Monthly Archives: June 2023

The state always wins when it comes to gambling, critics say – GBH News

Posted: June 12, 2023 at 10:16 pm

The Massachusetts State Lottery currently offers more than 100 types of scratch cards. Those instant games brought in close to $4 million in revenue for the state in 2022, down 3% from the previous year.

And this year, the lottery introduced a $50 scratch ticket to compete with online sports betting, promising players better odds and bigger prizes. The tickets debut led to record sales.

But Les Bernal, the director of advocacy nonprofit Stop Predatory Gambling, told Greater Boston that the state shouldn't be in the business of gambling.

Citizens weren't demanding the opportunity to buy $50 scratch-off tickets in low-income communities, Bernal said.

A 2014 Social and Economic Impacts of Gambling in Massachusetts report found that 1.7% of Bay State citizens are problem gamblers. Of those, 77% are male, 24% are Black and 17% are unemployed.

Rachel Volberg, a research professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and the principal investigator of the SEIGMA report, found that certain groups are particularly vulnerable to developing gambling problems. But she said the state can implement regulations to minimize and mitigate harm.

We are in the midst of one of the most explosive expansions of legalized gambling that the United States has seen in many, many years, said Volberg. So, you don't often hear about policymakers or anybody else really wanting to eliminate or reduce the number of gambling outlets.

Bernal said Massachusetts citizens lose more than $5,000 of their personal wealth every minute to the states lottery and regional casinos.

"This is driven by the greed of big gambling operators and a lust for political power by a handful of public officials, said Bernal. This is a business that's based on conning people. It's a form of consumer financial fraud, just like price gouging and false advertising. And that's why this business is illegal unless you partner with the state.

In the United States, gambling is regulated at the state level instead of being overseen by a federal agency. In Massachusetts, along with many other states, gambling has become normalized, which Bernal said is harmful.

Gambling used to be illegal, on the fringe of society, said Bernal. Today, its a government program with the MGM logo branded on the green monster at Fenway Park. You have a Massachusetts Lottery that sells Frosty the Snowman scratch off tickets during the holiday season.

Christian Teja, director of communications at the Mass Lottery, said in a statement that the lottery has operated in a transparent and responsible manner for more than 50 years.

The Lottery currently partners with the Massachusetts Department of Public Healths Office of Problem Gambling Services to raise awareness of problem gambling, train Lottery staff, and promote treatment and resources for those in need of assistance, Teja added.

But Bernal said Bay Staters are the real losers. That's why they [government officials] spend tens of millions of dollars lobbying for you, the taxpayer. You're paying higher taxes for less services today because of government-sanctioned gambling, said Bernal.

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Unveiling the evolution of online gambling and the emergence of industry – The Jerusalem Post

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Unveiling the evolution of online gambling and the emergence of industry - The Jerusalem Post

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Capturing the Thrill of Gambling Through Cinematic Techniques – Film Threat

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Gambling has been a favorite subject for filmmakers since the early days of cinema. To seize the thrill of gambling on film, directors often use various cinematic styles, as seen below.

When crafting passion with lighting and camera angles in casino movies, the key is creating tension and suspense. To do this, filmmakers often use low-key lighting, which forms a dark atmosphere that can be pretty disturbing. This type of lighting also helps to attract attention to specific segments in the scene, such as characters faces or objects that are significant for the story. Additionally, filmmakers frequently use wide-angle snapshots to capture the casino floor and all its hustle and bustle. It helps to create an immersive adventure for viewers, as they can almost discern that theyre part of the action. If you feel like sampling a piece of this intensity, consider checking out somecasino sites, as the best of them are able to capture the giddying highs and dizzying lows of gambling by using similar techniques to some casino movies.

