Here there are no blindingly bright lights. No flashing billboards, gaudy musical acts or Elvis impersonators crowding the streets. There are no honking taxis, or bumper-to-bumper traffic as far as the eye can see. Instead, there are perfect mountain views, blue skies, fresh, clean air and skiers and snowboarders enjoying perfect powder conditions. This isn’t Las Vegas; in fact it’s just about the furthest thing from it.  It is Snowmass Village, Colorado. However, beneath this serene surface there is just one thing Las Vegas and Snowmass Village have in common, and that is a deep and abiding love for poker.

On March 9, the 2^nd Annual Texas Hold ‘em Poker Tournament the Snowmass Village card sharks will really come out. For just a $100 donation players can join in the tournament to win the Grand Prize and a trophy. For smaller winners, there will be cash prizes, trips, golf and much, much more. Along with receiving complementary wine, beer and Hors d’oeuvres, players will play with the best of the best poker players in Snowmass Village.

For those wanting a little less competition and a little more of a friendly learning curve, there will also be a Beginners Tournament. Entrance to this event costs just $50, and also includes prizes. All donations will directly benefit non-profit organizations in the Roaring Forks Valley, as well as worldwide organizations associated with the Rotary Club. This year’s Texas Hold ‘em will take place at the Silvertree Conference Center in Snowmass Village.

The Rotary Club in Snowmass Village has taken a direct interest in the eradication of Polio worldwide, and has been actively working toward this end. In conjunction with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Rotary Club has worked since 1988 to provide money for research and sweat equity in countries where Polio still affects children. The Snowmass Rotary Club has also participated in the 2011 Dictionary Project with the aim of providing every 3^rd grader with their own personal dictionary.

It is here within the charitable arm of Snowmass Village’s love affair with poker that one really sees the distinguishing characteristics of this community. Unlike Las Vegas, or other glitzy poker cities, Snowmass Village throws their cards in for a good time, but more importantly for a good cause.

Join the fun, and while skiing or Snowboarding through town to collect your Poker Run cards, or between hands in the Texas Hold ‘em contest, click here to see condos, homes and residences in the Snowmass Village and Aspen area. Make a difference in your world and your community while having the time of your life!