Podcasts about mgm springfield

  "DJ Nicki"  is the owner and operator of VSP. Her expertise in both private and club events makes her a seasoned professional capable of playing for a diverse crowd for over 15 years. Her success has brought her to become the resident DJ of MGM Springfield, Foxwoods Resort Casino and Miami Heat NBA Basketball Team. On this episode we chat about how she started dj'ing and how she built her business to what it includes today. She now has a team of people working under her company and provides everything needed for special events. Nicole also reacently bought what was a run down building in her town and has turned it into an incredible space for people to connect and create.   HOME | VSP

Nicole Nell, better known as DJ Nicki Nell, is the president of an award winning multi-op production company called Visual Sound Productions, Inc. Born and raised in Springfield, MA, she was no stranger to the spotlight. For 15 years she was a competitive dancer a part of the United States Dance Team. She performed and traveled across the world showcasing her talent. Her passion for music soon took a 180 degree turn when she became a full time professional DJ. She went from being the dancer to being the one that made people dance. ​ DJ Nicki Nell is known for her infectious personality and her ability to interact with the audience. She doesn't just scratch and blend music seamlessly, but she creates an experience for the guests with her performance quality that is unmatched. Her expertise in both private and club events makes her a seasoned professional where she has become an educator in the entertainment industry and featured on such platforms as Crate Hackers, DJ's Vault, Disc Jockey News, and multiple podcasts.   Her success has brought her to become the resident DJ of MGM Springfield, Foxwoods Resort Casino, and Miami HEAT NBA Basketball Team to name a few. She has made guest appearances on the nationally syndicated radio show, The Kidd Kraddick Morning Show, and Sirius XM Pitbull's Globalization where she won an international contest to have her mix aired on the international platform.

Gresh and Fauria were joined by Robert Westerfield, VP of Casino Operations at MGM Springfield, to talk about the start of the NCAA Tournament, the evolution of sports gambling, and the amenities at the casino.

Hour 1 - Gresh and Fauria are broadcasting from the MGM Springfield and open the show discussing the Boston Celtics win over the Milwaukee Bucks.  How do you feel after last night's win?  Finally, the guys talked about Colorado football coach Deion Sanders' recruiting style.

Hour 4 - Gresh and Fauria were joined by Robert Westerfield, VP of Casino Operations at MGM Springfield, to talk about the start of the NCAA Tournament, the evolution of sports gambling, and the amenities at the casino.  Before Are You Done?, the guys continued to talk about the start of the NCAA Tournament and Tuesday and Wednesday's play-in games.

Leah Rantz talks with comedian, writer, and U.S. Army Vet Bill Posley about his upcoming show-"Bill Does the Talent Show" at the Roar Comedy Club at MGM Springfield.

Many people vividly remember their excitement when MGM Springfield opened its doors five years ago — as well as the early returns, which didn't meet the lofty expectations casino proponents had laid out, followed by the pandemic shutdown and, later, a halting return to activity. What people might not realize is that the casino's last three quarters have been its best, while legal sports betting and an impressive recent slate of music and comedy shows bode well for an even stronger future. On the next installment of BusinessTalk, BusinessWest Editor Joe Bednar sits down with Chris Kelley, MGM Springfield's president and COO, about rising expectations, how to continually improve the customer experience, the challenge of maintaining a large workforce, and much more. It's must listening, so tune in to BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest and sponsored by PeoplesBank.

You think you know the full story behind that controversial song? Think again.  We'll delve into a recent X-Twitter reaction, taking a clear-eyed look at how careers can be misinterpreted and manipulated in the blink of an eye. But there's more! We're also dissecting the latest upheavals in the entertainment industry, like the ex-Johnny's Junior member who's cut ties with his agency. How will this move reconfigure the landscape of entertainment? Don't miss our take! Plus, we'll check out Yamada's fashion choices and his latest Insta post that's got fans buzzing, and we'll marvel at V's vocal abilities with his recent song releases.Finally, we'll show our love for artists who are charting their own course in the industry, taking the reins when their companies fail to champion them. We'll revel in the anticipation of new music and discuss the implications when fans shift their loyalty after a favorite member leaves. We'll wrap up by highlighting some of the best entertainment venues in Boston and the surrounding regions, from the Bushnell Theater in Connecticut to the MGM Springfield, Massachusetts. Get ready to widen your horizons and challenge your perceptions in this thought-provoking episode.Support the showPlease help Music Elixir by rating, reviewing, and sharing the episode. We appreciate your support!Follow us on:TwitterInstagram If have questions, comments, or requests click on our form:Music Elixir FormDJ Panic Blog:OK ASIA

Woketopia? 8/29/23: Prof Amilcar Shabazz with Amherst Town Councilor Michele Miller on reparations; GCC's Linda Desjardin on MassReconnect, the new free community college program; Amherst School Committee Chair Ben Herrington on why he resigned; National Director of Stop Predatory Gambling, Les Bernal, on predatory gambling on MGM Springfield's 5th anniversary.

Many people vividly remember their excitement when MGM Springfield opened its doors five years ago — as well as the early returns, which didn't meet the lofty expectations casino proponents had laid out, followed by the pandemic shutdown and, later, a halting return to activity. What people might not realize is that the casino's last three quarters have been its best, while legal sports betting and an impressive recent slate of music and comedy shows bode well for an even stronger future. On the next installment of BusinessTalk, BusinessWest Editor Joe Bednar sits down with Chris Kelley, MGM Springfield's president and COO, about rising expectations, how to continually improve the customer experience, the challenge of maintaining a large workforce, and much more. It's must listening, so tune in to BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest and sponsored by PeoplesBank.

The sports betting era has begun in Massachusetts, and it's off to a fast and intriguing start. On the next installment of BusinessTalk, Robert Westerfield, vice president of Casino Operations at MGM Springfield, talks with BusinessWest Editor George O'Brien about sports betting, March Madness, and what to expect moving forward. It's must listening, so tune in to BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest and sponsored by PeoplesBank.

