You see a few of the mobile texting posts from yesterday, as I had joined Frank and headed south to the Cross Lanes Poker Room. The tournament brought me stale cards, but I had glimmer of hope briefly when a stolen pot beefed me back up. Unfortunately the blinds and antes just slowly chipped me out. No pairs, connectors, or face cards for that matter. Busted out 33 out of 95 players. sigh...
Then, on to the cash game. It was VERY loose. Suckout city... So, I played cautious. First hand I got involved in from the button, was 7-8os when it was only $5 to the flop, with EVERYONE in. Why not. The board shows two sevens on the flop. Ooooh goodie for cheer_dad. It checked around to me, so I fumbled around and threw out what looked like a steal for the pot. I got a couple callers. The turn was an 8. I think the table rose a little on my end of it. But the guy in front of me throws out a $20 bet. I feign to throw away (yes, transparent to most players but not these guys.) Then frustrated looking I throw in a raise. He called very slowly... more shrewd than I gave him credit for. He tables his 7-9s for trips. I table my 7s full of 8s for the win and a very nice pot. He had called from early position with a 7-9, in fact I think he's the one that made it $5 in the first place. Hmmmm. BUT, life is good, cheer_dad's actually up for the trip now, despite busting out of the tourney. I order a beer... You can see where this is going. Then, comes the hand. I'm in the small blind, and the whole table is limping in, it rounds back to me, and I finally look down at my cards. I have AQos. I make it $15 straight to go, just content to take it there. Instead I get 3 callers. Oh goodie...BUT as luck would have it, the flop comes out Q-6-4 rainbow. This is a great flop for me. So, I bet out $60, still just wanting to get this done and over... 1 fold, then 2, then wait... WTF, he pauses and looks doubtingly at my cards seemingly challenging that I have a queen in my hand. So much so that he grabs a boat load of greens (far more than enough to put me and my measly stack all in. I think he threw like $200 out there, where I had a lil under $100 left. Everything here pointed to him buying it, the pot had swollen now, a call by me is going to make it in the $360+ neighborhood. I've lost track, my mind, and as you can tell, I'm about to lose all my chips too. I make the call with my top pair top kicker, convinced that he's bullying me, like I've seen he and the other players doing so far tonight. I call it, and he says immediately I "just" got middle set... 666, the mark of the beast. I've just been owned. Nice hand sir, I'll call it a night after that. No, sense throwing good money after bad.
To any of my readers, where did I go wrong on this... other than actually showing UP in the card room in the first place? Did the chips inevitably end up in the pot, no matter? Anything I could've done? Was I just destined to lose it all here? Should I just suck it up, and quit the bitching, or what do I actually "learn" here? I await any comments you may have...
Regards,
cheer_dad
Showing posts with label casino. Show all posts
Showing posts with label casino. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Friday, January 02, 2009
Got any bright ideas?
I'm in need of suggestions, plans, hair-brained schemes, or just some basic ideas about what to do in Las Vegas in 43-ish days from now. I mean I don't need the suggestions of "go see the Fountains at Bellagio," the "Mirage Volcano," or the "Fremont Street Experience." I've been to Sin City a time or two, and know my way around fairly well. Don't bother suggesting a lapdance at the Spearmint Rhino, although I do like the twisted direction you're heading. : ) Just remember Big Red's coming along for the trip and for that matter my old man's heart might not be able to take the shock. I may shout the "Yay Boobies" battle cry from time-to-time but for the most part, I'm pretty laid back. Play some cards, drink more than my fair share, but I tend to behave myself. Big Red would kill me if I didn't anyway, as my fellow NDPT'ers will certainly vouch. Actually, I just want some suggestions from all of you about where to play poker on this trip. As I pointed out we are staying at Paris Hotel and Casino, but they've not so long ago closed up the poker room. Go figure. The Bellagio, MGM and Caesar's Palace are some obvious choices but I am after all the tourist. Many of you may be more than happy to see me show up, and maybe those would be the places to be, but my thought would be that there are certainly softer games. I am on vacation... why show up to beat my head against a wall. I oughta have some fun too. Ahhh, who am I kidding, I have no expectation of really makin' money, I'm the uber-fish who is likely there to do little more than help pay the light bill. Of course in the poker room, I guess I'm helping to pay your light bill and not the casino. Fear not casino(s) you'll get your fair share of me, as I gotta hit the BlackJack and Let It Ride tables among others as the day wears on and my alcohol consumption goes up.
But seriously now... I've been reading through the reviews over at allvegaspoker.com and I'm just trying to make some good decisions. If you've got an opinion to offer up, drop me a line either here or email me at cheer_dad"at"hotmail"dot"com.
Hope your New Year is off to a great start.
Regards,
cheer_dad
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Happy New Year My Peeps
There's just so much to celebrate kids!!! So y'all join in and do the Happy Dance with me!!! (Yes, you too!)
The end of the another year is upon us, and there are a lot of fond memories to look back on (many of them involving poker exploits of some sort or another.) And tonight we usher in a brand-spankin' new year that's just chock full of potential and the unknown. These are indeed strange and wonderful times in which we live!
I hope each of you has BIG PLANS for the New Year's Eve and that you've designated your DD for the coming libations. We have ours picked (thank goodness it ain't me) and if that were to fall through, hey the Eagles is less than a mile from home, I can always stumble that far... : )
Other reasons which are cause for celebration are a total (after this post goes up) of 288 posts to this blog for the year, 2008. Maybe nobody reads this tripe, but I enjoy writing it and Blogger just keeps letting me go on and on. I've made a lot of great online and offline friends as a result of the blog and that's more than I ever expected from it. And the N Debt Poker Tour (NDPT) just keeps feeding the poker addiction, too.
I've got the love and support of my family, happiness, and more material goodies than I can shake a stick at. Life is good, people! And if that's not enough need I remind you of the post which preceded this one? Uhmmm hello, Las Vegas... me... February 15th through the 18th.
And oh oh oh... hotel reservations at Paris Hotel and Casino! Uhhh, "oui oui oui" or "WEE WEE WEE," take your pick; either exclamation sums it up just right!Yeah, your ole pal cheer_dad's having himself one fantastic year. I'm glad you could be a part of it. But as I've heard said before, wait til next year, "you ain't seen nothin' yet!"
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
Regards,
cheer_dad
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
50% off Las Vegas flights!!!
