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2006/12/07
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For the past decade, in states all across the US, lawmakers have attempted to convince their peers that online gambling would be good for their state. Even at the federal level, some legislators have pushed for the end of Internet gambling prohibition.
Up until this past week, none of these lawmakers have succeeded. That changed when Senator Ray Lesniak had his proposed bill pass both the Assembly and the Senate. The legislation calls for a regulated online casino industry, with Atlantic City casinos the beneficiaries.
The only thing now that stands between New Jersey residents and protection from their local government is Governor Chris Christie's signature. It is no slam dunk that Christie will sign the legislation, but there also no reason to believe he will not.
Christies has been instrumental in attempting to revamp the Atlantic City gaming industry. Christie has also looked for ways to help the state's racetracks at a time when tracks all across the country are struggling. The governor has held summits at the Meadowlands to discuss the gaming possibilities.
The only thing that could get in the way of the signature is politics. That may sound all too familiar for online poker players who have been caught in the cross fire of partisan battles at the federal level, but there is a chance that Christie receives political pressure from anti-gambling legislators in his own party.
If Christie can get by the partisan politics, New Jersey can forever take solace in the fact that they did something first. In a decade or two, analysts believe that the majority of states will have some form of regulated online gambling, but none will be able to claim they were first. That title will belong to New Jersey with one swift flick of the hand.
Up until this past week, none of these lawmakers have succeeded. That changed when Senator Ray Lesniak had his proposed bill pass both the Assembly and the Senate. The legislation calls for a regulated online casino industry, with Atlantic City casinos the beneficiaries.
The only thing now that stands between New Jersey residents and protection from their local government is Governor Chris Christie's signature. It is no slam dunk that Christie will sign the legislation, but there also no reason to believe he will not.
Christies has been instrumental in attempting to revamp the Atlantic City gaming industry. Christie has also looked for ways to help the state's racetracks at a time when tracks all across the country are struggling. The governor has held summits at the Meadowlands to discuss the gaming possibilities.
The only thing that could get in the way of the signature is politics. That may sound all too familiar for online poker players who have been caught in the cross fire of partisan battles at the federal level, but there is a chance that Christie receives political pressure from anti-gambling legislators in his own party.
If Christie can get by the partisan politics, New Jersey can forever take solace in the fact that they did something first. In a decade or two, analysts believe that the majority of states will have some form of regulated online gambling, but none will be able to claim they were first. That title will belong to New Jersey with one swift flick of the hand.
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2006/12/07
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29893
Anytime an online gambler in the US cannot gain access to their bank accounts, there becomes a sense of panic. Today, the stress set in for thousands of gamblers who were trying to access their accounts with Bank of America.
The popular banking institution had a problem for much of their day with their website. It caused widespread panic not only within the online gambling community, but throughout the country, as customers were unable to access their accounts.
The website was not completely shut down, at times throughout the day customers were able to gain access, but the relief was only short-lived as the site kept crashing throughout the day. Since the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act rules were put in place last June, online gamblers have become paranoid when their accounts have been blocked.
In most cases, the problem had nothing to do with the online gaming activity. Several different banks over the past several months have had problems with their websites crashing, but the problems have usually been corrected within twenty-four hours. When the sites go down, the financial institutions have been flooded with calls from concerned bankers.
The UIGEA became more of a hassle than anything else for bettors. Many lawyers believe there is no risk for the gamblers when it comes to the UIGEA. The law is set up to ensure that financial institutions block transactions to and from online gambling sites. The burden of the law is on the banks, not the players.
Despite that, gamblers are still concerned that the government may interfere with their bank accounts if it is found out that transactions to the online poker sites are going through the account. These fears have not been realized, with the Department of Justice focusing their efforts on incriminating the payment processors and site operators.
The popular banking institution had a problem for much of their day with their website. It caused widespread panic not only within the online gambling community, but throughout the country, as customers were unable to access their accounts.
The website was not completely shut down, at times throughout the day customers were able to gain access, but the relief was only short-lived as the site kept crashing throughout the day. Since the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act rules were put in place last June, online gamblers have become paranoid when their accounts have been blocked.
In most cases, the problem had nothing to do with the online gaming activity. Several different banks over the past several months have had problems with their websites crashing, but the problems have usually been corrected within twenty-four hours. When the sites go down, the financial institutions have been flooded with calls from concerned bankers.
The UIGEA became more of a hassle than anything else for bettors. Many lawyers believe there is no risk for the gamblers when it comes to the UIGEA. The law is set up to ensure that financial institutions block transactions to and from online gambling sites. The burden of the law is on the banks, not the players.
Despite that, gamblers are still concerned that the government may interfere with their bank accounts if it is found out that transactions to the online poker sites are going through the account. These fears have not been realized, with the Department of Justice focusing their efforts on incriminating the payment processors and site operators.
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2006/12/07
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29893
The US government has made it a point to make life difficult for the millions of online poker players in the country. The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act was put in place in 2006, and the rules to the ill-advised law went into affect last summer.
Each year, however, no matter how much lawmakers fight to keep online gambling prohibition in place, they still come calling at tax time. This year, millions of dollars will be paid in online poker winning taxes by players who are not even protected from the government in which they are supporting.
"It bugs me every year when I fill out my tax forms that I will be giving the government a good chunk of my winnings," said an online player who wished to remain anonymous. "They tell me I should not be playing poker online, but they have no problem taking my hard earned money. It's a joke."
Gamblers in the US must pay taxes on their winnings over a certain amount. For online poker players, they can sometimes win millions of dollars at the online tables, and they must claim the winnings under US law. It ends up where the same people the government is trying to criminalize, are actually paying their taxes, therefore helping future efforts to keep the industry underground.
Legislators are starting to see the hypocritical error of their ways. Representative Barney Frank has been pushing for an overturning of the UIGEA, and Senator Harry Reid pushed an online poker regulation bill before the end of the lame-duck session last year. Reid, from Nevada, had been a long time opponent of online gambling regulations on a federal level.
Processing transactions to and from online gambling sites has become illegal in the US under the UIGEA, but players have found other ways to deposit and withdraw money from online poker sites. Professional poker players have made a living the last several years at online sites, and some have testified to the skill involved in the game in front of Congress.
The efforts to change the laws have fallen on deaf ears, and with a new Republican-led House, the hopes of online players may lie at a state level over the next two years. New Jersey lawmakers started that ball rolling this past week when they approved an online casino regulation bill.
Each year, however, no matter how much lawmakers fight to keep online gambling prohibition in place, they still come calling at tax time. This year, millions of dollars will be paid in online poker winning taxes by players who are not even protected from the government in which they are supporting.
"It bugs me every year when I fill out my tax forms that I will be giving the government a good chunk of my winnings," said an online player who wished to remain anonymous. "They tell me I should not be playing poker online, but they have no problem taking my hard earned money. It's a joke."
Gamblers in the US must pay taxes on their winnings over a certain amount. For online poker players, they can sometimes win millions of dollars at the online tables, and they must claim the winnings under US law. It ends up where the same people the government is trying to criminalize, are actually paying their taxes, therefore helping future efforts to keep the industry underground.
Legislators are starting to see the hypocritical error of their ways. Representative Barney Frank has been pushing for an overturning of the UIGEA, and Senator Harry Reid pushed an online poker regulation bill before the end of the lame-duck session last year. Reid, from Nevada, had been a long time opponent of online gambling regulations on a federal level.
Processing transactions to and from online gambling sites has become illegal in the US under the UIGEA, but players have found other ways to deposit and withdraw money from online poker sites. Professional poker players have made a living the last several years at online sites, and some have testified to the skill involved in the game in front of Congress.
The efforts to change the laws have fallen on deaf ears, and with a new Republican-led House, the hopes of online players may lie at a state level over the next two years. New Jersey lawmakers started that ball rolling this past week when they approved an online casino regulation bill.
