Why Do US Opinions Of Casinos Vary So Much?

For those who check the casino news on a regular basis, one common feature is the differing news and views which come out of the different states of the US. Some states seem to be pro-casino and some seem to be against them, but why do opinions differ so much and will it ever change?There [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Biel joins ranks of poker-playing babes

One of Hollywood’s hottest actresses, Jessica Biel, is the latest star to come out as a poker enthusiast.Just recently the one-time model, who has been romantically linked with Justin Timberlake, took part in a charity tournament held in conjunction with the opening night of the new Ivy hotel in San Diego, California.Biel joins a host [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Will the Major Online Casino Companies Survive The US Lock Out?

While up until the start of the year and the first mutterings of discontent within the ranks of the US authorities, stock markets around the world could not get enough of the online casino companies. They were being floated on stock markets around the world with multi billion dollar price tags and investors were falling [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Has The Romance of The FA Cup Gone?

We have seen major changes in a vast array of sports over the last 20 years, with big money pouring into the hands of the major players. This has led many to believe that Football has seen the last of the big FA Cup shocks, the likes of lowly Hereford United knocking out the mighty [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Online poker operators upgrade gaming possibilities

Online poker fans will be able to take on the challenge of more opponents with the latest initiative from the website PokerRoom.com.The gaming site’s new mini-table feature will allow players to try their luck on up to 12 separate poker tables at once, meaning that, not only will it be more challenging, but potentially significantly [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Website launches personalised Player Zone

The gaming website PokerHeaven.com has announced the launch of its latest web portal, The Player Zone.With the new feature, internet players will be able to log onto their own personalised site, where they will be able to adjust their own settings and take total control of their game.In addition to being able to keep track [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Sports TV Shows To Be Target For UK Gambling Ads

As we approach the 1st September and D Day for the UK Gambling industry, there is already wild speculation as to who will be the first gambling company to hit the screens first, and go down in history as the first gambling advert on UK television. While all of the major companies are playing their [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Can The Online Gambling Companies Overturn The US Ban?

As we await first half results form PartyGaming, which are expected to show turnover down 66% and profits down a massive 97%, there are signs that the gambling industry is starting to fight back against strict US regulations. It appears that US gaming institutions and companies have spent over $1.3 million in the first half [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Is This The New Face Of Sports Gambling?

In a move which has been prompted by a recent number of high profile betting scandals in the US, we have seen the first appointment of a security company to oversee betting patterns at the United States Tennis Open - the centre point of the US tennis circuit. Over kill of a move to ensure [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Brunson to compete in first WPT final

Pam Brunson will attempt to carry on the family tradition when she takes her place at the final table of the ladies’ World Poker Tour.Pam, the daughter of poker legend Doyle “Texas Dolly” Brunson, will face five of the biggest names on the women’s circuit at the game on August 31st as they compete for [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

PPA heads east to Washington DC

The Poker Players’ Alliance (PPA) has announced that it is to shift its operations from San Francisco to Washington DCAt the same time, the organisation, which represents poker enthusiasts of all levels, will undergo a significant leadership restructuring.John Pappas, the vice president of government affairs at the PPA, will step up to the position of [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Vegas Heat Index: Celebrity Party Habits, Love and Lust in Sin City

Filed under: Celebrity, Dry Heat, Sin City

Vegas Pop Blog: Here are the hot topics in Vegas and the Vegas blogosphere:Britney to Sing at Xtina's New Vegas Club?Vegas Heat Index: 152As part of the de-Egyptification process, Luxor execs have been busy bringing in big names to open up shop. Long gone is Ra... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

Gambling Ads - The Governments Mixed Signals

In yet another example of the lack of direction which the UK authorities have towards gambling, the 1st September sees a new era for gambling companies, with adverts allowed on prime time TV. While this addition to the TV advert schedule was mooted and passed back in 2005, the authorities have taken a rather soft [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Trump casinos looking beyond Atlantic City

Having racked up around $66.1 million worth of losses since coming out of a state of bankruptcy in May 2005, Trump Entertainment Resorts Inc has announced that it is to expand beyond Atlantic City.The move to diversify comes as Donald Trump’s casino operations continue to be hit by increased competition from the new gaming facilities [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Professional Players Federation Reminds Sports Stars Of Their Obligations

As we approach the 1st September, and the introduction of the UK Gambling Act, there has been a call from the Professional Players Federation to ensure that all sports people know the risks of assisting third parties or gambling themselves on events in which they are involved. While this part of the act has received [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Will Criminals Ever Learn That You Can't Cheat Vegas?

Filed under: Casinos, Weird Vegas, Locals Only

Vegas Pop Blog: I don't know about you, but I can't turn on the TV without finding at least one documentary on Las Vegas; most of them being about the security measures casinos have in place to catch criminals. I guess greedy people do not watch these shows, because... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

Great Vegas Comebacks

Filed under: Celebrity, Rants & Raves, Sin City

Vegas Pop Blog: We as a society love to watch entertainers and athletes rise to the top of their profession. When they get there, however, we love nothing more than seeing them fall from grace. We seem to do that so we can cheer them on as they make a comeback. Once... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

Everest offers direct-entry into Masters Classic

Ahead of the forthcoming Master Classics of Poker tournament, Everest Poker has announced that it is to host a series of online satellite competitions.With the main event to take place at Amsterdam’s Holland Casino between November 2nd and 10th, the gaming operator will organise a series of satellite tournaments starting this week.Entry to the three [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Harvard to teach poker to make world a better place

Professors at Harvard Law School are to teach poker to disadvantaged school children and college students.Believing that the sport teaches its players respect, awareness and business and financial acumen, the school is to work alongside several of the world’s leading education institutions, including Yale and Oxford universities in establishing “global poker strategic thinking societies”.In addition [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Las Vegas: The #1 Town For Adventure

Filed under: Travel Tips, Locals Only, City's Best

Vegas Pop Blog: It's obvious that Las Vegas is the perfect city for an adventure, so it's not surprising that it was named the #1 Adventure Town in the September issue of National Geographic Adventure magazine. What is surprising is that it's not the sexy shows,... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

Neteller Funds Finally Released

While not too widely covered in the world press, Neteller have only just received clearance to unfreeze the accounts of their US customers, many of whom had used the online payment company to fund their online gambling exploits. As many will be aware, earlier this year the US authorities clamped down on all US online [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Gaming Licence Checks - Who Should Carry Them Out?

