My initial hand-paid win in video poker -- July 29, 2003

My recent gambling results

This week has been challenging in terms of gambling. You might recall from last week that the Suncoast casino is hosting weekly drawings with a total prize of $100,000. This week, I decided to take a step back from taking baseball bets from others. Ironically, on the days I opted not to bet, I ended up picking the winning teams for nearly every match, resulting in a loss of about $3,500 in potential winnings. Yet, as I often remind myself, what matters is not just winning or losing but assessing the quality of the bet made. In this case, I was significantly lowering my risk close to zero, and with the 10-cent baseball lines at Suncoast, I had the chance to earn tickets at an average cost of $2 each, knowing each ticket could be worth between $3 and $4. Despite a 20% reduction in the number of tickets available in the drawing, I still ended up losing.

My first hand-pay in video poker

To ease some of the frustration from the week, I experienced my first hand-pay win in video poker this Monday. I had a dinner reservation at 7:00 PM at the Las Vegas Club and arrived 30 minutes early, which led me to try my luck at the $1 10/7 double bonus machines at Four Queens, a casino offering 0.5% cash back. After about 10 minutes, I was dealt three aces for the third time, and this time, luck was on my side as I finally managed to hit the fourth ace, securing an $800 payout. Four Queens still operates with coin payouts, meaning such a win requires hand payment. I activated my change light and waited patiently for a staff member to pay me. After a long 10 minutes, a cashier approached and, with a thick accent, congratulated me. She began asking me a series of questions, likely trying to engage, but I opted to brush her off. Nevertheless, she persistently stood by my side for another 10 minutes, occasionally selling a coin roll while continuing her inquiries.

After a lengthy wait of about 20 minutes, someone finally arrived to pay me in cash, providing seven $100 bills, eight $20 bills, and two $10 bills. Believing in the importance of good tipping, I gave the cashier who assisted me a $10 tip. Yet, the change lady continued to enthusiastically say 'congratulations' in her accented English. I had heard tales of employees flocking around winners during hand payouts, appearing like vultures waiting for gratuities. Although she seemed like a well-meaning older woman looking for a tip, I resolved not to encourage her behavior. Once I received my payment, I discreetly turned away and pretended to rummage through my wallet, keeping her at bay for at least a moment. Eventually, she and her coin cart departed slowly, allowing me to make a hasty exit in the opposite direction. Though I felt guilty for my actions, I was relieved I stood my ground.

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I appreciate your readership. Until we connect again, aim for the stars.

Written by: Michael Shackleford