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2006/12/07
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29893
It’s actually quite surprising that Las Vegas hasn’t had a ‘Real Housewives of Las Vegas’ series in addition to the all the other hit reality shows. Well, it seems that Bravo is currently on the lookout for five gals in Las Vegas area who fit the profile of the wealthy socialite who isn't afraid to dish out a little drama.
According to the Las Vegas Sun, the project has been in the planning stages for over a year but for some reason Bravo put the project on the back burner. Now, the Bravo channel is ready to revive the project and is currently searching for five saucy housewives that are ready and willing to expose intimate details about their personal lives within Sin City.
It would be great to cast some of the local casino mogul’s wives like Steve Wynn’s new lady and a few other big shots within the casino industry. Casting agents have signed on to produce a 10-week series and claim that “good looks and personality will be everything for this show.”
It will be produced by Pilgrim Films who currently handles shows such as Ghost Hunters, The Ultimate Fighter and American Casino.
Once these spicy gals are chosen, they will conduct some interviews with the women and submit it to Bravo for approval. Bravo has been capitalizing on the these shows for a few years now and include frustrated and spoiled women from Atlanta, New Jersey, Beverly Hills, NYC, O.C., D.C. and now Las Vegas. Is a Las Vegas catfight different from one in New Jersey? You’ll soon find out.
According to the Las Vegas Sun, the project has been in the planning stages for over a year but for some reason Bravo put the project on the back burner. Now, the Bravo channel is ready to revive the project and is currently searching for five saucy housewives that are ready and willing to expose intimate details about their personal lives within Sin City.
It would be great to cast some of the local casino mogul’s wives like Steve Wynn’s new lady and a few other big shots within the casino industry. Casting agents have signed on to produce a 10-week series and claim that “good looks and personality will be everything for this show.”
It will be produced by Pilgrim Films who currently handles shows such as Ghost Hunters, The Ultimate Fighter and American Casino.
Once these spicy gals are chosen, they will conduct some interviews with the women and submit it to Bravo for approval. Bravo has been capitalizing on the these shows for a few years now and include frustrated and spoiled women from Atlanta, New Jersey, Beverly Hills, NYC, O.C., D.C. and now Las Vegas. Is a Las Vegas catfight different from one in New Jersey? You’ll soon find out.
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2006/12/07
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29893
Demons that sing love songs can be appealing, as shown by a contestant from a Filipino talent show called Showtime, who performed the Whitney Houston song “I Will Always Love You” while giving a wickedly scary performance.
Picture Linda Blair’s character in “The Exorcist” and that’s exactly what this young woman looked like while belting out the Whitney Houston tune. She was one of many contestants that took part in the talent show but none of them quite stood out quite like this girl.
The performance was eerie because the contestant – apart from her appearance- would transform herself throughout the song and each time looking more and more possessed and demonic. There was one instance where she gave birth on stage to a few kids that wobble around the place. It’s just plain creepy but entertaining none-the-less.
Showtime is a variety show that airs in the Philippines which has somewhat of an X-Factor appeal and features aspiring artists who compete in groups to reach the grand finale event.
Anyway, If you're looking for a bit of a distraction then check out the video. Chills!
Picture Linda Blair’s character in “The Exorcist” and that’s exactly what this young woman looked like while belting out the Whitney Houston tune. She was one of many contestants that took part in the talent show but none of them quite stood out quite like this girl.
The performance was eerie because the contestant – apart from her appearance- would transform herself throughout the song and each time looking more and more possessed and demonic. There was one instance where she gave birth on stage to a few kids that wobble around the place. It’s just plain creepy but entertaining none-the-less.
Showtime is a variety show that airs in the Philippines which has somewhat of an X-Factor appeal and features aspiring artists who compete in groups to reach the grand finale event.
Anyway, If you're looking for a bit of a distraction then check out the video. Chills!
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2006/12/07
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29893
In a dramatic and unexpected move, the UK government is considering ousting all overseas online gambling operators out of their country for fears of addiction. Jeremy Hunt the Culture Secretary wants to stop all online gambling companies not based in Britain from advertising in their country. Also being considered is a countrywide ban on all credit card use for internet gambling which was reported in the UK’s Daily Mail news. This unexpected move would oust hundreds of foreign gambling operators out of Britain causing a huge upheaval in the online gambling world.
In 2005, the Labour Dept. accepted a controversial Gambling Act that would now be torn up because critics are blaming this legislation for the dramatic deregulation of the online gambling industry. A high-ranking senior government source stated that Ministers are worried that an explosion of gambling advertising has been created by the relaxing online gambling laws by the Labour Dept. The coming changes that the UK government wants to see is better protection for the pubic from online gambling operators that do not meet the UK’s standards but have been allowed to advertise and profit from the lax gaming laws.
The Gambling Act – Any operator/company that holds a license of online gambling in the UK must follow stringent rules and checks to make sure no child is playing or taking part in any highly addictive games. Only operators who run their company or locate their key equipment in Britain need to be licensed by the Gambling Commission. There is a loophole in the law that allows countries across Europe and companies called “white list” can advertise in the UK without being subject to strict regulations. These so-called white list and other countries include, the Isle of Man, Antigua, Tasmania and Alderney.
While other countries like Spain, Greece, Italy and France have already adopted or are in plans to adopt new license and tax laws. Right now, the UK is the only country that permits overseas operators to advertise without player protection.
In 2005, the Labour Dept. accepted a controversial Gambling Act that would now be torn up because critics are blaming this legislation for the dramatic deregulation of the online gambling industry. A high-ranking senior government source stated that Ministers are worried that an explosion of gambling advertising has been created by the relaxing online gambling laws by the Labour Dept. The coming changes that the UK government wants to see is better protection for the pubic from online gambling operators that do not meet the UK’s standards but have been allowed to advertise and profit from the lax gaming laws.
The Gambling Act – Any operator/company that holds a license of online gambling in the UK must follow stringent rules and checks to make sure no child is playing or taking part in any highly addictive games. Only operators who run their company or locate their key equipment in Britain need to be licensed by the Gambling Commission. There is a loophole in the law that allows countries across Europe and companies called “white list” can advertise in the UK without being subject to strict regulations. These so-called white list and other countries include, the Isle of Man, Antigua, Tasmania and Alderney.
While other countries like Spain, Greece, Italy and France have already adopted or are in plans to adopt new license and tax laws. Right now, the UK is the only country that permits overseas operators to advertise without player protection.
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2006/12/07
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29893
Galveston ought to get busy and hire a lobbyist to help bring casino gambling to the island.
Chances are the Galveston City Council will ignore the suggestion and take a more cautious approach, meaning it’s much more likely to do nothing. That’s despite the fact every poll shows a large, growing majority of residents on the island favor casinos and the island’s economy is in very rough shape.
It also is despite the fact the city and the Galveston Economic Development Partnership, Galveston’s economic development arm, have no real plan for the economic revitalization of Galveston Island.
The 2011 session of the Texas Legislature convened last week, and, as usual, several gambling-related bills will come up this year.
Candidly, chances for those bills seem small, on the one hand, because conservative Republicans rule with an iron hand in the Legislature. Those conservatives despise big government and honor private enterprise, but they want at least enough big government to ban casinos and the entrepreneurs who own them.
On the other hand, the Texas Legislature faces a biennial budget deficit of somewhere between $25 and $30 billion (latest estimate is $27 billion). That’s a lot of money, and it will be interesting to see how these fiscal conservatives meet that challenge without raising lots of new revenue.
Once upon a time, Galveston said no to gambling, but the tide has turned. Every survey taken in the last four years indicates at least two-thirds of the city’s voters would approve casinos if given the opportunity.
The Galveston Chamber of Commerce last August did its own survey. Here are some salient points from that survey of chamber members:
• 79 percent said they “believe that casinos in the city of Galveston will help my business.”
