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Mission146
Mission146
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September 10th, 2013 at 4:26:16 PM permalink
Quote: Wizard

Bovada revenue is down 55% on top of that.



I would be amenable to playing a very small amount on Bovada if any of the following conditions were met, and I have no idea how much influence you have over that, perhaps none:

1.) The Table Games suck because the minimum bet is $1.00, and they also play very fast. I guess I'd kind of want them to play fast because you lose the entertainment element associated with there being other players in the casino, but I can play some of the Bovada games in a live casino for $5.00 minimums. I'm also inclined to believe that the Bovada games play (at least) five times faster, not accounting for player stalling, so my expected loss per hour is probably greater with Bovada.

-The only answer to that which would satisfy me would be to reduce the minimums, but I don't imagine they have any reason to do that. I'm still not sure I'd play the Bovada Table Games if they did.

2.) I wouldn't mind playing the Video Keno on-line, because you have the chance for a nice return relative to the amount bet. There are a few problems with that with Bovada, though:

A.) Their VK games pay sub-90%, specifically, many are in the 86% range. It should be closer to 97% for an on-line game.

B.) The ability for the player to adjust his bet is minimal. You can choose your unit size from $0.01-$0.25-$1.00-$5.00-$10.00, but you can't adjust how many of the units you bet per hand, it's always just one unit.

3.) I'd only play Video Poker if it returned over 100%. I'd have to have the edge, I hate Video Poker.

Can you compel them to do anything to improve those Keno games?
https://wizardofvegas.com/forum/off-topic/gripes/11182-pet-peeves/120/#post815219
Mission146
Mission146
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September 10th, 2013 at 4:27:42 PM permalink
Quote: Wizard

Like $10 per usage of profanity?



Are you kidding? I work here and I'd be a couple hundred in the hole every year, just hit me with a Membership fee! j/k
https://wizardofvegas.com/forum/off-topic/gripes/11182-pet-peeves/120/#post815219
thecesspit
thecesspit
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September 10th, 2013 at 4:28:01 PM permalink
$100, you can impose a 1 week ban on another user?

There would possibly be some value for people to have a VIP section which you would guarantee participation in, but that would take up your time and energy, and unclear what that would entail. And might over stretch you anyways.

An auction of a few things might be a little earner for you, and I do second the idea of having a hotel booking service as well, but that might remove your exclusivity with boDog.
"Then you can admire the real gambler, who has neither eaten, slept, thought nor lived, he has so smarted under the scourge of his martingale, so suffered on the rack of his desire for a coup at trente-et-quarante" - Honore de Balzac, 1829
Wizard
Administrator
Wizard
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September 10th, 2013 at 4:33:33 PM permalink
Bodog/Bovada is a lot bigger than me so I'm in no position to get them to change their game rules.

Quote: thecesspit

$100, you can impose a 1 week ban on another user?



Of course, he/she may retaliate, which would be all the more money for me.

Quote:

I do second the idea of having a hotel booking service as well, but that might remove your exclusivity with boDog.



Since that wouldn't directly compete with them, it would be allowed.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
Zcore13
Zcore13
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September 10th, 2013 at 4:35:04 PM permalink
Quote: Wizard

I'm afraid if the "staff" didn't pay much attention to the freeloader section it would become a cesspool.

How about selling indulgences? Like $10 per usage of profanity, $20 for a personal insult, and $50 to try to sell something?



You and the other crew would still participate in the regular forum and the regular forum would be still used just like it is now, there would just be a "private" forum, "The Wizards Forum", where premium members could bullsh#t with you, talk about non-gambling topics, etc. Also, live chats in a chat room with you on specific subjects.

I don't like the purchasing profanity, insults or product sales idea, but it could make you a mint. :)

ZCore13
I am an employee of a Casino. Former Table Games Director,, current Pit Supervisor. All the personal opinions I post are my own and do not represent the opinions of the Casino or Tribe that I work for.
midwestgb
midwestgb
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September 10th, 2013 at 4:35:07 PM permalink
Mike,

Are you still under an exclusive with Bovada? Even if you are, consider seeking a renegotiation given the revenue decrease with them. BTW... The Subscriber section idea is sensible IMO.
teddys
teddys
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September 10th, 2013 at 4:39:53 PM permalink
Quote: Wizard

Thanks for all the continued comments. I've been leaning more against a paid membership option. I'm not crazy about the "donate" button either, as I don't think it will bring in much, and don't want to feel obligated to anyone who makes a donation.

