Archive for April, 2010

Spanish tennis superstar Rafael Nadal, nicknamed “Rafa”, will step out onto the clay today at the 2010 Monte-Carlo Masters, making his debut in the 103rd iteration of this annual event. For the past five years, Nadal has played in this ATP Masters Series tournament, and each of those years, he won first place in the single title. Now he’s at it again, battling against last year’s finalist Novak Djokovic and wild card entry Andy Murray, hoping to break a world tennis record by grabbing his sixth straight Masters title.

Nadal, 23, is entering this year’s Monte-Carlo Masters with a 29-1 career record, and is walking proud with 27 straight wins since he lost to Guillermo Coria in 2003. Today he will be playing his 201st ATP World Tour Masters 1000 match – an astonishing number for a player his age. Nadal stands tall at 6’1”, and is a very imposing figure on the court. His aggressive play style and massive forehand make him a formidable player.

He began playing tennis when he was three years old. Right away his uncle Toni, a former tennis pro, recognized the youngster’s talent for the game; Toni has been coaching him ever since. Nadal won his first championship when he was eight, which made him work even harder at training and practicing. Around this time, Toni began encouraging him to play left-handed (Nadal is naturally right-handed), a move which would give him an advantage on the court. He still uses this strategy today.

As a teen, Nadal was also an adept football player, and was heavily involved in both sports. His father, concerned about the boy’s academic future, forced him to choose just one. Obviously, Nadal chose tennis. The choice paid off, and by the age of 17, Nadal was already ranked among the 50 best tennis players in the world.

His entrance into the pro circuit was met with some criticism – not because of how Nadal played, but because of how he looked. His propensity to wear sleeveless shirts, below-the-knee trousers and a bandana drew endless mocking from the press. One television commenter even joked that he showed up to a game wearing his sister’s clothes. Nadal shrugged the jokes off, and went on to play like a champ.

Nadal’s career exploded in 2005 when he dominated the spring clay court season, winning 25 consecutive matches and establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with. This year earned him the ATP Most Improved Player of the Year award. By now Nadal was ranked number 5 in the world, making him the youngest player to make it into the Top 10 since Andrei Medvedev in 1993.

The years since have been a battle against injuries forcing off-court time here and there, but overall his path of progress has been a steep climb towards the top. Now, Nadal is confident that he will claim his 6th straight Monte-Carlo Masters title this year. His primary adversary Roger Federer is not playing this year, giving Nadal a good chance of fulfilling his goal. “I’ve always been a winner”, Nadal says in an official press release. “And will soon be one again!”

Whether players favor Nadal or his competition for this year’s title, now is the time to put money down. Bettors in France across Europe are advised to use Bet365 Sports, while those in the US should check out Bodog, Brobury Sports or BetUS Sportsbook. Each of these trusted online sportsbooks offers their own odds and lines, players may want to shop around to find a system that most benefits them.

Spanish tennis superstar Rafael Nadal, nicknamed “Rafa”, will step out onto the clay today at the 2010 Monte-Carlo Masters, making his debut in the 103rd iteration of this annual event. For the past five years, Nadal has played in this ATP Masters Series tournament, and each of those years, he won first place in the single title. Now he’s at it again, battling against last year’s finalist Novak Djokovic and wild card entry Andy Murray, hoping to break a world tennis record by grabbing his sixth straight Masters title.

Nadal, 23, is entering this year’s Monte-Carlo Masters with a 29-1 career record, and is walking proud with 27 straight wins since he lost to Guillermo Coria in 2003. Today he will be playing his 201st ATP World Tour Masters 1000 match – an astonishing number for a player his age. Nadal stands tall at 6’1”, and is a very imposing figure on the court. His aggressive play style and massive forehand make him a formidable player.

He began playing tennis when he was three years old. Right away his uncle Toni, a former tennis pro, recognized the youngster’s talent for the game; Toni has been coaching him ever since. Nadal won his first championship when he was eight, which made him work even harder at training and practicing. Around this time, Toni began encouraging him to play left-handed (Nadal is naturally right-handed), a move which would give him an advantage on the court. He still uses this strategy today.

As a teen, Nadal was also an adept football player, and was heavily involved in both sports. His father, concerned about the boy’s academic future, forced him to choose just one. Obviously, Nadal chose tennis. The choice paid off, and by the age of 17, Nadal was already ranked among the 50 best tennis players in the world.

His entrance into the pro circuit was met with some criticism – not because of how Nadal played, but because of how he looked. His propensity to wear sleeveless shirts, below-the-knee trousers and a bandana drew endless mocking from the press. One television commenter even joked that he showed up to a game wearing his sister’s clothes. Nadal shrugged the jokes off, and went on to play like a champ.

Nadal’s career exploded in 2005 when he dominated the spring clay court season, winning 25 consecutive matches and establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with. This year earned him the ATP Most Improved Player of the Year award. By now Nadal was ranked number 5 in the world, making him the youngest player to make it into the Top 10 since Andrei Medvedev in 1993.

The years since have been a battle against injuries forcing off-court time here and there, but overall his path of progress has been a steep climb towards the top. Now, Nadal is confident that he will claim his 6th straight Monte-Carlo Masters title this year. His primary adversary Roger Federer is not playing this year, giving Nadal a good chance of fulfilling his goal. “I’ve always been a winner”, Nadal says in an official press release. “And will soon be one again!”

Whether players favor Nadal or his competition for this year’s title, now is the time to put money down. Bettors in France across Europe are advised to use Bet365 Sports, while those in the US should check out Bodog, Brobury Sports or BetUS Sportsbook. Each of these trusted online sportsbooks offers their own odds and lines, players may want to shop around to find a system that most benefits them.

The durrrr Challenge on Full Tilt Poker
Challenger: Tome “durrrr” Dwan
Players: Phil Ivey, Patrik Antonius, David Benyamine
Pot: $2 Million (durrrr’s $1.5 million to given players $500,000)

The durrrr Challenge on Full Tilt Poker
Challenger: Tome “durrrr” Dwan
Players: Phil Ivey, Patrik Antonius, David Benyamine
Pot: $2 Million (durrrr’s $1.5 million to given players $500,000)

A massive online sports betting operation operating illegally out of New York, with ties as far afield as Costa Rica, has been taken down. A two-year investigation culminated last week in 38 arrests cross the US. Those involved are ring charged with money laundering, promoting gambling and conspiracy.

Fox News: Dozens Arrested in Sweep of Alleged $178M Online Gambling Ring

Bookmakers running a pair of online sportsbooks in the US accepted nearly $178 million in bets during the past three years said prosecutors on Wednesday after arresting 38 on corruption charges.

Those arrested are suspected money collectors, agents and bookies from Nevada, Louisiana, Florida, New York and Arizona. The arrests were the culmination of a three-year investigation led by the organized crime division of the New York Police Department.

Among those arrested are three New York City employees: a firefighter, a sanitation worker and a highway repairman. Charges include money laundering, promoting gambling and conspiracy.

The suspects operated two nationwide gambling rings that utilized sports betting websites filtered through Costa Rica. Millions of dollars in cash and property were seized after more than a dozen search warrants were executed five US states. All suspects are currently awaiting arraignment.

United Press International: NYC fireman nabbed in $178M gambling ring

A New York City firefighter is among three city workers being charged with operating an illegal sports-betting ring that made $178 million in three years.

Firefighter Matthew Fopeano and highway repairman Michael Labetti allegedly paid out winnings, collected gambling losses, and solicited new customers. Robert Ackrish, a NYC sanitation worker, allegedly ran a separate sports betting operation that handled $24 million in wagers.

These men are among 38 people being charged with operating two “highly sophisticated illegal sports gambling enterprises” in New York City, Nevada and Costa Rica. The rings took nearly $178 million in wagers over 32 months basketball, football, baseball and hockey events, the district attorney said.

A spokesman for the New York Fire Department says that Fopeano, an 8-year veteran who allegedly made used a marked fire department vehicle for collecting sportsbook monies, was suspended without pay and faces termination.

Boston Herald: 38 indicted in NYC in sports gambling rings

New York prosecutors have indicted 38 people in connection with two illegal sports betting rings that allegedly spanned from Arizona to New York and Costa Rica and made $178 million.

Queens District Attorney Richard Brown said that the bookies used websites to collect wagers on professional and college events including basketball, football, baseball and hockey.

Lead by the New York Police Department’s organized crime division, investigators arrested the accused on charges enterprise corruption. Three of the men arrested are New York City employees: a sanitation worker, a firefighter, and a highway repairman.

A massive online sports betting operation operating illegally out of New York, with ties as far afield as Costa Rica, has been taken down. A two-year investigation culminated last week in 38 arrests cross the US. Those involved are ring charged with money laundering, promoting gambling and conspiracy.

Fox News: Dozens Arrested in Sweep of Alleged $178M Online Gambling Ring

Bookmakers running a pair of online sportsbooks in the US accepted nearly $178 million in bets during the past three years said prosecutors on Wednesday after arresting 38 on corruption charges.

Those arrested are suspected money collectors, agents and bookies from Nevada, Louisiana, Florida, New York and Arizona. The arrests were the culmination of a three-year investigation led by the organized crime division of the New York Police Department.

Among those arrested are three New York City employees: a firefighter, a sanitation worker and a highway repairman. Charges include money laundering, promoting gambling and conspiracy.

The suspects operated two nationwide gambling rings that utilized sports betting websites filtered through Costa Rica. Millions of dollars in cash and property were seized after more than a dozen search warrants were executed five US states. All suspects are currently awaiting arraignment.

