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2006/12/07
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Last night on Big Brother, the tables turned suddenly and Shelly Moore has found herself on the block. Moore pleaded to fellow houseguests that she has "paid the ultimate price" for her hand in ousting fan favorite, Jeff Schroeder.
Because Shelly is sequestered away from her family in the CBS sound stage house, we don't think it's possible for her to know what's been going on in the outside world – but perhaps she does – as her comment about "paying the ultimate price" and her scared disposition seemed to suggest she may have been tipped off by a producer that her family was in danger.
Since flipping and ultimately sending Schroeder home, Moore's husband and young daughter have been inundated with emails and threatening phone calls from outraged Big Brother fans.
Big Brother Executive Producer Allison Grodner released a statement on Twitter … saying, "No matter how much you dislike an HG, this is wrong! True BB fans do not try to ruin lives. Please stop!"
The family met with the FBI to discuss the death threats that were made to them and TMZ reports that after the agents reviewed the information, the feds determined that none of the threats were "credible."
Moore's family is pleased with this outcome and hopes they can move on with their lives. And it seems as though the outraged fans have gotten bored and are less outraged, since the threats have dwindled over the last few days.
Perhaps America will have its revenge when Moore is likely voted out on the next episode.
Because Shelly is sequestered away from her family in the CBS sound stage house, we don't think it's possible for her to know what's been going on in the outside world – but perhaps she does – as her comment about "paying the ultimate price" and her scared disposition seemed to suggest she may have been tipped off by a producer that her family was in danger.
Since flipping and ultimately sending Schroeder home, Moore's husband and young daughter have been inundated with emails and threatening phone calls from outraged Big Brother fans.
Big Brother Executive Producer Allison Grodner released a statement on Twitter … saying, "No matter how much you dislike an HG, this is wrong! True BB fans do not try to ruin lives. Please stop!"
The family met with the FBI to discuss the death threats that were made to them and TMZ reports that after the agents reviewed the information, the feds determined that none of the threats were "credible."
Moore's family is pleased with this outcome and hopes they can move on with their lives. And it seems as though the outraged fans have gotten bored and are less outraged, since the threats have dwindled over the last few days.
Perhaps America will have its revenge when Moore is likely voted out on the next episode.
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2006/12/07
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29893
Gambling revenues in Macau continue to increase at an incredible rate, with year-over-year revenues up 57% in August of 2011. Gambling revenue totaled $3.09 billion in August, despite losses in financial markets around the world.
In 2006, Macau became the largest gambling market in the world, overtaking the Las Vegas Strip. Now, Macau may actually manage to bring in more than five times as much revenue as the Strip in 2011.
The growth is attributed to the number of high rollers from mainland China who have continued to flock to Macau in ever greater numbers.
According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, RBS analyst Philip Tulk believes that the growth isn’t set to stop anytime soon. According to their report, Macau’s gambling venue is up 47% so far in 2011 against the same months in 2010. That comes on the heels of a 58% growth in 2010.
However, growth is expected to slow down, if for no other reason than that it will be hard to continue growing a customer base at the current rates. According to the WSJ report, Turk believes that growth will end up being about 45% for all of 2011 over 2010, with growth falling to the still impressive levels of 18% in 2012, and 16% in 2013.
While many local companies have owned casinos in Macau for generations, many large American casino firms are now taking full advantage of the Macau market. Corporations including Mynn Resorts, MGM Resorts and Las Vegas Sands have all opened casinos in the Macau market in recent years. However, as the Wall Street Journal report notes, the largest casino owner in the market is still Stanley Ho, whose SJM Holdings casinos take in about a third of all gambling revenue in Macau.
In 2006, Macau became the largest gambling market in the world, overtaking the Las Vegas Strip. Now, Macau may actually manage to bring in more than five times as much revenue as the Strip in 2011.
The growth is attributed to the number of high rollers from mainland China who have continued to flock to Macau in ever greater numbers.
According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, RBS analyst Philip Tulk believes that the growth isn’t set to stop anytime soon. According to their report, Macau’s gambling venue is up 47% so far in 2011 against the same months in 2010. That comes on the heels of a 58% growth in 2010.
However, growth is expected to slow down, if for no other reason than that it will be hard to continue growing a customer base at the current rates. According to the WSJ report, Turk believes that growth will end up being about 45% for all of 2011 over 2010, with growth falling to the still impressive levels of 18% in 2012, and 16% in 2013.
While many local companies have owned casinos in Macau for generations, many large American casino firms are now taking full advantage of the Macau market. Corporations including Mynn Resorts, MGM Resorts and Las Vegas Sands have all opened casinos in the Macau market in recent years. However, as the Wall Street Journal report notes, the largest casino owner in the market is still Stanley Ho, whose SJM Holdings casinos take in about a third of all gambling revenue in Macau.
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2006/12/07
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A horny or lonely or stupid (or all of the above) 22-year-old pizza delivery man turned juror, Jonathan Hudson was on deciding the fate of a defendant in a car crash case in, Arlington, Texas. Apparently, he is now in trouble because he thought it would be a good idea to friend the defendant, Courtney Downing on Facebook. He also discussed the case on his Facebook page, according to court records.
“He’s a very, very nice kid,” said Steve Gordon, the attorney assigned to represent him. “I think he was just very naive about the rules of being on a jury.”
When Downing told her lawyer, Hudson was kicked off the jury and charged with contempt of court and was guilty sentenced to two days of community service.
After he was sentenced to four counts of contempt of court, Hudson took to Facebook again, to message the defendant.
Hudson told Downing, "I'm pretty upset over this…I guess you know what it feels like to be prosecuted too. Good luck with everything."
“The original case resolved itself fairly quickly,” said Hudson's attorney. “Unfortunately, it went on for Mr. Hudson.”
Apparently, Hudson got off easy. He could have been sentenced to six months in prison for contempt, but he will begin his 16 hours of community service next week.
“He’s a very, very nice kid,” said Steve Gordon, the attorney assigned to represent him. “I think he was just very naive about the rules of being on a jury.”
