All I Wanted To Do Was See The Comedy Show at Mohegan Sun....

"THE LEFT HAND DOESN'T KNOW WHAT THE RIGHT HAND IS DOING."  
There are a couple themes in this post, but you have to read the whole post to get them, and the last might be the most important of all.!

Last night just confirmed for me what I knew already....stay away from casinos on Saturday Nights!
It's probably why I stay away from the strip in Las Vegas, or never stay over on a Saturday night in Atlantic City.  But there were other things that I did learn about Mohegan Sun, and it wasn't pretty.

CHAPTER I.  

First. let's start with the obvious. Those of you who live Massachusetts, LISTEN UP!  This is what you have to look forward to.  These are general weekend occurrences at casinos all over the country, and to a casino coming to you.

TRAFFIC & PARKING - Wow, I have never seen so many cars at that casino in my life.  I usually park in the winter garage, which is the last to fill up.  IT WAS FULL!  I parked in the parking lot outside so far away, I was closer to the Fire Dept. than the Casino Garage Entrance. Oh, and for all of you selfish people who consider yourself "Special" because your car so expensive it deserves two parking places, "YOU"RE NOT ALONE IN THE WORLD!!!"  We counted at least 20-30 more spots in the garage alone taken up by these inconsiderate idiots. 

DRUNKS - need I say more?

LOUD, OBNOXIOUS, "IT'S ALL ABOUT ME" BACHELORETTE PARTIES - so many blood-curdling screams, you'd swear there was a horror movie being filmed.  Oh no, it's just another arrival before they spend ten minutes in everyone's way taking their 34th "selfie" on their iPhone.

DRUNKS - maybe Maine has it right.  You have to pay for alcoholic drinks in Maine at both casinos.  Massachusetts, hello out there?

PEOPLE EVERYWHERE - AND NO ORGANIZATION or EXPERIENCED HELP TO AID WITH CROWD CONTROL - on a busy night like Saturday Night, when Styx & REO Speedwagon are in the Arena, and New York's favorite vulgar comedian Nick DiPaolo was at the Cabaret, there should more, knowledgeable staff available. (segue)

CHAPTER II.  

AND NOW, the real reason for today's post - All I Wanted To Do Was See The Comedy Show at Mohegan Sun.... TOPIC: EVENT TICKETS, or more apply titled, "THE LEFT HAND DOESN'T KNOW WHAT THE RIGHT HAND IS DOING."

Arriving 40 minutes before the show, I was told I wasn't on the list for tickets.  But, I had reserved them by phone through a mailer sent by email weeks previous.  Not only did I not have tickets, but they didn't have enough tickets to hand out - and it wasn't sold out!  So, a line formed behind me, waiting for the tickets to arrive.  The staff were placed in a very awkward situation, since I over heard them say they didn't like their nightly assignment.  Why would they, if they were on the phone contacting hosts because patrons names weren't "on the list,"  and they were obviously not  taught skills to handle the variety of problems thrown at them, AND there wasn't the support and hosts available for them at the time of the comedy show to get their job done!  It was a mess, to say the least.  But it seems this is more the norm than I thought.  Here are two stories that we were told by other patrons while we waited at the front of the line for tickets:

"I drive from a hour away.  They say I don't qualify, yet I get the offer by email.  They say I have no tickets, and this isn't the first time - the same thing happened two weeks ago."

"We drive from Darien.  We were promised a suite, but have a regular room.  My friends couldn't show, but we have to get in line and get all four tickets.  Last time they charged us $25 each and I was afraid they'd do it again."

The problem lies with Mohegan Sun's Marketing and Hosts.  Again, "THE LEFT HAND DOESN'T KNOW WHAT THE RIGHT HAND IS DOING."  You see, offers are sent by email for events to patrons, and yet, if you sign into your Mohegan Rewards Account on their website, it says that you must purchase.  When I called to confirm this event, I was told I had tickets, and reserved them. The agent I talked to said it was a problem, and "did I know I had other offers coming up as well?" This really needs to be fixed.

MORAL of the story - always check and recheck your comped offers before going to any casino event.  Expect that "THE LEFT HAND DOESN'T KNOW WHAT THE RIGHT HAND IS DOING."

CHAPTER III.  

A HAPPY ENDING.  There are a lot of kind and considerate people in this world, and we met two of them.  Bill & Rosemary also had two extra tickets, and offered them to us to be their guests.  We sat with them in the middle of the Cabaret, great seats, and met two wonderful people.  The show was raw, vulgar, funny and not for the sensitive, but that's a review for another time.

AMONG THE VAST AMOUNTS OF HUMAN BEINGS, DRUNKS AND BACHELORETTE PARTIES, YOU KNOW WHAT YOU CAN ALSO FIND AT CASINOS - GOOD PEOPLE.  Thank you Bill & Rosemary for making lemonade out of lemons for us.  You're ACES in our book.

That's all for now. 

Binbin

Strangest Bets Ever Made

After watching the betting furor last week in England concerning the Prince of Cambridge, I wondered, "What were the strangest bets ever made?"

Prop bets, or "proposition bets," are made concerning one-time events that have nothing to do with - well - anything's outcome.  A good example can be seen in the Broadway musical "Guys & Dolls" when Nathan Detroit tries to set up a prop bet with Sky Masterson that Mindy's Deli sold more Cheescake than Strudel.  Sky doesn't take the bait, but turns it around on Nathan, covering his tie and betting him the same amount of money on the color tie he was wearing.

Here are some of the craziest prop bets ever made - but I'm sure there are a lot more and a lot crazier!

Ashton Griffin, laid out 3:1 odds on himself of being able to run 70 miles on a treadmill in 24 hours, meaning if he’d lost, he would have paid out 3x the bet. By some miracle, he pulled this off, won $300K, and avoided having to shell out $900K and finished the 70 miles with 45 minutes to spare!

$10K for a Vegetarian to Eat a Burger - Yes, it's true.

Crazy Las Vegas Bets
It's almost impossible to decide which of legendary gambler Archie Karas' bets was the craziest. The man came to Vegas with $50 in his wallet and grew that stake to a staggering $17 million over the course of three years. Whether he was playing pool or poker, Karas' three-year streak is widely regarded as the most insane in Las Vegas history. By the end, after being banned from the poker tables at most casinos, Karas was just taking $100,000 bets on single dice rolls. And yet, just a year after that, he'd lost it all the same way he earned it.
Man Who Got Breast Implants on a Bet

This one, of course, is almost mythic by now, but we couldn’t not include the craziest bet ever made, bar none. Magician and high-stakes gambler Brian Zembic bet in 1996 that he would get breast implants and keep them in for a year for $100K wager. The craziest part of this story is that Zembic apparently became so enamored with his "additions," he never had them removed.

Some people come to Vegas to find a mythic transformation, to leave behind everything of their old life and be born again in the fires of chance. Britisher Ashley Revell sold everything he owned, emptied his bank account and put every penny he had—$135,000—on red. One spin of the wheel later and he'd doubled his money. He gave a $600 tip to a dealer and walked out of the casino a rich man.

In Vegas, people will bet on just about anything. 1979 saw a great example, as El Cortez owner Jackie Gaughan decided to start taking bets on where space station Skylab's wreckage would fall to Earth when it re-entered the planet's atmosphere. Jackie laid odds on everything from New York City to the El Cortez itself (which paid out 10,000 to 1), but the final resting place of the downed satellite ended up in Australia.

And here are some of the bizarre Super Bowl Prop Bets of the past:

• Anthem Time Length Bet
• Improvised National Anthem Bet
• Opposing Coaches Hugs or Handshakes Bet
• Gatorade Color Bet 

That's all for now.

