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Ngala Tented Camp
Timbavati Game Reserve
Ngala Tented Camp is an intimate and tranquil safari getaway that celebrates the romance of African nights under canvas. Situated in a private reserve of the same name, which shares unfenced borders with South Africa's famed Kruger National Park, game drives from the camp explore an untouched Big Five wildlife wonderland famed for its lion encounters and vast herds of buffalo, as well as sightings of the rare African wild dog.
One of the few luxury tented camps in the area, Ngala is wild and remote, with animals walking freely through the camp and the camp's rim-flow swimming pool situated along the river bank so guests can view wildlife in the thickets while splashing in its cooling waters.
The excellent game viewing experience is complemented by other activities such as stargazing, moonlit riverbed dinners and bush sundowners. Constructed with a light footprint and reflecting &Beyond's ethos of sustainable luxury, the camp has been carefully designed to minimise environmental impact. The latest technology in insulation materials, extensive use of LED lighting and most energy efficient air conditioning and hot water generating solutions have resulted in significantly reduced energy requirements for the camp.
Six tented suites offer exclusive comfort and warm hospitality, combined with the thrill and immediacy of big night sounds and close natural encounters. Overlooking the seasonal Timbavati riverbed, the stylish interiors feature a fusion between easy living and contemporary design. The overall essence is undeniably African, with warm, earthy tones used throughout. Al fresco showers, private wooden decks and an open design invite the wilderness inside, creating an exclusive retreat where the ultimate in simple sophistication combines with exceptional outdoor experiences.
|Our standard rates for a Deluxe Tent
|Rate Name
|1 January 2015 to 31 December 2015
|1 - 3 Nights
|1 to 3 nights
|1 January 2015 to 31 December 2015
|4 - 5 Nights
|4 to 5 nights
|1 January 2015 to 31 December 2015
|6+ Nights
|6+ nights
|1 January 2016 to 31 December 2016
|1 - 5 Nights
|1 to 5 nights
|1 January 2016 to 31 December 2016
|6+ Nights
|6+ nights
Prices are on a per person sharing basis (pps).Special offers for longer stays or when booked as part of a longer itinerary may apply - details on request.
All meals, tea/coffee, 2 scheduled daily shared game drives in an open 4x4 safari vehicle accompanied by an experienced ranger and tracker, interactive bush walks (one hour) accompanied by an experienced armed tracker, house wines, local brand spirits and beers, soft drinks and bottled water and a laundry service are included. IN ADDITION, There is a one-off Conservation fee of R190 per person, payable directly to the lodge when you arrive. PLEASE NOTE: For self-drive visitors, there is also a one-off cash vehicle entrance fee of R140 per vehicle payable at the main Control Gate. All rate subject to change.
Children aged 12 years and older are welcome. Adult rates apply.
Special Offers
Code: SAF-03006
Valid: 1 January 2015 - 31 December 2016.
For couples staying 2 nights or more at AndBeyond's Ngala Safari Lodge or Ngala Tented Lodge as part of their honeymoon, the bride pays just 50%.
This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other special offer running over the same period nor can it be used with the Long Stay Discounted rates.More Properties On This Offer
All of the holidays we prepare are tailor-made, but this might give you an idea of how Ngala Tented Camp can be included in you own dream holiday.
Suggested Itineraries
Capturing the Passion of Africa
This honeymoon is an epic trip that takes in some of South Africa's most unforgettable highlights.
12 night itinerary.
Read more..
*Prices are per person and are based on today's exchange rates. Exchange rates are subject to change and are updated daily.
Prices exclude international flights - ask us if you would like to include these.
General Information For Guests
The excellent game viewing experience is complemented by other activities such as stargazing, bird-watching and moonlit bush dinners and bush sundowners (weather permitting).
Guest areas overlook the Timbavati riverbed.
The inviting lap pool, merging with the contours of the riverbank, is an ideal place for guests to cool off.
There is a small crafts shop.
All major credit cards are accepted.
From Eastgate Airport/Hoedspruit: Turn right and then turn left onto the R40. Continue along here, and turn left onto the R531 towards the Kruger Orpen Gate. Ngala Tented Safari Camp gate is signposted on your left, approximately 190m before the Orpen Gate entrance. Guests will be met by a security guard who will direct you towards the camp. For self-drive visitors, there is a vehicle entrance cash fee of R140 per vehicle payable at the gate.
Do not get out of your car until you reach the camp. You may see some wildlife on your way - if you do, slow down and maintain a good distance. Do not drive off-road in any circumstances.
From Hazyview: Follow the R40 towards Klaserie. Turn right onto the R531 towards the Kruger Orpen Gate, and follow the directions as above.
From Johannesburg/Pretoria: Take the N12 or N4 highway to Witbank/eMalahleni (from Johannesburg Airport, follow signs to Boksburg to find the N12). Follow the N4 highway past Middleburg (Toll Plaza), Belfast/eMakhazeni and Machadodorp (Toll Plaza). Follow the Schoemanskloof option on the N4 and then take the R36 to Lydenburg/Mashishing.
Follow the R36 to Ohrigstad, and go through the Strijdom Tunnel. Turn right onto the R531 to Klaserie/Acornhoek and follow the signs to the Orpen Gate.
Popular Alternatives to Ngala Tented Camp
These are the top properties booked by people who considered staying at Ngala Tented Camp, but for one reason or another booked a different property. It may have been that Ngala Tented Camp was not available on the nights they wanted to stay, or they decided that somewhere else was better suited to their budget or itinerary.
If you're not sure which place might be best for your own trip then either give us a call or get in touch via the website, and we'd be delighted to run through the options with you.
Savanna Private Game Reserve, Sabi Sand (via Newington Gate)
Safari Lodge
Guest Rating: 5.0 / 5.0 based on 3 ratings
Savanna has 4 luxury tented suites and 3 spacious executive tented suites. Rustic reed blinds, coir carpets, a draped canvas ceiling and built in lounge area all combine to create the most luxurious tents in Africa.
Savanna Private Game Reserve Honeymoon PackageValid: 1 January 2014 - 31 December 2015.
Ngala Safari Lodge, Timbavati Game Reserve
This gracious, colonial-style safari lodge is renowned for its superb accommodation. The 20 thatched chalets each have en-suite bathrooms and air-conditioning, and a private veranda.
Ngala Honeymoon SpecialValid: 1 January 2015 - 31 December 2016.
Tanda Tula Safari Camp, Timbavati Game Reserve
Safari Lodge
Guest Rating: 4.3 / 5.0 based on 3 ratings
The words 'private', 'secluded' and 'tranquil' best describe the Tanda Tula safari experience. This intimate camp is renowned for its charming service and passionately well informed staff.
Gomo Gomo Game Lodge
Safari Lodge
Guest Rating: 4.5 / 5.0 based on 23 ratings
Each chalet is tastefully decorated and furnished with the emphasis on outstanding comfort. Central facilities include a large viewing deck and splash pool with a 180 degree view of the river shaded by an old leadwood tree.
Hanglip Mountain Lodge
Safari Lodge
The exclusive Hanglip Mountain Lodge has a main reception area with a private lounge and dining room as well as a swimming pool, boma and courtyard. Enchanting gardens provide a paradise of foliage and tranquility.
Inyati Private Game Reserve, Sabi Sand (via Newington Gate)
Each of the immaculately furnished en-suite thatched chalets and executive suites all have glorious river views. Each is equipped with air-conditioning, mosquito nets, telephone, and beautifully appointed bathrooms.
Phinda Forest Lodge, Phinda Game Reserve
Safari Lodge
Guest Rating: 5.0 / 5.0 based on 4 ratings
Wake up to the sight of graceful nyala and duiker browsing in the foliage of the sand forest right outside the glass walls of your private suite. Each suite is decorated in a stone and sand palate, which is accented with Zulu orange.
Free Flights IncludedValid: 1 January 2016 - 31 December 2016.
Ezulwini River Lodge, Balule Nature Reserve
Safari Lodge
Guest Rating: 4.4 / 5.0 based on 10 ratings
River Lodge has an exquisite entertainment area comprising a lounge, bar and swimming pool, all under a large thatched roof. The enormous wooden dining deck looks out over the Olifants River, and there is also an elevated thatched viewing deck overlooking the bush.
Clifftop Lodge
Safari Lodge
Guest Rating: 4.0 / 5.0 based on 1 ratings
Eight luxury suites, all overlooking the flowing Sterkstroom River, each enjoy their own private deck and plunge pool perched on the cliff, allowing guests the opportunity to view game from the privacy of their suites. Each of the suites is en-suite, with both indoor and outdoor showers.
Exeter Leadwood Private Game Lodge, Sabi Sand (via Newington Gate)
Safari Lodge
Guest Rating: 5.0 / 5.0 based on 4 ratings
Cocooned in natural bush, the 4 luxurious suites are distanced from each other to offer solitude and serenity. Interiors are uncluttered yet contemporary, restrained yet cosseting.


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Tuesday, August 28, 2007
To be or not to be?
Dad was away most of the time - busy with his business. If we were lucky, we saw him twice/thrice a month, else it will be just once. So, She was almost like a single mom managing home, us and her children at school(that's what she called them, even though they were in XIIth). Since mom worked and did a damn good job managing her work and home, there was not a single question in our minds to go to work. We instinctively knew that we were going to work when we grew up. Amma had rejected many topnotch positions in the field of marine biology and fisheries department, she had rejected an offer to do Phd in her college with full aid from her university. All to be at home with her kids - till they were ready to goto school. Then She picked up the profession of teaching so that it wouldn't interfere/affect with her family and children. She gave up a lot, not because she had to, but because she wanted to. She made a conscious choice and took everything in her stride without any complaints.
