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Tag: Casino

  • Government in Thailand Hints at Plans for Three Casino Resorts in Bangkok

    Government in Thailand Hints at Plans for Three Casino Resorts in Bangkok

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    The new government in Thailand is exploring options for casino gambling at several locations across the country, including at least three in Bangkok, local media reports suggest. Last month, the country took a major step toward casino resort regulation. This happened after a draft casino bill was released which outlined key regulations related to integrated resorts that would be permitted to offer casino gambling.

    Thailand retained the positive momentum with the casino legalization receiving overwhelming public support. During a recent public hearing on the proposal, the casino project received approval from approximately 80% of the participants.

    Thai Government Presses Forward with Entertainment Complex Project Proposal

    Earlier this week, Suksit Srichomkwan, the deputy secretary-general to the country’s Prime Minister for Political Affairs, quoted by the Nation, revealed that the government intends to push for legislation that permits the development of several large-scale integrated resorts.

    Developed under the same model as the one operating in Singapore, the government anticipates that the “entertainment complex” projects will boost tourism while attracting investments worth billions of baht.

    The efforts in Thailand do not come as a surprise, considering that countries across the globe capitalize on gambling as a way to generate extra tax revenue and boost tourism. In addition to proceeds from taxes and licensing fees, such large-scale projects provide new employment opportunities and provide significant economic stimulus.

    The Country Considers the Development of Seven Integrated Resorts

    In the words of Srichomkwan, Thailand will consider the development of a total of seven entertainment resorts. The government’s proposal is expected to include the development of three such venues in Bangkok, the country’s capital and home to nearly 11 million people.

    Besides Bangkok, entertainment venues are expected to be developed in four other tourist provinces. The large-scale projects would offer luxury hotel accommodation, shopping outlets, entertainment venues and other amenities with casinos taking no more than 10% of the total area of each venue.

    The Projects Represent Investments Worth Billions of Baht

    Per the media report, citing sources close to the Ministry of Finance, the seven entertainment complexes are expected to represent an investment between 300 billion baht ($8.9 billion) and 500 billion baht ($14.9 billion). The minimum investment in each of the four projects outside Bangkok is expected to be 50 billion baht ($1.49 billion). On the other hand, each of the three casino resort projects in Bangkok would require an investment of a minimum of 100 billion baht ($2.97 billion).

    Considering the size of the investments, should Thailand proceed with opening bids, it is likely to attract major gambling and hospitality operators. The list includes Wynn Resorts, Las Vegas Sands, as well as MGM Resorts International, among others, that have already explored options for expanding their operations to Thailand.

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    Jerome García

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  • Australian Court Orders Foreign High Roller to Pay Back Gambling Debt

    Australian Court Orders Foreign High Roller to Pay Back Gambling Debt

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    The Supreme Court in Brisbane has ordered high roller Yew Choy Wong to pay back some AUD 38 million to Star Entertainment Queensland. This came in response to the accumulation of significant gambling debt.

    Wong Accumulated a Debt He Refused to Pay

    Wong, for context, was invited to the Star Gold Coast casino in 2018. He proceeded to lose a staggering AUD 47.3 million in the span of five days. Wong, however, did not settle his account before leaving the country.

    Star Gold Coast tried to use a check Wong had provided on a previous gambling trip. Unfortunately, Wong had already contacted his bank, telling its employees to stop payment on any checks from The Star Entertainment Group.

    The Australian operator asked the high roller to pay back the AUD 43.2 million he owed but he ignored the company’s pleas. The Singaporean national insisted that he owed no money because of a verbal agreement he made with the casino after vocally objecting to the way his baccarat cards were dealt.

    Wong elaborated that the dealing had caused him to stop playing. Then, on July 29, 2018, he was offered AUD 4.5 million rebated by the casino’s president of international gambling, the Singaporean high roller added.

    Wong did not accept and, on July 30, allegedly reached an agreement with Paul Arbuckle, the casino’s chief operating officer, who told him that he would not have to pay any losses up until that date. The C-suite officer later denied these claims.

    The Court Found No Evidence Star Waived the Debt

    The court confirmed that the Star Entertainment team had sent a letter to Wong, apologizing for not following his preferred way of playing. However, the letter in question did not mention any debt waiving of the high roller’s gambling debt.

    After considering all available information, Justice Melanie Hindman pointed out that if The Star Entertainment team had waived the debt, it would have mentioned it in the letter. Overall, the court found no proof that backed Wong’s claims.

    As a result, Hindman concluded that Wong must pay back the money he owed with interest. The interest would be calculated from September 27, 2018, to the date of the judgments at a rate of $8,819 a day.

    Speaking of The Star, the company remains embroiled in trouble in New South Wales where it was recently deemed unsuitable to hold a license, again. Adding to the operator’s woes, its shares were suspended from the ASX because of a missed deadline.

    According to recent reports, not even the recent opening of Queens Wharf Brisbane managed to fully mitigate the financial troubles The Star is experiencing.

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    Deyan Dimitrov

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  • Casino Mogul Ira Lubert Donates $10M to Beaver Stadium Renovation

    Casino Mogul Ira Lubert Donates $10M to Beaver Stadium Renovation

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    Ira Lubert, a prominent Penn State alumnus, trustee, and successful casino owner, has donated $10 million toward ongoing renovations at Beaver Stadium, Penn State’s iconic football field. The university announced the generous gift that will give Lubert and his family naming rights, honoring them through the planned Lubert Family Welcome Center.

    A Centerpiece Project Will Honor the Lubert Name

    The Lubert Family Welcome Center will be one of the signature features in the stadium’s redesign. The ambitious $700 million renovation plan intends to create a better experience for prospective and new students. This gift represents the fourth eight-figure donation for Beaver Stadium’s redesign and elevates the total sum received to $55 million.

    Penn State president Neeli Bendapudi praised the Lubert family’s continuing commitment to the university. Alumnus and Penn State Board of Trustees Chair Ira Lubert has been one of the long-standing contributors to Penn State. His $10 million gift adds to his enduring legacy and relentless pursuit of campus facility improvements.

    (Ira and Pam) are ensuring that new generations of Penn Staters will discover connection, community, and their path to success from their earliest moments on campus.

    Neeli Bendapudi, Penn State president

    A “front door” into the university, the Lubert Family Welcome Center will add approximately 47,000 square feet of event space. It will feature resources to support Penn State’s admissions efforts. The Welcome Center will also double down as a multipurpose event space for large-scale gatherings, addressing the local community and athletic department’s growing needs.

    Lubert’s Casino Is a Walk Away from the Penn State Campus

    Aside from his contribution to Penn State, Ira Lubert is an established figure in the gaming world. He gained significant attention when he won a Category 4 casino license in September 2020 with a winning bid of  $10,000,101. The $123 million project will redevelop the Nittany Mall, just a few miles from Penn State’s main campus, transforming it into a 94,000-square-foot casino.

