Abstract: A method and apparatus for associating a patron with wagering game play at a gaming machine in a server-based gaming network is disclosed. The method includes associating a unique patron identification with the patron, establishing a patron account for the patron where the patron account is identified by the unique patron identification, associating the gaming machine with a universal personal identifier device for receiving a universal personal identifier having a patron identification where the universal personal identifier device is capable of detecting and transmitting the patron identification, receiving the patron identification, comparing the patron identification to the unique patron identification, and enabling collection of patron accounting data resulting from wagering game play if the patron identification matches the unique patron identification.

Abstract: The invention includes binding elements (30) which are coupled together by coupling structure (22) to facilitate storage and automated feeding, handling and/or binding operations. The coupling structure (22) may be in the form of, for example, extraneous structure such as a cartridge or runners disposed between the individual elements, the coupling structure (22) may be in the form of a continuous length of binding element (30) itself. Extraneous coupling structure (22), such as runners are severed from the binding elements (30), or the continuous length of binding elements is cut to size either before, during, or after the feeding, handling and binding operations. Extraneous coupling structure (22) may also be attached to the binding elements (30) by way of a flexible connector which provides a degree of tolerance in the relative positions of the binding element and the coupling structure or other structure used to feed the elements into an automated process.