The 1997 World Series of Poker

“Nick Stabile (Sunset Beach’s Mark) gives testament to beginner’s luck in Las Vegas. He walked away with a second place win - $500 and a Binion’s poker champ jacket – from a tournament. Binion’s Horseshoe’s World Series of Poker. “I had a great time, and I got some great pre-game pointers from Huck Seed,” says Stabile, referring to the reigning world champion of poker.“He was generous with his advice andfun to talk to.

I also met Susie Isaacs, the women’s champion. She’s won two years in a row. And I’d never seen so much money in chips.” Stabile had as much as $8,000 in front of him during the casino-staked games.

“The real surprise was seeing $1 million worth of chips spell out Happy Mother’s Day that morning,” says Stabile, who handed out flowers, hugs and good wishes to female tournament players. Other celebs who participated in the weekend festivities included Drew Carey, Milton Berle and Richard Moll.” ~ Anne Marie Allocca & Lorraine Zenka