    Before taking on this new project, Lubert was a partner at Rivers Casino Pittsburgh, giving him the necessary experience to pursue such an ambitious venture. His planned mini-casino will offer 750 slot machines, 30 table games, and a sportsbook for a comprehensive gaming experience. Additional amenities will include a restaurant, bar, and fast-food options.

    The university has decided not to oppose Lubert’s nearby casino development, likely relying on his expertise to create a safe and sustainable gaming venue. His philanthropic and business endeavors continue to leave a lasting impact on Penn State and its surrounding community and will culminate with Beaver Stadium’s grand reopening sometime in 2027.

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    Deyan Dimitrov

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  • Danish Gambling Authority Shuts Down 79 Unlicensed Sites

    Danish Gambling Authority Shuts Down 79 Unlicensed Sites

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    At the end of August, a court decision allowed Denmark’s Gambling Authority (DGA), Spillemyndigheden, to block 79 illegal gambling websites. 

    Danish Gambling Regulator Blocks 162 Illegal Gambling Sites in 2024

    The recently blocked unlicensed gambling websites included online casinos, sports betting, and skin betting platforms that targeted Danish citizens even kids and young adults. This move brings the total number of blocked websites in 2024 to 162, the most in a single year since the Danish regulator started its crackdown in 2012. To date the DGA, has blocked 438 websites in total.

    The DGA stressed how important it is to keep young users safe. The regulator has managed to do this by shutting down websites that push skin betting. This is a kind of gambling where players use fake money like “Robux” from the popular game Roblox to make bets and win prizes. 

    Anders Dorph, who’s in charge of the DGA, pointed out the dangers these sites could bring to kids: “We pay particular attention to this new type of site. Roblox is a game that is very popular among children and young people under the age of 18. Our children should not be introduced to gambling when they play video games, so I am very pleased that we have blocked access to these sites.”

    Besides shutting down unauthorized gambling websites, the DGA took steps to make sure players know the risks of using illegal gambling sites. When people try to visit these blocked websites, they are sent to a warning page. This page tells them the site is not legal and does not have the safeguards that licensed operators provide. Dorph said some players might try to get around the blocks, so the warnings must be easy to understand and find.

    Additionally, the latest round of blocks saw three telecom companies that are not members of the Teleindustrien trade group taking part. Their involvement widens the scope of the DGA’s actions making sure more Danish users are shielded from unlawful gambling websites.

    Dorph was pleased with this broader teamwork pointing out that it helps protect even more people from the dangers of using unregulated sites.

    What is more, the DGA keeps an eye on the growing problem of gambling addiction in young adults. Numbers from Denmark’s gambling helpline StopSpillet, show that 41% of calls since 2019 have come from people 25 or younger pointing to a concerning trend in youth gambling. In the same way, the country’s self-exclusion register ROFUS, reports that 41% of its users are under 30 further highlighting the need to consider strict rules and preventive steps.

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    Silvia Pavlof

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  • BOS Asks Sweden to Allow Private Casinos as Casino Cosmopol Closure Looms

    BOS Asks Sweden to Allow Private Casinos as Casino Cosmopol Closure Looms

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    The Swedish Trade Association for Online Gambling (BOS), a body representing 18 Swedish gambling companies, has weighed in on the proposed closure of the state-owned Casino Cosmopol in Stockholm.

    BOS Wants the Government to Greenlight Private Casinos

    The BOS supported the closure, agreeing with the government’s argument that governments should not operate casinos. However, since Casino Cosmopol is the last land-based property in Sweden, closing it would effectively end traditional casino gaming in the country.

    Because of that, the BOS expressed its belief that the government should greenlight private land-based casinos in the country. For context, Sweden currently prohibits such properties, only allowing the state-owned Casino Cosmopol to serve as a monopoly.

    Sweden, as of now, has no actual plans to allow commercial casinos operated by private companies. The BOS therefore expressed concern about this stance, saying that if Casino Cosmopol closes, Sweden will not have a single legal land-based casino.

    Casinos Are Important to the Overall Gambling Ecosystem

    Gustaf Hoffstedt, secretary general of the BOS, commented on the matter, highlighting the importance of land-based casinos. While he conceded that such properties have a very small role when it comes to turnover, he noted that they play an important part in the overall gambling ecosystem.

    Additionally, Hoffstedt argued that land-based casinos attract tourists, solidifying Sweden as a tourist country. Finally, he said that the existence of legal casinos deters illegal gambling clubs.

    Because of that, Hoffstedt is firm that Sweden should legalize privately owned casinos.

    We propose that the government, at the same time as they close their own government casino, open up for private companies to offer land-based casinos in Sweden.

    Gustaf Hoffstedt, secretary general, BOS

    This is not the first time the BOS has disagreed with the Swedish government’s decisions. Earlier, the industry body expressed its dismay at Sweden’s gambling tax hike. Hoffstedt, who previously called the measure a “gift to the black market,” argued that it would make legal operators less competitive, allowing their offshore counterparts to thrive.

    Speaking of gaming regulation in Sweden, the country’s regulator, the Spelinspektionen, recently banned Small House BV for targeting the market despite lacking a license. Earlier, the authority issued a warning and a financial penalty against Folkspel, which violated the country’s regulations by employing insufficient routines for the prevention of underage gambling.

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    Angel Hristov

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  • The Evolution of Online Casinos: From Slots to Live Dealer Games – Philadelphia Sports Nation

    The Evolution of Online Casinos: From Slots to Live Dealer Games – Philadelphia Sports Nation

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    Since their launch in the middle of the 1990s, online casinos have advanced significantly.
    What started as a simple platform offering basic slot games has evolved into a multi-faceted entertainment hub, providing a wide array of gaming options, including immersive live dealer games.

    This article explores the significant milestones in the evolution of online casinos, examining how technological advancements and changing consumer preferences have shaped the industry.For a comprehensive experience, you can visit Parimatch, which offers a diverse range of gaming options.

    The Early Days of Online Casinos

    The first online casinos emerged in the mid-1990s, following the development of the Internet and secure online transactions.These early platforms primarily featured slot games, which were straightforward to program and offered a familiar experience to players transitioning from physical slot machines.

    Key Milestones in the Evolution of Online Casinos

    Year Milestone Description
    1994 First Online Casino Launched The first online casino launched, featuring basic slot games.
    1996 Introduction of Online Poker Online poker platforms began to appear, offering various poker variants.
    1998 Multiplayer Gaming Multiplayer games allow players to compete against each other online.
    2003 Live Dealer Games Introduction The first live dealer games were introduced, adding a social element.
    2010 Mobile Casino Gaming The rise of smartphones led to the development of mobile-optimized casinos.
    2015 Virtual Reality Casinos VR technology introduced immersive casino experiences.
    2020 Cryptocurrencies in Casinos Integration of cryptocurrencies for transactions in online casinos.

