'We are back to square one,' official says, insisting quake caused cave-in
A helicopter and officers from the Utah Highway patrol stand ready Monday a few miles from Utah American Energy Inc.'s mine up Crandall Canyon.
HUNTINGTON, Utah - Seismic activity has “totally shut down” efforts to reach six miners trapped below ground and has wiped out all the work done in the past day, a mine executive said Tuesday.
“We are back to square one underground,” said Robert E. Murray, chairman of Murray Energy Corp., owner of the Crandall Canyon mine.
Still, “we should know within 48 to 72 hours the status of those trapped miners,” Murray said. Rescue crews are drilling two holes into the mountain in an effort to communicate with the miners — provided they are still alive.
Meanwhile, unstable conditions below ground have thwarted rescuers’ efforts to break through to the miners, who have been trapped 1,500 feet below the surface for nearly two days, Murray said.
The seismic activity and other factors “have totally shut down our rescue efforts underground,” he said.
“There is absolutely no way that through our underground rescue effort we can reach the vicinity of the trapped miners for at least one week,” Murray said.
The National Earthquake Information Center in Colorado said 10 seismic shocks have been recorded since the collapse, but only one since 3 a.m. Tuesday. That one struck at 3:42 p.m. with a magnitude of 1.7.
Geologist: Not a natural eventMurray has insisted the cave-in was caused by an earthquake. But government seismologists have said the pattern of ground-shaking picked up by their instruments around the time of the accident Monday appeared to have been caused not by an earthquake, but by the cave-in itself.
“Based on the information and preliminary analysis we’ve done so far, this event doesn’t look like a natural event. It doesn’t have the proper characteristics of a natural earthquake,” said Rafael Abreu, a geologist for the earthquake information center. “Even though it’s not a natural earthquake, it could still generate aftershocks, which is exactly what we’re seeing in this particular situation.”
Murray lashed out at the news media for suggesting his men were conducting “retreat mining,” a method in which miners pull down the last standing pillars of coal and let the roof fall in.
“This was caused by an earthquake, not something that Murray Energy ... did or our employees did or our management did,” he said, his voice often rising in anger. “It was a natural disaster. An earthquake. And I’m going to prove it to you.”
if Mine collapses that produced quake-like activity
Seismic waves of 3.9 magnitude were recorded in the area of a mine in Utah after it collapsed. Scientists believe the collapse caused the disturbance. Below are some previous mine collapses in the United States that also produced earthquake-like activity.
March 12, 1994Akzo Nobel salt mine in western New York, seismic reading of 3.6.
Feb. 3, 1995mine in southwestern Wyoming, seismic reading of 5.4.
Jan. 19, 1999Coal mine 15 miles northeast of Tuscaloosa, Ala., seismic reading of 4.0.
May 13, 1999Abandoned mine under Kansas City, Kan., seismic reading of 3.0.
Jan. 29, 2000mine in southwestern Wyoming, seismic reading of 4.4.
March 6, 2000Mine in central Utah, seismic reading of 4.2.
Nov. 2, 2006Mine in southwest Virginia, seismic reading of 4.3.
Source: The Associated Press
•
Amy Louviere, a spokeswoman for the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration in Washington, said the men at the mine were, in fact, conducting retreat mining.
However, Louviere said that exactly what the miners were doing, and whether that led to the collapse, can be answered only after a full investigation.
Retreat mining has been blamed for 13 deaths since 2000, and the government requires mining companies to submit a roof control plan before beginning such mining. Such a plan details how and when the pillars will be cut and in what order.
The mine had submitted such a plan and received approval in 2006, Louviere said.
“As long as they abide by that plan, it can be a very safe form of mining,” she said. “What we’ve found with recent fatalities that the operator was found to not be following the roof control plan.”
More than a day and a half after the cave-in, rescuers were unable to say whether the men were dead or alive, and had not even heard any pounding from their hammers, as miners are trained to do when they get trapped.
“The Lord has already decided whether they’re alive or dead,” Murray said. “But it’s up to Bob Murray and my management to get access to them as quickly as we can.”
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Sunday, May 06, 2007
12 U.S. Troops Killed In Iraq, 2 In Afghanistan
The U.S. military said six soldiers and a civilian journalist were killed in a roadside bombing Sunday.
That raises to 12 the number of troop deaths reported over the last three days.
The latest attack occurred in Diyala province, northeast of Baghdad. Two other soldiers from Task Force Lightning were wounded. The military statement did not provide more details or the nationality of the journalist.
Earlier, the military reported that another Task Force Lightning soldier died Sunday in a non-combat related incident. The military said it's investigating.
Another roadside bomb, this one in southern Baghdad Sunday, killed one soldier and wounded a second.
And north of the capital, two more roadside bombs struck a vehicle from the Multi-National Division, killing one soldier and wounding two.
The incident followed a roadside bombing in western Baghdad Friday, that killed one soldier.
Elsewhere, two Marines were killed Saturday during combat operations in Anbar province, a stronghold of Sunni insurgents west of Baghdad.
The deaths raised to at least 3,373 members of the U.S. military who have died since the Iraq war started in March 2003, according to an Associated Press count.
Afghan Soldier Kills 2 U.S. Troops
The U.S. military said a man in an Afghan army uniform shot and killed two American soldiers Sunday.
Officials said the two were posted as guards outside a top-security prison near Kabul. Two other soldiers were wounded.
The gunman was then killed by Afghan troops.
U.S. and Afghan authorities said they're trying to determine the motive for the attack. A U.S. military spokesman said "indications are" that the shooter was a member of the Afghan National Army. He said the U.S. is working "side-by-side" with the Afghan army to investigate the incident.
Car Bombings Kill More Than 30 In Baghdad
Attacks across Iraq Sunday have killed more than 40 people including at least 27 who died in a car bombing in a commercial district in western Baghdad.
It's one of the deadliest attacks in the capital in recent days, with at least 80 others hurt. And it happened despite the U.S. security surge that began nearly three months ago.
Another car bomb went off this afternoon near the Labor Ministry. Four people were killed there, eight others wounded.
Among the other bombings and shootings in Iraq Sunday, three children were killed in the city of Kut northeast of Baghdad when a roadside bomb went off outside their home. Their parents weren't hurt.
Three police officers and a bystander died when insurgents set off a car bomb in one town and attacked a checkpoint in another.
Police also report finding the bullet-riddled bodies of three more men. All had been blindfolded, handcuffed and dumped in the Tigris River.
More Reconstruction Dollars FlowingThe Army general in charge of handing out contracts in Iraq said they're going to Iraqi businesses as much as possible.
Major General Darryl Scott told the story of an Iraqi who fled the country with his family as a teenager. He returned four years ago and got a small contract to support coalition forces. Scott said the same man now has $17 million in contracts, and is part of a wave of new Iraqi entrepreneurs.
The general said the more contracts Iraqi businesses get, the better the product they put out. He said that's helping Iraq move away from its socialist past and toward a free-market economy and is also teaching its people good business practices.
That raises to 12 the number of troop deaths reported over the last three days.
The latest attack occurred in Diyala province, northeast of Baghdad. Two other soldiers from Task Force Lightning were wounded. The military statement did not provide more details or the nationality of the journalist.
Earlier, the military reported that another Task Force Lightning soldier died Sunday in a non-combat related incident. The military said it's investigating.
Another roadside bomb, this one in southern Baghdad Sunday, killed one soldier and wounded a second.
And north of the capital, two more roadside bombs struck a vehicle from the Multi-National Division, killing one soldier and wounding two.
The incident followed a roadside bombing in western Baghdad Friday, that killed one soldier.
Elsewhere, two Marines were killed Saturday during combat operations in Anbar province, a stronghold of Sunni insurgents west of Baghdad.
The deaths raised to at least 3,373 members of the U.S. military who have died since the Iraq war started in March 2003, according to an Associated Press count.
Afghan Soldier Kills 2 U.S. Troops
The U.S. military said a man in an Afghan army uniform shot and killed two American soldiers Sunday.
Officials said the two were posted as guards outside a top-security prison near Kabul. Two other soldiers were wounded.
The gunman was then killed by Afghan troops.
U.S. and Afghan authorities said they're trying to determine the motive for the attack. A U.S. military spokesman said "indications are" that the shooter was a member of the Afghan National Army. He said the U.S. is working "side-by-side" with the Afghan army to investigate the incident.
Car Bombings Kill More Than 30 In Baghdad
Attacks across Iraq Sunday have killed more than 40 people including at least 27 who died in a car bombing in a commercial district in western Baghdad.
It's one of the deadliest attacks in the capital in recent days, with at least 80 others hurt. And it happened despite the U.S. security surge that began nearly three months ago.
Another car bomb went off this afternoon near the Labor Ministry. Four people were killed there, eight others wounded.
Among the other bombings and shootings in Iraq Sunday, three children were killed in the city of Kut northeast of Baghdad when a roadside bomb went off outside their home. Their parents weren't hurt.
Three police officers and a bystander died when insurgents set off a car bomb in one town and attacked a checkpoint in another.
Police also report finding the bullet-riddled bodies of three more men. All had been blindfolded, handcuffed and dumped in the Tigris River.
More Reconstruction Dollars FlowingThe Army general in charge of handing out contracts in Iraq said they're going to Iraqi businesses as much as possible.
Major General Darryl Scott told the story of an Iraqi who fled the country with his family as a teenager. He returned four years ago and got a small contract to support coalition forces. Scott said the same man now has $17 million in contracts, and is part of a wave of new Iraqi entrepreneurs.
The general said the more contracts Iraqi businesses get, the better the product they put out. He said that's helping Iraq move away from its socialist past and toward a free-market economy and is also teaching its people good business practices.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Some words about my Dad
When I was Born March 15 , 1967 I never knew Id have the best dad on earth ! mom and dad split up when I was 2yrs old , daddy kidnapped me and ran off to california . But he brought me home to momma , and they were married for 35 years after that until momma passed away March 2nd 2001 of Breast cancer. Dad was a Marine Im so proud of him. He has worked everyday all his life to give his family what they need. We lived In Washington D.C. , He worked on the New FBI building one day when he was working , he fell 6 stories from the tall building and broke his back , but still that didn't stop my dad. He has a 10 inch scar on his back still today . He still worked everyday to provide for his family , He became a deputy sheriff in 1979 . He has done so much in his life. Here in Huntington he put on the memorial day parade every year until last year he was to sick to do it, He holds the christmas parade , The Marshall University Parades. He was in the Marine Corps League , and was leader of the toys for tots for several years.Hes the president of the City Of Hutington Planning Commision. Hes survivrd 5 hearts attacks and 7 Strokes .He is My Hero Hes My Daddy. I Will always be Daddys Little girl even when Im 90. That may sound kinda childish to you but to me my dads my life ! And now facing another surgery tomorrow , hes scared to tears. But I remind him everyday that Gods on his side ! but I still believe he is afraid . So tonight before I go to sleep I will ask God to watch over my dad for his surgery tomorrow , and I know he will he always does.......
