Picciuti Poker Club The Best "Home" Game in Texas (A Heritage HOA Social Club
Picciuti Poker Club The Best "Home" Game in Texas (A Heritage HOA Social Club
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  • HOME
  • INVITE
    • Schedule
  • THE FINE PRINT
    • Incentives
    • Blind Structure
  • NEWS
    • Winner Photos
    • Photo Album
    • Prior Years News >
      • News from 2015
      • News from 2016
      • News From 2017
  • BLOG
  • LEAGUE INFORMATION
    • STANDINGS

NEWS 2017

​​
December 15, 2017:  We played our last scheduled game of 2017 and are looking forward to an even better Poker Year in 2018.  Our tournament was small but still had good play and many memorable hands.  First Place was earned by Gary W, second Dan O and third by Chris L.  I scored as the "Bubble" but for the first time in 3 months there was no prize for the "Bubble" so a major disappointment.  The cash game was lively and two players cashed out with big wins, I was able to post a good but not great win.

I request all members and guests review "The Fine Print" since in 2018 we are going to work on becoming more consistent with our rulings.  We MUST maintain our Home Game feel but it is a more satisfying game when we all understand the rules or are at least willing to look up the rules if there is an issue.  It is each players responsibility to be aware of how our rules may not match that of some other room.

A questionnaire will be distributed in January to once again collect data for our membership list and a newly constituted guest list.  Only those who are enrolled in this list will receive our poker emails.

January will have no regularly scheduled games there will be renovation in the club house that impacts are earlier scheduled games.  We will work with the club house to see if a quick pick-up game might be scheduled - I will use our current email list to notify you if a date opens.

During 2018 almost all of our games will be on Saturday.
The next scheduled game is Saturday, February 10, 2018 - Email or register on-line here at heritagepokerclub.com 

​Special Thanks to those generous players who donate a part of their winnings to the club.

Thank You and Merry Christmas,
Chuck Picciuti


NOTE:  The great story of the ATO ALL-IN for the BLUE event is available at ATO '17 Event and the photos can be seen in a "slide show" in Photo Album.

Dec 10, 1017 - Watch January schedule, regularly scheduled games are likely canceled due to club house renovations.  Alternate schedule may be forthcoming.
Friday, December 1, 2017:  Tournament only two tables, Friday and December are our least attended events.  This is good for me since I was able to cash.  Chuck (1st), Rob L (2nd), John C (3rd), Doyle W bubble with a double deck of cards.  Thanks winners for the donations.  
D'Anna was paid off for her great Cash High Hand Q high straight flush.  Good hand to a good player.
Cash game started early and was active.  Some players had wide swings of good runs and dead hands.  I was able to get away with a minimum loss. 
We provide our Christmas gift to the club house staff on Monday.
Our latest improved and lighter poker table is almost complete.
Our next game is a mini-deep stack, no rebuy and must be seated by 3rd blind level - bound to be fun. 
Next Game, Friday, December 15, 2017.

Friday, November 10, 2017:  Tournament had a first for us.  On one table the board gave a straight flush - The result was a chopped pot between two players.  No hole card played thus there was no high hand.  I watched most of the final table and it was a tough fight to the end.  Good poker, good players and some luck. 
First place was won by Dan O, 2nd was Cole G, 3rd Mary B, 4th Gary T and 5th Michael F a new member who we welcomed.  The contest between Dan and Cole was close and with almost identical stacks sizes a dramatic All-In broke in Dan's favor - Congratulations.  The "Bubble" STEVE made off with a double deck or our cards.
The cash game was active until close of business, our own Jen L covered as banker for hours and did a great job - thanks Jen.  The usual suspects player till the end and the game had some great stories and jokes.  Worth the  price of admission.  I did fine and stayed ahead the whole evening but without the benefit of any particularly dramatic hands.  D'Anna did hit a Queen high Diamond straight flush after 1PM giving her a good chance at the Cash High Hand incentive during our next game. NOTE: I only report on my results.  We invite other players to share their experiences, just email me a draft and I will put it in the news section.  
Our next new table is in construction.  It will have 8 places, large cup holders, race track, lighter build, and speed cloth as opposed to the casino cloth used on the last table.  At this time we will not have our logo on the table due to the speed cloth choice, but we are checking with other suppliers and may have a fix.  The table is expected prior to the next game.  Since the arrival of the new table would result in our exceeding our storage capacity.  Cole G offered to store the excess table.  Thank you Cole we all appreciate your help.
Some of us went to city hall this week, not to bail out "That" friend, but to represent Heritage Poker Club as it was honored for stepping up and supporting Assist The Officer by the raising of $ 21K at our annual ALL-IN for the BLUE '17 event.  There are a few photos in the album section.
Our next game is Friday, December 1, 2017 we should be able to stay awake by then after that huge Thanksgiving meal.
Friday, November 10, 2017.  Great tournament that showed a lot of skill, not mine, I was out prior to the first break, but the players who reached the final table were exceptional.  There was a Tournament High Hand won by Jason A and Steve K won a double deck of cards for finishing on the bubble.  First in the tournament was Kevin W, second was Doyle W, third was Jason A, fourth was Scott N and fifth Scott N.  The cash game was active and included at least 14 players during its course.  Big pots and good play was the hallmark of the game.  I got lucky a few times and pocketed a bit of change after paying for my tournament misadventure.
We have completed the negotiation for the new table and expect to submit our order and deposit within the week.
​Our next game is on Friday, November 10, 2017 - See you there!
Friday, October 13, 2017.  Back to our roots with a small Friday evening lively tournament that really speaks to having the "Best Home Game in Texas".  The tournament was dominated by Bill D who once  he took the lead pretty much ran over most of the table.  Holding out and occasionally closing in on a win was Randy F who earned second place.  Just two positions were paid in this two table tournament.  The "Bubble" position was D'Anna who earned two decks of Copaq cards.  The cash game was active and fun.  Very cagy play was the mark of many players.  I had to reload a couple of times but as the table became shorter I grabbed a few pots and ended up with a minimal loss.
Our club finances are on solid ground and we are in negotiation for a replacement table that is great looking and also of a reasonable weight.  
Our next event is FRIDAY, October 27, 2017 and will include a low cost Bounty component.
Saturday - September 30, 2017 - The ALL-IN for the BLUE event.
Funds Raised:  We raised over $20,644 for ATO.
The Weather in a word, Perfect, a week of rain and overcast but Saturday was that most unusual blend (for North Texas) of sun and mild temperature.

