Helen didn't feel like going to church Sunday, so we had a leisurely morning. I went over to the Suncoast for a couple of hours to check out the hoops games for the day and play a little blackjack. I won $35 and on the way home, just before noon, I filled up the gas tank for $45. That's where my profits often go - into the tank where the cheapest gas is $3.07 a gallon here in LV.
While I was gone, Helen got online and emailed our friend Diane Johnston who is dealing with some serious health issues. She's in our thoughts and prayers.
For lunch I made us turkey sandwiches and we just watched a little TV before hitting the road about 1 or so. We were in search of the herds of wild horses and burros that live out near the Red Rock Natural Area, some 10 miles from our apartment.
When we started it was a sunny day, but as we drove the sky got cloudier and began spitting rain. We made our way up the mountains and even ran into some hail before we turned around and backtracked in search of the herds. We logged about 50 miles on our drive, stopping a few times along the way, but sadly, no wild animals were seen on this day. Maybe the blustery weather had them taking shelter away from the roadways. We'll try again.
So we drove over to the Suncoast to enjoy the two-for-one fajita special at the Mexican restaurant Miquel's. In the morning I had secured a $36 comp from one of the pit bosses I know, Gordon Smith, and we played video blackjack (winning $1) before we headed into Miguel's. The meal started with the usual chips and salsa dips, but this place offers up a VERY tasty bean dip and tasty picante sauce. Then came our fajitas - one of steak and one of chicken. We shared them both and they were DELICIOUS!
They came with plenty of toppings, refried beans and rice. Both of us ate til we were stuffed. With our two diet Pepsis, the bill came to $30 and I left a $5 tip. But with the comp, the only cost was the tip.
After eating, we played a little more video blackjack - winning $5 to cover the cost of our tip. So the entire meal was FREE. Ya gotta love that...
Sunday night we just relaxed and watched some TV. But today our adventure continues...
Monday, January 31, 2011
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Red Rock Road Trips
On Friday, Helen and I set off on a road trip to the Red Rock Natural Area.
It's not really much of a road trip, since Red Rock Canyon is only about 10-12 miles away from our apartment. But it's like another world from the glitter of the strip. Here it's a stunningly beautiful rocky mountainous area that draws millions of hikers, rock climbers and just plain visitors each year.
We spent over an hour driving through the 13-mile scenic tour, stopping a few times to watch hikers and climbers do their thing along the red rocky cliffs.
Saturday was a poker day for me. I went down to Ballys where I spent about 5 hours trying to wrest a profit from the hands of half-drunk tourists and a few local players. Unfortunately it was a futile effort as my good hands were beaten by better hands. After an up and down, down, down day, I ended up dropping $50. Not that bad, considering I had very few playable hands.
While I was at the tables, Helen did some vacuuming from her walker and talked with Anna on the phone.
Today Helen decided to forego church. We're heading back to the Red Rock region to see if we can see some of the wild ponies and burros that make the area their home. Then we're heading to the Suncoast for an early dinner of fajitas at Miguel's - the casino's mexican eatery. They're offering a special that ends today - two fajita dinners for the price of one! Cha-ching!!
And so our LV gastronomic adventure continues...
It's not really much of a road trip, since Red Rock Canyon is only about 10-12 miles away from our apartment. But it's like another world from the glitter of the strip. Here it's a stunningly beautiful rocky mountainous area that draws millions of hikers, rock climbers and just plain visitors each year.
We spent over an hour driving through the 13-mile scenic tour, stopping a few times to watch hikers and climbers do their thing along the red rocky cliffs.
Saturday was a poker day for me. I went down to Ballys where I spent about 5 hours trying to wrest a profit from the hands of half-drunk tourists and a few local players. Unfortunately it was a futile effort as my good hands were beaten by better hands. After an up and down, down, down day, I ended up dropping $50. Not that bad, considering I had very few playable hands.
While I was at the tables, Helen did some vacuuming from her walker and talked with Anna on the phone.
Today Helen decided to forego church. We're heading back to the Red Rock region to see if we can see some of the wild ponies and burros that make the area their home. Then we're heading to the Suncoast for an early dinner of fajitas at Miguel's - the casino's mexican eatery. They're offering a special that ends today - two fajita dinners for the price of one! Cha-ching!!
And so our LV gastronomic adventure continues...
Thursday, January 27, 2011
IP Poker - Best Hand Ever!
Wednesday morning I headed down to the Strip to play poker at the Imperial Palace where they recently installed some new bonuses for high hands.
