GamblerCelebrating 20 Years Serving Colorado’s Gaming Communitywww.coloradogambler.com coloradogambler cogambler

yr

Volume 20 • Number 40

PROMOTIONSHoliday dining, promotions at

Black Hawk & Central City Pages 4 & 7

YEAR IN REVIEWA look back at

2011Page 7

HAPPY NEW YEARRing in the New Year with

Colorado casinos Page 9

TRAIL’S ENDKwanzaa has ancient social and

cultural rootsPage 13

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

December 27, 2011 - January 2, 2012

See ValuableCoupons on page 11

The holidays give me a few days to sort of catch up on cleaning up the office, closet and mind. In between phone calls, writing, mak-ing New Year’s Eve plans and contemplating future resolutions, I went through a pile of casino direct mail pieces I recently received.

Here’s what I discovered, and, of course, this comes from a busy, biased newspaper publisher point-of-view. All of this direct mail seems to me to be expensive and, for the most part, expired before I have a chance to even read it.

Let me explain: The United States Postal Service is in a state of meltdown and junk mail sometimes takes two weeks at least to make it through the mail mumbo, jumbo. My Saturday mail now comes Saturday night, a little late for Saturday bargains. Turns out it is actually a week late, so I already missed the event that was “last” Saturday. In other words snail mail is very slow and getting worse.

Casino marketing people are busy folks, they have to think up the promotions, get bosses to agree to ideas and budgets, and then get graphic artists and printers involved.

After the idea – the printing, the mailing and the mail process takes over. Days, some-times weeks later, I get the promotion at my office address. Usually I don’t rush to open the envelope because it is clearly marked from the casino so I set it aside with the other junk mail to read. Sometime it might even, mistakenly or not, end up in the recycle bin unopened where most third class junk mail is deposited.

I looked at the special offers received dur-ing the month and most of the meal and point deals have expired. I lost my $5 in cash be-cause I wasn’t at the casino on that special day.

Now, I’m certain there are people who get those specials and show up for the drawings, the cash and the point prizes. Direct mail can work, does work, but it has a very long trail from original thought to execution.

I’ve stood in line with folks seeking the promotional coupon benefits. The Colorado Gaming Commission recently has allowed casinos to place bonus benefits on casino player’s cards. This may kill most of the direct mail and save casinos millions in postage and printing. The newspapers can inform people about these perks, events and prizes – that’s us folks.

We can produce a promotion in a two-week turnaround, from the concept of the promotion, the design, the Gambler newspa-per is on the street at many, many locations quickly and we’re the paper that get’s read, directly delivered to stands and locations.

Coupons can’t get results if the envelope is never opened or arrives far too late. We know our coupons work because casino marketing people report great results from placing their coupons in the Colorado Gambler.

The mail supports the postal service, the newspaper ads support free enterprise and are read by people who like to travel to the moun-tains, dine and play games. We also know that

people move around and addresses change often, which just means further delays.

To catch a fish, one must use some bait, otherwise one can fish all day with nary a bite. To attract new and regular customers, casinos must provide great service, great food and timely promotional events.

We believe after 20 years of being a part of the gaming experience that newspapers are the very best way to reach the gaming public on a consistent, timely basis. Events are time-ly and important, and gaming towns need to publicize upcoming events well in advance.

I will go play cards where parking is easy, the food is good and the dealers are friendly. That frankly describes just about every casino still standing in our three mountain towns.

Timely, supportive, creative and consistent are just a few adjectives to describe this news-paper that you’re reading right now.

Print is good if used properly.

PAGE 2 THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years December 27, 2011 - January 2, 2012

www.coloradogambler.com coloradogambler cogambler

Gambler

Publisher’s ColumnBy Robert Sweeney

Let us help Newspaper print leads the way in 2012

http://www.canyoncasino.com

PAGE 4 THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years December 27, 2011 - January 2, 2012

www.canyoncasino.com

$5.99 Prime Rib DinnerIn December, the Canyon Grille will feature a Prime Rib Dinner for $5.99 with your Canyon Club card. Served all day every day.

Win fabulous prizes Dec. 30Play your favorite table games daily in December and earn entries to win a 55-inch 3D LED TV, 3D Blu-ray player and four pairs of 3D glasses. Plus we will also be giving away four pairs of pro hockey tickets. Prize drawing will be held on Dec. 30, 9 – 11 p.m.

Wheel of CashAlso while playing table games between Dec. 20-29, be a Hot Seat winner to spin the Wheel of Cash and a chance to win up to $250. Spinning will take place every half hour, 5 – 8 p.m.

7 Minute MadnessPlay at the Canyon Casino Monday, Dec. 26 through Thursday, Dec. 29 between 2 – 4 p.m daily. Winners will be selected every 7 minutes to win up to $250!

New Year’s EveSpend New Year’s Eve with your friend at Canyon Casino. Cash winners will be selected every 15 minutes to win $250-$2012! Just simply play on your Canyon Club card between 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. to be entered.

www.black-hawk.isleofcapricasinos.com

New Year’s Eve Cash SpreeRing in the New Year at the Isle and win your share of the New Year’s Eve Cash Spree. Drawings will take place every half hour from 6 p.m. – 1 a.m. for $500. One name will be

drawn every half hour. If the person is not present, the cash rolls over to the next drawing. Begin earning entries at 8 a.m. with each set of 15 unadjusted points.

$2,012 Power Hour drawingsBe at the Isle on New Year’s Day and each Friday in January for the $2,012 Power Hour Drawings. Each hour from noon – 6 p.m. hourly drawings will take place for $2,012. Receive one free entry daily and earn additional entries for every 15 unadjusted bonus points earned each giveaway day.

Ski in and cash out with $1,000Ski in and cash out on Tuesdays and Wednesdays in January, 8 a.m. – midnight. Guests will receive one free swipe each promotion day to win cash prizes up to $1,000. There is a guaranteed cash prize with each swipe.$10,000 Jackpot SweepstakesQualify Jan. 9 – March 24 to win up to $10,000 in the

Jackpot Sweepstakes on Saturday, March 24. Guests of the Isle will receive one free drawing entry with each hand-paid taxable jackpot of $1,200 or more.

