Category: Uncategorized

# Central City Files Lawsuit Against RCI, Seeks Closure of Rick’s Cabaret

**Meta Title:** Central City Sues RCI Over Rick’s Cabaret SOB Violations | Register-Call

**Meta Description:** Central City files lawsuit seeking to close Rick’s Cabaret for nudity violations and operating without proper SOB licensing. Exclusive coverage of the legal battle.

**Slug:** central-city-lawsuit-rci-ricks-cabaret-sob-violations

**Keywords:** Central City lawsuit, RCI Hospitality Holdings, Rick’s Cabaret Central City, sexually oriented business, SOB regulations, Eric Langan, Travis Reese, Gilpin County news

**Author:** Don Ireland, Senior Reporter

**Date:** January 1, 2026

**Category:** Local Government, Legal News, Central City

**Featured Image Alt Text:** Rick’s Cabaret & Steakhouse at 130 Main Street in downtown Central City, Colorado

—

## Central City Takes Legal Action Against Adult Entertainment Venue

The City of Central has filed a lawsuit against RCI Hospitality Holdings, asking the Gilpin County District Court to shut down the company’s Rick’s Cabaret and Steakhouse at 130 Main Street in downtown Central City.

### Key Allegations in the Lawsuit

“Rick’s Cabaret unlawfully opened and illegally operates a Sexually Oriented Business in Central City,” according to the city’s lawsuit filed December 23, 2025. The complaint requests a preliminary injunction to shutter the operation until it complies with local regulations and obtains an SOB license from the city.

The lawsuit alleges multiple violations of Central City regulations:

– **Nudity violations**: Allowing entertainers to appear nude or expose specified anatomical areas while not on a permanent and non-movable stage
– **Sexual activity violations**: Allowing entertainers to engage in specified sexual activities
– **Licensing violations**: Operating a Sexually Oriented Business without a city-issued SOB license
– **Hours violations**: Operating between 3 a.m. and 10 a.m., past Central’s 2 a.m. closing time for SOBs

### Named Defendants

The civil case names RCI Hospitality Holdings, RCI Dining Services (Central City), RCI Holdings Inc., former CEO & President Eric Langan, and Vice President Travis Reese.

Langan, who stepped down from his CEO role in November 2024 but remained on the board, is described in the lawsuit as “the long-time and current public face” of Rick’s Cabaret. RCI’s Board of Directors appointed Reese as interim president following Langan’s departure.

### City’s Legal Demands

Central City Attorney Marcus McAskin and associate Christine Fitch filed the complaint seeking court orders to:

1. Stop RCI from operating as a Sexually Oriented Business without city-approved licensing
2. Cease operations between 3 a.m. and 10 a.m.
3. Close Rick’s Cabaret for allowing nudity violations and specified sexual activities

According to the lawsuit, “Ricks Cabaret is an adult theater, one kind of sexually oriented business, that regularly violates the licensing requirement, the hours regulation, and conduct restrictions.”

### Background: From Casino Plans to Adult Entertainment

The controversy dates back to December 2022, when Central City’s elected leaders voted to sell the former casino property at 130 Main Street to RCI Hospitality Holdings for $2.4 million.

Initially, Langan announced plans to open a casino with a nightclub and steakhouse. However, in June 2024, he withdrew his application for a casino license with the Colorado Division of Revenue, pivoting to the adult entertainment business model instead.

### Previous Legal Battles

RCI has faced multiple legal challenges:

– **August 2024**: RCI sued Central City in federal court after the council upheld an administrator’s decision regarding the building, but dropped the lawsuit a year later when Rick’s Cabaret opened
– **September 2025**: New York Attorney General Letitia James filed a lawsuit indicting Langan and four other RCI executives for an alleged “multimillion-dollar criminal tax fraud and bribery scheme” to avoid paying over $8 million in sales taxes between 2010 and 2024

The New York indictment is believed to have prompted Langan’s resignation as CEO in November 2024.

### Community Opposition and Referendum

Throughout 2024 and into 2025, several Central City residents and council members opposed Rick’s Cabaret, citing concerns about:

– Zoning compliance issues
– Community morality standards
– Public safety concerns
– Type of clientele the business would attract

In September 2024, Mayor Jeremy Fey succeeded in winning a 3-2 council vote to place a referendum on the November 4 ballot, asking voters whether the council should change city code to allow Sexually Oriented Businesses to operate on Main Street.

Central voters delivered a clear message on November 4, voting 153-113 to keep existing regulations in place that prohibit SOBs on Main Street.

### Legal Timeline and Next Steps

RCI and its named executives have 21 days to respond if they are in Colorado, or 35 days if they are out of state. A court date will be scheduled after the defendants respond to the lawsuit.

The lawsuit was filed one week after council’s final meeting of 2025 on December 16.

