Gambler Celebrating 21 Years Serving Colorado’s Gaming Community www.coloradogambler.com coloradogambler cogamblerr
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March 19 - April 1, 2013
Check Out Valuable Coupons on page 7 CASINO PROMOS
Black Hawk, Central City casinos offer fun, cash, prizes Pages 4, 8 and 9
POKER TIME
World Series of Poker seeks region’s best players at The Lodge Page 7
EASTER
The story behind the Fabergé Easter egg Page 12
TRAIL’S END The Great Sand Dunes Page 13
COUPONS • COLORADO HISTORY • CASINO GUIDE •GAMING • MAP • ENTER TAINMENT
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The Last Hand
Promise fulfilled
where he played several years before injuring his knee. He had a bout with alcoholism and he explains he took his first Enjoyed lunch in drink at age 19. The addiction took hold and he enjoyed his drinking for Colorado casino a number of years, but has not had a drink now for 22 years. He is a towns with friends stellar supporter of York Street, 1311 York St., and the AA programs that It was another sunny Colorado occur daily at the historic mansion. Saturday morning before PresiHe has served as a sponsor to many dent’s Day holiday and time to honor a promise made over several By Bob Sweeney folks going through AA’s very successful 12-step program to maintain years – to take a long-time Colosobriety. rado Gambler reader and friend to lunch and a Now Steve suffers from glaucoma, dimming visit to Central City and Black Hawk. his vision and making it hard for him to engage Steve Meade, 69, has been reading the Gamin poker, but recently he took third place in one bler for 21 years, as long as gaming has been of the weekly tournaments. legal in Colorado. He has a lengthy career in He has gambled extensively in Denver and gaming and has a nickname, “Old Smoothie.” Las Vegas and personally knows many of the He walks from his home in central Downtown great poker players in Denver that he mentions Denver to 15th and Glenarm to catch the caby name like Jeff Bernstein, Bobby Winters, sino bound bus to Black Hawk/Central City. He purchases a $20 bus ticket that pays for Dan Mordecai, Art Lipp, All Hackett, George the trip and he usually gets off at the Canyon O’Brien, Lee Wask, Joe Capps, Russ Riley KarCasino in Black Hawk. He has to wager about in Oweida and Lou Failla. These are many of $200 to gain points that will refund his bus his friends that he has set across a poker table ticket. Some days he wins, some days he loses, playing poker for fun or profit. There is a cerbut he’s an astute player and student of gam- tain brotherhood among card players that extends to gin rummy, bridge and poker. ing. Steve will walk downtown to pick up a copy Steve graduated from Lakewood High of the Colorado Gambler at one of our many School where he was a 6-foot-2 pitcher on rack locations. He reads the paper from cover the baseball team and was drafted by the pros to cover and sometimes sends notes, compli-
PAGE 2
ments, and suggestions to your’s truly. I value his friendship, readership and his devotion to York Street and helping others to lead productive sober lives. Down thru the years I have told Steve “some day we’ll go to the mountains, I’ll buy lunch, and we can play some cards.” The years have passed and the invitation becoming stale. A few Saturdays ago, the invite was fulfilled and with friend Greg Fisk, another York Street supporter, the three musketeers headed to the mountains for lunch and some card playing. We took the Central City Parkway and rolled into Reserve Casino Hotel and one of the first casinos coming off the $35 million Parkway financed by Central City. I joined a blackjack game in progress with a mother/daughter team from Fort Collins enjoying a day in Central City. The cards were good and the game enjoyable. Steve and Greg disappeared into the slot machine world and ended up playing penny slots on the first floor of the remodeled, very nice casino. Making a few bucks and thinking about lunch, I visited the Adore restaurant and looked at the new menu, but wasn’t in the mood for fine dining. Steve and Greg appeared and we decided to drive down the hill to the Canyon Casino, one of Steve’s favorite places. We used valet parking and once again I settled into a blackjack
Continued on page 15 www.coloradogambler.com
THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 21 Years
Gambler
coloradogambler
cogambler
March 19 - April 1, 2013
WIN oNe of three forD f-150 trucks! ®
MAy 25 And 26 Saturday: Truck drawing at 10:00pm 1,000 drawings hourly 7:00pm – 9:00pm
$
Sunday: Truck drawings at 6:00pm and 10:00pm $ 1,000 drawings hourly 7:00pm – 9:00pm Earn entries with every 20 unadjusted points. 25X entries every Tuesday. 100X entries April 5 and 50X entries on April 19.
1-800-THE-ISLE • www.theisleblackhawk.com © 2013 Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. Must be 21 or older. Free swipes are not eligible for 25X, 50X and 100X entries. Phil Long Ford of Denver, LLC. and their respective logos, emblems, slogans and vehicle model names and body designs are trademarks and/or service marks of Ford, its subsidiaries, affiliates or licensors. Actual color and features of car may vary from image shown. Phil Long Ford of Denver gave the Isle Casino Hotel Black Hawk permission to use the Phil Long Ford of Denver logo and name as well as permission to use Ford F150. Promotions subject to change or cancellation without notice. Please visit player’s club or cashier services for details. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-522-4700.
February 5 - 11, 2013
THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 21Years
PAGE 3
Arts & Entertainment By Rosemary Fetter
The Denver Art Museum’s latest blockbuster exhibit features the work of Georgia O’Keeffe, one of America’s most talented and successful 20th century artists. The special exhibition, coordinated organized by the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, explores her paintings of New Mexico’s Hispanic and Native American architecture, cultural objects and vast landscapes. Some of these works will be Ram’s Head, Blue Morning Glory, 1938. Oil on canvas; 20 x 30 familiar to viewers in. Georgia O’Keeffe Museum; Gift of the Burnett Foundation, while others have been Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. rarely exhibited. O’Keeffe began spending summers in New Mexico from 1929 “When I got to New Mexico, that was mine. – 1949, making northern New Mexico her perAs soon as is saw it, that was my country” manent home after the death of her husband, – Georgia O’Keeffe Alfred Steiglitz. The artwork she created during this time implies a deep respect for the Georgia O’Keeffe in New Mexico: land, the architecture and the culture of New Architecture, Katsinam and the Land Mexico’s Hispanic and Native American peoThrough April 28 ple. The harmonious blend of colors and graceDenver Art Museum Hamilton Building, ful lines speak volumes about a woman deeply Gallagher Family Gallery moved by what she saw, who used the language 100 W. 14th Avenue Parkway, Denver of art to express her feelings and ideas. Exhibit included with general admission It’s difficult to say what is more intriguing Visit www.denverartmuseum.org about O’Keeffe, her life or her work. A Wisconsin farm girl, born in 1887, she showed an early artistic talent, pursuing studies after the Stieglitz estate at Lake George, New York. high school at the Art Institute of Chicago and During this period, she became famous for her the Art Students League in New York. She sensual large scale flower paintings and New was teaching art at Columbia College in South York City landscapes. Carolina when she submitted drawings to phoInspired by the West, however, a different tographer and art connoisseur, Alfred Steiglitz. O’Keeffe emerged. Her art from this period He was so impressed by her work that he held captured the vast New Mexico landscape, the a one-woman exhibit at 291, his famous New rich colors and natural beauty of the desert, York Gallery, and soon became her chief pro- and the unique architecture, both man-made moter. She and Steiglitz were married in 1924 and natural, that speaks of New Mexico. Her and worked together in New York City and remarkable career spanned nearly a century,
Rust Red Hills, 1930. Oil on canvas; 16 x 30 in. Brauer Museum of Art, Valparaiso University, Indiana; Sloan Fund Purchase, Georgia O’Keeffe Museum.
