A Behind the Scenes Peak at a Casino Slots Floor – Part 2 Casino Myths Dispelled

Posted by Miz.Chellie on May 14th, 2012

Although casino gaming has become an acceptable past time for many Americans, there is still a lot of misinformation out there.   In the first installment of, “A Behind the Scenes Peak at a Casino Slots Floor – Part 1“, a broad general overview of how a casino slots floor operates was discussed. You can find that installment here.

The next chapter of, “A Behind the Scenes Peak at a Casino Slots Floor – Part 2 Casino Myths Dispelled” is going to do just that.  This will help you separate the fact from the fiction.

A Behind the Scenes Peak at a Casino Slots Floor – Part 1 listed the top 5 questions and comments that have been asked of me or directed towards me so let’s get to those to help dispel some myths.  You may be surprised at some of the answers.

What is The Best Las Vegas Casino to win at? » » more » »

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FBI says hundreds of thousands may lose Internet in July

Posted by Miz.Chellie on April 20th, 2012

photo of detection tool from DCWGFBI says hundreds of thousands may lose Internet in July

The FBI was investigating a major hacking scam that changed DNS servers of unsuspecting users. The Hackers infected a network of what is believed to be more than 570,000 computers worldwide. They took advantage of vulnerabilities in the Microsoft Windows operating system to install malicious software on the victim computers. This turned off antivirus updates and changed the way the computers reconcile website addresses behind the scenes on the Internet’s domain name system.

This case had one HUGE technical problem. If the criminals’ computers were seized and turned off, all of the four million computers that were relying on those computer to “find things” on the Internet by resolving domain names to numeric IP addresses for them would fail. They wouldn’t just “default back” to some pre-infection DNS setting, they would just stop being able to use the Internet at all until someone with some tech-savvy fixed the DNS settings on those computers.

The FBI put in place an advanced system to avoid any appearance of government intrusion into the Internet or private computers.  The criminals’ DNS Servers  were replaced with Internet Systems Consorium (ISC) DNS Servers that would give the right answer to any DNS queries they received. It was supposed to be a temporary measure, just until the Department of Justice managed to get everyone’s DNS settings set back the way they were supposed to be. Last November, there was a  court order that dictated that March 9th would be the day to turn off the ISC DNS servers

It is believed that the vast majority of the 4 million compromised computers have not been fixed. On March 8th the court agreed to give them an extension until July 9th.

All computer users with internet access are urged to visit the website DCWG which is the security company that the FBI partnered with.  DCWG provides an online detection tool that will let you know if your computers is infected and will walk you though the steps to resolve.

To read more please visit:

FBI

CyberCrime & Doing Time

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A Behind the Scenes Peak at a Casino Slots Floor – Part 1

Posted by Miz.Chellie on April 14th, 2012

There is so much more than meets the eye as to what happens behind the scenes on a Casino Slot Floor so I will provide a simple overview in this first installment of, ” A Behind the Scenes Peak at a Casino Slots Floor – Part 1″.

It doesn’t matter if you are first time Las Vegas Visitor, a more seasoned gambler that visits Las Vegas regularly or even a “local”, as soon as people find out that I work in Casino Slots Management, they have a number of questions they want me to answer about Casino Slots.  Here are 5 top Casino Slots questions and comments that are regularly directed to me.

What is The Best Las Vegas Casino to win at?

I haven’t won anything. YOU tightened the machines!

I’ve put more money then what the jackpot is so I know the machine is broken!

What did you do to the machines?

I was just playing that machine and moved and someone came over and hit the jackpot.  I should not have left the machine because I would have won!

All of the above statements are myths.  There is so much more than meets the eye as to what happens behind the scenes on a Casino Slots Floor so I will provide a simple overview in this first installment of, ” A Behind the Scenes Peak at a Casino Slots Floor – Part 1″.  First and foremost, Las Vegas as well as other Gaming Jurisdictions is heavily regulated to protect the integrity of the games.  Before a Slot Machine even makes it’s way to a Casino Slots Floor, the manufacturer of the gaming device has to be approved by the Nevada Gaming Commission and State Gaming Control Board (GCB).  The GCB is the governing authority that ensures that any machine placed in any gaming establishment such as a casino, bar, restaurant etc. meets the most stringent of requirements

All aspects of the machine internally, mathematically and mechanically are thoroughly inspected to ensure that gaming manufacturers adhere to the strictest requirements in their manufacturing process.  If you visit the GCB site, you will note a lot of technical jargon and will certainly see for yourself how strict the process is.  This all happens behind the scenes before a casino even makes a purchase. » » more » »

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Mayor Carolyn Goodman delivers her first State of the City Address

Posted by Miz.Chellie on April 12th, 2012

Mayor Carolyn Goodman delivers her first State of The City AddressLas Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman delivers her first State of the City Address held in the City Council Chambers in the new Las Vegas City Hall

Mayor Goodman shares her penchant and ongoing commitment supporting the continued revitalization of downtown Las Vegas that her husband and predecessor former Mayor Oscar Goodman did by highlighting the new City Hall, Mob Museum and the Smith Center for the Performing Arts.  She also mentioned a number of casino expansions downtown as well as Zappos.com entry to downtown Las Vegas.  Tony Shay the CEO of Zappos.com was in attendance

Mayor Goodman calls this “the year of downtown.  She said the city is working to build a new arena and land a professional basketball team.