Boys and girls, this could happen. Click the picture or this link if you don't believe me, but Southwest Airlines is offering flights to Vegas for 50% off!!! I already plugged in some dates and found round-trip, non-stop flights from Columbus, OH to Las Vegas, NV for $140! Couple that with the recent fliers from "Total Rewards" properties offering up FREE nights, plus some other goodies... this may be more than do-able. I'm awaiting the arrival of Big Red to the workplace, for a little chit-chat on the subject.
Everyone start sending me all the positive energy you can muster... together, we can make this happen!!!
***EDIT #1*** Big Red has arrived, discussed fully... tentative dates (at least for the two of us) are February 15 - 18 obviously on the "non-stops" from Columbus, OH. I've sent an email to some of the NDPT crew, to let them know about it. I'm waiting (briefly) for some response from some of them right now, but basically I'll be booking these within an hour or so. Is it wrong that I'm so cheap? Or is that just good bankroll management?
***EDIT #2*** Flight has been booked kiddies! Not only for Big Red and me, but we've already got company from the Brotherses' and Uncle June too! More to come, I'm sure. Now, where's that "Total Rewards" card so I can look up some room offers! And to think I thought today would just be a lousy/boring day at work!!!
Regards,
cheer_dad
Monday, October 13, 2008
Out of the Blue and into the Big Easy
I'm not sure what force possessed my lovely wife but whatever it was I'm okay with it since it compelled her to head South on Saturday evening to (gasp) the Tri-State Racetrack and Gaming Center! The casino, which I've mentioned before is the 3rd Casino in the state of West Virginia to offer up to the gambling degenerate masses (like us) the opportunity to play poker and now the various other table games that we've all come to know and love. Several members of the NDPT (N Debt Poker Tour) had previously made the trip to check out all of the action, but this made the first time for Big Red and I.
I was impressed by the poker room, which has been dubbed The Big Easy Poker Room. This room is a much more traditional type poker room to me than I have experienced in many other locations. The room is "inset" into a larger room/area, but has been separated by a rail which goes all the way around, and opens only at the main desk. It feels less confined even than the Wheeling Island Poker Room. Additionally, Tri-State boasts a greater overall area and more poker tables. Another thing impressed me a great deal... when several players were on a waiting list, and a table was vacant, an additional dealer was called for and the players were gathered together and ushered to the empty table, for their respective game. I've seldom seen this happen, at least, not that quickly. Also, their is a bar quite close (which is also close to a bathroom, for after you break the dam.) And as luck would have it, the table at which I found myself seated along the outer perimeter of the poker room, was very close to the dogtrack betting window, and a number of TV's were clearly visible so I could watch my mutts head for the finish line. I think I probably paid too much attention to that and probably the "large" Amber Bock drafts that continued to come my way. I would say that had a bit to do with my loss at the tables, but I did okay, and maybe only lost like $25 or so the whole night. I recall precisely where $20 of that went, when I bet out with two pair, and then was probed by my opponent, who was interested in getting me all in. I had the sense to lay down to him. He wasn't that subtle... and I remembered a line from one of the books I have read, which quoted a bit Sun Tzu, which I'll paraphrase to say "...figure out what your opponent wants you to do, and then disappoint him." He desperately wanted me to call. I turned loose my hand, and kept the additional $75 I had. I made back a little of that on a few subsequent hands. Then, it was time to go.
Others who came along for the trip were Frank and Julie, and already there we met up with JR and Vince. We all had a really good time, I think, although Big Red admits that she would have had more fun had she brought home a pile of money. Sadly, the dealers at the table games were on fire, and just killing the competition on Blackjack, Let It Ride, etc... My only criticism of the Tri-State Racetrack and Casino is that the table gaming area is a bit skimpy. They have provided thus far only a minimal area for traditional table games. They were full, and there were people waiting in line, for their chance to play. In any book, that's money walking! I'm hopeful that the decision to limit this playing area is directly related to the delayed expansion plans, which will ultimately break ground to provide for a hotel and overall greater complex at Tri-State. Still, one wonders what the additional profit margin would be provided additional tables were set up and getting cards, dice, chips, etc... in the hands of the folks who are standing in line. Tri-State management if your listening, there's money to be made. Take the plunge!
I'm sure in the very near future we'll be returning for another shot at our fortunes. All in all, the play at the poker tables was not highly skilled. I had to raise an eyebrow more than once at some of the plays that I was seeing. There is money to be made in this room, and I'll be happy to give it a shot again. The dealers are still struggling just a bit, but I found no mistakes, just a little bit slower in a few cases, in order to make sure that they were getting things right. I'm okay with that, there's no sense getting all rushed about anything. Patience when dealing with poker is always a good thing.
Tri-State Poker Room, congratulations on a well-run, and enjoyable environment. Poker is alive and well in the Mountain State!
Regards,
cheer_dad
I was impressed by the poker room, which has been dubbed The Big Easy Poker Room. This room is a much more traditional type poker room to me than I have experienced in many other locations. The room is "inset" into a larger room/area, but has been separated by a rail which goes all the way around, and opens only at the main desk. It feels less confined even than the Wheeling Island Poker Room. Additionally, Tri-State boasts a greater overall area and more poker tables. Another thing impressed me a great deal... when several players were on a waiting list, and a table was vacant, an additional dealer was called for and the players were gathered together and ushered to the empty table, for their respective game. I've seldom seen this happen, at least, not that quickly. Also, their is a bar quite close (which is also close to a bathroom, for after you break the dam.) And as luck would have it, the table at which I found myself seated along the outer perimeter of the poker room, was very close to the dogtrack betting window, and a number of TV's were clearly visible so I could watch my mutts head for the finish line. I think I probably paid too much attention to that and probably the "large" Amber Bock drafts that continued to come my way. I would say that had a bit to do with my loss at the tables, but I did okay, and maybe only lost like $25 or so the whole night. I recall precisely where $20 of that went, when I bet out with two pair, and then was probed by my opponent, who was interested in getting me all in. I had the sense to lay down to him. He wasn't that subtle... and I remembered a line from one of the books I have read, which quoted a bit Sun Tzu, which I'll paraphrase to say "...figure out what your opponent wants you to do, and then disappoint him." He desperately wanted me to call. I turned loose my hand, and kept the additional $75 I had. I made back a little of that on a few subsequent hands. Then, it was time to go.
