Powerball Realities

You Can't Win If You Don't Play.......

Yes, that's true. Let's review some other "You can't....if You Don't......" sayings:

1. "You Can't Win If You Don't Enter" (Still waiting for the balloons & GIGANTIC Check!)
2. "You Can't Sit If You Want to be Fit" (True! I'm glad I found that saying sitting in my recliner!)
3. "(If) You Can't Say Something Nice, Don't say ANYTHING AT ALL"
4. "You Can't Complain If You Don't Vote" (Just think - If we had a $1 National Complaint Jar, We'd turn that deficit around in no time!)
5. "You Can't Make Your Bed If You're a Tyrannosaurus Rex"(Ok, that's kinda off track, but pretty funny - trying picturing it)

So, today, POWERBALL is BIG! POWERBALL MANIA is out of control. (Really? I have to wait in line to pay cash for gas at Bin's Gas Station, Convenience Store, & Dry Cleaners?)

Well, it IS true - "You Can't Win If You Don't Play." So what chances do you have to win? Well, you have better odds in the following:

• Birthing identical quadruplets - Odds: 13,000,000 to 1
• Becoming an astronaut - Odds: 12,100,000 to 1
• Becoming a movie star - Odds: 1,505,000 to 1
• Getting a royal flush in a first hand of poker - Odds: 649,740 to 1
• Finding a four leaf clover - Odds: 10,000 to 1

One more thing is TRUE - THE ODDS DON'T CHANGE! YOU DON'T HAVE A BETTER CHANCE IF MORE OR LESS PEOPLE BUY TICKETS, OR WHATEVER THE JACKPOT IS!
I heard this said on TV this morning, "You'd think the odds would be better to win at a low jackpot since less people are buying tickets..." OMG! That type of thinking is the same as looking for a cold slot - it's bound to hit. WOW Gambling sure brings out the "smarts" out in people.

Here's the facts:

• There is a 1 in 175,223,510 chance of winning the jackpot, according to the website of the Multi-State Lottery Association.
• There's a 1 in 31.85 chance that a ticket holder could win something, including the smallest prize of $4.
• The pot is technically $320 million, but has a cash value after taxes of $193.8 million, according to the association.

Though sizable, tonight's pot pales in comparison with last year's $588 million Powerball jackpot.So, hey why bother. Afterall, most of us aren't even interested if the jackpot is only 8 digits!

So, it's true - You Can't Win If You Don't Play. Have fun with it, although, you're likelier to die getting struck by lightning than winning the Powerball jackpot: 1 in 134,906.

That's all for now. I have to rush down to Lotto Mart to buy "a" ticket.

Binbin

Foxwoods Friday

A high-level executive leaves Foxwoods Resort Casino
Todd Greenberg, Foxwoods' chief operating officer, has left "to pursue other interests," Scott Butera, Foxwoods' president and chief executive officer, said Monday in a message to other Foxwoods executives, while a Mohegan Sun spokeswoman confirmed Tuesday that Brian Bork, Mohegan Sun's chief marketing officer, had recently decided to leave the Uncasville casino.

"We have devised a strong interim plan for the departments directly affected by this change. …" Butera said of Greenberg's leaving. "Please know that we remain keenly focused on our vision for the success of Foxwoods."

Foxwoods is reorganizing its workforce, a process that involves the elimination of an unspecified number of jobs.

Greenberg was elevated to the COO's position in August 2011, six months after his hiring as senior vice president, a post in which he oversaw the Mashantucket Pequot Gaming Enterprise's gaming operations. The tribal enterprise operates Foxwoods, including MGM Grand at Foxwoods.

Outlets? Where?
When Foxwoods announced the building of The Premier Outlet Shoppes at Foxwoods, a new $100 million-plus luxury retail outlet center, I just didn't ask the question - WHERE? Construction of the 320,000-square-foot center — with its 85 luxury outlets and a retractable roof for seasonable outdoor shopping — is set to begin this spring. I found this artists rendering in an archived article from the Boston Herald:


I believe the white "U" shaped building is where it will be built. From right to left, you have the MGM parking garage, the hotel tower, the casino, and in the upper left hand corner you can see the connecting hallway to Foxwoods.

That's all for now.

Binbin

This Weekend's New England Casino Entertainment

Remember to Check Casino Websites before visiting the casino!

Mohegan Sun Resort & Casino (CT)
Arena
Kenny Chesney
with special guests Eli Young Band and Kacey Musgraves
Friday, March 22nd - 7:30pm
Saturday, March 23rd - 7:30pm

Wolf Den
Friday, March 22nd - 8:00pm Robert Randolph and The Family Band
Saturday, March 23rd - 8:00pm - Foghat

Cabaret Theater
Saturday March 23rd 9:00
Dom Irrera
with special guest Peter Bales

Foxwoods Resort & Casino (CT)
COMIX at FOXWOODS
JULIAN MCCULLOUGH Friday, March 22nd & Saturday, March 23rd - 7:30pm
COMIX One Night Stand  - March 22, 10:30 PM
NASTY SHOW - March 23, 10:30 PM

Twin River Casino (RI)
Lighthouse Bar
Friday March 22nd - Amish Outlaws - 8:30pm
Saturday March 23rd - Blurred Vision - 8:30pm

Catch A Rising Star
Friday March 22nd - Dan Crohn - 8:00pm & Frank Santos Jr. - Comic Hypnotist 10:15pm
Saturday March 23rd - John Rineman and Dan Crohn @ 8:00 & 10:00

Newport Grand (RI)
Newport Grand Event Center
FREE CONCERT - Tribute to the Rolling Stones - The Glimmer Twins
Saturday March 23, 2013 9:00 PM

Grand Cocktail Lounge
Saturday March 23rd - 9:00 - Damaged Goods

Hollywood Casino (ME)
The Sound Stage Lounge
Friday March 22nd - Rockin Ron- 9:00PM
Saturday March 23rd - Rock Revelation - 9:00PM

That's all For now

Binbin

"Where Have All the Gamblers Gone"...and where are they going?