“Life is short and we want a basketball team now.”

“I will say nothing more on this until the money’s in the bank and the shovel’s in the ground, but rest assured, I want an NBA team in our city as much as my husband did,”

“The excitement is something that is contagious to all.”

Mayor Goodman addressed the continued high unemployment rates.

“We have to keep addressing every one of the things that has happened downtown has been about jobs — putting people to work,”

“Every time a hotel is remodeled, every small business that opens, everything that is going on is bringing jobs to our city.”

“And so I’m proud to announce the city is going to invest another $519 million in 19 additional infrastructure projects in 2012 through 2013.”

Toward the end of her speech, Mayor Goodman took a playful jab at her husband, former Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman

“As we are finally winding down, I’m so glad you’re alive,”

“And I didn’t have to do this with showgirls and Bombay Sapphire being passed out to all of you.”

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New Rules to Combat Cell Phone Theft

Posted by Miz.Chellie on April 11th, 2012

photo of numerous cell phonesIf you have ever lost a cell phone then you know how frustrating  it can be.  After frantically searching for you cell phone and retracing you steps, you come to the conclusion that your phone is GONE!  With the current recession that we are in and the ever expanding line of high tech smart phones, cell phone theft incidences have increased substantially with a number of these thefts turning increasingly violent.

What next? You contact the cell phone carrier to temporarily discontinue your service.  Then you ask them about tracking  and or blocking your phone, since we all know that they can.  Depending on your carrier, they may or may not list stolen phones in their database.  When my BlackBerry was stolen, T-Mobile told me that they do not block IMEI numbers.

After reporting your phone as lost or stolen and completing a police report if needed, you are now responsible for replacing your lost or stolen cell phone. If you were lucky enough to have insurance, then you are covered for a replacement however all of your personal information is out there and it is wildly frustrating to know that someone is now either selling your valuable cell phone or worse yet using it.

With cell phone theft at such high levels the situation is downright scary!  Fortunately, all of the major players, Verizon, AT & T, T-Mobile and Sprint, have come together to combat cell phone theft and are working with the FCC and police departments around the country to create a national database.

The initial phase will consist of the wireless cell carriers creating and supporting their own database which is expected to occur within six months.  Within 18 months, the individual databases will be combined to form a national database which will help combat cell phone theft by blocking stolen devices from being altered to run on another carriers network.  The US carriers mentioned above will deactivate the phone using the IMEI, ESN or other identification number.

I wonder what will happen to Asurion and other insurances companies since it is sure to put  a huge dent in their business!

Finally! It’s about time.

Full Story: Bloomberg

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Revel Atlantic City Approved for Casino License

Posted by Miz.Chellie on March 26th, 2012

Revel Atlantic City exteriorAs expected, Revel the luxurious completely smoke-free Atlantic City casino resort scheduled to open on April 2nd had been approved by The New Jersey Casino Control Commission for their casino license.

From the 130,000 square foot gaming floor to the amazing ever changing theatrical lighting to the DigiPit and Ultra Lounge, Revel should breathe some much needed life into the still struggling AC gaming market.

From ABC News

“We’ve convinced people for 30 years that if you’re not a gambler, you can’t come here,” said Kevin DeSanctis, Revel’s president and CEO. “We want to convince them you can. We’d love to have you.”

Linda Kassekert, chairwoman of the casino commission, said Revel will be the kind of game-changer in Atlantic City that the Borgata was in 2003.

“We are placing a great deal of confidence in you, Mr. DeSanctis, and your team at Revel,” she said. “Your ability to market this property and draw new people to come and experience what Atlantic City has to offer will play an enormous role in the future success of the gaming industry here.”

The project ran out of money during the recession, but resumed last year with the help of some state tax incentives. Original backer Morgan Stanley pulled out of the project and took a $1.2 billion loss on it. DeSanctis said much of the remaining financing the project obtained came from J.P. Morgan.

