Media Man News

Friday, September 16, 2011

FTSE 250 Movers: Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment rises after ruling - 14th September 2011

Profiles

Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment London Stock Exchange Germany Global Gaming Directory Media Man




News

Financial News News

LONDON - Bwin.party Digital Entertainment got a welcome boost after the German state of Schleswig-Holstein passed a new rule which enables companies to operate sports-betting websites in the area.

The new law was narrowly passed 46 to 45 in a move which sees the region break away from the country's 15 other states on the ruling of online betting.

Bus and train firm FirstGroup lost some ground on news its finance director, Jeff Carr, is going Dutch, heading off to be chief financial officer at Netherlands-based retailer Royal Ahold.

Carr will be on his bike on 11 November, at which point Nick Chevis, who has held a number of senior finance posts at FirstGroup, will take over as acting finance director until a permanent appointment is made.

FTSE 250 - Risers
Bwin.party Digital Entertainment (BPTY) 123.40p +8.25%
Debenhams (DEB) 56.60p +7.91%
Inchcape (INCH) 289.90p +6.93%
Thomas Cook Group (TCG) 36.15p +6.79%
Imagination Technologies Group (IMG) 378.10p +4.85%
Carpetright (CPR) 525.50p +3.96%
easyJet (EZJ) 323.50p +3.92%
Howden Joinery Group (HWDN) 102.50p +3.90%
Taylor Wimpey (TW.) 30.95p +3.69%
Lamprell (LAM) 277.60p +3.62%

FTSE 250 - Fallers
Kesa Electricals (KESA) 88.95p -5.12%
Hansteen Holdings (HSTN) 74.25p -3.51%
F&C Asset Management (FCAM) 64.95p -2.55%
Devro (DVO) 234.40p -2.50%
Rathbone Brothers (RAT) 1,038.00p -2.44%
Afren (AFR) 103.30p -2.27%
Savills (SVS) 290.80p -1.76%
International Public Partnerships Ltd. (INPP) 114.00p -1.64%
Phoenix Group Holdings (DI) (PHNX) 511.50p -1.54%
FirstGroup (FGP) 341.90p -1.27%

Website Network

Media Man Int

Media Man

Media Man News

Media Man Entertainment

Casino News Media

Global Gaming Directory

Star City Casino Now The Star; Kerri-Anne Kennerley Cinderella Red Carpet - 15th September 2011

Profiles

World Casino Directory Australian Casinos The Star Sydney Media Man







The Star (formally known as Star City Casino) shipped in quite a few celebs tonight, but sadly no Lionel Ritchie.

But wait, Australia's 'Queen KAK' Kerry-Anne Kennerley helped save the day (and night) with her Cinderella like high heel shoe performance of kinds, upon the TV queens' red carpet entrance.

At least one unidentified female Sydney based photographer was seen madly snapping away at Kennerley as she ducked for cover in a corner and fixed up her bad shoe day, with assist from hubby John. Darlings, we must say that 'Queen KAK' looking gorgeous and handled the situation with ease, even offering friendly waves for the photographers, and generous interviews with press from all outlets.

The Star appears to have succeeded in its almost $1 billion make-over, boosted along by the currency of celebrity (thank you for the phrase Bono, and we hope to see you here soon, since your mate Bob Geldoff kindly dropped in a few months ago).

Wonderful to see a solid spread of Australian music media icons such as Molly Meldrum and Richard "Wilde" Wilkins". A media insider tried to tell us that Ronan Keating and Angry Anderson (Rose Tattoo - love your slot game Mr Anderson) were spotted on site, but the latest news is that it was just media spin in attempt to get extra celebrity rub for the night, that wasn't really that badly needed anyway.

We can now confirm that Olivia Newton-John was snuck into Sydney yesterday to prepare for her role as special ribbon cutter. How would you like that on your CV? Is Lionel Richie ever going to forgive her for stealing his otherwise pre arranged spot!

Conspicuous by their absence were NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell and Lord Mayor Clover Moore. We're guessing they're not exactly passionate punters, but The Star is as much about entertainment as it is gambling, so go figure.

The Star calls itself a "one-of-a-kind leisure and entertainment venue". "Queen KAK", Molly and Wilkins seemed to buy into that pitch, but will the average Sydneysider? Bean counters at Echo Entertainment, parent of The Star should know the trends within a few short months.

The rather rich $860 million transformation of Star City includes the re-orientation of the building to embrace Sydney Harbour and the city skyline. Once fully complete, The Star will boast more than 20 restaurants, bars and cafes. There's also going to be a luxury boutique hotel and 16 room spa... perfect for the spa parties naughty little boys and girls just dream of, and an upscale retail collection, a 4000 capacity entertainment centre and world class gaming areas, where you can play the classic slots like Cleopatra and new Hollywood themed games like 'Pink Panther and IGT's 'Sex And The City'.

Created by internationally acclaimed events producer David Grant, the ceremonial opening featured an impressive dazzling light and visual arts display, centred on The Star’s new glass façade harbour-side entrance.

250 guests were picked up by motor yachts from The Rocks and brought across to Pyrmont Bay where they did the red carpet, but no one did it quite like 'Our Kerry-Anne', also assisted by her prince charming husband, John.

