My name is Jason Hallman of Alabaster, AL. I am taking the time to write you on an issue I feel strongly about. I understand that online poker as well as “home games” are illegal, as of right now. I am an avid poker player both online and at home and I feel it is time to reverse these actions in which President push signed into law. People will continue to play and shouldn’t be looked upon as criminals for playing one of the oldest games in the history of man. Please take time to review this request to decriminalize all Poker games online and elsewhere within these United States of America.

Nick, Birmingham, AL

Poker has become one of my favorite pass-times and, until last year, I really enjoyed being able to play from the privacy of my own home. For less than the cost of a movie ticket and popcorn I could have several hours of entertainment! And if I had spent that money on a movie I would never see it again. At least with a poker tournament I have the chance of winning my money back, and if I don’t then nothing is lost. I still have a great time playing poker.

Jerry, West Memphis, AR

Playing online is relaxing. No driving to the casino. No loud mouth immature people to put up with. Tax and Regulate internet poker. I’m a Vietnam veteran with bad eye sight. Enough said.

Ted, El Mirage, AZ

I am a 75-year-old retired Army officer. I learned to play poker as a young Air Force sergeant may,many years ago.Obviously, for many years, the only poker games available were the “neighborhood games,” usually once or twice a month. Or on a once every year or so trip to Las Vegas to play in a casino.Now, there are lots of casinos with games. But playing in a casino requires travel, parking, etc.That makes it a “once in a while” endeavor.But online poker allows me to practice, to hone my game, every day so that I’m more preparedwhen I do travel to a casino.My only reservation with online poker is that the only online sites are overseas -unregulated and currently illegal in the U.S. That’s why I play only “play money” games on the web. I believe that ourgovernment is missing a bigtime boat by not legitimizing and regulating online poker! Get those sites on U.S. soil! Get the many potential $$ in taxes from both those sites and the players who play on those sites!Our lawmakers need a dose of reality! Poker is a traditional game of skill (okay, there’s also luckinvolved) and has become HUGE in the past few years thanks to TV coverage.Let’s make online poker legal, regulate it – and tax it!

Frank, Lake Havasu, AZ

Spend a little LESS time enforcing laws on “illegal” gaming and spend MORE time stopping that ILLEGAL war you guys got going over there.

It seems that our rights are being taken away little by little. The fact that this bill past because it was added into a security bill is mindboggling. Alot of us players are homebound for what ever reason and should have the right to enjoy and spend our money in whatever way we decide. You can sitll play online by making deposits through money orders or cashier checks. The government is losing tax dollars by not making this legal as it should be. I notice that there is still legal football and sports betting and I sure wonder why? Could it be that the powers that be bet on those sports and in turn did not add them to the bill. This just shows us all how twisted and one sided our laws can be.

Keith, Surprise, AZ

Poker has a great place in the history of this country. I have enjoyed playing poker for many years and was very happy when online poker became available. I am a non smoker and love the fact that I can play from the comfort of my home and do not have to subject myself to second hand smoke playing in a casino. One of my very close friends is disabled and has a very hard time getting out of the house. He enjoys poker also and spends many hours playing from the comfort of his home. He has become very skilled poker and has become a very good player.

I find it very distressing our government would try to limit our freedom and the ability to play poker in a safe and very enjoyable setting. I find it equally disheartening that the government would not at least look at a source of additional tax revenue at a time when we are running record deficits. legalizing, regulating, and taxing online poker would add much needed tax dollars to our system and only tax those who choose to play.

Please support reasonable legislation to allow for online poker that does not limit freedoms and will benefit our society as a whole.

Thank you.

Marcia, mountain ranch, CA

To whom it may concern, My name is Marcia Duggan and I am a poker player. Unfortunately I also suffer from a disease called lupus. The side effects of this disease for me entails a lot of joint pain and a lot of discomfort. The concentration that I use when I play poker does SO much to take my mind off of my discomfort it is amazing! I’m not a big money player but enjoy playing games with small pots because you get a better caliber of players in games involving money. It is not an option for me to leave my house to play in a casino. I have really missed playing on cash tables on-line. I am a registered voter and have never missed an election. Thank you for your consideration.

Mark, Sacramento, CA

Hello,

Please support HR2046 and HR2610. Poker is a game primarily of skill, not of chance and shouldn’t be lumped in with games that are purely chance for regulatory purposes. I’m sure appropriate regulation and taxation are far better solutions than outright bans. Last I checked there was a rather important document to this country that ensures me the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Poker is part of my life and is a liberty I should be allowed to pursue to enhance my happiness.