United Press International: NYC fireman nabbed in $178M gambling ring

A New York City firefighter is among three city workers being charged with operating an illegal sports-betting ring that made $178 million in three years.

Firefighter Matthew Fopeano and highway repairman Michael Labetti allegedly paid out winnings, collected gambling losses, and solicited new customers. Robert Ackrish, a NYC sanitation worker, allegedly ran a separate sports betting operation that handled $24 million in wagers.

These men are among 38 people being charged with operating two “highly sophisticated illegal sports gambling enterprises” in New York City, Nevada and Costa Rica. The rings took nearly $178 million in wagers over 32 months basketball, football, baseball and hockey events, the district attorney said.

A spokesman for the New York Fire Department says that Fopeano, an 8-year veteran who allegedly made used a marked fire department vehicle for collecting sportsbook monies, was suspended without pay and faces termination.

Boston Herald: 38 indicted in NYC in sports gambling rings

New York prosecutors have indicted 38 people in connection with two illegal sports betting rings that allegedly spanned from Arizona to New York and Costa Rica and made $178 million.

Queens District Attorney Richard Brown said that the bookies used websites to collect wagers on professional and college events including basketball, football, baseball and hockey.

Lead by the New York Police Department’s organized crime division, investigators arrested the accused on charges enterprise corruption. Three of the men arrested are New York City employees: a sanitation worker, a firefighter, and a highway repairman.

The eco-friendly loyalty programme at CasinoShare is aimed at rewarding and entertaining you every time you play – all whilst supporting and promoting the Global drive to “Go Green”. Every month the casino features a specific go green theme with hints and tips on how to make a difference, as well as PLAY GREEN promotions where everyone’s a winner!

It’s Kinder to Kindle – 4 Players to win a WIRELESS BOOK READER!

Purchase and Wager 250 credits on any Monday in April and May to qualify

Now you can carry a whole library of 1,500 books on one slim and lightweight reader. Your books will be delivered wirelessly in less than 60 seconds, with no PC required. There are over 450,000 popular books, including 101 of 112 New York Times® Best Sellers, plus U.S. and international newspapers, magazines, and blogs. You can even download and read the first chapters for free before you decide to buy!

Using a Kindle to read rather than buying books is kinder to the environment as each book has a zero footprint on the planet (as no trees need to be cut down). That’s why it’s Kinder to Kindle!

The eco-friendly loyalty programme at CasinoShare is aimed at rewarding and entertaining you every time you play – all whilst supporting and promoting the Global drive to “Go Green”. Every month the casino features a specific go green theme with hints and tips on how to make a difference, as well as PLAY GREEN promotions where everyone’s a winner!

It’s Kinder to Kindle – 4 Players to win a WIRELESS BOOK READER!

Purchase and Wager 250 credits on any Monday in April and May to qualify

Now you can carry a whole library of 1,500 books on one slim and lightweight reader. Your books will be delivered wirelessly in less than 60 seconds, with no PC required. There are over 450,000 popular books, including 101 of 112 New York Times® Best Sellers, plus U.S. and international newspapers, magazines, and blogs. You can even download and read the first chapters for free before you decide to buy!

Using a Kindle to read rather than buying books is kinder to the environment as each book has a zero footprint on the planet (as no trees need to be cut down). That’s why it’s Kinder to Kindle!

New legislation is being passed through the British parlament at record speed, among them a bill that has the power to bring much of the internet down to its knees within the United Kingdom. Whether or not the bill will affect the online gambling industry is unknown, but nevertheless, a possibility.

Cnet UK: Digital Economy Bill: Nine things you can’t do any more

The Digital Economy Bill has clauses that could lead to some pretty horrible outcomes. The bill sprinted from Commons to Lords almost without a pause for breath before getting the nod from Her Maj. Until Ofcom hammers out the details outlined in the bill, it’s impossible to say how we’ll be affected. Possibilities:

Watch copyrighted content
The bill aims to make it more difficult to access copyrighted content by blocking Web sites built around sharing such material. Sanctions can be applied to users if they use them.

Download from us
The bill states that download websites can be blocked if they providing copyright infringing tools.

Use WikiLeaks
According to the bill, the government can block sites deemed ‘likely to’ infringe copyright. How ‘likely to’ will be defined will determined which sites can be blocked.

Use free open Wi-Fi
Locations that provide Wi-Fi may think twice about doing so as they will be held accountable for internet traffic from their servers.

Watch YouTube
YouTube may come under fire as copyrighted material can be found on the site.

Google stuff
As Google is often used to find downloads, it too may be threatened.

The New York Times: U.K. Approves Crackdown on Internet Pirates

The British Parliament has approved plans to crack down on digital media piracy by authorizing the suspension of repeat offenders’ Internet connections.

Both the House of Commons and the House of Lords approved the bill after heavy lobbying from the music and movie industries. The anti-piracy plan is part of a broader bill aimed at stimulating the digital economy in Britain.

The government’s anti-piracy plans were modified in the final rounds of negotiations over the bill. Under previous proposals, the content industries could have gone to court to seek injunctions requiring Internet service providers to block access to Web sites that foster piracy. Similar clauses were included elsewhere in the bill.

The Guardian: Digital economy bill rushed through wash-up in late night session

The UK government forced the Digital Economy Bill through parliament with the aid of the Conservative party, attaining a crucial third reading – which means it will get royal assent and become law – after just 2 hours of debate in the Commons.

Despite opposition from the Liberal Democrats and a group of Labour MPs who spoke against measures contained in the bill, the government easily won 2 votes to determine the content of the bill and its passage through the committee stage. The vote was in the government’s favour, which it won by 189 votes to 47.

Earlier the government removed its proposed clause 18, which could have given it sweeping powers to block sites, but replaced it with an amendment to clause 8 of the bill.

Liberal Democrat MP, John Hemming, protested that this could mean the blocking of whistleblower sites. Stephen Timms for the government said that it would not want to see the clause used to restrict freedom of speech.

New legislation is being passed through the British parlament at record speed, among them a bill that has the power to bring much of the internet down to its knees within the United Kingdom. Whether or not the bill will affect the online gambling industry is unknown, but nevertheless, a possibility.

Cnet UK: Digital Economy Bill: Nine things you can’t do any more

The Digital Economy Bill has clauses that could lead to some pretty horrible outcomes. The bill sprinted from Commons to Lords almost without a pause for breath before getting the nod from Her Maj. Until Ofcom hammers out the details outlined in the bill, it’s impossible to say how we’ll be affected. Possibilities:

Watch copyrighted content
The bill aims to make it more difficult to access copyrighted content by blocking Web sites built around sharing such material. Sanctions can be applied to users if they use them.

Download from us
The bill states that download websites can be blocked if they providing copyright infringing tools.

Use WikiLeaks
According to the bill, the government can block sites deemed ‘likely to’ infringe copyright. How ‘likely to’ will be defined will determined which sites can be blocked.

Use free open Wi-Fi
Locations that provide Wi-Fi may think twice about doing so as they will be held accountable for internet traffic from their servers.

Watch YouTube
YouTube may come under fire as copyrighted material can be found on the site.

Google stuff
As Google is often used to find downloads, it too may be threatened.

The New York Times: U.K. Approves Crackdown on Internet Pirates

The British Parliament has approved plans to crack down on digital media piracy by authorizing the suspension of repeat offenders’ Internet connections.

Both the House of Commons and the House of Lords approved the bill after heavy lobbying from the music and movie industries. The anti-piracy plan is part of a broader bill aimed at stimulating the digital economy in Britain.

The government’s anti-piracy plans were modified in the final rounds of negotiations over the bill. Under previous proposals, the content industries could have gone to court to seek injunctions requiring Internet service providers to block access to Web sites that foster piracy. Similar clauses were included elsewhere in the bill.

The Guardian: Digital economy bill rushed through wash-up in late night session

The UK government forced the Digital Economy Bill through parliament with the aid of the Conservative party, attaining a crucial third reading – which means it will get royal assent and become law – after just 2 hours of debate in the Commons.

Despite opposition from the Liberal Democrats and a group of Labour MPs who spoke against measures contained in the bill, the government easily won 2 votes to determine the content of the bill and its passage through the committee stage. The vote was in the government’s favour, which it won by 189 votes to 47.

Earlier the government removed its proposed clause 18, which could have given it sweeping powers to block sites, but replaced it with an amendment to clause 8 of the bill.

Liberal Democrat MP, John Hemming, protested that this could mean the blocking of whistleblower sites. Stephen Timms for the government said that it would not want to see the clause used to restrict freedom of speech.

While the new iPhone OS 4.0 is set to bring a lot of great changes to one of the most popular electronic devices ever created, not all users stand to benefit equally. Nobody should skip the upgrade, but some categories of users will benefit more than others. This is an overly-simplified breakdown of the situation, but it should help iPhone owners understand what they can expect from the upgrade.

What will OS 4.0 bring to the iPhone? First and foremost: multitasking. Apple has finally found the last piece of this puzzle, and their dev team figured out how to let iPod and related devices run more than one app at once, all without killing the battery. A double-click on the Home button will bring up a screen of currently-running apps, and a second click will focus on the target app instantly. Early reports say this new multitasking support is surprisingly efficient – though beware, users will be limited to running 4 apps at once.

Other new features include a few enhancements to the user interface. Users will be able to arrange apps inside folders, change the background behind the icons, and store up to 2,000 icons instead of the current 180.

