Maryland Lottery Reminds Everyone to Not Give Children Scratch-Off Games as Gifts This Holiday Season

Per the Maryland Lottery: “It’s that time of year when everyone is looking for the perfect gift. Maryland Lottery tickets — especially our holiday-themed scratch-offs — make great presents. But as you’re going over your gift list, keep in mind that Lottery tickets aren’t for children under the age of 18.

“We encourage everyone who plays Lottery games to enjoy them responsibly and remember that Lottery tickets should never be given to children,” said Maryland Lottery and Gaming Director John Martin. “A fundamental part of our product development and marketing efforts is to ensure that our tickets avoid appealing to children, and we work closely with our retailers to make sure that no one under 18 is buying or playing Lottery games.”

The Maryland Lottery strongly supports the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) in its Gift Responsibly Campaign, which raises awareness on the risks associated with underage gambling. NCPG previously sponsored an annual effort during the holiday season to remind Lottery players not to give tickets to children. The effort has been rebranded as the Gift Responsibly Campaign and offers messaging throughout the year.

This year, the Maryland Lottery achieved the top level of certification (Level 4) from the World Lottery Association (WLA). The international organization has a rigorous set of criteria that lotteries must meet to achieve Level 4 status. Lotteries must create checks and balances to ensure that products and promotions do not appeal to children or other vulnerable populations, and must commit to continuously enhancing and improving their responsible gambling efforts in order to maintain their certification. Maryland is one of 10 U.S. lotteries to achieve WLA Level 4 status.

The Lottery displays responsible play messages on all of its marketing and promotional materials. The messages include the 1-800-GAMBLER helpline, which is available 24 hours a day. Maryland residents are eligible for no-cost counseling, regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay. Information is available by calling the helpline number or visiting mdgamblinghelp.org.

“It’s important to remember that these resources are there to assist everyone,” Martin said. “If you have someone in your life who may have a problem, you can call and talk to a professional who can guide you in effective ways to get a conversation started.”

The Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling, a unit of the Maryland Department of Health, has joined the Lottery as a partner in the Gift Responsibly Campaign. The Center of Excellence coordinates treatment services in Maryland through a network of licensed counselors across the state.”

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17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival

Now in its 17th year, the Kensington Day of the Book Festival is a family-friendly street festival featuring 150+ renowned authors, poets, and literary organizations. Enjoy live music on five stages, special guest speakers, military veteran writers and comedians, poetry readings, cookbook demos, children's program, and much more.

Admission is free, and attendees will also be able to explore a marketplace of books and food offerings from local vendors.

Not your average book festival! This festival offers something for everyone!

17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival

Sunday, April 21, 2024, 11am-4pm (held rain or shine!)

Howard Avenue, Kensington, MD 20895

www.dayofthebook.com

Instagram: @kensingtonbookfestival

Contact: Elisenda Sola-Sole, Festival Director

[email protected]

301-949-9416 (text preferred)

FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival

Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.

Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.

Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.

Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.

As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.

Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.

LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!

MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME

2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES

KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!

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