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August 14th, 20244 mins

Jimmy Garoppolo Embraces Role as Backup for Rams

At the age of 32, it is easy to say that his time with the Las Vegas Raiders didn’t really help much in his game at all. But now that he has found a new groove with the Los Angeles Rams heading into the 2024 season, it seems that he is eager to embrace his role as a reserve rather than to be forced to a different role in the squad.

As a two-time Super Bowl champion, Garoppolo has certainly improved his game and has shown the world why he is one of the best players in the game. A veteran in his own right, Garoppolo claimed that he is keen to show his worth in a reduced role, and he is happier about it than most people think.

It is indeed a fresh sight for a veteran who is seeking a chance to prove his worth on the big stage without taking too much of a big role. Under new head coach Sean McVay, this sure does look like a chance for Garoppolo to show that he has what it takes to help them win now more than ever.

A New Home for Garoppolo

Garoppolo enters this season with a new groove. He’s slated to play for his fourth NFL team in his career. While he is expected to miss the first two games of the season due to suspension after messing up his therapeutic use exemption, it does seem that the QB will enter this season with a reinvigorated confidence in the game.

"This place allows you to be yourself, too, which is different than other places I've been," Garoppolo said. "You're getting pressed with a sense of urgency but in a good way. Obviously, everyone wants to win. Everyone wants to perform well. They do it in the right way here. They push you positively. There's just a lot of good things going on, man. I'm enjoying every bit of it. Even the meetings are a good time. Everything is going good right now."

Garoppolo is expected to play the backup role behind Matthew Stafford. He can even play a huge role and mentor him in the coming months to help the star improve. Considering that Garoppolo himself is a proven winner in his own right, it does seem that he can make the most of his chances in the squad moving forward.

A Rollercoaster Career

Garoppolo was initially drafted by the New England Patriots as a replacement for Tom Brady in the years to come. He was traded to the San Francisco 49ers in 2017, where he went on to win most of his impressive runs in the game, leading to two Super Bowl victories over the years.

"It was chaotic at times, but they're all learning experiences," Garoppolo said of his career. "That's one thing I've taken from this. The NFL is crazy, man. Everyone has got a story. Everyone is going whichever way trying to make it. But at the end of the day, it's your story, and you've got to make the best of it. Good, bad, or indifferent, whatever happened in the past, it happened. … Now I'm here, and I'm just trying to make every day the best day."

The run with the Raiders is different than the rest. He had an unruly year with the team after signing a free-agent contract just to join his former offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. He did go on to have foot surgery before embarking on his QB1 duties with the Raiders, which led to his struggles in the game and later on benched the same day that McDaniels was fired by the team.

by Paul Daniel Flores

August 14th, 20244 mins

Victor Wembanyama Sends Strong Warning After Gold Medal Loss in Olympics

Team USA delivered a promising win in the final of the men’s Olympic basketball against France, proving to the world that they have what it takes to stand at the top of the world of basketball. But for the French phenom and reigning NBA Rookie of the Year, Victor Wembanyama, this is just the start for him before he dominates the big stage.

France settled for second place in both men’s and women’s basketball in the Olympics. For Wembanyama, losing is a part of the process of achieving greatness in the game, and that says a lot about his dedication to the game considering the fact that he was expected to come up with promising strides in the competition. Wembanyama is one of the most productive big men in the NBA, and his game has somewhat translated in the Olympics as well.

Still, settling for a silver medal in his Olympic debut is a promising sign of how his development has led him to the big stage. He is still learning, and one can say that Wemby has the strong potential to carry France to bigger heights soon, with the next Olympic games set to be played in Los Angeles in 2028.

Wembanyama’s Warning

France is a rapidly ascending program in basketball, and it cannot be denied that he is definitely keen on showing the rest of the world that he has what it takes to win in the game. France did put up a fight against the United States in the final, and Wembanyama even delivered a massive performance of his own when he scored 26 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists in the losing effort.

But that’s just the surface. It is worth noting that he went up against the greats in the game and still managed to put up a performance for the ages, and one can consider the fact that he held his ground when many claimed that he would not even be able to put up strings of impressive stat lines in the game. Now he warns the rest of the world to watch out and see him thrive now more than ever.

“I’m learning, and I’m worried for the opponents in a couple of years,” Wembanyama said, leaving a stern warning across all potential opponents that he would see in the future.

Wemby Ascending

At the age of 20, it is worth noting that Wembanyama is already considered a generational talent in basketball. In four years’ time, the French big man will definitely be at the height of his career and will be a greater threat to any team in the game. He is already one of the best young players with the San Antonio Spurs, and one can even say that the big man is expected to make waves in the game to deliver a higher level of play in the game soon.

