Southern & Midwest Gaming - November 2025 Readers' Choice Awards Voting Issue

IN THIS ISSUE

Sweet Suites: Luxury Stays at Top Casinos Across the Region

Indulge in the ultimate casino getaway with suites that combine elegance, comfort, and panoramic views. From Mississippi to Michigan, these properties offer world-class amenities and VIP experiences.

Turcotte: The Jockey Who Guided Legends

From New Brunswick to Secretariat’s Triple Crown triumphs, Ron Turcotte’s skill and courage made him a racing legend and a lasting inspiration.

16

Blackjack Strategy: Splitting – Divide and Conquer

Smart splitting isn’t about luck but maximizing long-term value through disciplined, well-timed moves. Find out when, and when not to split to maximize your odds.

18 Poker Strategy: Playing Mid to High Starting Hands

Learn the best strategy for playing mid-to-high starting hands in No Limit Hold’em, emphasizing when to reraise with strong pairs like J-J, 10-10, and 9-9 and when to just call with smaller pairs or A-Q.

20

Sports Betting: Early Action

Future odds of major sporting events. Find the edge and make your play! 22 Readers’ Choice Awards – It’s Time to Vote!

Vote for your favorite casinos in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards and you’ll be entered to win a casino getaway! Voting runs thru Dec. 15 so don’t delay!

GAMING AND DESTINATIONS

CASINO SCENE

HOT HAPPENINGS AT OUR PREFERRED CASINOS, RACETRACKS AND MORE.

(D’Iberville, Mississippi – Gulf Coast) Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort - If you are looking for a premier Gulf Coast resort with stunning views, decadent dining & dynamic gaming, look no further than Scarlet Pearl. The property claimed several of our top Readers’ Choice Awards including Best Suites, Casino Floor, Players Club and more. For sports fans, there is not a better place to watch and wager on your favorite teams than the Scarlet Pearl Sportsbook featuring 23 HD screens including a 144-inch entertainment screen that is awesome!

For more information, call 1-888-752-9772 or visit ScarletPearlCasino.com

(Vicksburg, Mississippi) Ameristar Casino Hotel - Ameristar Casino in Vicksburg offers a vibrant escape with its dazzling gaming floor and luxurious amenities. Guests can try their luck at a wide array of slots and table games, savor fine dining options, and unwind in the elegant hotel rooms with scenic river views. Stay in one of the 148 guest rooms that have been redesigned with a crisp, modern look and unparalleled comfort offering European-style bedding, high-tech lighting fixtures, LCD flat screen televisions and wireless high-speed Internet access. Guests also enjoy live entertainment in the Bottleneck Blues Bar, great dining and more, all in the heart of Mississippi. There are always great deals on rooms and promotions in the casino, so be sure to check the website before you go.

For more information, call 1-601-630-3786 or visit AmeristarVicksburg.com.

(Tunica, Mississippi) Hollywood Casino Tunica – Get a taste of the glitz and glamor of the stars at Hollywood Casino Tunica. After checking out the amazing collection of memorabilia around the property, guests can enjoy the award-winning Fairbanks Steakhouse for one of the best dining experiences in the region and then stay in a 5-story tower overlooking the casino floor or the 8-story tower next to the largest indoor pool in Tunica. When it’s time for casino action, Hollywood Tunica has you covered with over 1,000 slots, a variety of table games, and plenty of sportsbook kiosks to place your winning bets!

For more information, call 1-800-871-0711 or visit HollywoodCasinoTunica.com.

(Charenton, Lousiana) Cypress Bayou Casino Hotel - Cypress Bayou Casino Hotel offers gamblers a fullscale resort experience with over 1,350 slot machines, 50 table games and a live poker room. The luxury hotel features 102 rooms with spacious spa-inspired bathrooms and contemporary décor offering a nice retreat to relax between gaming sessions. The resort also features seven dining venues from a refined steakhouse to Cajun/Creole classics and Mexican fare, top tiered entertainment, a full fitness center, RV park and more.

For more information, call 1-800-284-4386 or visit CypressBayou.casino.

(Bossier City, Louisiana) Live! Casino Hotel Louisiana Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana is a premier gaming destination in Bossier City along the Red River. Home to over 1,000 slot machines and 40+ live table games gamers will find just about anything they want in this casino. Guests can also extend their stay at a luxurious 549-room resort-style hotel featuring top-tier restaurants, an outdoor pool with cabanas and poolside service. Also be sure to check the website for top tier entertainment including Little River Band (Nov. 29), Asian artist SẼ CÓ NGƯỜI CẦN ANH (Nov. 30) and comedian Jiaoying Summers (Dec. 12).

For more information, call 1-318-944-7100 or visit Livech.com/Louisiana

CASINO SCENE

HOT HAPPENINGS AT OUR PREFERRED CASINOS, RACETRACKS AND MORE.

(Bowler, Wisconsin) North Star Mohican Casino Resort – As if you ever needed a reason for a gambling getaway, North Star certainly has plenty of them to ensure your stay is great from the second you step in the lobby. Guests enjoy great gambling with over 1,200 machines, plenty of table games including blackjack, Three Card Poker, Let it Ride, Craps and more. Also, book a room in their luxurious contemporary hotel or the 57-site RV Park with 20-30-and 50-amp service, pull-through sites, picnic table area and pet friendly. Also check out top entertainment and events at North Star including Rodney Carrington (Nov. 15) and a country group Bella Cain on Dec. 31 for a great way to ring in the New Year!

For more information, call 1-800-952-0195 or visit NorthStarCasinoResort.com.

