Abstract: A method for conducting bingo games includes using a server to collect game play requests from a plurality of electronic player stations. The server determines if a group of the collected game play requests meets one or more predefined conditions for establishing a quorum, and if so conducts a game with the group of game play requests. Even after the game is started, the server continues to collect game play requests in preparation for conducting additional games. When enough game play requests are collected, the server starts the next game, even if previous games are still in progress.

Abstract: A gaming system and method within a gaming establishment having a plurality of electronic gaming devices for a player to play games of chance or skill. A central database stores a financial account for the player. Each of the plurality of gaming devices communicates with the central database either directly or through a central accounting system. An identification device uniquely identifies the player and is utilized by the player to activate a selected gaming device. When the selected gaming device is activated, an account balance for the player is retrieved from the central database. The selected gaming device maintains a record of the player's account balance while the player plays the game, and reports the updated balance to the central database when the player finishes playing. The player can then activate another gaming device and begin playing with his updated account balance.

Abstract: A lottery ticket distribution system according to the invention includes a ticket distribution center (9) that is in electronic communication with a number of player terminals (10) at locations remote to the ticket distribution center. The ticket distribution center (9) includes an electronic ticket storage device (11, 20) for storing a game set (29) of electronic tickets (31) and distributing the electronic tickets to the player terminals (10). A ticket record manufacturing device (14, 15) operatively connected to the ticket distribution center (9) provides either a nonvolatile data record for each ticket or a hard copy ticket, or both. The nonvolatile data records or set of hard copy tickets for a given game set are not distributed to the players, but are held for verification and dispute resolution purposes either at the ticket distribution center (9) or some other secure location.

Abstract: A firearm carrier for safely transporting firearms. The carrier transversely secures the firearm to a user's body while preventing accidental discharges of the firearm. The firearm carrier is particularly well suited for use on an ATV. The firearm carrier safely, temporarily attaches the firearm to the user's waist in a safe, stable transport configuration. The firearm carrier may also be used as a temporary shoulder sling. The firearm carrier comprises an elongated, adjustable belt that fits around the waist of the user. A quick release buckle system facilitates belt removal. A pair of spaced apart straps project downwardly from the belt. Preferably, the straps project downwardly along the front of the user's legs. Each strap extends to a terminal end. An intermediary leg projects from each strap. Preferably, the straps are appropriately covered by a hook and pile fasteners. The straps encircle the gun during deployment, forming a pair of retention loops that secure the gun to the user's waist.