Others who came along for the trip were Frank and Julie, and already there we met up with JR and Vince. We all had a really good time, I think, although Big Red admits that she would have had more fun had she brought home a pile of money. Sadly, the dealers at the table games were on fire, and just killing the competition on Blackjack, Let It Ride, etc... My only criticism of the Tri-State Racetrack and Casino is that the table gaming area is a bit skimpy. They have provided thus far only a minimal area for traditional table games. They were full, and there were people waiting in line, for their chance to play. In any book, that's money walking! I'm hopeful that the decision to limit this playing area is directly related to the delayed expansion plans, which will ultimately break ground to provide for a hotel and overall greater complex at Tri-State. Still, one wonders what the additional profit margin would be provided additional tables were set up and getting cards, dice, chips, etc... in the hands of the folks who are standing in line. Tri-State management if your listening, there's money to be made. Take the plunge!
I'm sure in the very near future we'll be returning for another shot at our fortunes. All in all, the play at the poker tables was not highly skilled. I had to raise an eyebrow more than once at some of the plays that I was seeing. There is money to be made in this room, and I'll be happy to give it a shot again. The dealers are still struggling just a bit, but I found no mistakes, just a little bit slower in a few cases, in order to make sure that they were getting things right. I'm okay with that, there's no sense getting all rushed about anything. Patience when dealing with poker is always a good thing.
Tri-State Poker Room, congratulations on a well-run, and enjoyable environment. Poker is alive and well in the Mountain State!
Regards,
cheer_dad
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Welcome Robert F Griffin to MTR Gaming CEO Spot
MTR Gaming will have a new front man soon! According to this article: http://www.theintelligencer.net/page/content.detail/id/514613.html, Robert F. Griffin will be taking over the helm no later than January 2nd, 2009. He replaces Ted Arneault, the 13 year casino operations veteran who was instrumental in securing table gaming at MTR's "flagship" property Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack and Resort, in Chester, WV. Some of the details of his "signing" bonus are listed, heavy on the stock options side of things.
Recently MTR Gaming stocks have fallen in value, with many pointing a finger at Arneault, but frankly everyone and everything in the stock market is taking a beating right now. I'd be willing to wager Arneault's compensation package will likely be quite beefy as he makes his exit for all his efforts in marketing and government relations.
When I finally head north, to visit the Mountaineer Casino... maybe I'll stop in just to say whassup to Mr. Griffin. "Yo Bobby, it's me cheer_dad, howsabout some cocktails over here on table 1!" Yeah, I'm sure that'll be the absolute 'best' approach. Nonetheless Mr. Griffin, congratulations on the new position! You're not looking for an all-too-chatty blogger to help get the word out about Mountaineer Casino are you?!? = )
Regards,
cheer_dad
Recently MTR Gaming stocks have fallen in value, with many pointing a finger at Arneault, but frankly everyone and everything in the stock market is taking a beating right now. I'd be willing to wager Arneault's compensation package will likely be quite beefy as he makes his exit for all his efforts in marketing and government relations.
When I finally head north, to visit the Mountaineer Casino... maybe I'll stop in just to say whassup to Mr. Griffin. "Yo Bobby, it's me cheer_dad, howsabout some cocktails over here on table 1!" Yeah, I'm sure that'll be the absolute 'best' approach. Nonetheless Mr. Griffin, congratulations on the new position! You're not looking for an all-too-chatty blogger to help get the word out about Mountaineer Casino are you?!? = )
Regards,
cheer_dad
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Methinks trouble's a brewin'!!!
You see Google Alerts are good for something. I got my daily Google alert email related to MTR Gaming and what do I find but the following articles which report that some of the Mountaineer Casino's employees may very well go out on strike THIS SATURDAY! Read all about it:
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/fn/5650059.html (oddly enough I found it in the Houston Chronicle.)
http://www.wvmetronews.com/index.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=24164 (and subsequently found a similar story back in West Virginia.)
According to the articles 206 employees are set to go on strike in protest of "poverty wages." Included in these workers are the cashiers, slot technicians and money room employees, all of which are represented by Local 23 of the United Food & Commercial Workers. I won't requote all of the particulars of dispute (when you can read them in the articles above) but in my estimation I would kind of agree with the workers in this labor dispute. The fact that the wages being paid do seem a bit skimpy is an understatement. Add to it that the same Union Local represents the employees at Wheeling Island, which is the only other casino in the state of West Virginia currently offering table gaming and poker. The wage differences between the two casinos are as much as $2.00 per hour. And according to the article Wheeling employees insurance is paid 100% by the casino. This in a casino less than an hour away. Sorry MTR Gaming, that's going to be a difficult position from which to offer up any legitimate argument! Face it, if Delaware North Companies Inc. (owner of Wheeling Island is doing it and remaining profitable then I think there can be little excuse, that MTR cannot do the same.)
Recall that poker and table gaming only recently came to the Mountain State, and the voters in each of the counties where casino/racetrack establishments existed had to approve it. One of the arguments was that increased revenue for the state and new jobs would be a positive result of passing the initiative. But as the Union Representative Tony Helfer is quoted from the MetroNews article as stating, "...our members qualify for a lot of state assistance benefits and we think it's wrong that the residents of West Virginia should be subsidizing a racetrack." I for one would have to agree, pumping money into the state's coffers via taxes only to suck them right back out to the people employeed by the casino. Well, something just doesn't seem right about that, particularly when both Wheeling Island and Mountaineer Casinos are both boasting such profits and successes directly related to the recent addition of table games.
MTR Gaming, I think you can do better! In fact, I think I'd bet you on it!
Regards,
cheer_dad
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/fn/5650059.html (oddly enough I found it in the Houston Chronicle.)
http://www.wvmetronews.com/index.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=24164 (and subsequently found a similar story back in West Virginia.)
According to the articles 206 employees are set to go on strike in protest of "poverty wages." Included in these workers are the cashiers, slot technicians and money room employees, all of which are represented by Local 23 of the United Food & Commercial Workers. I won't requote all of the particulars of dispute (when you can read them in the articles above) but in my estimation I would kind of agree with the workers in this labor dispute. The fact that the wages being paid do seem a bit skimpy is an understatement. Add to it that the same Union Local represents the employees at Wheeling Island, which is the only other casino in the state of West Virginia currently offering table gaming and poker. The wage differences between the two casinos are as much as $2.00 per hour. And according to the article Wheeling employees insurance is paid 100% by the casino. This in a casino less than an hour away. Sorry MTR Gaming, that's going to be a difficult position from which to offer up any legitimate argument! Face it, if Delaware North Companies Inc. (owner of Wheeling Island is doing it and remaining profitable then I think there can be little excuse, that MTR cannot do the same.)