Being Amma's daughter, I knew better to put family first. I'm not a very ambitious person. Though my colleagues might differ on that from the way I'm passionate about my work. I LOVE working outside home. And I like to do it really well. I don't care about becoming the next CEO or Director; I just like a job well done. Mine was an arranged marriage - arranged as in Appa found the 'varan' and was happy with the family and left it to me to decide. (Sometimes I think arranged marriage, these days and love marriages aren't very different, but that's totally another post!) I am of the opinion that, in an arranged marriage to work well, the couple should spend the the first year after the wedding together, esp the first six months where you argue and argue till there is nothing to argue about, anymore :) Of course you got to live together for all the years to come but very crucial especially for the first year for the couple to bond better. Since I worked a couple of years in US before my wedding, there was no question of me getting a job here... but it would have been difficult to get a job in the same city as my husband. So, I took a break (for those curious folks, yep! we did argue about almost everything in the first few months and settled down eventually!) and then we moved to Canada.
By this time, I was eager to go back to work. With the baby's arrival, me going back to work had been happily postponed. I wanted to be with her at least a year before I can get back to work. I couldn't have left her with anybody other than me. And we bonded beautifully. She's 11 months already. I might take a few more months before taking up a job. While I like being home and we have a great time, I'm not my happiest best at home. Some need caffeine. I need the stimulation that work provides and a life outside home and people (though sometimes not!!!) for me to function my best. I love the time I spend with my daughter and would do it all over again in a heartbeat.. but I think she'll have an even happier mom who can enjoy her even more when her mom starts working again. We would very much like a second child (not right now though) and I would love to stay at home for the next child too for at least year. It is going to be difficult initially for me to leave her at daycare when I go back to work, but I guess we'll manage somehow. Besides we need the extra money too. We want to take care of our kids' education and also have a safety net to fall back on. There won't be much guilt when I go back to work. I'll be much more happier.
Thanks everybody for sharing your thoughts... I could identify with at least one thing in every single post. Like our lovely Tharini who said so beautifully, we all look for happiness - for our family, for us and be at peace. May we all find that, in this life, without much heartache.
For if momma ain't happy, nobody is.
(There! If you read through my post carefully, you can even find my mother's day post in there somewhere embedded in this post. heheeeee!)
10 comments:
- Tharini said...
It was nice to learn more abt u Kay. Sweet how u and ur sister decided things for urself way back then.
Here's to your last few months at home! Make it the best yet by far...have fun, enjoy your space and then go back with a bang! :)
- August 28, 2007 at 8:02 AM
- Asha said...
HeHe!! You bet!! If mom isn't smiling,there is a lot s..t happens that day!:D
Kay, I am glad you found the balance.Enjoy the time with your kid and of course,when the time's right, you can always go to work outside and be happy about it.Hugs:))
- August 28, 2007 at 8:59 AM
- Kavitha said...
Enjoy your time with Meera before you return to work.
In a way, I feel the few hours of separation would do good both for mom and baby (mom gets the intellectual stimulation or satisfaction or whatever reason she has, for working outside the home and at the same time, baby gets to experience others too)
I cant wait to go see Biddu by the end of the day everyday...and as soon as he sees me, he would start jumping in excitement and the smile he gives me then, what a bliss !!
- August 28, 2007 at 9:48 AM
- Dee said...
Hi Kay,
Have fun and you say be happy :)..all the best in everything...
- August 28, 2007 at 10:24 AM
- GettingThereNow said...
Aren't we all glad that so many mommies are happy with their choices? :D And Tharini was bang on target - be happy with what you choose. Guess I should go and post this on her post, eh? :P
Glad to learn a little bit more about you Kay. Your mom is indeed a very good role model for those women who do want to get back to work after baby arrives.
- August 28, 2007 at 11:20 AM
- shweta said...
Hi Kay,
Enjoy your stay with Meera..Time flies so quickly.Once you are ready join the workforce :) Good Wishes to you ..
- August 28, 2007 at 3:29 PM
- DR said...
Hi Kay,
Nicely said...
The most important thing is to be satisfied with whatever you are doing.
We need not defend our actions to anybody else...WE OURSELVES should be proud of our decision...
Enjoy the last few months of being at home...
- August 29, 2007 at 5:24 AM
- indosungod said...
Kay wow you discussed with your sister as a kid about staying home with your kid, at that age I was not sure if I wanted to be married well being not married :) does not preclude anything but we don't want to go there do we.
I am sure Meera and you both benefited by you staying home during the crucial first year. I am same as you if I stay home the whole day I set myself and everybody around me on edge. I admire your mother, I am not really sure how working moms a generation ago even managed.(most dads did not take part in child rearing or anything to do with it for that matter). Hugs and Good Luck.
- August 29, 2007 at 6:30 AM
- Kay said...
Thanks Tharini for the wishes :) yeah sweet isn't it... helped us to be very assertive of our decisions when we were asked by relatives and friends.
Haha! Asha :) If you ask my husband, you bet, he'll tell the same thing about me... Thanks for the hug!
Very True, Kavitha.. a few hrs of separation will do good to both. I can see how happy you are to see Biddu by the end of day and how happy he is.
Thanks Dee! You be happy too, always! :)
Thanks CeeKay.. Yeah, I was glad to read about all moms who had written so far and how they are happy with the choices they have made.. Lucky me to have a mom like that! I can never thank my stars enough.
Thanks Shweta.. Times flies... It is like she was born yesterday and yet 11 months have gone by.. I think I'm not yet ready to join workforce...but almost there. :)
Sure dr... I totally agree... Why should we justify? :) It's our choice and our damn life. If 'others' (who have no connection with our everyday life) have problems with it, then that's not our problem. We should just be very sure what we want and then go ahead and do it. There's no point in going on justifying our actions to others.
Indo, Now you open a can of worms.. the I-dont-care-to-be-married phase came much later during my teenages when I knew 'a bit' about marriages. This was just child talk between me and my kid sis when we were kids. We had no idea what it was to be a mom or a working mom. We used to think anything was better than going to school :) and doing homework.
and yes, about moms in that generation. They had it real tough. I feel it was because of them that we have things easy for us. Which dad from that generation helped a mom cook or even change diaper...
I know when I go back to work, that is not going to be a piece of cake either. Work will present it's own challenges. we'll have to manage somehow.. just like, Staying at home, for me, is not easy and sometimes it's sooooo frustrating. but we seemed to have survived this far. somehow. :)
Thanks everybody for the nice comments.
- August 30, 2007 at 9:58 AM
- mnamma said...
Just like you and your sister decided what you were going to be when you were very young, me and my sister also had plans. It is funny to think about it now but I wanted to be a working Mom like my Mom and she wanted to stay at home like my Aunts! Your post brought so many memories. Your Mom should have been a great inspiration for you when you were growing up. Enjoy your time with Meera and my best wishes to you to find a fulfillling, Mom-friendly job.
- August 31, 2007 at 1:05 AM


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3:11 am
Mon May 6, 2013
Warren Buffett Welcomes Bershire Shareholders To Omaha
By editor
Originally published on Mon May 6, 2013 8:12 am
The topics discussed during a five-hour question-and-answer session Saturday included: Berkshire Hathaway's increased size and who will take over as CEO when Buffett, 82, steps down. While admitting the company's expansion has changed things, Buffet demurred when it came to succession specifics.


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Mirzapur-Vindhyachal, city, southeastern Uttar Pradesh state, northern India, southwest of Varanasi, on the Ganges (Ganga) River. Mirzapur was probably founded in the 17th century; by 1800 it had become the greatest trading centre in northern India. When the railway to Allahabad was opened in 1864, Mirzapur began to decline, but it became increasingly important in local trade. Located at a road junction on a major rail line, it is also a centre of industry, including cotton milling, sandstone dressing, and brass ware production, and carpet manufacture. There are temples and ghats, or bathing stairs, along the river; in Vindhyachal is an old temple of Kali, visited by pilgrims.
The surrounding region includes part of the Ganges alluvial plain to the north and some of the Vindhya Range to the south. The area to the south is drained by the Son River; its tributary, the Rihand, has been dammed to create a large reservoir and provide hydroelectric power. Most of the land is irrigated by canals, and rice, barley, and wheat are grown. Pop. (2001) city, 205,053.


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Youngstown, OH (SportsNetwork.com) - Bobby Hain notched a double-double with 14 points and 17 rebounds as the Youngstown State Penguins edged past the Illinois-Chicago Flames, 59-56, in a Horizon League matchup at the Beeghly Center.
Kendrick Perry racked up a game-high 31 points for the Penguins (14-13, 5-7 HL), who broke out of a four-game slide. Shawn Amiker grabbed 10 rebounds in the victory.
Kelsey Barlow tallied 17 points and six assists to lead the Flames (5-21, 0-12), as they dropped their fifteenth consecutive game. Pat Birt netted 15 points and Jordan Harks pulled in 15 rebounds.
The Penguins started slow, shooting just 21.4 percent from the field in the opening half. At the other end, the Flames shot 44.4 percent and led 27-19 at the half.
In the second half, the Penguins improved to 54.5 percent from the floor and sank 13-of-17 from the free-throw line to erase the first-half deficit. The Flames, on the other hand, dipped to 35.5 percent shooting and got to the line for just 3-of-4. With one second left, a Barlow 3-pointer put the Flames back within one, but Perry hit both of his ensuing free throws and put the game away.
YSU outscored the visitors, 14-0, in fast-break points and won despite leading by no more than five points during the contest.