When Downing told her lawyer, Hudson was kicked off the jury and charged with contempt of court and was guilty sentenced to two days of community service.
After he was sentenced to four counts of contempt of court, Hudson took to Facebook again, to message the defendant.
Hudson told Downing, "I'm pretty upset over this…I guess you know what it feels like to be prosecuted too. Good luck with everything."
“The original case resolved itself fairly quickly,” said Hudson's attorney. “Unfortunately, it went on for Mr. Hudson.”
Apparently, Hudson got off easy. He could have been sentenced to six months in prison for contempt, but he will begin his 16 hours of community service next week.
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2006/12/07
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Online gambling is not just fun for some people it is also a way to make a living. Professional gamblers have been around for a long time but the occupation has grown a great deal since internet wagering came into the world.
As with everything and every subject there are ways to improve your skills by going to university or taking a course in your special interest and playing for money on the internet is no exception.
To accommodate those looking for an upgrade the Professional Online Gaming and Betting Convention in Monaco on October 10-12 2011 may be just the ticket to an increased income stream. Last ear the Monaco iGaming exchanges presented a fabulous program for the inspiration and introduction of new and exciting techniques for online gamblers of every stripe.
MiE features a professional trading Market with key executives from the online gaming community, as well as a series of Conferences and an Awards ceremony. According to the MiE web site the MiE provides attendees with a unique forum consisting of MiE panels and round tables that deliver relevant information on the current status of igaming, exploring key issues and providing feedback from different market sectors, with the aim of detecting future needs and answering the most pressing issues.
The Grimaldi Forum Congress Centre will host the event which coincides with another event held at the same time. SPORTELMonaco is the leading international Convention for Sport, Television and New Media. The two events are meant to dovetail so that participants of the Sportel exhibition and their MiE counterparts a chance to meet. In addition, MiE participants benefit directly from over 20 years of Sportel’s know-how.
Interesting and qualified speakers will attend the round table discussions on topics such as online gambling in the French jurisdiction and online gambling regulations in different European countries. This convention is a must attend for anyone who wants to improve their knowledge of all things to do with online gambling.
As with everything and every subject there are ways to improve your skills by going to university or taking a course in your special interest and playing for money on the internet is no exception.
To accommodate those looking for an upgrade the Professional Online Gaming and Betting Convention in Monaco on October 10-12 2011 may be just the ticket to an increased income stream. Last ear the Monaco iGaming exchanges presented a fabulous program for the inspiration and introduction of new and exciting techniques for online gamblers of every stripe.
MiE features a professional trading Market with key executives from the online gaming community, as well as a series of Conferences and an Awards ceremony. According to the MiE web site the MiE provides attendees with a unique forum consisting of MiE panels and round tables that deliver relevant information on the current status of igaming, exploring key issues and providing feedback from different market sectors, with the aim of detecting future needs and answering the most pressing issues.
The Grimaldi Forum Congress Centre will host the event which coincides with another event held at the same time. SPORTELMonaco is the leading international Convention for Sport, Television and New Media. The two events are meant to dovetail so that participants of the Sportel exhibition and their MiE counterparts a chance to meet. In addition, MiE participants benefit directly from over 20 years of Sportel’s know-how.
Interesting and qualified speakers will attend the round table discussions on topics such as online gambling in the French jurisdiction and online gambling regulations in different European countries. This convention is a must attend for anyone who wants to improve their knowledge of all things to do with online gambling.
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2006/12/07
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Former walking gong show Tara Reid is reportedly the third contestant to be evicted from the Celebrity Big Brother house – and when she smiled and waved at the cameras upon her exit from the house, she was met with boos from the live audience.
During her interview with the show's host, Brian Dowling, Reid said, "We shoot it for 24 hours they edit it down to one hour I don’t know what they show. There were a lot of really fun moments its truly an emotional roller coaster."
Host Dowling showed a montage of Reid's stint on the show, which she seemed to be displeased with while watching.
"To honest with you, what I've seen just of these clips right now, I'm not that happy with that. There was a lot of great times (but) I feel like you guys took the toughest times of me and showed it, which is kind of sad. There were so many good things."
Reid added, "It gets cliquey in the house and it's like a second school. You have this crowd and that crowd and sometimes you feel a little bullied."
Reid recently married Bulgarian financier Zachary Kehayov. Reid has previously been linked to Carson Daly, Russian hockey star Sergei Fedorov, and internet entrepreneur Michael Axtmann.
During her interview with the show's host, Brian Dowling, Reid said, "We shoot it for 24 hours they edit it down to one hour I don’t know what they show. There were a lot of really fun moments its truly an emotional roller coaster."
Host Dowling showed a montage of Reid's stint on the show, which she seemed to be displeased with while watching.
"To honest with you, what I've seen just of these clips right now, I'm not that happy with that. There was a lot of great times (but) I feel like you guys took the toughest times of me and showed it, which is kind of sad. There were so many good things."
Reid added, "It gets cliquey in the house and it's like a second school. You have this crowd and that crowd and sometimes you feel a little bullied."
Reid recently married Bulgarian financier Zachary Kehayov. Reid has previously been linked to Carson Daly, Russian hockey star Sergei Fedorov, and internet entrepreneur Michael Axtmann.
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2006/12/07
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Operators of traditional land based casinos are looking at the online gambling industry to help them market their products to the VIP high roller gambling demographic. A new generation of junket operator is setting its sights on the Asian market, knowing full well there is huge potential there to be gleaned.
Goldenway is making efforts to change the way junket operators work by attempting to shift VIP casino business in Macau to a cash rather than credit model while recruiting high rollers by online marketing using a dedicated website. This approach sees recruitment being accomplished almost exclusively online with agents posted at the VIP room for identification verification purposes only.
Jerry Tse, one of Goldenway’s executive team said to ‘Inside Asian Gaming’, “Our management structure is modern and a long way from the traditional image of Macau junket management and gangsters, etc. It’s about creating new channels and a new environment for the guests,”
It’s estimated that 70% of all gaming revenue in Macau comes from junkets, proving the value of the service to both the junket operator and the casinos.
