PLAYERS:

Luckbox | Otis | G-Rob

About the Up For Poker Blog

Up For Poker Blog Categories:

2006 WSOP
2007 World Series of Poker
2008 Belmont Stakes
2008 Kentucky Derby
2008 World Series of Poker
2009 WPBT Winter Classic
2010 WPBT Winter Classic
American Idol 2009
B&M Poker
Bad Beats
Betting the Ponies
Bradoween
Craps
Disc Golf
Fantasy Sports
Frolf
G-Rob's Thoughts
Game Review
Home Games
Horse Racing
Internet Gambling Bill
Las Vegas
Lefty's Thoughts
Luckbox Last Longer Challenge
Luckbox's Thoughts
March Madness
Movie Previews
Movie review
NCAA Basketball
NETeller News
NFL Football
Online Poker
Online Sports Betting
Other Gambling
Otis' Thoughts
Pick 6
Playing For Fun
Playing For Money
PLO
Poker Blogger Tournaments
Poker Blogs
Poker in the News
Poker Law and Legal News
Poker Movies
Poker on TV
Poker Players
Poker Psychology
Poker Theory
Poker Web Sites
Pot Limit Omaha Strategy
Reading Material
Sports Betting
The Nuts
The Playboy Mansion
Tournament Action
Tuff Fish Appreciation Society
Tunica Tales
UIGEA
Underground Games
Up for Poker News
WPBT Holiday Classic Trip

Previous Hands:

December 2010
November 2010
September 2010
January 2010
December 2009
November 2009
April 2009
March 2009
February 2009
December 2008
November 2008
September 2008
August 2008
July 2008
June 2008
May 2008
April 2008
March 2008
February 2008
January 2008
December 2007
November 2007
October 2007
September 2007
August 2007
July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
April 2007
March 2007
February 2007
January 2007
December 2006
November 2006
October 2006
September 2006
August 2006
July 2006
June 2006
May 2006
April 2006
March 2006
February 2006
January 2006
December 2005
November 2005
October 2005
September 2005
August 2005
July 2005
June 2005
May 2005
April 2005
March 2005
February 2005
January 2005
December 2004
November 2004
October 2004
September 2004
August 2004
July 2004
June 2004
May 2004
April 2004
March 2004
February 2004
January 2004
December 2003
November 2003
October 2003
September 2003

Powered by:
Movable Type 6.8.8
Poker Blog established in 2003 as the first stop for poker news, poker stories, and bad poker advice.

April 30, 2005

Brick and More-tar

by G-Rob

There are a million variations of the same two options, and I've heard them all from everyone. Let's review :

a) I play better online than I do in Live Action. (see Otis)

b) I play better Live than I do online. (see JMC Automatic)

I'm sure one of the two applies to you. It's NL texas Hold-em and the RULES don't change. So why does the venue matter so much?

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Poker Theory

Don't Tell Me You're Scared!!!!

by Luckbox

Get in the game!!!! We've got the 2nd WPBT WSOP Satellite on Sunday night, and we're at just 29 entries. That's not enough to pay out a single seat.

Where is everyone?

I know you're intimidated by my exceptional talent, but that's no reason to cower in your living room and watch timidly from the rail. Log in and sign up. You know the deal. So what are you waiting for?

Permalink | Online Poker

Truths

by Otis

This ain't for you. It's for me.

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Otis' Thoughts

April 28, 2005

How to get rowdy

by Otis

It's been a long week. Work has been a bit of a bear. The kid contracted rotovirus and ended up in the hospital for a bit. So, as Thurday drew to a close, I was more than happy to receive the following note via e-mail.

In short, I am now officially rowdy.

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Tournament Action

April 26, 2005

Today's Tom Sawyer

by G-Rob

Funny thing about a rush, I thought it was just me. I've had seven sweet days, a honeymoon with absurdity, in that sweet feverish blaze. At one point, I sent Otis an IM just to tell him "I think a door has opened."

Granted, this whole "IM" thing is a little immasculating. I can picture CJ buzzing me with an update on "Mrs. Johnson's math test was, like, totally hard", which we all know is true. I usually save the online chat for something more substantial, like, y'know.

Totally.

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Online Poker

April 25, 2005

WPBT WSOP Sat results

by Otis

Per the request of another blogger, here is the finishing rank of all the players from last night. I don't have the time to link to all your blogs. Feel free to associate your name with you blog in the comments.

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Tournament Action

April 24, 2005

Quick notes

by Otis

A few important notes...and a not-so-important note.

First: BOB=THE NUTS. Congrats to the guy who snubbed me during a 3am Pai Gow binge in Las Vegas last winner for winning the WPBT WSOP Event #2 satellite.

Now...

