Online Gambling Community

Warning - IDT Phone Service - Verizon - Unhealthy, Inexcusable Repair Delays

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:39:00 +0000

First let me tell you that for the past 5 or so years, my mother has had IDT telephone service in New Jersey, mostly without a problem. She is 88 years old and has a medical alert system connected to her phone.
On Friday, October, 30 2010, her service went dead, when callers called they got a busy signal, when she tried to call, all that was heard was a very loud buzzing noise. I called IDT, which is located in Newark, NJ., but believe I was talking to someone in India as they did not speak very good English. On Monday, November 2, 2010 I received a call back from IDT explaining how they can not do anything about the problem since they only lease the lines from Verizon, who is responsible for the repairs, and that a service was scheduled for the next day.
On Tuesday, a technician came to the house and determined that it was indeed an outside problem with the wiring and would schedule a bucket truck to repair it, which was scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 5. I must remind you that this woman of 88, with a Medical Alert System tied to her phone, lives alone and is mostly deaf.
I contacted Verizon several times to no avail, because Mom is an IDT customer, they would not even talk to me. At this point, I continually tried contacting IDT and they kept ignoring my request and ultimately stopped receiving my and my brothers calls.
Verizon did not show up on Thursday after Scheduling the repair with me on Wednesday, no calls from them to expect delay, or re-schedule.
Sunday, November 8, 2010 I called Comcast for telephone service, explaining the entire situation to them. They immediately dispatched a truck to Mom's house, installed a new phone line and number. They were terrific and I applaud them for understanding.
Today, November 10, Verizon showed up to repair the line, which they did, explaining that it was a simple grounding issue and should not have taken so long.
IDT and Verizon have just lost a lifelong customer and I caution all of you that have either service to reconsider as it could be the matter of life or death if you have a problem with your phone lines.
I might add that I also contacted the New Jersey Public Service Commission who advised me that my only recourse was to call the BBB.

Is Horse Racing A Sport??? Online Gambling Laws Say No!

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:54:00 +0000

Illinois has just introduced online gambling for Horse Racing and has allowed three (3) companies to offer this service.

This is contradictory to the federal laws of the US and yet it is allowed in many other States as well.

Federal Laws make betting on any Sport illegal under the 1961 Wire Act. Although Horse racing is and has been clearly defined since the days of the Roman chariot races as a sport, the DOJ does not go after domestic suppliers of this service.

If one is to look objectively at the sport, it can be deemed a team sport as there are trainers, jockeys, horses, grooms, owners, venues, set competition and many other factors that all need to come together to participate.

What, other than the horse itself, makes this a legitimate betting venue and the NCAA, NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, not.

This is a high form of hypocrisy, being displayed by the elite of this country that still regard this as the Sport Of Kings, and as such, does not fit into the sporting category and has had separate legislation to ensure it stays that way.

Rep. Barney Frank and his Financial Service Committee is trying very diligently to correct this injustice. There are now 61 co-sponsors for H.R. 2267 which seeks to overturn the UIGEA and make legal at the Federal level, all online gambling.

I urge you all to contact your representative and suggest they support this bill.

Online Gambling Bill HR2267 Gaining Strength Again

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 14:56:00 +0000

Thanks to a big push by all of us, the following Congressional Representatives added their support for HR2267 & HR2266. HR2266 is to delay for one year the implementation of rules entered by the Bush Admin. and sponsored by NFL lobbyists that makes transferring money to illegal offshore casinos the responsibility of Banking and credit card processors without the benefit of defining what is illegal.

HR2267 is a bill that will legalize, license, regulate and tax online gambling in the U.S.

Send a thank you to Rep Betsy Markey, [CO-4], Rep Russ Carnahan, [MO-3], Rep Bill Pascrell, Jr. [NJ-8] for their support, as well as Rep Judy Biggert, [IL-13] for her support of HR2266.

Keep up the good work and keep in contact with your representatives by snail mail, email, phone and in person contact to ask those not already a co-sponsor to please sign up and help restore this freedom to us.

HR2266 now has 35 co-sponsors.

HR2267 is at 54.

Please also thank Rep. Barney Frank [MA-4] for his sponsoring these bills.

Online Gambling Bill Gaining Strength Quickly

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 15:56:00 +0000

HR 2267 is now at 51 co-sponsors The following House Reps. joined Barney Franks bill to overturn the UIGEA and make it legal, regulated and safe for Americans that want, gamble on the Internet: Rep Kinda T. Sanchez, [CA-39], Rep Mike Thompson, [CA-1], Rep Daniel B. Maffei, [NY-25].

HR2266, a companion bill that if approved, will delay the implementation of rules put into law on Jan. 19, and sanctioned by the NFL and their politically connected lobbyists. The law is to be made effective this December to prevent monetary transaction to offshore casinos that offer online gambling. This bill now has 32 co-sponsors with the addition of: Rep Mike Thompson, [CA-1] and Rep Daniel B. Maffei, [NY-25].

Please call to thank them for their support. For the remaining members of Congress, it is up to you, the people to call, email, snail mail, or visit them and insist they get on board to restore our freedom.

Online Gambling Bill Get Support From Rep. John Conyers, Jr.

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 16:50:00 +0000

Rep John Conyers, Jr. [MI-14] has joined the ranks of co-sponsors to bring Online gambling to the United States. Rep. Conyers is Chairman of the House Committee on the Judiciary and serves on these other (Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law, Subcommittee on Courts, the Internet, and Intellectual Property, Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Civil Liberties).