### City’s Official Statement

Following the lawsuit filing, Central City issued a statement:

“Today, pursuant to the direction and prior vote of the City Council, Central City has filed an action to enforce the city’s Sexually Oriented Business Licensing Ordinance that [the council adopted in September 2024]. The lawsuit contends that Rick’s Cabaret opened unlawfully and has been operating illegally, in violation of the ordinance’s licensing, hours of operation and conduct regulations. Because litigation on the matter is still pending, the city will have no further statements other than those contained in the court filings.”

### Business Continues Operations

Despite the lawsuit, Rick’s Cabaret continued to advertise its Christmas Day hours and New Year’s Eve events on its website and Facebook pages. The business describes itself as “Central City’s top-rated gentlemen’s club,” open from 6 p.m. to 4 a.m. Thursday through Sunday.

The establishment also advertises on three city-owned billboards along the Central City Parkway.

### Mayor Fey’s Involvement

Mayor Jeremy Fey is the only remaining city alderman in office who voted to sell the building to RCI in December 2022. He later came under public scrutiny after accepting a free trip with Langan aboard RCI’s jet to the company’s headquarters in Houston, including attending an NFL game between the Houston Texans and Denver Broncos in RCI’s private box.

Langan also provided Fey with a sales-based lease for a storefront purchased by RCI at 127 Main Street.

Following initial public complaints in 2024, Fey recused himself from all council discussions related to RCI. However, in 2025, Fey changed his position and began participating in RCI-related discussions again.

### Broader Context: City Code Changes

In the summer of 2024, the council approved changes to its Land Use Code, creating Industrial-zone land along the Central City Parkway and requiring that any SOBs be located in such zoning classifications.

The council also approved Ordinance No. 24-02, which established licensing requirements for any Sexually Oriented Business wanting to operate in the city.

Additionally, the city retained special attorney Scott Bergthold of Chattanooga, Tennessee, whose firm specializes in helping municipalities oppose adult-oriented businesses. The council voted unanimously to hire Bergthold to work with McAskin on potential litigation related to the RCI situation.

—

**Editor’s Note:** RCI Interim President Travis Reese did not respond to the Weekly Register-Call’s request for comment or a response to the lawsuit.

**Related Stories:**
– [Voters Reject SOB Zoning Change in Central City](#)
– [Central City Land Use Code Changes Approved](#)
– [Eric Langan Steps Down as RCI CEO](#)

**Contact Information:**
– Central City Attorney Marcus McAskin: [City Hall contact]
– Weekly Register-Call Newsroom: news@weeklyregistercall.com | 303-906-9902

—

*This story was originally published in the Weekly Register-Call print edition, January 1, 2026. Don Ireland is the Senior Reporter and Drone Photographer for the Weekly Register-Call, Colorado’s oldest newspaper, established 1862.*

# Bigfoot Casino Opening Delayed: Months of Work Ahead for Black Hawk’s Newest Gaming Venue

**Meta Title:** Bigfoot Casino Opening Delayed by Months in Black Hawk | Register-Call

**Meta Description:** Ed Smith’s Bigfoot Casino won’t open for months as technical challenges with slot machines and rebranding work continue. Exclusive interview with the casino owner.

**Slug:** bigfoot-casino-black-hawk-opening-delayed-ed-smith

**Keywords:** Bigfoot Casino Black Hawk, Ed Smith casino, Z Casino purchase, Maverick Gaming bankruptcy, Black Hawk casinos, Sasquatch Casino, Gregory Street gaming

**Author:** Don Ireland, Senior Reporter

**Date:** January 1, 2026

**Category:** Gaming News, Black Hawk, Business

**Featured Image Alt Text:** Ed Smith standing in front of “Harry” statue at Sasquatch Casino in Black Hawk, Colorado

—

## Technical Challenges Push Back Bigfoot Casino Launch

Anxiously waiting for the new Bigfoot Casino to open in the existing Z Casino building at 101 Gregory Street in downtown Black Hawk? So is Ed Smith, the new casino’s owner.

Just as someone hiding in the woods hopes to catch a photo of a Sasquatch, it’s going to take time and require a lot of patience. The new casino isn’t likely to open for several months, 35 years after Colorado voters approved limited-stakes casino gaming in the former mountain gold-mining communities of Black Hawk, Central City, and Cripple Creek.

### Exclusive Interview: The Challenges Ahead

In an exclusive interview with the Weekly Register-Call, Smith said he and his staff have plenty of work to complete before the first Bigfoot Casino patrons can play at the new establishment.

“We’ve just got a lot of stuff to do before that,” Smith explained, detailing the complex technical and logistical challenges facing the $25 million acquisition.

### The Slot Machine Computer System Challenge

One of the key tasks concerns the slot machines currently at the Z Casino, which was owned by Maverick Gaming (also known as RunItOneTime LLC). Maverick filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in a federal court in Texas in July 2024. The bankruptcy proceedings included several Maverick gaming properties in Colorado and other states.

According to court documents, Z Casino has 313 slot machines across its three floors. The machines are part of a Maverick computer network that also connects to the company’s gaming devices at the Grand Z Casino and Hotel and the Dragon Tiger Casinos in neighboring Central City.