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O’Keeffe
Yellow Cactus, 1935. Oil on canvas; 36 x 30 in. Private collection.
and she continued to paint until 1984, when poor eyesight forced her to retire. She was still working on clay figures until two years before her death in 1986, at the age of 98. Among the many impressive oil paintings in the exhibit, Rust Red Hills (1930) stands out, its brilliant reds and dusky browns colors conveying the artist’s passion for the land. As she once said, “All of the colors of the painter’s palette are out there in many miles of badlands.” The show includes one of her more familiar paintings, Ram’s Head, Blue Morning Glory (1938) and Rancho Church No.1, which for some reason she was always painted from the back. In another room, the show features works of contemporary Native American artists who were inspired by her work. The exhibit also showcases American Indian artworks, including 15 rarely seen pictures of colorful Hopi katsina tihu (Katsina dolls) and examples of these quite stunning ceremonial figures. Over the years, O’Keefe attended many cultural ceremonies and developed a deep appreciation of the beautifully detailed figures. Most of her katsina paintings she gave to friends, and they were not exhibited. Katsinam, plural for katsina, primarily refers to the supernatural beings who visit Hopi villages six months out of every year. They control the rain, help or heed efforts of the villagers, punish social offenders and function as messengers from the other world. The figures were used to teach children about the spiritual visitors. The exhibition was organized by the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum in New Mexico and cocurated by Barbara Buhler Lynes, former curator at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and Carolyn Kastner, associate curator. At the DAM, the installation was overseen by Thomas Brent
THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 21 Years
Kachina, 1934. Oil on canvas. 22 x 12 in. Private collection. © Georgia O’Keeffe Museum Photo courtesy of Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
Smith, director of the Petrie Institute of Western American Art and John P, Lukavic, associate curator of Native Arts. For more information on the exhibit or accompanying events, visit www.denverartmuseum.org.
March 19 - April 1, 2013
with 4X points. Video poker machines shine with 2X points. And our buffet is twice as nice at half the price.
more details. Lucky Bull Club Points and Comps expire after 90 days of play inactivity. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-522-4700. www.bullwhackerscasino.com
Lucky $21,000 Free Slotplay Dice Roll
Every Friday in March from 5 – 10 p.m., winners will roll for $50 – $300 in free Slotplay. Earn entries now through March 29. May win once per day.
25K Free Slotplay Extravaganza
Strike Gold on Saturdays. Win over $500 in free Slotplay every Saturday. Don’t miss the grand finale Slotplay drawings for $1,000 on Saturday, April 20. Earn entries now through April 20, with up to 20X entries on Wednesdays in March.
Senior Double Days
Every Tuesday in March, Lucky Bull Club members age 55+ will receive 2X points all day. Video poker excluded from this promotion.
Gas up and Play Thursday’s
Receive $10 in free Slotplay when you show a $10 or more same day receipt from the Bullwhackers Shell Station. Redeem your receipt any Thursday in March. Limit one redemption per day.
Disclaimer
Must be 21. Visit the Guest Services Center for
Watch the area’s best entertainment on our stage from 8 p.m. – midnight on Friday’s and Saturday’s and every Sunday. This month listen to: March 22-24: Alias March 29-31: The Hildees
www.rivierablackhawk.com
$150,000 Spin and Win
Win big at our $150,000 Spin and Win with drawings every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in March. Four lucky players will win at each drawing. You could win $5,000 cash with a spin of the wheel. Win big with our $150,000 Spin and Win at the Riviera.
Great food
Don’t miss our all-you-can-eat Champagne Brunch every Saturday and Sunday for just $13.99 with player’s club card. Enjoy complimentary champagne and mimosa, along with delicious made-to-order omelets and an incredible selection of breakfast favorites. Plus, don’t miss our Maine Lobster, new Jonah Crab Claws and Prime Rib Buffet. Enjoy tender lobster steamed to perfection, Jonah Crab Claws with more succulent crabmeat and hand-carved prime rib of beef nightly for just $17.99 with player’s club card. Come in today.
Diamond Days
The Riviera sparkles every Monday and Tuesday with Diamond Days. Every slot machine shimmers
2 jackpot winners in one week!
25¢ video poker progressive
$76,954
www.www.theisleblackhawk.com
$100,000 Final Fortune
Each Friday, one participant will be drawn each half hour from 5:30 – 10 p.m. to select winning combination of basketballs and could win up to $100,000. Receive one free entry each promotional day and additional with each set of 20 unadjusted points earned. Get 4X entries playing on Wednesday’s beginning.
Net some cash or prizes
Win cash and other prizes instantly on Wednesdays in March from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Receive one free swipe each Wednesday, select the basketballs and watch your points add up to win cash and prizes.
Fantastic 40+
All guests age 40 or better can participate in the Fantastic 40 Plus club on Thursdays. Guests will receive 4X points on their favorite slots, 2X points on video poker, a free buffet after earning five unadjusted points or earn 50 unadjusted points and receive $40 to Farraddays’. For complete details, visit the player’s club.
Paradise 50 Plus
All guests age 50 or better can join the Paradise 50 Plus club on Sundays and Mondays. You will receive 3X points on all slots, 2X points on video poker, a free ice cream and a Free Calypso’s Buffet after earning five unadjusted points. For complete details, please visit the player’s club.
Bus fare refund
three Three card poker progressive
$26,820
Do you ride the bus to Black Hawk? The Isle will refund your bus fare up to $20. Simply earn 35 unadjusted points on your player’s card and present your return bus ticket to the player’s club or cashier services. Table Games and Poker players will receive their bus fare back with four hours of consecutive play.
Table Games
The Isle has all your favorite table games including blackjack, craps with 10 times odds and roulette. Also available at the Isle, Three Card Poker, Bonus 6, Buffalo blackjack, Double Deck blackjack, Emperor’s Challenge and 21+3. Mississippi Stud, Ultimate Texas Hold’Em and Let-It-Ride are all linked to one progressive jackpot that as of Feb. 14 is $11,875. Three Card Poker has its own progressive jackpot and is at $2,805. And now exclusively at the Isle you can play “Craps-Free Craps” with 10 times odds.
Must be 21 to play. Management reserves all rights. March 19 - April 1, 2013
Live music
$10,000 Craps Sharp Shooter
The Isle is looking for Craps Sharp Shooters March
THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 21Years
3 – 30. The highest Sharp Shooter of the day wins $100. Every Sunday, the highest Sharp Shooter of the week will win $500. All Sharp Shooters will receive a free entry into the grand prize drawing which will take place on April 7 at 2 p.m. 1st place will take home $2,500, 2nd place $1,500 and 3rd place will go home with $1,200.
‘All In’ the poker room
New Player’s Receive $50 – New poker players earn $10 per hour up to a max of $50 for five consecutive hours played. Play must be in a live poker game. Bad Beat – The Bad Beat Jackpot Pool as of March 14 is $381,883. That means Aces full of 10’s through Kings beaten would pay over $38,000 or 10% of the total jackpot pool. With 3 Aces on the board still qualifying, this is the easiest way to win a bad beat around. Quad 2’s through 7’s beaten would pay more than $190,000 or 50% and Quad 8’s or better beaten would pay over $286,000 or 75%! For complete rules, please contact the Poker Room at 303-998-7905. “Get Paid to Play”– Don’t miss out on valuable “Get Paid to Play” coupon offers by signing up today for our weekly poker emails and monthly mail offers exclusively for poker players. Visit the Poker Room for details and to get signed up. Free Food – The Isle provides free food for poker players seated in a live cash game or tournament including: Hot & fresh pizza, hot dogs, brats, 2 varieties of soup, nacho’s & cheese, chili, as well as vanilla, strawberry or chocolate milkshakes made to order. Early Bird Special – Poker player’s already seated or new players buying into a live action poker game starting at 6 a.m. and ending at 10 a.m., play 3 hours and get $30 in additional chips. Omaha $20 Cash Bonus – Play 2 or more hours in your favorite live action Omaha game and get $20 in cash or additional chips added to your stack. Promotion is valid 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Daily Tournaments – Monday’s through Friday’s there will be two tournaments each day at 11 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Every Thursday and Sunday is Omaha Day at the Isle with 3 weekly Pot Limit Omaha Hi/Lo Tournaments to choose from. Play in the midnight madness No Limit Hold ‘em tournament at 1am and the afternoon tournaments at 1pm on Saturday’s and Sunday’s. For complete information, contact the poker room at 303-998-7905.