Business users

This class if iPhone users stands to benefit the most. The new Multitasking will more than quadruple the power of the iPhone, and will reduce the amount of time it takes to complete every-day tasks. Increased security measures, like the ability to encrypt emails, and PIN codes, will certainly benefit enterprises. The new “unified inbox” system in the mail app will also benefit business users, letting them manage multiple email accounts simultaneously.

Casual users

Again, the new multitasking support means a big change in how the iPhone operates. Casual users can now stream internet music through Safari while reading an iBook, for example. The ability to customize the iPhone’s interface even further by changing the background will make the device even more personal. A host of other new features, from the ability to rotate photos to a new 5x zoom on the camera, will all come together to make OS 4.0 a big step-up for casual users.

Gamers

This class of user stands to benefit the least from the upcoming iPhone OS 4.0. Apple is excited about the new Social Gaming Network, but time will tell how this system will pan out. Flash is still not supported, so it means that a lot of the best online games are still not going to work. Fortunately, many game providers are offering alternatives – online games designed specifically for the iPhone. Many mobile casinos, for example, offer real-money casino games like slots and poker that will run inside Safari, letting gamers take things to the next level by putting a few dollars down on their skills.

3G and the second generation iPod touch owners

Sorry, because of your outdated hardware, you won’t be able to take full advantage of some of the new features that OS 4.0 will bring. Most notably, your device will not support the new multitasking feature, so you will still only be able to run one program at a time.

Original iPhone and iPod touch owners

No luck here. The first-gen devices simply won’t support OS 4.0. Owners of these devices should really consider an upgrade.

What about iAd?

One new “feature” that will be introduced with OS 4.0 is not going to be as welcome as the others: iAd. This new mobile advertising system will introduce in-app advertising. The system will allow full-screen video and even interactive advertising content to be launched from within an application, without the need to send the user out to Safari to offer this sort of content. In a way the new system will be less intrusive than before, but at the same time it might just open the iPhone up to even more spam.

Overall, previews and hands-on reviews of the new OS 4.0 are very positive. Most users stand to benefit on at least some level from the upgrade, and all users are encouraged to take the plunge. The only people who are left in the dark are owners of older devices – and of course those poor souls who don’t yet have an iPhone of their own!

Check the mobile section on BlackjackChamp.com for the latest mobile casino reviews

While the new iPhone OS 4.0 is set to bring a lot of great changes to one of the most popular electronic devices ever created, not all users stand to benefit equally. Nobody should skip the upgrade, but some categories of users will benefit more than others. This is an overly-simplified breakdown of the situation, but it should help iPhone owners understand what they can expect from the upgrade.

What will OS 4.0 bring to the iPhone? First and foremost: multitasking. Apple has finally found the last piece of this puzzle, and their dev team figured out how to let iPod and related devices run more than one app at once, all without killing the battery. A double-click on the Home button will bring up a screen of currently-running apps, and a second click will focus on the target app instantly. Early reports say this new multitasking support is surprisingly efficient – though beware, users will be limited to running 4 apps at once.

Other new features include a few enhancements to the user interface. Users will be able to arrange apps inside folders, change the background behind the icons, and store up to 2,000 icons instead of the current 180.

Business users

This class if iPhone users stands to benefit the most. The new Multitasking will more than quadruple the power of the iPhone, and will reduce the amount of time it takes to complete every-day tasks. Increased security measures, like the ability to encrypt emails, and PIN codes, will certainly benefit enterprises. The new “unified inbox” system in the mail app will also benefit business users, letting them manage multiple email accounts simultaneously.

Casual users

Again, the new multitasking support means a big change in how the iPhone operates. Casual users can now stream internet music through Safari while reading an iBook, for example. The ability to customize the iPhone’s interface even further by changing the background will make the device even more personal. A host of other new features, from the ability to rotate photos to a new 5x zoom on the camera, will all come together to make OS 4.0 a big step-up for casual users.

Gamers

This class of user stands to benefit the least from the upcoming iPhone OS 4.0. Apple is excited about the new Social Gaming Network, but time will tell how this system will pan out. Flash is still not supported, so it means that a lot of the best online games are still not going to work. Fortunately, many game providers are offering alternatives – online games designed specifically for the iPhone. Many mobile casinos, for example, offer real-money casino games like slots and poker that will run inside Safari, letting gamers take things to the next level by putting a few dollars down on their skills.

3G and the second generation iPod touch owners

Sorry, because of your outdated hardware, you won’t be able to take full advantage of some of the new features that OS 4.0 will bring. Most notably, your device will not support the new multitasking feature, so you will still only be able to run one program at a time.

Original iPhone and iPod touch owners

No luck here. The first-gen devices simply won’t support OS 4.0. Owners of these devices should really consider an upgrade.

What about iAd?

One new “feature” that will be introduced with OS 4.0 is not going to be as welcome as the others: iAd. This new mobile advertising system will introduce in-app advertising. The system will allow full-screen video and even interactive advertising content to be launched from within an application, without the need to send the user out to Safari to offer this sort of content. In a way the new system will be less intrusive than before, but at the same time it might just open the iPhone up to even more spam.

Overall, previews and hands-on reviews of the new OS 4.0 are very positive. Most users stand to benefit on at least some level from the upgrade, and all users are encouraged to take the plunge. The only people who are left in the dark are owners of older devices – and of course those poor souls who don’t yet have an iPhone of their own!

Check the mobile section on BlackjackChamp.com for the latest mobile casino reviews

UK’s largest sports betting company Ladbrokes has forged a deal with France’s largest pay-tv provider Canal+. Together the two will forge an online gambling and sports betting service for French players. The new service will launch later this year, and will attempt to lure Canal+ subscribers to Ladbrokes’ online gaming websites.

Financial Times: Ladbrokes tilts at French gambling market

Ladbrokes has entered France’s newly-regulated gambling market through a joint venture with Canal+, the pay-TV broadcaster. Together they will create a new internet betting and gaming service.

Through the operation, which is supported by an initial €2.25m (£1.97m) of funds from each partner, Ladbrokes will gain access to 12.5m subscribers of Canal+.

The terms of the deal demand that Ladbrokes refrain from operating any other online gambling operations in France until two years after the partnership ends.

Until recently, Ladbrokes was skeptical about the French market because tight regulations and steep tax rates. Operators are required to pay 7.5% tax of turnover on sports betting and horse racing, and 2% tax on poker turnover.

The new service will launch later this year, as long as it gets approved French regulators. France is new to the world of online gambling, and the government is pushing to get the new market up and running before the start of the football World Cup on June 11.

Ladbrokes and Canal+ will face a lot of competition in France’s new online gambling market. Other French groups have signed deals with brands like Betclick, PartyGaming, Paddy Power, and Everest Poker.

Reuters UK: Ladbrokes to launch French JV

The UK’s largest online bookmaker Ladbrokes has signed a joint venture agreement with Groupe CANAL+ to launch an online gambling and sports betting service in France.

The new service is set to launch by the end of the year, so long as the application is approved by French authorities. It will mark Ladbrokes’ first move into the French market in its 124-year history.

“We believe that there is an opportunity to build a good business in France over time as the market and regulation develop,” said Ladbrokes’ John O’Reilly.

Both Ladbrokes and CANAL+ are putting forth an initial €2.25 million to fund the 50:50 venture. Ladbrokes will provide its online gambling knowledge and technology, while CANAL+ will provide access to media, brand, and a large base of subscribers.

Times Online: Ladbrokes takes a punt on French venture

Ladbrokes is making a move on the French gambling market through a joint venture with Canal+, France’s top pay-TV company. Ladbrokes hopes to lure French gamblers to its website and through its new partner’s television channels.

France recently opened up its gambling market, breaking down the old Française des Jeux lottery monopoly.

“We currently have no presence in France,” said a Ladbrokes spokesperson. “It is a very competitive market but it is also a very big market. It will still be highly regulated but it is hoped that it will be further deregulated over time.

Ladbrokes and Canal+ are both putting up an initial €2.25 million (£1.97 million) into the 50:50 joint ventures. The contract also gives Canal+ the option to force Ladbrokes to buy its stake in five years.

Ladbrokes’ online gambling chief John O’Reilly said: “Canal+ is a brand synonymous with sport in France. We believe that there is an opportunity to build a good business in France over time as the market and regulation develop.”

UK’s largest sports betting company Ladbrokes has forged a deal with France’s largest pay-tv provider Canal+. Together the two will forge an online gambling and sports betting service for French players. The new service will launch later this year, and will attempt to lure Canal+ subscribers to Ladbrokes’ online gaming websites.

Financial Times: Ladbrokes tilts at French gambling market

Ladbrokes has entered France’s newly-regulated gambling market through a joint venture with Canal+, the pay-TV broadcaster. Together they will create a new internet betting and gaming service.

Through the operation, which is supported by an initial €2.25m (£1.97m) of funds from each partner, Ladbrokes will gain access to 12.5m subscribers of Canal+.

The terms of the deal demand that Ladbrokes refrain from operating any other online gambling operations in France until two years after the partnership ends.

Until recently, Ladbrokes was skeptical about the French market because tight regulations and steep tax rates. Operators are required to pay 7.5% tax of turnover on sports betting and horse racing, and 2% tax on poker turnover.

The new service will launch later this year, as long as it gets approved French regulators. France is new to the world of online gambling, and the government is pushing to get the new market up and running before the start of the football World Cup on June 11.

Ladbrokes and Canal+ will face a lot of competition in France’s new online gambling market. Other French groups have signed deals with brands like Betclick, PartyGaming, Paddy Power, and Everest Poker.

Reuters UK: Ladbrokes to launch French JV

The UK’s largest online bookmaker Ladbrokes has signed a joint venture agreement with Groupe CANAL+ to launch an online gambling and sports betting service in France.

