I only post this hear because there are so many poker afficianados among us and I need a few other players' opinions.

I live in FL where poker is illegal - at least any game where a pot reaches more than $10. This rules out most any games other than penny-ante (bo-ring!).

Admittedly, this hasn't stopped us from having a regular private home game, but the game is more irregular than regular, and it's hard to keep everyone's interest (especially the regular losers).

I've been contemplating a way in which to get my regular poker fix (online poker gets boring too after a few months), and possibly find other players without attracting unwanted attention.

It occured to me that it might be possible (legal) to start an actual local poker league much like the dart leagues, billiard leagues, etc. that fluorish at many local pubs.

Assuming it's legal, it would be a great way to advertise and network with other poker enthusiasts. Members could enjoy regular games and periodic tournaments and such. Plus, you could make many more poker buddies with whom you could possibly play other non-league home games (which might be closer to toe-ing the legality line).

Thoughts? Has anyone heard of such a poker league before? Any thoughts on how to run one?

Does this sound like a silly idea? It just seems like poker is making a huge come-back with the WPT and WSOP on the Travel Channel and ESPN lately, and interest is really growing, so I thought such a league might take-off now where it might not have a year ago.

A thought on tournaments... admittedly other leagues play for trophies and not cash prizes, but I wonder if poker league tournaments could carry a cash prize, or if the "no pot bigger than $10" law would apply to such a prize even though it's not technically a part of the "pot". Anyone have an idea who you'd call to find out the answer to this question? Local sheriff or police office? An attorney?

Thanks for "listening" to my rambling and for any input or thoughts you may have.

Will