(Milwaukee, Wisconsin) Potawatomi Casino Hotel - Potawatomi Hotel & Casino in Milwaukee is a premier Midwest gaming destination featuring more than 500 upscale guest rooms and suites with stunning floor-to-ceiling city views. The expansive casino floor boasts thousands of slot machines, a wide variety of live and electronic table games, a lively 15-table poker room, and a 2,000-square-foot sportsbook. Guests can also enjoy multiple dining options, live entertainment, and luxury amenities for a complete resort experience.

For more information, call 1-800-729-7244 or visit Potawatomi.com.

(Battle Creek, Michigan) FireKeepers Casino Hotel - Experience true Vegas-style excitement at FireKeepers, featuring a Four Diamond hotel, award-winning dining, and an electrifying Event Center— all located in Battle Creek, Michigan just off Interstate 94.. This November, honor our heroes with special Veterans Day offers on Nov. 11. Then, score big on Black Friday, Nov. 28, with a chance to win a share of thousands in gift cards and Red Hot Credits. The excitement continues Nov. 29 with the Vacay Your Way Giveaway, where over $170,000 in travel vouchers and Red Hot Credits are up for grabs— including a $20,000 travel voucher and $10,000 in Red Hot Credits grand prize! Don’t miss the fun and plan your visit today!

For more information call 1-877-352-8777 or visit FireKeepersCasino.com.

(Harris, Michigan – Upper Peninsula) Island Resort & Casino - Island Resort & Casino in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a full-scale destination resort with a Vegas-style casino, more than 450 guest rooms / luxury suites, a 42-site RV park, a saltwater adults-only pool with whirlpool/sauna, a family waterpark, award-winning golf, spa services, live entertainment, fine dining, and event facilities. Be sure to check out their website for latest concert calendar for top notch concerts hosted in the Island Showroom including Priscilla Block (Nov. 7 & 8), Mick Adams and the Stones® (Nov. 14) and don’t miss the chance to get in the Holiday spirit with Lonestar & Collin Raye Christmas and Hits Tour (Dec. 5 & 6) and country singer Corey Kent (Dec. 19 & 20). Your Total Experience is waiting for you at the Island!

For more information, call 1-800-682-6040 or visit IslandResortandCasino.com.

(Mille Lacs & Hinckley, Minnesota) Grand Casino Mille Lacs & Grand Casino Hinckley

Located in central Minnesota, Grand Casino Mille Lacs and Hinckley both offer great gaming opportunities for quick day trips or extended weekend stays. The Mille Lacs property is a full-scale resort featuring over 1,800 slot machines, table games, bingo, and pull tabs. Guests can enjoy 494 rooms, an indoor pool with hot tub, banquet/conference space, multiple dining venues (three restaurants plus a café), and an onsite gift shop. Weekend visitors love the free live music and vibrant resort atmosphere, making it a complete casino getaway.

Perfect for a day trip or weekend escape, Grand Casino Hinckley boasts over 2,100 gaming machines and table games, a 563-room luxury hotel tower, five restaurants, three bars and lounges, an indoor pool, full-service spa, and 24-hour fitness center. This resort delivers both gaming excitement and relaxation in a full-service destination. Check out their web-sites for an unforgettable gambling getaway!

For more information, call 1-800-626-5825 or visit GrandCasinoMN.com.

RON TURCOTTE: THE JOCKEY WHO GUIDED LEGENDS 1941 - 2025

While the debate surrounding, “Who is the greatest thoroughbred racehorse of all time?” will perpetuate now until the cows come home, there is no argument when it comes to the question of, “What is the single most impressive performance ever witnessed in the annals of North American flat racing?” Unequivocally, Secretariat’s thirty-one length victory in the 1973 Belmont Stakes, one that solidified his stature as the “Sport of Kings’” ninth Triple Crown Champion, is far and away the most impressive feat ever turned in by an equine athlete.

Now, I am personally of a mind that every superlative which could possibly be concocted by the human imagination has already been affixed to the aforementioned tour de force. Thus, I won’t attempt to author anything original. Instead, I’ll simply spell out what are, in my opinion, the two most impressive facts regarding Secretariat’s Belmont Stakes rout. First off, “Big Red” ultimately covered the Belmont’s twelve furlongs (1 1/2 miles) in a world record time of 2:24 flat. A record that still stands, this is likewise a benchmark that will never ever be broken. Second, Secretariat ran each furlong in the Belmont Stakes successively faster than the previous furlong. Meaning, his velocity continuously increased throughout the entirety of the race!

While we could fill tomes from here to Timbuktu anent to Secretariat’s greatness,

by ERIC FLOYD

I must now remind you that, no horse is an island. The fact is, somebody had to guide “Big Red” through the gauntlet known as thoroughbred horse racing’s Triple Crown Series and while you may have run across the name Ron Turcotte a few times before, I assure you that this jockey’s significance is not solely tied to Secretariat. Hence, let us now pay tribute to an individual who was by all accounts an eminent jockey, and an even better human being.

Ronald Joesph Morel Turcotte was born on July 22nd, 1941 in Drummond, New Brunswick, Canada. One of twelve children, Turcotte dropped out of school when he was 14 years old to work alongside his father Albert, a stalwart and sinewy individual who expertly plied the trade of lumberjack. Too small to wield an axe himself, a 5-foot-1-inch, Turcotte consequently supervised the team of horses who continuously hauled the cut timber out of the forest. (This is what we call irony.)

Years later, Turcotte would recount, “My father taught me how to be patient with horses. He taught me how to give horses confidence.” Unfortunately, this same father sold Turcotte’s favorite work horse for some badly needed cash and as a result, our hero headed off towards Toronto hoping to find some work in the construction business. When an industry strike evaporated this plan, Turcotte found himself selling worms as fishing bait just so he could pay the rent.