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Updated: 04/30/2013 6:43 AM KSTP.com By: Leslie Dyste
The Lowry Tunnel in Minneapolis was closed overnight Monday.
MnDOT closed the tunnel from 10 p.m. Monday until 5 a.m. Tuesday for spring cleaning.
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$500 OFF 1st Month's Rent! VIDEO TOUR! ALL ELECTRIC! RECENTLY REMODELED HOME! BONUS SPACE UPSTAIRS!
A NEWLY REMODELED HOME IN RIVERDALE WELCOMES YOU! This home is equipped with ALL ELECTRIC utilities. That is correct...NO GAS BILL!!
This house will welcome you with it's great sized living room, fire place, and half bath. The kitchen includes an eat-in area with a great home appeal. All of the bedrooms are located upstairs. One of the bedrooms at the top of the stairs will amaze you with it's space. It is very large and has a storage room with it as well. The master bedroom has beautiful vaulted ceilings, walk-in closet and the master bath has new flooring.
Appliances in this home will include a range/oven, dishwasher, and refrigerator.
This home is zoned for Church Street Elementary, Riverdale Middle School, and Charles Drew High School.
- New carpet
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- Great room sizes
Rental Terms
Map of 66 Inverness Trace, Riverdale, GA 30274
Contact Us
Bravo Group, LLC
(678) 833-2872


text:
A multilevel game includes a base game in which game credits and free passes may be accumulated and saved for play in a bonus event. The bonus event comprises a tic tac toe-like game in which a player is required to correctly answer trivia questions in order to receive a marker in a space of a matrix. Upon correctly answering trivia questions or presenting free passes in lieu of correct answers to trivia questions associated with a prespecified number of spaces in a prespecified arrangement on the matrix, the player may be granted an award or access to a next-higher level of the bonus event. Nonwinners of the bonus event are returned to the base game. Various other features include "double-or-nothing" bonus play. The multilevel game may be effected by a gaming machine or a system that includes a gaming machine.
1. A game playable on a gaming machine, comprising:
a display of a matrix including a plurality of spaces;
trivia topics assigned to and displayed in association with selected spaces of said matrix;
a randomly selected trivia question associated with each of said trivia topics and displayed upon selection of one of said selected spaces;
a plurality of possible answers to said randomly selected trivia question presented to a player in association with display of said randomly selected trivia question; and
an award associated with a player providing a correct answer to at least one of said trivia questions.
2. The game of
3. The game of
4. The game of
5. The game of
6. The game of
7. The game of
8. The game of
9. The game of
10. The game of
11. The game of
12. The game of
13. The game of
14. The game of
15. The game of
16. The game of
17. The game of
18. The game of
19. The game of
20. A gaming method, comprising:
effecting play of a base game; and
upon the occurrence of at least one predetermined event during play of said base game, initiating a bonus event, said initiating said bonus event comprising:
displaying a matrix including a plurality of spaces;
assigning trivia topics to selected spaces of said matrix;
randomly selecting a trivia question associated with each of said trivia topics;
displaying a plurality of possible answers to said randomly selected trivia question; and
providing a player with an award associated with said randomly selected trivia question if the player provides a correct answer to said randomly selected trivia question.
21. The gaming method of
providing the player with a pass to be used in lieu of a correct answer to a trivia question that has been presented to the player.
22. The gaming method of
23. The gaming method of
24. The gaming method of
25. The gaming method of
26. The gaming method of
27. The gaming method of
28. The gaming method of
29. The gaming method of
30. The gaming method of
initiating play of a next-higher level of said bonus event when the player selects correct answers to a plurality of randomly selected trivia questions presented in spaces of said matrix that are in a prespecified arrangement.
31. The gaming method of
32. The gaming method of
33. The gaming method of
permitting the player to select each of said trivia topics.
34. The gaming method of
randomly selecting each of said trivia topics.
35. The gaming method of
36. The gaming method of
37. The gaming method of
38. A gaming system comprising:
at least one processor programmed to:
effect play of a base game;
evaluate whether a prespecified event has occurred during said base game;
initiate play of a bonus event if said prespecified event has occurred, said bonus event comprising at least one level in which:
a matrix including a plurality of spaces is displayed;
trivia topics are assigned to selected spaces of said matrix;
a trivia question associated with each of said trivia topics is randomly selected;
a plurality of possible answers to each said trivia question is displayed; and
a player is awarded with an award associated with each said trivia question if the player provides a correct answer to at least one said trivia question.
memory associated with said at least one processor;
at least one input element in communication with said at least one processor; and
a display in communication with said at least one processor.
39. The gaming system of
40. The gaming system of
a communication element in communication with said at least one processor; and
a central controller at a location remote from a gaming terminal comprising said at least one processor, said at least one input element, said display, and said communication element, said central controller in communication with said at least one processor by way of said communication element.
[0001] Field of the Invention: The present invention relates generally to methods, apparatus, and systems for gaming and, more specifically, to methods, apparatus, and systems for effecting a trivia-based bonus game.
[0002] State of the Art: Gaming machines, such as so-called "slot" machines, have long been a significant facet of the gaming industry. The most basic implementation of a slot machine is a mechanical device with multiple vertically spinning reels. The reels are invoked to spin as a player pulls a lever of such a slot machine. When the reels stop at random positions, a symbol or combination of symbols appears along at least one "pay line" to indicate winning of credits, money, or another award. The probabilities and predetermined payout for all winning possibilities are controlled to provide a desired or legal "house percentage" of the total monies played.
[0003] Video versions of gaming machines have become increasingly popular in recent years, and include fully computerized machines and hybrid machines that include both mechanical and electronic components and which may be referred to as "electromechanical" machines. Continuing with the slot machine example, many video slot machines include a computer-generated depiction of multiple reels, which simulate the mechanical reels of conventional, mechanical slot machines. Play of electronic gaming machines, such as video slot machines, video blackjack machines, video poker machines, and the like, is typically effected by way of one or more processors of such machines under control of software programs which include random number generators (RNGs), which assure a truly random result. Thus, a game may have a statistically sound basis for achieving desired verifiable payout levels for both experienced and inexperienced players.
[0004] A current, widespread enhancement to conventional single game gaming machines is the addition of a "bonus" or secondary game or event, which typically occurs if a player achieves at least one selected outcome during play of the underlying base or primary game. Many bonus events are retrofitted as so-called "top boxes" to conventional, single game gaming machines, in which the preexisting game comprises the base game, thus enhancing player appeal with respect to play of the games of gaming machines that are already in service.
[0005] In many cases, the bonus game is a singular event, in that play on the gaming machine switches from the base game to the bonus game when a certain base game outcome is achieved, the bonus game then being played to completion. Examples of this type of bonus game, wherein the bonus games are variously configured, are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,823,874, 5,848,932, 5,882,261, and 6,089,978, all of which have been assigned to Anchor Gaming, assignee of the present invention. Progressive games, wherein a portion of wagers is allocated to fund a jackpot, have also been embodied as bonus games. A notably successful example of a so-called "linked progressive", wherein gaming machines are linked for purposes of contributing to the award from a bonus event won at one of the linked gaming machines, is the WHEEL OF FORTUNE bonus game, which is based upon the aforementioned '874 and '932 Patents.
[0006] In the WHEEL OF FORTUNE game, players are notified of the various events in the game through visual indicators such as flashing lights, computer-generated text images in the display, and audible indicators such as theme music playing. Specifically, a player is notified that he or she has won a chance at the bonus event by seeing the symbol appear in the display screen, flashing of a "Spin the Wheel" button on the gaming machine housing and playing of the WHEEL OF FORTUNE game theme. When the player pushes a button labeled "Spin the Wheel", the bonus wheel spins and sounds of the wheel spinning are generated. When the wheel stops and indicates an award, the sound of audience applause is generated. All of the foregoing elements are intended to enhance the player's gaming experience and to attract other players to the game.
[0007] In card games, so-called "wild" cards may be used by a player in lieu of any other particular card to form a winning hand. A wild card must be played in the hand in which it is dealt or drawn. Thus, if a wild card will not form a winning hand with the player's other cards, it is of no benefit to the player.
[0008] In U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,431,408 and 6,120,031, both to Adams, a gaming machine is disclosed as using a conventional card game, e.g., poker, but operating with the proviso that wild cards dealt in one game, or "hand", may be reserved for use in future games. Thus, a player having a "hand" which is little helped by a wild card may save the card for a future hand, where a wild card may enhance the winnings.
[0009] Various techniques are used in the gaming industry for attracting players to a gaming machine and maximizing the enjoyment experienced while playing a particular game. Such techniques include, for example, enhanced audio and visual effects, changes in game format during play (e.g., bonus games), frequency of winning indicia combinations, and the like.
[0010] Conventional gaming machines, including the bonus games thereof, typically execute games of chance which do not require a player to strategize or use any mental skill.
[0011] Nonetheless, there is a need for games and gaming machines that cause a player to exercise his or her mental skills. Such games may prolong and enhance interaction between a primary or base game and any bonus games, thus maintaining a high level of entertainment value and personalization of the bonus gaming experience. Providing a gaming device with elements of chance as well as skill at a plurality of interacting levels would be attractive for many players at all levels of experience. cl BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] The present invention includes a gaming method with discrete levels of play, as well as gaming units and systems by which play of the game of the present invention may be effected. A gaming unit incorporating teachings of the present invention may be configured as a "stand-alone" game, i.e., not connected to a network of other gaming devices for cooperative play, competitive play or linked progressive play. The present invention also includes gaming units that are networked or otherwise communicate with one another.