To be sure, this is an important alliance for those who oppose the UIGEA. Congressman Conyers becomes the 49th co-sponsor to HR2267., and with Rep. Rep Paul D. Tonko, [NY-21] they bring to 30 the number of co-sponsors for HR2266, which is a bill designed to delay for one year, the implementation of rules set by the Bush administration on his last day of office. This bill may be moot if the markup for HR2267 is done and passes into law.

Be sure to thank your congressperson for their support and if they have not yet signed on to these to bills, please contact them often until they do.

Delaware Set For Football Season Gambling

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000

With the start of the NFL season, the State of Delaware is going to have Las Vegas style Sports Books in their casinos. Residents of Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware are anxiously awaiting the start and the casinos are gearing up for it rapidly.

There may be a small glitch in their efforts as the NFL has threatened to file suit to stop any such gambling on their precious sport, however, they tried in Delaware once before and lost so the end result may be only to delay it if in fact the NFL decides to challenge.

The will be no betting allowed on Delaware based teams, college or even semi-pro, minor league and such. Similar to how Las Vegas runs their sports books.

Casino officials are expecting a large turnout from as far away as New York and possibly West Virginia as the lure of gambling on football is universal.

New Jersey is currently enjoined in a lawsuit with IMEGA to void the law which the federal government put in place during the 1990's that allows sports betting in only 4 states, Montana, Oregon, Nevada, and Delaware.

Although Delaware is excited about this opportunity, it is doubtful they will have it all in place for pre-season, but they will be ready for the first regular season games on Sept. 10.

If the response is good, we might expect to see new casinos in areas such as Rehoboth Beach in the not too distant future. This would put a serious crimp in the Atlantic City casino business as the area is plentiful with tourists, has ample beach and nightlife, and is a short drive or ferry ride from South Jersey. Also, by this time next year, the current casinos fully expect to offer table games similar to those in Las Vegas and Atlantic City.

Obama Needs Our Help! Its Time

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 22:40:00 +0000

There are Democrats in Congress that are either threatening or have come out and said that there will be no major Health Care reform. Its time to act.

Never before, nor in the next 20 or more years, will we have an opportunity to pass such important legislation that may change the course of this great country. Our government has the responsibility to educate our citizens, ensure their health is good, and provide for our defense. There is no other purpose for the government. With Pres. Obama in the White House and a Democratically controlled Congress and Senate, there is no longer any reason to pass up the right thing to do.

With education we are strong. With good health we are stronger and better able to defend our way of life. This is not the time for lobbyists, and those in politics that live by their generosity to side-step this issue or to water it down. Comprehensive Health Care for every American is as important an issue as there ever will be.

Without naming those politicians that may stand in the way of actual reform, it is important to note that they come from the following states:

Ohio, Georgia, Arkansas, Louisiana, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Oregon, North Carolina.

If your State is mentioned here, please contact your Senators and Congressman and urge them to get it done. There are far too many Americans that are under, or un-insured. Without Great health care, we can not be a great country.

Find your Senator Here

Find Your Congressperson Here

Watch the video above and call them. There is no better time than now!!!!!

Online Gambling Bill Receives Two More Co-Sponsors

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 11:13:00 +0000

On July 17, 2 more Congressmen signed on to HR2267 to bring the total co-sponsors to 47.

They are Rep John H. Adler [NJ-3] and Rep Walter Minnick [ID-1].

Hr2267 is a bill proposed by Mass. Rep. and Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, Barney Frank, that is designed to not only overturn the UIGEA, but to also Legalize, Tax, and Regulate Online Gambling in the United States.

HR2266 is a companion bill that seeks to delay implementation of rules rushed into effect by the Bush Administration with the help of NFL lobbyists and is to become effective this December. Joining the above mention congressman was Rep Frank A. LoBiondo [NJ-2] to bring the total of co-sponsors for this bill to 28.

While progress is slow in growing support, it is steady and has members of both parties signed on. Co-sponsors come from 20 different States and the Mariana Islands. There is much more work to do and many more co-sponsors needed for these bills to get a markup hearing. Please contact your congressperson here. Please contact them via email, phone calls, snail mail or in person and tell them that you demand your freedom back on this issue.

Health Care - CNN Asks If It Is A Right!

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:01:00 +0000

The fast answer is.......maybe!

If one was to look at the future of this country, the basic needs are education and good health.

We already provide education for all, we provide defense, elderly care, and so much more.

It is my opinion that if we were to place universal health care into the Dept. Of Defense, there would be no problem funding it. We could take a more serious look at the phantom F-22 that we are spending many billions of dollars on, and the plane has not flown one mission.

When does the DOD budget get trimmed to normal levels? Never! If the DOD was forced to finance the health and security of this country, it would be a no brainer.

I remember a time in the early 1970's that we had a serious asbestos problem in this country, money was given by congress for asbestos remediation, but they did not allocate enough. Funds were then used from the DOD because it posed a serious health risk to Americans. They financed most of the remediation of asbestos in public buildings, at a cost of many, many, millions of dollars. Today this money would be in the trillions of dollars. This money was not budgeted for, but it was there to take care of things congress fell short of doing.

This is our country. I say that there is plenty of cash within to not only finance universal health care, but also, quality education and security.

All we as citizens need to do is to get more involved. Demand that spending be spent where it is needed. Just think of the cost of the 2 wars we are in, how much we aid other countries, how we mis-spend or overspend on all that is not important.

The future of our county depends on the health and education of our youth. If we can not supply them what they need, then we are not a solid, healthy society.

So CNN, the answer to your question is a definite YES!