With the Spurs arranging its pieces in the game for this season, it is expected that Wemby will have a bigger campaign in the long run. They have acquired Stephon Castle in the 2024 NBA Draft, and they have added one of the best point guards in history, Chris Paul, which should greatly help Wemby develop his game.

In the 2023-24 season, Wembanyama averaged 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game, shooting 46.5% from the field, including 32.5% from three.

by Paul Daniel Flores

August 14th, 20244 mins

Revenue Surges for Mohegan Digital, Up by 151% for the First Time Ever

Mohegan Tribal Gaming has just released its revenue earnings for the 3rd quarter of the fiscal year, and for the first time in its history, it has achieved a revenue increase of as much as 151% on Mohegan Digital and an over 21% increase in net revenue overall.

The Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority has just announced its operational results for the third quarter of fiscal year 2024, ending on the 30th of June, showcasing a robust performance across various segments. The company reported a 21.4% increase in net revenue, reaching $504.2 million, driven by significant growth in both its digital and physical properties.

Mohegan Digital posts impressive gains

One of the standout performers in the quarter was Mohegan Digital, the company's online gaming and sports betting platform. Net revenues for Mohegan Digital surged by a staggering 151.3%, reaching $41.8 million. This rapid growth reflects the increasing popularity and demand for online gaming services across the markets where Mohegan operates, including Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Washington, Nevada, and New Jersey.

Mohegan Digital's impressive growth is attributed to its strategic expansion and the continuous enhancement of its offerings. The platform went live in April of 2024, and its strong performance in such a short time proves its potential as a major revenue driver for the company in the future.

Expansion in international markets

The company's international expansion has also played a pivotal role in its growth. Mohegan INSPIRE, the company's flagship integrated resort in Incheon, South Korea, had its grand launch in March of 2024. Since then, the resort has quickly become a key contributor to Mohegan's revenue stream. The ramp-up at INSPIRE, coupled with the resilience and stability of Mohegan's flagship property, the Mohegan Sun Connecticut, has provided a solid foundation for the company's growth. Mohegan's Chief Executive Officer, Raymond Pineault, highlighted the importance of these developments in the company's overall strategy.

Mohegan's financial performance in the third quarter was also bolstered by the continued growth of its Connecticut operations. The company's flagship property, Mohegan Sun, remains a key revenue generator, contributing significantly to the overall results. The digital operations in Connecticut, in particular, have shown strong growth, with an Adjusted EBITDA for Digital reaching $23.1 million, up from $11.5 million in 2023.

Financial strengths

Ari Glazer, the Chief Financial Officer of Mohegan, provided further insights into the company's financial performance. "Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA of $104.7 million decreased $3.9 million compared with the prior-year period, primarily due to operating costs related to the opening of Mohegan INSPIRE and non-controlling interest adjustments at Niagara Resorts, offset by strong growth in our Digital operations," said Glazer. He added that when the adjustment of non-controlling interest at Niagara Resorts is excluded, Adjusted EBITDA would have been $108.3 million or flat to the year prior.

Despite the slight decrease in Adjusted EBITDA, the company's overall performance remains strong, with key segments like Mohegan Digital and INSPIRE showing significant growth. These results accentuate Mohegan's ability to adapt to changing market conditions and capitalize on new opportunities in both the digital and physical gaming spaces.

Leadership transition: Hasson appointed COO

In addition to its strong financial performance, Mohegan announced a key leadership change during the quarter. The company appointed a new Chief Operating Officer, further strengthening its executive team as it continues to execute its growth strategy. The new COO, whose appointment aligns with Mohegan's ongoing expansion efforts, is expected to play a crucial role in overseeing the company's operations across its various properties and ensuring the continued success of its digital and international initiatives.

As Mohegan continues to expand its digital presence and international footprint, the company is very well-placed to capitalize on various emerging trends in the gaming industry. With the successful launch of Mohegan Digital along with the strong performance of Mohegan INSPIRE, the company is poised for continued growth in the coming quarters.

by Wia Van Cauwenberghe

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August 14th, 20246 mins

Musical Residencies and Concerts Announced: From Bruno Mars on NYE to Ludacris at the Vegas Grand Prix

A string of concerts and residencies in Las Vegas was recently announced, starting with the Bruno Mars residency that culminates in the traditional NYE performance at Park MGM, the upcoming When We Were Young festival with Fall Out Boy, My Chemical Romance, and a slew of other punk bands, and Ludacris and One Republic, who are slated to perform at the Las Vegas Grand Prix at none other than the famous Sphere.

Pop sensation Bruno Mars is set to continue his celebrated residency at Park MGM's Dolby Live, marking his fourth NYE performance at the iconic venue. Since the Las Vegas resort, once known as the Monte Carlo in 2016, was rebranded, Mars has been a fixture, captivating audiences with his electrifying performances and chart-topping hits.

