Casino Letter Of the Day–Harrah's Shreveport

Today we continue the series of letters from Harrah's casinos.

Today’s featured letters comes from the Harrah's in Shreveport, Louisiana.

There is a lot of drama in this letter, and I could probably turn it into a story. So here it goes:

"The Almost" from Harrah’s Shreveport Casino

In 1997, I reached out to dozens of casinos across the country in pursuit of a dream: breaking the record for the largest collection of casino playing cards. Some casinos responded with decks of cards, some sent letters of encouragement, and others…well, others responded like Harrah’s Shreveport Casino.

I received this letter from Marilyn G. Winn, the Senior Vice President and General Manager, and let me tell you—it was a rollercoaster of emotions.

At first, the letter starts off like a dream:

"Thank you very much for your proposal… We truly appreciate learning of your wonderful endeavors and being given the opportunity to contribute."

I was practically jumping out of my chair. Was this it? Was Harrah’s about to ship me dozens of decks for the collection? The wording was so kind, so encouraging, I could already see those cards being carefully filed into their proper spots.

But then came the turn:

"While it is an extremely worthwhile undertaking, unfortunately we will be unable to fulfill your request at this time."

Oof. A dagger right to the heart of a young collector’s dreams. They weren’t sending the cards. No decks. Nothing.

Still, I couldn’t be too disappointed. The letter is full of compliments, and they even called my goal of breaking the record “admirable.” Marilyn made me feel like my little endeavor mattered, even if Harrah’s wasn’t ready to jump on board.

Looking back now, there’s something almost theatrical about this letter. It’s a perfect blend of kindness, professionalism, and “no, but we’re rooting for you!” It was rejection wrapped in a warm hug.

And that’s why I call this letter “The Almost.” It’s a reminder of the ups and downs of the chase, the near-misses, and the unexpected encouragement you can find—even when the answer is no.