Goldenway’s innovative way of getting VIP’s to come to Macau, will use their newly launched VIP room at the Grand Lisboa, rewards its players as explained by Tse, “With traditional junkets the VIP room shares the commission provided by the casinos with the player agents. With our model the customer directly benefits. In our marketing materials we stress the direct benefit to customers. It notes that we share commission with the players rather than giving it to agents. The agency model is about giving a credit line with all the credit management issues that go with that. We don’t have those credit management issues. That’s the beauty of our business.”
The business has finally realized that working with the internet is the way of the future and that the Asian market is the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
Goldenway is making efforts to change the way junket operators work by attempting to shift VIP casino business in Macau to a cash rather than credit model while recruiting high rollers by online marketing using a dedicated website. This approach sees recruitment being accomplished almost exclusively online with agents posted at the VIP room for identification verification purposes only.
Jerry Tse, one of Goldenway’s executive team said to ‘Inside Asian Gaming’, “Our management structure is modern and a long way from the traditional image of Macau junket management and gangsters, etc. It’s about creating new channels and a new environment for the guests,”
It’s estimated that 70% of all gaming revenue in Macau comes from junkets, proving the value of the service to both the junket operator and the casinos.
Goldenway’s innovative way of getting VIP’s to come to Macau, will use their newly launched VIP room at the Grand Lisboa, rewards its players as explained by Tse, “With traditional junkets the VIP room shares the commission provided by the casinos with the player agents. With our model the customer directly benefits. In our marketing materials we stress the direct benefit to customers. It notes that we share commission with the players rather than giving it to agents. The agency model is about giving a credit line with all the credit management issues that go with that. We don’t have those credit management issues. That’s the beauty of our business.”
The business has finally realized that working with the internet is the way of the future and that the Asian market is the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
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2006/12/07
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My last memories of Eddie Murphy were as “Donkey” from Shrek and then again as “Donkey” from Shrek and this year he may just lend his comedic talents as a host to the 84th Annual Academy Awards come February 2012. Could Murphy possibly offer up some laughs and keep the attention of Hollywood’s elite?
According to Deadline, it’s not quite a done deal but it looks like Oscars producer, Brett Ratner, is throwing Murphy’s name in the hat in hopes that the Academy will approve the proposal. The 50-year-old comedian is currently a strong contender and according to Ratner, he’s making a real push for Murphy.
Is Murphy wholeheartedly interested in the gig? Deadline claims that the comedian has expressed interest in hosting the 2012 Oscars and honestly, someone with true comedic talent is needed for this gig and a veteran like Murphy could certainly pull it off.
For a while there, it seemed like Oprah was going to earn the hosting gig and there were even rumors of Billy Crystal returning or even How I Met Your Mother star, Neil Patrick Harris taking over as host but these things change like the wind so really it’s anyone’s guess as to who could end up with the gig.
Any thoughts on who should host the 2012 Oscars?
According to Deadline, it’s not quite a done deal but it looks like Oscars producer, Brett Ratner, is throwing Murphy’s name in the hat in hopes that the Academy will approve the proposal. The 50-year-old comedian is currently a strong contender and according to Ratner, he’s making a real push for Murphy.
Is Murphy wholeheartedly interested in the gig? Deadline claims that the comedian has expressed interest in hosting the 2012 Oscars and honestly, someone with true comedic talent is needed for this gig and a veteran like Murphy could certainly pull it off.
For a while there, it seemed like Oprah was going to earn the hosting gig and there were even rumors of Billy Crystal returning or even How I Met Your Mother star, Neil Patrick Harris taking over as host but these things change like the wind so really it’s anyone’s guess as to who could end up with the gig.
Any thoughts on who should host the 2012 Oscars?
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2006/12/07
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On Prince Harry's upcoming trip to the U.S. for a helicopter training session with the British Army, a tough 12-week mandatory training period for all Army trainees, he'll be making a quick stop in Las Vegas.
During his first week, he'll be spending time in California, then head to Las Vegas during the midway point of his training, which is customary for all Army trainees to take part in and he'll be staying there for 48 hours with his fellow pilots.
A military source said: “It’s traditional that guys on his course, which is split between California and Arizona, have a break in Vegas at the halfway point.
"The course doesn’t have much downtime – it’s pretty intense. This is a chance for pilots to let their hair down, kick back and enjoy themselves.”
The 26-year-old party-loving prince recently got back from a break in Croatia where he was seen frolicking with hot ladies and played in the swimming pool of a nightclub.
Want to play in a casino without traveling to Vegas? Bodog has an awesome online casino you can really sink your teeth into.
During his first week, he'll be spending time in California, then head to Las Vegas during the midway point of his training, which is customary for all Army trainees to take part in and he'll be staying there for 48 hours with his fellow pilots.
A military source said: “It’s traditional that guys on his course, which is split between California and Arizona, have a break in Vegas at the halfway point.
"The course doesn’t have much downtime – it’s pretty intense. This is a chance for pilots to let their hair down, kick back and enjoy themselves.”
The 26-year-old party-loving prince recently got back from a break in Croatia where he was seen frolicking with hot ladies and played in the swimming pool of a nightclub.
Want to play in a casino without traveling to Vegas? Bodog has an awesome online casino you can really sink your teeth into.
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2006/12/07
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OpenBet has announced a partnership agreement with the customer verification specialists, Callcredit Information Group. This new agreement highlights OpenBet’s commitment to security that is the best that can be had.
OpenBet is an online gaming platform for many of the online gambling industry’s major operators. Some of those well known and established firms include SkyBet, Ladbrokes, William Hill and Betfair. These operators will benefit from the new arrangement by allowing OpenBet licensees to capture and validate customers’ names, addresses and date of birth details, while conducting a real-time investigation against bank and credit card processor records.
