The Colorado Gambler 11-6-12

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Gambler Celebrating 20 Years Serving Colorado’s Gaming Community y www.coloradogambler.com coloradogambler cogamblerr

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November 6 - 19, 2012

Check Out Valuable Coupons on page 13

POKER NEWS

Colorado’s WPT Regional Event triumphs at Isle Casino Hotel Black Hawk Page 4

PROMOTIONS

Black Hawk, Central City casinos offer November deals Pages 6-7 & 10-11

VETERANS DAY

A Veterans Day Memorial & saluting casino veterans Pages 8 & 12

TRAIL’S END

Struggling to become Colorado Page 21

COUPONS • COLORADO HISTORY • CASINO GUIDE •GAMING • MAP • ENTER TAINMENT


The Last Hand

The Ultimate Challenge and I’m not sure who finally won, but the network and poker tournament sponsors will have hours of replay time that we can watch during the next year. The play was brilliant and they were so good at knowing when I’m bleary eyed as I write to fold. this column for our faithful A judge has now ruled that readers and fellow gaming enpoker is a skill, not just blind thusiast. I was watching the luck – so it enhances the sport as World Series of Poker finals on a game of skill, not a game of By Bob Sweeney ESPN last night that came on at pure chance. 7 p.m. that was still going at 2 However, at one point the game would a.m. the following morning with two players have been over – but one of the players hit a left standing, or wearily sitting, in this gruelstraight on the last card known as the “river.” ing dual. He was all in and that would have ended the Between the two combatants, they had a contest. He had to have either an Ace or a total chip count of more than $160 million on the table, the winner will receive about $8 four and the four came at the last moment for million and the loser $5 million, with third a straight. Lady Luck was indeed at work, so whether poker is skill or luck is debatable, but place receiving $3 million. They had the $8 million in hundred dollar for sure it takes both ingredients for a player bills on the table that added some juice to the to make a final table, whether at a tournament in Black Hawk, or the national championship already steamy event. A large crowd of spectators cheered on in Las Vegas. I like playing poker but really don’t have their favorite players, on top of the drama, it was also Halloween night so the revelers the time to devote to the game. It is now a long way beyond the monthly Friday night were in full swing. There was no winner at way past bedtime game at a friend’s home. The sport is being dominated by younger

Dramatic World Series of Poker Concludes

players with mathematical minds who can weigh the odds on money, position and cards held as the cards flop on the table leading to any number of winning or losing combinations. Over time, the odds eventually pay off for those who can calculate the numbers quickly in their heads. Older players seem to be disappearing except for the fun, low-limit games while the younger players are flocking to the game by the thousands. Many of the winners are college graduates and engineers, who are successful in their profession, but also doing well making huge paychecks from the poker tournaments across America. More than 6,000 players paid up to $10,000 to enter the World Series of Poker that dwindled down to a final table and to only three players fighting for the top prize money and the diamond championship bracelet valued at more than $100,000. Poker can be found at almost every Colorado casino. The house takes a small percentage off each hand to provide the dealers, and the pleasant atmosphere and surroundings. Many poker players like table games and will stray away from poker to test their skills at blackjack and craps. We just need to add sports betting to the mix using Las Vegas rules, and we’ll all be happy. I think the Gaming Commission could just do that as an additional gaming attraction; they added more table games, now they should add sports betting… pretty simple. In the meantime, may the “river” be with www.coloradogambler.com you!

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Come watCh your favorite football team ON ONE Of OuR giant big sCreen tvs OR OuR OTHER 19 fLATSCREEN TVs THROugHOuT THE CASINO

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fridays, november 9 & 16 saturdays, november 10 & 17

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sunday, november 18 8pm

friday, november 23 & saturday, november 24

20 winners will choose from 240 pods. All Key Rewards™ members receive one fREE entry; earn additional entries for every 250 base points earned November 1 – 18.

one $2,000 winner each hour from 7pm – 11pm. All Key Rewards™ members receive one fREE entry; earn additional entries for every 100 base points earned for the drawing week.

Registration deadline: 7:30PM.

Registration deadline: 10:30PM.

harley hot seat in the sun harley party pit fridays, november 9, 16 & 30 saturdays, november 10 & 17

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grand prize $ 300!

Members 50 or better 4X cash back points on slots 3X cash back points on video poker Discounted Shamrock Café menu

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mondays & tuesdays

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Your Kind of Place • 101 MAIN STREET BLACK HAWK, CO *If $35,000 is won in October, the jackpot will reset to $5,000 for the November drawing. Must be 21 and a Key Rewards™ member. Membership is free. Management reserves the right to change or cancel promotions at any time without notice. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-522-4700. © 2012 The Majestic Star Casino, LLC.

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A table games exclusive event! Ten winners will each win a $25 gaming chip in random hot seat drawings 6PM – midnight.

win a harley-davidson® motorCyCle Play table games in the Sun-Harley Party Pit to receive entries! Qualifying drawings: fridays and Saturdays at 8:30PM & 10:30PM Three qualifiers per drawing win a T-shirt, a match play coupon for the Sun-Harley Party Pit, and an entry into the grand prize drawing.

get 2X entries sundays – thursdays and 5X entries on fridays. grand prize drawing: deCember 15

THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years

November 6 - 19, 2012



Casino News Colorado’s World Poker Tour Regional Event triumphs at Isle Casino Hotel Black Hawk World Poker Tour carefully chose Isle Casino Black Hawk for its first Regional Event in Colorado in 2011, ensuring players would experience a professional and high quality event worthy of the WPT name. The Isle provided just that and it returned this October. The Main Event of the Colorado Poker Showdown began on Oct. 18 and concluded Oct. 22, with a prize pool totaling $299,700. The tournament showcased fantastic action and highly skilled play. In the end, the last four players took equity, chop according to their chip counts. A total of $10,000 was kept from the overall chop between Robert, Raymond, Andrew and Francois to play toward, as well as rights for the WPT Regional Trophy. After cutting the field to two, Francois and Andrew battled for nearly an hour until Andrew came out on top. After 21 hours between both Day 1 and Day 2 of the tournament, Andrew was declared the Colorado Showdown 2012 Winner. The top earners were Andrew of Westminster, $62,350; Francois of Denver, $60,632; Raymond of Denver, $46,923; Robert of Albuquerque, N.M., $35,688; Jim of Henderson, $18,731; Paul of Denver, $14,235; and Randy,

of Colorado Springs, $11,089. A total of 18 spots were paid out of the starting field. In all, the Colorado Poker Showdown II hosted 10 events, from Oct. 8 through the 17, with more than $239,000 in total prize money “We recognize that the World Poker Tour is the premier international tour for poker players and are excited to bring that prestigious brand to the Isle,” said Christopher Bourneuf, Isle’s director of Table Games. “We received great feedback from players along with suggestions for future events. In feedback from players, they shared how well the tournament was run along with the feeling that this was the best tournament ever run in Colorado. In addition, players agreed that the structure of the tournaments throughout the events were better than any other in the market.” Throughout the Colorado Poker Showdown II, daily tournaments were run with all of the NLH events selling out. “We will continue to run all of our tournaments with that in mind,” Bourneuf said. For more information about upcoming tournaments, http://black-hawk.isleofcapricasinos.com or call the Isle poker room at Andrew, Colorado Showdown 2012 winner, with his WPT Regional Event trophy he won Oct. 22 at Isle Casino Hotel Black Hawk. 303-998-7905.

Time to get merry with a visit to Colorado gaming towns By Rosemary Fetter

Head to the hills for the Holidays. Colorado gaming towns will be merry during the holiday season with a host of family activities. More details in our Nov. 20 issue. BLACK HAWK

Casinos Enjoy November food specials, giveaways and prizes at your favorite Black Hawk casino. Like Canyon’s free turkey giveaway, Nov. 13; Red Dolly is also giving away turkeys throughout the month; or Bullwhackers tech giveaways during the month of November. Enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving meal at the Shamrock or The Steakhouse located at Fitzgeralds. CENTRAL CITY

Tours of the Teller House and the Central City Opera House Through early December, Tuesdays through Sundays, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. 303-582-5848. Children’s Events at the Teller House Nov. 29. www.centralcitycolorado.us/events. Tree Lighting Nov. 30. www.centralcitycolorado.us/events. Tommyknocker Holiday Bazaar Dec. 1 – 2. www.centralcitycolorado.us/events CRIPPLE CREEK/VICTOR

Holiday Headframe Lights Nov. 23 through New Year’s Day, Friday – Sunday nights. Take a drive to Victor (just six miles from Cripple PAGE 4

Creek) for a self-guided tour of mine headframes with large Christmas light displays. A self-guided driving tour map will be available at the Victor Hotel at 4th and Victor Avenue, the Cripple Creek Welcome Center and online at www.victorcolorado.com. Gold Camp Christmas Dec. 7 – 9. Visit the Sugar Plum Gift Shop or check out decorated Christmas trees, available for purchase through the Live Tree Auction. Festive activities for children include gift making, crafts, a scavenger hunt, skating around the Christmas Tree more. Join the Colorado Springs Chorale holiday performance held at the Cripple Creek Baptist Church. Additional entertainment includes musical groups performing special holiday favorites, and the popular holiday show “A Cripple Creek Christmas Carol & Holiday Olio,” performed by the Thin Air Theater Production Company at the Butte Opera House. Parade of Lights and Victor Bonfire Dec. 7, drive to Victor or take the shuttle, which will be leaving the Aspen Mine Center in Cripple Creek at 5:30 p.m., The shuttle will tour through the lighted headframes, and will arrive in Victor for the Victor Parade of Lights and the Victor Gold Bowl, bonfire, caroling, and festivities. Reservations will not accepted, so arrive early. Elf Emporium Dec. 7 – 9, unique items made by local crafters. Breakfast with Santa Dec. 9, visit www.victorcolorado.com or www. cripplecreekevents.com.