Located at the extreme northern end of the Boardwalk, next to the Showboat Casino Hotel, Revel is the first casino to open since its main rival, the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, debuted in 2003. With its angular slanted roof and its giant white light-up ball atop the 47-story structure — the second-tallest in New Jersey at 710 feet — Revel is already an iconic presence in the nation’s second-largest gambling market.

Its sleek reflective glass bathes the beach in shards of brilliant light, and even the contours of its foundations were designed to appear as if they had been sculpted by waves.

Also on Monday, the casino and Angel Management Group released details of its day-and-night clubs to The Associated Press.

The 40,000-square-foot HQ Nightclub will consist of four levels, each with a different experience, starting with a candlelit library bar that includes casino gambling, billiards and cocktails on the first floor. The top level is a rooftop area done up in yacht-inspired décor with panoramic views of the ocean. The club’s main room will also house a state-of-the-art performance area.

The HQ Beach Club will occupy 45,000 square feet of beachfront space, and will offer pool parties and other revelry.

Revel is being counted on to help revive the struggling seaside gambling resort, which soon will be surpassed by Pennsylvania as the nation’s second-largest gambling market after Las Vegas.

Michael Garrity, Revel’s chief investment officer and a former Morgan Stanley executive, said the resort’s business model differs from its competitors.

“We’re fundamentally betting on the demographic underpinning of the northeastern United States,” he said. “It’s not just about Atlantic City.

“What always amazed me about Wall Street guys is our willingness to get on a plane, and fly five or six hours to Las Vegas,” he said. “Because we’re gamblers? No. Because we want to have fun. That’s what Revel is all about.”

DeSanctis said Revel will not compete hard for the convenience gambler, who comes to town, plays for an hour or two, then leaves.

“That’s not a customer we can survive on,” he said. “It’s just not going to happen. We need an overnight stay. We’re looking for two nights.”

In terms of financial stability, Garrity said Revel has seven months of interest payments set aside in an account, and expects to secure a $50 million revolving credit line by mid-April.

The resort will be Atlantic City’s first smoke-free casino. DeSanctis said 80 percent of residents in the northeast — Revel’s target market — are non-smokers. Add in smokers who wish they could quit, and the number approaches 90 percent, he said.

“Most resorts today, the smoking thing is sort of out of date,” he said. “I don’t think smoking is going to come back indoors in any large sense anytime soon. I believe it’s the right decision and we’re going to have the right environment because of it.”

Revel is hosting three so-called “play days” this week for invited guests only, including construction workers who helped build the resort. It will open on April 2 with a champagne toast at sunrise.

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Jimmy Buffet approved by Nevada Gaming Commission

Posted by Miz.Chellie on March 22nd, 2012

a happy photo of Jimmy BuffetJimmy Buffet is no longer “wasting away in Magaritaville”; he now has the opportunity to prosper handsomely in Las Vegas ville since Nevada gambling regulators approved a license for Buffet to share in the gambling revenues from his Margaritaville casino in Las Vegas.

Buffett told commissioners that he never imagined the laid-back beach tune released in 1977 would become such a valuable piece of intellectual property. He did add  that “Margaritaville” was “a pretty good song” and said “it worked out.”

Full Story – LVRJ

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Cosmopolitan Las Vegas plans temporary EA sports bar

Posted by Miz.Chellie on March 22nd, 2012

The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas has tweeted about their temporary Strip-side Sports bar opening

“Sports bar meets video game lounge in our new #EASPORTSBAR, opening next week. (Just in time for Final Four.) Get your game hand ready!”

Officials planned to announce Thursday that the resort’s EA Sports Bar would open March 31 just in time for college basketball’s Final Four.

Lisa Marchese, the Cosmopolitan’s chief marketing officer, says,

“the bar is part of a strategy to keep giving guests fresh experiences when they come for multiple visits.”

The bar will include Playstation 3 consoles with EA’s latest sports games, including soccer, football and golf titles. It will also show live games.

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Golden Gate Casino downtown Las Vegas expansion plans

Posted by Miz.Chellie on March 19th, 2012

Photo of Golden Gate  front of casino in downtown Las VegasThe Golden Gate Hotel and Casino has announced, or shall we say, re-announced and tweaked their expected expansion plans. A downtown mainstay, who although small, has been somewhat of a champion in helping to revive the downtown Las Vegas hotel and Casino market.

In September of 2011, expansion plans were first announced and called for a “five story addition that will occupy a huge chunk of the parking lot out back”.

“applicant is requesting approval of a 24,603 square-foot addition to an existing 71,156 square-foot hotel/casino and improvements to two existing surface parking lots. The proposed uses are permitted and in conformance with the General Plan and the C-2 (General Commercial) zoning district. The site consists of the existing Golden Gate Hotel and Casino and a valet parking lot north of Carson Avenue, and a surface parking lot to the south. The addition is located at the rear of the existing structure, adjacent to the valet lot, and includes 4,267 square feet of casino floor area, 19 hotel suites as well as additional lobby, restaurant and service areas.”