#### The Network Dilemma

“They put all of the slot monitoring and surveillance systems [from the three casinos] into one big computer network up at Grand Z,” Smith explained. “In order for us to get going, we have to order [computer] servers from China. Then we’ve got to get them programmed. It could take a long time to get the stuff from China.”

### Machine Replacement and Updates

Once the computer infrastructure is completed, slot machine manufacturers—such as Aristocrat, IGT, Oasis, Konami, Light and Wonder—will come to the Bigfoot Casino to update any machines Smith decides to keep.

“There are over 300 machines in there now. We’re not going to replace all of them. We might get some new machines because some of them in there now are pretty old,” Smith noted.

### Signage and Rebranding

In addition to technical challenges, Smith will need to order new indoor and outdoor signage for the building as it rebrands from the Z to the Bigfoot Casino. The signage will require approval from Black Hawk’s Community Development Department.

Smith said he doesn’t expect any issues with the new signs. “We’ve got a sophisticated welding shop over in Idaho Springs that most sign people don’t have.”

### Liquor License Requirements

Smith’s Bigfoot Casino will also need to obtain a liquor license from the City of Black Hawk—a process that takes a few months and includes:
– Public hearing
– Approval by the city’s Board of Aldermen

### Physical Connection to Sasquatch Casino

Another item on Smith’s checklist is creating a doorway connecting the Bigfoot and Sasquatch casinos, allowing patrons to freely walk between them.

“I’d like to get a set of stairs built like Bullwhackers had [to connect the casinos]. Bullwhackers had a set of stairs, and I’d like to get them put back in,” said Smith.

### What the Purchase Includes

The businessman’s $25 million purchase of the Z Casino included:
– **Parking lot**: Something the Sasquatch Casino lacks
– **Gray metal building**: Across the back driveway from the casino, including office space, a conference room, and a maintenance shop

Smith doesn’t yet know how he will use the metal building, though he joked that he plans to remove any “No Sasquatch Parking” signs he finds on the Z Casino property.

“I have a little John Deere tractor. I was thinking of going over there and making a video of us crushing that sign,” he mused.

### Maverick Gaming’s Continued Operations

For the time being, Maverick Gaming continues to operate the Z, Grand Z, and Dragon Tiger casinos until Smith takes over the Z Casino and Marnell Companies announces its plans to take over the two Central City Maverick casinos it acquired through the bankruptcy proceedings.

### Timeline Uncertainty

Decisions about staffing, hours, and operations will also face the new owner. Does Smith have a date for when he will receive the keys to the Z Casino?

“No, I don’t at this point,” he commented. “We’ve just got a lot of stuff to do before that, such as upgrading the computer system.”

### A Veteran Casino Owner’s Perspective

On the opening day for casinos in October 1991, Smith was throwing dollar bills from the roof of his Sasquatch Casino at 125 Gregory St., hoping to attract new patrons to the casino he and his late wife, Shirley, had just opened. The couple later opened their second casino, the Wild Card, a few doors away at 120 Main Street.

Now, 35 years later, Smith is embarking on another casino venture with the same patience and determination that made him successful the first time around.

### Editor’s Note on Marnell Companies

Marnell Companies didn’t respond to the Weekly Register-Call’s request for an interview or information about its plans for the Grand Z or Dragon Tiger casinos in Central City, which were acquired as part of the Maverick Gaming bankruptcy case.

—

## Z Casino: A Brief History

The Z Casino building has a rich gaming history:
– Previously called **Bullwhackers Casino** during the early years of gaming in Black Hawk
– Purchased by Maverick Gaming and rebranded as Z Casino
– Features 313 slot machines across three floors
– Located at prime Gregory Street location (101 Gregory Street)

## About Ed Smith

Ed Smith is a Black Hawk gaming pioneer who:
– Opened Sasquatch Casino with his late wife Shirley in October 1991
– Operated Wild Card Casino at 120 Main Street
– Known for innovative marketing (threw dollar bills from roof on opening day)
– Purchased Z Casino for $25 million from Maverick Gaming bankruptcy estate

—

**Related Stories:**
– [Maverick Gaming Files Chapter 11 Bankruptcy](#)
– [Black Hawk Casino History: 35 Years of Gaming](#)
– [Marnell Companies Acquires Central City Casinos](#)

**Contact Information:**
– Weekly Register-Call Newsroom: news@weeklyregistercall.com | 303-906-9902
– For advertising: 303-773-8313

—

*This story was originally published in the Weekly Register-Call print edition, January 1, 2026. Don Ireland is the Senior Reporter and Drone Photographer for the Weekly Register-Call, Colorado’s oldest newspaper, established 1862.*

# Federal Drone Ban Will Impact Gilpin County First Responders and Local Pilots

**Meta Title:** Chinese Drone Ban Affects Gilpin County Emergency Services | Register-Call

**Meta Description:** New FCC restrictions on DJI and Autel drones impact Gilpin County Sheriff’s Office, Black Hawk Police, and local pilots. 77-90% of US drones affected by December 23 ban.

