Tom Bostic

Oh, how I have missed this place. There is nowhere in Pennsylvania, or the world, that can even compare to Las Vegas. I mean, I love home, but as soon as you get off the plane and see the slot machines you know you are officially not in Kansas anymore. After spending last summer here, I have not been back since, but I could not be happier that I am here to cover the WPT Championship. By the way, do yourself a favor and splurge on a room at the Bellagio for at least one night next time you come. Comfy beds, luxurious everything and access to one of the nicest casinos in the world.

After getting a cab ride to the hotel, I unpacked my things and gave Gary a quick call. Although I was absolutely dog tired after only sleeping about three hours last night, I opted not to nap and instead decided to stroll the strip. As I was walking around, I was reminded of why I love this town. First, I took some ultra tourist-y pictures that I am not proud to admit. I have stayed here for too long; I am not a tourist. I’m supposed to be a professional, damn it! Yet, I broke down anyway feeling an obligation to log tangible memories of this incredible lifestyle I get to experience. Besides, some of these sites are too cool not to have a picture of.

After some cheesy pictures, I spotted a real site when I saw last years champion, Joe Bartholdi posing for a picture on top of the white marble fountain in front of Caesars Palace. Looking like he was getting a kick out of his modeling gig, he then jumped off and ran towards an attractive young women that was taking the picture. They got into a gray Lexus and left the parking lot. As if seeing one champion of the very event I am here to cover wasn’t enough, I was almost ran over by Tuan Le (Season 3 winner) moments later, when his white Escalade with 22” rims turned the corner in front of the Fashion Show mall.
Continuing on from there, I observed an older, somewhat homeless looking fellow hustling a group of young men at a three-card Monte game for $100 a guess. Then it was a bride walking the halls of the Bellagio, then a women with the most ridiculously large cartoonish breast implants I have ever seen eating at the cafe.

Thats Vegas, Baby.

Anyway, I am looking forward to some great poker this week. It seems like it will be a great turnout, proving once again that poker is still alive and well, no matter what the critics or lawmakers say.