In other words, I would like to give back something for helping to support the site.

What do you think of this idea. A Wizard donation auction. I would put on eBay various things I don't really need, as much gambling related as possible, and promote the auction here. Hopefully those wanting to support the site would be generous in their bidding.

2013 has been an absolutely awful year for me financially. I just found out that of all the money I lost in Cyprus I won't be getting a penny back. The media has been reporting account holders would have to take a 52.5% "haircut" about 100,000 Euros, but my money was in the weaker Laiki Bank, and I had to take a 100% haircut. Bovada revenue is down 55% on top of that. Still, I make more than most people, and have a lot to be thankful for, but I need to turn things around.

Mike, I think it goes with out saying that I (and probably most other members) would pitch in without hesitation in such an endeavor. The work you do for these sites is invaluable, and often thankless. I've taken a few "bad beats" myself recently, so I can relate. I'd certainly like to bid on some of those books you've got in your gambling library if you don't mind parting with some of them.
"Dice, verily, are armed with goads and driving-hooks, deceiving and tormenting, causing grievous woe." -Rig Veda 10.34.4
coilman
coilman
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September 10th, 2013 at 5:29:33 PM permalink
I know I'd buy a WOV bumper sticker off EBAY for $25 if it was offered.... hell maybe pay even $35 for WOV mouse pad .... $40 for a autographed WOV MODELS calendar
KeyserSoze
KeyserSoze
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September 10th, 2013 at 5:37:46 PM permalink
Quote: thecesspit

$100, you can impose a 1 week ban on another user?



That's funny as hell.

And would make an interesting experiment.
Talent hits a target no one else can hit; genius hits a target no one else can see.
JohnnyQ
JohnnyQ
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September 10th, 2013 at 5:52:43 PM permalink
OK, How 'bout auctioning:

a) an autographed book by the Wizard, but the inscription can be anything the winner wants, ie "To _ _ _ _, the smartest gambler I know, thanks for sharing your Winning at Roulette tips with me". Or something like that.

b) lunch with the Wizard.

c) guided hike with the Wizard at Red Rock (canyon, not casino).

d) Venetian Employee Handbook.

e) Guest spot on the Bob Dancer radio show.

f) Wiz picks you up at the airport, has to wear a little chaffeur's hat and hold a sign with your name on it.
There's emptiness behind their eyes There's dust in all their hearts They just want to steal us all and take us all apart
JohnnyQ
JohnnyQ
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September 10th, 2013 at 5:56:27 PM permalink
ps:

Would any locals casino want WOV readers as gambling guests ? That would be the ideal one to get as a sponsor. Perhaps one of the places that has good VP and Craps, and they could offer special rates ? Win / Win (not Wynn) ?
There's emptiness behind their eyes There's dust in all their hearts They just want to steal us all and take us all apart
7craps
7craps
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September 10th, 2013 at 6:01:31 PM permalink
Quote: Wizard

What do you think of this idea.

This one.
Start your own online casino and sell shares of stock.

write your own programs for games, or get those that can to help out,
(JB) even offer your own games that no other offers.

Your advantage would be 100% honest 100% of the time.
No BS allowed.

and get rid of that play through bonus $$$ idea every other site uses.

You will make millions (If not billions) of $$$
and seeing by the age of your kids currently,
they will want most of that extra cash, as you already know.

You should easily be able to start your own successful casino online.
Just do it

(yeah I was in the sun today)
winsome johnny (not Win some johnny)
Zcore13
Zcore13
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September 10th, 2013 at 6:01:39 PM permalink
Quote: JohnnyQ

ps:

Would any locals casino want WOV readers as gambling guests ? That would be the ideal one to get as a sponsor. Perhaps one of the places that has good VP and Craps, and they could offer special rates ? Win / Win (not Wynn) ?



Not a bad idea. You could work out a "host" position with a Strip Casino. Offer some incentives for members to go there and you get a percentage of theo like a regular host does.

ZCore13
I am an employee of a Casino. Former Table Games Director,, current Pit Supervisor. All the personal opinions I post are my own and do not represent the opinions of the Casino or Tribe that I work for.
teddys
teddys
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September 10th, 2013 at 6:40:06 PM permalink
Quote: Zcore13

Not a bad idea. You could work out a "host" position with a Strip Casino. Offer some incentives for members to go there and you get a percentage of theo like a regular host does.

ZCore13

LOL. They *definitely* don't want us as players.

