Florida-based Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa is a premier entertainment destination for the central element of the state, owned and operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. As one of the crucial successful and biggest casinos within the world, its slot floor holds thousands of slot machines. The responsibility of managing this huge array of gambling devices falls to Dan Ingster, vice chairman of slot operations for the property, who has over 15 years of expertise in slot operations, slot performance and sales/marketing for Seminole Gaming. Recently, Ingstertook a while to respond to slot operations and other questions provided by Casino Journal Associate Editor Joan Mantini.

Here are some excerpts from his responses:

Do slot machines have an outlined lifespan and the way do you figure out when it's time to retire a machine? What are one of the crucial metrics you employ to figure out the actual popularity and worth of a slot? Is there some form of keep/replace benchmark you go by? 

Ingster: Because of the size of the valuables we won't compare individual machine performance to deal with average. Instead, we break the ground down into smaller sections and compare the performance to the machines in that area. Our focus is on maximizing the utilization and function of the machines which can be performing above average in each section and converting or replacing the machines which might be significantly below average in each section. In addition, we also watch the historical performance to figure out when a machine title peaks and when it begins to say no in order that we will be able to take action before it drops too far.

When it’s time for a brand new slot machine, how does the decision-making process actually work?

Ingster: We're open to considering any new slot machine. In terms of choosing new slot machines we glance on the math, the sport style and any comparisons to strong performers that we currently have on our floor.  We even have a useful gizmo at our disposal in our communication and data sharing with our sister properties, allowing us to look what machines are working and what machines don't seem to be. I work alongside the director of slot performance to make the choices on what new machines we will be able to choose and which machines we can pass on.

What impact does game/machine cost have to your slot replacement decisions?

Ingster: Pricing may be very important, as we're always all for controlling costs. That is most vital with premium lease and wide area progressive (WAP) machines.  My ultimate responsibility is to maximise revenue while minimizing expenses.

What slot manufacturers do you hold high to your watch list when considering integrating new slots to the ground? What new slot manufacturer game line-ups are you most excited about?

Ingster: We evaluate product from all manufacturers when considering adding new slot machines to the ground as all of them have certain cabinets or game titles that perform exceptionally well. We're waiting for the brand new Scientific Game TwinStar cabinet and the mixing of recent titles in conjunction with established Bally and WMS game families.  Now we have also had some recent success with the Incredible Technologies’ SkyBox cabinet and we're excited to look how they continue their creative game design to make use of the 55-inch screen at the top box.

How do new machines fit into the property’s floor plan? Are they concentrated or spread out?

Ingster: We attempt to position new machines in visible locations to create excitement. When they develop a longtime following we can move them further back into the casino for the reason that players will find them. We designate certain banks by the casino entrances to verify we have now the most recent game titles that develop an even baseline for performance expectations.

What kinds of slot machines are currently the most well liked at your facility?

Ingster: Progressive jackpot slot machines (WAP) have always been strong performers. Currently we now have great success with Bally Quick Hits progressive game titles in various denominations. Our players also favor Ainsworth machines, with their creative and versatile use of stand-alone and linked progressives.  A few of our newer progressive winners include: Bally 88 Fortunes and 5 Treasures, Aristocrat’s Lightning Link and Incredible Technologies Crazy Money Deluxe at the SkyBox cabinet. Non-progressive, long-time favorites include: IGT high line video reel titles Stinkin Rich, Bombay and White Orchid along side one of the most newer Aristocrat titles at the Helix cabinet and lots of of the titles at the Bally Wave and Wave with Wheel cabinets. 

Regulations are making way for skill-based slots being integrated onto the slot floor, is that this something you've gotten considered adding? If yes, what sorts of skills-based games have caught your eye? 

Ingster: I THINK that there'll be a time and a spot for skill-based gaming.  Players have shared with me though how slot machines can become too complicated. In my opinion, a lot of them still like traditional reel slots. I'VE had players who're doctors and attorneys owners tell me how they enjoy playing slots as it is their opportunity to disconnect and relax.

Do you host slot tournaments? If so, what slot tournament management system do you utilize and why did you select it over the competitors? 

Ingster: We currently use the IGT SpinFerno S3000 Slot Tournament machines and the IGT tournament manager software.  We're the first property to put in SpinFerno and the players benefit from the exciting lighting and sound, in conjunction with the combo of normal reels with an interactive touch screen for extra bonus wins. The selling team loves the versatility and simplicity of configuration for diverse kinds of tournaments. The initial game titles perform well in live cash mode and we're waiting for new titles which are currently being developed.

