Profiles
Music Hollywood Sydney Entertainment Australia
Newcastle and Hobart fans pleas have been answered with the Heavenly Sounds of Karise Eden!
Fans in Newcastle and Hobart have flooded social media sites requesting Karise Eden include their city on her national HEAVENLY SOUNDS tour. Their wish has been granted with Karise and special guest Lakyn Heperi now adding shows in both Newcastle and Hobart.
Whilst tickets for all other shows are on sale now and selling quickly, tickets for the Newcastle and Hobart dates go on sale this Friday July 27th.
HOBART – NEWLY ADDED SHOW – TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY JULY 20th
Friday October 12th – St David’s Cathedral 125 Macquarie Street, Hobart TAS
NEWCASTLE – NEWLY ADDED SHOW ON SALE FRIDAY JULY 20th
Monday October 29th - Christ Church Cathedral, Church Street, Newcastle, NSW
Karise Eden, the 20 year-old winner of ‘The Voice 2012’ from the Central Coast in New South Wales, is set to perform her first live performances under the banner of the Heavenly Sounds tour this October.
Coming to fruition in 2011 with Seeker Lover Keeper, the inaugural Heavenly Sounds tour sold out swiftly and just last month Lisa Mitchell again delivered an acclaimed sold out tour. Set in the architectural splendour, rich acoustics and ethereal ambience of these church settings, Karise Eden will delight audiences with her distinct vocal style and personable approach.
As Karise Eden took out the title of The Voice 2012, wowing coaches and the public alike, she was made aware of the unique and intimate touring concept Heavenly Sounds offers. As she explains, it was Karise herself who chose to conduct her first major national tour in the enchanting setting of churches and cathedrals.
“I was made aware of the Heavenly Sounds concept just after the show finished. The idea of singing soul and blues in beautiful churches is so exciting. When we were planning the first tour, I really wanted to try and make these shows as unique as possible and keep them feeling intimate. Heavenly Sounds is the perfect way to do it! I’ll be playing songs from the current album as well as new material I have been working on.”
Karise Eden has had an incredible month. After taking out the crown of The Voice 2012 in June, Karise scored 6 out of the top ten singles on the ARIA Charts; a feat not achieved since The Beatles in 1964. ‘My Journey’, her album of songs performed on The Voice remains at number 1 on the ARIA album charts, a position it has held for six consecutive weeks. It has already been accredited double platinum and is the fastest selling non-Christmas album since Pink in 2008. She has gone on to perform at the State Of Origin Final (the highest rating TV show this year) and performed two songs on Channel 9’s ‘Voice Reaches Out’ in aid of Reach. Karise will head off to the UK and Europe next month to start work on her debut release of all new material before heading back to Australia to kick off the tour.
Karise will be supported at all shows by Lakyn, who scored a gold single on The Voice with his cover of Big Jet Plane, will be showcasing new material to be released later this year.
With Heavenly Sounds shows taking place in the unique and ethereal settings of some of Australia’s most stunning churches and cathedrals, Karise said:
“I don’t see myself as a crowd-pumping, everybody put your hands up kind of performer, so I think this kind of tour is more appropriate for my style and I just like the intimate feeling it will create”
Karise Eden’s inaugural national tour with Heavenly Sounds is sure to be popular – be quick to secure tickets to witness this remarkable young lady perform in these awe-inspiring settings nationwide!
Proudly supported by NOVA
Heavenly Sounds 2012 featuring Karise Eden
With special guest Lakyn Heperi
Presented by One Louder and Artist Voice and NOVA
Tickets on sale through www.ticketek.com.au
Tickets cost $62.50 plus booking fees and all shows are open to all ages.
SYDNEY
Wednesday October 3rd – St Stephen's Uniting Church, 197 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW –SECOND SHOW ON SALE NOW
Thursday October 4th –St Stephen's Uniting Church, 197 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW – SOLD OUT
MELBOURNE
Wednesday October 10th - St Michael's Church, cnr of Collins Street & Russell Street, Melbourne, VIC - SECOND SHOW ON SALE NOW
Thursday October 11th - St Michael's Church, cnr of Collins Street & Russell Street, Melbourne,
VIC– SOLD OUT
HOBART – NEWLY ADDED SHOW – TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY JULY 20th
Friday October 12th – St David’s Cathedral 125 Macquarie Street, Hobart TAS
PERTH
Tuesday October 16th – St Joseph’s Church, 3 Salvado Road, Subiaco Perth WA -
SECOND SHOW ON SALE NOW
Wednesday October 17th - St Joseph’s Church, 3 Salvado Road, Subiaco Perth WA
ADELAIDE
Thursday October 18th – Flinders Street Baptist Church, 65 Flinders Street, Adelaide, SA SECOND SHOW ON SALE NOW
Friday October 19th - Flinders Street Baptist Church, 65 Flinders Street, Adelaide,
BRISBANE
Tuesday October 23rd - St John's Cathedral, 373 Ann Street, Brisbane, QLD -– SOLD OUT
Wednesday October 24th - St John's Cathedral, 373 Ann Street, Brisbane, QLD – SECOND SHOW ON SALE NOW
NEWCASTLE – NEWLY ADDED SHOW ON SALE FRIDAY JULY 20th
Monday October 29th- Christ Church Cathedral, Church Street, Newcastle, NSW
Websites
Heavenly Sounds
Karise Eden official website
Karise Eden Facebook
Universal Music
Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr
Eva Rinaldi Photography
Music News Australia
Media Man News
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
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Friday, August 10, 2012
Zeta Bar - Hilton Hotel Sydney gets Coney Island Mermaid Human Statue, by Greg Tingle - 9th August 2012
Profiles
Human Statue Bodyart Hilton Hotel Sydney Entertainment Australia Property Promotions Publicity
The promo from Hilton reads: "Zeta`s "CONEY ISLAND" is our exciting new Friday Nights concept. Experience evenings of the unexpected, perfectly paradoxical and the weird and wonderful, with extravagant entertainment and a creative mix of classic cocktails with progressive and fun elements."
It was all of that and more.
We learned that it was all mixed with a specially concocted range of classic cocktails with a twist, like Cosmopolitan Candy Floss, Toffee Apple Martinis and Long Island Iced Tea snow cones and much, much more.
Earlier this eventing the team at Human Statue Bodyart created a Human - Extreme Mermaid which once made up entertained, danced and delighted patrons at Hilton's famous Zeta Bar.
Model Anastasia was painted and made up by the team of artists including Eva Rinaldi, Salvatore and Antonella Erba.
The Coney Island theme was a big hit and mermaid fans will be pleased to hear that yet another mermaid, tipped to be wearing a red number, will be entertaining patrons at the Zeta tomorrow (Friday) evening.
Well done to everyone involved in the mega success of the Coney Island promotion and we're sure the mermaid is just the right bait to keep patrons coming back for more.
It's all there for the taking at Hilton's little slice of paradise in Sydney's CBD.
Websites
Hilton Hotel Sydney
Zeta Bar
Human Statue Bodyart
Human Statue Bodyart Flickr
Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr
Eva Rinaldi Photography
Media Man News
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
Media Man News
Media Man Entertainment
Human Statue Bodyart Hilton Hotel Sydney Entertainment Australia Property Promotions Publicity
The promo from Hilton reads: "Zeta`s "CONEY ISLAND" is our exciting new Friday Nights concept. Experience evenings of the unexpected, perfectly paradoxical and the weird and wonderful, with extravagant entertainment and a creative mix of classic cocktails with progressive and fun elements."
It was all of that and more.
We learned that it was all mixed with a specially concocted range of classic cocktails with a twist, like Cosmopolitan Candy Floss, Toffee Apple Martinis and Long Island Iced Tea snow cones and much, much more.
Earlier this eventing the team at Human Statue Bodyart created a Human - Extreme Mermaid which once made up entertained, danced and delighted patrons at Hilton's famous Zeta Bar.
Model Anastasia was painted and made up by the team of artists including Eva Rinaldi, Salvatore and Antonella Erba.
The Coney Island theme was a big hit and mermaid fans will be pleased to hear that yet another mermaid, tipped to be wearing a red number, will be entertaining patrons at the Zeta tomorrow (Friday) evening.
Well done to everyone involved in the mega success of the Coney Island promotion and we're sure the mermaid is just the right bait to keep patrons coming back for more.
It's all there for the taking at Hilton's little slice of paradise in Sydney's CBD.
Websites
Hilton Hotel Sydney
Zeta Bar
Human Statue Bodyart
Human Statue Bodyart Flickr
Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr
Eva Rinaldi Photography
Media Man News
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
Media Man News
Media Man Entertainment
ARIA Chart Awards: Red Carpet; Sydney, Australia - 10th August 2012
Profiles
Music Hollywood Sydney Entertainment Australia
The ARIA #1 Chart Awards event has kicked off in Sydney today at the Ivy Bar in George St.
Many of Australian music's biggest stars and emerging performing artists were there including Missy Higgins, Gotye, Karise Eden and Reece Mastin!
The event was created to honour and showcase the Australian artists who have snatched a #1 single between August 2010 and 2012.
Karise Eden lead the way at the ceremony, with an massive six weeks at number one for her debut 'My Journey' and was followed by artists as diverse as The Wiggles, Gotye, AC/DC, Bliss N Eso, Guy Sebastian, Missy Higgins, Hillsong, Mirusia and more!
A new addition to the list was this week's chart-topping group, Justice Crew, who've rocketed to the pinnicle of the ARIA Singles Chart with their new hit 'Boom Boom'.
There were a number of impressive live performances at the event today, including Reece Mastin doing a version of 'Shout It Out.'
Winners:
SINGLES:
Guy Sebastian (featuring Eve) - Who's That Girl
Gotye (featuring Kimbra) - Somebody That I Used To Know
Reece Mastin - Good Night
Karise Eden - Stay With Me Baby
Reece Mastin - Shout It Out
ALBUMS:
Bliss N Eso - Running On Air
Drapht - The Life Of Riley
Gotye - Making Mirrors
Hilltop Hoods - Drinking From The Sun
Keith Urban - The Story So Far
The Temper Trap - The Temper Trap
Missy Higgins - The Ol' Razzle Dazzle
Karise Eden - My Journey
MUSIC DVDS:
Hilltop Hoods - Parade Of The Dead
Powderfinger - Sunsets Farewell Tour
The Wiggles - Ukelele Baby!
Miriusa (featuring Andre Rieu)- Always And Forever
AC/DC - Live At River Plate
Hillsong Live - God Is Able
Parkway Drive - Home Is For The Heartless
News Update:
Today in Sydney, the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) held its #1 Chart Awards, which recognise Australian acts which topped the singles, album or music DVD charts between August 2010 and August 2012. ARIA is pleased to advise that Australian performers ran up a total of 61 weeks on top of one of those three charts. But when it comes to selling individual tracks, the picture is not as positive.