Mars will resume his residency on the 28th of August, and fans will have additional opportunities to see him live in December, with newly announced performances throughout the month, all the way until December 31st. These shows are expected to be in high demand, as they will include his New Year's Eve concert, a Las Vegas tradition that has become synonymous with his name.

Tickets for these additional dates will go on sale starting on Friday, the 16th of August, at ticketmaster.com. Fans are encouraged to secure their seats early, as Mars' concerts are known to sell out quickly. The residency continues to be a highlight of the Las Vegas entertainment scene, drawing fans from around the world who are keen to experience the star's dynamic stage presence and unparalleled vocal talent.

When We Were Young festival sideshows: a tradition born from a weather disturbance

Meanwhile, Las Vegas is gearing up for another edition of the When We Were Young Festival, set to take place on the 19th and 20th of October at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds. Headlined by Fall Out Boy and My Chemical Romance, it also features other emo and punk acts, and this year's festival promises to be a nostalgic celebration for fans of the genres.

In keeping with a tradition born out of the festival's 2022 edition, when the opening day was canceled because of high winds, several sideshows have been announced across Las Vegas. These sideshows were initially organized by bands who chose to perform at alternative venues after the cancellation, offering free shows to fans holding tickets for the postponed festival day.

This year, the sideshows will kick off on Thursday, October 17, with performances from A Day To Remember at the BleauLive Theater (Fontainebleau) and 3OH!3 with Millionaires and Cobra Starship at the Brooklyn Bowl. On Friday, October 18, festival-goers can catch Neck Deep with Super American and The Home Team at AREA15, Boys Like Girls and Madina Lake with Simple Plan with at the Brooklyn Bowl, and Taking Back Sunday with Taylor Acorn and S. Dunes plus The Used at the BleauLive.

For those holding tickets to the When We Were Young Festival, presale access to the sideshows will begin at 10 am on Wednesday, the 14th of August at Live Nation, Ticketmaster, and customers of the venue will also have presale access starting at 10 am on Thursday, the 15th of August, with general public sales commencing at 10 am on Friday, the 16th of August.

Las Vegas Grand Prix headliners announced, but at a steep price

The Las Vegas Grand Prix, one of the city's most anticipated events, has announced its lineup of headliners for the Sphere Stage. Among the stars performing are Alesso, OneRepublic, and Ludacris, adding a musical highlight to the weekend's high-octane festivities.

OneRepublic will take the stage on Thursday, followed by Alesso on Friday, with Ludacris set to perform on Saturday, race night. However, these performances come with a hefty price tag. Only those who can afford the exclusive "ticketed experience" in the grandstand will have access to the concerts. Tickets for the three-day event are priced at $2,366.50, though they include complimentary food, soft drinks, and water.

While the steep cost might limit access for many fans, those who do attend are sure to experience an unforgettable combination of world-class racing and top-tier musical performances in one of Las Vegas's most unique venues.

Machine Gun Kelly's $50,000 lesson at the blackjack table

Las Vegas is known for its glitz, glamour, and the chance to strike it rich - or lose big. On a side note, Machine Gun Kelly experienced the latter during a recent trip to Sin City. On August 8, while opening for country superstar Morgan Wallen at Allegiant Stadium, the rapper-turned-rocker revealed to the crowd that he had lost $50,000 at a blackjack table earlier that day.

Addressing the audience, who consisted of 65,000 people, Kelly quipped, "I need you all to go stream 'Lonely Road' and make that money back," referencing one of his recent tracks. While his gambling loss might have stung, it's clear that the performer still knows how to keep his sense of humor.

As Vegas continues to be a hotspot for entertainment and high-stakes thrills, these events and performances prove the city's long-standing reputation as a premier destination for both locals and tourists seeking unforgettable and unrivalled experiences.

by Wia Van Cauwenberghe

August 14th, 20245 mins

Voters in Missouri to Have Final Say on Legalization of Sports Betting in November

Missouri is all set to vote for the legalization of sports betting in the state this November, says the Secretary of State. It follows the coalition in May that submitted over 340K signatures - and this number is expected to double for the November schedule. Pro-sports teams have also expressed their support.

Missouri voters are set to make a significant decision this November as they head to the polls to determine the future of sports betting in the state. The Missouri Secretary of State, Jay Ashcroft, confirmed on Tuesday that the issue will be placed on the November 5 ballot, giving voters the opportunity to legalize sports betting statewide.

The decision comes after Ashcroft presented a 'certificate of sufficiency,' a critical step that signifies the proposal has met the necessary requirements to be presented to voters. For a measure to receive this certificate, there have to be valid signatures from a minimum number of voters from six of the state's eight districts. According to a news release from the Secretary of State’s office, this threshold has been met, allowing the sports-betting issue to move forward to the ballot.