Prior to Monday, the IP only paid $200 for Royal Flushes - nothing for straight flushes or four-of-a-kind. Now they offer $250 for Royals, $100 for straight flushes and $50 for quads. That's money that comes from the casino, in addition to any cash won in the pot.
I got there about 10:30 and within the first 45 minutes got the best hand I ever had - ever!
I looked down at my hole cards and found 8-8. Five of us matched the $2 blind and saw the flop of 8-J-8. I FLOPPED QUAD 8S... I played it cool, hoping that someone would make a straight or flush and just called when a guy bet $10.
The other three hands folded, so I was head up against a German tourist, who bet $15 when an Ace hit the turn. Again, I merely called, not wanting to scare him away and hoping he had something like A-J for two big pair. The River was a 4, not much help either way. But my opponent again bet $25, and I immediately put him All in with a raise to $50. He hemmed and hawed, but finally called and I flopped over my 8s.
With the $50 bonus, I won over $120 in this pot. Not my biggest pot ever, but the highest hand I've ever had. I've had quads two other times - deuces and treys.
Unfortunately, that was the highlight. In fact, when the dust settled, I gave back all my profits and actually lost $40. Some bad luck on the river, combined with not walking when I was up about $80 was a big mistake. Though I only lost $40, I felt like I lost a lot more since I was up almost $100 at one point. AAAAArgh!!
On the way home I picked up Capriotti's sub sandwiches - a pastrami for me and a turkey sub for Helen, who spent the day on the phone with friends, online, sewing and watching some TV.
Today I need to do some grocery shopping, banking and gas up the car. Maybe I'll try some local poker at Red Rock (where I've never played) or Suncoast. And so our LV adventure continues...
Prior to Monday, the IP only paid $200 for Royal Flushes - nothing for straight flushes or four-of-a-kind. Now they offer $250 for Royals, $100 for straight flushes and $50 for quads. That's money that comes from the casino, in addition to any cash won in the pot.
I got there about 10:30 and within the first 45 minutes got the best hand I ever had - ever!
I looked down at my hole cards and found 8-8. Five of us matched the $2 blind and saw the flop of 8-J-8. I FLOPPED QUAD 8S... I played it cool, hoping that someone would make a straight or flush and just called when a guy bet $10.
The other three hands folded, so I was head up against a German tourist, who bet $15 when an Ace hit the turn. Again, I merely called, not wanting to scare him away and hoping he had something like A-J for two big pair. The River was a 4, not much help either way. But my opponent again bet $25, and I immediately put him All in with a raise to $50. He hemmed and hawed, but finally called and I flopped over my 8s.
With the $50 bonus, I won over $120 in this pot. Not my biggest pot ever, but the highest hand I've ever had. I've had quads two other times - deuces and treys.
Unfortunately, that was the highlight. In fact, when the dust settled, I gave back all my profits and actually lost $40. Some bad luck on the river, combined with not walking when I was up about $80 was a big mistake. Though I only lost $40, I felt like I lost a lot more since I was up almost $100 at one point. AAAAArgh!!
On the way home I picked up Capriotti's sub sandwiches - a pastrami for me and a turkey sub for Helen, who spent the day on the phone with friends, online, sewing and watching some TV.
Today I need to do some grocery shopping, banking and gas up the car. Maybe I'll try some local poker at Red Rock (where I've never played) or Suncoast. And so our LV adventure continues...
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
A Day at the Apartment
Monday was a quiet day at the apartment.
All morning I worked on an article I'm writing for The Ticker web site about how Grand Traverse County is getting ready to dump its youth baseball program, which last year offered baseball games for 551 youngsters on 41 teams. Not sure who might pick up the program, but the American Legion may step up so the kids can play this year. They ran it for 61 years, til last year. I was waiting for some call backs, so I decided to just not visit a casino.
Then I fixed us a lunch of ham and turkey sandwiches while we watched some TV and relaxed. I went online, played some Tetris, caught up on some reading. Pretty boring day, huh? Dinner was orange chicken over rice.
On Sunday, Helen and I started the day with the 8 a.m. service at the Lakes Lutheran Church. Then by 10 o'clock I was at the Suncoast to pick up a parlay ticket on the playoff games. Then went home to watch the games with Helen after losing $30 in video blackjack. Went with my friend Terry on a $60 ($40 for him, $20 for me) parlay of both games over the total. It would have paid $210, but died when the GB-Chicago game fell short of the 43.5 total. The second game was a winner, over 38.5. So for the day, I lost $50.
