Gene, the concept of !00% pay back machines involve two concepts:
1) The player plays the machine correctly.
2) The player hits the progressive jackpot.
If the player does not hit the progressive jackpot - the machine will generally hold 15 - 28%. Some 100% pay back<VBG>
The stats you have for over 12 years is from a house that was run poorly like it is still today. Binions was packed, when the 4 Queens couldn't hold two games. Obviously this is not a reflection upon you; but the higher ups who knew nothing about gaming.
Your description of poker not being profitable is a bit biased. Anyone who knows anything about gaming will tell you poker is at best a break-even game. The concept goes further - poker players bet sports, play machines, and table games. In order to effectively evaluate the situtation one must look to the total bottem line. Otherwise a distorted view will be created. I remember like yesterday when Binion stopped the department accounting and told the staff he didn't care if food & beverage was showing a loss. He was only interested in the bottom line.
Also thank you for the lunch offer - I will take you up on it! <LOL> Best, Jim