STAFF R EPORT The 17th Annual World Series of Cuero sponsored by the Cuero Chamber of Commerce, Agriculture and Visitors Bureau drew 130 “enthusiastic players going all in” to support business and community growth, according to chamber Executive Director Angie Cuellar.
“This event takes an incredible amount of preparation and coordination, but we’re proud to see it continue as one of our most successful fundraisers,” Cuellar said. “The strong turnout and support from the community make all the hard work worth it.”
The tournament at the Venue on Church Street crowned Champion Ken Tieu, Springwood Pharmacy of Victoria, followed by Lance Tipten in second place and Cuero’s own Adam Arroyo in third. Arroyo also earned the distinction of being this year’s Last Business Standing, representing Cuero Lube & Tire. The remaining top 10 players included Scott Callin in fourth, Eric Draper in fifth, Diana Korczynsky in sixth, David Dohman in seventh, Colby Blahuta in eighth, Colton Jacob in ninth, and Ian Ramirez rounding out the top ten. The casino prize winner was Will Carbonara Jr.
The event also featured professional casino tables and entertainment by Shane & Renee Total Entertainment, with a lively atmosphere and plenty of competition, Cuellar said. Werner’s provided a delicious catered meal for attendees, and Deutsch & Deutsch Jewelers of Victoria sponsored the sterling silver championship bracelet awarded to the poker tournament winner, she noted.
This year’s sponsors included Cuero Lube & Tire and ThriveFuel Marketing as Presenting Sponsors; Deutsch & Deutsch Jewelers of Victoria and the City of Cuero as Straight Flush Sponsors; Weber Motor Company as the 4 of a Kind Sponsor; GBRA, Cuero Regional Hospital, Exibix, and Victoria Radio Works as Full House Sponsors; and Ancira Partners, First State Bank, Wagner’s Hardware & Gifts, Cuero National Bank, RNC Insurance, and Leather Creations by Renee Wilke as Flush Sponsors.
With the cards dealt, the chips stacked, and the community gathered, the 17th Annual WSOC proved once again to be a competitive and exciting evening that benefits the Chamber’s efforts to support Cuero’s business community, Cuellar said. Planning is already underway for next year’s tournament, promising another exciting day of poker and community spirit, she added.