Republicans Must Be Wary Of Leadership

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 20:21:00 +0000

On Sunday Eric Cantor, Minority Whip, was on Fox News Sunday and was asked whether or not John Ensign and Mark Sanford should resign their positions as Senator and Governor, due to their recent admissions of transgressions which fly in the face of Family Values that they are so tied to and is a major part of their existence.

Cantor's response was that of sidestepping the question, citing they are a party of ideas and not of personalities.

What CRAP!

You can read and watch the exchange between Wallace and Cantor thanks to Crooks and Liars .

Seems to me that the party that has been touting family values in everything they say, that they should take the proper approach and demand that these two resign immediately. That would show not only that they believe what they say, but it may also give them a tiny bit of credibility that they so richly need.

Unless and until these men are made to step down, nothing else a republican says can be believed.

Legal Online Gambling Bill Co-Sponsors Increase, Again

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 13:52:00 +0000

Rep. Barney Frank (D-MA) sponsored two bills this year with the intention of delaying the implementation of rules of enforcement (HR2266) of the UIGEA, and the other is HR2267 which seeks to make legal Online gambling.

Both bills gained 2 additional supporters, Rep Paul W. Hodes, [NH-2] & Rep Edolphus Towns,[NY-10] , bringing HR2266 co-sponsors to 25 and HR2267 to 42.

Both bills are planned to be discussed in committee this year and Rep. Frank believes that he has the support to turn them into law this year.

It is very important that Americans continue to call, write, email, or see their Representative in person to discuss this and encourage them to get on board and allow us at least some of our freedoms that were taken to be given back.

What we do in our homes is of no concern to the government. They have no right to restrict an activity that is legal in a brick and mortar building and decide that it is illegal to do in our home.

Please contact your congressperson and demand they give us this freedom back.

IMEGA v United States Oral Arguements Today On UIGEA

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 10:57:00 +0000

In the long long awaited hearing between IMEGA (Interactive Media Entertainment & Gaming Association), and the Department of Justice, today is the day set for oral arguments to commence in the US 3rd Circuit Court Of Appeals in Philadelphia, PA. at 10 am.

IMEGA brought a suit against the DOJ that sought to void the UIGEA (Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act) which was jammed through the Senate in the last day of Congress in 2006, attached to an unrelated must pass Safe Port Security Act bill. Then Senator, Bill Frist added the bill in the final hour of session and gave no option for discussion, dissension, and many that voted were not aware of its inclusion.

IMEGA has more than a fair chance at succeeding in this case as the UIGEA as written is vague, does not define illegal gambling, excludes only companies that are based outside of the US, allows domestic companies that have been offering these services to continue, exempts, Horse racing, State Lotteries, and Fantasy Sports, but does not allow foreign publicly traded companies to do the same, which violate trade agreements in the WTO (World Trade Organization) in which over 180 other countries have signed fair trade agreements.

It also deputizes Banks and Credit Card companies to do the enforcement by blocking transactions to any offshore company.

When hearings were held, testimony by government officials could not define 'illegal online gambling', citing that there is no way to determine what is or is not illegal due to varying laws in each State, causing a delay of many months for rules to be put in place.

As a result of having banks be responsible, some State lotteries had purchasing transactions blocked because of the vagueness of the law.

IMEGA is represented by two very capable, extremely respected attorneys, Eric M. Bernstein and Stephen A. Saltzburg.

The defendants - the US Department of Justice, the Federal Trade Commission and the Federal Reserve - will be represented by Nicholas J. Bagley and Jacqueline E. Coleman of the US DOJ’s civil division in Washington, DC.

The three-judge panel that will decide the case are Judge Dolores Korman Sloviter, a Carter appointee; Judge Thomas L. Ambro, a Clinton appointee; and Judge Kent A. Jordan, a George W. Bush appointee.

IMEGA Chairman Joe Brennan Jr said, “This law will finally have to stand on it’s own two feet in court, free from politics and all other outside influences, we feel very confident that when the judges take a look at the law, they will see just how defective it is, and they will overturn it.”

What's Next For Republicans? More Sex Scandals?

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 13:53:00 +0000

There is so much that has been going on inside the Republican Party since its implosion which started in 2000 with the appointment of King George. It seems that every day that goes by, we hear of more in that party who do not live up to its ideals. A short list on the group that insists they are the party of family values includes the likes of Newt Gingrich, Larry Craig, Mark Sanford, John Ensign, Rush Limbaugh, Mark Foley, David Vitter, Bob Packwood, Jim West, Bob Livingston, Rudy Giuliani, Tom Evans, Buz Lukins, Bob Bauman, Jon Hinson, Bob Allen, Dave Crane, Don Sherwood, Ken Calvert. Certainly not a complete list and there will surely be more to come.
The time is now for those very Family Values Party Members to denounce that they truly represent family values.
Their betrayals are widespread, involve not only cheating on their wives, but also include sexual activity with underage and same sex partners.
Mark Sanford, admitting a series of trysts, was one of the loudest during Bill Clinton's impeachment hearings demanding that he resign for his indiscretions, yet he does not see the need for himself to resign. Seems that the religious right truly is a forgiving bunch, all one has to do is come out and apologize for their indiscretion and all will be forgiven. Bullshit.
It is time for us to demand more from those that lead us. It is time to hold them to their talking points. How can our children look up to any politician and believe what they are saying, how can we allow this hypocritical approach to exist. They pronounce themselves as the saviors of children via anti-abortion laws, yet have no problem killing hundreds of thousands for an unjust war. They claim to be for families, yet deny children healthcare. They say they are for the people, but only support big business and rich folk.
Enuf!