Dear Mr. Lundgren: I called your local office re: poker and your receptionist laughed at me and said she doubted you would consider it important. I’ve voted for you over and over (I’m over 60) but the next vote is predicated on this matter. It is ludicrous that I can “bet” on an already recorded TV show via my telephone or by a predestined lottery ticket at the grocery store but cannot enter a $5 poker game on the internet.

I can prove my age and identity sufficiently to apply for social security online. I can prove my identity and location sufficiently to buy household goods online. Make rules re: identification and give me back the game I love. No need to keep me anonymous.

Sandra Pate, 7734 Las Lilas Ct., Citrus Heights, CA 95621

James, San Jose, CA

Zoe,

Our new millenium did not begin with an era of peace and prosperity. As i watched the Twin Towers crumble, my family dissolved and bankruptcy ensued. A broken spirit, suffering with situational depression I began playing online poker and it was healthy. My mind reactivated. I began to care again. To chat with others was good, cheap therapy. Lines of communication widened for my son and I as we discussed startegies of the game in its many formats. I have been playing over four years now and have recovered emmotionally and financially.

Our country is missing out on revenues. That is reason enough to lift restrictions and allow sites to operate within our borders. U.S. (and foreign) players will contribute revenues used for the benefit of our country. This would help heal our countries misguided financial path.

Thanks for gaining one more perspevctive from millions of poker players.

gary, san jose, CA

it is wrong that a “lame duck” can sneak his religion into a new law.

no educated person can honestly deny that skill is ,in the long term, what brings winning at poker.

Daniel, Valencia, CA

My name is Daniel Lench. I am a professional actor, retired professional litigation paralegal, husband of 20 years, father of two: daughter a freshman attending University of Santa Cruz, son a junior in high school -both very good students.

I have been playing on-line poker since its inception. I am not a gambling addict, nor do I ever play beyond my means. Personally, whether on-line or at a live table, I recommend to any addicted gambler that they seek professional help. Like any other addiction it should be taken seriously.

However, for those of us who do not have problems with gambling, but instead use it for the recreational sport or entertainment it is meant to be, or for those who are professional gamblers and use it as their livelihood, on-line gambling is a welcome haven.

Given my time commitments to my family and my profession, I do not often have the time to visit casinos to play poker and on-line poker has been a genuine blessing to me, allowing me to practice and enjoy the game on my schedule.

Please don’t take this enjoyment away from those of us who are able to use it sensibly.

Thank you.

If an adult choses to play poker online or in an establishment it is his God given right.

It is time government stops meddling in things that do not apply.

If someone wins they should pay their taxes just like anything else you make money with.

But for the government to step in and say online poker is bad and not proper, it’s time for them to step back, your pushing it to far as to what’s right and wrong.

The government has better things to do then start making rules about people’s entertainment or living whether in a gaming room or online.

Take care of things that are important like the security of our country, the environment, hunger and unemployment.

Michael, Victorville, CA

I feel that i should be able to spend MY money as i choose, not be told by congress. As a retired American one of my favorite passtimes is playing poker online and congress it working to stop me. Please allow me the right to enjoy myself as i choose.

Wayne, Granada Hills, CA

First it’s the UIGEA, now what?

Please leave us alone. We are just trying to have friendly little home poker games.

With so many important, dangerous, and harmful things in our nation today. The pre-occupation with stopping poker games is ridiculous waste of time and money.

Heath Insurance, Job training, Jobs, affordable housing, food that is safe to eat, security from terrorsim, corrupt corporate executives…

These are things Americans care about. Pursuing unimportant trivial things when more important problems remain unresolved anger us.

I assure you, most Americans believe there are more important things you should be solving. Or we will get someone else in there who will.

Find something meaningful to do, something that will make us cheer. There are plenty of problems to solve, poker played by Americans is not a national problem.

Lisa, NORTHRIDGE, CA

My husband and I spent many hours and thousands of dollars in local bars drinking and playing legalized lotto games. Being hard-working responsible adults we realized the incredible amount of money being thrown away. We have sinced joined a purely social poker group and have been hosting and playing at home games. If you truly want to see some pathetic and degenerate gambling you need not look further than a local bar. I have witnessed countless working class throwing away hard earned money on unbelievably unfavorable odds. Many have told me they blew entire paychecks and had a gambling problem. Poker is an American past time and the reason it’s growing is beacause it’s FUN TO PLAY!!!!!

Harold, N Hollywood, CA

Poker is a game of skill. I enjoy games of skill and the government has decided that I should not play the way I want. Nanny state – these people will be voted out of office.