Helen and I watched the games together and she's getting to finally understand how football works. She says the yellow first down line makes it much easier for her to get the game. Anyway, it was fun watching with her.
For dinner we had bowtie pasta with marinara sauce and a side salad of mixed baby green, tomatoes and red onions. Then it was TV til lights out...but today our adventure continues...
All morning I worked on an article I'm writing for The Ticker web site about how Grand Traverse County is getting ready to dump its youth baseball program, which last year offered baseball games for 551 youngsters on 41 teams. Not sure who might pick up the program, but the American Legion may step up so the kids can play this year. They ran it for 61 years, til last year. I was waiting for some call backs, so I decided to just not visit a casino.
Then I fixed us a lunch of ham and turkey sandwiches while we watched some TV and relaxed. I went online, played some Tetris, caught up on some reading. Pretty boring day, huh? Dinner was orange chicken over rice.
On Sunday, Helen and I started the day with the 8 a.m. service at the Lakes Lutheran Church. Then by 10 o'clock I was at the Suncoast to pick up a parlay ticket on the playoff games. Then went home to watch the games with Helen after losing $30 in video blackjack. Went with my friend Terry on a $60 ($40 for him, $20 for me) parlay of both games over the total. It would have paid $210, but died when the GB-Chicago game fell short of the 43.5 total. The second game was a winner, over 38.5. So for the day, I lost $50.
Helen and I watched the games together and she's getting to finally understand how football works. She says the yellow first down line makes it much easier for her to get the game. Anyway, it was fun watching with her.
For dinner we had bowtie pasta with marinara sauce and a side salad of mixed baby green, tomatoes and red onions. Then it was TV til lights out...but today our adventure continues...
Friday, January 21, 2011
Suncoast Visit
Thursday morning I did some grocery shopping at the local Albertson's, mailed some bills, gassed up the car and got it washed.
Then it was off to the Suncoast, where I wanted to check out the basketball menu. Saw a few interesting games, so I played a $20 4-team moneyline parlay that would pay $140 if Wright State, Portland, Maryland and New Mexico State could just win. Three favorites and a -2 underdog. Seems reasonable, right? Nope. Only Wright State posted a win, after trailing for most of the game. Ya never know...
While at the Suncoast I jumped into a blackjack game and played for about an hour, walking away with $130. I also got a lunch comp from one of the pit bosses, so I enjoyed some almond chicken, fried rice, steamed broccoli, green peppers and beef and a slab of carrot cake for dessert. I finished off my visit with a little video blackjack and was lucky to post a $30 profit. So for the day I was up $140.
I got home about 1:30 or so and Helen was on the phone with her lifelong friend, Sandy Graves who lives in the state of Washington. They literally talked for hours! Prior to the call, Helen was overseeing a repair of our front-loading washer. The latch on the door broke, but it looks like the company sent the wrong part to fix it, so that's something we're still dealing with. Not a crisis, but an inconvenience.
For dinner, we recycled some leftover BBQ from Famous Dave's. Helen had brisket and I chowed down on chicken and ribs. I made a tasty side salad for us with organic greens and mandarin orange slices, topped by a honey mustard dressing.
Then we watched TV and relaxed for the evening. But today our adventure continues...
Then it was off to the Suncoast, where I wanted to check out the basketball menu. Saw a few interesting games, so I played a $20 4-team moneyline parlay that would pay $140 if Wright State, Portland, Maryland and New Mexico State could just win. Three favorites and a -2 underdog. Seems reasonable, right? Nope. Only Wright State posted a win, after trailing for most of the game. Ya never know...
While at the Suncoast I jumped into a blackjack game and played for about an hour, walking away with $130. I also got a lunch comp from one of the pit bosses, so I enjoyed some almond chicken, fried rice, steamed broccoli, green peppers and beef and a slab of carrot cake for dessert. I finished off my visit with a little video blackjack and was lucky to post a $30 profit. So for the day I was up $140.
I got home about 1:30 or so and Helen was on the phone with her lifelong friend, Sandy Graves who lives in the state of Washington. They literally talked for hours! Prior to the call, Helen was overseeing a repair of our front-loading washer. The latch on the door broke, but it looks like the company sent the wrong part to fix it, so that's something we're still dealing with. Not a crisis, but an inconvenience.
For dinner, we recycled some leftover BBQ from Famous Dave's. Helen had brisket and I chowed down on chicken and ribs. I made a tasty side salad for us with organic greens and mandarin orange slices, topped by a honey mustard dressing.
