'Stooper' Now Hits The Gaming Floors
Profiling of racetrack 'stoopers' --- people that make a decent living from collecting and processing discarded wagering tickets --- is nothing new. Jesus Leonardo, who created his own little enterprise with the venture
, got some big-time exposure a few years ago when his story hit The New York Times. Now, what do you know about video lottery stoopers?
The New York Times is at it again, as the respected grand-daddy publication has cast its light on 55-year-old Gary Bemsel, formerly a strict racing stooper that has now incorporated the scanning of gaming floors into his repertoire.
The NYT report explains that Bemsel stoops for 12 hours a day and finds $600 to $1,200 a week.
The article has cited Bemsel as saying that the racino has been a godsend, because “the golden years of stooping are over.”
Although, just because Bemsel is a stooper, don't think that he isn't bringing the style. The article states that instead of stepping into racinos with a grungy appearance, Bemsel strides the floors with loafers, slacks and a dress shirt.
“It’s a legitimate living — the money’s been left behind,” he told the NYT. “It’s surer money than stooping; it’s steadier, and it’s cleaner — you don’t have to fish through garbage cans.”
(With files from The New York Times)
Related Stories
• Stooper Leonardo Adjusts
• Professional 'Stooper' Profiled
I too have a scanner that
I too have a scanner that will turn up tickets. The only problem is that the ticket has to lie face up in order for the scanner to work.
I used to do this away back when if there was a disqualification at Greenwood or Woodbine.
The best way that I saw was the son of a sweeper who swept the ducats to a garbage can. The kid (age 10-12) would then gather up all the tickets near the can and take them home.
I asked him if he was lucky and he told me that his father let him have all the extra money.
Always a way, no?? Now, where did I put that flashlight????