...DADDY I LOVE U WITH ALL MY HEART .....DADDY ALWAYS TELL ME "CINDY I LOVE U WITH ALL ME HEART "
A POEM FOR DAD
A little girl needs her daddyTo love her with manly charm,To soothe her when she’s hurt,And keep her safe from harm.
A girl needs her dadTo show her a man who’s good,To help her make right choices,As only a father could.
A woman needs her fatherJust to be aware,He’ll always be there for herTo sustain her and to care.
You’ve been all these things, Dad.I hope that you can seeHow much I treasure you;You mean everything to me.
...DADDY I LOVE U WITH ALL MY HEART .....DADDY ALWAYS TELL ME "CINDY I LOVE U WITH ALL ME HEART "
A POEM FOR DAD
A little girl needs her daddyTo love her with manly charm,To soothe her when she’s hurt,And keep her safe from harm.
A girl needs her dadTo show her a man who’s good,To help her make right choices,As only a father could.
A woman needs her fatherJust to be aware,He’ll always be there for herTo sustain her and to care.
You’ve been all these things, Dad.I hope that you can seeHow much I treasure you;You mean everything to me.
Sunday, April 01, 2007
$4 Gas? Some Fear Iran Crisis Could Jack Up Prices
March 30, 2007 — Nothing moves the price of gasoline more than the price of oil, and fears that the standoff over Britons held captive in Iran will lead to a major disruption in the supply of Middle East oil is taking an escalating toll on gas prices here in the United States.
At many gas stations in San Francisco today, the cost of filling up was well over $4 a gallon.
San Francisco may have the most expensive gas in the country, but prices are rising all over. In the last eight weeks, even before the current standoff with Iran, prices jumped 44 cents to a national average of $2.61 a gallon — 11 cents higher than a year ago.
Gas prices often shoot up in the spring, as refineries make the switch to summer-blend gasolines, creating glitches in supply. But the standoff with Iran has inflicted a double whammy on prices.
"I believe crude oil prices are going to continue to rise 50 cents to $1 each," said John Kilduff, an oil trader for Fimat USA, "and every day that this goes on until they stabilize at some point above $70 a barrel."
For now, consumers are grousing, but most seem not to be driving any less.
"At this point," said Mike Pina of AAA, "a lot of Americans are saying, 'Prices are high, but I've seen higher,' so they are not at the point yet where Americans are starting to change their travel plans."
Many consumers seem to be resigned to a new normal of higher and fluctuating gas prices.
Economists say a national average of $3 a gallon is probably the tipping point where driving habits change.
At many gas stations in San Francisco today, the cost of filling up was well over $4 a gallon.
San Francisco may have the most expensive gas in the country, but prices are rising all over. In the last eight weeks, even before the current standoff with Iran, prices jumped 44 cents to a national average of $2.61 a gallon — 11 cents higher than a year ago.
Gas prices often shoot up in the spring, as refineries make the switch to summer-blend gasolines, creating glitches in supply. But the standoff with Iran has inflicted a double whammy on prices.
"I believe crude oil prices are going to continue to rise 50 cents to $1 each," said John Kilduff, an oil trader for Fimat USA, "and every day that this goes on until they stabilize at some point above $70 a barrel."
For now, consumers are grousing, but most seem not to be driving any less.
"At this point," said Mike Pina of AAA, "a lot of Americans are saying, 'Prices are high, but I've seen higher,' so they are not at the point yet where Americans are starting to change their travel plans."
Many consumers seem to be resigned to a new normal of higher and fluctuating gas prices.
Economists say a national average of $3 a gallon is probably the tipping point where driving habits change.
Police: Mom offers 7-year-old daughter for sex
TAYLOR, Michigan (AP) -- A 33-year-old woman was arraigned Sunday on charges alleging she offered to let an undercover investigator take pornographic photos of her 7-year-old daughter and have sex with the girl, authorities said.
The woman was arrested Friday after taking the girl to a hotel in Romulus, near Detroit Metropolitan Airport, where she had agreed to meet the investigator, the Wayne County sheriff's department said.
A not guilty plea was entered on behalf of the woman, who wasn't represented by a lawyer at the arraignment, department spokesman John Roach said. She was held in lieu of $1 million bail, and a preliminary examination was scheduled for April 12.
Authorities said the woman offered to let the investigator take the photos for a fee and, when she met with him, discussed being paid in exchange for sex with the child, the Detroit Free Press reported.
"This is truly a horrifying case," Sheriff Warren Evans said in a statement. "To think that a woman would offer up her own daughter in this way impossible to comprehend."
The girl and her four siblings, ages 12, 11, 9 and 6, all were in protective custody, Roach said.
The name of the woman, who lives in this Detroit suburb, wasn't being released to avoid identifying the child, the sheriff's department said.
She faced five charges, including child sexually abusive behavior, illegal use of the Internet for child sexually abusive actions or materials and distribution of child sexually abusive material, Roach said.
She also was charged with prostitution, since the department said she propositioned the investigator herself. The department said the woman advertised herself online as a prostitute.
If convicted, she could get up 20 years in prison.
The woman was arrested Friday after taking the girl to a hotel in Romulus, near Detroit Metropolitan Airport, where she had agreed to meet the investigator, the Wayne County sheriff's department said.
A not guilty plea was entered on behalf of the woman, who wasn't represented by a lawyer at the arraignment, department spokesman John Roach said. She was held in lieu of $1 million bail, and a preliminary examination was scheduled for April 12.
Authorities said the woman offered to let the investigator take the photos for a fee and, when she met with him, discussed being paid in exchange for sex with the child, the Detroit Free Press reported.
"This is truly a horrifying case," Sheriff Warren Evans said in a statement. "To think that a woman would offer up her own daughter in this way impossible to comprehend."
The girl and her four siblings, ages 12, 11, 9 and 6, all were in protective custody, Roach said.
The name of the woman, who lives in this Detroit suburb, wasn't being released to avoid identifying the child, the sheriff's department said.
She faced five charges, including child sexually abusive behavior, illegal use of the Internet for child sexually abusive actions or materials and distribution of child sexually abusive material, Roach said.
She also was charged with prostitution, since the department said she propositioned the investigator herself. The department said the woman advertised herself online as a prostitute.
If convicted, she could get up 20 years in prison.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Former Senator D'Amato joins PPA as Chairman of the Board
Monday, 05 March 2007
The Poker Players Alliance (PPA), a grassroots organization of more than 160,000 poker enthusiasts, announced today that former United States Senator Alfonse D'Amato has joined the PPA to serve as Chairman of the Board and help lead efforts in Washington D.C. to protect the game of poker.
The Poker Players Alliance (PPA), a grassroots organization of more than 160,000 poker enthusiasts, announced today that former United States Senator Alfonse D'Amato has joined the PPA to serve as Chairman of the Board and help lead efforts in Washington D.C. to protect the game of poker.
Online Vs. Offline Poker
Poker Tips & Strategies
Online Vs. Offline Poker?
By Dave ParkerCourtesy of BluffMagazine.com
Many of us begin our so-called poker careers by honing our games at various online poker sites. And by doing so, some of us reach the point where we consistently increase our bankrolls and come to feel pretty good about our game.Unfortunately, however, when many online players decide to take it to the next level by joining "live" games around town, they leave the table shocked. More than a couple of online sharks have sat down at a real table only to get beaten like a circus monkey. So how did they do so well online? Were the players in the live games that much better? Or is it that online and offline poker are subtly, yet distinctively, different?
Online Vs. Offline Poker?
By Dave ParkerCourtesy of BluffMagazine.com
Many of us begin our so-called poker careers by honing our games at various online poker sites. And by doing so, some of us reach the point where we consistently increase our bankrolls and come to feel pretty good about our game.Unfortunately, however, when many online players decide to take it to the next level by joining "live" games around town, they leave the table shocked. More than a couple of online sharks have sat down at a real table only to get beaten like a circus monkey. So how did they do so well online? Were the players in the live games that much better? Or is it that online and offline poker are subtly, yet distinctively, different?
Saturday, March 03, 2007
Gold Settles Lawsuit Over WSOP Prize
World Series of Poker main event winner Jamie Gold has agreed to settle a dispute over half of the tournament's $12 million grand prize, The Associated Press has learned.
In a joint, signed statement released Tuesday to the AP, Gold and Los Angeles-based TV producer Bruce Crispin Leyser agreed the matter should be resolved "without litigation."
"Jamie always intended on sharing his winnings with Crispin," the statement says. "Jamie and Crispin are happy to report they have fully settled this matter. They are pleased to be closing this chapter and look forward to continued success."
Gold, a former Hollywood agent before he turned poker pro, defeated 8,772 players to win the World Series of Poker tournament last summer in Las Vegas.
The two did not make clear how much money Leyser would receive. Gold already withdrew $6 million, half of his take from winning the world's largest poker tournament. The rest was frozen by court order after Leyser sued in August, claiming they had agreed to split the winnings.
Leyser said Gold agreed to the split in exchange for Leyser helping him find celebrities to play in the main event while wearing the "Bodog" label of an offshore Internet gambling site.
Leyser even kept what he said was a voicemail Gold left on his phone on the final day of the tournament in which Gold promised to pay Leyser "your half."
At a December court hearing, U.S. District Court Judge Roger L. Hunt rejected a motion by Gold's lawyers to lift an injunction set in September on the $6 million still at the tournament host, the Rio casino-hotel, and ordered the frozen funds be moved into an interest-bearing account.
Hunt also indicated Leyser likely would win his claim to the $6 million.
In a joint, signed statement released Tuesday to the AP, Gold and Los Angeles-based TV producer Bruce Crispin Leyser agreed the matter should be resolved "without litigation."
"Jamie always intended on sharing his winnings with Crispin," the statement says. "Jamie and Crispin are happy to report they have fully settled this matter. They are pleased to be closing this chapter and look forward to continued success."
Gold, a former Hollywood agent before he turned poker pro, defeated 8,772 players to win the World Series of Poker tournament last summer in Las Vegas.
The two did not make clear how much money Leyser would receive. Gold already withdrew $6 million, half of his take from winning the world's largest poker tournament. The rest was frozen by court order after Leyser sued in August, claiming they had agreed to split the winnings.
Leyser said Gold agreed to the split in exchange for Leyser helping him find celebrities to play in the main event while wearing the "Bodog" label of an offshore Internet gambling site.