• 79 percent said they “believe that the Galveston Chamber of Commerce should advocate casino gambling for the city of Galveston in the next session of the Texas Legislature (2011).”
In addition, chamber members volunteered statements such as the following:
“We need to bring something to the island to make it more prosperous!”
“We are missing out on a lot of money by sending people to adjoining states to gamble. It’s time for Galveston to get a piece of the pie and tax the illegal machines already operating in the city.”
(To see the full survey, go to Galveston Chamber of Commerce.)
The chamber also commissioned a separate study of the economic impact of gambling in other communities. That impact has been enormous and for the most part positive. (That study has not yet been reviewed by the chamber’s board, and it’s not yet posted to the website, but it soon will be.)
Nationally, gambling is a $31 billion industry. It employees roughly 328,000 people and with wages of $13.1 billion — that’s just less than $40,000 per year per job. Last year, the industry paid out $5.6 billion in direct gaming taxes (not including property taxes, sales taxes and so on) in 13 states in the United States.
The best model for a state gambling law seems to be the one in Mississippi where since 1993 casinos have paid Mississippi more than $4.56 billion in taxes. Just more than $1.5 billion went to local governments, and most of the rest funded education in Mississippi and state highways.
This newspaper has been asking one question for several years. Given the sad state of local business, the question is: If not gambling, what will enliven the local economy? And if not now, when?
The fearful truth is Galveston and the state of Texas may wait to embrace casinos until both are forced to do so by very dire economic circumstances. And by then, with established casinos operating in every single surrounding state, it may be too late.
Chances are the Galveston City Council will ignore the suggestion and take a more cautious approach, meaning it’s much more likely to do nothing. That’s despite the fact every poll shows a large, growing majority of residents on the island favor casinos and the island’s economy is in very rough shape.
It also is despite the fact the city and the Galveston Economic Development Partnership, Galveston’s economic development arm, have no real plan for the economic revitalization of Galveston Island.
The 2011 session of the Texas Legislature convened last week, and, as usual, several gambling-related bills will come up this year.
Candidly, chances for those bills seem small, on the one hand, because conservative Republicans rule with an iron hand in the Legislature. Those conservatives despise big government and honor private enterprise, but they want at least enough big government to ban casinos and the entrepreneurs who own them.
On the other hand, the Texas Legislature faces a biennial budget deficit of somewhere between $25 and $30 billion (latest estimate is $27 billion). That’s a lot of money, and it will be interesting to see how these fiscal conservatives meet that challenge without raising lots of new revenue.
Once upon a time, Galveston said no to gambling, but the tide has turned. Every survey taken in the last four years indicates at least two-thirds of the city’s voters would approve casinos if given the opportunity.
The Galveston Chamber of Commerce last August did its own survey. Here are some salient points from that survey of chamber members:
• 79 percent said they “believe that casinos in the city of Galveston will help my business.”
• 79 percent said they “believe that the Galveston Chamber of Commerce should advocate casino gambling for the city of Galveston in the next session of the Texas Legislature (2011).”
In addition, chamber members volunteered statements such as the following:
“We need to bring something to the island to make it more prosperous!”
“We are missing out on a lot of money by sending people to adjoining states to gamble. It’s time for Galveston to get a piece of the pie and tax the illegal machines already operating in the city.”
(To see the full survey, go to Galveston Chamber of Commerce.)
The chamber also commissioned a separate study of the economic impact of gambling in other communities. That impact has been enormous and for the most part positive. (That study has not yet been reviewed by the chamber’s board, and it’s not yet posted to the website, but it soon will be.)
Nationally, gambling is a $31 billion industry. It employees roughly 328,000 people and with wages of $13.1 billion — that’s just less than $40,000 per year per job. Last year, the industry paid out $5.6 billion in direct gaming taxes (not including property taxes, sales taxes and so on) in 13 states in the United States.
The best model for a state gambling law seems to be the one in Mississippi where since 1993 casinos have paid Mississippi more than $4.56 billion in taxes. Just more than $1.5 billion went to local governments, and most of the rest funded education in Mississippi and state highways.
This newspaper has been asking one question for several years. Given the sad state of local business, the question is: If not gambling, what will enliven the local economy? And if not now, when?
The fearful truth is Galveston and the state of Texas may wait to embrace casinos until both are forced to do so by very dire economic circumstances. And by then, with established casinos operating in every single surrounding state, it may be too late.
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2006/12/07
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29893
It’s true what they say about the rich getting richer and Bono can certainly attest to that after making a very wise investment with Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg. In only one year his $195 million investment with the social media giant, Facebook, turned into a whopping $728 million. Will he use his investment cash to save the world or will he go out and buy that yacht he’s always wanted?
Well, one thing we know about U2’s lead singer Bono is that underneath that leather jacket he wears, there’s a big ‘S’ tattooed on his chest allowing him to save the world from poverty, lack of education and whatever else ails the world, but apparently, he’s also getting better at making investments. His reputation in the business world is apparently a bit weak after a few failed investments tagged him as "The Worst Investor in America," but his Facebook venture definitely kicked him back to the top of the list, or at least the middle.
Facebook has a few investors including Goldman Sachs, who pumped a hefty sum into the company, increasing their value from $12 billion to $50 billion this month, according to the Telegraph UK. They also mentioned how Facebook is doing so well, they didn’t actually need the investment funds for operational costs but simply to reposition the company as a tech superbrand.
Whatever may be going on in the business end of things, Bono’s investment makes him a 1.5% owner of Facebook and a much wealthier man than he started out. So how will he spend his multi-million dollar fortune? Maybe do some shopping with his pal Oprah or help build schools in Africa? Hmm
Well, one thing we know about U2’s lead singer Bono is that underneath that leather jacket he wears, there’s a big ‘S’ tattooed on his chest allowing him to save the world from poverty, lack of education and whatever else ails the world, but apparently, he’s also getting better at making investments. His reputation in the business world is apparently a bit weak after a few failed investments tagged him as "The Worst Investor in America," but his Facebook venture definitely kicked him back to the top of the list, or at least the middle.
Facebook has a few investors including Goldman Sachs, who pumped a hefty sum into the company, increasing their value from $12 billion to $50 billion this month, according to the Telegraph UK. They also mentioned how Facebook is doing so well, they didn’t actually need the investment funds for operational costs but simply to reposition the company as a tech superbrand.
Whatever may be going on in the business end of things, Bono’s investment makes him a 1.5% owner of Facebook and a much wealthier man than he started out. So how will he spend his multi-million dollar fortune? Maybe do some shopping with his pal Oprah or help build schools in Africa? Hmm
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2006/12/07
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29893
Because he is a functioning mess, CBS has stated that while Charlie Sheen's behavior (see: wild sex orgies in Vegas, threatening to murder his wife, and trashing a hotel room while a prostitute cowers in a closet) concerns them, they still are able to save a bunch of money on their car insurance! Well, not exactly that, but in a nutshell, they say that because Sheen's hit show Two and a Half Men is making them so much cash and Sheen is able to dust of the stench of last night's frightened hooker long enough to puke out some mildy funny lines, they're cool!
“We have a high level of concern,” said Nina Tassler, CBS entertainment president. “How can we not?”
Tassler added that Sheen does his job well on the show and that she has given a great deal of thought to Sheen on a “human level,” however, CBS is just going to ride the Sheen pony till he drowns in his own vomit. Lol!
Additionally, the Huffington Post reports that when it was suggested to Tassler that a person in a different line of work would be fired for involvement in similar incidents, she responded with: “What do you get fired for? Going to work and doing your job?" Adding, "This show is a hit. That's all we have to say."
Wow. That's nice. Their employee is literally dying before your eyes from substance abuse (while threatening to kill people) and all she can say is "This is a hit show." At least feign concern.
