Rarely gamble or play for money other than tournaments. I will play for money sometimes if it is someone who will not play otherwise and I would enjoy playing with them for some reason. I don't begrudge paying someone for "lessons" if that is the only way they will "teach". But it is pointless for me, no one in a pool hall can gamble enough with me to make a difference to me financially one way or another. I make a comfortable living and don't need your money.
The majority of gamblers I knew in the 80's/90's, and today, are basically the same. Drug dealers, low lifes, people who want to rip other people off, people who will take off and run if they get in too deep, people ripping off backers, etc... There are plenty of ways to gamble legitimately now that it has been legalized and incorporated, 24/7 and you only need a phone. Good riddance, get your rush somewhere else and let pool thrive.