Poker is a game that I enjoy on so many levels, it is a game that I will play for the rest of my life, legal or not. It is a game of skill, and a game of people. The internet is a very important part of the game for me because the rake is so minimal. It is actually possible to make a profit whereas in a casino, the rake is too large in relation to the stakes that I play to come away a winner. I still choose to play there even though I know I will lose because I enjoy the live game. I play within my limits, I do not have a gambling issue, in fact, I do not play any other gambling games because they are gambling. I do not play games where the odds are against me. If the government considers poker gambling, then all gambling should be outlawed. The government can not choose at whim what can be allowed or not without consequence.

Jeremy, San Fernando, CA

I started playing poker with friends earlier this year. Poker has taught me to think through situations more clearly and to make the right decisions for the long run rather than live for the moment. Poker has taught me a maturity and self discipline that was lacking from my life. I also love the mental exercise of staying one step ahead of my opponent. Poker is without a doubt a game of skill! I have to say that my number one opponent has been myself. Even though I am playing other possibly better players than myself, I am constantly competing with myself to improve and not compromise my game. That new found self control has been beneficial in limitless ways in my everyday life!

There are thousands and thousands of professional poker players who make their living by maintaining discipline at the poker tables online and in casinos year after year. There is no such thing as professional slot machine or roulette players who win year after year by applying skill without cheating. I strongly believe that Poker is a great American past time that has provided a wonderful social experience for millions and demonstrates in the purist way that patience and self discipline pays in the long run, which is a concept many Americans could benefit from!

Brent, N Hollywood, CA

To all members of Congress:

I find poker to be a provocative mixture of chance and skill where skilled players tend to excel over time. The fact that the same players end up at tournament final tables is indicative of the skill required to excel at the game. I myself have improved over time as my experience level has increased. One cannot improve at a game of chance. To Republicans, please embrace the heritage of your party and keep the government out of my life. To Democrats, this is your chance to regulate and tax the companies that are still making poker available to Americans but avoiding taxes.

Steve, SunValley, CA

The UIGEA is ill concieved, hastily drafted legislation that could never have stood on it’s own merrit. Do not allow it to go forward.

Regulate it, tax it but don’t ban online poker.

Evelyn, Los Angeles, CA

Dear Sir,I am sending this email to you to ask you to co-sponsor these two bills, HR2610 and HR2046.

Thank you.

Poker is a hobby that I love and pursue. As a 31 year old adult male with a college education and a stable career, Poker is something that I use to break up the routine. I’m not that athletic, so poker is something that I can work on skill-wise and still get that competion that I crave. This is a supposedly free country, I have my education, I pay my taxes, I don’t break any laws. If I want to play a card game with my OWN money, then I should be able to do so. So instead of worrying about what responsible adults do in their own free time, how bout you worry about ending the war, fixing the healthcare system, and saving the environment…crucial things that poker has NOTHING to do with.

Beth, Los Angeles, CA

The new Prohibition?? How ridiculous! And what a waste of time and resources when there are so many other issues that need the attention of this country’s lawmakers.

James, Fullerton,, CA

Dr. Congressman Royce

I live in your district (Fullerton) and am a registered Republican because I feel that Democrats do NOT represent the personal freedom guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution/Bill of Rights. I hope and pray that you DO, and will defeat this bill’s invation of my personal rights to freedom of association.

It is my personal feeling that the ONLY reason for this attempt to legislate “morality” in this area is the IMMORAL desire for more dictatorial control over us common folk, and also the insatiable desire for more tax income, should regulation of the interned and its activities wrongly come under the control of government.

Please, please, PLEASE realize that access to the internet for ANY reason is NOT the legal concern of the U.S. government, nor any other public agency. Only non-free governments have interfered with man’s inherent right to freedom of information and association, and — at least at present — I don’t believe the U.S. government has yet enslaved out population (except fiscallly).

I am 71 years yound, and I would be extremely disappointed in you should you not stand up and fight for my freedom in this matter.

If there is ever a game that should be the National game of the United States it should be poker. I have recently discovered poker and it mimic the spirit of what the United States is about and was founded on.

1. The game of poker requires skill and hard work-it took skill & hard work to found this country and this country is filled with many skilled & hard working individuals.

2.The game of poker requires discipline-the discipline to wait for the right moments to make a move, make a call, or make a fold. Throughout the history of America, discipline has been a stable of the American will & way.

3.The game of poker requires luck-lets face it, the United States and it citizens have experienced luck throughout history to build upon this great nation.

So in my opinion the game of poker mimics life and many different facets. It not only provides pleasure to millions of people, it is a game that requires all of the above-mentioned points.

So why on Earth is there even an effort to ban online poker that provides millions of people with a multitude of fun and excitement? Why on Earth would consenting adults be banned from playing on-line poker when they can still play lotteries & bet on horses?