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Otis' Thoughts

Recognizing Otis

by Otis

If you're not one of those people who believe there is a certain balance to the world, I'm not sure how you wake up in the morning. Without the "even-Steven," yin and yang, Julia Roberts and Lyle Lovett nature of balance, I don't think I could bear to breathe. After all, it's the "what come around goes around" mantra that lets us all believe that eventually karma will turn our way and that prick who laughs everytime he sucks out on us will eventually lose while holding quad aces.

Of course, this the only way I can explain (and, yea verily, accept) the fact that my one-time rush at the large buy-in tournament tables has slid to a grinding and blue-balling halt that has served to turn me into an introspective and often grumpy individual. After six for eight money finishes in tournament with buy-in of more than $150 (including two final table appearances), I have fallen into a hole that I'm fairly sure I dug.

Rule number one: When you're running well, don't talk about it. If you do, you've invited the fates to kick you squarely in the boys.

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Tournament Action

April 21, 2005

Livin' on Ritz..Vitamin C..and Poker?

by G-Rob

All my friends can say is 'ain't it a shame.'

Long, long poker day my friends. And for some damn reason I'm still up at 4:40 AM. I'm sleepy enough that it took 400 thumbjams on the "print screen" function to discover that it wouldn't work on my UB tourney. I'm wired enough that I've just shaken the wife awake to tell her about a poker tournament. I live a pathetic life.

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Online Poker

April 20, 2005

WBPT WSOP Satellite FAQ

by Otis

We've had a few questions regarding the now guaranteed WPBT seat in WSOP Event #2. Hopefully this will answer some of your questions.

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Tournament Action

April 15, 2005

Antiperspirant for the Average Blogger

by Otis

UPDATE 4/20: We hit it.

Rock and roll. Al Can't Hang signed up as the 50th player (he plans to play from the Keys...heheheh). So, we've made the nut and got the cash now to guarantee the first seat in Event #2 of the WSOP, where you'll play with the likes of many well-known pros and the rowdy folks like Otis, Greenwood Phil, and a host other possible malcontents.

Now, go surprise me and see if we can make two seats.

If you're a blogger, plan to play, and haven't signed up, go get your spot now.

Okay, I usually try to come up with some halfway interesting anecdote to hook you into reading to the point of my posts. However, the inherent risk is burying the lead. This possibe enormity of this, however, leads me to just come right out with it.

There is no need to be a sweater at the WSOP this year. The WPBT has your antiperspirant.

Hereya go:

If you are an established blogger and write about poker, you have a chance to turn $33 into a World Series of Poker bracelet.

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Tournament Action

April 14, 2005

Aladdin Casino Classic Professional Invites

by Luckbox

Well, I'm not sure we've gotten very far in securing a few famous faces for our Aladdin Casino Classic in June. So, I'm going to reach out to a contact who might be able to secure some invites for us.

With that in mind, I need to know who you want to play with. Leave your top-5 list in the comments. I'll build a composite list and get it to my contact and we'll see what happens!

Permalink | Las Vegas

April 13, 2005

Raped at the Doublewide

by Luckbox

Thank god this is figuratively speaking... although in south Louisiana, you can never tell.

Although if it's gonna happen, at least the Hilton Sisters were involved...

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Playing For Money

Keep on rockin' in the blog world

by Otis

It was several years ago. I was sitting at a Pai Gow poker table. Actually my cocktail was sitting at the table. I was in the bottom of the glass and using the stir-straw as an airway to the high-octane-oxygenated air above.

I was just a few hours away from hitting the Bellagio poker room for the first time and in lock-stock-and-barrel preparation for a fully ill-equipped session of losing poker.

What did I know, you know? I was a low-stakes blackjack player who'd been lured into the sleezy and backstabbing world of Pai Gow poker, where cocktail waitresses will come by once every ten minutes if you leave a dollar chip on the padded rail and Pai Gow sharks will hit the dragon hand every time. Everyone looked at me funny when I asked if it was appropriate to chase the dragon at the table.

I left my tin foil and lighter in my pocket.

From the bottom of my glass, I'd been pestering the pit boss for a steak and eggs comp. I understood I'd have to play another three hours if I wanted my breakfast. And then, through the grapefruit juice and vodka, I heard the sound.

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Otis' Thoughts

April 11, 2005

Welcome to the World, JP

by Luckbox

For and update on April 12, click here to go over to Up For Anything.

Here he is... he's doing better after some more tense moments. Update below.

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Luckbox's Thoughts

April 10, 2005

A Few Prayers Would Be Welcome

by Luckbox

I became an uncle today for the very first time. What would normally be some of the best news of my life has been tempered by some complications.

Jeffrey Paul Johnson was born at about 3:30 ET, but the delivery was anything but smooth.

Once my sister went into labor, there seemed to be a problem with JP's heart rate. The doctors were concerned enough that they rushed my sister to the OR. Once there, the doctors decided there wasn't enough time to do anything buy knock my sister out and perform a cesarean.