Managing director of Callcredit, Graham Lund, commented on the agreement in the press release, “We are delighted to be working with OpenBet, the market leader in the online gaming sector. Our partner agreement provides an exciting opportunity for OpenBet customers to experience the CallValidate product which improves the efficiency of customer validation and registration in one simple, quick and efficient check.”
OpenBet’s Chief Executive Officer, David Loveday, also commented on the partnership, “We have always ensured that we surround ourselves with the very best suppliers within our industry…By working in partnership with the best, we can be certain that we are offering our customers the best.”
The CallValidate tool was revealed to be a system that can prevent fraudulent activity by detecting any discrepancies in data recording. It also meets anti-money laundering compliance regulations, reduces operational costs and increases consumer safety and awareness.
OpenBet was founded in 1996 as Orbis Technology Ltd, a company offering one of the most powerful and flexible betting software solutions in the online gaming industry. Through the development of its sophisticated and high performance technology, OpenBet's proven and trusted products and open platform set a baseline for the online gaming and betting industry. Openbet has a number of software products in it’s portfolio including casino, sports, betting, poker and retail.
OpenBet is an online gaming platform for many of the online gambling industry’s major operators. Some of those well known and established firms include SkyBet, Ladbrokes, William Hill and Betfair. These operators will benefit from the new arrangement by allowing OpenBet licensees to capture and validate customers’ names, addresses and date of birth details, while conducting a real-time investigation against bank and credit card processor records.
Managing director of Callcredit, Graham Lund, commented on the agreement in the press release, “We are delighted to be working with OpenBet, the market leader in the online gaming sector. Our partner agreement provides an exciting opportunity for OpenBet customers to experience the CallValidate product which improves the efficiency of customer validation and registration in one simple, quick and efficient check.”
OpenBet’s Chief Executive Officer, David Loveday, also commented on the partnership, “We have always ensured that we surround ourselves with the very best suppliers within our industry…By working in partnership with the best, we can be certain that we are offering our customers the best.”
The CallValidate tool was revealed to be a system that can prevent fraudulent activity by detecting any discrepancies in data recording. It also meets anti-money laundering compliance regulations, reduces operational costs and increases consumer safety and awareness.
OpenBet was founded in 1996 as Orbis Technology Ltd, a company offering one of the most powerful and flexible betting software solutions in the online gaming industry. Through the development of its sophisticated and high performance technology, OpenBet's proven and trusted products and open platform set a baseline for the online gaming and betting industry. Openbet has a number of software products in it’s portfolio including casino, sports, betting, poker and retail.
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2006/12/07
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29893
What is online betting?
Online betting can be done in form of card games like poker, blackjack, slots, Roulette and is also popular in sports like NBA, NFL and cricket, golf etc. Several websites offering online betting options try to rope in newcomers by giving attractive promos and discounts. Some promotional examples are; Money back guarantee if first bet is lost or “welcome bonuses” with higher payout percentages etc.
What are the Requirements to access online betting?
First important step while trying to make money through online games and bets is to have a thorough know-how of the game. There are easy games like BINGO which do not require any strategy per se but it is still important to know which sites are reliable and the tips to making the most out of the money you have paid. Games like BINGO are especially popular amongst the elderly community as they include chat rooms and are good ways of making online friends. Naturally, easier the game, lesser is the payout but there are different levels of online play from beginners to expert. So knowing your level and placing an upper limit on spending will ensure that you can “walk away” if losing heavily.
Often a MONEYBOOKER or NETELLER like account is required to place bets through different countries and currencies.
Is it legal?
There are several grey areas in the laws pertaining to online gambling and it is a complex issue. However, according to About.com guide Allen Moody, no arrests have been made in US for placing bets online.
Which site is reliable?
Several online casino guides give reviews and rankings of online casinos based on bonus size, payout percentage, customer service, game features, and ease-of-use. Accordingly one can choose the "best online casino".
Online betting can be done in form of card games like poker, blackjack, slots, Roulette and is also popular in sports like NBA, NFL and cricket, golf etc. Several websites offering online betting options try to rope in newcomers by giving attractive promos and discounts. Some promotional examples are; Money back guarantee if first bet is lost or “welcome bonuses” with higher payout percentages etc.
What are the Requirements to access online betting?
First important step while trying to make money through online games and bets is to have a thorough know-how of the game. There are easy games like BINGO which do not require any strategy per se but it is still important to know which sites are reliable and the tips to making the most out of the money you have paid. Games like BINGO are especially popular amongst the elderly community as they include chat rooms and are good ways of making online friends. Naturally, easier the game, lesser is the payout but there are different levels of online play from beginners to expert. So knowing your level and placing an upper limit on spending will ensure that you can “walk away” if losing heavily.
Often a MONEYBOOKER or NETELLER like account is required to place bets through different countries and currencies.
Is it legal?
There are several grey areas in the laws pertaining to online gambling and it is a complex issue. However, according to About.com guide Allen Moody, no arrests have been made in US for placing bets online.
Which site is reliable?
Several online casino guides give reviews and rankings of online casinos based on bonus size, payout percentage, customer service, game features, and ease-of-use. Accordingly one can choose the "best online casino".
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2006/12/07
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29893
Dancing the the Stars contestant, Chaz Bono, is apparently reeling after training at the studios and receiving meals one would find in the pantry of a really fat family. Bono, who has stunningly lost 5 pounds during just 6 days of rehearsal, is upset over the choice of grub offered by producers and is asking for food that won't hinder his diet.
Chaz has significant issues with producers laying out a smorgasbord of chips, candy, granola and protein bars. He has since made very specific, healthier food demands to producers.
Chaz Salvatore Bono was born Chastity Sun Bono and is the only child of Cher and the late Sonny Bono. Bono, a female-to-male transgender man, was named Chastity Sun Bono after the film Chastity, which was produced by Sonny, and in which Cher—in her first feature film—plays a bisexual woman. The film had its première shortly before Bono's birth in 1969.
Since announcing that Bono would be a part of this season's cast, many people rushed to ABCs comment boards to complain that ABC is pushing a homosexual agenda with contestants.