On the cusp of heading home with his tail between his legs, Turcotte encountered his landlord who was taking in a broadcast of the 1960 Kentucky Derby. Behind eyeing his tenant’s diminutive stature, Turcotte’s landlord inquired, “Hey kid, have you ever thought of becoming a jockey?” After replying, “What’s a jockey?”, the room’s future Hall of Famer casually heard, “Those little guys in white pants.” The rest, as they say, is history.

Deciding he had nothing to lose, Turcotte packed his belongings and hitchhiked to Toronto’s world-famous Woodbine Racetrack. With the help of some luck and persistence, he got a foot in the door at the influential Windfields Farms stable. As one might expect, Turcotte started at the bottom as a hotwalker, cooling out horses after they had raced. Though menial on the

surface, Turcotte saw the work as a blessing and later stated, “I enjoyed it. To me it was a picnic (working) around the racetrack. It was much easier than cutting lumber.”

Eventually a trainer named Gordon Huntly recognized that there was potential greatness in his midst and therefore, put Turcotte on a path to become an apprentice rider. Launching his career at Fort Erie Racetrack in 1962, Turcotte finished the season atop the jockey standings with 180 victories. There were over 200 trips to the winners’ circle the following year and combined with this success was Turcotte’s steel determination to succeed on the New York racing circuit, an arena where the purses were as prolific as the competition.

Ron Turcotte’s Triple Crown Series breakthrough occurred on May 15th,1965 in the 90th running of the Preakness Stakes. Having endured some terrible racing luck two weeks earlier in the Kentucky Derby aboard Tom Rolfe (which resulted in a third-place finish), Turcotte subsequently helped his mount secure revenge by way of an intimidating ride which caused Dapper Dan to flinch (and break stride) a few jumps from the wire. Tom Rolfe’s resulting neck victory conferred a healthy $9.20 win mutual (based on a $2 bet) to those backers who

despite a scathing Derby defeat, refused to jump ship.

One year before the biggest season of his life, Ron Turcotte was riding high aboard a light bay colt named Riva Ridge. Keenly aware that this classy mount often became skittish if other racers got too close, Turcotte consequently instructed his fellow riders to crowd his “fraidy-cat” during early morning workouts. This toughening tactic proved effective and helped propel Riva Ridge to a gate to wire score in the 1972 Kentucky Derby. A runner who absolutely detested sloppy going, Riva Ridge’s Triple Crown dreams were hence dashed by five lengths on a wet, dreary and dismal Preakness Day. Redeeming himself three weeks later, Riva Ridge coasted to a frontrunning seven-length Belmont Stakes score that was exponentially aided by Ron Turcotte’s unique ability to ration out an equine’s energy.

The fact was, Secretariat had emitted the air of a “super-horse” ever since he’d been weaned however, a lackluster third place performance in Aqueduct Racetrack’s prestigious Wood Memorial (“Big Red’s” final prep race before the Kentucky Derby) caused many supporters to lose sleep. Later attributed to an abscess in his mouth that was only further irritated by his racing bit, Secretariat’s disappointing Wood Memorial performance soon became an afterthought thanks to an awe-inspiring Kentucky Derby conquest that was clocked in a record time (that still stands) of 1:59 2/5. Somewhat at a loss for words during a post-race interview, Ron Turcotte eventually sighed and then summed up his mount’s scope by simply saying, “(Today) he was everything.”

Like many in the grandstand who watched his every move, Turcotte was a gambler (in the sense that he wasn’t afraid to wield an unconventional riding maneuver). A prime example of this occurred in the 1973 Preakness Stakes. Racing dead last from the jump and sensing a slow early pace, Turcotte thus encouraged Secretariat to make an electrifying move on the first turn that essentially, put the Preakness away. Forever aglow regarding the bold move that racing historians still recount to this

day, Turcotte on more than one occasion reminded his publicist, “That’s unheard of. That’s the proudest move of my racing career.”

In the Belmont Stakes, there were many onlookers, including trainer Lucien Laurin and owner Penny Chenery, who believed that Turcotte had let Secretariat “get away from him”. These connections simply thought it was impossible for a horse to finish a mile and a half race with any sort of kick behind carving out an initial half mile in a blistering :46 1/5. Alas, there wasn’t a single butterfly in Turcotte’s stomach nor a post-race interview where a microphone didn’t capture, “I guess I was the coolest one out there. I knew what I had under me.”

By writing that Ron Turcotte’s riding career traversed the highest of highs and the lowest of lows, I have officially authored the biggest understatement in the history of Gaming and Destinations Magazine.

See, on July 13th, 1978, Turcotte’s career as a jockey ended abruptly when his horse,

Flag of Leyte Gulf, clipped heels with a neighboring equine in the eighth race at Belmont Park. As a result of being thrown headfirst into the strip, Turcotte completely shattered several vertebrae in his back. This horrific injury left him permanently paralyzed from the waist down.

In summation, Ron Turcotte won 3,032 races and over $28 million in purse money. Aside from Secretariat, he rode legendary horses like: Arts and Letters, Damascus, Northen Dancer, Dark Mirage and Shuvee Following his retirement, Turcotte returned to New Brunswick and resided on a 220-acre farm that was not far from Drummond. Inducted into the National Racing Museum and Hall of Fame in 1979, Turcotte has likewise been installed into six other Hall of Fames including the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame.