A rigorous process

The process leading to this milestone was thorough, to say the least. This week, the Secretary of State's office completed the final steps of verifying and analyzing the voter signatures to place the issue on the November ballot. Prior to this, the signatures went through a stringent verification process by local authorities across the state, ensuring that only valid signatures were counted.

JoDonn Chaney, a spokesperson for the Secretary of State's office, emphasized the importance of this verification process. The journey to place this issue on the ballot began earlier this year when a coalition supporting the legalization of sports betting submitted over 340,000 signatures to Ashcroft's office on May 2. This number is nearly double the amount required to secure a spot on the November ballot, demonstrating strong support for the measure. The deadline for submitting signatures was on May 5.

Broad support from professional sports teams

If the voters are in favor of the constitutional amendment in November, the 13 casinos and six sports teams in Missouri would be permitted to offer both mobile and onsite sports betting. However, the measure would strictly prohibit anyone under 21 from participating in wagering activities.

The sports teams supporting the measure include major franchises such as the St. Louis Blues, St. Louis Cardinals, Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals, and two professional soccer teams, St. Louis City and the Kansas City Current. The involvement of these high-profile teams signals a strong push towards legalizing sports betting, with proponents arguing that it would generate significant revenue and enhance fan engagement.

Missouri's position in the regional sports betting landscape

At the moment, Missouri is one of the few states in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) where sports betting remains illegal. Out of the 12 states with athletic teams from universities competing in the SEC, six, including the state of Missouri, have yet to legalize sports betting. The Missouri Tigers, the state's flagship university, compete in the SEC, adding another layer of interest to the upcoming vote.

Missouri is also surrounded by states where sports betting is already legal, with the exception of Oklahoma. Sports betting is now also legal in 38 states and Washington, DC, leaving Missouri in a shrinking minority of states yet to embrace the trend.

Anticipation grows ahead of November vote

As the November 5 vote approaches, anticipation is growing among both supporters and opponents of the measure. On a recent episode of The Edge, a Gambling.com program, retired Kansas City PD detective and attorney, Gary Jenkins, expressed his belief that voters are likely to approve the question on sports betting. Jenkins pointed to the fact that many Missourians are already placing bets in neighboring states where sports betting is legal, leading to a loss of tax revenue for Missouri.

With strong backing from professional sports teams, widespread public interest, and the potential for significant economic impact, the outcome of the November vote could mark a turning point in Missouri's approach to sports betting.

by Wia Van Cauwenberghe

August 13th, 20244 mins

New England Revolution Brings in Royal Antwerp star Alhassan Yusuf

Thanks to the Season-Ending Replacement mechanism, the New England Revolution have managed to bring in a massive addition to its squad by adding Alhassan Yusuf into their squad. New England raises its competitive squad to a different level after signing the elite player from Royal Antwerp.

At the age of 24, the Nigerian international brings a different dynamic to New England. For starters, he is set to reinforce the midfield spot for the team while also adding another set of elite scorers in their lineup. This says a lot about the desire to rebuild the squad heading into the second half of the season.

New England sits dead last in the Eastern Conference this season with a 7-14-2 record in 23 games. It has been quite a rough campaign for the team, and it cannot be denied that they really need significant improvement in the game if they are going to get a chance to get to the winning strides in the long run. Adding Yusuf is a start on that path so far.

A Midfield Boost

Yusuf played a total of 195 games in his run with Antwerp and Swedish club IFK Göteborg. The Nigerian star was sensational in helping Antwerp close out the 2022-23 Belgian Pro League title and even helped them reach the UEFA Champions League group stage. He has won a total of four trophies in his career so far and has also represented Nigeria seven times at the international stage, where he played a vital role in the Super Eagles' run to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final.

"We are pleased to add an impactful player with elite European experience to our roster in Alhassan Yusuf, whose arrival makes us even stronger in the central midfield position," sporting director Curt Onalfo said in a release. "Alhassan is a talented player with title-winning experience in the prime of his career. His competitive drive, excellent vision and passing, and tenacious tackling will all raise the level of our team."

So what does Yusuf bring to the table for the New England Revolution?

Considered one of the best young box-to-box central midfielders, the Antwerp sensation checks all the qualities of being able to compete on both ends of the pitch while also playing impressive on-ball defense. Considering the fact that he is still entering his prime years in the game, one can say that Yusuf is definitely a big boost to the squad as a whole. At this point, Yusuf is even expected to be one of the centerpieces of the squad in the long run.

More Transfers to Come

Yusuf is marked as the second international transfer made by Revolution this summer. They have already inked a deal with U22 Initiative forward Luca Langoni from the Argentine powerhouse Boca Juniors. In addition, the club has also secured defenders Will Sands and Tim Parker, who were acquired through intra-league trades from Columbus Crew and St. Louis City FC, respectively.

