One Man March Misses the Mark

Sometimes one man's love for poker can extend over an entire state. But that was not the case for Tony Sandstrom of California. Although Tony tried to organize a one man petition to collect 430,000 signatures to force the state of California to start and operate and state run an online poker site, he ran a little short. At his deadline on December 1st Tony had nearly 30,000 signatures about 400,000 short. According to Cardplayer.com, Tony said "It was my first foray into the world of public policy, and I did it completely on my own. I acknowledges that I was out manned from the start, and if I try to tackle this issue again, I will seek the assistance of a larger group to help generate interest".

Despite Tony's failure I still give him a standing ovation for his admirable intentions. From one poker lover to another I applaud you.

'Chip' Dead at 56

Today the poker world lost another one of the greats. David 'Chip' Reese was announced dead this morning at the young age of only 56. Reese leaves quite the legacy behind as many players considered him to be one of the greatest of all time. He was the winner of three WSOP bracelets and perhaps the best cash game player to date. Reese was one of those players who got good quick and in 1991 he was the youngest player ever to be inducted into the poker hall of fame.
The cause for his death has not yet been released but there is speculation around the blogosphere that he was hospitalized with pneumonia like symptoms and died in his sleep. Reese will certainly be missed.

A Poker Legend

In a recent post on Tom Sexton's 'Sexton's Corner' a biweekly blog, Sexton wrote several captivating stories about Stu Ungar. Literally the greatest poker player of all time, Stuey as he was referred to by friends, was a very unique character. As Sexton highlights, "He was eccentric, impatient, temperamental, and explosive in disposition over small things, but on the big stage, when the spotlight was on him, he was the most decorated and accomplished tournament poker player in history". Sexton goes on to tell several memorable stories of Stuey and this one is my favorite...

Stories about Stuey are legendary, like the time in 1989 when Stuey was running late to get to Caesars for the final table of Amarillo Slim's Super Bowl of Poker. Here was Stuey speeding down Hwy. 15, and as he took an exit he crashed into another vehicle in his Jaguar. The car he ran into, of course, was a police car. Always hyper, Stuey got out of his car to explain why he was trying to get to the poker tournament in such a hurry. Incredibly, the police officer recognized him, and as it turned out, he was a big fan of Stuey's. In 1989, Stuey had already won the 1980 and 1981 WSOP Main Event, plus two Super Bowls of Poker… he was like a living poker legend, who was on his way to try and win his third Super Bowl of Poker. The officer decided to let Stuey off, without even a warning ticket, as most of the damage was to Stuey's Jaguar. Stuey was lucky in the sense that another policeman might not have been so amused. He might very well pull his handcuffs out, explaining that they love to play cards down at Clark County jail. Stuey did arrive a little late, but unfazed, and amazingly went on to win his third Super Bowl of Poker that day.

Wynn Macau

When most Americans hear the Wynn, they think of the new Las Vegas destination. But in 2006 the Wynn Macau opened and has become a world leader in casino luxury. Here is a video of the dancing fountains at the Wynn Macau.

Casinos in Kansas

Following a newly expanded gambling law in the state of Kansas, it was not long until casino and resort super power Harrah's tried to take advantage. They recently submitted a $500 Million plan for a resort style casino in Sumner County, Kansas. The plan is designed to drive tourism in Kansas and includes nothing but world class amenities. Of course the plan has a Las Vegas like gaming floor with a World Series of Poker room. Also several celebrity themed restaurants headed by Food Network star Paula Deen and country music star Toby Keith. But no 500 acre resort casino would be complete without a 1,600 seat amphitheater for outdoor concerts, a 30,000 square foot conference center, and a championship golf course. The plan for the hotel part of the resort includes 275 luxury rooms, 30 suites, and 5private pool villas.


Though this plan may appear perfect it meets many challenges before it can become a reality. The first challenge is getting approved by the state which is still contemplating the law. And out doing its competitors who have also submitted plans like MGM Mirage and Foxwoods Development (who have joined forces in their plan), Penn National Gaming Inc., and Butler National Service Corp.