Local experts provide the latest information on Healthcare issues that matter to you
06:47 AM PST on Tuesday, March 1, 2005
SALEM -- The Oregon House has approved a bill that would allow Texas
Hold 'Em, the poker game that has become a national phenomenon, to be
played at charitable "casino nights."
Under current law, the only games allowed are those in which players are
betting against the house, such as craps or blackjack. House Bill 231l
would change that to allow games where players bet against one another.
The measure, passed Monday on a 56-1 vote, now goes to the Senate.
In Texas Hold 'Em, players receive two cards each, then combine them
with five face-up community cards to make the best poker hand. Bets are
placed between the revealing of the community cards.
The game gained a rabid following on cable television and has spread to
homes, casinos and the Internet.
"The interest in Texas Hold 'Em is just unbelievable," said Rick Walker,
owner of Wild Bill's Interactive Events, which sets up casino nights as
charity fund-raisers. "We've never seen anything like this before."
Walker said he's been besieged by charity officials who think a flotilla
of poker tables would be just the thing to perk up their casino events,
which involve prizes but no real money.
Walker said the traditional casino-night offerings attract people
interested in the charity. He said hold 'em players are often on the
prowl for games where they can hone their skills for the price of
admission.
More Headlines...
Most Viewed Stories
Below is a list of the most popular stories read by our subscribers this week.
Report: Fluorescent bulbs may do more harm than good
Aspiring cop killed in motorcycle crash in N. Portland
Driver killed in T-bone crash on TV Hwy
Popular Stories






You must be logged in to contribute. Log in | Register Now!
You are logged in as screenname | Log Out
You are logged in, but do not have a "screen" name. Update Your Profile