[0013] The game includes a first, base game, or level of play, in which credits, money, or other awards are given based on certain prespecified outcomes in a game of chance, such as the reel combinations of symbols in slot machines, the card "hands" in poker and blackjack, and the like. In addition, upon the occurrence of one or more prespecified events in the base game, play may proceed to a bonus event, in which the player may make additional wagers and receive additional awards. Moreover, during play of the base game, it may be possible to obtain items that are useful for the bonus event. Again, the occurrence of one or more prespecified events, which may be the same as or different from the prespecified events that result in entry to the bonus event, may be required for a player to obtain such items. Alternatively, such items may be "purchased" during play of the base game with a prespecified number of game credits.
[0014] By way of example and not to limit the scope of the present invention, the base game may be any game which may be incorporated into a gaming device, including, but not limited to, simulated card games, lotto, keno, "slots", and the like. Randomly awarded prizes include conventional game credits, which may be "cashed-in" for money, as well as items that are useful during play of the bonus event and may be saved for future use therein.
[0015] In a bonus event according to the present invention, a player is required to respond to trivia questions, with bonus awards being provided for correct responses to one or more of the trivia questions.
[0016] In an exemplary embodiment of the bonus event, a display of a "tic tac toe" (i.e., a 3×3 matrix) or other matrix (e.g., a 4×4 matrix, a 5×5 matrix, a three-dimensional matrix (e.g., a 3×3 ×3 cube matrix), etc.) is presented. At least some of the "spaces" of such a matrix are filled with trivia subjects or topics from which questions may be randomly drawn. The trivia subjects or topics may be selected by a player of the bonus event or randomly determined. The player may be required to answer questions in a prespecified number of linearly arranged adjacent spaces (e.g., a "row") or other prespecified locations in order to receive an award or the option to continue to a next-higher level of the bonus event. If the player answers the question properly or presents a "free pass", which may have been obtained during play of the base game, a marker, such as an "X", is placed in the appropriate space of the matrix. Otherwise, the player loses the opportunity to position a marker in that particular space.
[0017] An award may be provided to the player for each correct answer. When all of the questions have been correctly or incorrectly answered without correct answers being in a prespecified arrangement (e.g., a row, four corners, four spaces arranged in a square, etc.), play returns to the base game and may continue at that level. If, on the other hand, the correct answers are given in the first level of the bonus event at spaces in a prespecified arrangement, the player may be provided with an additional bonus award or provided with an option to proceed to another, higher level of the bonus event.
[0018] As an example, in a 3×3 matrix, different topics may be randomly assigned to six of the nine spaces, with the player being required to answer questions selected from three spaces that are arranged in a line, or "row", along the matrix correctly before finishing the bonus event or being provided with an opportunity to proceed to a next-higher level of the bonus event. Upon selecting a space and its associated trivia topic, a trivia question relating to that topic is presented to the player. If the player provides the correct answers to questions selected from three spaces in a row (i.e., horizontally, vertically, or diagonally adjacent) along the matrix, the player may be given an award or provided with the option of proceeding to a next-higher level of the bonus event.
[0019] In embodiments of the present invention where the bonus event includes multiple levels, each level may include a tic tac toe game similar to that of the first level of the bonus event. The player is again presented trivia questions and a choice of answers for each of six subjects within a tic tac toe matrix. Play at the second level of the bonus game may require the player to answer trivia questions that have been selected from topics different from those that were presented during the first level of the bonus event, or questions that are deemed to be harder than those of the previous bonus event level. Correct answers to the trivia questions or use of a "free pass" may result in the player receiving awards. In one embodiment, completion of a prespecified arrangement of spaces, such as a tic tac toe line, in the secondary bonus game results in a doubling of the bonus award won by the player. The game may include a "double or nothing feature" wherein failure to complete a prespecified pattern of spaces on the matrix results in loss of credits won at the secondary bonus level.
[0020] A gaming apparatus of the present invention may be adapted for use with a player tracking card, such as a so-called "smart card", for recording the player's progress level in the game, "free passes" collected, and game credits, thereby making that player's game settings and resources portable. Thus, a player may exit a game and re-enter it later on the same or different game machine, starting at the same progress level at which the game was earlier exited. As a result, the player may avoid forfeiture of free passes or a particular level of play that has been achieved, or leave such to another player.
[0021] A gaming machine of the invention may be connected to an accounting and gaming information system operatively coupled to a central server computer. The system may include a player tracking module and a pit, cage and credit system for providing automated casino transactions.
[0022] The gaming machine may include a single processor or group of processors that effect play of the base game and the bonus game, or may be a hybrid unit including an existing gaming machine on which the base game may be played and an ancillary "top box" installed on the gaming machine to add the possibility for play of the bonus event to the existing gaming machine.
[0023] It is contemplated that the game of the present invention may be implemented with a bank of networked gaming machines and further contemplated that the game may be implemented as a linked progressive game among a plurality of networked gaming machines at a single site or plurality of different sites.
[0024] Many versions of the gaming device and play methods are possible by changing the game "rules", payout table, difficulty of questions and the like. The gaming device may be configured to permit a player to choose a particular version or difficulty level for playing. The payout table may be varied in accordance with the degree of challenge of the questions to be answered.
[0025] The nature of the present invention as well as other embodiments thereof may be more clearly understood by reference to the following detailed description of the invention, to the appended claims, and to the several drawings herein, wherein:
[0026]FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary gaming machine architecture suitable for use in implementing the present invention;
[0027]FIG. 1A is a front view of an exemplary gaming machine suitable for embodying a multilevel game of the present invention;
[0028]FIG. 1B is a schematic block diagram of a portion of a gaming machine suitable for use in implementing a multilevel game of the invention;
[0029]FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of a configuration in which gaming machines are connected to a central server computer;
[0030]FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of a gaming system including a central server computer and a plurality of gaming devices remote therefrom and in communication therewith;
[0031]FIGS. 4, 5, 6, 6A and 7 together form a flow chart of an exemplary embodiment of a base/bonus/secondary bonus implementation of a game of the present invention, wherein:
[0032]FIGS. 4 and 5 are flow charts for a base or primary game;
[0033]FIG. 6 is a flow chart for a primary bonus game event;
[0034]FIG. 6A is an alternative flow chart for a primary bonus game; and
[0035]FIG. 7 is a flow chart for a secondary bonus game event;
[0036]FIGS. 8, 9, 10 and 11 are schematic illustrations of a tic tac toe matrix display in which various possible random assignments of topics to matrix squares are shown;
[0037]FIGS. 12, 13, 14 and 15 are schematic illustrations of a tic tac toe matrix display in a bonus play level showing the effect of sequentially answering questions relating to six topics in one exemplary embodiment of a game of the present invention.
[0038]FIG. 1A depicts the exterior of a gaming machine 100 of the invention. Within the gaming machine 100 but not shown in FIG. 1A are a central processing unit and memory associated therewith. The gaming machine 100 is shown as including two upper game display devices 178 and a coin return 62. Coins or tokens may be inserted in coin acceptor 52 and added to the game credits that are available on the gaming machine 100. Similarly, currency may be inserted in bill receiver/validator 54 to increase the number of available game credits.
[0039] Optionally, or as an alternative to the coin acceptor 52 and bill receiver/validator 54, the gaming machine 100 may include a card reader 192 configured to at least partially receive a player card that stores account information personal to the card holder and, possibly, other gaming information. The card reader 192 is configured to retrieve information stored on such a player card and may be configured to alter the information stored on the card or to store additional information on the card. The card reader 192 communicates information, such as the amount of money available in an account associated with the player card, to the processor, which may then cause (e.g., by contacting a remotely located computer with which the account is associated or by storing information on a computer chip on the player card) an amount of money selected by the player, if available, from the account for the purchase of game credits on the gaming machine 100.
[0040] A player may take action, such as selecting the amount of money to be withdrawn from an account, the wager amount for each game played, and actions associated with one or more games to be played on the gaming machine by way of play input controls 66 of the gaming machine 100, such as the illustrated buttons or a touch screen 166 of one of the game display devices 178, in which the player touches icons that are presented to provide the central processing unit with desired input. Alternatively, a play handle 60 of the gaming machine 100 may be pulled to initiate play, instead of using a play input control 66 or a touch-sensitive screen 166.
[0041] In use and operation, and referring to FIG. 1, gaming machine or device 100 includes a memory expansion board 140, a processor board 142, a main board 144 and a back plane 146 integrally or separately formed. Memory expansion board 140 as well as processor board 142, including a graphics system processor and video expansion board VGA/SVGA 148, are operably coupled to the main board 144. The main board 144 preferably includes memory 70 in the form of ROM, RAM, flash memory and EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read only memory). In addition, the main board 144 includes a system event controller 72, a random number generator 200, a win decoder/pay table 74, status indicators 76, a communications handler 78 and a display/sound generator 80.
[0042] The main board 144 is operably coupled to the back plane 146, which may include additional memory, such as in the form of an EEPROM, and connectors to connect to peripherals. Furthermore, the back plane 146 provides a plurality of communication ports 136 for communicating with external peripherals. The back plane 146 provides the coupling between discrete inputs 150 and the processor board 142 and main board 144. Typical examples of elements that provide discrete inputs 150 are coin acceptors, game buttons, mechanical hand levers, key and door switches and other auxiliary inputs. Furthermore, the back plane 146 provides the coupling between discrete outputs 152 and the processor board 142 and main board 144. Typically and by way of example only, elements that provide discrete outputs 152 are in the form of lamps, hard meters, hoppers, diverters and other auxiliary outputs.