Will Sheen clean up his act? Or will things spiral out of control for the highest paid actor on television? What do you think? Should Sheen's employer intervene to try and get him some help? Or should he just be allowed to run amok?
“We have a high level of concern,” said Nina Tassler, CBS entertainment president. “How can we not?”
Tassler added that Sheen does his job well on the show and that she has given a great deal of thought to Sheen on a “human level,” however, CBS is just going to ride the Sheen pony till he drowns in his own vomit. Lol!
Additionally, the Huffington Post reports that when it was suggested to Tassler that a person in a different line of work would be fired for involvement in similar incidents, she responded with: “What do you get fired for? Going to work and doing your job?" Adding, "This show is a hit. That's all we have to say."
Wow. That's nice. Their employee is literally dying before your eyes from substance abuse (while threatening to kill people) and all she can say is "This is a hit show." At least feign concern.
Will Sheen clean up his act? Or will things spiral out of control for the highest paid actor on television? What do you think? Should Sheen's employer intervene to try and get him some help? Or should he just be allowed to run amok?
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2006/12/07
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29893
What is happening in Canada may well be what happens in the US in the coming years. When British Columbia launched their online gambling website, many provinces began exploring the idea, and now it has become common for lawmakers in each province to at least consider online gambling.
The New Brunswick government may become the next to legalize the activity. Lawmakers have admitted that they are waiting to see how the experiment plays out in Quebec before making their own decision on Internet gambling. While nothing is imminent, the wheels are in motion for possible expansion.
"What has happened over the years because there has been very much a growth," said Marc Belliveau, Communications Director for the New Brunswick Department of Finance, as reported by The Gazette, "a very large amount of growth in online gaming, all governments across Canada have looked at it."
Loto-Quebec became the latest to unveil an online gambling site, and New Brunswick could do so soon if the site in Quebec generates interest. Canada is considered one of the top markets for online gambling in the world, and as provinces have realized the potential, the legalization has followed.
A similar situation may soon occur in the US. New Jersey legislators became the first in the nation last week to pass online gambling regulation legislation. If their governor, Chris Christie, signs the bill, New jersey will become the first state in the country with regulations.
Already, on the heels of that legislation, California lawmakers are working on a bill that would bring Internet gambling to the West Coast of the US. Florida has also been mentioned as a possible trend-setter in the online gaming industry. At a federal level, bills to regulate online poker have stalled in recent months.
The New Brunswick government may become the next to legalize the activity. Lawmakers have admitted that they are waiting to see how the experiment plays out in Quebec before making their own decision on Internet gambling. While nothing is imminent, the wheels are in motion for possible expansion.
"What has happened over the years because there has been very much a growth," said Marc Belliveau, Communications Director for the New Brunswick Department of Finance, as reported by The Gazette, "a very large amount of growth in online gaming, all governments across Canada have looked at it."
Loto-Quebec became the latest to unveil an online gambling site, and New Brunswick could do so soon if the site in Quebec generates interest. Canada is considered one of the top markets for online gambling in the world, and as provinces have realized the potential, the legalization has followed.
A similar situation may soon occur in the US. New Jersey legislators became the first in the nation last week to pass online gambling regulation legislation. If their governor, Chris Christie, signs the bill, New jersey will become the first state in the country with regulations.
Already, on the heels of that legislation, California lawmakers are working on a bill that would bring Internet gambling to the West Coast of the US. Florida has also been mentioned as a possible trend-setter in the online gaming industry. At a federal level, bills to regulate online poker have stalled in recent months.
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2006/12/07
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29893
After Golden Globes host Ricky Gervais offered up an opening monologue that absolutely slaughtered Best Picture nominee The Tourist, he went on to make fun of the women of Sex and the City 2, saying that he was sure the Golden Globes for special effects would go to the team who airbrushed the poster. In fact, it seemed no one was safe from his abuse – not Cher, Charlie Sheen, Mel Gibson, Robert Downey Jr., the president of the Hollywood Foreign Press, Scientologists – or even God.
"I'd like to squash this ridiculous rumor going round that the only reason The Tourist was nominated was so the Hollywood Foreign Press could hang with Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie. That is rubbish.That is not the only reason — they also accepted bribes," Gervais quipped, referring to recent allegations of attempts to sway voters with free trips and expensive gifts.
The camera then cut to Depp, who looked midly humored but mostly uncomfortable.
Throughout the show, the Twitterverse lit up with "Oh no he did'ents" and "holy craps" as Gervais made crack after crack at the expense of the Hollywood elite, who sat awkwardly sipping champagne before him. At one point Gervais referred to Jennifer Lopez as her 2002 single, "Jenny from the Block" but noted that the aforementioned block was the one on Rodeo Drive between Prada and Cartier. There were also rumors that execs may have gagged him during the show since he was abruptly absent.
"I warned 'em," Gervais said at one point, referring to the Hollywood Foreign Press.
Anyway, highlights of the 2011 Golden Globes included a Best Supporting Actor win for Christian Bale for The Fighter, Black Swan's Natalie Portman's Best Actress win, Colin Firth's Best Actor win for The King's Speech, as well as Annette Bening's heartfelt speech for The Kids are All Right.
The Social Network and Glee were the night's big winners, with Social Network nabbing four awards, including Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Director for David Fincher, Best Screenplay for Aaron Sorkin and Original Score for Trent Rezner.
Glee's Jane Lynch, who took a page out of Sue Sylvester's guidebook, said that she was nothing but "falsely humbled" when she took the stage for her Supporting Actress win. Meanwhile, Glee's Chris Colfer nabbed the Supporting Actor award.
The annual Cecil B. DeMille lifetime achievement award went to Robert De Niro, who accepted his award after an awesome introduction via Matt Damon. De Niro delivered a self-deprecating speech, even making fun of his latest recently-panned Fockers installment.
If it's true that the Golden Globes are the prelude to the Academy, you better start placing your Oscar bets now. The nominations are announced January 25 and will be distributed on February 27. Head over to the Bodog Sportsbook for all your odds. If you need an account, Join Bodog today.
"I'd like to squash this ridiculous rumor going round that the only reason The Tourist was nominated was so the Hollywood Foreign Press could hang with Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie. That is rubbish.That is not the only reason — they also accepted bribes," Gervais quipped, referring to recent allegations of attempts to sway voters with free trips and expensive gifts.
The camera then cut to Depp, who looked midly humored but mostly uncomfortable.
Throughout the show, the Twitterverse lit up with "Oh no he did'ents" and "holy craps" as Gervais made crack after crack at the expense of the Hollywood elite, who sat awkwardly sipping champagne before him. At one point Gervais referred to Jennifer Lopez as her 2002 single, "Jenny from the Block" but noted that the aforementioned block was the one on Rodeo Drive between Prada and Cartier. There were also rumors that execs may have gagged him during the show since he was abruptly absent.
"I warned 'em," Gervais said at one point, referring to the Hollywood Foreign Press.
Anyway, highlights of the 2011 Golden Globes included a Best Supporting Actor win for Christian Bale for The Fighter, Black Swan's Natalie Portman's Best Actress win, Colin Firth's Best Actor win for The King's Speech, as well as Annette Bening's heartfelt speech for The Kids are All Right.
The Social Network and Glee were the night's big winners, with Social Network nabbing four awards, including Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Director for David Fincher, Best Screenplay for Aaron Sorkin and Original Score for Trent Rezner.
Glee's Jane Lynch, who took a page out of Sue Sylvester's guidebook, said that she was nothing but "falsely humbled" when she took the stage for her Supporting Actress win. Meanwhile, Glee's Chris Colfer nabbed the Supporting Actor award.
The annual Cecil B. DeMille lifetime achievement award went to Robert De Niro, who accepted his award after an awesome introduction via Matt Damon. De Niro delivered a self-deprecating speech, even making fun of his latest recently-panned Fockers installment.