Then we watched TV and relaxed for the evening. But today our adventure continues...
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Bellagio Visit and Poker Update
It's a beautiful sunny morning here in LV with a high temp expected near 60 - a good time to sit down and detail a few recent happenings.
Monday was a Return-to-Poker day for me. I played at the Imperial Palace and won some nice cash, all in a three-in-a-row hand hot streak. First, I was dealt Q-Q and they held up for a $40 pot. Very next hand I looked down and saw A-A. I bet $7 and got a couple of callers. The flop came A-K-3. We all checked and when the turn came a Q, I checked to see who might bet and was thrilled when one guy bet $30. The other called with his last $20
I went into full-blown acting mode. I pretended to try to decide whether to call or not, but eventually I raised him another $60. He hesitated a bit, then shoved in the rest of his stack - another $40 or so. The river was a 4 and didn't help at all. The guy showed his K-Q for two pair, while the other guy mucked his hand. I showed my Trip Aces and the dealer shoved the hefty pot my way!
The very next hand, I had A-K and took down another pot worth $40 or so... Three great hands, three sweet wins. I played 4-5 more hands, then left. A $170 winner.
On Tuesday, Helen and I drove down to the Bellagio to check out the new Conservatory display, which honors the Chinese New Year. 2011 is the Year of the Rabbit and the displays feature many amazing topiary bunnies. There's also a unique chariot pulled by four horses, lots of bamboo, burning incense and more great floral displays. As usual, all of the features are made of floral items, crushed nuts, seeds and other natural items. It's always cool to see how creative the designers are.
While at Bellagio, we visited the sports book and I put $20 on MSU+4.5 vs. Illinois. That was a loser as the Spartans couldn't shoot to save their lives. Despite holding the Illini to one field goal in the last 10 minutes, the Spartans lost by 9.
Helen hadn't been to Caesars Palace yet, so we wandered over there to have lunch at the Cheesecake Factory. We were seated out in the patio area so we could do some people watching and see the huge fish-filled aquarium only a few feet away. Our meal was great - tasty and huge!
Helen opted for a blue cheese burger and sweet potato fries, while I went for a hefty slab of meatloaf topped with grilled onions & mushrooms, mashed potatoes and gravy and a veggie succotash. This great meal was $31, but lucky us, we received a survey request on our receipt and should be getting a $10 Cheesecake gift card for answering the survey.
We played some video poker and Wheel of Fortune at CP, but didn't do too well. Including our hoops bet, we lost $32.
After running a few errands, Wednesday was another poker day for me. I drove down to Bill's Gambling Hall and walked over to the IP where I learned that a guy committed suicide on Monday afternoon. Seems he jumped from one of the higher floors and landed between Harrah's and the IP. Sad that someone had to feel life was too difficult to deal with.
It was quiet at the poker room, but I waited there a while talking with the poker mgr. Jake and a couple of dealers. Then one other player showed and Jake gave each of us a special "2008 World Series of Poker" card protector for staying around and helping to start a game. In about 15 minutes three more guys showed and we got the cards in the air.
I won a few pots early and was up about $70 when my three 5s lost to a straight - back to even. Then I had a little hot streak, highlighted by one BIG hand. I was dealt a pair of 9s and bet $7. Two guys called. The flop came 10-8-6 - giving me a possible inside straight. One guy bet $15 and I called, hoping to hit either a 7 for the straight or a third 9.
My hopes were answered when a 9 fell on the turn. The other guy checked (telling me he didn't hit the straight either) and I bet $25. The guy called and I felt he had an over pair, maybe Q-Q or J-J.
The river was a 3 - no apparent help for either of us. My opponent shoved in $60 and I thought about it and called. He showed a pair of eights, giving him 3 8s to my 3 9s!!
That was my big pot of the day and I walked away a short time later, a $215 winner.
Helen and I celebrated with a takeout dinner from Famous Dave's BBQ - a "Cue for Two" special with BBQ ribs, chicken, brisket, slaw, grilled potatoes and cornbread muffins. Lots of food for $19.95. Probably be finishing that off tonight for dinner. MMMMM...
And today our adventure continues...
Monday was a Return-to-Poker day for me. I played at the Imperial Palace and won some nice cash, all in a three-in-a-row hand hot streak. First, I was dealt Q-Q and they held up for a $40 pot. Very next hand I looked down and saw A-A. I bet $7 and got a couple of callers. The flop came A-K-3. We all checked and when the turn came a Q, I checked to see who might bet and was thrilled when one guy bet $30. The other called with his last $20
I went into full-blown acting mode. I pretended to try to decide whether to call or not, but eventually I raised him another $60. He hesitated a bit, then shoved in the rest of his stack - another $40 or so. The river was a 4 and didn't help at all. The guy showed his K-Q for two pair, while the other guy mucked his hand. I showed my Trip Aces and the dealer shoved the hefty pot my way!
