If you have ever played poker at Riverwind, chances are you’ve met Mike Folsom. Mike is a long-time Riverwind employee and poker dealer. With more than 11 years of experience working in the poker room, he is truly one of the best in the business.
We sat down with Mike and asked him a few questions about his role in the poker room, and his seasoned knowledge is both interesting and informative.
What is the most entertaining part of your job?
MF: I really enjoy meeting new people and greeting the regulars – everyone has a unique story.
When did you first learn to deal cards?
MF: When I was hired in 2005, the Chickasaw Nation sent all of the new dealers to the Davis Training Center for a three-month training before starting on the floor of the poker room.
Wow, three months! That must have been a pretty intense training, Mike.
Why is poker such an exciting game for the guests?
MF: I think the best part is that the guests get to meet new people at the table, as well as being able to play cards with their friends. Also, poker is not just a game of chance – skill is involved.
Do you recall any specific hands you’ve dealt that stand out to you?
MF: I remember when we received our parking passes for the employee lot at Riverwind. I was given number 777. Then, a couple of weeks later, I dealt a bad beat jackpot on table number 7 with quad 7’s against a straight flush. On top of that, my birthday is on the 7th so I feel like my lucky number is 7.
For any of you who don’t know, a bad beat jackpot can be won when a very good hand loses to an even better hand. They’re a big deal!
Why do you enjoy working at Riverwind?
MF: I enjoy working with all my co-workers in poker as well as the employees, supervisors, and managers at Riverwind. Like I said before, I always enjoy seeing the regular patrons come in and meeting new people.
What is one piece of advice you have for the amateur poker player?
MF: Amateur poker players should start with tournaments first and then cash games. Just be patient – it will pay off!
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?
MF: Playing golf with my son and grandkids, as well as watching them play other sports they are involved in.
Take Mike’s advice and give poker a try in the Riverwind poker room for a tournament or stop by the next time you visit. If you see him around the casino be sure to say hi, and that you saw him on the Riverwind Blog!
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