For now, the focus at hand is for New England to come up with a better groove in their games soon. The team has already lost the Leagues Cup after falling to New York City via penalties in the Round of 32. This means that the team will now be able to shift its attention towards the season resume come August 24th, where they will face Montreal.

by Paul Daniel Flores

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August 13th, 20244 mins

Will Smith Seeks to be a Huge Contributor for the San Jose Sharks in 2024-25

The development camp has been buzzing for the San Jose Sharks this offseason. It has been a month, but it is an inspiring sight to actually know that Will Smith, the young gun of the Sharks, has been showing off in his games and is excited to bring his next level of play even as a rookie heading into the season.

At the age of 19, Smith is expected to be a great and promising prospect for the Sharks in 2024-25. There are a lot of talks as to how he has been making his strides as a part of the squad without even touching the NHL ice just yet. At this point, it is easy to say that this is just the beginning of exciting times for the Sharks.

Selected fourth overall in the 2023 NHL Draft, Smith has worked hard to ensure that he would definitely fit the bill into being a reliable NHL player. He has changed his diet to bulk up and build on his shot to earn a spot in the Sharks’ roster this season. If proving time has begun, this is Smith’s chance to show what he can do.

Excitement Building for Smith

Even before he was slated to join the Sharks this season, there has been a lot of talk as to how the rookie is expected to build on his games with the squad. Sharks fans have been eagerly following his outstanding performance at Boston College in the last season. He led the NCAA in scoring with an impressive 71 points (25 goals, 46 assists) in just 41 games. Listed as 6-foot, 181 pounds, Smith is definitely impressing many icons at training camp, and he even has his own expectations for his goals with the team.

"I have expectations and goals as a player, and the goal is to make the team and be a huge contributor," Smith said. "I trust whatever the development staff and team have in mind. And then, obviously, the goal is to make the team and help as much as I can."

Young guys don’t often get to start in the rotation unless that player has definitely shined bright in college to even become the best phenomenal talent in the NHL Draft. But for Smith, nothing is far from his grasp when he’s prepared for it.

A Run to Build On

Ever since reaching the Conference Finals back in the 2019-20 season, the Sharks have failed to reach the playoff stage for five seasons in a row. Smith’s aspirations as a huge contributor to the squad isn’t impossible considering that the team is willing to try out different lineups in the season, but for head coach John McCarthy, it is easy to say that he likes the confidence of the young player.

"I think he's put his best foot forward," said McCarthy of Smith’s aspirations with the team. "He looks a little bit bigger to me. I haven't seen any data on that, it's just my eye test. But he looks a little more solid."

The San Jose Sharks finished dead last in the 2023-24 NHL season with a 19-54-9 record in their games. Bringing in Smith is a fresh sight for sore eyes, but the Boston product needs to show his worth if he is going to be one of the centerpieces for San Jose heading into the season.

by Paul Daniel Flores

August 13th, 20244 mins

Orioles Punch 70th Win to Lead the Latest MLB Power Rankings

Despite losing last Sunday, the Baltimore Orioles have managed to beat all of the other division leaders in the race to be the first to reach a total of 70 wins in the 2024 season. Now they enter the mid-month Power Rankings with the top spot as they gear up for a promising stretch that will ensure them a playoff spot by the end of the season and ultimately build a chance to win the World Series as well.

At this point, it is a no-brainer that the Orioles are flying above the radar among many teams in the MLB. Fans have expected to see the likes of the Philadelphia Phillies, Los Angeles Dodgers, and even the New York Yankees sit at the top of the league by this point in time, but it seems that only a few experts have accounted for the Orioles to make this kind of push in the season.

This is the first time that the Orioles have managed to reach that win total as early as August since 1979, and it is a no-brainer that reaching 70 wins at this point is already 18 more than their win totals in 2021, and 23 more than their total in 2023.

Making a Massive Push

The rise of Gunnar Henderson as a promising star and Jackson Holiday’s continued dominance in the game have played a huge role in the Orioles’ hopes of a championship this season. They have been gunning for a lot of blowout wins in the season, even going as far as winning five games this month with a +3 winning margin. That says a lot about the team’s promise of finally bringing the city to the playoff stage.

The last time the Orioles won a World Series title was back in 1983, which is also the last year that they have secured an AL Pennant. They did secure the AL East division title last year, but now it seems that the team is definitely ready to rock the big stage with their impressive strides now more than ever. After all, this is a chance for them to completely cap off their return to success after changing ownership and steering their trajectory to the winning side now more than ever.

Waiting on Injured Stars

While the team has banked on impressive successes in the season, Grayson Rodriguez and Jacob Webb are expected to see a great return to the squad’s lineup before the season ends, which means that they are definitely gearing up for a campaign to remember in the postseason – with the squad hopefully at full strength.

