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Wednesday is the official day of protest over the US Federal Government's Stop Online Piracy Act, and although online gambling websites are not the target of this legislation, they will support their fellow internet websites from the sidelines.Wikipedia, Reddit Black OutWikipedia, Reddit and other popular websites will black out for 24 hours, and instead of the usual website visitors will find only information about the dangers of the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) and the Protest Intellectual Property Act (PIPA). Other companies that oppose the bill are not blacking out because the cost of sacrifice of a full day of revenue is too great.Google, although not blacking out entirely, is also protesting the bills though specific changes to the site that can be seen just by visiting. A spokeswoman for the company said that like many businesses, entrepreneurs and web users, Google opposes the bills because there are smarter ways to shut down rogue offshore websites without asking US companies to censore the internet.Dangerous LegislationThe legislation these groups are protesting is intended to restrict access and payments to overseas-based websites that traffic in stolen or counterfeit - criminal activity which entertainment companies and industry groups say costs them billions of dollars in revenues each year.However, Google, Wikipedia, Facebook and other net giants oppose this legislation, saying it will undermine and compromise the use of the Internet.Online GamblingAlthough these bills do not impact online gambling sites directly, it is certainly close to home, as gaming websites have been struggling for almost six years now to overturn the 2006 federal law which effectively banned the practice in the United States.Things are actually looking up on the online gambling front, since the US Department of Justice released an opinion last month allowing sports betting wagers to be taken across state lines.Hopefully this ugly legislation threatening the way Americans use the internet is also withdrawn, and the world wide web will again become freer for all.
As heavy snowfall heads to the US northwest, causing the most extreme Seattle weather conditions in decades, it reminds us of the option of placing a wager on various weather scenarios at online bookmakers.Extreme WeatherWilliam Hill Online is giving punters an entire year to claim on three unlikely British weather scenarios. The online sportsbook is offering 50/1 odds on the UK houses of parliament closing at some time during the year for weather-related issues. The possibility of Big Ben failing to chime due to being frozen solid is paying 100/1. And the more unlikely scenario in which the Thames is frozen solid between Tower Bridge and London Bridge is 200/1.Over at Paddy Power, 2012 Specials are being offered on this year being the hottest, coldest, driest or wettest on record in the United Kingdom or Ireland. Early betting is also being taken on a White Christmas being seen in London or Dublin, with odds of 7/2 and 4/1 being offered respectively on the two capital cities.Later in the year, William Hill, bet365, and all the other major online sportsbooks will once again offer their annual round of Christmas betting, with options on individual European cities and their chances of snow, rain and all other forms of extreme weather. These last few years have shown that anything is possible, and that the weather forecasters aren't always right.Across the PondOf course, with restrictions on internet betting over in the United States there isn't quite as much online activity surrounding the goings-on there, but that hasn't stopped people from speculating about whether the National Weather Service and Seattle Times have got it right about this crazy winter up north.Once the market opens up there, we will no doubt see online gambling providers offering odds on the NOAA weather predictions, with options on whether it will snow in New York and Seattle, rain in Miami, or whether hurricane-season will come early to the Midwestern states. Because just like sports, the weather has an element of unpredictability that makes it perfect for the average punter.
Microgaming, the world's largest manufacturer of online gaming software, dished out more than £3 million in prizes to two lucky progressive jackpot slots players in the same week.Progressive Jackpot Network BonanzaThe first player to strike gold through Microgaming's Progressive Jackpot Network was a female player from Britain, who hit a £1.97 million jackpot on January 7, just 10 days after registering her account with Platinum Play Online Casino. The lucky lady plans to put her winning toward holidays in Las Vegas, China and Nepal, and will also donate a portion to animal charities and to her own early retirement.Just a couple of days after this massive win, a second player hit a £1.3 million jackpot playing Microgaming's Major Millions slot at Spin Palace Casino. This male slots player hit the jackpot less than three days after opening his online casino account. He too will receive the full winnings immediately, so he'll be able to take a holiday or spend the cash however he likes.€320 Million in WinningMicrogaming's Progressive Jackpot Network has now paid out over €320 in prizes since opening in 1999, and this figure will only grow. The total across all progressive jackpots currently stands at a relatively low 3.3. million euros, in part because of the recent wins, but this keeps growing every day and it's only a matter of time till one lucky player hits one.
