It Begins Again

  Like the swallows returning to Capistrano, the salmon swimming upstream for some fishy version of nookie, or a chocolate addict making his way to a buffet line, one of the most anticipated times in the poker calendar has arrived: players can now pre-register for the World Series of Poker.  When most people think of the World Series of Poker, they think of the big, $10,000 buy-in Main Event. This is of course the jewel in the crown of the poker's most prestigious event. It is not the only event though. The beauty of the WSOP is that they have a number of bracelet events with price tags that are much smaller. Just about everyone with a job and a level of experience with the game of poker can participate.  In the words of WSOP director Jack Effel, "We've received only positive comments about the 2008 schedule, which offers WSOP bracelets in eight variations of poker and at multiple buy-in levels. Because no alternates will be seated at the 2008 WSOP, we encourage players to pre-register early to guarantee their seats. Once again, acceptable forms of payment will include cash, cashier's checks, wire transfers and Rio casino chips."  Players are welcome to pre-register for all 55 events, regardless of the buy-in level. Those interested in participating can download a PDF entry form for each of the 55 separate events. This may be mailed or faxed back in, but a deposit must accompany the return of the form. How they expect people to include payment with a fax is a mystery, but it is an option.  Those in Vegas can simply walk up to the cashiers' cage at the Rio All Suites hotel and register there. If you are a poker fan, the best possible vacation is taking a trip to Vegas with the possibility of coming home with a WSOP bracelet.