Re: For the poker players
I think you need to convince Mrs. Bubba that the two of you should spend a romantic weekend in KC. And then, after she agrees that this is a wonderful idea, (maybe a couple of days later) tell her that you got an invitation to a poker tournament that same weekend, and maybe you could take a couple of hours to go to it while she goes to a day spa (or whatever she likes but knows that you would never go with her). When she agrees that this is a wonderful idea, you can gently break it to her that it is a little more money than you would normally spend, but it is a once in a lifetime opportunity.
I don't know anything about your financial situation, but for somebody that likes poker, this really is an exciting opportunity. If the two of you can have a weekend that you will both remember for the rest of your lives, 1k isn't all that bad. It is cheaper than most summer vacations. Just make sure she enjoys it too.