Those looking for style and sophistication in their choice of online casino need look no further than Platinum Play Casino. Coming from the Fortune Lounge Group stable, this is one thoroughbred of a casino that knows how to pamper its players.Free Play AplentyThe top class service begins as soon as you join with a welcome package that has the wow factor! Newbies can enjoy one whole day of free play up to 1,500 credits and what's more they get to keep all their winnings above this credit limit - with a ceiling of 100 credits.But the free fund doesn't end there. Straight after players are rewarded for placing their first deposit with a further 200 free bets. That sure is a lot of free play! Regular BonusesOnline casino fans will love the range of bonuses available at Platinum Play casino. There are bonus offers twice a week as well as chances to win free spins on the online slots.Awesome Online GamesThere are weekly promotions at Platinum Play online casino so keep your eye out for big bonuses and special offers.There are loads of popular online casino games at this classy casino including slots, video slots, video poker, roulette, baccarat, craps, keno and more. Keep a special eye out for the progressive video poker and table games that have ever-escalating jackpots that are just waiting to be won.Extra PerksThose loving the high life will likely be keen to join the Fortune Lounge Loyalty Program which is not just linked to the Platinum Play online casino but for all nine casinos in the Fortune Lounge Group.Platinum Play Casino has a great design and it is easy to find your way about. Around every corner there are great games and offers. Look out for regular promos, big jackpots and the regular appearance of new games. Find out for yourself why Platinum Play Casino is a great place to play.
The New England Patriots leads the online sportsbook odds for Super Bowl XLVI as the National Football League's four remaining teams prepare for conference finals action next weekend.Patriots, 49ers, Giants, RavensSports Interaction is quoting 1.90 for the Pats to win their fourth Super Bowl and first since 2002. The five-time Super Bowl champion San Francisco 49ers and three-time champ New York Giants are 3.75, while the one-time winner Baltimore Ravens are paying 5.00The odds for the title become clearer when one looks at the conference match-ups. The Patriots are 1.29 to win the AFC Championship match against the Ravens, who are quoting 3.70. San Francisco is 1.74 favorite at home against the Giants, who are 2.15.Sports Interaction and William Hill are taking wagers of plenty of different Super Bowl-related scenarios, including options on how far each team will progress (losing in conference final, losing in Super Bowl and winning Super Bowl), as well as the usual bets on points, margins and individual players.Bet In-PlayOf course, customers of both online sportsbooks can continue to bet while the Super Bowl and conference finals are being played, thanks to the user-friendly live in-play betting features. Odds are updated as the game goes on, so if your selection falls behind on the field their odds only become more attractive off it.The action never ends, and Sports Interaction will release its Super Bowl XLVII odds right after the game. Bet on every season-long running theme, such as who will be the king of the running banks, who will win rookie of the year, and whether one team will outscore another over 16 games. It's all there.
With the choice of online casinos becoming ever more extensive, selecting the right online casino for you can be downright confusing. If you feel like discovering a new place to play in 2012 here are the key things to look for.Game Play ExperienceAny online casino worthy of your attention has to have great games! Most casinos offer all the classics alongside current faves. The main test though is whether the casino offers the games you enjoy playing. Check out the full range of games including game variants, live gaming and multiplayer games.Next we suggest you consider the software provider. The most well-regarded include Microgaming, Playtech, Cryptologic and RealTime Gaming. The best software platforms provide players with state of the art graphics, smooth play, realistic audio and a great mix of games.Each site publicizes which software they use - often you will see their logo at the bottom of the homepage. Check out the OCR directory to find out more about the different software providers.Is it Legal?Only licensed casinos are regulated and legal. Those awarded a reputable license can be trusted in terms of security and fairness. Licenses awarded in Gibraltar, Malta, Alderney and Kahnawake include those that take on board current industry standards and are considered trustworthy.Bonuses and Wagering RequirementsCheck out the promos! The best online casinos reward both new players and loyal players. Look for sign up offers which include no deposit bonuses, first deposit bonuses, match bonuses and loyalty points. Be sure to check out the small print which often includes a wagering requirement or restriction to specific games (which may not include the game or games you actually want to play.) As long as you are happy with the terms and conditions shop for the best deals around.If all that collecting data and comparing deals seems a bit daunting , don't worry, OCR has a useful page on the top bonuses around.Convenient Payment MethodsOnline casinos have recently become much better at providing a wide range of global payment methods.You can choose whether you want to pay by credit card, e-wallet, bank draft and other options. Look at the payment methods available at each site and make sure that you are happy that there are methods that suit your needs. Be sure to look into both deposits and withdrawals in terms of timescales and methods.Customer SupportHowever good any site looks, the most important factor is that there is help at hand when you need it. Any site worth its salt has an easily accessible customer service team. Many now have free phone lines, online chat facilities or the ability to book a day and time to receive a call from customer support staff.If you're still unsure visit gambling blogs and online casino reviews to see what others have to say about a site.So now you know how to choose the best online casino. If you still feel a little time-starved or phased, why not look at OCR's Top Ten List of online casinos on our home page or visit our directory for full reviews.Why not start 2012 by trying out a new online casino?