The Tournament​ was by far our largest, 112 players with several wait list players joining once space permitted.  The Prize Pool was staggering as were the pay outs.  Our first place winner was Melanee Stringer, second place was Ben G, third place was taken by James B, forth place John M and fifth was earned by Mike Y.  Congratulations to these and all the other fine players who joined the tournament.  The Re-Buy and Add-On pace was furious for awhile and of course added to the great payouts.
We experimented with the use of "Dealers" this year.  Most were not our regular players.  Coordination for the dealers is thanks to member John L.  Over all the dealers added to the game and moved play along.  Over the next few months we will examine all the pros and cons and try to work out the kinks we identify.  It is a good system on which we improve. Thank you dealers.  Scott N was able to ensure the i-Pad to TV linkup went well and the clock was consistent.  This was a technical achievement made the more difficult by the limited time and space available. Steve K was instrumental in ensuring ADD-ON and RE-BUY was conducted in an accurate and timely manner.  I had fallen behind in this effort and Steve pitched in to make it all work.  Mary P ran the registration desk and the cash/chip accounting.  Mary was able to keep 112 (or more) poker players on time to the tournament.
The cash game was strong with 3 full tables for several hours.  I could first play, about 1:30 or so, I hit a few good hands but needed to do some more event work and stoped playing after about 30 minutes or so with a $190 gain, returning an hour or so later I ran bad, and had way too much faith in trip 8's with an A.  The hand that beat me was a boat.  Lost my $100 buy-in with that hand.  Total for the night up $90 between the early and later play.  Cash game closed down at 3AM.  The cash game players made a donation of $266.00 to ATO.  The cash game was under the general overbite of Kevin W.  Kevin even found time to help a somewhat distressed player recover their funds from the table and ensure transportation home was arranged,  Thank you Kevin.
The Bar:  TABC licensed servers Lisa and Zoe Hammel of "Lisa's Personal Concierge" were widely praised for the fast, friendly and accurate service - and they each donated 100% of the tips to ATO - Thank You.  ATO co-chair Anthony White obtained a donation of 10 cases of the North Texas favorite Revolver Beer to round out the bar.  Individuals also brought their own beverages and our own Wine Club participated as well.  The bar operations were organized by member Eilaine L and ATO co-chair Hector Melendez.
The Food was wonderful, Buffalo Wild Wings, Little Caesars  Pei Wei, Creative Memories The Sweet Spot Bakery, Chipotle Grill and Panera Bread,  were all brought on board and organized by John L.  John L was the single greatest reason the food effort 
succeeded. 
50/50 Drawing was managed by Ed L, Ed not only operated this event he helped promote the Raffle and the Silent Auction.  For a non-poker player ED is a good neighbor and friend who advanced ATO.