    From Slots to a Variety of Games

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    As the internet became more accessible, online casinos started to diversify their game offerings. By the late 1990s, online poker platforms had emerged, allowing players to enjoy different poker variants from the comfort of their homes.

    The introduction of multiplayer gaming further enhanced the online gambling experience, enabling players to compete against each other in real time.

    The Advent of Live Dealer Games

    One of the most significant advancements in the online casino industry was the introduction of live dealer games in the early 2000s. Live dealer games bridge the gap between online gaming and the traditional casino experience by streaming real-time games hosted by professional dealers. This innovation addressed the lack of social interaction in online casinos, offering players the chance to engage with dealers and other players.

    Technological Advancements Driving Change

    Technological advancements have heavily influenced the evolution of online casinos. High-speed internet, improved graphics, and secure payment systems have all enhanced the online gambling experience.

    Mobile Gaming Revolution

    The proliferation of smartphones in the 2010s revolutionized online gambling. Mobile-optimized casinos allow players to access their favorite games anytime, anywhere. The convenience of mobile gaming contributed to the industry’s rapid growth, making it more accessible to a broader audience.

    Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality

    The integration of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies has taken online gambling to new heights. VR casinos offer immersive experiences, transporting players to virtual casino environments where they can interact with the surroundings and other players.Although still in its early stages, VR and AR are expected to become more prevalent in the future.

    The Role of Cryptocurrencies

    Cryptocurrencies have also made a significant impact on online casinos. The use of digital currencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum for transactions offers players increased privacy, security, and faster processing times.This innovation has attracted a tech-savvy audience and added another layer of convenience to online gambling.

    Enhanced Security and Fair Play

    The evolution of online casinos has not only focused on enhancing the gaming experience but also on improving security and fairness. Modern online casinos employ advanced encryption technologies to protect players’ personal and financial information. Additionally, the use of random number generators (RNG) ensures that game outcomes are fair and unbiased.

    The Future of Online Casinos

    The future of online casinos looks promising, with continuous advancements in technology set to drive further innovation.

    Here are some trends to watch for in the coming years:

    1. Increased Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI will likely play a more prominent role in enhancing customer service, personalizing gaming experiences, and detecting fraudulent activities.
    2. Expansion of VR and AR Technologies: As VR and AR technologies become more accessible, their integration into online casinos will provide even more immersive gaming experiences.
    3. Blockchain Technology: The use of blockchain technology will continue to grow, offering increased transparency and security in online gambling transactions.
    4. Regulation and Legislation: As the online gambling industry grows, regulatory bodies will likely implement stricter regulations to ensure fair play and protect consumers.

    Unique information to improve user experience:

    • AI-Powered Customer Support: Online casinos are increasingly using AI to provide 24/7 customer support, ensuring that player inquiries are addressed promptly.
    • Personalized Gaming: Advanced algorithms analyze player preferences and behavior to recommend games and tailor promotions, enhancing the overall user experience.
    • Social Gaming Features: The integration of social media features allows players to share their achievements, compete with friends, and join online communities.

    The evolution of online casinos from basic slot games to sophisticated live dealer experiences highlights the industry’s adaptability and commitment to enhancing player engagement.Technological advancements have played a crucial role in this transformation, driving innovations that have made online gambling more accessible, secure, and enjoyable.

    As we look to the future, the continued integration of emerging technologies promises to further revolutionize the online casino landscape, offering even more exciting and immersive experiences for players around the world.

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    PHLSportsNation

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  • Lyllo Casino Partners with Supermodel Victoria Silvstedt in Vibrant New Campaign

    Lyllo Casino Partners with Supermodel Victoria Silvstedt in Vibrant New Campaign

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    Leading iGaming operator ComeOn Group has announced an exciting new venture, partnering with supermodel and Hollywood star Victoria Silvstedt to promote its Lyllo Casino brand. This collaboration brings international glamour to the Swedish casino brand, which has previously worked only with prominent local celebrities.

    The Ad Appeals to US Audiences

    Front lining Lyllo Casino’s new campaign is Victoria Silvstedt—a name well-known to most thanks to her highly successful modeling career. Her achievements include prestigious titles like Miss Sweden and Playboy Playmate of the Year and appearing on over 500 magazine covers. The campaign also features the multifaceted Swedish personality Carolina Gynning, known for her work as a podcaster, actress, and designer.

    The new ad has Silvstedt and Gynning strategizing about introducing Lyllo Casino to the American market. It begins with the duo lounging by a pool in identical stylish attires, talking about the potential for Lyllo Casino to make a splash in the US, with Silvstedt confidently asserting that “Americans will love it.”

    The scene then cuts to a fun dream sequence where Silvstedt and Gynning appear in pink cowboy hats, jeans, and Lyllo Casino T-shirts. The sequence features iconic American imagery, including a “Lyllowood” sign mimicking the famous Hollywood sign, the Statue of Liberty, and a “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign, all complemented by a yellow taxi with Lyllo Casino branding.

    The spectacle continues with US fighter jets zipping across the sky, leaving red, white, and blue trails in their wake. Then Gynning holds up a mobile phone showing the Lyllo Casino app and yelps “yee-haw” as the dream sequence ends. Silvstedt jokingly questions if the vision was “too much” just before the sound of a jackpot win chimes from Gynning’s phone, with the Lyllo Casino logo on the screen.

    Lyllo Casino Seeks to Bolster Its International Image

    Efi Peleg, chief marketing officer of ComeOn Group, was excited to welcome Silvstedt as the company’s newest brand ambassador. Peleg lauded the famous model’s energy and humor, highlighting the shared values between her and Lyllo Casino. ComeOn Group has been quick to capitalize on growth opportunities and will undoubtedly use this new promotion to achieve lasting success.

    “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Victoria to our team of brand ambassadors. This partnership is more than just a collaboration; it’s a celebration of what Lyllo stands for – a fun and vibrant gaming experience.”

    Efi Peleg, ComeOn Group chief marketing officer

    With the endorsement of several high-profile celebrities, Lyllo Casino positions itself in the market not only as a gaming platform but also as a lifestyle brand that embodies fun, excitement, and a touch of glamour. Silvstedt’s endorsement could inject new life into the Lyllo Casino, helping it stand out among rising competition and bolstering its presence in international markets.

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    Deyan Dimitrov

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  • Maryland Casino Sector Records Slowdown as July Revenue Declines

    Maryland Casino Sector Records Slowdown as July Revenue Declines

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    Maryland’s six casinos have generated almost $170 million in revenue in July 2024, marking a slight year-on-year decline. By extension, this led to a slight decline in the industry’s contributions to the state.

