Fenton — Rarely do politicians, school staff and community members gather to gamble and drink on a week night for a good cause.

 This was the case last Thursday at the 2013 Colonel Fenton’s Texas Hold ‘em Poker Tournament held at The Fenton Hotel. It raised funds for the Fenton Area Public Schools Education Foundation (FAPSEF).

The restaurant was closed down to the public for the annual tournament, which is the primary fundraiser for FAPSEF, said tournament chairperson Tom Bertschy. “It’s a great event for the community, this really helps support our funding of grants for schools,” he said, which grants around $10,000 each year to Fenton Area Public Schools (FAPS).

 The tournament drew 98 players, along with spectators. Players paid $100 to sit, and it included the entry fee for one spectator. Players, spectators and volunteers enjoyed a cash bar, and “heavy hors d’oeuvres.”

It was clear before play began, that players and spectators were there to have fun. The atmosphere was warm and upbeat before participants were directed to their tables. They shook hands before the first card was dealt, and things got a little more serious as play began. In the main dining area the ‘clack’ of dropping chips replaced conversation as the dominant sound.

 “It’s always such a fun event,” said Fenton City Councilwoman Pat Lockwood, who is also on the FAPSEF committee.

As the first round ended around 7 p.m., the first few players out of the game still left with smiles.

 The first-round winners took home $100, the second-round winners $150, and the final winner takes $750, for a total cash winning of $1,000. They also can unofficially name LeRoy Street for one year. The 2013 winner is Charles Marshall.

 Last year’s winner was Fenton Township Trustee Rob Kesler, who named LeRoy Street, Kesler Avenue.