Palin Resigns - Cites Obstructionism As Cause

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 22:23:00 +0000

Sarah Palin, once the darling of the Republican Party, and current Governor of Alaska has come out today with a lengthy speech detailing all of the reasons she can no longer continue as Governor.

While she stated that all of her problems have arisen since August of last year, when she was selected as the Vice-Presidential candidate for Sen. John McCain, and that all 15 complaints against her have been dismissed, this is not the complete truth.

Granted, when she accepted the position to be #2 in the government, she was nothing more than an obscure figure from a state we hear little about, but she and McCain had to know that once she accepted this task, there would be much more digging, investigating, and just normal vetting of the candidate. She did not hold up well under those investigations, and has since that time proven to the world that she was not the right person for that job, and in my opinion, any other job other than maybe a hostess at a half-way decent restaurant.

How Alaskans elected her to their top position is still a question on my mind. How a once respected Senator could not only choose her, but declare that she has what it takes to be the President is even more confounding.

That aside, the Huffington Post has published her entire speech, which is better read than watching the video of it.

To recap her reasons in short order, she polled her family and they all agreed she would be better fit not to serve in any official capacity.

So speculate that she is much like her daughter and can't say no to the man(men) in her life and that maybe she is with child again. Others think it might be to diffuse the spotlight that is currently blinding her and her party, and dimming her aspirations to try a solo for the big job in 2012. I think she may have just finally come to her senses and realizes that she can not govern, did not govern, mis-spent money, used her political influence improperly, and most, more than any other reason, it will take the focus off her and her family so they may go and behave as other normal people with problems.

She never had the right stuff, she never will.

Harry Reid Has No More Excuses - Progressives Watch Senate

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:12:00 +0000

With the Minnesota courts ruling unanimously that Al Franken won that election last year over Norm Coleman, the Senate now has a super Majority of Democrats. 58 Democratic Senators and 2 Independents that caucus with them.

Until now, there has been talk by Sen. Harry Reid, the Senate leader that there were just not enough votes to get things done. Harry is old school politics, heavily into lobbyist money and did not make very dedicated attempts to assist in getting things done that progressives put the Dems in office to do. Forever saying the votes are just not there. Well now they are.

Now there is no reason to try and cajole Republicans for the sake of looking bi-partisan. With the addition of Franken, there is a majority that can fend off any possible filibuster threatened, there is no need to beg the opposition for their support. All items can be brought to the floor for a vote and with leadership pointed in the right direction for the country and its citizens, there is no reason any legislation can be defeated. There is no longer any need to modify good programs to sway a couple of Republicans, there are no more excuses.

The time is now for those progressives that came out to vote in November in very large numbers to take it to the Senate, remind them of why they are there, how they got there,and insist that programs that have been stalled, tabled, or ignored, now be taken into consideration.

Now I don't expect much to happen before Congress goes on their summer sojourn, but they better be ready when they get back to do some heavy lifting of their constituents programs desires.

The 2008 elections showed that power now comes in the form of numbers. Those numbers in the past were from wealthy lobbyists that donated heavily to individual campaigns, pet projects, and other means to gain influence among Senators and Congressman. That money is still flowing, however, we showed that an engaged population is more influential. When they are home in their districts this summer, make it a point to visit their local offices, try to meet with them, send letters, emails, and make phone calls. This works if the effort is substantial. We know we have the base to do it.

Americans need to be engaged in more than just the election. To complete the morphing from lobbyist control of law and regulation, to one that is citizen controlled, the time to act is now.

Republicans have, by their prior actions of rubber stamping a bad presidents plans, wants and demands, coupled with heavy influence from the radical right wing religious zealots such as focus On The Family, driven themselves not only to the minority, but very close to obscurity. It has taken progressives a long time be become the majority and it can be lost in the next election cycle if we don't continue our push for a better agenda.

Congress needs to be watched closely, nudged often and reminded frequently who they represent. Make it a point to set aside one day that you know your Representative will be in his/her office and take the time, make the effort to engage them. Let them know we have not gone away. Remind them often how they represent us and not big business and that they need to be aware of your opinions on every subject.

There is no longer any reason to engage old school republicans, their tenures will be short as more and more good policies are made and passed. Those that care to put aside their corporate sponsorships and join the majority will be rewarded in the next election, those that don't, won't.