Recall that poker and table gaming only recently came to the Mountain State, and the voters in each of the counties where casino/racetrack establishments existed had to approve it. One of the arguments was that increased revenue for the state and new jobs would be a positive result of passing the initiative. But as the Union Representative Tony Helfer is quoted from the MetroNews article as stating, "...our members qualify for a lot of state assistance benefits and we think it's wrong that the residents of West Virginia should be subsidizing a racetrack." I for one would have to agree, pumping money into the state's coffers via taxes only to suck them right back out to the people employeed by the casino. Well, something just doesn't seem right about that, particularly when both Wheeling Island and Mountaineer Casinos are both boasting such profits and successes directly related to the recent addition of table games.
MTR Gaming, I think you can do better! In fact, I think I'd bet you on it!
Regards,
cheer_dad
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Grumblings in Kentucky
Huntington, WV's Herald Dispatch ran the following editorial Ky. must decide how far into the gambling race it is willing to go. According to the article Kenucky's Governor Steve Beshear wants his state to join the likes of Indiana and West Virginia and begin to allow casino style gaming. The Kentucky Legislature is considering a constitutional amendment to permit casino gambling in the state. A proposal by Gov Beshear would allow up to 12 casinos to open up, but some other proposals making their rounds in the House of Representatives would further restrict these numbers.
It is obviously a heated issue, and being hotly debated in the state that brings us the world-famous Kentucky Derby. : ) Some officials have expressed various objections ranging from the ills of gambling and also, questioning the potential benefits and beneficiaries.
BUT, I think the article states it best with the following passage: "...a significant expansion of casinos in Kentucky would be another step in the ongoing arms race that government-sanctioned gambling has become. Each time one state gets more gambling, neighboring states must up the ante." Emphasis added, especially for the line "ongoing arms race" which is what this whole state gambling competition has become. How true...how true... I'd credit the author if it were listed, but the link'll have to do.
I wish the Bluegrass State luck in their endeavors, whichever direction ultimately they decide to go after all the debate ends. I'm not a resident...their's is not my fight...and either way I wouldn't be playing there anyway. I've got way too many options here in the Mountain State.
Regards,
cheer_dad
It is obviously a heated issue, and being hotly debated in the state that brings us the world-famous Kentucky Derby. : ) Some officials have expressed various objections ranging from the ills of gambling and also, questioning the potential benefits and beneficiaries.
BUT, I think the article states it best with the following passage: "...a significant expansion of casinos in Kentucky would be another step in the ongoing arms race that government-sanctioned gambling has become. Each time one state gets more gambling, neighboring states must up the ante." Emphasis added, especially for the line "ongoing arms race" which is what this whole state gambling competition has become. How true...how true... I'd credit the author if it were listed, but the link'll have to do.
I wish the Bluegrass State luck in their endeavors, whichever direction ultimately they decide to go after all the debate ends. I'm not a resident...their's is not my fight...and either way I wouldn't be playing there anyway. I've got way too many options here in the Mountain State.
Regards,
cheer_dad
Friday, February 01, 2008
Friday uber-posting
At one point last evening, Big Red turned to me and asked, "...so are you winning?" My answer, "...uh no." Short and to the point. Those best laid plans, just ain't gonna pan out there people. Ah but it was fun to pretend. I'd like to be able to say that I've been distracted and too interested in winning and getting the $$$'s to head to Vegas with but I can't say that's been the problem. No really. I honestly can't blame it on... well... anything at all. It is what it is. I can't even particularly say that those others at the tables have been donks or sharks. I can't say that I've been playing badly or well either. In hindsight, I can't even pinpoint anything that I might or might not have done. Most of my reads have been very good, but unfortunately they've been reads which tell me that I'm beat! The reads which are most disturbing are those hands, when I start with an AK or AQ, and big PP, and I get a caller or so, just calling my bets, pre and post flop. All-too-often I've found these guys are "just" calling or "smooth" calling and they got or get the goods. I've had sense and the presence of mind to get away from it, but not without giving away good money on good cards all for naught. Also, lately it's been my experience that when I opt NOT to fire the third bullet on after the Turn card, and the guy to act after me, tosses out a pot or larger than life bet...he really does have it. I've been fortunate in the fact that I've normally had at least one other guy in the hand that invariably makes the call so I've been able to witness the slaughter, and have proof positive that I was in fact beat! Yes, it provides comfort to know that I'm not winning but I'm losing the RIGHT way. (interpret thick layer of sarcasm) I did contribute a bit of extra loss to the affair last night with another $10-spot to the evils of blackjack. Okay, I get it...it's a guilty pleasure. The ring games last night didn't do me any good. I did however hit 3rd in an el cheapo SNG. It was a miracle. I am mystified by how some people severely over value hands. I've watched bets and reraises out there by guys who you can just feel actually believe they have a great hand, and I get to watch from the sidelines as they get butchered. In most cases the hand that I already dropped was superior to the one they are out there gunnin' with...but I had the presence of mind to step away from it knowing that the NUTS hand is there just itchin' to felt me. I've avoided those traps. I've seen guys slow playin' their pocket aces, with 4 and 5 people in the pot. This just floors me. I've had my all-ins called down by J-8s type hands, and I sit in awe. Don't confuse awe for admiration!
I'd like to start shadowing some players at the tables. But picking the players is a bit of a mystery. I've wandered YouTube and found postings of extended virtual table cams, where a player is recording his own session to show how and what they are doing. One I thought was very interesting to say the least was Annette Obrestad's video of her playing a SNG with a post-it note covering her holecards from her own view (in the video you the viewer could see her holecards of course.) I watched her early on fold pocket Kings, unbeknownst to her at the time. She was playing primarily by position...to an extreme, regardless of her cards or stack. I had heard some on the forums attest to how well she played position and that this video was a testament to how important that is, and how truly great annette_15 really is. And while I admire Annette's accomplishments and continued success and repeatability, what I saw in the video was some monstrous good luck. I recall several KEY hands in which she used her position to raise big but should have been clobbered when pushed, but she sucked out! BAD! I'm not saying that we all don't do it from time to time, but man she was runnin' hot at the right times. Not all the time, but just at the right time.