Guests dined in to a couple of The Star’s new showcase restaurants – BLACK by ezard and Balla. The jury is out as to whether news media was invited in or not, and an insider whispered "One crazy pap reckons Leonardo DiCaprio and Tobey Maguire were dining. Yeah right Casino Jack. Talk about pushing the celeb angle".

The after-party at The Star’s new cocktail lounge, Cherry, was rocking, and our spies tell us there was no Leo or Toby, but a number of 'Underbelly Razor' actors were spotted, but requested to not have their identity revealed. A few minutes walk away the Rock Lily venue pumped thanks to Australian band Potbelleez.

The Star's hotel accommodation sure looks real accommodating, and we're looking forward to doing a review of one of the fit for a king and queen rooms when the opportunity presents. Might even upstage The Hilton and Palazzo Versace Gold Coast, so stay tuned for that darlings.

Tonight may have been a big night at The Star, but our media mates tipped us off on a few huge big gigs coming up at the former ugly duckling casino, and stars, celebs and tons of world class entertainment are in the wind, all overlooking Sydney's world famous harbour. Comon' Aussies - be a star, and check it out soon. You're in for a real treat.

*photography by Eva Rinaldi Photography



















Websites

The Star
http://www.star.com.au

Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr
http://www.flickr.com/evarinaldiphotography

Eva Rinaldi Photography
http://www.evarinaldi.com

*photography by Eva Rinaldi Photography

Websites

The Star

Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr

Eva Rinaldi Photography

Website Network

Media Man Int

Media Man

Media Man News

Media Man Entertainment

Casino News Media

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Crown Casino: Man in custody after bogus hostage report - 13th September 2011

Profiles

Crown Casino Echo Entertainment Tabcorp Holdings The Star Casinos Australian Casinos World Casino Directory Media Man

A man has been taken into custody following bogus reports of a hostage drama in a hotel room at Melbourne's Crown Towers.

After arriving at the hotel police found the 45-year-old from New South Wales in the room alone and had made the reports that a man was being held hostage.

Police responded to the call shortly before 5pm and the situation was resolved about 30 minutes later.

They say the man has been taken for medical assessment.

Competitor, Tabcorp's - Echo Entertainment's The Star (ex Star City Casino) relaunches this Thursday (15th September). Insiders are not expecting Crown's James Packer to be there, but friend Russell Crowe is strongly rumoured to be there. Yes, the Australian casino wars are back on kids.

Website Network

Media Man Int

Media Man

Media Man News

Media Man Entertainment

Casino News Media

Poker News Media

Global Gaming Directory

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

PartyCasino Wins Media Man 'Online Casino Of The Month' Award

PartyCasino.com has been awarded the Media Man and Casino News Media "Online Casino Of The Month".

Profiles

PartyCasino.com Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment PartyPoker.com Sin City Sinatra Slot PartyPoints Palladium Slot Live Dealer

Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment's igaming suite has grown a custom to winning awards since they first opened for business in 1997.

The competition to knock off PartyCasino.com for the coveted award was intense again this month with massive bids from both WPT Casino, Captain Cooks Casino, Virgin Casino, Betfair, PKR and Noble Casino however there can only be one winner... ladies and gentlemen, that's PartyCasino.com

The award follows PartyPoker's EGR Poker Operator Of The Year and PartyGaming also made the shortlist for EGR Operator Of The Year. Recently Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment's PartyPoker.com also won the Casino News Media "Online Poker Website Of The Month".

The Media Man - Casino News Media accolade is based on a combination of elements including user experience, innovation, trustworthiness, customer service, gameplay, affiliate program offerings, newsworthiness and company values.

PartyCasino.com is one of a number of Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment brands.

The most popular PartyCasino.com games of late include Frank Miller's Sin City, The Sting, Heist, Circus, Rambo, Palladium Slot, The Godfather, Sinatra, Slotbox, Call Of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, Mission: Impossible, The Terminator, Cleopatra, Sinatra, Thor, The Incredible Hulk, The Amazing Spider-Man, Monopoly, Resident Evil, Melon Madness, Wheel Of Fortune and Mega Fortune Wheel.

The PartyCasino.com jackpot is currently approaching the $4 million mark. Players can also compete for The Big One and Marvel Hero Jackpot, playing the Marvel super hero themed online slot games.

PartyCasino's most recent game releases include Frank Miller's Sin City, The Sting, Enchanted Unicorn, Shaaark! SuperBet, Crocodopolis, Alice's Wonderland, Glamour Puss, Super Cubes, Heist, Palladium Slot and Circus Slot.

Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment Co-CEO Jim Ryan has gone on record advising PartyCasino will soon feature more Hollywood blockbuster themed slots. A few in the know journalists and media agents have been recently tipped off that an all time classic movie adaption will be showcased in the PartyCasino portfolio within 1 month. PartyCasino has the world's most impressive line up of Hollywood themed games, and more are just around the corner.

PartyCasino.com and PartyPoker.com customers can also benefit from rewards and bonuses via PartyPoints and the Palladium Lounge. Be certain to check out the PartyCasino exclusive "Cash Machine" that is being championed as one of the greatest online casino promos ever.