What’s Rockin’

Your guide to live entertainment and events at Colorado’s casinos

Reserve Casino Hotel

Nov. 9-10: Buckstein – FREE show doors open at 8:30 p.m. Nov. 23: Meniskus – FREE Show doors open at 8:30 p.m. Nov. 24: The Samples – Ticketed Show Nov. 30 and Dec. 1: Five13 – FREE show doors open at 8:30 p.m. The Lava Room entertainment, doors open at 8:30 p.m. (unless otherwise noted). All entertainment starts at 9 p.m. and ends at midnight, unless otherwise noted. For upcoming shows and to purchase tickets, visit www.reservecasinohotel.com or www.RCHlive.com.

Buckstein www.reservecasinohotel.com

Isle Casino Hotel Black Hawk Nov. 9-10: Back in the Day (R&B/funk) 8 p.m. – midnight Nov. 16-17: Walker Williams Band (country) Nov. 23-24: Garratt Wilkin & The Parrotheads (A tribute to Jimmy Buffet) (7 – 11 p.m.) Nov 30 – Dec 1: Dreamboat Annie (Classic Rock, Dance, w/ HeartTribute)

Back in the Day

Enjoy live entertainment on the Caribbean Cove bar stage.

www.black-hawk.isleofcapricasinos.com

THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years

November 6 - 19, 2012


November 2, 9 aNd 16 Win up to $500 every half hour from 5:30pm to 10:00pm. all unclaimed prizes will be added to the

mountains of Winnings Grand Prize drawings on November 23.

Win up to $15,000! $

3,000 awarded at 2:00pm, 4:00pm, 6:00pm, 8:00pm and 10:00pm.

earN 5X PoiNts on all your favorite penny machines!

Sundays, 8:00am – midnight Plus, earn one FREE buffet with five unadjusted points. Point multiplier is not valid on video poker. Must register prior to playing.

1-800-THE-ISLE • www.theisleblackhawk.com © 2012 Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. Must be 21 or older. Promotions subject to change or cancellation without notice. Please visit the player’s club or cashier services for details. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-522-4700.


2X, 3X, 4X, 5X Points

Visit fitzgeraldsbh.com for promotional rules

Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, Nov. 22, video poker players receive 2X Points, Gold Key Rewards members automatically receive 3X Points, Platinum members receive 4X Points, and Access members receive 5X Points while playing with a Key Rewards Card.

50K Progressive

Fitz 50

$1,000 Winning Wednesdays Slot Tournament

New Bus Redemption Program

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Fitz 50 is now even better, with 4X points on slots and 3X points on video poker and keno. Every Monday and Tuesday guests older than 50 will receive the point multiplier and a discounted menu at the Shamrock Cafe.

The progressive Grand Prize is up to $40,000 on Nov. 18. At 8 p.m., 20 winners will be drawn to choose from 240 pods and one contains the $40,000 Grand Prize. Each month the grand prize is not chosen, the pot will increase by $5,000. All Key Rewards members receive on free entry; earn additional entries for every 250 Hi or Lo A Fitzgeralds guest favorite is back with Hi base points earned from Nov. 1-18. The deador Lo. Play on Friday, Nov. 30, at 8 p.m. and 9 line to register is 7:30 p.m. p.m. and win up to $500 cash. All Key Rewards members receive one free entry; earn addition50K Cash Cornucopia Fridays, Nov. 9, 16 and Saturdays, Nov. 10, al entries for every 100 base points earned for 17 one $1,000 winner will be drawn each hour the week. from 7 – 11 p.m. Then for Friday, Nov. 23 and Saturday, Nov. 24 double the cash double the Spin to Win Point Multiplier Wheel Spin the cash back point multiplier wheel fun with one $2,000 winner drawn each hour from 7 – 11 p.m. Key Rewards members receive every Sunday in November from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. one free entry, earn additional entries for every and you could multiply your points up to 10X. 100 base points earned for the week. The dead- The multiplier will begin once the wheel has line to register is 10:30 p.m. been spun, so be sure to spin before you play. Not valid on video poker or keno. Every Wednesday in November join in on the fun. Simply earn 50 base points and register from 11 a.m. to 12:50 p.m. and the tournament play will begin at 1 p.m. The top 10 places win cash prizes with a Grand Prize of $300.

Harley Hot Seat

Fridays, Nov. 9, 12, 30 and Saturdays, Nov. 10, 17 join the fun in the Sun-Harley Party Pit and play table games to win. Ten $25 winners will be selected from 6 p.m. to midnight. Plus, the other guests playing at the table will receive a $10 match play coupon.

Win a Harley

Qualify every Friday and Saturday at 8:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. to win a Harley-Davidson Motorcycle. Three qualifiers will be selected each hour and will receive a T-shirt, a match play coupon for the Sun-Harley Party Pit, and an entry into the Grand Prize drawing on Dec. 15. Earn 2X entries by playing table games Sunday-Thursday and 5X entries on Fridays. PAGE 6

Gold Key Rewards members earn 300 base points for $20, Platinum Key Rewards members earn 250 base points for $20, and Access Key Rewards Members receive a free $20 bus refund.

and a desert. See fitzgeraldsbh.com for details. on your Canyon Club card and pick up a free turkey. You can’t have turkey without pumpkin pie. Play 50 base points on Thursday, Nov. The Steakhouse weekly specials Thursday: Mention this offer to receive 25 15 and get a free pie. percent of your entire check. Friday: Mention this offer for ½ price bottles on select wine. Saturday: Mention this offer for a free glass of wine with entrée purchase and Sunday: Mention this offer for a free appetizer with entrée www.bullwhackerscasino.com purchase.

Win the Holiday ‘Toy’ You Really Want

Bullwhackers High Tech Holiday Giveaway. Earn entries when you play now – Nov. 30. Fridays, Nov. 9, 16 and 30 and Saturdays, Nov. 10 and 17. We’re giving away the hottest www.canyoncasino.com electronics every week. PLUS, you could take home a 46” Big Screen LCD TV during our Black Fridays Grand Prize Drawing on Nov. 30. Must be 21 Play your Favorite slots every Friday in No- and present to win. vember and be entered to win cash, TVs, gaming systems, tablets, a GPS or digital camera’s. Three lucky winners will be chosen between Election Day 5X Penny Points Be sure to vote, and then join us for Elec2 – 4 p.m. and nine lucky winners will be tion Day 5X Penny Points, Tuesday, Nov. 6. chosen between 6 – 10 p.m. every Friday. To Earn 5X points when you play your favorite Penbe chosen, simply play on your Canyon Club Card…We are making Black Friday even bet- ny Slots with your Lucky Bull Club card! Video ter – earn entries to win the ultimate home poker excluded from this promotion. theater package including an 80” LED TV. Earn entries all month long and then be at here Fri- Get Your $1 Hot Dog Every Thursday in November: A delicious day, Nov. 3,0 at 11 p.m. when one lucky windeal - only at Darryl’s Hideaway. Limit two $1 ner will be selected. Every 100 points earned equal’s one entry. Entries must be picked up hot dogs per person per day. same day as play.

$16,000 Slot Tournament

To enter simply play 250 points on your club card and get an entry each Saturday earn an additional 250 points and get a second entry. Qualifying rounds begin at 5 p.m. with a final round at 9:30 p.m. Make sure to get a spot beginning at 4 p.m. Spots are limited DJ Mario of Sounds Unlimited so hurry in for a chance at the $1,000 nightly Friday, Nov. 23 and Saturday, Nov. 24 enjoy cash prize. Plus we will be paying the 1st, 2nd live entertainment on the casino floor by DJ and 3rd place combined tournament scores Mario of Sounds Unlimited from 8 p.m. to 1 with a top prize of $2,000…the more tournaments you play the better your chances of a.m. winning are.

Thanksgiving Day in the Shamrock

Savor an appetizing Thanksgiving Day meal Bonus Point Mondays and Wednesdays

Celebrate Veterans Day at Bullwhackers

Spin to win free SLOTPLAY, Nov. 11 and 12, noon – 6 p.m. Show your Lucky Bull Club card and spin to win a Guaranteed Free SLOTPLAY, prize up to $20 instantly! Limit one prize per person.

Thanksgiving Weekend Hot Seats

Nov. 23 – 25, noon – 10 p.m., 20 lucky players each day will win $25-$75 in Free SLOTPLAY by opening one of our special holiday ovens! Limit one prize per person, per day.

Win Gas For A Week

Sunday, Nov. 18, noon – 6 p.m. One winWe’re going to jump start your Mondays ner every hour will receive a $50 Gas Coupon in the Shamrock Café for only $10, 11 a.m. to 10 and help you get over the hump on Wednes- redeemable at the nearby Shell Station! Limit p.m. See fitzgeraldsbh.com for details. days in November by giving you an extra free one prize per person per day. 500 bonus points after you play 250 points on Thanksgiving Day in The Steakhouse your Canyon Club card. See Guest services for Gas up and play at Fitzgeralds Casino complete details. Now through Nov. 30, receive $5 in Free Enjoy a delectable four-course meal for $40 SLOTPLAY when you purchase $30 or more in on Thanksgiving Day at the Steakhouse from 2 Free Turkey and Pie Giveaway Days Continued on page 7 On Tuesday, Nov. 13, earn 150 base points – 8 p.m. Choice of appetizer, entrée, three sides,

THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years

November 6 - 19, 2012


Continued from Page 6

SLOTPLAY when you purchase $30 or more in gas at our nearby Shell Station. Limit one redemption per person per day. Kick Your Way to Winnings Sundays from 8 a.m. to midnight, guests will earn 5X points on their favorite penny machines. Senior Double Days
 Tuesdays, Nov. 13, 20 and 27, Lucky Bull Club They will also receive a FREE buffet after earning members age 55+ earn 2X Points all day, re- five unadjusted points on their player’s card. Guests deemable for Free SLOTPLAY. 
Video poker excluded do need to register at the player’s club or cashier services prior to playing. The point multiplier is not from this promotion. valid on video poker.