Health Care For All Americans Is Needed Now

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 08:27:00 +0000

The debate about a public option and whether it should be included in any Health Care Bill is not an option, it is a necessity.
Last week, an NPR photographer took pictures of all those in attendance at a hearing about health care instead of the normal photos of the representatives asking the questions. It is interesting to note that a majority of those in attendance were all lobbyists for the Health Care Industry and very few were normal American citizens. Those that were identified were known to have taken several millions of dollars from Insurers and private hospital concerns and they were there to do their jobs and derail any public option.
We often say that the US government can not run anything properly, yet we have Medicare that has been active since the 1960's and it provides terrific coverage for all Americans that are on the system. Is there a certain amount of fraud in the program?, Yes, but this fraud is perpetrated by the doctors and hospitals that accept Medicare by over billing, charging for services not rendered, charging insane amounts of money for things such as aspirin and other necessary items that they normally overcharge for.
The private Health insurers do not want a public option for they fear it may actually cause them to provide the one service they sell, insurance. They are afraid that if a public option is available, it will severely hurt their business model which is to deny coverage, then drop clients.
A public option will be less expensive for Americans, there will be no threat of losing insurance if one gets sick or is in need of medical attention, it will cover emergencies, possible medications, home health care, rehab, etc.
My mother is on medicare, has been for several years, and she gets the best medical attention possible from doctors and hospitals not matter where she is. With her health problems, the only thing that is not covered is hearing aids (She is 98% deaf), yet she is able to afford those because of the coverage for all other health problems. Being a diabetic with high blood pressure, osteo-arthritis, poor circulation, occasional polyps, cataracts, and a few other minor problems, she is better than most at her age, yet if she had private health insurance, she would denied the access to doctors as often as she needs them, might even be dropped from coverage or have claims denied, and would not be insurable by other companies due to these pre-existing conditions.
There is much talk about having a public option, yet there are Senators and Congressmen that are doing everything in their power to water this down or make it impossible to trigger.
The time has come for us all to get involved and demand that this happen, it will not be free health care, just as medicare is not free. a small premium every month is deducted from my mothers social security check to ensure the program continues. That is how it will work for the rest of us.
What is important to note is that doctors may be against it because, as with Medicare, they set a maximum amount of money that a doctor can charge, and pay 80% of that amount. Insurance companies are against it because it will encroach on their monopoly and may actually cause them to pay for care.
This issue is long past overdue and needs immediate attention. We can not allow those in Congress that have received big money from lobbyists to dictate a watered down plan that will do no one good except the lobbyists and who they represent.
It is time Congress does the right thing for the American people who are struggling, in no small way due to health care costs. This health care bill is right for our country, it is right for our well being, and it may possibly be the only time in the next 20-50 years it may actually see debate. This is why it is important to get it right the first time.

Michelle Bachmann Suggests We Break The Law

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 12:41:00 +0000

For quite some time we have know that there is an unbelievable amount of idiotic rhetoric, fear-mongering, hopes of failure, and all else that Republicans have been doing since losing the elections in 2006, and more so since Obama won in 2008. Recently, a congresswoman, Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-MN), who seems to be one of the most distraught of the bunch, of course, there is always Rush, McCain, Newt, Boehner, etc to keep the eyes of Fox News (lol) and their dedicated viewers in the insane column, is suggessting that she will break the laws of the US and possibly face 5 years in jail for doing so. And she wants us to join her.

Bachmann is now telling all good Americans that they should violate the law concerning the 2010 census, as she is going to do. You would think that an elected official, especially a congressperson, should know the law, and what it demands, however, she is touting the idea that people should only answer the question on the Census that asks how many people live in your household. The fear mongering is such that she is in advance saying that the Census will be used to fill interment camps similar to those that were used during WWII to round-up and detain Japanese that lived here after Pearl Harbor.

She really needs to get educated, and fast. The law demands that the entire form be filled out or one could face jail and fines. she is also, obviously without the knowledge that the Census Bureau cannot release this information to any other government entity.

Census Bureau spokesman Steve Buckner, in a statement to Minnesota Public Radio said that 'many of Bachmann's concerns were misguided' and further stated that 'Well, we certainly are working with the Congresswoman’s office here in DC, and have already had a briefing with her to explain the rules of the Census and why they’re there, and explain some of the Constitutional law.'

A person in her position should at least know the laws, after all, being in Congress, she has a hand in making them. Voters need to become more educated and ask better questions of those that represent them.

The Census is designed to collect data on population, family incomes, family size, and other pertinent information that helps the Federal government decide where to spend out tax dollars, among other things. It is an important grouping of data that helps our government operate. By not completing it in full and truthfully, States could be denied important financial contributions that would help them improve and better serve the population.

It is long past the time for her to be removed from office. The good people of Minnesota need to take heed and demand a recall. We as a country do not need a person in power suggesting to us to break the law.

Online Gambling Bill Receives 5 More Co-Sponsors

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 11:23:00 +0000

Barney Frank's efforts, as well as those of our readers and many in the industry have successfully brought to 40 the number number of Co-sponsors for HR 2267. While this bill needs much more support, it is interesting to note the fact that citizen involvement has a lot to do with the increase.

This bill, unlike HR2048 which Rep. Frank introduced in 2007, is experiencing more bi-partisan support, indicating it has a much better chance of passing this year. Although hearings have not been set thus far, it is almost certain that we will see some movement before the end of the session in 2009.

The following representatives signed on to the bill on June 26,2009:

Rep Foster, Bill [IL-14]

Rep Blumenauer, Earl [OR-3]

Rep Abercrombie, Neil [HI-1]

Rep Ryan, Tim [OH-17]

Rep Nadler, Jerrold [NY-8]

Please contact them and thank each of them for their support and for actually listening to you instead of the lobbyists that are against such a bill. A total of 18 States and the Mariana Islands have had congressman sign on to co-sponsor, the latest are Oregon and Hawaii.

This bill is so important to our individual freedoms that we must all continue to bring pressure on our representatives in both the Senate and the House in order to provide those members with our input. The old boys network of religious extremists had the upper hand in 2006 when then Senator and presidential hopeful Bill Frist, jammed the UIGEA down the throats of Americans in a sneaky, malicious way to appease his base. It is time now for us to take unprecedented action and flood members of both branches of government with our demands. Remind them the 2010 elections are nearing and that you vote.

In a companion bill, HR2266, which seeks to delay the implementaion of rules that were pushed through by Bush holdovers and NFL lobbyists, for a period of 1 year, also gained the support of 3 more congresspeople, the are:

Rep Blumenauer, Earl [OR-3]

Rep Abercrombie, Neil [HI-1]

Rep Ryan, Tim [OH-17]

Remember to thank them for their efforts and add this bill which now has 23 co-sponsors to your discussion with members.

It is also very important that you reach out to friends and family members and talk to them about contacting their congressional leaders.

