Going to the Casino for the first time Paragon, what should I expect?

[MelchyBeau]

I'm going to the casino for the first time sorta (gone a few times for the buffet but thats about it). I'll be going to the Paragon Casino in Marksville, La on Thanksgiving. I did a search on the forums and saw that they spread 2-4 HE games and 1-5 Stud games. Are those the only spreads?

Also what are the blackjack tables like?

Oh and this is probably a stupid question but what is a 1-5 spread? is this $1 bet on third and fourth and $5 on the rest of the rounds? If so what type of buy in should I make?

Is there anything else important that I am forgetting?

Thanks in advance,
Melch

[Patrick del Poker Grande]

1-5 spread means you can bet anywhere between $1 and $5. It'll let you occasionally get in cheap with a weak draw when someone only makes it $2, but my philosophy is generally if you're going to bet, bet like you mean it and put in the max. You're probably good buying in for a rack to sit down at this game, but be ready to re-buy a little more if necessary.

Just make sure you know all the little things - protect your cards, don't act out of turn, and know the blind structure. Be patient and be ready to see some crazy-ass holdings. Don't be intimidated, because it really isn't as bad as it looks walking in. Don't worry if you're not as good handling your chips or if you're a little slower to act than most - you'll pick it up and it's not a big deal.

Good luck.