The Colorado Gambler 10.11.11

GamblerCelebrating 20 Years Serving Colorados Gaming Communitywww.coloradogambler.com coloradogambler cogambler

yr

Volume 20 Number 35

CASINO NEWSRiviera sells Black Hawk casino for

$76M to Atlantis Casino ownersPage 4

THEN AND NOWWe honor our writers, long-time

gaming employeesPages 11-13

THEN AND NOWA look back at Central City, Black

Hawk casinos historyPages 15-18

WINNERSFolks keep winning big at

Colorado casinosPage 22

C O U P O N S C O L O R A D O H I S T O R Y C A S I N O G U I D E G A M I N G M A P E N T E R T A I N M E N T

October 11- 24, 2011

See ValuableCoupons on page

23

Twenty Year CoverageContinues - Part 2 of 3of Our Keepsake IssuesLook for the Final KeepsakeEdition, Oct. 25

THE COLORADO GAMBLER Celebrating 20 Years

October 11 - 24, 2011

Publishers Column

Submitted by HPTThe aptly-named Craig Casino

emerged as the winner out of a record-breaking field of players pursuing Heartland Poker Tours largest payout to date, securing the coveted victory with pocket jacks. The ex-cop turned entre-preneur takes $293,270 home to Winfield, Ill., after busting out of the tournament twice.

For the first time in its seven-year history, HPT allowed play-ers to re-enter the Main Event if knocked out in one of four flights at Golden Gates Casino & Poker Parlour. The re-entry op-tion helped to build a prize pool exceeding $1 million, an HPT re-cord.

Champ Craig Casino persisted after two knockouts and found himself severely crippled late in day two. After losing a half million chips in one devastat-ing hand, he mistakenly began to collect his belongings before another player, ESPN.coms Ber-nard Lee, alerted Casino he still had two chips left. Within min-utes, Casino turned the measly 20,000 in chips into a massive lead and went to the Final Table with nearly 8 million chips.

Casino maintained his chip lead at the TV table, but had a worthy opponent in runner-up

Mary Flurkey of Golden. When her ace-eight ran into Casinos jacks, she missed the opportu-nity to become HPTs third fe-male champion. Considering her biggest win to date was $2,500, she was quite satisfied to claim $146,633 in second place.

Greg Lang, one of HPTs founders, noted the second-place money was greater than the en-tire prize pool at the tours first event in 2005.

Our first prize pool was $100,000, he said, Tonight, we awarded over $1 million. We owe thanks for the support of many dedicated folks along the way.

Golden Gates VP & General Manager Shannon Keel said, A one million dollar prize pool is a milestone for both Colorado and the Heartland Poker Tour. Gold-en Gates Casino and Black Hawk are now on the map of notable places to play poker in the coun-try. We look forward to the next HPT event in the spring of 2012.

For many players, the chance to elevate their status on national TV is a major advantage to HPT events. The lights and cameras held no appeal for Colorados Phil Martin. Im not here for the publicity, the fifth-place finisher said before claiming $57,108, Im here for the cash.

By Sharon Sweeney, co-owner Colorado Gambler

My love and belief in the power of newspapers began more than 35 years ago when I was a child working for my parents daily newspaper called The Daily Press in Craig. Our world revolved around printing daily and weekly newspapers throughout the northwestern slope, as it still does to-day. As a young girl, I worked nearly every duty of the newspaper business but it became very apparent to me

that sales was my calling. I sold newspapers on the streets every day after school and I realized I was pretty good at it when I returned to the office with my pockets full of money from asking strangers to buy that days newspaper hot off the press. I have been in sales my entire life and find meet-ing new people interesting and intriguing. My friends and family tell me Ive never meet a stranger, so when I started selling for the Gambler almost 20 years ago, it seemed like the perfect job for me which has proven to be true.

I remember going to Black Hawk, Central City and Crip-ple Creek every week and what I most remember from 20 years ago was all the uniquely costumed and outgoing greet-ers inviting you into their casino. I remember knowing them and most of the employees and management team on a first name basis and I remember the Fun Books that everyone gave out and were heavily sought after by avid gamblers because they were full of coupon offers such as a free roll of nickels, free lunch, a free T-shirt and lots of chotskies. I remember going into casinos and seeing children sitting on players laps and being allowed in the casinos. I remember the thrill of dropping my first quarters into the slot machines my first day visiting the casinos. I remember things being a bit more relaxed and managers, owners and employees hav-ing a little more time to sit and visit over coffee and having easy access to any office to just pop in and say hi.

I also remember picking up all copy, nuggets, original winners pictures and ads on CDs or in typewritten form in person every single week and we did a cut and paste layout.

Today everything is sent electronically, which I believe is quite efficient for the casinos and for the newspaper indus-try but leaves this owner missing the personal touch of the weekly one on one contact. Therefore, I have to work extra hard to develop those much needed and important relation-ships.

Today all three casino towns are very competitive and ev-eryone is busy trying to establish and maintain their market share. We all hope the popularity of Colorado casinos con-tinues to grow so we can all be here 20 years from now.

I would like to thank all of our loyal readers, all the casi-nos and our talented staff over the years and accomplished writers for your significant contribution to the success of this industry and the Colorado Gambler newspaper.

Lastly, I would like to thank my parents Bob & Gerri Sweeney for introducing me to this business as a young girl and giving me the opportunity to follow in their footsteps. Theres definitely ink in this familys blood.

Congratulations Colorado casinos and the Colorado Gambler for 20 memorable years. And by the way, wanna buy an ad?

I thank you readers, casinos and staff for the past 20 years

Mary Flurkey of Golden won $146,633 for second place in the tour-nament.Photos courtesy of HPT

Casino News

Casino hits jackpot for $293K in HPT record event

Persistence paid off for Craig Casino, who won the largest first-place prize ever awarded on Heartland Poker Tour at Golden Gates Casino in Black Hawk valued at $292,270.

www.coloradogambler.com coloradogambler cogambler

Gambler


October 11 - 24, 2011

Riviera sells Black Hawk casino for $76M to Atlantis Casino ownersBy Jeffrey V. Smith

R iviera Holdings Corp. of Las Vegas, which owns the historic Riviera on the Strip, announced it is sell-ing its casino in Black Hawk for $76 million to Renos Monarch Casino & Resort Inc, owner of the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa. The sale is subject to regulatory ap-proval and is expected to close be-fore the end of the second quarter of 2012.

Monarch is owned by the Fara-hi Family, which has an extensive business and gaming history. The family of founder David Farahi, which includes co-chairmen and CEO John Farahi, President Bob Farahi and former CFO Ben Fara-hi, own more than half of the com-pany. The family is best known for building the Atlantis resort in Reno from its beginnings as the Golden Road Motor Lodge in the 1970s.

This transaction is a true win-win for everyone involved, Chief Executive Officer of Riviera Hold-ings Corporation Andy Choy said. Divesting the Black Hawk prop-erty allows us to focus on turning around the historic Riviera Las Vegas.

He also added, the employees of the Riviera Black Hawk will have access to the resources they need to take that property to the next level.

The deal was the first major one for Riviera Holdings since it emerged from bankruptcy this spring in a deal put together by hotelier Barry Sternlicht. It is un-known, however, if the casino will keep the same name but Farahi said no immediate investment will take place at the property after the purchase is completed.

Todays announcement is an important milestone for us. De-spite the significant challenges

posed by the economy over the last several years, we have suc-cessfully positioned Monarch to take advantage of what we believe to be an attractive growth oppor-tunity, Monarchs Co-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer John Farahi said. Our decision to ac-quire this particular property was influenced by a combination of factors, including our desire for growth through geographic di-versification, the Riviera Black Hawks close proximity to the Denver market, its relatively fa-vorable regulatory environment and our ability to maximize rev-enue potential by applying our operational expertise at a facility whose parent company recently emerged from bankruptcy. We look forward to welcoming the Riviera Black Hawk team of ap-proximately 250 employees to the Monarch family.

The Riviera Black Hawk opened

in 2000. The property is the first casino in Black Hawk seen by visi-tors arriving from Denver on Hwy 119. It features approximately 750

slot machines, eight table games, a 250 seat buffet-style restaurant and a parking structure with ap-proximately 500 spaces.

Riviera Black Hawk

www.rivierablackhawk.comRiviera is going Batty in October

Make sure to visit Riviera every Fri-day and Saturday in October to win your chance to go Batty For Benjamins. One lucky winner every hour from 4 10 p.m. will select a bat and win up to $3,000 in Benjamins. Everyone receives one free entry just for coming in and additional en-tries for every 300 points earned. Dont miss your chance to go Batty for Ben-jamins. Just one way to Win at The Riv.

Possessed Pennies The Rivieras penny machines are pos-

sessed every Wednesday at the Riviera. Play your favorite penny slots and receive

4X points. Possessed Pennies are one of the many ways to WIN AT THE RIV.

Pink tool kit for breast cancerOctober is the month to lend a help-

ing hand when you pick up your Tomboy Tools Pink Kit on Thursday Oct. 20 be-ginning at 10 a.m., after earning just 300 points. $1 from each kit will be donated to the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer.

Riv for the Cure braceletEvery Saturday in October be one

of the first 500 guests in the door and pick up your free Riv for the Cure brace-let. For every bracelet handed out, the Riviera Black Hawk Casino will donate $1 in the Susan G. Komen for The Cure Foundation.