Right up until the very end of his life, Ron Turcotte remained a spokesman for both permanently disabled jockeys and those who had suffered debilitating spinal cord injuries. He died on August 22nd, 2025, of

natural causes at the age of 84 at his home in New Brunswick, Canada. A recipient of the George Woolf Memorial Jockey Award in 1979, Ron Turcotte perpetually emulated this honor’s accompanying description of, “Presented annually to a North American thoroughbred horse racing jockey who demonstrates high standards of personal and professional conduct on and off the racetrack.”

Well done good and faithful servant.

Ron Turcotte Career Highlights

Riding Career: 1961-1978

Mounts: 20,281

Wins: 3,032

Earnings: $28,606,490

Two Kentucky Derby Wins: Riva Ridge (1972); Secretariat (1973)

Two Preakness Stakes Wins: Tom Rolfe (1965); Secretariat (1973)

Two Belmont Stakes Wins: Riva Ridge (1972); Secretariat (1973)

NOTHIN’ BUT THE BEST, EVERY TIME!

VOTE FIREKEEPERS BEST CASINO!

The most thrilling tables. All the hottest slots. An exhilarating sportsbook. A-list entertainment, decadent dining, and a top-notch team that you can count on to provide the best customer service in the region.

Go all in and cast your vote today!

by ERIC FLOYD

HORSERACING: Win Goals (What Are You After?)

If you compiled all the gambling literature that has ever been penned concerning the importance of setting “loss limits”, you’d probably behold a structure that was akin to the Great Pyramid of Giza. Yet in all my years of betting the ponies, I’ve only come across a handful of articles that pontificated the importance of setting and sticking to “win goals”. This dynamic invariably exists because a great majority of horseplayers perpetually reside “in the red”. However, if one ever aspires to be in the 2% bracket of railbirds who consistently turn a profit, then mastering the art of assigning “win goals” must take priority.

Ahead of attacking a racing card, the horseplayer must honestly ask themselves, “What am I after today?”. (And please don’t say, “A five-figure payday.” because you have a better chance of getting struck by lightning WHILE being eaten by a great white shark than you do of taking down the “Pick Six” at Santa Anita Park.) What I mean is, what are you really trying to accomplish over the next four or five hours? (And please don’t say, “To have fun.” because no matter what spin you put on it, losing money at the racetrack is an absolute buzzkill.)

warring against greed. See, there are those instances where we immediately go on a “rush” and double our bankroll in the aftermath of just three or four races. What typically happens next is that Instead of taking the first train out of Dodge, we invariably tell ourselves, “The afternoon is still young, I am on a roll, the sky’s the limit!” Truth be told, I have lived this scenario more times than I can count, and more times than I can count, I have not only given back my winnings, but most of my original bankroll as well.

As you can see, self-control is just as important (if not more important)than the ability to pick a winner. Sure, sound handicapping can put you up $50, but only self-control will enable you to perform a vanishing act instead of losing the $50 you just won because you’re trying to eek out an additional $4. As the random bar patron said to Richard Dreyfuss’ character in the famous horseracing movie “Let it Ride”, “I knew a guy once, comes to the track, hits a $75 (early) Daily Double, has to borrow money to get home.”

“IF YOU WALK INTO A HIPPODROME WITH $500 AND ULTIMATELY EXIT WITH $600, THEN BELIEVE ME, YOU HAD A GOOD DAY.”

Let me just cut to the chase by stating, your win goal for your day at the races needs to be realistic. What do I mean by this? Well, don’t ever think that you’re going to turn $40 into $400. Sorry, it ain’t gonna happen. I mean, when was the last time that you realized a 1000% return on an investment? If we can be honest, “triple plays” in baseball are more prevalent.

In line with this theme of setting realistic win goals, let me provide a true-life illustration. Most stockbrokers would don a Chesire Cat like smile if they were to turn a 20% profit on a “day trade”. Similarly, if you walk into a hippodrome with $500 and ultimately exit with $600, then believe me, you had a good day. If this scenario leaves you lifeless then let’s kick it up a notch with what is simply called the “doubling strategy”. Meaning, if your bankroll for the day is $100, then your goal is to exit the racetrack with $200. Just for the record, I’ll state that I personally adopt this “doubling strategy” for 90% of my wagering sessions. Why? Because a 100% return on any investment cannot be categorized as anything except, “knocking it out of the park”. Ultimately, the real tension arises when a horse player actually realizes their win goal. That’s because as gamblers, our flesh is constantly

If you learn nothing else from this article, please retain the following nugget: you can’t saunter into a racetrack with some random amount of cash (say $60) with the strategy, “I’m just going to try to win as much as I can.” This friends, is no strategy at all. Moreover, I guarantee that if you regularly cling to the aforementioned “no ceiling mentality”, your success rate will be downright deplorable. Rather, set a simple win goal that covers the power bill, buys groceries for the week or finances a nice dinner out with your significant other. As the old saying goes, “If you’re shooting for nothing, you’ll hit it every time.”

Case in point, years ago I was chatting with an old racetrack buddy named Howard Ostrom. Along with being a terrific handicapper, Howie (as I call him) is an excellent poker player as well. Towards the end of our conversation Howie said, “There is this watch I want that costs $600, I am going to win enough tonight (in the card room) to get it.” A few weeks later, Howie showed me his new watch and said, “Remember what I told you?” The moral is, set and stick to your win goals, it will make all the difference!

WINNING NEVER FELT BETTER

Your playbook isn’t complete without a trip to Potawatomi Casino Hotel Milwaukee. Games galore, diverse dining options, best-in-class sports betting, a 19-story luxury hotel and more—it’s all at here. The Midwest plays at Potawatomi.

