Most of the time poker is a very predatory game for someone like me, taking money from others to pay my bills. I don’t produce anything or make the world a better place by playing poker, so it can be an unfulfilling job at times, which is why I like charity events so much. They aren’t just fun, they make you feel like poker is actually doing some good in the world.

I’m proud to be a part of the Restock the Shelves event happening across the country on Monday, January 19th, representing Blue Shark Optics. Aside from the fact that I really like the glasses, I’m proud to be a part of the pro team at Blue Shark because they do so much for charities. Cosponsors Ante Up are also an excellent company, and a host of other poker companies have joined to provide special prizes at different venues.

I will be playing at my local card room Running Aces Harness Park in Columbus, Minnesota at 6 pm on the 19th, facing off against my friend and Ante Up Ambassador, John Somsky. We have a friendly $50 last longer bet that goes to the charity. I will also be providing a copy of my book to the bubble guy, and Ininja Poker will also provide a $50 bounty for whoever busts me and a free t-shirt for everyone at the table when I bust out.

The event I am playing is a freeroll with a $5 add-on that goes to the charity and they will also be accepting non-perishable food items. I plan to hustle my neighbors for a car load of groceries before the event. If I can buy stuff from their kids every time they have a fund raiser, they can hand over a few cans of soup!