Figured I'd share some random information I observed during a recent Reno/Tahoe trip. (low value...sorry but I no longer care to spoonfeed the lurkers. If you want the good stuff then you know how to reach me....
Legacy: The daily swipe has been moved and any prize awarded appears to be tied to recent play. I won the Lotto Wheel twice and won $25 and $10 gas cards. It beats such silly prizes as "$10 rumbullions credit". If you're going to get a guest excited by having a dramatic spin promo at least make sure all the prizes are of some significance.
Pepp: Daily swipe is slightly improved (after a HUGE reduction in value in late 08/early 09) with $5 food credits being common.
Atlantis: Ran myself about halfway to Gold in one session so we'll see what that yields. Sushi was very enjoyable but the companionship of two other VPFree members was even more interesting.
Siena: The weekly mailer was reduced a couple months ago but this joint is still of interest. The daily specials in Contrada Cafe are the best in town....a full high quality dinner for $5 in comps. The $4 breakfast special is also a winner. The new Ultimate $5.95 steak special was of similar quality to that of EI in Vegas. It's okay if you don't mind a mediocre cut of red meat. Personally, I'd recommend the daily specials. There's a little something else that almost all the local VP players who are regulars here overlooked. It pays to stretch your legs now and again.... Another disappointment was the recent reduction in comp accrual. Looks to be in the 0.15% range if you're playing the good stuff.
GSR: When you check-in at the hotel be sure to ask for a couple extra coupon sheets. If you like betting sports futures there's a $5 one in here. What makes this coupon interesting is the Lucky's Sportsbook inside GSR frequently has some soft lines. I cashed several very nice Steelers tickets last year. Found one VERY soft line this trip but someone bet it up and it's no longer available.
Horizon Tahoe: Popped in about 9AM right after the table games were yanked and I could count the active machine players on ONE HAND. A grand total of FIVE cars were parked in the valet lot. Mark this joint as the next one to shutdown.
Reno Aces: Got comped a pair of tiks from one of the casinos and I have to say I was blown away at the quality of this minor league facility. The facilities were first class, the staff was most hospitable and the sightlines were perfect. My only complaint was the understaffing of concession outlets. Lines were 20+ minutes long during most of the game.
RNO airport: Are they building the Taj Mahal of ticket counters or what? This project is nearing the one year mark and they're STILL working on it. I'm guessing it's the same contractor that took a generation to build The Tunnel is also in charge of the new ticket counter. ;-). Beware SWA fliers....the walk from the new baggage counter to the gate is a good ten miles. Okay, maybe not that long but it's certainly a hike.
Still plenty of money making spots in Northern Nevada but you'll have to hustle a bit to find them. Till next time, Best of Skill!
路路路
CC: They've changed the monthly mailer and a booth visit is now required to redeem freeplay. What a pain in the a$$. At least I was able to crack the theos here.