Tradewinds Features Burgers
Tradewinds at the Isle has a new menu that features what we believe to be the best hamburgers in Black Hawk. Whether you try the classics, a green chile and chipotle, the black & blue or mushroom and Swiss burger you will not be disappointed. Tradewinds even offers a mouthwatering cheeseburger burrito! So the next time you are hungry for a great burger, visit Tradewinds at the Isle Casino Hotel Black Hawk.
Pet friendly hotel
The Isle Hotel has Pet Friendly rooms available for a small fee. Furry friends less than 50 pounds can enjoy a stay at the Isle with you. Pet friendly rooms will offer your pet use of a doggie bed, food and water bowls, and a fenced doggie area. Disposable litter boxes will be available for feline guests. For reservations in a pet friendly room please call 303-998-7777. Rooms are subject to availability. PAGE 5
Cover Story
New beginnings for
Colorado casinos The beginning of a series of articles highlighting the ownership changes, improvements yet to come this year
N
By Suzanne Paulman
ew beginnings and exciting changes are happening to more than a few of the Black Hawk and Central City casinos. As the gaming industry continues to financially improve in the region, more casinos are developing opportunities to become true destination locations. The Colorado Gambler recently interviewed Scott Nelson of Golden Mardi Gras, Golden Gates and Golden Gulch Casinos and John Zimpel of Johnny Z’s Casino about the progressive changes their casinos are undergoing. Black Hawk’s Golden Mardi Gras, Golden Gates and Golden Gulch Casinos were purchased by the Affinity Gaming corporation last year. Affinity Gaming is a private company based out of Paradise, Nev., with additional gaming operations in Iowa, Missouri and Nevada. Affinity’s slogan for its new purchase is “Three Casinos. One family.” Nelson said Affinity wanted to expand into the growing Colorado gaming market and the company is a good fit for this great market. Scott Nelson is a regional vice president and general manager for Affinity. He is a busy, busy man, personally overseeing the current multi-million dollar renovation of Golden Mardi Gras and its two sister casinos. The remodeling project involving 7,000 square feet of construction has been in full swing for four months and will continue over the next several months. The renovation has had minimal im-
John Zimpel, owner of Johnny Z’s Casino in Central City, and new owner of Bullwhackers Casino in Black Hawk. Photos by Suzanne Paulman
pact on casino play. Guests have already provided positive feedback ranging from approval of the vibrant new carpeting, modernized elevators, 170 new machines, renewed players club – now the “best new club in Black Hawk” – and “great promos” being offered. The three casinos combined offer 1,060 machines to choose from in selecting your favorite play, along with poker and table games. The new Bourbon Street Café and Buffet will seat 200 and is scheduled to open in late April. The most visible sign of the renovation is the present construction of the expansion of Golden Mardi Gras Casino near the intersection of Main and Richman streets.
Scott Nelson, regional vice president & general manager of Affinity Gaming, in front of Golden Mardi Gras restaurant construction.
PAGE 6
The former outdoor patio area is being expanded 75 feet out to the street and will be the setting for a contemporary three story, multiple glass door addition to the casino’s building. The new addition will feature easy casino access with escalators and have more gaming space and restrooms. The project completion date is set for Memorial Day weekend, the last weekend in May. Mardi Gras Casino is located at 300 Main Street in Black Hawk with plenty of free parking available in its parking lot across the street. Golden Gates Casino & Poker Parlour is at 261 Main Street and Golden Gulch Casino is at 321 Main Street. All three casinos can be contacted by telephone at 303-582-5600 or wwww.the goldengatescasino.com.
Johnny Z’s owner buys Bullwhackers
Johnny Z’s Casino of historic Central City is doing it right. The highly popular casino was voted the “Best Casino” in 2010 on the prestigious Denver A list and was a finalist in the same category last year. Only corporate owned, mega-sized Ameristar Resort Casino Spa in Black Hawk and Century Casino – voted Best Casino in 2012 in Central City – beat out Johnny Z’s for the latest top spot on the list. Out of those three casinos, John Zimpel, owner of Johnny Z’s Casino, literally constructed and developed two of them: Century and Johnny Z’s. Century was opened in 2006 and after Zimpel sold his share in Century, he opened his own wildly successful casino, Johnny Z’s, in June 2010. Zimpel and a group of friends and family bought the three story, 21,000 square foot Johnny Z’s building that was formerly the Central Palace Casino in the 1990s. The casino currently boasts more than 35 flat-panel TVs, the Z Grill, Z Bucks Cafe, a smoking and barbecue deck, table games, and about 350 machines. In 2010 the car-themed Johnny Z’s ran a fantastic promo that accelerated the heartbeats of its patrons: a giveaway fea-
THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 21 Years
turing two bright orange Camaros, a classic American muscle car represented by a vintage 1969 model and a 2010 edition. Now, Johnny Z’s Casino is symbolically racing down the road to Black Hawk, specifically to Bullwhackers Casino, and permanently parking in the Bullwhackers lot. Johnny Z’s is completing its purchase of the Black Hawk casino this summer, including the Bullwhackers gas station on Highway 119. Bullwhackers opened in 1992 and is located on approximately three acres near the intersection of Highway 119 and Gregory Street on the northern side of Black Hawk. The three story, 36,000 square foot casino features more than 280 machines and 266 parking spaces. Johnny Z’s is also acquiring two other buildings and the seven-acre property with a 2,600 square foot convenience store and gas station. Bullwhackers will once again have a restaurant as Zimpel plans on opening one capable of seating about 80 guests. Zimpel remarked that he “thinks there’ll be a Z involved” in the new name of the restaurant. The Bullwhackers restaurant will be a little larger than the Z Grill and will be “exceptionally good!” Two casino properties, one in Central City and the other in Black Hawk, will be good for this family owned business in sharing promos, rewards and other special events. Without a doubt, Johnny Z’s will once again claim the top spot of Best Casino in the very near future. It never surrendered the title of Best Casino in the hearts of its guests with its great gaming, good food and finest available customer service. When you walk through the doors of Johnny Z’s, you know you’re going to have a good time. Johnny Z’s Casino is located at 132 Lawrence St. in Central City with spot-on easy parking outside its doors at Central City’s Free Parking Lot structure. Call 303-5825623 or visit www.johnnyzscasino.com.
March 19 - April 1, 2013
real
deals
World Series of Poker seeks region’s best players The Lodge to host WSOP circuit event March 14-25
The World Series of Poker will visit Colorado for the first time ever March 14-25 at The Lodge Casino at Black Hawk. The Lodge WSOP Circuit stop will include 12 official ring events, along with a host of side action. The event expects to draw approximately 1,500 players to The Lodge Casino throughout its 12-day span. The WSOP Circuit uses a points-ranking system and rewards players participating in multiple events. One hundred WSOP Circuit players will qualify to compete for a WSOP bracelet and more than $1 million at the Southern Comfort 100 Proof World Series of Poker National Championship May 21-23 in New Orleans. The Colorado WSOP stop kicks off on Thursday, March 14, at 11 a.m. with both ring and non-ring events happening daily. The tournament concludes with a $1,675 buyin Main Event Championship on Friday, March 22, at 11 a.m. The Main Event will be played as re-entry, with a morning and an evening flight available to players and an additional third flight on Saturday, March 23, to accommodate the expected turnout. The final table of each Main Event flight will be broadcast on ESPN3. Each WSOP Circuit stop Main Event winner will receive an automatic berth into the Southern Comfort 100 World Series of Poker National Championship. Automatic bids will also go to the “Casino Champion,” the player at each stop whom accumulates the most points throughout the 12-event gold ring schedule. For more information about the WSOP and a full schedule, visit http://thelodgecasino.com/ gaming/poker/special-promos.php.