So far, the Orioles have been making some impressive strides in the game as one of the top teams in the league. It is easy to say that the team will really find its way towards a deeper playoff run. With a magical season in the making already reaching its final stretch, fans can definitely expect to see the Orioles prove that they have what it takes to win on the big stage, and hopefully deliver a victory that many fans from Baltimore have been waiting for in a long time.

At this point, the Orioles are tied with the Yankees for the top spot in the AL East. It is expected that these two clubs will be grinding it out on top of each other to secure the division title by the end of the season.

by Paul Daniel Flores

August 13th, 20245 mins

Bookmaker to Plead Guilty to Illegal Gambling Business with High-Profile Clients

The Ohtani saga doesn't seem to end: in yet another development in the much-publicized Shohei Ohtani case against his ex-interpreter, Ippei Muzahara, Matthew Bowyer, a bookmaker from Southern California, was accused of operating an illegal gambling business for more than five years, with Muzahara serving as one of his clients.

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the world of sports, a bookmaker from Southern California, Mathew Bowyer, has pled guilty to multiple charges linked to his involvement in an illegal gambling operation. Among the high-profile clients entangled in this case is Ippei Mizuhara, the ex-interpreter for MLB superstar Shohei Ohtani. This development is a significant chapter in a sequence of scandals that have recently come to light, casting a shadow over the integrity of sports.

The scope of the operation

According to the Los Angeles US Attorney's Office, the gambling operation of Bowyer was active for a minimum of five years, spanning Las Vegas as well as Southern California. The Associated Press also stated that the operation catered to more than 700 bettors, highlighting the vast reach and scale of Bowyer's enterprise. The charges against Bowyer include money laundering, operating an illegal gambling business, and falsifying tax returns. Bowyer is expected to formally enter his guilty plea on the 9th of August.

"Mr. Bowyer is looking forward to accepting responsibility for his actions," said Diane Bass, Bowyer's attorney, in a statement. The case shows ongoing challenges in the sports betting sector, which has seen a surge in scrutiny and regulation in recent years. This particular case has drawn attention due to the involvement of high-profile individuals and the potential implications for Major League Baseball.

Unveiling the betting scandal

The Bowyer case is part of a wider clean-up on illegal sports betting, which has seen several prominent figures implicated. The scandal gained widespread attention following the lifetime ban of an MLB player, the first such penalty since Pete Rose was banned in 1989. While Bowyer's operation involved numerous prominent clients, it is important to note that Shohei Ohtani himself was not involved, in spite of the serious involvement of his former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara.

Mizuhara, who worked closely with Ohtani during his time in MLB, had already admitted to charges of tax and bank fraud. Reports indicate that Mizuhara stole almost $17 million from the bank accounts of Ohtani just to finance his gambling endeavors. But despite the extent of Mizuhara's betting actions, there is no evidence to suggest that he placed wagers on baseball, nor is there any indication that Ohtani was aware of the illegal activities. Federal investigators have stressed that Ohtani cooperated completely with the investigation and is actually a victim in this case.

But the investigation has also led to scrutiny of other Major League Baseball players who may have had connections to Bowyer's betting ring. Among those reportedly under investigation is a former player for the Los Angeles Angels, David Fletcher, although MLB has yet to confirm whether a formal inquiry has been launched.

Legal implications and wider influence of the case

The legal consequences for Bowyer are severe. If convicted on all counts, he is faced with a possible sentence of 18 years in prison. His case serves as a stark reminder of the significant penalties associated with running illegal gambling rings as well as becoming embroiled in money laundering. Far beyond the legal ramifications, however, Bowyer's actions have preyed on the trust of the sports community, and it raises concerns about the integrity of professional sports and the need for more stringent oversight and regulation.

The implications of this case extend beyond Bowyer and Mizuhara, reflecting a broader issue within the sports betting industry. In June, for instance, MLB made a decisive move by banning Tucupita Marcano, the San Diego Padres infielder, and suspending four more players for legally betting on baseball. Marcano's ban marked the first time an active player of MLB has been banned for life, highlighting the league's zero-tolerance policy toward betting-related misconduct.

As Bowyer's legal proceedings continue, the sports world is watching closely, aware that the outcomes could have lasting effects on policies and perceptions surrounding sports betting. The case serves as a cautionary tale, showing the complex and often dangerous interplay between illegal gambling, professional sports, and the law. It also accentuates the importance of maintaining integrity within the sports betting industry, as the repercussions of these scandals can have far-reaching consequences for all involved.

by Wia Van Cauwenberghe

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August 13th, 20244 mins

A Crime ‘Clean Up:’ Housekeeper Reportedly Stole from the Palazzo Tower Guests in Las Vegas, Over $110,000 Swiped

A major clean-up of a different kind: a housekeeper in the Las Vegas Palazzo Tower at the Venetian Resort has been accused of stealing more than $110,000 in addition to valuables she found in guest’s bedrooms. She was allegedly sneaking into the guest's rooms using a key fob and looking for valuables like jewelry and cash.