Gambling flicks are about buildingsuspense and tension; special effects can be a great way to do that. One of the most practical techniques is to use slow-motion shots. It will pull out the action and make it more passionate as viewers see every feature of the scene develop in real-time. Another great strategy is to use split-screen shots, which can help create a sense of haste by showing multiple viewpoints simultaneously. Finally, you can create mystery and intrigue throughvisual effectslike smoke or fog. Colors and fixed design also play a significant role. When creating a theatrical atmosphere in a casino film, many directors opt for radiant colors such as reds and oranges to elicit excitement and tension.

Musicis an effective tool that can be used to build tension and thrill in gambling scenes. It can create uncertainty, heighten the stakes and thrill the visuals. For example, a fast-paced track with a driving beat can boost a scenes intensity and make it more exciting while a slower tempo can build tension and suspense as the characters wait for their fate to be revealed. Music can also be used to stimulate certain emotions in viewers. Uplifting tunes can give spectators a sense of hope, while darker melodies can produce feelings of worry or fear.

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Capturing the Thrill of Gambling Through Cinematic Techniques - Film Threat

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Maryland gambling regulators blocked a request from sports betting … – Yogonet International

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Sports betting operators in Maryland urged regulators in the state to withdraw rules that require them to submit descriptions of promotional offers for inspection at least two days before putting it into effect. These rules, brought on by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency, are intended to safeguard bettors from misleading promotional offers.

In their efforts to expand market share, mobile sportsbooks are seeking to make more attractive offers to players, including so-called "free" or discounted bets to lure new customers. Such promotions are often advertised in oversized or bold lettering. However, it is the fine print that becomes the subject of scrutiny from state regulators for restrictions.

According to state records obtained by The Baltimore Sun, the companies specifically asked Maryland to lift a regulation that requires them to submit a description of any promotional offer, along with its terms and conditions, at least two days before going into effect.

The operators instead requested a regulation that requires them to tell the state about a promotion within five business days of launching it, meaning that there would be "no notice or time for advance review."

The industry in their proposal said: The submission of promotions prior to advertising/marketing efforts limits the ability to adequately consider promotions because of unknown variables which often accompany events that are attractive for sports bettors.

As an example, the companies noted that the requirement of two days' notice would prevent them from immediately offering promotions targeting bettors in certain areasright after their teams advanced to the NCAA basketball tournament.

The agency rejected the request in May, two months after it was first made, according to the cited source. It separately denied a request from Boston-based DraftKingsto roll back a regulation that limits the total dollar amount of free bets the companies are permitted to offer in the state each year.The cap is decided by a formula based on how much taxable revenue each company generates in the prior year.

As per the Baltimore Sun's report, the two proposals are among those listed on an undated spreadsheet titled Collective Regulation Change Requests. This includes suggestions the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency receives from licensed operators and sports betting equipment suppliers.The agency annually invites gambling establishments to propose changes to regulations they believe are unnecessary or should be revised.

Speaking to the Baltimore Sun, the agencys director, John Martin, said that regulators seek a balance under which sportsbooks can prosper amid a fair climate for bettors.

Martin said: Were eager for Marylands sports wagering industry to thrive and generate funding for education, and were also mindful of consumer protections. We provide guidance to sportsbook operators so they may bring a variety of promotions to the market. At the same time, we feel that reviewing the details of promotions before they launch is a reasonable step thats in the best interests of consumers.

Sports betting companies handled over $328 million in wagers in Maryland in April. The state includes 10 mobile sportsbook operators, in addition to 10 brick-and-mortar outlets, including Horseshoe Casino Baltimore, Live! Casino and Hotel in Hanover, MGM National Harbor in Prince Georges County, Ocean Downs Casino in Worcester County, and Hollywood Casino Perryville.

The casinos in Maryland started accepting sports wagers at their properties in December 2021. Mobile betting, which includes placing bets on computers, phones, or other devices, began in November 2022 in the state.

But right before the mobile launch, regulators in Maryland deemed the language of betting companies promising wagers to be risk-free as predatory.Michael Eaton, director of audit and regulatory compliance for the Maryland gambling agency, in an email at the time wrote: We have deemed the Risk-Free language used in sports betting promotions as predatory. Going forward it shall not be allowed to be included in any Maryland-specific advertising or promotions.