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Spencer Bachus - Wrong On Online Gambling And UIGEA Again

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 05:26:00 +0000

Honorable Spencer Bachus, As the Ranking Member and Minority Leader on the House Financial Services Committee, you are duty bound to be fair and honest, putting your personal beliefs and creeds aside and review the latest facts on issues as they are now.I am a voting Republican and I am disheartened with your seemingly little knowledge of the law and technology with regards to the UIGEA, and subsequent attempts to either dilute, delay or revoke it.Although we all at some time feel pain like the good Rev. Hogan, his story is not typical. In fact, many studies that have come out since the passing of the UIGEA have shown that it is a far worse situation now than prior to the enactment of the law. Having sent the business underground, the government has ensured that only predatory types will remain in the business as the legitimate services that are being offered by honest, publicly held international corporations stay away from the US. It is with the best interest of the government to undue this law that has caused more harm than good. It has taken millions of dollars from Americans, and has not stopped the flow of money to the very companies it was designed to.

Please allow me to offer the following,

1. Age verification systems DO work.

2. GEO-Tracking Software exists and is very viable in thwarting use from an area where such activity would be deemed illegal or unwanted (China does this all the time)

3. I agree that the federal government does not have to regulate this activity, in fact, it should neither make it illegal or legal, simply leave it to the individual states to decide. By making the flow of money illegal, State lotteries have been injured financially due to the credit card companies not willing to violate an unclear law.

4. We are in violation of World Trade Organization Treaties via the GATS because of these actions, we have been sanctioned by one small island nation for a small sum of $21M annually, and have made concessions with several of our major allies, now we are faced with possible action by the European Union. This all seems like such a stupid waste of time and money to try and enforce a prohibition that is not likely to succeed.

5. The Federal government, with this law, has removed personal freedoms of American Citizens to choose what they do in their own homes, with their own money, when they choose to do so.

6. The issue of sports leagues is a non issue as most teams, organizations actually sponsor lotteries, are aware that gambling on their particular brand of sport is what helped to popularize it, and are willing to allow certain usage for fees, such as lotteries, fantasy leagues, sports talk shows, they are well aware that the point spread is what makes the game interesting for many millions of people worldwide, in fact, the NFL, MLB, HOCKEY, NBA, NCAA are complicit in illegal gambling on their respective sports, they all provide newspapers, trade magazines and wire services with injury reports, suspensions and other facts that alter the point spread so they may publish updated spreads daily, odds on winning titles, boxing, soccer games, tennis, etc, no sport is untouched by this. The EU has smartly used legitimate sports gambling services to actually alert them to what may be some inconsistencies on a particular event.

7. Update your facts about who runs thees offshore sites, and think about the influx of jobs, new business, sustainable employment here in the US at a much needed time for this that legalization would bring.

8 As with any business that exists, there are problems, just look at how well the Banks and Wall Street, Enron, Oil Companies, and many other industries have been predators on the American public which caused a worldwide collapse of the monetary system. This occurred due to lack of regulation and over site, the UIGEA is doing the same for Internet gambling.

9. When Oil Companies can hold off delivering of oil that is already on barges even by one day, they stand to make many millions of dollars on the commodities markets, this, is unfair, yet not regulated.

10. The real issues here are can we have an age verification system that is effective, can we have effective geo-tracking to block activity from states not wanting it, can we implement rules and regulations that make it difficult to have shady, unscrupulous companies operate here, can we tax the revenue generated and use it for assistance in problem gambling areas, as well as for the general fund, can we have effective over site and audits to ensure no cheating is going on, can the legitimate site help keep the integrity in sports, can the American people have their freedoms.

The in depth answer to this is Absolutely.

Your article in US NEWS and World Report dated June 4, 2009 is full of incorrect facts that you cited in the hearings 2 years ago, at which time they were incorrect. If you expect to serve the people, it is time you did so. As far a overwhelming support for the passage of the UIGEA, we all know how it was added to the Port Security bill at a very late hour with no ability for discussion, a bill, by the way which was a MUST PASS, final action of that congress. This is not a mandate, it is trickery performed by then Senator Bill Frist who was trying to appease his religious base in the hopes of their support for a future presidential run and we know where that took him. I and many millions of other Americans are watching this issue as well as H.R. 2266, H.R 2267. We want this freedom, and those who vote against it will be remembered the next time they are up for re-election, and we will vote out those that refuse to give us this basic freedom.

Barney Frank's HR2266 - HR2267 Gain Co-sponsors

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 13:27:00 +0000

Yesterday we reported that there were 16 states and the Mariana Islands supporting H.R.2267 which seeks to overturn the UIGEA enacted in 2006. today we are happy to report that Alaska Rep. Don Young, who represents the entire State of Alaska has signed on as well, bringing to 17 the number of States that currently support the overturning of the online gambling ban. The bill now has 35 co-sponsors.

In a little talked about bill, HR 2266, which is a companion bill designed to stop the implementation of rules for the UIGEA for 1 year, this bill is currently at 20 co-sponsors.

Please take the time to contact your Congressperson and Senators and tell them how important it is to give us our freedoms back. You can reach them at Congress here, and at the Senate here.

Please remember to contact Rep. Young and thank him for his support.