Is New England On It's Way to Localized Gambling or Are We Seeing Signs of Over-saturation By 2020?

Numerous articles and commentaries point to different trends in New England gambling. The landscape of casinos in New England, influenced by the economy and new gaming possibilities, is experiencing a change in clientele. Here are examples of changing times for existing casinos:

1) Maine is experiencing a success with both casinos. Locals are supporting both. Good times continue for Oxford & Hollywood Casino, Raceway & Hotel.

2) The New England Gaming Behavior Survey revealed that gamblers from the Commonwealth made more than five million visits to Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun Casino in 2012. At the same time, Connecticut's casinos have continued to experience big declines in year-to-year slot revenues over the last year due in large part to Massachusetts residents who have significantly scaled back on the number of visits they make to casinos.

3) While neither Rhode Island slot parlor can compete with the Connecticut casinos' range of gaming and non-gaming amenities, Twin River's closer proximity to the population-rich centers of central and eastern Massachusetts, combined with aggressive advertising and marketing campaigns, has made Twin River a favored alternative for convenience gamblers, particularly as gasoline prices have remained high and the Connecticut casinos have tightened up on their player reward programs. The surge in Massachusetts residents visiting Twin River coincided with steep declines in visits to Foxwoods Resort casino and Mohegan Sun in Connecticut, which have been forced to lay off thousands of employees as their profits have plummeted over the last five years.

4) A slot machine parlor in Worcester is now a distinct possibility as Massachusetts Gaming & Entertainment, LLC, a subsidiary of Chicago-based Rush Street Gaming, designated the Heart of the Commonwealth as the preferred site for its application with the state's Gaming Commission last week.

5) The report, titled "Bring It On Home, An Overview of Gaming Behavior in New England," finds that residents in the five states surveyed - Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island - are generally gambling less and spending their remaining gambling dollars closer to home. Seventeen percent of the respondents indicated they had visited Foxwoods in 2012, down from 22 percent in 2008, while 14 percent had visited Mohegan Sun, down from 19 percent four years earlier.

ENTER MASSACHUSETTS CASINOS: Like it or not, casino gambling is coming to Massachusetts. The UMass-Dartmouth Center for Policy Analysis has been studying New England's gaming behavior. Wherever that Western Massachusetts casino ends up, making that trip down to Connecticut may become unnecessary. The report also says, "If the trends in this study continue, the long term success of a casino in Western Massachusetts could depend on if other casinos are built in neighboring states. Any casino built in the Albany region, near Hartford, western New Hampshire or southern Vermont could have a dramatic impact on the success of one in Western Massachusetts."

The only thing that can be considered certain in New England Casinos is....... well, uncertainty. There are some who insist this might be the beginning sign of over-saturation - too many casinos, not enough patrons to feed them all.

I would prefer to cheer the future of gaming in NE.  But to be honest, sometimes I wonder what the future holds.....

That's all for now.

Binbin

"Sun" Sunday

Mohegan Sun News & Promos

Mohegan Sun has some shopping specials for the month of March with a hint of green for St. Patrick's Day:

• The Bow & Arrow Sports Bar - $5.50 pints of Guinness
• The Old Farmer's Almanac General Store - LED Fiber Optic Angel - $40
• Ben & Jerry's Minter Wonderland Shakes - $6.50
• Hash House A Go Go Pub Crawl - $13.50
• The Lansdowne Irish PUb & Music House Corned Beef & Cabbage - $16

You can use your players club card points for these promos as well

SHINE 360
I always wondered what this was. I haven't tried it yet. So, what exactly is it?
It's a space where guests can experience the excitement of a “phygital” experience. Patented technology in the Shine 360° enables creation of one-of-a-kind 360 degree video, capturing each guest’s shining moment in the spotlight and instantly sharing it through Facebook, Twitter and e-mail. A growing trend in Europe, “phygital” marketing brings physical experiences to life in the digital world. You step inside and strike a pose as cameras capture a video of your shining moment. Guests enter Shine 360° and immediately are transformed into “digital celebrities” as 48 photos are simultaneously snapped in a circle around them. In seconds, the photos are seamlessly transformed into a 360-degree head-to-toe, back-to-front image. You can share your video with friends, or watch it again to relive your time in the spotlight.
Located in Casino of the Sky, across from the Arena Club entrance, this 24-foot wide installation captures users’ celebrity moments from every angle, creating a 360 video that they can immediately share with their social media ‘fans.’ There is no charge to use the booth; guests just need to be 21 years of age or older and be a Player’s Club member.

It's open every Friday & Saturday Night, 6pm to 2am

Finally, Congratulations.....
I like to concentrate on New England Gaming, but at this moment, I would like to look to AC and congratulate Jeff Hartman, previous President and Chief Executive Officer of Mohegan Sun from January 2011 until October 2012. I knew him through my career in education and his wonderful family, and through discussions about the PowerBonusing additions at the Sun.

Revel AC Inc. announced that it has appointed Mr. Hartmann as Revel AC’s Interim Chief Executive Officer, subject to regulatory approval. Jeff is a more than 20-year veteran of the gaming, hospitality and leisure industries, and possesses a solid understanding of Revel’s business, having worked with the Company on a consultancy basis since the beginning of 2013. I wish him and his family well, as well as Revel which seems to need a good person to bring it out of it's shaky beginning in AC.

That's all for now! Happy St. Patrick's Day.