**Slug:** federal-drone-ban-gilpin-county-first-responders-dji-autel

**Keywords:** drone ban 2025, DJI ban, Autel ban, Gilpin County Sheriff drones, Black Hawk Police drones, FCC drone restrictions, Chinese drones, first responder drones

**Author:** Don Ireland, Senior Reporter, FAA Certified Part 107 Drone Pilot

**Date:** January 1, 2026

**Category:** Age of Drones, Technology, Public Safety, Gilpin County

**Featured Image Alt Text:** DJI Mini 4 Pro drone, one of the models still legal to operate in the United States after December 23, 2025

—

## New Federal Restrictions Create Challenges for Emergency Services

What if you woke up one morning and learned you couldn’t buy a new TV, a cellphone, or car parts because they were made in China?

Unthinkable? For most of the estimated 480,000 drone pilots in this country, the situation became similar on December 23, 2025. That day was the final one for federal regulators to decide whether to allow new models of Chinese-made drones, primarily from DJI and Autel Robotics, to be sold in the U.S.

Regulators didn’t act, so the “new drone ban” went into effect.

### What the Ban Means

As a result, the FCC will no longer issue approvals for drones from foreign-made entities, primarily because they aren’t exempt from the government’s “covered list”—a list of countries that manufacture drones that can be legally sold in this country, moving forward.

On December 23, 2025, the FCC reiterated a longstanding concern among U.S. officials—that Chinese-made drones pose “unacceptable risks to the national security of the United States and to the safety and security of U.S. persons.”

The government decision came after hearing unconfirmed reports that foreign-made drones could contain technology that the Chinese government might use to spy on the U.S. whenever a drone is in the air. Thousands of U.S. drone pilots sent protests to their government leaders opposing such a ban. However, their protests were ignored.

### What’s Still Legal

While the legal aspects of what happened on December 23, 2025, are rather technical, the decision made by federal regulators boils down to several key points that affect anyone who owns or flies drones made by Autel or DJI—which manufacture 77 to 90 percent of all drones purchased in the U.S.

**Key Points:**

1. **Existing drones remain legal**: If you own or fly a drone manufactured by DJI or Autel, it’s still perfectly legal to own and operate it in the U.S., provided you comply with existing FAA regulations.

2. **Retailers can sell approved models**: U.S. retailers can continue to sell DJI and Autel models, provided they received FCC approval before Dec. 23. It’s perfectly legal to purchase several of DJI’s most recent releases, including:
– Mini 5 Pro
– Mini 4 Pro
– Mini 3 and Mini 3 Pro
– Avata 2
– Air 3S
– Neo 2
– DJI Flip
– Matrice 350 RTK enterprise drone

3. **Supply chain challenges**: However, it’s difficult to find a retailer or online store with any of the above-mentioned models in stock, due to stringent import restrictions currently in place by the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agency.

4. **Parts and accessories restricted**: The “covered list” will also make it difficult to purchase drone add-on supplies such as new propellers, batteries, and other Chinese-made parts for those models still considered legal in this country.

5. **No new models allowed**: If DJI releases any new models, such as a DJI Mini 6 Pro or Mavic 5, they won’t be allowed to be sold or flown in the U.S. However, they will be available elsewhere in the world, as no other countries have restricted Chinese-made drones.

### Impact on Gilpin County First Responders

The U.S. “ban” prohibiting the sale of new DJI and Autel models poses challenges for individuals and agencies that rely on them as part of their jobs.

**Local Agencies Affected:**
– Gilpin County Sheriff’s Office
– Black Hawk Police Department
– Black Hawk Fire Department

All three agencies own legally compliant drone models. However, purchasing accessories for them could be difficult in the future. Plus, if one of their drones were to crash or break, it may be difficult to find a repair shop that has the necessary parts in stock.

### Industry Warning to Homeland Security

“More than 80 percent of the nation’s 1,800+ state and local law enforcement and emergency response agencies that operate drone programs use DJI technology; these programs will be at immediate risk if they no longer have access to the most cost-effective and efficient drone technology available,” DJI wrote in a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in early December.

### Impact on Professional Pilots

As a professional drone pilot who shoots photos and videos for clients, I also face the same challenges as first responders in Gilpin County. If any of my four DJI drones needs repair, I might find myself up a creek without a paddle.

However, while I make a small part of my living flying drones, it pales in comparison to what Gilpin’s law enforcement officers and firefighters are doing with their drones. They fly drones to help protect the public and assist officers in avoiding the potential perils of their jobs.

### Business Impact Survey Results

Last week, The Wall Street Journal reported that the Pilot Institute, which trains drone pilots to pass the FAA Part 107 Certification test, surveyed about 8,000 pilots about the FCC’s ban.

**Survey Results:**
– 43% said they expect an “extremely negative” or “potentially business-ending impact” on their operations
– More than 8 in 10 predicted they would be out of business within two years
– Many U.S. pilots had been hoarding Chinese-made equipment in anticipation of the ban

### The Silver Lining?

On the other hand, many people believe that banning the sale of future foreign-made drone models in the U.S. could help spark the development of new drone-manufacturing companies in this country.