The very next hand, I had A-K and took down another pot worth $40 or so... Three great hands, three sweet wins. I played 4-5 more hands, then left. A $170 winner.
On Tuesday, Helen and I drove down to the Bellagio to check out the new Conservatory display, which honors the Chinese New Year. 2011 is the Year of the Rabbit and the displays feature many amazing topiary bunnies. There's also a unique chariot pulled by four horses, lots of bamboo, burning incense and more great floral displays. As usual, all of the features are made of floral items, crushed nuts, seeds and other natural items. It's always cool to see how creative the designers are.
While at Bellagio, we visited the sports book and I put $20 on MSU+4.5 vs. Illinois. That was a loser as the Spartans couldn't shoot to save their lives. Despite holding the Illini to one field goal in the last 10 minutes, the Spartans lost by 9.
Helen hadn't been to Caesars Palace yet, so we wandered over there to have lunch at the Cheesecake Factory. We were seated out in the patio area so we could do some people watching and see the huge fish-filled aquarium only a few feet away. Our meal was great - tasty and huge!
Helen opted for a blue cheese burger and sweet potato fries, while I went for a hefty slab of meatloaf topped with grilled onions & mushrooms, mashed potatoes and gravy and a veggie succotash. This great meal was $31, but lucky us, we received a survey request on our receipt and should be getting a $10 Cheesecake gift card for answering the survey.
We played some video poker and Wheel of Fortune at CP, but didn't do too well. Including our hoops bet, we lost $32.
After running a few errands, Wednesday was another poker day for me. I drove down to Bill's Gambling Hall and walked over to the IP where I learned that a guy committed suicide on Monday afternoon. Seems he jumped from one of the higher floors and landed between Harrah's and the IP. Sad that someone had to feel life was too difficult to deal with.
It was quiet at the poker room, but I waited there a while talking with the poker mgr. Jake and a couple of dealers. Then one other player showed and Jake gave each of us a special "2008 World Series of Poker" card protector for staying around and helping to start a game. In about 15 minutes three more guys showed and we got the cards in the air.
I won a few pots early and was up about $70 when my three 5s lost to a straight - back to even. Then I had a little hot streak, highlighted by one BIG hand. I was dealt a pair of 9s and bet $7. Two guys called. The flop came 10-8-6 - giving me a possible inside straight. One guy bet $15 and I called, hoping to hit either a 7 for the straight or a third 9.
My hopes were answered when a 9 fell on the turn. The other guy checked (telling me he didn't hit the straight either) and I bet $25. The guy called and I felt he had an over pair, maybe Q-Q or J-J.
The river was a 3 - no apparent help for either of us. My opponent shoved in $60 and I thought about it and called. He showed a pair of eights, giving him 3 8s to my 3 9s!!
That was my big pot of the day and I walked away a short time later, a $215 winner.
Helen and I celebrated with a takeout dinner from Famous Dave's BBQ - a "Cue for Two" special with BBQ ribs, chicken, brisket, slaw, grilled potatoes and cornbread muffins. Lots of food for $19.95. Probably be finishing that off tonight for dinner. MMMMM...
And today our adventure continues...
Friday, January 14, 2011
Friday Update
It's been a while since I last posted, so I'll give a quick rundown of the last week or so...
On Tuesday, Helen and I went to see "True Grit" at the nearby Suncoast theater. Every Tuesday is Senior Day and we were able to see this great movie for only $4 each. Both of us liked this version better than the John Wayne orignal, which netted "The Duke" his only Academy Award. The cinematography is vivid and everything seems genuine to the Old West. Great acting by the young actress who plays Mattie and, of course, by Jeff Bridges as Rooster Cogburn.
After getting out of the matinee, about 3 or so, we hit the casino's Grand Cafe for a bite. We both had the daily special - chicken marsala with two large chicken breasts atop a pile of mashed potatoes, corn and salad. For $7.99 each, it was a bargain. But even better I was able to pay with my players card points, so it was comped!
Wednesday was Anna's birthday, so we called her to wish her a Happy Birthday. Always great to talk with my girl. Then I drove to the Strip, parked at Ballys, played poker at Planet Hollywood and won $62. Took $22 of that and bet it on San Diego State vs. UNLV. It was a winner, so for the day I netted $82.