Binbin

USA vs WORLD - An Arbitrary Casino Competition on July 4th Weekend

This weekend I will be taking a break from highlighting CT casinos action (Foxwoods Friday and Sun Sunday) to take a look at some interesting casino facts (today) and a Mish Mash of headlines and commentary concerning New England Gaming on Monday.
This weekend, we celebrate America. For all it's trials and tribulations, the good old USA stands as one a the few great countries in the world.
When it comes to gambling in The US, it doesn't take much to conjure up images of steamboat gamblers, or the poker and faro tables out west. Where would the world's casinos be without the American slot machine? We have certainly made our mark in the history and industry of casino gambling. So, let's compare facts about USA casinos & the rest of the world. America vs. the rest. Here goes:

Largest Casino
America - Foxwood Resorts used to be the biggest casino at over 400,000 square feet but Winstar World Casino, in Oklahoma, is now the largest in the US at a whopping 519,000 square feet.
The World - the two largest casinos in the World are in Macau, China - Venetian Macao, and The City of Dreams, #1 & 2 respectively.
Winner - World

State vs. Country with Most Casinos/Parimutuels / Card Clubs
America - Obviously, Nevada is #1 with under 400.  But it may surprise you that California (178), Washington (134) and Oklahoma (123) follow in order.
World - Australia (425) and Great Britain (419) barely beat Las Vegas, let alone the USA (1750 total in country).
Winner - USA!!!

Largest Casino Hotel
America - Las Vegas's MGM, 5960 rooms
World - no contest
Winner - USA!!!  Out of the largest 12 hotels in the world, 8 are casino hotels in Las Vegas.  The one hotel without a casino in the US in the top 12- Disney's All-Star Resort, Orlando.

Top Poker Player (this season of 2013 based on earnings)
America - Joseph Cheong (#5)
World - Marvin Rettenmeir (#1), Germany
Winner - Advantage world with top 4.
However we have 5 in the top 10!

Finally, the clincher - Top Gambling Jurisdiction 
Considering all level gambling, all levels of amenities, best comps for all player levels, and most to offer in terms of, well, all that is gambling and entertainment.
Winner - Las, Vegas, Nevada, USA!!!! 
No question about it.  (However, there could be some personal bias here. Vegas, baby, Vegas!)

Haha, we win!     U-S-A-!     U-S-A!      
Happy Independence Weekend!

That's all for now.

Binbin

What Does Twin River Hope to Accomplish?

TABLE GAMES at TWIN RIVER CASINO!

So, the old Lincoln Greyhound Park has grown up. First it added class II slots, then ended racing and added more, expanded, and renovated to be included in the "Big Casino" category. Matter of fact, Twin River has expanded and renovated to be in the top ten largest casinos in the country.

Now, by adding table games, it's all grown up.  It's a real casino (even though they still offer VLT machines connected to the lottery commission).  TR is ready to play with the big boys in CT and the new guys in MA - or is it?

Competition with CT
With Table games, TR will surely add a new pool of gamblers. And now that the locals don't have a need to travel to CT (although, it's not really that far), TR will add to their own group of regulars. But, to truly compete for the big players that keep casinos afloat these days, they will have to expand further. Amenities - shopping, onsite hotel(s), spa, clubs, restaurants - must be added to compete, or it's just a "locals" casino, not a destination.

The Big Bad North
Massachusetts is still far away from getting those casinos built and operational. Which gives time for Twin River to assess its gaming experience, stop those Bay-Staters at the border on their way to CT, and lasso them to the ranch in Lincoln. But will be able to keep them as loyal patrons? Everybody loves to check out the new place on the block - and Massachusetts will get a lot of checking out from a wide radius. And the MA properties that are on the drawing board are raising the ante so high, the competition amongst themselves is fierce and include some things that the best Vegas Resorts don't even include. Without continued expansion, the RI casinos will be stuck between two monsters north and west of it - and to get the big gamblers, TR needs to become a resort.

The Need for Revenue
Rhode Island’s two gambling houses — Twin River and Newport Grand — generated $527.3 million in net revenues in the budget year that ended June 30, 2012. About $320.6 million of that went to the state — $288.8 million from Twin River and $31.8 million from Newport Grand — making gambling the third-largest source of state revenue. The net gain to the state over the next year from Twin River’s new table games is projected to be $6.5 million, after the state pays $4.3 million in new Lottery and state police expenses. However, I predict that RI will continue to get the revenue it needs and has relied on, but, unfortunately, the next three years will be the highlight of their success. The money will be there, but in three years, they, much like Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods will be scraping everything they can to make the same revenue it made.  The competition will just be too much - all I can say is "poor Newport Grand."

Reviews
On the "American Casino Guide" website, which I highly recommend, there are many reviews of all USA casinos. The reviews for Twin River unfortunately were not very complimentary. Some are dated, but TR should take note. Cleanliness, service, food, and overall ambiance gets mixed responses. To compete for patrons, it will have to upgrade in all areas and not give anyone in the Ocean State to drive elsewhere.

Men are from Table Games; Women are from Slots (parody of John Gray's book "Men are from Mars, Women from Venus")
So, supposedly, there is a clear-cut preference in the type of gaming the two genders play.  To put it simply, more women play slots, more men play table games.  A 2008 study by a research team from the University of San Francisco and the University of Nevada-Las Vegas showed more women tend to play bingo while more men tend to play blackjack. In addition to the gender difference, there is an age divide, the study showed, as people age 36 to 50 were most attracted to slots while people age 21 to 35 were most likely to play blackjack. Personally, I feel this study is a little dated, and the explosion of gambling in the United States has blurred those lines. Other recent studies show a cycle in the popularity of games, and that the "Nintendo" generation's love of slots could give way to something else, much like tables games were replaced by slots on the gaming floor in the last ten years. But, now, Twin River will have both.
A Twin River consultant, Steven Rittvo of The Innovation Group of Companies, agreed that table games and video slot machines draw different types of gamblers. Gambling is a social activity, Rittvo noted in a 2011 interview with The Providence Journal. So that means more mixed-gender groups. So, rather than shifting money from the video slot terminals to the table games, there could be a small rise in slot revenue as new gamblers try their luck at that game. You have the ability to capture these people because you didn't have that Gaming offering before. at that time.

So, with 66 table games now, Twin River is likely to attract more gamblers from Massachusetts and Rhode Island — at least until the Massachusetts venues open. Adding table games means drawing not just more gamblers, but different types than now enter the casino off Route 146. But more is expected if it will truly compete with their neighboring states.

I wish you luck, Twin River. I hope you accomplish all that you expect to accomplish.

That's all for now.

Binbin

Great Gambling Books

A while back, I reviewed "Roll The Bones" by Dr. Dave Schwartz. I loved it! I'm reading it again because their is so much to sink in.

Then I was wondering what other gambling books I have read and enjoyed - books I would suggest. Well here's a short list of suggestions I have enjoyed and hope you will, too.

"American Casino Guide" by Steve Bourie - I buy this book every year. Not only does it have articles about different games, statistics, and coverage of every state's gambling offerings, but it comes with over $1000 worth of coupons. Using a few of these pays for the book each year, wherever you normally gamble, or with a trip to the top five gaming areas in the US.

"The Frugal Gambler" by Jean Scott - Learn the low-roller secrets for: Staying free at hotel-casinos, beating casino promotions, eating and drinking on the house, playing video poker for profit, getting bumped from airplanes and flying for free. And now THE FRUGAL GAMBLER is completely revised and updated. New information includes a completely revamped chapter on video poker, updated coverage of getting the most out of slot clubs, recent examples of exploitable gambling promotions, and a brand new Resources section, identifying the best sources of player information available from books to software to the Internet. It gives a great perspective on why using your rewards card for every casino is important all the time.