There is currently a growing debate in the US with regard to the subject of checks behind the approval of gaming licences. Currently licences are granted by the Gaming Control Board of each state in the US, although there are growing calls for the whole process to be transferred to the Law Authorities, who often [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Why has Macao Hit The Big Time?

For those who have been watching the casino scene, they will know that only 5 years ago Macao was a quiet back water situated on the Southern tip of China. Looking at Macao today you would not realise that it was the same place, it has now become the mecca of gambling and it is [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Vegas Movie Chat: Royal Flushes to Toilet Flushes

Filed under: Dry Heat, Rants & Raves

Vegas Pop Blog: In the spirit of the summer blockbuster, and any excuse to stay out of the heat, Fletch and Tony take a look at the best Vegas movies of all time. They very well could be this generation's Siskel and Ebert, but then again, maybe not. Here are picks... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

Elvis Was Here: The King's Past, Present and Future in Las Vegas

Filed under: Shows, Celebrity, Vegas Tips

Vegas Pop Blog: Aug. 16 marked the 30th anniversary of the death of Elvis Presley, but in Las Vegas, it's as if the King of Rock 'n' Roll never left the building. Yes, in 1969, when he ended an eight-year absence from the stage at the International Hotel, Elvis has... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

Slots arrive at forthcoming Mount Airy casino

The October opening of the $412 million Mount Airy Casino resort in Pennsylvania looks on course, with the first shipment of slot machines having just arrived and the interior decorators having moved in.A total of 2,500 slot machines from Williams Gaming will be on the floor of the new casino resort and the state’s Gaming [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

NBA Hit By Gambling Scandal

The NBA has been hit by one of the biggest betting scandals in recent times with former NBA referee Tim Donaghy pleading guilty to two serious charges after admitting providing information to professional gamblers and also betting upon the out come of games in which he was personally involved. The basketball game has been shocked [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Betfair to send players to WSOP Europe

Betfair Poker is offering player the opportunity to play in the first World Series of Poker (WSOP) to take place in Europe, by offering online satellites to the London event.There will be three guaranteed $23,000 WSOPE package tournaments every week, and players can qualify through taking part in various step-tournaments.The WSOPE event kicks off on [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

TV Gambling - A Growing Market?

While to those with little or no interest in casino games such as poker, the thought of watching a live poker competition may not have the desired effect. However, put this opportunity in front of a poker player and you will see a whole different approach - the chance to watch and learn!The explosion in [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

LA hosts female charity poker WPT tournament

The leading female poker pros are to head to Los Angeles to take part in the fifth annual Ladies’ Night Tournament, which aims to raise money for breast cancer research.This year’s tournament, which has been organised by the World Poker Tour (WPT) in partnership with the cancer charity Susan G Komen for the cure, will [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Vegas Movie Chat: Royal Flushes to Toilet Flushes

Filed under: Dry Heat, Rants & Raves

Vegas Pop Blog: In the spirit of the summer blockbuster, and any excuse to stay out of the heat, we decided to take a look at Vegas movies. We're not saying these are the best Vegas movies ever, but they could be. Here are picks and pansof 11 popular Vegas... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

Each Way Gambling - Does It Work?

While there are many different strategies to follow when gambling, many of the more successful gamblers will look at value in the each way market - the market that traditional gives you a quarter of the wining return, if your bet comes in second, third or even fourth in some large fields.This is the market [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Nevada casino report slow winnings in 2007

Casino bosses in Nevada, the home state of Las Vegas, have reported that their winnings have slowed down slightly in 2007, though overall revenues remain strong.For the tax year up to June 2007, the state’s casinos won $12.7 billion from gamblers, an increase of 4.6 per cent on the previous year’s figures.In June alone, Nevada [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Former Miss Nevada USA Katie Rees Girl on Girl Birthday Kiss Video

Filed under: Celebrity, Audio-Video Club, Sexy Vegas, Sin City

Vegas Pop Blog: It's Tuesday, and you know what that means. It's time for some girl-on-girl kissing action with former Miss Nevada USA Katie Rees.OK, so today being Tuesday has nothing to do with our desire to share this Raw Vegas video with you. And, yes, maybe... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

Las Vegas Judge Fired For Controversial MySpace Page

Filed under: Weird Vegas, Sin City, Locals Only

Vegas Pop Blog: If you were a criminal defense attorney serving as a pro tem judge in Las Vegas, or anywhere for that matter, do you think you would have the time, or even the desire, to have a MySpace page? And if you did have a MySpace page, do you think it would... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

Cameron Diaz and Ashton Kutcher to Get Married in Vegas

Filed under: Celebrity, Celebrity News, Sin City

Vegas Pop Blog: Yes, you read the headline correctly; Cameron Diaz is going to marry Ashton Kutcher in Las Vegas. But, unlike Britney Spears, Scary Spice and all the quickie Vegas marriages, this one is strictly for the big screen. Diaz and Kutcher are slated to... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