Bono has written two books on coming out to oneself and to others in books. Family Outing: A Guide to the Coming Out Process for Gays, Lesbians, and Their Families, Transitions, which discussed his being raised as Chastity under the media spotlight, as well a memoir entitled, The End of Innocence.
Chaz has significant issues with producers laying out a smorgasbord of chips, candy, granola and protein bars. He has since made very specific, healthier food demands to producers.
Chaz Salvatore Bono was born Chastity Sun Bono and is the only child of Cher and the late Sonny Bono. Bono, a female-to-male transgender man, was named Chastity Sun Bono after the film Chastity, which was produced by Sonny, and in which Cher—in her first feature film—plays a bisexual woman. The film had its première shortly before Bono's birth in 1969.
Since announcing that Bono would be a part of this season's cast, many people rushed to ABCs comment boards to complain that ABC is pushing a homosexual agenda with contestants.
Bono has written two books on coming out to oneself and to others in books. Family Outing: A Guide to the Coming Out Process for Gays, Lesbians, and Their Families, Transitions, which discussed his being raised as Chastity under the media spotlight, as well a memoir entitled, The End of Innocence.
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2006/12/07
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Regulation and taxation of gambling and online poker are currently in the headlines of newspapers around the world. While online gambling commission and operators are looking for a way to legalize poker in the United States, France through the Regulatory Authority of Online Games (ARJEL) is looking for a way to reduce the tax levied on online poker. As a reminder, poker is regulated in France since July 2010 with new licenses awarded by the ARJEL to online gambling operators. The ARJEL has just proposed to the government a new regulation having 65 proposals. Such proposals include a new tax based on Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) which is currently perceived by taking in consideration all players' bets.
Unlike the UMP deputy Jean-François Lamour who proposed a tax of 20% of all online games during the last parliamentary report, the Regulatory Authority of Online Games suggest a tax of 25% for poker, 38% and 55% for sports betting and horse betting. In its report, the member of the UMP also proposed a return rate to players of 90%, a point that the ARJEL also reviewed to boost the attractiveness of other services of French operators over the competition. Thus, this authority suggested a return rate of 95% to substitute that of 85% currently effective. But whatever the tax determined in November during this revision of the law about online gambling, French players can already be sure that the tax on online gambling will be soon reviewed and will be more attractive.
Unlike the UMP deputy Jean-François Lamour who proposed a tax of 20% of all online games during the last parliamentary report, the Regulatory Authority of Online Games suggest a tax of 25% for poker, 38% and 55% for sports betting and horse betting. In its report, the member of the UMP also proposed a return rate to players of 90%, a point that the ARJEL also reviewed to boost the attractiveness of other services of French operators over the competition. Thus, this authority suggested a return rate of 95% to substitute that of 85% currently effective. But whatever the tax determined in November during this revision of the law about online gambling, French players can already be sure that the tax on online gambling will be soon reviewed and will be more attractive.
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2006/12/07
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Canada, Israel, Russia, Norway and Turkey are the countries that Entraction the online gambling service provider has decided to ban from play. International Game Technology purchased Entraction a short time ago which seems to have changed the perspective of the firm somewhat.
The Swedish firm Entraction was boasting that the advent of the U.S. Department of Justice crack down in April meant the company had a better chance of entering the market there. Entraction president and Chief Executive Officer Peter Astrom stated, back in May that Black Friday had strengthened “Entraction’s opportunities for success when the US market opens.” The reasoning behind the exclusion of these five nations seems obvious when one examines the situation with IGT and its positioning to be part of a new US online gambling market.
In order for Entraction to look good while online gambling operators are under intense investigation in the USA and elsewhere the choices made for most of the banned countries is political and prudent.
Russia is sending out the message that gambling operators need not apply. Russia has been tightening its control over online gambling and maybe Entraction doesn’t want to risk getting involved.
Norway is considering blocking ISP that offer online gambling and has already implemented measures such as those in the States that restrict money transfers that deal with online gambling.
The Turkish government has outlawed online gambling operators and restricts its activities to the State run monopoly.
Israel has publicly called the industry the “scourge of online gambling” during a recent critique of Israel’s public services.
Canada is the only country that doesn’t seem to fit into the mold. There are a maybe a few obscure reasons Canada is included in the list of banned countries but nothing stands out as politically incorrect other than the fact the nation is attached to the USA.
Good reasons are not always evident for business decisions but in this case the need to think of the future for IGT may be reason enough.
The Swedish firm Entraction was boasting that the advent of the U.S. Department of Justice crack down in April meant the company had a better chance of entering the market there. Entraction president and Chief Executive Officer Peter Astrom stated, back in May that Black Friday had strengthened “Entraction’s opportunities for success when the US market opens.” The reasoning behind the exclusion of these five nations seems obvious when one examines the situation with IGT and its positioning to be part of a new US online gambling market.
In order for Entraction to look good while online gambling operators are under intense investigation in the USA and elsewhere the choices made for most of the banned countries is political and prudent.
Russia is sending out the message that gambling operators need not apply. Russia has been tightening its control over online gambling and maybe Entraction doesn’t want to risk getting involved.
Norway is considering blocking ISP that offer online gambling and has already implemented measures such as those in the States that restrict money transfers that deal with online gambling.
The Turkish government has outlawed online gambling operators and restricts its activities to the State run monopoly.
Israel has publicly called the industry the “scourge of online gambling” during a recent critique of Israel’s public services.
Canada is the only country that doesn’t seem to fit into the mold. There are a maybe a few obscure reasons Canada is included in the list of banned countries but nothing stands out as politically incorrect other than the fact the nation is attached to the USA.
Good reasons are not always evident for business decisions but in this case the need to think of the future for IGT may be reason enough.
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2006/12/07
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Last night, the much-anticipated season premiere of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills hit Bravo's airways, and many people tuned in to see how the show would handle the tragic suicide of the estranged husband of one of the women.
Russell Armstrong, the husband of Taylor Armstrong was found hanged just a few weeks ago.
