New faces at the Oasis

The Wednesday NL Hold'em tournament at the, Oasis Casino/Resort seated a plethora of strange faces. Of the sixty players, I recognized about 20 faces. As poker gains popularity, more and more folks are coming to my little brick and mortar casino to cash-in on the excitement.

Last night, many newbies were trying out live poker for the first time, as was evidenced by their questions and actions.. Before the first hand, two fellows on my right asked the dealer the meaning of the blinds. Several players had to be instructed about playing in turn, concealing their cards, or chatting about mucked hands during play. A few went all-in with meager hands, mimicking the pros of the WPT final tables. Usually, they experienced a quick and painful lesson.

I exited in 19th position as my pocket queens were run down by a young man with A-6 offsuit at the river. He just didn't understand that one usually doesn't call megabets all the way to the end with such a meager holding! I was not surprised, disappointed, angry, frustrated or emotionally upset in any manner at my bad luck. These situations are becoming the norm nowadays and experienced players must bite the bullet, welcome new players and continue to improve or find another game. The atmosphere of this new, looser, gambling-style of poker is exciting and fun to play. I used to be a rock, but i'm turning into a marshmallow! :-)

[Listening to: Daughter [*] - Bread - The Best of Bread [Rhino] (03:21)]

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