Media Man, Casino News Media and Global Gaming Directory do have a b2b relationship with Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment, as they do with dozens of other companies in the gaming, igaming, media and entertainment industry.

Websites

PartyCasino.com

PartyPoker.com

Profiles

PartyGaming PartyCasino PartyPoker PartyBingo Circus PartyCasino Marvel Slots The Big One Melon Madness Casino World Poker Tour PartyCasino Promotions

Cashcade Founders Form Digital Gaming Venture Fund - 12th September 2011

Profiles

Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment PartyCasino.com PartyPoker.com Playtech Cashcade IGT World Poker Tour United States Casinos Gaming World Directory Brands Media Man





Cashcade co-founders Simon Collins and Patrick Southon have announced the formation of a new digital gaming venture capital fund to be supported by Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment PLC.

New Game Capital, as the fund will be called, has been set up with an initial £15m investment from the online gambling giant with the intention of investing in high potential start-ups in the monetised digital gaming sphere.

Since leaving day-to-day operation at Bwin.Party Simon and Patrick have been tasked with developing the fund to ensure that their former colleagues at Bwin are at the vanguard of new developments and innovations in the realm of real-money, virtual currency and social games.

And as promised the team have begun to deliver with today’s announcement of their first foray into the investment market with a first round investment in social bingo provider Avatingo. Commenting on the investment New Game Capital described Avatingo as a “multi-platform virtual world with a personalised social bingo experience.”

Patrick re-affirmed the fund’s commitment to social gaming saying “casual games have brought digital gaming into the mainstream of the global entertainment industry and have attracted millions of new users to gaming over the past five years.”


Digital Gaming Fund Set Up By Cashcade Founders...

A new digital gaming venture capital fund has been launched with an initial £15 million investment from Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment PLC. The fund is being formed by the founders of Cashcade Simon Collins and Patrick Southon.

The fund titled " NewGame Capital " will invest in high potential start-ups in the monetised digital gaming arena that include casual, social, online and mobile services. The fund comprises a £15 million pound investment from Bwin.Party and another £1 million from the investment team. Additional backers are hoped to bring to £50 million for the fund in total. Advisers to the fund include Collins, Southon and merchant bank NewShore Partners. It has already made its first investment in free-to-play social bingo provider Avatingo. According to a statement it “intends to build a portfolio of up to 15 companies with consumer-facing, intellectual property or B2B business models”.

Collins and Southon started Cashcade 10 years with brands like Foxy Bingo and sold the company to Bwin.Party in 2009 for around £96 million and the pair stepped down from day-to-day operations at Bwin.Party in February to concentrate on the new venture.

Noel Rowse who replaced Southon as the MD of Cashcade in January this year commented: “Casual games have brought digital gaming into the mainstream of the global entertainment industry and have attracted millions of new users to gaming over the past five years.

“With the growth of micro-payments and other forms of paid-participation, the lines between online gaming and online gambling have started to blur. We anticipate continued strong market growth in monetised digital gaming and are seeing a very vibrant start-up scene related to the sector both in Europe and North America,” he added.

The chief financial officer of Bwin.Party, Martin Weigold commented: “We see huge innovation taking place across the social, casual, mobile and real-money gaming area. NewGame Capital has a rare combination of entrepreneurial, strategic and financial expertise.

“We believe that this will allow it not only to identify companies with innovative business models, but also to guide them towards long-term success. We are excited to invest alongside such a blue-chip team.”

Website Network

Media Man Int

Media Man

Media Man News

Media Man Entertainment

Casino News Media

Poker News Media

Global Gaming Directory

Monday, September 12, 2011

WWE News: WWE Star Triple H Speaks On His Role, Stephanie McMahon, Movie Scoops and More...

Profiles

Wrestling WWE WWE Studios Triple H Media Man

In a new interview with Chris Yandek of cyinterview.com Triple H responds to his wrestling critics who believe he has received preferential treatment and greater opportunities on WWE TV, because he is married to Vince McMahon’s daughter, Stephanie.

"I know what I accomplished in this business," Triple H said. "I know why I accomplished it. I don’t. Critics and what people say about this or that or my marriage or any of that stuff is crap. It’s mostly started by people that are either jealous or angry that they failed where other people succeeded. I mean, that’s a common, I was told it when I started in the business.

"It’s a common saying in this business, you can make friends or you can make money. You can have buddies or you can get over. Which one do you want? You know, and they don’t come together. And I think, I don’t, I never look at it that way. I don’t have anything to prove to anybody. I’ll put my body of work up against anybody in the business. I’ll put my drawing power up against anybody in the business. That’s irrelevant. It’s people’s opinions”

Triple H follows up by stating what he believes the WWE product lacks today with the newer wrestlers in the company. He explains what these guys need to be successful.

"We’re a victim of our own success," he said. "There’s no place for guys to go and figure out how to do this. We have to teach them kind of and get them up to speed to speak. Even when you get guys off the independent scene, they are very much independent wrestlers and then the independent scene will, so these guys are the greatest guys in the world and you bring them up and they flounder on the big stage. They can’t. They can’t. It’s a completely different animal and a completely different world and you have to, it’s relearning and re-teaching. That’s the biggest, I think, struggle we have is getting these guys there.