When JP was born, there was a problem with his breathing. In fact, he didn't seem to be breathing very well on his own at all. Before Jen or Steve could even see him, he was taken to the NICU so he could be hooked up to a ventilator.

JP has some kind of lung infection he picked up while in the womb. The doctors are worried that if he's taken of the ventilator, he won't want to use his lungs because it will hurt, and he hasn't learned yet that his lungs are the only way he'll be able to breathe.

The good news is that other than that, JP appears to be very healthy. And my sister came through it all okay (she's still a little woozy from the medication, so I haven't talked to her yet). Steve seems to be handling it all really well, but he and Jen have always been strong.

It's a delicate time right now, and I could really use your prayers. I've got plans to teach JP how to play volleyball and disc golf and, most importantly, poker. I'm his godfather, after all, so I've got lots of responsibilities. The biggest is doing whatever I can to make it sure he gets through the next few weeks okay.

Permalink | Luckbox's Thoughts

April 9, 2005

In Just Four Hands... It Was Gone

by Luckbox

I was back at the Coushatta Casino today for a little No Limit Hold 'Em. Once again, I tried to get there in time for the noon tourney, but travelling the wrong way on I-10 for 20 minutes put me there as the tournament director was getting things started.

So I got my name on the NL list ($100-$200 buy-in, $1/$3 blinds), and sat down at the 3/6/12 table in the meantime. After giving up $40 there in about 45 minutes, they opened a new NL table and I took my seat.

When the day ended, I walked away with absolutely nothing. It was a losing session at a table I know I can beat. A table I've beaten before. But it came down to just 4 hands.

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | B&M Poker

Orange Blues

by G-Rob

Here's a vital update : it STILL doesn't taste like "orange". From the last post to this one I've sucked down 3 Marlboro Ultra Lights. Its a helluva rollback for me and, this way, if I do get cancer it'll be the ultra-light variety. Probably just a little discomfort, maybe I'll drop a few unwanted pounds, and my athletic prowess will dwindle to Otisian levels...that's all.

Nicorette, meanwhile, is all the addiction of drug use without the joyful comraderie of passing the pipe.

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Playing For Money

April 8, 2005

WPBT Aladdin Casino Classic Update!!!

by Luckbox

First, check out yet another big score from Otis. The guy is just unstoppable...

And now, read about some exciting news from the Aladdin. It looks like we're now confirmed for at least 6 tables by the Aladdin, and there's a possibility of more. The Aladdin's poker room will be expanding to two more tables by then.

That means the confirmed list jumps to 55!! We'll still hold those other 5 seats for pros and invited guests. If things go well, we'll be able to accomodate all players. The updated RSVP list can be found over at the WPBT official web site.

Please make sure you show the Aladdin our appreciation whenever you can. If you're in Vegas, stop by and say Hi to Edna, the fabulous poker room manager. And then sit down and play a little.

Permalink | Las Vegas

Super Thursday Pt. 2

by Otis

So, I have an admission to make.

I've been playing under an assumed name. I only bring it up, because I'm about to reveal it.

A few people who sweated me in last week's Super Thursday tournament can attest to this. As I said last week at this time, my plan is to play one large multi-table tournament a week leading up to the June blogger trip to Vegas. Last week I placed seventh and was quite unhappy with my play.

Tonight, I'm happy with all of my plays but my last one. Ain't that the way it always is?

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Tournament Action

April 6, 2005

Greatest. Comeback. Ever. (FIXED!)

by Luckbox

We pulled up to the double-wide trailer in rural Lafayette County and there were a half dozen pickup trucks parked nearby. I pulled my little Saturn off the gravel road and onto the grass. There didn't seem to be assigned parking spaces.

When Mr. Steal, Artillery and I walked in, there were a dozen people already inside. Mr. Steal asked if had time to go buy some dip, to which 7 people responded, "I got some you could use." The bulges under their bottom limps were unmistakable.

Doublewides, pickup trucks and chewing tobacco. There's no such thing as stereotypes. Oh, did I mention the hard-core porn on the TV?

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Tournament Action

Help WANTED!

by G-Rob

Peter Jennings got to me. Poor guy quit smoking for 20 years, then started again after 9/11. Now he'll need a 2 outer on the river to keep hope alive. I hope he pulls through, lung cancer's a royal bitch.

With Peter in mind, I've been chewing Orange flavored "Nicorette" since first contact with the floor. It doesn't taste orange. It doesn't compare with a nice smoke break outside. It doesn't provide the satisfaction of a delicious hot-blazin' cancer stick. But it won't kill me...and so far I haven't tried to murder anyone...which is nice.

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | G-Rob's Thoughts

April 5, 2005

Ten Reasons

by Otis

Before you read this, read CJ's post below, and then come back for...