Diamond DaysDiamond Days have never been as

bright as they are in October with Bo-nus Diamond Days. If you are 50 or better get 4X points on slots, 2X points

on video poker and a half price buffet. Diamond Days are Monday and Tuesday with a special Diamond Days bonus on Sunday. Diamond Days is just one more way to Win at The Riv.

Rivieras entertainmentEvery Friday and Saturday from 8

p.m. to midnight and Sundays from noon 6 p.m. Oct. 14 16 Kari and Jerry Oct. 21-23 Saxy Lady Oct. 28 30 Naked City

www.canyoncasino.comJack-O-Lantern Cash Giveaway

Nine lucky winners will be randomly

selected to win up to $1,000 instantly, between 6 10 p.m. every Saturday night in October. Its so easy to be se-lected, simply use your Canyon Club card while playing slots.

Hot Seats at Hot TablesPlay table games every Saturday be-

tween 9 11 p.m. and be a lucky $50 Hot Seat winner. See table games for complete details.

Canyon Grille SpecialsEnjoy the $3.99 specials in the Can-

yon Grille. On Mondays enjoy taco sal-ad. Wednesday its a chicken or beef burrito and on Fridays they are serving chicken or beef tacos. Make sure to stop at Guest Services to get a Canyon Club card and take full advantage of the great $3.99 specials in October.

Collectible Football GlassesEnjoy your choice of draft beer in a

collectible football glass for just $3. Ask your favorite cocktail waitress how you can get yours!

Casino News


October 11 - 24, 2011

Business Profile

By Jeffrey V. Smith

For more than four decades, J&B Building Company em-ployees have exemplified the positive characteristics of a fam-ily business. Not only do actual relatives run the business, but all company employees and clients are considered, and treated, as members of the family lending to its motto of managing commercial property with a pride-in-owner-ship attitude, as if it was our own.

Originally founded in 1969 as a construction management and property management firm by Jay Levy, the business became a true family-run company when his brother Burton came on-board as a partner and giving birth to the J&B name (Jay and Burton). Since then, J&B Build-ing Company has broadened its focus into developments, man-agement and brokerage of com-mercial properties, including retail, industrial, office and mini storage.

The company now manages more than 500,000 square feet of commercial property along the Front Range and offers broker-age services, such as commercial sales and leasing and tenant and buyer representation. The busi-ness employs nine people and manages 17 commercial proper-ties, single-family residences and six vacant-land parcels.

Jay, who died on March 2, 2001, was the companys presi-dent from the beginning and originally worked as general con-tractor, and began building hous-es, small strip shopping centers and apartment buildings.

Burton, with his brother, de-veloped, syndicated and con-structed numerous commercial and multifamily projects. Burton received a BS, with a major in Ac-counting, from the University of Colorado in 1963, a JD from the University of Denver School of Law in 1966 and an LLM in taxa-tion from NYU School of Law in 1967. Prior to J&B, he worked in Los Angles for the tax depart-ment of Arthur Anderson. After Jay died, Burton became and remains president.

The family business extended to the next generation when Jays daughter Mindy joined the busi-ness in 1995 in the accounts pay-

able/accounts receivable posi-tion. She earned a M.B.A. degree from University of Denver in Real Estate and Construction Man-agement in 1988 and spent sev-eral years working in commercial banking and as a commercial real estate appraiser. Mindy is now CFO of the business, its corporate secretary and treasurer as well as the office manager. Additionally, Mindy holds an active Colorado Real Estate Brokers license.

I really never wanted to join [the family business] because I had no idea what I would do, Mindy said.

In 1995, however, the national appraisal firm she was working for closed its Denver office, she decided to give her familys busi-ness a try.

I love working in the fam-ily business, she said, and feel that not only are my relatives in the business family but everyone who works with us is family. Most of our employees stay with us a long time.

One of Mindys cousins joined the business as property manag-er but eventually left. One family member, however, was swapped for another when Jay asked Min-dys husband Steve Peckar to join the team in 2002.

We had just gotten married, and I did not think us being new-lyweds and working together was such a good idea, Mindy said. After my dad passed away, and I got over grieving, I start-ing thinking that when my uncle [Burton] retired, I would be run-ning the business by myself and I did not look forward to that, even though it was probably years in the future. I starting talking to both Steve and Burton, and over a period of about a year and a lot of meetings Steve decided to give up his career and come work with us. During the first couple of years we had some rough patches but after that everyone embraced Steve and he is really running the company.

Peckar left behind 18 years of experience in the commercial banking industry in areas of real

estate finance, construction lend-ing and debt restructuring. He earned a BS in Accounting from Colorado State University in 1984 and worked toward an MBA in Finance from 1986-1987 at Uni-versity of Colorado Denver. He directs the property underwriting and acquisitions, treasury man-agement, investments, leasing and construction management areas of the business. He also assists with strategic business decisions regarding commercial property acquisitions, sales, leas-ing and financial management. Steve holds an active Colorado Real Estate Brokers license and is the managing broker for J&B Realty.

Some highlights for the com-pany include a recent $1 mil-lion renovation of two old Boy Scouts buildings at 2901 and 2929 West 19th Avenue, across the street from Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The renova-tion involved asbestos removal and turned the 1970s-era build-ing into a modern office building with magnificent views of down-town and Sports Authority Field. J&B is now actively trying to sell or lease the property.

The companys core business of property management, how-

ever, still is its main focus and, as Mindy said, we keep getting bet-ter at it.

The real estate business is very cyclical and we see it really being played out during these tough economic times, she said. Centers that were struggling a few years ago are doing well now and ones that were in good shape in the past are now struggling. Overall our business is good and we are coping with the times and will forge ahead in the future.

One of the properties man-aged by J&B is the Union Ex-change Building in Greenwood Village. Among other businesses, the property is home to Villager Publishing, the publisher of the Colorado Gambler as well as J&Bs main offices.Some other members of the J&B extended family include Brent Delehoy, hired April 2007 as the companys property manager. He holds a Real Estate Brokers license and brings years of prop-erty maintenance and property management experience to the firm. Tamara Evans joined the com-panys accounting department in March 2010. She is primarily re-sponsible for accounts receivable and accounts payable along with collections. Evans has more than 20 years of accounting experi-ence to offer.Peter Kapuranis joined J&B in April 2010 as a commercial real estate broker and property man-ager. He earned a MBA from the University of Denver in 2008 as well as a BS in Real Estate and Fi-nance with a minor in Construc-tion Management from DU in 2007.

Marketing and Real Estate As-sistant Margaret Hansen joined J&B in July 2011. She also man-ages the companys executive suites, designs and updates its marketing materials, updates databases, handles mailing proj-ects, does market research, coor-dinates any print and web adver-tising and provides assistance to our property managers and bro-kers.

Related to the founders or not, no matter whos involved at J&B Building Company, its a family affair and positive business ex-perience.

Peter Kapuranis, Steve Peckar, Brent Delehoy, Margaret Hansen, Tamara Evans, Mindy Levy and Burton Levy are all part of the J&B Building Company family. Photo by Peter Jones

J&B Building Company proves family can work together to achieve success


October 11 - 24, 2011

Comeplay in ourbeautiful casino!118 Main St. 720-253-1669

www.cnty.com

Come see why our players love usChannel 7s A-List poll recently voted Century Casino as Denvers 2nd Best Casino only behind Ameristar. You wont find any towering hotels or rooftop pools at Century, but you will find friendly happy and energized players and staff engaged in a family type gathering. The Century difference is clearly evident from the moment you walk into the place. Everyone is always having a genuinely good time.

Take It or Trade itWould you take the safe money of a $200 prize, or risk it to win up to $500? Find out when you join us for Take It or Trade It. Even if youre a risk-taker, you cant win any less than $100. Earn weekly entries for cash drawings for just 150 base points each starting Oct. 2. Every Friday and Saturday starting Oct. 7, well hold hourly drawings for a lucky winner to Take It Or Trade It. Fridays Win $200 or Trade It for up to $500 from 4-9 p.m., plus win $500 at 11 p.m. Saturdays - Win $200 or Trade It for up to $500 from 2-9 p.m., plus win $500 at 11 p.m.

Score With FourBuy in with a Century Casino Players Card to get your Instant Cash Score

Card. Get all four of the score plays in one game type on that card in 24 hours and win $50 instantly. Score plays are: Blackjack suited blackjack in each suit; 3 card poker - straight flush, 3 of a kind, flush, straight; bonus 6 - 4 of a kind, full house, flush, straight; roulette - 4, 14, 24, 34; or craps - each of the 4 hardways. Drop your card in our barrel and join us Saturdays at 11 p.m. for our second chance drawings where you can win up to $300.

Senior CelebrationWe are expanding our rewards for guests aged 50 or better to three days a week on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Receive 2X points on their play ALL DAY from 8 a.m. 4 a.m., plus 50% off purchases at the Retro Deli or Mid City Grill. Fifty percent discount will apply to purchases made with Insta-Comp too! If a senior guest plays on Tuesdays on a Penny Slot they will receive the 5X Penny Tuesday points for that play.

3X Point MondaysOn Mondays enjoy 3X points from 8 a.m. to 4 a.m. for slot and video poker play.