One of the largest challenges facing a slot manager is figuring out the correct level of participation or revenue sharing games to position at the floor. Do you think revenue sharing games bring value to the gaming floor? Why or why not?

Ingster: In a locals market, I FEEL players know their probabilities of hitting $1 million jackpots are slim, in order that they need to play games so one can give them more time on device and keep them entertained longer. It is very important have the games that players want, therefore you will need to have the most well liked games which can be often participation. 

Read More... [Source: Slots]

The great American songwriter Randy Newman once joked, "South America stole our name!"

While Newman was commenting at the jingoistic atmosphere of the times, he might well has been predicting the appearance of the PokerStars Americas Cup of Poker (well, maybe not, not, but it's close!). In any case, the Americas Cup is back, and it'll pit countries from across the Americas (yes, they all) against one another for the title.

From March 15-April 14 players from the USA, Mexico, Canada, Colombia, Chile, Venezuela, Peru, Brazil and Argentina could be battling for spots on their country's team. There'll even be a 10th team made from the rest Latin American counties.

In all, the players from the 10 teams will compete in a chain of points tournaments. The four players who accumulate essentially the most points will represent their country on the live final--if their team makes it there.

When the entire matches are complete, the six countries with probably the most wins will automatically qualify for the live final. The rest four teams will then play off for the overall two positions.

Then in May, the eight teams will travel to Iguazu Falls at the border of Brazil and Argentina. There they'll compete for a share of $150,000 and the Americas Cup title.

Photo: Luca Galuzzi - www.galuzzi.it

Even when you do not want to spend the pennies it costs to get involved, tickets to the $0.11 tournaments are available free SNGS which might be running always within the Tourney-Regional portion of the PokerStars lobby.

For a whole schedule and more information, visit the PokerStars Americas Cup of Poker homepage.

Good luck!

Read More... [Source: PokerStarsBlog.com :: Americas Cup]

While the mayor and the governor grumbled, President Obama used his star power to win back casino and gaming workers upset with remarks he had made about Las Vegas.

President Obama made a visit to Las Vegas this week to fix political wounds suffered when he commented against the convention and gambling town as the ideal way from teetering companies to spend stimulus money. Casino operators, always awed by celebrity, forgave the President immediately, saying no harm was meant.

However, political leaders from the gambling state weren't so quick to just accept the President's appearance as an opportunity to near ranks. After Obama's departure, Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman noted the Preseident never "said the magic words," while Governor Jim Gibbons refused a call for participation to speak about thoughts with Obama on the airport.

The Preseident appeared at a fundraising event for Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, an established crony of the state gaming industry who faces a difficult re-election campaign.

Caesar's Palace boasted that Obama had chosen to stick in a single in their top suites, an out of this world 22,000 square foot palace complete with private pool overlooking the Las Vegas Strip.

Many within the casino and gambling industry, by far the state's largest employer, noted bitterly how Obama decried executives taking luxurious Vegas trips on American taxpayer dollars. They wonder how his stay at Caesar's is all that different.

"My company comes here since the convention facilities are the most efficient on the earth. Once we are here, we stay two to a room within the discount rooming, working the entire time," said Vegas visitor Tom Owings. "Maybe it might be different if I had a personal pool."

Published on May 30, 2009 by VirginiaMaddox

Read More... [Source: Las Vegas Casinos in the News]

James Obst: Did a London bar manager see greatness in a bunch of no hopers?

It was Season 6 of the ecu Poker Tour and we were in London, which was then a normal stop at the EPT. Over within the convention centre of the Hilton hotel on Edgware Road, Aaron Gustavson was building a stack to overcome Peter Eastgate heads up and win the primary major title of his career.

But our action takes us clear of the poker tables and to the midweek streets of London's Soho. It was a motley crew: three veteran poker reporters, two PokerStars employees, a Team PokerStars Pro from Argentina and a tender Australian player, barely 19 years old. All were thirsty, however it was past midnight and bars were closing their doors.

The duties of entertaining the group had fallen that night to 2 of the veteran reporters, either one of whom typically spell "colour" with a "u" and "centre" with an "re". We--sorry, they--had each lived in London for years and, you could possibly think, could a minimum of find somewhere to slake a thirst.