Bus fare refundDo you ride the bus to Black Hawk? The Isle will refund your bus fare up to $20. Simply earn 35 unadjusted points on your IsleOne card and present your return bus ticket to the guest service center or the IsleOne club. Table games players will receive their bus fare back with four hours of consecutive play.

New Year’s Eve and Day menuA special holiday menu will be served at Calypso’s New Year’s Eve from 3:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. for just $24.99. Then on New Year’s Day the menu will be served from 11 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. and will include brunch items until 2 p.m.

Paradise 50 Plus All guests age 50 or better can join the NEW Paradise 50 Plus club Sundays and Mondays. You will receive 3X points on all

slots, a free soft serve ice cream and a free Calypso’s Buffet after earning five unadjusted points. For complete details, please visit the IsleOne club. Point multiplier is not valid on video poker games.

Play $30 - $60 $30 - $60 players can get a discounted buy-in or play for free in the $25,000 Hi-Roller Poker Tournament on Jan. 8 by playing at the Isle in December. Play 30 hours of $30-$60 and receive a voucher for $270 toward the tournament buy-in. Play 60 hours of $30-$60 and get a free $540 buy-in to the tournament. In addition, $30-$60 players earn a free hotel room Sunday through Thursday or a $59 Friday-Saturday rate for just 3 hours of play.

New members receive free buffetAll new members of the IsleOne club will receive a free Calypso’s Buffet after playing just 30 minutes on their new IsleOne card. Once you have played the 30 minutes, just present your new card to the hostess in Calypso’s to receive. Play and Stay Play 30 unadjusted points

on your IsleOne club card on Sundays through Thursdays between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. and stay the night on us. Check with Guest Services or the IsleOne club once you have earned your points to receive your hotel offer. This offer is valid only on the day the points are earned. Fantastic 40 Plus All guests age 40 or better can participate in the Fantastic 40 Plus club on Thursdays. Guests will receive 4X points on their favorite slots, a free buffet after earning five unadjusted points or earn 50 unadjusted points and receive $40 to Farraddays’. Point multiplier is not valid on video poker games.

New menu at TradewindsTradewinds 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 and 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

Your

gui

de

to li

ve e

nter

tain

men

t and

eve

nts

at C

olor

ad

o’s

casin

os

Wha

t’s Ro

ckin’ 321 Gregory St., Central City • 303.582.0800

Fortune Valley Hotel Black Hawk

www.fortunevalleycasino.com

Dec. 29: Something UndergroundDec. 30: Hot PosseDec. 31: Romeo DelightJan. 6 – 7: Steve Thomas BandJan. 13: Live musicJan. 14: Elizabeth Cook Jan. 19: Comedy Works presentsKevin Fitzgerald (doors open at 7 p.m.)Jan. 20: Hazel MillerJan. 27: Live musicJan. 28: UFC fight

Isle Casino Hotel Black Hawk401 Main Street, Black Hawk, CO 80422 1-800-THE-ISLE

www.black-hawk.isleofcapricasinos.com

Dec. 30-31: Chase N the Dream (R&B, Dance & Blues)Jan. 6 – 7: Delicious Point (Variety)Jan. 13 – 14: Back in the Day (Soul)

Jan. 20 – 21: Boogie Machine (1970s)Jan. 27 – 28: Phat Daddy (R&B and Dance)

Relax to live entertainment on the Caribbean Cove bar stage Friday and Saturday from 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. & Sunday from 5 – 9 p.m.

Something Underground

Chase N the Dream

The Lava Room entertainment – all concerts are free, from 9 – 11 p.m. doors open at8:30 p.m. (unless otherwise noted). Beginning Jan. 13, entertainment will begin at 8 p.m.

All-You-Can-Eat

CrAb lEgsSeven Days A Week At Calypso’s® BuffetBiggest and best in Black Hawk

Sunday through Thursday 3:30pm to 9:30pm

Friday and Saturday 3:30pm to 11:00pm

Hourly drawings for $2,012!New Year’s DaY aND FriDaYs iN JaNuarY

From NooN To 6:00pm

Receive one free entry daily.

Earn additional entries for every 15 unadjusted points on promotion days.

1-800-THE-ISLE • www.theisleblackhawk.com © 2011 Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. Must be 21 or older. Promotions subject to change or cancellation without notice. Please visit IsleOne or guest services for details. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-522-4700.

By Linda Jones

M any things remained un-changed in the year now

ending, but in Central City, some major strides toward financial stability were made. Black Hawk continues to dominate the gam-bling market and even gained one new casino, but that growth was possible only because one large ca-sino downsized. When Bullwhack-ers vacated the historic hardware building, the owner of that build-ing created Sasquatch Casino in the space. Ed and Shirley Smith al-ready operated two small but suc-cessful casinos nearby, the Wild Card and Black Hawk Station, and added Sasquatch to their stable.

Black Hawk continued to con-tribute the greatest share of the nearly $23 million in gaming taxes paid in Colorado in the first four months of the 2011-12 fiscal year, but Central City showed new signs of life. Johnny Z’s, the new-est casino in what was historically called The Richest Square Mile on Earth, continued to contribute significantly to the city coffers and expanded into the adjacent Gran-ite Building (1874). Johnny Z’s ca-sino plans to add a hotel above the Granite Building.

A new casino owner in Central City promises competition for the Main Street casinos of Black Hawk. The remodeled, refur-bished and rebranded, as of Jan. 3, 2012, created from the former For-tune Valley, offers a needed choice of vibes in Central City. When Fortune Valley sold at auction, Luna Entertainment, a national-ly-known business because of its Hard Rock brand, purchased the complex and transformed the tired old dowager into a vibrant player. The Guitar Bar promises fun, the res-taurants have been gutted and remade and live bands play on weekends.

The Central City econ-omy staggered in the last half of 2011 because of the construction on – and de-struction of – Main Street. This vital artery was virtu-ally unavailable for more than five months. Thank-fully the streetscape project has ended and walking or driving along Main Street is

now easy and pleasant.Central City is determined to

lure back the heritage tourist and to that end has partnered with the Gilpin County Historical Society, the Central City Opera and the art gallery to increase and diversify the events in the city. The goal is to keep the city’s casinos healthy while also bringing back the 20th century allure of the city for heri-tage tourists, now the fastest grow-ing segment of the travel business.