Binbin

Foxwoods Fridays

NEWS
Foxwoods Resort Casino is seeking to shed 50 table-games dealers.....
According to the dealers' union. In a notice to members, Local 2121 of the UAW, which represents some 2,100 dealers, says casino management is offering 10 severance packages for "dual-rates" - dealers who sometimes serve in supervisory roles - and 40 for regular dealers, of which 15 are "enhanced."

The offers provide two weeks' pay for each year of employment up to a maximum of 26 weeks. The enhanced packages also provide an additional amount for the tokes, or tips, dealers regularly earn.

Earlier this year, 15 dealers accepted early-retirement packages after the union filed a grievance in connection with the casino's hiring of 15 Mashantucket Pequot tribal members who'd been trained as dealers. The Mashantuckets own Foxwoods. "It actually worked out well," said Mary Johnson, the union president. "We had enough people who wanted to go." Johnson said Tuesday she was hoping to similarly avoid "any involuntary layoffs" in the current downsizing among dealers.

PROMOTIONS
UNLOCK the VAULT - Win $100,000
Guests arriving on selected bus runs from January 13 to March 31 will receive ONE entry ticket attached to their Bus Bonus Package. Receive ONE EXTRA BONUS ENTRY for each Foxwoods Rewards Point earned when playing your favorite Table Games or Slots. Each month 21 lucky winners will enter a five (5) digit code to our Money Vault for a chance to win $100,000 in CASH. If the vault does not open, winners are GUARANTEED a CASH PRIZE from $100-$2,000. Visit http://www.foxwoods.com/unlockthevault/ for more details.

Comix Hotel Package:March's Prize
Enter to win a new prize each month which includes overnight stay, and may come with dinner, entertainment, golf, or spa services! Visit http://bit.ly/fwwin to enter.
Part of the package includes:

• Deluxe Room at Grand Pequot Tower or Great Cedar Hotel
• Admission for Two to Comix at Foxwoods
• Beverage Coupon

The winner will be drawn on March 29.

Win Some Green - $17,000 Hot Seat Cash Giveaway
Sunday, March 17 • 2PM-7PM
Be in the right seat at the right time and you could win your share of over $17,000! Simply play your favorite slots and table games.

That's all for now. Tomorrow i will look for St Patty Day Specials.

Binbin

Slot Players and their Quirks

Weekend Entertainment will be pushed to tomorrow for this very important announcement.

A HIGH PERCENTAGE OF SLOTS PLAYERS are quirky, crazy and/or just plain NUTS!!!

Recently, I visited a local casino - 2x points, COOL!

In the short time I was there, the crazy quirks of slot players were all around me - so distracting, amazingly entertaining, and incredibly ANNOYING!  Here are a few of the varios slot players that we find around us at any given casino visit:

#1 The Slapper - "yes!," I said to myself.  "Hit it harder show it you mean bussiness!  Maybe you can dislocate your finger or break the machine in the process!"         SO ANNOYING!

#2 The Pre-Melodic Player - This is the person who hits all the "#of lines" buttons, composing the beautiful sounds of the slot symphony, before they push the bet button.  "ding, doing, donk, ping, pang, etc....."  are some the sounds - I know you've heard it before.  Sometimes well composed like that annoying song on the radio played over and over and over.  Other times, they mix it up - you know to fake out the machine as they improvise the melody.      PLEASE STOP!  IT DOES NOTHING except to be SO ANNOYING!

#3 The Bitter "Just my luck" Player - Oh yes, you know the kind.  They play the machine on your right,  lose quickly, move to the machine to your left while somebody else takes their previous seat on your right.  The new person on your right hits the bonus immediately.  Uh-oh, here it comes....... The person on your left says to you quietly, so the person on your right does really hear (as if I Care!) "I just left that machine - so typical, NOW it gets hot - I hate this place!"  blah, blah, blah - get over it!  I'M NOT INTERESTED IN YOUR SOURPUSS ATTITUDE!  IF YOU'RE UNHAPPY - LEAVE!  YOU KNOW WHY? - BECAUSE YOU'RE SO ANNOYING!

Finally
#4 - The Card Switcher - It is inevitable to sit next to someone who has to switch their players card if they git a winning streak or losing steak.  In and out, in and out.  WHY?  The machine doesn't care, it doesn't know the difference - IT'S A MACHINE!!!  You can't fake it out - IT DOESN'T HAVE A BRAIN - IT DOESN'T HAVE AN OPINION - IT'S A MACHINE!!!!  And to everyone else, IT'S JUST SO ANNOYING!!!!

Now, take a deep breath close your eyes and repeat after me.....
"I Have no control over the RNG, "I Have no control over the RNG, "I Have no control over the RNG, "I Have no control over the RNG..........

There, now doesn't that feel better?

That's all for now. 

Binbin

Taxes - A Quick Gambler's Guide - Part 2

In part 1, I suggested to not have the taxes taken out immediately after hitting a jackpot over $1200. Instead keep a log and get win/loss statements from the casinos you play at the most.

Let's see what some of the IRS thinks:

Your gambling winnings are fully taxable and must be reported on your income tax return, says Mike Dobzinski, a spokesman for the Internal Revenue Services. He has five tips for gamblers:

1) Gambling income includes winnings from lotteries, raffles, horse races, and casinos - whether it is cash or the fair market value of prizes such as cars and trips.

2) Gambling operators are required to give you Form W-2G, Certain Gambling Winnings, if you win $1,200 or more in gambling winnings from bingo or slot machines and more than $5,000 in winnings (reduced by the wager or buy-in) from a poker tournament.

3) Report all gambling winnings on the "Other income" line of Form 1040.