As of 2023, which is their first full year of operations, sports betting companies in Maryland are allowed to offer unlimited promotional bets. After that, free play offers will be limited to 20% of their sports wagering proceeds from the previous year. As per regulators in Maryland, the cap is required as abundant free bets would reduce the amount of revenue it can tax.

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Escaped Vietnamese suspects in illegal gambling case back in … – Yonhap News Agency

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GWANGJU, June 12 (Yonhap) -- All of the 10 Vietnamese nationals who fled a police station in the southwestern city of Gwangju while under questioning on gambling suspicions have been nabbed, police officials said Monday.

The Vietnamese suspects sneaked out of a meeting room of the police patrol unit station in Gwangju, about 270 kilometers south of Seoul, through a tilt window's 20-centimeter opening early in the morning on Sunday.

They were among the 23 Vietnamese nationals police took into custody hours earlier for questioning on suspicions of gambling in a house in Gwangju.

Seven of the 10 escapees had turned themselves in to police and immigration authorities as of Monday evening, according to Gwangju's Gwangsan Police Station.

The remaining three were also nabbed by police Sunday and Monday while hiding at residences or a factory building in the city.

Police said all the 10 escapees are undocumented immigrant workers and they impulsively ran away out of fear for deportation.

All the 10 people will be transferred to the immigration office for deportation to Vietnam in accordance with the law once the police wrap up its investigation of them over fleeing charges, officials said.

Police also referred the rest of the Vietnamese gambling suspects to the prosecution while transferring other undocumented people among them to the immigration office.

Two Vietnamese people turn themselves in at the Gwangsan Police Station in Gwangju, some 267 kilometers south of Seoul, on June 12, 2023, after they fled police questioning the previous day. (Yonhap)

pbr@yna.co.kr (END)

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20 Years After Michael Jordans Alleged $108,000 Involvement in … – The Sportsrush

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Michael Jordan, renowned as one of the most iconic athletes in history, boasts an illustrious resume that places him at the forefront of any discussions regarding the GOAT. However, Jordans on-court excellence was accompanied by controversies surrounding his extensive gambling activities, which contributed to a perception of him as a villainous figure. Some fans maintain the belief that Jordans initial retirement was a cover-up for a suspension by NBA Commissioner David Stern due to his alleged gambling addiction. Nevertheless, insights from Roland Lazenbys book, Michael Jordan: The Life, reveal that the Bulls former general manager, Jerry Krause, did not express any concerns regarding Jordans gambling behavior.

Jordans compulsive gambling once placed him at the center of a serious incident involving a murder case. After the unfortunate killing of a bail bondsman named Eddie Dow, investigators discovered three cheques amounting to $108,000 with Jordans name on them. This unexpected connection swiftly made Jordan a suspect in the case. Despite the negative impact of his gambling escapades on his reputation, the former General Manager of the Bulls held the view that it was not a significant concern.

While the media seemed to have had a huge problem with the 5-time MVPs gambling, the Chicago Bulls front office wasnt bothered.

In Roland Lazenbys book, Jerry Krause revealed his take on Jordans gambling. Defending his former star player, Krause simply stated that every player from the older era in the league would gamble with huge stakes.

Further, the 2-time NBA Executive of the Year also revealed that none of MJs off-court antics would have any effect on his performance on the court. Lauding him for always being professional, Krause stated that MJ kept doing charitable deeds as well as preposterous things.

Twenty years later, Krause offered his take on the matter, too. I didnt know that there were gambling issues, he said. I knew he played cards on the airplane. Youd hear the guys yelling at one another. I didnt know what the stakes were. Later on I found out that they were very high. But all the great old-timers in the NBA used to gamble. I was used to that. I was used to guys playing cards. Thats the way of the NBA. As for Michael, it was just his way of living. So what? He had the money. He was never nonprofessional. That sucker showed up every night and he was ready to play. I saw him do tons of charitable things, good deeds. And tons of asinine things, too. He is who he is.