River Rock appoint new finance chief

The River Rock Entertainment Authority has unveiled Joseph Callahan as its new chief financial officer, with the appointment taking effect immediately.The operator, which runs the renowned River Rock Casino in Sonoma, California were won over by Mr Callahan’s impressive history within the gambling industry.Prior to taking up this new position, he had been the director [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Some Popular Gambling Phrases and What They Mean

gambling has produced a language all of its own, which many of us will use on a regular basis - but do you know the origins of these sayings? What they mean ? As with everything about gambling, you may be surprised.Some of the more popular phrases used include :-Dead RingerThis phrase refers back to [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Crack Down Announced On Gambling Website Advertising

While the UK government recently announced plans to change the basis upon which gambling sites could advertise on UK TV, they are set to announce further details over the next few weeks with the production of an authorised list. The authorised list is the authorities way of forcing gambling websites to register in the UK [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Elvis Was Here: The King's Past, Present and Future in Las Vegas

Filed under: Shows, Celebrity, Vegas Tips

Vegas Pop Blog: Aug. 16 of this year will mark the 30th anniversary of the death of Elvis Presley, but in Las Vegas, it's as if the King of Rock 'n' Roll never left the building. Yes, since July 31, 1969, when he ended an eight-year absence from the stage and... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

The History of The Humble Dice

The humble dice has forever been associated with gambling, but do you know when the first die were produced and how they evolved? You may be surprised how old the concept is and when the first discoveries date back to.The term dice comes from the old Latin term datum which translates to something given or [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Crack Down Announced On Gambling Website Advertising

While the UK government recently announced plans to change the basis upon which Gambling sites could advertise on UK TV, they are set to announce further details over the next few weeks with the production of an authorised list. The authorised list is the authorities way of forcing gambling websites to register in the UK [...]

Read More...

[Source: Gambling Blog]

Some Popular Gambling Phrases and What They Mean

Gambling has produced a language all of its own, which many of us will use on a regular basis - but do you know the origins of these sayings? What they mean ? As with everything about gambling, you may be surprised.Some of the more popular phrases used include :-Dead RingerThis phrase refers back to [...]

Read More...

[Source: Gambling Blog]

Poker dealers being phased out by machines

The noble position of poker dealer could become the next victim of technology as casinos across the US start rolling out computerised croupiers.Like many workers before them, the card dealers are being increasingly seen as unnecessary given that a machine can do the same job for a lot less money.The biggest threat comes from the [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Computerised poker rolled out in US casino

The future is here.Well, actually it’s in New Buffalo, Michigan, the first place on earth to boast a fully-automated poker room.The room at the Four Winds Casino Resort is equipped with no fewer than 15 pokerTek ‘poker Pro’ tables, each of which seat ten players and, more importantly, no dealer.Indeed, aside from the players themselves, [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

MGM Mirage: Off-strip developments not a good idea

The president of MGM Mirage has dismissed rumours concerning the possibility of new ‘Strips’ being built in Las Vegas.Jim Murren’s comments come after discussions were held between gaming bosses and the local authorities about developing the areas to the west and to the east of the Strip.While there is currently plenty of space available on [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Knowing When To Walk Away

As the old saying goes, a good gambler knows when to walk away, or in the words of a famous song Know when to hold them, know when to fold them, know when to walk away, and know when to run. This is perhaps one of the most apt thoughts for those playing Poker which [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

2008 WSOP to be bigger than ever, organisers announce

Just days after Jerry Yang walked away with the multi-million dollar jackpot at this year’s hugely successful event, plans have been announced to make next year’s World Series of Poker even bigger.The tournament’s organisers Harrah’s have confirmed that the 2008 WSOP will include 12 tournament stops leading up to the Las Vegas Main Event, with [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

'Grey's Anatomy' Star Kate Walsh Vegas Bachelorette Party at TAO

Filed under: Nightlife, Celebrity, Dry Heat, Star Spotting

Vegas Pop Blog: Former 'Grey's Anatomy' star and future 'Private Practice' star Kate Walsh wasn't so private at her recent bachelorette party at TAO, celeb party central in Vegas. Kate and her pretty posse that included Sara Ramirez, also from 'Grey's Anatomy,' had... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

WPTE helps introduce Poker-lite into China

While any move aimed at increasing the global appeal of the sport of poker should really be welcomed, many people will no doubt find it hard to get excited about recent developments in China.World Poker Tour Enterprises (WPTE) has announced that it has reached an agreement with the China Leisure Sports Administrative Centre to help [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

WPA unveils new poker code of ethics

The World Poker Association (WPA) is to release a new set of ethics standards for the game designed to be used a poker tournaments of all levels across the world.However, first and foremost, the newethics code, which the WPA has drawn up to cover all aspects of professional poker behaviour, is to be mandatory for [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Computerised poker rolled out in US casino

The future is here.Well, actually it’s in New Buffalo, Michigan, the first place on earth to boast a fully-automated poker room.The room at the Four Winds Casino Resort is equipped with no fewer than 15 PokerTek ‘Poker Pro’ tables, each of which seat ten players and, more importantly, no dealer.Indeed, aside from the players themselves, [...]

Read More...