While the majority of new drone start-ups will focus on larger, enterprise models for use by those in construction, mapping, agriculture, infrastructure inspection and law enforcement, the “little guy” who wants a small, inexpensive drone for themselves or their kids may be left out in the woods for a while.

### Looking to the Future

In the meantime, U.S. drone pilots have their fingers crossed, hoping a homegrown drone manufacturer will evolve quickly and match the level of technological sophistication—and affordable prices—they’ve seen over the past decade from China.

So, if you woke up tomorrow and had to buy a new TV or cellphone—but it couldn’t come from places like China—what would you do? It’s a question worth pondering.

—

## About the Author

**Don Ireland** is a FAA Certified Part 107 drone pilot and member of the National Press Photographers Association. His “Age of Drones” column has won the Colorado Press Association’s “Better Newspaper Award” three consecutive years (2022, 2023, 2024).

For drone photography services: Don’s Drones of Denver
– Phone: 720-217-1310
– Website: www.donsdronesofdenver.com

—

## Understanding the Technical Details

### What is the FCC’s “Covered List”?

The covered list is a designation by the Federal Communications Commission identifying foreign entities deemed to pose national security risks. Drones from companies on this list cannot receive new FCC equipment authorizations.

### Which Drones Are Affected?

**Affected Brands:**
– DJI (77-90% of U.S. consumer drone market)
– Autel Robotics

**Unaffected Brands:**
– Skydio (U.S.-made)
– Parrot (French)
– Other non-Chinese manufacturers

### What Can Current Drone Owners Do?

1. **Continue flying existing drones** – They remain legal
2. **Stock up on spare parts** – While still available
3. **Maintain equipment carefully** – Repairs may become difficult
4. **Consider U.S. alternatives** – For future purchases
5. **Stay informed** – Regulations may evolve

—

**Related Stories:**
– [Timberline Fire Responds to 148 Calls in December](#)
– [Black Hawk Police Department Technology Updates](#)
– [Colorado Drone Regulations: What You Need to Know](#)

**Resources:**
– FAA Drone Registration: www.faa.gov/uas
– Colorado Drone Laws: [State Aviation Resources]
– Pilot Institute: Training and certification information

**Contact Information:**
– Weekly Register-Call Newsroom: news@weeklyregistercall.com | 303-906-9902
– Don Ireland: news.don.ireland@gmail.com

—

*This story was originally published in the Weekly Register-Call print edition, January 1, 2026. The Weekly Register-Call is Colorado’s oldest newspaper, established 1862. Winner of 27 Colorado Press Association awards in three years.*

# Timberline Fire and High Country Auxiliary Jump Into Action During Wind Emergency

**Meta Title:** Gilpin County Wind Emergency: Timberline Fire Responds to 79 Calls | Register-Call

**Meta Description:** Timberline Fire Protection District and High Country Auxiliary responded to unprecedented wind emergency December 17-22, with 79 calls including 19 fires. Community rallies to support first responders.

**Slug:** gilpin-county-wind-emergency-timberline-fire-high-country-auxiliary

**Keywords:** Timberline Fire Protection District, High Country Auxiliary, Gilpin County wind emergency, power outages Gilpin County, Paul Onder, Terri Miller, JKQ BBQ, Peak to Peak Market

**Author:** Don Ireland, Senior Reporter

**Date:** January 1, 2026

**Category:** Emergency Services, Community News, Gilpin County, Weather

**Featured Image Alt Text:** Timberline Fire Protection District Chief Paul Onder in uniform

—

## Historic Wind Event Triggers Major Emergency Response

Most Decembers, Gilpin County’s first responders are busy responding to snowstorms and stranded vehicles as winter arrives in the region.

However, unusually powerful winds caused the most problems this year in the county. Between Wednesday, Dec. 17, and Monday, Dec. 22, parts of the region were hit by near-hurricane-force winds of 100 miles per hour that toppled trees, knocked down power lines, and caused other problems.

### The Scope of the Emergency

For example, some mid-county residents lost power to their homes on Wednesday, Dec. 17, and didn’t get service back until Sunday, Dec. 21. Several Central City and Black Hawk residents and small businesses also experienced intermittent power outages.

**Impact on Residents:**
– Food spoiled in non-running refrigerators and freezers
– Cellphone service didn’t work for days in some areas
– Trees blocked driveways, trapping residents at home
– No electricity meant no heat in freezing temperatures

### Emergency Response by the Numbers

Timberline Fire Protection District Chief Paul Onder told the Weekly Register-Call that the wind problems led to an increase in calls for assistance.

“We are still writing reports and getting caught up, but preliminary numbers from Dec. 17 to Dec. 22, [2025], are **79 calls**, including:
– **19 fires** (on utility poles, trees, wildland fires, camping sites, etc.)
– **30 power or phone line issues** (no fire)
– The rest were medical calls, motor vehicle accidents, carbon-monoxide reports, cut gas lines, etc.”