[0043] The back plane 146 also provides connectors for at least one power supply 154 for supplying power for the processor board 142, a parallel display interface (PDI) 156 and a serial interface 158 for game display device 178. In addition, the back plane 146 also provides connectors for a sound board 160 and a high-resolution monitor 162. Furthermore, the back plane 146 includes communication ports for operably coupling and communicating with an accounting network 164, a touch screen 166 (which may also serve as a game display device), a bill validator 155 incorporated in a currency (bill) acceptor, a printer 168, an accounting network 170, a progressive current loop 172 and a network link 174.
[0044] The back plane 146 optionally includes connectors for external video sources 180, expansion buses 182, game or other displays 184, an SCSI port 188 and an interface 190 for at least one card reader 192 (debit/credit, player card, etc.) and key pad 194. The back plane 146 may also include means for coupling a plurality of reel driver boards 196 (one per reel) which drive physical game reels 198 with a shaft encoder or other sensor means to the processor board 142 and main board 144 if a gaming device 100 is configured for play of a reel-type game. Of course, the reels may be similarly implemented electronically by display as video images, technology for such an approach being well known and widely employed in the art. In such an instance, reel driver boards 196 and physical game reels 198 with associated hardware are eliminated and the game outcome generated by the random number generator 200 on main board 144 is directly displayed on a video game display 184 and, optionally, on a separate game display device 178, as known in the art. Other gaming machine configurations for play of different wagering games such as video poker games, video blackjack games, video Keno, video bingo or any other suitable primary games are equally well known in the art. It will also be understood and appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that selected components of gaming device 100 may be duplicated for play of a bonus game or event in accordance with the present invention, in that at least a separate board with a second random number generator may be employed, with associated peripherals and links thereto, for play of the bonus game. In the conventional situation wherein the bonus game of the present invention may be operably coupled as a "top box" or otherwise associated with a conventional, existing gaming machine configured for play of a base game, many of the components illustrated in FIG. 1 and described with respect thereto will be duplicated, including separate software and associated memory for conducting play of the bonus game with associated pay tables for the bonus awards.
[0045] It will also be understood and appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that selected components of gaming device 100 may be duplicated for play of a bonus game or event in accordance with the present invention, in that at least a separate board with a second random number generator may be employed, with associated peripherals and links thereto, for play of bonus games.
[0046] In implementation of a stand-alone version of the present invention, orchestrated audio and visual effects that are both attractive and dynamic in nature, are provided by software in the main board 144 and appropriate hardware. The atmosphere that is created by fill-motion video animation with sound provides for exciting and enjoyable play and attracts the attention of others, particularly during play events. During idle periods, such effects may be continued, and include the audio-visual effects of reel spins, winning sequences, and the like.
[0047] In implementation of the present invention, the gaming machines offering play of the bonus event of the present invention may be employed, as schematically depicted in FIG. 2, in a gaming network 210 that includes a central server computer 220 operably coupled to a plurality of gaming machine G1, . . . Gn which may include both electronic and reel-type game machines. It is notable that, unless the gaming network 210 is configured for progressive play, a variety of different makes of gaming machines G1, G2 . . . Gn offering widely different games may be incorporated in gaming network 210, since the bonus event operates independently of the primary game on each gaming machine. The central server computer 220 automatically interacts with a plurality of gaming machines G1, G2 . . . Gn to activate a bonus event.
[0048] More specifically, and again referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the gaming network 210 includes a central server computer 220, a bonus event computer 240 and a plurality of gaming machines G1, G2 . . . Gn. Each gaming machine G1, G2 . . . Gn includes a controller assembly 280 operably coupled to the central server computer 220 and comprised of a controller unit designed to facilitate transmission of signals from each individual gaming machine G1, G2 . . . Gn to central server computer 220 for monitoring purposes. In addition, the controller assembly 280 includes a network interface board fitted with appropriate electronics for each specific make and model of each individual gaming machine G1, G2 . . . Gn.
[0049] Referring to FIG. 2, in electronic video games, the central server computer 220 is operably coupled to at least one video game display element 118, as shown at the left-hand side of FIG. 2, and sequesters a portion of the video game display element 118 for displaying video attract sequences to attract potential players. Video game display element 118 may be used for display of both the primary and bonus games. Where the gaming network 210 includes reel-type gaming machines G1, G2 . . . Gn, as shown at the right-hand side of FIG. 2, the central server computer 220 may be operably coupled to at least one active display element 120 so that potential players receive a clear indication of attract sequences and the active display element 120 may be used as a video display for the bonus game. As shown at the left-hand side of FIG. 2, the gaming machines G1, G2 . . . Gn may also be provided with a second video display element 122 as an alternative to sequestering a portion of the video game display element 118 for displaying video attract sequences and the bonus game. In addition, the central server computer 220 may include sound-generating hardware and software for producing attractive sounds orchestrated with the video attract sequences at each of gaming machines G1, G2 . . . Gn if such is not already incorporated therein. The games support input and output between the player and the games for such devices as heads-up display, joystick, keyboard, mouse and data glove via interface modules connected through the expansion bus or buses 182 and SCSI port 188.
[0050] The attractive multimedia video displays and dynamic sounds may be provided by the central server computer 220 by using multimedia extensions to allow gaming machines G1, G2 . . . Gn to display full-motion video animation with sound to attract players to the machines. During idle periods, the gaming machines G1, G2 . . . Gn preferably display a sequence of attraction messages in sight and sound. The videos may also be used to market specific areas of the casino and may be customized to any informational needs.
[0051] Furthermore, the gaming network 210 includes bonus event computer 240 operably coupled to the central server computer 220 for scheduling bonus parameters such as the type of bonus game, pay tables and players. The functions of central server computer 220 and bonus event computer 240 may, of course, be combined in a single computer. Preferably, the gaming network 210 further includes a real-time or on-line accounting and gaming information system 260 operably coupled to the central server computer 220. The accounting and gaming information system 260 includes a player database for storing player profiles, a player tracking module for tracking players and a pit, cage and credit system for providing automated casino transactions.
[0052] As previously implied, a bank of gaming machines G1, G2 . . . Gn may be networked together in a progressive configuration, as known in the art, wherein a portion of each wager to initiate a primary game may be allocated to bonus event awards. In addition, and referring to FIG. 3, a host site computer 320 is coupled to a plurality of the central server computers 220 at a variety of mutually remote casinos or other gaming sites C1, C2 . . . Cn for providing a multi-site linked progressive automated bonus gaming system 310.
[0053] Preferably, the host site computer 320 will be maintained for the overall operation and control of the bonus gaming system 310. The host site computer 320 includes a host site computer network 322 and a communication link 324 provided with a high-speed, secure modem link for each individual casino site C1, C2 . . . Cn.
[0054] Each casino or other gaming site C1, C2 . . . Cn includes the central server computer 220 provided with a network controller 230 which includes a high-speed modem operably coupled thereto. Bidirectional communication between the host site computer 320 and each casino site central server computer 220 is accomplished by the set of modems transferring data over communication link 324.
[0055] A network controller 230, a bank controller 232 and a communication link 234 are interposed between each central server computer 220 and the plurality of networked gaming machines at each casino site C1, C2 . . . Cn. In addition, the network controller 230, the bank controller 232 and the communication link 234 may optionally be interposed between each central server computer 220 and at least one separate display 236 at each casino site C1, C2 . . . Cn. However, the bonus gaming system 310 may include hardware and software to loop back data for in-machine meter displays to communicate with bonus event award insert areas on gaming machines G1, G2 . . . Gn.
[0056] In the present invention, gaming proceeds on more than one level or mode. Thus, during play of a base game 10 (FIG. 4), opportunities to play a bonus event 20 may be randomly awarded. In the bonus event or game 20, correct answers to trivia questions are required for winning. The questions are randomly drawn from trivia subjects or topics 94 which are associated, by random selection, with particular spaces 92 of a matrix 90, such as the tic tac toe matrix depicted in FIGS. 8-11. The bonus event 20 may include multiple levels, in which case each bonus level 20A, 20B . . . 20 n of the bonus event 20 of the invention utilizes a matrix 90 of game spaces 92, such as the squares depicted in FIGS. 8-11.
[0057] Selected components of gaming device 100 may be used to effect play of such a bonus event, as shown in FIG. 1B. Thus, for example, a first bonus level 20A may utilize a second main board 144A with its own random number generator (RNG) 200A and a connected second processor board 142A. The second main board 144A is connected to the back plane 146 and to peripherals through communications ports 136. The random number generator 200A on the second main board 144A is used to select various game parameters during bonus play.
[0058] Additional bonus play levels 20 n may be enabled by use of additional main boards 144 n and processor boards 142 n. Any number of bonus levels may be used, but the example described herein uses two bonus levels in addition to the base game 10 play level.
[0059] It will also be understood and appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that instead of a separate board for each level of play, a single enhanced main board 144 may include all of the required board elements for operating a base game as well as a multilevel bonus game.
[0060] In implementation of a stand-alone version of the present invention, orchestrated audio and visual effects, which are both attractive and dynamic in nature, are provided by software in the main board(s) 144, 144A . . . 144 n and appropriate hardware. The atmosphere which is created by fill-motion video animation with sound provides for exciting and enjoyable play and attracts the attention of others, particularly during play of the bonus event. During idle periods, such effects may be continued and include the audio-visual effects of reel spins, winning sequences, and the like.
[0061] As shown in FIGS. 8-11, the game parameters selected by random number generator 200A include the random positioning of player-selected or randomly selected trivia subjects or topics 94 on at least some spaces 92 of matrix 90. Trivia topics 94 may be placed in all of the spaces 92 of matrix 90, or in a predetermined number of randomly selected spaces 92, such as the six spaces 92 depicted in FIGS. 8-11.