Yesterday I ran some errands early, including a stop at Target for mouthwash, etc. then drove to Mandalay Bay to check into buying tickets for The Lion King. Helen wants to take Scott and his family to the show when they visit Feb. 22-28. I had heard that the MB offered special deals for locals, so I thought I'd look into it.
When I got there I got into a line with about 10 people ahead of me. After about a 10 minute wait, I was at the counter where I explained that even though I lacked a Nevada ID, I had a gas bill and cable bill to show I lived on West Sahara. That was no problem and she quickly started the process of choosing the date and 7 seats for us. The end result was I scored the tickets, which go for $115 each, for less than half price!
I called Helen to let her know I had the tickets in my sweaty little fist and she was thrilled. She's been wanting to take the Grandkids to this show and I racked up a few "spousal points" by snagging the tickets.
Then I drove to Ballys, lost $15 in video blackjack and used my comp points there to enjoy a chicken salad on rye, chips and a diet coke - an $11.50 value - FREE! Love those points...
Then I took a walk, through Bill's, past the Flamingo, right by O'Sheas and into the Imperial Palace where they always have a huge stack of "Vegas Live" magazines. I grabbed a few that have Sinatra on the cover, in honor of some Sinatra show on the Strip. These will eventually go on ebay. Last year I sold several for $2-10 that had celebs on the cover. It's like free money!
On the way back, I stopped at Bill's and bought a $25 money line parlay ticket on Purdue (vs. Minnesota) and North Carolina (vs. Va Tech). Purdue lost by 3, so I lost the bet. Net loss for the day was $40.
Returned home about 3 p.m. and watched some TV before making cheese omelets and grilled potatoes for dinner.
Today I plan a return to the Strip for poker and finalize my football bets for the playoffs tomorrow and Sunday. And our adventure continues...
On Tuesday, Helen and I went to see "True Grit" at the nearby Suncoast theater. Every Tuesday is Senior Day and we were able to see this great movie for only $4 each. Both of us liked this version better than the John Wayne orignal, which netted "The Duke" his only Academy Award. The cinematography is vivid and everything seems genuine to the Old West. Great acting by the young actress who plays Mattie and, of course, by Jeff Bridges as Rooster Cogburn.
After getting out of the matinee, about 3 or so, we hit the casino's Grand Cafe for a bite. We both had the daily special - chicken marsala with two large chicken breasts atop a pile of mashed potatoes, corn and salad. For $7.99 each, it was a bargain. But even better I was able to pay with my players card points, so it was comped!
Wednesday was Anna's birthday, so we called her to wish her a Happy Birthday. Always great to talk with my girl. Then I drove to the Strip, parked at Ballys, played poker at Planet Hollywood and won $62. Took $22 of that and bet it on San Diego State vs. UNLV. It was a winner, so for the day I netted $82.
Yesterday I ran some errands early, including a stop at Target for mouthwash, etc. then drove to Mandalay Bay to check into buying tickets for The Lion King. Helen wants to take Scott and his family to the show when they visit Feb. 22-28. I had heard that the MB offered special deals for locals, so I thought I'd look into it.
When I got there I got into a line with about 10 people ahead of me. After about a 10 minute wait, I was at the counter where I explained that even though I lacked a Nevada ID, I had a gas bill and cable bill to show I lived on West Sahara. That was no problem and she quickly started the process of choosing the date and 7 seats for us. The end result was I scored the tickets, which go for $115 each, for less than half price!
I called Helen to let her know I had the tickets in my sweaty little fist and she was thrilled. She's been wanting to take the Grandkids to this show and I racked up a few "spousal points" by snagging the tickets.
Then I drove to Ballys, lost $15 in video blackjack and used my comp points there to enjoy a chicken salad on rye, chips and a diet coke - an $11.50 value - FREE! Love those points...
Then I took a walk, through Bill's, past the Flamingo, right by O'Sheas and into the Imperial Palace where they always have a huge stack of "Vegas Live" magazines. I grabbed a few that have Sinatra on the cover, in honor of some Sinatra show on the Strip. These will eventually go on ebay. Last year I sold several for $2-10 that had celebs on the cover. It's like free money!
On the way back, I stopped at Bill's and bought a $25 money line parlay ticket on Purdue (vs. Minnesota) and North Carolina (vs. Va Tech). Purdue lost by 3, so I lost the bet. Net loss for the day was $40.