The PokerStars employees were a married couple from Costa Rica, who could always be trusted to maintain the booze flowing during the night. The third reporter knew bars in his home town--a small place in South Carolina--that would pour into the early hours. But here all of them were in a city of 8 million people, with two guides unable to seek out them a drink.

Approaching desperation point, they went for the last resort: a god-awful low-rent joint known to cater for tourists, mid-level marketing managers and the desperate. It was, however, usually open until 1am so ticked precisely some of the boxes. Just like the start of a long-winded joke, the 2 Brits, the American, the Argentinian, the 2 Costa Ricans and the Australian walked right into a bar.

One thing was quite obvious. The room was empty. However the gaggle took a seat in a dingy corner anyhow and one of the crucial reporters headed to the bar. He talked to the bartender who explained what would was obvious to anyone however the parched and stubborn: where was closed. There can be no drinks.

$1 million Spin & Gos running now! Click here to get a PokerStars account.

The reporter isn't usually an argumentative man, particularly not with people in positions of authority. (THERE'S NO one with such a lot authority as a bartender.) But this was beyond the pale. It was simply unacceptable to guide a bunch of disparate vagabonds in the course of the London streets at nighttime and never find them a watering hole. The reporter demanded to look the manager.

The manager appeared. He was a friendly guy. He glanced quickly throughout the darkened room on the wastrels, but said his establishment was closed. The reporter tried to reason with him, making claims that it was his right to have a drink. But having struck out with reason, the reporter took a punt. He tried to run a bluff. With none real hope of having this one through, he stood on his tip-toes, leant over the bar and whispered to the executive: "HAVE YOU EVER seen who I HAVE with me here?"

The strength of this ploy is in how utterly hopeless it's. There has been precisely nobody within the group who was famous beyond their very own immediate family--some unknown even within that. But maybe it was a trick of the sunshine; maybe one of the crucial stragglers smiled on the right time; maybe the bar manager thought that this man was actually Salma Hayek or something. He looked over the reporter's shoulder, his eyes widened, and he said, "Oh. Wow. Sorry. Yes. After all I'll get you guys a drink."

I genuinely do not know how this worked. It was nothing greater than a fanciful stab within the dark, some roughly vague implication that we were within the presence of greatness. However the manager bought it hook, line and sinker. It got us a drink and we went happily on our way: the reporter was redeemed, having somehow pulled off the most efficient bluff of his career.

But now, seven years later, maybe all of it is sensible. Maybe that bar manager saw a future world champion within the gaggle. That's the only time I've ever been for a drink with James Obst, that young, naive Australian.

But I'll have another if he wins $8 million in a couple of months time.

WSOP photos by PokerPhotoArchive.com.

Read More... [Source: PokerStarsBlog.com :: World Series of Poker]

Chip leader Vojtech Ruzicka

It is July 18, 2016 but for poker followers it's simply November Nine day. It is the most fun day of the summer, where the overall table is about for the largest tournament on the planet game.

With 27 players remaining--15 from the United States, three from the United Kingdom, two from Canada and one each from Belgium, Australia, Spain, Lebanon, the Czech Republic, Hong Kong and France--18 are going to be disappointed. They're going to win a minimum of $269,430, but will walk out of the Amazon Room thinking they missed out at the chance to take $8 million.

Vojtech Ruzicka is the leader. The person from the Czech Republic has carved a wise reputation at the European Poker Tour, but is enjoying his breakout performance within the U.s.a.. Most local eyes are on Cliff "JohnnyBax" Josephy, a two-time bracelet winner, staker and online legend.

But with the likes of James Obst, Kenny Hallaert, Tom Marchese, Valentin Vornicu, Griffin Benger and Antoine Saout also with chips, there are lots of twists and turns still certain. (CHECK OUT what we all know in regards to the remaining players.)

Here's how they line up today:

Table 1Seat 1: Gordon Vayo, United states of america - 8,795,000 (44 bb)Seat 2: Michael Niwinski, Canada - 10,660,000 (53 bb)Seat 3: Matthew Moss, Uk - 15,250,000 (76 bb)Seat 4: Cliff Josephy, U.s.a. - 23,860,000 (119 bb)Seat 5: Christopher Kusha, U.s.a. - 6,350,000 (31 bb)Seat 6: Jared Bleznick, America - 8,300,000 (41 bb)Seat 7: Kenny Hallaert, Belgium - 15,465,000 (77 bb)Seat 8: William Kassouf, Uk - 6,095,000 (30 bb)Seat 9: Valentin Vornicu, United states of america - 17,450,000 (87 bb)