The Silent Auction was an active area and added much to the excitement of the evening and many dollars to the ATO.  As usual John L took on the leadership of this important area.  The most talked about items were the 65 inch, 4K, Smart TVs, a great outdoor grill and a powerful Honda lawn mower donated by Custom Greenscraping.  Many other wonderful items were donated by generous merchants and neighbors and sold at auction.  John L not only supervised this area he also obtained the greatest volume of auction items.
The Raffle was the busiest section and was headed by D'Anna M.  The items moved quickly and the action was intense.  Again thanks to D'Anna and the Raffle donors and other volunteers this was a high light of the evening.
commercial entities.  This help was crucial in our success.  Our donors were:
Bill Evans Real Estate - $1,000 and the gracious loan of his truck; BrightView - $1,000; Keen and Associates, Matt 
Dorchak - $300; D'Anna and Wendell McClintock - $1,000; Skip Simpson Law Firm - $75; Tosello Real Estate - $100; Lisa's Personal Concierge - $394; Ed Picciuti - $100; Chuck & Mary Picciuti - $1000; Train Agents Real Estate School, Rob and Cindy Lowe - $500; Anytime Fitness of Keller, Rob and Cindy Lowe and Chris and Melanie Loy - $500. David & Eilaine Longshore - $500.
Note:  Donors will be added upon receipt of authorization to publish.

Hosting:  Jen G led the use of the public address system and quarterbacked much of the timing.  We will continue to use the designated host system it was a clear improvement from last year.  Jen G also helped plan and direct much of the behind the scenes activities.
Music:  We were fortunate to have our community member Dan S entertain with his guitar during much of the evening.  Dan was also the go-to guy for a range of audio issues.  I hope Dan elects to join us for future events.

Facility and Support:  The HOA Club House Staff were instrumental in all areas of this event such as management, administration, book keeping, facility preparation and take down.  A team of which we can all be proud.  The staff, working cooperatively  prior, during and after the event made it all possible.  Our thanks for the great work.
NOTE:  I am sure I missed some important parts of this event - just send what you think should be included and I'll try to get in the record.
UPDATE-Saturday, September 9, 2017:  I missed the game but heard the details this morning.  Lower then usual number of players but the September 30 is going to be huge.  We are on course to sell out the 112 seats by next weekend.  I want to thank all those who participated in putting on the event:  John C., Elliane, Dan O, Scott N and I am sure others.  Thank you.
The winners were 1st Kevin W, 2nd Mary B, 3rd Rob L, 4th Doyle W, and 5th Gary W Congratulations.
Also scoring big were (I think) D'Anna Cash High Hand and Kevin W in tournament High Hand.
Next game is ALL-IN for the BLUE on Saturday, September 30, 2017.  Please work to sell our tournament tickets.  They can be obtained at the club house or from me and some other club members.  This is the one time a year we join in supporting a good cause.  Just a little effort from all of us can guarantee the success of this event.  Last year we sold out but this year we have 112 seats so the effort of us all is needed.  