Leyser even kept what he said was a voicemail Gold left on his phone on the final day of the tournament in which Gold promised to pay Leyser "your half."
At a December court hearing, U.S. District Court Judge Roger L. Hunt rejected a motion by Gold's lawyers to lift an injunction set in September on the $6 million still at the tournament host, the Rio casino-hotel, and ordered the frozen funds be moved into an interest-bearing account.
Hunt also indicated Leyser likely would win his claim to the $6 million.
Doyle’s Room Exits US Market
19 February 2007Dear DoylesRoom Player,
This email is intended solely for US-based players at DoylesRoom.com. Please ignore this communication if you are based in any other country.
In view of the passage of the Unlawful Internet Gaming Enforcement Act (“UIGEA”) and the cessation of operations by Neteller and other payment processors, the management of the Doyle Brunson Poker Network (“DBPN”) has reluctantly decided not to permit online real money play by US-based players. We know this will come as a disappointment to you but we have taken the view that the most prudent course of action at this time to ensure the security of player funds is to conduct an orderly withdrawal from the United States market.
Effective immediately, US online poker players will not be permitted to sign up for real money play or deposit funds into existing accounts. Commencing March 1, 2007, all US play on DoylesRoom.com will be blocked and US players will be able to access only the withdrawals page.
You may withdraw your funds at any time or, should you wish to enjoy uninterrupted play, we are pleased to announce that Full Tilt Poker has agreed to accept direct transfer of your account balance. This will give you the opportunity to earn a signup bonus of up to $600 and use your action point balance on their site (terms and conditions apply, see below). This account transfer option will be simple, immediate, and allow you to take advantage of Full Tilt Poker’s wide range of games and tournaments. The transfer feature is available now.
For more details please click here
DBPN assures all its players that their funds are safe but in view of the likely demands on our processing staff in the forthcoming weeks, cashouts may take a little longer than usual to process. We ask that players wishing to withdraw their funds be patient.
DoylesRoom.com will continue to serve non-US players and will increase its focus on Canada, Europe and Asia-Pacific.
We share your disappointment with this news and sincerely apologize for any inconvenience.
Thank You, The ManagementDoyle Brunson Poker Network
This email is intended solely for US-based players at DoylesRoom.com. Please ignore this communication if you are based in any other country.
In view of the passage of the Unlawful Internet Gaming Enforcement Act (“UIGEA”) and the cessation of operations by Neteller and other payment processors, the management of the Doyle Brunson Poker Network (“DBPN”) has reluctantly decided not to permit online real money play by US-based players. We know this will come as a disappointment to you but we have taken the view that the most prudent course of action at this time to ensure the security of player funds is to conduct an orderly withdrawal from the United States market.
Effective immediately, US online poker players will not be permitted to sign up for real money play or deposit funds into existing accounts. Commencing March 1, 2007, all US play on DoylesRoom.com will be blocked and US players will be able to access only the withdrawals page.
You may withdraw your funds at any time or, should you wish to enjoy uninterrupted play, we are pleased to announce that Full Tilt Poker has agreed to accept direct transfer of your account balance. This will give you the opportunity to earn a signup bonus of up to $600 and use your action point balance on their site (terms and conditions apply, see below). This account transfer option will be simple, immediate, and allow you to take advantage of Full Tilt Poker’s wide range of games and tournaments. The transfer feature is available now.
For more details please click here
DBPN assures all its players that their funds are safe but in view of the likely demands on our processing staff in the forthcoming weeks, cashouts may take a little longer than usual to process. We ask that players wishing to withdraw their funds be patient.
DoylesRoom.com will continue to serve non-US players and will increase its focus on Canada, Europe and Asia-Pacific.
We share your disappointment with this news and sincerely apologize for any inconvenience.
Thank You, The ManagementDoyle Brunson Poker Network
The Military
The Military
The average age of the military man is 19 years. He is a short haired, tight-muscled kid who, under normal circumstances is considered by societyas half man, half boy Not yet dry behind the ears, not old enough to buy a beer,but old enough to die for his country. He never really cared much for work and he wouldrather wax his own car than wash his father's; but he has never collected unemploymenteither. He's a recent High School graduate; he was probably an average student,pursued some form of sport activities, drives a ten year old jalopy, and has a steady girlfriend that either broke up with him when he left, or swears to be waiting when he returns from half a world away He listens to rock and roll or hip-hop or rap or jazz or swing and a 155mmhowitzer. He is 10 or 15 pounds lighter now than when he was at home because he is working or fighting from before dawn to well after dusk.He has trouble spelling, thus letter writing is a pain for him, but he can field strip a rifle in 30 seconds and reassemble it in less time in the dark. He can recite to you the nomenclature of a machine gun or grenade launcher and use either one effectively if he must. He digs foxholes and latrines and can apply first aid like a professional. He can march until he is told to stop or stop until he is told to march.He obeys orders instantly and without hesitation, but he is not without spirit or individual dignity. He is self-sufficient He has two sets of fatigues: he washes one and wears the other. He keeps his canteens full and his feet dry. he sometimes forgets to brush his teeth, but never to clean his rifle. He can cook his own meals, mend his own clothes, and fix his own hurts. If you're thirsty, he'll share his water with you; if you are hungry, hisfood. He'll even split his ammunition with you in the midst of battle when you run low.He has learned to use his hands like weapons and weapons like they were his hands. He can save your life - or take it, because that is his job. He will often do twice the work of a civilian , draw half the pay a nd still find ironic humor in it all. He has seen more sufferingand death then he should have in his short lifetime. He has stood atop mountains of dead bodies, and helped to create them.He has wept in public and in private, for friends who have fallen in combat and is unashamed. He feels every note of the National Anthem vibrate through his body while at rigid attention, while tempering the burning desire to 'square-away' those around him who haven't bothered to stand, remove their hat, or even stop talking. In an odd twist, day in and day out, far from home, he defends their right to be disrespectful. Just as did his Father, Grandfather, and Great-grandfather, he is paying the price for our freedom . Beardless or not, he is not a boy. He is the American Fighting Man that has kept this country free for over 200 years He has asked nothing in return, except our friendship and understanding.Remember him, always, for he has earned our respect and admiration with his blood. And now we even have women over there in danger, doing their part in this tradition of going to War when our nation calls us to do so. As you go to bed tonight, remember this shot.. A short lull, a little shade and a picture of loved ones in their helmets Prayer wheel for our military... please don't break it. Please send this onafter a short prayer. Prayer Wheel"Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protectus. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. Amen." Prayer : When you receive this, please stop for a moment and say a prayer for our ground troops in Afghanistan, sailors on ships, and airmen in theair, and for those in Iraq There is nothing attached.. This can be very powerful.... ... Of all the gifts you could give a US Soldier, Sailor, Coastguardsman, Marineor Airman, prayer is the very best one. I can't break this one, sorry This is a ribbon for soldiers fighting in Iraq. Pass it on to everyone andpray. Every minute that passes is another chance to turn it all around
The average age of the military man is 19 years. He is a short haired, tight-muscled kid who, under normal circumstances is considered by societyas half man, half boy Not yet dry behind the ears, not old enough to buy a beer,but old enough to die for his country. He never really cared much for work and he wouldrather wax his own car than wash his father's; but he has never collected unemploymenteither. He's a recent High School graduate; he was probably an average student,pursued some form of sport activities, drives a ten year old jalopy, and has a steady girlfriend that either broke up with him when he left, or swears to be waiting when he returns from half a world away He listens to rock and roll or hip-hop or rap or jazz or swing and a 155mmhowitzer. He is 10 or 15 pounds lighter now than when he was at home because he is working or fighting from before dawn to well after dusk.He has trouble spelling, thus letter writing is a pain for him, but he can field strip a rifle in 30 seconds and reassemble it in less time in the dark. He can recite to you the nomenclature of a machine gun or grenade launcher and use either one effectively if he must. He digs foxholes and latrines and can apply first aid like a professional. He can march until he is told to stop or stop until he is told to march.He obeys orders instantly and without hesitation, but he is not without spirit or individual dignity. He is self-sufficient He has two sets of fatigues: he washes one and wears the other. He keeps his canteens full and his feet dry. he sometimes forgets to brush his teeth, but never to clean his rifle. He can cook his own meals, mend his own clothes, and fix his own hurts. If you're thirsty, he'll share his water with you; if you are hungry, hisfood. He'll even split his ammunition with you in the midst of battle when you run low.He has learned to use his hands like weapons and weapons like they were his hands. He can save your life - or take it, because that is his job. He will often do twice the work of a civilian , draw half the pay a nd still find ironic humor in it all. He has seen more sufferingand death then he should have in his short lifetime. He has stood atop mountains of dead bodies, and helped to create them.He has wept in public and in private, for friends who have fallen in combat and is unashamed. He feels every note of the National Anthem vibrate through his body while at rigid attention, while tempering the burning desire to 'square-away' those around him who haven't bothered to stand, remove their hat, or even stop talking. In an odd twist, day in and day out, far from home, he defends their right to be disrespectful. Just as did his Father, Grandfather, and Great-grandfather, he is paying the price for our freedom . Beardless or not, he is not a boy. He is the American Fighting Man that has kept this country free for over 200 years He has asked nothing in return, except our friendship and understanding.Remember him, always, for he has earned our respect and admiration with his blood. And now we even have women over there in danger, doing their part in this tradition of going to War when our nation calls us to do so. As you go to bed tonight, remember this shot.. A short lull, a little shade and a picture of loved ones in their helmets Prayer wheel for our military... please don't break it. Please send this onafter a short prayer. Prayer Wheel"Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protectus. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. Amen." Prayer : When you receive this, please stop for a moment and say a prayer for our ground troops in Afghanistan, sailors on ships, and airmen in theair, and for those in Iraq There is nothing attached.. This can be very powerful.... ... Of all the gifts you could give a US Soldier, Sailor, Coastguardsman, Marineor Airman, prayer is the very best one. I can't break this one, sorry This is a ribbon for soldiers fighting in Iraq. Pass it on to everyone andpray. Every minute that passes is another chance to turn it all around
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Sound Off America !
Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House, is sending a few bills back to Congress to have them "revisited". Among those bills being "revisited" is... the Port Security Bill that Senator Fisk used to attach the Internet Gambling Bill to...and got it passed. Please voice your objections regarding this bill and how it was passed... Her email addy is: AmericanVoices@mail.house.gov It is imperative that we all send an email to her voicing our objections to the gaming bill. Send this to your friends, your enemies and anyone you know who was directly or indirectly affected.
U.S.A. Players !
Welcome to OK USA Poker!