The ultimate goal of the Black Hawk city fathers is to create a total destination resort. Am-eristar Casino & Hotel is a vital partner in that goal; the new Am-eristar Hotel draws a constant stream of business meetings and small conventions, whose attendees visit all the casinos in Black Hawk, gambling and eat-ing. The groups who’ve convened at the Ameris-tar are unanimous in

declaring they’d like to return.All in all, the past year was not

a roaring success for the casino business but neither was it a huge disappointment. Onward – and hopefully – upward to 2012!

PAGE 6 THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years December 27, 2011 - January 2, 2012

2011 Year In Review

Johnny Z’s expanded to the adjacent Granite Building and plans to add a hotel in 2012.

A L o o k B a c k a t

31DEC

JAN

1

The Guitar Bar at Fortune Valley

Casino is part of the revamping the casino has

gone through to get ready for its rebranding on

Jan. 3, 2012.

The “Sasquatch” is all decked out for the Christmas season. The

casino is the newest casino in Black Hawk and owners Ed and Shirley Smith also operate two small but

successful casinos nearby, the Wild Card and Black Hawk Station.

December 27, 2011 - January 2, 2012 THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years PAGE 7

4X pointsEarn 4X points, Mon-day – Thurs-day, in Janu-ary, 10 a.m. – noon and 8 – 9:45 p.m. Must have a players card to earn the points.

2012 point giveawayMonday through Thursday in January, one guest between 1 – 2 p.m., one guest between 4 – 5 p.m., and one guest between 7 – 8 p.m. will be ran-domly be selected to receive 2,012 points to be added to their players card account. Must have and play with your card to qualify.

Progressive cash drawingsProgressive cash drawings on Friday, 6 – 11:45 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. and 6 – 11:45 p.m.; and Sun-day, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Drawings will take place every half-hour and you will need a players card to get an entry.

Seniors day every TuesdayIn January on Tuesday, seniors 50 years and older will receive 2X points. They will also get a half sandwich and bowl of soup for only 99 cents.

Entertainment Enjoy live music every Friday and Sat-urday, 6 – 10 p.m., by our “one-man band” Greg Richards.

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 Millie’s Restaurant.

Join us on your birthdayCome celebrate your birthday and receive 500 free points. Players older than 55 will receive 800 free points.

New PlayersPoints earned on your first visit will lead to great benefits on your next visit:• 125 points earned = $5 cash back• 250 points earned = $10 cash back• 500 points earned = $15 cash back• 1,000 points earned = $20 cash back

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 $50 maximum on 2 deck pitch black-jack 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 Millie’s Restaurant.

Join us on your BirthdayCome celebrate your birthday and re-ceive 500 free points. Players older than 55 will receive 800 free points.

New PlayersPoints earned on your first visit will lead to great benefits on your next visit:• 125 points earned = $5 cash back• 250 points earned = $10 cash back• 500 points earned = $15 cash back• 1,000 points earned = $20 cash back

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

BingoPlay free bingo every Monday and Wednesday at 2 p.m. in the Lava Room.

Slot tournamentsEnjoy free slot tournaments every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Win cash at 5 p.m.

Major January promotion – $100,000 Cash ReserveFrom Jan. 2 - April 1, 2012, drawings every Friday and Saturday night at 8 p.m. Forty-two winners will be drawn every weekend. More than $5,000 in cash will be awarded every weekend. There will be a $25,000 cash winner on Sunday, April 1. See complete rules and details at Player’s Club

Central City Nuggets

CRIPPLE CREEK

Casino•Guide

CENTRAL CITY

BLACK HAWK

This information is subject to change without notice.

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 700 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

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

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

Fortune Valley - 24/7 BJ, P, C, R, VP 665 118 SD free valet and self parking 1-800-924-6646/fortunevalleycasino.com

Johnny Z’s BJ, C, R, VP 288 No SD, D free covered parking 303-582-5623/johnnyzscasino.com

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, C, R, VP 437 21 SD free self parking 719-689-0333/cnty.com/casinos/cripplecreek

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 Climate controlled self parking 877-945-3963/playwildwood.com

Casino Table Slots Lodging Food Parking Contact Games

Table Games Key

BJ - Blackjack, P-Poker, C-Craps, R-Roulette, TH - Texas Holdem’, VP-Video Poker

Food Key

B-Buffet, D-Deli, SD-Sitdown, SB-Snackbar, V-Vending Machine

118 Main St. • 720-253-1669

CELEBRATEAT CRysTAL

PALACELive entertainment8 pm - 1 amChampagne Toastat Noon & Midnight

New Year’s Eve

December 27, 2011 - January 2, 2012 THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years PAGE 9

Happy New Year

BLACK HAWK Canyon Casino131 Main St., 303-777-1111, www.canyoncasino.comSpend New Year’s Eve with your friends at Canyon Casino. Cash winners will be selected every 15 minutes to win $250-$2012. Just sim-ply play on your Canyon Club card between 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. to be entered. Also table game players can earn entries all month to win a 55-inch 3D, HDTV bundle on Dec. 30 from 9-11 p.m.; and special New Year’s Eve drawing will give patrons a chance to win a share of $10,000.

The Canyon Grille offers breakfast, soup and sal-ads, sandwiches and burgers. It also features Mexican items like chile relleños, tacos and burritos, as well as chicken fried steak, salmon and a New York strip steak. On New Year’s, there are no plans to offer a different menu.

Isle Hotel Casino Black Hawk401 Main St., 303-998-7777, www.black-hawk-ladyluck.isleofcapricasinos.com

Ring in the New Year at the Isle and win your share of the New Year’s Eve Cash Spree. Drawings will take place every half hour, 6 p.m. – 1 a.m., for $500. One name will be drawn every half hour. If the person is not present, the cash rolls over to the next drawing. Begin earning entries at 8 a.m. with each set of 15 un-adjusted points.

Be at the Isle on New Year’s Day and each Friday in January for the $2,012 Power Hour Drawings. Each hour, noon – 6 p.m. hourly drawings will take place for $2,012. Receive one free entry daily and earn ad-ditional entries for every 15 unadjusted bonus points earned each giveaway day.

Calypso’s will be offering a special holiday menu that will be served New Year’s Eve from 3:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. for just $24.99. Then on New Year’s Day the menu will be served from 11 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. and will include brunch items until 2 p.m.