A housekeeper at the prestigious Venetian Resort's Palazzo Tower in Las Vegas has been accused of stealing more than $110,000 in cash, checks, and other valuable items from guest rooms. Maria Menendez Betancourt, assigned to clean rooms at the upscale property, is now facing serious charges, including theft and burglary. The alleged incidents took place in June, with Menendez Betancourt reportedly taking advantage of her access to guest rooms, even when she was off duty.

Alleged thefts and investigation

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department reported that Menendez Betancourt is accused of repeatedly entering guest rooms without authorization, particularly during times when she was not actually scheduled to work. According to hotel security, she entered these rooms using a key fob, which allowed her access to multiple floors and guest rooms within a short time frame.

In a single incident, Menendez Betancourt allegedly stole over $8,000 from a guest room. The theft was promptly reported, and hotel security launched an investigation. Their findings indicated that Menendez Betancourt had entered the room when no one was present, and it was later discovered that she was not assigned to work on that floor on the day of the theft.

Caught on camera

Further investigation revealed that Menendez Betancourt was captured on surveillance cameras entering multiple rooms on various floors within approximately 90 minutes. Notably, she did not have a housekeeping cart with her, suggesting that her intentions were far from cleaning. Instead, she allegedly used her access to the rooms to search for and steal valuable items.

One of the most significant incidents occurred later in June when Menendez Betancourt reportedly stole more than $110,000 in checks, cash, and other items from a room occupied by an anonymous male guest. According to the LVMPD report of her arrest, Menendez Betancourt discovered the items and then hid them in white towels found in the room before leaving with the stolen goods.

Arrest and charges

Menendez Betancourt was apprehended by LVMPD officers on the 18th of June. When she was arrested, she was wearing a bracelet made of gold that had been reported stolen from another guest room. This discovery, along with other evidence, led to her being charged with burglary and theft.

As the investigation continued, additional charges were filed against her on the 12th of July, when more incidents of theft were uncovered. The LVMPD is still determining the exact number of thefts that occurred at the hotel tower and whether more charges will be brought against her.

Legal proceedings and potential consequences

The cases against Menendez Betancourt are pending in the Justice Court of Las Vegas. As of now, she has not entered pleas on the three cases, and it remains unclear if further charges could be filed. If convicted on the charges she currently faces, Menendez Betancourt could be sentenced to prison.

In the meantime, Menendez Betancourt has posted bond and has been ordered to stay away from the Las Vegas Strip as a condition of her bail bond. The court's decision to bar her from the Strip emphasizes the seriousness of the allegations against her and the potential risk she poses to the community.

As a consequence, the incidents have likely raised concerns among guests and management at the Venetian Resort, a property renowned for its luxury and high standards. Security protocols and access controls are likely to be reviewed and tightened to prevent similar incidents in the future.

by Wia Van Cauwenberghe

August 13th, 20244 mins

Cash in on Hard Rock Bet’s New Player Offer: Bet $5 Get $100

There's good news for New Jersey sports bettors: those who sign up for the very first time at Hard Rock Bet can take advantage of a new and updated (and much-improved) sign up offer. The offer will start on the 14th of August and will last until the 31st of December, 2024, at 11:59 pm. So what do players have to do to avail of the new and exciting offer? Let's find out.

Hard Rock Bet has always strived to give sports bettors the best advantages and the best odds, and that’s why it remains one of the most trusted and respected names in the industry. In a volatile and ever-changing sector, Hard Rock Bet is consistent and stable, and many sports bettors appreciate this. But there's something else plenty of sports bettors will appreciate: it has recently come to our attention that Hard Rock Bet has made some important changes to its new player offers. Whereas before, Hard Rock Bet provided up to $100 back on any new players’ first bet, this has morphed into a different and altogether better offer, which is if a player bets $5, they will be able to get $100 back in the form of Bonus Bets.

The mechanics

Of course, there are certain mechanics and terms and conditions that come into play. Before a player can benefit from the new offer, they must first wait until the 14th of August to sign up. The offer officially starts on August 14 at 12:01 am. The good news is that it is an ongoing offer, so sports bettors who are interested in availing of the new offer from Hard Rock Bet will be happy to know that they have until the 31st of December, 2024, to sign up.

But the second requirement is for players to deposit and make a cash bet of a minimum of $5. As long as players make a deposit of at least $5 into their account, they are already eligible for the $100 in bonus bets, which Hard Rock Bet will give to them in Bonus Bets, in increments of five $20 Bonus Bets.

The third requirement is for qualifying bets to have odds of -250 or longer, like +100, -110, etc. Round Robin bets are also excluded, but the Bonus Bet players will receive is valid for any available market.