OK USA Poker is here to defend your rights to play online poker. As you may already know, the US congress has recently taken action to try and prevent Americans from playing online poker. The manner it which it was taken has millions of Americans outraged. We are donating 50% of our profits to help in the fight to protect online poker! So, when you play here, you will be helping the cause and helping to keep the ability to play online poker. Enjoy!
The Staff of OK USA Poker
OK USA Poker is pleased to announce our “no-fixed-expiry” 100% Initial Signup Bonus Program. Deposit money at OK USA Poker for the first time, and we will match that value into your Bonus Account. Just by having fun and playing Poker, you will be meeting the Release Criteria and be receiving deposits of $20 in to your Cash Account.
How does it work?
OK USA Poker will match 100% of your initial deposit and award you up to $500 Bonus Dollars. These Bonus Dollars will be automatically released to your Cash Account in increments of $20 for every 200 OK Points you collect.
What makes the Bonus so special?
There is no fixed expiry date. You are given 30 days to complete a $20 increment. That is: You have 30 days to clear your first $20 increment. Once you do this, the clock is reset and you again have 30 days to clear your next $20 increment, and so on. So please take your time and enjoy the site.
How do I earn OK Points?
1 point is awarded for each hand you play, where the minimum rake is $0.50.
1 point is awarded for each $1 in Tournament Fee.
Conditions?
Minimum deposit is $50. Maximum Bonus match is $500. Each $20 increment must be collected within 30 days of each other – meaning, once you collect a $20 increment, you have 30 days to collect the next $20 increment. This will continue until (i) you have exhausted your Bonus Credit, or (ii) 30 days has elapsed without collecting a $20 increment.
Just click that banner and use bonus code "gunner" for a 200% initial deposit bonus !
OK USA Poker is here to defend your rights to play online poker. As you may already know, the US congress has recently taken action to try and prevent Americans from playing online poker. The manner it which it was taken has millions of Americans outraged. We are donating 50% of our profits to help in the fight to protect online poker! So, when you play here, you will be helping the cause and helping to keep the ability to play online poker. Enjoy!
The Staff of OK USA Poker
OK USA Poker is pleased to announce our “no-fixed-expiry” 100% Initial Signup Bonus Program. Deposit money at OK USA Poker for the first time, and we will match that value into your Bonus Account. Just by having fun and playing Poker, you will be meeting the Release Criteria and be receiving deposits of $20 in to your Cash Account.
How does it work?
OK USA Poker will match 100% of your initial deposit and award you up to $500 Bonus Dollars. These Bonus Dollars will be automatically released to your Cash Account in increments of $20 for every 200 OK Points you collect.
What makes the Bonus so special?
There is no fixed expiry date. You are given 30 days to complete a $20 increment. That is: You have 30 days to clear your first $20 increment. Once you do this, the clock is reset and you again have 30 days to clear your next $20 increment, and so on. So please take your time and enjoy the site.
How do I earn OK Points?
1 point is awarded for each hand you play, where the minimum rake is $0.50.
1 point is awarded for each $1 in Tournament Fee.
Conditions?
Minimum deposit is $50. Maximum Bonus match is $500. Each $20 increment must be collected within 30 days of each other – meaning, once you collect a $20 increment, you have 30 days to collect the next $20 increment. This will continue until (i) you have exhausted your Bonus Credit, or (ii) 30 days has elapsed without collecting a $20 increment.
Just click that banner and use bonus code "gunner" for a 200% initial deposit bonus !
Saturday, February 17, 2007
Defend The American Tradition
Poker Players Alliance: Defend the American Tradition
Unlike games of chance where a roll of the die is all that determines the win or the loss, poker is a game of skill.
Demanding high levels of strategy, observation, cunning, and memory, poker has challenged and sharpened some of America's greatest tactical minds such as Ulysses S. Grant and Dwight Eisenhower.
Today, more than 70 million poker players are reviving American's tradition.
The recent expansion of the World Series of Poker (WSOP) best illustrates the exponential growth of the game in the past five years - the number of entrants in the WSOP has increased from 4,700 to 23,000.
Unfortunately, even as public support for poker grows, some over-zealous government and law enforcement officials have begun attacking the game and trampling on the rights of those who play.
The American tradition of poker must be defended. Poker players should have the freedom to continue to enjoy this favorite pastime as they always have.
Unlike games of chance where a roll of the die is all that determines the win or the loss, poker is a game of skill.
Demanding high levels of strategy, observation, cunning, and memory, poker has challenged and sharpened some of America's greatest tactical minds such as Ulysses S. Grant and Dwight Eisenhower.
Today, more than 70 million poker players are reviving American's tradition.
The recent expansion of the World Series of Poker (WSOP) best illustrates the exponential growth of the game in the past five years - the number of entrants in the WSOP has increased from 4,700 to 23,000.
Unfortunately, even as public support for poker grows, some over-zealous government and law enforcement officials have begun attacking the game and trampling on the rights of those who play.
The American tradition of poker must be defended. Poker players should have the freedom to continue to enjoy this favorite pastime as they always have.
Friday, February 09, 2007
So Confused Maybe u can help !
Hi , I have 2 boys one almost 16 one almost 18 and they both wanna go in the service , and they came to me and said Mom would it be ok to join the military , I wanted to change the subject so bad but they kept asking me this same question and asking me if they would be put on the front line and if they would come home alive. And I was like froze I didn't know what to tell them other then if its your decision to join its fine that its a a great thing to foght for your country (USA) and about going to the front line I told them that I guess they would have to talk to a recruiter about the job they wanted to do in the military . I guess that would tell it all . And that if they did join and went to the front line to be brave that everyone at home would be proud of anything they did. Did i say the right things to them? This scares me beyond words . I love my country but im not sure im ready to let my boys go. Earl I can't even imagine what you and glenda are going through My prayers are with u and your Son..
AMBER ALERT !!!
Duke Doblick, '73
Director of Development and Alumni Relations
Serra Catholic High School
200 Hershey Drive
McKeesport, PA 15132
1-877-4-SERRA-1
412-751-7629
412-751-2160 (fax)
development@serrahs.org
Do not be afraid; just have faith. Mark 5:36 Please look at the picture, read what her mother says, then forward this message on.Maybe if everyone passes this on, someone will see this child. That is how the girl from Stevens Point was found by circulation of her picture on tv. The internet circulates even overseas,South America, and Canada etc. Thanks Please pass this to everyone in your address book. We have a Deli manager (Acme Markets) from Philadelphia, Pa who has a 13 year old daughter who has been missing for 2 weeks.Keep the picture moving on. With GOD on her side she will be found. "I am asking you all, begging you to pleaseforward this email on to anyone and everyone you know, PLEASE.My 13 year old girl, Ashley Flores, is missing. She has been missing for now two weeks. It is still not too late. Please help us. If anyone anywhere knows anything, please contact me at: HelpfindAshleyFlores@yahoocomI am including a picture of her. All prayers are appreciated!! " It only takes 2 seconds to forward this. If it was your child, you would want all the help you could get.
No virus found in this incoming message.Checked by AVG Free Edition.Version: 7.1.410 / Virus Database: 268.16.10/625 - Release Date: 1/13/2007
No virus found in this incoming message.Checked by AVG Free Edition.Version: 7.1.410 / Virus Database: 268.16.13/632 - Release Date: 1/16/07
Director of Development and Alumni Relations
Serra Catholic High School
200 Hershey Drive
McKeesport, PA 15132
1-877-4-SERRA-1
412-751-7629
412-751-2160 (fax)
development@serrahs.org
Do not be afraid; just have faith. Mark 5:36 Please look at the picture, read what her mother says, then forward this message on.Maybe if everyone passes this on, someone will see this child. That is how the girl from Stevens Point was found by circulation of her picture on tv. The internet circulates even overseas,South America, and Canada etc. Thanks Please pass this to everyone in your address book. We have a Deli manager (Acme Markets) from Philadelphia, Pa who has a 13 year old daughter who has been missing for 2 weeks.Keep the picture moving on. With GOD on her side she will be found. "I am asking you all, begging you to pleaseforward this email on to anyone and everyone you know, PLEASE.My 13 year old girl, Ashley Flores, is missing. She has been missing for now two weeks. It is still not too late. Please help us. If anyone anywhere knows anything, please contact me at: HelpfindAshleyFlores@yahoocomI am including a picture of her. All prayers are appreciated!! " It only takes 2 seconds to forward this. If it was your child, you would want all the help you could get.
No virus found in this incoming message.Checked by AVG Free Edition.Version: 7.1.410 / Virus Database: 268.16.10/625 - Release Date: 1/13/2007
No virus found in this incoming message.Checked by AVG Free Edition.Version: 7.1.410 / Virus Database: 268.16.13/632 - Release Date: 1/16/07
Symantec Finds Yet Another Excel Trojan Variant
Symantec Finds Yet Another Excel Trojan Variant
By Scott M. Fulton, III, BetaNews
February 8, 2007, 2:08 PM
It may be a single malicious user with an axe to grind, and that user may be targeting a very small group of people who just happen to use Microsoft Excel. But whoever it is continues to make security firms like Symantec nervous, as yet another Excel-based document with a malformed image string, dubbed Trojan.Mdropper. Y, has turned up.
As a message on Symantec's security blog stated this morning, the Excel document with the malformed string is capable of dropping two Trojan horse programs onto the victim's computer, both of which are identified as Backdoor.Bias. Both programs apparently leave open the possibility for remote exploit, but neither Symantec nor Microsoft has provided any details with regard to whether their informant victim's computers have been "phoning home."
This time around, Symantec was much more careful with the phrasing of the new Trojan's description on its blog, cautiously explaining that Trojan.Mdropper.Y was a different document that leveraged the same exploit as with editions prior to "Y," perhaps a little differently than before but not different enough to call this a new vulnerability.
Nonetheless, that didn't stop some press sources from calling this the fourth, fifth, or sixth new "Excel flaw" discovered since the beginning of the year, even though the concept string malformation exploit dates back to before the turn of the decade.
Excel 2007 appears to continue to be immune to this exploit, though older versions remain vulnerable. However, all legitimate security sources checked by BetaNews continue to report that these particular attacks are targeted rather than automated and widespread.
By Scott M. Fulton, III, BetaNews
February 8, 2007, 2:08 PM
It may be a single malicious user with an axe to grind, and that user may be targeting a very small group of people who just happen to use Microsoft Excel. But whoever it is continues to make security firms like Symantec nervous, as yet another Excel-based document with a malformed image string, dubbed Trojan.Mdropper. Y, has turned up.
As a message on Symantec's security blog stated this morning, the Excel document with the malformed string is capable of dropping two Trojan horse programs onto the victim's computer, both of which are identified as Backdoor.Bias. Both programs apparently leave open the possibility for remote exploit, but neither Symantec nor Microsoft has provided any details with regard to whether their informant victim's computers have been "phoning home."