The new service is set to launch by the end of the year, so long as the application is approved by French authorities. It will mark Ladbrokes’ first move into the French market in its 124-year history.

“We believe that there is an opportunity to build a good business in France over time as the market and regulation develop,” said Ladbrokes’ John O’Reilly.

Both Ladbrokes and CANAL+ are putting forth an initial €2.25 million to fund the 50:50 venture. Ladbrokes will provide its online gambling knowledge and technology, while CANAL+ will provide access to media, brand, and a large base of subscribers.

Times Online: Ladbrokes takes a punt on French venture

Ladbrokes is making a move on the French gambling market through a joint venture with Canal+, France’s top pay-TV company. Ladbrokes hopes to lure French gamblers to its website and through its new partner’s television channels.

France recently opened up its gambling market, breaking down the old Française des Jeux lottery monopoly.

“We currently have no presence in France,” said a Ladbrokes spokesperson. “It is a very competitive market but it is also a very big market. It will still be highly regulated but it is hoped that it will be further deregulated over time.

Ladbrokes and Canal+ are both putting up an initial €2.25 million (£1.97 million) into the 50:50 joint ventures. The contract also gives Canal+ the option to force Ladbrokes to buy its stake in five years.

Ladbrokes’ online gambling chief John O’Reilly said: “Canal+ is a brand synonymous with sport in France. We believe that there is an opportunity to build a good business in France over time as the market and regulation develop.”

Some people are quick to stereotype the demographic of players who enjoy online bingo in the UK, but is there any truth in the common perception that most internet bingo players are middle-aged housewives, staying their days playing bingo and winning money with their friends?

A BBC news article from December 2008 reports that the average UK housewife spends an astonishing 47% of her time on the internet, a figure that beats students (39%) and even the unemployed (32%). Much of this time was probably spent socializing at networking sites like Facebook, or playing games like online bingo.

These figures helps to establish the fact that housewives spend a lot of their free time online, and there is no doubt that many stay-at-home mums enjoy playing internet bingo games. After all, online bingo in the UK is an intensely social activity, with chat rooms available during all games letting players make friends all over the world, so it’s a great way for women to stay in touch when they can’t leave the house. But what do these statistics tell us about the reality of the sterotype – the one that says the average online bingo player is a middle-aged housewife?

According to a premium report published by Mintel Market Research in early 2009, the stereotype might have been true at one point in the past, but the picture is definitely beginning to change. The report states that online bingo is shifting towards a younger audience, with 20% of all players now coming from the 18 to 24 age group. The 18 to 45 age bracket accounts for 62% of all bingo players, which means that a full 42% of online bingo players are aged 24 to 45, but times are definitely changing.

There are more than three million active bingo players in the UK – a testament to the popularity of this online pastime. The variety of online bingo services available to players is growing every day. Look here to read reviews of some of the best UK online bingo bonuses, and to find links to help you see for yourself why this form of internet gaming is so incredibly popular.

Some people are quick to stereotype the demographic of players who enjoy online bingo in the UK, but is there any truth in the common perception that most internet bingo players are middle-aged housewives, staying their days playing bingo and winning money with their friends?

A BBC news article from December 2008 reports that the average UK housewife spends an astonishing 47% of her time on the internet, a figure that beats students (39%) and even the unemployed (32%). Much of this time was probably spent socializing at networking sites like Facebook, or playing games like online bingo.

These figures helps to establish the fact that housewives spend a lot of their free time online, and there is no doubt that many stay-at-home mums enjoy playing internet bingo games. After all, online bingo in the UK is an intensely social activity, with chat rooms available during all games letting players make friends all over the world, so it’s a great way for women to stay in touch when they can’t leave the house. But what do these statistics tell us about the reality of the sterotype – the one that says the average online bingo player is a middle-aged housewife?

According to a premium report published by Mintel Market Research in early 2009, the stereotype might have been true at one point in the past, but the picture is definitely beginning to change. The report states that online bingo is shifting towards a younger audience, with 20% of all players now coming from the 18 to 24 age group. The 18 to 45 age bracket accounts for 62% of all bingo players, which means that a full 42% of online bingo players are aged 24 to 45, but times are definitely changing.

There are more than three million active bingo players in the UK – a testament to the popularity of this online pastime. The variety of online bingo services available to players is growing every day. Look here to read reviews of some of the best UK online bingo bonuses, and to find links to help you see for yourself why this form of internet gaming is so incredibly popular.

Are you ready for some action ? Go to Bodog

Are you ready for some action ? Go to Bodog

Faced with a growing budget deficit and rising unemployment rates, the great state of New Hampshire has joined the other states on the long list of those considering online gambling as a promising answer to financial problems.

Nashua Telegraph: Gambling would bring much needed jobs

There’s been a lot of focus on the review of SB489, a bill to expand gambling in addition to adding slot machines and a resort casino in New Hampshire. Many New Hampshire workers are looking for the opportunity to show support for the bill, tell their stories and share the many positive outcomes that would result from this legislation being passed.

The construction industry is in shambles with an unemployment rate of 30%. Projects like those proposed in the bill would provide work for many throughout the state. A lot has been said about the social costs that the bill could create within our state and how it could impact lives. Missing from the debate are the social costs of prolonged unemployment.

This is why we must act now to support and implement expanded gambling. Passage would mean construction work unseen since the building of Seabrook Station, when over 70% of the industry had health and retirement benefits.

Thousands of construction workers could piece their lives back together, not with handouts from the state but with a good quality job. Workers look to their state elected leaders to support this extremely vital, job-creation bill.

The Boston Globe: NH gov considers legalizing online gambling

Though he opposes slot machines and casino-style gambling, Gov. John Lynch of New Hampshire may support legalization on internet gambling in order to close a growing budget deficit. The governor will unveil his plan for the state next week, and legalizing online gaming is among the ideas he’s considering.

The House is debating a Senate-passed bill that allows up to 17,000 slots and casino-style games at six locations throughout the state. Lynch opposes the bill because he said it fails to prevent the proliferation of gambling.

Arguments against the new bill claim that it would proliferate gambling and wouldn’t create jobs. A lawyer for the Hudson project, however, estimates it would create 3,800 jobs, including trick-down positions at restaurants and other businesses.

Bloomberg Business Week: NH legislators propose changes to gambling bill

New Hampshire legislators in the House are supporting a gambling bill which would cut the number of slots from the proposed 17,000 to 9,750 and offer them at five places instead of six. The House is considering a Senate-passed bill to expand gambling.

Under the proposed House changes, competing proposals for casinos would vie before a three-person tribunal to secure one site each in central and northern New Hampshire. The change is seen as a response to the owners of the New Hampshire Motor Speedway, who said they were left out of the original bill. Another proposed change would repeal the state’s new 10 percent tax on gambling winnings.

Faced with a growing budget deficit and rising unemployment rates, the great state of New Hampshire has joined the other states on the long list of those considering online gambling as a promising answer to financial problems.

Nashua Telegraph: Gambling would bring much needed jobs

There’s been a lot of focus on the review of SB489, a bill to expand gambling in addition to adding slot machines and a resort casino in New Hampshire. Many New Hampshire workers are looking for the opportunity to show support for the bill, tell their stories and share the many positive outcomes that would result from this legislation being passed.

The construction industry is in shambles with an unemployment rate of 30%. Projects like those proposed in the bill would provide work for many throughout the state. A lot has been said about the social costs that the bill could create within our state and how it could impact lives. Missing from the debate are the social costs of prolonged unemployment.

This is why we must act now to support and implement expanded gambling. Passage would mean construction work unseen since the building of Seabrook Station, when over 70% of the industry had health and retirement benefits.

Thousands of construction workers could piece their lives back together, not with handouts from the state but with a good quality job. Workers look to their state elected leaders to support this extremely vital, job-creation bill.

The Boston Globe: NH gov considers legalizing online gambling

Though he opposes slot machines and casino-style gambling, Gov. John Lynch of New Hampshire may support legalization on internet gambling in order to close a growing budget deficit. The governor will unveil his plan for the state next week, and legalizing online gaming is among the ideas he’s considering.

The House is debating a Senate-passed bill that allows up to 17,000 slots and casino-style games at six locations throughout the state. Lynch opposes the bill because he said it fails to prevent the proliferation of gambling.

Arguments against the new bill claim that it would proliferate gambling and wouldn’t create jobs. A lawyer for the Hudson project, however, estimates it would create 3,800 jobs, including trick-down positions at restaurants and other businesses.

Bloomberg Business Week: NH legislators propose changes to gambling bill

New Hampshire legislators in the House are supporting a gambling bill which would cut the number of slots from the proposed 17,000 to 9,750 and offer them at five places instead of six. The House is considering a Senate-passed bill to expand gambling.

Under the proposed House changes, competing proposals for casinos would vie before a three-person tribunal to secure one site each in central and northern New Hampshire. The change is seen as a response to the owners of the New Hampshire Motor Speedway, who said they were left out of the original bill. Another proposed change would repeal the state’s new 10 percent tax on gambling winnings.

Danish poker star Gustav (Gus) Hansen has had three major love affairs during his life. Their names are Tennis, Backgammon, and Poker. Some of these temptresses have treated him better than others, but to this day, each one holds a special place in his heart.

As a youngster, Hansen was an avid sports fan, and he had a knack for playing tennis. He made a very successful junior athlete, and competed in several major events. Hansen’s relationship with tennis faded away after his teenage years, but this old flame never quite died. Unfortunately, their last meeting did not go so well: in July of 2009, Hansen lost a €1.4 million wager he put on Rafael Nadal to win the French Open 2009.