"Million Dollar Blackjack" by Ken Uston - Uston's book has great descriptions of team BJ play. Extremely entertaining and was THE book to read for BJ teams years ago. A bit dated in spots, but not a bad place to start learning about card-counting and advantage play

"Video Poker-Optimum Play" by Dan Paymar - This was the first serious book I read to learn about Video Poker. I had finally realized the benefits of correct strategy, Foxwoods & Mohegan Sun had just been built and it changed my VP play forever. Some say it's simply the best book ever written on Video Poker (and probably the only one you'll ever need).

"Casino Gambling for Dummies" by Kevin Blackwood - Want a good overview of Casino Gambling? This book is a great place to start. Kevin Blackwood has used his considerable casino and casino games knowledge to create what’s more than just a beginner’s guide. Insider secrets and tips for maximising profits while minimising losses when playing all of the major casino games are just the basis of this comprehensive casino guide. In addition, Blackwood explains odds as well as detailing winning strategies, bad bets, how to manage your money and how to gamble online. A "How-To" book that you don't have to read cover to cover!

"Bringing Down the House" by Ben Mezrich - The tale of how MIT students won millions of dollars in Las Vegas is sure to excite and inspire. This is fun reading and includes references to play at Foxwoods as well for a New England flavor.  Reads well, well enough for you to forget that it isn't fiction.

"The Video Poker Answer Book" by John Grochowski - John Grochowski addresses common player concerns in his complete guide to video poker. This is a nuts and bolts book that answers questions that every VP player asks or wonders about. Perfect for players who want to understand the mechanics behind video poker, without becoming overwhelmed by facts and figures

"Zen and the Art of Casino Gaming" by Miron Stabinsky - This book discusses basic rules & strategies, as all gambling books do. But this differs in the way Miron covers the psycology of being successful - or at least enjoying gaming more by realizing what you actually DO control. This book teaches acceptance of gambling reality to help get the most enjoyment out of your play. It's a little different, but I liked it.

Finally, any book about systems to beat slots is a good book - a good book for the author that is. There is NO SYSTEM to beat slots. DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY! If you consider buying any such book, drop it and run - run fast and run far!

That's all for now. Tomorrow is NE Gambling Entertainment Wednesday!

Binbin

Mohegan Sun Sunday June 9th

On Friday, I wrote about Foxwoods and their new look to expand. Today, let's look at Mohegan Sun's possible future.

Sun raisees ante in Western Mass
The owners of Mohegan Sun resort in Uncasville have grown their proposal for a casino in Palmer, Mass. to $1 billion with a waterpark and a second hotel.  This gives the Mohegans bid the largest and most expensive proposal of the three casinos vying for the sole casino gaming license in western Massachusetts. The other two are $800 million bids from MGM Grand in Springfield and Hard Rock in West Springfield.
The Mohegan's 70,000-square-foot indoor-outdoor waterpark will be connected to a 250-room hotel separate from the property's main hotel. The waterpark will be build by Boston-based Finard Properties, which also partnered with Mohegan to put a retail complex at the resort casino site.
Mohegan Sun Massachusetts proposal now includes 3,000 slot machines, 80 table games, two restaurants with 350 seats, a food court, a car and lounge with a entertainment stage, a 300-room hotel with a ballroom and meeting rooms, a 300,000-square-foot retail development, and structured and surface parking.
Plans for the water park will include a “tremendous indoor component” and “an outdoor component that in some ways is limitless,” Finard said. “When we start to set the final plans for zip lines and horseback trails and some of the other outdoor elements that go along with this, it’s hard to really quantify.  “A guest will come during the winter perhaps for snowshoeing outdoors and indoor kayaking and indoor surfing,” said Finard. “During the summer, you’ll have zip lines to take you all around the property. A guest experience on zip lines could last hours. You could send them tower to tower and provide the kind of entertainment that we haven’t seen in this part of the country.” Plans call for the second hotel of about 250 rooms to be connected to the water park and detached from the main casino hotel.

Mohegan Sun Expansion Into Catskills
Mitchell G. Etess, chief executive officer of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, said the company is set to operate and manage “The Mohegan Sun Concord,” a planned $600 million resort very similar to Palmer in terms of size and scope. Its the site of the former Concord Hotel in Thompson, New York. The New York casino would include a 258-room hotel, a 75,000-square-foot casino with 2,100 video lottery terminals and up to 450 electronic table game positions, five restaurants, retail space, harness race track, grandstand and simulcast and 10,000 square feet of ballrooms and meeting space.

Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs
Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, a racino in Pennsylvania, features over 2,300 slots, and live table games, as well as a ⅝-mile (1-kilometre) harness track.
The Sun acquired the Pocono Downs racetrack in 2005 from Penn National Gaming. Mohegan Sun renamed the property "Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs," and began a major expansion. It began operation in November 2006 as the first slots casino in the state of Pennsylvania. The Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs casino was among the first to receive approval for table games on July 13, 2010.

And How is PA Doing?
Pennsylvania's first casino opened in 2006, and the state has grown into the nation's second-largest gambling market behind Las Vegas. However, while table games growth has remained strong, slots revenues have been decreasing. Gross revenue from slot machines declined for the fifth straight month in April, down 4 percent from the same period the year before.

That's all for now. Tomorrow - a review of the Newport Grand!

Binbin

The State of the Union's Casinos Addressed and Statistics about US Gaming

As revenues decrease in CT, and MA looks to build 3 full service casino resorts, I was wondering about the state of Gambling in the country as a whole.
Brian Pempus, from Bloomberg reported Sunday that U.S. commercial casino revenue last year was $37 billion in 2012, a figure still below 2007 peak of $37.5 billion  The figure was based on the organization’s findings as well as data from the American Gaming Association, the casino industry’s top lobbying group on Capitol Hill.  The most recent tally, as of December 2011, has 445 commercial casinos in the country. However, some states, particularly in the eastern half of the country, have beefed up their gambling industry with new properties. It’s unclear exactly how many casinos exist in the United States at the present time. A handful have recently popped up in Ohio, once one of the few states without any gambling facilities. Maryland, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania are three states which are on the verge of more casino construction after their respective officials authorized more gaming. Despite more casinos contributing to the figure, the $37 billion is definitely a sign that the industry is recovering from the effects of the Great Recession.

The 2013 AGA  (American Gaming Association) “State of the States” report is due out in soon and in it should contain more details on how the industry rebounded to $37 billion in 2012. The total includes land-based, riverboat, and racetrack casinos in 23 states; Native American casinos are not considered. Nevada had the highest win figure at $10.86 billion, followed by Pennsylvania ($3.16 billion), New Jersey ($3.05 billion), Indiana ($2.61 billion), and Louisiana ($2.40 billion).

So, here are more interesting US gambling facts:




A nationwide survey by the U.S. Travel Industry Association found that 38% of all U.S. residents have been to Las Vegas in their lifetime. The average length of visitors' stay in Las Vegas was almost 4 days (3.7).

68% of the people who gamble play the slot machines most often.

Today, 42 states operate lotteries, 37 have commercial, Indian or racetrack casinos and only 2 - Utah and Hawaii - don't allow any form of gambling.

Two decades ago, 2 states had legal gambling and 48 states outlawed it. Today, 48 states have some form of legal gambling. Only Hawaii and Utah do not.

Over 60% of American adults gambled last year or over the past twelve months on some activity. Over 80% say that gambling is legitimate and casinos are okay.

Gambling generates more revenue than movies, spectator sports, theme parks, cruise ships and recorded music combined.

Gambling has become a $40 billion dollar a year industry in the United States.

From 1974 to 1994--20 years--the amount of money Americans legally wagered has risen 2,800 percent, from $17 billion to $482 billion.

Each day in the United States, slot machines take in an average of more than $1 billion in wagers. Collectively, slot machines gross more annually than McDonald's, Wendy's, Burger King and Starbucks combined.

The California State Employee's Retirement fund, U.S. Steel's pension fund, and Harvard University's endowment have all owned stock in gambling companies.


So , that's all for now.

Binbin

Waiter, There's a Bug in my VP Machine!