"I'm paid to bring in squares." - Steve Cyr
"Dice, verily, are armed with goads and driving-hooks, deceiving and tormenting, causing grievous woe." -Rig Veda 10.34.4
Zcore13
Zcore13
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September 10th, 2013 at 6:47:27 PM permalink
Quote: teddys

LOL. They *definitely* don't want us as players.

"I'm paid to bring in squares." - Steve Cyr



The percentage of actual AP players to ones that either just think they are or just gamble recreationally, is VERY small. Even on this site. I really don't think any Casino would be too concerned.

ZCore13
I am an employee of a Casino. Former Table Games Director,, current Pit Supervisor. All the personal opinions I post are my own and do not represent the opinions of the Casino or Tribe that I work for.
teddys
teddys
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September 10th, 2013 at 6:52:03 PM permalink
Quote: Zcore13

The percentage of actual AP players to ones that either just think they are or just gamble recreationally, is VERY small. Even on this site. I really don't think any Casino would be too concerned.

ZCore13

I'm a fake AP. Still, I'm sure the casino would prefer another player to me.
"Dice, verily, are armed with goads and driving-hooks, deceiving and tormenting, causing grievous woe." -Rig Veda 10.34.4
Ibeatyouraces
Ibeatyouraces
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September 10th, 2013 at 6:55:25 PM permalink
deleted
DUHHIIIIIIIII HEARD THAT!
Zcore13
Zcore13
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September 10th, 2013 at 7:02:40 PM permalink
Quote: teddys

I'm a fake AP. Still, I'm sure the casino would prefer another player to me.



I wasn't making a judgement on whether you are or aren't a legitimate AP. I'm just saying, I'm pretty sure any casino would take their chances with a large audience like this. There are many, many more viewers here that can not beat the house than there are that can.

ZCore13
I am an employee of a Casino. Former Table Games Director,, current Pit Supervisor. All the personal opinions I post are my own and do not represent the opinions of the Casino or Tribe that I work for.
Ibeatyouraces
Ibeatyouraces
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September 10th, 2013 at 7:10:00 PM permalink
deleted
DUHHIIIIIIIII HEARD THAT!
KB1
KB1
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September 10th, 2013 at 7:20:13 PM permalink
Wiz,
I haven't made it out to vegas yet but when i do id be glad to pay 100 bucks for you to pick me up at the airport holding a "KB1" sign.Might even bring you a cowboy hat from music city.


KB1
skrbornevrymin
skrbornevrymin
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September 12th, 2013 at 6:19:18 PM permalink
The website could be expanded to include a "classified for sale" section for new and/or used gambling related products and services, or maybe even anything Vegas related. There could be a fee (either percentage or flat fee) for posting an item for sale there. If it works it could be expanded to a full-blown classified sales section to include more kinds of items. With a little more work there could be an online auction section for certain items.
scudder
scudder
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September 12th, 2013 at 8:55:01 PM permalink
Quote: Wizard

Thanks for all the continued comments. I've been leaning more against a paid membership option. I'm not crazy about the "donate" button either, as I don't think it will bring in much, and don't want to feel obligated to anyone who makes a donation.

In other words, I would like to give back something for helping to support the site.

What do you think of this idea. A Wizard donation auction. I would put on eBay various things I don't really need, as much gambling related as possible, and promote the auction here. Hopefully those wanting to support the site would be generous in their bidding.

2013 has been an absolutely awful year for me financially. I just found out that of all the money I lost in Cyprus I won't be getting a penny back. The media has been reporting account holders would have to take a 52.5% "haircut" about 100,000 Euros, but my money was in the weaker Laiki Bank, and I had to take a 100% haircut. Bovada revenue is down 55% on top of that. Still, I make more than most people, and have a lot to be thankful for, but I need to turn things around.



This is a great idea, I would definitely be bidding. Very sorry to hear about your Cyprus woes...an awful situation indeed.
Buzzard
Buzzard
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September 12th, 2013 at 8:57:04 PM permalink
Dumb question time : any thoughts on going back into the corporate world. Just asking !

No reply needed and certainly no disrespect intended.
Shed not for her the bitter tear Nor give the heart to vain regret Tis but the casket that lies here, The gem that filled it Sparkles yet
Nareed
Nareed
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September 13th, 2013 at 8:44:37 AM permalink
Quote: Wizard

I'm not crazy about the "donate" button either, as I don't think it will bring in much, and don't want to feel obligated to anyone who makes a donation.



