I was super excited to head back to the Horseshoe Casino on June 16th for the FEI Chicago Chapter Summer Social. During our last social at the Horseshoe, I had a super long roll at the craps table (loads of fun!) so I was eager to return. I was thrilled to learn that FEI was hosting a Texas Hold’em poker tournament at this year’s event.
The buy-in was $50. We all registered for players cards, which are required for all tournaments, and FEI even raffled off six Diamond Players Cards (upgraded players card, which offer complimentary benefits to gamers). The rules for Texas Hold’em are not complicated and anyone can play with some success, especially with a little lady luck on your side. There were a total of 19 players and as the rounds continued to get more expensive I was surprised to watch my husband, Mike McGreal, outlast many more seasoned players. Again (like last year) Mike and I held up the return FEI shuttle because of his deep run in the tournament and we ultimately had to count on Frank Cesario to come to our rescue with a ride back from the casino.
Late at the final table, Mike went all in with pocket Kings, but lost when an Ace hit the board (never discount the possibilities of a hidden ace). 1st place went to John Schneider, 2nd place to Dan Manley and 3rd place to Mike McGreal. Congratulations!
I know that everyone really enjoyed the dinner buffet and cocktails as well as our private FEI gaming tables. After dinner, FEI rented out Sixth Street, Horseshoe’s craft beer bar, where we all enjoyed the many craft beer offerings, along with coffee and delicious desserts. David Burke and his beautiful wife Terese enjoyed blackjack and other members played craps, slot machines and roulette. Our Administrator, Susan Gidley tooled around on a scooter (she broke her foot) that let her handle all aspects of the event. I truly enjoyed relaxing and socializing with other FEI attendees. I especially liked seeing a lot of new members and members that I don’t get to see often at our regular meetings.
As always it was great getting together with members, sponsors and guests for our summer social event. I look forward to next year! Who knows what kind of enticing faire awaits the Chapter in 2017? Whatever it is, we hope you will join us!
Janeen McGreal has over 25 years of business experience as a financial executive acting most recently as the Controller for Streetmac LLC. Ms. Mcgreal is a Past President of Chicago Chapter of Financial Executives International (FEI) 2012-2014.