[Source: Gambling Blog]

Slots school granted official accreditation

Soon after the first students of the first poker colleges graduated and took their places on the tables of the World Series of Poker, US education chiefs have given the go-ahead to the Slot Machine University.The course, which is run by the gaming operator WMS Gaming, has been officially accredited by the International Association for [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

California tournament details announced

World-class poker looks likely to join surfing and sunshine as one of the great products of the state of California.Soon after San Francisco psychologist Jerry Yang took the top title at the 2007 World Series of Poker - following on from the 2006 victory of Jamie Gold, from Los Angeles - it has been confirmed [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

The Grand National - The Greatest Steeplechase Of All Time

There are few sporting events in the world which can arouse so much passion, so much curiosity and so much excitement. The Aintree Grand National Steeplechase is one of those rare events which attracts the attention of not only millions of the UK population, but also millions from around the globe. The National as it [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Handicap Betting

As if it was not hard enough picking a winner in a two horse race, or a clash of the majors and the minnows in an FA Cup match, some gamblers want to take the test one step further and look at handicap betting. What is handicap betting and how does it work?In simple terms, [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

WPTE helps introduce Poker-lite into China

While any move aimed at increasing the global appeal of the sport of poker should really be welcomed, many people will no doubt find it hard to get excited about recent developments in China.World poker Tour Enterprises (WPTE) has announced that it has reached an agreement with the China Leisure Sports Administrative Centre to help [...]

Read More...

[Source: Gambling Blog]

2008 WSOP to be bigger than ever, organisers announce

Just days after Jerry Yang walked away with the multi-million dollar jackpot at this year’s hugely successful event, plans have been announced to make next year’s World Series of poker even bigger.The tournament’s organisers Harrah’s have confirmed that the 2008 WSOP will include 12 tournament stops leading up to the Las Vegas Main Event, with [...]

Read More...

[Source: Gambling Blog]

Gala and Coral talk to create gambling empire

Looks like a new gambling empire may be born in the UK - and it isn't between online websites.

Number three bookie, Coral and bingo and casino group, Gala, are apparantly in talks to create a 4bn gambling empire. This is in reaction to the deregulation of the new Gambling Act - a joint operation could take advantage of this

The government is set to allow one 'super-casino' under the new act - by including Coral in the mix, Gala could essentially offer a one-stop shop for punters, under one very large roof

Coral are still looking to float - and have been for years. And they will continue to pursue this if the Gala interest fails.

Is the world ready for an all-encompassing gambling empire? Does anyone care? Point of fact - Ladbrokes got rid of their casino product (sold it to Gala) a few years back to concentrate solely on betting - are they regretting that decision in light of the deregulation or was there a reason for it? Finally, is there really any synergy between betting, casinos and bingo - or is it essentially an ego boost for the 2 companies involved?
I think i'll be quiet now and wait to see what happens.

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

UK's Super Casino Shortlist

'Super-casino' shortlist set out

8 sites have been shortlisted for the UK's first foray into Las Vegas style Super Casinos.

From 27 applicants, the following made the cut:
Wembley Stadium
The Millenium Dome
Cardiff
Blackpool
Manchester
Newcastle
Sheffield
Glasgow

Only one gets the greenlight and there's 16 more licenses available that allows casinos to have jackpots over 4000. 60 councils have applied for these

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

Its Another Boom for Mobile Phone Gambling

Gambling by mobile phone is booming

Someone once asked me when I thought mobile phone gambling was going to 'take off' - I said within 2 years - but don't ask me which 2 years.

So once again, research groups are trying to earn their money by telling us that mobile phone gambling has 'exploded' or 'rocketed' or is 'booming' or any other supersonic adjective we can think of.

They actually measure these figures by the number of 'pages downloaded'. For an industry that is run by real financial numbers, thats an amazing research technique - and tells us nothing we need to know about the actual real amount of betting or gambling that actually takes place.

But for the research companies its a good living - and for the betting companies, these kind of numbers look good to the shareholders.

So mobile gambling - boom away.


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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

Poker Chef Wins $1 million

Move over Jamie Oliver, here's a guy that not only cooks, but wins big at poker as well.

Lee Biddulf had only ever won 28 before at poker, but this week arrived home $1 million richer after taking on 8 opponents at a poker tournament final in Costa Rica. 39,000 had entered the tournament

Biddulf started playing poker in 2002 and felt the nerves. His final hand was a flush - as was his final opponent. But he kept his head and took the pot, and the overall tournament as he held the higher card

Not a bad way to make a living - now can I have 2 eggs on toast to go with that?

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

Paid to Party: Celebrity Birthdays Are Celebrity Paydays And Did PURE Pay $1 Million for Lindsay's 21st

Filed under: Nightlife, Dry Heat, Celebrity News

Vegas Pop Blog: PARTY WAS OFFICIALLY CANCELED. They say fame has a price and while that observation is usually intended to reflect the personal sacrifices a celebrity makes to be famous, it takes on a different meaning when it comes to celebrity birthday... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

One Addiction Vegas Doesn't Cater?

Filed under: Dry Heat, Rants & Raves, Vegas Tips

Vegas Pop Blog: When I write about the concept of 'Sin City,' it usually sparks a debate as subjective as puh-tay-toe vs. puh-tah-toe. Half of the e-mails condemn Vegas for easy-access sinning and enabling addictions while condemning me to the fiery abyss of hell... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

Bookies Fall For Wembley Stadium Scam

The Sun Online: Arch enemies of Wembley

Its been way too long since I posted to this blog. And as they see in the US. My bad.

But I couldn't resist this (and thanks to Nick for pointing it out to me)

Seems as if local bookies in the Wembley area fell for a construction scam that made them look like amateurs.

Knowing full well they weren't going to hit the Wembley deadline for hosting the FA Cup this year, construction workers went to the local bookies to put 1000's on their odds of 13-8, 4-6, then 1-3 that the stadium wouldn't be ready. Finally betting was suspended, but that wasn't before they were taken for 10,000.

It would have taken a short bus ride to see the unfinished stadium for the bookies to realise it was unlikely the stadium would be finished. That cheap 50p ride cost them 10,000.

Made me laugh anyway

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

And the Super Casino Goes To....

....Manchester.