5X Point Penny TuesdaysOn Tuesdays enjoy 5X Points on all Penny slots from 8 a.m. to 4 a.m.

Bingo ThursdaysPick up your Bingo card at the Players Club 1 hour before each game. Theres a $100 prize for each game starting at 11 a.m.

Happy BirthdayPlay on your birthday and get Double Points. Guests with a birthday coupon redeem it at the Players Club for their gift. Come in Sunday, Oct. 16, from 2 4 p.m. for appetizers, cake & cash.

www.famousbonanza.com

2X MondaysEarn 2X points all day on all machines, including video poker. $1 = 1 Point

40 & Getting BetterFor those guests 40 and older, earn 2X points all day on all machines every Wednesday. $1 = 1 Point. Earn 200 base points and receive half off one menu item at Millies Restaurant.

Bonanza BaseballJoin us from 8 p.m. 12:30 a.m. every Friday night to play Bonanza Baseball and win your share of more than $2,000 in CASH.

New Players / BirthdaysEarn 2X points all day on all machines on your first visit or the day of your Birthday. If you choose to come in Monday or Wednesday, you could earn 3X points. $1 = 1 Point

The ParlourLocated on the second floor of the Famous Bonanza Casino, we offer 2 deck pitch blackjack, roulette and

3-card poker. $5 minimum to $100 maximum on 2 deck pitch blackjack and $3 minimum and all shoe games. The Parlour also offers pool and darts.

2X MondaysEarn 2X points all day on all machines, including video poker. $1 = 1 Point

40 & Getting BetterFor those guests 40 and older, earn 2X points all day on all machines every Wednesday. $1 = 1 Point. Earn 200 base points and receive half off one menu item at Millies Restaurant.

New Players / BirthdaysEarn 2X points all day on all machines on your first visit or the day of your birthday. If you choose to come in Monday or Wednesday, you could earn 3x points. $1 = 1 Point

Fun for KidsBring your children to the lower level of the casino to enjoy a wide variety of arcade games for our younger than 21 guests.

www.fortunevalleycasino.com

Cruise-A-Day GiveawayWin your share of $100,000 in cash and cruises in October. Earn entries Oct. 1 31. Earn a drawing ticket for every 200 points earned. Drawings

every day at 8 p.m. Complete details in the Players Club.Merchandise GiveawaysSaturdays 10 a.m. 2 p.m.Carry-On Luggage Receive carry-on luggage on Saturday, Oct. 15, after earning 150 points.Luggage Wheeler Receive a luggage wheeler on Saturday, Oct. 22, after earning 250 points.Last Chance Luggage Grab Saturday, Oct. 29.Bonus PointsUp to 5x points on select machines.Free BingoEnjoy free bingo in the Lava Room every Monday-Friday starting in October at 2 p.m.

NFL football Watch football every Sunday and Monday night at our new Guitar Bar!The Lava Room The Lava Room is Colorados largest casino nightclub and the only nightclub in the Central City/ Black Hawk area. This 300-person nightclub isnt just any nightclub, it is an event room perfect for entertainment, live music, comedy, sports viewings and dancing. The Lava Room is fully equipped with a state-of-the-art sound system, HDTVs, dance floor, private bar, sunken stage with three levels of seating and standing area, specialty VIP section, and new smokers patio conveniently located opposite of the stage. This is the place to escape and enjoy entertainment of all kinds on weekdays and weekends.

Central City Nuggets

Visit us online:www.coloradogambler.com

and follow us on Twitter :COGamblerGambler

By Stu Wright

In October 1991, Motor Trend magazine selected BMWs 325i as one of the Ten Best automobiles of the 1992 model year. BMW had (and has) produced

automobiles since 1929 and along the way also produced airplane engines (WWII) and motorcycles. The highly anticipated 325i had been totally restyled and featured a 2.5-liter, 189-hp, DOHC inline, six cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission. The repu-tation of BMW had been burnished into the minds of the motoring public with the pro-duction of the 2002 during the 60s and 70s. That New Class compact sporting sedan featured the celebrated M10 four-cylinder engine, as well as independent suspension, MacPherson struts, and front disc brakes.

The 2002 was the precursor to the famed 325i that was introduced 20 years ago this month. The 1992 325i weighed a ton and a half, was 175 long, and reportedly acceler-ated 0 to 60mph in 8.0 seconds.

Twenty years have rolled by since the 325i introduction, and now the model most akin to that car is the 2011 BMW 328i. I recently was able to drive around in one with all-wheel drive and a 3.0 liter, 230-hp, DOHC six-cyl-inder engine and six-speed Steptronic auto-matic transmission. I have never owned a

BMW, but after some time behind the wheel, I see why the car has such a sterling reputa-tion.

This 2011 BMW 3 series is superior in vir-tually every way when compared to one sold 20 years ago. Consider that the 328i: Will go an additional two highway miles on a gallon of gas, will go 0 to 60 in two seconds less and will top out at an additional 15-mph when compared with its 1992 counterpart. And the price has gone from a base of $28,000 to a current $36,600, a reduction when inflation is factored in.

The Tasman green four-door sedan I had the pleasure of driving had saddle brown Da-kota leather upholstery, three-way heated front seats, tilt-telescope steering column, and all the power accessories including moonroof. The trunk is a rather large 14 cu-bic feet, and the wheels were 17, 10-spoke al-loys. Other amenities too numerous to men-tion were present in this Ultimate Driving Machine and the MSRP, as equipped, was $42,550.

When behind the wheel of a BMW, you expect (and receive) a taut, supple ride, lots of acceleration and crisp cornering capabili-ties. The car met my expectations on this day, and I also enjoyed the firm, well-bolstered bucket seats and sensible instrument pan-

el. Rear seating is, might I say, limited, but the car is manufactured with the people up front in mind. And up there the driver en-joys the aforementioned 0 to 60 mph accel-eration of six seconds and BMWs dynamic stability control for braking. That system includes stopping functions for deceleration, wet weather, incline and heat control. Bot-tom line: the BMW provides the GO and the WHOA.

For 20 years, BMW has avoided any bankruptcies, bailouts or boondoggles. Just steady progress that followed that 1992 Mo-tor Trend Top Ten selection and proceeding to todays sleek, technically advanced, fifth

generation 328i. Car & Driver magazine agreed with that 1992 selection, and tacked on 19 more in

succession to include the car that I drove last month. Ill second that (those) notion(s).

Stu Wright, a resident of Colorado since 1975, is a member of the Rocky Mountain Automo-tive Press. He is the owner of Planning Con-cepts, Inc. - life, health, and long-term care agency. Stu and his wife Ruth live in Greely and have three grown daughters who live in Denver. [email protected].

October 11 - 24, 2011 THE COLORADO GAMBLER Celebrating 20 Years PAGE 9

Then & Now

Oct. 1991 Motor Trend magazine

selected BMW 325i as Ten Best auto-

mobiles for 1992.

BMW: 20 years of pride and progress

The MSRP, as equipped for the 2011 BMW 328i, is $42,550.

Photos courtesy of Stu Wright


October 11 - 24, 2011

Central City

Central Citys third annual Creepy Crawl isnt your ordinary community haunted house; its 150 years of leg-endary history and a town with a spooky tale, or 10, to tell.

Saturdays in October, scare seekers, Ghost Hunter enthusiasts and the Hal-loween spirited will explore Central Citys most infamous haunts while listening to generations old ghost-lore.

The 60+ minute lantern-lit walking tours are led by guides from Gilpin County Histori-cal Society and uncover eerie evidence of days of past. Detailing first hand supernatural ac-counts and bone chilling ghostly encounters at various haunted hot spots throughout town, guides will lead guests through the creaky old hallways, whispering rooms and grave sites that serve as backdrops for this towns spookiest stories.

Through the Central City Creepy Crawl, Coloradans will have a new option for ex-ploring haunts and ghosts in one of Col-orados oldest towns, Central City, said Linda Jones, director of the Gilpin Histori-

cal Society and Colorado Gambler writer. One hundred fifty years of mining, gun-fighting and the like have produced oodles of ghost stories, and lots of sightings, in spots throughout our historic mining and gambling town.

Tours are offered on Saturdays in Octo-ber Oct. 15, 22 and 29. Not-quite-so-scary family tours will depart at 6:30 p.m. and 6:45 p.m., and adults only 21+ tours are between 7 p.m. 9 p.m. (on each quarter hour).

Guests must check in on the lower level of Century Casino, at 102 Main St., by en-tering through the Gregory street entrance. Significant walking is involved, including steep hills and stairways, so sturdy shoes and a healthy spirit are a must.

Tickets are $5 each, or $10 cash at the door (dependant on availabilitypur-chase early to guarantee admittance). They can be purchased at any King Soop-ers/City Market location, online at www.ticketswest.com, or by phone 1-866-464-2626.

LetsGhost

October 11 - 24, 2011


PAGE 11

15 - 20 Year Employees

Congratulatesthe Colorado Gambler

on 20 years of publishingPrairie Mountain Publishing

Prairie Mountainp u b l i s h i n g








formerly Times-Call Publishing

honors long-time gamingindustry employees, history writersGambler

Continued on Page 12

A s the gaming industry and the celebrated 20 years on Oct. 1, the Gambler wanted to recognize some of the hard working people that have served the in-dustry. We also want to than our great history writers who have been contributing to the Gambler over the past 15-20 years. Congratu-lations to the casinos, employees and anyone whos been there since the beginning.