"But listen, at the end of the day, you just have to find guys with the right charisma and they have to be the ones to put that charisma out there. Nobody told The Rock how to be The Rock…Work rate is important, guy’s skill in the ring is important, but at the end of the day it’s about charisma. It’s the ability to draw fans to arenas and the guy that draws the most fans to the arena for whatever reason, positive or negative, he’s the top guy.”

He does believe the WWE product could be bigger than the 7.0 ratings that were put up during the WWE Attitude Era:

"Do I think it can ever get that big again? History can repeat. I say without a doubt. I think it can be even bigger…What tomorrow brings, no one knows.”

Finally, Hunter talks about winning the majority of vintage wrestling auctions from his mentor “Killer” Kowalski. He says they are working on a real WWE Hall of Fame for people to see all the historic wrestling items.

“I think I was gone on the road for SummerSlam, but I had somebody at the office bid online and I got I think like 99 percent of everything wrestling-wise, which I’m glad I did. I just didn’t want that to go to somebody that just hid it away somewhere. I wanted the world to be able to see how great he really was. And do I think they’ll ever be a hall of fame? Yes. I think they’ll be a physical hall of fame.

"That’s something we’re working on. It’s definitely in the works. It’s just a matter of when, where. Is it a traveling hall of fame? Is it a permanent place? There’s a lot of questions and thoughts on it and we’re in the process of collecting things to put in there. But the Kowalski stuff for me was as much a legend in this business was also a very personal thing for me.”

Triple H also talks about his movie role in Inside Out out this weekend and many other wrestling topics including his favorite memory. Check out the write up and listen to the entire interview at CY Interview.


Paul 'Triple H' Levesque talks about 'Inside Out'...

"Paul, WWE has tried to make movies in the past and ... well ... and ... " I said very cautiously remembering that "Paul" is pro wrestler Triple H, who is about 6-foot-4 and 255 pounds.

"Come on, don't be shy. I've seen them," Paul Levesque said.

"Well, they haven't been very good," I continued cringing.

"Things are changing," he said. "We actually have some real stars in this one!"

In the past two years, WWE Studios has made "Legendary," "Knucklehead," "The Chaperone" and "That's What I Am." And WWE likely made more money at one pay-per-view event than those four movies brought in.

But Levesque is starring with "real stars" Michael Rapaport, Parker Posey and Bruce Dern in "Inside Out," a movie coming out Friday about prison, the mob and redemption.

"I read the script and really thought it was great," Levesque said about the role originally slated for David Batista, who was hung up in contract negotiations. "This movie isn't all about action. It's a drama with a message."

Levesque, a 42-year-old Connecticut resident, enjoys making movies but doesn't want to do it for a living, like former pro wrestling stars such as Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and "Stone Cold" Steve Austin.

"I remember a conversation with owner Vince McMahon in 1999 or 2000 and he wanted the Rock and I do to more movies," said Levesque, who has been married to McMahon's daughter, Stephanie, for nearly eight years. "The Rock was really interested in that. I was crushed, really. I didn't want to do that. I loved wrestling so much and I still do today."

Levesque's most memorable role has been as Jarko in "Blade: Trinity," along with his current co-star Posey. Even after the release of this film, Levesque is taking it one movie at a time.

"I like going to work and coming home to my family, my kids and my dog," Levesque said. "If I wanted to, I could make phone calls in Hollywood and get more movie roles. But I have no interest in that. Wrestling is my passion." (Credit: ESPN)


Michael Luisi to Head WWE Studios...

STAMFORD, Conn., Sep 07, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) - WWE today announced that Michael Luisi has been named President, WWE Studios, effective immediately. In his new role, Luisi will oversee WWE Studios and all of its motion picture productions and initiatives worldwide. Luisi will continue to report directly to WWE Chairman and CEO Vince McMahon.

"Michael's vast knowledge of, and experience in, the motion picture industry make him a tremendous asset for WWE Studios," said Vince McMahon. "I am confident Michael will continue to expand our motion picture business on all platforms worldwide."

WWE Studios will continue to diversify its motion picture portfolio (theatrical, Home Video, VOD) and expand its global audience through strategic production and distribution partnerships, while leveraging WWE's core fan base of over 500 million households worldwide. Luisi's seasoned film background and strong industry relationships will play a key role in the execution of the strategy. Prior to joining WWE, Luisi spent twelve years at Miramax Films, most recently as Executive Vice President, Worldwide Operations. In that role, Luisi oversaw the day to day operations of Miramax, as well as serving as the principal business advisor to the president of Miramax and primary liaison with then parent company Disney. Luisi's new position will enable WWE Studios to expand the WWE studios brand and productions worldwide.

The first project Luisi will oversee for WWE Studios is "No One Lives," a co-production between Pathe Pictures and WWE Studios starring Luke Evans (The Immortals) and directed by Ryuhei Kitamura, which is currently in post production. Luisi brought the project to WWE shortly after joining the company in January 2011 as its Executive Vice President of Business Development & General Counsel.

