NEWTON, MA--(MARKET WIRE)--Apr 18, 2008 -- It was announced today that the 5,000-member Gambling Portal Webmasters Association has begun shipping complimentary T-shirts to members whose sites have qualified for the GPWA Approved Portal Seal.

The seal indicates to players from around the world that the site they're visiting is operated in an honest and responsible fashion. To garner approval, GPWA members must submit their sites to a rigorous screening process and meet specific benchmarks.

For example, each site must be managed independently of the websites it promotes. It must respect and uphold copyright standards, refrain from sending spam email, avoid malicious search engine optimization (SEO) techniques, provide consumers with information extending beyond banner ads and links, and act professionally and respectfully in its business activities.

According to Kim DeForest, GPWA Program Assistant, over 450 sites have already qualified for the GPWA Seal of Approval Program. "The growth in the seal program reminds us never to underestimate the ability of thoughtful, dedicated people to make positive change," DeForest said. "It has been thrilling to see webmasters from every region of the globe coming together to proclaim the importance of honesty and professionalism and making that the focus of their work."

The T-shirts display the GPWA logo on the front and three shield-bearing GPWA knights on the back who proclaim the overall trustworthiness of the individual wearing the shirt.

For more information, visit http://www.GPWA.org or call +1 617-332-2850 x104.

     Contact:
     Andrea Mullaney
     Director of Marketing
     Gambling Portal Webmasters Association
     617-332-2850 ext 135