Updated plans recently released still note the 5 story addition with 16 suites instead of 19, a high limit pit area and a deli.  In total the expansion is larger than originally announced and will add 30,000 square feet.  Their website provides an estimated (and aggressive I may add) completion date of summer 2012.

A few things come to mind.  While I certainly wish Derek and team all the best and have no doubt that he has the financial resources and business sense needed to make it happen, I can’t help but wonder how well a revamped hotel and casino will fare.  No doubt the hotel rooms need a thorough remodeling and I think the deli is a fabulous idea since a more upscale restaurant would not likely be successful. Btw, I also love the idea of renaming the Fitz to the “D”

Working in the downtown Las Vegas market for 6 years, I wonder how well the clientele will react.  The Golden Gate exudes a certain type of old world charm and it’s slight “dumpiness” makes it all the more appealing.  Each week, I would visit the Golden Date simply to see what they were up to. Since they have recently acquired ownership of the Fitzgeralds Casino, perhaps it is the right financial time for the company.

Expansion plans can be tricky especially for a newcomer who now has reached the status of multi-unit ownership. What a larger company simply takes for granted when they expand, …Executive staffing, vision, buy-in, commitment, loyalty, passion, a team with expansion experience and simply having the right people on hand to name a few……becomes more of a challenge.

I remember the days of Columbia Sussex…..those in the know referred to them as “sucks-ix” since they destroyed what was the former Maxim. Although successful in the hotel industry, their entry into the heavily regulated Casino Industry was marred by their brutal, inexperienced, ” I can do anything I want” attitude which led to  numerous regulatory problems which resulted in their eventual  license revocation in New jersey. Their big plans of being “big time” casino moguls ended rather abruptly.

So with cautious optimism and seeing the beginning signs of a recovering industry, I look forward to the Golden Gate expansion and wish them much success. But please, don’t lose that old world charm or wonderful artifacts currently on display in the lobby!

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Wynn vs Okada battle is getting interesting

Posted by Miz.Chellie on March 19th, 2012

Wynn Resorts and Kazuo OkadaThe Wynn vs Okada battle is really heating up now and those in the gaming industry are watching with keen interest.

After what appeared to be an amicable 12 year business relationship, Casino Mogul Steve Wynn has ceremoniously dumped Kazuo Okada from the board and forced a redemption of shares at a steep discount. Now the gloves are off.  It is Wynn vs Okada and the accusations are flying.

Universal Entertainment released this statement:

“While Wynn Resorts has still not provided Universal with a copy of the “investigation” report, we believe the allegations leveled against Universal are motivated by self-interest and represent the results of an incomplete and otherwise flawed corporate governance process in breach of the Board’s fiduciary and other duties. Universal believes the entire process has been tainted by the desire to serve Steve Wynn’s predetermined goal of removing Aruze USA as the largest stockholder of the Company.  Aruze USA intends to commence litigation, which includes seeking a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction, to protect its interests in Wynn Resorts and prevent the redemption of its shares.”

Wynn Resorts fired back on 3-13 with this statement:

“Despite its enormous length and scurrilous allegations, the Okada response fails to contain any meaningful denial of the facts detailed in the Freeh Report or Governor Miller’s conference call on February 21, 2012. Wynn Resorts looks forward to having Mr. Okada’s actions and the Company’s response presented to and adjudicated in court.”

So how will the Wynn vs Okada saga play out? A little backgroud.  After Wynn lost Mirage Resorts in a surprising involuntary takeover, he not so surprisingly bounced back with the help of his then billionaire friend Kazuo Okada.  Okada, an engineer who started his career repairing jukeboxes has made much of his fortune manufacturing gaming machines for Japan’s pachinko parlors and is skilled at maneuvering through the Asian gambling industry.  I remember first seeing the Pachinko demos at and I wondered then what the fascination was with the slot machine type of game combined with a pinball flipper.  Honestly, the game on display seemed a little “cartoonish” to me however it is big business and a mainstay in the Japanese market.  As of march 2012, Okada was estimated to be worth 1.8 billion by Forbes.

The result of these 2 combined mega forces and mega personalities was the creation of Wynn Resorts, with Mr. Okada eventually becoming the company’s biggest shareholder. To illustrate the strong bond, Wynn gushed during a May 2008 earning conference call, “I love Kazuo Okada as much as any man that I’ve ever met in my life”.   What a difference nearly 3 years makes!

