ATLANTIC CITY--The Trump Taj Mahal Resort is inviting poker players from around the area, to participate in a charitable tournament, in honor of a slain employee. The first annual Ray Kot Poker Open is underway and the champion of the tournament has the chance to fly to Miami on February Seventh for the Big Game.

"Ray being a games person we wanted to do something that involved games he was also a big football fan so we tied the 2 together."

Tom Gitto, Director of Poker Operations at Trump Taj Mahal Resort, is talking about the first annual Ray Kot Poker Open, a charitable tournament to benefit Kot's memorial fund.

"All you have to do is win one table tournament and you advance to the championship round Sunday night for some great prizes including an all expense paid trip for 2 to the Super Bowl," said Gitto.

Ray Kot was gunned down last year while working on the casino floor, allegedly by casino patron 57 year-old Mark Magee.

Gitto says, "It's more of local players that are here playing, the players who knew Ray or knew what happened, a lot of players who were here that day when it happened felt the need to come out and support this."

Ocean Township's Ted Willner said, "Well I heard about this wonderful event, came out to support it that's why I'm here at this table."

Proceeds from the tournament will go to Kot only son 16 year old, Drew, who is set to start College next year.

Kot's niece Janet Wan said, "Seeing everyone here participate is great makes my heart melt so much, my family is greatful for everything the Taj has done for us, my uncle made a great effect on everyone else too...."

"Everybody in the City knew Ray and we're getting phone calls from other people in the casino in the City anything they can do to help out for this tournament they're trying to do it," said Joe Esposito and employee at the Trump Tal Mahal.

Players still have until Saturday to get into the championship for a chance to go to the Super bowl all expenses paid. The championship is Sunday what would have been Ray Kot's 57th Birthday.

For more information on the Ray Kot Poker Open, call 609-449-5881.