Poker Tournament to Benefit Darfur

Anyone who thinks that poker is not good for anything has never been to a tournament that raises for money for sick children, homeless animals, or international atrocities.  This is exactly what the upcoming poker tournament featuring Annie Duke and actor Don Cheadle is for.  The San Manuel Indian Bingo and Casino will be hosting a celebrity poker tournament on Thursday, May 8, 2008 and all of the proceeds are going to aid the people of Darfur, Africa.

The non profit organization, Not On Our Watch, will be receiving the money raised to help fight the ongoing atrocities in the Darfur region of Sudan as the first group campaign.  The project was founded by actor Don Cheadle, George Clooney, Matt Damon, and Brad Pitt, all of whom starred in the remake f the casino hesit movie ‘Ocean’s 11’ and its subsequent two sequels.

According to Don Cheadle, “The crisis in Darfur is an issue very close to my heart.,"  He went on to comment that the San Manual Indian Tribe understood the severity of the situation in Darfur and across other parts of Sudan, and were willing to help the actors spread the word about the crisis any way they can.  The actor states that if using his popularity to spread the word is what it takes, then he’s fine with it.  The tribe is not only donating their casino space for the tournament, but has also pledged $75,000 towards the cause.

"We are thrilled to be joining forces with Annie Duke and Don Cheadle to support such a worthy cause," claims the tribe’s chairman, James Ramos.  "We hope our efforts will help draw mass attention to this very important issue that affects us all, and inspire others to get involved." 

Poker star Annie Duke will be joining Cheadle and other celebrities at 6:30pm to play in a Texas Hold’Em poker tournament that will be held in the Yuhaviatam Room of the casino.  The high-stakes game is only open to players who received an invitation and the players will be comprised of actors, poker professionals, and other celebrity poker players.  It is unknown whether or not media will be allowed in the room or if the event will be televised.  There will be no cash prize as all the proceeds are going to charity but the winner of the tournament will go home with a celebrity autographed custom poker table.

For more information on the Not On Our Watch charity, go to: http://www.notonourwatchproject.org