Plus, there is billions in potential tax revenue to collect if the appropriate federal regulations were put in place to ensure that minors & problem gamblers were excluded and provided help, respectively.

Finally, polls show that 75% of Americans oppose banning online poker-I certainly hope that the government that represents the people and myself don’t succumb to the tactics & beliefs of the minority. It would be a sad day if the government were to ban and censor the American people from such a historic and great American game such as poker.

I ask you Honorable Sen. Royce to support HR2046 “Internet Gambling Regulation and Enforcement Act,” and HR 2610 “Skill Game Protection Act.” Thank you for your time and consideration.

Rick, Cypress, CA

I find online poker to be a great stress reliever. I get to chat with people from all over the world, and play a game that takes concentration, So I don’t have to think about the stresses of work. I don’t have a financial problem with online poker because I primarily use the free websites. When I do gamble I set reasonable limits (as a responsible adult). I never wager more than $20 per month, and I have th full support of my family to play. I think most of us that play are of this group–responsible adults enjoying the game of poker within our financial means. Keeping online poker legal makes it easier to regulate. If it is made illegal, it will be forced underground, where regulation and counseling are impossible. I can already bet on other things online–like lottery and horses (which seem more random and impulsive than a game that requires thought). For those oppossed to poker online–they don’t have to play. There are already reasonable technological advances tha allow prohibitiojn of minors from playing (It’s probably easier to buy cigarettes illegally than it is to play poker underage) So in summary, Please co-sponsor and support HR 2046 “Internet Gambling Regulation and Enforcement Act” and HR 2610 “Skill Game Protection Act because responsible adults can play and enjoy poker responsibly.

James, Orange, CA

I have played poker responsibly and profitably for over 40 years. Now, because of the internet and my retirement, I can enjoy playing poker for short periods any day or time, matching my skills against players from all over our country and the world. I am urging all members of Congress and especially my representative, Congressman Royce, to keep poker legal.

I am a chess master (a Life Master, in fact) rated nationally and internationally. I find that poker requires every bit as much skill as chess. I think I am very well qualified to make this judgement.

Play of games of skill between consenting adults is not the kind of freedom that should be taken away from us, especially when other forms of wagering that require no skill are condoned.

Dana, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

Attempting to regulate on-line poker is just one more example of self-important busybodies trying to impose their value judgments on others. I am a responsible adult, I do my job, support my family and pay my taxes, so keep your nose out of my personal business!

Jeff, Rowland Hts, CA

Regulate it and tax it! Poker is a pasttime for some and profession for others. Do what’s right and let Americans have their freedom of choice.

Stephen, Mission Viejo, CA

Im a retiree from Mission Viejo. I use to be able to and look forward to inexpensive poker tournaments over the internet. At my age, I don’t care to drive 40 miles to play poker. Recent legislation about a year ago took this away from me. Please pass legislation to reinstate and allow poker over the internet.

Debra, Ontario, CA

I play online poker almost every day! I only play for ‘play money’, but it sure beats going to the casinos and blowing hundreds of dollars.

I also believe that for people who are not physically able to get out, it is a great source of entertainment.

Eric, San Juan Capistrano, CA

I became interested in poker just 3 months ago. Through a study of the game (mostly reading some of the better books out there, and playing lowest-stakes online games but also in card rooms) I have become a consistent winner at poker. The reason is that poker is a game of skill, not chance.

The pursuit of learning this game has sharpened my analytical skills. One book I read about reading people at the table sharpened my observation skills, which has helped me a great deal in my job.

For more information you might want to read a blog I just started about my quest to to learn all I can about poker and be a winning player.

http://beatpoker.blogspot.com

Dear Sirs,

I learned to play poker when I was a boy. At the age of 13. While in the Boy Scouts on the Island of Catalina. We played for pennies. I do not recall if I won or lost but it was the experience I remember. Even at that age sitting on a makeshift bench holding flashlights to see the cards, I found the game of poker more fun than the many of the activities I participated in while in camp. It was after a long day of activities, much of it physical and mental exercise in the quest to earn merit badges on my way to Eagle Scout. Since then, I have played poker on a regular basis. It has been 35 years since that summer in Catalina, and while my life has changed, the premise of why I play remains the same. Let me explain. I am a working professional. I am the President of a machine shop located in Southern California. I also own an export business and an ultrasonic manufacturing company. Obviously, I am a very busy person. I do not watch TV. I have no time. My life is very structured and my one pleasurable evening past time, specifically playing poker on line, is my way to relax.