Topic begins at (0:17:59) mark: Announcements - PFA Radio is now a bi-weekly show, Druff's WSOP presence this year will be erratic.... (0:29:22): Poker legend Doyle Brunson passes away.... (1:18:59): Update: Arrest made by feds in November 2022 Draftkings account thefts case -- is this the same culprit which stole from Druff via BetMGM?.... (2:00:46): Disgraced poker pro and accused cheater Ali Imsirovic is now a poker coach, and is now accused of still cheating on ACR.... (2:19:33): Maurice Hawkins wins record 15th circuit ring, but is mocked on Twitter for still-outstanding debts to Randy Garcia.... (2:32:03): Viffer, Shaun Deeb battle it out on Twitter regarding 2020 allegations of owed money.... (3:07:43): Poker House Dallas latest card room to get hassled by the city.... (3:27:06): Jeremy Becker -- Young phenom, short-term luckbox, or "Postle of the Wynn"?.... (3:38:38): Strategy talk: Flopped straight flush versus flopped ace high flush -- could you lay this down?.... (4:02:37): University of Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Brad Bohannon fired after being linked to sportsbetting scandal involving own team.... (4:22:08): Father/son team arrested for cheating 10-25 NL game at MGM Springfield.... (4:28:21): Cyndy Violette's missing daughter Shannon found in downtown Vegas.... (4:33:16): Matt Berkey defeats Nik Airball, wins a million dollars.... (4:53:53): Alan Keating quits Hustler Casino Live due to being turned down for ownership piece.... (5:49:01): Update: Fired Barstool Sports personality Ben Mintz gets position with PokerGo.... (5:54:38): Oakland A's buy Tropicana Hotel site for planned move to Vegas.... (6:06:16): Garth Brooks at Caesars Las Vegas is making you put your phone in a box throughout the performance.... (6:18:43): Two women murder a tourist at Caesars Las Vegas hotel room.... (6:31:25): Tyrone calls in to talk about his experience playing 1-2 NL at the South Point.... (6:46:53): Disney's "Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser" is closing, and was a $2 billion ill-conceived failure.... (7:29:28): Listener question: My refrigerator has a design flaw which can't be fixed under warranty. What would Druff do?.... tradershly co-hosts.

Topic begins at (0:17:59) mark: Announcements - PFA Radio is now a bi-weekly show, Druff's WSOP presence this year will be erratic.... (0:29:22): Poker legend Doyle Brunson passes away.... (1:18:59): Update: Arrest made by feds in November 2022 Draftkings account thefts case -- is this the same culprit which stole from Druff via BetMGM?.... (2:00:46): Disgraced poker pro and accused cheater Ali Imsirovic is now a poker coach, and is now accused of still cheating on ACR.... (2:19:33): Maurice Hawkins wins record 15th circuit ring, but is mocked on Twitter for still-outstanding debts to Randy Garcia.... (2:32:03): Viffer, Shaun Deeb battle it out on Twitter regarding 2020 allegations of owed money.... (3:07:43): Poker House Dallas latest card room to get hassled by the city.... (3:27:06): Jeremy Becker -- Young phenom, short-term luckbox, or "Postle of the Wynn"?.... (3:38:38): Strategy talk: Flopped straight flush versus flopped ace high flush -- could you lay this down?.... (4:02:37): University of Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Brad Bohannon fired after being linked to sportsbetting scandal involving own team.... (4:22:08): Father/son team arrested for cheating 10-25 NL game at MGM Springfield.... (4:28:21): Cyndy Violette's missing daughter Shannon found in downtown Vegas.... (4:33:16): Matt Berkey defeats Nik Airball, wins a million dollars.... (4:53:53): Alan Keating quits Hustler Casino Live due to being turned down for ownership piece.... (5:49:01): Update: Fired Barstool Sports personality Ben Mintz gets position with PokerGo.... (5:54:38): Oakland A's buy Tropicana Hotel site for planned move to Vegas.... (6:06:16): Garth Brooks at Caesars Las Vegas is making you put your phone in a box throughout the performance.... (6:18:43): Two women murder a tourist at Caesars Las Vegas hotel room.... (6:31:25): Tyrone calls in to talk about his experience playing 1-2 NL at the South Point.... (6:46:53): Disney's "Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser" is closing, and was a $2 billion ill-conceived failure.... (7:29:28): Listener question: My refrigerator has a design flaw which can't be fixed under warranty. What would Druff do?.... tradershly co-hosts.

The sports betting era has begun in Massachusetts, and it's off to a fast and intriguing start. On the next installment of BusinessTalk, Robert Westerfield, vice president of Casino Operations at MGM Springfield, talks with BusinessWest Editor George O'Brien about sports betting, March Madness, and what to expect moving forward. It's must listening, so tune in to BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest and sponsored by PeoplesBank.

The implementation of legal mobile sports betting in Massachusetts is this week. Mobile platforms will join in-person betting operations at MGM Springfield, Plainridge Park Casino, and Encore Boston Harbor.

BusinessWest editor George O'Brien has a lively discussion with Mike Fenton, Springfield city councilor and chairman of the city's Casino Oversight Committee. The two talk about recently voiced concerns about MGM Springfield not delivering what was promised when it was granted a gaming license, and what actions are expected from the parent company in the weeks and months ahead to improve the picture on Main Street. It's all must listening, so tune in to BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest in partnership with Living Local 413 and sponsored by PeoplesBank.