If it's true that the Golden Globes are the prelude to the Academy, you better start placing your Oscar bets now. The nominations are announced January 25 and will be distributed on February 27. Head over to the Bodog Sportsbook for all your odds. If you need an account, Join Bodog today.
Join:
2006/12/07
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29893
The iMEGA-backed Intra-State Internet Gambling bill has finally found its way to the desk of New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, who has up to 45 days to sign it into law.
Governor Christie's signature would allow New Jersey's casinos to take bets online and officially become the first state in the US to regulate Internet gambling. Atlantic City casinos would be able to provide online versions of their games to New Jersey's 8.7 million state residents.
Bearing the co-sponsorship of Senators Ray Lesniak [D] and Joe Kryillos [R], bill S3167 was approved in the New Jersey Senate a majority of 34-2 – the vote in the Assembly was approved by 63-11-3 margin.
iMEGA, the trade industry that represents online gambling released this statement through Chairman, Joe Brennan Jr.
"Congratulations to New Jersey's legislators on their overwhelming vote in favor of the Intra-State Internet Gambling bill. It's clear that New Jersey's representatives want their state to be at the forefront of the online gaming industry, and allow New Jersey's casinos to thrive in the 21st Century".
"With the combination of the top regulators in gaming, great information technology infrastructure, a highly-educated workforce, and the strong foundation and leadership of the Atlantic City casino industry, New Jersey is certain to lead this industry's growth in the US, while creating high-paying, skilled jobs in the technology sector and also attracting investment to the state."
Writing in his article, "New Jersey: the Land of (iGaming) Opportunity?", in iGaming Business magazine, Brennan lays out the reasons why New Jersey would be "the best state in the entire US for establishing a permanent base of operations for existing firms to eventually extend their reach into the next states to permit online games.
"New Jersey, which is the second largest casino market in the US after Nevada, has arguably the toughest regulators in the gaming industry," he explained. "The value of NJ licensure to an iGaming firm is the regulatory surety it demonstrates not only to players, but also to subsequent state governments that may permit the activity, as well as to the financial markets, which would likely place a higher valuation on NJ-licensed firms.
"New Jersey also has the highest IT infrastructure density of any jurisdiction in the world. This is due to the massive post-9/11 build up of capacity to support the financial centre on Wall Street, creating surpluses of bandwidth, storage and servicing firms."
New Jersey has trumped California in the race to regulate internet gaming in the United States, experts believe that New Jersey will set a roadmap for a number of other States looking at iGaming legislation to follow.
About iMEGA
The Interactive Media Entertainment & Gaming Association (iMEGA) is an association dedicated to the continued growth and innovation of the Internet. It was founded to foster cooperation between the online gaming industry and government at all levels, and to promote innovation, openness and freedom on the Internet.
Governor Christie's signature would allow New Jersey's casinos to take bets online and officially become the first state in the US to regulate Internet gambling. Atlantic City casinos would be able to provide online versions of their games to New Jersey's 8.7 million state residents.
Bearing the co-sponsorship of Senators Ray Lesniak [D] and Joe Kryillos [R], bill S3167 was approved in the New Jersey Senate a majority of 34-2 – the vote in the Assembly was approved by 63-11-3 margin.
iMEGA, the trade industry that represents online gambling released this statement through Chairman, Joe Brennan Jr.
"Congratulations to New Jersey's legislators on their overwhelming vote in favor of the Intra-State Internet Gambling bill. It's clear that New Jersey's representatives want their state to be at the forefront of the online gaming industry, and allow New Jersey's casinos to thrive in the 21st Century".
"With the combination of the top regulators in gaming, great information technology infrastructure, a highly-educated workforce, and the strong foundation and leadership of the Atlantic City casino industry, New Jersey is certain to lead this industry's growth in the US, while creating high-paying, skilled jobs in the technology sector and also attracting investment to the state."
Writing in his article, "New Jersey: the Land of (iGaming) Opportunity?", in iGaming Business magazine, Brennan lays out the reasons why New Jersey would be "the best state in the entire US for establishing a permanent base of operations for existing firms to eventually extend their reach into the next states to permit online games.
"New Jersey, which is the second largest casino market in the US after Nevada, has arguably the toughest regulators in the gaming industry," he explained. "The value of NJ licensure to an iGaming firm is the regulatory surety it demonstrates not only to players, but also to subsequent state governments that may permit the activity, as well as to the financial markets, which would likely place a higher valuation on NJ-licensed firms.
"New Jersey also has the highest IT infrastructure density of any jurisdiction in the world. This is due to the massive post-9/11 build up of capacity to support the financial centre on Wall Street, creating surpluses of bandwidth, storage and servicing firms."
New Jersey has trumped California in the race to regulate internet gaming in the United States, experts believe that New Jersey will set a roadmap for a number of other States looking at iGaming legislation to follow.
About iMEGA
The Interactive Media Entertainment & Gaming Association (iMEGA) is an association dedicated to the continued growth and innovation of the Internet. It was founded to foster cooperation between the online gaming industry and government at all levels, and to promote innovation, openness and freedom on the Internet.
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2006/12/07
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29893
Anytime an online gambler in the US cannot gain access to their bank accounts, there becomes a sense of panic. Today, the stress set in for thousands of gamblers who were trying to access their accounts with Bank of America.
The popular banking institution had a problem for much of their day with their website. It caused widespread panic not only within the online gambling community, but throughout the country, as customers were unable to access their accounts.
The website was not completely shut down, at times throughout the day customers were able to gain access, but the relief was only short-lived as the site kept crashing throughout the day. Since the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act rules were put in place last June, online gamblers have become paranoid when their accounts have been blocked.
In most cases, the problem had nothing to do with the online gaming activity. Several different banks over the past several months have had problems with their websites crashing, but the problems have usually been corrected within twenty-four hours. When the sites go down, the financial institutions have been flooded with calls from concerned bankers.
The UIGEA became more of a hassle than anything else for bettors. Many lawyers believe there is no risk for the gamblers when it comes to the UIGEA. The law is set up to ensure that financial institutions block transactions to and from online gambling sites. The burden of the law is on the banks, not the players.
Despite that, gamblers are still concerned that the government may interfere with their bank accounts if it is found out that transactions to the online poker sites are going through the account. These fears have not been realized, with the Department of Justice focusing their efforts on incriminating the payment processors and site operators.
The popular banking institution had a problem for much of their day with their website. It caused widespread panic not only within the online gambling community, but throughout the country, as customers were unable to access their accounts.
The website was not completely shut down, at times throughout the day customers were able to gain access, but the relief was only short-lived as the site kept crashing throughout the day. Since the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act rules were put in place last June, online gamblers have become paranoid when their accounts have been blocked.
In most cases, the problem had nothing to do with the online gaming activity. Several different banks over the past several months have had problems with their websites crashing, but the problems have usually been corrected within twenty-four hours. When the sites go down, the financial institutions have been flooded with calls from concerned bankers.
The UIGEA became more of a hassle than anything else for bettors. Many lawyers believe there is no risk for the gamblers when it comes to the UIGEA. The law is set up to ensure that financial institutions block transactions to and from online gambling sites. The burden of the law is on the banks, not the players.
Despite that, gamblers are still concerned that the government may interfere with their bank accounts if it is found out that transactions to the online poker sites are going through the account. These fears have not been realized, with the Department of Justice focusing their efforts on incriminating the payment processors and site operators.
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2006/12/07
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29893
The state of Iowa was one of the pioneers when it came to the US casino industry. In recent years, however, the industry has struggled due to increased competition and the economic recession of 2008. Casinos all across the country have suffered.
The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission released figures recently that suggest Iowa casinos may be on the rebound from the struggles. The majority of the state's seventeen licensed casinos experienced increased revenue over the second half of 2010 compared to the same period in 2009.