$20 Bus Reimbursement

Bus fare refund

Why drive? Present your bus ticket at Guest Do you ride the bus to Black Hawk? The Isle will Services and receive $20 in Free SLOTPLAY. Yours refund your bus fare up to $20. Simply earn 35 unadwith just 100 points earned. Limit one per person, justed points on your player’s card and present your per day. 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. Free SLOTPLAY Bullwhackers gave away 
 more than $75,000 
in Free SLOTPLAY last month. 
Isn’t Paradise 50 Plus All guests age 50 or better can join the Paradise it time you grabbed your share?
Come in and play 50 Plus club on Mondays. You will receive 3X points today. on all slots, 2X points on video poker, a free soft serve ice cream and a Free Calypso’s Buffet after Like us on Facebook 
Stay up to date on all the latest news, 
promo- earning five unadjusted points. For complete detions and events at Bullwhackers.
Visit facebook. tails, please visit the player’s club. com/bullwhackerscasino. www.theisle blackhawk.com

$30,000 Mountains of Winnings

On Fridays, Nov. 9 and 16 Isle guests will have the opportunity to win up to $500 every half hour from 5:30 – 10 p.m. Any unclaimed prizes will roll into the Mountains of Winnings Grand Prize drawing on Friday, Nov. 23. Grand Prize drawings will take place for $3,000 at 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m., 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Nov. 23. Guests will receive one free entry and one entry for every 10 unadjusted points earned, and one grand prize entry for every 30 points earned on each promotion day.

craps and straight jack progressive only at the Isle.

November in the poker room

Straight Flush Daily Progressive – Get a straight flush to win the progressive bonus. November, $25 will be added to each suits progressive. The winner must be a live-action seated Texas Hold’em player to receive the bonus. Quad of the Day Weekend Progressive Saturdays and Sundays in November beginning at 10 a.m., $100 will be paid to the first selected quad of the day. If the quad of the day is not hit, the prize money will roll over to the next day’s quad of the day bonus. Tournaments – Saturdays and Sundays play No Limit Hold ‘Em, 1 p.m. - $90 + $10, Turbo No Limit Hold ‘Em – Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 11 a.m. - $45 + $10, PM No Limit Hold ‘Em, Mondays at 7 p.m., Thursdays at 6 p.m. & Fridays at 4 p.m., $45 + $5, No Limit Hold ‘Em Bounty – Wednesdays at 8 p.m. - $40 + $5, Pot Limit Hold ‘Em – Tuesdays at 7 p.m. and Thursdays at 11 a.m., $40 + $5. 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 303998-7777. Rooms are subject to availability.

Player’s Club

All new members of the IsleOne player’s club will find a Gateway to Winning with their new membership. Begin earning cash and comps the very same day you sign up!

Play and Stay at The Isle

Play 30 unadjusted points on your IsleOne®club card Sundays through Thursdays between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. and stay the night on us! Check with the Player’s Club or Cashier Services once you have earned your points to receive your hotel offer. This offer is valid only on the day the points are earned.

Table games

The Isle has all your favorite table games including black jack, Three Card Poker, Let it Ride, Bonus 6, Texas Hold’em Bonus, buffalo black jack, Stay warm with food and fleece On Nov. 13, 15 and 20 guests that earn 30 unad- roulette and craps with 10 times odds. New in justed points and will receive an Isle fleece set and a table games is double deck black jack, Emperor’s gift certificate for a free turkey or ham. Guests can Challenge and 21+3. New games now at the earn their points between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. and can Isle include Mississippi Stud and Ultimate Texas collect their gift at the player’s club from noon to 8 Hold’Em, which will be linked to a progressive p.m. Guests are limited to one per person, per day jackpot with Let It Ride. Three Card Poker has a progressive jackpot all of its own. Play “craps-free” and gifts will be available while supplies last.

November 6 - 19, 2012

THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years

PAGE 7


Veterans Day

O

By Linda Wommack

n Nov. 11, 1918, the first worldwide war ended. World War I claimed more than 116,000 American soldiers, despite the fact America entered the war late. The war ended with an Armistice, after which President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed, on the first anniversary, the date of Nov. 11, as a national holiday known as Armistice Day. In his address to the American public, President Wilson said, “To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nation.” Over the years, the holiday remembrance took on a larger scope throughout America. In 1927, Congress, along with President Calvin Coolidge, issued a proclamation calling for the display of the United States flag on all government buildings on Nov. 11, and inviting the people to observe the day in schools and churches. Then in 1938, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed a bill making the day a legal holiday. At Arlington National Cemetery, a tomb made of Colorado marble was placed in remembrance of the fallen solders. Known as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, an annual ceremony occurs each Nov. 11, with the president placing a wreath at the most revered The gates of Fort Logan National Cemetery, circa 1950s.

Photos courtesy of Denver Public Library, Western History Collection

PAGE 8

tomb in American history. Within three years of that solemn celebration, America was struck by enemy forces at Pearl Harbor, and America entered World War II. Four years later, and with a stunning victory, Americans were faced with a new generation of war veterans. On Nov. 11, 1953, the citizens of Emporia, Kan., staged the first Veterans Day observance. A state representative from that town, Ed Rees, was so impressed he introduced a bill into the House of Representatives to change the name of the national holiday to Veterans Day. The bill passed, and the name was changed to by an act of Congress on May 24, 1954, with President Eisenhower calling on all citizens to observe the day by remembering the sacrifices of all those who fought so gallantly, in all wars, and through rededication, thereby refocusing the task of promoting an enduring peace. Colorado lays claim to two hallowed burial grounds known as national veteran cemeteries. The first is Fort Lyon National Veteran Cemetery, in southeastern Colorado near Lamar. The second veteran burial ground is Fort Logan National Cemetery, located in Denver. Together, these cemeteries hold more than a half million war veterans to date. Fort Logan became a western military post when President Grover Cleveland signed the bill sent to him by the House of Representatives in 1887, and allocated $100,00 for the construction. Former Civil War Gen. Phil Sheridan selected 640 acres of land, then far west of Denver. The military post, originally called Fort Sheridan, was located on the

A soldier’s parade at Fort Logan

banks of Bear Creek, which Sheridan said was a “never-failing stream of pure, clear water.” The military post was renamed to Fort Logan by General Order No. 11, issued in 1888, by Gen. John A. Logan. At this period in its history, two railroads served the military fort. A military post cemetery was created in June 1889 in the northwest corner of the fort grounds. In December 1890, six companies from Fort Logan were sent to help stop the Sioux uprising at a place known in history as Wounded Knee. Fort Logan is recognized as the birthplace of the Air Force. In 1894, the fort was the base of the Signal Corps Balloon. This balloon was developed for use in Cuba, in observations and scrutiny against the enemy during the Spanish American War. Following the war, Gen. Arthur MacArthur became the commanding officer of Fort Logan from 1901 to 1902. His son Douglas would go on to serve admirably in World War II. Eisenhower reported for recruiting duty at Fort Logan in 1924. During a ceremony at Fort Logan, on the brink of World War II, a speaker asked of the audience: “Have we kept faith with those who are buried here and whom we honor today?” By an act of Congress on March 10, 1950, Fort Logan became a national cemetery, the eighth largest in the country. Today it is a monumental resting place for all branches of the United States armed forces.

THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years

Fort Logan has two Medal of Honor holders: Major William E. Adams, located in Section P, Grave Number 3831, and First Sgt. Maximo Yabes, located in Section R, Grave Number 369. Robert “Bob” Caron was the tail gunner on the Enola Gay on Aug. 5, 1945, when his plane dropped the atomic bomb over Hiroshima, Japan. It was his camera that captured the image of the mushroom cloud of explosion that flashed around the world. Robert Caron died in June 1995, and was buried with honors in Section 8, Grave 1106. Since it’s congressional approval as a national veteran resting place of honor, veteran burials include those from all American wars, from Civil War veterans to those who have died in action in our current conflict in Iraq. For this is sacred ground reserved for those who fought to keep this country safe and free. It is the final resting spot for the brave heroes of our great country. Colorado is nothing without its past, its history and most of all, the veterans who served and continue to serve to keep our nation free. Veterans Day is a tribute to the true brave Americans. On Veterans Day, Fort Logan National Cemetery, along with all Colorado’s cemeteries, will be decorated with flowers and flags as we pay our respects to our passed veterans and loved ones. I know I’ll be there, and I hope to see you. God Bless America.

November 6 - 19, 2012


Going Green

Rediscover nifty, thrifty uses of salt

S

alt has been a valuable commodity for seasoning and preserving food for centuries. Contrary to popular opinion, salt is a necessary ingredient for a healthy life because our bodies need to maintain a stable sodium level, according to doctors and nutritionists. Those claiming salt is unhealthy have focused only on the blood pressure variable, assuming it is the only relevant risk factor. Today we can rediscover nifty and thrifty uses of salt. Salt (sodium chloride) is believed to have more than 14,000 uses, according to Salt Works, an America sea salt company. Our grandparents were probably familiar with many of them. I know grandpa never used toothpaste to clean his teeth. Instead he used salt mixed with soda on his toothbrush. Salt was highly valued and its production was legally restricted in ancient times, so it was

historically used as a method of trade and currency. Roman soldiers were paid an allowance of salt called “salarium.” Hence we got the word “salary” and also the popular phrase of “worth one’s salt.” Egyptians used salt in trading with the Phoenicians and the Mediterranean empire. In the Bible, salt means something thoroughly good when Jesus tells his disciples that they are “the salt of the earth.” The many uses of salt have withstood the test of time as they were handed down for generations. Today they are still valid and can be much cheaper and more environmentally friendly than more sophisticated products. Besides making food taste delicious, salt can be a great cleaning tool for simple things around the home instead of using harsh modern chemicals and cleaners.

Salt tips

• Don’t fret over spilled fresh eggs. Just pour salt on top of the spill to cover the eggs. Then wipe the eggs up with a paper towel. • To remove rust, make a paste using six tablespoons of salt and two tablespoons lemon juice. Apply paste to rusted area with a dry cloth and rub. Rinse thoroughly and dry. • To soothe a mild sore throat, gargle several times daily with a mixture of 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/2 cup warm water. It’s like taking a liquid throat lozenge. Keep a box of salt handy in the kitchen and by the barbecue grill. If a grease fire flares up, cover the flames with salt. NEVER use water on grease fires; it will splatter the burning grease. A handful of salt thrown on flames from meat dripping in barbecue grills will reduce the flames and deaden the smoke without cooling

the coals as water does. • To prevent mold on cheese, wrap it in a cloth dampened with salt water before refrigerating. • To remove onion odors from hands, rub fingers with salt moistened with vinegar. • To take the “burned food” odor away from ovens, sprinkle spills with salt and cinnamon while oven is still hot. When dry, remove the salted spots with a stiff brush or cloth. • To test egg freshness, place the egg in a cup of water and stir in two teaspoons of salt. A fresh egg sinks; a doubter egg will float. • To quickly chill a bottle of wine, place the bottle in an ice bucket. Layer with ice, sprinkling each layer with a few tablespoons of salt. Add water to top of bucket. Wait 10-12 minutes and serve.

