Poker enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting a moment when they can sit down at a table in the Fenton Hotel and try their luck at a thrilling game of poker. Organizers are equally excited as they look at this annual event as a big fundraiser for the Fenton Education Foundation (FEF).

 Dating back to 2005 when former Fenton City Manager Mike Senyko was instrumental in establishing a charitable poker game that would benefit the Fenton Area Public Schools Education Foundation (now called FEF), of which he was a member, this fun, adult event has raised thousands of dollars for the school district.

 The “Texas Hold ‘em Poker Tournament” is stylized after the original poker game, held in 1837, when legend has it that William Fenton won and named the town and Robert LeRoy lost, subsequently naming the main street.

 Doors for this April 23 event at the Fenton Hotel open at 5 p.m. and play begins at 6:30 p.m. Player entry fee is $100, which includes one spectator pass. Additional spectator passes are $10 each. Appetizers will be provided to players and spectators.

 The Texas Hold ‘em tournament is one of the Foundation’s favorite events and brings in players and spectators from Fenton and surrounding areas.

 In addition to cash prizes, a portion of LeRoy Street in downtown Fenton will be renamed in their honor for one year.

The grand prize includes a custom-designed bracelet by Medewar Jewelers and $1,000. This is in addition to the honorary renaming of the street.

Tom Bertschy, chair of the tournament said this is the Foundation’s main fundraiser of the year and they typically give $10,000 worth of grants to teachers and groups at Fenton schools.

 To purchase tickets online, go to www.fentoneducationfoundation.org. There will be a link to register and pay. To purchase in person, please visit The State Bank in downtown Fenton.