Over that 104-week period, just 16 weeks had an Australian song at the top of the charts — and half of that figure is a single track. The following is a list of performers that managed that:
‘Who’s That Girl’, Guy Sebastian featuring Eve (2 weeks)
‘Somebody That I Used To Know’, Gotye featuring Kimbra (8 weeks)
‘Good Night’, Reece Mastin (1 week)
‘Stay With Me Baby’, Karise Eden (1 week)
‘Shout It Out’, Reece Mastin (1 week)
Websites
ARIA Awards
Australian Recording Industry Association official website
Ivy Bar
Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr
Eva Rinaldi Photography
Music News Australia
Media Man News
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
Media Man News
Media Man Entertainment
Music Hollywood Sydney Entertainment Australia
The ARIA #1 Chart Awards event has kicked off in Sydney today at the Ivy Bar in George St.
Many of Australian music's biggest stars and emerging performing artists were there including Missy Higgins, Gotye, Karise Eden and Reece Mastin!
The event was created to honour and showcase the Australian artists who have snatched a #1 single between August 2010 and 2012.
Karise Eden lead the way at the ceremony, with an massive six weeks at number one for her debut 'My Journey' and was followed by artists as diverse as The Wiggles, Gotye, AC/DC, Bliss N Eso, Guy Sebastian, Missy Higgins, Hillsong, Mirusia and more!
A new addition to the list was this week's chart-topping group, Justice Crew, who've rocketed to the pinnicle of the ARIA Singles Chart with their new hit 'Boom Boom'.
There were a number of impressive live performances at the event today, including Reece Mastin doing a version of 'Shout It Out.'
Winners:
SINGLES:
Guy Sebastian (featuring Eve) - Who's That Girl
Gotye (featuring Kimbra) - Somebody That I Used To Know
Reece Mastin - Good Night
Karise Eden - Stay With Me Baby
Reece Mastin - Shout It Out
ALBUMS:
Bliss N Eso - Running On Air
Drapht - The Life Of Riley
Gotye - Making Mirrors
Hilltop Hoods - Drinking From The Sun
Keith Urban - The Story So Far
The Temper Trap - The Temper Trap
Missy Higgins - The Ol' Razzle Dazzle
Karise Eden - My Journey
MUSIC DVDS:
Hilltop Hoods - Parade Of The Dead
Powderfinger - Sunsets Farewell Tour
The Wiggles - Ukelele Baby!
Miriusa (featuring Andre Rieu)- Always And Forever
AC/DC - Live At River Plate
Hillsong Live - God Is Able
Parkway Drive - Home Is For The Heartless
News Update:
Today in Sydney, the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) held its #1 Chart Awards, which recognise Australian acts which topped the singles, album or music DVD charts between August 2010 and August 2012. ARIA is pleased to advise that Australian performers ran up a total of 61 weeks on top of one of those three charts. But when it comes to selling individual tracks, the picture is not as positive.
Over that 104-week period, just 16 weeks had an Australian song at the top of the charts — and half of that figure is a single track. The following is a list of performers that managed that:
‘Who’s That Girl’, Guy Sebastian featuring Eve (2 weeks)
‘Somebody That I Used To Know’, Gotye featuring Kimbra (8 weeks)
‘Good Night’, Reece Mastin (1 week)
‘Stay With Me Baby’, Karise Eden (1 week)
‘Shout It Out’, Reece Mastin (1 week)
Websites
ARIA Awards
Australian Recording Industry Association official website
Ivy Bar
Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr
Eva Rinaldi Photography
Music News Australia
Media Man News
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
Media Man News
Media Man Entertainment
Thursday, August 09, 2012
WWE SummerSlam Matches Confirmed
Profiles
WWE Wrestling Brock Lesnar Triple H Television Sports PPV Olympic Games Promotions Affiliates
WWE SummerSlam Matches Confirmed...
WWE added two items to the Summerslam PPV line-up in two weeks. Most notable is Shawn Michaels in Triple H's corner for Hunter's headline match against Brock Lesnar.
WWE also announced Daniel Bryan vs. Kane in a singles match. WWE did not draw attention to Charlie Sheen, who was mentioned for a potential fight/confrontation/scrap/match against Bryan in recent weeks.
There is a good chance that Chris Jericho will also be on the card, as his rock band 'Fozzy' are not going ahead with their prior rock concert commitment.
Australia fans can order WWE SummerSlam via Foxtel - Main Event TV. The PPV will be broadcast on Main Event on Monday 10th August at 10am.
Summerslam PPV line-up
Brock Lesnar vs. Triple H with Shawn Michaels in his corner.
WWE champion C.M. Punk vs. John Cena vs. Big Show for the WWE Title.
World Hvt. champion Sheamus vs. Alberto Del Rio for the World Title.
Daniel Bryan vs. Kane.
Chris Jericho vs. Dolph Ziggler
WWE superstar and ex Olympian Mark Henry checks out Olympic talent at London 2012...
WWE superstar "The World's Strongest Man" Mark Henry has been attendance at various events at Olympic Park to catch Olympic action.
The Olympic Games is used to seeing huge performances, but there can be fewer bigger performers at London 2012 than Henry.
Six foot three, 412lb WWE superstar Mark Henry has been in attendance to take in the sights and sounds of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Henry knows all about life as an Olympian after his time representing Team USA in weightlifting in the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona.
As a weightlifter, Henry gained recognition for his intimidating size and massive strength.
His talents were rewarded three years later when Henry won gold, silver and bronze medals at the Pan American Games.
His successes on the podium did not go unnoticed. Impressed by his sporting achievements, WWE signed Mark Henry in 1996 sparking an illustrious career that is as impressive today as his Olympic performances of old.
He continues to follow weightlifting and is apparently scouting talent for the WWE at this year’s Olympic competition.
The Media Man agency reckons WWE would do well to check out Olympic shot putter Reese Hoffa. He appears to have the "It Factor". How well he would adapt to WWE rings in yet to be known, but surly worth more investigation.
Fox Sports Dominique Dawes investigates how Olympic shot putter Reese Hoffa went from unwanted child to Olympic hopeful.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjVjWcowN9w&feature=player_embedded
YouTube Wrestling Footage...
Greco-Roman wrestler's insane 'flying squirrel' takedown via YouTube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oW8Mf3IL4zA
Brock Lesnar Submits! Ryan Tobin still has South Dakota Title
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uMbMvtK372c&feature=related
Rosa Mendes alleges assault by ex-WWE wrestler fiance, WWE issues statement...
The San Antonio Police Department has issued a police report on an alleged incident involving WWE Diva Rosa Mendes (real name Milena Roucka) that began Sunday in Las Vegas and carried over to San Antonio when Roucka arrived in San Antonio for Monday's Raw. The following was reported by TMZ:
- Roucka alleged that she was assaulted by her fiance, former WWE wrestler Jackson Andrews, who infamously had a very brief stint on WWE TV as Tyson Kidd's bodyguard. Roucka told police that she "was afraid (her fiance) would try to kill her." She also stated the abuse was "on-going."
- The rumor of Roucka being intoxicated at the San Antonio Airport was included in the police report. Police said Roucka was under the influence of alcohol at the time they made contact with her at the airport. However, Roucka was not arrested, as was rumored, but escorted from the airport by police.
- Mendes filed a battery report around 10:17 p.m. on Sunday night and police took 30 photos of where she appeared to have bruises and scratches on her body from the alleged assault.
- WWE issued a statement to TMZ on the serious nature of the situation, which read: "Milena Roucka contacted a WWE Talent Relations representative this morning to notify WWE that, upon her arrival in San Antonio last evening, she contacted police at the airport to report alleged domestic abuse that occurred just prior to her flight."
WWE added that the company will "provide her with professional assistance." Jackson Andrews, real name Andy Slocum, was not able to be reached for comment.
WWE RAW social media score up 54 percent - 7th August 2012
Monday's WWE Raw episode was up 54 percent in social media activity compared to last week's post-1,000 hangover show as WWE tries to find a baseline during the three-hour era. Raw scored 401,202 on Monday, up from 259,203 last week, but down from a record 907,443 two weeks ago. Raw ranked #4 on cable TV Monday night, trailing Olympics coverage on NBC Universal and "Love & Hip Hop Atlanta" on VH1.( Data: Trendrr.tv )
Olympics-Wrestling-Korean "Mowgli": Greco-Roman king - 7th August 2012...
A South Korean wrestler nicknamed 'Mowgli' won gold in the Greco-Roman wrestling at the London Games on Tuesday, overcoming a badly swollen eye that left him struggling to see properly.
Kim Hyeonwoo, 23, beat Hungary's Tamas Lorincz in the 66kg final, the third lightest category in one of the world's oldest and most physical sports.
With his mop of black hair and winning smile, he bears more than a passing resemblance to the little boy raised by wolves in the Disney adaptation of Rudyard Kipling's classic stories, "The Jungle Book".
"In my high school, I used to run around in my bare feet, so my friends gave the nickname of Mowgli," he said. "I'm very happy with that, even though my foreign friends in the (wrestling) fights keep calling me Mowgli, Mowgli."
Kim's bruising route to the final owed more to the Rocky films than Disney, however. He suffered a nasty blow to the right eye in the first qualifying round and it had closed by the time he reached the final.
"I couldn't open the eye, I couldn't see," he said. "The swelling got bigger and bigger as I went on."
After winning the final, Kim knelt on the wrestling mat and kissed his country's flag as a packed arena cheered.
IRAN'S HAT-TRICK
There was more success for Iran in the second final of the night when Ghasem Rezaei won the Greco-Roman heavyweight class, taking his country's wrestling gold tally to three.
The Iranian, who only managed 16th place in Beijing four years ago, beat Russia's Rustam Totrov in the final of the 96kg weight class.
Jubilant Iranian supporters roared and waved their nation's flags as Rezaei kissed and hugged his coach in celebration.
Rezaei had beaten the Armenian favourite Artur Aleksanyan in the quarter-final. Totrov won bronze at the world championships in 2011 and was among the favourites for gold in London.
"To see all the Iranians inside the stadium and back home, to bring smiles to their faces is the happiest moment of my life," said Rezaei.
It was the final day of the Greco-Roman, a discipline where holds must be above the waist and athletes are restricted from using their legs to bring down an opponent.
The freestyle - where athletes can use their legs to defend and attack - runs from Wednesday to Sunday. (Reuters)
Olympics wrestling: Ghasem Rezaei wins another gold for Iran...
Ghasem Rezaei added another Olympic wrestling gold to Iran's haul in London, beating Rustam Totrov in the -96kg Greco-Roman final.
Rezaei, 26, beat his Russian opponent 2-0 1-0 at ExCeL.
It was the third wrestling gold medal of the Games for Iran, following previous victories in both the men's -55kg Greco-Roman and men's -60kg Greco-Roman categories.
Armenia's Artur Aleksanyan and Jimmy Lidberg of Sweden took bronze medals.
They defeated Yunior Estrada Falcon of Cuba and Belarusian Tsimafei Dzeinichenka respectively.