Today on Boston Public Radio: We opened the show with a call-in session to ask our listeners how they feel about the official launch of legal sports betting in Massachusetts. On Tuesday morning the state's three casinos — Plainridge Park, MGM Springfield, and Encore Boston — began accepting bets on a wide range of competitive sports. The law doesn't allow betting on high school sports, local college teams and e-sports. Trenni Casey joined to talk about the upcoming Super Bowl showdown between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs, allegations that Harvard's women's hockey coach created an abusive and toxic locker room environment and the opportunity for a professional women's soccer team to once again play in Boston. Trenni Casey is an anchor and reporter with NBC Sports Boston and a Boston Public Radio contributor. Gov. Maura Healey came down to the Boston Public Library for an in-person edition of “Ask the Governor,” fielding questions from the audience and Jim and Margery. During the segment, Healey said she would not offer a position on whether public employees should have the right to strike in reference to the teachers' work stoppage in Woburn. She also said that she supports the city of Boston having a seat on the MBTA's Control Board, a priority for Mayor Michelle Wu. Jared Bowen came on to discuss the Japanese prints at the Worcester Art Museum, “The Art of Burning” at the Huntington and why White Lotus' season two theme song is playing at the club. Bowen is GBH's executive arts editor and the host of Open Studio. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu took questions in the latest edition of “Ask the Mayor” from the Boston Public Library. She discussed the lack of affordable practice spaces for artists and musicians and said that her administration is directing federal pandemic funding towards expanding artist space in Boston. She also addressed the challenges that weather fluctuations present to maintaining safe and pothole-free streets. Wu also talked about the challenges of finding reliable bus transportation for Boston Public School students. Wu is the mayor of Boston.

The Winter Weekend festivities took place this weekend at MGM Springfield, and oh boy was it something. Steve, Joey, and Steve's dad break down the biggest quotes that came out of a very interesting panel with John Henry, Sam Kennedy, Chaim Bloom and Alex Cora, look ahead to Spring Training, and relive some of Mr Perrault's fondest Sox memories from years past. That, and much more!Go to http://www.FlowBlend.com and use code "ITM" for 20% OFF!

BusinessWest editor George O'Brien has a lively discussion with Mike Fenton, Springfield city councilor and chairman of the city's Casino Oversight Committee. The two talk about recently voiced concerns about MGM Springfield not delivering what was promised when it was granted a gaming license, and what actions are expected from the parent company in the weeks and months ahead to improve the picture on Main Street. It's all must listening, so tune in to BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest in partnership with Living Local 413 and sponsored by PeoplesBank.

Cameron and Evin continue their arena review series with the MassMutual Center in Springfield, MA, home to the AIC Yellow Jackets! Hear everything they have to say about this arena as they rate it in five categories. They also include their thoughts on the somewhat new MGM Springfield casino just next door!

Dr. Mike returns, with trip reports from:  Barona;  Jamul;  Harrah's Southern California;  Rolling routines;  MGM Springfield

BusinessWest Editor George O'Brien has a lively, wide-ranging discussion with  Beth Ward, director of Community Affairs at MGM Springfield. The two talk everything from the Valentine's Day menu (5-pound lobster), to the prospects for sports gambling, to MGM Springfield's steady climb back to something approaching normalcy after two years of pandemic. It's all must listening, so join us on BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest in partnership with Living Local and sponsored by PeoplesBank.

BusinessWest Editor George O'Brien has a lively, wide-ranging discussion with Beth Ward, director of Community Affairs at MGM Springfield. The two talk everything from the Valentine's Day menu (5-pound lobster), to the prospects for sports gambling, to MGM Springfield's steady climb back to something approaching normalcy after two years of pandemic. It's all must listening, so join us on BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest in partnership with Living Local and sponsored by PeoplesBank.

K-9 Officer Amanda Antaya drove Randal the yellow Lab down to Virginia Beach to meet John Slepchuk, who retired to Florida. WBZ's Drew Moholland has more:

(Topic begins at 0:26:09 mark): Phil Galfond's "Run It Once Poker" site to close January 3, attempts to move to US market.... (2:07:23): Dan Bilzerian appears on Doug Polk's show for contentious interview.... (3:33:54): Nicholas Palma accusing Tim Reilly of using fake vax card for WSOP, and Negreanu now put out a $10k challenge over the matter.... (4:23:59): Flashback #1 - Druff attempted to attempt the "New Years Rockin Eve" party in the 2000s, and learned a secret about the broadcast.... (4:38:06): Flashback #2 - Huge investment firm Fidelity accidentally posted ad seen by millions in 1990 with Druff's phone number instead of theirs. What happened next?.... (4:59:30): Casino advantage player claims he was force-checked-out of MGM Springfield while gone, and $20,900 stolen from his room safe.... (5:19:04): Pokershares, the Mike McDonald site where you can bet on the results of poker pros, has shut down.... (5:36:30): Controversy hits "SlotLady", a popular female slot-playing YouTuber.... (6:57:10): Fedor Holz makes allegation of online poker collusion against Brazilian poker group.... (7:24:24): California Indian tribes and poker rooms battling each other again regarding future of gambling in state.... (7:43:56): Omicron rips through US at record infection levels, but what danger are we really in?.... khalwat co-hosts, tradershky also joins. Calls from desertrunner and 'Carmine' during the show.

(Topic begins at 0:26:09 mark): Phil Galfond's "Run It Once Poker" site to close January 3, attempts to move to US market.... (2:07:23): Dan Bilzerian appears on Doug Polk's show for contentious interview.... (3:33:54): Nicholas Palma accusing Tim Reilly of using fake vax card for WSOP, and Negreanu now put out a $10k challenge over the matter.... (4:23:59): Flashback #1 - Druff attempted to attempt the "New Years Rockin Eve" party in the 2000s, and learned a secret about the broadcast.... (4:38:06): Flashback #2 - Huge investment firm Fidelity accidentally posted ad seen by millions in 1990 with Druff's phone number instead of theirs. What happened next?.... (4:59:30): Casino advantage player claims he was force-checked-out of MGM Springfield while gone, and $20,900 stolen from his room safe.... (5:19:04): Pokershares, the Mike McDonald site where you can bet on the results of poker pros, has shut down.... (5:36:30): Controversy hits "SlotLady", a popular female slot-playing YouTuber.... (6:57:10): Fedor Holz makes allegation of online poker collusion against Brazilian poker group.... (7:24:24): California Indian tribes and poker rooms battling each other again regarding future of gambling in state.... (7:43:56): Omicron rips through US at record infection levels, but what danger are we really in?.... khalwat co-hosts, tradershky also joins. Calls from desertrunner and 'Carmine' during the show.