SWEET SUITES:

LUXURY STAYS AT TOP CASINOS ACROSS THE REGION

When it comes to a memorable casino getaway, the right accommodations can elevate your experience from exciting to extraordinary. Across the U.S., premier casinos are redefining luxury with suites designed for relaxation, indulgence, and style. Whether you’re celebrating a big win, unwinding between gaming sessions, or enjoying a private escape, these suites deliver the perfect blend of comfort, sophistication, and amenities. Here are a few of our top picks when it comes to sweet suite accommodations. Enjoy!

Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort

D’Iberville Mississippi (Gulf Coast) 1-888-752-9772

ScarletPearlCasino.com

Perched atop Scarlet Pearl’s 18th floor, the exclusive suites at Scarlet Pearl redefine coastal luxury offering panoramic views and refined comfort. Step through an elegant foyer with a private half bath into a spacious 965 sq. ft. retreat featuring a

separate bedroom and living area framed by floor-to-ceiling windows and power shades. Indulge in the marble bathroom’s air bubble

tub, walk-in shower, and lighted vanity, complete with plush robes and curated amenities. Relax in the living area’s custom furnishings and 65” TV or unwind in the Elite Supreme Perfect Sleeper Euro-Top bed. Guests enjoy private Concierge Lounge, a 24hour fitness center and, and in-room dining, all complemented by seamless technology, complimentary Wi-Fi, and breathtaking Gulf Coast views. Don’t miss your chance to experience an unparalleled stay designed for elegance, privacy, and indulgence.

Island Resort & Casino

Harris, Michigan (Upper Peninsula)

1-800-682-6040

IslandResortandCasino.com

Styled to provide ultimate luxury, each of the guest suites at the Island Resort & Casino offers a perfect blend of stylish elegance and comfort. With spacious floor plans and an unmatched array of amenities, your stay will feel nothing short of extravagant.

High-stakes gaming deserves high-class living,” says Island VIP Host Mary. “Whether it’s champagne celebrations after a jackpot or a quiet retreat between tournaments, our Executive and Presidential Suites are the pinnacle of the VIP experience.”

The luxury of these incredible suites, combined with more than 450 wellappointed rooms, and all of the fabulous amenities, there is no doubt that “The Island” is your “Total Experience” in gaming.

(Mille Lacs & Hinckley, Minnesota)

Grand Casino Mille Lacs & Grand Casino Hinckley 1-800-626-5825

GrandCasinoMN.com

When it comes to providing premium guest experiences, the Grand Casino properties in Mille Lacs and Hinckley are both at the top of their game, and luxurious suite accommodations are no exception. The Presidential Suites at Grand Casino are a gateway to a world of elegance and comfort. Each suite offers expansive living spaces, unique decor, and first-class amenities. From traditional suites with stylish modern finishes and a timeless design to themed decor, like prohibition-era or Scandinavian spa, the Presidential Suites at Grand Casino put more on the table.

FireKeepers Casino Hotel

Battle Creek, Michigan

1-877-352-8777

FireKeepersCasino.com

Recognized by USA Today as one of the Top 10 Casinos Outside of Las Vegas, FireKeepers Casino Hotel is a 443-room destination that has earned a AAA Four Diamond rating for 11 consecutive years. Luxury is evident throughout the hotel, from thoughtfully appointed standard rooms to five distinct suite experiences — each designed to deliver comfort, style, and the unmistakable FireKeepers energy that defines every stay.The Deluxe Suites offer a spacious retreat with all the essentials for relaxation and convenience. Contemporary décor, plush furnishings, and thoughtful amenities make these suites an inviting home away from home.

For guests who appreciate extra ambiance, the Fireside Suites add a touch of warmth and charm. Featuring elegant sitting areas centered around a cozy fireplace, these suites provide the ideal setting to unwind after an evening of gaming or fine dining at Nibi.

The King Studio Suites balance modern comfort with smart design, featuring open layouts that offer flexibility and flow. Ideal for both business and leisure travelers, these suites provide a stylish environment to recharge and refresh.

Distinctive and dramatic, the AquaFire Suites bring the elements to life through design inspired by water and fire. Rich textures, vibrant accents, and sleek, contemporary finishes create a sensory experience that is both soothing and energizing — a modern reflection of FireKeepers’ spirit.

In November, FireKeepers will proudly unveil the fully updated Presidential Suites — the crown jewel of the hotel. These expansive suites have been completely reimagined, offering refined sophistication in every detail. From statement lighting and bespoke furnishings to spa-inspired bathrooms and panoramic views, the Presidential Suites represent the pinnacle of FireKeepers luxury.

WINTER WAGERING:

HEAT UP YOUR SPORTS BETTING AND CASINO GETAWAYS

As the chill of Winter sets in, the excitement in the sports and gambling worlds heats up. For gamblers across the South and Midwest, November offers some of the most compelling opportunities to combine the thrill of the game with savvy betting strategies and smart casino travel. Whether you’re hitting the sportsbooks for NFL and college football or planning a weekend getaway to a nearby casino resort, there’s plenty to keep your action-packed calendar full.

NFL Betting: The Season Heats Up

This is the time of year when we start to see the NFL separating contenders from pretenders. With roughly 8–9 games into the schedule, teams have defined their identities, making this the perfect time to spot value in the betting lines.

For example, underdogs who are playing at home or coming off close losses can offer excellent wagering opportunities. The Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia

Eagles are drawing a lot of the public attention this year, but savvy gamblers are finding value in teams like the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings, who are quietly exceeding expectations.

Consider trends such as injury reports, coaching changes, and recent performance against the spread (ATS). In 2025, the rise of analytics-driven betting apps has given everyday gamblers an edge in spotting patterns that Las Vegas oddsmakers may not have fully priced in. For example, an underdog with a favorable ATS record in cold-weather games could present a

compelling wager if the opposing team struggles outdoors.