    Maryland’s Six Casinos Recorded Slightly Lower Revenue

    Maryland has six legal commercial casinos that offer both table games and video lottery terminals (VLTs). The properties include MGM National Harbor, Live! Casino Hotel, Horseshoe Casino Baltimore, Ocean Downs Casino, Hollywood Casino Perryville, and Rocky Gap Casino Resort.

    In July, the six casinos generated $169,821,301 in revenue from slots and table games.  This marks a slight 2.6% decline from July 2023 and represents $116,461,385 in VLT revenue and $53,359,924 in table game revenue.

    The commercial casino industry’s contributions to the state also experienced a slight decline to $72,163,554. This figure marks a decrease of 1.4% from July 2023. Likewise, the industry’s contributions to the Education Trust Fund were down 1.4% year-on-year. The fund, for reference, provides support to the casinos’ local communities, the racing industry and smaller businesses.

    How the Six Casinos Performed

    MGM National Harbor, a property boasting some 2,300 slot machines and 212 table games, recorded $71,983,723 in revenue in July. This result was more or less in line with the July 2023 figure, representing only a slight decrease of 0.2%. The property recorded $43,937,330 in VLT revenue and $28,046,382 in table gaming revenue.

    Live! Casino & Hotel, meanwhile, posted a total revenue of $62,562,895, which encompasses $18,411,276 in table gaming revenue and 44,151,618 in VLT revenue. The total figure marked a YOY decrease of 0.3%. For context, the casino has 3,861 slots and 179 gaming tables.

    Horseshoe Casino, which fields some 1,347 slot machines and 115 table games, on the other hand, reported revenue of $13,317,234 in July 2024. The property struggled a bit as its revenue declined by 16.9% year-on-year. The total revenue consisted of $8,839,531 in VLT revenue and $4,477,702 in table game revenue.

    Ocean Downs Casino, a casino sporting 876 VLTs and 19 table games, saw its total revenue decrease by 4.6% YOY to $9,621,082. This figure included $8,853,569 in VLT revenue and $767,512 in table game revenue.

    In addition, Hollywood Casino, which has 735 VLTs and 23 table games, posted revenue of $7,297,270, down 2.8% from July 2023. The property reported $6,089,220 in VLT revenue and $1,208,049 in table game revenue.

    Finally, Rocky Gap Casino, which has 636 VLTs and 16 table games, reported $5,039,106 in revenue for July, down 13.4% YOY.  VLT revenue stood at $4,590,114, while table game revenue reached $448,991.

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    Angel Hristov

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  • Poker Pro Kessler Wins $1.2M Jackpot from Buffalo Slot

    Poker Pro Kessler Wins $1.2M Jackpot from Buffalo Slot

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    A professional poker player has won a huge jackpot, proving that luck can come from anywhere. The fortunate player celebrated his win on X, sharing a video of the big moment.

    Kessler Wins Big

    Allen Kessler is a professional poker ranked 10th in All Time Total Cashes with 363 tournament cashes, according to the Global Poker Index. These include 69 WSOP cashes, 12 WSOP Europe cashes and 91 WSOP Circuit cashes, among others.

    Despite being best-known for his poker exploits, Kessler just made headlines winning a $1.2 million jackpot on a slot cabinet at The Poker Room Thunder Valley in California. Kessler was playing a Buffalo slot by Aristocrat.

    As mentioned, Kessler shared the big moment on X, highlighting his amazing achievement.

    According to Kessler, he had been playing the slot machine for some 12 hours. He had been staking $125 per spin and had credit of $2,458 in the machine at the time of his win.

    The Poker Pro Said He Loves Buffalo Slots

    Kessler was provided with a difficult decision – he can either claim the jackpot as a lump sum payment or have it paid out over the course of 20 years. On X, he asked math pros if they could help him with the decision and jokingly asked them to bear in mind that he “might not live 20 years” considering his diet.

    Kessler spoke on the matter with VegasSlotsOnline News and said that he loves playing Buffalo slots. He said that he loves Buffalo Power Play because of its exciting mechanic and the opportunity to buy right into the bonus round. He added that he won his jackpot after approximately 50 times before winning the $1.2 million jackpot.

    This spectacular win adds to his $4.4 million poker earnings.

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    Fiona Simmons

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  • Police Raids Shut down 11 Illegal Casinos in Volusia County, Florida

    Police Raids Shut down 11 Illegal Casinos in Volusia County, Florida

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    Nearly a dozen illegal gambling establishments across Volusia County, Florida, were recently shut down after a large-scale operation led by law enforcement in collaboration with the gambling regulator in the state, the Florida Gaming Control Commission.

    Volusia Sheriff’s Office confirmed in a statement that on Thursday, law enforcement and representatives of the regulator simultaneously executed 11 search warrants against illegal gambling dens. Before the raids, each of the illegal gambling establishments was sent legal notice with a cease-and-desist request from the Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Gaming Control Commission.

    During the raids, approximately 400 slot machines were seized and disabled. Moreover, some $403,000 was taken as evidence, while three people were apprehended over their involvement in operating an illegal gambling house. Additionally, one man person was arrested for a parole violation.

    Sheriff Mike Chitwood acknowledged the extensive efforts of the Sheriff’s Office and the gambling regulator and thanked them. He also urged Florida lawmakers to take a stance on the matter. Sheriff Chitwood added: “The Legislature needs to make a decision: Either make it legal, and regulate it, or shut it down.”

    Louis Trombetta, the executive director of the Florida Gaming Control Commission, also commented on the topic. He reaffirmed that the gambling regulator in the state will continue to effectively collaborate with law enforcement in Florida and combat any illegal gambling activities. Finally, Trombetta said that those efforts are ultimately going to shut down illegal gambling establishments.

    “The Gaming Commission will continue to work with our partners in law enforcement to ensure any illegal gaming offerings are shut down.“

    Louis Trombetta, executive director at the Florida Gaming Control Commission

    The Fight Against Illegal Gambling Continues

    As noted, a total of 11 illegal gambling venues were raided Thursday. The list included four locations in DeLand, three venues in Ormond Beach, two venues in Daytona Beach, as well as one in Pierson and Orange City.

    The number of seized illegal gambling devices and cash throughout Volusia County continues to grow. According to Volusia Sheriff’s Office, more than $1.1 million in cash and more than 600 slot machines were seized from the recent raid in combination with an operation against unlawful gambling from November 2023.

    Law enforcement acknowledged the negative impact of unlawful gambling, revealing that such activities are often associated with other crimes. “These illegal casino locations have seen criminal activity ranging from shootings to armed robberies to fatal drug overdoses to burglaries, thefts, and assaults,” explained the Volusia Sheriff’s Office.