Things are ramping up in Downtown Springfield and MGM is no different. Here's a recent trip report. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/robin-t-aubin/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/robin-t-aubin/support

AUG. 27 POKERCAST RECAP: The Ante Up World Poker Championship at Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Northern California is winding down, but not before some more record numbers and a fantastic main event still to come! We have news that Lon McEachern and Norman Chad will be back in the booth for this year's WSOP, Live Casino in Maryland cancels its WPT series because of COVID and MGM Springfield is expected to bring back its poker room by the end of the year. We also complete the O'Mally's Move and Keiran Downie has the Hand of the Week with J-9 in a $2-$5 NLHE game. 

A recent visit and Trip Report to MGM Springfield after a long hiatus due to the pandemic --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/robin-t-aubin/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/robin-t-aubin/support

On Episode 79 The Reels Keep On Spinning. We discus Northeast gambling community updates and the changes to the casino experience at MGM Springfield. It's been awhile since we've been together, and we have a lot of gambling and casino news to talk about. Let's get into the Game! Website: www.artinthegame.net Learn to play video poker free. Join the fun in the AITG Video Poker Challenges and also play in CASH contests. Sign up through our AITG member's link and receive 2 weeks of Gold membership FREE! When you do, send me your VP nickname and I will add you to the invite list to our AITG VP Challenges. I encourage all my listeners and members to go "Pro" with a Pro membership for $89.00 today!  www.videopoker.com/artinthegame Join the conversation in the Facebook Private Community. Learn, connect, and contribute:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/238265166923233/?ref=bookm Follow me on IG and Twitter: @artintheG A special Thank You to Springfield Photographer Jose Figueroa of AirFig Productions for this Episode's Cover Art. Please go follow his amazing drone photography work all over New England on Instagram. Click the link above to visit his web site and contact him for any aerial photography work. He is great guy and easy to work with. Please tell him you saw his work highlighted here on AITG.  

On episode 77 we discuss the current state of gaming at MGM Springfield and how those realities have effected my play and participation at the casino. I share an update on the 2020 AITG Gold Player Awards. Stay tuned to the end to hear me sing my new casino holiday classic, 12 Days of Casino Christmas! Listen to the song and see all the pictures on the website:  www.artinthegame.net Learn to play video poker free. Join the fun in the AITG Video Poker Challenge.  Sign up through our AITG member's link and receive 2 weeks of Gold membership FREE! When you do send me your VP nickname and I will add you to the invite list to our AITG VP Challenges. I encourage all my listeners and members to go "Pro" with a Pro membership today.  www.videopoker.com/artinthegame join the conversation in the Facebook Private Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/238265166923233/?ref=bookm Follow me on IG and Twitter: @artintheG

We speak with a UMass researcher about the impacts of the first Vegas-style casino in Springfield. Two years ago, MGM Springfield boosted the local and state economy, provided job opportunities, and did not increase rates of problem gambling. These were the key findings of new research, part of an ongoing comprehensive investigation on the impact […]

On Episode 74 I am back on property for the first time since February. I take you along as I attend the VIP sneak peak tasting at The Chandler restaurant inside MGM Springfield. We talk about the new AITG Winners Circle and I share who my next surprise gambling celebrity guest will be. It's going to be a Slotastitc podcast! Let's get into the Game! Let's get into the Game! See all the photos and more on the website:  www.artinthegame.net Learn to play video poker free. Join the fun in the AITG Video Poker Challenge.  Sign up through our AITG member's link and receive 2 weeks of Gold membership FREE! When you do send me your VP nickname and I will add you to the invite list to our AITG VP Challenges.  Prizes sponsored by The Massachusetts Sate Lottery.  I encourage all my listeners and members to go "Pro" with a Pro membership today.  www.videopoker.com/artinthegame join the conversation in the Facebook Private Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/238265166923233/?ref=bookmark

On Episode 72 we present an exclusive introduction to Chris Kelley, MGM Resorts International's Northeast Regional President & COO. Chris opens up about himself and the current values driving operations at MGM Springfield. Let's get into the Game! www.artinthegame.net Join the fun in the AITG Video Poker Challenge.  Sign up through our AITG member's link and receive 2 weeks of Gold membership FREE! When you do send me your VP nickname and I will add you to the invite list to our AITG VP Challenges. I encourage all my listeners and members to go "Pro" with a Pro membership today.  www.videopoker.com/artinthegame Join the conversation in the Facebook Private Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/238265166923233/?ref=bookmarks

"It's like popping into a fairytale". On Episode 71 our 8 year old daughter Luci DiMauro shares her thoughts on visiting casino resorts. Luci offers her insights on favorite child friendly activities at MGM Springfield and Atlantic City. Let's get into the Game! See all the photos and find the links on the website:  www.artinthegame.net    Join the fun in the AITG Video Poker Challenge.  Sign up through our AITG member's link and receive 2 weeks of Gold membership FREE! When you do send me your VP nickname and I will add you to the invite list to our AITG VP Challenges.  Prizes sponsored by The Massachusetts Sate Lottery.  I encourage all my listeners and members to go "Pro" with a Pro membership today.  www.videopoker.com/artinthegame Join the conversation in the Facebook Private Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/238265166923233/?ref=bookmarks Subscribe to Luci's YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSYqMpQ8fUNX47w3XDH7rjg