Las Vegas man who rakes in half a million dollars in Video Poker - More Smarts than Luck

We've all been there - the bank ATM gives an extra $20 bill, or maybe the server forgot an item and your bill is less than you thought. What would you do?

Getting anything extra out of a casino sometimes fills us with unrighteous indignation! "After all, just think what they've taken from me!"

Well, a guy from Las Vegas turn the tables - the paytables that is - on the casinos in Las Vegas and Pennsylvania, before being caught.

Federal prosecutors have built a hacking case against a Las Vegas man who raked in half a million dollars exploiting a minor glitch in a video poker machine, Wired reports.

At the center of the hacking case is the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA), a 1984 law used to prosecute Aaron Swartz that critics say is way too broad. The CFAA — which was originally passed to protect national security — punishes people who "exceed authorized access" to computers.

A lawyer for John Kane, the Vegas local who's being prosecuted under the law, says that he didn't violate the CFAA even though he did exploit a bug in a machine known as Game King.

That lawyer, Andrew Leavitt, told Wired that Kane and a friend of his were playing by the rules imposed by the machine, and that's all that matters.

"All these guys did is simply push a sequence of buttons that they were legally entitled to push,” Leavitt said.

Here's how that sequence worked, according to a motion Leavitt filed to dismiss the case:

If an individual is playing a $1.00 video poker machine and wins a jackpot or any other winning hand, so long as the double up feature is available for selection, currency can then be inserted into the machine. Once the currency or the voucher is inserted, the "double up" feature will be disabled. At this point, one simply needs to change the value on the machine from $1,000 to ten dollars and a $1.00 jackpot will then become a $10.00 jackpot. The individual can then hit cash out and for instance, instead of winning $820.00, the player will earn $8,200.00. Yikes!

Check out the following link to Wired to read its full analysis of the case, which rests on whether making money off this glitch "exceeds authorized access" to the video poker machine based on the CFAA. Very interesting!

http://www.wired.com/threatlevel/2013/05/game-king/all/

That's all for now.

Binbin

Will Steve Wynn's Wife be a Problem for the Everett Mass Casino?

An Ex-Wife Threatens Steve Wynn’s Casino Empire

Steve Wynn has been through alot in his life. He's had his ups - think of properties such as Golden Nugget, Mirage, Bellagio, Wynn & Encore, and resorts in Macau. He's also had his downs - he’s been kicked out of a company, through a $750 million divorce, had his daughter kidnapped, and he even put his elbow through a Picasso. But Steve Wynn has never been in a "pickle" quite like this.

Elaine Wynn has asked a federal court for permission to sell the Wynn Resorts shares she was awarded in the couple’s 2009 divorce. A sale of even half of her 9.6 percent stake could trigger a series of events that would threaten her ex-husband’s sway over the $13 billion gaming company, his lavish, company-financed lifestyle—and possibly his personal fortune. “She’s the swing shareholder,” says William Thompson, a professor emeritus at the University of Nevada, who studies the gambling industry. “This could be the final damper on the guy.”

Shareholders have a lot riding on the suit: They’ve enjoyed an eightfold gain since 2009 under Wynn’s leadership. The company, whose flagship casino is the most profitable on the Las Vegas Strip, has said it would face a serious business risk if Wynn, 71, left or even got distracted. “If we lose the services of Mr. Wynn, or if he is unable to devote sufficient attention to our operations for any other reason, our business may be significantly impaired,” the latest annual report said.

And it seems that other properties and projects would also suffer - in New England, consider the Massachusetts entry in Everett.

Wynn is effectively the company’s largest shareholder because he owns 9.9 percent of the stock and controls his ex-wife’s shares. If Elaine prevails in court, “Steve Wynn would not beneficially own or control Elaine Wynn’s shares and a change in control may result” under the terms of the company’s debt agreements, according to company filings. Once that happens, the company says it must offer to buy back $3 billion in bonds. The company, which has said it’s heavily indebted, might have to borrow more money to finance such a buyback.

With so many other irons in the fire, would Steve Wynn have the attention it would take to "woo" the Everett community? I guess, we'll see...

That's all for now.

Binbin

Can Foxwoods Make It in Milford?

"I've been down to the crossroads...."   (Cream, with Eric Clapton on vocals)

Nearing the end of a massive debt-restructuring and having completed a mostly voluntary downsizing of its workforce, Foxwoods finds itself at a crossroads.

It just doesn't seem that the Mashentuckets are making a circle of trust for their $1 billion casino project - it may or may not fly with the locals in Milford, Mass., an eastern Bay State town that a would-be casino developer has been courting for years and with whom Foxwoods is now partnered.

At a meeting last week in Milford, members of the town's Board of Selectmen panned as short on specifics a presentation by FCX Massachusetts LLC, the entity Scott Butera, Foxwoods' president and chief executive officer, has formed to carry the proposal forward.

But being so late to the party is never a good thing. First, Foxwoods barely made the first deadline to register for the party buy teaming up with Colorado-based developer David Nunes. Then, FCX picked up a baton seemingly dropped by Crossroads Massachusetts LLC and Nunes, who first proposed a Milford casino in 2008, Warner Gaming of Las Vegas, businessman Robert Potamkin and others.

However, not much has been done since while they have been finishing a massive debt restructuring and downsizing their workforce. First impressions a real important at parties - is this the impression their want to have before they start courting the people of Milford for that casino?

I wish them well, but, even if it clears those hurdles, Foxwoods could face competition for a casino license from Wynn Resorts and Caesars Entertainment, Las Vegas-based giants proposing casinos in Everett and in partnership with Suffolk Downs in East Boston respectively.

That's all for now - but. Think this is just the beginning of the drama in store.




Binbin

Hey Casinos - SERVICE COUNTS!

"Where Everybody Knows Your Na-ame"

Ah, Cheers!  I loved that show.  Besides the characters, Sam's crazy lovelife, and the placement in New England, it held one underlying truth that is important to me, and I hope those of you reading today - everyone likes to be recognized by a group of friends and made to feel at home. Anyone enjoys the friendly greeting you receive at a place like "Cheers" when you enter your favorite bar, shoe store, restaurant, OR CASINO!

A place as big as a casino may not know everybody's name, but it sure helps when you are made to feel like your patronage is appreciated.  It's called "service with a smile."  It used to be referred to as "the customer is always right" instead of "the customer better leave me a tip for just showing up with their meal."  Like Rodney Dangerfield said, ...lately, I get no respect."

SERVICE is a part of the casino's persona that I think sometimes all employees tend to is forgotten.  SERVICE shows the respect and appreciation for spending your hard-earned money at their establishment.

Whether the casino runs the restaurant, or they lease out the space for a chain, it still ALL reflects on the casino.  Bobby Flay, listen up.  Great burgers, but inconsistent and condescending waitresses will make patrons at Mohegan Sun walk to Johnny Rockets instead!  After waiting longer than usual for a burger "to go" at BBP, I finally get it handed to me, no explanation.  Upon asking why, I get that it's "usual to wait that long" with this patronizing smile.  Do they think we're stupid?  By the way, ten minutes before I asked about my order and watched as they panicked a little and put the order in again.  Good service is being honest, not assuming your customers are too stupid to know what happened.

Certain Casino brands get reputations for it's guest service - both bad & good.  Caesar's Entertainment (previously Harrah's) was not known for it's advantage gambling, but it's reward system and the way it treated it's customers was considered nationally as one of the best.  Then, their reputation changed with their name and the many casino acquisitions.  Now, it seems, they are placing more emphasis on service once again.  Casino CEO's, listen up - "IT'S THE LITTLE THINGS YOUR EMPLOYEES DO THAT MAKES US WANT TO COME BACK!"