If I were to look at my “career” of poker throughout the years, and totaled up all the financial losses and gains, I would guess that I am about even. So, why then do I play you ask? For the pleasure of the game and how it makes me feel. I feel good.

When I first heard that this access of poker on the Internet was jeopardized, my initial reaction was surprise. To me, playing poker was a freedom of living in the United States of America and playing it on line was an added benefit to anyone that enjoys and appreciates those freedoms. Now my freedom, my one avenue of relieving my stress, my one after work activity that brings me joy, is threatened. The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act has me frustrated enough to write this letter.

From that first experience of playing poker at that age of 13 until now, I regret none of my “poker career”. I would do it all again and more. “I am and will always be a poker player”. I hope my message of what poker means to me does not fall upon deaf ears. I respectfully ask that my freedom is not taken away.

Clay, Irvine, CA

Online poker allows me to play cards while residing in California with my dad and two brothers and best freiend all whom live thousands of miles away from me in Nebraska and Colorado. Without access to online poker, we would lose out on this quality time.

Clay

Ryan, Aliso Viejo, CA

Please co-sponsor and support HR 2046 “Internet Gambling Regulation and Enforcement Act” and HR 2610 “Skill Game Protection Act”.

brandy, laguna beach, CA

It’s Un-American to tell adult citizens what we can and cannot do with our time and money. Poker doesn’t hurt anyone and most who play this game of skill are no different then any other skill game players. We choose to play poker on our own accord and are responseable for our own actions!

Poker and me, is a great way to relax after work… Its cheep entertainment. helps you with your math skills, just alaround makes you a better person… Please keep online poker legal… one day it could help me become a professional poker player. I have been playing on legal sites for a year, 3 weeks ago i went to my first casino poker game and won because of online poker…

winning your first live poker tournament that was great, and all thanks to online poker it taught me how to do it… Dont read the books, because 100,000 people probably already have done that…. Start online where its cheep and fun

Please make it legal so we can play regual games

Debbie, Aurora, CO

i love playing poker and its my american RIGHT!!!!!

Raymond, new fairfield, CT

I want to urge the members of congress to adopt legislation allowing internet poker. I understand the need for oversight and regulation, but am strongly against prohibition. I am a retired teacher who taught in the public schools of Connecticut for 38 years. In my retirement I find poker a mentally challenging use of my time where I “meet” many interesting players and enjoy the challenge and excitement of playing poker. In most states in the USA state lotteries are legal. Virtually anyone can play this, spend as much as they want, and it involves no skills what so ever. Much of poker is skill based, and those playing must provide credible evidence that they are an adult able to participate. America has always been a country where its’ citizens had free will and choice. Congress needs to allow myself and many many others the right to exercise our desire to play internet poker.

John, Washington, DC, DC

I want to make changes to the text on this page:

In personal meetings on Capitol Hill October 23-24, PPA members will present your Member of Congress with “testimonials” from constituents and voters such as yourself about the positive influence of poker in our lives, why poker is a true game of skill and why regulation is the best public policy approach, NOT prohibition. It only takes 5 minutes to send us your personal thoughts about the value of online poker to you.

Just scroll down to send us your personal comments. We’ll not only take them to your Member of Congress, but we’ll publish some (anonymously) on the Poker Players Alliance Web site to help drum up more support for online poker.

John, Bridgeville, DE

Yes, both my wife and I play poker… It is hard to get to Atlantic City every time we want to play poker. As we are both in our 60’s the drive to Atlantic City is getting longer and longer (which we gladly do anyway). Since we found the online poker (Many different sights) both of us play at least every other night. Please do not take away our enjoyment…

John and Sharon Collins

A. Keith, Dover, DE

I fully support the current bills in Congress that would allow Legal Online Poker in the United States. As a 32 year Military veteran, a 20 year State of DE employee, college graduate with three degrees and a father of four, I believe the demographic I belong to deserves to be listened to.

I am not addicted to gambling. I do not wager more than I can afford to lose. I play poker because I love the game, the comaradarie of the game, the thrill of the action, even the heartache of not winning the hand. It’s great fun.

I”ve taught my children how to count, how to do basic algegra, how to maintain composure, how to have fun, all through the game of Poker. It can be a wonderful learning tool if used correctly. And it’s just plain fun!

Please continue to work towards making this game legal in the United States.

Tim, Seaford, DE

Congress, online poker serves as fun entertainment to me. I play late at night when I get home from work. All my friends and family are usually in bed. I play for real money as well, for the added thrill and to make me play tighter than I would if I had nothing at stake but my time. I play small stakes, but I enjoy myself. I’ve only been to a casino once but online poker did help me with my live game. I was the only one out of 5 of us that came out of the casino without a loss. I broke even. Much better than most people that go to a casino for their first time. I understand that most of these online sites are over seas right now. Bring the money home. Let the American companies operate and tax them accordingly.

