Almaden To Revive Poker Fundraiser After California Law Change

The Almaden Business Association was caught off guard last year when they were told that they could not run their charity poker tournament. It seems that the group, which is headed by Rich Crowley, checked with local authorities regarding the tournament, but failed to get clearance from the state.

The tournament did not go on, but the group still managed to raise about $17,000 for the children's section of the Almaden Branch Library.

This year, the tournament will be played thanks in part to a couple of law changes that went into effect on January 1st. The law enables nonprofit organizations to circumvent anti-gambling regulations.

There are a few regulations, though. First, 90 percent of the money raised after recouping expenses must go to a charity.

Secondly, a group must be a non profit for at least three years before they can host a poker tournament, and the events are limited to no longer than 5 hours.

The last stipulation is that nobody under the age of 21 can attend.

On top of all of these restrictions, there are also strict regulations on who may be licensed to host these tournaments, as well as how much profit can be retained, and what type of gambling is allowed.

While it was tough to meet all the criteria for the tournament, Crowley is pleased that once again the poker fundraiser indeed can be held, and more money can be raised for a good cause.

September 14, 2007
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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