by Jimmy Vaccaro (Twitter @JimmyVaccaro)
September 27, 2011

From the old Abbott and Costello "Who’s on First" skit to who is first could apply to your weekly activity from various standpoints.

You could jump in early for a position or take account on where something opened and how it did or did not move during the week. There are no "documents" on this ritual, but being around a long time I do have a little insight.

The first I heard of a sendout number was the old Minneapolis Line. From what I understand the great Mort Olshan worked for them and this led to him creating the green sheet which he finally changed to the Gold Sheet.

If someone sees Bruce Marshall, I am sure he could supply a few of the missing dots concerning the origin of the Gold Sheet. In the 60’s, I was aware of Bob Martin sending out his openers to a select group of players who would bet into his numbers.

Martin would adjust from that position and the following morning released them. It was quick, efficient and reliable – meaning barring injury or weather info you could book Bob’s numbers to the moon.

As betting grew bigger each season the Stardust and Scotty Schettler put us in the new generation of doing business, inventing the lottery. The niche market was theirs and they did a great job. Come Monday morning the numbers were "ironed" out and ready for sale.

I looked at their openers and changes. You had a reference point to put up what you felt was the right price for your store. Now numbers are readily available at numerous joints, including the Wynn as Johnny Avello threw his hat into the ring.

The process has been going on for decades and served everyone well. By the way, when did you get your first copy of the Gold Sheet? My "sendout" number on that was early and often.

Take care,
Jimmy V.

Re-printed with permission of Gaming Today