Rezaei, who finished 16th in Beijing four years ago, lifted his opponent off the mat to win the first period before successfully defending a par terre in the second.
Iran had not won any golds in the Greco-Roman discipline before London.
Final Results
Rank Athlete Country Result
1 Rezaei IRI 3
2 Totrov RUS 0
3 Aleksanyan ARM 3
3 Lidberg SWE 3
Tarash gets lonely at training - 28th July 2012...
Australian wrestler Farzad Tarash struck an unexpected training snag on just his second day at the Olympics.
No one to train with.
Tarash arrived at the Redbridge training facility just outside London early Friday morning (local time) only to find himself all alone.
Typically before a big meet, rival wrestlers pair up for training sessions and for a two or three minute bout.
But Tarash, 25, couldn't find anyone in his 60kg division to match up with, although some Cuban wrestlers arrived just as he was leaving.
It seems the Melbourne engineer is a tad more driven than some of his wrestling mates.
"Yeah, Cuba came but it was a little bit too late," he told AAP.
"I think it's very quiet because people are taking it easy because it's going to be a long night with the opening ceremony."
Tarash is unlikely to make the podium in London, but is hoping to feed off the experience.
"I know most of the wrestlers in my weight division and it's good to have them as training partners.
"Some have very broken English, but we seem to understand each other somehow.
"Wrestling is not a sport where you need too many words." (AAP)
Cuba's Lopez wins wrestling gold - 7th August 2012...
Mijain Lopez of Cuba won gold Monday in the men's 120-kilogram category of the Greco-Roman wrestling at the London Olympics.
Lopez defeated Heiki Nabi of Estonia 2-0, 1-0 to win his second straight Olympic gold medal.
Lopez is the third wrestler to win multiple golds at 120 kilograms, joining Russian legend Alexander Karelin and Alexander Koltschinkski of the former Soviet Union.
Lopez, the four-time world champion, also beat Turkey's Riza Kayaalp in the semis after losing to the Turk in Istanbul during last year's world championships.
beating Estonia's Heiki Nabi
in the final.
Turkey's Riza Kayaalp and Johan Euren of Sweden took bronze medals. (AP)
Iran's Noroozi wins Olympic wrestling gold...
Omid Noroozi of Iran won the gold medal Monday in men's 60-kilogram Greco-Roman wrestling at the London Olympics.
Noroozi, the defending world champion, beat Georgia's Revaz Lashkhi 1-0, 1-0 to give Iran its second Greco-Roman medal in as many days.
Hamid Soryan won the country's first Greco-Roman gold on Sunday.
Noroozi beat Kazakhstan's Almat Kebispayev in a rematch of the 2011 world championship final, then took out Lashkhi for his first gold medal.
Russia's Zaur Kuramagomedov and Japan's Ryutaro Matsumoto won bronze medals. (AP)
First Second unveils André the Giant comic...
First Second has confirmed its André the Giant biography.
Cartoonist Box Brown is working on the book charting the life of the professional wrestler and actor, reports ICv2.
André Roussimoff was a star and one-time champion of the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE).
He is also known for his role in cult classic movie The Princess Bride.
Roussimoff has the condition acromegaly, which saw him grow to 7'4" in height. He died of heart failure in 1993 at the age of 46.
Box is the author of Xeric grant-funded graphic novel Love Is a Peculiar Type of Thing.
The untitled André the Giant biography is scheduled for release in 2014.
Fans of Andre will be delighted to hear that an Andre The Giant online slot game is available on Virgin Casino - Virgin Games, which can be accessed via the Media Man network.
McMahon finds herself on familiar Connecticut turf: attacked, ahead - 28th July 2012...
Pro wrestling mogul Linda McMahon finds herself in a familiar position this summer -- attacked as a candidate depending more on her personal wealth than her political skills to win a U.S. Senate seat in Connecticut -- but once again the likely Republican primary winner.
The only real difference for the millionaire, former professional wrestling executive is the primary attacks this year have been exceptionally harsh, even compared to those against McMahon in her debut 2010 run.
One ad two years ago shows a wrestler pretending to smash a folding chair over the head of his opponent, then McMahon, a former World Wrestling Entertainment chief executive officer, standing in the ring hand-in-hand with husband and company founder Vince McMahon.
This year’s primary opponent, former GOP Rep. Christopher Shays, recently called McMahon “clueless” and said she is the political opponent for whom he has the least respect, after having served 32 years in elected office.
“I have never run against an opponent that I have respected less,” Shays told the New Haven Register after a July 18 debate, then characterized McMahon’s performance as “embarrassingly clueless.”
McMahon’s camp and political analysts have said the recent comments from the well-respect Shays suggest his frustration and realization that his political career might be coming to a close as McMahon holds a significant lead just weeks before the August primary.
“It has become increasingly clear that Shays has become unglued,” McMahon campaign manager Tim Murtaugh said. “It’s sad to see his career end this way.”
A recent Quinnipiac poll shows McMahon leading Shays by 29 points.
Shays, a moderate with support from such Washington Republicans as Karl Rove, appeared to suggest after the debate that he faces long odds in extending his political career, considering the campaign could not afford TV ads – crucial when trailing late and because he has under-whelming name recognition despite 21 years in the House.
His campaign said this week it had received an infusion of money for media buys and remains optimistic about winning.
Communications Director Amanda Bergen didn’t question the validity of the Quinnipiac poll, but said it might not reflect true voter sentiment because voters disconnect during the summer.
“People won’t start paying attention until early August,” she said.
Bergen said the campaign is also focusing on Republican primary voters and spending its advertising money in their specific markets.
“This election is too important to waste,” she said. “Chris votes on principle (and) he has the experience to hit the ground running.”
The Shays campaign also has repeatedly characterized McMahon as scripted and unprepared for Congress, much like she was criticized in the 2010 primary against former Rep. Rob Simmons and in the general election with Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal, who defeated her.
Regardless of who wins, either candidate will have a difficult time defeating the Democrat challenger in the race for the open seat of Sen. Joe Lieberman, an independent, considering the blue state has a no Republicans in either the House or Senate.
Meanwhile, McMahon continues to poor millions of her own money into the race, as she did in 2010. And her campaign continues to stick to its message and look ahead to a match up with likely Democratic nominee Rep. Chris Murphy.
“Linda McMahon will be the Republican winner on the night of August 14,” Murtaugh told FoxNews.com.
He also said the campaign is sticking to its grass-roots campaign effort to contacts thousands of voters and tell people that McMahon is not a career Washington politician, but in fact a jobs creator whose wrestling business started as a kitchen table operation that once went bankrupt.
“She understands the plight of the small business person because she has lived through it,” Murtaugh said. (Fox News)
Brock Lesnar - Ryback backstage fight? - Internet rumour lights up...
Rumors of former UFC Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar attacking WWE rising superstar Ryback have been sending the internet news sites crazy.
The rumor has been covered on several pro-wrestling news sites, including Mexican wrestling website SuperLuchas, WrestlingInc.com and Pro Wrestling Observer.
SuperLuchas—as well as multiple sources throughout the Internet—claims that the news was first broken by the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, despite the lack of evidence of the reputable newsletter ever publishing such news.
According to the websites which cite the alleged Wrestling Observer Newsletter report:
Lesnar left the building after getting into a physical altercation with fellow WWE superstar, Ryan Reeves, known in ring as Ryback.
Not much information is being let out, but the source says Lesnar was in the arena early to rehearse a major angle with SummerSlam opponent Triple H. Before things even began, Reeves, who was also in the building, got into a heated argument with Lesnar. It is uncertain what the argument was about.
Reeves put his hands on Lesnar, though the source tells us that people who witnessed it said Reeves was going to apologize. Lesnar shoved Reeves back and a shoving match ensued. Lesnar threw Reeves to the floor and hit him in the face three times before being pulled off.
Reeves suffered a laceration above his left eyebrow which is required stitches. 'Ryback' will not be competing tonight as he was originally planned. Lesnar left the building immediately, and all efforts to reach him have failed.
Ex Olympian Kurt Angle in movie...
You can donate as little as $2 to help get Angle's first starring role in a feature film, Singlet: The Dana Kelly Story, made. Angle plays Dana Kelly in the film, which takes a look at the world of Olympic Weightlifting. You can get more details here
http://www.moviehatch.com/index.php/component/option,com_moviehatch/competition,-1:/movie,640/task,detail/
Media Man Wrap-Up...
We told you we had a ripper news update for today. Fans, as always, keep checking the Media Man blogs for more news on these developing news stories.
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WWE Wrestling Brock Lesnar Triple H Television Sports PPV Olympic Games Promotions Affiliates
WWE SummerSlam Matches Confirmed...
WWE added two items to the Summerslam PPV line-up in two weeks. Most notable is Shawn Michaels in Triple H's corner for Hunter's headline match against Brock Lesnar.
WWE also announced Daniel Bryan vs. Kane in a singles match. WWE did not draw attention to Charlie Sheen, who was mentioned for a potential fight/confrontation/scrap/match against Bryan in recent weeks.
There is a good chance that Chris Jericho will also be on the card, as his rock band 'Fozzy' are not going ahead with their prior rock concert commitment.
Australia fans can order WWE SummerSlam via Foxtel - Main Event TV. The PPV will be broadcast on Main Event on Monday 10th August at 10am.
Summerslam PPV line-up
Brock Lesnar vs. Triple H with Shawn Michaels in his corner.
WWE champion C.M. Punk vs. John Cena vs. Big Show for the WWE Title.
World Hvt. champion Sheamus vs. Alberto Del Rio for the World Title.
Daniel Bryan vs. Kane.
Chris Jericho vs. Dolph Ziggler
WWE superstar and ex Olympian Mark Henry checks out Olympic talent at London 2012...
WWE superstar "The World's Strongest Man" Mark Henry has been attendance at various events at Olympic Park to catch Olympic action.
The Olympic Games is used to seeing huge performances, but there can be fewer bigger performers at London 2012 than Henry.
Six foot three, 412lb WWE superstar Mark Henry has been in attendance to take in the sights and sounds of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Henry knows all about life as an Olympian after his time representing Team USA in weightlifting in the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona.
As a weightlifter, Henry gained recognition for his intimidating size and massive strength.
His talents were rewarded three years later when Henry won gold, silver and bronze medals at the Pan American Games.
His successes on the podium did not go unnoticed. Impressed by his sporting achievements, WWE signed Mark Henry in 1996 sparking an illustrious career that is as impressive today as his Olympic performances of old.
He continues to follow weightlifting and is apparently scouting talent for the WWE at this year’s Olympic competition.
The Media Man agency reckons WWE would do well to check out Olympic shot putter Reese Hoffa. He appears to have the "It Factor". How well he would adapt to WWE rings in yet to be known, but surly worth more investigation.
Fox Sports Dominique Dawes investigates how Olympic shot putter Reese Hoffa went from unwanted child to Olympic hopeful.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjVjWcowN9w&feature=player_embedded
YouTube Wrestling Footage...