While that is good news for the state, it does not show that the casinos have completely rebounded. Overall, casinos in the state only experienced a one percent increase over the same six month period the year before. It may not be much, but it does show progress, and that has the Commission looking for brighter revenue days ahead.
"It appears that things are not getting worse and what movement there is, is getting better, except for a couple of properties," said Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission Administrator Jack Ketterer. Before the recession, revenue had never dropped from the previous year since 1993.
Expansion was a possibility last year as a way to combat the declining revenue. Lawmakers, however, decided that adding more gaming options would only spread out the existing gambling money. That would have possibly caused existing casinos to see their revenue drop off even more.
Iowa will now have to deal with increased competition as they try to recover their gaming industry. Many states have legalized casinos in the past decade, and gambling expansion has become a key ingredient in raising revenue for unbalanced state budgets. New Jersey, California, and Florida are now considering regulating online gambling, an idea that was taboo a decade ago.
The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission released figures recently that suggest Iowa casinos may be on the rebound from the struggles. The majority of the state's seventeen licensed casinos experienced increased revenue over the second half of 2010 compared to the same period in 2009.
While that is good news for the state, it does not show that the casinos have completely rebounded. Overall, casinos in the state only experienced a one percent increase over the same six month period the year before. It may not be much, but it does show progress, and that has the Commission looking for brighter revenue days ahead.
"It appears that things are not getting worse and what movement there is, is getting better, except for a couple of properties," said Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission Administrator Jack Ketterer. Before the recession, revenue had never dropped from the previous year since 1993.
Expansion was a possibility last year as a way to combat the declining revenue. Lawmakers, however, decided that adding more gaming options would only spread out the existing gambling money. That would have possibly caused existing casinos to see their revenue drop off even more.
Iowa will now have to deal with increased competition as they try to recover their gaming industry. Many states have legalized casinos in the past decade, and gambling expansion has become a key ingredient in raising revenue for unbalanced state budgets. New Jersey, California, and Florida are now considering regulating online gambling, an idea that was taboo a decade ago.
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2006/12/07
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29893
Everything is bigger in Texas and so are the red numbers in the revenue column. With the economy sagging, the Lone Star State faces a budget shortfall of $27 billion over the next two years.
Cautiously following in the footsteps of other states seeking a source of additional income, Texas is entertaining the option of expanded gaming. The Legislature reconvened on Jan. 11 and if a proposal passes, gambling could be Texas’ newest version of black gold.
“Texas has attempted legislation for expanded gaming in the past but they’ve always been knocked down because of internal political fights among potential benefactors,” said Bill Eadington, Director at the Institute for the Study of Gambling and Commercial Gaming at the University of Nevada, Reno. “That said, the environment is arguably better now for legalization of gambling because states in general are in much more desperate financial straits.”
Eadington pointed out that states such as Kansas, Ohio, Maryland, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania have adopted expanded gaming in recent years to offset economic pitfalls.
Texas Governor Rick Perry has firmly been opposed to expanded gaming since he took office in 2000. But Perry recently said he wouldn’t exercise his veto powers should a gambling bill pass. Texas would need a two-thirds vote in the Legislature before being placed on a November ballot for the voters.
Recent numbers indicate the required votes aren’t there among members of the Senate and House. The Texas Republican Party has even made a recent push to repeal the state lottery. But as Eadington noted, financial despair has swayed some of the Legislature and may attract more.
Proposals from poker halls to Vegas-style casinos will be considered over the next four months.
“The Texas Gaming Association (TGA) will be supporting legislation that will create a framework for a limited number of destination resort casinos here in the state of Texas,” said TGA spokesman Scott Dunaway. “Our proposal will include table games and electronic machines. Our resorts will not only have opportunities for casino gaming but we also have plans to bring world-class entertainment and dining—what you would come to expect in Las Vegas.”
Anywhere from four to eight resort casinos are outlined in the bill. Destinations are likely to include highly populated cities such as Dallas and Houston but also beachfront areas like South Padre Island or Galveston. Tax revenue projections brought in by casinos reach as high as $4.5 billion.
Reports have estimated that adding electronic gaming to state racetracks could produce as much as $1 billion in annual revenue. Track owners are making a strong push for slots because they don’t know how much longer the struggling horse racing industry can survive without additional gambling amenities.
And if Texans can’t spend their hard-earned dollar locally, they’ll travel elsewhere to get their kicks. Bordering states such as Oklahoma and Louisiana have profited from cowboys with cash-crammed Wranglers. Texans spend an estimated $6 billion per year in out-of-state gambling.
With 10 professional franchises and more than a dozen collegiate teams at the Division I level, Texas arguably holds more sports fans than any other state. But according to Dunaway, an expanded gaming option of sports wagering is “not even part of the conversation.”
The biggest obstacle standing in the way of legalized sports betting is the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992, which only allows lotteries or pools to four states that were grandfathered in—Nevada, Delaware, Oregon and Montana. One of the primary sponsors of the PASPA was former Senator and New York Knick, Bill Bradley. Ironic considering NBA players seem to have an affection for gambling these days.
“There is also a political reality on sports wagering. You’re going to run into major opposition from all the professional sports leagues and the NCAA,” Eadington said. “This is obviously the case at the federal level and may be the case at the state level. So Texas would have this legal challenge to put up with and also have to deal with extensive lobbying by the sports organizations.”
If expanded gaming in some form is passed by the Texas Legislature and voters, don’t expect to see card rooms ready for action by December. Dunaway admitted licensing and constructing a gambling establishment would be a considerable project with a significant timeframe.
Kansas passed a gaming law in 2007 that authorized the building of four casinos and the first one opened in December 2009. Maryland had a gambling initiative granted in 2008 and the first operation surfaced in October 2010.
“Two to three years is probably a reasonable timeframe from passing in legislation to opening the doors,” Eadington said. “Anywhere from 18 months to two years would be the quickest. There is lot of bureaucratic stuff that takes place along the way.”
Texas is attractive with a friendly neighborhood and low taxes. But unless the government jumps on the gambling rodeo that’s bucking the nation, it may lose its appeal. Whether it’s a baby-step approach or the second coming of Sin City, Texas is buying into betting. And if a right-wing state like Texas can ignore its moral objections, you have to think other states will warm to the idea of expanding their gaming.
Cautiously following in the footsteps of other states seeking a source of additional income, Texas is entertaining the option of expanded gaming. The Legislature reconvened on Jan. 11 and if a proposal passes, gambling could be Texas’ newest version of black gold.
“Texas has attempted legislation for expanded gaming in the past but they’ve always been knocked down because of internal political fights among potential benefactors,” said Bill Eadington, Director at the Institute for the Study of Gambling and Commercial Gaming at the University of Nevada, Reno. “That said, the environment is arguably better now for legalization of gambling because states in general are in much more desperate financial straits.”
Eadington pointed out that states such as Kansas, Ohio, Maryland, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania have adopted expanded gaming in recent years to offset economic pitfalls.
Texas Governor Rick Perry has firmly been opposed to expanded gaming since he took office in 2000. But Perry recently said he wouldn’t exercise his veto powers should a gambling bill pass. Texas would need a two-thirds vote in the Legislature before being placed on a November ballot for the voters.
Recent numbers indicate the required votes aren’t there among members of the Senate and House. The Texas Republican Party has even made a recent push to repeal the state lottery. But as Eadington noted, financial despair has swayed some of the Legislature and may attract more.
Proposals from poker halls to Vegas-style casinos will be considered over the next four months.
“The Texas Gaming Association (TGA) will be supporting legislation that will create a framework for a limited number of destination resort casinos here in the state of Texas,” said TGA spokesman Scott Dunaway. “Our proposal will include table games and electronic machines. Our resorts will not only have opportunities for casino gaming but we also have plans to bring world-class entertainment and dining—what you would come to expect in Las Vegas.”