### Community Warming Shelters

The wind-related issues led the Gilpin County Sheriff’s Office to open a warming shelter in the Gilpin County School complex. The Black Hawk Fire Department also opened its building to several people who wanted to charge their phones and other electronic devices because power was out at home.

## High Country Auxiliary Mobilizes Support

News of Gilpin’s wind-related issues also quickly reached Terri Miller, president of the High Country Auxiliary, the nonprofit that supports TPFD and Gilpin’s other first responders. Miller and her husband, Eddie, were in Mississippi when they learned of the developing problems.

### Coordinating from 1,000 Miles Away

As a result, Miller began calling HCA members and others—whose phone service or power wasn’t out—to organize what could be done to help the first responders.

“As president of HCA, I’m the first person that Timberline calls if they need our assistance,” said Miller. “Fortunately, we didn’t have any problems with our cellphone service down here. I was able to scramble and make phone calls—while a lot of our volunteers had no service, including cellphones or electricity.”

### Peak to Peak Market Steps Up

One of the calls Miller made was to Nicholas Spencer, who owns the Peak to Peak Market in Black Hawk. When Miller asked if Spencer had any premade sandwiches available, Spencer said his inventory had been quickly depleted by Gilpinites who came to the store after losing their refrigerator food.

However, he offered to donate some of the bottled water, chips and snacks he had remaining to the HCA.

“We had sold out our sandwiches probably within the first five or six hours after the wind situation started,” recalled Spencer. “We told Terri to call JKQ BBQ! Eddie Miller got in contact with Larry Bradley, their chef. He made a bunch of pulled-pork sandwiches and other food. So, we got those, plus the cases of water and chips, up to the fire department.”

### JKQ BBQ Provides Hot Meals

At the time, JKQ and several other local businesses were closed due to the power failure. However, Bradley was able to cook the sandwiches on a gas stove.

Kara Tinucci, who owns JKQ BBQ with her husband, Joe, estimated they supplied food for 25 first responders. Bradley, his family, and Spencer were among those who delivered the food to Timberline Fire Station 5 on Highway 119 in mid-county.

### Why Food Support Was Critical

Recalled Onder, “We contacted HCA because the crews had been running call to call for 15 hours with no opportunity to cook or eat. HCA, in collaboration with JKQ Barbecue, provided food to all the crews as they continued responding, but they were able to throw down a few bites between calls.”

The next day, Larry Koppelman (HCA’s vice president) brought burritos to the station. “This was awesome, as the crews were still extremely busy,” Onder added.

### Community Gratitude

Added Miller, “We rallied and got them fed. Those guys at JKQ are just the best. Clare Stone [HCA’s vice president] was able to deliver some of the food to Station No. 5, and the guys were very, very happy.”

## A Record-Breaking Year for Timberline

Chief Onder provided additional context for the emergency response:

“As of Dec. 26, we have responded to **148 calls in December**. We typically average 50-60 per month. Currently, we are at **803 calls in 2025**. Before that, our busiest year was 2017, with 756 calls.”

This represents a significant increase in emergency response activity, with December 2025 alone accounting for nearly 20% of the year’s total calls.

### What Made This Emergency Different

The wind emergency was particularly challenging because:
1. **Duration**: Five continuous days of high winds
2. **Widespread impact**: Affected entire county simultaneously
3. **Multiple hazards**: Fires, downed power lines, blocked roads
4. **Limited resources**: Crews couldn’t rest between calls
5. **Infrastructure damage**: Made response more difficult

## About the Organizations

### Timberline Fire Protection District

Timberline Fire Protection District serves Gilpin County with multiple stations and provides:
– Fire suppression
– Emergency medical services
– Rescue operations
– Hazardous materials response
– Community education

**Leadership:**
– Chief Paul Onder (2023 Gilpin County Citizen of the Year)

### High Country Auxiliary

The High Country Auxiliary is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Gilpin County’s first responders. The organization:
– Provides meals during extended emergencies
– Supplies equipment and resources
– Organizes community support
– Fundraises for fire and EMS needs

**Leadership:**
– President: Terri Miller
– Vice President: Larry Koppelman
– Vice President: Clare Stone

## Community Partners

### JKQ BBQ & Grill
– Owners: Kara and Joe Tinucci
– Chef: Larry Bradley
– Location: Gregory Street, Black Hawk
– Provided: 25+ pulled-pork sandwiches and meals

### Peak to Peak Market & Liquors
– Owner: Nicholas Spencer
– Location: Black Hawk
– Donated: Bottled water, chips, and snacks

—

## Weather Safety Tips for Gilpin County Residents

### Before High Wind Events:
– Secure outdoor furniture and equipment
– Trim dead tree branches
– Charge all electronic devices
– Stock emergency supplies (food, water, flashlights)
– Have alternate heating source ready
– Fill vehicle gas tanks

### During Wind Emergencies:
– Stay indoors when possible
– Avoid downed power lines (assume they’re live)
– Report fires and hazards immediately
– Conserve phone battery
– Check on neighbors safely
– Listen to emergency broadcasts

### After the Storm:
– Inspect property for damage
– Document damage with photos
– Report utility issues to providers
– Avoid debris and damaged trees
– Thank first responders and volunteers

—

## How to Support First Responders

### Donate to High Country Auxiliary
The HCA accepts donations to support Gilpin County’s emergency services.

### Volunteer Opportunities
Contact local fire stations about volunteer firefighter programs and community support opportunities.