Greco-Roman wrestler's insane 'flying squirrel' takedown via YouTube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oW8Mf3IL4zA
Brock Lesnar Submits! Ryan Tobin still has South Dakota Title
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uMbMvtK372c&feature=related
Rosa Mendes alleges assault by ex-WWE wrestler fiance, WWE issues statement...
The San Antonio Police Department has issued a police report on an alleged incident involving WWE Diva Rosa Mendes (real name Milena Roucka) that began Sunday in Las Vegas and carried over to San Antonio when Roucka arrived in San Antonio for Monday's Raw. The following was reported by TMZ:
- Roucka alleged that she was assaulted by her fiance, former WWE wrestler Jackson Andrews, who infamously had a very brief stint on WWE TV as Tyson Kidd's bodyguard. Roucka told police that she "was afraid (her fiance) would try to kill her." She also stated the abuse was "on-going."
- The rumor of Roucka being intoxicated at the San Antonio Airport was included in the police report. Police said Roucka was under the influence of alcohol at the time they made contact with her at the airport. However, Roucka was not arrested, as was rumored, but escorted from the airport by police.
- Mendes filed a battery report around 10:17 p.m. on Sunday night and police took 30 photos of where she appeared to have bruises and scratches on her body from the alleged assault.
- WWE issued a statement to TMZ on the serious nature of the situation, which read: "Milena Roucka contacted a WWE Talent Relations representative this morning to notify WWE that, upon her arrival in San Antonio last evening, she contacted police at the airport to report alleged domestic abuse that occurred just prior to her flight."
WWE added that the company will "provide her with professional assistance." Jackson Andrews, real name Andy Slocum, was not able to be reached for comment.
WWE RAW social media score up 54 percent - 7th August 2012
Monday's WWE Raw episode was up 54 percent in social media activity compared to last week's post-1,000 hangover show as WWE tries to find a baseline during the three-hour era. Raw scored 401,202 on Monday, up from 259,203 last week, but down from a record 907,443 two weeks ago. Raw ranked #4 on cable TV Monday night, trailing Olympics coverage on NBC Universal and "Love & Hip Hop Atlanta" on VH1.( Data: Trendrr.tv )
Olympics-Wrestling-Korean "Mowgli": Greco-Roman king - 7th August 2012...
A South Korean wrestler nicknamed 'Mowgli' won gold in the Greco-Roman wrestling at the London Games on Tuesday, overcoming a badly swollen eye that left him struggling to see properly.
Kim Hyeonwoo, 23, beat Hungary's Tamas Lorincz in the 66kg final, the third lightest category in one of the world's oldest and most physical sports.
With his mop of black hair and winning smile, he bears more than a passing resemblance to the little boy raised by wolves in the Disney adaptation of Rudyard Kipling's classic stories, "The Jungle Book".
"In my high school, I used to run around in my bare feet, so my friends gave the nickname of Mowgli," he said. "I'm very happy with that, even though my foreign friends in the (wrestling) fights keep calling me Mowgli, Mowgli."
Kim's bruising route to the final owed more to the Rocky films than Disney, however. He suffered a nasty blow to the right eye in the first qualifying round and it had closed by the time he reached the final.
"I couldn't open the eye, I couldn't see," he said. "The swelling got bigger and bigger as I went on."
After winning the final, Kim knelt on the wrestling mat and kissed his country's flag as a packed arena cheered.
IRAN'S HAT-TRICK
There was more success for Iran in the second final of the night when Ghasem Rezaei won the Greco-Roman heavyweight class, taking his country's wrestling gold tally to three.
The Iranian, who only managed 16th place in Beijing four years ago, beat Russia's Rustam Totrov in the final of the 96kg weight class.
Jubilant Iranian supporters roared and waved their nation's flags as Rezaei kissed and hugged his coach in celebration.
Rezaei had beaten the Armenian favourite Artur Aleksanyan in the quarter-final. Totrov won bronze at the world championships in 2011 and was among the favourites for gold in London.
"To see all the Iranians inside the stadium and back home, to bring smiles to their faces is the happiest moment of my life," said Rezaei.
It was the final day of the Greco-Roman, a discipline where holds must be above the waist and athletes are restricted from using their legs to bring down an opponent.
The freestyle - where athletes can use their legs to defend and attack - runs from Wednesday to Sunday. (Reuters)
Olympics wrestling: Ghasem Rezaei wins another gold for Iran...
Ghasem Rezaei added another Olympic wrestling gold to Iran's haul in London, beating Rustam Totrov in the -96kg Greco-Roman final.
Rezaei, 26, beat his Russian opponent 2-0 1-0 at ExCeL.
It was the third wrestling gold medal of the Games for Iran, following previous victories in both the men's -55kg Greco-Roman and men's -60kg Greco-Roman categories.
Armenia's Artur Aleksanyan and Jimmy Lidberg of Sweden took bronze medals.
They defeated Yunior Estrada Falcon of Cuba and Belarusian Tsimafei Dzeinichenka respectively.
Rezaei, who finished 16th in Beijing four years ago, lifted his opponent off the mat to win the first period before successfully defending a par terre in the second.
Iran had not won any golds in the Greco-Roman discipline before London.
Final Results
Rank Athlete Country Result
1 Rezaei IRI 3
2 Totrov RUS 0
3 Aleksanyan ARM 3
3 Lidberg SWE 3
Tarash gets lonely at training - 28th July 2012...
Australian wrestler Farzad Tarash struck an unexpected training snag on just his second day at the Olympics.
No one to train with.
Tarash arrived at the Redbridge training facility just outside London early Friday morning (local time) only to find himself all alone.
Typically before a big meet, rival wrestlers pair up for training sessions and for a two or three minute bout.
But Tarash, 25, couldn't find anyone in his 60kg division to match up with, although some Cuban wrestlers arrived just as he was leaving.
It seems the Melbourne engineer is a tad more driven than some of his wrestling mates.
"Yeah, Cuba came but it was a little bit too late," he told AAP.
"I think it's very quiet because people are taking it easy because it's going to be a long night with the opening ceremony."
Tarash is unlikely to make the podium in London, but is hoping to feed off the experience.
"I know most of the wrestlers in my weight division and it's good to have them as training partners.
"Some have very broken English, but we seem to understand each other somehow.
"Wrestling is not a sport where you need too many words." (AAP)
Cuba's Lopez wins wrestling gold - 7th August 2012...
Mijain Lopez of Cuba won gold Monday in the men's 120-kilogram category of the Greco-Roman wrestling at the London Olympics.
Lopez defeated Heiki Nabi of Estonia 2-0, 1-0 to win his second straight Olympic gold medal.
Lopez is the third wrestler to win multiple golds at 120 kilograms, joining Russian legend Alexander Karelin and Alexander Koltschinkski of the former Soviet Union.
Lopez, the four-time world champion, also beat Turkey's Riza Kayaalp in the semis after losing to the Turk in Istanbul during last year's world championships.
beating Estonia's Heiki Nabi
in the final.
Turkey's Riza Kayaalp and Johan Euren of Sweden took bronze medals. (AP)
Iran's Noroozi wins Olympic wrestling gold...
Omid Noroozi of Iran won the gold medal Monday in men's 60-kilogram Greco-Roman wrestling at the London Olympics.
Noroozi, the defending world champion, beat Georgia's Revaz Lashkhi 1-0, 1-0 to give Iran its second Greco-Roman medal in as many days.
Hamid Soryan won the country's first Greco-Roman gold on Sunday.
Noroozi beat Kazakhstan's Almat Kebispayev in a rematch of the 2011 world championship final, then took out Lashkhi for his first gold medal.
Russia's Zaur Kuramagomedov and Japan's Ryutaro Matsumoto won bronze medals. (AP)
First Second unveils André the Giant comic...
First Second has confirmed its André the Giant biography.
Cartoonist Box Brown is working on the book charting the life of the professional wrestler and actor, reports ICv2.
André Roussimoff was a star and one-time champion of the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE).
He is also known for his role in cult classic movie The Princess Bride.
Roussimoff has the condition acromegaly, which saw him grow to 7'4" in height. He died of heart failure in 1993 at the age of 46.
Box is the author of Xeric grant-funded graphic novel Love Is a Peculiar Type of Thing.
The untitled André the Giant biography is scheduled for release in 2014.
Fans of Andre will be delighted to hear that an Andre The Giant online slot game is available on Virgin Casino - Virgin Games, which can be accessed via the Media Man network.
McMahon finds herself on familiar Connecticut turf: attacked, ahead - 28th July 2012...
Pro wrestling mogul Linda McMahon finds herself in a familiar position this summer -- attacked as a candidate depending more on her personal wealth than her political skills to win a U.S. Senate seat in Connecticut -- but once again the likely Republican primary winner.
The only real difference for the millionaire, former professional wrestling executive is the primary attacks this year have been exceptionally harsh, even compared to those against McMahon in her debut 2010 run.
One ad two years ago shows a wrestler pretending to smash a folding chair over the head of his opponent, then McMahon, a former World Wrestling Entertainment chief executive officer, standing in the ring hand-in-hand with husband and company founder Vince McMahon.
This year’s primary opponent, former GOP Rep. Christopher Shays, recently called McMahon “clueless” and said she is the political opponent for whom he has the least respect, after having served 32 years in elected office.
“I have never run against an opponent that I have respected less,” Shays told the New Haven Register after a July 18 debate, then characterized McMahon’s performance as “embarrassingly clueless.”
McMahon’s camp and political analysts have said the recent comments from the well-respect Shays suggest his frustration and realization that his political career might be coming to a close as McMahon holds a significant lead just weeks before the August primary.
“It has become increasingly clear that Shays has become unglued,” McMahon campaign manager Tim Murtaugh said. “It’s sad to see his career end this way.”
A recent Quinnipiac poll shows McMahon leading Shays by 29 points.
Shays, a moderate with support from such Washington Republicans as Karl Rove, appeared to suggest after the debate that he faces long odds in extending his political career, considering the campaign could not afford TV ads – crucial when trailing late and because he has under-whelming name recognition despite 21 years in the House.
His campaign said this week it had received an infusion of money for media buys and remains optimistic about winning.
Communications Director Amanda Bergen didn’t question the validity of the Quinnipiac poll, but said it might not reflect true voter sentiment because voters disconnect during the summer.
“People won’t start paying attention until early August,” she said.
Bergen said the campaign is also focusing on Republican primary voters and spending its advertising money in their specific markets.
“This election is too important to waste,” she said. “Chris votes on principle (and) he has the experience to hit the ground running.”
The Shays campaign also has repeatedly characterized McMahon as scripted and unprepared for Congress, much like she was criticized in the 2010 primary against former Rep. Rob Simmons and in the general election with Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal, who defeated her.
Regardless of who wins, either candidate will have a difficult time defeating the Democrat challenger in the race for the open seat of Sen. Joe Lieberman, an independent, considering the blue state has a no Republicans in either the House or Senate.
