Eaten By The Bear

Currently, I'm licking my wounds from my recent trip to Las Vegas and surrounding area. As I have mentioned before, never gamble what you can't afford to lose. I really do believe this but it is difficult to accept. I spent my entire bankroll for the trip. I was there for 10 days. Now don't jump to conclusions, I allot $200 per day for gambling. That doesn't seem like much for some but others might gasp in disbelief. For me, I feel it only because that was also money for future Vegas gambling. Now I have to work my side activities to earn another bankroll.

As you know, I enjoy video keno. Normally, I can get enough small jackpots to extend playing time. This outing was particularly brutal. The machines were having none of me. As you should also know, slot machines are not random. They can be set to payout jackpots at certain rates and amounts. What is random, is your moment in time playing a particular machine. I couldn't catch a break. But, gambling is ebb and flow. Does it mean I'm going to quit going to Vegas? Obviously, not. But, I may change the way I gamble.

The casinos are in the business of making money. They make money from losing customers. I donated to my favorite casinos this time out. I won $5600 the last 6 months of 2011. So, I knew at some point in time, I would have to give some back. Admittedly, the machines felt a bit tighter than usual. The only change I may make is the amount per bet I make. Hopefully, this streak won't last long and I'll be on the winning track again. I hope that everything goes well with you. I hope you're eating the bear. I wish all of you good health and fortune.

Your Opinion Counts

Ever stay in a Las Vegas hotel-casino and received an email asking for your impressions of the stay? Well, I always do. I used to ignore them. But, in the last two years I have actually participated in their surveys. You know what? They have responded a time or two. I truly do believe that the casinos are interested in your opinion. Why? They want to be financially successful. When they offer what you want, you'll likely show up.

Their success is your success. When they are doing well, more free room offers, free slot play and meal deals become part of the business plan. True, they want your money but I know that I'm more willing to gamble when I feel special. I've played long enough to know that when the casino is doing well the jackpots come a little easier. Yes, they reward gamblers. That is their business. The rest of it is merely frills.

I have also used these surveys when I feel that I have been mistreated in some way. Personally, I don't complain about little things that occur due to human error. However, in one instance, I waited 45 minutes to give a meal order and just ended up leaving the restaurant. I definitely complained and received satisfaction. But, had I just left angry and not complained, I probably would never go back. Plus, the restaurant would never have the opportunity to improve.

The bigger picture is we need to improve all aspects of our lives. We only get one and we need to make the most of it. Allowing bad value and service is wrong for everyone. Accepting things as "just the way they are" makes things progressively worst. Some may find it odd that I care about casinos when children are starving in third world countries. Well, casinos contribute to myriads of local and national causes. They can't do that if they close. Plus, these places allow people like me to relax and rest so we can all do our jobs at a high level.

So, next time you receive a survey about your stay, answer it. Don't be surprised if your suggestion becomes a reality. Help casinos stay in business by giving you, the consumer, what you want. I want to take a few moments to apologize for my long absence but I'm back ready to rock and roll. Until next time, I wish all of you good health and great fortune.