I'm also struck by the fact that my play does typically allow me to win "a little." But NEVER "a lot." I know that's subjective, but here's what I mean. Sure I'm down a few bucks on PokerRewards, but I can drop back and hunker down and over time I'll rebuild back to where I was before. But I'll approach and reach a glass ceiling. And then it'll begin to drop off again. My online and offline sessions are typically punctuated by SLOW starts. No cards, early on, blinding off and giving away 1/4 to 1/2 of my stack in blinds and bets on my good cards, but not connecting. Then I'll hit something...that'll JUST get me back up, just shy of where I started out and I'll just kind of tread water at the table. I never hit big. I never weight my end of the table down with a copious amount of chips. Baby Steps...lotsa baby steps, but never a big or medium profitable run. Reading some guys out there routinely 8-12 tabling at $.50/$1.00 or $1/$2 NLHE tables and turning up profitable sessions nearly all of the time. Now you KNOW 8-12 tabling they're not paying an enormous amount of attention to any one table or any specific players, or taking meaningful notes. They're playing "by the numbers" poker. And I think many of you would classify MY GAME as such. Not a lot of bluffs, very few hands, played, usually no more that 30-35% played preflop, which I don't think anyone would argue that is too many or few, but is probably about right. As of late however, my showdown wins have been under 60%. I would think that number needs to be A LOT higher. Getting rivered, sucked out on, blahblahblah, accounts for some of it, but I would think I need to be closer to around 80+% win rate at showdown. So there's a hole in there somewhere, I just gotta find it. I don't think I'm taking mediocre holdings too far, but it is possible and I'll have to admit it. I need to be tracking progress better. I really do need to get Poker Tracker or some equivalent up and cranking in a useful fashion. Rather than speculation, I need some cold hard facts to point to. So that'll be my next goal on the road to Pokerdom. I need better notes and session tracking information to look back to. I need to pick a style and stick to it exclusively! No mish mash of my method, as it usually just frustrates no one but me.
I also need to pick my poison. Ring Games and levels, SNG's or MTT's.
I need to get some money out on Full Tilt Poker, because I'd really like to try my hand at the Mookie tourneys and some of the other blogger goodness tournements that I keep reading about. Some of my favorite bloggers that I read daily are playing there, and I think I should give that room a shot again. : ) I didn't do so well there once upon a time, but then again it was a very long time ago AND I risked more than a fair share with a really good hand that encountered the nuts and sent me to the rail. At the time I had money on a lot of different sites and I just opted to slink away to one of them instead of redepositing. It made more sense, and it seemed to me that if I'd deposited again, I'd feel like I was playing from behind and I'd be trying too hard and ultimately I'd give way to the forces of TILT! So there was a thought process...and maybe I'm not as all ZEN as all that, but I was at least trying to control my heart beat and rate of breathing, so at least give me the "A" for effort people. Speaking of Zen, I'm currently reading "Zen and the Art of Poker" by Larry Phillips. I know...weirdo, geek, card playerey type shtuff. I'll probably finish it and something else while I'm in Shepherdstown, WV for the next couple of weeks for training. Incidentally, I'm STILL mad at you voters in Jefferson County for not approving "table gaming" at Charles Town Races and Slots, which I'll be within 15 minutes of for this trip. You know where I'd have been every night after class don't you! My prediction in like 3-ish years that you'll be reversing this decision and rolling in the tables and chips. But you know you'll have to wait the full 4 years before putting it back on the ballot now, don't cha! : ) That wasn't a very Zen thing to say now was it! : P
But enough about poker... (pant, pant)
The other topic I wanted to at least give "some" attention to is the SEASON FOUR PREMIERE of LOST!!! Wahoo!!! At least the next 8 episode installments that the writers have decided to grace us with in this mid season/year time to be releasing a series on tv. Whatever it is, I for one am EXTREMEMLY grateful! As always there were more questions than answers in this episode. So much to continue wondering (obsessing about.) The Oceanic 6, Jacob, Charlie, Daniel Faraday, Christian, and a new mystery Matthew Abbadon! I loved the intermingled Oceanic Airlines commercials! THIS is what TV should be! I won't try to cover it for anyone in depth. If you haven't watched it, that's your own fault, go rent it starting from Season 1 and get caught up. For those of you who are avid fans, you know I could spend days out here writing and theorizing about what all is going on on the show. Instead, I'll point you to http://losteastereggs.blogspot.com/ or the homepage proper for it http://darkufo.blogspot.com/. This is a blog/site that I thoroughly enjoy. Visitor participation is great and the Hi Rez screencaptures are fantastic. These guys are workin' hard. Thanks for feeding the addiction and keep up the good work!
And oh there's JR's email announcing NDPT Tourney #2 of the year! February 16th at 6:00pm, this time at his house. I've responded...how about YOU!!!
I've got to wrap this up now...got a few loose ends to deal with before leaving!
Regards,
cheer_dad
I'd like to start shadowing some players at the tables. But picking the players is a bit of a mystery. I've wandered YouTube and found postings of extended virtual table cams, where a player is recording his own session to show how and what they are doing. One I thought was very interesting to say the least was Annette Obrestad's video of her playing a SNG with a post-it note covering her holecards from her own view (in the video you the viewer could see her holecards of course.) I watched her early on fold pocket Kings, unbeknownst to her at the time. She was playing primarily by position...to an extreme, regardless of her cards or stack. I had heard some on the forums attest to how well she played position and that this video was a testament to how important that is, and how truly great annette_15 really is. And while I admire Annette's accomplishments and continued success and repeatability, what I saw in the video was some monstrous good luck. I recall several KEY hands in which she used her position to raise big but should have been clobbered when pushed, but she sucked out! BAD! I'm not saying that we all don't do it from time to time, but man she was runnin' hot at the right times. Not all the time, but just at the right time.