4) Claim your gambling losses up to the amount of your winnings on Schedule A, Itemized Deductions, under "Other Miscellaneous Deductions." You must report the full amount of your winnings as income and claim your allowable losses separately. You cannot reduce your gambling winnings by your gambling losses and report the difference. Your records should also show your winnings separately from your losses.

5) Keep accurate records. "If you are going to deduct gambling losses, you must have receipts, tickets, statements and documentation such as a diary or similar record of your losses and winnings."

Two things keep coming up in my research. Keep good records, logs and receipts - and that win/loss statements aren't good enough by themselves. Remember - all wins AND losses are taxable!

Don't make any royal tax mistakes. 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

"Sun" Sunday

Mohegan Sun Promotions

Free Slot Play Mania
Sundays, March 10th & 24th
6:00am - Midnight
Simply insert your Player's Club card into your favorite slot machine.
Earn 1 Player's Club point* and receive $15 in Free Slot Play!

Double Points
EVERY TUESDAY IN MARCH!
Play your favorite slots* between 6:00AM - MIDNIGHT each day to receive your DOUBLE POINTS!     TUESDAYS | MARCH 19TH AND 26TH
*Select machines excluded.


MOHEGAN SUN'S $25,000 Best of the Bracket Giveaway
March 18th - 21st
Swipe your Player's Club card once starting Monday, March 18th through Thursday, March 21st at the designated kiosks in Earth or Sky Promotions, as well as Bow & Arrow Sports Bar, to choose which team you think will win the 2013 men's college basketball tournament! As your team advances, you will earn entries towards the grand prize drawing, a trip to see the final four teams play during championship weekend in 2014 in Arlington, Texas! Plus, you can win cash prizes or a home entertainment system from Brookstone!

Powerplay Bonusing
Virtual RacingFriday, March 22nd
Each hour from 10:00pm - Midnight
Simply play at least $20 on your favorite slot games* during the half-hour prior to each Virtual Race to be eligible. Choose the winning horse on the Mohegan Sun Circuit and receive $25 in Free Slot Play instantly!       *Select slot games excluded

Power Winners "Mystery" Instant HitWednesday, March 27th
Noon - 2:00pm, 4:00pm - 6:00pm & 8:00pm - 11:00pm
GUARANTEED TO WIN AT LEAST $10 IN FREE SLOT PLAY!
Simply insert your Player's Club card while playing your favorite slot games. Two Instant Hits will occur between Noon - 2:00pm, two more between 4:00pm - 6:00pm and three between 8:00pm - 11:00pm! But it's a mystery exactly when the Instant Hits will occur! For each Instant Hit, 50 Player's Club members will receive $100 IN FREE SLOT PLAY INSTANTLY! In addition, all other Player's Club members who have their card properly inserted in their slot game will receive $10 IN FREE SLOT PLAY INSTANTLY!


That's all for now!


Binbin

Mass Casino Suitors Unusual Requirements Part 3

MASS GAMING WEBSITE, MOHEGAN SUN in PALMER and WAMPANOAG UPDATE

MassGaming.com - A Wealth of Information
The process that Massachusetts is going through can be somewhat bewildering. The confusion over sites and licenses, deadlines and political concerns can be rather frustrating, causing some us to patiently scream "Just build the damn things!"

Of course it's not so easy. There are so many personal, political, environmental, socio-economic, finacial, and transportation concerns to be considered, of course the process seems longer than it should be. But, we all know every must be left un-turned to issure the potential success and saftey of each property, because when it's built (unlike Las Vegas) it's there to stay!

The Massachusetts Gaming website at massgaming.com is a great resource for keeping track of all gambling in Massachusetts. It's quite extensive, but here are a few important sections to check out concerning the Casino process:

• Community Caleandar - this lists the community events, meetings, and reports that are included in the requirement of all potential casino builders to rech out to the communities.
• Live Streaming - watch live video of MassGaming's open public meetings. If you can't get to a meeting in Springfield, for example, it might be included in this live feed.
• Licensing & Regulations - a little tough to get through, but very informative concerning the process.
• Timeline - which established the approximate time frame for the licensing process for its Category 1 (resort casinos) licenses in regions A (Eastern MA) & B (Western MA). The status of Region C (Southeastern MA) is on hold until at least March 15, 2013.

VERY INFORMATIVE - Check it out!

Mohegan Sun unveiled a new name and brand for its Western Massachusetts casino endeavor: Mohegan Sun Massachusetts.
The new brand features a new logo, updated website, direct-mail newsletter, and social media functions.

Mohegan Sun is taking the rich railroad history of Palmer, Mass. and incorporating it into the new location’s brand. The logo features a signature railroad track motif and the history is highlighted in some of the architectural features of the new casino, which is to be built on 151 acres of land in Palmer.

“We wanted our logo and brand to reflect the great history of Palmer because the community has been so supportive and engaged,” says Mitchell Etess, chief executive office of the Mohegan Trial Gaming Authority.

Mohegan Sun has also announced a new event series: “Working At and Working With Mohegan Sun: A Community Conversation.” This project is designed to answer questions, provide extensive employment information, and establish vendor relationships with the casino giant.

The new northwest Massachusetts location will create over 2,000 new jobs in a variety of fields. Etess explains that Mohegan Sun Massachusetts will, “deliver jobs, revenue, economic growth and memorable experiences for visitors from all over the Northeast – and from every corner of the Commonwealth.”

Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Update
With regulators on the cusp of opening up the southeast region of the state to commercial casino developers, Gov. Deval Patrick and the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe have a “framework” of a compact they plan to show federal officials in the hopes of avoiding another rejection, according to the governor.