Thanks,
​Chuck
Friday, August 25, 2017.  We had our typical turnout for a Friday and the start of the school year.  While the head count was modest the prize pool was large and the play was very spirited.  Again I was knocked out prior to the first break.  First place was awarded to Cole G, 2nd to Chris L, 3rd to Rob L, 4th to Chris L, and 5th to Matthew D.  Photos of the winners are available on our website heritagepokerclub.com
​The Tournament High Hand (THH) was a monster Queen high Straight Flush won by Cole G.  Congratulations to the winners and all those who participated.  The cash game allowed me to pocket a bit mostly due to some luck until I tried out the new "6plus" game.  I received a 30 minute $85 lesson.  Thanks Kevin W for dragging me in against my will.  All kidding aside I think this will be a game that is attractive to many players - maybe even the Omaha eight or better players.
I am writing this on the morning of Sunday the 27th, having just left James at the club house building our new table storage structure.  Hope it works out well.
​We welcomed new members - that is always a good feeling.
BUY TICKETS for the ALL-IN for the BLUE tournament at the end of September.  Get enough for you and your poker buddies.
Our next game will be on Saturday, September 9, 2017
 August 12, 2017.  Our largest turnout in several months resulted in a monster prize pool.  Solid play all around and to those who cashed congratulations,  I did not survive until the first break.  Our players who cashed were First - Matt C, Second Doyle W, 3rd Dennis N, 4th Rodney R and 5th Jason A.  Again GREAT JOB.  The cash game was well attended and fast paced with two tables active for several hours.  As the early morning hours slipped by the action moved to out new "Logo" table.  Most players prefer play there to the other tables.  I made a couple of bucks at the table as did several others.
Our storage structure is suffering wear and tear and has damaged our tables so your club is having the old structure tore down and a new, redesigned one constructed. The new structure should allow for tables to be selected for removal without moving the other tables.  We wish James good luck with this effort.  We are also in discussion to get another new table prior to the ALL-IN for the BLUE event.
Member Scott N has improved the looks of our tournament app and is working with the app author to give us additional features.  Good Job Scott and Thank You.
Welcome new Member Juan P - glad you came out and had a great time.
MEMBERS:  Please reach out to all you know for help in our Assist The Officer event, gift cards, products, cash all will help.  Also buy tournament tickets, every poker you play should buy a ticket.  If you need some I can get them to you or you can obtain at the club house.  Help make our partnership with the FW Police even stronger.  With the new station being built on old denton we can expect many more officers to be our neighbors.
​Our next game is on FRIDAY, August 25, 2017
Saturday, July 30, 2017.  Our participation was a bit over average for the summer, but the tournament play was exceptional.  I was out just a few hands after the first break.  Our players that cashed were:  Rob L (1st), Matt F. (2nd), Randy F. (3rd), Doyle W. (4th) and Justin B. (5th).  The chip lead at the final table moved around a bit but good big stack play by Rob sealed the game.
James, who built our new table dropped by with his wife and new baby.  We talked over some methods to reduce the weight of the new table and more importantly how to store all our tables.  We have plans for both efforts but I will need to work with HOA Staff and perhaps Board to ensure the storage plan can be executed.  If you would like a table a custom table made for you by James I can give you his contact information.
NOTE:  I will bring a number of Proxy sheets for the upcoming HOA general meeting.  If we don't get enough participants in the General Meeting (including Proxy) the HOA will have to pay for another General Meeting.  This runs to several thousands of dollars plus staff time and inconvenience.  If you are a Heritage Resident go to the meeting or at least fill out and submit the proxy. We are glad to help you on this at the next poker event.
John C our club treasurer is on the HOA board ballot this year.  Good Luck John.
We still would like your help for the ALL-IN for the BLUE.  Donations of many kinds would be helpful.  Hit up the companies you do business with.  Check the ATO section of this site for our flyers etc.  I can get you hard copies if you need them.  If you need tickets for yourself, family, coworkers etc just let me know an I will get them to you. 
The Cash game was action filled, led by David L, when I left early, a bit past midnight.  
The next game will be on Saturday, August 12, 2017 - and if you bubble all is not lost.  You will earn one of our club T-Shirts. The invite for this game is on our website: heritagepokerclub.com
Friday, July 7, 2017.  Very good turnout for the tournament, picking up from the prior game.  Four tables going great.  There were several players who earned more in Bounty money then the cost of entry.  I was out prior a few minutes prior to the first break.  
First use of NEW TABLE:  We enjoyed the new table, it is great looking, very solid, and shows our logo to great effect.  Thank you to the members John C, Heidi C, and Eilaine L who worked on the design etc for this table and James Evans the craftsman who made the table.
Cashing in this Tournament were 1st Deanie W, 2nd Matt F, 3rd Doyle W, 4th Gary W, and 5th Chris L,  Congratulations to all those who cashed.  Also hiting the winning circuit was Tournament High Hand 9999K by Dan O.
The Cash Game was played on the cash table and was active and we saw some big pots.  I did fine and played until tooth pain got the best of me.  Several other players also cashed on the positive side, one or two seemed to do really well.
The New Table and the Cash Table present a challenge since they heavy.  We have been addressing the problem partially with our club setting up and storing some of the tables.  The HOA decided that reduced manning on the weekends would preclude from the staff assisting in this effort..  To reduce the burden on our membership in the early morning hours of storing the tables I obtained the help of some young folks to put the table up as the club house opens.  The crew did a good job but may not be a sustainable.  Members John L and Jennifer G are exploring some additional options to resolve this issue.
Help:  Our ALL-IN for the Blue event will be here on Saturday, September 30, 2017 - volunteer to help.  Send me an email if you want to help the ATO cause.
The next game "Pizza Spectacular" is on Saturday, July 29, 2017.
FridayFriday, July 7, 2017.  Very good turnout for the tournament, picking up from the prior game.  Four tables going great.  There were several players who earned more in Bounty money then the cost of entry.  I was out prior a few minutes prior to the first break.  
First use of NEW TABLE:  We enjoyed the new table, it is great looking, very solid, and shows our logo to great effect.  Thank you to the members John C, Heidi C, and Eilaine L who worked on the design etc for this table and James Evans the craftsman who made the table.
Cashing in this Tournament were 1st Deanie W, 2nd Matt F, 3rd Doyle W, 4th Gary W, and 5th Chris L,  Congratulations to all those who cashed.  Also hiting the winning circuit was Tournament High Hand 9999K by Dan O.
The Cash Game was played on the cash table and was active and we saw some big pots.  I did fine and played until tooth pain got the best of me.  Several other players also cashed on the positive side, one or two seemed to do really well.
The New Table and the Cash Table present a challenge since they heavy.  We have been addressing the problem partially with our club setting up and storing some of the tables.  The HOA decided that reduced manning on the weekends would preclude from the staff assisting in this effort..  To reduce the burden on our membership in the early morning hours of storing the tables I obtained the help of some young folks to put the table up as the club house opens.  The crew did a good job but may not be a sustainable.  Members John L and Jennifer G are exploring some additional options to resolve this issue.
Help:  Our ALL-IN for the Blue event will be here on Saturday, September 30, 2017 - volunteer to help.  Send me an email if you want to help the ATO cause.
The next game "Pizza Spectacular" is on Saturday, July 29, 2017.
Saturday, June 10, 2017, Member Bonus Incentive Game., well attended 4 table tournament that again had 5 members cashing.  Wonderful  turnout with a few members we have not seen in awhile making an appearance - Welcome Back.
Our members expressed their generosity and support of the club once again.  D'Anna provided a selection of tasty snacks and Matt C brought a serious selection of Beer.  Thank you both your support of the club is appreciated.
Our tournament had a new feature this game, there was a significant bonus incentive for the club member who went the deepest in the tournament.  Well in this case he also cashed for first Dan F, great job.  2nd was Rich B, 3rd Dan O, 4th John C, and 5th D'Anna.  A high hand incentive for 4444K was won by Eilaine.  Congratulations to each of these good neighbors and poker players.
I tried not using the cash table last night, testing it's benefits.  It is clear that the cash table is the way to go.  There were cash players lost since they did not want to wait for a tournament table to clear.  We had a great cash game that even went to 11 players with a couple waiting but with just one table we did not have our typical two active 8 or 9 player tables.  Lesson learned.
I was in early in the cash game, selling chips, making hands and eventually almost tripled my Buy-In.  I needed to break to work the tournament and left the game to Jen L.  Thank you Jen.  A hour or two later returned to the cash game and Jen left for home.  Being a lawyer she wanted to be well rested for AG Sessions testimony next week.  I bought in for a big percentage of my earlier winnings and rode them up and down for a few hours and finally, in a sign of my failure to recognize an all-in on the river for what it is called with the nut straight only to lose to the nut flush.  Good bet sizing Chris B i had it coming.  So I busted out at 1:45 with just $22 in winnings as said in On the Waterfront  "I could have been a contender."
We had a slight dust up where one of our players felt disrespected by another player.  This was addressed with both individuals party to the issue.  We must remember that this is a "Home Game" atmosphere.  We expect only civil comments and behavior.  
Apparently not relate to the issue above, I noted at the red race track table that some chips were being counted on the felt.  This can cause  confusion.  Note the fine print where we address "Bet Line" on the race track table.  Chips are stored on the race track and once moved onto the felt may be in play.
Heidi C has designed some first class logos for the club and we showed them last night.  The interest in several of them was about equal, thank you for your input.  Once one or two are settle upon we will publicize.
We are close to ordering our first custom made table, it promises to be a knock-out.  If we finalize our order soon we will have it by mid-July.  Big challenge, strong enough for our use and storage but not to heavy to move.
A BIG thank you to the players who shared in their good fortune at the game with the club.
Our next game is scheduled for FRIDAY, June 23, 2017 note FRIDAY.  It will be our traditional game, and is "Just Poker"
Friday, May 27, 2017, Old School Game,​ was great tournament - this tournament set a record for a Friday and Holiday weekend with a wonderful turnout.
     Speaking of Holiday please recognize this is Memorial Day weekend.  The service members who sacrificed deserve to be honored and rewarded.  So in recognition of Memorial Day I was glad to see a Veteran be our first place winner this week.
     Our First Place winner:  Bill D.  He dominated the table and got 100% of my chips over two hands.  Good Job Bill.  Runner-up was Scott N, 3rd was Rich G, 4th Rob L and 5th Kevin W.  Each of the players were determined but consistent play by Bill payed off.
     Tournament High Hand KKKKT was won by Deanie W.  Way to go, that is the way to pocket $50.
     The Cash game had two tables going until late.  I managed to edge out a small win but was blocked from a great night by the player to my right who always managed to earn the pot.
      We had a new feature at the big cash table, member Matt C had an insert fabricated that makes, in some situations, the cash table much more functional.  Thanks Matt C.
    Surprise Beer was donated by member Heidi C .  Thank you Heidi I heard several members mention how beer beat Pizza.  A great selection of cold beers.
     Surprise Food was donated by member Betsy B.  I was informed Betsey was bring a couple of dishes.  It was not just a couple of dishes but a big cake and sandwiches that were out of this world.  A real treat.
     I appreciate the help of each player who pitches in, helping to color up chips, cleaning the room, putting up extra chairs, doing the books, running the cash game, web site help, running the registration table and a dozen other kindness that are appreciated.  Without that help the games would be a burden.  THANK YOU.
     Please continue to volunteer for the All IN for the BLUE in September, help is always needed.   
     We are going to visit a poker table shop this week, perhaps we will be upgrading a number of our tables over the coming year.