I'm also struck by the fact that my play does typically allow me to win "a little." But NEVER "a lot." I know that's subjective, but here's what I mean. Sure I'm down a few bucks on PokerRewards, but I can drop back and hunker down and over time I'll rebuild back to where I was before. But I'll approach and reach a glass ceiling. And then it'll begin to drop off again. My online and offline sessions are typically punctuated by SLOW starts. No cards, early on, blinding off and giving away 1/4 to 1/2 of my stack in blinds and bets on my good cards, but not connecting. Then I'll hit something...that'll JUST get me back up, just shy of where I started out and I'll just kind of tread water at the table. I never hit big. I never weight my end of the table down with a copious amount of chips. Baby Steps...lotsa baby steps, but never a big or medium profitable run. Reading some guys out there routinely 8-12 tabling at $.50/$1.00 or $1/$2 NLHE tables and turning up profitable sessions nearly all of the time. Now you KNOW 8-12 tabling they're not paying an enormous amount of attention to any one table or any specific players, or taking meaningful notes. They're playing "by the numbers" poker. And I think many of you would classify MY GAME as such. Not a lot of bluffs, very few hands, played, usually no more that 30-35% played preflop, which I don't think anyone would argue that is too many or few, but is probably about right. As of late however, my showdown wins have been under 60%. I would think that number needs to be A LOT higher. Getting rivered, sucked out on, blahblahblah, accounts for some of it, but I would think I need to be closer to around 80+% win rate at showdown. So there's a hole in there somewhere, I just gotta find it. I don't think I'm taking mediocre holdings too far, but it is possible and I'll have to admit it. I need to be tracking progress better. I really do need to get Poker Tracker or some equivalent up and cranking in a useful fashion. Rather than speculation, I need some cold hard facts to point to. So that'll be my next goal on the road to Pokerdom. I need better notes and session tracking information to look back to. I need to pick a style and stick to it exclusively! No mish mash of my method, as it usually just frustrates no one but me.
I also need to pick my poison. Ring Games and levels, SNG's or MTT's.
I need to get some money out on Full Tilt Poker, because I'd really like to try my hand at the Mookie tourneys and some of the other blogger goodness tournements that I keep reading about. Some of my favorite bloggers that I read daily are playing there, and I think I should give that room a shot again. : ) I didn't do so well there once upon a time, but then again it was a very long time ago AND I risked more than a fair share with a really good hand that encountered the nuts and sent me to the rail. At the time I had money on a lot of different sites and I just opted to slink away to one of them instead of redepositing. It made more sense, and it seemed to me that if I'd deposited again, I'd feel like I was playing from behind and I'd be trying too hard and ultimately I'd give way to the forces of TILT! So there was a thought process...and maybe I'm not as all ZEN as all that, but I was at least trying to control my heart beat and rate of breathing, so at least give me the "A" for effort people. Speaking of Zen, I'm currently reading "Zen and the Art of Poker" by Larry Phillips. I know...weirdo, geek, card playerey type shtuff. I'll probably finish it and something else while I'm in Shepherdstown, WV for the next couple of weeks for training. Incidentally, I'm STILL mad at you voters in Jefferson County for not approving "table gaming" at Charles Town Races and Slots, which I'll be within 15 minutes of for this trip. You know where I'd have been every night after class don't you! My prediction in like 3-ish years that you'll be reversing this decision and rolling in the tables and chips. But you know you'll have to wait the full 4 years before putting it back on the ballot now, don't cha! : ) That wasn't a very Zen thing to say now was it! : P
But enough about poker... (pant, pant)
The other topic I wanted to at least give "some" attention to is the SEASON FOUR PREMIERE of LOST!!! Wahoo!!! At least the next 8 episode installments that the writers have decided to grace us with in this mid season/year time to be releasing a series on tv. Whatever it is, I for one am EXTREMEMLY grateful! As always there were more questions than answers in this episode. So much to continue wondering (obsessing about.) The Oceanic 6, Jacob, Charlie, Daniel Faraday, Christian, and a new mystery Matthew Abbadon! I loved the intermingled Oceanic Airlines commercials! THIS is what TV should be! I won't try to cover it for anyone in depth. If you haven't watched it, that's your own fault, go rent it starting from Season 1 and get caught up. For those of you who are avid fans, you know I could spend days out here writing and theorizing about what all is going on on the show. Instead, I'll point you to http://losteastereggs.blogspot.com/ or the homepage proper for it http://darkufo.blogspot.com/. This is a blog/site that I thoroughly enjoy. Visitor participation is great and the Hi Rez screencaptures are fantastic. These guys are workin' hard. Thanks for feeding the addiction and keep up the good work!
And oh there's JR's email announcing NDPT Tourney #2 of the year! February 16th at 6:00pm, this time at his house. I've responded...how about YOU!!!
I've got to wrap this up now...got a few loose ends to deal with before leaving!
Regards,
cheer_dad
Friday, January 11, 2008
Declining profits for Atlantic City casinos
The New York Times is running the following article from the Associated Press regarding Atlantic City casino yearly profit reports. According to the released report although revenues taken down were a staggering $4.92 billion that this is actually cause for concern for the Eastern gambling Mecca. Since 1978, profits for the casino city have steadily increased, but not so for 2007. Profits in 2006 were listed as $5.21 billion.
Blame is being zeroed in on competition from outside Atlantic City, primarily slot parlors which have opened in Pennsylvania and New York. A partial smoking ban is also a contributing factor.
What this brings to my mind, is what sort of affect will the opening of casino gaming in West Virginia (Wheeling Island and Mountaineer Casinos) do to the Pennsylvania market? Obviously there will be a huge impact. By the same token thinking further down the line, will these future losses fuel efforts to push for casino gaming in Pennsylvania, and elsewhere including Kentucky, when slot parlor visitors make their exodus from their own home states and cross the West Virgina borders, in search of something other than the slot machines being offered?
If approved elsewhere, what will ultimately be the saturation point for new casinos. Exactly how many is too many, and what can revenues actually support in the long term? Which casinos or better yet which state(s) will emerge as the winners in the Gaming Wars?
The answers to these and many other questions will provide a wealth of topics of discussion from now until well into the next decade and beyond I'm sure. I'll continue to throw my two cents worth into the mix for what it's worth, and keep my blog minions apprised of the situation. Stay tuned!
Regards,
cheer_dad
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Trailer Station Grand Opening!!!
