The table is ugly, but it has a rich history dating back 50 years. The host, Dave, who is in his fifties, played $5/$10 limit HE and 7CS on that table fresh out of high school at Elton's. Elton passed away in 08. His son bequeathed Dave the table in 2010. Two players, along with the host, have been playing together for 35 years. That table is a living memory of all those who have played on it.
Five weeks ago, one of the regulars was absent. We learned from his brother, also a regular, that he had been diagnosed with leukemia. The following week we inquired about his well being. His brother said he was in the hospital, but he did not have a chance to stop by and check on his condition due to his work schedule.
Upon hearing the news, the player to the brother's left opened up his wallet, pulled out a hundred dollar bill, and placed it on the table in front of him. Every player followed suit, in order. Two months in, I am the new guy. Thankfully, there were six or seven players before me, which gave me time to check my emotions. I too, took out a hundred and slid it in front of the brother. 10 of us at the table. All nine of us gave him $100.
Five days later I get a phone call from Dave at or around 10PM informing me that he had succumbed to leukemia. His brother attended that week's game, telling us the doctor had sent his brother home instructing him to get his estate in order. He left behind twin 19 year old boys. Yes, that table may be an eyesore, but it is not going anywhere, not in these players lifetimes.