As the years passed, Hansen’s love for tennis was replaced by a fascination with the classic board game backgammon. In 2000, he followed his love to New York City, where he hoped to make a living as a professional backgammon player. While his devotion to the game was never shaken, he eventually moved on, looking for bigger and better things. Backgammon, he said, was too small for his tastes.

This brings us to the biggest love of Gus Hansen’s life: that irresistible lady called Poker. He met her in the Ocean View Card Room in Santa Cruz, California in the early 90s, while attending college at the local university. It was love at first sight.

Since then, Hansen’s relationship with poker has blossomed, and he has gone on to win three World Poker Tour open titles, the 2007 Aussie Millions main event, season one of the Poker Superstars Invitational Tournament, the WPT Bad Boys of Poker invitational, and many other prestigious titles.

Today, Hansen calls himself a “sensible gambler”, a title that fits very well. His aggressive playing style and his propensity to throw down pre-flop raises are responsible for a pile of tournament winnings that exceeds $7,500,000. He has even made money while standing on the other side of the table, by founding then selling off a website called pokerchamps.com (Betfair bought it in 2005 for €13 million). Hansen admits to losing nearly as often as he wins, but for him, the game is more important than the end result.

In recent years, Hansen has been spending more and more with a sly gal named Golf, who he sometimes meets on the weekends while Poker is away. He has also been seen with both Squash and Soccer on more than one occasion. But these are just flings, and Poker doesn’t seem to mind – she knows that she’s still his one true love.

Danish poker star Gustav (Gus) Hansen has had three major love affairs during his life. Their names are Tennis, Backgammon, and Poker. Some of these temptresses have treated him better than others, but to this day, each one holds a special place in his heart.

As a youngster, Hansen was an avid sports fan, and he had a knack for playing tennis. He made a very successful junior athlete, and competed in several major events. Hansen’s relationship with tennis faded away after his teenage years, but this old flame never quite died. Unfortunately, their last meeting did not go so well: in July of 2009, Hansen lost a €1.4 million wager he put on Rafael Nadal to win the French Open 2009.

As the years passed, Hansen’s love for tennis was replaced by a fascination with the classic board game backgammon. In 2000, he followed his love to New York City, where he hoped to make a living as a professional backgammon player. While his devotion to the game was never shaken, he eventually moved on, looking for bigger and better things. Backgammon, he said, was too small for his tastes.

This brings us to the biggest love of Gus Hansen’s life: that irresistible lady called Poker. He met her in the Ocean View Card Room in Santa Cruz, California in the early 90s, while attending college at the local university. It was love at first sight.

Since then, Hansen’s relationship with poker has blossomed, and he has gone on to win three World Poker Tour open titles, the 2007 Aussie Millions main event, season one of the Poker Superstars Invitational Tournament, the WPT Bad Boys of Poker invitational, and many other prestigious titles.

Today, Hansen calls himself a “sensible gambler”, a title that fits very well. His aggressive playing style and his propensity to throw down pre-flop raises are responsible for a pile of tournament winnings that exceeds $7,500,000. He has even made money while standing on the other side of the table, by founding then selling off a website called pokerchamps.com (Betfair bought it in 2005 for €13 million). Hansen admits to losing nearly as often as he wins, but for him, the game is more important than the end result.

In recent years, Hansen has been spending more and more with a sly gal named Golf, who he sometimes meets on the weekends while Poker is away. He has also been seen with both Squash and Soccer on more than one occasion. But these are just flings, and Poker doesn’t seem to mind – she knows that she’s still his one true love.

A man from Norway has won over 4.8 million Euro online in Betsson Casino, with a stake of just 5€. This is the biggest payout in Betsson’s history, and right up there with the biggest online casino payouts ever.

10:17:28 PM Is this true???
10:17:50 PM Hi “Peter”, Welcome to Betsson Support, I am Mike. What can I do for you?
10:18:28 PM Hi. Take a look at my account balance.
10:18:43 PM Is this really true???
10:19:18 PM What do you mean?
10:19:35 PM Have I won the Jackpot?
10:19:56 PM One moment.
10:20:16 PM I am shivering now!!!!
10:21:29 PM One moment “Peter”, I am checking this now.
10:21:38 PM Thanks.
10:21:48 PM Hoping for a phone call
10:24:47 PM now???
10:25:08 PM I can confirm that you have won a Jackpot!
10:25:14 PM Do you want me to call you?
10:25:20 PM JESUS!!!!
10:25:50 PM Will some one call me to confirm it??
10:26:14 PM We can call you to confirm, if that’s what you want?
10:26:43 PM No, I can see that the money is on my Betsson-account.
10:27:04 PM Congratulations!
10:27:06 PM But how much is it (€4,850,000, ed) in Norwegian Crowns???
10:27:41 PM I can calculate, give me a second.
10:29:43 PM In Norwegian Crowns is it today 38 119 098,24
10:30:07 PM OMG, thx, thx, thx!!!
10:30:46 PM Your welcome. Again, congratulations!
10:30:58 PM If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.
10:31:13 PM Thank you!!!!!

A man from Norway has won over 4.8 million Euro online in Betsson Casino, with a stake of just 5€. This is the biggest payout in Betsson’s history, and right up there with the biggest online casino payouts ever.

10:17:28 PM Is this true???
10:17:50 PM Hi “Peter”, Welcome to Betsson Support, I am Mike. What can I do for you?
10:18:28 PM Hi. Take a look at my account balance.
10:18:43 PM Is this really true???
10:19:18 PM What do you mean?
10:19:35 PM Have I won the Jackpot?
10:19:56 PM One moment.
10:20:16 PM I am shivering now!!!!
10:21:29 PM One moment “Peter”, I am checking this now.
10:21:38 PM Thanks.
10:21:48 PM Hoping for a phone call
10:24:47 PM now???
10:25:08 PM I can confirm that you have won a Jackpot!
10:25:14 PM Do you want me to call you?
10:25:20 PM JESUS!!!!
10:25:50 PM Will some one call me to confirm it??
10:26:14 PM We can call you to confirm, if that’s what you want?
10:26:43 PM No, I can see that the money is on my Betsson-account.
10:27:04 PM Congratulations!
10:27:06 PM But how much is it (€4,850,000, ed) in Norwegian Crowns???
10:27:41 PM I can calculate, give me a second.
10:29:43 PM In Norwegian Crowns is it today 38 119 098,24
10:30:07 PM OMG, thx, thx, thx!!!
10:30:46 PM Your welcome. Again, congratulations!
10:30:58 PM If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.
10:31:13 PM Thank you!!!!!

Trevor Zinck, the Nova Scotia legislature, allegedly used the credit card of a 40 year old man with cerebral palsy to play poker online, racking up a bill of almost $10,000. Scott Marshall had once given Zinck his card to loan him $100 back when Zinck was acting as Marshall’s caregiver. It seems Zinck wrote down the card number to use later.

CBC News Canada: ‘Be a man’ on gambling debt, MLA urged

The mother of a Canadian disabled man is angry and frustrated that Independent MLA (Member of the Legislative Assembly) Trevor Zinck has not yet responded to recent allegation that he used her son’s credit card to gamble online, still owing him $7,600.

“Own up to it and be a man,” Helena MacLeod said towards Zinck.

“It seems like he has disappeared and that’s it. We kind of thought that he would come across and say that he was going to pay Scott’s credit card, but we haven’t heard a word.”

Scott Marshall, 40, has cerebral palsy. He has known Zinck for 20 years. Zinck acted as Marshall’s caregiver prior to 2006, when he was leected an MLA for Dartmouth North.

Marshall says that in June 2007, he noticed $10,000 in charges on his credit card. Zinck had used the card to play online poker, without Marshall’s permission.

Zinck has paid some of the money back, but MacLeod said the bill is still$7,600, and Marshall cannot afford to pay it.

“He gets in a very, very big panic to think that his credit is going to be down the tubes,” MacLeod said.

Zinck was ousted from the New Democratic Party caucus in March because of problems with his constituency expenses. He also admitted to having problems with drinking and gambling.

The Chronicle Herald: Zinck accused of fraud

A man from Halifax, Canada, is accusing Dartmouth North MLA Trevor Zinck of fraudulently charging $9,000 on his credit card to play online poker.

Scott Marshall says his former caregiver and friend of 20 years hasn’t paid much of it back.

“He said that he’d never leave me hanging . . . but I’ve had to hound him,” Marshall said in a telephone interview.

Marshall suffers from cerebral palsy, and is confined to a wheelchair.

In the spring of 2007, Marshall let Zinck use his credit card when he asked to borrow $100. But when Marshall got his bill, Zinck had charged thousands of dollars to it.

Zinck promised to get a loan to pay his debit to Marshall, but later said that the bank denied his application.

The NDP removed Zinck from his caucus seat last week, citing irregularities with his handling of office expenses.

Toronto Sun: Man: N.S. politician used his credit card to gamble

A disabled man has accused a member of the Nova Scotia legislature of using his credit card to gamble online – without his permission.

Scott Marshall, who is wheelchair-bound because of cerebral palsy, says Trevor Zinck admitted to charging $10,000 from his credit card when Marshall’s caregiver.

Zinck apologized and agreed to pay him back, but the payments stopped after Zinck was no longer his caregiver. The credit card bill stands at $7,600.

According to Helena MacLeod, Marshall’s mother, Zinck always had an excuse not to pay.

When asked if Zinck admitted to online gambling, Marshall said, “Oh yea.”

