Brothers go 'All In For Alzheimer's"

Sigma Alpha Mu put all its chips on the table for Alzheimer's research yesterday.

The fraternity, with the help of the Chi Omega and Sigma Kappa sororities, staged a large fundraising poker tournament in Houston Hall's Bodek Lounge.

Students played to support Alzheimer's research for The Judy Fund, named after the grandmother of SAM brother Brian Gelfand.

About 150 people attended the event, and SAM raised about $2,500, according to College sophomore Grant Dubler, SAM philanthropy chair and the event's organizer.

The tournament was the first University-sanctioned poker event in Penn's history and required close work with the Office of General Council to iron out issues with local gambling laws.

Bodek Lounge looked like a genuine Vegas casino yesterday, as SAM pledges in tuxedo shirts dealt to tables full of poker enthusiasts.

Sigma Kappa sisters handled concessions and registration while a SAM brother entertained with live jazz music. Authentic poker tables, dealer training and tournament direction were provided by casino entertainment company Royal Flush.

The event was sponsored by local businesses and restaurants: Marathon Grill, Smokey Joe's, Naked Chocolate, Campus Copy Center, Green Line Cafe and Men's Wearhouse.

Other businesses donated food and supplies, while Chipotle and Bui's Food Truck helped with catering.

The tournament winner was College freshmanand Daily Pennsylvanian photographer Jake Werlin and the runner-up was Engineering senior Mike Abuschinow. The prizes will be determined by a trivia competition between the top three players to comply with Pennsylvania gambling laws.

According to Jordan Lurie, College sophomore and SAM brotherhood chair, the guests were mostly experienced poker players.

"We got a lot of casual guys," he said, "but also a lot of diehards, plus about five or six guys from Sigma Chi looking to win the TV for their house."

Despite the competitive atmosphere, the emphasis was on entertainment.

"I had a lot of fun," said Engineering freshman Aaron Roth. "It was a good idea, for a good cause, and I enjoyed myself regardless of how well I did."

Wharton sophomore Chris Baird agreed.

"It was very different from other frat events," he said. "It's great to help charity and have fun while you're at it."

Dubler considered the tournament a success.

"We're laying the groundwork this year since it's the first time," he said. "I really appreciate the work everyone's put in, and it'll be even bigger and better next year. So far, it's been absolutely incredible."

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