About WWE

WWE, a publicly traded company WWE is an integrated media organization and recognized leader in global entertainment. The company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family friendly entertainment on its television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing platforms. WWE programming is broadcast in more than 145 countries and 30 languages and reaches more than 500 million homes worldwide. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, London, Mumbai, Shanghai, Singapore, Istanbul and Tokyo.

Additional information on WWE WWE can be found at wwe.com and corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to http://www.wwe.com/worldwide.

Trademarks: All WWE programming, talent names, images, likenesses, slogans, wrestling moves, trademarks, logos and copyrights are the exclusive property of WWE and its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, logos and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.

Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains forward-looking statements pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to various risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks relating to maintaining and renewing key agreements, including television distribution agreements; the need for continually developing creative and entertaining programming; the continued importance of key performers and the services of Vincent McMahon; the conditions of the markets in which we compete and acceptance of the Company's brands, media and merchandise within those markets; our exposure to bad debt risk; uncertainties relating to regulatory and litigation matters; risks resulting from the highly competitive nature of our markets; uncertainties associated with international markets; the importance of protecting our intellectual property and complying with the intellectual property rights of others; risks associated with producing and travelling to and from our large live events, both domestically and internationally; the risk of accidents or injuries during our physically demanding events; risks relating to our film business and any new business initiative which we may undertake; risks relating to the large number of shares of common stock controlled by members of the McMahon family and the possibility of the sale of their stock by the McMahons or the perception of the possibility of such sales; the relatively small public float of our stock; and other risks and factors set forth from time to time in Company filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results could differ materially from those currently expected or anticipated. In addition, our dividend is dependent on a number of factors, including, among other things, our liquidity and historical and projected cash flow, strategic plan (including alternative uses of capital), our financial results and condition, contractual and legal restrictions on the payment of dividends, general economic and competitive conditions and such other factors as our Board of Directors may consider relevant. SOURCE: WWE

Website Network

Media Man Int

Media Man

Media Man News

Media Man Entertainment

Wrestling News Media

Sports Entertainment News

Sport bosses want veto on spot betting

Australia's seven major sports want to be able to veto types of spot betting, with Federal Sports Minister Mark Arbib on board and urging his state counterparts to follow suit.

The state sports ministers will meet on the Gold Coast on Friday to consider a proposal which would greatly increase the criminal penalties for corruption in sport.

The NRL, AFL and Cricket Australia are among those to push for the power to ban spot betting, while they have also joined calls for 10-year jail sentences for gambling-related corruption.

Spot betting, where gamblers place wagers on sometimes relatively incidental elements of games such as no-balls in cricket or corner kicks in soccer, is considered the area of sports gambling most susceptible to corruption.

The problem was highlighted by the scandal involving three Pakistani cricketers on last year's tour of England.

Mr Arbib says it is vital there is a national approach to what is a growing problem in sport.

"There must be national consistent laws in relation to criminality; that is something I am urging all states to sign up to at the state sports ministers conference on Friday," he said.

"We must have in place integrity agreements between sports and the betting agencies."

Sports gambling in Australia, worth $2.8 billion in 2008, is a major growth industry, although there have been relatively few cases of corruption to date.

"Even the perception that something could be wrong is enough to undermine a sport's public credibility," Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland said.

The veto proposal was contained in an Anti-Corruption Working Paper endorsed on Wednesday by the Coalition of Major Professional and Participation Sports (COMPPS), which represents rugby (union and league), cricket, AFL, soccer, tennis and netball.

The paper, brought together by former International Cricket Council (ICC) chief Malcolm Speed, had three main proposals.

These included calls for severe penalties for the offence of "cheating in connection with sports wagering" and a requirement that betting providers hand over details of suspicious betting patterns.

The sports also want betting companies to pay a fee for using their "intellectual property rights".

"The recommendations detailed in the working party paper set out to preserve the integrity of Australian sport and stem from a desire from professional sports to stamp out betting related corruption," Sutherland said.

"They are individual and collective actions designed to minimise opportunities for corruption and arm sports governing bodies with the ability to deal with corruption effectively if and when it affects Australian sport."

Gambling is becoming increasingly linked with Australian sport as TV broadcasts exhort viewers to bet on events and odds are displayed on perimeter advertising.

Some of the bodies represented by COMPPS also generate revenue from gambling through sponsorship by betting companies.

"The answer that the sports give to that, and I think it's a good one, is that one of the key aspects is intelligence - to get an early warning," Speed said back in March.

"The best way of doing that is for the betting agencies and the sports to be on the same page so that if there are suspicious betting patterns, they can report that to the sports and the police.

"So it's good they have a close relationship. Whether it needs to be as close as it is, in terms of sponsorship, I think that's the issue they face."

Website Network

Media Man Int

Media Man

Media Man News

Media Man Entertainment

Global Gaming Directory

Casino News Media

Poker News Media

Media Man Games

Sunday, September 11, 2011

Casino News Media: Australia, Asia Pacific, American; Sports Betting And More, by Greg Tingle

Profiles

Casinos Casino Games iGaming Politics Sports Sports Betting Australia World Directory Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment Crown Casino Media Man



Sin City Cleopatra Rambo The Godfather Sinatra The Terminator Thor Saturday Night Fever Unicorn Legend Palladium Slot

World Directory Global Gaming Directory World Casino Directory

Sport bosses want veto on spot betting...