Zinck was recently suspended from the NDP caucus last week. He had been late in paying constituency office bills for electricity, telephone and internet.

Trevor Zinck, the Nova Scotia legislature, allegedly used the credit card of a 40 year old man with cerebral palsy to play poker online, racking up a bill of almost $10,000. Scott Marshall had once given Zinck his card to loan him $100 back when Zinck was acting as Marshall’s caregiver. It seems Zinck wrote down the card number to use later.

CBC News Canada: ‘Be a man’ on gambling debt, MLA urged

The mother of a Canadian disabled man is angry and frustrated that Independent MLA (Member of the Legislative Assembly) Trevor Zinck has not yet responded to recent allegation that he used her son’s credit card to gamble online, still owing him $7,600.

“Own up to it and be a man,” Helena MacLeod said towards Zinck.

“It seems like he has disappeared and that’s it. We kind of thought that he would come across and say that he was going to pay Scott’s credit card, but we haven’t heard a word.”

Scott Marshall, 40, has cerebral palsy. He has known Zinck for 20 years. Zinck acted as Marshall’s caregiver prior to 2006, when he was leected an MLA for Dartmouth North.

Marshall says that in June 2007, he noticed $10,000 in charges on his credit card. Zinck had used the card to play online poker, without Marshall’s permission.

Zinck has paid some of the money back, but MacLeod said the bill is still$7,600, and Marshall cannot afford to pay it.

“He gets in a very, very big panic to think that his credit is going to be down the tubes,” MacLeod said.

Zinck was ousted from the New Democratic Party caucus in March because of problems with his constituency expenses. He also admitted to having problems with drinking and gambling.

The Chronicle Herald: Zinck accused of fraud

A man from Halifax, Canada, is accusing Dartmouth North MLA Trevor Zinck of fraudulently charging $9,000 on his credit card to play online poker.

Scott Marshall says his former caregiver and friend of 20 years hasn’t paid much of it back.

“He said that he’d never leave me hanging . . . but I’ve had to hound him,” Marshall said in a telephone interview.

Marshall suffers from cerebral palsy, and is confined to a wheelchair.

In the spring of 2007, Marshall let Zinck use his credit card when he asked to borrow $100. But when Marshall got his bill, Zinck had charged thousands of dollars to it.

Zinck promised to get a loan to pay his debit to Marshall, but later said that the bank denied his application.

The NDP removed Zinck from his caucus seat last week, citing irregularities with his handling of office expenses.

Toronto Sun: Man: N.S. politician used his credit card to gamble

A disabled man has accused a member of the Nova Scotia legislature of using his credit card to gamble online – without his permission.

Scott Marshall, who is wheelchair-bound because of cerebral palsy, says Trevor Zinck admitted to charging $10,000 from his credit card when Marshall’s caregiver.

Zinck apologized and agreed to pay him back, but the payments stopped after Zinck was no longer his caregiver. The credit card bill stands at $7,600.

According to Helena MacLeod, Marshall’s mother, Zinck always had an excuse not to pay.

When asked if Zinck admitted to online gambling, Marshall said, “Oh yea.”

Zinck was recently suspended from the NDP caucus last week. He had been late in paying constituency office bills for electricity, telephone and internet.

Because online gambling in the UK is fully legal, competition among internet gambling sites is fierce. Every site on the net naturally strives to expand their player base, and to do so, they are willing to pour an immense amount of money into advertising campaigns. While the UK government has created very strict rules about advertising internet gambling services, they don’t do much to limit which companies can advertise, so the sites that the public hears the most about are not necessarily the most trusted brands in the business.

The following is an overview of the top-rated brands for online casino games and online bingo in the UK. Often, one site will offer both services under one account, which is a good deal for players who are interested in variety.

Intercasino
It’s almost as old as the internet, and it’s one of the most well-known brands in the online gambling world. They run a very solid Cryptologic casino with over 200 games available. Bonuses are strong ($225 for new players) and a VIP club treats strong players to extra benefits.

Spin Palace Casino
This is the flagship casino of the Spin Palace Group of online gambling sites. It is also one of the most complete Microgamign casinos on the net, with more than 400 different games available in the download suite. Look for regular tournaments on both blackjack and slots at this great site.

32Red Casino
This is another huge Microgaming casino, and this one is particularly famous for its excellent Club Rouge loyalty program, a great comps system that gives a little back on every wager. As an added bonus, UK players will recognize Patsy Kinset as the dealer’s voice (she played Sadie King on Emmerdale).

All Slots Casino
This Microgamign site supports over 400 games and runs great slots and blackjack tournaments. The casino is tied in with several others in the Jackpot Factory group through a networked loyalty program that benefits players by letting them spend their points at any participating casino.

Virgin Casino
The Virgin brand is notorious in the UK, and their online casino lives up to it. It is 100% instant play, so there is nothing to download or install. Hundreds of games and great promotions keep players busy all year long. Earn bonus points and trade them for store vouchers, airline miles, and more.

Foxy Bingo
While this site is just five years old, it is one of the biggest and best around. Inside, 40 rooms offer just about every imaginable form of bingo, from zany 75 ball pattern games to intense 90 ball coveralls. A free £20 welcome bonus helps new players try out a few games on the house.

Jackpot Joy Bingo
Fifteen styles of bingo fill the halls of this great site. Many games are only found here, like their Family Fortune Team Bingo that is modeled after the popular television game show. Join now for a 100% deposit match, and then jump in on some progressive bingo games to win massive prizes.

Wink Bingo
This is a bubbly pink site with a fun and playful atmosphere, but that doesn’t mean they’re not serious about bingo. With both 75 ball and 90 ball games offering jackpots as high as £10,000 the money here just never stops flowing. Grab £15 free when signing up, and get 10% cashback for life.

Virgin Bingo
The Virgin brand was already mentioned as a great casino site, but they run a tremendous bingo site as well. Enjoy 75, 90, and even unique 80 ball games, plus great chat rooms, non-stop promos, and weekly cashback bonuses. Players can even sign in using their Virgin Casino accounts.

Mecca Bingo
Every new player at Mecca Bingo starts off getting a 100% deposit match bonus up to £50, and that’s only the beginning. Daily specials give players lots of ways to win, while several rooms packed with non-stop games means there is always something happening. They even have Deal or No Deal bingo games!

These ten sites represent the best of the best in the world of online gambling in the UK. They are all industry leaders, and they do a good job of demonstrating the immense creativity that can be found in online gambling sites. Of course, these sites are just the crème of the crop, and there are quite a few more excellent casinos and bingo sites that cater to players in the UK.

At the end of the day, players can either give in to advertising and stick with just one brand because it’s always on the tele, or they can take some time to explore what is available, and decide for themselves which online gambling site best fits their style. What type of player are you?

Because online gambling in the UK is fully legal, competition among internet gambling sites is fierce. Every site on the net naturally strives to expand their player base, and to do so, they are willing to pour an immense amount of money into advertising campaigns. While the UK government has created very strict rules about advertising internet gambling services, they don’t do much to limit which companies can advertise, so the sites that the public hears the most about are not necessarily the most trusted brands in the business.

The following is an overview of the top-rated brands for online casino games and online bingo in the UK. Often, one site will offer both services under one account, which is a good deal for players who are interested in variety.

Intercasino
It’s almost as old as the internet, and it’s one of the most well-known brands in the online gambling world. They run a very solid Cryptologic casino with over 200 games available. Bonuses are strong ($225 for new players) and a VIP club treats strong players to extra benefits.

Spin Palace Casino
This is the flagship casino of the Spin Palace Group of online gambling sites. It is also one of the most complete Microgamign casinos on the net, with more than 400 different games available in the download suite. Look for regular tournaments on both blackjack and slots at this great site.

32Red Casino
This is another huge Microgaming casino, and this one is particularly famous for its excellent Club Rouge loyalty program, a great comps system that gives a little back on every wager. As an added bonus, UK players will recognize Patsy Kinset as the dealer’s voice (she played Sadie King on Emmerdale).

All Slots Casino
This Microgamign site supports over 400 games and runs great slots and blackjack tournaments. The casino is tied in with several others in the Jackpot Factory group through a networked loyalty program that benefits players by letting them spend their points at any participating casino.

Virgin Casino
The Virgin brand is notorious in the UK, and their online casino lives up to it. It is 100% instant play, so there is nothing to download or install. Hundreds of games and great promotions keep players busy all year long. Earn bonus points and trade them for store vouchers, airline miles, and more.

Foxy Bingo
While this site is just five years old, it is one of the biggest and best around. Inside, 40 rooms offer just about every imaginable form of bingo, from zany 75 ball pattern games to intense 90 ball coveralls. A free £20 welcome bonus helps new players try out a few games on the house.

Jackpot Joy Bingo
Fifteen styles of bingo fill the halls of this great site. Many games are only found here, like their Family Fortune Team Bingo that is modeled after the popular television game show. Join now for a 100% deposit match, and then jump in on some progressive bingo games to win massive prizes.

Wink Bingo
This is a bubbly pink site with a fun and playful atmosphere, but that doesn’t mean they’re not serious about bingo. With both 75 ball and 90 ball games offering jackpots as high as £10,000 the money here just never stops flowing. Grab £15 free when signing up, and get 10% cashback for life.

Virgin Bingo
The Virgin brand was already mentioned as a great casino site, but they run a tremendous bingo site as well. Enjoy 75, 90, and even unique 80 ball games, plus great chat rooms, non-stop promos, and weekly cashback bonuses. Players can even sign in using their Virgin Casino accounts.