Contrary to speculation and expectation, Manchester beat out London and Blackpool to win the race to build the UK's first 'super casino'- the close, but not quite Las Vegas style casino.

The 'super' that makes it a super casino is that it will be allowed to have 1250 slots with unlimited jackpot prizes - instead of the restricted 2000GBP machines allowed currently.

A number of 'large' casinos were also named in: Great Yarmouth, Hull, Newham, Middlesbrough, Solihull, Milton Keynes, Leeds and Southampton and 'small' casino licenses in: Bath and North East Somerset, Dumfries and Galloway, East Lindsey, Luton, Scarborough, Swansea, Torbay and Wolverhampton

Of course every politician is now freaking out. They would never go to Vegas. Never. Never. Never.

Source: Manchester wins super-casino race

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

Historic Vegas casino up for auction

Yet another of Las Vegas’ historic venues is up for sale, with the New Frontier Hotel likely to be changed beyond all recognition by developers.The venue originally started life as a nightclub in the 1930s before opening as a hotel and casino in 1942.It was in 1956, however, that the New Frontier really came to [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

A Day At The Races

While the horse racing market is one of the biggest gambling markets in the world, how many people who gamble on the horses have actually been to a horse race meeting? Surprisingly, many people who have a major interest in horse racing have never actually been to a meeting, never felt the buzz of seeing [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Heatus Maximus: Five Places to Beat the Scorching Vegas Heat

Filed under: Dry Heat, Rants & Raves, Travel Tips, Vegas Tips

Vegas Pop Blog: When you talk about the heat in Vegas, the first jokes are always about the "dry heat." Sure, you don't instantly sweat when you step outside like you do in the humid, "wet heat" of a Houston or Manhattan summer, but hot is hot.When it's 120 degrees... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

Gamblers and Monkeys are Closer than Ever

Who'd have guessed, huh?

I can't resist research studies like this

It seems monkeys are pretty big gamblers when faced with a choice of risk or steady rewards. And as the stakes rise, so will their risk-taking.

Basically, a set of male rhesus monkeys were given a choice of 2 lights that would yield them a reward. One light would give a steady reward of juice, whilst the risky light would either offer a smaller amount or a larger amount - there was a significant result of the monkeys preferring to gamble.

On this first test, over time, the average amount of juice was the same. However, in a second test, the odds were shifted to make the risky light less of a reward than the steady light.

And again, the results favoured the risky light.

It was clear the monkeys preferred the idea of the big reward - which cancelled out any losses they suffered. When wired up, the researchers also found that neuron activity increased as the frequency of the monkeys choosing the light did

Like monkey like gambler? well, with a bit more research, it could be true!

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

888.com Valued at $1.08bn

Online casino giant, 888.com -or Cassava - finally floated today, albeit at the lower end of their valuation prediction.

The float makes 888 worth just over $1bn. Not quite as big as expected, and nowhere near PartyPoker, but still pretty large. The price was set at 1.75 per share.

So thats 3 down in recent weeks, albeit with the slight blip of 32Red's shaky floatation last week in which it did float, but not with any fundraising.
It'll be interesting to see how many more come to market in the coming months

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

Do You Gamble With Your Head Or Your Heart?

While many of the best gamblers in the world have been accused of acting like robots, they seem to hit the spot with many making a good living from gambling. How do they manage it, and is there really any need to be so cold?When you strip down the aspects of gambling, it is really [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Is There A Gambling Flaw In Formula One Racing?

It has to be said that F1 racing is the ultimate glamour sport, attracting the rich and famous, making grown men and woman drool at the speeds reached on the tightest of tracks, and coining the phrase Pit Lane Babes. It really does seem to have everything, speed, money and glamour!However, there seems to be [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Partygaming Finally Becomes a PLC

Partygaming shares rise on debut

The owners of Partypoker.com have finally floated on the London Stock Exchange with an increase of 11% on their first day. They are now valued at over 4.5bn

Can we move on now please?

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

How to Be Cheap in Vegas Without Being Dirty

Filed under: Dry Heat, Travel Tips, Vegas Tips, Event Finder

Vegas Pop Blog: We spend a lot of time at Vegas Pop dispensing ideas on how to spend the mythical millions of dollars you probably don't have. It makes sense, Vegas is a fantasy land where dropping $40,000 a night for the Hugh Hefner Sky Villa at the Palms Fantasy... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

WPA unveils new poker code of ethics

The World poker Association (WPA) is to release a new set of ethics standards for the game designed to be used a poker tournaments of all levels across the world.However, first and foremost, the newethics code, which the WPA has drawn up to cover all aspects of professional poker behaviour, is to be mandatory for [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Gamblers set to dine like kings in Vegas restaurant week

Not content with being known across the world as the capital of gambling and for its extravagant nightlife, Las Vegas now wants to be taken seriously as a gourmet dining destination.While most visitors to the city will be busy eating a burger while sat at a slot machine while pissing into a coke cup, or [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Five Places to ... Smoke a Cigar in Vegas

Filed under: Dry Heat, Sin City, Vegas Tips, City's Best

Vegas Pop Blog: As city after city bans or limits smoking in public, they used to say Vegas would be the last haven in America for cigar smokers.Well, Sin City enacted a smoking ban in the continuing 'Californication' of Vegas and another vice bites the... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

British Open Golf - Latest Odds

As expected, Tiger Woods has been made clear favourite to take the 134th Open - but that just offers value elsewhere in the field.
Whilst Tiger is at a restrictive 5/2, consistant Vijay Singh is at a nice each way 16/1, Els is 8/1 and Goosen is 18/1. Noticeable also is US Open champion Michael Campbell, who if he can keep up that form, is at a massive 66/1