    Besides serving as a hot spot for other criminal activities, illegal gambling dens also make money without paying any taxes. In Florida, taxes collected from gambling activities benefit the Florida Education Enhancement Trust Fund.

    What’s even more concerning is that fair play isn’t guaranteed at illegal gambling venues, and they often do not have minimum payouts, something that is standard for the regulated sector. This means that the owners of illegal establishments can earn significantly more from the activity, effectively ripping people off with slimmer odds and unfair payouts.

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    Velimir Velichkov

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  • Las Vegas’ Mirage Hotel & Casino pays out final jackpots before closure

    Las Vegas’ Mirage Hotel & Casino pays out final jackpots before closure

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    Loose slots will take on a different meaning in the final week of the landmark Mirage Hotel & Casino.

    Before the 34-year-old Las Vegas Strip institution permanently shuts its doors on July 17, the casino is obligated to pay out all progressive jackpots, per Nevada Gaming Commission regulations. That’s a total $1.6 million in prizes in a week’s time.

    Mirage personnel confirmed they’re doling out $1.2 million in slots and $400,000 in table games “for the last time” with the payouts being made between July 9 and July 16.

    Progressive slot jackpot drawings are scheduled to take place every 30 minutes from 3 to 7 p.m., with $200,000 to be given away from July 9-11, $250,000 from July 12-13 and $100,000 on July 16. Progressive jackpot increases each time the game is played until it is won.

    Players must be 21 or older and need to use the Mirage’s Unity card, a players rewards program, while gambling.

    Progressive table games that will pay out the winnings are Pai Gow, Ultimate Texas Hold ‘Em and Three Card Poker, Let it Ride, Blackjack and Baccarat.

    The $400,000 in table game prize money will be given away on Friday and Saturday.

    The jackpot dispersal marks one of the Mirage’s final acts, with the last bookings clearing out on Sunday.

    In May, owner Hard Rock International announced it was closing on July 17 the jungle-fantasy themed hotel perhaps best known for its exploding 54-foot man-made volcano, magicians Siegfried and Roy, and its white tigers and dolphins.

    The Mirage is preparing to be redeveloped into the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Guitar Hotel Las Vegas, with the volcano giving way to a nearly 700-foot guitar-shaped hotel. The project is expected to open in spring 2027. A similar 638-room hotel stands in Hollywood, Fla.

    The Mirage’s closure is the second on the Strip this year.

    The Tropicana, which opened in 1957, closed its doors in April to make way for a 30,000-seat stadium that is expected to serve as the home of the Oakland A’s.

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    Andrew J. Campa

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  • No Charges in Manitoba Bus Crash Killing 17 Seniors Traveling to Casino

    No Charges in Manitoba Bus Crash Killing 17 Seniors Traveling to Casino

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    Last summer, a bus carrying two dozen seniors from Dauphin, Canada, was involved in a deadly accident near Carberry in Manitoba. The seniors were traveling to a casino when their bus collided with a semi-trailer truck.

    The devastating crash resulted in the bus catching fire and stopping in a nearby ditch after an intersection of the Trans-Canada Highway close to Carberry. Initially, 15 seniors who were traveling lost their lives. However, the number of deceased increased to 17 after two more people passed away from their injuries in hospital.

    A year after the incident, authorities, including an attorney for Crown and representatives of the Manitoba Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), confirmed that there will be no charges raised in connection to the deadly crash. Families of the deceased and injured seniors met with authorities on Wednesday.

    It has taken hours for Crown’s attorney, Chris Vanderhooft, RCMP Supt. Rob Lasson and Staff Sgt. Sean Grunewald to explain why the bus driver won’t be facing charges about the tragic incident. Grunewald, who was quoted by the Canadian Press, revealed: “We feel that the families understood the situation…I believe that they feel we put every ounce to give them the answers that they were looking for.”

    The Bus Driver’s Mistake Didn’t Mean He Was Driving Dangerously

    Lasson spoke about the deadly crash, deeming it a “very tragic collision,” which came as a result of the actions of the driver of the bus. However, he explained: “We cannot prove that that choice that day was the result of anything criminal.”

    An investigation by the authorities uncovered that the driver of the bus followed the rules. Prior to the Trans-Canada intersection, there was a stop sign that the bus driver stopped at. After that, there was a yield sign right ahead of the merger with Trans-Canada.

    Per the investigation, the driver of the bus crossed the road and likely didn’t see the truck that had the right of way. “The bus driver did not appear to see the semi-truck coming,” explained Vanderhooft. He added that while the truck driver attempted to avoid the crash, there wasn’t enough time or space for that to happen.

    Vanderhooft supported the decision not to raise charges against the bus driver by explaining: “Momentary inattention does not constitute dangerous driving.”

    The driver of the bus from the deadly crash was also injured severely in the incident. The man currently cannot take care of himself. He likely won’t be able to ever talk about the incident due to the brain injuries he sustained during the crash.

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    Jerome García

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  • Pennsylvania: Five People Arrested Over $170K Casino Scam

    Pennsylvania: Five People Arrested Over $170K Casino Scam

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    Across the US, cheating is subject to different penalties. A prime reason for this practice is the different laws and regulations regarding gambling which vary from one state to the other. In general, cheating or any attempts to scam can be subject to prosecution.

    Depending on the size of the money obtained through cheating, in some cases, culprits may face misdemeanor or even felony charges. This is precisely the case of several people who were allegedly involved in a scheme that transpired at Live! Casino Philadelphia.

    The casino reportedly lost nearly $200,000 to the scheme that involved four patrons and one employee. As announced by Play Pennsylvania, citing data from the Pennsylvania State Police, a total of five people have been detained after an investigation uncovered the cheating scheme.

    While three of the individuals were arrested in April, two others were detained last month. All five are suspected of being involved in the fraudulent activity that resulted in a $170,000 loss for Live! Casino Philadelphia. Each of the suspects reportedly faces misdemeanor cheating and felony theft charges.

    Citing police data, the publication revealed that the dealer at Live! Casino Philadelphia, who was arrested over the alleged participation in the cheating scheme, was identified with the initials K.H. He allegedly co-conspired with four other patrons, identified with the initials D.L., H.L., V.T. and J.Y.

    An Unelaborate Fraudulent Activity

    An investigation by law enforcement uncovered that the scheme allegedly used by the five people wasn’t elaborate at all. The casino dealer is suspected of playing a key role as he helped the patrons gain an advantage in different games.

    Allegedly, K.H. would “switch hands so it would appear as if the players had won,” according to the Philadelphia State Police. Once the winners received their pay, the dealer allegedly faked a shuffle, which enabled the patrons to gain an advantage by knowing what to expect. The dealer, who is suspected of being involved in the scheme, was allegedly paid by the players outside of the casino.