​     Our next game will be on Saturday, June 10, 2017 it will feature a Members $500 Bonus, a member will win this Bonus next game.   If you would like to be the winner of the $500 Bonus I recommend you read the invite and incentives page, there are requirements that must be met.
Saturday, May 6, 2017 our deep stack tournament was a blast, starting out with as many as 11,500 chips gave a chance to those who want to "wait for their spot" to exercise that theory.  First place was earned by Matt C, runner-up by Andy A, 3rd by Chuck, 4th by Tracy L and fifth by Kevin W.  All those who cashed played well and were lucky.  One play that caught my attention was a pre-flop All-In by a player with 9 - 4 off, the reluctant caller had A - Q.  The A - Q lost to the trip 9's.  
I left the cash game at about 1:45 with two tables going.  David L does great as cash czar, thank you. I managed to book a good cash game and tournament winnings were solid too, so a good night all around.  Steve S nailed the Cash High Hand (CHH) incentive of $120 with AAAAQ, great hand.
Getting ready for ALL-IN for the BLUE coming up on Saturday, September 30, 2017 if you want to help in fund raising lets communicate, let me know how you can help or how much time you are willing to invest.  Great event for a good cause, I am beginning to build the ATO section of the site so check that out and/or the ATO web site.
Our next game is FRIDAY, May 26, 2017 and will be an Old School traditional tournament with a little Add-On twist, check the invite for more details.  Note FRIDAY is the day of the tournament.
Do you have a poker related story or question.  Submit for edit and I would be glad to include it with the next news and if required do some research.
Saturday, April 22, 2017 News:  We had a great tournament, Shoot out / Bounty each table played down to a winner and the 4 table winners played the final table.  The results were spectacular with Travis D scoring 1st twice now in a month or so.  Great play.  Kevin W came for a significant chip disadvantage to score second and the play of D'Anna 3rd and Mary B 4th was first class.  The cash game was on two active table until after midnight and I just knew I was winding down so we started closing at 2.  I played poorly and lost my stake early but enjoyed the play.  Several made good gains in the game.  We need to be more aware of any trash left behind, in the cup holders etc this takes time to clean and we want to close up and not collect trash.
Assist the Officer - Fort Worth (ATO) event that we dubbed ALL-IN for the BLUE will be held on Saturday, September 30, 2017.  Aiming to fill 112 seats (likely over $4K prize pool) for the poker tournament, great food, beverages, Auctions, drawing, music , etc.  Fun for both poker players and those who just wish to socialize.  We will have some opportunities for those who wish to participate in this undertaking.  We will publish these needs in the next month or so.  So if you want to help you will get a chance.  Last year we raised $10,600, 100% of which went to ATO, this year promises to eclipse that figure.
 Our next game is Saturday, May 6, 2017, and while some details remain to be worked out it will be a DEEP STACK game with lots of chips and Re-Buys.  All those players who wish to reduce “luck” and to be able to showcase their skill should participate.  PIZZA will be provided by the club.  Check out the invite.
Poker Rules for Poker Nerds (like me) who are interested in the rules of the game.  A great conversation on poker rules was raised at one of the Cash Tables last night.  No drama or conflict just a discussion.  Specifically the question was this.  Which hand is obliged to be displayed (Tabled) first when there is no “all-in” and on the final street (River) action is checked around?  Some players believed it was the last player who was the “aggressor” on a previous street.  If that player was no longer in the hand I am unsure who then would show first.  Others felt it was the first player, still in the hand, to the left of dealer would display (table) their cards first.
I checked the usual sources and these were the results:
​Tournament Directors Association
A: In a non all-in showdown, if cards are not spontaneously tabled or discarded, the TD may enforce an order of show. The last aggressive player on the final betting round (final street) must table first. If there was no bet on the final street, the player who would act first if it were a betting round must table first (i.e., first seat left of the button in flop games, high hand showing in stud, low hand in razz, etc.).
B: A non all-in showdown is uncontested if all but one player mucks face down without tabling. The last player with live cards wins and he is not required to show his cards.
Roberts Rules
If everyone checks (or is all-in) on the final betting round, the player who acted first is the first to show the hand. If there is wagering on the final betting round, the last player to take aggressive action by a bet or raise is the first to show the hand. In order to speed up the game, a player holding a probable winner is encouraged to show the hand without delay. 
Card Player Magazine General Rules of Poker
If everyone checks (or is all-in) on the final betting round, the player who acted first is the first to show the hand.
2016 World Series of Poker® Official Live-Action Rules 
Rule 143:  If everyone checks on the final betting round, the participant in earliest position is required to show his/her hand first. If there is wagering on the final betting round, the last participant to take aggressive action by a bet or raise is the first to show the hand. In order to speed up the game, the last participant to act or a participant holding a probable winner is encouraged to show the hand without delay. If there is a side pot, participants involved in the side pot should show their hands before anyone who is all-in for only the main pot.   If there was no bet on the final street, the player who would act first if it were a betting round must table first (i.e., first seat left of the button in flop games, high hand showing in stud, low hand in razz, etc.).
B: A non all-in showdown is uncontested if all but one player mucks face down without tabling. The last player with live cards wins and he is not required to show his cards.
SUMMARY: I could find no source who pointed to aggression on an earlier street as being a consideration in who “Shows First/Tables” on a checked around river with no-one all-in.  So in our little club, be courteous and table you cards if you think your ahead but if it comes down to it,  I will rule as the above sources indicate.  Like all these poker issues, I would be glad to consider any other source to change this decision.