On Episode 70 we discuss ways to better leverage your casino play and receive more comps. I'll decode the Mlife Rewards program explaining how tier, player-points, express comps, free play and all other casino offers are generated. This plus I share many of my exclusive secrets on how to be treated like a high roller wherever you choose to play and stay. Let's get into the game! See all the photos and learn more about MGM Springfield promotions on the website:  www.artinthegame.net Join the fun in the AITG Video Poker Challenge.  Sign up through our AITG member's link and receive 2 weeks of Gold membership FREE! When you do send me your VP nickname and I will add you to the invite list to our AITG VP Challenges.  Prizes sponsored by The Massachusetts Sate Lottery.  I encourage all my listeners and members to go "Pro" with a Pro membership today.  www.videopoker.com/artinthegame Join the conversation in the Facebook Private Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/238265166923233/?ref=bookmarks  

On Episode 69 we welcome Vice President and Legal Counsel for MGM Resorts International Seth Stratton. Among other responsibilities Seth provides general counsel to MGM Springfield, leading the property's legal, regulatory, compliance and government relations efforts. In this hour long in-depth interview we discuss the safety measures  implemented property wide to ensure a safe experience for both guests and employees in this challenging environment.  We also gain clarity on all gaming and amenity hours of operation at MGM Springfield all while getting to know Mr. Stratton. Let's get into the Game!  See all the photos and more on the website:  www.artinthegame.net Join the fun in the AITG Video Poker Challenge.  Sign up through our AITG member's link and receive 2 weeks of Gold membership FREE! When you do send me your VP nickname and I will add you to the invite list to our AITG VP Challenges.  Prizes sponsored by The Massachusetts Sate Lottery.  I encourage all my listeners and members to go "Pro" with a Pro membership today.  www.videopoker.com/artinthegame Join the conversation in the Facebook Private Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/238265166923233/?ref=bookmarks    

On Episode 68 I check in with you about what has been happening with Art in the Game since MGM Springfield reopened. We talk what the casino experience has been like on property. This plus I reveal who next week's special guest will be. Let's get into the Game! See all the photos and more on the website. www.artinthegame.net Join the fun in the AITG Video Poker Challenge.  Sign up through our AITG member's link and receive 2 weeks of Gold membership FREE! When you do send me your VP nickname and I will add you to the invite list to our AITG VP Challenges.  Prizes sponsored by The Massachusetts Sate Lottery.  I encourage all my listeners and members to go "Pro" with a Pro membership today.  www.videopoker.com/artinthegame Join the conversation in the Facebook Private Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/238265166923233/?ref=bookmarks      

On Episode 67 we are joined by Carloann MacMaster the Slot Whisperer. She shares an inspiring story of how she has made over 14,000 personal protection masks for frontline workers and their families. Producing masks around the clock to meet the demand nation wide Carolann overcame many supply obstacles to ensure children and adults would remain safe during this uncertain time. This plus she shares her experiences from playing at Foxwoods the last 3 weeks and what we expect from MGM Springfield through the reopening. Lets get into the Game! See all the pics and more on the website:  www.artinthegame.net Join the fun in the AITG Video Poker Challenge.  Sign up through our AITG member's link and receive 2 weeks of Gold membership FREE! When you do send me your VP nickname and I will add you to the invite list to our AITG VP Challenges.  Prizes sponsored by The Massachusetts Sate Lottery.  I encourage all my listeners and members to go "Pro" with a Pro membership today.  www.videopoker.com/artinthegame Join the conversation in the Facebook Private Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/238265166923233/?ref=bookmarks   

On Episode 66 we're joined by my wife Lisa as we discuss the possible reopening of MGM Springfield. We talk about the new M.G.C. guidelines that apply to all 3 Massachusetts licenses and how these casinos can survive under 25% occupancy. We take a deep dive into a germaphobe's concerns on Massachusetts casino reopening amidst the Covid outbreak while enjoying rum cocktails. Let's get into the Game! See all the photos and much more on the website:  www.artinthegame.net Join the fun in the AITG Video Poker Challenge.  Sign up through our AITG member's link and receive 2 weeks of Gold membership FREE! When you do send me your VP nickname and I will add you to the invite list to our AITG VP Challenges.  Prizes sponsored by The Massachusetts Sate Lottery.  I encourage all my listeners and members to go "Pro" with a Pro membership today.  www.videopoker.com/artinthegame Join the conversation in the Facebook Private Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/238265166923233/?ref=bookmarks  

Today, we have an extraordinary guest who is going to be talking about the New England Casino scene, with much emphasis on Massachusetts, Robin Aubin. Robin is the founder of NETimeGambling, a blog where he shares his interest in gambling, the casino business, and his love for New England. NETimeGambling’s goal is to provide the necessary resources for anyone visiting New England’s expanding casino market. In this episode, we’re going to be talking about the reopening of casinos in New England, focusing primarily on Connecticut and Massachusetts. Robin gives us an overview of what’s happening, and we talk about whether or not the casinos are implementing COVID-19 regulations, including masks, plexiglass dividers, and limited player numbers. We also discuss the increase in table game minimums and why they are affected by social distancing regulations. Finally, Robin gives us his opinions on MGM Springfield and predicts whether or not he thinks they will survive the pandemic. For everything, you need to know about New England casinos during COVID-19, tune in to this episode!NETimeGambling NETimeGambling on Twitter Robin Aubin TravelZork Should MGM Springfield Even Bother (re)Opening?The Two Resort Casinos in Massachusetts Encore Boston HarborMGM Springfield ZorkCast with Michael and co-host Steve (LasVegasUK) from Cranbrook in Kent Follow him on Twitter @LasVegasUKZorkCast FaceBook Group- JOIN TODAY! (Continue and Start the Conversation) Be sure to subscribe to the TravelZork YouTube PageAlso, check out ZorkCast LIVE replays! TravelZorkZorkCast on TwitterZorkCast on Instagram© 2020 ZorkCast © 2020 TravelZork