“We’re in negotiations,” Patrick told reporters on Tuesday. “We’ve got a model we’re trying to work through with the tribe, and we have a hope – I think it’s either by the end of this week or early next week – to be able to go down to the Bureau of Indian Affairs and show them the framework so that we can get some preliminary feedback from them and we don’t go through the process we did the last time of thinking we had a deal that was going to satisfy them. It’s hard.”

The Mashpee are hoping to build a resort casino in a Taunton office park. In December, the Gaming Commission tabled discussion of whether to start the licensure process for other, commercial developers in the southeast region, giving the tribe until March 15 to show progress has been made in securing the necessary land-in-trust agreement from the federal government and on the compact. The commission plans to revisit the discussion at its Thursday, March 21 meeting, the first after the deadline.

So much happening - So little time!     That's all for now.

Tomorrow is back to "Sun" Sundays!

Binbin

Mass Casino Suitors Unusual Requirements Part 2

A Look at Western Massachusetts Licensees & Their Approach to the Surrounding Communities

The ombudsman for the Massachusetts Gaming Commission told local people Wednesday the state encourages communities surrounding a municipality with the potential to host a casino to speak with casino applicants.

“We encourage all surrounding communities to be in touch with applicants,” John Ziemba told the city’s Casino Commission and the Town Council’s Casino Mitigation Committee.

All Surrounding communities of the Binbin "Yo Eleven" companies will be courted in the upcoming months. Let's look at the Springfield trifecta of Hard Rock, Penn, and MGM:

Hard Rock International and the Bronson Companies would like to develop a $500 million to $800 million resort-style casino at the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds. Plans call for a 400- to 500-room hotel as well as a parking deck, a performance center and other amenities. Eastern States Exposition Chief Executive Officer Eugene J. Cassidy has said his organization is investigating having a casino on its property because of fears that a casino in Springfield would take entertainment, trade fair and other business away from it. That would threaten the existence of the exposition, he said. Locally, people have expressed concerns that a casino on the fairgrounds, which are off Memorial Avenue, would worsen existing traffic problems, particularly during the Big E annual agricultural fair. The yearly event that New Englanders equate as their "Texas State Fair" is difficult to consider changed by this casino development. I'm sure the Hard Rock's events will close for the weeks it's open, and Springfield traffic is bad enough at those times. An asset or a hindrance to New England's "State Fair?" I say a hindrance. The location is not the best for surrounding communities.

MGM Resorts International and Penn National Gaming, competing to build a casino in Springfield, plan to make new public presentations on March 11, designed to clarify their traffic plans, entertainment and non-casino components. The presentations are scheduled from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., at City Stage, located at 1 Columbus Center. The presentations, announced by Mayor Domenic J. Sarno, are open to the public.

“It is part of our continuing effort to get as much information out to the public as possible,” said Kevin E. Kennedy, the city’s chief development officer. “Both of these subjects – traffic and entertainment will be integral to a successful application for a gaming commission license.”

The purpose of the presentations is to allow the proposers to present and explain certain refinements in their proposals related to traffic and the non-casino aspects of their proposals developed in response to the city’s requests for clarifications and the updated draft evaluation criteria issued by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, officials said. While the public may attend, the presentation will not involve a question and answer period for the public. The areas targeted, especially entertainment, dining, and tourism, “really have a significant regional impact,” Kennedy said.

According to a prepared statement issued by the mayor's office, the city expects each proposer to send representatives of their companies to make the presentations in a format that is conducive to the audience in attendance, as well as an audience watching on a live web based video feed and/or television broadcast. The city will arrange for live stream through its website (www.springfield-ma.gov/casino) and has arranged a live feed through MassLive.com and its television partner, CBS 3 Springfield, and it will also be broadcast live on Comcast Channel 293. A recording of the proceedings will be posted to the Springfield Redevelopment Authority webpage. The presentations will be open to the public on a first come basis. CityStage doors will open at 2 p.m. The area seats approximately 400 people. There will be no reserved seating.

Saturday- a look at the Mohegan Massachusetts and an update on the Wampanoag's bid.
Tomorrow is Foxwoods-MGM Friday.

That's all for now.

Binbin

Unusual Requirements Continue to Become Part of Mass Casino Process - Part 1

Casino companies in Massachusetts face unusual requirement to negotiate deals with 'surrounding' communities

Casino companies in Western Massachusetts and municipal leaders are preparing for some high-stakes negotiations over impact fees and other measures to alleviate the effects of gambling projects on cities and towns that surround a community that would be home to a casino.

Massachusetts is among many states that require commercial casinos to negotiate contracts with municipalities where the resort would be built. But unlike other states, Massachusetts also requires developers to reach separate, written mitigation agreements with each community that might border or be close to a "host" community, casino executives said.


Below are artist renderings of Western Mass proposals:

Clockwise from upper left, Hard Rock International Resorts in West Springfield; MGM Resorts International in Springfield; Penn National Gaming in Springfield; and Mohegan Sun in Palmer. In the coming days, I will take a closer look at individual proposals.

In Western Massachusetts, that means up to a couple dozen different communities could eventually be negotiating agreements for fees, traffic or sewer improvements, school funds or other ways to offset the impacts of casinos in a nearby city or town.

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission, the powerful five-member state agency that will issue licenses for casinos, would be ultimately responsible for designating some municipalities as "surrounding" communities, authorizing them to negotiate agreements with casinos.

The casino law mandates that casino developers reach written agreements with communities where they want to open a resort and then put the details in those agreements up for a vote. Casinos need voter approval before they apply for a state license.

The adjacent or surrounding communities don't get to vote on casinos, but they can negotiate with companies for fees, improvements to roads or other infrastructure and other protections. The agreements with surrounding communities need to be approved before the gaming commission grants a license.

Casino companies must reach mitigation agreements with surrounding communities as part of the process for applying for a state license from the gaming commission.