Do you have an interesting poker related story.  Submit for edit and I would be glad to include it with the next news.
Saturday. April 8, 2017 - A great event, Member/Treasurer John C presented us with his special Brisket Meal that was wonderful.  Thank you John for your hard work, it sure paid off.  Guest Deanie made a really good Cobblers, thank you.  The Tournament was won by Kyle G, who came back from being behind, 2nd Chris B, 3rd Donna C, 4th Gerry M and 5th Jason A.  32 players had a great time.   Jason crushed the High Hand with KKKKA, way to go winners CONGRATULATIONS   The clubs newly acquired iPad for the outer room clock worked great and stayed in time with the main clock, I fixed the one blind error of 125 small blind and 25 Big Blind to the correct 250 Big Blind and changed the font to make it more readable.  Lost count of the number of cash players but for awhile there were two Hold'em tables and a very active PLO table that even tried some Hi/Lo.  I did OK at the game but for a casual player like me it takes concentration to not go into Hold'Em thinking while playing PLO.
Our next event on Saturday, April 22, 2017 will be the popular Bounty/Shoot Out I will try to play that one.
Saturday, March 25, 2017  - We conducted one of our less costly tournaments, and a lot of fun was had.  Dan O won 1st place, Travis D was 2nd, Kevin W 3rd, Gary W 4th Rob L 5th.  No Re-Buys so the Prize Pool was not the largest but there was a requirement for carful play due to this structure.  I did not catch on and was first or second out.  The cash game had as many as 23 players, lots of action.  We will be buying some additional chips to keep up.  We may start offering limited PLO at our cash games and I will try to schedule another PLO event.
Irregularities in the deal, while not common, do occur at a frequency that we need to publish rules addressing how to resolve the more common events.  One of our players has already offered an outline of one of these events and his suggested procedure may soon be adopted.  We all need to remember that ours is a "home" game, with all the courteous behavior
 