As a prelude to the premiere, Bravo aired a 4-minute segment where the entire cast, sans Taylor, discussed how Russell's death has affected them.
During the segment, the cast wiped away tears and agreed they would not have done anything different.
Kyle Richards then said, “A lot of us have guilt about not seeing this coming. You can't feel responsible for that. It was his choice, it was his choice. It's hard for me to move forward, it was such a tragic situation. But as difficult as this is, life goes on.”
During the show, there was no appearance of Russell, but there was a dinner party where Taylor confessed on the season that she and Russell were going to couples therapy, saying, "We're knee-deep into so much psycho-therapy that I'm sick of myself."
Then, Ken Vanderpump said that if he had to go into therapy he “would feel weak.”
This caused Taylor to storm out from the room and lock herself away, crying as her "friends" tried to console her.
Russell Armstrong, the husband of Taylor Armstrong was found hanged just a few weeks ago.
As a prelude to the premiere, Bravo aired a 4-minute segment where the entire cast, sans Taylor, discussed how Russell's death has affected them.
During the segment, the cast wiped away tears and agreed they would not have done anything different.
Kyle Richards then said, “A lot of us have guilt about not seeing this coming. You can't feel responsible for that. It was his choice, it was his choice. It's hard for me to move forward, it was such a tragic situation. But as difficult as this is, life goes on.”
During the show, there was no appearance of Russell, but there was a dinner party where Taylor confessed on the season that she and Russell were going to couples therapy, saying, "We're knee-deep into so much psycho-therapy that I'm sick of myself."
Then, Ken Vanderpump said that if he had to go into therapy he “would feel weak.”
This caused Taylor to storm out from the room and lock herself away, crying as her "friends" tried to console her.
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2006/12/07
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29893
MEPs are divided over European Commission proposals for online gambling regulation, with many believing that the onus for any new legislation should remain with member states.
Members of the European Parliament's internal market and consumer protection committee are to vote on the issue on 19 September, but common ground may be hard to find. Some MEPs are taking the opposing view and want the Commission to look at pan-European licensing.
The vote follows the publication of a green paper by the Commission on 24 March that questioned whether there should be EU legislation to bring together different national regulatory models for online gambling.
The long-awaited Commission report signalled the start of a consultation that ran until the end of July, canvassing views about how the EU should deal with some of the issues raised by the soaring popularity of internet betting.
Regulation is currently a matter for individual member states, despite the increasingly cross-border nature of betting. The mix of liberalisation and state monopolies also poses problems as the EU faces the challenges of adapting the single market to the digital age.
No borders
The difficulty facing policymakers, in attempting to regulate activity which by its very nature shows no regard for national borders, is the opposing regulatory models across the EU: some member states ban online gambling outright, while others have complete liberalisation.
In his report, Jürgen Creutzmann, a German Liberal MEP who is leading the Parliament's work on the issue, called for online gambling to be made legal throughout the EU, while avoiding the introduction of state monopolies. He said that this was the only way to prevent a growth in black-market online gambling, which already has a major share of the market.
He rejected the prospect of EU legislation regulating the entire gambling sector, because of the different “traditions and cultures” from one country to another that had shaped national laws.
However, he added: “Member states alone are not in a position to regulate all areas of internet gambling. Much-expanded co-operation between national regulatory bodies is therefore essential.”
The report has attracted 271 amendments from MEPs. They include a call for the Commission to investigate the introduction of a pan-European online gambling licensing system. There is also division over whether online gambling is more addictive than traditional betting and therefore whether greater protection is needed.
Some MEPs want restrictions on online gambling advertising, including the mandatory introduction of warning messages, and caps on the amount of money that can be gambled.
If a compromise text can be agreed this month, MEPs hope to vote in plenary in Brussels on 12-13 October.
In its March report, the Commission put forward the “possible need for enhanced co-operation between competent national authorities” to combat the difficulties being faced in enforcing national rules. However, there appears to be little stomach for full EU harmonisation, which many online gambling industry representatives have been pressing for.
Members of the European Parliament's internal market and consumer protection committee are to vote on the issue on 19 September, but common ground may be hard to find. Some MEPs are taking the opposing view and want the Commission to look at pan-European licensing.
The vote follows the publication of a green paper by the Commission on 24 March that questioned whether there should be EU legislation to bring together different national regulatory models for online gambling.
The long-awaited Commission report signalled the start of a consultation that ran until the end of July, canvassing views about how the EU should deal with some of the issues raised by the soaring popularity of internet betting.
Regulation is currently a matter for individual member states, despite the increasingly cross-border nature of betting. The mix of liberalisation and state monopolies also poses problems as the EU faces the challenges of adapting the single market to the digital age.
No borders
The difficulty facing policymakers, in attempting to regulate activity which by its very nature shows no regard for national borders, is the opposing regulatory models across the EU: some member states ban online gambling outright, while others have complete liberalisation.
In his report, Jürgen Creutzmann, a German Liberal MEP who is leading the Parliament's work on the issue, called for online gambling to be made legal throughout the EU, while avoiding the introduction of state monopolies. He said that this was the only way to prevent a growth in black-market online gambling, which already has a major share of the market.
He rejected the prospect of EU legislation regulating the entire gambling sector, because of the different “traditions and cultures” from one country to another that had shaped national laws.
However, he added: “Member states alone are not in a position to regulate all areas of internet gambling. Much-expanded co-operation between national regulatory bodies is therefore essential.”
The report has attracted 271 amendments from MEPs. They include a call for the Commission to investigate the introduction of a pan-European online gambling licensing system. There is also division over whether online gambling is more addictive than traditional betting and therefore whether greater protection is needed.
Some MEPs want restrictions on online gambling advertising, including the mandatory introduction of warning messages, and caps on the amount of money that can be gambled.
If a compromise text can be agreed this month, MEPs hope to vote in plenary in Brussels on 12-13 October.