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November 6 - 19, 2012

THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years

PAGE 9


Central City Nuggets ww.reservecasinohotel.com

RED = New locations 1355 KRAMERIA ST 655 PEORIA ST 15109 E COLFAX AVE 18605 GREENVALLEY RANCH BLVD 4850 E 62ND AVE 2810 QUEBEC ST 1045 1ST STREET 825 S COLORADO BLVD 6470 E HAMPDEN AVE 890 S MONACO PKWY 2750 S COLORADO BLVD 4600 LEETSDALE DR. 6350 SHERIDAN BLVD 9731 W 58TH AVE 1575 W 84TH AVE 12350 W 64TH AVE 15200 W 64TH AVE 8055 SHERIDAN BLVD 3400 YOUNGFIELD ST 1555 QUAIL ST 17171 S GOLDEN RD 11747 W KEN CARYL AVE 1927 S WADSWORTH BLVD 12043 W ALAMEDA PKWY 6760 S PIERCE ST 9800 W BELLEVIEW AVE 1545 S KIPLING ST 1173 BERGEN PARK 8126 S WADSWORTH BLVD 25637 CONIFER RD 7984 W ALAMEDA AVE 2205 WILDCAT RESERVE PKWY 9551 S UNIVERSITY BLVD 5050 E ARAPAHOE RD 7575 S UNIVERSITY BLVD 8200 S HOLLY ST 101 ENGLEWOOD PKWY 100 W LITTLETON BLVD 4000 RED CEDAR DR 8673 S QUEBEC ST 7901 S BROADWAY

DENVER AURORA AURORA DENVER COMMERCE CITY DENVER BENNETT DENVER DENVER DENVER DENVER GLENDALE ARVADA ARVADA FEDERAL HEIGHTS ARVADA ARVADA ARVADA WHEAT RIDGE LAKEWOOD GOLDEN LITTLETON LAKEWOOD LAKEWOOD LITTLETON LITTLETON LAKEWOOD EVERGREEN LITTLETON CONIFER LAKEWOOD HIGHLANDS RANCH HIGHLANDS RANCH CENTENNIAL CENTENNIAL CENTENNIAL ENGLEWOOD LITTLETON HIGHLANDS RANCH HIGHLANDS RANCH LITTLETON

80220 80010 80011 80249 80022 80207 80102 80222 80222 80222 80222 80246 80003 80002 80221 80004 80007 80003 80033 80215 80401 80127 80227 80228 80128 80123 80232 80439 80128 80433 80226 80129 80126 80122 80122 80122 80110 80120 80126 80126 80122

days, Nov. 2–30. Enjoy cash drawings from 4 – 10 p.m. Earn entries with just 150 base points, starting Oct. 28. Entry barrel emptied each week after the Saturday 10pm drawing.

Food specials

Platinum Appreciation Month

Aces always win

Free Slot Tourney Tuesdays

Dash for the Cash. The top 50 Platinum With your Player’s Card, pay only 99 cents point earners from Nov. 1 – 30 will earn enfor a slice of pizza everyday. tries to win their share of $17,000. The top five base point earners will receive a total of Free Bingo Play bingo for free in the Lava Room every 10 entries, the next five base point earners Monday and Wednesday at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. will receive a total of five entries, and 40 more Platinum players will receive one entry each! A leaderboard will show our Platinum Players Big Bonus Bingo their rank throughout the month. Finally, we On Nov. 10, 11 and 25, at 4 p.m. five games. award the cash in a huge blowout event and First 200 people to get Bingo Card only (limPlatinum Appreciation Dinner on Saturday, ited to 200 people only). Bingo cards are availDec. 1. We start with Platinum-only cash able starting at 10 a.m. at the Player’s Club.. drawings every half-hour from 4-9 p.m. for $200 each. Finally, we draw for our huge Merchandise Giveaway in October prize winners: Starting Sunday, Nov. 18 – Thursday, Nov. At 10 p.m. - $10,000 Grand Prize Plati22, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Get a turkey platter. Earn num Winner 500 points in one day, or accumulate 1,000 At 10:30 p.m. – $2,500 and $2,000 First points during the week, four hours of table Prize Platinum Winners games or poker play in one day or eight hours At 11 p.m. – $1,500 and $1,000 Runnerin the week. While supplies last. Up Platinum Winners Mondays-Friday, aces always win in the poker room, noon – 6 p.m., $25 for pocket aces.

Players who join us Tuesdays get a chance to participate in three free slot tournaments with a total of $2,000 in cash prizes. Tournament seats will be filled by hot seat Poker Parties drawings, each round will have one VIP-only Enjoy a poker party every Friday, 7 – 11 hot seat, and heats will take place every 20 p.m. in the poker room; high hand of the hour minutes from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., for session two gets $50 in cash. from 2 – 4 p.m., and for session three from 5 – 7 p.m. The top six scores across all heats in 2X Tuesdays the session will win: 1st: $200, 2nd: $150, 3rd: Every Tuesday in November, players can $100, 4th: $100, 5th: $75, 6th: $50. register at the Player’s Club to earn 2X points.

5X points

Holiday Pie Giveaway Wednesdays

Enjoy Sara Lee PIE giveaways with your 5X points on penny slots every Thursday play. Just earn 200 base points on the givein November, players can register at the play- away day to receive your free pie! Just in time er’s club to earn 5X points on penny slots. to help out with the holidays! While supplies last only. Nov. 14 – Scrumptious Pecan Pie Nov. 21 – Delicious Pumpkin Pie

Veterans Day Pin Giveaway Central-city.cnty.com Cold Hard Cash

$200 Prizes on the Hour and $100 Prizes on the Half Hour, Fridays and SaturPAGE 10

THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years

Sunday, Nov. 11, earn a patriotic ribbon pin with just 50 base points worth of play that day. Ask about our every day special military and veteran hotel rate. Continued on page 11 November 6 - 19, 2012


Central City Nuggets

Continued from page 10

Sunday Football Score Board

Score a touchdown and $700! Sundays at Century feature drawings every half hour from 2 – 6 p.m. Every player with a Century Casino Gold Card can get one entry to the drawing per drawing day, and additional entries are available to players who receive our mailer. Winners pick spots on our game board to find out how many “yards” they earned on that “down.” Gain a total of 10 yards or more for a First Down to win $100 instantly. Score a Field Goal to win a total of $300. And score a Touchdown to win $700. Everyone playing the board wins at least a $50 prize.

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.

Thursday Bingo with Mystery Card

Enjoy Free Bingo every Thursday from 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. Thursday players can pick up “The Mickey” Bonus Card only before the 11 a.m. game. “The Mickey” Bonus Card BINGO Game will be played at a random time during the day for a random $300-500 prize.

every Saturday. Entries will be awarded all week during live play, to the high hand every hour. Each Saturday at 11 p.m., a winner will be drawn. If winner is not present, a new inner will be drawn until a present winner is awarded the cash.

Sunlight Poker Bonus

Senior Celebration

Guests aged 50 or better receive 2X points on their play ALL DAY from 8 a.m. – 4 a.m., plus 50 percent off purchases (up to $25 in one day) at the Retro Deli or Mid City Grill. Please note that 50 percent food discount cannot be combined with any other coupon or discount, and including the $7.99 prime rib special.

Earn $10 cash back for three hours play if seated between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Thursday through Sunday.

Friday - Sunday (excluding video poker). Must be a Player’s Club member and have card properly inserted into machine while gaming to receive bonus points.

Food special

$3 half sandwich and soup special.

Requests and dancing on Friday and Saturday nights (subject to change and availability).’

Play on your birthday and get Double Points! Guests with a birthday coupon redeem it at the Player’s Club for their gift. Come in Sunday, Nov. 18, 2 – 4 p.m. for Appetizers, Cake & Cash.

Crystal Bingo for Cash

Saturday Poker Cash Fever

3X Points

Poker players at Century can win $150

2X Points

DJ Music

www.crystalpalacecasinocolorado.com

Birthdays

card properly inserted into machine while gaming to receive bonus points.

Monday, Wednesday and Fridays. Noon – 10 p.m. on Monday and Wednesday; and noon – midnight on Fridays. Must be a Player’s Club member and have

Broncos game fun

During Broncos games, enjoy Drawings, Cash, Prizes and game day food. Enjoy a taco bar during football games as well.

New slots

Head on over to Crystal Palace and check out the new slots.

Visit us online:

www.coloradogambler.com Follow us on Twitter

COGambler

:

and friend us on Facebook

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Gambler November 6 - 19, 2012

THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years

PAGE 11


Veterans Day

A Salute to our Veterans Thank you for serving, protecting America

the Corps, went into the army then as an E-4, served in the Field Artillery as a gunner and forward observer until 1979, when he attended OCS at Ft. Benning, Ga., in 1979. He had the privilege of Jump School and Ranger School at Benning before being sent to the Military Intelligence Officer’s School at Ft Huachuca, Ariz., where he attended both the Intelligence Basic and Intelligence Advanced Officers’ courses in ’80 and ’82. He served as an operational intelligence officer from ‘83 till his discharge in 1990, working against the Soviets and their allies throughout Eastern Europe, and against national and transnational terrorist organizations throughout the Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Randy Haviland and Blair Morgan

Mike Kasper Harry Mudgett IT Manager, Canyon Casino

H

arry Mudgett entered the U.S. Navy right out of high school. After boot camp in San Diego, he went to language school in Monterey, Calif., to learn Spanish. After another school in San Angelo, Texas, he was stationed at the Naval Security Group Detachment Key West, Fla., as a cryptologic technician. His job was to collect and report on strategic intelligence gathered on targets in Central and South America. From NSGD Key West, he was transferred to Homestead Air Force Base to work in the direct support division for the Naval Security Group Activity. His job there was to collect and report on tactical intelligence gathered in support of the “War on Drugs”. While stationed in Homestead, Harry deployed on several ships including USS Eisenhower, USS Wasp, USS Philippine Sea, USS Peterson, USS John Rodgers, USS Thorn, and USS Woodrow Wilson. Harry served in the US Navy for 10 years. Since getting out of the Navy, Harry has worked for several companies in their IT departments. Now, after 10 years in the Casino industry, he is the IT manager at Canyon and Grand Plateau casinos. Harry enjoys working in the hospitality industry because he never knows what kind of fires will be waiting for him when he gets to work, much like his time in the Navy.