Meanwhile, McMahon continues to poor millions of her own money into the race, as she did in 2010. And her campaign continues to stick to its message and look ahead to a match up with likely Democratic nominee Rep. Chris Murphy.
“Linda McMahon will be the Republican winner on the night of August 14,” Murtaugh told FoxNews.com.
He also said the campaign is sticking to its grass-roots campaign effort to contacts thousands of voters and tell people that McMahon is not a career Washington politician, but in fact a jobs creator whose wrestling business started as a kitchen table operation that once went bankrupt.
“She understands the plight of the small business person because she has lived through it,” Murtaugh said. (Fox News)
Brock Lesnar - Ryback backstage fight? - Internet rumour lights up...
Rumors of former UFC Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar attacking WWE rising superstar Ryback have been sending the internet news sites crazy.
The rumor has been covered on several pro-wrestling news sites, including Mexican wrestling website SuperLuchas, WrestlingInc.com and Pro Wrestling Observer.
SuperLuchas—as well as multiple sources throughout the Internet—claims that the news was first broken by the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, despite the lack of evidence of the reputable newsletter ever publishing such news.
According to the websites which cite the alleged Wrestling Observer Newsletter report:
Lesnar left the building after getting into a physical altercation with fellow WWE superstar, Ryan Reeves, known in ring as Ryback.
Not much information is being let out, but the source says Lesnar was in the arena early to rehearse a major angle with SummerSlam opponent Triple H. Before things even began, Reeves, who was also in the building, got into a heated argument with Lesnar. It is uncertain what the argument was about.
Reeves put his hands on Lesnar, though the source tells us that people who witnessed it said Reeves was going to apologize. Lesnar shoved Reeves back and a shoving match ensued. Lesnar threw Reeves to the floor and hit him in the face three times before being pulled off.
Reeves suffered a laceration above his left eyebrow which is required stitches. 'Ryback' will not be competing tonight as he was originally planned. Lesnar left the building immediately, and all efforts to reach him have failed.
Ex Olympian Kurt Angle in movie...
You can donate as little as $2 to help get Angle's first starring role in a feature film, Singlet: The Dana Kelly Story, made. Angle plays Dana Kelly in the film, which takes a look at the world of Olympic Weightlifting. You can get more details here
http://www.moviehatch.com/index.php/component/option,com_moviehatch/competition,-1:/movie,640/task,detail/
Media Man Wrap-Up...
We told you we had a ripper news update for today. Fans, as always, keep checking the Media Man blogs for more news on these developing news stories.
Websites
Media Man International
Media Man
TMZ.com - WWE
WWE official website
Main Event website
JR's Place blog
The Sydney Morning Herald - Olympics
Olympics official website
Media Man News
Australian Sports Entertainment
Wrestling News Media
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
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Media Man Entertainment
Wednesday, August 08, 2012
The Sapphires movie premiere at State Theatre, Sydney, Australia - 8th August 2012
Profiles
Movies Hollywood Sydney Entertainment Australia
Plot...
It's 1968, and four young, talented Australian Aboriginal girls learn about love, friendship and war when their all girl group The Sapphires entertain the US troops in Vietnam.
Premiere...
Tonight Sydney's State Theatre was once again the place for hot new movie premiere.
Last night State Theatre was the place for the Sydney premiere of 'The Bourne Legacy', and tonight it was a very different genre with 'The Sapphires'.
'The Sapphires' took over the famous theatre, as the red carpet was rolled out for this interesting new film.
It was wonderful to see the strong turn out of people including many notable Indigenous Australians, there to support the film and actors.
Review...
When a little-known stage show dubbed 'The Sapphires' shimmied into Perth two years ago, four Aboriginal songbirds burnt up the stage in a dazzling display with all the promise of a big screen blockbuster musical.
Inspired by the true story of playwright Tony Briggs’ mother and three aunts during the racial upheaval of the ’60s and delivering a spirited score, sparkling costumes and charismatic performances, the showstopper still ranks among the best plays or musicals seen on any stage in Perth, Broadway or the West End.
Originating as an acclaimed production in 2004, that 2010 reprisal introduced a new cast including seasoned songstress Christine Anu and Australian Idol season two winner Casey Donovan, marking the oft-maligned powerhouse vocalist’s return to the spotlight.
Off the back of rave reviews, it secured a stint in London with Donovan the sole lead to secure a spot on tour, only to unsuccessfully audition for the film version.
Deborah Mailman (from the original 2004 production) and Australian Idol season four runner-up Jessica Mauboy are joined here by two young newcomers in Miranda Tapsell and Shari Sebbens as talented sisters Gail, Julie and Cynthia and cousin Kay, whose beautiful harmonies are discovered by soul-loving music manager Dave (Chris O’Dowd).
Directed by feature film debutant Wayne Blair, the cinematic adaptation comes with lots of pressure and expectation and delivers.
The Sapphires is likely to become an Aussie classic and is full of soul.
If music themed flicks are your thing you really need to see this film.
The Sapphires (M)
Starring: Deborah Mailman, Chris O'Dowd, Jessica Mauboy
Director: Wayne Blair
Writers: Tony Briggs, Keith Thompson
Production Co: Goalpost Pictures
Websites
Goalpost Pictures
Hopscotch Films - The Saphires
State Theatre
Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr
Eva Rinaldi Photography
Music News Australia
Media Man News
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
Media Man News
Media Man Entertainment
Movies Hollywood Sydney Entertainment Australia
Plot...
It's 1968, and four young, talented Australian Aboriginal girls learn about love, friendship and war when their all girl group The Sapphires entertain the US troops in Vietnam.
Premiere...
Tonight Sydney's State Theatre was once again the place for hot new movie premiere.
Last night State Theatre was the place for the Sydney premiere of 'The Bourne Legacy', and tonight it was a very different genre with 'The Sapphires'.
'The Sapphires' took over the famous theatre, as the red carpet was rolled out for this interesting new film.
It was wonderful to see the strong turn out of people including many notable Indigenous Australians, there to support the film and actors.
Review...
When a little-known stage show dubbed 'The Sapphires' shimmied into Perth two years ago, four Aboriginal songbirds burnt up the stage in a dazzling display with all the promise of a big screen blockbuster musical.
Inspired by the true story of playwright Tony Briggs’ mother and three aunts during the racial upheaval of the ’60s and delivering a spirited score, sparkling costumes and charismatic performances, the showstopper still ranks among the best plays or musicals seen on any stage in Perth, Broadway or the West End.
Originating as an acclaimed production in 2004, that 2010 reprisal introduced a new cast including seasoned songstress Christine Anu and Australian Idol season two winner Casey Donovan, marking the oft-maligned powerhouse vocalist’s return to the spotlight.
Off the back of rave reviews, it secured a stint in London with Donovan the sole lead to secure a spot on tour, only to unsuccessfully audition for the film version.
Deborah Mailman (from the original 2004 production) and Australian Idol season four runner-up Jessica Mauboy are joined here by two young newcomers in Miranda Tapsell and Shari Sebbens as talented sisters Gail, Julie and Cynthia and cousin Kay, whose beautiful harmonies are discovered by soul-loving music manager Dave (Chris O’Dowd).
Directed by feature film debutant Wayne Blair, the cinematic adaptation comes with lots of pressure and expectation and delivers.
The Sapphires is likely to become an Aussie classic and is full of soul.
If music themed flicks are your thing you really need to see this film.
The Sapphires (M)
Starring: Deborah Mailman, Chris O'Dowd, Jessica Mauboy
Director: Wayne Blair
Writers: Tony Briggs, Keith Thompson
Production Co: Goalpost Pictures
Websites
Goalpost Pictures
Hopscotch Films - The Saphires
State Theatre
Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr
Eva Rinaldi Photography
Music News Australia
Media Man News
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
Media Man News
Media Man Entertainment
Whedon to reunite with his Avengers for sequel - 8th August 2012
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Marvel Entertainment PartyCasino.com PartyCasino Marvel Slots The Avengers Movies Hollywood
Promotion: PartyCasino.com Marvel Slots - New players get up to $3000 sign up bonus
Profile Of The Month: PartyCasino.com
Joss Whedon will return to write and direct a sequel to The Avengers, Bob Iger, the chief executive of the Walt Disney, has announced.
The superhero movie, made by Disney's Marvel Entertainment subsidiary, is one of the biggest hits in modern Hollywood history, with global ticket sales in excess of $US1.46 billion.
The film's ticket sales of $US616.8 million in the US make it the third-highest-grossing film of all time, trailing just Avatar and Titanic in non-inflation-adjusted dollars.
Iger made the announcement in a conference call with analysts to discuss the media company's third-quarter earnings, which were up 24 per cent thanks in part to theme park results and Avengers income.
He also said Whedon is developing a Marvel-themed, live-action television series for US network ABC.
The Avengers sequel has not yet been dated, but Disney is already set to release two movies from Marvel Entertainment in 2014, Captain America: The Winter Soldier and Guardians of the Galaxy, meaning the next Avengers film will likely come out in 2015. LA TIMES
Marvel Entertainment Movies: Amazing Spider-Man, Thor 2, The Avengers Et Al Boost Popularity Of Marvel Slot Games...
The Media Man agency reports that Marvel themed online slot games across the network, and featured at partner, PartyCasino.com , are boosting the popularity of the superhero themed online slot games. Bwin.Party currently offers The Incredible Hulk, Thor, The Amazing Spider-Man and Fantastic Four, with more expected to soon hit the popular gaming and entertainment website destination.
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Marvel Entertainment PartyCasino.com PartyCasino Marvel Slots The Avengers Movies Hollywood
Promotion: PartyCasino.com Marvel Slots - New players get up to $3000 sign up bonus
Profile Of The Month: PartyCasino.com
Joss Whedon will return to write and direct a sequel to The Avengers, Bob Iger, the chief executive of the Walt Disney, has announced.
The superhero movie, made by Disney's Marvel Entertainment subsidiary, is one of the biggest hits in modern Hollywood history, with global ticket sales in excess of $US1.46 billion.
The film's ticket sales of $US616.8 million in the US make it the third-highest-grossing film of all time, trailing just Avatar and Titanic in non-inflation-adjusted dollars.
Iger made the announcement in a conference call with analysts to discuss the media company's third-quarter earnings, which were up 24 per cent thanks in part to theme park results and Avengers income.
He also said Whedon is developing a Marvel-themed, live-action television series for US network ABC.
The Avengers sequel has not yet been dated, but Disney is already set to release two movies from Marvel Entertainment in 2014, Captain America: The Winter Soldier and Guardians of the Galaxy, meaning the next Avengers film will likely come out in 2015. LA TIMES
Marvel Entertainment Movies: Amazing Spider-Man, Thor 2, The Avengers Et Al Boost Popularity Of Marvel Slot Games...
The Media Man agency reports that Marvel themed online slot games across the network, and featured at partner, PartyCasino.com , are boosting the popularity of the superhero themed online slot games. Bwin.Party currently offers The Incredible Hulk, Thor, The Amazing Spider-Man and Fantastic Four, with more expected to soon hit the popular gaming and entertainment website destination.
