A charity event for Dennis Jackson, a long-time Las Vegas service industry member, became a memorial event on
Thursday, February 1. The night manager for the Mirage poker room lost his battle with terminal illness only three days before the benefit.
Hundreds of locals and service industry members participated or donated to the cause, with a $130 limit-hold'em tournament contributing 50 percent of its revenue to the family. Matt Savage donated his time as tournament director and also bought a seat into the event. Susie Isaacs participated and kicked in a jewelry prize for the last woman standing. Mason Malmuth also played, while donating books and other resources.
Mirage poker room manager Donna Harris was able to organize and implement the
"Special, Special Event for One of Our Own" in less than a week, and in a desperate plea to the media, she and public relations coordinator Rob Huxley did their best to get the word out.
"Thank you for joining Dennis's extended poker family in a tournament to honor his service to our industry and his commitment to excellence, both personally and professionally," said Harris. "This is so last-minute, but your response has been overwhelming. It means a lot to us. Dennis will be missed."
After introducing the Jackson family to tournament participants, Mrs. Dennis Jackson took the microphone and, in a tearful speech, thanked everyone for their compassion and generosity. "It's only been a couple of days, so bear with me. This means so much to our family, having so many of his friends and extended family here in his honor. He would be just as touched as we are. I can't thank you enough."
And with that, the cards went into the air. The grand total has not been determined, since the tournament allowed for unlimited $40 rebuys during the first level, and cash envelopes were still coming in from other local casinos and private donators.
A Dennis Jackson Memorial Fund has been set up at Nevada State Bank
The family welcomes anyone who wishes to attend memorial services to gather at 1 p.m. on Saturday, February 3 at the Paradise Church in Las Vegas.