Table 2Seat 1: James Obst, Australia - 19,560,000 (97 bb)Seat 2: Qui Nguyen, America - 4,790,000 (24 bb)Seat 3: Fernando Pons, Spain - 17,270,000 (86 bb)Seat 4: Philip Postma, United states of america - 2,225,000 (11 bb)Seat 5: Tommy Miller, America - 17,185,000 (86 bb)Seat 6: Jeff Hakim, Lebanon - 4,375,000 (22 bb)Seat 7: Tom Marchese, Usa - 15,420,000 (77 bb)Seat 8: Mike Shin, U.s.a. - 19,345,000 (96 bb)Seat 9: Michael Ruane, America - 24,565,000 (122 bb)

Table 3Seat 1: Joshua Weiss, U.s. - 11,580,000 (58 bb)Seat 2: Adam Krach, U.s. - 7,540,000 (37 bb)Seat 3: Vojtech Ruzicka, Czech Republic - 26,415,000 (132 bb)Seat 4: Griffin Benger, Canada - 6,530,000 (32 bb)Seat 5: Andrew Christoforou, Uk - 9,450,000 (47 bb)Seat 6: Jerry Wong, Usa - 12,975,000 (65 bb)Seat 7: Antoine Saout, France - 5,525,000 (27 bb)Seat 8: Kakwan Lau, Hong Kong - 15,110,000 (75 bb)Seat 9: John Cynn, America - 5,760,000 (28 bb)

$1 million Spin & Gos running now! Click here to get a PokerStars account.WSOP photos by PokerPhotoArchive.com.

Read More... [Source: PokerStarsBlog.com :: World Series of Poker]

A New Jersey lawmaker is proposing letting state residents bet at Atlantic City resorts through online casinos.

New Jersey state Senator Raymond Lezniak has introduces a bill to control online casinos. Lezniak's measure would specifically grant permission to New Jersey residents to gamble at the Internet.

The casinos allowed will be the licensed casinos in Atlantic City, a part of Lezniak's ongoing effort to restore the brand new Jersey gambling acene. Lezniak could also be concerned about efforts to legalize sports betting and regulate online poker.

The suggested law will require servers to be located within Atlantic County, either on casino property or in a safe location operated by an Atlantic City casino. All casino games legal at Atlantic City resorts can be available, including poker.

The bill would allow residents to ascertain an account after which play at online gambling either from personal computers, or at terminals to be located at state racetracks, giving both racetracks and casinos an opportunity to successfully pool customers. The terminals could also be virtually just like slot machines.

Lezniak would create a regulatory Division of Internet Wagering under the Casino Control Commission, which might watch over the brand new industry. Taxes can be set at 20 percent of gross revenue from the net casino gambling.

Despite the united states Department of Justice defying courts and asserting that every one online gambling is illegal, New Jersey joins a slew of states debating plans to run Internet gaming inside state borders, including Maine, California, and Florida. Illinois already operates legal and controlled online gambling.

Published on January 17, 2010 by TomWeston

Read More... [Source: Atlantic City Casino News]

Natan Chauskin - the winner

A total of 947 players turned up a couple of days ago to play the IPT Main Event, and here on a Sunday evening, only one man was left standing. Natan Chauskin defeated Govert Metaal in a comparatively short heads up battle to assert the trophy and €149,560.

Chauskin entered the day as clear chip leader and, taking that stat (alone) into account, was expected to win. Metaal came in to the general table because the short stack so was never expected to get so far as he did, so can also be very pleased with his achievement.

Asked if he was happy and expected to win, he responded with, "Yes, very, and that i came to win, and that i was sure I MIGHT. When back in Belorussia, we were in a bar with our team and my coach, Jenya Gavrilovich, winner of EPT12 Barcelona €2k, asked me, when shooting a video, "What about this IPT Malta?" and that i said: "I WILL win it! Go there and win it needless to say"! That is what happened, so I WILL BE ABLE TO say I USED TO BE just waiting for it."

Trophy Presentation

He went directly to say, "IT IS NOT the amount of cash that changes my life, and plus, I DO NOT play only for the money, I play to become a sportstar, because poker is a sport, where the contest is a very powerful thing. I WILL BE ABLE TO play the EPT Main Event tomorrow and win it too!"