Now each side is accusing the other of questionable payments to officials in Asia and the fight is being played out both in Las Vegas, where Wynn Resorts is based, and in Macau the former Portuguese seaport colony that is now controlled by China where annual gambling revenue is approximately four times that of the Las Vegas Strip. Macau was the source of virtually all of Wynn Resorts’ $613.4 million in profit last year certainly offsetting its loses in the hard hit Nevada economy.

So how did all start?  Rumors swirling about allege that it began in January when Okada filed a suit against Wynn for blocking access to financial documents related to a $135 million donation to the University of Macau by Wynn Resorts Macau.  The Las Vegas Review Journal notes that Wynn Resorts allegedly made the donation while waiting for Chinese approval to build a new casino on the Cotai strip.  Okada has said referring to Steve Wynn “His attitude changed because I became suspicious regarding the purpose and reason for the large donation made to the University of Macau, and I opposed it. Since then, Steve Wynn started trying to remove me.”

Another likely source of their clashing is that Mr. Okada is pursuing his own casino business in the Philippines, through a company Phillipine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) separate from Wynn Resorts.  Shortly after Wynn Resorts decided early last year that it would not follow Mr. Okada into the Philippine gambling the company allegedly commenced an investigation of Mr. Okada, conducted by a firm run by the well-respected and former F.B.I. director Louis J. Freeh.  The Wynn Resorts board cited the report by the Freeh Group in explaining their actions.

Wynn’s allegation include giving a visiting Philippine gambling regulator and his entourage free use of the Wynn Macau casino-resort’s Villa 81, a luxurious 7,000-square-foot suite that normally rents for $6,000 a night and includes his and her bathrooms with showers built to accommodate six people at a time.

The two tycoons are both known in the industry as having very strong personalities with huge egos to match although Okada usually shies away from the media.  He made an exception and spoke for 15 minutes in Japanese in a clip shown on the website of his firm Universal Entertainment, saying Universal has never done anything improper to obtain government approvals. You can watch the video subtitled in English here.

Now that both men are being investigated since it is illegal to bribe foreign officials to obtain a business advantage…it will be extremely interesting to see what else will come out in the wash.  I’m sure the inner working of the Macau’s private gambling rooms operations will come out.  I’ve actually been quite surprised that it hasn’t already.  Although Las Vegas has its share of private, high roller and high limit gaming areas, they are controlled by the licensed casino company and therefore heavily regulated. In Macau the casino company basically “outsources” the VIP room operations to third parties known commonly as junket or gaming promoters.  These “promoters” recruit high-roller customers to patronize a specific gambling room and arrange private loans to gamble in the private rooms.

You may remember when New Jersey regulators ruled Stanley Ho “unsuitable” largely because of these rooms structure.  Reuters published a major story on Macau’s VIP operation. It appears that these “promoters” still might dominate the Macau gaming industry and certainly seem to operate in a shroud of secrecy so perhaps this investigation that is underway will shed more light on this practice including identifying and profiling some of the region’s biggest VIP and junket operators. It may come as a big surprise to see who is truly involved.

A 2010 study by Macau Polytechnic Institute suggests that 47% of these Chinese high-rollers are either government officials or senior managers in state-run companies.

Perhaps Wynn will finally relocate his Corporate Headquarters to Macau as he threatened to do a couple of years ago.  Let’s hope not since he has done so much for Las Vegas.

One thing for sure, this battle of Wynn vs Okada will be watched around the world

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Celine Dion Cancels Las Vegas Performances until June

Posted by Miz.Chellie on February 29th, 2012

Celine Dion at Caesars Palace Celine Dion Cancels Las Vegas Performances until June. Celine Dion was originally schedule to resume her show in early March and now under Doctors orders has had to extent her forced hiatus until June.

As disappointing as it is for Celine Dion and her fans, is is necessary for her to recover completely.  On her website, she released the following statement.

“I tried to sing at my sound-check last week, and I had no control of my voice whatsoever,” said Celine. “We thought that after a few days rest I would improve but it wasn’t getting any better….I guess it was worse than I thought. I’m fortunate that I was able to see Professor Berke. He identified what was causing the problems I was having, and he assured me that with the amount of rest he prescribed, I would be back to 100%. Obviously this is the worst thing for a singer….not being able to do your shows. I feel worse knowing that I’m disappointing my fans. I’m so sorry…..I hope they forgive me.”

Get well soon Celine.

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Clean the World Recycling Center Opens in Las Vegas

Posted by Miz.Chellie on February 29th, 2012
Photo of Shawn Siepler standing in front of Clean The World

Sean Siepler CEO Clean The World

Do you ever wonder what happens to all the soap that hotels supply to guests? Partially used bars of soap, for obvious reasons, cannot be placed in another hotel room.  Wouldn’t it be great if all this soap could somehow be recycled and put to good use. Enter Shawn Seipler, CEO of Clean the World.  Seipler, a  former traveling technology salesman who spent a good deal of time in hotels, began wondering what happened to all that free, in-room soap and the end result is that the Clean the World Recycling Center Opens in Las Vegas.