This time around, Symantec was much more careful with the phrasing of the new Trojan's description on its blog, cautiously explaining that Trojan.Mdropper.Y was a different document that leveraged the same exploit as with editions prior to "Y," perhaps a little differently than before but not different enough to call this a new vulnerability.
Nonetheless, that didn't stop some press sources from calling this the fourth, fifth, or sixth new "Excel flaw" discovered since the beginning of the year, even though the concept string malformation exploit dates back to before the turn of the decade.
Excel 2007 appears to continue to be immune to this exploit, though older versions remain vulnerable. However, all legitimate security sources checked by BetaNews continue to report that these particular attacks are targeted rather than automated and widespread.
Funds Seized by FBI
Funds Seized by FBI
Neteller has had $55 Million in Funds seized by the FBI. These funds are payment processes in transit to and from the US. Authorities are saying the funds are "frozen".
"As a result of the restrictions placed by third parties, court-ordered seizures, and related legal concerns, the group is currently unable to make payments to U.S. customers," Neteller said in a statement.
"The amount of funds seized by the USAO or otherwise restricted by third parties does not exceed US$55 million (euro42 million)," it added. The FBI has also hired a forensic accounting firm to compile a list of US customers who have had Neteller Transactions. Neteller has apparently said it will co-operate.
Most internet poker players already know the 2 founders were arrested in the US and are each facing 20 year racketeering charges, and US Operations were suspended last month. Neteller lost upwards of 65% of its business due to New Anti Gambling Legislation which was "porked" into law in October of the coattails of the port security bill. George W. Bush signed the bill on October 14th making it US law. Neteller is based in the Isle of Man, traded on the Britain Exchange, and was the favorite payment processor for Internet Poker.
It should be noted that Internet Texas Holdem (ITH) - , the leading Texas Holdem Resource & Community, currently accepts Neteller as a payment method in their Internet Poker Store.
For all the details, follow this link to the ITH Communtiy Forum Discussion on Neteller
Neteller has had $55 Million in Funds seized by the FBI. These funds are payment processes in transit to and from the US. Authorities are saying the funds are "frozen".
"As a result of the restrictions placed by third parties, court-ordered seizures, and related legal concerns, the group is currently unable to make payments to U.S. customers," Neteller said in a statement.
"The amount of funds seized by the USAO or otherwise restricted by third parties does not exceed US$55 million (euro42 million)," it added. The FBI has also hired a forensic accounting firm to compile a list of US customers who have had Neteller Transactions. Neteller has apparently said it will co-operate.
Most internet poker players already know the 2 founders were arrested in the US and are each facing 20 year racketeering charges, and US Operations were suspended last month. Neteller lost upwards of 65% of its business due to New Anti Gambling Legislation which was "porked" into law in October of the coattails of the port security bill. George W. Bush signed the bill on October 14th making it US law. Neteller is based in the Isle of Man, traded on the Britain Exchange, and was the favorite payment processor for Internet Poker.
It should be noted that Internet Texas Holdem (ITH) - , the leading Texas Holdem Resource & Community, currently accepts Neteller as a payment method in their Internet Poker Store.
For all the details, follow this link to the ITH Communtiy Forum Discussion on Neteller
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Supporting the troops
As most you all know by now the son is over in Afghanistan fighting the Taliban with the 82nd . He's been able to send us here a few emails , and just yesterday was able to make a phone call . He says that things have really gotten heated up now . The Taliban and militants have taken control of a city over their , and the 82nd along with fellow NATO forces are fixing to take the city back . Just the other day they caught a truck load of explosives near Kandahar......
Any how , with the media dwelling so much on Iraq , the soldiers over at Afghanistan seem to have been forgotten . Here at the Moore house we are sending off a care package this week . The wife is a dairy manager at the local Food Lion and has gotten them to start doing the same thing . Lets all see what we can do to support those soldiers and let them know that the rest of the world has them in their thoughts by sending items that they may need to help cheer them up .
Earl G. Moore III
TF Corsair, Echo Company/ 2-82 AVN
FOB Kandahar
APO AE 09355
Ok , it doesn't matter who you send it to,the troops or to him to hand out to his fellow comrades .( tho I do like the idea of maybe sorta adopting his troop...) As far as what to send , he and I had the chance to actually talk yesterday before they were to go over to another city and try to push Taliban and militants out of there. He mentioned that they are thankful for anything .
Let me just say these guys are on their feet a lot . So foot powders (athletes feet) , deodorants , toothpaste , toothbrushes , soap . DO NOT send mouthwashes...no liquids are allowed .
Envelopes ,notepads , pencils and pens....
Now for stuff that they can snack on ...caned nuts , dried fruits , jerky , chips like pringles in a tube . Dried goods of any sort are very nice to receive , they can take that into the field with them , and its light in weight . Store bought cookies and snacks work out well , homemade products will generally go bad before they get it .
And last but not least , letters...I myself know how much a letter from anyone can mean . A soldier just wants to hear that he's not been forgotten from the rest of the world . They want to know that folks think about them.....so a card or letter is always nice to receive...and believe me , it'll get read out to all within earshot more times than you could imagine.
thx , Earl aka:skinski
Thursday, January 25, 2007
The State of Poker : from the PPA
The State of Poker
By Michael Bolcerek, president, Poker Players Alliance
Tonight, in an annual tradition, the President of the United States will address the Congress, his cabinet and our country on the “state of the union” and the goals of the government for 2007. It is not likely the president will include the “state of poker” among his crucial national issues. Thus, I would like to take this moment to provide an update on where poker sits today and examine how you and the Poker Players Alliance (PPA) can continue to work together to preserve and protect the game we love.
As we know painfully well, poker has come under vicious attack over the past year. We continue to learn on a regular basis about home and tavern poker games being raided by law enforcement and how charitable Texas Hold ‘Em tournaments are being shut down. Perhaps even worse, we have seen the federal government’s full force efforts to curb this American tradition from the Internet. Legislation aimed at prohibiting you from funding your online poker accounts passed the U.S. House this summer, then was quietly slipped into a port security bill, literally in the dark of night, which was signed into law on October 13. During these troubling times, the PPA has given you a voice to express your opposition to the government’s intrusive actions and to rally in a united fashion against these constitutional incursions.
The impact has been jarring, as the largest, publicly traded online poker operators shut down services to U.S. players. While many reputable sites still offer services to U.S. players, recent actions to close down payment processors and to subpoena banks are clear indications that the federal government is aggressively pushing the online gambling prohibition.
We don’t have to tell you that a prohibition won’t work, and in fact will likely cause many more problems than it aims to solve. The unintended consequences will soon be apparent and all the good intentions of protecting children, helping problem gamblers, and ensuring the integrity of financial transactions will be lost as rogue sites and unregulated payment methodologies surface to replace the trustworthy operators the government is driving out of business.
The PPA is not standing idly by. Poker should be exempt under the new law and that exemption is our primary goal. I have spent a good portion of January in Washington, D.C., meeting with lawmakers and others to get support for legislation that would provide a “skill game” exemption for poker. We hope to have a bill introduced very soon and then bring to bear the voice of more than 135,000 members of the PPA to push Congress to do the right thing. This would be a very positive development for the game. For the past year, we have been on the defensive, but now is the time to go on the offensive and get a bill introduced.
This year we will also be taking the issue directly to Members of Congress in their home districts, to truly nationalize the debate. We had a tremendous response from our members about becoming PPA grassroots representatives on the state and regional levels. Soon we will be announcing our positions across the country and engaging U.S. Representatives and Senators where they used to feel safe from facts and spirited debate.
While we are working toward the short-term goal of a poker exemption, the PPA will also be laying the foundation for the eventual U.S. regulation of online poker. This is the only proven public policy for online gaming. Licensing, regulating, and taxing online poker is technically feasible and the sensible and fiscally responsible thing to do. We will be working with others in Washington to move Congress in this direction.
Finally, we not only rely on your active participation but also on your active support to achieve our goals. Our new site now offers no cost introductory annual memberships. Please help us build our membership to enable us to deliver a full house to Congress and stop further threats to our game. Tell your friends, family, and fellow players to become members of the PPA. We also offer an ability to upgrade your membership from introductory to full membership and beyond. Our new and improved Web site, www.pokerplayersalliance.org, gives you tools and information to help our cause, as well as make it easier for you to donate to the PPA. I hope you will make a contribution at http://www.pokerplayersalliance.org/donatenow.php.
2007 will be an important year for poker. With your help and continued support we are optimistic that poker will remain a great American tradition.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
The Neteller Lowdown
The recent decision by Neteller to cease facilitating transactions with online gambling sites for its US customers has become the largest effect to date of the UIGEA bill signed into law on October 13th , 2006. Until last week, Neteller was the most universal method for funding online poker and gambling accounts, accepted by virtually every reputable site and accessible to almost any players at those sites throughout the world (with notable exception of Marylanders in the US). Neteller's rapid decision, on the heels of arrests in the US of two founders of the company, was followed in quick succession by the loss of other smaller players in the US including Central Coin and InstaDebit, as well as Click2Pay which is no longer accepting US customers (though existing ones can still use the service). Additionally, many sites no longer offer direct debit/credit of US bank accounts, further reducing the convenient options for managing an online bankroll.
What does this mean for all the players who have money online in various poker sites, sports books, and with payment processors like Neteller? For starters, it's probably not a time to panic, sites like Neteller and Poker Stars are quite reputable, and segregate customer deposits from operating revenues, so as difficult as it may be to access funds at these sites in the short run, it's perfectly reasonable to expect to be able to get the money in the long run, either through slower methods like paper checks, or through other payment processors that are, or may become, available. Neteller is also encouraging members with a need to more quickly access their online balances to withdraw through their Neteller ATM card, though there are some fees and limitations involved, as noted here . That said, now would certainly be a good time to make a prudent assessment of your bankroll and your needs to have ready availability of some or all of it while deciding how best to manage your money online. In my opinion, the best way for a US based poker player to proceed would probably be to get a working bankroll into the sites which seem the most failsafe, in the event that deposit methods are further curtailed. This should allow US players to continue to play at the sites like Poker Stars, Full-Tilt Poker, Absolute Poker and others which seem to be in no hurry to prohibit US players from playing, even if methods of depositing money into these sites becomes more difficult in the future. Each player will, of course, have to determine how much risk is acceptable, especially when dealing with the larger sums that a regular online pro will need to maintain in order to minimize normal bankroll risk.