Rosemary FetterColorado Gambler history writer

Rosemary Fetter is a Den-ver native with a lifelong love of local history. As a youngster

she spent several years in South America and I n d o n e s i a , where her father made B - m o v i e s and worked undercover as a spy for the CIA. (Not really, but it makes her sound a

little less dull.) A graduate of the University of Colorado at Boulder, she tried numerous occupations before becoming public relations director for the Auraria Higher Education Center, where she spent several years trying to explain to stu-dents why they could never find

a parking place. Meanwhile, in order to stay sane while rais-ing two teenage boys, she took graduate classes in Colorado history at the University of Col-orado at Denver from Dr. Tom Noel. (OK, forget the sane part.)

She got her first job as a freelance writer in November 1993, submitting an article to the , which had a very toler-ant editor at the time. She has written for the paper ever since, on innumerable topics rang-ing from historic preserva-tion and mining towns to bad weather, ghosts, movie palaces and UFOs. Shes also published articles in several other news-papers and magazines which prefer to remain anonymous. Her three books include , and at the other end of the spectrum, a history of the Denver Rotary

Club, due to be published next July. A long-time member of the Denver Womans Press Club, she has won in-house writing awards for non-fiction and commercial publications, although it was way back in the 90s. Interests and hobbies include local history, architec-ture, film, music and theater, and long vacations.

Jan (MacKell) CollinsColorado Gambler history writer

Working in the casinos enabled me to move to Cripple Creek, buy a house and achieve my dreams as an author. I am especially in-debted to the Colorado Gambler, which has let me write about all of my favorite places and people over the years. Thank you SO much to Sharon, Bob, Jean, and the rest of the staff at the . You have treated me like family. Thanks to you, and

many others, I am now an estab-lished author and director of the Cripple Creek District Museum. I could not have done that without you and all my rowdy friends in the Cripple Creek District.

Rosemary Fetter

Jan Collins & her husband, Corey


October 11 - 24, 2011

Linda JonesColorado Gambler history writer

I m a very l u c k y woman - my adult working life has been a c o m b i -n a t i o n of tour g u i d -ing and writing. And the best part of both has been the people Ive met.

Writing settled in my bones in high school, where I edited our school newspaper and our year-book. (Publishing a yearbook dates me, I know.) I also wrote for the Jayhawker, the University of Kansas yearbook and a column for our church denominations two-state newsletter.

I discovered tour guiding as a docent at the Mollie Brown House between 1975 1981 and became a professional tour guide in 1976. Ive juggled both these profes-sions all my adult life. Ive owned two tour companies, served as a featured presenter at tourism con-ferences and as a member of the metro Denver Convention & Visi-tors Bureau. Ive been honored to be included as a tour guide in Whos Who in America for many years.

I began writing for the casino business in January 1994 for the first issue of Casino & Entertain-ment Guide. It folded after that one issue, but the Editor Peter Droege took me with him when be-came the editor of the new Rocky Mountain News gaming guide. When that publication ceased hir-ing outside writers in July 1994, I immediately began writing for the Colorado Gambler.

Writing for the Gambler intro-duced me to the other history and feature writers and that has been a treasured experience. I list all my published stories on my com-puter and Im amazed that the list now stands at 1,149 stories and ar-ticles; the majority of these stories

were published in the Gambler. Ive had two books published; the first was A Guide to the Queen City, Mile High Denver with Vickie Schroeder, and the second, Up the Gulch, Historic Walking Tours of Black Hawk, Central City and Nevadaville, with Cath-leen Norman. The Sweeney family has been ideal bosses, and I am grateful Ive had the opportunity to work with them. I have many pleasant memories of meeting ca-sino employees and gamblers and I hope to meet many more of you in the coming months.

Cathleen NormanColorado Gambler history writerI voted for legalized gaming in Colorado because I knew that it would create jobs in the three seasonal-t o u r i s m m i n i n g t o w n s . S i n c e t h e n , g a m i n g activity in C r i p p l e C r e e k , C e n t r a l City and Black Hawk has pro-duced a bonanza of historic pres-ervation funds, not to mention strengthening local economies and providing recreation for hun-dreds of thousands of visitors to the three gaming towns.As a Colorado Gambler writer since 1991, I am blessed to write about the places and events close to my heart. My articles give me the chance to dig and delve and discover to tell count-less stories about early Colo-rado. I appreciate being part of the Gambler clan, joining with the other top-notch history writers. And I look forward to the next 20 years.

Linda WommackColorado Gambler history writerSince my first article for the Gambler in 1992, I have met and

w o r k e d with some great peo-ple and attended g r e a t e v e n t s a c r o s s the state. L o o k -ing back on those early years, I chuckle remembering the way we did things. We didnt have email. Articles were faxed in and some-one had to type them into the computer for publishing. Sharon would personally pick up pho-tographs for scanning and then mail them back. With hard work, commitment, and the pride and pleasure we take in what we do, the Colorado Gambler has cer-tainly grown as a devoted publi-cation to the gaming community. As I travel the state on history treks, visits or meetings, I almost always find the Colorado Gam-bler at one venue or another. I remember taking two large bun-dles of the publication to Cripple Creek with me for the Grand Opening of Womacks Casino in 1993. On a trip to Cheyenne, I found the Gambler at the Visi-tors Center in Fort Collins, and then at the center in Lamar. In-deed, we cover the state. For the past four years I have been in-vited to the local coffee shop on Main Street in Brush. Everyone brings their copies of the Gam-bler and we talk history over cof-fee and donuts. Five years ago, the Sweeneys graciously hosted a book signing party for the four history writers at a casino in Cen-tral City. I, along with my friends and colleagues, Linda Jones, Cathleen Norman and Rosemary Fetter, had a wonderful after-noon of meeting the folks who read what we write every week.I am proud to have been asso-ciated with this fine publication and the Sweeney family, almost from the very beginning and

thank them, the staff, the read-ers and the advertisers for 20 great years and I look forward to many more years to come.

Pam SullivanBlackjack dealer - Century CasinoPam Sul-livan is a blackjack d e a l e r /dual rate and has b e e n s i n c e M a r c h 1 9 9 2 . She cur-rently works at Century Casino and loves being in Central City and at a smaller friendly ca-sino. Laid off from a computer job of many years in 1991, Pam looked to do something differ-ent. In March, she will be for-tunate enough to be dealing for 20 years. Pam says it has been a wonderful life experience with shes met many exceptional people.

Laurel TriscariOffice manager, slot revenue supervisor - Famous Bo-nanza and Easy StreetL a u r e l T r i s c a r i b e g a n working in gaming in 1994 after transfer-ring from Evergreen to the F a m o u s Bonanza Gift shop in 1992. She began as a slot statistician and fondly remembers the days when there were not even bill validators and everything was completed manually. For many years now, Laurel has been the office manager and slot revenue supervisor for Famous Bonanza and Easy Street.

Sam WittnerSlot tech - Famous Bonanza and Easy StreetSam was one of the first employees hired by The Famous Bo-nanza Casi-no. His first job was as a floor super-visor. He moved to a slot tech position about 15 years ago and has worked in that capacity since. Sam is very ac-tive in Masonry and Consistories where he just received his KCCH. He has been secretary of his Blue Lodge for 26 years. He is looking forward to retirement and some fun in his motor home.

Dan CalvertVault manager - Famous Bonanza and Easy StreetDan Calvert is a native of Gilpin County and helped open The Fa-mous Bonanza Casino in 1992. He be-gan in the m a i n t e -nance de-partment but quickly b e c a m e an impor-tant part of the ca-sino floor staff. For many years, Dan has been the vault manager for The Famous Bonanza and Easy Street and he still resides in Gilpin County with his wife Anna and their two dogs, Maggie and Alice. Dan says his favorite part of his job are the guests. When they are having fun, I have a blast.

Steve Paradis WagonController and payroll su-pervisor - Famous Bonanza and Easy StreetSteve helped open the Famous Bonanza Casino in 1992. He


honors long-time gaming industry employees, history writersGamblerContinued from Page 11

Linda Jones

Cathleen Norman

Dan Calvert

Laurel Triscari

Sam Wittner

Linda Wommack

Pam Sullivan

Continued on page 13

October 11 - 24, 2011


PAGE 13


honors long-time gaming industry employees, history writersGamblerbegan as a floor su-pervisor. He also w o r k e d as drop and count s u p e r v i -sor and moved to the accounting department very early in his career. He has been the controller and payroll su-pervisor for approximately the last 12 years. He takes pride in a perfect payroll every time.

Dee ParadisKey manager - Famous Bonanza and Easy StreetD i a n a Nielsen start-ed with The Famous Bo-nanza as a ca-shier in 1992. In 1994 she became a ca-shier super-visor. She met and married Wagon at the Famous Bonanza in 1994 and she became a key manager on duty in 1996. She and Steve live in Golden with their cats and dog, Biscuit.

Holly PerkinsFamous Bonanza and Easy StreetHolly Perkins began working as a floor su-pervisor in 1993. She became a key man-ager in 1998. She met her h u s b a n d R a n d y , who was a player at The Famous Bonanza and they married in 1999.