Some recent experiences:
1)  I go to the Players Reward booth (M Life) at Mirage in Las Vegas.  I ask if there are any promotions I need to know about.  This young person behind the desk replies abruptly "I don't know?"  She stands there, flashing her fake eye lashes, with no answers, not offering to get any answers, and not even asking if there was anything she could do for me.  SERVICE RATING - Poor

2)  A musician in a local casino arrives at the venue early, and is met by a disgruntled, opinionated, arrogant, and obviously unhappy employee.  The sound engineer continues to berate the band, complain about things the musician have no control over, and complain about the casino's hiring bosses for not providing the correct paperwork.  In short, why is this employee dumping on me?  It's like yelling at the mailman because the letter you received wasn't sent by the sender on time!  EMPLOYEE ATTITUDE & SERVICE - Poor

3)  Same casino - a friend of mine plays plays video poker at $.25 level ($1.25 x 300 hands per hour equals $375 through in one hour) and orders a beer.  Without explanation, the bartender brings a bottle beer.  After the hour, he bills her $4.00 for the beer after playing $375 through.  ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!  But wait, there's more.....

The difference in these three scenarios - in #3 the manager came over, got the information, discussed it with the bartender, apologies were made and peace was restored. They made up for it with any libation on the house, and more importantly a sincere respect and concern for their patron - kudos! And I might add, a new found respect for that bar, that bartender, that management, and that casino.  SERVICE - "Cheers!"

SERVICE COUNTS!  When more casinos are built, and more options are available in New England, it will be SERVICE and the things that make you feel at home that will keep locals and attract day-trippers from other states.  I will go out on a limb here and say "none of the New England Casinos will offer advantage play games, and slots payout % will be similar to each other." (Wow, that's a stretch!)  The games will all be similar, maybe the rewards clubs will be a little different, and bonuses will be tried to lure people in, but in the end, a steady clientele is what will be needed for their bottom line.  So, what might be the difference breaker  is to keep locals and add patrons - SERVICE!  "WHERE EVERYBODY KNOWS YOUR NAME"

That's all for now.  But, I think it's "royally" enough said.  Don't you?

Binbin

"Roll the Bones" is a MUST READ!

1. If you gamble, buy it!
2. If you are interested in the history of gambling, read it!
3. If the correlation between history and social practices interest you, it should be in your resource library
4. If you visit Las Vegas, AC, Monte Carlo (the one in Europe), or Asia, this book will make every visit more meaningful than ever before.

YES, IT'S THAT GOOD!

In Roll the Bones, historian David G. Schwartz tells the epic story of gambling, beginning with its early emergence from divination rituals and ending with today’s global gaming culture. In a sweeping, rollicking narrative, Schwartz looks at the betting games people have played since the dawn of history, and argues convincingly that gambling has always been a crucial part of the human experience.

It is referred to as "The first narrative history of gambling, spanning the Stone Age to the Internet era, examining how it evolved with—and influenced—human civilization."

I started reading it and I couldn't put it down - and I really don't like reading anything more than the sports page in the newspaper!

It opens with an introduction about the Connecticut Pequot / Mohegan history and how the immergence of these two giants in the industry of Casino Gambling follows along the vast history of gambling itself. 

Dave Schwartz, or Dr. Dave as he is called on the Vegas gang Podcast, has a bio that includes:

• currently the Gaming and Hospitality Editor for Vegas Seven,
• is an active consultant. As Vice President of Research and Analytics for Santo Gaming
• earned his bachelor’s degree (a double major in anthropology and history) as well as his master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania before earning his doctorate in US History from UCLA.
• was dubbed “gaming’s leading historian” by Global Gaming Business magazine & has been in charge of the Center for Gaming Research within Special Collections in UNLV’s Lied Library. In addition to overseeing the holdings of the Gaming Collection, Schwartz designed and maintains the university’s gaming studies portal
• he lives in Las Vegas. (where else?)

Schwartz is a member of the Vegas Gang podcast, and has been quoted by writers for the Associated Press, UPI, Reuters, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Wired, Congressional Quarterly Weekly, Indianapolis Star, Philadelphia Inquirer, New Orleans Times-Picayune, International Gaming and Wagering Business, Player, San Francisco Chronicle, Crane’s Business, Los Angeles Times, Reno Gazette Journal, Las Vegas Sun, Las Vegas Review-Journal, and many other newspapers and magazines.

Card Player Magazine says “When you sit down to play poker, in a cardroom or online, you’re taking part in a drama that spans human history, and Schwartz has written the definitive account of that history in Roll the Bones.”

The book can be found easily at book stores or online, with copies available for Kindle, Nook, or iBook.

Dr. Dave himself says it all on his website, http://www.dgschwartz.com , "Ultimately, Roll the Bones explains how the human predilection for a wager shaped human history from the Ice Age to the Information Age. People spend nearly one trillion dollars worldwide on gambling a year–wouldn’t you like to learn a little about how we got there? "

Well, wouldn't you?.........Then, read the book!

That's all for now.

Binbin

Taxes - A Quick Gambler's Guide - Part 1

Wow! a Jackpot! Now What...

How many times have you finally hit that rare jackpot over $1200, your machine has locked up and here comes casino staff - much quicker than that 15-minute ago drink order.

"Congratulations!", as they make the usual check for any machine malfunction or possible shenanigans on your part - to be expected, of course. The you are asked the famous question "would you like taxes taken out now, or will you be taking it out later?

What's a person to do? You're excited, nervous (unless this thing happens to you all the time like me.....lol), and have to make this decision, usually without a lot of experience in this area.

Well, I am going to try to look into what the experts say about gambling & taxes. Today we look at the question of "tax me now, or tax me later?"

A personal true story that stopped me from ever considering getting taxes taken out instantly:
I was playing Triple Play Video Poker at the Palms in Las Vegas. Playing full-pay Bonus Poker I was dealt 10-J-Q-K of spades. Triple play, if you haven't played it, is a VP game where you play three hands based on the deal of the bottom hand. Most Video Poker paytables jackpot of a Royal Flush is 4000 credits, and at the $.25 level, that's under the taxable amount of anything over $1999. Well, I was extremely luck??? - I drew an A of spades at the top hand and a Straight Flush 9 of spades draw on the bottom for a total of 5000 credits - yeah! Oh wait a minute - that's $1250!
I took the taxes immediately because I didn't know any better and was handed a little over $900. I know I should be grateful, but on that extra $ 300 I could have played single VP all day - enough for comps, and future offers. THAT WAS THE LAST TIME I TOOK TAXES OT IMMEDIATELY!

IRS Reporting
All casino winnings are subject to federal taxes however the IRS only requires the casinos to report any wins over $1,200 on slot and video poker machines or other games such as keno, lottery or hose racing. When you have a win equal to or greater than $1200, you will be issued a W-2G form. This form lists your name, address and social security number. The casinos are not required to take out withholding tax on jackpots under $5,000 as long you supply your social security number. If you don’t provide your social security number the casinos will withhold 28 percent on smaller jackpots.

You can request a specific amount of withholding tax to be taken out on any jackpot you win. Some players like to do this to avoid a big tax payment in April when the file their income tax returns. The additional withholding may not be necessary if you keep a log book. The law allows you to deduct gambling loses up to the amount of your winnings. You can only do this if you have documentation of your losses. Keeping a diary or logbook, is the way to do this.

However if you gamble at a specific casino, you should ask for a win/loss statement that the casino will provide to show the losses that offset your jackpot. Personally, I am able to gamble enough locally and once per year in Las Vegas to get whatever win/loss statements from different casinos to show my losses to offset that jackpot. (Boy, can I show the losses!)

IF you still don't trust the players club, here is where it is your friend!
If you hit a big jackpot, you'll be so happy you were a player's club member you might just dance in the streets. If you weren't, you might be out in the street. Using your player's club card will allow the casino to keep track of your wins and losses. At the end of the year you can ask for a win/loss statement and they will either email or snail (if the post office is still in business) mail you a copy. That should shrink your big jackpot's tax liability.