The final hand saw Metaal three-bet all in with pocket fives and Chauskin call after he had raised with king-queen. The Belorussian took the lead when he turned top pair and victory was confirmed when he improved to a flush at the river.

Fortune favoured this brave man today

Meetal won the €10,000 High Roller event at EPT Campione back is Season 8 and was so as regards to claiming a second major trophy on tour. The €124,080 he won today tops the €110,000 he won back in 2008 and, after the tournament had ended, he had this to mention on both achievements, "THE SPHERE was harder here so this result's more valuable to me."

Ready to enroll in PokerStars? Click here to get an account.

Timofeev was downed first

Day 3 started with two quick eliminations and a bustout (on average) every 12 minutes inside the day, whereas today it took around two hours for the primary player to bust. Denis Timofeev, short stacked on the time, made his move with pocket fours but did not stay prior to Chauskins ace-jack. The Belorussian only took five more minutes to say another scalp and this time he didn't event need coin-flip odds to get the job done. After raising with ace-seven, he called James Grogan's shove with big slick and rivered a seven.

Grogan got his chips in good

Garp after his last hand

They say bad things are available threes and Tobias Garp will believe that sentiment. He three-bet all in with pocket sevens after Metaal -who was midway through his rush up the leader board - had raised with pocket aces. A very simple call and an ace high board later saw Garp leave stage-central. A period of consolidation followed before the second one Dutch representative on the final table, Joep Raemaekers, was given his marching orders. He moved all in with jack-eight suited from the button but Chris Brammer, and his pocket queens, lay in wait within the small blind.

Gomez couldn't gain traction today

David Gomez helped start Metaal's resurgence initially of the day and, ten minutes after Raemaekers bust, his nemesis came back to complete off the job. Metaal opened with ace-king and called the Spaniard's shove with pocket nines. The board ran ace high and just three remained.

Chris Brammer headed off to start out his Sunday session after busting third

The second period of consolidation kicked in and chips were passed across the table before Metaal, who was left short after an end of level confrontation with Chauskin, returned from break and made his second recovery of the day to without equal cost for Brammer. First he doubled his very short stack through Chauskin and then, when armed with more chips, took most of Brammer's when his pocket jacks stayed prior to his king-queen.

Click here for all of the Main Event payouts.

The final hand

Before heads up play began, the 2 player struck a deal that meant they were effectively playing a €20,000 heads up sit and go. Chauskin held a 13.8 million to 9.8 million lead and only extended it until he had the entire chips. He proved during the last two days that he is a stupendous front runner and has made an excessively impressive begin to his live poker career.

Ready to enroll in PokerStars? Click here to get an account.

For full details of the tournaments on offer, and while you can register for them, click here.

Updates provided by Marc Convey, with photos coming from René Velli and Tomáš Stacha.

Read More... [Source: PokerStarsBlog.com :: Italian Poker Tour]

William Kassouf and Griffin Benger shake hands after the former's controversial elimination

If William Kassouf was going to be knocked out of this poker tournament, there has been something lets all make sure that about: he wasn't going to move quietly.

So it proved moments ago at the vast television stage within the Amazon Room, where the polarising British player has become the 17th place finisher on the earth Series of Poker Main Event.

Make no mistake, Kassouf goes to be the tale of this tournament. He has already filled most column inches as they've played to the last day of the summer, and the way of his elimination by the hands of Griffin Benger will fill many, many more. It'll make great television--even if Kassouf probably must prepare to be portrayed because the villain.

But Kassouf must have have some fans too. All of them say they would like personalities on the poker table, and William Kassouf certainly has that.

Two hands did for Kassouf, sending him from 22 million chips and a super shot on the November Nine to the rail in hasty succession. The primary was only a grim run out for Kassouf with A♠A♥, losing to Gordon Vayo's A♣J♦ on a A♦9♦5♦7♦6♦ board.

But the second one was a full-on barnstormer: players losing their cool, bellows from the bleachers, a panicked tournament announcer fearfully calling for a supervisor to the table lest things come to blows.

You will watch all of it on TV, but listed below are the edited highlights.

It started innocuously enough. Kassouf was standing by the rail speaking to a few of his friends in regards to the previous hand against Vayo. But he scampered back just in time to receive his cards within the hijack and notice Benger open to 875,000. (Blinds are 200,000/400,000.)

Kassouf peeked at his cards and three-bet to 2.3 million. Then action got back to Benger, who four-bet to 5.6 million.