Mike & Dave PattersonThe Bobtail Convenience We moved to Black Hawk 20 years ago from California to experience the start of a new industry. Our family owned and ran a ca-sino from 1 9 9 2 -1996. We were con-s i d e r e d one of the o r i g i n a l mom and pop casinos called Gregory Street. After we closed in 1996, we worked around Black

Hawk and at other c a s i n o s until 2006 and we purchased One Stop P r i n t i n g J a n u a r y 2007 and we still do a majority of the casinos printing under the new name Three Brothers Printing.

We simultaneously opened up an antique store in this same location but the demand for convenience store items was greater so we closed the antique store and opened up The Bob-tail Convenience store in April 2010. We are looking to expand our business because we want to move the printing upstairs to make room to open up a liquor store called The Bobtail Cock-tail. Look for it to open soon.

Martin LaysPalace Hotel & CasinoM a r t i n Lays and his fam-ily ran the Palace Ho-tel, later

the Palace Hotel & Casino, for nearly 30 years. The Palace is now owned by Century Casinos.

Mark Gregory & Lori SewaldBronco Billys Mark Gregory and Lori Sewald are both long time employees in Cripple Creek casinos. Both can now be found at Bronco Billys, where they have worked for well over a decade.

Venita CoxDouble Eagle Hotel & Casino Venita Cox has worked in several C r i p p l e Creek Ca-sinos, no-tably Uncle Sams, the Black Dia-

mond and, these days, the Double Eagle.

Ray JavernickWildwood CasinoRay Javer-nick, bet-ter known around town as Ray J, has dealt blackjack at Bronco Bil-lys, the Mid-night Rose and, most recently, the Wildwood Casino.

Mark & Trudy Evans Double Eagle Hotel & CasinoMark and Trudy Evans have been in Cripple Creek nearly since the beginning - in fact, Trudy used to sing at Womacks Casino. Both now work at the Double Eagle Hotel & Casino.

Steve Paradis

Dee Paradis

Holly Perkins

Mike Patterson

Martin Lays

Ray javernick

Venita Cox

Lori Sewald and Mark Gregory

Dave Patterson

Our continuos coverage of Black Hawk, Cripple Creek,and Central City in our final Keepsake Edition.Our continuos coverage of Black Hawk Cripple Creek

Dont miss our Oct. 25Halloween Editionof the Gambler and our tribute toColorado Casino General Managers!

To advertise call Sharon Sweeney at 303-503-1388

Continued from Page 12

Mark and Trudy Evans


October 11 - 24, 2011

Horoscope

Contact Mary Nightstar at [email protected] and type horoscope in the subject line.

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YOUR ENTERTAINMENT HERE

Advertise Today!

Advertise your entertainment in this space the second and fourth issue of every month.

Call Sharon at 303-503-1388 for pricing .

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Oct. 1416: Kari and JerryOct. 2123: Saxy LadyOct. 2830: Naked City

Rivieras Weekend Entertainment: Every Friday and Saturday from 8pm to Midnight and Sundays from Noon 6 p.m.

Riviera Black Hawk Casino

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Isle Casino Hotel Black Hawk 401 Main Street, Black Hawk, CO 80422 1-800-THE-ISLEOct. 14 15: Under the Radar (Variety)Oct. 21 22: Wide Open (Variety)Oct. 28 29: Hot Lunch Band (High Energy

and Contemporary Funk)

Relax tolive entertainment on the Caribbean Cove bar stage each Friday and Saturday from 9 p.m. 1 a.m. and Sunday from 5 9 p.m.

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LIBRA - (Sept. 24 - Oct. 23)Your creative writing and verbal skills are highlighted this week. You might have uplifting, inspiring or creative thoughts and feelings that may make you feel like singing or joy. Dont hold yourself back because youre your worst critic. You may find joy volunteering or helping a worthy organization.Lucky Numbers: 11, 22, 27, 43, 54, 79SCORPIO - (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)You may feel a bit out of your element this week; nurture your emotional side by finding some quiet time getting to the spa, gym or getting in the hot tub. This is atime to shine when it comes any new relationship but dont over do it. Enjoy the attention and pampering you want and deserve.Lucky Numbers: 2, 22, 39, 41, 57, 63SAGITTARIUS - (Nov. 23 - Dec. 21)Your soul is stirring these days, and you may feel tossed by the waves and dragged by the undertows. Know its just the Universes way to make sure you dont stagnate. Explore new ideas and feelings when they arise because denying them will make you feel worse. Start a journal or notebook, or keep track of your dreams.Lucky Numbers: 4, 17, 36, 46, 51, 79CAPRICORN - (Dec. 22 - Jan. 20)You are coming into your power and showing those around you what you are capable of again. You may have had more than your share of responsibilities with career, parents or your children (where truth be known, you really have a soft spot). This is just an unusual busy and demanding time for Capricorns.Lucky Numbers: 9, 15, 31, 44, 49, 69

AQUARIUS - (Jan. 21 - Feb. 19)Its like being on a trampoline. Jump this way make a flip than jump again. Its an incessant drive to produce your hopes and dreams. If you feel youre not making progress its just your perfectionist side coming out. If you practice your knowledge and understanding you wont feel deserted.Lucky Numbers: 6, 24, 25, 48, 50, 72PISCES (Feb 20 - March 20)You may find yourself having to take care of others again. It really isnt a question of desertion if you say no. It is a matter of effort to make sure youre not being taken advantage and being walked all over. Understanding doesnt mean you have to suffer. The end of the week things turn in your favor.Lucky Numbers: 12, 14, 30, 42, 59, 71ARIES - (March 21 - April 20)Your true Aries qualities and warrior abilities that express who you are displayed in full colors this week. Dont come on too boldly; others may be intimidated by you.Creative projects may dive deep into your pocketbook. Set your limits to what you can do.Lucky Numbers: 4, 8, 16, 40, 44, 48

TAURUS - (April 21 - May 21)You may be strongly working behind the scenes to ensure someone else receives the success they are looking for. Their appreciation for what you do will not go unnoticed. Health matters or concerns surface and you finally get resolution to possibly an ongoing problem. Time to chill.Lucky Numbers: 5, 6, 7, 10, 15, 17

GEMINI - (May 22 - June 21)The Full Moon this week leaves little rest in your career. You may be pushing your limits physically and mentally. Success occurs from diligence and hard work. Children are redirected in how they spend their time during the day. Learning techniques are enhanced.Lucky Numbers: 14, 20, 24, 46, 47, 48

CANCER - (June 22 - July 22)Others look to you for strength. You may have to be the bad guy and decide when enough is enough. You will find spiritual strength in numbers, as others will support and are their when you most need it. The Full Moon this month has set up a domino effect with higher education and travel. They may go hand and hand.Lucky Numbers: 5, 21, 34, 40, 60, 77LEO - (July 23 - Aug 22)Turbulence will begin to settle as things fall into place. You may need to avoid giving direct answers to certain people. Youre washing away some of the influences and events of the past. Children may call for a favor or have need for some simple reassurance. Someone may be lying to you. Caution is needed.Lucky Numbers: 10, 19, 28, 47, 62, 64

VIRGO - (Aug. 23 - Sept. 23)Your interests may distract you so much you may not listen to the person in front of you or, if youre attentive youll find more than your share of people providing distracting chatter or gossip. Youll need to control youre critical side. If youre in a new romance, you will have reason to celebrate an event.Lucky Numbers: 8, 18, 35, 38, 58, 68


Then and Now

Ameristar111 Richman St.Opened: April 7, 2006History: Ameristars presence

in Black Hawk began before the casino took its name. On Dec. 21, 2004, Ameristar Casi-nos purchased for $115 mil-lion the bankrupt Mountain High Casino from Windsor Woodmont Black Hawk Re-sort Corp. It was Colorados largest casino even before a 33-story hotel and spa was added. Ameristar gave the building a major renovation and expansion and rebranded the property under the Am-eristar name in April 2006. It invested about $90 million in improvements including con-structing a 300-room AAA Four Di-amond-quality hotel, an expanded parking garage that nearly doubled its previous capacity, a remodeling of the first and second floor gaming and non-gaming venues and an ex-pansion of the casinos second floor that will allow for an additional 700 slot machines. The casino was Black Hawk Casino by Hyatt before Mountain High.

Black Hawk Station 141 Gregory StreetOpened: Oct. 4, 1991History: Jerry Browns Black

Hawk Station Ca-sino opened ahead of schedule with 42 slots just 29 days after the old Kwik Mart, which the casino replaced, closed. The Texaco station at the Kwik Mart convenience store in Black Hawk was the only place to fuel up in town. The casino was known as

a late-night gathering spot for local employees and featured live bands early in its history. Black Hawk Station casino was ultimate-ly sold to the owners of the Wild Card Casino & Saloon.

Bobtail Corner Store380 Gregory St.Opened: 1991History: The current building on

this site was the Silver Pendant in 1984; the owner and resident gold-smith was Eloy Perea and he and his wife Sharon lived upstairs. They closed the jewelry store in 1991, moved elsewhere and opened the Gregory Street casino. After they

closed the casino, their nephews, the Patterson brothers, moved their Three Brothers printing business to it. Mike and Dave Patterson are quick to spot busi-ness opportunities and soon moved the printing business to the second floor and opened an antique store on the first floor in 2007. They saw a

greater need in the community than antiques and in 2010, moved their convenience store into the first sto-ry. Now they plan to open a liquor store in the same location.