So, what are the options for funding accounts online now? For an up-to-date list of the most popular options and the sites which accept them, you can check out this link for an online spreadsheet which we will keep updating as things progress. The most widely accepted ewallet at this point would appear to be ePassporte which is the method of funding currently recommended by Poker Stars, and which is also available at Ultimate Bet, Absolute, and Full Tilt. By comparison to Neteller it has the disadvantage of some significant fees and slower transfer of cash from a bank account to an ePassporte account, but it does have the advantage of offering a virtual Visa card for online shopping directly from your balance as well as a physical Visa card option (for an additional fee) which allows you to spend from your online balance anywhere Visa is accepted. Also, once funded, transferring funds to and from poker sites online is fee free (with the exception of $5 annual account fee for the the ePassporte account itself), which does mean that for those players who don't need to constantly move money online from regular accounts the fees will probably be a relatively minor nuisance. A complete listing of ePassporte's fees can be found here. One ITHer's account of signing up for an ePassporte account can be found in this forum post.
For as long as ePassporte or an equivalent option remains available (new ones such as ATMonline, NUcharge and eWalletXpress have already popped up), cashing out is also probably best handled via an eWallet, but for those sites where ePassporte isn't available, or in the event of further restrictions, there are some other alternatives. For example, it is possible to fund most sites via Western Union transfers, and in many cases to cash out via this method as well. Unfortunately, this requires person-to-person transfers via Western Union which can be a bit unsettling given the potential amounts involved and the fees can be significant as well. For now, Bodog is picking up the fees for one cashout per week, as noted here, and other sites may institute similar setups if other methods of funding become more difficult. Similarly, most sites will fund an account via a mailed cashier's check or money order and will cash out via a paper check. These methods are likely to remain available for the foreseeable future, as they aren't covered by the UIGEA, but they are obviously not as transparent as online transactions, and do potentially involve the risk/hassle of payments lost in the mail. We will continue to monitor the options available and update here and on the ITH forums with any new information.
Finally, it is worth noting that the online gambling customers in the US are a large portion of the market for these sites, and despite the dearth of options currently available to US players to fund these accounts it is reasonable to expect that the sites that continue to do business in the US will provide alternatives. Likewise, as with any new business, it is essential that those customers do appropriate due diligence and be wary of potential scams and fly-by-night operations. Neteller's withdrawal from the US certainly makes this landscape more uncertain, but with the resources available here and elsewhere we hope to be able to provide you with enough good information to make intelligent decisions about how to continue with your online poker hobby/profession.
In the interests of maximizing the information available to all players, here are a few more useful links about the legal issues surrounding online gaming, as well as specific references about some of the current funding alternatives.
At ITH, you can find up-to-date information on legal issues in the Poker Legal Issues forum, and a similar resource can be found at 2+2's Poker Legislation forum.
For general information about account funding alternatives there's this ITH thread as well as the previously mentioned online spreadsheet. There are also specific threads about ATMonline and ePassporte. The General forum and Poker Bonus Chasing forum at ITH are where any new information will first appear when we get it. 2+2's Internet Gambling forum also has a number of threads about specific poker rooms/payment processors.
CompatiblePoker.com has updated information on many of these issues as well as a list of US-friendly poker sites here, and Gambling911 offers coverage of breaking news as well.
What does this mean for all the players who have money online in various poker sites, sports books, and with payment processors like Neteller? For starters, it's probably not a time to panic, sites like Neteller and Poker Stars are quite reputable, and segregate customer deposits from operating revenues, so as difficult as it may be to access funds at these sites in the short run, it's perfectly reasonable to expect to be able to get the money in the long run, either through slower methods like paper checks, or through other payment processors that are, or may become, available. Neteller is also encouraging members with a need to more quickly access their online balances to withdraw through their Neteller ATM card, though there are some fees and limitations involved, as noted here . That said, now would certainly be a good time to make a prudent assessment of your bankroll and your needs to have ready availability of some or all of it while deciding how best to manage your money online. In my opinion, the best way for a US based poker player to proceed would probably be to get a working bankroll into the sites which seem the most failsafe, in the event that deposit methods are further curtailed. This should allow US players to continue to play at the sites like Poker Stars, Full-Tilt Poker, Absolute Poker and others which seem to be in no hurry to prohibit US players from playing, even if methods of depositing money into these sites becomes more difficult in the future. Each player will, of course, have to determine how much risk is acceptable, especially when dealing with the larger sums that a regular online pro will need to maintain in order to minimize normal bankroll risk.
So, what are the options for funding accounts online now? For an up-to-date list of the most popular options and the sites which accept them, you can check out this link for an online spreadsheet which we will keep updating as things progress. The most widely accepted ewallet at this point would appear to be ePassporte which is the method of funding currently recommended by Poker Stars, and which is also available at Ultimate Bet, Absolute, and Full Tilt. By comparison to Neteller it has the disadvantage of some significant fees and slower transfer of cash from a bank account to an ePassporte account, but it does have the advantage of offering a virtual Visa card for online shopping directly from your balance as well as a physical Visa card option (for an additional fee) which allows you to spend from your online balance anywhere Visa is accepted. Also, once funded, transferring funds to and from poker sites online is fee free (with the exception of $5 annual account fee for the the ePassporte account itself), which does mean that for those players who don't need to constantly move money online from regular accounts the fees will probably be a relatively minor nuisance. A complete listing of ePassporte's fees can be found here. One ITHer's account of signing up for an ePassporte account can be found in this forum post.
For as long as ePassporte or an equivalent option remains available (new ones such as ATMonline, NUcharge and eWalletXpress have already popped up), cashing out is also probably best handled via an eWallet, but for those sites where ePassporte isn't available, or in the event of further restrictions, there are some other alternatives. For example, it is possible to fund most sites via Western Union transfers, and in many cases to cash out via this method as well. Unfortunately, this requires person-to-person transfers via Western Union which can be a bit unsettling given the potential amounts involved and the fees can be significant as well. For now, Bodog is picking up the fees for one cashout per week, as noted here, and other sites may institute similar setups if other methods of funding become more difficult. Similarly, most sites will fund an account via a mailed cashier's check or money order and will cash out via a paper check. These methods are likely to remain available for the foreseeable future, as they aren't covered by the UIGEA, but they are obviously not as transparent as online transactions, and do potentially involve the risk/hassle of payments lost in the mail. We will continue to monitor the options available and update here and on the ITH forums with any new information.
Finally, it is worth noting that the online gambling customers in the US are a large portion of the market for these sites, and despite the dearth of options currently available to US players to fund these accounts it is reasonable to expect that the sites that continue to do business in the US will provide alternatives. Likewise, as with any new business, it is essential that those customers do appropriate due diligence and be wary of potential scams and fly-by-night operations. Neteller's withdrawal from the US certainly makes this landscape more uncertain, but with the resources available here and elsewhere we hope to be able to provide you with enough good information to make intelligent decisions about how to continue with your online poker hobby/profession.
In the interests of maximizing the information available to all players, here are a few more useful links about the legal issues surrounding online gaming, as well as specific references about some of the current funding alternatives.
At ITH, you can find up-to-date information on legal issues in the Poker Legal Issues forum, and a similar resource can be found at 2+2's Poker Legislation forum.
For general information about account funding alternatives there's this ITH thread as well as the previously mentioned online spreadsheet. There are also specific threads about ATMonline and ePassporte. The General forum and Poker Bonus Chasing forum at ITH are where any new information will first appear when we get it. 2+2's Internet Gambling forum also has a number of threads about specific poker rooms/payment processors.
CompatiblePoker.com has updated information on many of these issues as well as a list of US-friendly poker sites here, and Gambling911 offers coverage of breaking news as well.
Sunday, January 21, 2007
U.S. Cracking down on Banks ?
HSBC, Dresdner Kleinwort, Credit Suisse and Deutsche Bank are among the banks which have been issued with subpoenas in a shock and owe crackdown on online gambling investors by the US DoJ.
THE US Department of Justice has ordered the world’s biggest investment banks, accountants and law firms to hand over all e-mails, telephone records and papers connected with internet gaming firms as part of an investigation into illegal online gambling in America, the Sunday Times reports.
According to Jenny Davie of the Sunday Times the subpoenas do not reveal whom the Department of Justice is targeting. But some believe the ultimate goal is to find information incriminating the founders of the online gambling firms.
This investigation is likely to ignite a confrontation of unparalleled magnitude between the United States and the United Kingdom governments.
"The Department of Justice has taken a shotgun, not a rifle approach in relation to lots of gaming companies and has just asked everyone to hand over all the information they have.” A source of the Sunday Times said.
All investors in publicly traded online gaming companies may be affected by this investigation, described as one of the biggest “fishing expeditions” ever undertaken by the Department of Justice.
The United Kingdom government is unlikely to seat by the sidelines and watch the Americans chase and arrest investors in the attempt to seize their assets.
The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act, which seemingly sparked this investigation, contains exceptions which make it void and null in any international Court of Justice outside the U.S.
Exceptions such as interstate horse racing online betting and intrastate online gambling among others will contribute to repeal future money laundering charges, the U.S. DoJ preferred legal shortcut to obtain extradition of non U.S. citizens from other sovereign countries.
Interestingly enough the IRS allows illegal bookmakers to file their tax return imposing a 2% flat tax on the bookmaker’s handle (business volume) and guarantees that no information will be disclosed to other government agencies, making the U.S. government beneficiary of illegal proceeds and direct accomplice of the laundering of monetary instruments upon acceptance of taxes.
“The U.S. Department of Justice recent determination to catch up after 15 years of inaction should draw everyone’s attention.” A well known bookmaker who wishes not to be named told TheOnlineWire.com. “What they are doing is directly linked to the exceptions contained in HR 4411 [The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act]. They [U.S. Department of Justice] are probably preparing the grounds for an onshore online gambling monopoly, making sure that no one other than the ones who originally lobbied for the exceptions will benefit from it.”
“Think about it, the DoJ resources aren’t unlimited.” Our source continued. “It takes someone very powerful to sponsor, promote and ensure that such wide range investigation gets off the ground.”
Needless to say current and former investors in publicly traded online gambling companies should not travel to the United States at any time and for no reason whatsoever to avoid possible legal consequences that may range from questioning to arrest.
Current and former investors should also be warned that the United States government may seek seizure of their assets in the United States.
THE US Department of Justice has ordered the world’s biggest investment banks, accountants and law firms to hand over all e-mails, telephone records and papers connected with internet gaming firms as part of an investigation into illegal online gambling in America, the Sunday Times reports.
According to Jenny Davie of the Sunday Times the subpoenas do not reveal whom the Department of Justice is targeting. But some believe the ultimate goal is to find information incriminating the founders of the online gambling firms.