Edward, New Castle, DE

I have been disabled for the last 5 years and I am very limited to want I can do. I cannot work and I can only do small things around the house. Most of my time is being on my computer and my main for of entertainment is online poker. I love the game because it is a game a skill so I am not only entertained but I also get to excercise my mind and its keep my mind off my pain. Without online poker my life would be very boring also I feel this is a free country and the government has not right to tell me how to spend my money expecially since there are so many other types of gambling allowed.

Brian, Newark, DE

Prohibitions don’t work. The UIGEA effectively bans online poker in the U.S. and drives those players underground. Meanwhile, poker continues to grow in popularity nationwide. 75 percent of Americans oppose banning online poker.

If Congress allows me to bet on horses and state lotteries online, why can’t I play a skill game like poker with other consenting adults? Please co-sponsor and support HR 2046 “Internet Gambling Regulation and Enforcement Act” and HR 2610 “Skill Game Protection Act”.

mary, new castle, DE

I am 81 years old and enjoy playing and, also watching the different poker games on tv. Texas hold em is one of my favorites because I like watching the different strategy of the players.

Rod, Littletown, FL

Seriously poker is fun but online poker seems to be very rigged so i dont really care if they ban this bs.

In September of 2004 I deposited $50.00 in an online poker account. Since that time I have made no further deposits and I play poker online on a daily basis. While I understand the possibility of addiction to gambling, I see no reason for those of us who behave responsably to be penalized. As a voter in your district, I am closely following this issue and urge your serious attention to it.

Jeff, Tampa, FL

My name is Jeff Liss and I love the game of poker. Living in Tampa, Florida it is perfectly legal for me to play in one of the 4 local poker rooms. When I play it costs me about $60 for each game. For budget reasons I can only play no more than two games per sitting – once or twice a month. I have searched out smaller buy in games but the local poker rooms need to make money and $60 is the smallest buy in available. The answer for me is online. I can enjoy the game for as little as $1.00 and if I want to risk it and test my skill I just might move up to a $6.00 game. A $60 deposit to my favorite site will usually allow me to play for a month or longer. I find it dissapointing that my government has made it so difficult for me to play the game I love at a cost that I can afford.

Donna, Inverness, FL

Poker is a true game of skill. Regulation is the best public policy approach, NOT prohibition.

Poker has had a tremendous positive influence in our lives, and in mine personally. It is a true game of skill, which equalizes the competition. Regardless of a players physical limitations, the poker table allows all people who have the desire to complete on an even playing field.

Just this past August at the 2007 World Series of Poker main event championship, a legally blind man demonstrated that very fact. In a field of nearly 6,400 players, he cashed around the 200 mark!

I am also physically challenged as a result of breaking my left leg in two and my ankle completely off in 2000. For the better part of the past seven years, I experienced mind-numbing pain. However, as a direct result of online poker, I was able to keep my mind stimulated, occupied, and focused on something other than the intense pain.

After six surgeries and a subsequent leg-ankle fusion, through one of the few online poker sites that still take American players, I won my entry into the 2007 World Series of Poker Championship. This was the only way that I could possibly compete in this event with a $10,000 entry fee!

Despite my physical challenges, I, too, made it into the money and reached 179 in this huge playing field of 6,358. Besides providing a huge personal self-esteem boost, since I have been unable to work at a traditional job for the last seven years, this also provided a welcomed income.

Poker is a true game of skill. Regulation is the best public policy approach, NOT prohibition.

James, Brooksville, FL

I live on Social Security Disablility, I have very few things that I can do, but one that I have loved all my adult life is poker. Since 1999, I have been playing on line for small stakes, and fortunately have been able to supplement my small fixed income. So, it’s fun, profitable, and I can do it with no danger to the environment, no waste of gasoline, no traffic, and a very small original investment. I put at risk $50, and have cashed out every month since.

Please remember that we who are stay-at-home people have things that please us, costs nothing to the taxpayers, and provides a great deal of entertainment, with social contact with people all over the world.

This is VERY IMPORTANT to many of us Seniors.

Vote to allow poker on line.