According to the Clean the World blog, “More than 9,000 children die each day from hygiene-related illnesses around the world. That’s 3.5 million lives lost per year.  According to medical research studies by UNICEF and the World Health Organization, more than 60 percent of these deaths can be prevented by regular hand washing with bar soap. It’s a challenge worth accepting to save these lives while there is still time, and with the hygiene resources we have in abundance. Clean the World was founded to meet that challenge and stop this needless loss of life”

The soap is sorted and undergoes a soap sterilization before it is repressed to soap. Currently some of the process is performed out of the Orlando, FL facility with the goal to eventually have the entire process performed at the Las Vegas facility, located at Valley View and Desert Inn. From the Las Vegas strip donations, more than 1 million bars of soap has been donated to those worldwide including Las Vegas.

Caesars Foundation is a major partner and has already contributed $250,000 since September, 2010. Clean the World also expects to add about 100 jobs with in the next few years.

Check out the Clean the World Blog and the Fox 5 Las Vegas video to see how you can help.

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Innovative Ways to Utilize Business Intelligence

Posted by Miz.Chellie on February 20th, 2012

For any industry worth their salt,  a great deal of time is devoted to finding Innovative Ways to Utilize Business Intelligence.  Smaller companies may simply employ an analyst or two to delve into anBusiness Intelligence Roadmapy available information,  generate reports and present their findings while others devote entire teams to aggressively analyze and utilize any and all available information.

In the Gaming Industry, similar strategies are followed in finding Innovative Ways to Utilize Business Intelligence to gather,  store and analyze information.  Just about every casino nowadays utilizes a player tracking system and many casinos have gone a step further by purchasing additional software that works hand-in-hand with their current player tracking systems in order to more easily have access to detailed information.  The cost of such systems are readily offset by the valuable information they provide.

The key item missing is how to fully utilize the information before it is entered in the system. Currently many of the Innovative Ways to Utilize Business Intelligence within the casinos happen AFTER the patrons signs up for a players card.  Imagine the benefits to both the Player and the Casino if valuable information could be culled before the patron either makes their way to the players club to sign up or is targeted by a casino host.  Sure there are “Hot Player” monitors and Casino Hosts roaming the floor who are supposed to monitor this information and attempt to sign the players up for a card. Does this always happen?  Of course not..

This “pre-infomation” is simply not fully utilized and,  if you really think about it is a tremendous area of opportunity.  What if a customer in the casino was playing for 4 hours and was not targeted by a host until their last 10 minutes of play?  They might not even be deemed worthy of a casino host visit because the last 10 minutes of their play at let’s say a different machine  showed gaming activity at a  level that would not warrant a visit by a Casino host…if indeed one was even available. The host, if properly trained should make appropriate notes in a new players account about their play before they received their card however that does not consistently occur, relies on the human factor and the vast majority of this information would likely be “lost”.

So how is this “pre-information” obtained?  A great example is the retailer Target.  Target assigns each customer a unique number when they are checking out at the cash register.  This customer number enables Target to analyze the contents of their shopping cart. At this point they do not even have a name.  And then the “magic” begins. Did the customer use their credit card when making a purchase? if so, there is now a name attached?  Has the customer filled out a survey?  Since the survey asks for the receipt number, the information can now be attached to a name based on their customer ID? Ditto for coupons.

Target is quite innovative and sends out emails and open surveys where it gathers demographic information and then they take it to the next level by purchasing information about a customers ethnicity, job history, magazines customers have read,  if they have ever declared bankruptcy or got divorced, the year a house was purchased or lost, college attended, what kinds of topics they talk about online, whether they prefer certain brands of coffee, paper towels, cereal or applesauce,  political leanings, reading habits, charitable giving and the number of cars they own.

Imagine the possibilities for Casinos! From creating truly unique yet focused player events sure to garner return visits to the possibility of really knowing the tastes of your consumer base and tailoring offerings accordingly, the possibilities are limitless and certainly well worth exploring.

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7 Steps Help Ensure Safe Online Job Search

Posted by Miz.Chellie on February 13th, 2012

With the popularity of the Internet, it is not surprising than an increasingly large percentage of job searches are online job searches. In fact, many employers simply do not accept applications in person and direct you to their website.

