UC Davis student wins WSOP event

Todd Williamson, a University of California, Davis graduate student, won the fifth event of the World Series of Poker Lake Tahoe Circuit Event on Tuesday at Harveys Resort and Casino in Stateline.

Williamson, who is studying computer science, earned $27,666 with the victory. He edged runner-up Steve Dodson, a Florida resident who pocketed $16,729 and now has two "cashes" in this week's WSOP circuit event.

South Tahoe Lake Tahoe's Jim Gooch was the high local finisher, placing 13th ($1,115) out of a field of 365. The event was a $340 buy-in No Limit Hold 'Em tournament.

The $5,000 buy-in main event begins on Friday and continues through Sunday.

"Jesus" to make public appearance

Chris "Jesus" Ferguson, a five-time World Series of Poker bracelet winner, will sign autographs today at 5 p.m. at Harveys Resort and Casino in Stateline. Before signing autographs, the 2000 WSOP Main Event winner will take part in a Q&A session with the public.

Ferguson, known for his long beard, is expected to participate in Friday's WSOP Lake Tahoe Circuit Event $5,000 buy-in No Limit Hold 'Em main event tournament at Harveys. The tournament continues through Sunday.