Action came back to Kassouf, who now adopted a well-recognized routine. Kassouf's issues of tournament officials this week have are available in these particular spots, where he's enthusiastic about a hand after significant action after which desires to get some information from his opponent about what he's up against.

"You've got it?" Kassouf started. "A LOT OF THESE coolers. I HAVE to head all in or fold."

Benger remained completely silent. "WHEN YOU don't say anything, I'LL ship," Kassouf said. "THIS MIGHT be the only. Have I got you covered or have you ever got me covered?" (Their stacks were almost exactly the same, at around 15 million.)

The chit-chat went on for a long, long time, but Benger said nothing. The gang was restless within the seats ringing the stage. "He hasn't said one word to him," one spectator said. "He's been chatting with him for ten minutes." He then raised his voice to a shout which may be heard at the stage. "Come on dude, put it in!"

The tournament announcer turned to scowl on the man at the rail, but then had to turn quickly back to the table. Someone had called the clock and it was ticking all the way down to about 30 seconds, 20 seconds, all with Kassouf continuing the barrage of questions at a silent Benger.

But suddenly Benger cracked. "THAT IS verbal abuse!" he said. Most of the other words were lost in what quickly escalated right into a slanging match: Kassouf insisting, "I'm just looking to get information" and Benger returning with "The bet is 5.6 million chips" and banging his hand at the table.

The crowd stood up, other players also rose to their feet and the ambience within the tournament room turned ugly. Kassouf was getting under a large number of opponents' skins this week, but never for a tournament defining pot at the biggest stage, and not with an opponent also joining within the argument.

Just before the clock ran entirely down, and with insults still peppering the air, Kassouf announced: "I'm all in."

Benger immediately replied. "I call," he said, picking up his two cards and slapping them down at the table. They were two black aces. Kassouf turned his over. They were two black kings.

"Whatever happens, my life is nice"! Benger said, wheeling around along with his arms within the air and searching at his anxious rail. "Give it to him! Put a king down there! It doesn't matter!"

Calvin Anderson and Tim Reilly were prominent in Benger's railing section, but didn't appear to know exactly what they were rooting for. "What do you have, Griffin?" Anderson said. Reilly said, "NOW WE HAVE the aces?"

"You let it get to you," Kassouf taunted Benger."I let it get to me?" Benger taunted back, still highly unimpressed by Kassouf's antics. "Let's go, let's go. It won't change my life."

"Let's go Blue Jays!" bellowed a fan from the rail, relating to Benger's shirt. "It's over for the Brit! The Brit goes home!"

Another fan hadn't quite taken the hint offered by the Toronto livery and shouted, "U.S.A! U.S.A.!" (Benger, it will be noted, is Canadian.)

"King of hearts at the flop," Kassouf said, still standing all but alone on the table. Just he and the dealer gave the look to be within viewing distance of the where the flop would soon emerge.

"Any kings about," Kassouf said. After which he dropped the immortal, "One time!"

"You kicked his ass, baby!" came another misguided shout from the rail. "U.S.A.! U.S.A.!"

Griffin Benger secures the double up

It was finally time to look some community cards. They fell slowly, but surely, and there has been no help for Kassouf. The T♥8♥3♦ came at the flop. The turn was the 6♣ and when the T♦ spiked the river, the Amazon Room erupted.

Kevin Mathers, the WSOP media officer, spoke for the poker community:

As for Kassouf, having verified with the dealer that Benger had him covered, he picked up his coffee cup and went man-by-man across the table, shaking hands with everyone, including Benger. He then headed to an interview with Kara Scott, where he let off some steam.

"I think I HAVE BEEN targeted and victimised," he said, relating to no less than two warnings he has received from tournament officials and a one-round penalty yesterday. "I HAVE BEEN pulled aside." He added: "I'm a sensible guy, I'm a lawyer. That's my strategy." He said much the similar to PokerStars Blog earlier within the week.

Kassouf soon regained his composure and paid tribute to the folk who've been supporting him from home. "People have said I'm an inspiration," he said. "For me, that's massive." He mentioned players learning their poker in pub leagues, who've been going in touch with him and saying that they would like to emulate his achievements.

When the dust settles, many more will likely have a look at Kassouf and acknowledge the achievement too. From 6,737, there has been just one William Kassouf.

$1 million Spin & Gos running now! Click here to get a PokerStars account.

WSOP photos by PokerPhotoArchive.com.