This investigation is likely to ignite a confrontation of unparalleled magnitude between the United States and the United Kingdom governments.
"The Department of Justice has taken a shotgun, not a rifle approach in relation to lots of gaming companies and has just asked everyone to hand over all the information they have.” A source of the Sunday Times said.
All investors in publicly traded online gaming companies may be affected by this investigation, described as one of the biggest “fishing expeditions” ever undertaken by the Department of Justice.
The United Kingdom government is unlikely to seat by the sidelines and watch the Americans chase and arrest investors in the attempt to seize their assets.
The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act, which seemingly sparked this investigation, contains exceptions which make it void and null in any international Court of Justice outside the U.S.
Exceptions such as interstate horse racing online betting and intrastate online gambling among others will contribute to repeal future money laundering charges, the U.S. DoJ preferred legal shortcut to obtain extradition of non U.S. citizens from other sovereign countries.
Interestingly enough the IRS allows illegal bookmakers to file their tax return imposing a 2% flat tax on the bookmaker’s handle (business volume) and guarantees that no information will be disclosed to other government agencies, making the U.S. government beneficiary of illegal proceeds and direct accomplice of the laundering of monetary instruments upon acceptance of taxes.
“The U.S. Department of Justice recent determination to catch up after 15 years of inaction should draw everyone’s attention.” A well known bookmaker who wishes not to be named told TheOnlineWire.com. “What they are doing is directly linked to the exceptions contained in HR 4411 [The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act]. They [U.S. Department of Justice] are probably preparing the grounds for an onshore online gambling monopoly, making sure that no one other than the ones who originally lobbied for the exceptions will benefit from it.”
“Think about it, the DoJ resources aren’t unlimited.” Our source continued. “It takes someone very powerful to sponsor, promote and ensure that such wide range investigation gets off the ground.”
Needless to say current and former investors in publicly traded online gambling companies should not travel to the United States at any time and for no reason whatsoever to avoid possible legal consequences that may range from questioning to arrest.
Current and former investors should also be warned that the United States government may seek seizure of their assets in the United States.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Neteller Founders Charged after Sting by FBI
Neteller founders charged after sting operation by FBI
Stephen Lawrence and John Lefebvre, founders of Neteller, the UK-listed online payments company, were last night charged with conspiracy in connection with a multibillion-dollar money laundering scheme linked to internet gambling.
The pair were arrested on Monday after an FBI sting operation discovered that Neteller was being used to allow Americans to place illegal bets on sporting events via internet gambling companies based in foreign countries.
Mr Lawrence, 46, who lives in a luxury home on Paradise Island in The Bahamas, was arrested in the United States Virgin Islands and has been ordered to appear later today in the federal court of St Thomas.
Mr Lefebvre, 55, was arrested at the same time in Malibu, California, and was expected to appear in Los Angeles federal Court last night.
Neither Mr Lawrence nor Mr Lefebvre were available to comment in response to the allegations made in the indictment. If found guilty, the pair face 20 years in jail.
The seven-page indictment, filed in New York last night, claims that the pair set up Neteller in 1999 with the express purpose of providing online payment services to gambling companies. The indictment also claims that between 2000 and 2003 Neteller Inc, a Canadian corporation, offered payment services to various internet gambling companies so that they could illegally access customers in the United States.
From 2004 to the present day, the same operation was conducted by Neteller plc, an Isle of Man-based company which in April 2004 raised some $70 million via a listing on London’s AIM. An agent with the FBI named in the indictment claims she used Neteller as a middle man between her US-based bank account and an offshore internet gambling company.
Shares of Neteller were suspended on AIM yesterday before the indictment was released as the company was seeking clarification of its status with US authorities.
A spokesman for Neteller stressed that the founders were no longer employees or directors of the company. “Because of that, this arrest has nothing to do with the company,” he added.
Mr Lawrence resigned as a non-executive director of the company on October 13, having stepped down as non-executive chairman last May. Mr Lefebvre resigned as a non-executive director on December 15, 2005. However, the pair still own large stakes of Neteller. Mr Lawrence holds 5.91 per cent of the company, while Mr Lefebvre owns 5.54 per cent.
Neteller claims to operate the largest independent online money transfer business in the world with 3 million customers in 160 countries and over $7 billion in annual transactions.
It specialises in providing instant payment services where money transfer is difficult or risky because of issues of identity, trust, currency exchange, or distance. In the past, it handled funds for online gamblers in the US but it is said to have stopped the practice when tough new laws banned internet gambling in America last October.
Last year authorities arrested a number of prominent executives for breaching US gambling laws, including two from Britain. David Carruthers, the former chief executive of BetOnSports, was arrested in July while Peter Dicks, former non-executive chairman of Sportingbet, was arrested in September.
Other arrests
July 2006 David Carruthers, chief executive of BetOnSports, the AIM-listed bookmaker, is arrested in Dallas
Sept 2006 Peter Dicks, then Sportingbet chairman, is arrested at JFK airport in New York, on request of Louisiana state authorities
Sept 2006 Manfred Bodner and Norbert Teufelberger, joint chief executives of Bwin, the Austrian internet betting group, are detained in Monaco on charges of violating France’s internet gaming laws
Stephen Lawrence and John Lefebvre, founders of Neteller, the UK-listed online payments company, were last night charged with conspiracy in connection with a multibillion-dollar money laundering scheme linked to internet gambling.
The pair were arrested on Monday after an FBI sting operation discovered that Neteller was being used to allow Americans to place illegal bets on sporting events via internet gambling companies based in foreign countries.
Mr Lawrence, 46, who lives in a luxury home on Paradise Island in The Bahamas, was arrested in the United States Virgin Islands and has been ordered to appear later today in the federal court of St Thomas.
Mr Lefebvre, 55, was arrested at the same time in Malibu, California, and was expected to appear in Los Angeles federal Court last night.
Neither Mr Lawrence nor Mr Lefebvre were available to comment in response to the allegations made in the indictment. If found guilty, the pair face 20 years in jail.
The seven-page indictment, filed in New York last night, claims that the pair set up Neteller in 1999 with the express purpose of providing online payment services to gambling companies. The indictment also claims that between 2000 and 2003 Neteller Inc, a Canadian corporation, offered payment services to various internet gambling companies so that they could illegally access customers in the United States.
From 2004 to the present day, the same operation was conducted by Neteller plc, an Isle of Man-based company which in April 2004 raised some $70 million via a listing on London’s AIM. An agent with the FBI named in the indictment claims she used Neteller as a middle man between her US-based bank account and an offshore internet gambling company.
Shares of Neteller were suspended on AIM yesterday before the indictment was released as the company was seeking clarification of its status with US authorities.
A spokesman for Neteller stressed that the founders were no longer employees or directors of the company. “Because of that, this arrest has nothing to do with the company,” he added.
Mr Lawrence resigned as a non-executive director of the company on October 13, having stepped down as non-executive chairman last May. Mr Lefebvre resigned as a non-executive director on December 15, 2005. However, the pair still own large stakes of Neteller. Mr Lawrence holds 5.91 per cent of the company, while Mr Lefebvre owns 5.54 per cent.
Neteller claims to operate the largest independent online money transfer business in the world with 3 million customers in 160 countries and over $7 billion in annual transactions.
It specialises in providing instant payment services where money transfer is difficult or risky because of issues of identity, trust, currency exchange, or distance. In the past, it handled funds for online gamblers in the US but it is said to have stopped the practice when tough new laws banned internet gambling in America last October.
Last year authorities arrested a number of prominent executives for breaching US gambling laws, including two from Britain. David Carruthers, the former chief executive of BetOnSports, was arrested in July while Peter Dicks, former non-executive chairman of Sportingbet, was arrested in September.
Other arrests
July 2006 David Carruthers, chief executive of BetOnSports, the AIM-listed bookmaker, is arrested in Dallas
Sept 2006 Peter Dicks, then Sportingbet chairman, is arrested at JFK airport in New York, on request of Louisiana state authorities
Sept 2006 Manfred Bodner and Norbert Teufelberger, joint chief executives of Bwin, the Austrian internet betting group, are detained in Monaco on charges of violating France’s internet gaming laws
Thursday, January 11, 2007
New Virus
Emails with pictures of Osama Bin-Laden hanged are being sent and the
moment that you open these emails your computer will crash and you will
not be able to fix it!
If you get an email along the lines of "Osama Bin Laden Captured"
or "Osama Hanged" don't open the attachment.
This e-mail is being distributed through countries around the globe, but
mainly in the US and Israel .
Be considerate &send this warning to whomever you know.
PLEASE FORWARD THIS WARNING AMONG FRIENDS, FAMILY AND CONTACTS:
You should be alert during the next days:
Do not open any message with an attached filed called
"Invitation" regardless of who sent it.
It is a virus that opens an Olympic Torch which "burns" the whole hard
disc C of your computer.
This virus will be received from someone who has your e-mail address in
his/her contact list, that is why you should send this e-mail to all
your contacts.
It is better to receive this message 25 times than to receive the virus
and open it.
If you receive a mail called "invitation", though sent by a friend, do
not open it and shut down your computer immediately.
This is the worst virus announced by CNN, it has been classified by
Microsoft as the most destructive virus ever.
This virus was discovered by McAfee yesterday, and there is no repair
yet for this kind of virus.
This virus simply destroys the Zero Sector of the Hard Disc, where the
vital information is kept.
moment that you open these emails your computer will crash and you will
not be able to fix it!
If you get an email along the lines of "Osama Bin Laden Captured"
or "Osama Hanged" don't open the attachment.
This e-mail is being distributed through countries around the globe, but
mainly in the US and Israel .
Be considerate &send this warning to whomever you know.
PLEASE FORWARD THIS WARNING AMONG FRIENDS, FAMILY AND CONTACTS:
You should be alert during the next days:
Do not open any message with an attached filed called
"Invitation" regardless of who sent it.
It is a virus that opens an Olympic Torch which "burns" the whole hard
disc C of your computer.
This virus will be received from someone who has your e-mail address in
his/her contact list, that is why you should send this e-mail to all
your contacts.
It is better to receive this message 25 times than to receive the virus
and open it.
If you receive a mail called "invitation", though sent by a friend, do
not open it and shut down your computer immediately.
This is the worst virus announced by CNN, it has been classified by
Microsoft as the most destructive virus ever.
This virus was discovered by McAfee yesterday, and there is no repair
yet for this kind of virus.
This virus simply destroys the Zero Sector of the Hard Disc, where the
vital information is kept.
