcodes on their sides?
So they can Scandinavian! (Scan The Navy…)
Why do pirates always have both ears pierced?
Because it only costs a buccaneer! (A Buck An Ear…)
Where did Captain Hook buy his hook?
At the second hand store!
It’s not the having, it’s the getting.
—Elizabeth Taylor (British-American Actress, Businesswoman, and Humanitarian, b. 1932, d. 2011)
My mother always told me I wouldn’t amount to anything because I procrastinate. I said, “Just wait!”
—Judy Tenuta (American Comedienne, b. 1956)
azgamingguide.com | December 2019 | Arizona Gaming Guide 37
38 Arizona Gaming Guide | December 2019 | azgamingguide.com
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Sources: AZ Dept. of Gaming—Current Tribal Gaming Status as of 11/01/19 & direct inquiries at press time. Not responsible for incorrect information. Contact [email protected] to make updates.
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01. Apache Gold Casino Resort Hwy. 70, 5 mi. E. of Globe Globe 800-272-2438 479 Y Y Y Y Y Y
02. Apache Sky Casino Milepost 127 on Arizona 77 Dudleyville 800-272-2438 301 Y
03. BlueWater Resort & Casino 11300 Resort Drive Parker 888-243-3360 568 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
04. Bucky’s Casino 1500 E. Hwy. 69 Prescott 800-756-8744 310 Y Y Y Y Y
05. Casino Arizona 101 & McKellips Scottsdale 480-850-7777 920 Y Y Y Y
06. Casino Del Sol 5655 W. Valencia Rd. Tucson 855-765-7829 1,012 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
07. Casino Del Sol Marketplace 5405 W Valencia Rd Tucson 855-765-7829 8
08. Casino Of The Sun 7406 S. Camino De Oeste Tucson 855-765-7829 288
09. Cliff Castle Casino & Hotel I-17, Exit 289 Camp Verde 800-381-7568 656 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
10. Cocopah Resort Casino 15318 S. Ave. B Somerton 800-237-5687 532 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
11. Desert Diamond Casino-Tuc. 7350 S. Nogales Hwy. Tucson 866-332-9467 1,109 Y Y Y Y Y Y
12. Desert Diamond Casino-Sah. I-19, Exit 80 Sahuarita 866-332-9467 563 Y Y
13. Desert Diamond Casino-W.V. 101 & Northern Ave. Glendale 866-332-9467 1,089
14. Desert Diamond Casino-Why Hwy. 86, Milepost 55 Why 866-332-9467 58
15. Fort McDowell Casino Hwy. 87 & Ft. McDowell Rd. Fort McDowell 800-843-3678 881 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
16. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino 15406 N. Maricopa Rd. Maricopa 480-802-5000 1,135 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
17. Hon-Dah Casino 777 Hwy. 260 Pinetop 800-929-8744 818 Y Y Y Y Y
18. Lone Butte Casino 1077 S. Kyrene Rd. Chandler 800-946-4452 851 Y Y Y
19. Mazatzal Hotel & Casino Hwy. 87, 1/4 mi. S. of Payson Payson 800-777-7529 375 Y Y Y Y
20. Paradise Casino 450 Quechan Dr. Yuma 888-777-4946 485 Y
21. Quechan Casino I-8, Exit 166 Winterhaven, CA 877-783-2426 1,000+ Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
22. Spirit Mountain Casino 8555 Hwy. 95 Mohave Valley 928-346-2000 250
23. Talking Stick Resort 101 & Indian Bend Scottsdale 480-850-7777 813 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
24. Twin Arrows Navajo Casino I-40, Exit 219 Flagstaff 855-946-8946 1,086 Y Y Y Y Y Y
25. Vee Quiva Casino 6443 Komatke Ln. Laveen 800-946-4452 960 Y Y Y Y Y
26. Wild Horse Pass Casino 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd. Chandler 800-946-4452 1,006 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
27. Yavapai Casino 1505 E. Hwy. 69 Prescott 800-756-8744 246 Y
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