PAGE 12

Randy Haviland

Maintenance Manger, Canyon Casino

Dual Rate Dealer/Supervisor, Century Casino

M

ike Served in the U.S. Army, 3rd Armored Division. He served time in West Germany. Mike served four years doing recon on the front lines in Europe. Mike has called the Canyon Casino home for more than 20 years and is currently the maintenance manager.

R

andy Haviland is a retired sergeant major who served in US Army Special Ops from 1972-1995. Randy has two daughters and two sons and a granddaughter, who is the light of his life. Randy has worked in the casino industry for 17 years and for Century Casino for 2 and a half years.

Blair Morgan Gene Matia Marketing Supervisor, Bullwhackers Casino

G

Kevin Joyce Director of Security, Golden Mardi Gras

K

evin Joyce served in both the U.S. Marine Corp and the U.S. Army from 1970 – 1990. He went to boot camp at Parris Island served one hitch in

ene Matia served in the United States Army from January 1970 – June 1990. Worldwide assignments to include Vietnam, Germany, Ft Jackson, S.C., Ft Benning, Ga., and Ft Carson, to name a few. He was a military policeman, recruiter, nurse recruiter and San Francisco recruiting battalion trainer. Gene has been at Bullwhackers for 13 years, and is the first and only casino he’s worked. Currently he is marketing supervisor/ promotion coordinator/ manager on duty and was formally, executive host/ player development.

THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years

HR Manager, Century Casino

B

lair Morgain was a sergeant for the US Army, Military Police from 1982-1990. Blair has three children, all of whom served in the armed forces. Her son, Spencer Wellman, is stationed at Ft Polk, La., and is slated for his second deployment to Afghanistan in January. Blair started in the casino industry as a security guard. She then moved to table games as a Black Jack Dealer and a Pit Manager and is now the HR Manager at Century Casino.

November 6 - 19, 2012


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THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years

PAGE 13


PAGE 14

Jeanne won $3,238 playing a Wild slot machine at Bullwhackers Casino.

Sadie won $8,849 playing a Double Red White and Blue machine at Canyon Casino.

Carlotta won $2,923.32 playing Sphinx at Century Casino.

Efrain won $11,250 playing a Triple Black Tie machine at Fitzgeralds Casino.

Gary won $16,000 playing a $25 Double Diamond Deluxe machine at Isle Casino Hotel Black Hawk.

Tiffany won $7,540.60 playing China Shores at Golden Mardi Gras Casino.

THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years

November 6 - 19, 2012


Ed Lentz, who sadly passed away this week, won this Ford Focus in September. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Lentz Family. Century Casino has lost a true friend.

Fay won $9,000 playing a Triple Double Strike machine at Fitzgeralds Casino.

John won $4,000 playing Video Poker at Ftizgeralds Casino.

George won $6,000 plying a $1 Triple Diamond machine Isle Casino Hotel Black Hawk.

Grace won $13,500 playing a $5 Triple Cash machine at Isle Casino Hotel Black Hawk.

Son Jin Blank won $15,085 at Reserve Casino Hotel.

November 6 - 19, 2012

THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years

PAGE 15


PAGE 16

THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years

August 21 - September 3, 2012


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

Canyon - 24/7 Fri/Sat

BJ, C, R, VP

415

No

SD, SB

free valet and self parking

303-777-1111/canyoncasino.com

Fitzgeralds - 24/7 Fri/Sat

BJ, C, R, VP

585

No

SD, SB on weekends free covered valet

303-582-6100 (1-800-538-LUCK)/fitzgeraldsbh.com

Gilpin - 24/7

BJ, C, R, P, VP

460

No

SD

free valet across the street

303-582-1133/thegilpincasino.com

Golden Gates - 24/7

BJ, P, C, VP

280

No

D

free valet and covered self parking

303-582-5600/thegoldengatescasino.com

BLACK HAWK

Golden Gulch

VP

140

No

V

free self/free valet

303-582-5600/thegoldengatescasino.com

Golden Mardi Gras - 24/7

BJ, C, R, VP

680

No

SD,SB,D

free valet and covered self parking

303-582-5600/goldenmardigras.com

Isle Casino Hotel Black Hawk - 24/7 BJ, C, P, R, VP

1308

238

B,D,SD

free valet and self parking

1-800-The-Isle/theisleblackhawk.com

Lady Luck - 24/7

BJ, P,C, R, VP

500

164

SD,SB

free covered valet and self parking

1-888-Lady-Luck/ladyluckblackhawk.com

Lodge - 24/7

BJ, C, R, P, VP

975

50

B, D, SD, SB

free valet parking

303-582-1771/thelodgecasino.com

Red Dolly

VP

149

No

SD

free self parking

303-582-1100/reddollycasino.net

Riviera - 24/7

BJ, C, R, VP

766

No

B

free valet and self parking

303-582-1000/rivierablackhawk.com

Sasquatch

No

70

No

D

No

720-880-1616

Wildcard

VP

220

No

D

city lot

303-582-3412/thewildcardsaloon.com

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

free city lot

303-582-1400/dochollidaycasino.net

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

CRIPPLE CREEK The Brass Ass - 24/7

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

free self parking

877-989-2142/broncobillyscasino.com

Century Casino - 24/7

BJ, R,

448

18

SD

free self parking

719-689-0333/cripple-creek.cnty.com

Colorado Grande - 24/7

BJ, R, VP

211

5

SD, SB

free self parking

877-244-9469/coloradogrande.com

Double Eagle & Gold Creek - 24/7

BJ, P ,C, R, VP

700+

158

SD, SB

free valet and covered self parking

800-711-7234/decasino.com

Johnny Nolon’s - 24/7

VP

255

No

SD

free self parking w/validation

719-689-2080/johnnynolons.com

J.P. McGill’s - 24/7 Fri/Sat

VP

300

40

SD

validated self parking

800-635-LUCK/triplecrowncasinos.com

Midnight Rose - 24/7

P, VP

400

19

SD, B

validated self parking

800-635-LUCK/triplecrowncasinos.com

Wildwood Casino- 24/7

BJ, P, C, R, VP, TH 530

68

SD, D, B

Climate controlled self parking

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.


Gaming

Tournament Tales: Tournament Rules Part I

T

he last article detailed ers should know these experiences while things, but have we replaying a local tournaviewed the actual TDA ment; a thought came rules ourselves so we truduring that which I wish to ly know what we think we share. While the announcealready ‘know’? ments prior to play were Researching this came being made, one sentence up with the website bestood out for some reason: low; anyone computer“All TDA Rules apply when savvy can go there to read By Drew Chitiea not conflicting with state the rules and detailed exgaming rules.” Anyone who has played planations at leisure. You can explore the tournaments will recognize this as it’s al- site further to download a PDF [printable] most always mentioned prior to tourna- version of the rules for review. ment start (along with other rules, comhttp://www.pokertda.com/custom_ ments and announcements). I know a lot posts/view-official-tda-rules/ of players who continue talking/texting/ The latest version of TDA rules is socializing/etc. while these announce- v-2.0 dated 22 September 2011 entailing ments are being made as they think nine categories: General Concepts; Seatthey’ve heard it all before, yadda-yadda… ing, Breaking & Balancing Tables; Pots & However, every so often the announcer Showdowns; General Procedures; Player says something that can deeply affect the Present/Eligible For A Hand; Button & game, a rule of the state gambling com- Blinds; Dealing Rules; Play – Bets & Raismission contravening otherwise “known” ing; Etiquette & Penalties. It behooves Tournament Directors Association rules. all tournament poker players, especially The TDA is comprised of poker room those who travel around the country, to personnel from around the world whose know the basics – the TDA rules. Never objective is to draft – and publicize – a forget to inquire about local rule changes standardized set of rules for poker tour- or differences that exist. Remember it’s naments. These rules supplement “house up to you to know the rules of the game, rules” and the aforementioned rules and and ignorance of the rule(s) is no defense. regulations of state gaming commissions I will not presume to lecture my good or agencies. In the case of conflict(s) readers and those active tournament playthe agency (house, local or state) rules ers on every rule – and believe it or not, take precedence. We tournament play- there are 54 of them – however, this series

FULLHOUSE

of articles will expand on the explanations of the more salient rules for the occasional tournament player. If you have been attracted to tournaments – and they are a great way to get lots of poker play for a fixed entry fee – but are reluctant to wade in, knowing the peculiarities and idiosyncrasies of tournament play can make the unknown less unknown, in essence making the unknown, well…ahh…known. [“Understand the way of the Force you will, yes” – Yoda] Keep in mind tournament style of play is different from live action; reading a book or two focusing on tournaments is a good idea if you’re new to tournaments. You can find these books at either of these two websites: www.twoplustwo.com/books/ or http://www.amazon.com/Best-PokerBooks/ So, all that being said, let’s wade right in: Rule 1: FLOOR PEOPLE Floor persons are to consider the best interest of the game and fairness as top priorities in the decision-making process. While a technical rule may apply in an unusual situation or circumstance, the issue of fairness takes over-riding priority and, of course, the decision of the floor person is final. I have witnessed situations late in a tournament [when tension is high], an irregularity occurs and the floor person had to be called. The decision

did not sit well with someone and I could almost bet a fistfight was in the offing, at minimum there was intense disagreement with the decision. Keep in mind rule 1: the best interest of the game comes first. Another day the decision may go another way; in the meantime fairness [as the floor person sees it] is the top priority. Deal with it and play on. Rule 3: OFFICIAL TERMINOLOGY Official terms are simple, unmistakable & time-honored declarations such as: Bet, Call, Fold, Raise, Check, All-in, Pot (in pot-limit only) and Complete. Regional terminology may also meet this standard. The use of non-standard terminology is at player’s risk. I have been present on more than one occasion when a player said, mumbled or grunted something - which was misinterpreted by someone else - which then caused a situation - whereby the floor person had to be called over - a decision rendered - and then someone wasn’t happy. Remember it is up to the player to make their decisions/actions known in such a way to minimize misunderstanding. The best way to accomplish this is to verbalize your action first using clear and concise terminology, and then do it. This has direct relevance to other rules that will be noted in later articles. More in the next issue…

