From poker newbies to seasoned players, everyone was invited to play at the fifth annual Youth Home Casino Night and Texas Hold 'Em Tournament on July 18 at Next Level Events. The fundraiser for Youth Home drew players from towns across the state, including Dennard, Mountain View and Stuttgart.
Poker tables filled about two-thirds of the floor with players randomly assigned to each of 192 seats. Some of the tables had bounty players, either former tournament winners or local celebrities. If a guest player knocked a bounty player from the table the guest won a prize. There was over $12,000 in prizes donated, with the top two players winning gift certificates valued at $2,000 and $1,500. The rest of the floor was filled with casino-style games such as blackjack, slots, craps and roulette.
In addition to the games, guests enjoyed hors d'oeuvres by Bar Louie, libations from 107 Liquor, and a casino-themed cake donated by Sweet Love Bakes.
The big winner of the evening was Mike Hennessey. Coming in second through eighth were Michael Hogue, Terina Mitchell, Benard Morgan, Nick Kersey, Elizabeth Izburg, Craig Barnett and Chase Mangiapane.
Event chairman was Ken Estes of Cabot.
About $20,000 was raised for Youth Home, which offers residential and off-campus psychiatric care for school-age children and teenagers.
High Profile on 07/26/2015