    Earlier this year, law enforcement detained a woman near Valley Forge Casino on suspicion of prostitution. She was arrested together with a man who according to police had drugs on him. The two were booked at the Montgomery County Correctional Facility.

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    Jerome García

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  • Catawba Indians to start construction of $700M NC casino near Charlotte, with 2,000 jobs

    Catawba Indians to start construction of $700M NC casino near Charlotte, with 2,000 jobs

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    The Catawba Indians will begin construction next week of their $700 million casino in Kings Mountain, creating nearly 2,000 jobs, tribal leaders said Friday.

    The tribe, based in Rock Hill, S.C., has operated a single-level “temporary” casino at the site since 2021, off Interstate 85 exit 5 about 35 miles west of Charlotte.

    Tribal officials said they plan to open the first phase of their permanent, 2-million-square-foot Catawba Two Kings Casino Resort in early 2026. A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. June 7, according to a Catawba Nation news release on Friday.

    The ground-level first phase will include 1,350 slots and electronic table games, 12 table games and a 40-seat restaurant with a sportsbook area with 30 self-service kiosks.

    Private settlement paves way for construction

    The tribe is finally able to build the casino after finalizing a private settlement in early May with its former casino developer over the ground lease for its trust lands, officials said.

    The settlement with SkyBoat Gaming removed the firm from any interest in the casino project. SkyBoat, which is led by politically-connected Wallace Cheves, helped the tribe acquire 17 acres in Kings Mountain and have it put into a land trust for the casino project.

    In 2022, the National Indian Gaming Commission found that the development contract between the tribe and SkyBoat violated federal law. SkyBoat, the gaming commission ruled, had too much ownership and authority over the project, which is supposed to benefit the roughly 3,000 Catawba members.

    The agreement gave SkyBoat “management authority” over the casino operation, a violation of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, the commission said. The gaming commission also ruled that the Catawba Nation and SkyBoat failed to submit a management contract within 60 days of its execution, as required by law.

    Last year, the gaming commission certified a settlement agreement between the Catawba Nation and SkyBoat. Under that deal, the tribe would pay its former partners $125 million.

    But Harris, the Catawba Nation chief, told the Observer in October that $125 million was too much.

    The terms of the settlement announced Friday are unclear.

    Parking wars end

    In February, the tribe bought from SkyBoat land located around its temporary casino, including the parking lot and property that could support resort amenities.

    The parking lot, too, has been a contentious topic for months.

    Kings Mountain Land Development Partners, LLC, which Cheves has a stake in, owned the parking lot and subleased it to SkyBoat.

    Kings Mountain had offered to lease it to the tribe for $6 million a year, Harris told the Observer last year.

    That was too much, Harris said.

    “We persevered to achieve a fair deal so that we can now realize the full financial and economic benefits of the project for Catawba Nation members and residents of Cleveland County,” Harris said in a statement.

    “The establishment of this casino is not just about bricks and mortar,” Harris said. “It symbolizes our commitment to preserving our tribal identity, supporting our community and creating opportunities for our people.”

    Harris said the tribe is “working to keep casino revenue in North Carolina, as opposed to what outside commercial casino companies would do.”

    Planning for the permanent casino resort continued during the settlement negotiations, the chief said, and construction and design plans are now complete.

    Initial financing is in place, he said.

    What the casino will include

    The tribe has completed two key projects needed for the permanent casino: Doubling the size of the Dixon School Road bridge over I-85 near the casino entrance and installing new sewer lines near the casino.

    Delaware North, a global hospitality and entertainment consultant, will develop and manage the casino resort once the National Indian Gaming Commission approves related contracts, tribal officials said. Delaware North has consulted on the project since 2019.

    SOSHNY Design, the architect for the casino project, has designed many casino resorts, including Delaware North’s $320 million Southland Casino Hotel in West Memphis, Arkansas, officials said.

    During construction, the temporary casino will continue to operate and is set to add 12 live table games and 56 slot machines in early summer, along with additional parking.

    Also during the first phase, back-of-house space will be completed for surveillance, security and the “gaming cage,” where money and chips are handled.

    Part of the first two floors of a parking garage, with 1,600 spots, will be completed above the ground level.

    The first phase will replace the current facility, according to the tribe.

    400-room hotel planned

    The second phase will include a 400-room hotel and the rest of the casino complex, which will be stacked above the ground floor, officials said Friday.

    The hotel tower will be a standalone building connected to the casino complex.

    The completed complex will include: Three levels of parking; a main casino floor with 4,300 slots and 100 table games; five restaurants, including a steakhouse, Italian restaurant, a buffet, café and grab-and-go outlet; a players lounge; and six bars.

    The tribe said it doesn’t yet know when the main casino complex and the hotel are expected to be finished.

    This is a developing story that will be updated.

    This story was originally published May 31, 2024, 2:28 PM.

    Related stories from Charlotte Observer

    Joe Marusak has been a reporter for The Charlotte Observer since 1989 covering the people, municipalities and major news events of the region, and was a news bureau editor for the paper. He currently reports on breaking news.
    Support my work with a digital subscription

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  • Edgewater Casino Resort Unveils $200K River Bingo Bash Event

    Edgewater Casino Resort Unveils $200K River Bingo Bash Event

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    Edgewater Casino Resort in Nevada unveiled a new two-day bingo event set to take place in November. The $200,000 River Bingo Bash will, according to the property, take bingoing to the next level.

    The two-day event will begin on Saturday, November 23 and will conclude on Sunday, November 24. It will offer players a shot at a prize pool of $100,000 on each of the two days, while also providing guests with a weekend filled with food, gifts and entertainment.

    The event is set to take place at the famed Edge Pavilion at Edgewater. Each of the two days will begin with ten warm-up games where winners will get $500. Following the warm-up, players will compete for what Edgewater described as “massive payouts” in the main event.

    After the final session, Edgewater will host an afterparty event at the Edgewater Bingo Room. There, players will get chances to win free bingo and slot play, coverall prize games, cash balls and bingo buy-in fees.

    Many Benefits Await

    Bingo players who are up to some fun will have to pay a fee of $200 + taxes to enter the River Bingo Bash. This fee will ensure that players receive a 6-on pack and a hot dog and soda combo on each day of the event. Additionally, players will receive 2 daubers and a commemorative River Bingo Bash t-shirt, securing them extra bragging rights.

    In addition to all that, players who buy into the event will be able to benefit from a special room offer. Those who secure a stay at Aquarius or Edgewater Casino Resorts from November 22 or 23 through November 24 will receive an additional night’s stay, free of charge. 