It's currently unclear what communities will be officially named as "surrounding" communities and allowed to bargain for agreements.

More to follow on this process during the next posts.  Tomorrow will still be Weekend Entertainment Wednesday.  That's all for now.

Binbin

Weekend Entertainment Wednesday

This Weekend’s Casino Entertainment - Check websites for ticket information.

Happy New Year! Let's see what brewing this weekend in New England's Casinos

Mohegan Sun Resort & Casino (CT)
Wolf Den
Friday Jan. 4th 8:00 - The Man in Black: A Tribute to Johnny Cash
Saturday Jan 5th 8:00 - Classic Albums Live: Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon
The Arena
Saturday Jan 5th 8:00 - Reality Fighting: A Night of MMA Fights
Cabaret Theater
Saturday Jan 5th 9:00 - Treehouse Comedy Productions presents
RC Smith & Rich Ceisler with Special guest Joey Novick

Foxwoods Resort & Casino (CT)
Great Cedar Exhibition Hall
Now - Feb 24 – “Victory – an Exhibit of Red Sox History”; $10 - $15
Comix at Foxwoods
Saturday Jan 5th - Latino Comix First Friday; 10:30
Greg Warren - Friday - 8:00pm, Saturday - 8:00/10:30pm

Twin River Casino (RI)
Friday Jan. 4th @ Catch A Rising Star - Brian Beaudoin - 8:00 PM
Saturday Jan 5th @ Catch A Rising Star - Frank Santos, Comic Hypnotist 10:15

Hollywood Casino (ME)
The Sound Stage Lounge
Friday Jan. 4th - Stillwaters Band - 9:00PM
Saturday Jan 5th - Full Drive Band 9:00PM

Fiscal Cliff and New England Casinos

The Fiscal Cliff looms as New England Casinos already try to regain financial momentum, especially Connecticut casinos. Travel expenses will cut into available bankrolls, general funds for recreation will be diminished, and players will be forced to stay closer to home. Let's look at each states possible consequences:

MAINE - This may cause less of an increase in revenue for the two competing casinos (-) but many from the Pine Tree state may not be traveling elsewhere (CT, RI) to play (+). Maine Casinos could see the smallest decrease.

MASSACHUSETTS - Sending the economy over the fiscal cliff could cost Massachusetts more jobs than have been created in the past year(-). Jobs created by for the future casinos will be different from the jobs lost.job. These losses would be felt particularly in the state’s high-tech sector, where high-paying jobs in research and development would disappear. Moody’s Analytics, a forecasting firm in West Chester, Pa., predicted that the combination of tax increases and spending cuts would cost Massachusetts 74,000 jobs. “That is a huge job loss,” Clayton-Matthews said.(-) The change in jobs may cause the legislature to drag their feet in casino selection and postpone the decision to continue the process. Also, the players involved in getting licenced in Massachusetts (MGM, Caesar's, Wynn, Mohegan Sun) may get cold feet if the state seems to be more of a "gamble" for success.(-)

RHODE ISLAND - A decrease in available luxury spending may keep the Ocean State's faithful home, even in Newport! But their proximity to CT might not change where they gamble, just how much.(-)

CONNECTICUT - With both casinos having layoffs, and dealing with declining revenues over the last three quarters, the Nutmeg State may feel it the most. (--) New York still looms big, enticing CT's gamblers. And Rhode Island's Twin River continues to work on not only keeping it's players at home, teasing CT gamblers and working on future prospects and a base of clients in Massachusetts before their casinos are up and running. The future seems rather difficult for the Sun & Foxwoods, although they continue to try different promotions, add shopping outlets and continue to offer the best concert talent of all northeast casinos.

Economists predict.Casinos nationwide could see their profits fall by as much as 10 percent if Congress and the White House fail to reach agreement to avoid a budget crisis, a top credit ratings agency warned Monday. Moody’s Investors Service said the gambling industry would be particularly vulnerable if Washington’s budget negotiations falter, leading to a series of spending cuts and tax increases that could harm consumer confidence and drive the country over the “fiscal cliff.”

“The gaming sector’s economic health depends entirely on customers’ discretionary spending habits,” Moody’s noted in a research report. “Even as the severe downturn during 2008-09 has faded, U.S. consumers remain under pressure from weak growth in their disposable personal incomes, as well as increasing living expenses. Any further drop in consumer confidence would keep even more potential gaming customers from spending their money at casinos.” Moody’s predicted that casino operating profits could decline between 5 percent and 10 percent if wary gamblers stay home. Atlantic City’s casinos, already suffering in the fragile economy, have seen their gambling revenue sink 8 percent in the first 11 months this year!

Let's not forget hurricane Sandy that closed casinos in the northeast. Casinos are expected to take months to fully recover from the storm. Collectively, Atlantic City’s 12 casino hotels lost an estimated $5 million in gambling revenue each day they were closed in the hurricane’s aftermath.

Dear legislators, please do your job. We have enough economic "royal " pains to deal with.

Binbin

What are your Casino New Year's Resolutions?

Do people really make resolutions and stick to them? C'mon now - really?

I think we as human beings make resolutions on January 1st with all good intentions. I really do! They represent hope - change for the better - forward improvement. Whether we follow them or not, they represent what we think are important changes to make as individuals and as a society.

So resolutions are good, right? Let's look at some gambling resolutions for the new year:

1) I will stay withing my Bankroll! Know what you can spend. If you have a winning session, great! If not, stick to your limit. If losses approach the amount you're willing to spend, slow down. Take a timeout, get a snack - people watch! If you hit your limit, it's time to stop

2) I won't bother people near me - I will respect other players space and focus. Instead of bothering others, I will do my own homework and learn the games myself.

