A shorty before I leave for my home away from home, Bellagio’s Poker Room. This is one of the most over used and least understood statements at the poker table, “If no one objects…”

First, if you’re playing at home, objections are usually in strings of expletives and the game is geared for action, action, action…a free for all if you will.

If you’re playing in a casino game, “If no one objects…” means someone is trying to bend the rule in their favor. If a player wants to bend the rule to allow you to pass chips to your losing buddy, or get past the No Short Buy-In Rule, or one of those types of rules that actually protects the game and the players, beware because you are the live one they are trying to keep in the game. If they are trying to pump up the action by adding ‘the rock’ or another push that makes you put more money in the pot, they know they have the best of it and are trying to take advantage of you.

Second, if they throw out the line, “If no one objects…” even though you may object, you don’t want to be singled out as the person that threw a wrench in the gear. Why should you even be put through the mill with that one? The reason behind poker rules in casinos? To protect the game and the players.

Beware of the dude that throws in a wrinkle and when the dealer states it can’t be done, they continue with, “Well…if no one objects…”

If no one objects…I have to leave for work.

Damn it! I object!

Tough, just shup and deal, Linda!