[0062] Upon selecting a space 92 of a matrix 90 that contains a trivia topic 94, a trivia question that pertains to that trivia topic 94 is randomly selected. Each trivia question is presented to a player along with a plurality of possible answers, only one of which is the correct answer to the presented trivia question. For example, a trivia question displayed on the game display device 178 (FIG. 1A) may be: "Who is buried in Grant's Tomb?" and a player must choose from three answers which are displayed:
[0063] A. Grantland Rice
[0064] B. Small Business Grant
[0065] C. U. S. Grant
[0066] As an alternative to presenting possible answers in a multiple-choice format, at least some of the trivia questions may be presented in a "true/false" format and, thus, the possible answers may be presented simply as "TRUE" and "FALSE".
[0067] A pay table for correct answers in bonus play may follow any hierarchy which is consistent with the limitations of the gaming machine 100 and the gaming environment. Thus, for example, for a 3×3 matrix 90 in which six trivia topics 94 are displayed and, thus, in which six trivia questions may be presented, an exemplary pay table may be:
[0068] Alternatively, a fixed award amount may be provided for each correct answer.
[0069] In addition, completion of a pattern 98 of a predetermined number of spaces 92 in which the trivia questions have been correctly answered by the player, such as the depicted line of three spaces 92 with correct answers, will provide the player with an additional bonus award and/or passage to a subsequent bonus level 20B, 20C . . . 20 n of the bonus event 20. This may be true if the pattern 98 (e.g., the depicted line) is completed on the third, fourth, fifth or sixth play at the bonus level 20A, 20B . . . 20 n. Alternatively, the rules of the bonus event 20 may require a player to correctly answer all of the trivia questions that appear in the spaces 92 of matrix 90 to successfully complete a particular bonus level 20A, 20B . . . 20 n. Play at each subsequent bonus level 20B, 20C . . . 20 n may be effected in substantially the same fashion.
[0070] As noted in FIGS. 8-11, random assignment of six selected topics 94 to six spaces 92 of a 3×3 matrix 90 may result in the following possibilities for achieving a pattern 98 (e.g., the depicted line) of correctly answered questions:
[0071] (a) No straight lines 98 of topic-filled squares 92, as shown in FIG. 8;
[0072] (b) One straight line 98 of topic-filled squares 92, as shown in FIG. 9;
[0073] (c) Two straight lines 98 of topic-filled squares 92, as shown in FIG. 10; and
[0074] (d) Three straight lines 98 of topic-filled squares 92, as shown in FIG. 11.
[0075] Thus, random presentation of the matrix 90 of FIG. 8 may not permit a player to advance to the next level of play, even if all questions are correctly answered. In FIGS. 9-11, exemplary patterns are shown for presenting possibilities for one, two or three lines 98 of correct answers. It is known, of course, that, as the number of possible winning combinations of a given number of topics is increased, a player's odds of winning increases.
[0076] Referring now to FIGS. 4, 5, 6 and 7, which together form a flow chart of an exemplary sequence of events for play of the gaming machine 100 shown in FIGS. 1, 1A and 2, FIGS. 4 and 5 show the play sequence for an exemplary base game 10. The interfaces between FIGS. 4, 5, 6 and 7 are indicated by circled letters A, B, C, D, etc.
[0077] A player begins play of the base game 10 on gaming machine 100 by first, at step 406, obtaining one or more game credits on gaming machine 100 (FIGS. 1 and 1A), for example, by introducing cash into the machine via a coin acceptor 52 (FIGS. 1 and 1A), a bill receiver/validator 54 (FIGS. 1 and 1A) or by transferring money from an account associated with a player card inserted into a card reader 192 (FIGS. 1 and 1A). The numbers of game credits and free passes that have been purchased and/or accumulated on the gaming machine 100 are displayed at step 420, and the player is prompted to wager a quantity of credits.
[0078] The player may then select a number of game credits to wager at step 408. The game may have a minimum wager (typically, one coin or credit) and a maximum wager (typically ranging from three to ten or more credits). The wager is decremented from the player's total to update the player's account, and the player prompted to initiate play of the base game 10 (e.g., "spin" the "reels" of a slot machine or have cards in a poker or blackjack game dealt).
[0079] At step 410, the player initiates play of the base game 10 (e.g., by pressing a button 66 (FIGS. 1 and 1A) with a label such as "play" or "deal", touching a similarly labeled icon on a video touch screen 166 (FIGS. 1 and 1A), pulling play handle 60 forward, or by other means, as available on the gaming machine 100).
[0080] Turning now to FIG. 5, the result of the base game 10 (FIG. 4) may be categorized by:
[0081] (a) No Win, at reference character 504, in which the player's account is updated at step 420 of FIG. 4 and the player is prompted to repeat step 410 of FIG. 4;
[0082] (b) Base Game Win, at reference character 506, in which winnings of game credits are calculated from the pay table described below. Payouts of any game credit winnings may be roughly proportional to the number of game credits that were wagered at step 408 of FIG. 4 and are incremented to the total number of game credits that have accumulated on the gaming device 100 (FIGS. 1 and 1A);
[0083] (c) Bonus Credit or Free Pass Win, at reference character 508, in which one or more free passes may be won and saved for use during play of the bonus event 20. The free passes are incremented to the player's account and displayed; or
[0084] (d) Bonus Event Trigger, at reference character 510, in which the result of the base game 10 moves play to the bonus event 20.
[0085] In a gaming machine 100 having a plurality of mechanical reels 198 (FIG. 1), the wager and play initiation results in spinning of the reels, the stopping places of which determine an outcome which may include winning of game credits and/or "free passes" and/or entry into a bonus event 20. In an electronic video version of gaming machine 100, random number generator 200 determines the outcome relating to game credits, free passes, entry into a bonus event 20, etc. A predetermined pay table lists the payout for various play results and amounts wagered. As an example, where the base game 10 is a video 5-card draw poker game with a minimum wager of one credit (e.g., 10 cents, 25 cents, one dollar, etc.), a pay table may be as follows:
[0086] The payout may be configured to be affected by the amount wagered. For example, an additional award may be granted for wagering the maximum permissible number of credits (e.g., five credits, an additional 10%, etc.). Alternatively, additional awards may be provided in gradually increasing amounts, depending upon the probability of the outcome, the number of credits wagered, or some combination thereof.
[0087] "Free passes", which permit a player to skip a trivia question while indicating in the space 92 of the matrix 90 in which the trivia question appeared that the player has provided a correct answer thereto or which may provide the player with another trivia question that is randomly selected from a group of trivia questions related to the trivia topic 94 that appears in the selected space 92, may be randomly awarded during play of the base game 10. Alternatively, the player may pay a prespecified amount or redeem a prespecified number of game credits to purchase a "free pass" and/or pass on a trivia question, or to be provided with an alternate trivia question at a particular space 92 of the matrix. "Free passes" may also be awarded (randomly or upon correctly answering trivia questions) or purchased during play of the bonus event 20.
[0088] In a first embodiment of the game, occurrence of the Bonus Event Trigger, at reference character 510, during play of the base game 10 automatically initiates play of the bonus game 20. In an optional embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, a player may reject automatic entry into the bonus event 20 and, at reference character 516, return play to the base game 10. As an example, a player may wish to win more free passes in the base game 10 before entering the bonus event 20, or may simply choose to cash out his or her remaining game credits, at step 404 of FIG. 4. A player may choose to cash out at step 404 of FIG. 4 at any time during play of the base game 10 or bonus event 20 to recover all of the game credits that remain on the gaming machine 100 (FIGS. 1 and 1A). If a player is using a player card or so-called "smart card", he or she may also recover and save not only the free passes, but also his or her position in the game. Thus, the current game can be exited and re-entered at a later date, and even on a different gaming machine 100 having the same configuration. In the event that a large number of game credits have been accumulated on a gaming machine 100, the gaming machine 100 may optionally print and issue a voucher to the player, which may be redeemed by the casino or other gaming administrator responsible for the gaming machine 100. The gaming machine 100 then decrements the numbers of game credits and free passes to zero.
[0089]FIG. 6 depicts the process of playing a first level 20A of an exemplary bonus event 20. In this bonus event 20, a matrix 90 is displayed at step 602, having a 3×3, 4×4 or 5 ×5 matrix of spaces 92. In addition, the player's game credits and number of free passes may be displayed.
[0090] In this description, a 3×3 matrix 90 will be utilized for illustrating the device and game. A large number of trivia topics 94 with a large number of preselected, associated trivia questions are stored in memory 70 (FIG. 1) of the gaming device 100. At step 604, the random number generator 200 (FIG. 1) of the gaming device 100 is activated to select six trivia topics 94, each of which is randomly assigned to one of the nine spaces 92 of the matrix 90. Thus, six spaces 92 are topic-filled and provide 0, 1, 2, or 3 straight three-space lines 98 in which trivia topics 94 are displayed, depending upon the results of the random assignment. In addition, at step 606, a trivia question related to one of the trivia topics 94 is displayed, together with a plurality of possible answers, including at least one correct answer 88A (FIG. 13). The player is prompted to select an answer at step 608.
