Hours before the ban went into effect, poker players were dealing their last hands. James and Carol Stinson were headed from their Hephzibah home to Maryland for the holiday, but they couldn't pass Treasure Chest II on U.S. Highway 1 in North Augusta without stopping a last time. As they pulled onto the highway three hours later, their wallets were heavier - and so were their hearts. They are big fans of video poker, and they knew that 12 hours later video poker would be an artifact in South Carolina. On their trip home after the Fourth, there will be no legal place to stop and play.
Some people like to play golf.
Others like to fish. I like to play video poker. Mr. Stinson said. Owners have a week to move them across state lines. Gambling certainly isn't over in South Carolina, either.