The Gambler

I'd like to highlight the latest post on Poker Bluegill concerning an upcoming Vegas trip. Dewey has been a family friend for as long as I can remember and has weaved a pattern in my mind of great stories and great story telling. I remember having a conversation with him at a wedding some 6 years ago when he told me about his interests in gambling. I was afraid that it was going to be a story of sadness, depression, chasing an impossible dream, etc, etc. But it wasn't at all. He had nearly perfected the gambling vacation.

Dewey's attention to detail and nearly fanatical frugality have allowed him to take Vegas for all that it's worth. Each year he travels to the City of Sin for a few weeks for what ends up being cost-free. As his latest post attests, he has set up 17 days in a hotel for a total of $54! Using potential poker comps, "a library of 2-1 food coupons," and a free airfare from a previous bump, he'll be living cheaper then it would cost to stay at home. But you mention the gambling, he'll loose it with the gambling. Good point, but no. He takes the same approach to card games as he does food and lodging, betting minimal, predestined for specific tables - and let's not forget he's a really good card player.

I spent a night in Vegas back in '99. Throughout the night I bet $12 and made $15. I got loads of free drinks, ate at a $2.99 breakfast buffet, and shared a room on the strip that cost a total of $29. I thought I did good. I had no idea.

Bloc Party - Hero.mp3