[0091] If a player selects the correct answer at step 610, a correct answer indicium 88A (FIG. 13) that indicates that a correct answer has been chosen, shown as an X, is displayed in the proper space 92 of the matrix 90 and a corresponding number of game credits may be awarded at step 612. An incorrect answer indicium 88B (FIG. 14) comprising, for example, the words "Wrong Answer", is shown at step 614 if an incorrect answer is chosen. If a player does not know or is unsure of which answer is the correct answer to a trivia question that has been presented in connection with a particular space 92 and the player has purchased or been awarded a "free pass", the "free pass" may be redeemed in place of the correct answer. Once a trivia question has been answered, the player may be prompted to play the next trivia topic 94, unless correct answers have been presented for the appropriate, preselected number of spaces 92 in the required, prespecified arrangement, for example, three spaces 92 in a row or line 98, as determined at step 616. In that case, play may proceed, at step 702, to a subsequent bonus level 20B, 20C . . . 20 n. Alternatively or in addition, the player may be granted an additional bonus award for successfully completing a level 20A, 20B . . . 20 n of the bonus event 20.
[0092] A player who has attained entry into the bonus event may opt to return to play of base game 10, at step 420 of FIG. 4, attempt to obtain one or more free passes to use in the bonus event 20, or cash out at step 404 and exit the game at step 424. In the event that a player successfully completes the bonus event 20, play returns, at step 618, to the base game 10 at step 402 of FIG. 4.
[0093]FIG. 6A is an alternative flow chart for the bonus event 20. As shown, trivia questions relating to each of the presented trivia topics 94 must be answered (correctly or incorrectly) to complete play of the bonus event 20. If, after answering all of the trivia questions that are presented, all of the spaces 92 of at least one prespecified pattern 98 (e.g., a three-space line) are filled with correct answer indicia 88A, play of the bonus event 20 may proceed to a subsequent level 20B, 20C . . . 20 n. Extra game credits may be awarded for completion of multiple prespecified patterns 98 (e.g., more than one line).
[0094] In the matrix 90 of FIGS. 12-15, assignment of trivia topics 94 to randomly selected spaces 92 results in one horizontal line 98 and one diagonal 3-square topic-filled line 98 for play. The random assignment is shown as resulting in a random order of topics for which trivia questions are asked. In addition, the numbered trivia topics 94 may be played out of order, as randomly selected by the random number generator 200 (FIG. 1). As shown in the exemplary matrix 90 of FIG. 12, the topics 94 assigned to the squares 92 are:
[0095] The trivia topics 94 may be randomly selected form a predetermined set or selected by the player. For example, a scrollable list of topics 94 may be presented on-screen to a player upon entering the bonus event 20. The player selects a set of (e.g., six) trivia topics 94 from the list, and the random number generator 200 (FIG. 1) randomly assigns each of the selected topics to a particular number of spaces 92 for playing the trivia tic tac toe game.
[0096]FIG. 13 shows the exemplary matrix 90 following presentation of Topic 3, and a correct answer by the player. The correct answer indicia 88A is shown as an X.
[0097]FIG. 14 shows the same matrix 90 following the selection of a wrong answer to a question concerning Topic 1. A wrong answer indicium 88B may be shown simply as the words "Wrong Answer".
[0098]FIG. 15 depicts the same matrix 90 following a player's response to the first four questions. In addition to the correct answer to Topic 3, Topic 4 was also correctly answered. When the question for Topic 6, together with three possible answers, was displayed, the player presented a free pass to complete line 98, and was not required to answer the question. Completion of line 98 initiated entry into the next-higher bonus level 20B of the bonus event 20, sending play to an additional tic tac toe matrix 90.
[0099] Each additional level 20B, 20C . . . 20 n of the bonus event 20 may comprise a matrix 90, trivia topics 94, trivia questions and answers similar to those of the initial level 20A (FIGS. 6, 6A) of the bonus event. In the example described herein, the second bonus level 20B is also the final level of the bonus event 20, the game being limited to a base game 10 and two bonus levels 20A and 20B.
[0100] In the particular embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the final level 20B of the bonus event 20 comprises a "double or nothing" wager based on answering each of three trivia questions in a three-space line (an example of a preselected number of spaces 92 and space pattern 98) of a newly presented matrix 90. The play is similar to that of the first level 20A of the bonus event 20, as depicted in FIG. 6. Upon entering the second level 20B, game credits and free passes that have been accumulated on the gaming machine 100 (FIGS. 1 and 1A) are displayed thereby, at step 702. The player is then prompted, at step 704, to play the event for "Double or Nothing", or alternatively take the bonus awards without playing the second level 20B of the bonus event 20 (i.e., return to the base game 10). For example, the game may be configured so that the player receives a given number of game credits for attaining the second level 20B; these credits comprise the "pot" which is wagered for double or nothing, or alternatively taken without playing second level 20B. The game may be configured so that additional winnings or losses during play at the second level 20B may be added to the pot or wager.
[0101] If the player elects to play the final level 20B, at step 706, the random number generator 200 of the gaming machine 100 (FIG. 1) may select trivia topics 94, as well as their associated trivia questions and the possible answers that correspond to each trivia question at step 708 and the first trivia question to be answered is displayed on the gaming machine 100 at step 710. The random number generator 200 assigns the trivia topics 94 to particular spaces 92 of the displayed matrix 90 and, optionally, an order in which the trivia questions are to be presented or asked. Upon receiving a trivia question, the player selects an answer from the list of possible answers at step 712 and is awarded game credits or other awards (e.g., a free pass) for correct answers, at step 714. The high-resolution monitor 162 or display 178 of the gaming machine 100 (FIG. 1), also is updated at step 714 to reflect whether that the correct answer to the trivia question was presented. In the event that an incorrect answer has been selected, the high-resolution monitor 162 or display 178 is updated at step 718, to reflect that the incorrect answer to the trivia question was presented. If a player succeeds at completing the prespecified pattern 98 of spaces 92 at 722, the number of game credits that were accumulated during play of the bonus event 20 or the total number of game credits that were available to the player upon entry into the final bonus level of the bonus event 20 may be doubled, at step 722. Otherwise, an inquiry may then be made, at step 720, as to whether the final trivia question of level 20B has been asked and answered. If not, process proceeds back to step 702. If so, process flows to step 724. At step 724, like number of game credits may be decremented from the total number of accumulated game credits available on the gaming machine 100 to the player.
[0102] If, at step 706, the player chooses not to play the final level 20B, play of the base game 10 (FIG. 4) may resume, with any bonus game credits received being combined with other game credits that have been accumulated on gaming machine 100 (FIGS. 1 and 1A.)
[0103] Once a bonus award is made, it is logged onto a bonus credit meter or a consolidated award credit meter as known in the art, to either be retrieved by the player or used for further wagers, all as known in the art. If the payout is sufficiently large to require an IRS form W2G, the gaming machine preferably locks up and a signal is sent to central server computer 220 (FIG. 2) for reconciliation of the award.
[0104] The multilevel game as described has many configurations and optional features. It may be formed to incorporate electronic play at all levels, not requiring physical reels. It may be applied in a "top box" form in combination with a conventional electromechanical base game gaming machine. In such a configuration, it employs a visually perceptible representation, such as a video representation on a video display of bonus play and base play results. A keypad, either on the gaming machine housing (such as play input control 66 described in the context of FIG. 1A) or a portion of a touch screen on the gaming machine (such as touch screen 166 described in the context of FIGS. 1 and 1A) may be employed to input player decisions relating to bonus events.
[0105] In addition, the game of the present invention may be effected in a competitive environment, where two or more players compete with one another on a sequential basis (i.e., by taking turns) or based on a rate of play of the base game and qualification for the bonus event therein. One player may prevent another player from receiving a larger award or successfully completing a level 20A, 20B . . . 20 n of the bonus event by correctly answering trivia questions that prevent the second (another) player from obtaining correct answer indicia 88A in a prespecified arrangement of spaces 92 of the matrix 90.
[0106] While the foregoing describes a game with a plurality of bonus levels, a simple form of the game may have a single base game and a bonus event with a single level of play. Alternatively, there may be multiple possible levels in the bonus event.
[0107] It will be recognized from the above description that the gaming device and game method of this invention enables a player to use mental skill in a regulated gaming environment, adding a great deal of interest and excitement to playing the game. As the gaming method of the present invention includes the effects of both chance and mental skill, as well as the possibility for entry from a base game into a bonus event, it is conducive to the use of attention-attracting video and audio effects.
[0108] While the present invention has been disclosed herein in terms of certain exemplary embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize and appreciate that it is not so limited. Many additions, deletions and modifications to the disclosed embodiments may be effected without departing from the scope of the invention. Moreover, features from one embodiment may be combined with features from other embodiments. The scope of the instant invention is only to be limited by the claims which follow.
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Contacting Viacom Customer Service Center
Viacom is a multinational media company founded in 2006. The company primarily deals with movies, and television programs. There are several brands under the Viacom umbrella, including, BETT, CMT, MTV, LOGO, Nickelodeon, Spike and Paramount Pictures.
Contact Info:
Customers can connect with a live customer service agent or a representative from the corporate office Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm EST. You can also connect with the customer service department by traditional mail, email and through social media.
Phone Contact Numbers
- Corporate Headquarters: 1-212-846-6700
- Customer Service: 1-800-516-4399
Mailing Address
Viacom1515 Broadway – 52nd FloorNew York, NY 10036
ViacomOne Astor Plaza, ManhattanNew York City, NY 10036
Official Website
The Viacom website http://www.viacom.com/Pages/default.aspx is not the flashiest of sites. The company provides the information you need about the brands and the most popular shows. Customers can read the corporate blog, the news of the company and how the company is engaged in corporate responsibility programs.
Social Media
In the event you cannot reach a customer service agent by phone or email, we recommend using the Viacom social media pages. Several of the questions answered were addressed in a timely manner. The majority of the questions answered within 2 to 4 hours.