Crystal Palace Casino118 Main St., 720-253-1669, www.crystalpalacecasinocolorado.com

The “Winter Winnerland Slot Marathon” runs through Dec. 30 featuring a weekly winner – revealed at 7 p.m. on Fridays – that takes home $250, and grand prize winners that can win up to $500 more. Participants must be present to win.

On Dec. 31, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m., the casino holds its first New Year’s Eve Party, featuring a mid-night countdown and Champagne toast. Dur-ing the event, progressive cash drawings are held every half-hour. Player’s card-holders get a free entry and all “hand-pay, machine lock-ups” get a bonus entry.

Also in December during Avalanche games, in-cluding games on Dec. 27, 29 and 31, player’s club members get an entry into drawings at the end of each period to spin a wheel for cash and prizes.

CENTRAL CITY

Easy Street/Famous Bonanza120 Main St. & 107 Main St., 303-582-5914, www.famousbonanza.com

On New Year’s Eve, the Famous Bonanza and Easy Street casinos will offer patrons hors d’oeuvres and a Champagne toast at midnight. It is also giving away more than $2,000 in cash and prizes. Cash drawings are held 9 p.m. – midnight.

The first day of the year, Famous Bonanza is again offering a promotion that gives guests point multipli-ers every time the Broncos score. There is also a Cham-pagne and dessert toast at noon planned.

On New Year’s Eve, local favorite Millie’s Restau-rant, will offer a surf and turf special for $12.99.

Fortune Valley Hotel and Casino321 Gregory St., 303-582-0800, www.fortunevalleycasino.com

The Fortune Valley Hotel and Casio is offering its guests a chance to with the “Holiday Car & Cash Give-away.” There are 21 winners every Friday and Saturday night in December at 8 p.m. Winners receive their share of $15,000 in cash prizes, and a qualifying en-try for the car giveaway. The grand prize winner will drive home in a 2012 Dodge Durango. There is a “Last Chance Drawing,” Jan. 2 at 7:30 p.m. and the final car drawing is 8 p.m. on Jan. 2.

with Colorado casinos

PAGE 10 THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years December 27, 2011 - January 2, 2012

By Anna Lee Ames Frohlich

After re-t i r i n g f r o m

politics and rail-roading in 1854, my great-great g r a n d f a t h e r Thomas Allen tried the life of “otium cum dig-nitate,” leisure with dignity, but found it not to his liking. Missouri was a divided state during the war. Allen was a Union sympathizer. In 1860, he funded the Allen Guard from Pitts-field, Mass., his second home and birthplace. In 1866, while the country was trying to heal, he presented a plan (how little things change ...) “for the liquidation of the national debt, by a grand patriotic subscription, in commuta-tion of taxes, and also based, in part, on repay-ment in public lands.”

In 1867 an irresistible opportunity present-ed itself, and he once again turned his focus to railroads. The Iron Mountain Road, meant to open for market the richest mineral lands in Missouri, had not been completed due to the war and was handed back to the state and to St. Louis from which it had received large subsidies. Thomas Allen was able to purchase the Iron Mountain along with the Cairo and Fulton Railroad, which extended to the bor-der of Arkansas. The state threw in the stipu-lation that the Iron Mountain be complete in five years. After much political maneuvering that made the task more difficult, Allen com-pleted the project in less than half the time required in the contract.

In 1871, he purchased with his associates the Cairo & Ful-ton Railroad of Arkansas, an extension of the road in Mis-souri. He now had the control of about 700 miles of track, the most important railroad line with its center in St. Louis. This road also connected them in the new town of Texarkana with railroad lines in Texas and routes to Galveston and other important locations in Texas. Thomas Allen renamed his entire system of railroads the Saint Louis, Iron Moun-tain & Southern.

A look back now at the rail-road that first brought recogni-tion to Allen, the Pacific Railroad,

which by now was often being referred to as the Pacific Railroad of Missouri. It had even gone into the steam-boat business. A fleet of 12 steamboats was avail-able at Jef-ferson City, the western terminus of the rail-road, to take passengers and freight up the Missouri River to Kansas City and beyond. By 1865, the railroad itself had crossed Mis-souri and reached Kansas City.

During the Civil War, raids against Missouri railroads were common. One of the most damaging raids was led by Sterling Price, a Confederate Army major general, against the Pacific Rail-road. Then sometime in the early 1870s, the railroad had the dubious distinction of being robbed by the James brothers, Jesse and Frank, at Otterville. They only got away with a few thousand dollars. This was in-

dicative of the lawlessness and terror holding sway in border regions. Outlaw gangs became bold af-ter the rapid removal of Union troops.

The year 1872 brought financial woes and forced reorganiza-tion to the Pacific Rail-

road. It came out of re-ceivership with the name

Missouri Pacific Rail-way. Not long after,

financier Jay Gould of New York devel-oped an interest in western rail-roads after pur-chasing a large block of stock in the Union Pacific

Railroad. Next he acquired control of the

Central Pacific, the Kansas Pacific and the Denver Pacific. The Missouri Pa-cific Railway was

expanding westward, and in 1879, to keep it from

becoming a threat to the Union Pacific,

Gould bought a controlling in-

terest in and became the president of that railway. He orga-nized his railroad sys-tem around

the Missouri Pacific, once

the Pacific Railroad and the

first railroad west of the Mississippi.In 1881 Thomas Al-

len and his associates sold the St. Louis, Iron Mountain and Southern to Jay Gould. Thus both railroads that were nur-

tured and developed by Allen became part of Jay Gould’s enormous network.

Allen had other goals to reach for, mostly of a civic nature. He donated funds for the Berk-shire Athenaeum in his beloved town of Pitts-field. The athenaeum still exists and is still

“devoted to promoting education, culture and refinement and diffus-ing knowledge.” He donated funds for the State of Missouri Building at the Centennial Exposition in 1876, and he rebuilt the gracious South-ern Hotel in St. Louis (1879-1881).

He was also the principal founder of the University Club of St. Louis. He gave a speech in 1878 pertaining to the character of our government. His words ring true even today, “Can we not have,” he demanded, “a higher degree of prosperity and better government at a less cost? This is one of the con-stantly recurring problems.”