    Tickets for the River Bingo Bash event will be available for purchase from June 1. The bingo event will have a maximum capacity of 1,000 players

    The Resort Has More Surprises in Store

    Edgewater Casino Resort has also prepared another event for bingo players who cannot wait. Passionate bingo enthusiasts will also be able to enjoy special offers and bingo partying during The Bingo Room’s one-year anniversary.

    The Bingo Room also offers regular playing sessions every day of the week. More information about the bingo and event schedule is available on Edgewater Casino Resort’s official website.

    In addition to bingo, visitors to the resort can enjoy a 40,000-square-foot gaming area packed full of slots and gaming tables. A William Hill-branded sportsbook is also available.

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    Fiona Simmons

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  • Las Vegas’ Mirage Resort to close after 34-year run. Volcano to go dormant

    Las Vegas’ Mirage Resort to close after 34-year run. Volcano to go dormant

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    Once hailed as “Las Vegas’ first 21 Century resort,” The Mirage Hotel & Casino confirmed Wednesday that its iconic volcano outside of its front entrance is going dormant less than a quarter of a century into the new millennium.

    Owner Hard Rock International announced the hotel will cease operations on July 17, with bookings being accepted until July 14. The iconic resort — sporting a jungle-fantasy theme —was perhaps best known for its exploding 54-foot man-made volcano, magicians Siegfried and Roy, and its white tigers and dolphins.

    “We’d like to thank the Las Vegas community and team members for warmly welcoming Hard Rock after enjoying 34 years at The Mirage,” said Jim Allen, Chairman of Hard Rock International in a statement.

    The resort is expected to be redeveloped into the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Guitar Hotel Las Vegas, with the volcano giving way to a nearly 700-foot guitar-shaped hotel. The project is expected to open in spring 2027. A similar 638-room hotel stands in Hollywood, Fla.

    The Associated Press reported that more than 3,000 employees will be laid off. Hard Rock acknowledged it would pay roughly $80 million in severance packages for union and nonunion labor.

    The Culinary and Bartenders Union accounts for about 1,700 Mirage workers. It announced Wednesday that its workers have two options.

    The first was a severance package of $2,000 for every year of service plus six months of pension and health benefits. The second option gives employees a lesser, undisclosed amount while maintaining seniority rights for the duration of the property’s closure along with 36 months of recall rights for jobs at the new hotel.

    “Culinary Union members at The Mirage have a strong union contract, ensuring that workers are protected, even as the property closes its doors entirely for three years from July 2024 – May 2027,” said Ted Pappageorge, Culinary Union secretary-treasurer, in a statement Wednesday.

    The new hotel is projected to employ nearly 7,000 employees, according to Hard Rock management, while 2,500 construction jobs are expected during the rebuilding process.

    Hard Rock said that all reservations beyond July 14 would be canceled and that guests should contact the guest services department or booking agency for a refund.

    The Mirage’s closure is the second on the strip this year.

    In April, the 66-year-old Tropicana closed its doors to make way for a 30,000-seat stadium that is expected to serve as the home of the Oakland A’s.

    The Mirage’s opening by casino tycoon Stephen A. Wynn in 1989 was hailed as the ushering of a new era of resorts. It was the first strip hotel to open since the MGM Grand in 1973.

    Wynn shelled out $600 million, then the most expensive casino project, for the sprawling 103-acre property.

    The Mirage was the first fully integrated hotel, according to Alan Feldman, a Distinguished Fellow at UNLV’s International Gaming Institute.

    Integration meant operating and treating all facets of the resort, including casino, food and beverage, retail, entertainment and convention space, with equal importance, according to Feldman, who rose to become an executive with the Mirage and stayed from 1989 to 2019.

    Feldman said hotel owners previously cared first about the casino and “everything else was last.”

    “They gave away entertainment, food and rooms as long as someone came and played,” said Feldman. “The Mirage was the first to believe you could actually make money in these areas if you invested enough.”

    Its glistening 30-story white-and-gold towers were said to make neighboring Caesars Palace look “retiring by comparison.” Traffic occasionally backed up on the strip as engineers tested gas-flared flames 40 feet into the air every few minutes.

    “People just got out of the cars and went over to see what was going on,” one limousine driver said at the time.

    The hotel included a 20,000-gallon fish tank at its reception desk and 3,049 rooms.

    Its animals — and its white tiger habitat — brought the resort fame and infamy, including in 2003 when a tiger critically injured magician Roy Horn.

    The Mirage’s opening kicked off a resort building and remodeling spree that included the debut of the Circus Circus’ Excalibur in June 1990, the $250-million renovation of Caesars Palace and the opening of Treasure Island in 1994.

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    Andrew J. Campa

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  • Trial Against Suspected Casino Money Laundering Shooter Picks Speed

    Trial Against Suspected Casino Money Laundering Shooter Picks Speed

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    A trial against a man, accused of killing an alleged money launderer in a criminal case dating back to 2020, picked up speed with closing arguments earlier this month. The violent crime involves Jian Jun Zhu, a suspected casino money launderer, who was shot and killed. He was together with his associate, Paul “King” Jin, who survived the shooting which took place at a Japanese restaurant in Richmond, Greater Vancouver, Canada, back in September 2020.

    Zhu was accused in one of the country’s largest cases of money laundering. He was suspected of laundering hundreds of millions of dollars several years ago through casinos in British Columbia. According to the prosecution at the time, Zhu was able to launder the money with the help of Silver International, a Richmond company owned by him. Casinos in the Vancouver area were victims in the money laundering plot but the lawsuit against Zhu fell through after a mistake by federal prosecutors that unintentionally revealed the name of a key informant for the case.

    Richard Reed is the person suspected of the shots that rained into Manzo restaurant and killed Zhu, while wounding Jin. The man previously pleaded not guilty to attempted murder and first-degree murder charges. Earlier this month, prosecutor Mark Wolf on behalf of the Crown, asked the judge to find the suspect not guilty on the attempted murder charge, as announced by CTV News Vancouver. This request stemmed from a ruling by Justice Jeanne Watchuk which deemed evidence provided by a friend of Reed as inadmissible.

    Prosecution Claims It Proved That the Suspect Was the Shooter

    While Wolf asked for Reed’s attempted murder charge to be dropped, he explained that the Crown was able to prove beyond reasonable doubt that the suspect was indeed the shooter of the deadly crime. He pointed to an admission of the suspect that he was seen in video footage within the area before the crime occurred.

    Wolf explained: “Mr Reed spends roughly 20 minutes surveying the Manzo scene, he walked through the parking lot waiting for the sun to set so he could commit the offense under the cover of darkness.” Video surveillance records play a key part in Crown’s case against Reed. The prosecution spoke about footage that was already seen during the trial which showed a person, suspected of being the gunman, fleeing the area. The person from this recording, matched the description of Reed, said Wolf.