With unemployment at record high levels in many states, you may find yourself in the beginning throes of conducting an online job search whether by choice or necessity so here is a guide of the 7 Steps to Help Ensure a Safe Online Job Search

The major online job search boards, such as Indeed Jobs, Casino Careers, Yahoo Careers, Monster and Career Builder offer you the opportunity to search for jobs and offer an additional free service for you to post your resume so that potential employers can view your resume. If you simply upload your resume, your information is visible. There is a confidential format available which some job seeker use, however if you are posting your resume with your personal details, even in confidential format, your personal details are still visible. To help ensure the privacy of your information and your personal safety, follow the steps below.

7 Steps Help Ensure Safe Online Job Search

» » more » »

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Whitney Houston Dead at 48

Posted by Miz.Chellie on February 11th, 2012

The news and blaring headlines of Whitney Houston Dead at 48 has sent shock waves throughout the entertainment industry and her untimely loss can be felt throughout the entire nation.

Houston, arguably, one of the best singers ever, began her career as a gospel singer. Some might say she had acting in her blood and was destined to become a great singer. Her mother Cissy Houston is a famous singer in her own right, Dionne Warwick is her cousin and the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, is her Godmother.

After legendary music mogul Clive Davis, founder of the Houston Arista label, heard her sing, she was quickly signed to a worldwide exclusive contract. With her model looks, beautiful smile, sparkling on-stage personality and wide ranging octaves, it is not surprising that Houston soon catapulted into super stardom as a singer and actress.

She will likely be remembered most, and for countless generations to come, for her acting performance in The Bodyguard: Original Soundtrack Album and her rendition of “I Will Always Love You”, a song penned by Dolly Parton and most recently beautifully sung with only piano accompaniment by Jennifer Hudson at the Grammy Awards to honor Houston. Her debut Album in 1985 Whitney Houston became the best selling debut album by a female artist. That success was followed with her album Whitney, the first album by a female artist to debut at number one on the Bill Board 200 albums chart.

Although her personal life has had its ups and downs, Whitney Houston should be remembered as a multi-talented artist whose vast contributions to the musical industry remain unparalleled. Let’s take a cue from Piers Morgan on this who has been vocalizing similar sentiments.

Rest in Peace Whitney. You’ll be missed.

Feb 11, 2012

News Source – AP
Whitney Houston dead at 48. The woman with the amazingly beautiful voice has been found dead at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. Full details of her death have not yet been disclosed at this time. The AP has announced that her death has been confirmed by her publicist. Houston’s website is not reachable at the moment, presumably it is being updated to announce her passing. Rest in Peace.

More details to come.

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2011 Nevada Gaming Revenue Numbers Indicate Good News

Posted by Miz.Chellie on February 10th, 2012

The 2011 Nevada Gaming Revenue numbers have been released by the Nevada State Gaming Control Board and they indicate some much needed good news.

Here are the highlights:

  • Statewide Gaming revenue is up 2% for December 2011 as compared to December 2010 and annual gaming revenue increased by 2.8% over December 2010.  These numbers reflect a statewide slot win of 5.2% in December 2011, an increase of 1.4% over prior December.  For the year slot win was up 1.5%.  Table games increased 2.95% for December and 5.5% for the year.
  • The Las Vegas Strip total gaming win was up 3.6% in December and 5.1% year over year.  This is significant since it is the second annual increase.
  • Even Downtown Las Vegas had a small victory.  Although December total gaming revenue fell by nearly 11% with slot win down an unfortunate 13.7% for December, the year end figures reflect a modest increase of .67% for the year.

Coupled with the recently released LVCVA Tourism Indicators reflecting a  4.3% increase in visitor volume for the year, an 8.8% increase in convention attendance and the 10.7% increase in the average daily room rate, these figures and the 2011 Nevada Gaming Revenue figures are quite positive and hopefully indicative of a slowly recovering economy.
Blue Man Group Las Vegas tickets CLICK HERE TO BUY NOW!

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T-Mobile – Where’s my 3G?

Posted by Miz.Chellie on February 5th, 2012

Photo of iPhone 3GST-Mobile – Where’s my 3G? After the ill-fated, AT & T takeover of T-Mobile, there have been a number of reports circulated that some unlocked iPhones being used on the T-Mobile network are receiving 3G coverage.  The reports that I have read specifically mention Las Vegas.  As a longtime T-Mobile customer I was so excited when I read this. Apparently as part of the break-up deal, T-Mobile  USA received a large package of Advanced Wireless Solutions (AWS) spectrum and long-term national UMTS roaming agreement

For those that know me, they know that I am a hardcore BlackBerry user. One of my favorite sites, CrackBerry, can probably attest to that!  Hands down, BlackBerry offers the best email experience for a business or power user. I have 11 active email accounts and I can easily manage my email which average at least 300 a day.