Thomas Allen was elected in 1880 as a U.S. Representative to the 47th Congress. On April 8, 1882, he died in Washington, D.C., feeling that “he had left a portion of his work unaccomplished.” He left a respected legacy as a part of our nation’s westward advance.

His son, Thomas Allen, Jr., left a legacy to the West of an entirely different type...

Map of the St. Louis, Iron Mountain and Southern Railway from “A Tour of St. Louis,” 1878.Photos courtesy of Anna Lee Ames Frolich

Thomas Allen’s system of railroads leaves a legacy“I have sometimes felt

compelled to admit the truth of a remark made by one of my

attorneys, that I am condemned by the Almighty to hard labor for the term of my natural life.

What caused the sentence I do not know, but I admit its justice and submit to it, and that certainly not merely to

amass the goods of this world, for I have long since had a

sufficiency of them.”

- Thomas Allen

Bust of Thomas Allen in the Berkshire Athenaeum,

Pittsfield, Mass.

Missouri Pacific Lines Railroad China, from an Allen family

collection.

December 27, 2011 - January 2, 2012 THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years PAGE 11

dea

lsre

al

Prize Code: $5 Gambler Cash

Coupon can be redeemed at the Cashier’s Cage or Player’s Club. Valid until date above. Limit one per person. Must be 21 years

of age and be a Player’s Club Member. Management reserves all rights.

Earn 100 points on your Player’s Card and receive $5 in cash

New Player Sign-Up Offer

The Gambler Expires: 1/2/2012

James won $20,000 playing Video Poker Jacks or Better at the Fortune Valley Hotel and Casino’s Guitar Bar.

Brenda won $15,000 playing a $1 Five Star machine at Canyon Casino.

As we usually do this time of year, my sweetie and I flew South for the holi-days. We’re not quite snowbirds…yet…but she’s from Dixie and a dose of the South every now and again keeps things smooth. Since she knows – and actively supports, bless her – my passion for poker, I enjoy a stop on the way to ply my avocation at the tables. As long as we’ve been doing this, I’ve been able to pay for the entire trip roughly two out of three times.

This time we stopped in Tunica, Miss., just 16 miles south of Memphis, Tenn., and right on the “Big Muddy” – the Mississippi River. Not much else around Tunica, however, lots of farming and some of the flattest land I’ve ever seen. But the folks are friendly and help-ful. We chose to stay at Binion’s Horse-shoe and were not disappointed. They have a clean, well-lit poker room of 12 – 14 tables and spread games from $1-2 and up No Limit, $4-8 Limit up to $20-40 Limit, as well. There are tournaments every day, however, what was offered during our stay was different than what I read in Card Player magazine.

We arrived on a Friday and after the bag-drag from the airport and up to our hotel room (they have friendly and quick bell service, btw) we decided to celebrate the beginnings of our vacation at the steakhouse restaurant inside the casino. This restaurant is truly fine dining – the steaks were perfectly done and the ac-companiments were delicious. With drinks and a generous tip we got out of there for a C-note; but again we were be-ginning our vacation and – but of course - we’re worth it.

The next morning around 11 a.m., I wandered down to the poker room for a little live action before the 4 p.m. tourna-ment. We had just opened up a table in a $4-8 Limit game while I waited for a $2-5 No Limit to open up when the fol-lowing hand came down. I’m in the cut-off seat – 1 seat to the right of the but-

ton – and had folded some rags when the button raised before the flop, getting two callers. The flop came down 3-4-5 of hearts; the player in the 3-seat bet out, the 5-seat folded and the button re-raised, getting a call from the 3-seat. The turn did not coordinate the board any further…and then the war began. Bet, raise, reraise, re-reraise and back and forth it went. The fellow sitting to my right stood up and said “This is gonna be interestin’” and it was only then I real-ized just what was possibly occurring.

When the 3-seat ran out of chips the war was over and the river card was displayed. Doesn’t matter what it was and we didn’t care when the 3-seat turned over his Ace-Deuce of hearts for a straight flush and the button revealed his 6-7 of hearts for a higher straight flush. The table erupted, action at oth-er tables ceased temporarily as others came to look at the hands, the dealer began to count the deck down and sur-veillance was called to verify the bad-beat. That all took about 20 minutes, so when the word came down it was indeed a legitimate jackpot, the cheering began anew…and the calculators came out of nowhere to figure out who got what.

At the Horseshoe, it seems as when a jackpot occurs, the losing hand gets 30 percent, the winner receives 20 percent – and the pot, of course – and the rest of the room playing the same game all get a table share. After some mighty mathe-matical “figgerin’ an’ such,” it turned out that each of us playing the same game received $1,278 just for being at the right place at the right time. I was given $278 in assorted regular chips and one over-sized $1,000 chip. Now, I’ve handled chips of various denominations right up to $100,000, but they were tournament chips – poker points chips – not for real actual cash money chips, so this was a thrill. Most of the other players cashed right in after receiving theirs but I want-ed to enjoy the rich feeling for a while. I keep it in my pocket the entire day, cash-ing out only when headed back to my room. Kind of a neat feeling AND right then and there the trip was paid for.

Happy Holidays to all the Colorado poker players, families and friends! May 2012 be a safe and prosperous one for all!

PAGE 12 THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years December 27, 2011 - January 2, 2012

FULLHOUSEBy Drew Chitiea

Thinking About Poker: Merry Christmas to me

Visit us online:www.coloradogambler.com

and follow us on Twitter :COGamblerGambler

Gaming

Last Saturday, I had the opportunity to play the noon Deep Stack Tournament at The Golden Gates Poker Parlour. I sure love that poker fraternity – with all the “Hello’s” “Where ya been’s” and “Good to see you” it was like I hadn’t missed a day.

Truth be told it’s been more than three months since my last tournament. A few years ago I was playing tournaments 4 – 5 nights a week. Whew.

Who remembers the nightly tournaments at the Colorado Central Station – $110 and they used to provide pizza. How about the all-day smorgasbord of tournaments The Gilpin Poker Room offered ranging from $40 to $500?

Fitzgerald’s used to have a poker room with awesome morning tournaments that were packed – due to the breakfast spread they put out (sausage, pancakes….yum.) When this poker room moved downstairs they had a unique promotion for a while; winning a hand with a 7 – 2 off suit would pay you $25.