    Upon investigating the criminal case, law enforcement found the weapon, used for the shooting at Manzo, after a search of Reed’s apartment. The suspect’s fingerprints were on the murder weapon too.

    However, Reed’s defense lawyer, Kevin Westell, argued that finding a weapon two months after the killing doesn’t prove that he was the shooter. “Possessing the firearm two months after the shooting tells us nothing about who the shooter was,” he explained. Westell said that his client was accused of being a drug dealer back in 2020, which if true means that it won’t be “unnatural” to have a gun.

    The case is held as a judge-only. A decision is expected in due time.

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    Jerome García

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  • Labor Dispute Resolved as Virgin Hotels Las Vegas and Union Resume Talks

    Labor Dispute Resolved as Virgin Hotels Las Vegas and Union Resume Talks

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    After 700 workers from Culinary Union Local 226 organized a strike against Virgin Hotels Las Vegas that lasted 48 hours, the standoff is now over. The strike, which started on May 10, aimed to put pressure on Virgin Hotels Las Vegas executives to sign a new five-year contract which will provide employees with better wages and bebefits.

    Virgin Hotels Las Vegas Employees Demand Fair Deal

    Virgin Hotels Las Vegas room attendants, cocktail and food servers, porters, bellmen, cooks, bartenders, and laundry and kitchen staff set up picket lines outside the company’s property located very near the Las Vegas Strip and previously known as Hard Rock Las Vegas, reported the Associated Press.

    The union’s Secretary-Treasurer, Ted Pappageorge, said that Virgin Hotels Las Vegas employees hope that their strike will help fast-track the stalled negotiation process and a new agreement will be reached. Following the strike, talks will start again on May 14.

    Prior to the strike, Virgin Hotels Las Vegas filed a complaint at the National Labor Relations Board against its employees stating that the union was not sincere in its negotiation efforts. Pappageorge countered the company’s claims defining them as mere corporate tactics.

    The Virgin Hotels Las Vegas workers strike comes on the backdrop of a series of negotiations with various Las Vegas hospitality industry giants, which took place earlier this year. As other union members employed by Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino and Golden Nugget Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, for example, achieved substantial wager increases for the next five years, Virgin Hotels Las Vegas employees were left behind. This prompted dissatisfaction among workers, which eventually led to the recent strike.

    Workers Optimistic as Negotiations Continue

    Ted Pappageorge commented that the contract with Virgin Hotels Las Vegas expired on June 1, 2023, making it almost a year since the company’s employees were left without a new one. This prolonged period without job security and better payment conditions on the backdrop of increased inflation and economic challenges is not to be tolerated, hence, the union resorted to strike measures.

    The strike at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is relatively small in scale compared to previous strike action organized or planned by the Culinary Union. However, its impact was significant considering the property’s strategic location near both the Las Vegas Strip and the Las Vegas airport. As negotiations continue both the Culinary Union and its members are positive regarding a quick resolution in their favor providing them with fair wages and increased benefits.

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    Silvia Pavlof

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  • International Entertainment Corporation Takes Over Manila Casino

    International Entertainment Corporation Takes Over Manila Casino

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    International Entertainment Corporation (IEC) announced that it has officially begun its limited operation of the casino at its New Coast Hotel property in Manila. The company is set to officially take over full casino operations from the PAGCOR on May 11.

    The Board is pleased to announce that on 9 May 2024, the Group has commenced its limited operation in the Casino, the Group will officially take over the entire casino operation with effect from 11 May 2024 and will be the operator of the Casino under the Provisional License.

    IEC statement

    This announcement comes after IEC was awarded a provisional casino license by the Philippine regulator on September 27, 2023. The former company now aims to turn New Coast Hotel into a proper integrated resort.  

    For context, the casino at New Coast was operated by the PAGCOR’s Casino Filipino brand. During that time, IEC served a supporting function, helping the operator improve the overall gaming experience.

    Under its provisional casino license agreement, IEC will pay a monthly fee to the PAGCOR. For the month of May, IEC will have to pay PHP 60 million.

    IEC Will Implement Robust AML and CTF Measures

    IEC’s official announcement noted that the group has established new internal control procedures and measures that would prevent instances of non-compliance and fraud. This includes an AML and CTF program that seeks to prevent money laundering and the financing of terrorism, allowing IEC to remain compliant.

    The program, according to IEC, has been designed with high ethical standards and robust know-your-costumer principles in mind. It will also ensure that officers and employees are aware of their responsibilities and will guarantee cooperation with the AMLC and PAGCOR.

    IEC added that it has formed an AML committee consisting of at least three members that would formulate a comprehensive and risk-based AML and CTF program that conforms to the law. The committee will oversee the program’s implementation and will report the casino’s compliance status to the board.

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    Angel Hristov

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  • Macau Police Arrest 5 Casino Fraudsters, Seize Fake Chips

    Macau Police Arrest 5 Casino Fraudsters, Seize Fake Chips

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    The Macau Judiciary Police have arrested five Chinese nationals suspected to be related to a cross-border criminal syndicate. The criminal organization, according to the authorities, uses counterfeit chips in casinos in Macau.

    The arrests followed a recent report from a casino in the Cotai area where a customer exchanged fake chips for money. After the staff realized that they had been scammed they referred the matter to the police.

    Local authorities immediately launched an investigation into the matter and quickly arrested five men from mainland China at the casino. Aged between 21 and 28, the five arrestees were suspected of being a part of a criminal organization that imports fake chips into Macau. The police are currently on the lookout for three other suspects who might be related to the case.

    In addition to arresting the five men, the police were able to seize a whopping 585 fake chips worth approximately $750,000. More than 130 of those were discovered in toilets and taxi compartments near the border and might have been abandoned by other participants in the criminal scheme.

    Upon careful inspection, the police concluded that the fake chips were extremely realistic and difficult to differentiate from real ones at first glance.

    The Macau authorities believe that they are dealing with a fairly new criminal organization. According to the police, the group is believed to have started its illegal scheme in March.

    The investigation is still ongoing.

    Macau Seeks to Crack Down on Gambling Crime

    Speaking of gambling crime in Macau, the country recently proposed a law that would exempt minor gambling offenders from prosecution, or at least reduce their penalties, if they provide evidence against others.

    In addition to exempting whistleblowers from penalties, the new law would allow the police to search the property of potential witnesses or suspects during the night.

    Additionally, Macau lawmakers proposed an amendment to the region’s Criminal Procedure Code that would allow it to implement an extension of detention measure. This matter was raised after Alvin Chau, the chairman of the controversial Suncity junket, argued that the detention period of certain individuals in the Suncity case had already expired.

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    Fiona Simmons

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