Websites
Media Man Int
Marvel Entertainment
Media Man Entertainment
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
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Media Man Entertainment
Wrestling News Media
Olympics: Wrestling at The Olympic Games, WWE, Pro Wrestling, Mark Henry, Brock Lesnar fight, SummerSlam 2012
Olympics News, Entertainment news, WWE, SummerSlam 2012, Australia, gaming and more...
Profiles
Movies Hollywood Wrestling WWE Olympic Games Sport Sports Entertainment Entertainment Affiliate Programs Advertising
Sports and sports entertainment fans. Have we got a booming edition for you today. Australia has won 2 gold at the London Olympics. The gold medal drought is officially over. Then we have WWE superstar and former Olympian, Mark Henry, checking out talent at the games. We've got wrestling news from the games, and of course good old pro wrestling aka sports entertainment. The Media Man agency delivers yet another bodyslamming news update from around the world.
Australians Pearson and Meares double Aussie gold...
Steely Sally Pearson and iron-willed Anna Meares turned mettle into precious gold on Australia's most successful day of the London Olympics on Tuesday.
Pearson dramatically won the 100m hurdles gold medal while Meares triumphed in her golden grudge match against Brit Victoria Pendleton in cycling's sprint final.
The determined duo doubled Australia's gold medal tally at the London Games, the nation now with four gold, 12 silver and nine bronze to sit 11th on the overall table.
Cyclist Annette Edmondson added another bronze in the women's omnium, the only other Australian medal on Tuesday.
Pearson had rehearsed her race daily in her mind for years, but come the victory moment didn't know how to react.
After displaying her customary cold countenance pre-race, Pearson was forced to wait agonising seconds to find out if she won.
The Queenslander beat American Dawn Harper by just two-hundredths of a second and defied drizzly rain to clock a new Olympic record, 12.35 seconds.
When the result flashed onto the scoreboard Pearson screamed in delight, sank to her knees, crying - then onto her back, then crouched on the track before turning to the crowd.
"When I saw my name on the screen at No.1, it was a dream come true," Pearson said.
"I had a bit of a panic, but I knew in my heart I'd won it and it was just a matter of confirming it on the screen.
"The feeling is just relief. I'm so happy."
Pearson's success came within hours of Meares' pluck being rewarded with gold at the cycling track.
Meares was beaten by Pendleton in the sprint final in Beijing, just seven months after breaking her neck.
She sensationally turned the tables in London by outclassing her British rival twice in a row in the best of three final, the first race result - when Pendleton narrowly beat Meares - being overturned by the race judges after the Brit rode out of the sprinter's lane.
"This is the sweetest and most incredible victory of my career," said an emotional Meares.
In other Tuesday action, Australia's world No.1 men's hockey team trounced Pakistan 7-0 to remain unbeaten and progress into Thursday's semi-final.
But coach Ric Charlesworth has been involved in too many Olympic let-downs to read anything into their undefeated streak.
"I don't think that means anything ... now this is a separate tournament," Charlesworth said.
Australia's women's basketball team also advanced into a semi-final by downing China 75-60 on Tuesday.
The Opals, inspired by Liz Cambage's 17 points and seven rebounds, booked a Thursday semi-final against gold medal favourites the United States.
But Australia's women's water polo team were heartbroken after losing their semi-final to the USA in extra time.
The Americans, who sunk the Stingers in a semi-final at the Beijing Games, prevailed 11-9 in London.
Australia's Big Benn Harradine finished ninth in the discus final, and diver Ethan Warren came seventh in the men's 3m springboard final.
Artistic gymnast Lauren Mitchell lamented minor blemishes in the floor final, the former world champ finishing fifth - two-thirds of a point shy of the medals.
Australian Courtney Atkinson was the nation's best finisher in the men's triathlon, placing 18th as Brit Alistair Brownlee won gold and his younger brother Jonathon collected the bronze.
And Australia's K4 sprint canoeists upset world champions Germany en route to making Thursday's medal race at Eton.
The crew of Murray Stewart, Tate Smith, David Smith and Jake Clear will battle Slovakia and Hungary in the final.
WWE Sports Entertainment News Update: Shawn Michaels, Brock Lesnar, Paul Heyman, CM Punk, John Cena...
In recent years, the debate on whether WWE superstars should be classified as "pro wrestlers" or "sports entertainers" has continued on television, social media and talk.
At times, it's been used as part of storylines, with performers like CM Punk and Chris Jericho mocking the use of the words "sports entertainment." But on the most recent edition on WWE Raw, fans saw the back curtain and kayfabe lift the lid even more.
Look at the careers of Shawn Michaels, who was being recognized in his hometown of San Antonio, Texas, and Brock Lesnar and there's a huge difference. One is Mr. "WrestleMania," and the other is a former UFC champion and self proclaimed "ass kicker" (and not "entertainer").
Yet they stood across the ring from each other on Raw, with Paul Heyman speaking on Lesnar's behalf. Heyman event went as far as to call Michaels the greatest "entertainer" in WWE history.
But even that, he said, couldn't compare to Lesnar's abilities as a fighter and a warrior. Michaels responded by saying he has faith in his longtime friend - and frequent enemy - Triple H to take care of business.
And Michaels will have a front-row seat for the action, as he plans to be in Triple H's corner.
The segment ended without much drama, as Triple H emerged and Lesnar left, with Heyman cryptically indicating that they'll be seeing Michaels before SummerSlam.
WWE has done a top job with the slow build to the Triple H-Lesnar match, and Heyman deserves a lot of the credit, as he's carried the program on the Lesnar side to this point.
The Rock-John Cena fued leading up to this year's WrestleMania was the first attempt at a long-term build with limited appearances by one of the competitors, and it was apparently a success, as WWE seems to be adopting that strategy with Lesnar, as well as The Rock's Royal Rumble challenge.
After losing the Cena at Extreme Rules, Lesnar needs to be the alpha male and dominating in order for his WWE return to be considered successful. Wrestling insiders are hoping Lesnar bests Triple H at SummerSlam.
Ed note: The jury is still out whether Lesnar got into a real fight with Ryback, as reported on as Super Luchas and Wrestling Observer. Stay tuned, but we think not to expect an official comment from WWE, as they will be obviously looking to protect their rising monster and touted future champion Ryback.
WWE SummerSlam Matches Confirmed...
WWE added two items to the Summerslam PPV line-up in two weeks. Most notable is Shawn Michaels in Triple H's corner for Hunter's headline match against Brock Lesnar.
WWE also announced Daniel Bryan vs. Kane in a singles match. WWE did not draw attention to Charlie Sheen, who was mentioned for a potential fight/confrontation/scrap/match against Bryan in recent weeks.
There is a good chance that Chris Jericho will also be on the card, as his rock band 'Fozzy' are not going ahead with their prior rock concert commitment.
Australia fans can order WWE SummerSlam via Foxtel - Main Event TV. The PPV will be broadcast on Main Event on Monday 10th August at 10am.
Summerslam PPV line-up
Brock Lesnar vs. Triple H with Shawn Michaels in his corner.
WWE champion C.M. Punk vs. John Cena vs. Big Show for the WWE Title.
World Hvt. champion Sheamus vs. Alberto Del Rio for the World Title.
Daniel Bryan vs. Kane.
Chris Jericho vs. Dolph Ziggler
WWE superstar and ex Olympian Mark Henry checks out Olympic talent at London 2012...
WWE superstar "The World's Strongest Man" Mark Henry has been attendance at various events at Olympic Park to catch Olympic action.
The Olympic Games is used to seeing huge performances, but there can be fewer bigger performers at London 2012 than Henry.
Six foot three, 412lb WWE superstar Mark Henry has been in attendance to take in the sights and sounds of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Henry knows all about life as an Olympian after his time representing Team USA in weightlifting in the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona.
As a weightlifter, Henry gained recognition for his intimidating size and massive strength.
His talents were rewarded three years later when Henry won gold, silver and bronze medals at the Pan American Games.
His successes on the podium did not go unnoticed. Impressed by his sporting achievements, WWE signed Mark Henry in 1996 sparking an illustrious career that is as impressive today as his Olympic performances of old.
He continues to follow weightlifting and is apparently scouting talent for the WWE at this year’s Olympic competition.
The Media Man agency reckons WWE would do well to check out Olympic shot putter Reese Hoffa. He appears to have the "It Factor". How well he would adapt to WWE rings in yet to be known, but surly worth more investigation.
Fox Sports Dominique Dawes investigates how Olympic shot putter Reese Hoffa went from unwanted child to Olympic hopeful.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjVjWcowN9w&feature=player_embedded
YouTube Wrestling Footage...
Greco-Roman wrestler's insane 'flying squirrel' takedown via YouTube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oW8Mf3IL4zA
Brock Lesnar Submits! Ryan Tobin still has South Dakota Title
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uMbMvtK372c&feature=related
Rosa Mendes alleges assault by ex-WWE wrestler fiance, WWE issues statement...
The San Antonio Police Department has issued a police report on an alleged incident involving WWE Diva Rosa Mendes (real name Milena Roucka) that began Sunday in Las Vegas and carried over to San Antonio when Roucka arrived in San Antonio for Monday's Raw. The following was reported by TMZ:
- Roucka alleged that she was assaulted by her fiance, former WWE wrestler Jackson Andrews, who infamously had a very brief stint on WWE TV as Tyson Kidd's bodyguard. Roucka told police that she "was afraid (her fiance) would try to kill her." She also stated the abuse was "on-going."
- The rumor of Roucka being intoxicated at the San Antonio Airport was included in the police report. Police said Roucka was under the influence of alcohol at the time they made contact with her at the airport. However, Roucka was not arrested, as was rumored, but escorted from the airport by police.
- Mendes filed a battery report around 10:17 p.m. on Sunday night and police took 30 photos of where she appeared to have bruises and scratches on her body from the alleged assault.
- WWE issued a statement to TMZ on the serious nature of the situation, which read: "Milena Roucka contacted a WWE Talent Relations representative this morning to notify WWE that, upon her arrival in San Antonio last evening, she contacted police at the airport to report alleged domestic abuse that occurred just prior to her flight."
WWE added that the company will "provide her with professional assistance." Jackson Andrews, real name Andy Slocum, was not able to be reached for comment.
WWE RAW social media score up 54 percent - 7th August 2012
Monday's WWE Raw episode was up 54 percent in social media activity compared to last week's post-1,000 hangover show as WWE tries to find a baseline during the three-hour era. Raw scored 401,202 on Monday, up from 259,203 last week, but down from a record 907,443 two weeks ago. Raw ranked #4 on cable TV Monday night, trailing Olympics coverage on NBC Universal and "Love & Hip Hop Atlanta" on VH1.( Data: Trendrr.tv )
Olympics-Wrestling-Korean "Mowgli": Greco-Roman king - 7th August 2012...
A South Korean wrestler nicknamed 'Mowgli' won gold in the Greco-Roman wrestling at the London Games on Tuesday, overcoming a badly swollen eye that left him struggling to see properly.
