Graham: Quick Draw License Restored

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The state lottery ‘Quick Draw’ license for ‘Fort Pearl’ has been restored, according to Watertown mayor Jeff Graham.

Graham, who was sole owner of the bar when it was known as the ‘Speak Easy,’ told 7 News the lottery granted a Quick Draw license about a week ago.

Graham said he was ‘pleased.’

Graham voluntarily surrendered the Quick Draw license in 2005, during a scandal involving the step-father of well-known model Maggie Rizer.

John Breen stole millions from Rizer and gambled away some of that money playing Quick Draw at Graham’s bar.

After an investigation by the Watertown Daily Times, the state lottery opened an investigation into how Graham handled Quick Draw.

The lottery stopped its investigation after Graham surrendered the license.

Graham said the Quick Draw license is now held in both his name, and that of his partner in the bar.

Graham submitted a ‘lengthy letter’ to the state lottery requesting his license be restored, according to lottery spokesman John Charlson.

Among the things Graham cited as reasons for restoring his license: his overwhelming re-election as mayor, and the Watertown Times’ endorsement of him.

Garaham also submitted character references, which the lottery checked, Charlson  said.

“We take licensing very seriously,” he said.

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