Props to the folks over at PokerListings.com for posting and bringing this story to my attention. This is the kind of quirky Vegas story that I enjoy. PokerListings picked up on the story of a casino opening that was covered by various reporters, but was covered here by the New York Times! Sad to say it was a lackluster grand opening...and subsequent closing of a Station Casinos property aptly dubbed "Trailer Station." If you're too busy to visit either the PokerListings.com article or the NYTimes article, allow me to recap.
Station Casinos had a grand opening of sorts of their latest casino dubbed by locals as "Trailer Station," on January 9th, 2008. On the property of the former Showboat and the Castaways casinos, a tiny trailer was hauled in holding a mere 16 slot machines, for a single 8-hour shift!
Yes, there was a reason for this seeming madness. Zoning Regulations! In 2005 Station Casinos acquired the aforementioned properties and had the aging casinos demolished. Currently Station Casinos has not come up with any particular plans for the 26-acre property, a few miles east of the Strip, in a rundown section of town. However, the future value of this property is in it's existing Zoning Designation which permits casino gaming on the property, as an "existing occupancy." The caveat to this is the "existing" definition. As per Las Vegas City Codes and Nevada State Law public gambling must occur on the property at a minimum of one shift every two years, in order for the property to maintain its "valuable zoning designation needed to conduct wagering." It didn't have to be advertised or promoted, or even garner any business, but the "option" had to exist. According to reports the biggest payout on the machines was a "whopping" $2.50!
To pull off this grand opening, a trailer was brought in for one day, a porta-pot, and an ADA compliant wheelchair ramp. A casino floor manager stood ready to make payouts, and a security guard made his appointed rounds. No less than 7 permits, approval from City Council and Gaming Control, and a certificate of occupancy were all necessary as well.
According to the NYTimes article Lori Nelson (Station Casinos properties spokesperson) said that the facility may very well return in two years if no groundbreaking takes place on the construction of a new facility.
Now this is a place that I would have visited, just for the novelty of it all! Too bad it occurred a week and a half prior to our planned trip to Las Vegas. Otherwise, you would have seen my backside firmly planted in a seat in front of one of the video poker machines, likely making it a profitable day for Trailer Station!!! Hmmm, no mention of drink service, I wonder if they'd have minded me bringing along a six pack and a flask of Jack Daniels?
Regards,
cheer_dad
Station Casinos had a grand opening of sorts of their latest casino dubbed by locals as "Trailer Station," on January 9th, 2008. On the property of the former Showboat and the Castaways casinos, a tiny trailer was hauled in holding a mere 16 slot machines, for a single 8-hour shift!
Yes, there was a reason for this seeming madness. Zoning Regulations! In 2005 Station Casinos acquired the aforementioned properties and had the aging casinos demolished. Currently Station Casinos has not come up with any particular plans for the 26-acre property, a few miles east of the Strip, in a rundown section of town. However, the future value of this property is in it's existing Zoning Designation which permits casino gaming on the property, as an "existing occupancy." The caveat to this is the "existing" definition. As per Las Vegas City Codes and Nevada State Law public gambling must occur on the property at a minimum of one shift every two years, in order for the property to maintain its "valuable zoning designation needed to conduct wagering." It didn't have to be advertised or promoted, or even garner any business, but the "option" had to exist. According to reports the biggest payout on the machines was a "whopping" $2.50!
To pull off this grand opening, a trailer was brought in for one day, a porta-pot, and an ADA compliant wheelchair ramp. A casino floor manager stood ready to make payouts, and a security guard made his appointed rounds. No less than 7 permits, approval from City Council and Gaming Control, and a certificate of occupancy were all necessary as well.
According to the NYTimes article Lori Nelson (Station Casinos properties spokesperson) said that the facility may very well return in two years if no groundbreaking takes place on the construction of a new facility.
Now this is a place that I would have visited, just for the novelty of it all! Too bad it occurred a week and a half prior to our planned trip to Las Vegas. Otherwise, you would have seen my backside firmly planted in a seat in front of one of the video poker machines, likely making it a profitable day for Trailer Station!!! Hmmm, no mention of drink service, I wonder if they'd have minded me bringing along a six pack and a flask of Jack Daniels?
Regards,
cheer_dad
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Drum roll please!
According to reports in less than 10 minutes, the dice will roll, and the cards will be dealt from the shoe, at Chester, WV's Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack & Resort. According to the news release on their site: http://mtrgaming.com/news/07/12_19_07.html, the West Virginia Lottery Commission gave them the go ahead to go live with full casino gaming on Thursday, December 20th. The ribbon cutting will be at 10:00am.
As more is posted, I'll let you know!
Regards,
cheer_dad
As more is posted, I'll let you know!
Regards,
cheer_dad
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
New Frontier Casino Imploded
I've been a bit under the weather and haven't blogged much lately, particularly to document our last trip to Wheeling, which didn't net me and Big Red any money, but others did well, and we enjoyed the time together with good friends, and the good times. But I'll leave that post for another day. But I did want to cover another sad topic. The New Frontier Hotel and Casino was imploded earlier this morning in Las Vegas. This is where Elvis Presley made his Las Vegas debut. And served as a destination for Teresa and I, and most of her family for a number of trips to the bright lights of Las Vegas. Visit the link to watch her last moments:
Regards,
cheer_dad
Friday, September 28, 2007
WV Shuffle Up and Deal
Boys and girls the time grows near. According to the following article:
http://www.theintelligencer.net/page/content.detail/id/500300.html
(Thanks to Frank Wolfe for sending me the link!)
West Virginia's casino/dogtracks will be running table games. First on the horizon will be the coming of the Poker Tables. It's time to Shuffle Up and DEAL in West Virginia! Of course this is the casino's logical choice, since there is less of a security presence necessary in the poker room, as the casino's cut is absolute...they need only watch for player against player cheating. The other "house" games of course require a more seasoned security force. They are getting there fast, as the article mentions training being conducted by "consultants from Atlantic Cape Community College in Atlantic City, NJ," which of course makes sense. At any rate, the "WHEN" date they are touting is November 1st for both Wheeling Island and Mountaineer Race Track, of course this date is contingent upon the WV Lottery Commission, the authority having jurisdiction. I'm excited for the prospect, although I doubt this will have much of an impact on my playing at home, online or hosting my routine tournaments. It will just be another option for me, when looking for entertainment on a long weekend. Still having a casino option North or South of me, a 1hr to 2hr drive...sounds VERY appealing, and I can envision a terrific Friday work exodus from the building...hoping in a car and breaking a few speed limits to hit the tables, for an extended weekend of debauchery! : ) Okay maybe a little light on the debauchery side, but I'm always open to something new!