At least one gaming analyst has come out against International Game Technology's announcement earlier this week that it will pay up to $500 million for Double Down Interactive - a firm which develops casino-style games for social network Facebook.Grave ConcernsUnion Gaming Group chief Bill Lerner said in a report to his clients that IGT might be spending too much for Double Down, and could end up hurting its core slot machine business when it branches out into the field of social network gaming.Departing from the position of other analysts, who applauded the deal, Lerner said at least three major casino operators were "irritated" by IGT's decision to compete with what are effectively its clients, and by IGT's intention to enter the US internet gaming market in the event it is legalized.Although Lerner did not name the casino companies, he said that between them they represent around 13% of North American gaming devices. He added that they are also concerned about how IGT will treat poker once they launch it.Real Gambling on Facebook?Many other analysts predict the deal could pave the way for IGT to launch an online gaming website for US consumers, or for it to introduce gambling for real money on Facebook - which currently only accepts simulated forms of poker, roulette, blackjack and other casino favorites.IGT officials have not yet revealed all their intentions for Double Down, although they say they have no plans to operate an online casino in Nevada, but rather will use its game titles to increase Double Down traffic on Facebook.
Popular online casino Bet365 is about to run another of its awesome reel races, a promotion which gives you the chance to win some incredible cash prizes just for playing online slots for a day.January 21 Reel RaceThe reel race will run all day Saturday and it is very simple to participate. Just choose your favorite bet365 slot games, and earn three competition points for every $10 you wager on those games during the day.The more competition points that you earn for playing, means the better the chance you have of being one of 200 players to share in $10,000 in cash prizes. Top place in the reel race wins $1,000, second gets $700, third gets $600, and so on, right down to 101th-200th, who each receive $20.Existing bet365 customers need only opt in to take part, and this can be done at any time until the tournament ends. Non-bet365 customers should first sign up for an online casino account, and then opt in like everybody else.Huge Range of Slot GamesBet365 has a great range of new online video slot games, so you shouldn't have too much trouble finding a few to play during the reel race. These include Kong, Iron Man 2, The Mummy, Fishing with Buddies and Top Trumps Celebs.For instant access to bet365's full suite of over 150 games, including these slots, progressive jackpots, video poker, card and table games, and more, just download the free software.
With the long National Football League season almost behind us, just one question remains: Can the New England Patriots win Super Bowl XVI, and in doing so extract revenge over the New York Giants for their shock title loss four years ago?Super Bowl XVI: Pats v GiantsThe Patriots just got over the line against the Baltimore Ravens, 23-20, in the AFC Championship final, to secure their place in this year's Super Bowl. To their surprise, the New York Giants upset the San Francsico 49ers, 20-17, at Candlestick Park, to take the NFC Championship and create a dream re-match with their northeastern rivals.The scenario is similar this year to four years ago. The Patriots finished this season top of the AFC with a 13-3 record, while the Giants went 9-7 to scrape through for a wildcard placing. In 2007-08, New England went 16-0, only to be brought down at the last hurdle by the in-form New York, also a wildcard that time around.Online Sportsbook Odds With all this in mind, it is no surprise that New England goes in only an 8/13 William Hill online favorite to win Super Bowl XLVI, while New York is offering tempting odds of 11/8. William Hill is also taking bets on money line, match spread and total points (10/11 for over 55 points, 10/11 for under 55 points).The Super Bowl will take place February 5 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana, so those wishing to place a wager on the game have plenty of time to do so. William Hill Sports, Sports Interaction and other NFL-focused bookmakers will no doubt be adding more betting options as the big dance draws closer.
As the Australian Open heads into the last couple of rounds, the world's four best male tennis players are still there, and online sportsbook punters are left wondering which of them will emerge as the winner.Will All Top Four Progress?At time of publication, third seed Roger Federer had already secured his spot in the semi-final, and was waiting for a likely match-up with second seed and arch-rival Rafael Nadal. On the other side of the draw, the quarter-finals were set to take place the following day, with top seed Novak Djokovic and fourth-seeded Brit Andy Murray both expected to progress.In the women's, the action is just as exciting. Reigning Australian Open champion Kim Clijsters set up a semi-final matchup with third seed Victoria Azarenka, after knocking off world number one Caroline Wozniacki. On the other side of the draw the quarters were still to be played, and if all goes to plan second seed Petra Kvitova will play fourth seed Maria Sharapova in the last four.Online Sportsbook OddsWilliam Hill Online offers the following odds for the men's title: Novak Djokovic, evens, Roger Federer, 11/4, Andy Murray, 5/1, Rafa Nadal, 6/1, Tomasa Berdych, 40/1, David Ferrer, 66/1, Kei Nishikori, 150/1.Hill's offers these odds for the women's championship: Petra Kvitova, 13/8, Victoria Azarenka, 5/2, Kim Clijsters, 3/1, Maria Sharapova, 9/2, Ekaterina Makarova, 25/1, Sara Errani, 100/1.Account-holders can also bet live through William Hill's in-play betting platform, and can place wagers on a host of pre-match options, including match markets like total points and total games, set betting markets such as correct score, as well as the unique tie-break markets.
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