Here are some valuable coupons with exciting savings – compliments of these leading Colorado casinos!
FREE APPETIZER {wITh ThE PuRchAsE oF onE mEAl} simply join the miner’s club ... It’s Free Too! Find millie's Restauraunt on the upper level of the Easy street casino in historic central city.
Cash any approved check & win up to
$100!
A $6 vAluE!
Limit one coupon per table. Not valid with other offers. Gratuity not included.
ʼs Millie Restaurant
(inside Easy Street Casino)
Offer expires April 1, 2013.
for readers of The Gambler One Coupon per guest, per day, Mon.- Fri. only - Expires 4/1/13
March 19 - April 1, 2013
THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 21 Years
PAGE 7
Central City Nuggets Double points on Video Poker
Thursdays in March enjoy 2X Points on all video poker machines.
www.famousbonanza.com
2X Mondays
Earn 2X points all day on all machines, including video poker. $1 = 1 Point
99¢ Breakfast
Enjoy the Gambler’s Special Tuesday and Friday mornings at Millie’s Restaurant for just 99¢ Just show your Miner’s Club card to receive this offer – dine in only.*
3X Points on Penny Machines
Every Tuesday earn triple points on all penny machines. Come check out some of our new games.
Slot Tournament Wednesdays
FREE Slot Tournament every Wednesday at The Famous Bonanza. Come play between 1-5 p.m. Pays the top 8 scores.
Black Jack Bonanza
Every Friday night come play in The Parlour for cash drawings from 8pm-Midnight, building to a $250 drawing at midnight. Ask your dealer for details.
Queen of Hearts
Double points on Video Poker
The Parlour
We’ve moved. Join us on the lower level of The Famous Bonanza Casino where we offer 2 Deck pitch Blackjack, Roulette and 3-Card Poker. $5 minimum to $50 maximum on 2 Deck pitch Blackjack and $3 minimum and all shoe games. *For complete details on any of our promotions see the Miner’s Club.
2X Mondays
Earn 2X points all day on all machines, including video poker. $1 = 1 Point
Come get the ROYAL treatment every Friday from 8 p.m. to midnight. Entries may be earned all day Friday with every 250 points on your player’s card. The progressive is more than $1700.
99¢ Breakfast on Tuesdays and Fridays
Join us on your Birthday
Come celebrate your birthday with the Famous Bonanza and Easy Street Casinos and receive 500 free points. Players over 55 years of age will receive 800 free points.
New Players
machines. Come check out some of our new games.
Earn just 250 points on your first trip and receive a $10 meal voucher to either Millie’s or Stella’s restaurants.
Thursdays in March enjoy 2X Points on all video poker machines.
Punchboard Saturdays
Every Saturday, customers will punch their way to cash prizes. Entries may be earned Saturday with every 250 points on your player’s card. Drawings begin at 7 p.m.
Join us on your Birthday
Come celebrate your birthday with the Famous Bonanza and Easy Street Casinos and receive 500 free points. Players older than 55 years of age will receive 800 free points.
New Players
Enjoy the Gambler’s Special Tuesday and Friday mornings at Millie’s Restaurant for just 99¢. Just show your Miner’s Club card to receive this offer – dine in only.*
3X Points on Penny Machines
Every Tuesday earn triple points on all penny
Earn just 250 points on your first trip and receive a $10 meal voucher to either Millie’s or Stella’s restaurants.
Fun for Kids
Bring your children to the lower level of the casino to enjoy a wide variety of arcade games for our under 21 guests. *For complete details on any of our promotions see the Miner’s Club.
107 & 120 Main St. Central City, CO (303)582-5914
Video Poker Players earn
2X Points every Thursday! See the Miners’ Club for details on any of our promotions.
www.famousbonanza.com PAGE 8
THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 21 Years
March 19 - April 1, 2013
Central City Nuggets central-city.cnty.com Spring Bankroll Boost
$250 and $500 prize cash drawings weekends in March. We’ll fill up your pockets this March with the Spring Bankroll Boost. Earn weekly entries for cash drawings for 150 base points each starting Feb. 26. Every Friday and Saturday starting March 8, boost your bankroll with hourly drawings for big cash prizes. Fridays & Saturdays - $250 prizes from 4-10 p.m., $500 at 11 p.m.
Easter Egg Open – Sunday March 31
Celebrate Easter and the Rockies opening season weekend on Sunday, March 31, when players can earn up to 3 Mystery Easter Eggs for just 100, 200 and 300 base points each played on their card that day. Each Mystery Easter Egg will be stuffed with cash or comp prizes, up to $250! 1st Egg – 100 base points – 3 Entries, $5 Comp, Century T-Shirt or $50 Cash 2nd Egg – 200 base points – 5 Entries, $10 Comp, Century Baseball Cap, $5 Cash or $50 Cash
March 19 - April 1, 2013
3rd Egg – 300 base points – 10 Entries, $15 Comp, $15 Cash, Rockies Tickets, or $250 Cash! Find your lucky Easter Egg while supplies last, there will be 150 of each level of Easter Egg available, so the first 150 people to earn 300 base points could get all the eggs.
Make My Multiplier Tuesday
Join us on Tuesdays, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. and enjoy a mystery multiplier on all your slot play. Starting at 10:45 a.m., we will select an hourly Hot Seat winner to spin the “Make My Multiplier Wheel” to find their cash prize and earn everyone in the casino up to 5X points on slot play for the next hour. Each hour we find a new winner and a new multiplier.
Sunday Cash Blast
Enjoy $200 drawings every half hour, 2 – 6 p.m. Every player with a Century Casino Player’s Card can get one entry to the drawing per drawing day, additional entries are available to players who receive our mailer. We’ll pick a $200 cash winner every half hour.
Play-Eat-Play Wednesday
Get an Insta-Boost to your Insta-Comp every Wednesday. Play 500 base points and get $10 in
Insta-Comp added to your account. Earn 1,000 base points to add $10 more. Eat like a king with up to $20 in Free Food with your Wednesday play.
New Members
Guests who sign up at our Player’s Club for a free club card will get a free spin, where they could win up to $1,500. New Members also receive $10 in Insta-Comp after earning 250 base points on their account on the day of signup.
cannot be combined with any other coupon or discount, and including the $7.99 prime rib special.
Birthdays
Guests with a birthday coupon from our mailer redeem it at the Player’s Club for a gift of a single bonus of 10X their age in points. All guests can come in on the day of their birthday and get 2X points plus a free T-shirt. Guests who come in on the day of their 21st birthday receive the 2X points and the T-Shirt, plus $10 in comp added to their account, plus a $5 chip to use at the tables.
Sunlight Poker Bonus
$10 cash back for 3 hours play if seated between 10am and 1pm Thursday through Monday.
Bingo
Enjoy FREE Bingo every Thursday, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., with a $100 PRIZE for each game. Players with a Player’s Card can pick up their Bingo card at the Player’s Club one hour before each game.
Senior Celebration
Guests aged 50 or better receive 2X points on play ALL DAY from 8 a.m. – 10 p.m., plus 50% off purchases (up to $25 in one day) at the Retro Deli or Mid City Grill. Please note that 50% food discount
THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 21 Years
Every Day $7.99 Specials
We now offer three choices of lunch/dinners specials for $7.99 with Player’s Card. Enjoy an 8 oz. slow-roasted Prime Rib accompanied by choice of potato with seasonal vegetables ($14.99 without card), or a Half-Rack of BBQ Ribs accompanied by choice of potato and coleslaw ($12.99 without card), or a Half-Pound of Steam Shrimp accompanied by Hushpuppies and Coleslaw ($14.99 without card). Available in the Mid City Grill after 11 a.m.
PAGE 9
Gaming
When should you play blackjack with someone else?