Australia's seven major sports want to be able to veto types of spot betting, with Federal Sports Minister Mark Arbib on board and urging his state counterparts to follow suit.

The state sports ministers will meet on the Gold Coast on Friday to consider a proposal which would greatly increase the criminal penalties for corruption in sport.

The NRL, AFL and Cricket Australia are among those to push for the power to ban spot betting, while they have also joined calls for 10-year jail sentences for gambling-related corruption.

Spot betting, where gamblers place wagers on sometimes relatively incidental elements of games such as no-balls in cricket or corner kicks in soccer, is considered the area of sports gambling most susceptible to corruption.

The problem was highlighted by the scandal involving three Pakistani cricketers on last year's tour of England.

Mr Arbib says it is vital there is a national approach to what is a growing problem in sport.

"There must be national consistent laws in relation to criminality; that is something I am urging all states to sign up to at the state sports ministers conference on Friday," he said.

"We must have in place integrity agreements between sports and the betting agencies."

Sports gambling in Australia, worth $2.8 billion in 2008, is a major growth industry, although there have been relatively few cases of corruption to date.

"Even the perception that something could be wrong is enough to undermine a sport's public credibility," Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland said.

The veto proposal was contained in an Anti-Corruption Working Paper endorsed on Wednesday by the Coalition of Major Professional and Participation Sports (COMPPS), which represents rugby (union and league), cricket, AFL, soccer, tennis and netball.

The paper, brought together by former International Cricket Council (ICC) chief Malcolm Speed, had three main proposals.

These included calls for severe penalties for the offence of "cheating in connection with sports wagering" and a requirement that betting providers hand over details of suspicious betting patterns.

The sports also want betting companies to pay a fee for using their "intellectual property rights".

"The recommendations detailed in the working party paper set out to preserve the integrity of Australian sport and stem from a desire from professional sports to stamp out betting related corruption," Sutherland said.

"They are individual and collective actions designed to minimise opportunities for corruption and arm sports governing bodies with the ability to deal with corruption effectively if and when it affects Australian sport."

Gambling is becoming increasingly linked with Australian sport as TV broadcasts exhort viewers to bet on events and odds are displayed on perimeter advertising.

Some of the bodies represented by COMPPS also generate revenue from gambling through sponsorship by betting companies.

"The answer that the sports give to that, and I think it's a good one, is that one of the key aspects is intelligence - to get an early warning," Speed said back in March.

"The best way of doing that is for the betting agencies and the sports to be on the same page so that if there are suspicious betting patterns, they can report that to the sports and the police.

"So it's good they have a close relationship. Whether it needs to be as close as it is, in terms of sponsorship, I think that's the issue they face."


International Gaming Awards 2012 Announced...

International Gaming Awards (IGA) seeks to reward excellence in all areas of the gaming industry. It covers both land casino operations and online gambling operations. IGA has held four successful awards ceremonies and has just announced the dates for the fifth consecutive one. The prestigious event will take place on January 23 2012 at the Sheraton Park Lane Hotel in London. The extravagant event will unite industry professionals from all around the world. The delegates use the awards ceremony to build their brands and also their networks within the industry.

Nominations have been invited for the various categories of awards and will close on October 18 2011. The nominees will be assessed by an expert panel of judges. The categories related to online gambling will be of greater interest. The iGaming Software Supplier category will look at features like originality, competitiveness and innovation in supplying software to online gaming operators. Playtech won the award in 2011. The Mobile Operator of the Year award will recognize simplicity of use, access, reliable technology and integration with other platforms. This is a new category introduced because of the high growth in the mobile sector. Support for responsible gambling is in the limelight and the IGA will felicitate the Socially Responsible Operator of the Year Online. The judges will look for efforts in implementing procedures and safeguards for customers, availability of problem gambling assistance by customer support and initiatives in campaigning for socially responsible gaming.

The Online Casino Operator of the Year award will be one of the most awaited for online casino players. The award will go to the online casino operator that has shown innovation and invention in the casino sector during 2011. The judges will also look at brand identity, marketing, payment processing, usability and games offered. Last year PartyGaming received the award in this category. Awards on similar lines will be given to the Online Bingo Operator of the Year, the Online Poker Operator of the Year and the Online Sportsbook Operator of the Year. Online slots are the heart of online gambling. The winner in the category Slots Operator of the Year (Online) will be a slots operator that has shown growth, offers an array of different slots games to players and has created a brand identity in this sector.

IGA has a tradition of charity as well. It uses the awards ceremonies to raise awareness and financial assistance towards its chosen charities. Proceeds from the 2012 event will support Care International and Children with Leukemia. In a special initiative this year IGA has tied up with the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) for aid to the Horn of Africa crisis.


Council wants more say on pokies...

The Bendigo council is calling for local government to be given a bigger say on poker machine developments.