Returned home about 3 p.m. and watched some TV before making cheese omelets and grilled potatoes for dinner.
Today I plan a return to the Strip for poker and finalize my football bets for the playoffs tomorrow and Sunday. And our adventure continues...
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Super Bowl Odds
Stopped by the Suncoast yesterday and here are current odds for the SB prior to the start of the playoffs:
Patriots 1-1
Steelers 7/2
Falcons 4-1
Saints 5-1
Eagles and Packers 8-1
Bears 9-1
Colts and Ravens 12-1
Jets and Chiefs 20-1
Seahawks 65-1
For hoops fans, here's a few NCAA Title odds:
Duke 14-5
MSU 7-1
Ohio State 8-1
Kansas 8-1
Kentucky 10-1
Purdue 15-1
UConn 20-1
UNLV 30-1
Michigan 60-1
ND 75-1
Patriots 1-1
Steelers 7/2
Falcons 4-1
Saints 5-1
Eagles and Packers 8-1
Bears 9-1
Colts and Ravens 12-1
Jets and Chiefs 20-1
Seahawks 65-1
For hoops fans, here's a few NCAA Title odds:
Duke 14-5
MSU 7-1
Ohio State 8-1
Kansas 8-1
Kentucky 10-1
Purdue 15-1
UConn 20-1
UNLV 30-1
Michigan 60-1
ND 75-1
Thursday, January 6, 2011
The Tourist
Yesterday Helen and I took in a matinee of "The Tourist" with Angelina Jolie and Johny Depp, one of Helen's favs.
It was an entertaining movie with a fine performance by Depp and beautiful photography of Venice. The movie started just before noon, so after leaving the Red Rock casino theater, we stopped for lunch at the casino's Grand Cafe.
It was about 2:15 or so and a perfect quiet time for a nice meal. Helen opted for a Cobb salad, while I chose one of their specials - an appetizer, entree and dessert for $12.99. I went with a shrimp cocktail, club sandwich and huge slab of chocolate cake (which we shared). We'll probably go for this again. We still want to see "True Grit" before it leaves the local theaters.
Earlier in the morning, I had some errands to run - buy fresh pita bread at the Middle East Market, get stamps at the post office and make a stop at the Suncoast to get a basketball bet. It was a two-team money line parlay on Purdue and BYU - both double-digit winners. BYU is an underrated squad. They came into UNLV's Thomas and Mack Arena and silenced the crazy crowd. Led by sharpshooting guard Jimmer Fredette (mark down that name if you don't know it) who had 39 points, the Cougars are ranked #15 in the nation. Fredette hit 7 3-pointers, a couple that came from near the parking lot, LOL!!
My $20 wager paid $72 and I'll go cash that today.
The past few days have been losing poker sessions. I played at Ballys and MGM with little success on both Monday and Tuesday this week. Lot of second-best hands which can get expensive. I think my best hand over both days was a flush that failed to generate a big pot.
It was good to take yesterday off from poker and I may not play today either, just to shake off the stink of losing, LOL!
And so our LV adventure continues...
It was an entertaining movie with a fine performance by Depp and beautiful photography of Venice. The movie started just before noon, so after leaving the Red Rock casino theater, we stopped for lunch at the casino's Grand Cafe.
It was about 2:15 or so and a perfect quiet time for a nice meal. Helen opted for a Cobb salad, while I chose one of their specials - an appetizer, entree and dessert for $12.99. I went with a shrimp cocktail, club sandwich and huge slab of chocolate cake (which we shared). We'll probably go for this again. We still want to see "True Grit" before it leaves the local theaters.
Earlier in the morning, I had some errands to run - buy fresh pita bread at the Middle East Market, get stamps at the post office and make a stop at the Suncoast to get a basketball bet. It was a two-team money line parlay on Purdue and BYU - both double-digit winners. BYU is an underrated squad. They came into UNLV's Thomas and Mack Arena and silenced the crazy crowd. Led by sharpshooting guard Jimmer Fredette (mark down that name if you don't know it) who had 39 points, the Cougars are ranked #15 in the nation. Fredette hit 7 3-pointers, a couple that came from near the parking lot, LOL!!
My $20 wager paid $72 and I'll go cash that today.
The past few days have been losing poker sessions. I played at Ballys and MGM with little success on both Monday and Tuesday this week. Lot of second-best hands which can get expensive. I think my best hand over both days was a flush that failed to generate a big pot.
It was good to take yesterday off from poker and I may not play today either, just to shake off the stink of losing, LOL!
