Special Announcement & New 2021 Holiday Campaign Shared By My Friends of The National Council on Problem Gambling . . .


Welcome Recovery Warriors, Friends, and Visitors!

If there is one topic I get a little passionate about, it is the topic of gambling and kids. Minors, those under the ages of 18.

Now, I am aware that all STATES have different gambling ages, most states the legal age is 21. There are a few like Oregon, where I used to live will let you gamble at age 18.

Here is my MAIN point, and why I wanted to share this special ‘Holiday Campaign’ and news by the National Council.

PARENTS NEED to understand you don’t buy or give Lottery Scratch Tickets to your children as a GIFT or Stocking Stuffer! Not only is it illegal? You are teaching your young kids to GAMBLE.

YES, I know, not everyone has or will have a problem with gambling, or when they get older. BUT? I feel if you start now and teach them to be responsible just as you council them about drugs, alcohol, or even smoking, you will help them in the long run.

Lottery tickets of any kind are not an appropriate thing to give to kids.

Let’s raise awareness together so we can save your kids from harm when they get older. If you know friends who do give Lottery Products to minors, let them know it can be as dangerous later on for them just as you talk and council your kids, again, about drugs and alcohol. Here are some of the warning signs of problem gambling below.

Stop by the council and read a few of the real stories by real families of how gambling had devastated them and learn more about the Gift Responsibly Campaign and how you can help… https://www.ncpgambling.org/programs-resources/programs/gift-responsibly-campaign-2021/

Thanks Everyone! ~Advocate Catherine Lyon



Article By The National Council on Problem Gambling


NEW NAME, NEW LOOK


FOR HOLIDAY 2021

Make a difference for your clients and customers – join your colleagues across the country and around the world in our responsible gambling campaign to raise awareness regarding the risks of underage lottery use. Lottery products are appropriate for gifting only to adults, from adults.

Research shows why: the earlier a person’s participation or even exposure to gambling in childhood, the more likely they are to develop gambling problems later in life. And gambling in childhood is frequently some kind of lottery product, given through lack of awareness by a well-meaning adult.

This public-private campaign was previously known as the Holiday Lottery Responsible Gambling Campaign. The name was changed in response to requests from lottery organizations and feedback from our global stakeholders.

The new name enables lotteries all over the world to participate. It avoids the word ‘holiday,’ which in many global cultures describes what American English-speakers might call ‘vacation.’ It provides flexibility to expand the responsible giving message for all the occasions where children and minor teens might receive lottery tickets as gifts throughout the year. And it is a short name, which is easier to use in social media and advertising.  

Whether or not it is legal for minors to participate in lottery games in your area, a responsible gambling message is always appropriate. The campaign continues to be endorsed and receives support from the World Lottery Association (WLA), European Lotteries (EL), and the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries (NASPL).


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100% of Canadian and U.S. lotteries participated again last year in the campaign
along with numerous international lotteries, non-lottery organizations, and many NCPG members.

During December and the winter holidays season, participating lottery organizations may choose to engage in different levels of public engagement classified as Lottery level 1, 2 or 3. These levels are intended to assist lotteries in planning their participation as well as to provide metrics that can be used in acknowledgment programs by NCPG, NASPL, WLA, and other organizations. Non-lottery organizations are welcome to join the Campaign and are encouraged to partner with their state lottery (where applicable) to support this important message.

Participants are also encouraged to become NCPG members (either as individuals or organizations) in order to receive updates on the campaign and to broaden their knowledge in problem gambling and responsible gambling. As members, they may also nominate themselves or others for the annual NCPG National Award for this campaign.

The campaign is sponsored by NCPG and the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University.


LET’S ALL BE MORE RESPONSIBLE THIS HOLIDAY GIFTING SEASON WITH LOTTERY PRODUCTS!



ABOUT THE NATIONAL COUNCIL ON PROBLEM GAMBLING

MISSION & VALUES

Purpose: To serve as the national advocate for programs and services to assist people and families affected by problem gambling.

Vision: To improve health and wellness by reducing the personal, social and economic costs of problem gambling.

Mission: To lead state and national stakeholders in the development of comprehensive policy and programs for all those affected by problem gambling.

CORE VALUES

Neutrality: We do not take a position for or against legalized gambling.  We advocate solely for those affected by problem gambling.

Collaboration: We believe that our mission is best served by the collaborative action of a broad range of people and organizations.

Respect: We will treat all those affected by problem gambling and all stakeholders with respect.

Credibility: We will strive to be an objective, accurate and reliable source of information for all those concerned with problem gambling.



NCPG 2020 Statement:

Respect is one of our core values. Racism and bigotry are unacceptable. We stand united with Black communities throughout our country and share in their pain, anger and frustration. Recent events remind us of the need to address fundamental problems of systemic racial inequality.