Ten Reasons to go to Las Vegas in June for the WPBT convention, even if you can't get a seat in the Aladdin Classic

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Otis' Thoughts

April 4, 2005

Yep, I'm an Asshole

by Luckbox

Inevitably, when you take on a task that affects others, you're bound to upset somebody. I've done it. I'll try to address the WPBT Aladdin Casino Classic RSVP issues one at a time.

1. But I RSVP'd??? Where am I???
I tracked everyone who RSVP'd either by sending me an email (the proper way, as requested) or by leaving just a comment (the slacker method, but allowed nonetheless). I compiled the complete list with each individuals time of response (either the timestamp of the email or the timestamp of the comment). That is where the player's list and waiting list came from.

2. How come I'm just on the waiting list???
The original announcement of the tournament was made on February 23rd here on this blog. That included this line, "I'm still working on getting a maximum number of entrants, so get your RSVP's to me immediately." A subsequent announement was made on March 5th on the WPBT official web site. By that time, I had already received close to 60 RSVP's, meaning many of the responses were bound for the waiting list already. If you waited, I'm sorry.

But they're not even a blogger!!!!!
Okay, I probably don't have a good answer for this. Little Willie is a member of Up For Poker by proxy. He's Otis' little brother. He was the third person to respond and I told him he'd have a spot. The other non-blogger is Matt. He's been a regular in comments and at the WPBT events. He's the only reader who's regularly pestered me, and I've decided to let him in. Okay? So sue me...

But I've never heard of these blogs!?!?!?
Well, at this point, no matter who I let in, there will be some blogs that many of us don't read regularly. Does that make them any less valuable to the community? And no, there's not a blog about Islam... I punched in the wrong blog address. As far as I can tell, all the bloggers included have an active blog (some more than others) and they write about poker (some more than others). Am I supposed to use a stricter criteria?

Okay, fine, you suck...
Bottom line, if someone can't bear to be in Vegas for 4 days without playing in this one tournament then you're coming for the wrong reason. I've already had some pretty stand up bloggers tell me if it comes to that, they'd give up their seat. I would to. It shouldn't be about this one event.

And bottom line, I told people there would be a waiting list on February 23rd and some people waited weeks to respond!!!!! What was I supposed to do??

Okay, just blowing off some steam. Back to regular programming...

Permalink | Las Vegas

April 3, 2005

WPBT Aladdin Classic UPDATE!!!!

by Luckbox

Important news on the RSVP's and the waiting list. Head on over to the WPBT official website to check it out.

Permalink | Las Vegas

Must-Read Poker Advice

by Luckbox

As many of you know, my last WPBT tournament experience ended when my flopped set of 5's lost to the eventual champions flopped set of 8's.

I had worked my stack up early to close to 4000T and I was among the top 20. But something happened. I started playing marginal hands and catching 2nd, 3rd and 4th best hands. That's a recipe for disaster.

I decided to tighten up and wait for the right opportunity to double up. It's my natural style after all. It was Presto... Speed Limit... whatever you'd like to call pocket 5's. I limped from early position and 5 of us saw a flop of J-8-5 rainbow.

I said to myself, "I hope someone caught something so I can double up." I lead out and get raised by Gamecock. I put in a significan re-raise and he moves me all in. I call, happily. He flips 88 (set vs. set, grumble, grumble, grumble). I'm out in 74032nd place, or whatever.

Should I have played this hand differently? You can't be unhappy about getting all your money in the pot with a set, right?

So I've taken a few days to think about it, and I've had an epiphany. There is a way to play this hand. Here now is my indispensible advice for playing bottom set...

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Poker Theory

April 1, 2005

F-f-f-foolin'

by Otis

I have a special place in my pants for April Fools Day.

It started on a Spring day in Springfield, MO. Mauve walls, afternoon sun filtered through tan mini-blinds. Hialeagh Avenue had few cars and fewer peeping toms. A little, old dog sat in the living room.

Somehow, I'd just convinced a girl who bore a passing remeblance to Helena Bonham Carter to treat me to an afternoon romp in the sack...my first romp in the sack.

When it was over, I eventually made my way to the bathroom to secretly smile at finally having crossed the barrier from heavy-petting to the great beyond.

Knowing I would someday sit and write up the experience in a poker blog, I checked my mental datebook to recrod the experience.

Yep. I lost my virginity on April Fool's Day.

When you have a life-joke like that played on you, you don't need a punchline.

More in this Poker Blog! -->
Permalink | Otis' Thoughts

Bad writing, good tourney

by Otis

Alright. I'm tired. I don't feel like thinking anymore.

Regardless, I figured I should mention I just took seventh out of 852 in Party's Super Thursday $150. All in all, I played mediocre with the exception of a couple hands. In retrospect, I don't think I was playing to win. That makes me sad.

Thanks to The Geek and G-Rob for sweating me through the last couple hours.

Permalink | Tournament Action