Golf : 134th Open - Outright
All Odds Taken from William Hill

Woods T 5/2
Els E 8/1
Singh V 16/1
Mickelson P 18/1
Goosen R 18/1
Garcia S 20/1
Donald L 25/1
Clarke D 25/1
Westwood L 33/1
Scott A 33/1
Love I I I D 33/1
Furyk J 33/1
Cabrera A 40/1
Campbell M 66/1

All Players and Alternative Markets available at William Hill

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

Do Not Pass Go. Do Not Collect $5 Billion

Online gambling tycoons face jail threat

PartyGaming are still taking all the headlines with their pending floatation but this time it comes with an ominous warning.
Always looking for a negative, The Guardian is reporting that the 4 founders of poker giant, pokergaming.com could face time in prison in the US if found guilty of the heinous(!) crime of online gaming

Naturally, this isn't big news for anyone thats followed anything about online gambling - its been a grey area in the US since the beginning and they've always threatened prosecution for those found guilty of offering internet gambling services to US citizens - following through on their threats in the sportsbetting industry when Jay Cohen served time

However, despite the headlines, 3 of the 4 partygaming founders keep a low profile, staying out of the press and rarely being seen - the price you have to pay for a 5 billion dollar company

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

British Punters Fleeced by Credit Cards

The Sun Online - News: New 'tax' on web gaming

If there's a way to make money on gambling, then you can be sure it'll be found - and the credit card companies have decided they don't make enough from consumers - they have to create a new invisible tax just for online gamblers

From May 1 anyone who uses their credit card to put money into an account will be charged as if they made a cash advance. MBNA already adds an extra 2%

A 'spokesperson' from RBS has tried to justify themselves to call it a cash advance - but since RBS has been involved in online gambling from the beginning - offering their services and trying to capture the market - it smacks of pure greed.

It sounds as if they sniffed through their little book of definitions trying to find a way to profit even further from the cash heavy online gambling industry - and this is what they came up with.

So if the punter wins - do we charge the credit companies interest on our winning? No - thought not

Time to use your debit card - and any other legit card that doesn't impose obscene taxes

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

London to Hold 2012 Olympic Games

London beats Paris to 2012 Games

This was one of those announcements that just makes you go 'wow'. However, whilst Paris was the favourite for a long time - apparantly London won most rounds of voting - bar one. So someone's information somewhere was very wrong

But it was still a hell of a surprise - and a great one! will be good to see how London handles the olympics - and how much prices go up to pay for it

I would feel sorry for the French - thats 3 times in recent years they've been denied - but I wasn't too sorry when I saw a sportsman on CNN earlier claiming the London contingent 'cheated' - not the best way to take the loss methinks

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

Old Dudes Who Still Rock

Filed under: Shows, Celebrity, Event Finder

Vegas Pop Blog: Vegas turned 100 a couple of years ago, but Vegas today is nothing like Vegas from 1907. Heck, when you stand under the glorious pink neon of the Flamingo and stare out across at Caesar's Palace, you'll see that Vegas from the '60s was much different... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

Vegas Heat Index: Brittany's Hot Video; Britney's Louisiana Girl Blues; Hackers Among Us and Celebrity Part-Time Vegas Jobs

Filed under: Shows, Celebrity, Dry Heat, Sexy Vegas, Event Finder

Vegas Pop Blog: Here are the hot topics in Vegas and the Vegas blogosphere:Brittany Snow VideoVegas Heat Index: 145 in the Shade As 'Hairspray' continues to hold firm at the box office (with more than $63 million in ticket sales), one of the stars is spreading... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

Las Vegas Restaurants Are on Top of the World

Filed under: Dining, Vegas Tips

Vegas Pop Blog: Although it probably won't come as a surprise to anyone who has spent more than a day here, Forbes has named Las Vegas one of the 10 Top Cities for Foodies. Oh yeah, the list is not just of the top cities in the United States, but in the world. The... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

Casino Goes up in Smoke

Wow - I feel like i've been away for weeks - and I probably have. Although in all this, I was at the G2E casino expo in Vegas - so all wasn't too bad.

I dount I've missed much though - Chelsea is still unbeaten, of course The Ashes is noteworthy (and fantastic), Cryptologic has announced plans to launch Marvel comic slots to rival Microgaming's Lara Croft game and Senator John Kyl finally got told to shut up with his plans to ban online gambling - although I still can't see the US make any progress on legalising it instead.

So instead, here's a real Internet stalwart - collapsing buildings.
If you've ever wanted to see a casino go up in smoke, here's the controlled implosion of the Grand Casino in Gulfport, that was ravaged in Hurricane Katrina and was flung somewhere on a highway

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

Betfair $600 Sign Up Bonus

I don't usually do a straightforward promotion, but I like Betfair and what they're trying to do in this industry, so its good to give them a plug every so often.

Betfair changed poker software late last year to a new platform and its pretty good.

Their latest promotion offers up to $600 depending on the number of points you generate. Use BFP600 to qualify for the deal when you sign up

here's the deal:
Sign up using the promotional code BFP600
Receive a bonus of up to $600* based on the number of Betfair Points generated
Bonus is effective from your first hand played
First hand must be played within 30 days of registration to qualify
Bonus is valid for 60 days only
Bonus is paid every Wednesday for Betfair Points generated in the previous week i.e. Player will receive $10 if they generate 400 Betfair Points
Payments are made in increments of $10
The bonus will be paid every Wednesday and is effective from first hand played
*See Terms & Conditions

Now pop along to Betfair Poker to sign up

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

Lord No No to Super Casinos

A bunch of old unelected grey-haired blokes with nothing better to do have said no to the government plans for a super casino - and the additional 16 casinos.