About 2 years ago, a former coworker had upgraded to the iPhone 4.  Since I like to “tinker” and have been perpetually curious about the popularity over the iPhone, I asked him if he was interested in selling his iPhone 3GS to me and he did.  Then another coworker upgraded and I bought his 3GS too.  After a brief learning curve, I performed a jailbreak and unlock on both phones, gave one to my Mom and I kept the other as my toy to surf  the web on wifi.  The battery life is great and I actually viewed it as a novelty.

And then something happened.  I realized I was using it more and more. I started out on wifi and soon after added a phone line to it and began carrying 2 phones.  Although my trusty BlackBerry was and is still my prime means of mobile email communication and I can text on it with my eyes closed,  I found myself using the iPhone 3GS for web surfing, GPS and began to talk on it more and more.  Even my Mom, who is a total non-computer person, suddenly became the mobile Internet queen. So T-Mobile – Where’s my 3G?

The only thing lacking was that if I am not on wifi, the speed is kind of slow.  Not awful I may add but slow. Slow enough that I would not even consider shelling out in upwards of $500 on an locked iPhone 4S.  When I read about people in Las Vegas receiving a 3G signal, I immediately toggled the 3G switch and, to my amazement, the phone did not lose signal as it usually does.  That was great however the big E denoting Edge was still there and not a 3G signal. So T-Mobile – where’s my 3G?

Come on , you’ve got the spectrum so T-Mobile – Where’s my 3G?

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Dana White has got it all wrong!

Posted by Miz.Chellie on February 5th, 2012

A pair of red boxing glovesDana White, known mostly for his association  as President of the UFC has rattled the cages of many by publicly supporting SOPA.  The masses know that Dana White  got it all wrong and the proof is that the bill has been shelved.

White, a colorful individual has worked hard to successfully raise the status of the UFC from a small entity to a more mainstream audience.  As a fan of the UFC,  I truly wish he would have investigated what SOPA really is before going public with his statements.

Many times when people achieve  wealth and publicity, they tend to go off into a world of their own.   It happens all the time.  They simply don’t live in the “real” world.  Not everyone has the fantastic and incredible opportunity to have the Fertitta brothers as personal friends.  It was the Fertitta brothers who purchased the UFC.  Remember that. Perhaps if White worked as a professional blogger or in any other profession where he  was struggling on his own, he would realize the serious ramifications this bill poses to your average American Citizen.

He should think back to the days when he was an aerobics instructor.  He was able to leave that behind by his most fortunate association with the very wealthy successful and respected Fertitta brothers.  If he stayed on his own, he would have, without a doubt, used the Internet as a mode for attracting new business in his quest for success .  I truly believe he would have been absolutely enraged to find out that if some large company decided to  target him for whatever reason, even if that reason was completely baseless,  that he could be instantly put out of business.  No questions asked.  I think in that scenario  the public persona of White that we have come to know would have been, back then, one of the staunchest supporters of STOP SOPA.

Dana White got it all wrong and should stay out  of politics.

 

 

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Madonna stumbles during Super Bowl Halftime performance

Posted by Miz.Chellie on February 5th, 2012

After all the hard work and media build up,  Madonna stumbles during Super Bowl Halftime performance.  Once one of the hippest, controversial, singers of the 1980′s  Madonna began the process of reviving her career by performing during the highly desirable Super Bowl halftime spot.

Although Madonna has been the subject of some jabs this week as evidenced by this hilarious parody of the aging performer on late night with Conan, it’s admirable that she has kept herself in shape.  Her new video, Give Me All Your Luvin’ is reminiscent of her 80′s sound and has a catchy, upbeat tune.   Ever the shrewd businesswoman, she  included Nicky Minaj in order to appeal to the younger set who may not even know who Madonna is.

In the video, Madonna appeared to dress age appropriate and even looked sexy in some shots.  It was a bit surprising to see her in a long white outfit however it was interspersed with some sexy shots.  By contrast, during the Super Bowl Half Time performance, her attire looked a bit drab – too much black and she appeared stiff.  She also wore gloves perhaps to hide her very veiny arms. As for age appropriateness, some might not be able to buy into the whole cheerleader thing. She performed a great selection of songs doing a good job of blending in her old hits with her new song and was joined by Cee Lo Green for Just Like a Prayer.

Back in the day, Madonna was known for her brassiness and her candor.  That’s what made her Madonna!  As the years wore on, she changed.  She adopted a fake English accent and then went a bit over the top when she compared herself to Wallis Simpson.  It seemed that she all but renounced her Michigan roots and was, all of a sudden, British. And now, during her latest round of publicity, she is very much the Michigan gal.  Go figure.

Her performance was a bit lackluster and coupled with the unfortunate stumbles and somewhat dreary attire, I’d rate the performance a C+

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