On Episode 61 we update the Art in The Game Video Poker Challenge and check in with one another.  I share some of the recent contributions by MGM Springfield to the community.  We discuss ways to stay happy and thankful during these self quarantine times.  As Springfield Photographer Zach Bednarczykn said this week.  " To the World, from Springfield.  Sending love"  Lets get into the Game!  see all the photo and much more on the website:  www.artinthegame.net Get in on the fun with our Art in The Game Video Poker Challenge.  Sign up through our AITG member's link and receive 2 weeks of Gold membership FREE! When you do send me your VP nickname and I will add you to the invite list to our AITG VP Challenges.  Prizes sponsored by The Massachusetts Sate Lottery.  I encourage all my listeners and members to go "Pro" with a Pro membership today.  www.videopoker.com/artinthegame Join the Facebook Private Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/238265166923233/?ref=bookmarks      

This week, our news team talks about the first vaping-related death in MA, Hampshire College accepting a Spring 2020 class, a brief power outage that occurred at UMass, a watch party for the Democratic primary debate, two reports on the economic impacts of MGM Springfield and the expansion of UMass' School of Public Policy. Produced and Edited by Will Mallas.

Listener sends highly critical message to Druff about current state of radio (topic starts at 0:32:20 mark). WSOP Main Event "genitals guy" Ken Strauss arrested for threatening to destroy casinos for banning him (0:45:15). Terminal cancer WSOP player Kevin "Racks" Roster dies (1:21:47). Millions of grasshoppers invade Las Vegas (1:41:18). Colonel Nigel Fabersham calls MGM Springfield to find out about ID requirement in poker room (1:54:24). Slot tech steals $22,000 from MGM Springfield (2:06:23). Update: Rio's Yelp page getting trashed by Doug Stanhope fans (2:13:05). Update: Massachusetts Gaming Commission finds no wrongdoing on part of Encore despite lawsuit against them (2:29:32). Circus Circus Reno to be new temporary University of Nevada Reno dormitory in 2019-20 (2:46:18). Kenny Hallaert claims late registration is "too powerful" and hurts rec players (2:55:41). WSOP.com payout issues cause concern among poker pros (3:20:37). Pokerstars offers "cash out" option when all-in (3:36:59). Capital One, Equifax data breaches -- how much should you be concerned (3:57:25).

Druff runs very deep in WSOP Main Event, and talks about his experiences with eventual winner Hossein Ensan (topic starts at 0:23:20 mark). Main Event bubble clusterfuck occurs, including a missing min-casher (1:25:17). Unexpected "second bubble" mess occurs at 163rd place at Main Event (1:58:35). Jack Effel causes controversy with ruling/attitude in critical moment for Dario Sammartino close to Main Event final table (2:15:11). Alex Livingston's QQ fold preflop during final 6 at Main Event -- smart or stupid (2:29:23)? Druff gets pulled over for violation of "Move Over Law" south of Vegas (2:30:05). Update on Smashburger Rio situation (3:21:09). Lawsuit filed against Encore Boston Harbor (3:40:59). Comedian Doug Stanhope gets banned from Rio, blames it on bad review he posted in February (3:54:32). Two guys scammed terminal cancer patient Kevin Roster, including a Baylor tennis player and a guy Druff once knew in 2009 (4:30:44). Is VPNing into non-US-accepting poker sites cheating (5:11:13)? Guy wins $500 royal flush promo at MGM Springfield, but they won't pay him due to leaving ID in the car, and they won't let him get it (5:34:30). WSOP.com allegedly ships wrong amount of chips to winner of side pot in tournament (6:02:49). Maurice Hawkins accused of ripping off a backer again (6:18:57). Dennis Blieden accused of embezzling $22 million from company to enter high stakes poker tournaments (6:48:47). Robert Alexander accused of embezzling investor money to gamble, play poker (7:01:09). Borgata went after Ivey's Nevada assets, WSOP winnings (7:14:13). Video poker with over 100% payback at mid-limits offered by Downtown Grand in Vegas, then downgraded (7:26:53). Lucky Lady Casino in Gardena, CA has roof collapse (7:43:44). tradershky co-hosts part of this marathon 8-hour episode.

Glenn speaks with MGM Springfield President and CEO Michael Mathis, who shares the story of the property's development, community commitment, and it's design, which tightly tethers it to the city's history. First, Glenn speaks with Alex Bregman, the co-founder and CEO of invitly, a new app connecting you with like-minded professionals when traveling for business, or if simply want to meet other folks in your industry. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Text hotel to 66866. Visit www.novacancynews.com Send us your thoughts and comments to Glenn@rouse.media, or via Twitter and Instagram @TravelingGlenn. Visit our sponsors: Duetto, Red Roof, CLIC Subscribe on iTunes: No Vacancy with Glenn Haussman Subscribe on Android: https://play.google.com/music/listen#/ps/Ifu34iwhrh7fishlnhiuyv7xlsm Send your comments and questions to Glenn@rouse.media.  Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/novacancy Follow Glenn @TravelingGlenn Learn more at www.novacancynews.com Produced by Jeff Polly: http://www.endpointmultimedia.com/