Y
ears ago, I was You should never mix more liberal drinking or carousing when someone with blackjack. You suggested we should never mix sogo play blackjack cializing with friends together at a casino. with blackjack. My answer was usuIf you’re having a By Richard Harvey grand old time chatally, “Sure!” Now I’m more ting up your friends, circumspect. And getting intimate to you should be too. a woman or getting high on martinis Why? or whatever, your attention is comproThere are a number of reasons. And mised. You’re not capable of paying atthere are a variety of settings in which tention to the cards or action at the level “playing together” can be done and some the game demands - if, that is, you want are OK and some are not. to win. If you’re rich and you’re content For instance, the setting we discov- to lose (as Tiger apparently is), then disered Tiger Woods likes. That is - ac- regard anything I say here. cording to news accounts shortly after But I don’t play for the “entertainthat infamous blowup with his now ment” or “fun” value. I go to make money. ex-wife - Tiger (a great golfer but not a It’s a serious pursuit - even though I can great blackjack player - again, according blend in with the other players without to what I’ve read and heard) likes to be seeming too serious - something that’s surrounded by his celebrity friends and important, in remaining anonymous. a bevy of bimbos. He reportedly drinks Why do I want to remain anonymous? while playing and chats up his friends Because, unfortunately, in most states and gal pals while he plays. and locales, I can get barred from a casino That kind of setting is always a no-no. (thrown out and never allowed back in).
That’s another reason you don’t want to whoop it up like Tiger reportedly does. You draw too much attention. You blow your anonymity. That doesn’t mean I haven’t gone to the table with a babe or two - preferably dressed provocatively (because the casino employees and managers are distracted by cleavage). But the babes I bring are well-coached in the game and how to behave and never ever distract me from my game. They distract the management the people who would bar me if they saw how much I was winning. I’ve also gone with a cousin of mine who’s brilliant. Casinos don’t expect a professional player such as myself to go to the table with anyone else (except, perhaps, in a team situation), especially a woman (that’s their mindset, for whatever reason). They think serious players want to play alone. What about forming a team? I’ve always thought of doing that but, for me, the risks seem too high. Then you’re only as strong as the weakest link - either from a playing vantage point or a cloak and dagger viewpoint (in other words, a
weak link can inadvertently, through a lack of smoothness, blow your cover). The drawback to team play, too, is that it really raises the ire of casinos, is more easily detected than the lone wolf or guywith-well-behaved-babes approach, and in some locales team playing is considered illegal or cheating. Who do I never ever go with? Fans. Students. Casual friends or acquaintances. Too bad, but they pose too great a risk to blow my cover - which nearly occurred several times years ago when “uncool” or bitter persons said stuff like, “Why don’t you help me? YOU’RE the blackjack expert!” ...Word to the wise. Richard Harvey is a nationally-acclaimed blackjack strategies innovator, expert player, blackjack coach and bestselling author of Blackjack The SMART Way, Cutting Edge Blackjack, NEW Ways To Win MORE at Blackjack and Richard Harvey’s Blackjack PowerPrep Session. Have blackjack questions? Send them to rharvey2121@netscape.net. For more info see www.blackjacktoday.com.
Thinking About Poker: The many faces of aggression
I
t has been said, ofplayer place pressures ten and by others on their opponents via smarter than me, some selective aggresthat aggression in sive plays: Before the poker pays off in the flop, post-flop, on the long run. Trouble is, turn or at the river? The with the long run people questions for a good don’t realize how long it player who also has a can be. Sometimes the mighty threshold for most difficult decision aggressive, somewhat is when to – or not – act risky play not only inBy Drew Chitiea aggressively. The looser cludes timing but also we play, the more tough of degree. Simply put, the less pressure decisions we heap upon our own shoul- placed on an opponent anywhere during ders. I’ve seen people play tight their the game means our opponent will still be entire poker lives fearing the tough deci- in the game when that miracle card gives sions they may have to make if they loos- them the better hand. If we make piden up and play more aggressively. dling raises and/or re-raises that means A loose-aggressive player – you know our opponent will be more open to calling the type – who rams and jams the game our action and we must face them again with apparent disregard for their chip at the next betting level of the hand. If we stack thinks that tough decisions they merely call or limp in we’re leaving until face when played back by another player later in the hand to apply pressure via our is the road to profitability. Put another betting action. That could be good or it way, they feel they are getting paid for could be bad, depending on our position, making difficult decisions. Put yet anoth- hand strength, opponents willingness to er way – the greater the risk, the greater withstand pressure, ability to stand up to the reward. That’s the two features of some heat, etc. poker these players thrive on and strive Encountering that kind of player nefor; the element of risk and the thrill of cessitates our bets must be more aggressive, more towards the high side of betting the reward when/if the risk pays off. So when should a good, thinking ranges. This now puts our stack at some-
FULLHOUSE
PAGE 10
what higher risk, but that also returns to the risk-reward conundrum mentioned earlier. If our opponent is weak post-flop, the need to re-raise heavily pre-flop isn’t there because we can then control their actions post-flop after they have put a fair number of their chips at risk (the reward part we’re all thinking of). Once the decision has been made to apply pressure on a particular opponent – the ‘target for tonight’ – be sure to consider the rest of the table with isolating re-raises. Not always do the effective re-raises have to be gigantic chip-shovers; occasionally they can be the ‘scarier to the warier’ re-raise of lesser amounts than they were expecting to see. It’s all part of the plan of attack to confound your opponents and maximize your gain. Since poker is a game of partial information, keeping your opponents guessing by varying the levels of postflop aggression against selective targets can enhance your chances of gaining from their mistakes - in the long run, of course. Now for different kind of aggression from a different source; the following appeared in the Gilpin County Weekly News-Call newspaper (Colorado’s oldest continually-published newspaper, btw) in the Jan. 3 issue:
THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 21 Years
“On Dec. 14 at approximately 2020 hours (8:20 p.m.) Officer Pinover responded to the XXX casino on the report of a male party who had made threats at a poker table. Upon investigation, the party was issued a summons for Harassment.” Poker has times of frustration, anxiety and despair, just as there are times of elation, exuberance and well-being. Let’s keep the negative feelings in check and whatever you do, do NOT take frustrations out on that donkey at the end of the table who plays like a dolt and amazes everyone that he even wins a pot once a year. In the long run – remember that? – He will put it all back into the game and then some. That’s profit if not specifically for you, then for the rest of us. Noone needs to stand before a judge trying to explain away why that donkey player needed a good talking-to. You aren’t going to win that one. LAST THING – March is poker tournament month in Black Hawk with the Heartland coming to the Golden Gates and the WSOP Circuit event to the Lodge in late March. Enough tourney action to keep even the most addicted tournament junkie satisfied. See you at the final table…and keep thinking about poker! March 19 - April 1, 2013
Casino•Guide Casino
Table Games
Slots
Lodging
Food
Parking
Contact
Ameristar - 24/7
BJ, P, C, R, VP
over 1400 536 rooms
B, D, SD, Starbucks
free valet and self parking
720-946-4000/.ameristar.com/Black_Hawk.aspx
Black Hawk Station
VP
120
No
SD,SB
city lot
303-582-5582/ blackhawkstationcasino.net
Bull Durham
VP
188
No
SB
city lot
303-582-0810/.bulldurhamcasino.com
Bullwhackers - 24/7 Fri/Sat
VP
400
No
SD
free valet and self parking
1-800-GAM-BULL/bullwhackers.com
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BJ, C, R, VP
415
No
SD, SB
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Fitzgeralds - 24/7 Fri/Sat
BJ, C, R, VP
585
No
SD, SB on weekends free covered valet
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Gilpin - 24/7
BJ, C, R, P, VP
460
No
SD
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Golden Gates - 24/7
BJ, P, C, VP
280
No
D
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Golden Gulch
VP
140
No
V
free self/free valet
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Golden Mardi Gras - 24/7
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680
No
SD,SB,D
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Isle Casino Hotel Black Hawk - 24/7 BJ, C, P, R, VP
1308
238
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500
164
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975
50
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Red Dolly
VP
149
No
SD
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Riviera - 24/7
BJ, C, R, VP
766
No
B
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303-582-1000/rivierablackhawk.com
Sasquatch
No
70
No
D
No
720-880-1616
Wildcard