While the media often sought to tarnish Jordans reputation, his unparalleled dominance on the basketball court would ultimately overshadow any off-court controversies or fiascos. The Black Cats extraordinary skills and achievements would ultimately outshine any negative narratives surrounding him.

Amidst the worldwide shock caused by the allegations linking MJ to Eddie Dows murder, Phil Jackson, the former head coach of the Bulls, made a noteworthy assertion. Recognizing the lack of compatibility between Jordan and the Bulls then-general manager, Jackson voiced his concerns about the involvement of Jerry Krause in associating the six-time champions name with the murder case.

That was surprising, considering that Krause worked in the Los Angeles Lakers front office in the late 1970s. The Lakers, according to former GM Pete Newell, employed off-duty LAPD vice officers to keep track of players activities. Phil Jackson would later accuse Krause, aka The Sleuth, of spying on the off-court activities of Bulls players, which Krause also denied.

The Zen Master insinuated that Krause played a role in the situation, raising questions about the motivations behind the allegations.

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The Top Five European Gambling Hotspots To Visit In 2023 – Breaking Travel News

Posted: at 10:16 pm

The gambling industry has enjoyed a real revival over the past decade, with not even a global pandemic able to slow it down.

Today, a number of Europes cities have become hotspots for enjoying the casino lifestyle, taking the reputation of many of the continents fantastic online live casino offerings and using them as inspiration to transform brick-and-mortar casinos, both old and new.

Were now at a point many cities are challenging the likes of Las Vegas in Macau, perhaps not in revenue. In fact, definitely not in revenue, but certainly in entertainment.

But where are the hotspots you should be visiting if youre an avid spinner of the slots or roulette wheel?

London London has long been a haven for gambling enthusiasts, boasting a rich history and a diverse range of gambling options. The city is renowned for its luxurious casinos, such as The Hippodrome Casino and The Ritz Club, which provide a sophisticated and upscale gaming experience. In addition to casinos, London is nearby to iconic horse racing events like the Royal Ascot and the Epsom Derby, adding a touch of tradition and elegance to its gambling scene. With its vibrant nightlife, world-class entertainment, and a thriving gambling industry, London is undoubtedly a top destination for European gamblers.

Monte Carlo Nestled on the French Riviera, the principality of Monaco exudes opulence and grandeur. Monte Carlo, in particular, stands as a symbol of extravagance and exclusivity, drawing high rollers from across the globe. The iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo, with its Belle poque architecture, offers an unforgettable gaming experience. The citys luxurious resorts, picturesque scenery, and legendary Formula 1 Grand Prix further enhance its allure.

Amsterdam Amsterdam combines a rich cultural heritage with a vibrant gambling scene, making it a popular choice for gambling enthusiasts. The city offers a unique blend of traditional and modern gambling options. Historic casinos like Holland Casino Amsterdam provide a classic gaming experience, while modern venues like Holland Casino Amsterdam West and Jacks Casino Amsterdam showcase contemporary design and a lively atmosphere.

On top of that, its a gorgeous setting with picturesque canals, charming architecture, and a vibrant nightlife. Whats not to love?

Prague Prague, often referred to as the City of a Hundred Spires, has gained recognition as a gambling hotspot in more recent years. The citys casinos, such as the famous Casino Atrium at the Hilton Prague Hotel, offer a wide array of games, including blackjack, roulette, and poker. Pragues unique blend of history, stunning architecture, and affordable prices make it an attractive destination for both casual gamblers and high rollers. The citys vibrant atmosphere and bustling nightlife further add to its appeal, ensuring a memorable gambling experience for visitors.

Barcelona If you want incredible sunshine with your gaming, Barcelona is the place for you. Known for its vibrant culture and stunning Mediterranean coastline, has also emerged as a popular gambling destination in Europe. The city boasts a wide range of casinos, including Casino Barcelona, where visitors can enjoy an exciting mix of table games and slot machines. Barcelonas warm climate, stunning architecture, and world-class dining and nightlife scenes provide a captivating backdrop for both gambling and leisure activities.

