Add Event My Events Log In

Upcoming Events

    We see you appreciate a good vintage. But there comes a time to try something new. Click here to head over to the redesigned Louisville.com. It's where you'll find all of our latest work. And plenty of the good ol' stuff, too, looking better than ever.

    Bit to Do

    Print this page

    Last night's Derby Poker Championship was a charity event to benefit Blessings in a Backpack. It wasn't uncommon to hear celebrities and pros alike shouting "Re-up! It's all for the kids!"

    Among the first to go out were Real Housewives of Orange County's Vicki Gunvalson and Blue Collar Comedy's Ron White. Still going strong toward the latter part of the evening were Coach Denny Crum and Melissa Biggs from Baywatch.

    When Phil Helmuth arrived on the red carpet I made sure to ask him whether or not he'd be on good behavior for the night. He said he hadn't decided quite yet. He was an entertaining emcee and frequently interviewed other poker pros and celebrities during the event. He was quick to give Ron White a hard time for going out so early, and even handed off the mic to Robert Williamson III so he could play a hand or two himself.

    Everyone was in great spirits and took advantage of the bars on both levels serving Jim Beam and other drinks that helped party-goers get loose on the dance floor.

    Surprising celebrity encounter of the evening was an impromptu chat with Ron White at the pizza place next to the Palace, where he told me I had cute boots and I told him I liked his Prada carryall (i.e. purse.) He was quick to respond, "Indiana Jones carried one just like it." He's funny even when he's not getting paid.

    Robert Williamson III (and his "good" side)

    UofL former basketball coach Denny Crum

    Baywatch star Melissa Biggs

    Blue Collar Comedy's Ron White

    Borat's Ken Davitian

    Southern Gaming Commission's Doug Dreisbach and fellow poker player and dealer at last year's Championship Ryan

    Real Housewives of Orange County's Vicki Gunvalson

    Photos: Elise Jenkins

    Elise Jenkins's picture

    About Elise Jenkins

    I'm a shopping addict on a budget who loves everything from one-of-a-kind boutique finds to the clearance sales at Macy's. I celebrate the small things in life, like $8 Gap jeans, the perfect V-neck tee at Target, and Zappos outlet sales. My passions include ridiculously high heeled shoes, celebrity gossip, chocolate, fashion photography, coffee, Muse, gin, and my amazingly patient boyfriend and his vivacious 4 year old who isn't afraid to tell me when my shirts are "soooo ugly!" I write a style blog called "TheShoportunist.com" which is a reflection of my love for all things fashion.

    More from author:  

    Share On:

    Most Read Stories