VP
220
No
D
city lot
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BLACK HAWK
CENTRAL CITY Century Casino - 24/7
BJ, P, C, R, VP
520
26
SD,D
free covered self parking
303-582-5050/cnty.com
Crystal Palace
VP
101
No
D
free city lot
720-253-1669
Doc Holliday
VP
178
No
SD
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Dostal Alley - 24/7
VP
64
No
SD
free self parking
303-582-1610/dostalalley.net
Easy Street
VP
205
No
SD
free self parking
303-582-5914/famousbonanza.com
Famous Bonanza
BJ, P, R, VP
244
No
SD , D
free self parking
303-582-5914/famousbonanza.com
Johnny Z’s
BJ, C, R, VP
288
No
SD, D
free covered parking
303-582-5623/johnnyzscasino.com
Reserve Casino Hotel - 24/7
BJ, P, C, R, VP
700
118
SD
free valet and self parking
1-800-924-6646/reservecasinohotel.com
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BJ, P, C, R, VP
250
No
SD
free covered self parking
800-635-LUCK/triplecrowncasino.com
Bronco & Buffalo Billy’s - 24/7
BJ, P, C, R, VP
750
23
SD
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Century Casino - 24/7
BJ, R,
448
18
SD
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719-689-0333/cripple-creek.cnty.com
Colorado Grande - 24/7
BJ, R, VP
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5
SD, SB
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877-244-9469/coloradogrande.com
Double Eagle & Gold Creek - 24/7
BJ, P ,C, R, VP
700+
158
SD, SB
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Johnny Nolon’s - 24/7
VP
255
No
SD
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J.P. McGill’s - 24/7 Fri/Sat
VP
300
40
SD
validated self parking
800-635-LUCK/triplecrowncasinos.com
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P, VP
400
19
SD, B
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800-635-LUCK/triplecrowncasinos.com
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BJ, P, C, R, VP, TH 530
68
SD, D, B
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877-945-3963/playwildwood.com
Table Games Key
Food Key
BJ - Blackjack, P-Poker, C-Craps, R-Roulette, TH - Texas Holdem’, VP-Video Poker
B-Buffet, D-Deli, SD-Sitdown, SB-Snackbar, V-Vending Machine
This information is subject to change without notice.
Fabergé Easter
This elegant example of Fabergé’s work was made of enamel, gold and precious jewels.
The story behind the Easter egg
T
By Rosemary Fetter
he ubiquitous egg has been a traditional harbinger of spring from earliest times. As far back as the ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Persians, scholars believed that the world began with an enormous egg – not that far from the truth. In medieval Europe, eggs decorated New Year trees and Maypoles. The affluent would exchange eggs covered with gilt or gold leaf, while peasants colored their eggs by boiling them with flowers, leaves or even insects. Household records of King Edward I of England (1239-1307) record a payment of eighteen pence for 450 eggs to be goldleafed and colored for Easter gifts. Some believed the yolk of an egg laid on Good Friday would turn to diamond after 100 years, although exactly how an egg could be kept intact for a century without a freezer remains uncertain. Good Friday eggs cooked on Easter Sunday were said to promote the fertility of the trees and crops and protect against sudden deaths. Two yolks in an Easter egg meant an omen of prosperity.
In the late 19th century, Russian goldsmith Peter Carl Fabergé created the world’s most valuable Easter eggs for Czar Alexander III and his son, Nicholas II, to give to their wives at Easter. Working with a team of nearly 500 designers, goldsmiths, jewelers and carvers, he created some of Europe’s greatest treasures from precious metals, enamels and jewels. Fabergé was born in Saint Petersburg, Russia, the son of a Baltic German jeweler and his Danish wife. Following his father’s trade, in 1864, he embarked a Grand Tour of Europe, studying his craft in museums around the world. Twelve years later he returned to St. Petersburg, married and studied under Hiskias Pend, his father’s key artisan. In 1882, he took over the company, developing a team of artist-jewelers who created exquisite works. The first Fabergé egg, crafted for Tsar Alexander III, was a gift to his wife, the Empress Maria Fedorovna, at Easter in 1885. Known as the Hen Egg, it is crafted from gold with an opaque white enameled “shell” that opens to reveal a matte yellow gold yolk. Inside, the gold beak contained a small ruby pendant suspended from a minute diamond replica of the Imperial Crown. That year, the Tsar gave the House of Fabergé the title; ‘Gold-
AT LEFT: The Empress Alexandra, for whom many Fabergé eggs were created.
smith by special appointment to the Imperial Crown.’ One of the most impressive eggs celebrated the coronation of Nicholas II in 1897. The motif for the five-inch masterpiece, inspired by the coronation robes, was stitched from gold cloth embroidered with a double-headed eagle. The egg opens to reveal a replica of the czarina’s coronation coach, modeled in enamel with gold mounts with a miniature rose diamond version of the imperial crown. Fabergé’s clientele included the hierarchy of Europe, Asia and America from 1870 until shortly after the Russian Revolution. In 1918 the Bolsheviks nationalized. The House of Fabergé and confiscated their stock. He and most of his family fled to Germany and eventually Switzerland, where he died two years later. His work remains as a glorious tribute to both his craft and the Easter celebration.
Gemstones & Minerals
The 1872 Diamond Field Fraud
In 1872, rumors began of a field where they were found. He had been accompanied vast deposits of diamonds, rubies, emer- be an old California miner named Captain alds, sapphires and other precious gems Slack. Arnold said he and Slack had worked lay scattered around for the pickings. It the diamond fields for two years and took out $2.5 million in precious was just a rumor here, a vague gems. He said they deposited report there. Soon the West was half their find in the Bank of Caliablaze with the story. Nobody new who started the rumors. The fornia. Arnold said the largest location of the treasure field was diamond he had found to date not known. It was always some weighed 108 carats, for which, remote spot far from civilization. although uncut and unpolished, The first location to emerge was he was offered $96,000. northeastern Arizona. An agent Arnold said the operation for the Navajo Indians had found became too big so he formed a large quantities of diamonds company with himself at the By Ray Lundin and rubies scattered over the head with some of the wealthiest Gemologist surface of the ground in an area men in the country. When these about 300 miles from Santa Fe. men had satisfied themselves to (Writer’s note: diamonds, rubies, emeralds the genuineness of the diamonds, $2.5 miland sapphires are not all in one location.) lion in stock had been issued and quickly Shortly after this location was named, sold. Arnold was reluctant to pinpoint the a man known as Phil Arnold announced diamond field, but the Laramie City Senhimself to be the discoverer of the diamond tinel editor indicated that remarks made field. He said some Indians had shown him in the interview led him to believe that the two large, rough diamonds three years be- rich field was on Flax Creek in the San Luis fore and had guided him to the spot where Valley (in Colorado or New Mexico). The
PAGE 12
story published in the Sentinel was picked up in newspapers throughout the country, creating a flash of excitement equal to, if not surpassing, that of the California gold discovery and the Colorado Gold Rush in 1859. Diamond stocks couldn’t be printed fast enough to keep up with the demand. Along with the daily stories of new finds there were a few stories charging Arnold and Slack with fraud. William N. Byers, editor of the Rocky Mountain News, went so far as to claim the excitement was a result of nothing more than a carefully planned and skillfully carried-out swindle. Other stones were produced and were likewise pronounced real. Some went on display in Denver. But for the remainder of 1872, nobody got any closer to the fields. In fact, the location began to change. It shifted from Arizona to the San Luis Valley of Colorado, then to New Mexico and back to Colorado. Ex-Gov. Gilpin delivered a lecture tracing the deposits to the San Juan mountains. About the time the New York-San Francisco company was preparing another stock issue of $12 million, a report appeared by eminent geologist, Clarence King. He said he examined some of the gems and he doubted their value and he questioned the whole setup. King was taken to the gem
THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 21 Years
fields by a friend of Arnold and Slack. King was convinced what gems that were in the fields had been planted and he was lead over the right trail so he would find them. The diamond world came tumbling down with King’s return to San Francisco. The corporation manipulators tried to suppress the report as long as possible so they could unload much of their investment as possible. But the real clincher came in the case with published reports from London, which said two men had made several purchases from various London jewelers. The purchases consisted of many rough, uncut, sometimes impure, and scrap stones. The men also bought a few good stones, too. The bursting of the bubble caused millions of dollars to be lost. Some of the manipulators committed suicide and others were ruined. The original perpetrators, Arnold and Slack, were almost forgotten. Since they planned everything so well, it only shows they planned this, too. It was estimated they cleared over a half million dollars on the deal. It seems that Arnold and Slack silently stole away. Arnold ended up in his home in Elizabethtown, Ky., shortly before his death in 1879. Nobody ever heard of Slack again. (Story condensed from Treasure Tales of the Rockies by Perry Eberhart.)