As we deal with the devastating health and financial consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly on people with gambling problems, we are preparing new strategies to be of greater service to people of color. We will listen and reach out even more to our stakeholders of color, to learn how our services can better address their needs. We will strive to make our work more accessible, break down barriers and increase our advocacy. We will continue to emphasize our organization’s core values, and to treat all people with respect — with actions as well as words.

HISTORY

The organization was founded in 1972 by Msgr. Joseph A. Dunne and Dr. Robert Custer, among others. From the outset the Council established two principles that remain in effect today: that the organization would be the advocate for problem gamblers and their families, and that it would take no position for or against legalized gambling. This stance is encompassed today in our vision and mission statements above. A history of the NCPG from 1972 to 1985 by Msgr. Dunne was published in the Journal of Gambling Studies, Vol. 1, Issue 1.

NCPG was conceived as the national representative of the problem gambling field and is organized with 3 classes of members: state affiliate, corporate and individual. The NCPG concentrates efforts on the national level, while the state affiliates work at the state and local level.

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Mega-Millions Frenzy … Really? A Message From My Friends of The National Council on Problem Gambling. Gamble Responsibly Please.

Mega-Millions Frenzy … Really? A Message From My Friends of The National Council on Problem Gambling. Gamble Responsibly Please.

There will be More Losers Than Winners … 

 

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Mega Millions lottery hits a record $1.6 bln after no winners in Friday’s draw

UPDATE – Personal Note:

Of course, I am NOT rubbing any noses in the fact that last nights Mega-Million drawing HAD no winners.  It just hammers home a wee bit that for those who happened to OVER BUY tickets, it seems today, just a waste of money that could have been better spent on something more fun or constructive.  See, I know there a boatload of people who CAN gamble just for the fun it.  AND?  Many don’t feel or agree that buying lottery tickets if real gambling. Sorry, but it is if you read the ‘definition’ of what the word “Gambling” means:

GAMBLE – The definition of a gamble is a risk.
An example of a gamble is the act of betting that a certain team will win a game.

Gamble is defined as to take a risk, or to play games especially with money for betting.

An example of gamble is to play the slots in Las Vegas.

When you place a bet for money or not as the outcome is uncertain and is a risk? That is gambling.  When buying lottery tickets for a CHANCE to win?  That is gambling.  Now that no one won, just think of those who are Problem Gamblers or even maybe addicted and think about where they will get the money for this next drawing?  Will it be there food money to feed their kids?  Maybe not a pay an important bill like electricity or their heat? Maybe forego a part of their rent or housing money just for a “CHANCE” … Know your ODDS before you risk all that!

No, I’m not a Buzz Kill …Lol.  I WAS an addicted gambler and know this disease and the thinking we trapped into.  It will talk you into doing ALL the above!  Because once gambling has you hooked?  The sickness takes over and we lose ALL the CONTROL.

Don’t waste loads of money for a tiny sliver of hope that you are going to win.  As most times you end at a loss. If you are going to take a Risk, then Gamble Responsibly …  

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Mega-Millions Jackpot Media Frenzy Offers Opportunity for Responsible Gambling Messaging.  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – October 19, 201

 

WASHINGTON, DC – As the Mega Millions jackpot has reached record levels, the National Council on Problem Gambling urges consumers to protect themselves against excessive gambling and calls upon lotteries and the media to promote responsible gambling messages.

Keith Whyte, Executive Director of the National Council on Problem Gambling, states, “The media and consumer interest in high lottery jackpots creates an opportunity to provide responsible gambling messages designed to help people who choose to gamble make informed decisions about their play.”  Responsible gambling efforts should be made by lottery operators and players alike.

Here are four simple responsible gambling tips to know and share:

– Set a limit of time and money spent gambling.

– Don’t gamble to escape feelings of anxiety, stress or depression.

– Know where to get help for a gambling problem.

– Minors are prohibited from most forms of gambling.

“Lotteries play an important role in reminding retailers and players about the minimum age to play and in educating their players about simple steps to promote responsible gambling.”

State lotteries and media are asked to incorporate responsible gambling messaging and the National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-522-4700) into their upcoming promotion and coverage of the Mega Millions jackpot.


The National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-522-4700
or www.ncpgambling.org/chat) is the single national point of access to problem gambling help. Help is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in all 50 states. All calls are confidential and offer local information and referral options for problem gamblers and their families.

In 2017 the Helpline received 233,000 calls, an average of one call every two minutes.

 

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About the National Council on Problem Gambling

NCPG is the national advocate for problem gamblers and their families. NCPG is neutral on legalized gambling and works with all stakeholders to promote responsible gambling. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call or text the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 or visit www.ncpgambling.org/chat for confidential help.

 

 

A Tribute – The Passing of an Important Advocate of Gambling Addiction, Ed Looney . . .

