Plans are in the works for a "Texas hold 'em" poker tournament fund-raiser to benefit the revitalization of Derby Pond.

City Councilwoman Debbie Hymore-Tester is organizing the event behind the scenes with the Port Clinton EMS Association. Proceeds would pay for dredging and improvements at the silted-in, sterile Water Works Park pond to improve fish habitat.

Date and location of the poker tournament have not yet been set.

According to an estimate provided by CL Fox Contractors of Fremont, dredging Derby Pond to a depth of 6 feet to 8 feet would cost $10,750. Installation of stone on 800 feet of banks would cost $2,650, creating a total project price of $13,400.

Hymore-Tester said a water fountain -- useful for decorative purposes and aeration for aquatic life -- would cost an additional $3,500. She said a portion of proceeds from the annual Harvest Haul might also be earmarked to fix up Derby Pond.

Source: Rick Neale, News Herals