From Jim Sachs

Memory of Bob Smith

Fall of 1957. We were seniors at Bennett High School, & members of Alpha Phi Pi Fraternity. Large part of our social life was related to our frat. We were having a stag to rush freshmen into the frat. Held at Vets Post on Taunton. Was a success, lot of people, lot of gambling.

Bob & I were partners as dealers of a blackjack game. Rules were similar to rules today. One difference, ties went to dealer. So, not surprising we began to win. But we also were very lucky. In about 2 hours we were ahead over $ 400. This was lot of money in 1957. Tuition at University of Buffalo was $ 400. Gas cost about 19 cents a gallon(not as much tax ). Most of the players were betting 5-10 cents, maybe sometimes a quarter.

A freshman, Arthur sat down at our table & began betting quarters & soon dollars. I did not like risking our new won fortune. Bob was terrified. He did not like gambling. Arthur began to win. Arthur bet $ 5.00. We could not believe anyone would bet such a large sum. He won. He kept winning & raised his bets to $ 10.00 & then to $ 15.00.

When the game broke up Arthur had our money. We had about $ 25.00 in change left.
The let-down was deep for both of us. For a long time we both talked about & thought about the fortune we won & lost.

Jim Sachs