In its March report, the Commission put forward the “possible need for enhanced co-operation between competent national authorities” to combat the difficulties being faced in enforcing national rules. However, there appears to be little stomach for full EU harmonisation, which many online gambling industry representatives have been pressing for.
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2006/12/07
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29893
Jack Evans, the Democrat chairman of the Committee on Finance and Revenue has called for another hearing in the matter of intrastate online gambling in Washington DC. This time two issues related to online gambling have become intertwined making the proceedings even murkier. One is the Internet gambling legislation and the other is the D.C. Lottery contract. The fresh hearing is being held at the instance of three Washington DC councilors who want to re-examine both issues.
Reports appearing in the press stated that the Washington D.C. Inspector General, Charles J. Willoughby, had failed to act on a request from two former Cabinet officials to investigate irregularities in the lottery contract and the oversight activities of Chief Financial Officer Natwar M. Gandhi. Evans said that the Inspector General should have carried out the investigation, and because he failed to do so some of the councilors are concerned about the integrity of the deal. This is the reason for holding another hearing when the council reconvenes in September.
Evans has the support of council member Muriel Bowser, a Democrat who chairs the Committee on Government Operations and the Environment. Bowser's committee has oversight of the Office of the Inspector General, and Bowser also serves on Evans' finance committee. She also voiced the opinion that several councilors, including herself, were uncomfortable with the DC Lottery contract when it was finalized. The matter has been compounded by the Inspector General's failure to act and it is legitimate to ask why he has not done so. The people are concerned that the District's systems of checks and balances are not functioning effectively. The public needs to have confidence in those responsible for enforcing regulations, rules and ethics. Bowser was equally critical of the online gambling bill. She said, "It was not responsible to pass it in a supplemental budget bill without public conversation. It definitely was a sleight of hand."
The Washington Times broke the news how the Greek firm Intralot was given the lottery contract. Intralot needed a local partner in order to be eligible. Therefore Intralot tied up with a designated local businessman who never participated in the competitive bidding process and who owns 51% in the $38 million lottery contract. The online gambling bill was moved through by a councilor who was in the employment of a legal firm that has clients who will benefit when the law is implemented. Currently the implementation of the law is on the back burner following demands that a public consultative process take place. This process is likely to start now after the summer vacations in August. Meanwhile, Another Democrat, Councilor Tommy Wells, has pledged to introduce legislation to repeal the online gambling legalization bill.
Reports appearing in the press stated that the Washington D.C. Inspector General, Charles J. Willoughby, had failed to act on a request from two former Cabinet officials to investigate irregularities in the lottery contract and the oversight activities of Chief Financial Officer Natwar M. Gandhi. Evans said that the Inspector General should have carried out the investigation, and because he failed to do so some of the councilors are concerned about the integrity of the deal. This is the reason for holding another hearing when the council reconvenes in September.
Evans has the support of council member Muriel Bowser, a Democrat who chairs the Committee on Government Operations and the Environment. Bowser's committee has oversight of the Office of the Inspector General, and Bowser also serves on Evans' finance committee. She also voiced the opinion that several councilors, including herself, were uncomfortable with the DC Lottery contract when it was finalized. The matter has been compounded by the Inspector General's failure to act and it is legitimate to ask why he has not done so. The people are concerned that the District's systems of checks and balances are not functioning effectively. The public needs to have confidence in those responsible for enforcing regulations, rules and ethics. Bowser was equally critical of the online gambling bill. She said, "It was not responsible to pass it in a supplemental budget bill without public conversation. It definitely was a sleight of hand."
The Washington Times broke the news how the Greek firm Intralot was given the lottery contract. Intralot needed a local partner in order to be eligible. Therefore Intralot tied up with a designated local businessman who never participated in the competitive bidding process and who owns 51% in the $38 million lottery contract. The online gambling bill was moved through by a councilor who was in the employment of a legal firm that has clients who will benefit when the law is implemented. Currently the implementation of the law is on the back burner following demands that a public consultative process take place. This process is likely to start now after the summer vacations in August. Meanwhile, Another Democrat, Councilor Tommy Wells, has pledged to introduce legislation to repeal the online gambling legalization bill.
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2006/12/07
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Last month Facebook announced that it was relaxing the rules in relation to online gambling companies to advertise on the social media site. An article by NewMediaAge claims that Betfair claims to be increasing its investment on the site to further engage with fans.
Betfair has already launched a campaign to take advantage of the opportunities posed by the withdrawal of certain constraints and plans to invest further. Prior to last month there was a limit to the number of posts that could be made each week and the requirement to get approval from Facebook in relation to updates. Now there are no limits nor approval needed.
Betfair is using high-profile ambassadors in marketing campaigns this year which include former England cricketer Michael Vaughn and ex-footballer Lee Dixon. The ambassadors will help run the Facebook pages and in addition there will be a paid advertising campaign.
The head of central online marketing, Ben Carter, claimed that he was among a group of gambling brands working with Facebook following the changes to the media site regulations.
“There is loads of opportunity for us and it is what we have been waiting for long time,” he said. “We had a page for a while but we have been limited by not being able to build the engagement or content. We will certainly increase spend but we will work with Facebook to understand what it means for gambling brands. The way to use advertising cleverly is influenced by social data, but these are disconnected at the moment.”
Online gaming companies can now also launch free-to-play applications on the social media site which Betfair plans to experiment with.
Betfair has already launched a campaign to take advantage of the opportunities posed by the withdrawal of certain constraints and plans to invest further. Prior to last month there was a limit to the number of posts that could be made each week and the requirement to get approval from Facebook in relation to updates. Now there are no limits nor approval needed.
Betfair is using high-profile ambassadors in marketing campaigns this year which include former England cricketer Michael Vaughn and ex-footballer Lee Dixon. The ambassadors will help run the Facebook pages and in addition there will be a paid advertising campaign.
The head of central online marketing, Ben Carter, claimed that he was among a group of gambling brands working with Facebook following the changes to the media site regulations.