March 19 - April 1, 2013
Trail’s End
estled in a unique spot where wind patterns are unlike anywhere else in the state, an almost freak of nature are Colorado’s Great Sand Dunes. Today the area is known as the Great Sand Dunes National Monument, designated by an Act of Congress on March 17, 1932. Then on Sept. 13, 2000, President Bill Clinton signed the “Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve Act,” which gave the area a second distinction, that of National Park status. The sand dunes truly are “great,” as they are the tallest sand dunes in North America, rising to an incredible 750 feet at times, as they are constantly changing. According to researchers who know these things, the sand began forming dunes 440,000 years ago. The sand and soil deposits, containing rich amounts of magnetite, or black oxide, from the flowing Rio Grande River stayed in the San Luis Valley. Over the subsequent thousands of years, the westward blowing winds picked up these sand deposits particles, blowing them farther west where they bounced back against the mighty Sangre de Cristo Range of the Rocky Mountains. With this continuous force of nature, the sand began to build. Then another force
of nature occurs, one more reason why the sand dunes constantly change. Several small streams, created from the waters of the Rio Grande River, flow through and around the perimeter of the dunes. These streams, over time, erode the outer edges of the dunes, carrying the sand downstream. Meanwhile, a few of these water tributaries sink into the sand. Even so, at the peak of the dunes, if one digs down just a few inches, wet sand is evident. As the winds change periodically blowing from the west, coming from the southwest, the huge deposits of sand are picked up again, blowing them again into the mountain range, where they bounce back on top of the sand from a different direction. As nature would have it, sometimes the blowing sand joins the main dune field, which covers 30 square miles, and at other times the sand settles at the floor, where it eventually is covered with grass and vegetation, creating a source of food for the diverse wildlife. The winds change during the summer months, causing a reverse in the shape of the sand dunes. Thus, the wind changes the shape of the dunes daily. Because of the winds
and the upper air disturbance, precipitation is quite low on the sand dunes, averaging around 11 inches of rainfall per year. While it does snow on the sand dunes, the snowfall is typically very light and soon dissipates with the high Colorado sunshine. Yet the high evaporation rate on these sand dunes qualifies the area as desert land. Temperatures play a part, as well. Although summer temperatures are not typical of normal high desert areas of the West, the average temperatures at the dunes are 95 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months, which are very high in this area of the Rocky Mountain region. Conversely, extreme low temperatures during the winter months, while not unusual in the Colorado mountains, nightly temperatures at the dunes often drop well below zero. This large variation between high and low temperatures also contribute as a qualifier for the high desert status. All of these varied forces in nature created a lack of abundant water in the area. The intermittent Medano Creek, which many who live in the area call the “Mysterious Medano Creek,” as it appears at springtime during some years and then disappears, and some years it never appears at all. When it does appear, the creek flows along the eastern edge of the sand dunes,
not far from the base of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. When nature’s precipitation is high enough and the snow runoff from the Sangre de Cristo mountain range is enough to drain into the creek bed, Medano Creek appears and flows. Another reason given for the “occasional” appearances of the creek’s water flow is that as the winds blow, fresh sand continually falls into the creek bed. Small underwater sand dunes are then formed that create mini-dams continually forming and then breaking down, thus the waters of Medano Creek are unable to find a secure and stable streamed. When the creek does flow, especially during high mountain runoff seasons, mini-waves are created at intervals of a few minutes as the water flows downstream. Unfortunately for this writer who visited the Great Sand Dunes National Monument three years in a row, in 2010, 2011 and 2012, each time during the summer, the Medano Creek was not present on any of these trips. Rather than mysterious, or even phenomenal, the tour guides said it was due to the severe drought conditions in the West. In any case, the lack of water was a particular motivation for turning the Great Sands Monument into a National Park, as this would allow for added protection of the limited water supply to the area. With the help
The dunes pile against the base of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range.
The barren sand in the foreground is often filled with water from Mysterious Medano Creek.
Photos by Linda Wommack
March 19 - April 1, 2013
of the National Nature Conservancy, the federal government was able to purchase the 97,000 acres of the historic Baca Ranch, which nearly tripled the size of the national park. More importantly, the land purchase, located on the north and west sides of the national park area, included the 14,165 foot Kit Carson Mountain and the 14,080 foot Challenger Point, which are the source of the water drainages in the southern portion of the San Luis Valley. The park site is located 35 miles northeast of Alamosa, on Colorado Highway 150. The visitor’s center is a great place to begin your experience here. From the walking trial one can begin to venture out into the desert sand and even climb the dunes. The surface temperature of the sand can reach 140°F in the summer months. The hike to the top of the dunes and back will take approximately 90 minutes. The view from the top is spectacular, but be forewarned, it can be strenuous as the altitude 8,200 feet above sea level. The Great Sand Dunes National Monument with the 750 feet tall dunes piled against the edge of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains is quite a startling sight. It is a testament to the pure force of Mother Nature.
THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 21 Years
PAGE 13
Duane, left, won a Honda Fit at Bullwhackers Casino. Steve Cassidy from KOOL 105 presents the winnings.
William won $1,338 playing a Penny Train 1-cent machine at Century Casino.
April won $4,412 playing a 1-cent Rock Around the Clock machine at Isle Casino Hotel Black Hawk.