How about the morning tournaments at The Glory Hole Casino up in Central City? These were the rustic old days – the poker area was just a few tables stuffed in a room behind the bar and the entire room was dec-orated with an old western theme.

Back to the tournament. It was a $200 deep stack and started with 99 players. Let’s play cards.

Each round was 30 minutes (rather than the usual 20) and there was additional $10 optional add on for the dealers with all play-ers pitching in. This is a good idea - keeps the dealers dealing.

With the add on, we all started with 35K in chips – I was up to 39K after the first three hands when my pocket J’s held up against pocket 10’s.

The play was fast with many big bets early on. Within the first 10 minutes we had 2 all in’s (one being a bluff) and were minus two players.

For me, it was a slow grind to the first break. After the pocket J’s, it was quite a

while until I found another playable hand (or the spot to play one).

Nearly two hours into the tournament, I picked up Ad – Jd near the button with the blinds at $200 - $400 and raised to $1,600 with three callers in front of me.

The flop came Kd – 4d – Jc / a good flop for me with the nut flush draw and second pair. The player in first position bet out 5K immediately with one player calling. I had already decided this was my hand (only had 25K left) and pushed all in dramatically.

The first player thought and thought. He slowly said fold, but held onto his cards (wanted to show them). The middle player folded quickly and the first player turned over his Kc – Jh. He had tossed the top two pair. In reality, with him having 2 pair I only had the 9 outs (while hoping he didn’t hit one of his pair for a full house.) I believe my table image had something to do with the fold … and nope, I didn’t show my hand.

So, I dragged the pot and was feeling great about my play. At this point we took the first break, I had nearly $50K in chips and I was ready to go.

But alas – the poker gods were fickle and didn’t give me a chance after that. I simply had no cards for the next hour until I was in the blind (unraised and with 5 way action) with the 4c – 5c. The flop came 6c – 7c – Kh. I flopped a huge draw (flush and straight – 15 outs) and quickly bet my last $31K and was called by a player who had slow played an Ad – Kd, giving him top pair.

While I missed the draw when the 2h came on the turn and was joined by the 2s on the river – I feel good about the play I made. I could have won it with the bet or I could have drawn out to win the hand, but instead went out in 42nd place.

I played for nearly four hours and as Ozzy said in the recently concluded TV re-ality show Survivor when he got knocked out, “I’m going out on my terms at least, not someone else’s.”

Overall, I had a great time, some great conversation and played well – yet a bit con-servative. I played my big hands well (only had a few) and stayed out of trouble. As I reflect, there was no real hand I could have played differently to make more, unless it was to make a big bluff (and I never felt tim-ing was right).

So, I headed back down the mountain and spent some time Christmas shopping with the thought, “I’ll get them next time.”

Remember – play your game.

pokertalk

BYLARRY

JOHNSON

First tourney back played every hand with no regrets

December 27, 2011 - January 2, 2012 THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years PAGE 13

Trail’s End

By Rosemary Fetterhe observance of Kwanzaa (or Kwanza) is a rel-atively recent

addition to the holiday season that has roots in African traditions and culture. Although there is no comparable cele-bration in Africa, the observance from Dec. 26 – Jan. 1 combines several differ-ent year-end African harvest festi-vals, including the Ashanti and Zulu, to create a new, non-religious event. The name, derived from the Kiswa-hili phrase “matunda ya kwanza,” means first fruits of the harvest. Kiswahili (or Swahili) was chosen because it is a non-tribal language spoken in many parts of the country. Kwanzaa focuses on paying tribute to the rich cultural roots of the Afri-can Diaspora, a.k.a. people who have left the ancestral homeland.

The celebration began in the United States, shortly after the five-day Watts riots in Los Angeles in Au-gust 1965, in which 34 people were killed. The riots were precipitated by efforts of certain states to circumvent the Civil Rights of 1964, when several states, including California, moved to block the fair housing section of the act. The most violent episode of racial tension up to that point, Watts symbolized the struggle for racial equality that was still central to the American scene.

The following year, a California State Univer-sity professor named Mau-lana Karen-ga, a profes-sor of Black Studies, cre-ated Kwanzaa in order to bring African-Amer-icans together to celebrate their heritage, culture and com-munity and inspire those who were working toward progress. Karenga also founded the orga-nization Us as an alternative to the more radical Black Panthers.

During the week of Kwanzaa, participants focus on seven prin-ciples, or Nguzo Saba, created by Karenga. They include Unity: Umoja (oo–MO–jah); Self-determination: Kujichagulia (koo–gee–cha–goo–LEE–yah); Collective Work and Responsibility: Ujima (oo–GEE–mah); Cooperative Economics: Uja-maa (oo–JAH–mah;) Purpose: Nia (nee–YAH); Creativity: Kuumba (koo–OOM–bah) and Faith: Imani

(ee–MAH–nee).On the first night,

of Kwanzaa, someone in the family, usu-ally a child, lights the black candle in the center of the Kinara (candle holder) and a discussion of the first principle ensues. On subsequent evenings the six other principles are discussed. Fami-

lies celebrate differently, sometimes with parties, singing, dancing, crafts projects and games and activities for children.

E a c h of the p r i n -ciples has a symbol. For exam-ple, Mazo, ( f r u i t s , nuts and v e g e t a -bles) on the first night sym-b o l i z e s work and the basis of the holiday, in which joy and thanksgiving are the fruits of collective work. Celebrants drink from kikombe cha umoja, or the uni-ty cup, to honor their ancestors. The symbols of Kwanzaa are arranged on the mkeka, or mat, to honor the

foundation upon which com-munities are built.

On Dec. 31, a feast or gathering of many fami-

lies, called karamu, is usually held at a church or c o m m u n i t y

center. Partici-pants enjoy tra-

ditional dishes from various regions in Africa, many of them made with ingredients

Africans brought to the United States,

such as sweet potatoes, ses-ame seeds and peanuts. During

the feast, the Kwanza colors of red, black and green are prominent, im-portant symbols in ancient Africa. Green stands for the fertile African land, black stands for the color of the people and red symbolizes blood that was shed in the struggle for free-dom. On Jan. 1, the last day of Kwan-zaa, children receive educational and cultural gifts, or zawadi.