Card counting isn’t that complicated

B

lackjack is unique among casino games in that the odds fluctuate with every deal. Depending upon which cards have been dealt and which remain, the advantage that the house wields over players changes constantly. At times it’s greater, at other times less, sometimes even tipping toward player advantage. Not so long ago it was practical only for professional players to invest the hundreds of hours of time necessary to learn a complicated card counting system in an attempt to capitalize on casino blackjack’s vulnerability. Two of the most respected gambling authorities in the country have ultrasimple card tracking methods that are

PAGE 18

so easy to learn that casual and recreational players no longer have an excuse not to take their game to the next level. The first method is available free of charge on Michael Shackleford’s marvelous gambling Website, www.wizardofodds. com . Shackleford, a.k.a “The Wizard of Odds,” is an actuary by profession whose passion is analyzing casino games using pinpoint mathematical accuracy. When you log on to the site, click on “blackjack” under “Game Info & Strategies” and access “The Wizard Ace Five Count”. It’s a method founded on the importance of five-value cards first revealed in the 1961 landmark gambling book Beat the Dealer by Edward O.

Thorp, who discovered through mathematical analysis that fives are the most powerful cards in the deck for dealers. Another component is keeping track of aces, the card that makes it possible for players to be dealt a two-card 21 (blackjack) and receive a 3 to 2 payoff. Fewer aces remaining to be dealt translates into a diminished chance of capitalizing on this huge player perk. Shackleford recommends starting a running count at zero at the start of a new shoe. For every five you see dealt, add one. For every ace you see dealt, subtract one. If the running count is at zero or in negative range, make your minimum bet. Otherwise gamble twice your minimum bet multiplied by the positive running count number. All playing decisions are to be made according to basic strategy. He says the strategy is designed to give players positive expected value in six-deck games where the dealer stands

THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years

on soft 17. The second simplified card counting system is detailed in gambling guru Frank Scoblete’s book, Golden Touch Blackjack Revolution published by Research Services Unlimited. Scoblete’s “Speed Count” is an easyto-learn method based on tracking small value cards, the essence of which takes up only a few pages. But it’s the supporting chapters along with the free blackjack training CD included with the book that makes this treatise an all-inclusive, information-packed tutorial covering all aspects of the game. Although neither of the methods gives you the accuracy of a card-by-card count that the pros use, used in conjunction with basic strategy they will improve your blackjack game immensely and permit you to take advantage of the game’s mathematical fluctuations. November 6 - 19, 2012


Gaming

20 biggest blackjack mistakes There are many factors that go into win- a repeating pattern of bad cards. (In my 10+ ning at blackjack and most players ignore years of blackjack, shuffling and card behavmost of them. Card strategy is just one factor ior research, I discovered repeating phenomenon you need to know about!) (and most players get that wrong too). Not choosing games carefully enough. Here are the 20 biggest blackjack mistakes most players make that cost them mon- Players rarely pay attention to the rules and restrictions at the tables etarily: (which vary from casino Not choosing a casino to casino and within a carefully. As with anycasino). There are rething else, there are good strictions you should and not so good casinos. not accept (for instance, At the not-so-good casilimiting you to doubling nos you will win less (if down only on 10s and you win at all). There are By Richard Harvey 11s). And there are opeven some rogue casinos tions you should seek that even cheat. (Would out (for instance, suryou know how to identify those? That’s in Chapter 11 of Blackjack The render, which is akin to folding in poker but you keep half your bet; not offered everySmart Way.) Sitting at just any table. Most players where but a powerful option worth seeking don’t realize that the choice of a table is out). Not choosing games with optimal numa vital consideration. There are good and bad tables. You should avoid the bad ones. bers of decks - that is, single and double deck In Blackjack The Smart Way, I give players games, which are so much more predictable entry-level methods of doing this; in Cutting and therefore your likelihood of winning is Edge Blackjack, I give players more scientific so much greater. Ignoring the number of players at the methods of doing this. We’ll look at a few factors below that make tables desirable or not. table (vis a vis card analysis) and being unSitting at just any seat at any table. Some- aware that the number of players affects your times you can even pick up a winning cycle likelihood of winning. I have a whole chapter from another player if you have the oppor- in Cutting Edge Blackjack on how this critical tunity to sit in the right position. But most factor affects your likelihood of winning. players, unaware of the importance of seat Being unaware that the card mix in play placement, often wind up sitting at losing can be good or bad (and therefore it should betting spots. Just one example: How many factor into what table you play at or whether times have you seen a player who’s been you leave or stay). dealt primarily losing hands get up in disgust Not choosing dealers carefully. Some are and see another player immediately take his good, some bad. Some even cheat. or her place? That seat’s a likely loser, getting Not paying attention to the cards dealt.

What causes streaks in gambling? Gamblers believe in streaks. A machine or table or dealer is hot or cold. Not “has been” hot or cold, “is” hot or cold. Meaning the past should continue into the future. Implying a cause -- an inexplicable force, a mystical power, someone in the back room pushing the right buttons, that kind of thing. So many slot stuffers don’t stop with a tidy profit after a successful series of spins. The machine is on a streak! Sometimes such steadfastness is rewarded, corroborating their convictions. More often this dedication is disappointing, disproving nothing -just showing the machine really wasn’t on a streak after all. And countless table players press their bets after a win or two. They’re on a streak! When hits continue and profits mount, it was

November 6 - 19, 2012

because they knew about streaks. When the first defeat after a string of victories wipes out a big gain, it was because the run was only a teaser, or the flow of the cards changed when a blackjack bozo bet an extra spot, or the dice hit the chips the dealer stacked on the layout where the shooter was aiming. Casino bosses, on the other hand, are disbelievers. If a game is giving away money, something must be amiss. A slot machine is on the fritz, a blackjack player is counting cards and tracking aces during the shuffle, the dice have been compromised, a dealer isn’t following procedure. Mathematically, the laws of probability anticipate streaks of various lengths in random processes. The likelihood they’ll occur can be computed. And, although the odds of a protracted run when you’ve got your allowance on the line may be small, the chance of such a series during an extended set of trials may surprise you. I’ll use baccarat to illustrate the players’ perspective. Baccarat buffs believe in streaks

Your best move will vary depending on what cards were dealt beforehand. Pay attention! Not paying attention to how the cards are being handled: shuffled, collected, discarded. This practice, for example, enables you know where to place the cut card, to cut out bad cards and bring back good. Not knowing how to bet. This should be tied to and reflect your odds of winning in the next round. Not knowing how to determine their likelihood of winning in a round or going into the next round. With my scientifically and mathematically accurate Precision Betting Method introduced in the Third Edition of Cutting Edge Blackjack, you can now make highly precise bets and there’s no excuse not to. The old school methods (basic strategy and card counting) never figured this out. Not knowing how to analyze the cards. Few players know, for instance, how to determine whether they’re holding a winning or losing hand. This information is crucial to making the financially-smartest moves within a round or going into the next. Not knowing how to determine if the dealer’s likely to bust or not. Depending on what remains in the undealt mix of cards, the dealer’s likelihood of busting - no matter what the up card - varies. You need to know how to figure out whether the dealer’s weak or strong in any given round. For instance, when the dealer’s got a low up card and low up cards are due at the dealer’s turn, look out! You cannot stand on your stiffs in that case! Many players are still playing according to the old school methods - using basic strategy or card counting! As I’ve proven through my research, these methods are highly ineffective, to be kind. Not paying attention to how well they’re doing at the table/betting spot. Even at win-

ning tables, there are most often one or more losing spots due to repeating patterns. There are times it’s best to get up and leave (yet few players seem to know when to do this, whether up or down)! Not studying the game. If you can’t explain to me or anyone else why you make every card move and betting decision you make, you don’t know enough about the game and anything you don’t know will come back to bite you in the way of losses. Not keeping a blackjack notebook. You must do this, for example, to determine which casinos and dealers are best for you, and how well you’re doing overall. Not staying anonymous. You’ll get barred if you win too much and don’t stay anonymous. Don’t sign up for comp cards, for example! Not leaving when something’s wrong or a countermeasure’s in play. If I’m winning big and the pit boss brings in a new dealer and a new deck of cards at an unusual time (not the time the casino normally does this), it’s time to leave. Chances are the new deck and mix of cards set in play will not be as good as the one I’ve been facing. And that’s just some of what goes into winning...which you can take to the bank.

so strongly they keep track of results on little scorecards. The principal bets in this game, “player” and “banker”, each win close to half of all decisions. The chance of a run of 10 winning player or banker hands in a row is a modest one out of 512. However, in 500 rounds, the chance of at least one such streak exceeds one out of five. A solid citizen could easily play 500 rounds during a casino visit, and therefore wouldn’t find a 10-hand streak unusual. A frequent player would think such phenomena dominate the game, having seen them often. A roulette example shows how some casino executives view streaks. In a year, a busy table might log 350,000 spins. Say the casino uses a fancy computer system to monitor and analyze such a table, for fear that if the wheel is somehow biased, certain players will be able to “clock” and exploit the effect. One day, the computer detects the ball landing in one of the 19 numbers on half the wheel 20 times in a row. Goons are dispatched to close the game. As fate would have it, a player with a pro­gressive wagering strategy and a system for covering half the wheel got to the table at the onset of this series, bet the right segment, and was making a

mint. The casino bosses were sure they were being bamboozled. They knew the chance of any arbitrary half of the wheel winning 20 times in a row is a low one out of 524,288. They didn’t realize that in 350,000 spins, the chance of at least one run in which any selected set of 19 numbers will win or lose 20 times in a row is a high two out of 13. Had they closed the game sooner, say after the player had won 15 times in a row, they would have been exhibiting extraordinary paranoia and statistical naiveté. The probability of at least one 15-win streak of this type in 350,000 spins is over 99.5 percent; the probability of five or more such runs is nearly 62 percent. As a set of trials gets long, the probability it’ll include a “streak” increases. So, over time in a casino where millions of bets are made every day, long runs of wins or losses can be expected. Not because of any motivating factors. Purely by chance. And creating a dilemma dolefully described by the poet, Sumner A Ingmark, thusly: A gambling streak’s good fortune, you win again and again, The math predicts how often, but nothing can tell you when.

THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years

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 http:// www.blackjacktoday.com.

PAGE 19


Gaming

My worst hand of poker in 2012

L

poker talk

ast weekend I played the absolute worst hand of poker I have played all year! It was really two hands that tied together but I played BY both horrendous. LARRY I called due to emoJOHNSON tion and my step-by-step play was weak. But, the – 10c. The blinds were solid playresult goes to show you that when gambling anything can ers who would lay down a hand if happen. My opponent (we’ll call they didn’t have cards. The small blind folded with him Memphis for the purposes Memphis (big blind) looking like here) actually played perfectly. The game was a solid $30 - $60 he was tossing in his cards - he ½ kill game at the Ameristar Pok- then looked at me, slowly calling. The flop came Qh, 4s, 7c – a er Room. I had been playing for nearly 4 hours and of the $1,000 horrible flop for me. Memphis I had put on the felt I was gasping checked and I made a follow through bet of $30. He slowly for life with just over $400 left. Memphis is a very strong play- called and the turn came a 4d – no er – readable but always with ei- help. He again checked and I bet ther the best hand or a great draw. $60 thinking at this point I could The first hand was designed take it. I was completely wrong to be a simple blind steal on the he check raised me immediately button. I raised to $60 with a 9c and I tossed in my hand.

Humor

What I meant to say W

hen you tell the wait- sive and I agree with it. ress, “I’d like the salad,” For example, when somedon’t you really mean, one is giving me directions, and “I’ll ORDER the salad. What I’d they say, “You can’t miss it,” I LIKE is a bacon double cheese- know what they really mean burger, french fries is THEY can’t miss and a large chocolate it. But, remember, shake.” Well, that’s THEY’VE already what I mean. But if been there. Is it on I said what I meant, fire? Blocking the it wouldn’t be too road? No? Then I can much later that I’d miss it. be saying, “I guess When a dog owner my eyes were bigger says their growling than my stomach,” dog doesn’t bite, what and we both know they really mean is, By Dorothy Rosby I don’t really mean their dog doesn’t bite drosby@rushmore.com that. THEM. That’s be-

Clearly, we don’t always say what we mean. And I’m not necessarily suggesting that we start. If we did, both the unemployment and the divorce rates might be even higher than they are. Nevertheless, sometimes I find it refreshing when other people say what they really mean – as long as it isn’t offen-

PAGE 20

cause they feed it. When someone says, “Nothing is impossible,” they’re not recommending you try pouring ten-ounces of hot cocoa into an eight-ounce cup or attempt skydiving without a parachute. And no one who says, “I don’t have a thing to wear,” is thinking of going naked. Thank

What could he have had? A big pair – then I think he would have re-raised before the flop. Two crappy cards – then why did he call the flop? A total bluff – if so, then I really was easy to read and he out played me. As he’s stacking, I’m stewing with the blinds approaching and barely enough chips to play another hand. I just can’t stand being check-raised heads up. A few hands later I looked down to Jh – 9d and was preparing to toss it away when I heard “raise and “re-raise.” Memphis was the re-raiser and for some reason I found myself tossing in $90 and crying out “call!” As I watched his reaction, it was good to see him take a concerned look at me – clearly wondering about the call. The small blind and original raiser called, taking four of us to the flop. The sad part is while he thought I had a real hand, I was just frustrated. I knew it was a bad play at

goodness. If the sign says “Slow Children,” it’s not a reflection on the families in the neighborhood. And if you see an advertisement with the words, “Children are free,” it probably means children GET IN free. You shouldn’t get too excited if you’re in the market for one. When the trailer says the movie is for “mature audiences only,” the chances are good it’s really for immature adults. And when you call up the doctor’s office, and the receptionist says, “Can you spell your name,” I think she already knows you can. Sometimes people say things they may or may not actually mean. But insecure listeners like me can easily take them the wrong way. Like when someone says, “You look nice today,” I always wonder if they think I don’t any other

the time but also did know his reraise meant pocket K’s or A’s thus I did have the element of surprise on my side. Just kidding – he actually had me right where he wanted me / playing by emotion, from behind and short stacked. The flop came Jc, 7h, 3h, giving me top pair. The small blind bet, Memphis raised (I was now sure he had pocket kings) and myself along with the small blind called. At this point I had absolutely no doubt I was behind and was drawing to a total of 5 outs – 3 Nines and 2 Jacks, maybe a 22 percent chance of winning. The turn came a Qc – devastating my hand if I was wrong and Memphis had pocket Q’s or the small blind was holding a lady. I had the small blind pegged on a small pair and this was proven out when Memphis bet $60, I called and he folding in disgust. The river came the 9s making the board Jc, 7h, 3h, Qc, 9s - giving me two pair. Memphis hesitatingly bet and here is where I compounded my bad play. I had him pegged at a big pair and I had 2 pair / I just called rather than

day. If they say, “You look like you’ve lost weight,” I wonder if that means they think I needed to. And if they say, “you can get away with it,” I wonder if they really mean they wouldn’t be caught dead in it. When somebody says, “No offense, but . . .,” I’ve taken offense before they get the rest of

THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years

raising. While I only had a few dollars left, I should have raised to maximize the hand. Can someone say “Bet your hand” or “Take off the skirt” to me please? As I called I tossed out my cards declaring “Two Pair” and I could immediately see I was right – he tossed pocket K’s on top of the pot with an exclamation. He then got up, walked for a couple of hands, came back, racked up, and left without a word. To his credit – no smack talk or complaining. I ended up winning more than $700 on the pot and cashed out a few minutes later just a few dollars up for the day. When my play here is evaluated, I was definitely in the hand for the wrong reasons (mad and gambling), played soft (didn’t raise when I hit my hand) – and simply just got fantastically lucky. Sure I knew the odds. Sure I read Memphis like a book and sure, I knew where I stood. But that makes the play even worse – I should have known better! But as poker players across the world say every day “lesson learned.” Remember – play your game!

the sentence out. And if they say, “Don’t take this wrong,” I already have. When someone asks, “How are you?” don’t you wonder if they really want to know. When I answer, “I’m doing good,” I certainly don’t mean it every time. If somebody tells you, “You’re not getting any younger,” I’m pretty sure they mean “you’re old.” When they say, “Your heart is in the right place,” they’re implying that everything else is a little off kilter. And if someone says, “Well, it’s none of my business,” trust me, that doesn’t mean they don’t want to know. (To say what you mean, contact drosby@rushmore.com or see www.dorothyrosby.com.) November 6 - 19, 2012


Trail’s End

Struggling to become Colorado In pioneer days there were sometimes many more votes than people

a Constitutional Convention was convened to draw a document for the State of Jefferson; again, no Washington official had requested this process. rom the first William Byers was the tip of a gold author of this docupan, Colo- By Linda Jones ment, which he copied jones.128@live.com rado miners nearly verbatim from sought law and orthe 1857 Iowa Conder to protect their precious gold stitution. Voters in the new gold claims. A correspondent for The towns rejected it on Sept. 5, 1859, Boston Journal in 1867 reported, by a vote of 2,007 to 1,649, with a “Establish a thousand American curious twist. Fountain City, foresettlers in the Himalayas, and in runner of Pueblo, approved the one month, they would have all proposed Constitution by a vote of needful laws in operation, with life 1,089 to 1, despite the fact the town and property quite as well protect- had a population of less than 100 ed as in the city of New York.” Thinking the objection was to a When the Pikes Peak Gold Rush state at this early stage, not an ofbegan in May 1859, the new gold ficial government, Byers proceeded fields were nominally in Indian Ter- with a proposal for a Territory of ritory within the Territory of Kan- Jefferson. Again the document was sas. With the capital hundreds of a shortened version of the Iowa miles to the east, the miners want- Constitution, and when the voters ed, and needed, justice closer. Only considered it on Oct. 24, 1859, they a few weeks after John Gregory’s approved it. Again Fountain City strike in present-day Black Hawk was overwhelmingly in favor; they on May 6, the thousands of miners approved it by a margin of 1,500 to already in Gregory’s Diggings met 0 against. and organized the Gregory MinProponents of Jefferson Terriing District, a one-page document tory had gambled that Washingwith all necessary laws to protect ton would acquiesce and recognize property and people. Other min- this new territory if the popular ing districts in Gilpin and Boulder vote was heavily in favor. They counties swiftly followed. were wrong. The federal governDonald Hensel said, “The scrap ment ignored it. Jefferson Terriof the pick, the bite of the ax, and tory limped along with an elected the cut of the plow were invariably legislature and Gov. Robert Steele, followed by the rap of the gavel.” but the taxes levied by the Territory Although the Miners District were ignored by the citizens, thus laws worked well in the mountain hamstringing the new government. mining communities, the plains Denver residents were so disillutowns adopted People’s Courts. sioned with Jefferson territory that Apparently they were not a suf- they seceded, forming the People’s ficient deterrent in Denver because Government of Denver. Horace Greeley recalled: “DurSixteen months later, Washinging my two week’s sojourn, [there ton created an official Colorado Terwere] more brawls, more fights, ritory. During our 15 years as Colomore pistol-shots with criminal in- rado Territory, statehood attempts tent in this log city of 150 dwellings, were promoted several times both not three-fourths completed, nor here and in Washington, D.C., but two-thirds inhabited, nor one-third the timing between the two arenas fit to be, than in any community of didn’t coincide for years. no greater numbers on earth.” From the beginning, Colorado 1864 attempt – pioneers wanted more official representation. A delegate to Con- Washington stage gress, which was unauthorized This first major statehood by Washington, was elected in movement was a result of the fedNovember 1858 when only a few eral Republican Party wanting hundred people wintered in Den- the three electoral votes Colorado ver and Golden. On Aug. 1, 1859, would bring. They pushed through

F

November 6 - 19, 2012

Early days of Gregory’s Diggings

an enabling act allowing our territory to frame a constitution and put it to a vote. However, politics within our territory’s Republican majority led the voters to defeat it soundly, 4,676 votes to 1,510.