Tomorrow, we will get some tax tips from gaming experts. That's all for now.

Binbin

Good Intentions, Change of Plan - The two-face approach to Casino Gambling

I was recently reading an article by John Grochowski's article "The Casino Slot Sybil" which got me thinking, "Are there two personalities battling to get out when  I enter a casino?"

I have always said that a true gambler is not one that takes chances on the biggest gamble, but a true gambler is the person who gambles using the best strategy, the best odds, and the best overall advantage.  I play Video Poker and I try to find the best paytables where ever I play.  I will even go out of my way to visit a different casino with better VP.  So, why will I play Monopoly PartyTrain for hours?

It's an interesting two-face approach for many of us - here's a typical pompous predictable discussion I have with myself, walking into the casino:

"Oh, Yes, I only play the best paytables, 3/2 Blackjack (single deck of course),  $5 dollar 3-reel slots, and the pass line bets on crap with the best odds offer.  Oh, goody-goody - there's the newest Wizard of Oz Progressive!"  (as a run over to the slot's last seat!)

Wow - stepping into a casino can make a person fickle - okay, it makes ME fickle.  Here are a few more examples - have you done similar decisions as this:

Good Intention - Play full pay 8/5 Bonus video poker
Change of Plan - Play 7/5 Draw poker because the bar has a great beer menu! (I do this all the time at the M Resort in Vegas)

Good Intention - Play $1 3-reel slot with higher payback percentage (usually)
Change of Plan - Play my favorite slot, progressive or not!

Good Intention - I will play Video poker to sustain my bankroll
Change of Plan - I play that favorite slot in the double points area that I'm sure will finally hit!

Good Intention - I'll just stop by the casino, have a nice meal on my $20 voucher and go home!
Change of plan - I'll just play $20 in this slot on my way out! (Seriously? How many times has that really worked?)

And finally,

Good Intention - I'll take a break after two hours for a good choice in eating
Change of plan - I play 4 hours straight and settle for three Krispy Kreme Donuts on my way out!
(I forget who told me this one)

That's all for now!

Binbin

What are you afraid of at the Casino? - Part 2

Maximize Your Fun - But Be Careful Of...

Part 1 yesterday dealt with the reasons to visit a casino besides gambling. But there are some things that patrons - gambling & non-gambling - need to be aware of. Here are a few:

FREE DRINKS - There are ways that casinos are able to promote their casino games to their patrons. One of which is to provide free drinks around. Although it is free casinos have something else to gain from their courtesy of free drinks. Some gamblers cannot seem to control taking advantage of these drinks that they often drink too much leading them to lose their reason and gamble uncontrollably to the casino's favor. Always take the casino free drinks in moderation.

GAMES PACE / SHUFFLE MASTERS - There are some casino games that are played in a faster pace. This will mean the faster the game the more the player places a wager which lead them to spend more within a few minutes. Dealers can deal cards at a lightning speed. Gamblers should always take a few moments off from playing a casino game and should always make sure they are playing correctly despite the fast paced game they are playing.

YOUR FELLOW PATRONS - Be aware of those around you. Every casino security director has many stories of those people who visit to take advantage of others. Whether it be stealing purses, chips or slot tickets (my own experience was Red Rock in 2011. A $400 ticket taken from me, but security retrieved it. It was like my own personal CSI!). Also beware of people who ask for your financial help. (I was approached twice by the same guy at two casinos - one vacation - in Vegas!)

ALWAYS CHECK DENOMINATION OF MACHINE - $.05 and $5 can look very similar!

IF YOU PLAY MAX BET, CHECK HOW MUCH THAT IS - Video poker players need to be careful. Some max bet can be up to 20 credits on a single line machine. Always play first hand by playing one bet until you get to you betting amount.

ASK FOR A SECURITY ESCORT IF YOU SCORE BIG - Any casino will always provide protection to your car.

ALWAYS MAKE SURE YOUR WALLET IS SAFE. Casinos attract pickpockets. Women should have purses that zip shut and have long straps on handbags so that they can go diagonally across your shoulder. Men should keep their wallet in their front pocket at all times. Keep your purse, wallet or bum bag with you at all times. Never put it down anywhere.

EMPTY CALORIES - Lots of dining options - and lots of fat-filled calories. Try to make good choices, and if you live close, take food home for tomorrow.

Be careful out there, but have a good time. A casino can be a great place for gambling or just for fun, but whatever the reason for your visit, be aware of your surroundings, the people around you and how gambling can entice you into bad choices.

That's all for now!

Binbin

What are you afraid of? Reasons to Visit a Casino beside Gambling

A little bird-walk never hurt anyone. So, today's blog is just that - instead of "Monday is Maine Day," or "Monday is Massachusetts Day," it's
"Monday is for My Reasons to Visit to Casinos besides Gambling" Day.
Yes, they try to dazzle us with big promises of financial possibilities. But in this day of casino resorts and casinos as vacation destinations, there are many more reasons to visit. Here are some of my faves - in no particular order:

MUSIC & COMEDIC ENTERTAINMENT - Whether I pay for it or have a concert comped freebie (Free? - we both know better), I love the entertainment casinos offer, whether it be 30 miles away or across the country in Vegas.

STAYING IN A BEAUTIFUL HOTEL - Sometimes, I just like to kick back, away from sounds of ringing slots and screaming winners. I still remember staying at Wynn and Cosmo the first time in Vegas. I just love that "ritzy" feeling.

PEOPLE WATCHING - Remember that movie title - "The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly." Watching people at a casino, hotel lobby, lounge, or club includes all three of those and everything between and beyond. Depending where you are, you could be a part of "the In crowd." (However, seriously, have you ever wondered how many people don't have mirrors in their home?) But, the creme de la creme usually lingers around the casino game tables and this gives you the opportunity to mingle with the wealthy crowd and even to form new relationships, both private and business. You never know who you might see.

SOCIALIZING - Catching up with friends and socializing is another very common reason for visiting a casino. We will often meet friends for coffee and just to catch up, never spending a dime on gaming.

EATING & DRINKING - I know singles and couples visit the casino to enjoy a few drinks at the bar or dance at a club. My wife and I enjoy the vast offerings in dining available, whether it be a terrific buffet, a gourmet burger or fine dining, there's always something for everyone.

EMPLOYMENT - yes, it's true. I have performed at the Foxwoods Atrium Lounge, Foxwoods conference center, Mohegan Sun's Wolf Den and Twin River's Lighthouse Lounge. By the way, it's always a good idea to leave with the money you make as an employee instead of turning into a patron.

SPORTING EVENTS - Boxing matches, basketball, arena football - these and more I have enjoyed at casino arenas. My two favorite events: #2 - PBR Professional Bull Riding & #1 - the Connecticut Sun WNBA Basketball at it's best, both at Mohegan Sun.

ACCOMPANYING A FRIEND OR GIVING A TOUR - Someone brought me here. Being that someone can be fun. So bring a partner, relative, friend or colleague.

THE DECOR - Ever walk in the Bellagio Garden in Las Vegas, or walk on the beach outside of the Biloxi casinos? The AC Boardwalk is a wonderful stroll on a spring afternoon. Take a good look around and you might be surprised what artistic and natural beauty you may see.

RELAXATION - As a means of relaxing and letting one's hair down, gambling can be a great way to unwind from the many stresses of life. But you don't have to gamble. The pleasant, elegant and relaxing atmosphere of the casino itself can be a major source of appeal in itself.

Yes, a casino is more than just gambling....period.

That's all for now!


Binbin

Monday is the "Maine" Event

Humor, Hollywood and Oxford...oh my!

There are many funny and unique things about Maine and Mainers, most notably their unusual, regional accent. The humor is often quite simple and straight-forward and reveals an inner wisdom with historical roots going back generations.  There are many famous Maine humorists / comedians, but I prefer my first experiences listening to the "Down East" stories of Bert & I.

