Page 5 - March 2006 • Southern California Gaming Guide

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eaders ask us for winning tips — our ideas of how to win big at the casino. Some of our monthly columnists write about their winning experiences, and some talk about learning strategies for particular games like video poker, blackjack and poker, to get the
edge at the casinos. It’s all valuable, practical information we share every month.
video poker games coming to or already in Southern California casinos on pages 16-17 and 19. And, of course, monthly columnist and nationally recognized video poker expert Bob Dancer’s monthly words are on page 12.
As tax time draws near, don’t miss Jean Scott, The Frugal Gambler’s questions and answers about taxes for casino players on page 8.
On page 10, poker writer, Jim Mercurio starts a four- part series this month on playing in World Series of Poker® satellite games. We’re rooting for his winning a seat at the Final Table!
Tribal gaming is in the news nationally, and on page 23 we share the positive results of a UC Riverside study that shows the changes that have taken place for all California tribes and their local communities since California tribal gaming’s inception.
Keep your e-mails, voicemails and letters coming. We try to answer them promptly—and will answer each one. Let us know what you want to read in your
favorite monthly gaming news magazine!
And meanwhile, always remember to wager wisely,
and have fun at the casinos!
Let me know what you want to read! E-mail me, the publisher, éon Cross at theon@ eGamingGuide.com.
Youcanalsoleavemeamessageat619-462-5891orfaxme at 619-303-7638.
But lots of readers go to casinos just to play slots and have fun. Yes, of course, we all hope we’ll be lucky and win a big slot jackpot—or at least break even.
And unless you have dedicated time and a sizeable bankroll, playing slots is really most enjoyable when your expectations are low. Of course, being positive about anything is always important, but you can’t hurry luck (or love)—or
So, keep in check the mind games of how you’re going to hit the jackpot, and just go have fun at the casino. Bring what you can a ord to play for your entertainment, and let your intuition lead you to the games you play. Sometimes, by circumstance, you’ll be led to a winning slot — like one of the jackpot winners did on page 7. Furthering this theme, Bill Burton talks
News on page 7, where
this month you will see
three players who won a
total of over $400,000 in
slot jackpots. Each one
of them played a Wheel
of Fortune® progressive
slot (all three at the same
casino — Harrah’s Rincon
Casino & Resort) for a
short period of time, and
won. is is a constant theme we hear from big jackpot winners: short play — big pay.
the games you play.”
about listening to your intuition when going to the casino on page 15. But just remember always to keep your casino playing fun!
is month, Maya Winkler writes about several new and thrilling innovative video poker slots. Dubbed the
“thinking casino player’s slot,” video poker is much more than Jacks
or Better. Recent games have taken video poker to a new level. You can read about some of the most exciting
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA GAMING GUIDE
so they say.
Just look at Gaming
“So, keep in check the mind games of how you’re going to hit the jackpot, and just go have fun at the casino. Bring what you can afford to play for your entertainment, and let your intuition lead you to
Is Problem Gambling Really That Serious?
What is Problem Gambling?
Problem Gambling, or Compulsive Gambling is a progressive illness. People who have this illness may look normal. However, when untreated, the illness can progress until it destroys you personally and financially. It can devastate your family, friends, and affect all who know you.
Recognize the Signs of Problem Gambling
Everyone needs to recognize the signs of Problem Gambling. You can help those close to you by being alert to the following danger signs:
• An inability to stop gambling.
• A fixation on anything connected with gambling. • Secrecy, lying or personality changes.
• Financial problems.
CALIFORNIA COUNCIL ON PROBLEM GAMBLING
A statewide, non-profit organization educating gamblers and the general public.
800 S. Harbor Blvd. Suite 225 • Anaheim, CA 92805 Phone: (714) 765-5804 • Fax: (714) 765-5807 www.calproblemgambling.org • info@calproblemgambling.org
According to a national survey, problem gambling affects approximately 4–6% of the total population. That’s about 2 million people in the state of California alone. Gambling problems can affect men, women, teens, seniors, and the workplace.
According to statistics gathered from almost 52,267 calls to our help line between June 1998 and December 2003:
• The average annual expenditure reported amounted to
$29,165.
• The average personal debt reported was $26,901.
• 64% reported they financed their gambling with credit cards.
• 57% reported their credit cards were “maxed out” because of gambling.
• Almost 65% of problem gamblers are under the age of 45.
Help is Available! Call the Problem Gambling Helpline 1-800-GAMBLER to speak to a live counselor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or to request FREE literature.
March 2006 Page 5
From the Publisher...