By Alexander Tresniowski/Reported by Wendy Cole

When the potato farmer couldn't pay the banker what he owed him, it was all over. No, this isn't a heartbreaking heartland story; it's the results of last week's U.S. Monopoly championship in New York City. Defending champion Gary Peters, a bank executive, outlasted four opponents, including potato farmer Michael Cross, to win $5,000. "Monopoly teaches you the value of money," says Peters, who has this advice for other players: "Always buy houses as soon as you can."