Let's Get it On

"Once again, please make sure you are here for the correct tournament day. Today is July 6th. That's right, July 6th."

Those were the opening words from Tournament Director Jack Effel, and we've already seen a handful of players wandering around looking lost with their registration cards for tomorrow.

Next on the announcement docket was an appeal for the players to put a "Bad Beat on Cancer" by donating 1% of their winnings to the charity. The microphone was handed to Phil Gordon, one of the founding members who was donning one of his familiar green circular "1%" patches. He thanked Harrah's and the players for their support, noting that their foundation has raised more than $3.3 million over the past nine years. "We hope to see some of you pledgers at the final table. This is a good way to buy some karma for the Main Event!" Gordon said. He's celebrating his 40th birthday today, incidentally.

"Ladies and gentlemen, poker fans and poker players all over the world!" Effel said, back on the mic now. "Welcome to the 2010 World Series of Poker Maaaaaaaaaaaain Event!" Perched atop the featured table ledge, Effel ran down the list of tournament rules for today's Day 1b players. It was the usual spiel about not concealing chips, not talking on the phone during a hand, speaking English-only at the table, etc., etc. He also took a moment for the dealers to stand and have all of their hard work recognized by the players. There was a satisfying round of applause.

The announcements are complete, and it's time for the most famous words in poker. "Let the gold rush begin," said Effel, turning over the microphone to the WSOP Dealer of the Year, the charming Ashley. She was presented with a gorgeous watch before she cheerfully announced, "All right, good luck everyone. Shuffle up and deal!"

From across the room, a set of cymbals smashed together. We remember this gentleman from last year... In any event, the cards are flying, and Day 1b is a go!