Bull Durham 110 Main StreetOpened: Feb. 6, 1993History: The Bull Durham Casino

received its name from the painting of an advertisement, painted in 1912,

on its exterior. It has been desig-nated a Colorado landmark and has been many establishments. In the 1880s it was originally used as a wagon works and later was used as a livery stable and blacksmith shop. The best-known owner of the building was William Fick who also served as mayor of Black Hawk. In the late 1800s, the American Tobacco Company employed sign painters to paint ads on buildings around the country. The mural on this building is

one of few remaining. In later years the building was restored and used as an art studio and store. The ca-sino occupies approximately 7,200 square feet. In Nov. 1998, an expan-sion project increased the gaming space by 2,500 square feet, and al-lowed the casino to offer 26 more slot machines and two more table games. As currently configured, the casino has 143 slot machines avail-able for play and has four standard blackjack tables.

Bullwhackers 101 Gregory Street Opened: July 20, 1992

History: Bullwhackers Casino is a Penn National Gaming property in op-eration since Colorado gaming began in 1992. Bullwhackers features over 500 slot and video poker machines. The property also includes several table games, multiple dining options and free valet parking. Its building was

newly constructed for the casino. The casino opened the Bullpen, sports themed casino in the historic Jen-kins-McKay Hardware Building next door follow-ing the demise of Bronco Billys Casino and what is now the Sasquatch Casino.

Canyon Casino131 Main StreetOpened: April 1, 1997History: Black Hawks Canyon

Casino was part of Black Hawks first wave of large casino construc-tion in the 1990s. The building was initially opened by Eagle Gaming, L.P. as Harrahs Casino Black Hawk on Dec. 24, 1993. In January 1997, l i m i t e d - s t a k e s gambling and in-creasing taxes got the best of Harrahs Entertainment Inc. and it sold its share in both its Black

Hawk and Central City casinos. Partners bought out Harrahs minority stake in the casinos and

Black Hawks Canyon Casino was born April 1, 1997. Soon after the name change, the casino be-came involved in the controversy to move the citys iconic historic landmark, the 1896 Lace House, along with five other homes, to make room to expand its parking lot from 100 to 370 spaces.

Fitzgeralds Casino101 Main StreetOpened: May 23, 1995History: Most of the

Main Street frontage is new construction but this build-ing housed a saloon and a lodge at one time and was a carpet store when gam-ing came. In the past year, Fitzgeralds expanded into a few historic structures including the Rohling Inn and Masonic Build-ing. Most recently, the Rohling building housed a casino operated by the Lorenz family, but had

been closed for the past two years. The casino also expand-ed into the Masonic Building which dates from the 1870s. It housed the Harris & Kohn Dry Goods & Cloth-ing Store in 1890 followed by sev-eral grocery stores. A building next door was built by the Masons in 1910 and housed a post office and bank that remained through the first years of gaming.

Golden Mardi Gras333 Main Street

Black Hawk: A look back atthe beginning of gaming til now


Black Hawk: A look back atthe beginning of gaming til now

PAGE 16 THE COLORADO GAMBLER Celebrating 20 Years October 11 - 24, 2011

Opened: July 1, 2005History: Mardi Gras Casino

opened on March 6, 2000, and is now Golden Mardi Gras Casino in line with its other Golden Brands. First the theme is unique at the Mardi Gras and so is the castle like building is in. Mardi Gras is also connected directly to the Golden Gates Casino via pedes-trian walkway and they share the same parking garage.

Golden Gulch CasinoOpened: January 29, 2003History: Concorde Gaming

originally opened Golden Gulch Casino but on Jan. 29, 2003, Golden Gaming Inc., reached an agreement to acquire the Golden Gates and Golden Gulch casinos. This was originally Virginia Lewis Jazz Alley Casino.

Golden Gates Casino261 Main StreetOpened: Nov. 21, 1992History: Golden Gates Casino

was an independent casino before the Mardi Gras came to town. It

often hosted live music and was considered a locals hangout. Now the smaller casino looks as though as the Golden Mardi Gras parking garage is swallowing it whole.

Isle Casino Hotel Black Hawk

401 Main StreetOpened:Dec. 30, 1998History: Began in

June 1997 when Casino America announced plans to open a new casino in Black Hawk in a part-nership with Nevada Gold & Ca-sinos. Land for the new operation was purchased from a Caesars World affiliate and the company would soon change its name to Isle of History Capri Casinos, Inc. The casino opened on Dec. 30, 1998 as the Isle of Capri Casino and billed itself as a year-round

tropical getaway.

Lady Luck Casino340 Main StreetOpened: July 1, 2009

History: This casino is the re-branded Colorado Central Station Casino that is now attached to the Isle via a skywalk and mas-sive hotel and parking expan-

sion. The building was once the largest casino property in the state.

Red Dolly Casino530 GregoryOpened: May 18, 1992History: One of the oldest ca-

sinos in the state. The 12,000 square foot building was built for the casino on the city limits line between Black Hawk and Central City.

Sasquatch125 Gregory StreetOpened: August 2011History: Opened by

Ed and Shirley Smith in the two-story Jenkins-McKay Building that they own and previously ran a laundromat and grocery before gaming.

The historic building is also the for-mer home of Bronco Billys Casino and, more recently, an expansion

of Bullwhackers which opted not to renew its lease.

The Gilpin Casino Gilpin Hotel

111 Main StreetHotel Opened:

June 24, 1998Casino Opened: Oct. 1, 1992The original Gilpin Hotel was

one of the first and best-known hotels in Gilpin County for a cen-tury. A wooden building attached to the back was the citys first school, print shop for early news-papers and the original hotel. The hotel closed in 1990,

w h e n o w n e d by Bob a n d K a t h y Dunlap, a f t e r a fire and re-m a i n e d u n o c -c u p i e d u n t i l Denver developers paid $1.3 million to develop a casino

and entertainment complex along Main Street including the historic building. The deal also included the mobile home park across the street. All the locals missed its Mine Shaft Bar in the basement and paranormal groups missed the shenanigans of its resident ghost, Lucy Malone, who com-mitted suicide by flinging herself from a window on the second floor after her fiance was killed.

This casino is in the historic downtown district of Black Hawk

and the Gilpin Casino is in the old Gilpin Hotel building. There is no hotel here now, its all filled with slot machines, video poker and table games.

The Lodge Casino240 Main StreetOpened: June 24, 1998History: The Lodge Casino is

the sister casino to The Gilpin. The Lodge was the first casino in Black Hawk to open a hotel in conjunction with its casino. They opened June 24, 1998.

Wild Card Casino112 Main Street Opened: Oct. 1, 1991History: The Wild Card Casino

was one of the first to open in the state and was originally in the Jenkins-McKay Hardware Build-ing. It later moved to the former Cracker Factory Casino building where it remains. It is the only casino property in the region that meets the criteria for being a cigar bar and, therefore, allows indoor smoking.


Then and Now

Annie Oakleys Casino 135 Nevada StreetOpened: Oct. 1991Closed: July 25, 1993History: Annie Oak-

leys Casino was opened by Central City business-man Don Boring and his wife Havana. It received one of the first half-dozen gaming licenses approved in the state on Sept. 12, 1991, and was one of the first casinos to open in Central City following le-galization on Oct. 1, 1991. The Borings still own the building, but now operate a grocery, liquor store and MMJ dispensary. The first deck of cards from the first hand of blackjack played in Central City is displayed in the store. The build-ing is known as the Old City Hall and was built around 1864. The original building dates to 1864, but the interior was gutted in the Great Fire of 1874. The exte-rior walls were used in rebuilding. City Hall was located in a portion of the building until it moved to Washington Hall in 1900. From 1900 to 1990 it is was a stage sta-tion, saloon, the Chain O Mines Motor Company and a jail exhibit for tourists.

Century Casino102 Main StreetOpened: July 2006Closed: OpenPart of the casino occupies the

historic Miller Block on the cor-ner of Lawrence and Main streets. It was built for $8,000 in 1874 by Elias Goldman who operated a liquor store, fruit stand and card room from 1878-1911. Two build-ings down Lawrence Street in the Bacharach Block, that are now part of Century Casino as well, were joined with the Miller Block in the 1930s to create the Chain O Mines Hotel. In 1982 it was

r e n a m e d the Golden Rose Hotel and in 1987 b e c a m e the Golden Rose Inn. The Miller Block is the former home of the Golden Rose Casino and its stairway and fireplace were both declared Victorian Landmarks and can-not be destroyed. The fireplace man-tel contains a stone

from every county in Colorado. A third one-story building on Lawrence, originally built in 1881 as a black-smith and carpenter shop, was formerly the Min-ers Pick C a s i n o . C e n t u r y C a s i n o

also occupies the Hense and Harris blocks along Main Street. John Hense built the smaller of the two buildings and opened a market in 1875. A sa-loon also occupied the building for many years. The Harris Block, the second of three buildings built by the Harris family, opened in 1878. For many years, the street level housed the Toll Gate Saloon, which was a popular watering hole and live music spot and later became Toll Gate Casino, Terps Casino and the Tollgate Casino. The current casino features 501 slots, 9 table games and is open 24 hours.