           ~ In Memoriam of Ed Looney ~

 

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EDWARD LOONEY Obituary
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“There just isn’t anyone like “Ed” who advocates and helps many from the cunning addiction of gambling”

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“I didn’t meet past executive director of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey, Ed Looney until 2007 when I read his article he had written about, “Children’s Gambling” for the “Casino Watch, the dark side of gambling.”
He had become ill, but I reached out to see if I could share his article on my very first gambling recovery blog I had started years ago on Simple Site. He was very sweet and granted me the permission to do so. I learned quickly he was an influential voice of programs for compulsive gamblers, a mentor and loud advocate. And a tireless advocate for those in recovery from the insidious disease of compulsive gambling to many.”
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“He was “one of a kind” and had done so much for many who were in recovery from this cunning addiction. My love, thoughts and prayers go out to his family and many friends. I was blessed to have known and correspond with him on several occasions. Through his exhausting efforts to help others, raise awareness, educate and inform the public of this dangerous addiction, Ed will be missed by many, including myself for years to come. He has left us a fantastic legacy on how to recover from this addiction”  .. .. ..  Author, Catherine Lyon of Addicted To Dimes

The New Jersey Star Ledger Says:

“Ed was instrumental in establishing and promoting the “1-800-Gambler” telephone number that appears on lottery tickets and billboards and can be heard on the radio and television. This simple message has been used to save countless lives over the past few decades. Ed became an expert on problem gambling and made many speaking engagements to conventions and organizations to spread the message of recovery. Ed served as the executive director of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey and he worked with lobbyists and lawmakers to make sure funding was available for assistance for problem gamblers”
– See more at: http://obits.nj.com/obituaries/starledger/obituary.aspx?pid=177124226#sthash.cxwpuSbC.dpuf

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A Re-share of an Article Ed Looney wrote for “Casino Watch”:

CHILDREN’S GAMBLING
FACTS AND STATS
6/10/07

“We have an epidemic.”
Ed Looney, Council on Compulsive Gambling of NJ

“It’s gambling–one of the
fastest-growing addictions among adolescents.

The National Council on Problem Gambling found
that teens with a gambling problem were more likely
to engage in risky behavior such as unsafe sex,
binge drinking and skipping school.

“Today more young people gamble once a week
than smoke, drink or take drugs combined.”

Gambling is “the most popular high-risk activity among teenagers,
outpacing drinking, taking drugs and smoking.

Adolescents with gambling disorders start at age 9.

• Children of compulsive gamblers are often
prone to suffer abuse, as well as neglect.
• Children of problem gamblers are at a
higher risk of developing health threatening
behaviors, including alcohol and drug abuse,
problem gambling, eating disorders,
depression, and suicide.”
Missouri Department of Mental Health
www.dmh.mo.gov/ada/facts/gambling.htm

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“Teenagers and young adults are the fastest-growing segment of addicts.”

4% OF OUR CHILDREN
ADDICTED TO GAMBLING

American Psychiatric Association
Annenberg National Risk Survey of Youth
Dr. C. Blanco: Columbia University Medical Center
J. Derevensky & R. Gupta of McGill University
ED LOONEY, NJ Council on Compulsive Gambling
Dalhousie University
Harvard Medical School
Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center
Minnesota Institute of Public Health
National Council on Problem Gambling
M. Stone, Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling
Emily E. Wilson licensed psychologist
H. Wynne: Wynne Resources in British Columbia

 

“CHILDREN ADDICTED TO GAMBLING COMMIT
SUICIDE AND CRIMES. THEY FREQUENTLY OWE
MONEY TO MOB CONNECTED BOOKIES”

 

Children’s gambling debt can be over $10,000

Half of young people who gamble on the Internet weekly
display signs of problem gambling.

“CHILDREN ARE MURDERED BY PARENTS
WHO ARE GAMBLING ADDICTS!”

 

* * * Danger signs * * *
Indicators of possible gambling problem in students:
1.
..Unexplained absences from school
2.
..Sudden drop in grades
3.
..Change of personality (irritability, impatience, criticism or sarcasm)
4.
..Large amounts of money in students’ possession;
……bragging about winning or gambling
5.
..Does the student have an unusual interest in newspapers,
……magazines or periodicals having to do with sports or horse
……racing or lotteries?
6.
..Intense interest in gambling conversations
7.
..Exaggerated display of money or other material possessions
……(e.g., cars, clothes, jewelry)
8.
..Change in behavior (school absences, behavior problems)
9.
..Gambling language in his/her conversation (5-timer, 10-timer,
……bookie, loan shark, point spread, underdog or favorite)
10.
..Exaggerated use of word “bet” in his/her vocabulary
11.
..Sports gambling tickets and/or lottery tickets in their possession
12.
..Playing of gambling-type games on the Internet.
Source: The New Jersey Council on Compulsive Gambling

 


Catherine Townsend Lyon, Author & Gambling Recovery Advocate, Writer and Social Media Public Relations for Addicted Minds Treatment Directory