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The Top Five European Gambling Hotspots To Visit In 2023 - Breaking Travel News

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Maryland license plate gambling website mishap resolved by Motor … – WJLA

Posted: at 10:16 pm

(WBFF) The website address on nearly 800,000 Maryland license plates that used to send visitors to a website promoting gambling now sends users to the Motor Vehicle Administration.

In an email, the MVA said that the agency took immediate actions to reclaim the expired domain.

At the end of May, it was discovered that the web address on the license plates commemorating the War of 1812 sent visitors to a website promoting Philippines gambling.

ALSO READ | Inmate's half-baked escape plan crumbles in detention center kitchen, say police

The War of 1812 bicentennial license plate was commissioned in 2010 and was issued through 2016. According to the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, the content and design of the license plate are not owned by the MVA.

In a news release late today, the MVA said:

In partnership with the state Department of Information Technology, the MVA engaged the services of a reputable domain broker and was able to successfully recover the URL earlier this week. Going forward, the MVA will maintain the URL, which will redirect visitors to the agency's homepage, mva.maryland.gov.

The MVA did not disclose in the release whether or not it paid for the URL.

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Latest Casino And Gambling News – World Casino Directory

Posted: at 10:15 pm

World Casino News covers breaking news from around the globe. In this section we cover casino news. This is our main category which contains about 75% of all articles so you may see the same articles also appear in sub-categories or additional sections if more than one subject is prominent in the story.

This is a great section for readers to follow the progress of their favorite up and coming new casinos. We report on new casino proposals as the stories break and keep you in the loop if they hit snags. As the projects move from the drawing table to groundbreaking, and when construction and other milestones are reached, we'll let you know with casino project updates. Look for opening date announcements and coverage of grand openings here as well.

In this section, we also cover expansion projects, new hotel announcements, and casino closures. Look for the occasional cruise ship news here too. This is the section you will want to bookmark to stay abreast of all the Latest Casino and Gambling News, as it happens, anywhere in the world.

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2023 Sonoma Raceway Weekend Recap I NASCAR Gambling … – SGPN

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2023 Sonoma Raceway Weekend Recap I NASCAR Gambling Podcast (Ep. 197)

Welcome to another episode of the NASCAR Gambling Podcast on the Sports Gambling Podcast Network! Every Rod Villagomez and Cody Zeeb bring their love of NASCAR and their love of sports betting to you to help you set your bets for the weekend of NASCAR action. From the Craftsman Truck Series to the Xfinity Series, to the Cup Series, Rod and Cody have you covered.

Today, Rod and Cody react to the 2023 Sonoma Raceway NASCAR races and recap the bets. Which drivers handled the right and left turns of this storied Northern California road course and turn in solid cashing tickets for us? How exciting was the action for the first ever visit for the Xfinity Series to wine country?What happened to Kyle Larson this weekend and should we be concerned going forward? Is Marin Truex Jr. the hottest driver in the garage right now? Well answer these questions and more on this weeks episode.

Be sure to subscribe to the NASCAR Gambling Podcast on the SGPN App, and on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Find Rod (@rjvillagomez) and Cody (@Husker_Zeeb) on Twitter.

Introduction Musical Credit: I Run by Iconoclast

0:00 Pre-roll

1:40 Intro

7:20 EdgeBoost Double your bet with no interest! https://sg.pn/edge

8:34 Sonoma Weekend Recap

17:20 BIRDDOGS code POOL Look good w/ a free Yeti style tumbler birddogs.com/pool

23:24 DoorDash 250 Betting Recap

40:18 SGPN Old Fashioned Fantasy Football Podcast https://www.youtube.com/@Old-FashionedFootball

41:00 Toyota Save/Mart 350 Betting Recap

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2023 Sonoma Raceway Weekend Recap I NASCAR Gambling ... - SGPN

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