I appreciate all that poker has done for me besides paying some bills, but for the skill of playing poker and knowing I am one of the greats to play poker gives me pride. I love to play poker online and live at casinos and there is no need to ban online poker gambling because it not only keeps people out of trouble but also helps to build skill that way one day maybe I could be the next Doyle Brunson!!!! I vote for making poker gambling legal for people of age. thanks serious poker novice Marcus Lewis

Andrew, ocala, FL

As a voter and a tax payer in Marion County Florida, I value my personal rights and liberties. Poker is a game in which I greatly enjoy playing after a hard day of work. It gives me an opportunity to unwind and relax and while I only play very small stakes (25 cent games) the inclusion of money into the game gives it a higher competitive edge. I believe that the right to swing my fist ends at the next man’s nose. I am hurting no one with this recreational activity and find it very disturbing that the government feels they must step in. I earn the money I spend and as I am hurting no one I believe I should be able to spend it how ever I see fit. Thank you for your time and know I will support any politician who supports the rights of the individual to do as they please, and oppose any who do not… and this includes the right to play poker online for money.

Richard, Orlando, FL

With the popularity of poker, both on-line and in “brick and morter” sites across the U.S., it seems like it is time for congress to step up and listen to the people who vote them into office. With the growth of technology, both now and in the future, sites are able to combat underage visitors and are able to supply a more secure service. Poker sites are a business, just as other services that are now supplied online, from shopping to insurance. I don’t always have the time to drive to a poker room within my state and the internet is a safe, convienant way for me to test my skill against other players. I am lending my support, and asking you to do the same, for HR 2046 and HR 2610.

CJ, Orlando, FL

I have been playing poker recreationally for over 20 years. It is disappointing on many levels that our government has recently enacted regulation in order to prohibit online play. Billions of tax dollars are being lost to companies overseas which makes no sense. The UIGEA is simply not effective. Although I am still able to play online the profits of the sites I frequent are not from the United States, therefore I am forced to patronize a foregin company. Additionally, I confused at why online play is targeted, I can play in a variety card rooms, bet on horceracing, dog racing, the state lottery and jai alai all within a short driving distance of my home.

Lets not give away an entire industry of which Americans are the primary contributors. Why should potential tax dollas and jobs go to a foregin country?

Please co-sponsor and support HR 2046 “Internet Gambling Regulation and Enforcement Act” and HR 2610 “Skill Game Protection Act”.

I had no use for Computers because I knew nothing about it. My Son graduated from college [IN COMPUTERS] so he built me a computer.,and a whole new world opened up to me. I was everywhere visiting and talking to loads of people and family and never leaving my chair. My brother was next on the list to get a computer and he found…… POKER!!!! So of course I had to check it out as I enjoyed poker but was to timid to play in person. I played quite often as I was winning and there was no stopping me .. the rush, excitement ..and the hours of fun. I met alot of people from around the world and may visit some ., but the point is I wouldnt have none of this without POKER!!! I started winning REAL money and then we got banned. is this America? Banned from a card game? unbelievable of all the disasters in the world that the higher up wasted valueable time to discuss and ban POKER!! I took it as a joke for a long time untill the poker sites I was playing on said NO AMERCIANS ALLOWED!!!! Us Americans do it all for everyone in the World and we are not allowed to play poker on the Internet? Congress you cant be serious to ban a card game that endangers knowone . Please turn to more important issues for example …GLOBAL WARMING..ETC.I’m sure there is uncountable people out there that feel the same as me. BRING BACK AMERICAN POKER!!!!!

James, Tampa, FL

I want to make sure that one of America’s greatest contests of skill does get lumped in with a host of mindless games of chance.

The game of poker has always been a contest of the participants abilities to review the facts and make decisions based on logic. This game fully tests a persons thought processes and their ability to pay attention to detail.

I have found poker to be a great way to stay mentally sharp and a powerfull tool to develop logic skills. I plan to use this as a tool to teach these skills to my children.

Please make sure that this great American pasttime continues to thrive and that future generations may enjoy it.

This issue is very important to me as a voting constituent.

Kenneth, brandon, FL

Poker is a game of skill for certain of its players. Much of its players play for pure entertainment or other reasons and these players are going to end up losing at the end of the year. Players such as me approach poker more like a job, and at the end of the year end up ahead in terms of $ and winnings.

Michael, Tampa, FL

Poker is a fantastic game that I love to play. But now… playing seems to make me a criminal and that is unconstitutional in my humble opnion. I can go buy a lottery ticket 24 hours a day but I cant enjoy a game of poker in the comfort of my own home. Poker should be regulated not banned. Think of all the tax dollars that could be generated by regulating and taxing online poker. Poker is a game of skill and is as American as Baseball. To ban it because of religious vews like…”Gambling is Bad” is ignorant at best. Please dont make law abbiding citizens criminals over a game.