The popularity of Kwanzaa has increased substantially since its 1966 founding. An estimated 18 mil-lion people celebrate in the United States, and many more around the world. Although Kwanzaa has its critics (some have called the holiday “socially divisive and toot recently invented” and question Karenga’s motives) the celebration of commu-nity is a universal that everyone can appreciate. And the food is fabulous, from sweet potato pie and fritters to benne cakes, peanut soup and potato biscuits.

Celebrants of Kwanzaa drink from kikombe cha umoja, or the unity cup, to honor their ancestors.

On the first night, of Kwanzaa, someone in the family lights the black candle in the center of the Kinara (candle holder) and a discussion of the first principle ensues. On subsequent evenings the six other principles are discussed and candles are lit.

PAGE 14 THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years December 27, 2011 - January 2, 2012

Horoscope

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

CAPRICORN - (Dec. 22 - Jan. 20)With the recent New Moon in Capricorn you can look forward to blazing a new path ahead, especially for those born before the 25. You may have new leads or ideas when it comes to generating money, and female friends that can assist. Look for more travel on your calendar with the New Year ahead. Nothing can hold you down.Lucky Numbers: 1, 2, 3, 19, 21, 22 AQUARIUS - (Jan. 21 - Feb. 19)Any legal situations may still be holding you down, at least until after the New Year. You can look forward to an easier and more productive year for yourself. Work will increase and so will the recognition you so well deserve. You may feel as if something has been holding you down and you’re about to be set free.Lucky Numbers: 4, 7, 11, 14, 17, 46 PISCES (Feb 20 - March 20)You may be tempted to withdraw and keep your feelings to yourself. Truly consider sharing what it is you are feeling, as there is a lot of personal growth that can occur from this. Explore the mystical or spiritual side of life. Before too long you will be finding opportunities that increase your contacts and perception of the world. Seek truth. Lucky Numbers: 11, 12, 17, 28, 29, 32

ARIES - (March 21 - April 20)The Holidays have been a very energetic time for you. You can still accomplish a great amount of work. Assert yourself in a healthy manner. Avoid quick responses and aggressive reactions. A great relationship requires mutual energy exchange. Create a fabulous night for you and your partner to celebrate the New Year.Lucky Numbers: 1, 4, 14, 16, 20, 24

 TAURUS - (April 21 - May 21)You are more inclined to experience the feelings of love and beauty in your life right now. Take a drive to view the holiday light displays, visit an art museum or take a pleasurable trip. Avoid doing anything in excess. You feelings are grand and you may want to go above and beyond doing something wonderful for your sweetie. Know you are appreciated. Lucky Numbers: 2, 14, 32, 37, 51 GEMINI - (May 22 - June 21)The prior New Moon may take you on a new path concerning finances. You have been use to doing things one way and now you are being asked to change paths and move in another direction. You have angelic protection with you at all times. Listen to your intuition. Consult a specialist in any matter that concerns you. Avoid bad habits.Lucky Numbers: 12, 14, 18, 21, 24, 28 CANCER - (June 22 - July 22)You could develop a strong attachment to something in your life, or be less willing to part with something. Not the best time to spend money, as you might over due it without any thoughts about it until later. Make a list before leaving the house to avoid any blunders. You may be restless with life. Find something to feed your soul. Avoid chaos. Lucky Numbers: 3, 8, 9, 33, 38, 39 LEO - (July 23 - Aug 22)Now is the time to focus on how you should manage your life and what responsibilities involved to get this done. The structure of Saturn is moving into your surrounding dwelling. You may consider moving, remodeling or at least changing the furniture and colors. Health is a focus as well as your daily activities. Your spirit is upbeat and generous. Keep Positive. Lucky Numbers: 5, 13, 25, 26, 39, 44 

VIRGO - (Aug. 23 - Sept. 23)You are fired up and full of energy, and becoming more serious about what is important to you and how you go about to getting it. You may develop a hunger for knowledge and want to learn a new trade or stimulate an interest. Seek out others who share the same interests. Risk taking is something new for you. Proceed with caution. Lucky Numbers: 3, 4, 8, 33, 34, 38 LIBRA - (Sept. 24 - Oct. 23)There is a grace and elegance about you this week. Maybe even a little teary eyed at times. You may be considering a New Years resolution that you can stick to. Something wants to change and you have the motivation now to take yourself to new heights. The past is the past and you are ready to move on.Lucky Numbers: 3, 6, 20, 35, 36, 56 SCORPIO - (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)If you are living away from home you may be feeling a bit nostalgic. Pick up the phone to make true connections with those that pull at your heart strings. Bring in the New Year knowing you’ve shared what you are feeling in your heart. On a business level, financial decisions don’t fall like they should; view both sides of the situation. Be persistent in your goals. Lucky Numbers: 2, 5, 15, 24, 25, 40 SAGITTARIUS - (Nov. 23 - Dec. 21)Someone close by is falling sweet on you - maybe a new neighbor or co-worker. Your charm can be an amazing aphrodisiac. You may be asked to help out with a community event. Something you’ve done before. Children never seize to amaze us and yours may come up with a new twist into your daily affairs. Patience is a virtue.Lucky Numbers: 7, 9, 16, 17, 24, 33

Do you know your birthstone? For early man, gems were more than col-orful adornments. Early man believed gems possessed magical qualities and repelled evil spirits. Such are the legends associated with birthstones. Their history is as colorful as their colors and as varied as their names. Their names are associated with certain months. What stone goes with what month? What is your birthstone? You’re about to find out. This is a series of articles explaining the background and legends sur-rounding birthstones.

In spite of early evidence on the importance of precious stones in-fluencing the destiny of individuals, there is no proof they were worn as birthstones until a comparatively late date. In fact, the custom seems to have started in Germany, others say in Poland, about 1562. This may not be entirely correct, however, since the idea can be found in an-cient writings.

According to the Bible, when

the Israelites erected their Tabernacle in the Wilder-ness, the Lord gave Moses explicit rules for making the Vestments of Aaron, the brother of Moses and the High Priest of Israel. The most interesting por-tion of the vestments was the Breastplate of Judg-ment set with 12 precious stones, each engraved with the name of one of the 12 tribes of Israel. Unfor-

tunately, it is difficult for contem-porary translators to determine a certain or absolute interpretation of which modern gemstone name equates to the ancient biblical de-scriptions of the stones of the high priest’s breastplate. Therefore, the list of gems used varies dependent on the translation that is cited. The New International Version list the 12 stones as ruby, topaz, beryl, tur-quoise, sapphire, emerald, jacinth, agate, amethyst, chrysolite, onyx and jasper. (Note the number 12 as-sociation in this article.)