Anywhere from four to eight resort casinos are outlined in the bill. Destinations are likely to include highly populated cities such as Dallas and Houston but also beachfront areas like South Padre Island or Galveston. Tax revenue projections brought in by casinos reach as high as $4.5 billion.
Reports have estimated that adding electronic gaming to state racetracks could produce as much as $1 billion in annual revenue. Track owners are making a strong push for slots because they don’t know how much longer the struggling horse racing industry can survive without additional gambling amenities.
And if Texans can’t spend their hard-earned dollar locally, they’ll travel elsewhere to get their kicks. Bordering states such as Oklahoma and Louisiana have profited from cowboys with cash-crammed Wranglers. Texans spend an estimated $6 billion per year in out-of-state gambling.
With 10 professional franchises and more than a dozen collegiate teams at the Division I level, Texas arguably holds more sports fans than any other state. But according to Dunaway, an expanded gaming option of sports wagering is “not even part of the conversation.”
The biggest obstacle standing in the way of legalized sports betting is the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992, which only allows lotteries or pools to four states that were grandfathered in—Nevada, Delaware, Oregon and Montana. One of the primary sponsors of the PASPA was former Senator and New York Knick, Bill Bradley. Ironic considering NBA players seem to have an affection for gambling these days.
“There is also a political reality on sports wagering. You’re going to run into major opposition from all the professional sports leagues and the NCAA,” Eadington said. “This is obviously the case at the federal level and may be the case at the state level. So Texas would have this legal challenge to put up with and also have to deal with extensive lobbying by the sports organizations.”
If expanded gaming in some form is passed by the Texas Legislature and voters, don’t expect to see card rooms ready for action by December. Dunaway admitted licensing and constructing a gambling establishment would be a considerable project with a significant timeframe.
Kansas passed a gaming law in 2007 that authorized the building of four casinos and the first one opened in December 2009. Maryland had a gambling initiative granted in 2008 and the first operation surfaced in October 2010.
“Two to three years is probably a reasonable timeframe from passing in legislation to opening the doors,” Eadington said. “Anywhere from 18 months to two years would be the quickest. There is lot of bureaucratic stuff that takes place along the way.”
Texas is attractive with a friendly neighborhood and low taxes. But unless the government jumps on the gambling rodeo that’s bucking the nation, it may lose its appeal. Whether it’s a baby-step approach or the second coming of Sin City, Texas is buying into betting. And if a right-wing state like Texas can ignore its moral objections, you have to think other states will warm to the idea of expanding their gaming.
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2006/12/07
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Joe Brennan Jr., Chairman of iMEGA – the company that has been a vocal supporter of the Internet gambling bill in New Jersey, is to log in for a live webinar on the passage of the legislation on Wednesday 19th January 3pm GMT.
The webinar, which will be hosted live on the iGaming Business website at 3pm GMT, Wednesday 19th January.
iGaming Business, will provide unique insight into the passage of the S3167 bill to date, and the likelihood of New Jersey Governor, Chris Christie signing the bill into law in the 45 day period. It will also cover the opportunities this bill brings to New Jersey land-based casinos and global iGaming suppliers.
Alex Pratt, Publisher of iGaming, added “This is groundbreaking legislation for the industry where the US marketplace is concerned, and we are all buoyed by events in New Jersey. Joe Brennan has been involved in this legislation since the beginning and will provide us with an invaluable insight into the sector’s most intriguing market opening to date. Anyone with US-facing aspirations should not miss this important webinar.”
The Intra-State Internet Gambling bill (S3167) was approved in the New Jersey Senate a majority of 34-2 – the vote in the assembly was approved by 63-11-3 margin. The bill now awaits the signature of NJ Governor Chris Christie who has 45 days to endorse the legislation into law.
The webinar, which will be hosted live on the iGaming Business website at 3pm GMT, Wednesday 19th January.
iGaming Business, will provide unique insight into the passage of the S3167 bill to date, and the likelihood of New Jersey Governor, Chris Christie signing the bill into law in the 45 day period. It will also cover the opportunities this bill brings to New Jersey land-based casinos and global iGaming suppliers.
Alex Pratt, Publisher of iGaming, added “This is groundbreaking legislation for the industry where the US marketplace is concerned, and we are all buoyed by events in New Jersey. Joe Brennan has been involved in this legislation since the beginning and will provide us with an invaluable insight into the sector’s most intriguing market opening to date. Anyone with US-facing aspirations should not miss this important webinar.”
The Intra-State Internet Gambling bill (S3167) was approved in the New Jersey Senate a majority of 34-2 – the vote in the assembly was approved by 63-11-3 margin. The bill now awaits the signature of NJ Governor Chris Christie who has 45 days to endorse the legislation into law.
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2006/12/07
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29893
Nicole Kidman and her country singing star husband Keith Urban who both attended the Golden Globes last night, have apparently just given birth to a child through a surrogate.
TMZ reports that baby Faith was born at Centennial Medical Center in Nashville on December 28, 2010 and that she is home with Kidman and Urban, her biological parents.
The couple rented out the top floor of the hospital and visited Faith as well as the surrogate.
"Our family is truly blessed, and just so thankful, to have been given the gift of baby Faith Margaret," the couple said in a statement. "No words can adequately convey the incredible gratitude that we feel for everyone who was so supportive throughout this process, in particular our gestational carrier."
Kidman and Urban, both 43, were married in 2006 and have another daughter together, Sunday Rose Kidman Urban, born in 2008.
Urban met Kidman at G'Day LA, a Hollywood event honoring Australians, in January 2005, but they reportedly didn't begin dating until 6 months later. They married on a Sunday in June of 2006, but after lingerie model, Amanda Wyatt, claimed she had a drug and alcohol-fueled affair with Urban right up until his marriage to Kidman, in October of 2006, Urban checked himself into the Betty Ford Center in California issuing a statement that read: "I deeply regret the hurt this has caused Nicole and the ones who love and support me. One can never let one's guard down on recovery, and I'm afraid that I have."
The marriage between Urban and Kidman has reportedly been stable since.
TMZ reports that baby Faith was born at Centennial Medical Center in Nashville on December 28, 2010 and that she is home with Kidman and Urban, her biological parents.
The couple rented out the top floor of the hospital and visited Faith as well as the surrogate.
"Our family is truly blessed, and just so thankful, to have been given the gift of baby Faith Margaret," the couple said in a statement. "No words can adequately convey the incredible gratitude that we feel for everyone who was so supportive throughout this process, in particular our gestational carrier."
Kidman and Urban, both 43, were married in 2006 and have another daughter together, Sunday Rose Kidman Urban, born in 2008.
Urban met Kidman at G'Day LA, a Hollywood event honoring Australians, in January 2005, but they reportedly didn't begin dating until 6 months later. They married on a Sunday in June of 2006, but after lingerie model, Amanda Wyatt, claimed she had a drug and alcohol-fueled affair with Urban right up until his marriage to Kidman, in October of 2006, Urban checked himself into the Betty Ford Center in California issuing a statement that read: "I deeply regret the hurt this has caused Nicole and the ones who love and support me. One can never let one's guard down on recovery, and I'm afraid that I have."
The marriage between Urban and Kidman has reportedly been stable since.
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2006/12/07
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Actress, Paz de la Huerta, was in good form last night after her hit HBO series, Boardwalk Empire, won a couple of Golden Globe awards including Best Drama and a Best Actor award for her co-star Steve Buscemi. It was a night for laughs, snide remarks and as Paz proved, a whole lot of boozin’ after she got completely sloshed and experienced some less than impressive moments which led to a torn dress, slipping a nip and being denied entry to an after party.
I’m not sure if this was the first time Paz had attended a Golden Globes award show but the rumor is that there’s an open bar and well, enough said. TMZ happened to catch Paz as she was leaving the awards show and it just wasn’t pretty.