I’m a single, semi-retired nurse; I have a nest egg and income that sees to my needs; I have private insurance and don’t draw on any government agency. I have always taken care of myself and my family with no assistance whatsoever including any social programs or food stamps, welfare, unemployment, and other crutches that the government has freely given out to the point where we have fostered a nation of lazy, freeloading, system-sucking leeches, void of any sense of responsibility or work ethic. I choose to gamble. I use my disposable in a manner that I enjoy. Some women spend money on hair and nails every week, and buy new clothes constantly. I don’t need or want that; I don’t like to drive around at night. I am safe and more comfortable in my home. Online poker is an enjoyable, effortless pasttime that I enjoy immensely. I used to enjoy the online casinos, but thanks to other fools in congress who “morally object” to it (this, coming from politicians with less-than-righteous bakcgrounds)…the same forked tongue individuals who are pro-abortion and pro-gay.

Leave online poker alone. Its an abomination and an insult to be told where and how I can spend my entertainment money. One neighbor spends $30 a day on booze; another $40 a week on cigarettes; another $50 a week on hair, $30 on nails and at least $300 on ridiculous shoes and handbags. My taxes fund abortions and gay rights legislation, which I am appalled at. Now the government slaps me again in the face by preventing a pasttime of my choosing. Its not like its going to have any impact on the morals of the country…work on illegal immigration, unplanned pregnancy, promiscuity, illegal drugs use and trafficking, homosexual lifestyles, etc. Then, when you get all that figured, you can feel free to impart your righteous indignation on me. The reason that horses are legal? A certain racing organization made large donations to certain campaigns. Lotteries? The odds of winning are a heck of a lot lower than any poker hand.

Steve, Naples, FL

I play poker on line and I vote. Never ever missed a vote even when I was in the army. I’m watching very carefully.

Linda, Punta Gorda/Deep Creek, FL

I want you to understand what on-line poker has meant to me in the past two years. I’m 63yrs. old, my husband, 73 yrs. old was diagnosed with cancer twice in 13mos. First, lung cancer and had to have a partial lung removal then rectal cancer. He had to undergo chemo and radiation prior to surgery then chemo again after surgery. He had to have an ileostomy for 4mos. after surgery then surgery again to reverse the ileostomy. Just prior to my husband’s lung cancer diagnosis, my 83yr. old mother, living in Ohio, fell and broke her arm and hip. I had to go to Ohio and bring her to our home in Florida. Three weeks after my husband was diagnosed with cancer a second time, my mother was diagnosed with rectal cancer and had to undergo chemo and radiation treatment (both mother and husband at the same time.) During all this, I have been the sole caretaker, cook, housekeeper, shopper, chauffer, book keeper, etc. Hopefully, you get the idea!? So, what has saved my health and sanity; ON LINE POKER!! Poker has given me an oppurtunity to “escape,” relax, do something I love, converse with people and yet be “here” and available to my family. If government is having difficulty coming up with “important” issues to resolve, I can give you some ideas: S.S., Health Care, Education, Interest Rates, Taxes, War in Iraq, Junk Imports, Economy, and many more I can think of if you need them! You, the government, need to get out of our personal lives and concentrate on bringing this country back to “The Land of Oppurtunity” for ALL Americans!! I not only “want” online poker, I “NEED” it!

Jim, Port St. Lucie, FL

It is one of the few ways to maintain my competitive edge with global personalities. Our gonernment (or ‘world global directors’) seek to take our US Nationality/Competitiveness away. They regulate us and show permissiveness to all foreigners. This attitude is not what made this country or will maintain it.

As a citizen of this great nation I cherish the many freedoms that our country grants us. In the case of poker it is a game of skill quite like chess (also very enjoyable and competitive)only with multiple opponents. I am an responsible adult who abides by the laws of this land and pays my fair share of taxes. Understandably i do not get to pick and choose where all my tax dollars go but I do get a vote as to who may represent me in congress. I play poker and enjoy poker and am of legal age and sound mind. I do not risk anyone’s harm in negligence and my playing of this game, As an American citizen I think it would be of great interest to legalize and monitor and tax as we would cigarettes or alcohol, you would actually do a great service to this nation in being able to raise taxes to put towards many legitimate needs that we have here in the U.S.A. please also note I said the United States Of America and not Iraq, Afganistan etc etc. We send enough there already. I am only 1 voice but rest assured many people feel quite the same way these days. I thank you sincerely for your time in this matter.

Anderson, Port Saint Lucie, FL

I have being playing online poker for a couple of years now. I think is one of the great’s games out there. The ban on online poker makes no sense. I think if you are an adult and want to play online poker you should be allowed. You see, the great thing about being able to play online is that you are at your home with your family and not out somewhere driving maybe getting drunk and getting in trouble. Let online poker liveà If we kill online poker now what is next?????