Frank' HR 2267 Supporter From 16 States, Mariana Islands

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 10:14:00 +0000

On Friday, June 19, four more congressmen signed on to co-sponsor Rep. Barney Frank's bill HR 2267 that will overturn the UIGEA and allow for online gambling. They are:
Rep Ciro D. Rodriguez, [TX-23]
Rep Michael M. Honda, [CA-15]
Rep Robert E. Andrews, [NJ-1]
Rep Ed Perlmutter, [CO-7],
bringing the total co-sponsors to 34. This is a good start, but we need many more for this bill to stand a chance of passing. Currently, Representatives from the following States have signed on in support of legalizing online gambling:
Arizona, Nevada, California, Washington, New York, New Jersey, Colorado, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Florida, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and the Mariana Islands.
For those of you that urged your congressperson and they signed on, please call them, email them or meet with them to say thanks. For the rest of Americans that want their freedoms back, it is time to act now. Call your Rep. and demand they get behind you and lend their support to this important bill. For those that did contact your congressperson and they are not signed on, call them repeatedly until they do.
I personally have been in contact with my congressman, Ron Klein (FL-22), several times on this issue and have gotten no response, except for a stock form letter last year saying that he would consider my thoughts on the subject if it arises again, I have reminded him that it has, yet still no response. I will continue to flood his office with calls, letters, and emails until I get a response, and you should all do the same. Ron Klein serves on the same Financial Services Committee as Barney Frank and he should be a supporter of this bill. He is on my watch list for the next election and will not get our support if he does not support us.

Universal Health Care For Americans Is Not Impossible

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 16:10:00 +0000

In January, Rep. John Conyers Jr. (MI-14) authored bill HR676 which would if passed, would provide health care coverage for all Americans. I have included a short summary of this bill and how it plans to finance the cost. It all seems very reasonable to me. HR 676 currently has 83 co-sponsors and needs more to get thought the house.

As we all have heard, there are many factions against a public option, and those that favor one have watered down the plan so much that even when passed, almost 30 million Americans will still be left uninsured. Please read this summary and call your Representative, write them, and encourage they get behind what may be the single most important legislation for the future of this country.

United States National Health Care Act or the Expanded and Improved Medicare for All Act - Establishes the United States National Health Care (USNHC) Program to provide all individuals residing in the United States and U.S. territories with free health care that includes all medically necessary care, such as primary care and prevention, prescription drugs, emergency care, long-term care, mental health services, dental services, and vision care.
Prohibits an institution from participating unless it is a public or nonprofit institution. Allows nonprofit health maintenance organizations (HMOs) that deliver care in their own facilities to participate.
Gives patients the freedom to choose from participating physicians and institutions.
Prohibits a private health insurer from selling health insurance coverage that duplicates the benefits provided under this Act. Allows such insurers to sell benefits that are not medically necessary, such as cosmetic surgery benefits.
Sets forth methods to pay institutional providers of care and health professionals for services. Prohibits financial incentives between HMOs and physicians based on utilization.
Establishes the USNHC Trust Fund to finance the Program with amounts deposited: (1) from existing sources of government revenues for health care; (2) by increasing personal income taxes on the top 5% income earners; (3) by instituting a progressive excise tax on payroll and self-employment income; and (4) by instituting a small tax on stock and bond transactions. Transfers and appropriates to carry out this Act amounts that would have been appropriated for federal public health care programs, including Medicare, Medicaid, and the State Children's Health Insurance Program.
Requires the USNHC Program to give first priority in retraining and job placement and USNHC employment transition benefits to individuals whose jobs are eliminated due to reduced administration.
Requires creation of a confidential electronic patient record system.
Establishes a National Board of Universal Quality and Access to provide advice on quality, access, and affordability.
Provides for: (1) the eventual integration of the Indian Health Service into the Program; and (2) evaluation of the continued independence of Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health programs

Poker Gambling In Alabama A Costly Lesson For The Government

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 00:12:00 +0000

My major source of online gambling news is the Internet, as I am sure it is with many others. Currently, there are many news related sites online that report what they see going on and that is good. What most don't do and should, is report to the people on the actual cost the government is spending on the inadequate, unfair enforcement of ill-advised laws, when that money can and should be spent on things more productive, such as stopping people from killing others, rapes, muggings, and other crimes that actually affect us.

When these news reporting companies release articles saying that an investigation has gone on for 1 month and netted 1 arrest (the arrested released on $1200 bail), we should demand that they include the cost of the investigation, how many police, investigators, prosecutors, judges, clerical workers, vehicles expenses, etc., along with the number of man hours was needed to complete such a raid and investigation and the expected cost to take it to trial, house the perpetrator, and complete the operation. We should know what this cost is. How else can we make a case to the general public that our resources are being mis-used.

We can easily think this out, assuming that 1 policeman investigated for 1 month (normally there are a few more), at an annual salary of $40,000, his cost alone was almost $3500. Certainly when the establishment was raided, the were more than likely at least a dozen police present, a truck to carry swag, prosecutors to ensure rights are not violated, etc.. City, county and state vehicles have a price tag, maintenance, and insurance. Let us also add in the office space needed to house all of the paperwork that is necessary, the telephone costs, judges time for warrants, clerical assistants, filing clerks and so on. Lawyers, even prosecutors get paid. I would estimate that this particular crime of playing poker cost the Alabama government almost $100,000 and much more if the person arrested goes to jail for any period of time.

This is where government spending needs to be cut. This is where NEWS reporting has to improve.

America - Not The Beacon It Once Was

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 22:38:00 +0000

The past years have been tough on us all. We have been made to endure an idiot president, a vicious, mean-spirited, sneaky, lying thief of a vice-president, a backbone-less Democratic Party, a yes sir Republican Party, an overtly intrusive government, Wars, failed economy, poor health and education programs, no accountability, Fox, the religiously insane, outed covert operatives, rendition, torture, sexual hypocrisy, and oh so much more. But this year was going to start something new. Obama was our hope, our change, our new direction.