Mecca Bingo
Every new player at Mecca Bingo starts off getting a 100% deposit match bonus up to £50, and that’s only the beginning. Daily specials give players lots of ways to win, while several rooms packed with non-stop games means there is always something happening. They even have Deal or No Deal bingo games!

These ten sites represent the best of the best in the world of online gambling in the UK. They are all industry leaders, and they do a good job of demonstrating the immense creativity that can be found in online gambling sites. Of course, these sites are just the crème of the crop, and there are quite a few more excellent casinos and bingo sites that cater to players in the UK.

At the end of the day, players can either give in to advertising and stick with just one brand because it’s always on the tele, or they can take some time to explore what is available, and decide for themselves which online gambling site best fits their style. What type of player are you?

Last weeks highlights:

Manchester United vs. Bayern Munich Soccer Betting Line:

Manchester United -½ -135 -135 2½ O -135 U +115 1½ O -140 U +120 Draw +260
FC Bayern Munich +½ +115 +365 2½ O -135 U +115 1 O Ev U -120 Draw +260

Half Time Line:

Manchester United -½ +130 +130 1 O -135 U +115 Draw +125
FC Bayern Munich +½ -150 +350 1 O -135 U +115 Draw +125

To Score First: Manchester United -210 FC Bayern Munich +160

To Qualify: Bayern Munich -115 Manchester United -125

Match Time: 02:45 PM Eastern Time Wednesday April 7, 2010

Last weeks highlights:

Manchester United vs. Bayern Munich Soccer Betting Line:

Manchester United -½ -135 -135 2½ O -135 U +115 1½ O -140 U +120 Draw +260
FC Bayern Munich +½ +115 +365 2½ O -135 U +115 1 O Ev U -120 Draw +260

Half Time Line:

Manchester United -½ +130 +130 1 O -135 U +115 Draw +125
FC Bayern Munich +½ -150 +350 1 O -135 U +115 Draw +125

To Score First: Manchester United -210 FC Bayern Munich +160

To Qualify: Bayern Munich -115 Manchester United -125

Match Time: 02:45 PM Eastern Time Wednesday April 7, 2010

There have been a startling number of casino burglaries within the last month. The latest of the robberies took place early Sunday morning at Le Pharaon, a French high-brow casino located in Lyon.

United Press International: French Casino Robbed by Gunmen

According to police, a pack of masked robbers exploded into a crowded French casino, fired their rifles into the ceiling and made off with almost $39,000 on Sunday. Radio France Internationale reported that the grab and go at Le Pharaon Casino in Lyon took a total of just 3 minutes. Interpol’s international police agency headquarters are just down the street.

This has been the third high-profile casino robbery in Europe recently. The other two were executed in
Switzerland and Germany. At the Lyon gambling venue, 4 men used an angle grinder to gain access to the cashiers’ area, while an accomplice waited outside. They all fled in a black BMW. Two security guards received minor injuries.

Expatica.com: Masked gunmen hold up French casino

Police have announced that 5 armed and masked thieves held up a casino in the French city of Lyon early on Easter Sunday and made off with tens of thousands of Euros. The men allegedly walked into “Le Pharaon” casino around 3 am, fired a shot in the air and went on to empty the casino’s cash registers.

According to an investigator, “There were five of them, dressed in white overalls and wearing ski masks. They worked very quickly. They stayed for about two minutes.”

A security guard who attempted to intervene and stop the robbery was the only one injured throughout the duration of the incident. The men were in possession of machine guns, according to police, and fled in a BMW.

The Associated Press: Armed assailants rob French casino, get $38,000

Masked men brandishing assault rifles rushed into a crowded French casino early Sunday, fired shots into the ceiling and made off with roughly EUR 28,000 ($37,800) according to the casino and police.

Police said it took the thieves only 3 minutes to carry out their operation at “Le Pharaon” casino in the central city of Lyon. The casino is just down the street from the headquarters of Interpol, the international police agency.

The masked men allegedly wore white and carried AK-47 rifles. An angle grinder was used to break into the cashiers’ area. One man waited outside in a getaway BMW. Two security guards sustained injuries but none of the clients were hurt.

There have been a startling number of casino burglaries within the last month. The latest of the robberies took place early Sunday morning at Le Pharaon, a French high-brow casino located in Lyon.

United Press International: French Casino Robbed by Gunmen

According to police, a pack of masked robbers exploded into a crowded French casino, fired their rifles into the ceiling and made off with almost $39,000 on Sunday. Radio France Internationale reported that the grab and go at Le Pharaon Casino in Lyon took a total of just 3 minutes. Interpol’s international police agency headquarters are just down the street.

This has been the third high-profile casino robbery in Europe recently. The other two were executed in
Switzerland and Germany. At the Lyon gambling venue, 4 men used an angle grinder to gain access to the cashiers’ area, while an accomplice waited outside. They all fled in a black BMW. Two security guards received minor injuries.

Expatica.com: Masked gunmen hold up French casino

Police have announced that 5 armed and masked thieves held up a casino in the French city of Lyon early on Easter Sunday and made off with tens of thousands of Euros. The men allegedly walked into “Le Pharaon” casino around 3 am, fired a shot in the air and went on to empty the casino’s cash registers.

According to an investigator, “There were five of them, dressed in white overalls and wearing ski masks. They worked very quickly. They stayed for about two minutes.”

A security guard who attempted to intervene and stop the robbery was the only one injured throughout the duration of the incident. The men were in possession of machine guns, according to police, and fled in a BMW.

The Associated Press: Armed assailants rob French casino, get $38,000

Masked men brandishing assault rifles rushed into a crowded French casino early Sunday, fired shots into the ceiling and made off with roughly EUR 28,000 ($37,800) according to the casino and police.

Police said it took the thieves only 3 minutes to carry out their operation at “Le Pharaon” casino in the central city of Lyon. The casino is just down the street from the headquarters of Interpol, the international police agency.

The masked men allegedly wore white and carried AK-47 rifles. An angle grinder was used to break into the cashiers’ area. One man waited outside in a getaway BMW. Two security guards sustained injuries but none of the clients were hurt.

Tiger is not his real name. This golf legend – perhaps the most famous golfer who ever lived – was born Eldrick Tont Woods. The name “Tiger” was given to him as a child by his father, and the nickname stuck with him through adulthood.

Woods’ father was a Vietnam vet. His mother was originally from Thailand. Both of his parents had mixed ancestry, making Woods one-quarter Chinese, one-quarter Thai, one-quarter African American, one-eighth Native American, and one-eighth Dutch. To keep things simple, Woods refers to himself as Cablinasian (Caucasian, Black, (American) Indian, and Asian.

In 1978, when Woods was 2 years old, he made his first television golf appearance, putting against showstar Bob Hope on The Mike Douglas Show. Before the year was up, he had won his first golf competition.  At age three, he shot a 48 over nine holes over the Cypress Navy course, and at age five, he appeared in Golf Digest. Woods established himself as a golf prodigy from an early age, and has yet to live down that title.

As a teenager, Woods’ career really picked up. He started getting noticed by the likes of Jack Nicklaus, and he was winning more big events than ever before. In 1994, at the age of 19, he moved on from his Junior League career to play in the U.S. Amateur Championship, becoming the youngest winner the event had ever seen.

After high school, Woods attended Stanford University on a golf scholarship. After two years of mixing school and golf, he left university, went pro, and immediately signed a $40 million endorsement deal with Nike – the biggest such deal the golf world had ever seen. Since then, the sponsorship deals have only increased, during Woods into the most marketable athlete the world has ever seen.

Woods has had an impressive pro career. To date, he has won 71 official PGA Tour events including 14 majors. His focus is on raw power, and he is known for his long drives. His short game is also good – his putting skills, especially when he’s under pressure, are a sight to behold. Despite his incredible skill he remains cautious in his game – he plays fewer big events than most pros, preferring to spend more time preparing for each one to be sure he plays the best game he can play.

The man’s skills have certainly paid off. Last year, Forbes confirmed that Woods is the first male athlete in sports history to earn more than one billion dollars during his career.

Woods has had a bad year, there’s no question about that. He’s lost many of his most lucrative sponsorships, and his charities have taken a hit. But as of April 2010 Woods back in the game, and he’s showing no signs of slowing down. In fact, both Both William Hill and Ladbrokes, two of the largest online sportsbooks, have Woods listed as the 4-1 favorite to win the next Masters. Does he still have what it takes?

Tiger is not his real name. This golf legend – perhaps the most famous golfer who ever lived – was born Eldrick Tont Woods. The name “Tiger” was given to him as a child by his father, and the nickname stuck with him through adulthood.

Woods’ father was a Vietnam vet. His mother was originally from Thailand. Both of his parents had mixed ancestry, making Woods one-quarter Chinese, one-quarter Thai, one-quarter African American, one-eighth Native American, and one-eighth Dutch. To keep things simple, Woods refers to himself as Cablinasian (Caucasian, Black, (American) Indian, and Asian.

In 1978, when Woods was 2 years old, he made his first television golf appearance, putting against showstar Bob Hope on The Mike Douglas Show. Before the year was up, he had won his first golf competition.  At age three, he shot a 48 over nine holes over the Cypress Navy course, and at age five, he appeared in Golf Digest. Woods established himself as a golf prodigy from an early age, and has yet to live down that title.

As a teenager, Woods’ career really picked up. He started getting noticed by the likes of Jack Nicklaus, and he was winning more big events than ever before. In 1994, at the age of 19, he moved on from his Junior League career to play in the U.S. Amateur Championship, becoming the youngest winner the event had ever seen.