Tip for NFL bettors:

Monitor quarterback matchups and turnover margins. Games will often hinge on which teams protect the football and can control the clock, especially as the weather begins to impact passing efficiency in northern cities.

College Football: Rivalries and LateSeason Surprises

While NFL betting dominates headlines, college football also brings a unique flavor to making bets this time of year. Big rivalries, bowl eligibility battles, and conference championships all converge in the last month of the season.

In the Midwest, games like Ohio State vs. Michigan (Nov. 29) and Wisconsin vs. Minnesota (Nov. 29) aren’t just about school pride—they also move the betting lines in surprising ways. In the South, SEC showdowns like Alabama vs. Auburn (Nov. 29) often generate millions in wagers, and casual fans suddenly become keen analysts overnight.

This is also a prime time for spotting upsets. College football has a long history of high-ranked teams underestimating mid-tier opponents late in the season. For example, in recent years, the University of Virginia shocked top-10 teams during November matchups, reminding gamblers that late-season momentum and emotional motivation can outweigh statistics.

Tip for college football bettors:

Look for teams peaking late in the season and consider point spreads carefully. A highly ranked team missing key starters due to injury or suspension may be vulnerable, making the underdog an attractive value bet.

The Return of Live Casino Travel

While sports betting dominates headlines, this is the time of year to also kick off the holiday-season casino travel excursions. Many gamblers in the South and Midwest start planning weekend trips to nearby resorts in preparation for Thanksgiving and winter vacations.

Destinations like Tunica, Mississippi, Lake Charles, Louisiana, and other casino destinations offer a combination of resort luxury like spas, indoor pools and restaurants as well as casino action with table games, slots, and sportsbook action, all under one roof. Beyond the games themselves, many casinos feature seasonal promotions, from free play and match bonuses to holiday-themed tournaments.

Travel this time of year also has advantages. Crowds are generally smaller than during the peak Christmas season, allowing players to access highlimit tables and sportsbooks with less competition. Hotels frequently offer package deals, especially mid-week, combining discounted rooms with free or discounted meal credits.

Tip for casino travelers:

Check online for special offers and promotions, including sportsbook promotions tied to NFL and college football games. Some casinos will boost odds or offer parlay insurance during high-profile November matchups, giving gamblers an extra edge.

Strategic Wagers for Winter Sports

The dual nature of late-season momentum and holiday travel—creates ideal conditions for strategic gambling. Here are some wagering strategies that can enhance your Winter wagering experience:

Parlays with a Twist: Combining underdog teams with favorable trends can increase payouts while still maintaining a reasonable probability of success. For example, pairing a strong road favorite with a home-underdog team can provide an unexpected payout.

Live Betting Advantages: Many sportsbooks now allow live, ingame betting. Football games, with unpredictable weather and player rotations, present opportunities for bettors to react to in-game momentum swings.

Futures Bets for Bowl Games: While the College Football Playoff are looming in the near future, now is a great chance to place futures bets for bowl appearances. Observing which teams are peaking or faltering can provide insight for value bets.

Specialty and Prop Bets: From longest touchdown passes to total rushing yards for a team, prop bets are especially valuable in November, where game conditions, injuries, or coaching decisions may not be fully accounted for in standard point spreads.

Maximizing

Your Gambling Experience

While betting is thrilling, combining sports gambling with entertainment can enhance the experience. Here are a few tips to make the most of your winter wagers:

Know Your Limits: It is a long cold winter, and with multiple sports in play, it’s easy to overextend your bankroll. Set weekly limits.

Take Advantage of Casino Packages: Travel to regional casinos can provide access to sportsbooks and table games in one trip, often with complimentary perks.

Monitor Line Moves: Watch how betting lines move leading up to games, especially with key injuries or lineup changes. Early bets can capture value before public perception drives lines up.

Join Rewards Programs: Casino loyalty programs and sportsbook promotions can add free play, bonuses, or even discounted travel perks to your gambling experience.

Conclusion: The Winter is Where the Edge Appears

For gamblers, this time of the year represents the sweet spot of the sports calendar. NFL and college football provide high-stakes action, MLB may still linger in postseason excitement, and regional casino travel offers a mix of live action and promotions. With thoughtful strategy, informed betting, and careful bankroll management, it can be both exciting and profitable.

By understanding trends, spotting value in underdogs, and taking advantage of seasonal casino promotions, gamblers can turn this into one of the most enjoyable months of the year. Whether you’re wagering on a late-season football upset or planning a weekend casino getaway, the key is preparation, patience, and a dash of intuition—because in gambling, every play counts.

“THE MAIN ADVANTAGE OF SPLITTING IS THAT IT LETS YOU TURN A WEAK TOTAL INTO TWO CHANCES OF WINNING.”

BLACKJACK SPLITTING STRATEGY: When to Divide and Conquer

Blackjack is often called the “thinking player’s game,” and one of the most powerful tools you have at the table is the ability to split your cards. Done correctly, splitting can turn a mediocre hand into two strong ones—or even tilt the odds slightly in your favor. Done poorly, however, it can drain your chips faster than you expect. Knowing when to split, and just as importantly when not to, is the key to getting the most out of this move.

Let’s walk through the best strategies for splitting cards in blackjack and the reasoning behind them.

Why Splitting Matters

When you’re dealt two cards of the same value, the dealer usually allows you to “split” them into two separate hands. You place an additional bet equal to your original wager, and the dealer gives each new hand another card. From there, you play each hand independently.

The main advantage of splitting is that it lets you turn a weak or awkward total into two chances at winning. Instead of playing a single 16, for example, splitting can create two stronger opportunities that increase your expected return.