Horoscope CAPRICORN - (Dec. 22 - Jan. 20) Don’t let anyone interfere with what you’re doing. There may be some hidden sabotage going on and you can’t afford delays or setbacks. You may have to deal with children, child like behavior or simple crazy acting out. Expect a payoff near the end of the week and decline craving the spotlight. Lucky Numbers: 1, 21, 28, 44, 50, 66
TAURUS - (April 21 - May 21) A project or event may be occupying much of your time as a deadline is quickly approaching. An important decision becomes important to your future. Your resume needs updating and could open new realms for you. It’s a time of unexpected surprises for you or a close friend. Lucky Numbers: 5, 14, 35, 43, 60, 69
VIRGO - (Aug. 23 - Sept. 23) You may experience some frustration trying to improve a relationship. Subtle compliments and being thoughtful will dramatically improve things. Both of you have strong opinions so tread lightly and demonstrate respect. You’ll be able to handle anything coming your way this week. Lucky Numbers: 11, 23, 27, 46, 55, 76
GEMINI - (May 22 - June 21) Brace yourself, your career may bring a huge surprise and you need to be ready for some exciting news. Something may seem so strange; it will be hard to believe. Don’t provoke angry responses by ill-considered words or premature actions. Think before action and use of words. Lucky Numbers: 4, 16, 34, 47, 58, 71
LIBRA - (Sept. 24 - Oct. 23) Your work routine and money issues will ebb and flow and make things seem erratic. Work will be busy, filled with paperwork or a lack of communications will make your head feel like its spinning. You’ll stay in control if you get your proper rest. You’re spending too much. Finish an overdue project. Lucky Numbers: 10, 17, 36, 45, 54, 70
AQUARIUS - (Jan. 21 - Feb. 19) You’ll have a sense there are more important things happening than what people are letting on. A small investment or purchase will return your efforts more than you thought. Expect a raise in your position or help from a superior. A few early mornings will help you finish up a project. Lucky Numbers: 3, 13, 30, 40, 49, 63
CANCER - (June 22 - July 22) Even if there’s stress at work and things may seem unfavorable, you have reason to be optimistic. Prepare yourself during the coming weeks to overcome any roadblock. Be determined to succeed and overcome distractions that hold you back. Participation is your current keyword. Just smile! Lucky Numbers: 2, 24, 31, 38, 59, 73
SCORPIO - (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) A busy career schedule along with erratic emotions and living conditions may make you avoid feelings of romance or feeling haven’t the time to do anything. Plan an evening out to meet new people or unusual experiences. Some “me” time will recharge your body and lift your mind and spirit. Lucky Numbers: 3, 25, 32, 42, 61, 68
PISCES (Feb 20 - March 20) Get your rest because others may try to entangle you into really unimportant issues. Don’t believe everything you hear. An innocent relationship may enter into a greater depth than expected. A crisis will easily be solved or avoided by making an astute assessment. Lucky Numbers: 12, 17, 26, 37, 53, 67
LEO - (July 23 - Aug 22) Stay aware this week when it comes to your finances and punctuality. Events may change rapidly from one extreme to another. You may want to put off major purchases until July, when things are more favorable for you. If you remain frugal, this is a great time to travel. Lucky Numbers: 8, 20, 25, 41, 51, 72
SAGITTARIUS - (Nov. 23 - Dec. 21) Your personal life needs a little attention, and you may resolve an issue that began in February or the first of the year. Get some rest and check for safety issues around the house like smoke alarms, water leaks, slow drains or even gas leaks. Stay safe; be flexible and ready for change. Lucky Numbers: 6, 22, 29, 39, 57, 79
ARIES - (March 21 - April 20) You have a lovely romantic surprise in store for you this month. You’re about to show someone how irresistible you really are. Use this time to be out-and-about. If you’re already committed to a relationship, your partner has something wonderful in store for you. The planets favor you. Lucky Numbers: 7, 19, 33, 48, 52, 64
Contact Mary Nightstar at marynightstar@yahoo.com and type “horoscope” in the subject line. PAGE 14
THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 21 Years
March 19 - April 1, 2013
Trading Post
The Last Hand Continued from Page 2
game in progress and the guys headed for the slot machines. This was a tougher game, it seemed the dealer had nothing but face cards; it was a struggle to hang onto my chips. I asked the pit boss about lunch in the upstairs restaurant and he related how good the food was and followed that up with a $20 complimentary coupon. I picked up what few chips I had, watched Greg win $16 on a penny slot machine where he cleverly played different lines where the more lines that are played, the more one could bet, win or lose, the machine was good and the pennies mounted up to dollars won. Upstairs we went to the dining area where we were greeted and waited upon by Alex who knew Steve and did an awesome job of serving us a mushroom hamburger, a Phlly cheese steak and a burrito smothered with green chili. While dining, Bridget, the restaurant manager, came to our table to say “hello” and to greet us; both Alex and Bridget are the kind of staff that brings customers back again and again. Customer satisfaction is big deal for gamblers and where they spend their money. The meal was great, service superb and we walked out of the restaurant well satisfied and wanting to return;
SERVICES
try those burritos, really good. It was about 3 p.m., we had gambled and won a few bucks, we had dined well, and it was time to come back down the mountain before the ski traffic hit I-70. As we headed out of town there was a steady stream of cars coming up highway 119 into Black Hawk for a three day weekend and Saturday night. Big news of the day was Johnny Z’s purchasing Bullwhackers, The Heartland Poker Tournament at the Golden Gates Casino and the World Series of Poker coming to the Lodge March 14-25. We had a pleasant day, a promise kept, some stories told, and time spent with two friends. Steve will be playing or attending the poker tournaments and “Old Smoothie” will be watching the players. “I can tell how good they are in about 30 seconds,” he said. I’ll bet on Steve.
REAL ESTATE
EMPLOYMENT
We take success personally. • Table Games Dealer • Dealer • F&b supervisor • Poker Clerk • Cashier/hosT • Guest Safety Agent • Cook i Utility • Kitchen • Casino Cleaner • Marketing Manager • mainTenanCe TeChniCian • Guest Experience Manager
Apply at www.islecasinojobs.com 303-998-7815 EOE/Drug Free Employer
FOR RENT v
Gold Mountain Village Apartments Offers You
•Spectacular views of the continental divide • One & two bedroom apartments available • Ceiling fans in all bedrooms • Abundant storage • Fully equipped kitchen • Utility room w/full size washer/dryer hook-ups • Fitness center • Business center • Hot tub
Ask about our special rental rates!
Call 303-582-0440 for more information
This Could
be your ad! REAL ESTATE
Gambler March 19 - April 1, 2013
Seeking the following positions: • Accounts Payable Clerk • Buffet Attendant • Cook • Table Games Dealer/Dual Rate • Dishwasher • General Leger Accountant • Hostess/Busser • Housekeeper • Maintenance Engineer • Marketing Coordinator • Poker Dealer • Poker Room Asst. Manager • Restaurant Cashier • Restaurant Manager • Revenue Auditor • Server • Surveillance Technician
Apply online at affinitytgaming.com 300 Main St. Black Hawk, Co. 80422
THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 21 Years
PAGE 15
AMERICAN FURNITURE WAREHOUSE
YOUR CHOICE
Metal Orb 2-PC Plant Stand
$65
SPRING Clearance Round Black Side Table
Round Side Table
Brushed Nickel Leaner Mirror
Magazine Rack
Bench with Storage
1W-1079
YOUR CHOICE
$98
1B-196-2PC
2-Tone Console Table
$128
1A-HR040
1A-HR039
1E-54559
Cherry Accent Table
Oak Side Table
Hand-painted Side Table
Hand-painted Side Table
Brown Floral Accent Table
1B-118
SCO-241
1A-2065
1A1-2065
1C-9708
1A-9064
YOUR CHOICE
1C-7004
5-Drawer Accent Chest
Console Table
1B-012
Stripe Painted Console
1B-108
6-Drawer Hand-Painted Accent Chest
1A-481
2-Tone Cabinet
1B-665S
1G-86816
MANUFACTURERS HAVE GIVEN OUR BUYERS SOME AMAZING DEALS!
We have a huge selection of furniture that is IN-STOCK and ready for you to take home today.
SEE OUR COMMERCIAL NOW:
Scan with your smart phone to view.
AFWonline.com Additional handling charges may apply to merchandise picked-up at showroom locations. See store for details.
COLORADO SPRINGS
DOUGLAS CO. MEGASTORE & WAREHOUSE
I-25 & FILLMORE - 2805 CHESTNUT ST.
(303) 799-9044
I-25 & EAGLERIDGE
2 minutes east of I-25 off E-470 & Peoria St.
(719) 633-4220 PUEBLO
(719) 542-5169
UNIVERSITY
S. UNIVERSITY & COUNTY LINE
GRAND JUNCTION HWY 6 & 50
(303) 795-0928
(970) 208-1920
AURORA
FIRESTONE SUPERCENTER & WAREHOUSE
1700 S. ABILENE
(303) 368-8555
I-25 & HWY 119 • Longmont/Firestone
(303) 684-2400
WESTMINSTER
FORT COLLINS
(303) 425-4359
(970) 221-1981
S.W. LAKEWOOD
GLENWOOD SPRINGS
(303) 933-3975
(970) 928-9422
94th & WADSWORTH
5390 S. WADSWORTH BLVD.
I-25 AND HWY. 14
3200 S. GLEN AVE.
THORNTON SUPERSTORE & WAREHOUSE I-25 & 84TH
(303) 289-4100