It's been two months since MGM opened its doors in downtown Springfield. So far, what has business been like for the $960 million casino? How are its operations expected to impact nearby competitors, such as Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun? Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week: New Hampshire’s largest addiction recovery organization faces allegations of dysfunction and verbal abuse, and Boston considers whether to allow a facility where drug users can inject under medical supervision. Plus, we take a big-picture look at casino gambling in New England, and meet a Connecticut biologist who’s trying to breed a hardier honey bee. Former employees at Hope for New Hampshire Recovery told NHPR that staff did not receive proper training and the organization inflated the numbers of its clients, among other issues. Photo by Paige Sutherland for NHPR Public Health Under the Lens Over the past few years, New Hampshire has been grappling with an opioid crisis. The state estimates that more than 1,600 people have died from opioid overdoses since 2011. Former U.S. Senator Kelly Ayotte (center), State Senator Dan Feltes (left) and the former New Hampshire Drug Czar attended the ribbon cutting at Hope for New Hampshire Recovery’s new Concord center last May. Photo by Paige Sutherland for NHPR Peer-support centers — where people trying to get clean work with counselors with previous experience of addiction — have been key players in New Hampshire's fight against this epidemic. A nonprofit called HOPE for New Hampshire Recovery is the largest such organization. But the non-profit's growth from one modest space in Manchester to seven recovery centers statewide hasn't gone smoothly. Several employees quit, claiming they were mistreated. There are allegations that staffers used, and at times, sold drugs at work. One center has closed. After New Hampshire Public Radio's Paige Sutherland reported these allegations earlier this month, governor Chris Sununu told reporters his administration was investigating allegations against Hope for New Hampshire Recovery. You can follow the evolving story at nhpr.org. In Boston, advocates for people with addiction are asking the city for permission to launch something that sounds radical: a facility where people could inject drugs under medical supervision. The only such supervised injection facility, or SIF, in North America is in Vancouver, Canada, but efforts are underway to legalize them in several states. Screenshot via slide presentation from Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program Boston already has a place where drug users can come to ride out a high monitored by nurses, but no actual drug use is permitted at the site. The Supportive Place for Observation and Treatment, or SPOT, opened last year. But if the first public hearing is any indication, supporters of rooms where drug users would inject under medical supervision have a long road ahead of them. WBUR’s Martha Bebinger reports. A representative from Hep C Hope, a campaign from the pharmaceutical company Gilead, gives advice about Hepatitis C testing to passersby. Photo by Casey McDermott for NHPR In its 94th year, the Laconia Motorcycle Week prides itself on being the world's oldest motorcycle rally. As the rally ages, however, so too has its main demographic. But pharmaceutical companies and health organizations are seeing a silver lining in this shift — and are seizing on this new chance to reach aging bikers in their element. New England States Carve Up the Gambling Pie Back in April, in Episode 36, we brought you the story of a cross-border gambling war. Construction was moving along at the site of a $950 million MGM resort casino in Springfield, Massachusetts. Meanwhile, two Native American tribes — both casino operators in Connecticut — were hoping to build a third casino in the state, just 14 miles south of the MGM site, in the town of East Windsor. The Mohegans, who operate Mohegan Sun, and the Mashantucket Pequots, who run Foxwoods, argued that if nothing was done, they would lose customers to MGM. That would hurt not just the tribes, they said, but also the state, which receives 25 percent of the tribes’ gambling revenues. An artist’s rendering of the MGM Springfield resort casino, with hotel rotunda in front view. The original plan included a glass skyscraper, but was modified after pushback from locals. Image courtesy of MGM Springfield MGM sued the state, claiming a deal between the state and tribes would put them at a competitive disadvantage. Earlier this month, Connecticut lawmakers approved that third casino. And on Wednesday, a federal appeals court threw out MGM’s lawsuit, though the company has promised to continue their legal fight. In this week’s show, we revisit Springfield, where the MGM resort casino spans three blocks in the city's downtown. The project's backers say the casino will bring in not only tax dollars, but needed foot traffic. But the story is much bigger than MGM and the Connecticut tribes. The vacant Showcase Cinemas in East Windsor, Connecticut is the site where Connecticut’s Mohengan and Mashantucket Pequot tribes plan to build a casino to compete with MGM Springfield. Photo by Henry Epp for NEPR Casinos have been springing up across the northeast in recent years, a stark contrast to just 15 years ago, when Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods were the only casinos in New England, competing with Atlantic City for New York gamblers. So will there be any winners in this cross-border war? Is our small region nearing gambling over-saturation? Joining us to help answer these questions is Clyde Barrow, a consultant who researches gambling for governments and private industry. Earlier this year, he produced several reports on behalf of MMCT, the joint venture between the Mashantucket Pequot and Mohegan tribes. Hearty Bees; Healthy Kids Scientists in Connecticut are importing bees with strong genes that may make them more likely to resist pests and disease. Photo by Patrick Skahill for WNPR Scientist Richard Cowles, research assistant Ethan Paine, State Bee Inspector Mark Creighton and research assistant Ellie Clark. The group spent the day “de-queening” hives to prepare them for the arrival of new, specially bred honey bees. Photo by Patrick Skahill for WNPR Honey bees have been having a tough time lately. Pests and disease have plagued many hives, killing off the pollinators. As WNPR's Patrick Skahill reports, one scientist in Connecticut is pinning his hopes on bee genes. Richard Cowles is tracking down honey bee “survivors” in the hopes of spreading their DNA. For many New Englanders, swimming is learned early and central to summer fun. But for children who are new to the United States and still learning English, swimming can be a completely foreign concept. Sandra (right) says she got into the water for the first time in an after-school program. Back in Nepal and India, her family had never set foot in a swimming pool. Photo courtesy of Doug Bishop for the Greater Burlington YMCA Many children who come to Vermont as refugees are from cultures where swimming isn’t practiced. That could be for religious guidelines that necessitate that bodies remain covered, or it could be that open water is simply too dangerous. A water safety program in Burlington teaches New American children how to be safe, and have fun, in the water. VPR’s Kathleen Masterson has more. About NEXT NEXT is produced at