“There is loads of opportunity for us and it is what we have been waiting for long time,” he said. “We had a page for a while but we have been limited by not being able to build the engagement or content. We will certainly increase spend but we will work with Facebook to understand what it means for gambling brands. The way to use advertising cleverly is influenced by social data, but these are disconnected at the moment.”
Online gaming companies can now also launch free-to-play applications on the social media site which Betfair plans to experiment with.
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2006/12/07
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29893
Tabloids are buzzing today with the news that beloved actress Sandra Bullock is ready to spawn a child with none other than her best friend of ten years, Ryan Reynolds. Could the story be true since these two apart from spending lots of time together due to their recent animated project “And Then There Was Gordon,” have been looking kind of cozy together? It’s all just speculation but wouldn’t these just make beautiful babies together?
According to OK Magazine, who broke the alleged story, Ryan Reynolds is a cherished friend who has been in her life for over a decade, which means that they have supported each other through the dating scene, weddings, divorces, diaper changes, you name it. The magazine also claims that apart from Reynolds helping out Bullock in the baby department, their relationship could also be evolving into that of an official couple.
Recently, we’ve seen the pictures of the two hiking in Wyoming together with baby Louis, as well as sharing plenty of other outings and visits together but it all just seemed like Sandra was supporting her friend Ryan during his divorce from Scarlet Johansson but just maybe there was something more.
While we don’t really want to read more into this than needed, 47-year-old Bullock could very well be ready for another child but if she’s chosen Ryan to father her child is questionable but really cool. These two seem to be the most down-to-earth people in Hollywood, and if there is some truth here, they would make an amazing duo.
According to OK Magazine, who broke the alleged story, Ryan Reynolds is a cherished friend who has been in her life for over a decade, which means that they have supported each other through the dating scene, weddings, divorces, diaper changes, you name it. The magazine also claims that apart from Reynolds helping out Bullock in the baby department, their relationship could also be evolving into that of an official couple.
Recently, we’ve seen the pictures of the two hiking in Wyoming together with baby Louis, as well as sharing plenty of other outings and visits together but it all just seemed like Sandra was supporting her friend Ryan during his divorce from Scarlet Johansson but just maybe there was something more.
While we don’t really want to read more into this than needed, 47-year-old Bullock could very well be ready for another child but if she’s chosen Ryan to father her child is questionable but really cool. These two seem to be the most down-to-earth people in Hollywood, and if there is some truth here, they would make an amazing duo.
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2006/12/07
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The New Zealand Lotteries Commission made a new plan in regards to the current expansion of the gambling business through the internet. The Lotteries Commission has opted to start selling Instant Kiwi lottery tickets through the online casino. However, this plan has been opposed by New Zealand-based Problem Gambling Foundation. The Problem Gambling Foundation stated accusations that by selling lottery tickets through online casinos, it would increase the overall occurrence of gambling problems amid consumers. The Lotteries Commission’s Chief Executive, Todd Mcleay, responded to these accusations by saying that products associated with gambling, such as lottery tickets, do not actually contribute to gambling addiction.
However, contrary to the response provided by Mcleay, a number of other countries have provided evidence that lottery is one of the main causes of a gambling addiction. Countries that have strict laws regarding the issue of selling lottery tickets through online casinos have lower rates of gambling addictions via online casinos. However, Mcleay retorts by says that numerous businesses cannot survive without the internet, and this includes the gambling industry. Mcleay points out that as online casinos expand, more people will see them in the future and it will be where a majority of business transactions occur as the internet is where many people buy things online.
Currently, the government in New Zealand has yet to approve the plan on the table to advertise Instant Kiwi lottery tickets at online casinos. There is still a lot left to be discussed prior to pursuing this form of online gambling expansion. The Lotteries Commission has set up a two year plan in which to provide New Zealand lottery consumers with a number of new online venues in which they can purchase their lottery tickets to make it much easier and more accessible.
However, contrary to the response provided by Mcleay, a number of other countries have provided evidence that lottery is one of the main causes of a gambling addiction. Countries that have strict laws regarding the issue of selling lottery tickets through online casinos have lower rates of gambling addictions via online casinos. However, Mcleay retorts by says that numerous businesses cannot survive without the internet, and this includes the gambling industry. Mcleay points out that as online casinos expand, more people will see them in the future and it will be where a majority of business transactions occur as the internet is where many people buy things online.
Currently, the government in New Zealand has yet to approve the plan on the table to advertise Instant Kiwi lottery tickets at online casinos. There is still a lot left to be discussed prior to pursuing this form of online gambling expansion. The Lotteries Commission has set up a two year plan in which to provide New Zealand lottery consumers with a number of new online venues in which they can purchase their lottery tickets to make it much easier and more accessible.
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2006/12/07
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The Safe and Fair seal if displayed on the online gambling web site means that the web operator has undergone strict and rigorous testing to assure the firm meets the high working standards of the eCOGRA watchdog organization.
eCOGRA was pleased to announce recently that it has granted accreditation to Betclic, which is a division of the Betclic Everest Group, offering online casino games as well as poker and sports wagering.
Andrew Beveridge the Chief Executive Officer of eCOGRA commented on the new member, "The organization demonstrated strong resilience and noteworthy commitment to compliance,”
Betclic now joins almost 150 top online gambling sites who proudly display the seal of approval.
The designation means that Betclic has successfully met the high professional standards set by eCOGRA’s team of professionals. Chartered Accountant and Information Systems Auditor for eCOGRA, Bradley Khoury stated, "The cooperation and dedication of the Betclic compliance personnel accompanied by unrestricted access to knowledgeable staff and transparent information facilitated a highly comprehensive review."
Lisa Lombardi, The Licensing and Compliance Director for Betclic, said that the process had been informative and yet challenging,
"We consider the investment in time and resources to have been very well spent," Lombardi continued, "giving us the opportunity to review all our procedures and gain the benefit of a totally independent, practical and expert view of the manner in which we conduct every aspect of our business."
Accredited with this highly prized Safe and Fair Seal Betclic customers can be assured they are playing at a site that will give them the best in customer service and reliable fair play.