Kim Hyeonwoo, 23, beat Hungary's Tamas Lorincz in the 66kg final, the third lightest category in one of the world's oldest and most physical sports.
With his mop of black hair and winning smile, he bears more than a passing resemblance to the little boy raised by wolves in the Disney adaptation of Rudyard Kipling's classic stories, "The Jungle Book".
"In my high school, I used to run around in my bare feet, so my friends gave the nickname of Mowgli," he said. "I'm very happy with that, even though my foreign friends in the (wrestling) fights keep calling me Mowgli, Mowgli."
Kim's bruising route to the final owed more to the Rocky films than Disney, however. He suffered a nasty blow to the right eye in the first qualifying round and it had closed by the time he reached the final.
"I couldn't open the eye, I couldn't see," he said. "The swelling got bigger and bigger as I went on."
After winning the final, Kim knelt on the wrestling mat and kissed his country's flag as a packed arena cheered.
IRAN'S HAT-TRICK
There was more success for Iran in the second final of the night when Ghasem Rezaei won the Greco-Roman heavyweight class, taking his country's wrestling gold tally to three.
The Iranian, who only managed 16th place in Beijing four years ago, beat Russia's Rustam Totrov in the final of the 96kg weight class.
Jubilant Iranian supporters roared and waved their nation's flags as Rezaei kissed and hugged his coach in celebration.
Rezaei had beaten the Armenian favourite Artur Aleksanyan in the quarter-final. Totrov won bronze at the world championships in 2011 and was among the favourites for gold in London.
"To see all the Iranians inside the stadium and back home, to bring smiles to their faces is the happiest moment of my life," said Rezaei.
It was the final day of the Greco-Roman, a discipline where holds must be above the waist and athletes are restricted from using their legs to bring down an opponent.
The freestyle - where athletes can use their legs to defend and attack - runs from Wednesday to Sunday. (Reuters)
Olympics wrestling: Ghasem Rezaei wins another gold for Iran...
Ghasem Rezaei added another Olympic wrestling gold to Iran's haul in London, beating Rustam Totrov in the -96kg Greco-Roman final.
Rezaei, 26, beat his Russian opponent 2-0 1-0 at ExCeL.
It was the third wrestling gold medal of the Games for Iran, following previous victories in both the men's -55kg Greco-Roman and men's -60kg Greco-Roman categories.
Armenia's Artur Aleksanyan and Jimmy Lidberg of Sweden took bronze medals.
They defeated Yunior Estrada Falcon of Cuba and Belarusian Tsimafei Dzeinichenka respectively.
Rezaei, who finished 16th in Beijing four years ago, lifted his opponent off the mat to win the first period before successfully defending a par terre in the second.
Iran had not won any golds in the Greco-Roman discipline before London.
Final Results
Rank Athlete Country Result
1 Rezaei IRI 3
2 Totrov RUS 0
3 Aleksanyan ARM 3
3 Lidberg SWE 3
Tarash gets lonely at training - 28th July 2012...
Australian wrestler Farzad Tarash struck an unexpected training snag on just his second day at the Olympics.
No one to train with.
Tarash arrived at the Redbridge training facility just outside London early Friday morning (local time) only to find himself all alone.
Typically before a big meet, rival wrestlers pair up for training sessions and for a two or three minute bout.
But Tarash, 25, couldn't find anyone in his 60kg division to match up with, although some Cuban wrestlers arrived just as he was leaving.
It seems the Melbourne engineer is a tad more driven than some of his wrestling mates.
"Yeah, Cuba came but it was a little bit too late," he told AAP.
"I think it's very quiet because people are taking it easy because it's going to be a long night with the opening ceremony."
Tarash is unlikely to make the podium in London, but is hoping to feed off the experience.
"I know most of the wrestlers in my weight division and it's good to have them as training partners.
"Some have very broken English, but we seem to understand each other somehow.
"Wrestling is not a sport where you need too many words." (AAP)
Cuba's Lopez wins wrestling gold - 7th August 2012...
Mijain Lopez of Cuba won gold Monday in the men's 120-kilogram category of the Greco-Roman wrestling at the London Olympics.
Lopez defeated Heiki Nabi of Estonia 2-0, 1-0 to win his second straight Olympic gold medal.
Lopez is the third wrestler to win multiple golds at 120 kilograms, joining Russian legend Alexander Karelin and Alexander Koltschinkski of the former Soviet Union.
Lopez, the four-time world champion, also beat Turkey's Riza Kayaalp in the semis after losing to the Turk in Istanbul during last year's world championships.
beating Estonia's Heiki Nabi
in the final.
Turkey's Riza Kayaalp and Johan Euren of Sweden took bronze medals. (AP)
Iran's Noroozi wins Olympic wrestling gold...
Omid Noroozi of Iran won the gold medal Monday in men's 60-kilogram Greco-Roman wrestling at the London Olympics.
Noroozi, the defending world champion, beat Georgia's Revaz Lashkhi 1-0, 1-0 to give Iran its second Greco-Roman medal in as many days.
Hamid Soryan won the country's first Greco-Roman gold on Sunday.
Noroozi beat Kazakhstan's Almat Kebispayev in a rematch of the 2011 world championship final, then took out Lashkhi for his first gold medal.
Russia's Zaur Kuramagomedov and Japan's Ryutaro Matsumoto won bronze medals. (AP)
First Second unveils André the Giant comic...
First Second has confirmed its André the Giant biography.
Cartoonist Box Brown is working on the book charting the life of the professional wrestler and actor, reports ICv2.
André Roussimoff was a star and one-time champion of the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE).
He is also known for his role in cult classic movie The Princess Bride.
Roussimoff has the condition acromegaly, which saw him grow to 7'4" in height. He died of heart failure in 1993 at the age of 46.
Box is the author of Xeric grant-funded graphic novel Love Is a Peculiar Type of Thing.
The untitled André the Giant biography is scheduled for release in 2014.
Fans of Andre will be delighted to hear that an Andre The Giant online slot game is available on Virgin Casino - Virgin Games, which can be accessed via the Media Man network.
McMahon finds herself on familiar Connecticut turf: attacked, ahead - 28th July 2012...
Pro wrestling mogul Linda McMahon finds herself in a familiar position this summer -- attacked as a candidate depending more on her personal wealth than her political skills to win a U.S. Senate seat in Connecticut -- but once again the likely Republican primary winner.
The only real difference for the millionaire, former professional wrestling executive is the primary attacks this year have been exceptionally harsh, even compared to those against McMahon in her debut 2010 run.
One ad two years ago shows a wrestler pretending to smash a folding chair over the head of his opponent, then McMahon, a former World Wrestling Entertainment chief executive officer, standing in the ring hand-in-hand with husband and company founder Vince McMahon.
This year’s primary opponent, former GOP Rep. Christopher Shays, recently called McMahon “clueless” and said she is the political opponent for whom he has the least respect, after having served 32 years in elected office.
“I have never run against an opponent that I have respected less,” Shays told the New Haven Register after a July 18 debate, then characterized McMahon’s performance as “embarrassingly clueless.”
McMahon’s camp and political analysts have said the recent comments from the well-respect Shays suggest his frustration and realization that his political career might be coming to a close as McMahon holds a significant lead just weeks before the August primary.
“It has become increasingly clear that Shays has become unglued,” McMahon campaign manager Tim Murtaugh said. “It’s sad to see his career end this way.”
A recent Quinnipiac poll shows McMahon leading Shays by 29 points.
Shays, a moderate with support from such Washington Republicans as Karl Rove, appeared to suggest after the debate that he faces long odds in extending his political career, considering the campaign could not afford TV ads – crucial when trailing late and because he has under-whelming name recognition despite 21 years in the House.
His campaign said this week it had received an infusion of money for media buys and remains optimistic about winning.
Communications Director Amanda Bergen didn’t question the validity of the Quinnipiac poll, but said it might not reflect true voter sentiment because voters disconnect during the summer.
“People won’t start paying attention until early August,” she said.
Bergen said the campaign is also focusing on Republican primary voters and spending its advertising money in their specific markets.
“This election is too important to waste,” she said. “Chris votes on principle (and) he has the experience to hit the ground running.”
The Shays campaign also has repeatedly characterized McMahon as scripted and unprepared for Congress, much like she was criticized in the 2010 primary against former Rep. Rob Simmons and in the general election with Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal, who defeated her.
Regardless of who wins, either candidate will have a difficult time defeating the Democrat challenger in the race for the open seat of Sen. Joe Lieberman, an independent, considering the blue state has a no Republicans in either the House or Senate.
Meanwhile, McMahon continues to poor millions of her own money into the race, as she did in 2010. And her campaign continues to stick to its message and look ahead to a match up with likely Democratic nominee Rep. Chris Murphy.
“Linda McMahon will be the Republican winner on the night of August 14,” Murtaugh told FoxNews.com.
He also said the campaign is sticking to its grass-roots campaign effort to contacts thousands of voters and tell people that McMahon is not a career Washington politician, but in fact a jobs creator whose wrestling business started as a kitchen table operation that once went bankrupt.
“She understands the plight of the small business person because she has lived through it,” Murtaugh said. (Fox News)
Brock Lesnar - Ryback backstage fight? - Internet rumour lights up...
Rumors of former UFC Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar attacking WWE rising superstar Ryback have been sending the internet news sites crazy.
The rumor has been covered on several pro-wrestling news sites, including Mexican wrestling website SuperLuchas, WrestlingInc.com and Pro Wrestling Observer.
SuperLuchas—as well as multiple sources throughout the Internet—claims that the news was first broken by the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, despite the lack of evidence of the reputable newsletter ever publishing such news.
According to the websites which cite the alleged Wrestling Observer Newsletter report:
Lesnar left the building after getting into a physical altercation with fellow WWE superstar, Ryan Reeves, known in ring as Ryback.
Not much information is being let out, but the source says Lesnar was in the arena early to rehearse a major angle with SummerSlam opponent Triple H. Before things even began, Reeves, who was also in the building, got into a heated argument with Lesnar. It is uncertain what the argument was about.
Reeves put his hands on Lesnar, though the source tells us that people who witnessed it said Reeves was going to apologize. Lesnar shoved Reeves back and a shoving match ensued. Lesnar threw Reeves to the floor and hit him in the face three times before being pulled off.
Reeves suffered a laceration above his left eyebrow which is required stitches. 'Ryback' will not be competing tonight as he was originally planned. Lesnar left the building immediately, and all efforts to reach him have failed.
Ex Olympian Kurt Angle in movie...
You can donate as little as $2 to help get Angle's first starring role in a feature film, Singlet: The Dana Kelly Story, made. Angle plays Dana Kelly in the film, which takes a look at the world of Olympic Weightlifting. You can get more details here
http://www.moviehatch.com/index.php/component/option,com_moviehatch/competition,-1:/movie,640/task,detail/
Media Man Wrap-Up...