Always Split Aces and Eights

If you remember nothing else about splitting strategy, remember this golden rule: always split Aces and Eights.

Aces: An Ace paired with another Ace counts as either 2 or 12—neither of which is very strong. But when you split Aces, each hand starts with an Ace, giving you two shots at a natural 21 or a strong total. Even though most casinos only allow you to take one card per Ace, the upside is still too good to pass up.

Eights: A pair of Eights gives you a total of 16, one of the weakest hands in blackjack. By splitting, you break up that losing hand into two chances to draw a 10-value card and land on 18—much stronger against most dealer upcards.

Never Split Fours, Fives, or Tens

Equally important is knowing what not to split.

Tens: Two 10s give you 20, one of the best hands you can get. Splitting would break up your strong position in hopes of getting two slightly worse hands. The smart move is to stand and put pressure on the dealer.

Fives: A pair of Fives adds up to 10, which is a terrific launching point for doubling down. You’re better off taking one more card and trying for 18–21 than splitting into two weak hands that start with a 5.

Fours: Splitting Fours usually results in hands of 14, which puts you right back into a difficult situation. The exception is if the dealer shows a 5 or 6 in certain rule sets, but in general, keep Fours together.

Situational Splits: Twos, Threes, Sixes, Sevens, and Nines

Beyond the clear “always” and “never” rules, the rest of the pairs fall into situational territory where the dealer’s upcard guides your decision.

Twos and Threes: Split against dealer upcards of 4 through 7. This increases your odds of catching a 7, 8, or 9 for a solid hand while the dealer is in a weaker position.

Sixes: Split against a dealer’s 2 through 6. If the dealer has a high card, you’re better off keeping the 12 together and hoping for a 9.

Sevens: Split against dealer upcards of 2 through 7. A 14 is not a strong hand, but two chances starting from 7 can give you a real advantage when the dealer is likely to bust.

Nines: This is one of the trickiest pairs. Generally, split Nines against dealer upcards of 2 through 9—except for 7. Why? Because a total of 18 holds its own against a dealer 7, while splitting can weaken your position. Never split against dealer 10 or Ace—holding at 18 is usually safer.

Final Thoughts

Mastering splitting strategy is about balancing aggression with discipline. Aces and Eights should always be split, while Tens, Fives, and usually Fours should never be broken apart. For the other pairs, look closely at the dealer’s upcard—it’s your best clue for whether splitting will improve your odds.

Splitting isn’t about luck—it’s about maximizing long-term value. Approach it with confidence, and you’ll find yourself making smarter decisions that keep you at the table longer and, ideally, walking away a winner.

by PHIL HELLMUTH

hil Hellmuth Jr. is a seventeen time World Series of Poker Champion leading all poker players in the world. He has two New York Times best-seller books-Play Poker Like the Pros and Bad Beats and Lucky Draws both of which can be found at Amazon.com. This column is an excerpt from Play Poker Like the Pros. Phil’s books, blog, tips and more can also be found at PhillHellmuth.com.

“FRANK WANTS TO TRY TO LOSE SMALL WHEN HE MISSES THE HAND AND WIN BIG IF HE HITS IT BY KEEPING OTHERS IN THE POT BEFORE THE FLOP.”

POKER: Playing Mid to High Starting Hands

Reraising J-J, 10-10 or 9-9 before the Flop J-J, 10-10 and 9-9 are strong No Limit Hold’em hands and you should reraise with them when someone raises before the flop. With these three hands, you really want to use the reraise to win the pot before the flop because you are probably winning at that point and because these three hands are very vulnerable to overcards on the flop. But, if your opponents put in another raise (a third raise) over the top of you, you should just throw away your hand. These three hands are usually in a lot of trouble when an opponent puts in the dreaded third raise! You are roughly a 4 ½ -to- 1 underdog with an underpair against an overpair in Hold ‘em. (The exact odds depend on which two pairs you’re comparing, but 4 ½ -to- 1 is close enough for most table estimations.)

Three Ways to Play Pairs of 8’s and Under and A-Q Let’s examine three ways these eight hands (8-8, 7-7, 6-6, 5-5, 4-4, 3-3, 2-2 and A-Q) might be played in NLH. In my view, these are the kinds of hands to want to take a flop with; thus they are hands worth one raise before the flop, or even making the first raise yourself. If you’re raising with one of these hands, then raise about the size of the pot. You don’t want to put in very much money before the flop. Ideally, you want to call a small raise (or the initial blind bet) or make a pot-size raise yourself before the flop, and then hit your set on the flop, and win a huge pot!

Frank Henderson’s (a noted player in the poker circuit) theory about this type of hand is to call one raise before the flop (on this we both agree). But Frank doesn’t like to try to win the pot before the flop with these hands by raising the pot before the flop. Rather, he likes to just call before the flop and hopes to win a big pot when he flops his set. So Frank wants to try to lose small when he misses the hand and win big if he hits it by keeping others in the pot before the flop. Actually, this theory sounds pretty good to me! The only downside is that he doesn’t win as many pots before the flop. Maybe this is OK, because the pots you win with a raise before the flop tend to be pretty small anyway.

The megalomaniac theory of playing these types of hands is always to raise or reraise before the flop. Don’t discount this “megalo” theory out of hand, because it works very well for a lot of players. These megalo players are superaggressive and will try to win every pot they play before the flop. If a megalo gets hold of some chips, he can make the other players at his table miserable with his constant raising and reraising. I would rather back a megalo player than a super tight player any day in an NLH tournament. The megalos tend to do

well in NLH tournaments because they’re always picking up chips; but in the side games they tend to get crushed, as the more patient pros sit back and wait for the megalos to overplay their hands against them. The reason why megalos do better in NLH tournaments than in the side games is that they steal a ton of antes in the tourneys with this strategy.