The Victorian Commission for Gambling Regulation has approved a bid for the Bendigo Stadium to install 30 additional machines, despite the council's opposition.

Bendigo Mayor Rod Fyffe says he is disappointed by the decision and says the council will consider an appeal to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

"Local government should have a greater say in the fact that we represent the community, we speak on behalf of the community and certainly I think that our voice should be heard," he said.


Crown Casino resolves taxi dispute...

Crown Casino says it has resolved a complaint by taxi drivers who held a snap strike outside the Melbourne complex overnight.

About 100 drivers refused to take passengers leaving the casino after police issued a number of fines for parking in a no-standing zone.

The taxi drivers say they was not enough space to legally park while they waited for a fare.

Crown spokesman Gary O'Neill says the main taxi feeder at the complex will be fully operational from tonight.

"We will increase the resources of that taxi feeder rank but also ensure that all of the taxi drivers themselves know how the feeder system operates," he said.

"You know, you've got new generations of taxi drivers coming in all the time and maybe they don't fully understand how the feeder rank system works."


Wilkie accuses clubs of bullying Salvos...

Federal independent MP Andrew Wilkie has accused some sections of the poker machine industry of bullying the Salvation Army into opposing his gambling reforms.

On Thursday the Salvation Army's eastern territory of NSW, Queensland and the ACT said it wanted further trials of pre-commitment technologies before fully endorsing the mandatory pre-commitment legislation.

Mr Wilkie says he has been told some clubs are denying Salvation Army officers access to their venues for fundraising.

"Today Clubs Australia and Clubs NSW have truly plumbed new depths," he said.

"To be bullying the Salvation Army, threatening the Salvation Army, misrepresenting the views of the Salvation Army of all organisations, an iconic organisation in this country."

The Salvation Army says when the reforms were announced, some individual committee members at local clubs had told the charity it was no longer welcome to raise funds on their premises.

"Some people said, 'We don't agree and the Salvation Army shouldn't be coming here if it's not in support of the clubs,'" Salvation Army spokesman Major Paul Moulds said, adding there had been a couple of incidents in NSW clubs.

"It was like, 'If you're going to ruin our business, you're not welcome to come here'."

But Major Moulds says the charity's current position on the reforms is not because of pressure from Clubs NSW.

Great work

A Club Australia spokesman says community clubs have continued to support the Salvation Army's great work with donations and access to premises for fundraising, despite its stance on pokies reform.

He says NSW community clubs donated $503,000 to the Salvation Army in the past financial year.

Mr Wilkie has rejected Opposition claims the reforms do not have enough support to pass Parliament.

Opposition Leader Tony Abbott says a lack of support from regional independent MPs means the changes would not become law and should be abandoned.

However, Mr Wilkie says he believes the reforms do have enough support.

"I remain as confident as ever that these harm minimisation measures will be brought in; that in fact, the Parliament will by May next year pass into law the necessary legislation to force poker machine venues throughout the country to implement these poker machines reforms," he said.

Feeling the heat

The Government must introduce the gambling reforms next year under a deal with Mr Wilkie.

Mr Wilkie says he will walk away from supporting the Government if it does not make an effort to pass the laws.

He says he knows government MPs are feeling the heat over the reforms.

"Full marks to my parliamentary colleagues who are having to go out into their electorates and sell these reforms," he said.

"It is difficult, I understand that.

"It is clear that these reforms are unpopular in some parts of the community, and the industry is capitalising on that and it is making for some tough times for some government MPs in their electorates.

"But I am confident the Government would be aware that these reforms are overwhelmingly popular."

Media Man And Casino News Media Awards

Media Man and Casino News Media have awarded their casino award winners and finalists for August 2011.

Land Based Australian Casino Of The Month: Crown Casino, 2nd The Star (formally Star City Casino), 3rd Burswood Casino, 4th The Reef Hotel Casino (Cairns)

Online Casino Of The Month: PartyCasino.com

*Online casino awards are based on a combination of gameplay, trustworthiness, ethics, customer feedback, affiliate program offerings, word of mouth, customer experience and overall offerings

*Media Man and Casino News Media have been awarding the 'Casino Of The Month' accolade for the land based and online sector since 2009.

Punters, here's 10 of the world's top land based casinos for you to mark down in your travel plans.

Monte Carlo, Monaco: Perched above the Mediterranean and bounded by the French
and Italian coastlines on either side, Monaco provides a spectacular and luxurious setting for the wealthy and the wannabees. Home to the Monaco Grand Prix and the legendary Casino de Monte Carlo, this isn't the place for those on a tight
budget. The magnificent Casino hosts the annual European Poker Tour and was also the scene of several James Bond Films, including the original "Casino Royale" and "Golden Eye".

Paradise Island, Bahamas: Located just off the shore of the city of Nassau, Paradise
Island is best known for its sprawling 'Vegas-by-the-sea' resort, Atlantis. The resort spans seven acres along a lagoon, where guests can soak up the Caribbean sun and choose from a variety of outdoor gaming areas. When in need of a break from
the tables, guests can enjoy the private beach or one of the resorts 20 sunlit pools.

