Binion's hosts poker tournament for firefighters

LAS VEGAS, Nevada -- (PRESS RELEASE) -- Binion's Gambling Hall is pleased to host a special poker tournament August 13 and 14 in support of local firefighters. The annual police and fire poker tournament is organized by 31-year Las Vegas Metro Police Department veteran, Jim Mitchell, his wife and Nevada Highway Patrol retiree, Regina Mitchell and John Martinolich, a 15 year Las Vegas firefighter currently serving with Las Vegas Fire and Rescue. The tournament begins at 5:30pm each day and is open to all uniformed and civilian law enforcement personnel, firefighter personnel, and their immediate families. The Friday format is $150 buy-in Limit Texas Hold-Em with an optional $50 re-buy while Saturday is $200 buy-in No Limit Hold-Em with an optional $100 re-buy.

Each year, an organization that directly impacts police officers or firefighters is selected as the beneficiary of the tournament registration fees. This year, the Las Vegas Firefighters Benefit Association, an organization that supports member firefighters and their families in times of crises, is the sponsoring agency. The tournament has a loyal following among the law enforcement and firefighting communities as well as the support of renowned professional poker players. Consummate professional, multiple WSOP bracelet winner, and long-time supporter of the event, Tom McEvoy, will play in person while others such as Doyle Brunson, Howard Lederer, Mark Seif, Jamie Gold and Annie Duke have donated items to be auctioned or given away.

"This tournament feels like a huge home game and Binion's is the perfect place to host it," said Jim Mitchell. "Everyone is connected through the shared experience of law enforcement or firefighting so the atmosphere at Binion's is very welcoming. We have people who have played in this event for 20 years and have even had officers from Australia and Russia in the past."

Registration is $40 per person and includes all events. Space is still available for this year's tournament. With proper identification, players may register in person before each event at Binion's starting two hours before tournament time.