WNPR. Host: John Dankosky Producer: Andrea Muraskin Executive Producer: Catie Talarski Digital Content Manager/Editor: Heather Brandon Contributors to this episode: Paige Sutherland, Martha Bebinger, Casey McDermott, Patrick Skahill, Kathleen Masterson Music: Todd Merrell, “New England” by Goodnight Blue Moon, “Let My Baby Ride” by R.L. Burnside, “Stories We Build, Stories We Tell” by Jose Gonzalez, “Down the Line” by Romare Get all the NEXT episodes. We appreciate your feedback! Send critique, suggestions, questions, reflections and videos of your backyard bees to next@wnpr.org. Do you have a question you’d like NEXT to investigate? Tell us about it here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week: Immigration and Customs Enforcement has been directed to begin detaining and deporting all unauthorized immigrants. We’ve talked about sanctuary cities, but what about jurisdictions where law enforcement does report to ICE? We look at the very different approaches taken by Vermont and New Hampshire. Later, we visit the front lines of a border war between competing casino developments. Plus, we meet New England’s other NEXT. What Roles Are States Playing in Immigration Enforcement? A case in front of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court this past week could determine how much local law enforcement is able to cooperate with federal immigration officials. We've been covering stories like this in so-called sanctuary cities, but this case applies to entire states. The court will decide whether local law enforcement officers are authorized to detain a person solely at the request of ICE. WBUR’s Shannon Dooling has been following the case. A woman lies motionless in her bunk at the Strafford County Jail in Dover, NH. This part of the jail is designated for women detained by ICE who face no criminal charges, only federal immigration violations. Photo by Emily Corwin for NHPR The directive from the Trump White House to immigration enforcement to begin detaining and deporting all unauthorized immigrants has stirred up a series of legal questions around our region. The new policy marks a change from Obama-era directives, which directed agents to prioritize deporting individuals convicted of serious crimes. But how do immigration agents find undocumented but otherwise law-abiding immigrants? It turns out there are big differences between states, including in neighboring Vermont and New Hampshire. We speak with with New Hampshire Public Radio’s Emily Corwin and Vermont Public Radio’s Kathleen Masterson. Is a Casino the Answer to Springfield’s Woes? “Springfield, Massachusetts” and “resort casino” aren't words you expect to see in the same sentence. But if you live in the area, you've been hearing about a casino coming to town for years. On three blocks in the city's struggling downtown, MGM Resorts is building that casino with a hotel, movie theater, skating rink, and other amenities, set to open in fall 2018. An artist rendering of the MGM Springfield resort casino, with hotel rotunda in front view. The original plan included a glass skyscraper. Image courtesy of MGM Springfield. Construction began two years ago, but the political groundwork was laid back in 2011, with two separate events. That June, two tornadoes ripped through the area, causing 17 miles of damage, including right in the heart of downtown. Officials there wondered what to do to rebuild. Then, in the fall of that year, hoping to recapture some of the gambling dollars that had been leaving Massachusetts for years, the legislature passed the Expanding Gaming Act, allowing for three casinos to be built, including one in the western part of the state. After a lengthy process, Springfield won that bid. MGM got the contract, and broke ground in March 2015. But Connecticut's two federally-recognized Indian tribes, long the beneficiaries of those Massachusetts customers, got worried about losing their market share. Connecticut officials were also concerned, since through a tribal gaming compact the state receives 25 percent of the gaming revenue at Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun. So the the Mohegans and Mashantucket Pequots formed a partnership with Connecticut’s help to build a new casino in the Hartford metro area. The vacant Showcase Cinemas in East Windsor, Connecticut is the site where Connecticut’s Mohengan and Mashantucket Pequot tribes want to build a casino, 14 miles south of MGM Springfield. Photo by Henry Epp for NEPR This February, the tribes announced they had chosen a site off Interstate 91 in East Windsor — just 14 miles south of the MGM casino in Springfield. East Windsor is on board, but the tribes need a new law to allow them to operate the casino. And proposals are currently tied up in the state legislature. Whether the East Windsor casino goes forward or not, the big question for the city of Springfield is whether the massive development will give the city the economic boost it sorely needs. We visit the MGM construction site and chat with MGM Springfield president Mike Mathis, as well as city councilor and casino booster Melvin Edwards. For a more critical perspective, we sit down with Mike Dobbs, managing editor of the local newspaper The Reminder, who has been covering the Springfield project over the years; and WNPR business editor Harriet Jones, who covers the Connecticut casino proposal. The Other NEXT John Dankosky interviews host Elaine Bourhan on the set of New England’s Xtrordinary Talent at the studios of Focus Springfield. Photo courtesy of Focus Springfield Just northwest of the casino site, a friendly storefront houses the local cable access TV station, Focus Springfield. MGM now owns the building, and Focus is getting evicted. They have to move by November. It just so happens that one of the shows that tapes there is also called NEXT. In their case, it stands for “New England’s Xtrodinary Talent.” (In our case, if you’ve been wondering, it doesn’t stand for anything.) Host Elaine Bourhan, who goes by Elaine B, is a local musician who also scouts talent for the show. We speak with her about some of her favorite guests on the program. Below: interviews and a performance by Western Massachusetts locals Charles Neville and son Khalif Neville on New England’s Xtrodinary Talent. While we were on set, Elaine also interviewed us! We’ll let you know when that’s posted. About NEXT NEXT is produced at WNPR. Host: John Dankosky Producer: Andrea Muraskin Executive Producer: Catie Talarski Digital Content Manager/Editor: Heather Brandon Contributors to this episode: Shanoon Dooling, Emily Corwin, Kathleen Masterson, Michael Dobbs, Harriet Jones Music: Todd Merrell, “New England” by Goodnight Blue Moon Get all the NEXT episodes. We appreciate your feedback! Send praise, critique, suggestions, questions, story leads, and hidden talents to next@wnpr.org.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There is no shortage of places to gamble in the northeast -- with casinos in states like New York, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania and of course Connecticut where high rollers can try their luck at Mohegan Sun or Foxwoods Resort Casino in the southeastern part of the state.And more casinos are on their way.This hour, we get an update on MGM Springfield and where plans stand to open a third casino in North Central Connecticut operated jointly by the Mashantucket Pequot and Mohegan tribes. Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.