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/viacom
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Viacom
- Blog: http://blog.viacom.com/
Customer Service Email
There was limited information needed in order to send a message to the customer service department. After filling out the customer service form, we sent our message. The message related to the ratings of television shows. We wanted to know if Viacom could provide a rating for the shows. Although this could potentially be a long list, the automated response stated we should hear from a customer service agent within 48 hours.
- Customer Service: http://www.viacom.com/Contact/Pages/default.aspx
- Investor Relations: email@example.com
Our Experience
We would like to note the customer service department is not the easiest to reach, considering you have to call the corporate headquarters. We call and immediately connected with the operator. When we requested to speak with a customer service agent, this is when the call went south. The call was transferred a total of 5 times and each department was not the customer service department. After approximately 7 minutes, we reached a live customer service agent. The questioning surrounded around where customers could find information relating to new programs. Instead of answering the question, the agent simply directed us back to the website. The customer service department appeared to not want to take care of the customers. Our experience was not the best, was yours? Take a moment to share your Viacom customer experience below.


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Baby Lifestyles has featured Holly and Rusty's oceanside maternity portrait session… I love finding my work featured on other blogs and publications! This one was from this past summer; we had gone to North Myrtle Beach to document Holly's first pregnancy, and got some gorgeous portraits of this gorgeous family.
Some of you may know I headed for sunny Las Vegas this past weekend for a photography workshop.
Cameron and Alli had a gorgeous outdoor ceremony at the Rand Bryan House in Raleigh, NC.
I'm so pleased to find some of my portraits from Holly and Rusty's hospital session with their sweet, newborn baby boy featured in the February-March 2012 issue of Baby Lifestyles Magazine. If you haven't checked it out yet, be sure to give it a look-it's full of fun baby shower, birthday, and theme parties, as well as nursery designs to die for.
I LOVE Valentine's Day…can't help it–I'm a hopeless romantic, a sucker for a good love story, and also completely, totally in love with 2 very special guys myself. I'm very lucky to do what I do, because every session or wedding is full of love and people in love.
I love Wedding Row Charlotte! They are such a great resource for Queen City wedding inspirations and vendors, and Alicia, the editor, is super-duper sweet!
Laura and Dennis had very different views on where they wanted to be married. Laura wanted to be married on a sandy beach; Dennis wanted to be married in the mountains. They knew they had found the perfect location when they discovered Rumbling Bald Resort in gorgeous Lake Lure, NC. Surrounded by mountains, they professed their love for each other on a gazebo on a sandy beach.
I haven't posted any of my recently published work lately, so I wanted to catch up on these for you guys (in case you missed them! ) My gorgeous Biltmore Estate bridal session for Ashleigh was featured in Hindsight Bride! They also did a great little portrait gallery.


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- About
- Academics
- Admissions & Aid
- Student Life
- Athletics
- Giving
- Evening/Graduate
- Alumni
- News
Bethlehem, Pa., August 22, 2014—New students are moving in as Moravian College welcomes the incoming class of 2018 for Orientation Weekend (August 22-24) that marks the official introduction to the campus community and the transition into the academic environment. With the orientation of the Class of 2018 comes traditions both new and old including the opening convocation, orientation programs, the traditional class walk, and the campus service learning project. Classes for all students begin on Monday, August 25.
First year students are moving in the morning of Friday, August 22 and representatives from the Admissions Office, Bursar's Office, the Financial Aid Office, Counseling Center, and the Health Center will be present to provide information and answer questions. An Opening Convocation ceremony will take place in Central Moravian Church to signify the ceremonial beginning for new students and a formal "farewell" for parents. Activities are planned until the evening program of entertainment and socialization. For a complete schedule visit New Student Orientation.
On Saturday, August 23 at 12:15 p.m., students will be led by President Dr. Bryon L. Grigsby '90 and senior administrators who will walk the "Moravian Mile." The traditional walk starts at the 1742 oval located at the corner of Locust and Monocacy Streets and follows the Moravian Mile down Main Street to Moravian's Priscilla Payne Hurd Campus on Church Street. A luncheon on the Hurd Campus will follow the walk.
Later in the day students will participate in another tradition at Moravian. Their campus service project is to make the 6,000 candles in Johnston Hall from wax that will be used by the College during the Christmas Vespers Services in Central Moravian Church. After making the candles, students will enjoy HoundFest, sponsored by IMPACT, the student programming board. There will be lots of food and fun activities.
On Sunday morning, activities include an inter-denominational service, first year seminar class meetings, and group discussions of the assigned reading Yellow Bird, a novel by Iraq war veteran Kevin Powers. The book discussion kicks off a year of IN FOCUS themed programing that will provide students with an in-depth examination on the topic of "War, Peace Building and a Just Society."
Dr. Nicole Loyd, vice president for student affairs and dean of students, will lead the Class of 2018 from the admission office lawn in front of Colonial Hall, across the street, through the College gates to Comenius Hall. This crossing ceremony symbolically marks the formal arrival and initiation as members of the Moravian College community. The students will be welcomed individually by President Bryon Grigsby and Gordon Weil, vice president for academic affairs and dean of the faculty.
Moravian College is a private coeducational liberal arts college, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees, that is located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Tracing its founding to 1742, Moravian is recognized as America's sixth-oldest college and the first to educate women. The College emphasizes the deliberate integration of a broad-based liberal arts curriculum with hands-on learning experiences to prepare its 1,600 students, not just for jobs, but for successful careers. Moravian College excels at transforming good students into highly competent graduates who are ready to enter the workplace with confidence or shine in graduate school. Visit the Web site at www.moravian.edu.


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Posted 17 Oct 2012
Link to this post
The situation is as follows:
I'm trying to dynamically create RadButtons (type = option button) in an ASP:GridView. (maybe this should be in a RadGrid, but that's another conversation for another time)
What I did was dynamically add the RadButton on a button.click method as follows:
Dim dupOptionTop As RadButton = New RadButton()
dupOptionTop.GroupName = dgr.Cells(lnColumn).Text
dupOptionTop.ID = dupFile.FILEID
dupOptionTop.AutoPostBack = False
dupOptionTop.ButtonType = RadButtonType.ToggleButton
dupOptionTop.ToggleType = ButtonToggleType.Radio
dupOptionTop.ForeColor = Color.Brown
Dim dupOption As RadButtonToggleState = New RadButtonToggleState()
dupOptionTop.Text = dupFile.FILEID
dgr.Cells(lnMsgColumn + 1).Controls.Add(dupOptionTop)
Dim _options = New List(Of RadButton)
ViewState.Add("options", _options)
Posted 22 Oct 2012
Link to this post
Hi Patrick,
If I understand your scenario correctly, you are dynamically inserting RadButtons in a GridView and you want to persist the information about these buttons through postback. To add the buttons you can either create them on Page_Init and load them in the grid view later when the control is data-bound or configure the template of the grid view programmatically.
As mentioned in the exception message, the RadButton is not marked as serializable thus it cannot be stored in the ViewState. Nevertheless, you can create your own class that will be serializable and will contain the settings of the RadButtons that you create dynamically. Such a class will allow you to store the settings in ViewState and use them when creating the buttons.
the Telerik team
Posted 23 Oct 2012
Link to this post
Hi Slav,
Ah... I see. It turns out that I chose not to use RadButtons after all. I decided on using a RadComboBox, which I can set up in the ASPX and I can dynamically create items with no problem.
Unfortunately, changes in the specs now makes a basic RadComboBox no good; now I'll need a RadGrid inside of a RadComboBox, and I have to deal with issues regarding that. But since that's outside of the scope of this discussion, I will mark your reply as the answer and address the new issue on a separate message and forum.
Thanks for your help,
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Researchers are now studying how some people manage to translate jolts into this kind of growth. "A tragedy can be looked at from multiple angles," says psychologist Barbara Fredrickson of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. "The way to unearth positive emotions and emerge a better person is to be able to find those angles that allow you to see a thread of good."
Older people may be at an advantage when it comes to doing this.
"This is one of the clear places where aging has its upside," Fredrickson says. "Older people experience relatively more positive emotions compared with younger people, which positions them to be better able to bounce back. And more recently, research is showing that older people have a better ability to accept negative events: They have less emotional volatility."
But positivity doesn't necessarily translate into happiness, Calhoun notes: "Keep in mind that growth doesn't lead to a commensurate reduction in stress or suffering. Just because a bereaved parent changes careers, it doesn't mean she doesn't still miss her child and cry every night. Our best guess is that growth and distress are independent."
That's what Mark Noonan has learned, eight years after experiencing a tragic loss. Noonan was a corporate executive from Portland, Oregon, traveling on a business trip to China when he received a phone call: His wife, Carrie, had fallen off a short ladder at home and sustained a fatal head injury. She was only 50; Noonan was 52.
His wife's death "just put a huge black hole in my life," he says. But it also forced him to confront his mounting career dissatisfaction. "I had been driven by securing a retirement for my wife and myself, and what we'd do in those years. When that imploded, the question was, can I go forward or not? For me this was a rebirth moment. It left me thinking, 'Why am I doing this? What's my purpose in life?' I just lost my desire to stay in the corporate world."
When a friend mentioned a new degree program in gerontology at a Portland community college, something clicked. Noonan earned an associate degree in the program and followed that up with several internships at local nonprofits (including the state office of AARP Oregon). Eventually he accepted a position as outreach director at Elders in Action, a local nonprofit advocacy group. "Lots of tragedies happen that make people go out and reassess their lives," says Noonan, now 60. "Mine unfortunately had to do with losing my wife, which I'll never get over. But it's been a catalyst, and it helps me understand what other people are going through when they come through our door."
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