The weather was cold and there was snow on the ground but the action inside the Grand Hyatt, Washington (DC), was hot and heavy as the annual poker tournament fundraiser to benefit the Paralyzed Veterans of America commenced. The PVA was formed 63 years ago and has raised both money and awareness of the challenges returning veterans realize when facing life changing injuries. Millions of dollars have been raised and progress has been made not only in the advancement in treating spinal cord injuries, but in finding ways to make life easier for those facing their new reality.
Event winner Michael Goodwin was thrilled to be awarded his $10,000 entry into the main event of the 2010 World Series of Poker after besting a field of more than 110 players. There were many others in attendance rooting for their favorite players or just enjoying the camaraderie and sweating the action.
Event sponsors included Walmart, Poker Players Alliance (both John Pappas, executive director and Bryan Spadaro played in the tournament), Reynolds America, Orchestrate Technology, Merkle, Pfizer, Data Management Inc. and Midwest Direct Mailers. A silent auction raised more than $50,000.
Linda Johnson and I had the honor of emceeing this year's tournament. It was considered a huge success and I know that I was proud to have been a part of it. Meeting some of the vets and sponsors, as well as the organizers, always is heartwarming and inspiring. Each year I've returned to Las Vegas with a renewed sense of joy that comes from giving back.
I always enjoy meeting new friends with whom I have so much in common and yet I can't begin to understand their world. I have met several challenged individuals who have told me that their debilitating (my word) change of life situation was actually a blessing in disguise as it caused them to slow down and smell the roses and spend more time with their families and loved ones.
Looking squarely into a future of adversity and struggle, they actually found a bright spot. I don't know that I could be such a big person. Then again, I applaud each and every veteran (and fireman, police officer, etc) who has fought to make my world safer and easier.
Before the tournament began, Linda Johnson and I gave poker tips and played some practice hands to help those less familiar with the game. There were so many who wanted to play, have fun, and give back. Winning wasn't the paramount desire, raising money was.
Re-buys were at a frenetic pace and Mike Sexton, who has always supported the PVA, sent re-buy money for the first three vets to go broke. He was unable to attend for the first time but sent along a beautiful note, read by Linda Johnson, for the audience and thanked them all for their service and dedication.
Moving right along...
Editor's Note: Jan Fisher co-founded the Tournament Directors Association, is a Partner in Card Player Cruises, and a WPT Boot Camp instructor. E-mail:Jan@cardplayercruises.com.