Yes, I love Maine Humor, cause it's "wicked funny!" Check this "Application to Live in Maine" taken from a Maine fisherman's forum called Stripers Online -

http://www.gweep.net/~abate/hick.html

Wicked Good Oxford Casino
Maine's gambling control board is considering a proposal to allow a new variation of poker at one of the state's casinos. At its regular meeting Tuesday in Augusta, the board will consider Oxford Casino's proposal to begin offering a card game known as Pai Gow, a variant of a Chinese gambling game played with dominoes.

The goal is for a player to assemble seven cards dealt into two separate poker hands – one with five cards, the other with two – in hopes of beating the dealer on both.

For a great beginner's course to learn how to play Pai Gow Poker, check out the Wizard of Odds at http://wizardofodds.com/games/pai-gow-poker/ or click on the link to the right.

The gambling control board will see a demonstration of the game and review proposed rules for it.

Hollywood Casino, Hotel and Raceway
Hollywood Poker Open  - Win a seat to a Las Vegas poker tournament!

The M Resort in Las Vegas, one of this blogger's favorite Vegas properties, is hosting their first annual Hollywood Poker Open. In Bangor they are offering you a chance to win one of up to 8 prize packages to the HPO Championship Event with a $500,000 guaranteed prize pool! The package will include a $2,500 seat and a $1,500 cash prize to cover travel expenses.

To qualify, 8 players from Hollywood Casino Bangor will qualify for the final event to compete against other winners from other Hollywood properties. Winners will be determined by the number of hours played in cash poker games starting on November 19, 2012. The 50 players with the most hours of play will be determined on May 1, 2013.

The top 50 players will compete in a poker tournament(s) to determine the final 8 players. Each of the final 8 players will win seats in the Hollywood Poker Open in Las Vegas! In addition, the top 3 players of this qualifying tournament will win a share of $1,000 with the 1st position taking home $500, 2nd $300, and the 3rd $200.

Contact the Poker Room for complete details 1-877-779-7771.  Players must have a valid Club Hollywood card to qualify. Players must be 21 years of age or older to qualify. Tournament seat prizes valued at $2,500 are transferable. If a player would like to transfer their tournament seat prize an assignment prize form must be submitted.

That's all for now!


Binbin

Valentine's Day at New England Casinos

New England Casino Valentines Day Specials

Mohegan Sun Resort & Casino (CT)

Dining Specials

• Ben & Jerry's - $3 off all Valentine's Day Cakes 
• Ballo Italian Restaurant - Three special dishes are being prepared in addition to the regular dinner menu. - February 14th from 3:00pm - 10:00pm  Table side Macaroni & Cheese with Black Truffle & Parmigiano $18,  Pepper Crusted 8oz Filet Mignon and 6 oz Butter Poached Lobster Tail, Fingerling Potatoes and Broccolini $55.  Dessert tasting for 2 - Chocolate Budino, Chocolate Cheesecake, Vanilla Cannoli, Ricotta Zeppole and Biscotti $24 
• Todd English's Tusacany - It’s Valentine’s Day for two at Todd English’s Tuscany with a 4-course meal.  Choice of a Caesar or Bibb Salad, Appetizer or Flatbread to share. Choice of Spaghetti and Meatballs, 6 oz. Filet Mignon, Crispy Skin Salmon or Chicken Parmesan. Individual Petit Fallen Chocolate Cake for dessert. Complimentary glass of wine each from house selection.  This special can be purchased for $90 per couple on February 14th-17th.

Shopping Specials

• Brookstone - Max®2 Cordless Dual-Node Percussion Massager $229.99
• OSIM® uSqueez® App-Controlled Foot & Calf Massager $399.99
• Aero™ Wine Aerator by Brookstone $49.99
• Automatic Wine Opener with Foil Cutter $39.99
• Godiva Chocolatier - Special Pre-Order Savings: Chocolate Kissed Strawberries 6 pieces, $42 (a savings of $6 per box) available in milk, dark and white chocolate.

Hotel Specials
Tuscany Valentine's Day Package
Package offered at $269 for a one-night stay in a standard room $349 in a Cove Suite valid on February 14, 2013 only
Based on double occupancy
A four-course meal for two from a special fixed menu at Todd English's Tuscany
Chocolate Mousse Cake delivered to your room
Package offered at $399 for a one-night stay in a standard room $419 in a Cove Suite valid on February 15, 2013 only
Based on double occupancy
A four-course meal for two from a special fixed menu at Todd English's Tuscany
Chocolate Mousse Cake delivered to your room

Foxwoods Resort & Casino (CT)

Shrine at MGM Grand at Foxwoods - Valentines Day Sushi-Making Class
February 16, 1:00 PM, $175

Celebrate Valentine's Day at the Grand Rink at MGM Grand at Foxwoods
It'll be a fine romance on February 14 this year, thanks to the MGM Grand at Foxwoods. In celebration of Valentine's Day, the MGM Grand's Grand Rink will be decked out with red lights and other heartwarming decorations, making it the perfect spot to skate right into Cupid's arrow.
As part of the event, guests can enter a "Love to Skate" raffle to win a Foxwoods Couples Escape Package, which includes dinner for two at Paragon; a Couples Spa Package at Norwich Spa at Foxwoods; overnight accommodations at the Grand Pequot Tower Hotel; and a gift from Munson's Chocolates.  Guests will enjoy complimentary samples from Munson's Chocolates and Gelato Café. Complimentary hot beverages, including coffee, cider, and hot chocolate, will also be available.
The event will take place Monday, Feb. 14 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.; "Love to Skate" raffle drawing at 6 p.m. (Inclement Weather Date: Wednesday, February 16).
Admission is $10 for two plus skate rental ($5 for adults, $2 for kids ages 13 and under) or bring own skates.

Romance Packages
$379 - “G Spa Couples Retreat” G Spa at MGM at Foxwoods
Valid Monday – Thursday, Feb 4 – Feb 28, 2013 Special price for February!
Deluxe Room at MGM Grand at Foxwoods
Aromatherapy massage for two in G Spa’s couples suite
Hand or foot paraffin treatment
Champagne & Strawberries for two served at the spa
Spa day pass valid all day
Upgrade to a Producer or Director suite for $60 more
Based on availability and double occupancy. Blackout dates and restrictions apply. Spa reservations must be made prior to check in.

$399 – “Romance Package” The Norwich Spa at Foxwoods
Valid Monday – Thursday, Feb 4 – Feb 28, 2013
Deluxe Room at Grand Pequot Tower or the Great Cedar Hotel
50 Minute Swedish massage for two
Express Manicure or Pedicure for two
Champagne & Strawberries for two served at the spa
Spa Day Pass valid all day
Massages offered in the Duet Treatment Room (Limited Availability) and in separate treatment rooms. Based on availability and double occupancy. Blackout dates and restrictions apply. Spa reservations must be made prior to check in.
Call 1-800-369-9663 to book one of these special packages today.