### Show Appreciation
Thank first responders when you see them—they work tirelessly to keep our community safe.

—

**Related Stories:**
– [Paul Onder Named 2023 Gilpin County Citizen of the Year](#)
– [Gilpin County Emergency Preparedness Guide](#)
– [Power Outage Updates: Xcel Energy Response](#)
– [Peak to Peak Rotary: 2023 Organization of the Year](#)

**Emergency Contacts:**
– Gilpin County Emergency: 911
– Timberline Fire (non-emergency): [Contact info]
– Gilpin County Sheriff: [Contact info]
– High Country Auxiliary: [Contact info]

**Contact Information:**
– Weekly Register-Call Newsroom: news@weeklyregistercall.com | 303-906-9902
– Report news tips: news.don.ireland@gmail.com

—

*This story was originally published in the Weekly Register-Call print edition, January 1, 2026. The Weekly Register-Call is Colorado’s oldest newspaper, established 1862. 2024 Colorado Press Association News Leader. Winner of 27 CPA awards in three years.*

# Central City Hires New York Social Media Consultant to Boost Digital Presence

**Meta Title:** Central City BID Hires NYC Consultant for Social Media Strategy | Register-Call

**Meta Description:** Central City Business Improvement District contracts Amaya Bankowski from Brooklyn to coordinate social media, events marketing. $60K investment aims to expand digital reach.

**Slug:** central-city-social-media-consultant-amaya-bankowski-bid

**Keywords:** Central City BID, social media marketing Central City, Amaya Bankowski, Jeff Hentschel, Central City events, digital marketing Gilpin County, Great Central City Beerfest

**Author:** Don Ireland, Senior Reporter

**Date:** January 1, 2026

**Category:** Business News, Central City, Marketing, Technology

**Featured Image Alt Text:** Amaya Bankowski LinkedIn profile photo – Central City’s new social media consultant from Brooklyn, New York

—

## Central City BID Invests in Professional Digital Marketing Strategy

Searching online for information about Central City’s upcoming festivals and events has been “challenging and sometimes confusing” in recent years. This year, Central City’s Business Improvement District and city hall plan to collaborate on a new, targeted social-marketing strategy to draw more attention—and, hopefully, additional visitors—to the “Richest Square Mile on Earth.”

### $60,000 Investment in Digital Presence

The BID recently contracted with Amaya Bankowski to serve as its social media consultant in 2026. Bankowski, who will work remotely from her office in Brooklyn, New York, will coordinate Central City’s events website and Facebook and Instagram posts.

**Financial Breakdown:**
– BID contribution: $35,000
– City of Central contribution: $25,000
– **Total investment: $60,000**

### The Problem: Inconsistent Online Presence

In the past, a variety of local residents and volunteers handled social media posts, which local officials said weren’t gaining much attention outside of Gilpin County.

For example, anyone seeking information about the BID’s 2025 “Great Central City Beerfest” or “Stills in the Hills” events could find dedicated pages for each event. However, the pages contained some recycled and out-of-date information. One online page listed Johnny Z’s Casino as a 2025 event sponsor, even though the casino closed in 2022.

### Meet Amaya Bankowski: Professional Marketing Expert

BID President Jeff Hentschel explained the decision to hire professional help:

“Bankowski is an experienced marketer who has worked with many clients to promote their brands. Central City will benefit from her expertise and strategic work to expand the Central City brand into the digital space. She has a deep understanding of how to reach minds and hearts through engaging content, which will work well for our community. We haven’t done much digital marketing before, so we are looking forward to the results of our campaigns, once again promoting Central City as the Richest Square Mile on Earth.”

### Bankowski’s Professional Background

Bankowski holds a **Bachelor of Arts in Advertising** from Temple University’s Klein College of Media and Communication and has worked in the social media industry for several years.

**Career Experience:**
– Live Nation
– Shabang Music Productions
– Avant Gardner
– Currently serves as Arts Director for Mr. Kills, a New York-based fine arts school

### Previous Marketing Challenges

In 2024, the BID spent nearly $100,000 on radio advertising during the Denver Nuggets’ basketball season. The spending raised questions from several locals, who noted that most of Central City’s largest festivals and events occur during the summer, not during the Nuggets’ regular season from October through April.

### New BID Leadership and Direction

Hentschel, who was elected BID president in August 2025, said the board’s decision to improve Central’s online presence is important.

“The BID intends to spend $35,000 on this project, and the city is going to add an additional $25,000 for her [Bankowski’s] services.”

