Hampshire-Burlington Jaycees to sponsor five card stud poker run

Double-down and ante up for a good cause.

The Hampshire-Burlington Jaycees will hold its sixth annual Double Deck Poker Run this Saturday, March 28 beginning at 5 p.m. at Mott's Lounge in Burlington.

With the hint of spring in the air, bets are that this charity fundraiser will keep the community flush.

"This is a fun way to get out and shake the winter blues," said Michelle Kollins, chapter president of the HB Jaycees.

The game of five-card stud will begin at Mott's Lounge, where individual players or teams of two will be dealt their first card. From there, players will travel to other local bars, including The Outpost, Corkshire Pub and the Red Ox to fill out the rest of their hand. Everyone will then head back to Mott's for their last draw and a party.

Prizes will be awarded to the best and worst hands, and a raffle will keep everyone in the game.

The Poker Run was the HB Jaycees' first organized fundraiser that was such a hit, the group turned it into an annual event. The proceeds go toward the group and its upcoming community events, such as its fourth annual Spring Faire.

Taking place on April 4, the Spring Faire will feature Easter-themed activities for children. An egg hunt, face painting and food will all be provided free of cost at St. John Lutheran Church from 1 - 2:30 p.m.

The HB Jaycees consist of 20 members working toward promoting leadership and personal growth among young community members.

"We provide training for things like management skills and formulating business plans and budgets," Kollins said. "Our goal is to help groom future leaders."

Part of an international organization which hosts chapters in over 100 countries, the Jaycees have given guidance to leaders such as Bill Clinton and John F. Kennedy.

So when you find yourself with a full house, your good fortune just may be passed on to a future president.

"Last year we had so much fun," Kollins said. "Come out and play!"