Artichoke Joe's Casino (Part 1)

In 1979, a series of nostalgia-tinged advertisements for a California casino started appearing in local publications. And I'll give you one guess as to who was responsable for the swell artwork in these Artichoke Joe's ads. No, not Norman Rockwell. Why it was good ol' Al Wiseman, of course!

In fact, hard-working Al produced at least nine of these ads (and yes, I'll be posting them all in time)...


Wiseman, a gifted calligrapher, may have also had a hand in designing the Artichoke Joe's logo. And it's still being used today:


About Artichoke Joe's:
"Artichoke Joe's Casino is located in San Bruno, California and is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our 20,000 square foot casino features thirty-eight table games, as well as a full sports bar, arcade, and San Bruno's only 24 hour Asian restaurant."

A little Artichoke Joe's history:
"Joe's Pool Parlor became Artichoke Joe's, a fixture in San Bruno sporting life since 1921. Joseph Sammut opened his pool parlor and phone exchange in Al LoReaux's former plumbing shop. Most calls concerned horse races; Joe accepted any wager, no matter how large. Asked how he would pay off if he lost a big bet, he replied, 'In artichoke leaves,' hence the name. It is still owned by the Sammut family, making it one of the city's oldest businesses."

So next time you're in San Bruno with the kids and a pocket full of change, stop by Artichoke Joe's. Tell 'em Dennis' Uncle Al sent you!

Artichoke Joe's Casino Ads:
Part 1/Part 2/Part 3