I don't think Paul will get as much of an argument as he thinks from anyone that plays poker. However, I think that he left out a few pretty big points. As long as we are talking about breaking even, you have to take into account the biggest tax on your bankroll. The house take for hosting the game AKA "The Rake." The rake is 10% of every pot up to a set amount (usually $3 but I have seen it up to $5). In addition to this there is almost always some sort or jackpot, whether it be a Monte Carlo board or a Bad Beat jackpot the dealer collects $1 each hand for that as well. You also toke the cocktail waitresses etc. for service, and if you have 3-4 drinks (I suggest Diet Coke) and a Meal (comped by most card rooms) that is another $5 or so a night. Now I think Paul plays quite a bit more than most recreational poker players (I think I go a lot, between 2 and 4 times a month), but his train of thought is iron clad. However, keep in mind that with Paul's numbers those are just your costs. The pots that you will win will add up to a very significant amount as well.

You also have to keep in mind that although this is recognized as a game of skill, luck plays a very large part in the short run. Only over the long run will you show a profit by playing highly skilled poker. And even at that point you are just grinding it out unless you are good enough to be on TV. As Phil Helmuth said "Well I guess if luck wasn't a factor, I'd win every time".

However one point that I would like to make, is that this is entertainment and it is supposed to be fun. You pay to play, and winning is sugar. I like the competition that poker presents and I am willing to put some money at risk for that. Which brings me to my final point. If you are going to play even somewhat seriously (a few times a month) you need to keep a journal. After you have been playing for a while this will show you how much money this hobby will cost your or make you. The most important thing is having fun

Good luck!