Isn't democracy a great thing?


From the Beeb: Lords scupper super-casino plan

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

California tournament details announced

World-class poker looks likely to join surfing and sunshine as one of the great products of the state of California.Soon after San Francisco psychologist Jerry Yang took the top title at the 2007 World Series of poker - following on from the 2006 victory of Jamie Gold, from Los Angeles - it has been confirmed [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Slots school granted official accreditation

Soon after the first students of the first poker colleges graduated and took their places on the tables of the World Series of poker, US education chiefs have given the go-ahead to the Slot Machine University.The course, which is run by the gaming operator WMS Gaming, has been officially accredited by the International Association for [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Indian Reservations And Gambling Enterprises

For those who have looked at the history of gaming in the US, they will have noticed a marked presence of a number of Indian Reservations. How and why is there such a clamour for gaming facilities in the reservations?While the reservations of yesteryear are no longer recognisable, the US government gave these reservations and [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Poker Playing Prisoners Poised to Crack Cold Cases

Filed under: Poker & Gambling

Vegas Pop Blog: When playing with one of the new decks of cards being distributed to them, poker playing prisoners in Florida are less likely to say they are holding "Big Slick," and more likely to say, "I have a murdered police detective and a missing 10-year-old... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

The US Finally Pulls the Plug on Online Gambling

wow - I go away for a few days and everything goes to pot.

The bill to ban online gambling has finally been put through in the US - albeit in a sneaky underhanded way - then again, what do you expect from this US government these days? So the mighty 'free world' across the pond once again works its magic and brings in a mix of prohibition, protectionism, nannying and moralistic craziness - in which its own online poker playing people don't even get a say - so much for democracy.

The bill was put through at the last minute as the Senate takes a break - and stuck onto a completely unrelated bill about Port Security. In effect, it bans the transfer of funds via financial institutions such as credit cards and banks - something the banks did voluntarily a few years ago anyway. It doesn't modernise the Wire Act whatsoever and causes legitimate companies to scurry out of the US market - leaving in their place the dubious, shady companies the bill was trying to stop in the first place as they no doubt will find a way to collect from US players

Bill Frist - who took the anti-online gambling bill on the road amidst Right-Wing Christian moral and ethical concerns (stop smirking please) and no doubt some interference from 'interested parties' (there are exemptions to the Bill which include lotteries and online horse racing amongst others). Frist himself is a potential presidential candidate in 2008. For those Republican voters out there - lucky you.

The ban obviously took its toll on the huge gaming companies listed in the UK as their shares nosedived on the announcement.

Here's some media reports:
- UK gamers hit by US online crackdown - Times Online

- Bad Luck for Online Gaming - LA Times

- Online Gaming: Good or Evil? - National Ledger

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

The USA vs BetonSports: The Story So Far

As the US Conservatives seem desperate to create a new era of prohibition - this time using online gambling as its sorry excuse, they seem to be doing as much as possible, as quickly as possible to show the world how stupid strong...they really are

Here's a quick rundown of whats happened so far

- The House of Representatives agree to a bill to outlaw online-gambling - except horse racing and state sponsored lotteries.

- David Carruthers, CEO of BetonSports.com, gets arrested during a stopover in Dallas. He and 10 others are charged with racketeering

- UK online gambling stocks take a beating on the stock market

- Betonsports.com shuts down its website

- Antigua complains to the WTO about the US's behaviour claiming the US is violating International free trade laws. The WTO set up a committee to study the claims. The US no doubt couldn't care less.

- Bodog gets nervous and cancels postpones its annual online gambling conference in Vegas

- David Carruthers remains in jail after his lawyer asks to postpone a bail meeting

- Partygaming ignores everything and reports huge increases in revenue. It maybe too late because they'd already lost a fifth of their value following the betonsports fiasco

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

New Celebrity Betting Blog

OK - so i'm still ignoring this blog some what - but that will change!

In the meantime, I've launched a new blog - solely for scurrilous celebrity betting, gossip and anything relating to novelty or what the bookies categorise 'special' bets. That includes reality TV, music, movies, politics, awards show - and just anything that doesn't really fit into sports, horse racing or football

You can read it all here - sometimes preferably with tongue firmly stuck in cheek.
Celebrity Betting

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

Betting Exchanges v Traditional Bookmakers

Over the last few years we have seen a massive explosion in the number of betting exchanges, an industry which seems to be constantly growing.It is at such a level that it has actually had an effect on the business of the traditional bookmakers, who are now desperate to protect their own business. Despite a [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Knowing When To Walk Away

As the old saying goes, a good gambler knows when to walk away, or in the words of a famous song Know when to hold them, know when to fold them, know when to walk away, and know when to run. This is perhaps one of the most apt thoughts for those playing poker which [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Nouveau Riche Guide to Blowing a Million Bucks in Vegas

Filed under: Casinos, Dry Heat, City's Best

Vegas Pop Blog: When anyone asks me where to stay, eat and play while in Vegas, I answer the question with a question: "How much money do you have to spend?" Let's face it, money is the reason Vegas exists. There is something fun for every budget, but before I can... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

Play Poker with a Pro at Planet Hollywood

Filed under: Casinos, Celebrity, Poker & Gambling

Vegas Pop Blog: Unless you happened to win the World Series of Poker, chances are you still need to brush up on your poker skills. Now you can do so with the help of the 2006 Card Player Magazine Player of the Year, Michael "The Grinder" Mizrachi, who has signed on... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

Great Vegas Green Bean Debate

Filed under: Weird Vegas, Locals Only

Vegas Pop Blog: Not to make light of the situation, but while members of the Las Vegas Culinary Workers Union are deciding whether to strike or not, they may want to look to the youth for tips on negotiating tactics. If it weren't for those meddling kids, the menu... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

50,000,000 Elvis Presley Fans Can Be Wrong: Manilow Is the Man

Filed under: Shows, Dry Heat, Weird Vegas

Vegas Pop Blog: When people think of crazy music fans, old TV images of girls pulling their hair out at an Elvis Presley concert or fainting at the site of The Beatles come to mind. Then there are Jimmy Buffet's Parrot Heads with their props and costumes that... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

US Gambling Bill Doesn't Concern 888

888 brushes off US legal concerns

Life is a lot easier when you've just reported a 16% increase in annual profits. 888.com announced its pre-tax profits to Dec 05 totalled $50.2m. Not bad for the casino giant.