And so our LV adventure continues...
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Get Ready 2011, Here We Come
Helen and I have been busy over the past few days, so I'll try to give you an overview of our activities.
Thursday was a big day for us. We went to the Thomas and Mack arena to see CMU take on the Runnin' Rebels of UNLV. I bet $25 on CMU +22.5, but that was wasted money as the Rebels embarassed the Chips, 73-47. It was worse than the final score indicated. Here are some lowlights by CMU.
Right from the opening minutes, CMU could not cope with the aggressive pressing defense of UNLV. They committed turnover after turnover - twice being unable to inbound the ball within 5 seconds and twice stepping on the sideline after being swarmed by the Rebels.
After 12 minutes of play, CMU had 6 points - only 2 baskets and 2 free throws. Fortunately, UNLV had a cold first half and led only by 12 at halftime. So I had real hope when the Chips cut the lead to 4 pts early in the second half, but then the roof fell in and UNLV rolled to the 26-point win.
We had a lot of fun, though. We had seats in the handicapped section, a special area at one end of the court. Unable to see the scoreboard, we had TVs right in front of us. Of course, UNLV has to add a little zest to their pregame show. What other team darkens the arena, then shoots off fireworks from the backboards during the pregame lineup announcements? Another great touch is the UNLV dance team - four members do standing backflips in unison for every basket the Rebels make!!
It was a really fun night and Helen enjoyed it very much.
Friday I played a little blackjack, losing $22 at the Suncoast. But I offset that by winning a 3-team football parlay with Florida State, Notre Dame and Central Florida - all underdogs - winning outright. It paid $140.
Dinner was a Papa John's pizza - a large with everything for only $10.
Today I was up early and made us a breakfast of fried potatoes and scrambled eggs with sauteed onions & mushrooms. Lunch was turkey sandwiches as we watched football. I lost all my fb bets when MSU and U-M got crushed. That killed my 3 teaser/parlay bets and left me with a year-opening loss of $60.
With December in the books, I totalled up my gaming numbers. For the month, I won $2,422 in 19 winning days and lost $518 in 9 losing days. That gave me a profit of $1,904 over the 19 winning days - $100 a day.
Today Helen is taking down the Luther Tree and doing laundry. I'll be making dinner later, either salads or lasagna (thank you Stouffers). And tomorrow our adventure will continue...
Thursday was a big day for us. We went to the Thomas and Mack arena to see CMU take on the Runnin' Rebels of UNLV. I bet $25 on CMU +22.5, but that was wasted money as the Rebels embarassed the Chips, 73-47. It was worse than the final score indicated. Here are some lowlights by CMU.
Right from the opening minutes, CMU could not cope with the aggressive pressing defense of UNLV. They committed turnover after turnover - twice being unable to inbound the ball within 5 seconds and twice stepping on the sideline after being swarmed by the Rebels.
After 12 minutes of play, CMU had 6 points - only 2 baskets and 2 free throws. Fortunately, UNLV had a cold first half and led only by 12 at halftime. So I had real hope when the Chips cut the lead to 4 pts early in the second half, but then the roof fell in and UNLV rolled to the 26-point win.
We had a lot of fun, though. We had seats in the handicapped section, a special area at one end of the court. Unable to see the scoreboard, we had TVs right in front of us. Of course, UNLV has to add a little zest to their pregame show. What other team darkens the arena, then shoots off fireworks from the backboards during the pregame lineup announcements? Another great touch is the UNLV dance team - four members do standing backflips in unison for every basket the Rebels make!!
It was a really fun night and Helen enjoyed it very much.
Friday I played a little blackjack, losing $22 at the Suncoast. But I offset that by winning a 3-team football parlay with Florida State, Notre Dame and Central Florida - all underdogs - winning outright. It paid $140.
Dinner was a Papa John's pizza - a large with everything for only $10.
Today I was up early and made us a breakfast of fried potatoes and scrambled eggs with sauteed onions & mushrooms. Lunch was turkey sandwiches as we watched football. I lost all my fb bets when MSU and U-M got crushed. That killed my 3 teaser/parlay bets and left me with a year-opening loss of $60.
With December in the books, I totalled up my gaming numbers. For the month, I won $2,422 in 19 winning days and lost $518 in 9 losing days. That gave me a profit of $1,904 over the 19 winning days - $100 a day.
Today Helen is taking down the Luther Tree and doing laundry. I'll be making dinner later, either salads or lasagna (thank you Stouffers). And tomorrow our adventure will continue...
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