3) I will learn the games before I play: A little homework goes a long way in helping to cut the odds against you at casino games. Learn basic strategy in blackjack and for each video poker game you play. Know the rules and best bets in craps. No matter your game of choice, buy a good book and read about the best methods of play.

4) I will keep part of my winnings: Your winnings aren't "their money." As soon as you've won it, it's yours, and you don't have to give it back. On any sizable win, put at least half of it away. You can buy yourself a treat, go out for an evening on the town, put a little away for the kids' or grandkids' educations, pay bills --- whatever you want.

5) I will keep track of my gambling. Keeping track of stats such as time spent, casinos visited, promotions used, money won/lost, etc...will force you to look at your gaming experiences. Patterns of losing play, or machines played, may indicate that changes are needed.

6) I will play only with money I can afford to lose: When the losses come, make sure you don't have money earmarked for food, clothing, school, the rent or mortgage on the line. Play with money budgeted for entertainment, not for life's necessities.

7) I will never chase losses: What's worse than losing money? Losing even more in a desperate attempt to win it back. You're never "due" to win, and wins and losses don't have to even out in the time we play. A losing streak means it's time to ease back or quit, not bet more.

8) I will never use credit card cash advances for gambling money: Think the house edge is high on some games? Try comparing it to credit card interest rates. The house edge added to interest on borrowed money and ATM fees --- that's a tough combination to overcome.

9) I will go easy on the alcohol: If you want to have a drink while you play, that's your business. You don't want your judgment impaired with money on the line. Have a good time, but keep a clear head, too.

10) I will keep perspective and play for fun: Keep perspective and play for fun. Gambling in a casino is not a get-rich-quick scheme. Only a handful of blackjack and video poker players have the skill, discipline and bankroll to enable them to make money in the long run. Most of us will lose more than we win at any game. Most players are best off to treat losses as the price of admission for a day's entertainment. Casino gambling is a form of entertainment, a way to have a good time. On those days when we take a little extra cash home, so much the better. But even a losing day can be fun if you keep your expectations realistic.

11) I will pay attention to my TITO payments.Be careful with your money. There are people out there who look to take other players money, TITO vouchers (TITO = Ticket In, Ticket Out) purses and more. That's their job! Be careful out there

12) I will be more aware of my Rewards Account. Remember, all rewards clubs have different rules. 1 point in one club equals $1, but other clubs have 100 points equaling $1. And be aware of when your points expire.

I'm sure there are more. Whatever your resolutions may be, I hope you keep them as long as possible. I hope your New year is a prosperous one - make 2013 the best gaming experience yet. Get that royal!

That's all for now

Binbin

Foxwoods Friday

New Slots Expected at Foxwoods
Looks like the slots manufacturers have been busy.  The following include some new interesting slots you should find in December and to enter in the new year:
1) "Cheers" - a slot where everybody knows your name!  Lots of bonus and mini-bonus features with clips from the sitcom.
2) "Kiss" slots - from the high-heeled metal band.  Another theme slot with multi-array games, original game mechanics and a rockin’ soundtrack.
3) Aristocrat Gaming introduces three new slots - "Cashman Alive," Tarzan-Lord of the Jungle" and "Tarzan - The adventures Return"

$5 Burger Days at David Burke Prime
Where to find the best burger at Foxwoods? According to Connecticut magazine, it's at David Burke Prime. And on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, you can get our famous, juicy, 28-day dry-aged burger for only $5. For a few dollars more you can add a salad or french fries. But any way you bite it, it's not just the best burger at the casino, it's the best bargain, too. Thursday, Friday and Saturday only 12pm – 4pm. Call 860-312-8753 for reservations.

Looking for other things to do at Foxwoods?
Try some modest shopping on the concourse; be tempted tby Native American artifacts, men’s and women’s clothing and athletic gear, shoes, purses, and jewelry. 
For a literal breath of fresh air, a 1.9-mile trail leads through the woods to the Mashantucket Museum & Research Center (Wed-Sat 9 a.m.-5 p.m., adults $15, 55 and up $13, 6-15 $10) where exhibits detail the natural history of the area as well as the history and culture of the nation that owns the casino. There is also a shuttle bus between the casino and the museum. 
If it's a walk inside you're looking for after that big buffet, try a walk from the farthest end of Foxwoods all the way to MGM and back.  You might want to reward yourself with either Junior's Cheesecake on your way back or stop in at Gelato Cafe and treat your sweet tooth to the silky, smooth, luscious flavors of handcrafted Italian-style ice cream – 24 flavors to be exact.
Then, you might have to do that power walk all over again!  Yummm....

That's all for now.  I say royal, you say _____! (Louder)   I say royal, you say _____!   Nice!

Binbin

This Weekend’s Casino Entertainment - Check websites for ticket information.

Short listing this week.  Next week I'll include a long list of New Year's Eve Events in New England Casinos.
Binbin

Mohegan Sun Resort & Casino (CT)
Wolf Den
Ronnie Specter's Best Christmas Party Ever
Saturday, December 22nd - 8:00pm
The Arena 
Straight No Chaser; Friday, December 21th - 8:00pm
Cabaret Theater
The Funniest Comic in New England Contest
Saturday, December 22nd - 9:00pm

Foxwoods Resort & Casino (CT)
Great Cedar Exhibition Hall
Now - Feb 24 – “Victory – an Exhibit of Red Sox History”; $10 - $15
Comix at Foxwoods
Lenny Marcus - December 19-22 (4 Shows)
Thursday - 8:00pm, Friday - 8:00pm, Saturday - 8:00/10:30pm
MGM Grand TheaterDecember 21st, 8:00 PM - Kenny Rogers
December 22nd, 11:00 PM - Dai Nhac Hoi
 
Twin River Casino (RI)
Friday, December 21st @ Catch A Rising Star - Ben Hague - 7:30PM
Saturday, December 22nd @ Catch A Rising Star - Big P and the Pussycats featuring Vinny Pastore- 8:00PM

Hollywood Casino (ME)
The Sound Stage Lounge
Friday, December 21st- Kayla Wass Trio - 9:00PM
Saturday, December 22nd - Kayla Wass Band  9:00PM

Tuesday Tidbits

Random stuff concerning New England Gambling, US Gambling, and gambling in general.