Crystal Palace Casino118 Main StreetOpened: September 2011Closed: openHistory: Davis Gaming, LLC,

doing business as The Crystal Palace Casino, purchased the former Papones Palace Casino building in 2011. Davis Gam-ing is composed of several fam-ily members based in Oregon, who have invested more than $1 million in the casino. The casino is in part of the Dostal Block, which was originally a meat market. Joseph O. Dostal opened the $3,000 building in 1874. It has housed a pool hall, bakery and jeweler. Before gam-ing, a museum in the building offered free admission, but ul-timately charged patrons to get out.

Doc Holliday 101 Main Street (old); 131 Main

Street (current)

Opened: April 2004 Closed: openHistory: Doc

Hollidays is cur-rently located in The Harris Block, built by Ed Harris in 1890. It also oc-cupied the Rose Haydee Build-ing, which was built in 1992 on a lot that

served as a community garden for 80 years. It was formerly located at 101 Main Street in the First National Bank Building, completed in 1874 for $13,000. Original ten-ants included a tobacco shop, post office, offices for doctors and lawyers and others. The second floor is now the Golden Rose Victorian Hotel.

The present casino is located in the four buildings vacated by the Glory Hole Casino, 1992 1997. In the 20th century the Gilded Garter Saloon occupied two of these buildings and was a popular destination for Den-ver day-trippers. A mortuary, hotel and recreation center were other uses through the years. The Rose Haydee Building was built by the Glory Hole Casino owners over an open beer gar-den; a select committee chosen to name the new building chose the name of the reigning thes-pian of the frontier era, Rose


Central City: From The Past To The Present

Then & Now


THE COLORADO GAMBLER Celebrating 20 Years October 11 - 24, 2011

Then and Now

Central City: From The Past To The Present

Haydee. The Ignatz Meyer Building has been a saloon, newspaper office, pool hall, mortuary, US Post Office and finally, home of the famed Glory Hole Saloon. The bar is solid walnut and comes from the Windsor Hotel in Denver; the Glory Hole name originated with the large mining operation just south of town. Emmy Wil-son, a Denver socialite, owned the saloon and gained fame by cutting a circle over the bar and hanging her legs through the floor.

Dostal Alley CasinoOpened: 1991Closed: openHistory: Central City Mayor

Gene Schmalz resigned in 1991 so he could turn the downstairs of his gift and T-shirt shop into the Dostal Alley Casino. The casi-no is located in the Shaffnit Block on Main Street. In 1878, Henry Shaffnit bought a lot that housed the Rocky Mountain National Bank before it burned for $1,000 and built the present building. It has been stores and offices and was the Quiller and Gabardi grocery store while the upstairs became residential. Dostal Alley Casino added an award-winning brewery in 1997.

Easy Street Casino120 Main StreetOpened: December 2000

C l o s e d : open

H i s t o r y : The Easy Street Casino occupies three historic build-ings includ-ing the Parteli Block, built by Phillip Zang Brew-ing Company in 1897. The building was leased to Bart Parteli and Gus Bensel who opened the Gold

Coin Bar. During prohibition, the bar was a pool hall and grocery store. Due to being built on a talc bed, the building has settled over its many years giving it an odd drooping appear-ance.

Famous Bonanza Casino

Opened: Jan. 17, 1992

Closed: openH i s t o r y :

Opened a mere three months after the legalization of

gaming, the locally-owned ca-sino has been in operation longer than any other in the region with the exception of one. Long before gaming, though, members of the Grimes family worked in the Fa-mous Bonanzas building, known as the Harris Block, at 107 Main St. in the heart of Central Citys historic district. Ross and Nancy Grimes purchased the prominent business location in 1959, and opened a gift shop named the Fa-mous Bonanza. The business was popular with summer tourists who relished the opportunity to have their photos taken with Prospec-tor Pete, a character carved by a local artisan seated on a bench in the stores front window. The Har-ris Block, finished in 1875, is the oldest of the three buildings built by Robert Harris. It housed the New York Store Mercantile Com-pany.

Fortune Valley Casino

Opened: Nov. 21, 2003

Closed: openHistory: For-

tune Valley Ho-tel and Casino is one of Colorados largest and most popular gaming destinations. The building housing Central Citys largest casino and hotel opened as Harveys Wagon Wheel Casino in 1994. In 1997, a 530-spot, self-parking garage and additional slot machines were added to the prop-erty. In subsequent years the com-plex added a 118-room hotel, res-taurants and entertainment loung-es. Harrahs acquired the property

in July 2001 as part of its purchase of Harveys Ca-sino Resorts, but by 2003, the casino was sold to Centaur Col-orado LLC. On Nov. 20, 2003, Har-veys official-ly closed and on Nov. 21, Centaur de-buted Fortune Valley Hotel and Casino.

Johnny Zs CasinoOpen: June 9, 2010Closed: openHistory: Johnny Zs, owned by

John Zimple and named after his son, Johnny, is in the old Central Palace Casino building built for a casino. The west side of Johnny Zs casino is the Raynolds Court building, dating to 1863. For years it was a mining supply store and hardware. Originally called the Granite Block, this building housed a hotel opened in 1874, and also has housed a meat and vegetable market, boarding house, city offices and the Central Garage and Gasoline Station. It recently expanded west into the Granite Building adding about 75 new gaming machines. It was the first new gaming property open in four years in Central City. The elder Zimpel was a general con-tractor who built several casinos in town including the Century Casino.

- Information compiled by Jeffrey V. Smith and Linda Jones

Next week we will feature the history of more casinos and build-ings in Black Hawk, Central City and Cripple Creekstay tuned!



Then & Now

By Rosemary Fetter

Coin-operated gambling machines first appeared in 1880s, with poker ma-chines being the most popular slots in the West. Manufactur-ers would set up 50 cards on two drums, and two cards would be missing from the deck, usually the jack of hearts and the ten of spades. Naturally, this consider-ably reduced the players chances for a royal flush. The Clawson Manufacturing Company of New-ark, N.J., developed most of the first slots, including an automatic dice machine, but other compa-nies including Mills Novelty and Caille Brothers soon followed. These enterprising businesses cheerfully stole ideas from one another without much regard for patents.

For awhile the law prohib-ited cash payments, so payouts in trade checks and merchandise checks, usually for free drinks, became popular. The musical slot invented by Caille Company in 1899 paid winners in checks good for one tune. Cash returns made a come-back with the 1898 inven-tion of the bell slot (Liberty Bell) by Charlie Fey, which made payments automatic. Feys machine became the prototype for slots used in casinos for decades un-til the recent invention of ticket vouchers. Automatic payouts ranged from two to 20 coins, the highest paid when the machine showed the first three cards of a royal flush.

The early upright de-vices were beautifully decorated with oak cases, bronze legs and nickel plat-ing. These machines could accept several coins with each pull. Painted coin slots corresponded to col-ored slots on a large wheel, with the lowest payout two coins on red and black and a jackpot (40 coins) on blue.

Although the govern-

ment garnered revenue from the machines, reform movements in the second decade of the Twenti-eth Century squelched slot mania, along with prostitution and even-tually the sale and consumption of alcohol. But clever manufacturers soon came up with a new idea the gum machine. The 1912 Mills O.K. Gum Vendor, for example, forked over a pack of gum with each nickel and paid profit shar-ing dividends of trade tokens to winners. By 1923 candy took the place of gum, which hardened in the machines. Incidentally, the flavors of the gum and candy lemon, orange, cherry and plum are still seen on some machines.

The birth of the speakeasy, which doubled the countrys drink-ing establishments, breathed new life into slot production. During one of the most lawless periods in American history, the underworld took over gambling along with bootlegging. Even after Prohibi-tion was repealed in 1934, slots were viewed with suspicion, hence the term one-armed bandit. The

years between 1920 and 1940 saw significant improvements in slots, creating brightly colored models with unique designs.

The war on slots continued into the 1940s, although some states allowed the machines periodi-cally. In Colorado, slots were legal in Central City until 1949. Cen-tral Citys museum owns a nickel machine from Crooks Palace and

one from the old Toll Gate, while the Cripple Creek Museum has three, circa 1930s and 40s, which were confiscated from the Elks Club. In most states, in-cluding Colorado, its legal to own a slot machine 25 years or older. Alabama, Connecticut, Hawaii, Indi-ana, Nebraska, South Car-olina and Tennessee dont allow individual owner-ship..

In Nevada, gambling was legal most of the time and practiced all the time. In 1931, the governor signed both a gaming law (to regulate gambling that was already going on) and a quickie divorce law, both intended to rescue the states sagging econ-omy. During the next two decades, the industry grew slowly, as did the produc-

tion of slots and the devel-opment of the mega-casino.

In 1963, Bally of Chi-cago revolutionized the

industry with the first fully elec-trical five-coin multiplier, Money Honey, with a unit that could pay out several times in varying amounts. The first video slots were introduced in Las Vegas in 1976. Microprocessors eventually eliminated complicated wiring, and in the 1980s the computer age brought in solid state 21, dice, roulette, horserace and poker ma-chines. Complex video slots with multi-line payouts, introduced in the 1990s, have steadily replaced both conventional slots and live games, although the latter is still popular in casinos.