After the Golden Globes, she attempted to attend the awards show after party at the Chateau Marmont with her guest but was immediately denied entry due to her failure to stand or even speak for that matter. Ok, so at this point as she decides to walk toward her car but unfortunately that’s where the most embarrassing part comes into play, she takes a dive onto the sidewalk along with her escort and rips her dress. As she gets herself back up that’s when she slips a nip as she’s surrounded by photographers and onlookers.
Embarassing? Yes of course but hey, these things happen right? For next time, just consider wearing a pastie and she can ask Janet Jackson about that one.
I’m not sure if this was the first time Paz had attended a Golden Globes award show but the rumor is that there’s an open bar and well, enough said. TMZ happened to catch Paz as she was leaving the awards show and it just wasn’t pretty.
After the Golden Globes, she attempted to attend the awards show after party at the Chateau Marmont with her guest but was immediately denied entry due to her failure to stand or even speak for that matter. Ok, so at this point as she decides to walk toward her car but unfortunately that’s where the most embarrassing part comes into play, she takes a dive onto the sidewalk along with her escort and rips her dress. As she gets herself back up that’s when she slips a nip as she’s surrounded by photographers and onlookers.
Embarassing? Yes of course but hey, these things happen right? For next time, just consider wearing a pastie and she can ask Janet Jackson about that one.
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2006/12/07
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29893
While the rest of the country is moving towards full scale casino gambling, South Carolina is still stuck with outdated laws regarding charity gambling. Lawmakers are close to changing the outdated law to give some relief to charities.
The 1802 law states that all games with dice and cards are illegal. It does not matter that the charities often do not offer these games for real money, just the game itself is illegal. That has caused many to lobby a law change in recent years.
The Senate Judiciary Committee advanced an amendment that would allow churches, schools, law enforcement, and other nonprofit organizations to operate casino nights without the fear of breaking the law. The games could be played under the new legislation proposal, as long as raffle tickets were given to winners.
The raffle tickets would then be used for a chance to win prizes at the end of the event. Under no circumstances can cash be exchanged for winning chips. Currently, the South Carolina Lottery is the only raffle gambling that is legal in the state.
The law could not be changed until at least the 2012 Presidential election. Voters would have to approve the amendment to change the 1802 law. Voter approval is not expected to be a stumbling bock for the new law, as most South Carolina residents would like to see more gambling in the state.
Other states on the East Coast have spent the past couple of years updating their gaming laws, but instead of allowing charity gambling, most of these states have added casinos. The casinos all have different offerings, from slots and poker, to full table game gambling in Pennsylvania.
The 1802 law states that all games with dice and cards are illegal. It does not matter that the charities often do not offer these games for real money, just the game itself is illegal. That has caused many to lobby a law change in recent years.
The Senate Judiciary Committee advanced an amendment that would allow churches, schools, law enforcement, and other nonprofit organizations to operate casino nights without the fear of breaking the law. The games could be played under the new legislation proposal, as long as raffle tickets were given to winners.
The raffle tickets would then be used for a chance to win prizes at the end of the event. Under no circumstances can cash be exchanged for winning chips. Currently, the South Carolina Lottery is the only raffle gambling that is legal in the state.
The law could not be changed until at least the 2012 Presidential election. Voters would have to approve the amendment to change the 1802 law. Voter approval is not expected to be a stumbling bock for the new law, as most South Carolina residents would like to see more gambling in the state.
Other states on the East Coast have spent the past couple of years updating their gaming laws, but instead of allowing charity gambling, most of these states have added casinos. The casinos all have different offerings, from slots and poker, to full table game gambling in Pennsylvania.
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2006/12/07
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"The bill is good for the State, it’s good for jobs and it’s good for revenue," Pascrell said. Pascrell added that online gambling is expected to create over 1,500 jobs in New Jersey and over $300 million per year in revenue.
The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 35-2 with 3 abstaining and the Assembly by a vote of 63-11 with 6 absent. There was support for the bill from both Republicans and Democrats so there is an overwhelming mandate for Governor Christie to sign it into law. Asked if he thought Christie may be wary of signing the bill, Pascrell was adamant that the Governor is in full support and will cede to the wishes of the people.
The only real opposition to the bill was from Harrah’s, but Pascrell claimed that they had their chance and missed out.
“Harrah’s wanted a federal law passed and they failed. They tried to convince us that it would be passed in the summer and it wasn’t, they tried to convince us it would pass before the midterm elections and it wasn’t. And they tried to convince us it would pass in the lame duck session but Harry Reid failed. Harrah’s has been selfishly opposing our bill and Governor Christie sees through it.”
Pascrell had no hard feelings for Harrah’s since they were looking out for their own interests as a company based in Nevada but he also acknowledged that with a Republican majority in the House, it is very unlikely that a federal bill could be passed prior to the 2012 elections. Moreover, Barney Frank’s bill HR2267 has been hanging around for quite a while now and has really never garnered much support outside of the few initial co-sponsors. The gambling community may be hyping HR2267 as a sure thing, but the truth is that it is a far way off from being adopted. As well, with New Jersey currently challenging the legality of PASPA, the clause that bans sports betting in HR2267 could prove troublesome to the state later should HR2267 pass and New Jersey win their challenge of PASPA. Consequently, Pascrell believes New Jersey must move forward to protect its own interests and this bill does just that. As for Harrah’s, since they run casinos in Atlantic City, the New Jersey bill will prove to be a benefit to them as well.
The New Jersey bill also provides an opportunity for offshore companies to get a foothold in the U.S. The bill as written requires a New Jersey land based operation to be in charge of the online product, but offshore companies such as Cryptologic, Betfair or Party Gaming will be allowed to get involved in the gaming so long as they partner with a brick and mortar casino. And since Pascrell believes it’s unlikely that Trump or Boyd Gaming are ready to set up online sites, nor have the capital to do so, it would be in their best interests to partner with companies that already have the software developed and perfected. It’s uncertain if New Jersey will have a clause similar to California barring companies that were catering to the U.S. after the passage of the UIGEA, but Pascrell believes it is unlikely.
“New Jersey’s regulatory framework for probate has not been promulgated yet. Rules and regs will be written and published soon after the legislation becomes law. There is absolutely no prohibition for off shore sites to get licensed. If they pass probate, they will get licensed.”
The rules and regulations will have stipulations that mandate the use of verification software to ensure all people who bet online are located in New Jersey and are at least 21 years of age, plus there will be rules relating to problem gambling.
As mentioned previously, this bill is not linked to New Jersey’s attempt to overturn PASPA, but the 2 bills are inter-related because sports betting will almost certainly become a part of the new online gambling framework if the state is successful in their challenge. Earlier this year New Jersey’s legislature voted over 60% to challenge PASPA which will in turn result in a November ballot question asking if residents support sports betting. And if the majority do vote in favour (both PPAG and iMEGA are preparing to convince the public of its benefits) then New Jersey will move forward with their challenge that it violates numerous chapters of the Constitution. Pascrell isn’t concerned that it violates the UIGEA or the Wire Act because the betting would be confined to the State and intrastate betting is excluded under both laws.
Senator Raymond Lesniak, who has been the point person for the state on the issue, was very pleased with the vote.
"This precedent setting legislation will give a shot in the arm to our ailing casino industry, producing in excess of $300 mil in after tax revenues and will create over 1,500 high paying jobs in an area, Atlantic City, which has lost thousands. I thank Joe Brennan Jr. and Bill Pascrell, III for fighting alongside me all the way to the finish line."
Joe Brennan Jr., the President of iMEGA added:
“We were certain NJ was going to embrace this bill. The focus was on creating a good home for the industry in the US, one that had the infrastructure, workforce and gaming regulators that combine to make the best ecosystem for i-gaming firms. The AC casinos provide an excellent foundation and potential partners. The state will see this become an engine for job creation and investment. It's a win-win."
The passage of the bill in New Jersey will prove to be a victory, not only for New J