$1,999 - $2,499 - "Take a Chance on Love Package"
Available Thursday - Sunday Now through Feb 28, 2013.
Roll the dice at Grand Pequot Tower VIP check-in (to determine if you would get champagne in room, rose petal turn down, or chocolate covered strawberries)
Chef table for two at Paragon
"For couples only" package at Norwich Spa
Villa accommodations at Grand Pequot Tower

Twin River Casino (RI)
Valentines Day Dining Specials
Wicked Good Bar & Grill - see website for menus
Fred & Steve's have special - see website for menus

Newport Grand Casino (RI)
Valentine's Day Menu - Thursday, 2/14 thru Saturday, 2/16
Available in the Grand Grille - see website for menus

Hollywood Casino (ME)

• Hollywood's showing you the love this Valentine's Day! Valentine ballots available starting at 8am. The first 100 to deposit their ballot at 7pm will win a box of chocolates that could contain $100 Free Slot Play! Drawings for $500 Free Slot Play at 10pm, how sweet is that? Visit Player Services for complete details.
• Valentine's Day Dinner at Hollywood Casino by Jac Kern, Saturday February 12 | $110, $50
• Enjoy a romantic meal at Final Cut Steakhouse, Saturday or Sunday, including seafood pasta, chateaubriand for two and chocolate fondue. Call 1-888-274-6797 for reservations, $110 per couple. On Monday, stop into the Hollywood Marquee Cafe and have stuffed portabella mushroom, chicken piccata for two and chocolate mousse, reservations are not required, $50 per couple.  Restaurant Hours: 5-11 p.m. Saturday, 5-10 p.m. Sunday, 4:30-10 p.m. Monday.
• Enjoy a romantic meal at Final Cut Steakhouse, Saturday or Sunday, including seafood pasta, chateaubriand for two and chocolate fondue. Call 1-888-274-6797 for reservations, $110 per couple. 
• On Monday, stop into the Hollywood Marquee Cafe and have stuffed portabella mushroom, chicken piccata for two and chocolate mousse, reservations are not required, $50 per couple. Restaurant Hours: 5-11 p.m. Saturday, 5-10 p.m. Sunday, 4:30-10 p.m. Monday.

Another player in Massachusetts, but not necessarily a stranger to the woods of New England!

And the Plot Thickens....

The Mashentuckets have decided to join the fray by their decision to become a big player, joining with developer David Nunes - the mysterious last minute entry (10 minutes before the deadline) to the party with no location.  Now we know more!

David Nunes controls 177 acres acres off of I-495 in Milford, about 35 miles away from Boston. Foxwoods and Nunes will now compete in a Boston area trifecta with Caesars Entertainment (Suffolk Downs) and Wynn resorts, which plans a hotel resort in Everett.

The partners have not settled on a name, but will be a "Foxwoods" brand with the Pequots having a great influence in the design of the resort. Foxwoods chief executive, Scott Butera, says he loves the site.  "It's in an area that you can build with very little disruption" Butera said. "We have a customer base and we think we can instantly this property."

Of course, the fact that the Mashentuckets have run one of the largest casinos in the world for 21 years will be a key selling point. And about one third of Foxwoods visitors are from Massachusetts.  With the threat of losing customers to Massachusetts casinos, getting this licence will be no lose at all, considering they will be losing visitors to themselves!

This brings to mind the question "What will be best for New England's Gamblers - competition between gaming giants or the lack there of?"

Scenerio 1- Foxwoods in Boston market, Mohegan Sun in western Mass, and the Mashpee Wampanoags in the southeast, and one slot parlor.  Would this make the current markets in CT stronger, while watering down the quality by lack of competition?  We've already seen it on the Las Vegas Strip, with MGM & Caesar's controlling most of the strip.  As we have seen in Vegas, the amenities continue to improve, but the cost of entertainment and the value of gaming continues to decrease.  The slot payout percentage on the strip is equal to that of the Sun & Foxwoods, with table games worse - at least the CT casinos don't offer 6/5 Blackjack! (at least for now - see scenario two)

Scenario 2 - Completely different players in all areas, calling for competition to lure gamblers from all parts of New England - MGM or Penn in the west, Caesar's or Wynn in Boston, the Mashpees and a slot parlor.  !0 different players bringing their brand of gaming and resorts.  Here's a brief opinion of what each brings:

• MGM - International name, excellent entertainment, poor rewards, mediocre to poor gambling value, but an overall attention to the resort experience. (6/5 blackjack & high table limits)

• Caesars (formerly Harrah's) - best rewards club, good comps and room offers, mediocre to poor gambling value (6/5 blackjack, but good slot offerings), known for taking care of it's patrons, but not taking care of it's properties. (Have you seen the Las Vegas Paris balloon lately?)

• Wynn - extravagant properties, decent rewards club, fabulous restaurants and particular attention to those who can afford it!

• Penn - owners of the slightly smaller Hollywood brand, but not a small player by any means.  They know how to run smaller resorts, including raceways (such as our own Casino in Maine at Hollywood Raceway) turned into casinos.  West Virginia, Mississippi, and their new ventures in Ohio and Maryland.  Their only property in Nevada, 10 miles outside of Las Vegas, is the beautiful M Resort which they have run the gambling operations for a few years now.  Unfortunately, while it is a wonderful resort, and a personal fave of mine, since taking over the gambling operations from the Marnell familly, I have seen changes in fewer or cheaper comps, promotions, room offers and gaming value.

So, there is one man's opinions about the future casino movement in Massachusetts and it's players. I can't wait to turn the page and see what royal turn of events is in the next chapter!

It sure is exciting to see it all unfold. But, all this has me exhausted. (I think a nap is in order since everywhere in Connecticut today is one sheet of glare ice.)  It's like watching that mess on I-95 in New Haven turn into a really great highway, if that sort of thing interests you - it interest me!  (Hmmm, too much information)

That's all for now! It's better for both of us I stop now.

Binbin

Binbin Slot Philosophy 101

So, I enjoy playing slots as much as the next guy. I love watching and reading about the business of gambling and how slot machines come and go. I love how they entice us, tease us, and play with our senses with color, sound, 3-D images and 4-D technology that makes you feel like you are a part of the action.

I have my favorites - Cashman Betting Zoo & More Chili by Aristocrat, Cleopatra II by IGT, Ruby Ring by WMS, and almost anything Monopoly! But I try the new generation of slots, too.

Now I'm sure that anyone can find a machine that contadicts what I'm about to include. It just shows that there ARE people who actually think about what machine to play instead of mindlessly walking from one machine to another. I welcome any comments on this matter. So, here are a few "binbin-isms" concerning slots:

• One thing to remember is video slots will usually pay more often, but in smaller amounts. 3-reel machines pay fewer times, but usually in a larger amount. It evens out - it just depends what you enjoy.  
• For the most part, any slot (not including VP Progressives) with a progressive pays out a lower percentage because of the higher take needed by the casino to cover the progressive. It comes down to how much fun and recreation do you want to pay for.
• BANKROLL - determine how you are going to manage your bankroll for that night and then stick to that plan! For example, " I am bringing $$ amount of money and I hope to play for ??? hours." If your bankroll goes south quickly, walk to different parts of the casino, or ask for a drink - then relax while waiting. A walk is always good to get your mind more energized.
• If my bankroll is going slowly or if I'm winning, I try not to play faster. And if you hit something good (small jackpot, good bonus), remember it could happen again. So, don't be so quick to get up. But again, it just doesn't matter. 
• Remember the RNG doesn't have a memory - each push of the button is it's own entity in time. And hot and cold streaks are just perceived by us humans to make us thing we actually have some understanding and control. Give that up - you have no control! 
• If you can't afford the maximum bet on one machine, switch to a machine with fewer reels or a lower denomination so that you can still be in the running for the jackpots.
• If you can't afford the max bet, at least play all the lines. 
• You should never assume that you're going to start winning soon just because you've sat playing the same machine all night. The payout's are still random, so the chances are just the same no matter what. You've got just as much chance of winning on a fresh machine as a stale one.
• Finally, remember that the new payout systems called TITO (Ticket In, Ticket Out) help you play faster. No more hopper fills, or large coin payouts to slow you down (remember those days!....my hands sometimes looked like I had just finished my shift in the coal mines!). So, take a walk - cash it back in to money. Walk to the cashiers booth to give your legs a nice walk and give yourself a break.  The machines will wait, and NO, they aren't programmed to "go off" at a certain time or number of pulls.

So, relax.....enjoy your time with these electronic wonders. And if it isn't fun anymore, leave or call someone. When it's not fun anymore, it's time to quit.

That's all for now!

Binbin