Read More... [Source: PokerStarsBlog.com :: World Series of Poker]

It appears that a bill which might legalize online gambling within the Netherlands was gaining support and should rather well become law soon, in line with numerous reports. Originally introduced two years ago, the bill was finally debated by the Dutch Lower House last week. That discuss is about to continue today, June 30th, with a possible vote next week.

According to GaminginHolland.com, the bill should pass the Lower House as it has the support of the bulk coalition. The larger question is whether it might pass muster within the Senate, because the two coalition parties – the People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) and the Labour Party (PvdA) – only account for 22 of the 75 total votes when 38 are needed for the bill to succeed.

GaminginHolland did report, though, that the opposition parties – Democrats 66 (D66) and Party for Freedom (PVV) – believe the bill “in principle” and can likely give their support, although they don't seem to be as gung-ho about it because the VVD and PvdA. Thus, if they all vote within the affirmative, there's a good chance that their counterparts within the Senate will, as well.

Currently, Dutch law considers online gambling illegal, but unlike within the United States, where most online operators have withdrawn from the market despite online gambling, particularly poker, landing in a legal grey area in most jurisdictions, online operators have continued to simply accept Dutch customers without much trouble.

More at Flushdraw

Similar Stories from This Week in Gambling:

Read More... [Source: Gambling Headlines – This Week in Gambling]

The loss of federal definition of what constitutes illegal online gambling is causing tax puzzles for players at online casinos.

The unsettled debate at the legality of playing at online casinos within the US is causing issues to arise for those wishing to fairly pay taxes, but additionally expecting fair treatment in return. Despite the dept of Justice's stance that every one Internet gambling is illegal, no federal law prohibits gambling at online casinos.

This leaves frequent players in confusion as to what's taxable and what's deductible. In line with an editorial within the Wall Street Journal, the IRS doesn't have a different policy for online gambling, lumping it in with all other wagering.

This means all winnings need to be declared, and losses can also be deducted, so long as they are often substantiated. While producing records to turn gaming losses for land-based casino clientele could also be problematic, online casino customers have ready access to deposit records.

But the Journal says some states, equivalent to California, are far less accommodating toward Internet gamblers. A spokesman for the California taxation department told Journal writers that taxpayers are chargeable for proving a deduction comes from legal and bonafide sources.

This signifies that winnings are still taxed, but no credit given for losses, unless the state decides to just accept the deduction. Unless state laws are explicit in denying online casinos legal status, as is right in six states, the federal confusion over online gambling legality will continue to permeate to many branches of government.

Published on November 22, 2009 by VirginiaMaddox

Read More... [Source: California Gambling News]

MGM National Harbor, the world-class casino resort set to open later this year in Prince George’s County, Md., is pleased to announce the appointment of Max Fisher as vp and chief financial officer. On this role, Fisher is chargeable for providing broad oversight and strategic direction for all aspects of the property’s financial activities, including casino finance, procurement, project management, information technology, and fiscal planning. As a strategic business partner to the property’s general manager, he'll contribute in all aspects of the business leadership of the property.

“Max has an intensive financial background within the casino industry, having started his career here with the MGM Resorts family as an auditor at Bellagio Resort & Casino in Las Vegas,” said Bill Boasberg, MGM National Harbor general manager. “With his proven track record of success working with leading gaming companies throughout his career, we're confident Max can help us achieve our financial and business goals.”

“It’s an honor to give you the chance to be on the forefront of a development like MGM National Harbor,” said Max Fisher. “I’m extremely captivated with this industry and the ideals and values of this company. I’m proud to join this first-of-its-kind entertainment destination for the region.”  

Fisher is an experienced industry professional, having held numerous senior-level positions throughout his distinguished 17-year career. He most recently served as corporate vp of finance and vp of monetary operations and shared services at Caesars Entertainment Corporation in Las Vegas.

Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Fisher earned his bachelor’s degree in finance and economics from Robert Morris University, and is a graduate of the manager Development Program at University of Nevada, Reno. 

Read More... [Source: Gaming Industry News]

Devan Tang: One in 100

With about QUARTER-HOUR left at the clock in Level 9, Lori Lagrosas, Operations Manager of PokerStars LIVE Macau, came visiting to her colleagues within the tournament area and offered them a high five. The selection of entries into the HKD$50,000 freezeout at this APPT festival had just ticked to 100--significant particularly for Lagrosas as she had boldly "guaranteed" that the tournament would attract that many players. She hit her guarantee with 1 / 4 of an hour to spare.

