Big deal

Since 1970, Binion’s Horseshoe on Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas had been home to the World Series of Poker, the planet’s most prestigious ― and richest ― game of cards. But early this year, it almost folded when U.S. marshals and IRS agents shuttered the legendary casino. Happily, the WSOP was dealt a new hand when Harrah’s agreed to purchase the property and host the series, which is expected to distribute close to $30 million in prize money this year; last year’s winner, the aptly named Chris Moneymaker, turned a $40 entry fee into $2.5 million. You can try to win $10,000 by playing Texas Hold ‘Em in one of the WSOP’s Super Satellites on May 21. Or just show up between May 22 and 28, 2004, and watch the finals for free. For hotel information, visit www.harrahs.com or call 800/427-7247. For WSOP information, call 877/367-9767.