Sunday, January 07, 2007
Poker Rooms With a Bounus
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Mansion Poker - $1000 Free( Bonus Code - BIGFISH )
Bodog Poker - 10% infinity bonus
Poker Stars - $50 Free
Poker.com - $100 Free
Absolute Poker - $750 Free
Ultimate Bet - $650 Free
Tony G Poker - $400 Free( Bonus Code - FREECASH )
Titan Poker - $500 Free( Bonus Code - CLUBCASH )
Party Poker - $25 Free( Bonus Code - FISHCLUB )
Poker Room - $200 Free( Bonus Code - BUCKS4U )
Paradise Poker - $50 Free( Bonus Code - MAXCASH )
VegasPoker 247 - $750 Free
( Use bonus link above )
Mansion Poker - $1000 Free( Bonus Code - BIGFISH )
Bodog Poker - 10% infinity bonus
Poker Stars - $50 Free
Poker.com - $100 Free
Absolute Poker - $750 Free
Ultimate Bet - $650 Free
Tony G Poker - $400 Free( Bonus Code - FREECASH )
Titan Poker - $500 Free( Bonus Code - CLUBCASH )
Party Poker - $25 Free( Bonus Code - FISHCLUB )
Poker Room - $200 Free( Bonus Code - BUCKS4U )
Paradise Poker - $50 Free( Bonus Code - MAXCASH )
VegasPoker 247 - $750 Free
( Use bonus link above )
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Interview with Annie Duke
Interview with Annie Duke
By Steve Marzolf
A life-long card player, Annie Duke has cemented her place among the poker greats by winning the Tournament of Champions and ranking as the top female money winner of all time. From her home in Portland, Ore., she describes the role of her brother, Howard Lederer, in her success and explains why she’ll never coach another celebrity.
Annie Duke
You’ve been playing cards since childhood, is there a memory that stands out?
“I remember throwing cards a lot when I’d lose. Basically, the deal with our family was that was our social time. Some families sit and watch TV or go skiing or mountain-climbing. We played cards.”
You were in New York when your brother, Howard Lederer, was getting his game going. What did you think as you watched him start out?
“He moved to New York to pursue chess because he wanted to become a master. It was a pretty interesting time, because he disappeared for a while. We didn’t really know where he was, and he was spending his college fund on poker. I actually found him. I was doing an independent study in New York when I was 16, and I ran into him on the street. I was like, ‘Whoa. Where have you been?’ We were all really worried about him because he’d descended into this strange world that we didn’t know about, and he really lost a lot of money to begin with. When I was a freshman in college, he started having some success. I was a college student, so a little bit of money seemed like a lot to me. And he let me take a stake in his game.”
How old were you guys at this point?
“He was 20, and I was 18. Occasionally, he’d walk up to me and hand me $400. Eventually, he was living in a really nice house in New York, and at 23 he went off to the World Series and came in fifth. Then we all thought it was great. In the beginning, he had a really rough start and had to pay his dues. By the time I came around, he’d already made all these mistakes and really stopped me from tripping over myself when I started to do the same thing.”
You went to Columbia and Penn, did you get a Master’s?
“I almost got my PhD., as a matter of fact.”
What did you want to be when you grew up?
“That was the thing. I was in New York in the ‘80s in college. I had a great time, but I wasn’t really making a lot of career decisions unless ‘career’ meant going out to clubs. Through all of that, I still managed to get great grades. But, when the end of college rolled around, I was like, ‘Oops. What am I supposed to do now?’ So, I really just went to graduate school for lack of a better life decision to make at the time.”
Maybe the most popular reason to go to grad school.
“Yeah. I was good at being a student, so I figured, ‘Ok, I’ll just do this.’ I’m very type-A about things, so I got into UPenn, and I applied for an National Science Foundation Fellowship and got it and ended up with a C.V. that was about eight pages long, presenting papers around the country. I was doing the student thing really well, but just not being happy with it. I remember when I was 22, which was the second year of grad school. It was the year after my brother had done well that first year at the World Series. He said, ‘Oh, you should come out; it’ll be fun.’ We were in the coffee shop at Binion’s, and he took out this napkin, wrote the hand values down, gave me a couple hundred bucks and sent me over to the Fremont. I did well, and my brother was really proud of me and started bringing me out every year for the World Series.”
And you went back to school after that first trip?
“I remember when I came back to graduate school after that first year, I was like, ‘You almost lost me. I almost didn’t come back.’ But, I continued and applied for a bunch of jobs and got a bunch of job talks. When I went to do my first job talk, I started throwing up. Like, ‘This is what life is going to be like. I’m not just delaying things anymore.’ I was so type-A that I really felt such a deep obligation to the people that I was working with. So, I started throwing up and ended up in the hospital because it was really the only way I could get out of it at that point – in my mind. Now that I’m older, I realize you can just say, ‘No, it’s not for me,’ and walk away.”
What did you do after that?
“I moved to Montana with my then-husband, and all the sudden I’m living in this $125-a-month house that’s made of chicken wire and stucco and has no foundation. There’s a leaky roof, and we’re having trouble paying the bills. I went, ‘What the hell am I supposed to do now?’”
You didn’t leave academia for poker?
“No. I was just like, ‘I have to get out of what I’m doing now.’ So, I called my brother up, and I was like, ‘You know, Howard, there are these games in Billings, in these bars. They play $10-$20, and maybe I could make some extra money.’ He sent me some money, and I started off playing in Billings. I drove the 45 minutes to go play, and my husband was very suspicious about it. It took him a really long time to understand it wasn’t just a hobby. And, in the first month, I won like $2,800.”
When you’re broke, that’s a lot of money.
“Yeah it is. I descended into this back room in the Crystal Lounge, among these 60-year-old ranchers, when I was in my mid-20s and very vivacious and giggly. Some of them became great friends, but most of them didn’t like me very much. I took terrible abuse. But, I never wavered. Then, the next year, my brother said, ‘You should come down for the World Series.’ I ended up in the final event and knocked my brother out the first day, which was devastating. It was the only other time I cried at the table besides the Tournament of Champions – they both have to do with knocking my brother out. The first time I really felt like that was so much more important to him, and I was just an interloper, taking away his dream. I came away from that first World Series with about $70,000, and my brother said, ‘You need to move down to Las Vegas.’ What was interesting about it was that I loved playing poker, but it was my brother who kept saying, ‘You’re going to become the best female player in the world.’”
Of course, I have to ask you about coaching Ben Affleck.
“I don’t talk about that in interviews. I’m done talking about that. I’ve talked about it until I’m blue in the face.”
That’s understandable. Do you think you’ll coach another celebrity?
“No. It took way too much of my time. It just takes a lot of time to coach somebody and make them a good player. And, I’m not just going to take somebody under my wing and be like, ‘Yeah, whatever, here are some tips.’ If I’m taking that responsibility on, I’m really going to teach them. And it’s just too much.”
You’re past the point in your career where it’s worth it?
“Yep. Exactly.”
You’ve written articles geared toward female players. What are a few guidelines all women should follow?
“I actually just did a DVD that’s going to be coming out soon that’s specifically for women. First of all, just have a thick skin, because you’re going to take more abuse than anyone else at the table. Poker isn’t considered a workplace, so there are a lot of overt, sexually inappropriate things that get said to you. The other thing is that poker is a game of high stress because there’s real money being lost and won. And, when people are under stress, they’re going to vent that on somebody. When they’re looking around the table, do you think they’re going to get on Bubba’s case? No – they’re going to get on your case. You’re not going to take them outside and beat them up.”
What’s one of the worst things anyone’s said to you at the table?
“I remember when I was in Montana, there was a guy sitting across from me when I lost the pot. He looked at me and said, ‘That’s ok, honey. You can go across the street to the hotel, stick your feet up in the air and make all your money back.’ I was like, ‘Goddamned pigs …’
Like losing the money isn’t bad enough.
“Right. But, you can use that to your advantage. The main rule of thumb is that if someone is mistreating you, make sure you don’t bluff them too much and make sure you call them more often because they’ll be trying to bluff you a lot. If it’s somebody who really wants to sleep with you – which has certainly come across a lot – understand that they’re not going to be betting against you very hard and they’ll be easier to bluff. They don’t want to beat you; they want to take you to bed. You just need to understand that while you’re going to take more abuse at the table, people are more likely to be emotionally invested in your presence, whether in a sexual or chauvinistic way. And, whenever people are emotionally invested in your presence at the table, they’re going to make worse decisions against you.”
You’ve said in the past that being a woman was important to your success.
“Oh, yeah. For a long time, I got a lot of press for not really having the results that warranted it. That’s not to say that I wasn’t making money. It’s not to say I wasn’t a winning poker player. But, was I as good as a lot of other players who were getting ignored? No, not at all. But, the fact that I had such an anachronistic story – people were shocked that I had four children at home and worked …. People would gripe about that, saying, ‘Why does she get all this attention? She isn’t as good as so-and-so.’ And my thing was, when you’re talking about media and fame, it isn’t always about who’s the best. We all can think of movie stars who aren’t particularly good actors. And, I never really had an issue with that. I was very thankful for it, because I’ve made a lot of extra money in my life because of that. I always had a realistic view of what my skill was and why I was getting the media attention. At this point, I have an interesting story, but God knows I have the chops to back it up.”
Do you ever worry that by competing so well and getting people used to the idea of a dominating female poker player that you’re opening the door to women who could water down the character of you the media has latched onto?
“First of all, more power to them if they do. And, the lucky thing for me as far as that goes, I’ve got a Doyle Brunson thing, like, whoever came up after Doyle Brunson, he was always the first. He’s always going to be famous, and he’s always going to be the granddaddy of poker. I’ve got that. I was the first female who ever became famous for playing poker, and whoever comes up behind me, I hope they become stars. And, if my time comes where I’m not famous anymore, you know, I was really happy before I became famous, and I’ll be really happy afterwards.”
What do you think of all the limelight and attention poker’s getting? What’s the future of the game?
“I think there’s a little too much of a proliferation of poker shows right now, and some of the production value isn’t that great. I think things need to be consolidated into a more PGA-like situation. I think there needs to be one recognized, legitimate tour where people are earning their way and it’s not just open amateur events all the time. The fact is that if there’s one thing the ESPN coverage proves, it’s that the viewing audience craves stars. They want to have heroes in the game, and when you have these large open events, you just can’t guarantee that the people your viewing audience wants to see are going to end up at your final table.”
One last question: Do you get a ton of poker dudes hitting on you?
“There’s a lot of stuff on message boards about me being a ‘milf.’ I just got an email the other day that was like, ‘Have you ever considered posing for nude photos? Because I think a lot of guys and some girls would really think that was great, and you could make some extra money, not that you need it. Just in case, because I’d really like to see you naked.’ Ninety percent of the people who post think I’m super hot, and the other 10 percent are like, ‘No, she’s hideous.’ I’m just glad it’s 90-10.”
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