In other news, tonight I'm going to play cards tonight, while the WVU game is on the boob tube tonight. Matt J, called a few nights ago, to tell me that his brother-in-law Bob was hosting a card game (which is tonight's game) and that I was invited. Turns out the stakes are .50/1.00 NLHE, at first he thought it was going to be 1/2, but Bob at least wanted to "start" a friendly sort of game. What he's hoping is that we develop a rotating game, that will run during college football season, and beyond. Most likely on Thursday nights. I would be game for it, especially if tonight's session goes well. Of course as Frank put it... I'm probably the fish. As Mike McD would put it..."if you can't spot the sucker in your first 1/2 hour at the table, then you are the sucker." Or as All-In Allman would say, "I'm you're huckleberry!" Whatever the outcome, you'll read all about it here. Hopefully, it'll involve more $$$ signs coming in, than out!
Also, if I recall correctly, the Wolfe's may be hosting a poker-ish get together on Saturday afternoon\evening, but that is a plan best left to our better halves. No pressure here, Red Snappers, it's all about you!!!
Regards,
cheer_dad
http://www.theintelligencer.net/page/content.detail/id/500300.html
(Thanks to Frank Wolfe for sending me the link!)
West Virginia's casino/dogtracks will be running table games. First on the horizon will be the coming of the Poker Tables. It's time to Shuffle Up and DEAL in West Virginia! Of course this is the casino's logical choice, since there is less of a security presence necessary in the poker room, as the casino's cut is absolute...they need only watch for player against player cheating. The other "house" games of course require a more seasoned security force. They are getting there fast, as the article mentions training being conducted by "consultants from Atlantic Cape Community College in Atlantic City, NJ," which of course makes sense. At any rate, the "WHEN" date they are touting is November 1st for both Wheeling Island and Mountaineer Race Track, of course this date is contingent upon the WV Lottery Commission, the authority having jurisdiction. I'm excited for the prospect, although I doubt this will have much of an impact on my playing at home, online or hosting my routine tournaments. It will just be another option for me, when looking for entertainment on a long weekend. Still having a casino option North or South of me, a 1hr to 2hr drive...sounds VERY appealing, and I can envision a terrific Friday work exodus from the building...hoping in a car and breaking a few speed limits to hit the tables, for an extended weekend of debauchery! : ) Okay maybe a little light on the debauchery side, but I'm always open to something new!
In other news, tonight I'm going to play cards tonight, while the WVU game is on the boob tube tonight. Matt J, called a few nights ago, to tell me that his brother-in-law Bob was hosting a card game (which is tonight's game) and that I was invited. Turns out the stakes are .50/1.00 NLHE, at first he thought it was going to be 1/2, but Bob at least wanted to "start" a friendly sort of game. What he's hoping is that we develop a rotating game, that will run during college football season, and beyond. Most likely on Thursday nights. I would be game for it, especially if tonight's session goes well. Of course as Frank put it... I'm probably the fish. As Mike McD would put it..."if you can't spot the sucker in your first 1/2 hour at the table, then you are the sucker." Or as All-In Allman would say, "I'm you're huckleberry!" Whatever the outcome, you'll read all about it here. Hopefully, it'll involve more $$$ signs coming in, than out!
Also, if I recall correctly, the Wolfe's may be hosting a poker-ish get together on Saturday afternoon\evening, but that is a plan best left to our better halves. No pressure here, Red Snappers, it's all about you!!!
Regards,
cheer_dad
Friday, July 20, 2007
Final Frontier...
It is the end of an era. The Frontier Hotel and Casino has closed its doors. This article chronicles it much better than I could:
http://www.mohavedailynews.com/articles/2007/07/17/news/business/biz2.txt but I have a lot of memories of the old place. This was the first casino that I ever stayed at in Las Vegas. Big Red's family had made it a vacation destination for years. In its heyday, I'm sure it was quite a place...but by the time I got there, she bore the odors of thousands of spilled drinks, and millions of smoked cigarettes. In short...nostalgic Vegas. The Frontier was living history. I wish now that I'd gone to see it one last time while I was in Vegas earlier this month. The site will at some point in the near future be home to some Trump-ian venture, some sort of "high-end" housing. Who knows. Seems like a waste of a prime strip property to me. But that's why he's Trump and I'm not I suppose. At any rate...I'll miss the old place. Of course I shouldn't get to attached to the Imperial Palace either, as she will soon (I fear) experience the same fate. I guess I'll update my "chip-collection" and consider my $1 chips from there as collector's items of a now non-existent casino. R.I.P.
Yesterday's All-Star tournament (day 1) was cancelled due to rain. But it's not raining now, so it seems tonight it'll be GAME ON! This one is a t Godbey...and the boys could very easily have to play 9 games tonight. Holy Cow!!! If they survive this...and one more weekend of baseball, it'll be time to call it a season. Cole is still debating on whether to play Fall Ball over at Worthington, or if he's going to give football a shot. This decision...or opting to play nothing at all is entirely his. I'm not going to push him on this. I want him to enjoy it...and I don't want to be one of those parents that I hate. You know the ones trying to re-live some sad vestige of their previous lives. Since I was never an athlete, this is all new to me, but I've taken an active role in it all for him...and I've actually gained a love of the sport. Not the winning or the losing...just the game, and valuing the effort and reward of the thing. I know...getting all "misty" on you here.
I played briefly online on both Carbon and UB last night. Moved up about a lousy $1 on each site, before calling it a night. Sat in a freeroll on UB too, for a chance to win my way into a satellite for an Aruba Tournament Seat. I had to leave the tourney, to run a couple of errand, and when I returned I sat and waited for a hand. On the BB, I had 9-10os. Unraised, and 5 way pot, I hit 2-pair on the flop, got it all in, but encountered the chip leader who had also hit 2 pair...his were higher. Sucks to be me...but hey that's how it goes. Some days, I just feel like a surfer who's always looking for that perfect wave, but in my case I'm looking for the perfect game...or at least a "brief" session of playing. Like more "flow" than "ebb" of the poker tide.
Anyway, have a great weekend all, I'll let you know if a game crops up!
Regards,
cheer_dad
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