Poker pros go all in for Chicago Lighthouse fundraiser

Professional poker players Chris Moneymaker, Greg Raymer, First Lady of Poker Linda Johnson and Lexy Gavin will all come together Friday, Feb. 26, to help raise money for people who are blind, visually impaired, disabled, and veterans at The Chicago Lighthouse's "Raising the Stakes for Vision" virtual poker tournament.

Through their presence at The Chicago Lighthouse's fifth annual event, these poker notables are drawing attention to the growing need for low vision treatment and rehabilitation.

As the U.S. population ages, the number of people with visual impairment or blindness in the United States is expected to double by 2050, according to the National Eye Institute. The Chicago Lighthouse provides comprehensive low-vision examinations and wraparound services to help people with low vision live confident, independent lives.

The Chicago Lighthouse's "Raising the Stakes for Vision" virtual poker tournament will take place Friday, Feb. 26. The virtual poker room opens at 6:30 p.m. A short introduction and orientation will begin at 7 p.m., and the cards will fly promptly at 7:10 p.m.

Players have a chance to win a $5,000 grand prize. There also will be prizes for the top table finishers and the top three last women standing. Prizes will be awarded in the form of gift cards of the winners' choosing.

For those needing to brush up on their skills, players can access a free online Poker 101 tutorial covering all the skills needed to sit confidently at the table. The one-hour session, hosted by Poker Powher, will simulate the tournament's virtual platform so players can be familiar with its use.

Registration for the tournament is now open. Cost to get a seat at the table is $100. Encourage four friends to register and receive two free rebuys (valued at $100 each) to increase the odds of staying in the game.

All proceeds will benefit The Chicago Lighthouse's programs for people who are blind, visually impaired, disabled, and veterans. To register, contact Lindsay Inglis at (312) 447-3448 or email Lindsay.inglis@chicagolighthouse.org.

Registration is also available through the Events section on The Chicago Lighthouse's website, www.chicagolighthouse.org.