and friendliness envisioned in your "home" game and it is not commercial.
Our next game is Saturday, April 8, 2016 and features BBQ Brisket prepared our Treasurer and Chief Chef John C.  Your club dues is paying for this player appreciation meal but the work is being volunteered by John - Thank you.
Sunday, March 19, 2017 - The Pot Limit Omaha (PLO) event was well attended with a total of 17 players and two active tables for all of the 4 hours scheduled for the event.  There were a few really big hands but there was a lot of careful play.  I was able to book a win but not proud of my play.  All player expressed strong support for additional PLO events and we tuned up the procedures a bit so the format will be adjusted for the next PLO event.  I want to express my thanks to the club house staff for fitting in this event.  4 cards are more fun.

 Saturday, March 11, 2017 - In some ways it was a normal game, good cheer, welcomed a new member and 34 players.  But this tournament was a record breaker by the degree of domination exhibited by our first place winner, Ashley S.  She not only snatched first place, but cashed in 15 bounty chips and earned high hand (quad 2's).  So those who cashed were 1st Ashley S, 2nd Gary W, 3rd Cole G, 4th Justin B, and 5th Dan O.  Congratulations to those who cashed in a very tough tournament.
Ante Change: Based on player recommendations suggesting the Ante was too tough we made an adjustment.  Now we will have a 100 chip Ante staat level 7, 200 at 8 and so on until it catches the original 500 chip ante level.  Antes are required to ensure the game ends prior to our target time of 12.  I tried a couple of simulations with the new ante rate and it looks like it will work. To see the details view Blind Structure.
I played in the cash game (two tables until late) and thought I was going to go home a winner, but my flopped two pair was crushed by the set of Kings of my oponent.  No excuse, just got out played.
Thank you Jennifer for running the cash game.  
Travis D earned a club T-Shirt by bringing a new member, welcome Louie.
Sunday , March 19, 2017 at 1 PM we will have our Pot Limit Omaha (PLO) event from 1 to 5 PM at the club house.  We need to end our game due to another event following ours.  Limited Seating - email me with a seat request.  See details at Omaha Event.
Saturday, March 25, 2017  PIZZA Night game.  See details at invite.
Expect "ALL-IN for the BLUE" news during the next few weeks.