Today, legalized gaming is more often viewed as recreation than evil incarnate, and states like

Colorado have benefited great-ly from tax revenue, much of it earmarked for historic preserva-tion. In Las Vegas last week, at the Global Gaming Expo brought more than 25,000 people to the Sands Expo and Convention Cen-ter to see the latest casino innova-tions and discuss issues confront-ing the industry, including how to increase profits during the current economic slump.

Innovations include the use of Smartphone and tablets technol-ogy to create interactive games like the one by Bally Technologies, where players can flip through pages for bonus features. Among the latest high-tech machines, King of Pop is based on the late Michael Jackson, while another features the classic board game Battleship. IGT has unveiled a machine that allows players to hunt for cash with an attached electronic gun during the bonus round. Some new games include surround-sound speakers, chairs that move with the game and enormous high-definition video screens.

Obviously, slot machines have come a long way since the old Lib-erty Bell was introduced 113 years age. As technology becomes more sophisticated by the minute, who knows what the future will hold?

A brief history

Slots as you see them in your local casinos today.

The bell slot (Liberty Bell) by Charlie Fey made payments automatically.

Early upright devices were often beautifully decorated with oak cases, bronze legs and nickel plating.

The years between 1920 and 1940 saw significant improvements in slots, with manufacturers creating brightly colored models with unique designs.

of slot mania

THE COLORADO GAMBLER Celebrating 20 Years October 11 - 24, 2011

Then and Now

Bennett Avenue is still a busy street today. Photo courtesy of city of Cripple Creek

The Greatest Gold Camp on Earth

The original Cripple Creek jail on Bennett Avenue is now a museum.

Photo courtesy of city of Cripple Creek

From gold boom to casino magicBy Linda Wommack

In 1876, the south side of Pikes Peak didnt look like a land that contained gold. It was a small ranching community with plenty of high green meadows against sloping hills, provided good-looking land for raising cattle. This is where Samuel Redd Womack, along with his son, Robert Bob Miller Womack, decided to invest their earnings from the sil-ver mines of Georgetown and Idaho Springs. The Womacks bought land near the Welty homestead and built a cattle ranch, eventu-ally including George Carr. They called it the Broken Box Ranch. In time, Bob built a little cabin at a place he named Poverty Gulch. As Bob roamed the valley with the cattle, he al-ways had an eye on the creek and riverbeds.

With his previous mining experience, the unexplainable gold fever crept into Ol Bob, as it did for thousands of other men seeking adventure and fortune. He figured a good percentage of the gold from those hills sure-ly washed down into the creeks and rivers over the hundreds of years since those hills had been there. One day, he spotted gold in a creek bed near his familys ranch in 1878. He took a sample over to Colorado Springs to be assayed. But nobody believed Bob, so he went back to caring for the cows, and drink-ing more, telling his tales of rich gold in the local saloons. Still, no one believed him.

Bobs news was hard to swallow. Since Colorados first gold rush of 1859, every rockslide in the Colorado Rockies had been prospected. It was too incredible that gold would exist in this cow pasture in the shadow of Pikes Peak. Actually, the cow pasture area

containing gold escaped early discovery due to the common dull gray ore color of the area. Called sylvanite, a gold bearing rock, it was unfamiliar to prospectors, and most passed on the discovery. Except Bob Womack.

After almost 15 years of looking and no-body believing, his search finally paid off. On Oct. 20, 1890, Bob filed his El Paso Lode mining claim in Colorado Springs, assaying at $250 a ton, and the rush was on. Min-ing men took some interest and formed the Cripple Creek Mining District on April 1, 1891. Within three years, millionaires by the ore load were made from Cripple Creek gold. Bobs El Paso Lode became the Gold King Mine and brought an estimated $5 million to the owners. Men such as Stratton, Penrose, Tutt, Carlton, Burns, Doyle, Myers and Ben-nett all made money from Cripple Creek gold and gave back to the community.

In those three years of mining frenzy, the town of Cripple Creek was platted by Hor-ace Bennett and Julius Myers (naming the two main streets after themselves) and the original population of 500 grew to 10,000 by 1893. Cripple Creek had electricity throughout the town in 1893, long before New York City, as well as piped water. That year, more than $200,000 of worth of gold was produced each month. In April 1892, the first bank opened, J.M. Parkers Bank of Cripple Creek, as well as the the first mining stock exchange.

Cripple Creeks main street of commerce, Bennett Avenue, was a solid line of nearly 150 business buildings on both sides. Busi-nesses ranged from an opera house to a fine hotel. In between were restaurants, boarding houses, newspaper offices, real estate offices, grocery and meat markets, doctors offices, and drugstores, hardware and wagon shops.

By this time, what Cripple Creek needed to further growth, population and gold pro-duction, was a railroad. And the railroad companies desperately wanted in on the gold boomtown soon to be known throughout the world as The Greatest Gold Camp on Earth.

In 1894 two railroads were racing to the area to corner the market; the Midland Ter-minal railroad from Divide, and the Florence & Cripple Creek railroad from Canon City. The Florence & Cripple Creek railroad was the first to arrive on July 1, 1894, followed

by the Midland Terminal railroad three days later, on July 3.

By the Turn of the Century, Cripple Creek had rebuilt nicely following the fires of 1896. With a population of more than 55,000, it was the fourth largest city in Colorado.

There is still gold in the hills of the Cripple Creek Mining District. Local mining, primar-ily gold leaching, and the Cripple Creek and Victor Mining Company, still produce gold. Since the turn of this century, more than 731 tons of gold have been produced.

Since legalized gambling in 1991, a new resurgence has emerged and revitalized Crip-ple Creek. Casinos now occupy many historic buildings along the vibrant main street of the early town. Casino revenue has brought prosperity and jobs to the area, and provides funding for the State Historical Fund.

History of the gold camp is abundant through a variety of venues. The Cripple Creek Heritage Center offers all things his-toric in Cripple Creek. The center includes information and brochures covering every-thing Cripple Creek has to offer.

Three museums detail separate aspects of the history as well. The Cripple Creek District Museum is housed in the old Midland Termi-nal depot. The Outlaw & Lawman Museum contains extraordinary exhibits in the origi-nal jail. One of the few remaining buildings on Meyers Avenue is the Old Homestead, now a museum.

Cripple Creek today is very much as it was in the beginning a boomtown a town rich in history building toward the future.

October 11 - 24, 2011


PAGE 21

Dear Colorado

Gambler readers,

On behalf of the city of

Cripple Creek, I would like

to thank the Cripple Creek

gaming community for the

positive contributions the industry has

made toward the economic development of the

city, the many jobs gaming has created in our com-

munity, and the support of historic preservation efforts

that will ensure Cripple Creeks rich history is pre-

served for future generations. These last 20 years of

gaming in Cripple Creek have brought constructive

growth and development to the city, and we look

forward to many more years of partnering together

as we work to build and preserve this community

while remaining true to its prodigious history.

I encourage you to join us as we celebrate during

the month of October with the Cripple Creek Casino

Associations 20th anniversary of gaming promotion

Celebrating 20 Years of Gaming with a $20,000 Give-

away. Cripple Creek offers Colorado-style gaming

at its finest, and what better way is there to celebrate

this occasion than to enjoy yourself in our historic min-

ing town as you try your luck at one of our unique

and exciting casinos. Many of our casinos operate in

historic buildings that have been carefully renovated

to maintain the essence of Cripple Creek while offer-

ing you your favorite games, excellent restaurants,

and modern hotel rooms complete with luxurious

amenities.

Come see why were celebrating - I invite you to

experience what gaming has bro ught to the city of

Cripple Creek, how our history is being preserved,

and why we are not only proud of the last 20 years

of gaming in our community, but also eager to work

toward another successful 20 years.

Mayor Bruce Brown

City of Cripple Creek

Then & Now Cripple Creek

Yearning for ghoulies and ghosties and long-leggety beasties and things that go bump in the night? Join the Cripple Creek District Museum staff and vol-unteers for the annual Ghost Walks during October. Dress warm and be prepared to be chilled to the bone during this walking tour of downtown Cripple Creek. Merry widows and ghoulish fiends will guide you past our historic buildings, introducing you to the citys unseen population.

The tour is free to public and meets in front of the

Outlaws & Lawmen Jail Museum on West Bennett Avenue and ends at the Cripple Creek District Mu-seum. Hot chocolate, cider and cookies will be served in the Museum Gift Shop.

Tour dates are Saturday, Oct. 15, 22 and 29, 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. Be sure to wear warm clothing and be aware that the walk may affect those with heart problems.

For more information, call the Museum at 719-689-2634.

Cripple Creek District Museum hosts annual Ghost Walks


October 11 - 24, 2011

Larry won big playing a Wheres the Gold machine at Fortune Valley Hotel & Casino in Central City.

David won $29,003 playing a Double Diamond, $5 machine at Riviera Casino in Black Hawk.

Judy won $5,927 playing a Triple Double Sizzling Sevens machine at Canyon Casino.

Marcie won playing a Ten Times Pay machine at Fortune Valley Hotel & Casino.

Regina won $1,559 playing an Enchanted Forest game at Canyon Casino.

Ruth won $6,905 playing a Hot Peppers machine at Canyon Casino in Black Hawk.

October 11 - 24 , 2011 THE COLORADO GAMBLER Celebrating 20 Years PAGE 23

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Documents

The Colorado Gambler 10.11.11