All In for a Cause: 2025 STAC Texas Hold ’Em Smashes Records, Raising Over $50,000 for the STAC Fund 

By: James Bohrer, STAC Board of Directors Member and Head of Sales, Altvia

On October 23, 2025, the STAC community once again took over Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse for our signature event of the year — the STAC Texas Hold ’Em Tournament. Now in its 12th year, this highly anticipated night of cards, camaraderie and charity proved to be our most successful event yet, raising more than $50,000 for the STAC Fund.

From the first shuffle to the final showdown, it was a night to remember — full of Vegas-style thrills, Gibsons’ world-class food and hospitality, and the unmistakable energy that comes when our community comes together for a great cause.

The Stakes Were High — and So Were the Spirits

Hundreds of players and guests went all in for a night of poker, casino games, raffles and celebration. With the tables packed and the chips flying, the competition was fierce — but the real win was what we accomplished together.

Here’s how the top players stacked up:

1. Matt Nagode - Billy Reid Custom Blazer

2. Jason Coogan - $500 Amazon Gift Card

3. David Harrison — Generously donated his winnings back to the STAC Fund

4. Jeremy Aguiar— Grilla Chimp Tailgater WIFI Wood Pellet Grill

5. JD Leman— SOLO Stove Bonfire 2.0

6. Ernest Brooks — BOSE Quiet Comfort Bluetooth Headphones

7. Nataliya Manina – OURA Gen 4 Ring

8. Atsushi Hu— Blackstone 4-Burner 36" Griddle Cooking Station with Hard Cover

9. Joe Guinan— Tickets to 3/20/26 Blackhawks vs. Colorado Avalanche

And the excitement didn’t stop there — our raffle winners scored incredible prizes, including:

· Fairmont Chicago Staycation Package – Alena Baltsevich

· Gibsons Gift Basket – Michael Goetsch

· BOSE Soundlink Flex Portable Bluetooth Speaker – Michael Goetsch

· Razer Kishi Ultra Gaming Controller – Craig Gantar

· STAC THE DECK Winner – Chris Ebel (who generously donated his winnings back to the Fund!)

The Real Jackpot: Supporting Future Scholars
What makes this night truly special is what it means for the future. Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our sponsors, members and guests, this year’s event raised more than $50,000 — a record-breaking total that will translate directly into college scholarships for deserving local students.

Every hand played and every chip bet brings us closer to our mission of helping the next generation achieve their educational dreams. The STAC community’s commitment continues to inspire - proving that when we go all in together, everyone wins.

See you next October for more cards, chips and charity — and maybe a new record to beat!

Watch the 2025 event video to catch up on all the action!