Donations probably won't work on a forum, but they should work on the Odds site.

My expereince, admittedly second-hand, is that poeple will pay to keep going a content provider they like. This relates mostly to podcasts produced on a regular basis (bi-weekly, weekly, bi-monthly and so on), but it might translate. the problem is that the Odss site is largely complete. That is, the information for most games has already been posted, and very likely linked to and reposted as well.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
beachbumbabs
beachbumbabs
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September 13th, 2013 at 9:31:18 AM permalink
I think a "chip-in" or other donation spot is a double-edged sword. Should get some response, especially from repeat users and regular forum members, but it also gives a possibly false impression that there's a vulnerability in the owner's finances after years of free advice, and somewhat defeats the goal of advocating the free exchange of what the casinos consider proprietary information and the Wizard maintains should be consumer disclosure. I don't think the monies received would justify the erosion of reputation and perception.
If the House lost every hand, they wouldn't deal the game.
SanchoPanza
SanchoPanza
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September 13th, 2013 at 9:42:40 AM permalink
Quote: beachbumbabs

I don't think the monies received would justify the erosion of reputation and perception.

+1
lojo
lojo
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September 17th, 2013 at 2:30:57 PM permalink
I'm pretty sure that one of two things happened with the Revel promo and neither had anything to do with your +EV analysis or recommendations. They either botched the maths or they planned to jerk the rug if it went too hot anyway. I fail to see where a dmz for subscribers would have anything to do with that. Remove the reason from consideration and do something with AP Heat and it might make sense, but I really don't see any reason to use a botched promo that had nothing to do with your maths or recommendations as an impetus for a new service.

I would participate and I only see it as good for player and industry alike. I don't see adding a VIP section as dividing the forum, access wouldn't have to be restricted to monetary contribution - valuable forum contributions could be counted. Anyone who cares to partake and contribute to the overall value of your fora could be considered. duffers need not apply. I, for one, would be honored to earn my way into the forum. When I think about it like that maybe it would be best to NOT let people in with a fee, but have a metric therein where VIPs could help support the site financially.

I don't know much about affiliate business, especially for land casinos but I do see the offer on the bottom of most LV casino web pages. And I sure as heck don't know the legality or kosherness of brokering credits via comp cards, but that might be an angle. I could actually put my wild mind to it but no sense in throwing a lot of ideas out here now. I just think there may be a way you could self-support that section and make something denizens would want to strive for, rather than an Us and Them thing like others have suggested it might become.
lojo
lojo
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September 20th, 2013 at 11:11:42 PM permalink
Do I really need to go back to that thread and tell the whiners to shut 'er down. You should be embarrassed your host started this thread.
1BB
1BB
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October 16th, 2013 at 5:22:17 PM permalink
Quote: Wizard

Thanks for the comments thus far.

One thing I don't want to see is a VIP section dividing the forum. I don't want to see all the good stuff in VIP and the free section turn into a cesspool.

The way I view it is kind of like donating to public television/radio. It is a way to support something you enjoy, plus gives me a way to give really good tips on a limited basis. Note that future hot tips can't be promised.

I hesitate to take memberships on a monthly basis, because some may only pay for the one month when there is a hot tip.



Blackjack:TheForum is going to start charging a subscription fee of $9 a quarter or $36 a year. Norm says some of it will still be free.
Many people, especially ignorant people, want to punish you for speaking the truth. - Mahatma Ghandi
1BB
1BB
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October 19th, 2013 at 6:32:44 AM permalink
It's done. All but three of the forums on the Blackjack:The Forum web site are now private.
Many people, especially ignorant people, want to punish you for speaking the truth. - Mahatma Ghandi
KeyserSoze
KeyserSoze
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October 19th, 2013 at 7:22:28 AM permalink
I don't think its going to work over at Norm's site.

I already paid $36 for one year. I did it because his software is worth much more than I paid for it. So I feel I owe him.

Hope I'm wrong, but the private forum will fail within one year.
Talent hits a target no one else can hit; genius hits a target no one else can see.
Ibeatyouraces
Ibeatyouraces
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October 19th, 2013 at 9:38:36 AM permalink
deleted
DUHHIIIIIIIII HEARD THAT!
moses
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October 19th, 2013 at 12:23:21 PM permalink
Quote: KeyserSoze

I don't think its going to work over at Norm's site.

Hope I'm wrong, but the private forum will fail within one year.



I'm inclined to agree. Just curious, why don't you think it will work?
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