So, we have three different NLH theories as far as playing small pairs and A-Q are concerned. I rarely play the megalo theory because my opponents expect me to play that way (sometimes you need to play that way if you are at a table full of “mice”). Rather, I play the theory I’ve laid out above, and sometimes use Frank Henderson’s theory as well. In other words, I will put in the first raise with these types of hands, but sometimes will just call with them before the flop.

Adding A-x Suited

Now we’ll simply add A-x suited to the mix of hands to play. The ramifications of adding these hands are two fold: you can get yourself in trouble when you hit an ace or the x with and A-x suited hand, and, you will occasionally make the Ace high flush.

Try not to lose too much money when you hit the Ace. In NLH most of the value with A-x suited is when you hit the hand hard, like hitting the flush, two pair or a set. When you hit the Ace only, as with A-clubs – 3-clubs and flop A-K-2, watch out! Don’t get over involved in this situation because anyone putting in big bets against you will almost certainly have you beat unless he’s bluffing. In limit Hold’em you can just call someone down in a situation like this, without doing too much damage to your chips, but in no-limit, doing that could cost you a big chunk of your chips.

When you do hit your hand hard, then you need to figure out how to win the maximum number of chips with it. You should also be thinking about protecting your hand, especially when you draw a flop of 8-Clubs – 8-hearts -9-clubs and you have A-spades – 8-spades. In this case, your opponents could be drawing to a straight or a flush. Keep this in mind when you think about betting a small amount to lure your opponents into the pot. The funny thing is that you want action with this hand and this flop, but you can’t just let someone beat you for free. If you knew that your opponents didn’t have a straight or flush draw, then you could check on the flop, hoping for a lot of action on the next two rounds of betting. Betting out with a hand like this may cause someone with a drawing hand to raise you, and now you can reraise and win the pot right then and there.

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SUPER BOWL LIX

FEBRUARY

8, 2026 – LEVI STADIUM

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA

DEFENDING CHAMPION: PHILADELPHIA EAGLES 40 – KANSAS CITY CHIEFS 22

Team November September July May

Kansas City Chiefs 6/1 9/1 9/1 8/1

Detroit Lions 7/1 12/1 11/1 9/1

Buffalo Bills 8/1 7/1 8/1 8/1

Green Bay Packers 9/1 21/1 21/1 23/1

Los Angeles Rams 11/1 21/1 21/1 21/1

Philadelphia Eagles 11/1 8/1 7/1 7/1

Indianapolis Colts 13/1 N/A N/A N/A

San Francisco 49ers 21/1 21/1 21/1 17/1

Denver Broncos 21/1 23/1 26/1 N/A

Baltimore Ravens 23/1 7/1 7/1 8/1

San Diego Chargers 23/1 29/1 29/1 26/1

Tampa Bay Buccaneers 26/1 26/1 29/1 N/A

Seattle Seahawks 26/1 N/A N/A N/A

*All others are higher than 30/1

**Odds courtesy of Vegasinsider.com in October 2025

NCAA FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

JANUARY 19, 2026 – HARD ROCK STADIUM

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA

DEFENDING CHAMPION: OHIO STATE BUCKEYES 34 - NOTRE DAME IRISH 24

Team November September July

Ohio State Buckeyes 3/1 6/1 6/1

Alabama Crimson Tide 7/1 11/1 13/1

Indiana Hoosiers 9/1 N/A N/A

Oregon Ducks 10/1 9/1 9/1

Georgia Bulldogs 11/1 8/1 8/1

Notre Dame Irish 12/1 13/1 15/1

Texas A&M 12/1 N/A 15/1

Notre Dame Fighting Irish12/1 N/A N/A

Miami Hurricanes 17/1 N/A N/A

Texas Longhorns 19/1 6/1 5/1

Ole Miss Rebels 23/1 26/1 26/1

Texas Tech Red Raiders 26/1 N/A N/A

Oklahoma Sooners 29/1 N/A NA

*All others are higher than 30/1

**Odds courtesy of Vegasinsider.com in October 2025

NCAA BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

APRIL 6, 2026 – LUCAS OIL STADIUM INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA

DEFENDING CHAMPION: FLORIDA GATORS 65 – HOUSTON COUGARS 63

Team November September July

Purdue 10/1 10/1 11/1

Duke 13/1 13/1 12/1

Houston 11/1 11/1 12/1

UConn 15/1 16/1 15/1

Michigan 19/1 19/1 16/1

Florida 17/1 17/1 19/1

BYU 19/1 19/1 19/1

St. John’s 19/1 19/1 19/1

Kentucky 17/1 19/1 19/1

Kansas 21/1 21/1 21/1

Louisville 23/1 23/1 23/1

Texas Tech 23/1 23/1 23/1

Arkansas 26/1 26/1 26/1

Auburn 26/1 26/1 26/1

Arizona 29/1 29/1 26/1

*All others are higher than 30/1

**Odds courtesy of Vegasinsider.com in October 2025

NBA NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP - JUNE 2026

DEFENDING CHAMPION: OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER WON 4 GAMES TO 3 OVER THE INDIANA PACERS

Team

November

Oklahoma City Thunder 3/1

Denver Nuggets 7/1

Cleveland Cavaliers 8/1

New York Knicks 11/1

Houston Rockets 15/1

Minnesota Timberwolves 17/1

Los Angeles Lakers 19/1

Golden State Warriors 21/1

Orlando Magic 21/1

Los Angeles Clippers 23/1

*All others are higher than 30/1

**Odds courtesy of Vegasinsider.com in October 2025

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