Poker Writer
Authorities raided a social club near Pittsburgh to uncover an illegal gambling operation, where they seized $91,000 in cash. Pennsylvania State Police targeted the “Independent Political Club” in Washington, Pennsylvania, using a judicial warrant to raid the small members-only social hall.
According to local news, the people running the club offered gambling without a proper regulatory permit. They cited an ongoing gambling game called “Queen of hearts,” in which a deck was laid out, and individuals bought the right to turn over a card. If they found the queen of hearts, they’d win the jackpot.
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The social club is located in the town of Washington, 20 miles southwest of Pittsburgh. Washingon houses has a casino with a racetrack, Hollywood Casino at The Meadows. That casino has a poker room with eight tables and monthly tournaments.
In Pennsylvania, the casinos face competition from these fraternal social clubs. The appeal of the social clubs versus casinos stems partially from the sense of belonging as part of a group. The Independent Political Club charged a measly $40 for annual dues. The club also organized social events for members, such as a bus trip to a Pittsburgh Pirates game.
Presumably, they also played games in their club, which could have included other gambling activities like poker.
Outside of that, the club also offered cheaper food and drinks than members would have found at casinos.
Often, casinos are well aware of these establishments. Needless to say, they generally aren’t looked upon kindly. In fact, casinos will frequently bar discussion of private card clubs and game rooms inside of their own poker rooms.
Queen of Hearts Game Violated Law
The clubs are highly restricted and must meet the standards set by the state. They are permitted to run “small games of chance,” which usually include things like pull-tabs, raffles, or daily number drawings. Official clubs are given licenses or permits to run such games. The Independent Political Club did not have a license.
The raided social club was popular for the “Queen of Hearts” game, which it was not shy about advertising. The club’s now-defunct Facebook page regularly advertised the game, encouraging people to come take part. Games could reportedly last weeks or months.
It also ran bingo nights and had games similar to slots inside. These so-called “skill games” have come under political fire, as some have called them unregulated gambling. Casinos and establishments housing video gaming terminals (VGTs) remain displeased with their ongoing existence.
The presence of the queen of hearts game provided authorities with the cause they needed to bust the establishment. However, the $91,000 in reported cash on hand indicates that plenty of other revenue streams — including some gambling ones — likely contributed to the club’s finances.