After high school, Woods attended Stanford University on a golf scholarship. After two years of mixing school and golf, he left university, went pro, and immediately signed a $40 million endorsement deal with Nike – the biggest such deal the golf world had ever seen. Since then, the sponsorship deals have only increased, during Woods into the most marketable athlete the world has ever seen.

Woods has had an impressive pro career. To date, he has won 71 official PGA Tour events including 14 majors. His focus is on raw power, and he is known for his long drives. His short game is also good – his putting skills, especially when he’s under pressure, are a sight to behold. Despite his incredible skill he remains cautious in his game – he plays fewer big events than most pros, preferring to spend more time preparing for each one to be sure he plays the best game he can play.

The man’s skills have certainly paid off. Last year, Forbes confirmed that Woods is the first male athlete in sports history to earn more than one billion dollars during his career.

Woods has had a bad year, there’s no question about that. He’s lost many of his most lucrative sponsorships, and his charities have taken a hit. But as of April 2010 Woods back in the game, and he’s showing no signs of slowing down. In fact, both Both William Hill and Ladbrokes, two of the largest online sportsbooks, have Woods listed as the 4-1 favorite to win the next Masters. Does he still have what it takes?

The World Cup is one of the fiercest, most competitive, and passionately awaited competitions in the world of sports. This is partially due to the fact that, like the Olympic Games, the World Cup is only held once every four years.

The first World Cup was held in 1930 in Uruguay. Since then it has run every four years excluding the years 1942 and 1946 during which war was raging in Europe and FIFA’s operation had ceased. Qualifications for the World Cup are held during the three years between the competitions to determine who will be playing at the main event.

The qualifications for the 2010 World Cup involved 204 out of the 208 FIFA national teams. This being the case, it matched the 2008 Summer Olympics as the sports event with the most competing nations.

There are always a total of 32 teams that participate in the last leg of this amazing tournament. In preparation for the 2010 World Cup, 204 qualifiers were held. The reigning champions are Italy, but this is always a difficult title to defend. In the history of the World Cup, the most successful team is Brazil. Brazil has been deemed the champion team a total of 5 times but they only won 2 times in a row on 1 occasion (They won the title in both 1958 and 1962).

The 2010 World Cup will be held in sunny South Africa. This will be the 19^th World Cup and is scheduled to be held from June 11^th until July 11^th. This will be the first occasion in which the competition has been held in an African nation. The draw for the finals will be held on December 4^th in Cape Town.

As the FIFA World Cup is one of the most anticipated sports events of recent times, it is heavily televised. Over the month long event in 2006, a jaw-dropping 3,353,655 tickets were sold and an average of 52,401 viewers attended each match. A total of 69,000 fans watching the final in Berlin’s Olympiastadion. Aside from the almost 70 viewers at the stadium 715.1 million viewers watched the finale from home.

A lot of revenue revolves around this event, not just in the host nation but all over the world. Many people not only enjoy watching the sport, but participate in sportsbetting in online gambling sites, and make a lot of money based on game results. Gambling does not pertain only to the final event. Many people bet on all the matches and qualifiers leading up to the World Cup on gambling sites.

The 2010 FIFA World Cup will be hosted in South Africa with thousands and possibly millions of fans both watching and betting on the finals results.

Click here for the FIFA World Cup odds

The World Cup is one of the fiercest, most competitive, and passionately awaited competitions in the world of sports. This is partially due to the fact that, like the Olympic Games, the World Cup is only held once every four years.

The first World Cup was held in 1930 in Uruguay. Since then it has run every four years excluding the years 1942 and 1946 during which war was raging in Europe and FIFA’s operation had ceased. Qualifications for the World Cup are held during the three years between the competitions to determine who will be playing at the main event.

The qualifications for the 2010 World Cup involved 204 out of the 208 FIFA national teams. This being the case, it matched the 2008 Summer Olympics as the sports event with the most competing nations.

There are always a total of 32 teams that participate in the last leg of this amazing tournament. In preparation for the 2010 World Cup, 204 qualifiers were held. The reigning champions are Italy, but this is always a difficult title to defend. In the history of the World Cup, the most successful team is Brazil. Brazil has been deemed the champion team a total of 5 times but they only won 2 times in a row on 1 occasion (They won the title in both 1958 and 1962).

The 2010 World Cup will be held in sunny South Africa. This will be the 19^th World Cup and is scheduled to be held from June 11^th until July 11^th. This will be the first occasion in which the competition has been held in an African nation. The draw for the finals will be held on December 4^th in Cape Town.

As the FIFA World Cup is one of the most anticipated sports events of recent times, it is heavily televised. Over the month long event in 2006, a jaw-dropping 3,353,655 tickets were sold and an average of 52,401 viewers attended each match. A total of 69,000 fans watching the final in Berlin’s Olympiastadion. Aside from the almost 70 viewers at the stadium 715.1 million viewers watched the finale from home.

A lot of revenue revolves around this event, not just in the host nation but all over the world. Many people not only enjoy watching the sport, but participate in sportsbetting in online gambling sites, and make a lot of money based on game results. Gambling does not pertain only to the final event. Many people bet on all the matches and qualifiers leading up to the World Cup on gambling sites.

The 2010 FIFA World Cup will be hosted in South Africa with thousands and possibly millions of fans both watching and betting on the finals results.

Click here for the FIFA World Cup odds

Traditional brick & mortar casinos like the ones found in Las Vegas often pamper their best players by offering things like free steak dinners, complementary hotel rooms, and an endless string of delicious cocktails. Online casinos, on the other hand, have to do things a little differently – simply because virtual steak dinners really don’t taste very good. In order to fill in this gap, online gaming sites have invented bonuses.

Casino bonuses might seem complicated at first, but the concept is really simple. Bonuses are special incentives that reward players with free casino money. This money cannot be converted directly into cash; instead, it is used to play more online casino games. If players win while playing with bonus money, these winnings can then be withdrawn as real cash.

As with everything, there is usually fine print surrounding these bonuses that tries to keep players from abusing them. This usually involves inserting a delay between the time the bonus is given out, and the time that the money can be withdrawn. During this delay, players must wager a certain amount of money before winnings from a bonus can be cashed out. This wagering requirement is typically higher for games like blackjack, which have a low house edge.

Despite these measures, there are people who make a very good living preying on casino bonuses. They start out with a very large amount of money, and do a bit of searching to hunt down the latest casino bonuses. They usually go after welcome bonuses, since these are typically the biggest ones available. Bonus abusers will sign up with a new casino, make a deposit, grab the bonus, and then use the bonus cash to win quite a lot more money.

Once they have fulfilled the wagering requirement for the bonus, these bonus abusers will cash out and move on. There is definitely risk involved in this sort of “hit-and-run” activity, but when done just right, it has the potential to pay off.

Lately, many online casinos have been struggling, trying to figure out how to block bonus abusers. One strategy is to only allow one bonus per household (IP address). This keeps players from creating multiple accounts with the same casino just to get more bonuses.

Another strategy is to watch what country new accounts are created from. If a casino notices a rush of bonus abusers signing up from a particular country, the casino may stop accepting players from there. Many players dislike this sort of “blanket punishment”, since it clearly affects honest players too, who might suddenly find that they are not allowed to sign up at a particular internet casino.

The latest step that casinos are taking is to completely change how bonuses work. Instead of relying on fixed bonus systems, some casinos are using special formulas to calculate bonuses, based on variables such as how soon a player cashes out, or how quickly they fulfill a bonus’ wagering requirement.

Traditional brick & mortar casinos like the ones found in Las Vegas often pamper their best players by offering things like free steak dinners, complementary hotel rooms, and an endless string of delicious cocktails. Online casinos, on the other hand, have to do things a little differently – simply because virtual steak dinners really don’t taste very good. In order to fill in this gap, online gaming sites have invented bonuses.

Casino bonuses might seem complicated at first, but the concept is really simple. Bonuses are special incentives that reward players with free casino money. This money cannot be converted directly into cash; instead, it is used to play more online casino games. If players win while playing with bonus money, these winnings can then be withdrawn as real cash.

As with everything, there is usually fine print surrounding these bonuses that tries to keep players from abusing them. This usually involves inserting a delay between the time the bonus is given out, and the time that the money can be withdrawn. During this delay, players must wager a certain amount of money before winnings from a bonus can be cashed out. This wagering requirement is typically higher for games like blackjack, which have a low house edge.

Despite these measures, there are people who make a very good living preying on casino bonuses. They start out with a very large amount of money, and do a bit of searching to hunt down the latest casino bonuses. They usually go after welcome bonuses, since these are typically the biggest ones available. Bonus abusers will sign up with a new casino, make a deposit, grab the bonus, and then use the bonus cash to win quite a lot more money.

Once they have fulfilled the wagering requirement for the bonus, these bonus abusers will cash out and move on. There is definitely risk involved in this sort of “hit-and-run” activity, but when done just right, it has the potential to pay off.

Lately, many online casinos have been struggling, trying to figure out how to block bonus abusers. One strategy is to only allow one bonus per household (IP address). This keeps players from creating multiple accounts with the same casino just to get more bonuses.

Another strategy is to watch what country new accounts are created from. If a casino notices a rush of bonus abusers signing up from a particular country, the casino may stop accepting players from there. Many players dislike this sort of “blanket punishment”, since it clearly affects honest players too, who might suddenly find that they are not allowed to sign up at a particular internet casino.

The latest step that casinos are taking is to completely change how bonuses work. Instead of relying on fixed bonus systems, some casinos are using special formulas to calculate bonuses, based on variables such as how soon a player cashes out, or how quickly they fulfill a bonus’ wagering requirement.