During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, the study of astrology became very popular. Certain jewels were considered lucky or unlucky for each person, so the astrologer

recommended one or more stones to an individual and warned oth-ers against w e a r i n g t h e m . P e a r l s w e r e consid-ered un-lucky for Elizabeth of England and Mary Queen of Scots. Ruby was a lucky stone for Henry VIII, according to his horoscope.

Certain stones soon became as-sociated with certain times of the year. The traditional list was based on the Foundation Stones of the New Testament. The Foundation Stones, in turn, can be traced to the stones of the High Priest’s Breast-plate.

Early man wore gems not only for his personal adornment, but because he believed they possessed magical qualities and thus served to ward off evil influences. As civi-lization advanced, certain gems

were associated with the religion and

customs of the time. Certain

gems were associated with the 12 tribes of Is-rael, 12 signs of the zo-diac, the

p l a n e t s , 12 guard-

ian angels, 12 apostles, and

many customs and religions of different

countries. The Jewelry Association of the

United States gathered all the in-formation about birthstones from all over the world and presented a list in 1938. In 1952, the Jewelry Industrial Council revised the list so that it would reflect the stones most popular for those months and pro-vide a standard, uniform list that everyone could use to associate a gemstone with their month of birth. The birthstones for each month are as follows:January – Garnet

February – AmethystMarch – Aquamarine or bloodstoneApril – DiamondMay – EmeraldJune – Pearl, moonstone or alexan-

driteJuly – RubyAugust – Peridot or sardonyxSeptember – SapphireOctober – Opal or pink tourmalineNovember – Topaz or topaz quartzDecember – Turquoise or zircon

Gemstone & Minerals Editor’s note: This is a series of articles about birthstones - the gems associated with the months of the year. The author, Ray Lundin, is a Lakewood resident and has worked in the Colorado casinos for 15 years. He is a certified gemologist, one “licensed” by schooling and testing to identify gems and minerals. He has been in the opal mines of Andamooka, Australia, was an officer in gem and mineral clubs in California and Colorado, was the superintendent of the Gem and Mineral Building at the Ventura County Fair in California for 10 years, and was the president of the Colorado Federation of Gem and Mineral Societies for five years. In 2012, articles about each month’s birthstone will be presented along with the history, legends and other information concerning that particular birthstone.

Legends and history of birthstones

By Ray Lundin - Gemologist

December 27, 2011 - January 2, 2012 THE COLORADO GAMBLER – Celebrating 20 Years PAGE 15

EMPLOYMENTFOR SALE

SERVICES

STORES

REAL ESTATE

FOR RENT

303-789-9400 phone • 303-789-9401 faxorders@bakerengraving.com

4980 Monaco St., Unit B • Commerce City, Co 80022

•Announcements•Invitations•Stationery

•BusinessCards•Letterheads•GoldEmbossing

Foil Stamping * Foil Embossing * Blind EmbossingCall to discuss your printing needs:

Unique, exquisite engravingusing a 100-year-old process

Your

localfriendly

convenience storeBlack Hawk, CO 303-582-5869

vGold Mountain VillageApartments Offers You

Call 303-582-0440 for more information

•Spectacular views of the continental divide

• One & two bedroom apartments available

• Ceiling fans in all bedrooms

• Abundant storage• Fully equipped kitchen• Utility room w/full size

washer/dryer hook-ups• Fitness center• Business center• Hot tub

Askabout ourspecialrentalrates!

TEAM MEMBERS WANTEDNeed people with a gaming license

or ability to get one. Read meters & do drop.

Mile High Casino Services, Inc.303-988-3254

COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

in downtown idaho SpringSA spectacular property you simply must see.

303-567-1582

Trading Post

6350 SHERIDAN BLVD ARVADA 800039731 W 58TH AVE ARVADA 800021575 W 84TH AVE FEDERAL HEIGHTS 8022112350 W 64TH AVE ARVADA 8000415200 W 64TH AVE ARVADA 800078055 SHERIDAN BLVD ARVADA 800033400 YOUNGFIELD ST WHEAT RIDGE 800331555 QUAIL ST LAKEWOOD 8021517171 S GOLDEN RD GOLDEN 8040111747 W KEN CARYL AVE LITTLETON 801271927 S WADSWORTH BLVD LAKEWOOD 8022712043 W ALAMEDA PKWY LAKEWOOD 802286760 S PIERCE ST LITTLETON 801289800 W BELLEVIEW AVE LITTLETON 801231545 S KIPLING ST LAKEWOOD 802321173 BERGEN PARK EVERGREEN 804398126 S WADSWORTH BLVD LITTLETON 8012825637 CONIFER RD CONIFER 804337984 W ALAMEDA AVE LAKEWOOD 802265050 S FEDERAL BLVD ENGLEWOOD 801102205 WILDCAT RESERVE PKWY HIGHLANDS RANCH 801299551 S UNIVERSITY BLVD HIGHLANDS RANCH 801265050 E ARAPAHOE RD CENTENNIAL 801227575 S UNIVERSITY BLVD CENTENNIAL 801228200 S HOLLY ST CENTENNIAL 80122101 ENGLEWOOD PKWY ENGLEWOOD 80110100 W LITTLETON BLVD LITTLETON 801204000 RED CEDAR DR HIGHLANDS RANCH 801268673 S QUEBEC ST HIGHLANDS RANCH 801267901 S BROADWAY LITTLETON 80122

Black Hawk’s Best Bet or a Great, Exciting Job

• TABLE GAMES DEALER• SnAck Shop ATTEnDAnT• cockTAiL SERvER• piT SUpERviSoR

Apply at the Canyon Casino, 131 Main Street, Black Hawk

or call 303-777-1111(8:30-5:00, Mon.-Fri.)

We take success personally.

Apply at www.islecasinojobs.com303-998-7815

EOE/Drug Free Employer

•CookI•F&BSupervISor•GueStSaFetyaGent•taBleGameSDealer•CaSInoGreeter•pokerpropoSItIonplayer

http://www.fortunevalleycasino.com