• In this year’s election news, the biggest election-day casino issue was in Maryland which approved the addition of table games at its casinos, including a sixth resort that will be built near Washington D.C. As we remember in New England, table games were also approved for Rhode Island’s Twin River slot parlor, but were declined for the Newport Grand. And, a measure to escalate a casino presence in Oregon was defeated.

• Ever get "free slot play?" Ever play just the free slot play, then leave? Well, consider this.  Whatever your playing status (card tier) is - low, mid to high roller status - casino management looks at all of your play statistics - time played, denomination, bet amount, games - high or low house advantage - and time away (for example, Mohegan Sun looks at last 6 visits). If your "free slot play" only visit isn't incorporated in your usual amount of play, it may decrease your perks and your tier-status. Something to keep in mind on those days you go to eat and play your free slot play and leave, damaging your player rating!  Not that I would know, I mean, so I've heard.....

• Frank Scoblete, well known gambling author and teacher, gives the following suggestions about protecting your money in a casino - Men should never keep their wallets in their back pockets. Get a shirt with a pocket in front that buttons and keep your money in there. Some savvy craps players even keep a “dummy” wallet in their back pockets.  Women should never put your purse on the floor, or on the drink shelf that surrounds the craps table at thigh level, or between slot machines. Doing so is an invitation to long-armed thieves. Keep your purse wrapped securely around your shoulder, on your lap covered by your arm, or keep it in your hands. The bottom line is to make the thief realize that it is going to take quite an effort to dislodge you from your purse. Both sexes can protect their money by using a secure fanny pack or waist pack.

You can find more of Frank’s teachings at his site http://www.gamblingteachers.com.

• Promotion - Shop & Dine Anywhere at Mohegan Sun w/ a $25 Gift Card and $15 in Free Slot Play for $25 ($40 Value) Limit 1 per person, per Player's Club card. Voucher expires December 31, 2012. From ReferLocal. http://tinyurl.com/b76kqym

• A Doctor Poker Player - A doctor answers his phone and hears the familiar voice of a colleague on the other end of the line. "We need a fourth for poker," said the friend. "I'll be right over," whispered the doctor. As he was putting on his coat, his wife asked, "Is it serious?" "Oh yes, quite serious," said the doctor gravely. "In fact, there are three doctors there already!"

• Finally, a Casino Myth from Frank Scoblete:   Casinos are not interested in low rollers. To get comps, you have to bet big money.   If you play the machines, even for quarters, you aren’t as low a roller as you think you are. Put three quarters in a machine every five seconds and you are putting through $540 per hour. Play four hours and you just gambled $2,160 -- wow! The casinos will be more than happy to recognize such action with free or discounted rooms, meals and other special promotions. If you play table games, you might not want to be a five-dollar bettor looking for comps in a casino where they only rate $25 action. However, there are plenty of casinos that will gladly comp five-dollar players if they play long enough. The bottom line is this: Most casinos want just about all players. Find the places that give your action the most in perks as possible...and then patronize them. 

That's all for now.  A-K-Q-J-10 all diamonds.  Diamonds aren't just a girl's best friend!

Binbin

Maine Monday

MAINE CASINOS

HOLLYWOOD CASINO, HOTEL & RACEWAY
NEWS
They'll soon be rolling the dice at the Hollywood Casino in Bangor, Maine.

AP reports that the casino is adding craps to its offering of gambling options beginning Friday. The casino has had slot machines since it opened as Maine's first casino in 2005, and added blackjack, poker and roulette earlier this year. General Manager John Osborne says customers have been asking that craps be added to the mix, but the casino doesn't have enough craps dealers for the table to operate daily. That could change next year after a new round of table games operators completes training courses at Eastern Maine Community College.

Craps will officially debut at 5 p.m. Friday and will be open to play from 5 p.m. to closing on Fridays and Saturdays.

Hollywood also expects this to be the best year ever as they continue to offer new table games. As of now, they offer Poker, Blackjack, 3 card poker, Texas Hold 'em, and Roulette. After a slight dip in revenue last year, they expect to be more than 3 million more than last year.

HOLLYWOOD PROMOTIONS 

• WIN Free Slot Play - December 22  - Don't miss out on the first four Saturdays of December for your chance to win! Hollywood will be giving away a share of $2,500 Free Slot Play on December 1, 8, 15, & 22. Simply play with your Club Hollywood card from 3-8pm on each date to qualify. Visit Player Services for complete details.

• Win $100 Free Slot Play! - December 26 - We'll end our 12 Days of Winter with a poke or a pinch, to an ugly sweater wearer chosen by our Hollywood Grinch! Come into Hollywood wearing your ugliest holiday sweater on December 26 for your chance to win. Visit Player Services for complete details.

OXFORD CASINO
Meanwhile, The Oxford Casino in Maine is on the verge of receiving final approval from the state’s Gambling Control Board for an expanded gambling area in the casino. While the final decision hasn’t been meted down yet, the casino is optimistic that he approval will pass, allowing it to add more table games and slot machines on the casino floor to add to the current gambling options – 529 slot machines and 12 table games – the Oxford Casino already has in its fold.


That's all for now.  May all your flushes be royal.

Binbin