1865 attempt – Colorado stage

Jerome Chaffee, a gifted political strategist, had immediately begun another statehood attempt without enabling legislation passed in Washington. This constitution was ratified by the territory’s voters by a thin margin, but politics back east doomed it because President Johnson and the “Radical Republicans” were maneuvering for power. Johnson vetoed the attempt because the enabling legislation was no longer valid.

1866 attempt – Washington stage

Déjà vu all over again, to quote Yogi Bear. Republican leaders passed a new enabling act for Colorado and Johnson vetoed it.

Photo courtesy of Gilpin County Historical Society

1868 attempt – Colorado stage

The “Denver crowd” – Chaffee, John Evans, John Chivington and William Byers – revived a statehood movement using the 1865 Constitution, while the “Golden/ Gilpin crowd” – Henry Teller and W.A.H. Loveland – opposed it. One of their many arguments was that the territorial population was not 75,000 or more as the Denver group claimed, but no more than 30,000. (The 1870 Census proved Teller was closest to the truth. There were less than 40,000.) Washington needed little convincing; statehood in the 1865 election had been favored by only 155 votes and Teller easily swayed Congress to his point of view.

1876 attempt – Colorado and Washington

This election year was worrisome to the dominant Republicans. Their incumbent, Ulysses Grant, was limited by the two-term tra-

THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years

dition established by Washington, and the corruption of his administration was becoming common knowledge. The party might need three new electoral votes, so on the last day of the session, March 3, 1875, Congress again approved enabling legislation for Colorado territory and set the boundaries of the state identical to the Territory. Voters were asked to choose 39 delegates to a Constitutional Convention in December 1875; 24 Republicans and 15 Democrats were chosen. On March 14, 1876, after 87 days, the convention adjourned. Voters overwhelmingly approved the new document 15,443 to 4,092 on July 1. President Grant quickly proclaimed the “Centennial State” on Aug. 1, 1876. Colorado’s three electoral votes did prove decisive in the most disputed presidential election in history prior to Bush/ Gore. In the 1876 election, Rutherford B. Hayes edged out the Democratic candidate, Samuel Tilden, by only one vote!

PAGE 21


Rollin’ Dough It’s time to tailgate

Send us your recipes!

To be featured in Rollin’ in the Dough: Send us a recipe, your name, a little about yourself, why you chose that recipe, a little about your cooking style, and of course your phone number in case we have questions. Email gambler@ villagerpublishing.com or mail to 8933 E Union Ave., Suite 230, Greenwood Village, CO 80111. Questions? Call Sharon at 303503-1388.

K.C. Barbecue Brisket

Garlic Grits

3 to 4 lbs. Lean Brisket Dash of: Celery Salt, Seasoning Salt Garlic Salt, Onion Salt, Salt & pepper

1-1/2 bottle Wright’s Liquid Smoke 1 bottle Barbecue Sauce (your favorite brand)

Place brisket in 13 x 9 baking dish or pan and sprinkle both sides with seasonings. Pour liquid smoke over brisket and cover with foil. Marinate overnight in refrigerator. Bake 6-1/2 hours at 275 degrees. Cut diagonally in thin slices, keeping meat in

original shape. Cover with barbecue sauce and keep warm until serving. (I usually leave some of the brisket plain for guests who are not barbecue devotees.) Brisket can be served with potato rolls purchased from local grocers. Serves: 10

2 Cups Instant Quaker Grits 4 Cups Water ½ Cup Milk arlic Cheese (this is hard to find, 2 – 6 oz. rolls G so use any soft cheese, e.g. Velveeta) 4 Eggs Beaten ¼ Lb. Butter or margarine Salt and Pepper to taste Parmesan cheese Paprika, if desired

company rice 2 Cups Long grain white rice 2 Bunches Chopped green onions (cut in green part, too) 2 Cubes Butter 4 Cups Beef consommé or chicken broth

3 Small cans Pinch of each: Oregano, basil, thyme Mushroom pieces and stems plus juice 2 cloves Garlic, cut up Salt and Pepper

Cook grits until done (don’t leave on high heat). Beat eggs and milk, stir in with remaining ingredients, except Parmesan cheese and paprika (you can also add chopped peppers). Pour into greased casserole. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and paprika. Bake 300° to 325° for 45 minutes to one hour.

Sauté rice and onions in ½ lb. butter. Bring Put in covered casserole and bake at 325° for 1 other ingredients to a boil, and then add rice. to 1-1/2 hours.

Susan Brett

This is really a favorite of family and friends. Great side dishes to serve with this brisket: Company Rice or Grits . Choose one or the other. Susan Brett teaches kindergarten enrichment classes at Mission Viejo Elementary School in Aurora. Her creative talents include a springtime “make-believe” trip to Australia. Students learn all aspects about making passports, tickets, the plane trip (with a make-believe pilot), geographical location, sheep shearing.

Horoscope SCORPIO - (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You may find yourself so busy you’re cutting yourself off from other people. This is full moon time period for your sign and you should see an improvement in your life style and opportunities that will lead to success. You may be building a strong foundation that will fulfill some of the dreams you’ve wanted after a long, down hill slide. Lucky Numbers: 5, 18, 36, 37, 59, 61 SAGITTARIUS - (Nov. 23 - Dec. 21) Sagittarius is the sign that is frequently over-optimistic. You’re going in the right direction but must do your “due diligence,” and seek out the advice of the experts. Stay organized and stay on track while you mark off your checklists. Refrain from excess especially at work functions or in a new romance. “Celebrate” is your key word. Lucky Numbers: 7, 13, 29, 40, 50, 68 CAPRICORN - (Dec. 22 - Jan. 20) You may feel like you’re on a trampoline while you’re making decisions with or about a partner. It’s vital for you to make decisions, set a time schedules and act. You may have to change your thoughts about a person or find there’s been a misrepresentation of skills. Giving chances and waiting for things to turn around is too expensive. Go or let them go. It’s too expensive. Lucky Numbers: 3, 19, 35, 46, 53, 75 AQUARIUS - (Jan. 21 - Feb. 19) Don’t let your friendship be taken advantage of. This is a time to cultivate a pet project or fine tune the direction of your goals or education. It’s still time to protect your health and follow up on your messages. You may be making changes in either your work or home environment. Excessive spending may make a whole too difficult to climb out of. Lucky Numbers: 12, 14, 31, 42, 60, 78

PISCES (Feb 20 - March 20) Judge your dreams and time of romance against truth. Don’t let excuses be the reason for your actions. You may have to make some unwanted changes at work to prove how serious you are about becoming successful. If you must, follow let them go. Avoid favoritism to show how serious you really are. Success is yours. Lucky Numbers: 2, 20, 28, 48, 57, 66 ARIES - (March 21 - April 20) You are beginning to think of new successful and innovative ways on how to generate or increase new income into your life. Connections come from out of the blue to assist you in making those creative ideas become true. Assistance may come from a friend. The key word “following through” will help you see things to the end. Lucky Numbers: 11, 16, 30, 41, 49, 74 TAURUS - (April 21 - May 21) You are a true chatter box this week and others will be enjoy your company and will appreciate your wise and timely input or advice. You are tempted to spend money on something that is pleasing to the eye. Indulge yourself a little. You deserve to be frivolous now and then. There may a new addition to your family or a family gathering. Lucky Numbers: 4, 15, 27, 38, 56, 70 GEMINI - (May 22 - June 21) You may not find it difficult to make a personal compromise that is necessary, and in end save you some important time. You’re in a giving mood and find yourself with a positive attitude that will be contagious and bring out your good nature; It’ a good time to make peace or a great time for a vacation or at least a weekend of fun. Lucky Numbers: 1, 24, 32, 44, 51, 73

CANCER - (June 22 - July 22) You’re being more aggressive and successful in getting your finances on track and moving your life and career in the right direction. You’ve made sacrifices to get where you are today. You’re being more appreciated but will find it’s been all worth it. Relax and enjoy the quiet and creative time at home. You’ll be feeling healthier and more positive. Lucky Numbers: 8, 22, 26, 47, 58, 79 LEO - (July 23 - Aug 22) Some new events may come to the surface during the following week. And in the end you’ll be more productive at both work and home. You’ll want to do something you’ve done in the past to help solve a problem or the stress coming from work or doing your belated spring cleaning. Be positive; enjoy a movie or meal out, not limitations. Lucky Numbers: 6, 23, 25, 39, 55, 63 VIRGO - (Aug. 23 - Sept. 23) You may feel that you’re being taken advantage of. Set some limits on how you’ll help and than say no. You can’t please everyone and this is a perfect time for moving forward. You’ve been working hard and you need to start preparing for the future. There are others that would take all you have and still act as if that’s not enough. Lucky Numbers: 10, 21, 33, 32, 52, 76 LIBRA - (Sept. 24 - Oct. 23) You may hear the tinkling of fine china even though there’s none set in front of you. Simplicity is all you need to make you happy. You should find you’re making headway and may begin to get the pay and notice you’ve deserved for so long. A gift comes and there should be a pick-up in your social life. You may find yourself in an unusual environment. Lucky Numbers: 9, 17, 34, 43, 54, 66

Contact Mary Nightstar at marynightstar@yahoo.com and type “horoscope” in the subject line. PAGE 22

THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years

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PAGE 23



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