Wrong again!

I know, don't remind me that he is in office about six months and has already done much.

What is really bothering me is that I voted for him thinking he would be different. Yet, here we are, fighting the same battle as we did against Bush & Co. Today, I just couldn't stay silent any longer. CREW has filed a lawsuit for the meeting Dick Cheney had with the FBI regarding Valerie Plame's outing. A federal judge wants to review those documents, and here is where that beacon of light starts to dim a bit more, speaking on behalf of the DOJ, "If we become a fact-finder for political enemies, they aren't going to cooperate," Justice Department attorney Jeffrey Smith said during a 90-minute hearing. "I don't want a future vice president to say, `I'm not going to cooperate with you because I don't want to be fodder for 'The Daily Show.'"

Hah! Are you kidding me? They are all 'fodder' all of the time, now Mr. Smith will become part of that fodder. Furthermore, if the president or vice-president has knowledge of illegal goings on, he is supposed to come forward with that just because he is an American and has sworn to uphold the laws of this country. That is what we are asked to do all the time, why are they different!

How is Obama a part of this? Well, it is his DOJ, and it is he who is continuing the policies of the prior man in that job, even though he proclaims to want a government that is open. He has blocked the release of the White House Visitor Logs, is defending wrongs from the prior administration, he is putting business as usual before the well being of we, the people.

As for me, I will continue to get my news from responsible, thorough sources such as The Daily Show, and The Colbert Report. At least they don't sugar coat the message.

DiCaprio Movie about Online Gambling Doubtful About Real Truths

noreply@blogger.com (Gambling & Politics) — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 09:20:00 +0000

While I think it is noble that someone of his star power is interested in making a movie of the internal workings of an offshore casino, it is doubtful that we will get to see the complete story.

As most Hollywood movies, this is sure to compartmentalize a tiny fraction of what happens in only a few of the businesses, most of which are licensed and legal where they operate.

Talk is that the story will be based on some instances of BETCRIS, one of the first to open in Costa Rica. While there may be some real life characterizations of the industry, it is expected that much of the story will be centered around shady dealings, living the high life, and major embellishment of fact. But that is what Hollywood is good at. The real story is rather mundane and uneventful.

For some time in the mid-1990's I was party to an offshore house located in the Dominican Republic, it was a time that local bookies were seeking alternative ways to conduct their business without interference with US law. During that time, I was privileged to meet and conduct weekly sessions with four other owners of similar businesses. We were striving to bring the best service to people from all over the world. Of course, this was just prior to Internet gambling and most, if not all bets were placed of international phone lines. Our discussions centered around how to better service the gambling community while at the same time reducing the tremendous overhead we all experienced for advertising, phone service, and personnel. We also had great amounts of contact with other operators in Antigua, Nevis, Barbuda, St Maarten's and even domestic bookies who were seeking our services.

There was competition, yet there was also assistance between all of us. At times, the FCC would find one groups phone numbers and shut them down, other facilities were willing and able to take on the added influx of competitors customer base during these times, then release them back to their original house once problems were resolved. We discussed co-op advertising, shared bulk purchases of 100's of thousand of telephone minutes each month, installed T-1 systems, and even lent personal, office space and computers to each other as needed. We Shared software, provided lines to Internet services such as Don Best and Data Broadcasting Corp so that they could transmit via satellite similar to those in Las Vegas had been doing to allow those interested in seeing the different point spreads at multiple locations in real time.

Never did we have to watch our backs in fear of the others. There were no strong-arm tactics by anyone in the business at that time. Except for the Federal government who kept interfering with our legitimate business and threats to shut us down, threats to extradite us to the US and charge any they could with violations of the Federal Wire Act, IRS evasions, Rico statutes, etc.

The heat came from the US in 1995 which caused many to abandon the business or relocate. BETCRIS was one of these.

To us as a group of individual businessmen, we were providing a service to people all over the world that was and still is in high demand. We did not launder money, we did not support any subversion of the government, we paid taxes on money earned, had hundreds of people employed, and did not pressure people to gamble. The calls were all initiated from the gambler, not by us. If they did not call to wager, no one called them. We did not take the money out of the US economy, we advertised liberally in the US, sponsored morning radio shows, my company even sponsored the Peach Bowl Nationwide one year on radio. We took out full paid ads in newspapers and trade magazines located in the US. We followed a business model similar to most major US corporations.

We had many disagreements, all of which were discussed and resolved in a purely business manner. As the threats from the Federal government became more real, indictments were handed down on some operators, all legally licensed facilities in the Dominican Republic decided to shut down and re-locate. Others just shut down.

Countries in the Caribbean constantly courted us to come there and set up shop, offering many incentives to do so. Why did they do this? The simple answer is that they needed businesses that would help add to their domestic revenue and hire locals. As a group we hired many thousands of people, generated revenue that was often spent in local shops, employed a good percentage of locals and that helped reduce the crime rate and raise the standard of living for many in their country. We rented houses and offices, bought cars and land, ate at local eateries, purchased other goods and services locally. In the eyes of these countries, we were not violating any laws. We were good to those countries, donated to local youth organizations, assisted in building recreational facilities, donated politically, helped the less fortunate, and supported local merchants. All at the same time providing a much needed service to Americans, sending most of the earned money back home to be spent in the American economy, utilized American Advertising agencies, printing companies and we all maintained residency and citizenship in the US, and in most cases, our families lived in the US, paid mortgages, bought goods and services and paid taxes on the money we earned.

So when the movie comes out, keep these facts in mind, and discount the sensationalism that Hollywood is so well know for.