California Poker Players Conference – Day 2

The second day of the conference began with an appearance by Jeffrey Pollack, Commissioner of the World Series of Poker. He gave some insight into the 2008 WSOP that hasn’t been released to the press officially, as follows:

• There will be no tent. (The audience applauded.)
• A concierge, possibly a team of people, will be available for those with questions throughout the series.
• There will be no more than 55 events.
• The exact list of events will be announced in December or January.
• He is in the process of trying to arrange a way for players to begin buying into the events at any Harrah’s property as soon as the events are announced.
• Since 2009 will be the 40th anniversary of the WSOP, 2008 will host some events to kick off a year of tributes and celebrations.
• New WSOP ads will air soon that feature the voice of Don Cheadle.
• Close to $1 million was raised for various charities at the 2007 WSOP. There will be affiliations with charities again in 2008, including Ante Up for Africa.

Mr. Pollack went on to say that they meet with members of the player’s council almost weekly in order to make the 2008 better than in years past. He admitted, “We are never going to get it exactly right,” but they will continue to do the best they can.

The remainder of the conference was filled with some solid poker advice from George Epstein, Lou Krieger, and Tony Guerrera – each of whom brought some quality insight to the attendees. Barbara Enright and Charlie Shoten discussed their history with poker, some experiences, and what keeps them going.

Robert Turner talked a bit about protection from collusion and cheating in online poker. While many of the tips were not specific, other than play low limits and inquire about the site’s ownership and security measures, he did emphasize the need for regulation in the industry. (When Mike Caro joined the conversation, he mentioned that he is sponsored by Doyle’s Room, the site that just came back to the U.S. Someone in the audience asked Mike, “Who exactly owns Doyle’s Room?” Mike seemed a little taken aback and responded, “Ummm, it’s Doyle, right?” Hmmm. Point made.)

Jeff Sandman and Michael Waxman flew in from D.C. to talk to everyone about the Safe & Secure Internet Gambling Initiative. The organization is currently lobbying Congress, alongside the PPA, to educate Congress about the regulation needed in the industry and the reasons to back away from prohibition-type legislation. For those who can spare a few minutes to help in the poker fight, their website has helpful information and can connect you directly to your Congressional rep.