### How the Consultant Was Selected

BID board members approved hiring Bankowski as its consultant based on a recommendation from Spencer, who had researched potential social-media marketing consultants for several months prior to the board’s Dec. 16 meeting.

Following the decision to retain Bankowski, Spencer remarked, “I came into this group as the thorn [in May]. I don’t want to be a thorn. I want this group to be successful.”

## New BID Board Members for 2026

As the new year begins, the Central City BID will have three first-time members:

**Elected Members (Spring 2025):**
– Chuck Spencer
– Austin Boulter

**Appointed Member (December 2025):**
– Shane Reilly of G3 Gaming (replacing longtime president Tom Robb, who retired)

**Continuing Board Members:**
– Jeff Hentschel (President) – GF Gaming’s Easy Street and Famous Bonanza casinos
– Travis Reese – RCI Hospitality Holdings

## What to Expect: Strategic Digital Marketing

### Planned Improvements:
1. **Unified Social Media Voice**: Consistent messaging across Facebook and Instagram
2. **Updated Events Calendar**: Current information without outdated references
3. **Professional Content**: Engaging posts designed to reach beyond Gilpin County
4. **Strategic Campaigns**: Targeted advertising for specific events
5. **Brand Expansion**: Growing Central City’s digital footprint

### Target Platforms:
– Facebook (primary)
– Instagram (visual content)
– Central City events website (hub for information)

## Central City’s Major Events

The BID coordinates several major annual events that will benefit from improved marketing:

### Summer Events:
– **Great Central City Beerfest** – Craft beer festival
– **Stills in the Hills** – Spirits and distillery showcase
– **Summer concert series**
– **Historic walking tours**

### Year-Round Attractions:
– Historic downtown district
– Gaming and casino entertainment
– Museums and cultural sites
– Victorian architecture
– Mountain recreation access

## Why Professional Social Media Matters

### Benefits of Professional Management:
1. **Consistency**: Regular posting schedule
2. **Quality Content**: Professional photos and copywriting
3. **Engagement**: Responding to comments and messages
4. **Analytics**: Tracking what works and adjusting strategy
5. **Brand Building**: Creating recognizable identity
6. **ROI Measurement**: Quantifying marketing effectiveness

### Challenges of Volunteer Management:
– Inconsistent posting schedules
– Varying quality and tone
– Outdated information not updated promptly
– Limited strategic planning
– No performance metrics
– Competing priorities

## The Bigger Picture: Central City’s Marketing Evolution

This investment represents a shift in how Central City approaches marketing and tourism promotion. Rather than relying solely on traditional advertising (radio, billboards), the BID is embracing digital-first strategies that reach audiences where they spend time online.

### Previous Marketing Approaches:
– Radio advertising (Denver Nuggets broadcasts)
– City-owned billboards along Central City Parkway
– Print advertising
– Word-of-mouth
– Volunteer social media management

### New Digital-First Strategy:
– Professional social media management
– Targeted online campaigns
– Coordinated messaging across platforms
– Data-driven decision making
– Year-round engagement

—

## About the Central City Business Improvement District

The Central City BID is a special taxing district that promotes business and tourism in Central City’s commercial district. The organization:
– Coordinates major events and festivals
– Manages marketing and promotional activities
– Supports local businesses
– Maintains downtown aesthetics
– Collaborates with city government

**2026 Board of Directors:**
– Jeff Hentschel (President)
– Chuck Spencer
– Austin Boulter
– Shane Reilly
– Travis Reese

—

## Expert Opinion: Why This Matters

### The Social Media Landscape in 2026

Professional social media management has become essential for tourism-dependent communities. According to industry research:
– **68% of travelers** use social media to research destinations
– **76% of people** say user-generated content is more trustworthy than branded content
– **Average ROI** of social media marketing is $5.16 for every dollar spent
– **Engagement rates** are 10x higher with professional content management

### Small Town Challenges

Small mountain communities face unique marketing challenges:
– Limited budget compared to major destinations
– Seasonal tourism patterns
– Competition from nearby communities
– Need to reach Front Range audiences
– Building year-round relevance

Professional management addresses these challenges through strategic, data-driven approaches that maximize limited budgets.

—

**Related Stories:**
– [Central City BID 2025 Events Review](#)
– [Great Central City Beerfest Highlights](#)
– [Stills in the Hills: Distillery Showcase](#)
– [Central City Tourism Statistics](#)

**Follow Central City Online:**
– Facebook: [Central City BID page]
– Instagram: [Central City BID account]
– Events Calendar: [Central City website]

**Contact Information:**
– Central City BID: [Contact information]
– Jeff Hentschel, BID President: [Contact information]
– Weekly Register-Call Newsroom: news@weeklyregistercall.com | 303-906-9902

—

*This story was originally published in the Weekly Register-Call print edition, January 1, 2026. The Weekly Register-Call is Colorado’s oldest newspaper, established 1862. 2024 Colorado Press Association News Leader.*