I tend to agree with you, Don Corpuzzi. But I'm wondering if maybe it's just a small piece of a bigger picture. For instance, it could be a way of showing the guys focusing on trivial, non-important issues while larger issues are sneaking up on them and they get caught unawares. Or, perhaps it's laying some kind of foundation for a business deal with Tony and the casino "chief". Anyway, the episode wasn't a total waste...if nothing else, we're beginning to see Paulie in a whole new way! 
I didn't think about it that way, but you could be right. That's why you've got a star next to your name and I don't!