So it's that the general warm-up before tomorrow's main event hits a record high, boding well for a bumper turnout for the week's flagship tournament. When the clock ticked to the tip of the level, representing the top of the late-registration period, there have been still a fair 100 involved. That created a prize pool of greater than HKD$4.4 million, with the entire prize breakdown to be determined soon.

The young New Zealander Thomas Ward continues to dominate proceedings at this early stage. When he moved tables shortly before the tip of Level 9, he needed racks sufficient to hold a stack of about 210,000, that is greater than four times what he started with.

"How good is that this guy?" a table-mate said as Ward found his new seat assignment, half in relief and half in frustration that the table's chips were heading elsewhere. Ward now sits at the same table as Dong Guo, who's in China's top 20 money earners and can be seeking to add to his career total this week.

Speaking of China's rich list, Devan Tang was probably the most late registrants to this tournament. Tang lies fourth at the all-time China money list, largely way to four huge scores. In January of this year, Tang picked up USD$1,405,500 for finishing third behind Fedor Holz and David Peters in a great high roller tournament in Manila. The five men who finished immediately behind him were Steve O'Dwyer, Phil Ivey, Daniel Colman, Paul Phua and Mike McDonald. He can play tough.

Winfred Yu showed up late to this tournament, but he has already been eliminated. So has Quan Zhou, who currently results in APOY leader board. Zhou is becoming a normal at the European Poker Tour too and most recently cashed within the €25,000 high roller on the EPT Grand Final.

But he couldn't get A♣K♥ to overcome Xin Liu's J♦J♥, especially after a J♣ flopped. "Runner runner!" Zhou encouraged the dealer, however the dealer couldn't oblige.

There's still far to move for the 57 players who remain at this stage. They're going to play another two one-hour levels tonight before returning to play to a winner at 3pm tomorrow.

We'll return an hour previous to that for the commencement of the principle event, and likewise to compensate for what's been occurring within the various side events. 

The APPT Macau main event starts Wednesday, May 25 at PokerStars LIVE on the City of Dreams. Full details can be found at the official APPT website or via the PokerStars Macau page.

Read More... [Source: PokerStarsBlog.com :: PokerStars Macau]

Despite league efforts to shove the issue out of public sight, a brand new sports betting scandal arose with the banning of a former Sacramento Kings employee.

NBA Commissioner David Stern insisted the sports betting scandal that ousted disgraced referee Tim Donaghy was a rogue, one-time incident. Now comes the tale that Sacramento Kings assistant director of scouting Jack Mai have been barred from the league for wagering on sports.

According to reports by Yahoo! Sports, the NBA informed clubs that Mai had bet on NBA games, and was permanently banned from working in any capacity with a member team. The NBA said the betting was just for small amounts and between Mai and his friends, and there supposedly were little need of influence in corrupting games.

According to league sources, Mai even bet on games involving the Kings, and had bet on them every now and then to lose. Yahoo! said the sources say Mai were betting on sports and Kings games particularly for years.

“We take this matter very seriously, and we fully cooperated with the NBA’s investigation,” said a press release released by the Kings. The Kings are owned by the Maloof family, which also owns the Palms Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

Mai were released by the Kings within the spring of this year. Rumors of inappropriate equipment deals with Asian basketball teams and associations surfaced regarding his dismissal.

When contacted by Yahoo!, Mai said only that he had resigned.

Published on November 25, 2009 by PrestonLewis

Read More... [Source: Sports Betting News]

The final days for Full Tilt poker are officially upon us. After announcing back in February that Full Tilt can be “pooled together” with fellow Amaya Gaming online brand PokerStars.com into one product, the corporate announced last week that can 17 would be the official date.

The Full Tilt communications team stated that Full Tilt players could be e-mailed directly regarding personal information on how the merge will affect them specifically, “which will depend on quite a few factors, including their jurisdiction and the status in their PokerStars account (if any).”

The statement went directly to say that, “in many cases, Full Tilt players who already hold a PokerStars account is not going to want to update any information or transfer their account assets (loyalty points, cash balances, etc.), with the intention to be transferred automatically to their PokerStars account they usually can simply log in to their PokerStars account and revel in the entire great benefits on offer, including much more game choices and larger tournaments.”

More at Online Casino City

Similar Stories from This Week in Gambling:

Read More... [Source: Poker News and Features – This Week in Gambling]