Odds and ends, plus a quick test

One of the truly great sportsbook managers has decided to hang it up and take a promotion. Joe Lupo, the Stardust race and sportsbook manager will be re-locating to Atlantic City and accepting a management position at the Boyd Group's new Borgata Resort. Bob Scucci, Lupo's assistant will take the reins. Bob is very capable and well liked and is an excellent choice to replace Lupo. The future looks bright at the one and only Stardust sportsbook, a haven for tourists and wiseguys that want a little action. We wish Joe well and know that whatever challenges come his way, he'll continue to handle them with class and style. He's a credit to the industry. On behalf of the sports bettors, thanks and good luck Joe. We'll miss you!

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Here's a quick test. Below you will find eight choices of games to play in the casino. Which four can you beat over the long haul. You can beat ANY game over the short run…
A. Blackjack
B. Craps
C. Keno
D. Live Poker
E. Pai Gow
F. Sports Betting
G. Roulette
H. Race Betting

Answers at the end of the column.

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One of the most asked questions that I receive are pertaining to the player cards. Are they good and are they worth it? For the time that it takes, usually only a few minutes, if you are planning on playing the slots or table games they are definitely worth getting. Nowadays that's the way the casino keeps track of your play in order to justify the comps that you want to receive. If you want to indulge in getting preferential treatment in the form of free meals, free show tickets and line passes you'd be silly not to get a card at your favorite casinos. One word of advice: You are better off accumulating a lot of points at one casino instead of a few points at many casinos. Also for you race and sportsbook bettors show your card when you are placing your wagers. It all adds up.

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For the thoroughbred racing fan there are some books out there that are definitely worth checking out. Eclipse Press has published a huge variety of books involving the Sport of Kings. I especially like the Thoroughbred Legends Series that profiles great champions of the past. Some of the horses that are featured are Man o' War, Seattle Slew, Swaps, Spectacular Bid, and coming out in the Spring the one and only Secretariat. For more info: www.exclusivelyequine.com or call 1-800-582-5604.

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Horse Sense: Something a horse has that keeps him from betting on humans. How to get nothing for something: Bet on a race tip or any sure thing. If there were no difficulties, there would be no triumphs.

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Answers:
A. Blackjack
D. Live Poker
F. Sports Betting
H. Race Betting
- P.S. Word of Caution: Just because you can win over the long haul, doesn't mean that you will. Most people that try, ultimately fail.

As Always…Good Luck!

Gaming Guru

Odds and ends, plus a quick test

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