Saturday, February 25, 2017 - Wonderful 33 player tournament followed by very active 2 table cash game,  Having been retired from the tournament early I can't report on many hands but it is worth noting that Jeff B seemed to have locked in the High Hand incentive with T-T-T-T-K almost was the high hand but then not satisfied with quads he scored a Royal Flush of T-J-Q-K-A of diamonds.  Jeff earned $50 for High Hand and a $200 Royal incentive.  He was not finished in earning this evening.  The good prize pool was divided for 1st Kyle G, 2nd Jeff B, 3rd Kevin Wells, 4th Jonah R and 5th Chris F.  Congratulations on cashing in the Tournament.
I checked out from the active cash game after midnight booking no profit after a couple of hours of uninspired play on my part.  We got a lot of compliments on the new cash table and new storage arrangements.
Welcome our new member Angelo P, he has lived in Heritage for several years and decided to give us a chance - WELCOME ANGELO.
A new guest of mine, Dick T is a friend of many years in San Antonio.  He has moved to the North Texas area and I hope we will see him more often.
We now have awarded 2 T-shirts for new members - It is important for each of us to reach out and encourage growth of our club.
I will announce on Tuesday the time and date of our first PLO (Pot Limit Omaha).  Our first event will not include the Hi/Lo variant.  We want our players comfortable with PLO prior to introducing eight or better versions.  4 cards are twice as much fun as just 2 cards so keep your eyes peeled.
​Our next game is Saturday, March 11, 2017 - return of our "Bounty" game.

New Limited Time Incentive:  Great T-Shirt for each member who brings a new member

***Look for Pot Limit Omaha on Sunday, March, 19, 2017 at 1PM***
Saturday, February 11, 2017 - Mini Deep Stack game was a blast.  Quite awhile until the first Re-Buy then a few more.  With four tables going until well after the first break (The Dominos Pizza was a nice snack) the shots of surprise and awe pointed to very active games.  By the time we got to the 5 players who cashed there was a period when the stacks were nearly even.  Luck hit all the players to a degree.  With the accelerated blinds the chip lead moved around.  It ended with Chuck 1st, Rob L (2nd), Rich B (3rd), Matt C (4th, and Rich G 5th.  Since there was a good prize pool all who cashed did well. 
The Tournament High hand and the Flop 4 incentives were both won.  Congratulations and Great Cards !
A Member bring a Member T-Shirt was won by Richard B.  New member Betsy B was to my left during much of the tournament.  She is welcome to the club and while not a regular player she shows great promise in mastering the game.
Returning member Greg C is welcomed back after a long break from our games.  Welcome back Greg.
Our next game is Saturday, February 25, 2017 
Saturday, January 21, 2017 Game:  Lots of players,  lots of fun.  No stranger to cashing Rich B got  first place, second place was earned by Chris L, 3rd place Gary W 4th Dan O and 5th Rob L.  Very active and fast passed game until the final table when the play was a bit more careful.  I know myself I was knocked out by some good play.  I had K - 8  and the flop came K - 8 - 3.  My opponent put me all-in and of course she had 3 -3 so my top two pair came up short to her trips.  Enjoyed the game.  The cash game was going strong by the time I left with a somewhat slimmer wallet.
Thanks to the players the front door stayed latched each time I checked.  Thanks.
Some winners left a tip for the club - THANK YOU
The next game is Saturday, February 11, 2017.
LATE BREAKING (2/1/17):  We have bought new, much stronger, legs for our tables.  The old table legs were failing during set-up and take down.  These legs are a bit longer (almost 2 inches) then the earlier legs.  We will need to evaluate if the they must be shortened.  The install was done by Brent at the club house - Thank You Brent. (see photo)
We have ordered a new cash table with a dealer spot, chip tray, oversize drink holders etc and about a foot longer.  Should be max comfort for cash players.

New Limited Time Incentive:  Great T-Shirt for each member who brings a new member


Saturday, January 7, 2017 Bounty Game:  38 Players and lots of fun.  Several players cashed 4 or more Bountys - we will do this again soon.  There being no Re-Buys the prize pool was not as large as some but still outstanding by "Home Game" standards.  Congradulations to all players esspecially those who cashed.  Steve S was first, Jeff R got second, Chuck was 3rd, Rob L was 4th and Donna C was 5th.
REMINDER:  John L, our clubs Security Czar noted that the front door was left proped open several times.  Please remember that we want that door closed and locked at 7:30 PM.  We have it set to lock after 7:30 but members may enter via the Gym door utilizing thier HOA cards until Midnight.  Please help protect our club by keeping the front door closed. 
We have a number of Tournament formats that we will utilize during the next few months.  If you have any favorites, provide the details to me via email and we will put it into the mix.
Our good poker friends Ken and Pat M played thier last game with us, they are moving to Reno, NV.  We will miss You.
The next game is Saturday, January 21, 2017
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