In addition to this, the Bonus Bets will be automatically loaded into the player's account upon receipt, but note that these Bonus Bets will not appear in the player's cash balance - instead, they will be available on the player's Account Page, specifically in the Rewards section, underneath "Bonus Bets."

The terms and conditions

Note that this new offer is only valid to players physically located in New Jersey, and the Bonus Bets will expire after 14 days. So this means that it's best to make use of them as soon as possible. Additionally, Hard Rock Bet maintains that all the data and information players have in their accounts must be fully verifiable. Players must also be within the gambling age of 21, and they must not be included in any exclusionary list in the state of New Jersey.

To avail of this new offer, sports bettors can simply go to the Hard Rock Bet website or the Hard Rock Bet app at https://app.hardrock.bet/.

by Wia Van Cauwenberghe

August 12th, 20245 mins

Proposed Bill Speeding Up Approval on Casino Licenses in NYC Appears Unlikely

The future is uncertain: the bid to secure licenses to operate gambling establishments in New York faces a dismal future, where it seems that some legislators are cooling their heels and failing to make a prompt decision. And even if other legislators say the bill is all but approved, there simply is not enough time for operators to submit their proposals to make the casinos operational in the said timeline.

A bill aimed at accelerating the bidding process for three NYC casino licenses faces a dismal outlook, with the chances of approval diminishing as August progresses. The bill, designed to open the window for proposals by the end of August, now seems unlikely to achieve its objective due to the dwindling time remaining in the legislative calendar as well as the lack of public support from Governor Kathy Hochul.

The proposed legislation, introduced in May by Senator Joseph Addabbo and Assemblyman Gary Pretlow, sought to expedite the timeline for gaming companies to submit their proposals for the three casino licenses downstate. Initially, the plan was to allow bids to be submitted by the end of the month of July, but this deadline was later pushed to the 31st of August. If passed, the bill could have set the stage for a decision on the winning bidders by mid-2025. However, with less than three weeks left in August and the governor remaining silent on the matter, the likelihood of the bill's passage appears increasingly remote.

Governor's silence speaks volumes

While Governor Hochul has not explicitly stated her opposition to the bill, the absence of any public endorsement is telling. Political observers and industry experts alike interpret this as a sign that the bill may be doomed. Even if the Addabbo/Pretlow legislation were to be approved in the coming days, it is widely believed that there would not be enough time for gaming operators to prepare their proposals for what are expected to be some of the costliest casino hotels in the history of the US.

Assemblyman Pretlow himself conceded in an interview with Newsday that it seems unlikely the governor will act on the bill before the month ends. Meanwhile, Michael Hershman, Chief Executive Officer of the Soloviev Group, expressed a similar sentiment, describing the expedited licensing bill as a "moot point." Tribal casino giant Mohegan, in partnership with the Soloviev Group, has proposed a gaming venue near the UN building on the East Side of Manhattan, and like other contenders, they would have welcomed an early opening of the bidding window.

For these contenders, an accelerated process would have been met with enthusiasm. As the situation now stands, the New York Gaming Facility Location Board has set June 27, 2025, as the final date for the submission of applications. Following that, Community Advisory Committees will be formed immediately and will begin their statutory duties. The Board aims to decide by the 1st of December, 2025, with the New York State Gaming Commission expected to issue licenses by 31st of December, 2025.

If this timeline is adhered to, construction on the new gaming venues aren't likely to begin until 2026, meaning it could be several years before these facilities are fully operational.

Financial implications of delayed licensing

The delay in speeding up the casino licensing process has significant financial implications for New York State. By not moving swiftly to approve the legislation, the state is postponing the receipt of millions of dollars' worth of application fees along with the potential $500 million to be collected from every winning bidder. And some experts think that these winning bidder figures could climb to as high as $1 billion per license.

Without a doubt, the financial stakes are high, and the delay could also have competitive ramifications. If the approval for three casino licenses is delayed until the end of 2025, two of the potential licensees - Genting's Resorts World New York in Queens and MGM Resorts International's Empire City Casino in Yonkers - could hold a lead over a third competitor, but only while assuming these venues are selected for two out of the three permits. Both properties are already running as slots-only venues and rank among the highest-grossing casinos in the country. Furthermore, the operators of these venues have pledged to make significant enhancements if they are awarded traditional casino licenses. If they are successful, they can likely add other amenities as well as table games with minimal disruption to their ongoing business operations.

The legislation intended to expedite the bidding process for three New York-area casino licenses faces an increasingly uncertain future. With time running out in August and Governor Hochul yet to voice her support, the prospects of the bill's passage appear slim. The delay could have far-reaching financial and competitive implications, not only for the state but also for the gaming companies vying for these coveted licenses.

by Wia Van Cauwenberghe

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