For those of you interested in some of the casinos based other than in Nevada, I thought the following observation might be interesting from the viewpoint of a returning visitor to the Phoenix area casinos. Being that I am a poker player, I did not observe anything regarding the slots or blackjack (the only other games allowed on a regular basis in Arizona as well as California), save Pai-gow and bingo.

On a Wednesday evening, Harrah's Ak-Chin located some 17 miles off of interstate 10, had only (1) one table operating. For all intensive purposes, poker is literally dead at Ak-Chin.

The reason for the demise of poker as well all the other games at Ak-Chin is that Gila River opened up. It is located roughly 19 or 20 miles closer to Metropolitian Phoenix. It has a very large poker room section and had (14) games being spread. A huge buffet (free) and many other free gifts for the frequent attendee.

Thursday night, I went to the new Casino Arizona in Scottdale. For those of you familiar with Phoenix, I'm sure you will enjoy the following. I was staying at a motel on the corner of Thomas Road and the 17 freeway. Took to freeway up to Thunderbird Road then on over to 92nd street where the casino was located (I thought.) Ended up taking a bunch of detours finally ended up back down on Thomas Road (in Scottsdale). Anyway, about an hour or so later, I finally arrived at my destination. The Casino Arizona, at present, is nothing but a domed tent (similiar to what Chinook Winds in Lincoln City Oregon was before they built there new facilities. (I sure Clyde would appreciate it) In any case it goes to prove that the attractivness of a casino is secondary. Every single table was spreading poker games. It is by far the busiest poker room in Arizona.
I understand that they will be putting in some slots either this month or in the near future (politics again.) Where did all these people come from? Well I found out the next night.

Friday night, I went back to my usual stomping grounds when I am in Phonix, Ft. Mc Dowell, also way out of the way on the other side of Scottsdale. My questioned was answered. A Friday night, and Ft. Mcdowell didn't even have one 4-8 Omaha game going. They had other games spread but not nearly as many a before. They must have had at least 20 empty tables on a Friday night (the busiest night of the week). Everyone is at the Casino Arizona.

Summation. Better get your chips now from Ft. McDowell and Harrah's Ak-chin. All that might be left will be tokens and maybe some $1.00, $5.00 and $25.00 chips. I don't expect the others to be on the table too much longer.