Melbourne, Australia: As Australia's sporting and entertainment capital, Melbourne
offers the perfect option for high rollers looking for a local break. Aussies need look no further than Crown Casino on the southern bank of the Yarra River, which is one of the largest casino complexes in the southern hemisphere. The main gambling
floor stretches more than half a kilometre and the casino was the first to introduce the new game Rapid Roulette, which allows players to place bets on a personal electronic touch screen connected to a central roulette wheel.

Macau, China: Known as the 'Monte Carlo of the Orient,' and the gambling capital of Asia, Macau now rivals Monaco and Las Vegas as one of the premier gambling destinations in the world. With no less than 33 casinos, in addition to local horse and greyhound racing venues, Macau is perfect for the betting junkie. The Wynn Macau
casino is a standout, highlighted by 24-carat gold 'Tree of Prosperity' at the entrance, extravagant water displays and Moon Jellyfish Aquarium at reception.

Baden-Baden, Germany: Situated on the western foothills of the Black Forest and on
the banks of the Oos River, Baden-Baden is not your typical casino town. However, in addition to its hot springs and picturesque countryside, the town is also known for its 200-year-old 'Spielbank' casino - the oldest of its type in Germany. With French chateau-style salons rooms named after historical figures such as Madame Pompadour and Louis XV's mistress, the quirky casino provides visitors with a very unique
gaming experience.

Las Vegas, United States: With over 1700 licensed casinos in operation, Las Vegas
offers the ultimate package for travellers who fancy a flutter. A visit to the famous 'Strip' is a must for any player, whether they're looking for a spin on the roulette table or a game of blackjack - this city has it all. The iconic Caesar's Palace
hotel and casino offers 129,000 square feet of casino space plus an endless smorgasbord of entertainment, shopping and fine dining options, including Cleopatra's barge, a floating lounge perfect for a relaxing drink after a jam-packed night on the
casino floor.

Manila, The Philippines: With a favourable exchange rate, Manila provides great value
for Aussies wanting to live the high-life overseas. The city offers a range of shopping and entertainment options, along with a world-class casino at the Hyatt Hotel. Spread across three levels, the sparkling casino offers the newest in gaming
facilities for both hotel guests and visitors, and is just a short distance from Manila's tourist hub.

Sun City, South Africa: Known as 'Africa's Kingdom of Pleasure,' this luxury resort
and casino complex, just two hours from Johannesburg, boasts two large casinos, two 18-hole golf courses and a wildlife reserve. At the extravagant yet picturesque Palace of the Lost City, guests are treated to stunning valley views from the guestrooms, along with exclusive access to the Grand Pool. The nearby Sun City Casino is the entertainment Mecca of the resort, featuring a myriad of gaming options as well as an indoor jungle of native foliage and water fountains.

Atlantic City, United States: Regarded as the US's 'Las Vegas of the East', Atlantic City in New Jersey is renowned for its gambling, shopping and fine dining. Towering above the banks of the Atlantic Ocean, the Trump Taj Mahal casino is an icon of the city, with an on-site shopping district and an abundance of restaurants and bars. The
157,000 square-foot casino is also hard to miss, with 3,500 slot machines and 200 table games. Unveiled in 1990 by a number of celebrities, including the late Michael Jackson, the casino is the second-largest in Atlantic City and well worth a visit.

Genting Highlands, Malaysia: Nestled on the Titiwangsa mountain range, just an hour's
drive from Kuala Lumpur and 6,000 feet above sea level, the Resorts World Genting offers 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside. This spectacular resort has first-class accommodation, dining and entertainment, while avoiding the hustle and bustle of a capital city. The on-site casino, which covers 200,000 square feet, is Malaysia's sole gaming venue and is divided into separate themed areas, such as Hollywood and Monte Carlo, for the ultimate gambling experience.

Online Casinos:

PartyCasino.com : The world's leading online casino brand and part of Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment. Play for free or play for money at PartyCasino.com New players get up to $3000 sign up bonus via Media Man.

VirginCasino.com : Virgin Casino is part of Virgin Games. The parent company is Virgin Enterprises Limited, the creation of the world's most famous and celebrated entrepreneur, Sir Richard Branson. Unfortunately the casino does not accept players from many countries due to what is known in legal circles as "grey areas". Most European players can play, but no Americans, Canadians, Australians or New Zealanders.

Captain Cooks Casino : Was once a very popular online casino with Australians and New Zealanders, however we understand these days they can only accept players from a few regions such as Europe, South Africa, Canada and South America.

PKR : Once only a 2D online poker room, they are now more 3D and offer online poker and a good range of online casino games, including classics, Marvel slots and table games.

Media Man's top online casino choice: PartyCasino.com PartyCasino is a multi-time Media Man 'Online Casino Of The Month' winner and have also won awards from EGR. Earlier this year PartyGaming merged with Bwin to create the worlds leading igaming company, Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment.


PartyCasino Gets New Games...

Aztec Gold, Atomic Fruit, Nag's To Riches and Fairies Forest. Check out the new games here.

Website Network

Media Man Int

Media Man

Media Man News

Media Man Entertainment

Global Gaming Directory

Casino News Media

Poker News Media

Media Man Games