Poker-mania has swept the nation, from the cable television stations to Main Street Perham.
Area establishments are gearing up for poker league, but this year--management and staff will be prepared.
"When the idea of forming a league came up last year, we almost didn't do it," said Tom Helcl, owner of T-Bonz, where poker play has been steady for the past year.
"We just didn't think it would be that successful...But it really caught us off guard," said Helcl.
T-Bonz has expanded from one to two leagues, with an average of 40 players per league.
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"We may have to limit participation, it's so popular...it's become one of the best promotions we have," said Helcl. T-Bonz may be the site for the regional tourney, which is played at the conclusion of the league circuit.
League play starts September 10 and Sept. 14 at T-Bonz.
Other area clubs participating in poker league include the New York Mills VFW, Billy's in Vergas, Playtime Sports, and the Wadena Elks--among others.
The top 20 percent of the cardplayers can qualify for the regional tournament, said Helcl. At the state level, one of the grand prizes is a trip to the Bahamas and the World Poker tour.
"But this isn't just for the serious, hardcore poker player. It's really a social event for a lot of the people," said Helcl. "The more experienced players help the new people, it's really intended to be fun."
Local leagues are affiliated with a state and national organization. For information, the website is mnpokerleague.com.
Local poker is not just for squinty-eyed, intense players "like you see at a casino...everybody loves to laugh and clown around," said Helcl. "We have players that don't drink, so they come and drink pop and just have fun with the game."