However, the press is more concerned with recent developments in the US where a bunch of congressment with too much time on their hands are trying again to get a bill through that would ban online gambling. The bill has now moved to the House floor for consideration.

But 888 don't think it will go through - but even so, has worked to move its current playerbase from the US - although it still takes as much as 55% from American players.

888 aren't the only ones though that thinks this way. Seems as if there's going to be plenty of opposition to the new gambling bill. Lets hope the US sees the sense in that sooner rather than later

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

Hoff Stumbles Out of Vegas; What's Next for Las Vegas Shows?

Filed under: Shows, Celebrity, Dry Heat

Vegas Pop Blog: David Hasselhoff knows all too well that all the world is a soundstage. When the Hoff and his daughter, slash impromptu director, Taylor-Ann (above right) made one of the more infamous Las Vegas hotel room tapes, they obviously have never seen the... Read more



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[Source: Vegas Pop Blog]

Why not Boycott Formula One?

OK - I'll apologise in advance - this has nothing to do with gambling.
But at this point - I don't care. Here comes a rant

I was in Indianapolis on Sunday for the sham they called the US Grand Prix - and out of everybody involved - everyone was to blame except Indianapolis, who quite simply, barring a preacher giving a sermon pre-race, didn't deserve the arrogant, obnoxious, greedy Formula One 'sport' descend upon their nice city and ruin their reputation.

So - I blame Michelin for changing their tyres from ones that worked in Spain. Then telling the teams not to allow the drivers to race. I want to see the results of the tests of their tyres. Idiots.

I blame the teams for their arrogance. They allowed the show to go on as if nothing was wrong(parade lap) and then pulled the drivers from the race.

I blame the drivers. On interviews pre-race, knowing full well what was about to happen, they spoke about winning and driving. They were smiling and waving on a presentation grid an hour before the race. They didn't defy their teams to give the fans a race. Slow right down at the corner if they had too. But race.

I blame the FIA for being so unrepentant and pig-headed not to change their rules to give the fans (who spent thousands to see the 'race') a good show. Make it a non-championship race for all I care. Just give us something to watch.

I blame the FIA for backing Ferrari and not allowing a chicane at the 'dangerous' bend. 9 out of 10 teams accepted the chicane

I blame the Ferrari team for being unsportsmanlike and ensuring changes were made so they could have a race. Who cares about the points at this stage. They should have allowed the chicane

I blame Michael Schumacher for continuing to race and not pulling out as soon as he realised this. If he did, they would have abandoned the race and we would have at least got our money back

I blame Bridgestone for not asking the FIA to allow Michelin to get new tyres over

I blame Ecclestone for allowing this happen. Why do the fans have to put up with the politics of this pathetic spectacle

I was in a stand with a huge group of Colombians who had travelled to see Montoya. They left after lap 3.

An american behind me had taken his 8 yr old kid to see a race for the first time. Most likely it'll be the last. They left at lap 30.

Most people left at lap 10.

The vendors at the track lost money. Indianapolis no doubt lost money as everyone clamoured to get earlier flights and may not return next year.

The local 'commentary' team were speechless. Indianapolis Motor Speedway were embarrassed. It was, quite simply, pathetic.

Nascar and Indycar must be laughing. The threat of Formula One succeeding in the US is now probably non-existant. I'll give American sports one thing - they know how to put on a good show. The Europeans haven't got a clue what its all about.

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

Big Brother 6 - Latest Odds

I can't believe this is my first big brother post - must be more dull than usual I guess.

The 9th eviction seems to be a given with Orlaith at 2/9 whilst Anthony continues to strengthen as outright favourite to win at 2/5. Eugene is second favourite at 4/1. Thing with Big Brother is that almost anything can happen on anyday which can change the odds drastically - but for now, its all fairly straightforward it seems

Big Brother 6 - 9th Eviction
All Odds Taken from William Hill
Orlaith 2/9
Kemal 3/1

Big Brother 6 - Outright
All Odds Taken from William Hill
Anthony 2/5
Eugene 4/1
Makosi 9/1
Derek 12/1
Craig 14/1
Kemal 20/1
Orlaith 50/1

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]

Humans beat computer in epic poker battle

As any player knows, poker is about more than calculating odds and weighing up the risk.While the programmers of Polaris gave their computer the ability to bluff, ultimately it was the humans that came out on top in the world’s first “Man versus Machine” poker match, held in Vancouver, Canada, recently.Given the advanced nature of [...]

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[Source: Gambling Blog]

Too Much to Soon for Underage Bingo Player

Underage Bingo Player Loses 200k Payout

Over at Gamblog Jon is reporting on a 17-yr old girl who won the 200,000 on a national Linked bingo game at her local Commodore Club in Ryde, Isle of Wight.

However club officials soon found out her age and promptly invalidated the claim.

It must have been a boost to her ego to pretend to be 18 and be allowed in the club in the first place - little did she realise the consequences

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[Source: Betting Casinos Poker::UK Gambling Blog]