We told you we had a ripper news update for today. Fans, as always, keep checking the Media Man blogs for more news on these developing news stories.
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Sports and sports entertainment fans. Have we got a booming edition for you today. Australia has won 2 gold at the London Olympics. The gold medal drought is officially over. Then we have WWE superstar and former Olympian, Mark Henry, checking out talent at the games. We've got wrestling news from the games, and of course good old pro wrestling aka sports entertainment. The Media Man agency delivers yet another bodyslamming news update from around the world.
Australians Pearson and Meares double Aussie gold...
Steely Sally Pearson and iron-willed Anna Meares turned mettle into precious gold on Australia's most successful day of the London Olympics on Tuesday.
Pearson dramatically won the 100m hurdles gold medal while Meares triumphed in her golden grudge match against Brit Victoria Pendleton in cycling's sprint final.
The determined duo doubled Australia's gold medal tally at the London Games, the nation now with four gold, 12 silver and nine bronze to sit 11th on the overall table.
Cyclist Annette Edmondson added another bronze in the women's omnium, the only other Australian medal on Tuesday.
Pearson had rehearsed her race daily in her mind for years, but come the victory moment didn't know how to react.
After displaying her customary cold countenance pre-race, Pearson was forced to wait agonising seconds to find out if she won.
The Queenslander beat American Dawn Harper by just two-hundredths of a second and defied drizzly rain to clock a new Olympic record, 12.35 seconds.
When the result flashed onto the scoreboard Pearson screamed in delight, sank to her knees, crying - then onto her back, then crouched on the track before turning to the crowd.
"When I saw my name on the screen at No.1, it was a dream come true," Pearson said.
"I had a bit of a panic, but I knew in my heart I'd won it and it was just a matter of confirming it on the screen.
"The feeling is just relief. I'm so happy."
Pearson's success came within hours of Meares' pluck being rewarded with gold at the cycling track.
Meares was beaten by Pendleton in the sprint final in Beijing, just seven months after breaking her neck.
She sensationally turned the tables in London by outclassing her British rival twice in a row in the best of three final, the first race result - when Pendleton narrowly beat Meares - being overturned by the race judges after the Brit rode out of the sprinter's lane.
"This is the sweetest and most incredible victory of my career," said an emotional Meares.
In other Tuesday action, Australia's world No.1 men's hockey team trounced Pakistan 7-0 to remain unbeaten and progress into Thursday's semi-final.
But coach Ric Charlesworth has been involved in too many Olympic let-downs to read anything into their undefeated streak.
"I don't think that means anything ... now this is a separate tournament," Charlesworth said.
Australia's women's basketball team also advanced into a semi-final by downing China 75-60 on Tuesday.
The Opals, inspired by Liz Cambage's 17 points and seven rebounds, booked a Thursday semi-final against gold medal favourites the United States.
But Australia's women's water polo team were heartbroken after losing their semi-final to the USA in extra time.
The Americans, who sunk the Stingers in a semi-final at the Beijing Games, prevailed 11-9 in London.
Australia's Big Benn Harradine finished ninth in the discus final, and diver Ethan Warren came seventh in the men's 3m springboard final.
Artistic gymnast Lauren Mitchell lamented minor blemishes in the floor final, the former world champ finishing fifth - two-thirds of a point shy of the medals.
Australian Courtney Atkinson was the nation's best finisher in the men's triathlon, placing 18th as Brit Alistair Brownlee won gold and his younger brother Jonathon collected the bronze.
And Australia's K4 sprint canoeists upset world champions Germany en route to making Thursday's medal race at Eton.
The crew of Murray Stewart, Tate Smith, David Smith and Jake Clear will battle Slovakia and Hungary in the final.
WWE Sports Entertainment News Update: Shawn Michaels, Brock Lesnar, Paul Heyman, CM Punk, John Cena...
In recent years, the debate on whether WWE superstars should be classified as "pro wrestlers" or "sports entertainers" has continued on television, social media and talk.
At times, it's been used as part of storylines, with performers like CM Punk and Chris Jericho mocking the use of the words "sports entertainment." But on the most recent edition on WWE Raw, fans saw the back curtain and kayfabe lift the lid even more.
Look at the careers of Shawn Michaels, who was being recognized in his hometown of San Antonio, Texas, and Brock Lesnar and there's a huge difference. One is Mr. "WrestleMania," and the other is a former UFC champion and self proclaimed "ass kicker" (and not "entertainer").
Yet they stood across the ring from each other on Raw, with Paul Heyman speaking on Lesnar's behalf. Heyman event went as far as to call Michaels the greatest "entertainer" in WWE history.
But even that, he said, couldn't compare to Lesnar's abilities as a fighter and a warrior. Michaels responded by saying he has faith in his longtime friend - and frequent enemy - Triple H to take care of business.
And Michaels will have a front-row seat for the action, as he plans to be in Triple H's corner.
The segment ended without much drama, as Triple H emerged and Lesnar left, with Heyman cryptically indicating that they'll be seeing Michaels before SummerSlam.
WWE has done a top job with the slow build to the Triple H-Lesnar match, and Heyman deserves a lot of the credit, as he's carried the program on the Lesnar side to this point.
The Rock-John Cena fued leading up to this year's WrestleMania was the first attempt at a long-term build with limited appearances by one of the competitors, and it was apparently a success, as WWE seems to be adopting that strategy with Lesnar, as well as The Rock's Royal Rumble challenge.
After losing the Cena at Extreme Rules, Lesnar needs to be the alpha male and dominating in order for his WWE return to be considered successful. Wrestling insiders are hoping Lesnar bests Triple H at SummerSlam.
Ed note: The jury is still out whether Lesnar got into a real fight with Ryback, as reported on as Super Luchas and Wrestling Observer. Stay tuned, but we think not to expect an official comment from WWE, as they will be obviously looking to protect their rising monster and touted future champion Ryback.
WWE SummerSlam Matches Confirmed...
WWE added two items to the Summerslam PPV line-up in two weeks. Most notable is Shawn Michaels in Triple H's corner for Hunter's headline match against Brock Lesnar.
WWE also announced Daniel Bryan vs. Kane in a singles match. WWE did not draw attention to Charlie Sheen, who was mentioned for a potential fight/confrontation/scrap/match against Bryan in recent weeks.
There is a good chance that Chris Jericho will also be on the card, as his rock band 'Fozzy' are not going ahead with their prior rock concert commitment.
Australia fans can order WWE SummerSlam via Foxtel - Main Event TV. The PPV will be broadcast on Main Event on Monday 10th August at 10am.
Summerslam PPV line-up
Brock Lesnar vs. Triple H with Shawn Michaels in his corner.
WWE champion C.M. Punk vs. John Cena vs. Big Show for the WWE Title.
World Hvt. champion Sheamus vs. Alberto Del Rio for the World Title.
Daniel Bryan vs. Kane.
Chris Jericho vs. Dolph Ziggler
WWE superstar and ex Olympian Mark Henry checks out Olympic talent at London 2012...
WWE superstar "The World's Strongest Man" Mark Henry has been attendance at various events at Olympic Park to catch Olympic action.
The Olympic Games is used to seeing huge performances, but there can be fewer bigger performers at London 2012 than Henry.
Six foot three, 412lb WWE superstar Mark Henry has been in attendance to take in the sights and sounds of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Henry knows all about life as an Olympian after his time representing Team USA in weightlifting in the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona.
As a weightlifter, Henry gained recognition for his intimidating size and massive strength.
His talents were rewarded three years later when Henry won gold, silver and bronze medals at the Pan American Games.
His successes on the podium did not go unnoticed. Impressed by his sporting achievements, WWE signed Mark Henry in 1996 sparking an illustrious career that is as impressive today as his Olympic performances of old.
He continues to follow weightlifting and is apparently scouting talent for the WWE at this year’s Olympic competition.
The Media Man agency reckons WWE would do well to check out Olympic shot putter Reese Hoffa. He appears to have the "It Factor". How well he would adapt to WWE rings in yet to be known, but surly worth more investigation.
Fox Sports Dominique Dawes investigates how Olympic shot putter Reese Hoffa went from unwanted child to Olympic hopeful.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjVjWcowN9w&feature=player_embedded
YouTube Wrestling Footage...
Greco-Roman wrestler's insane 'flying squirrel' takedown via YouTube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oW8Mf3IL4zA
Brock Lesnar Submits! Ryan Tobin still has South Dakota Title
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uMbMvtK372c&feature=related
Rosa Mendes alleges assault by ex-WWE wrestler fiance, WWE issues statement...
The San Antonio Police Department has issued a police report on an alleged incident involving WWE Diva Rosa Mendes (real name Milena Roucka) that began Sunday in Las Vegas and carried over to San Antonio when Roucka arrived in San Antonio for Monday's Raw. The following was reported by TMZ:
- Roucka alleged that she was assaulted by her fiance, former WWE wrestler Jackson Andrews, who infamously had a very brief stint on WWE TV as Tyson Kidd's bodyguard. Roucka told police that she "was afraid (her fiance) would try to kill her." She also stated the abuse was "on-going."
- The rumor of Roucka being intoxicated at the San Antonio Airport was included in the police report. Police said Roucka was under the influence of alcohol at the time they made contact with her at the airport. However, Roucka was not arrested, as was rumored, but escorted from the airport by police.
- Mendes filed a battery report around 10:17 p.m. on Sunday night and police took 30 photos of where she appeared to have bruises and scratches on her body from the alleged assault.
- WWE issued a statement to TMZ on the serious nature of the situation, which read: "Milena Roucka contacted a WWE Talent Relations representative this morning to notify WWE that, upon her arrival in San Antonio last evening, she contacted police at the airport to report alleged domestic abuse that occurred just prior to her flight."
WWE added that the company will "provide her with professional assistance." Jackson Andrews, real name Andy Slocum, was not able to be reached for comment.
WWE RAW social media score up 54 percent - 7th August 2012
Monday's WWE Raw episode was up 54 percent in social media activity compared to last week's post-1,000 hangover show as WWE tries to find a baseline during the three-hour era. Raw scored 401,202 on Monday, up from 259,203 last week, but down from a record 907,443 two weeks ago. Raw ranked #4 on cable TV Monday night, trailing Olympics coverage on NBC Universal and "Love & Hip Hop Atlanta" on VH1.( Data: Trendrr.tv )
Olympics-Wrestling-Korean "Mowgli": Greco-Roman king - 7th August 2012...
A South Korean wrestler nicknamed 'Mowgli' won gold in the Greco-Roman wrestling at the London Games on Tuesday, overcoming a badly swollen eye that left him struggling to see properly.
Kim Hyeonwoo, 23, beat Hungary's Tamas Lorincz in the 66kg final, the third lightest category in one of the world's oldest and most physical sports.
With his mop of black hair and winning smile, he bears more than a passing resemblance to the little boy raised by wolves in the Disney adaptation of Rudyard Kipling's classic stories, "The Jungle Book".
"In my high school, I used to run around in my bare feet, so my friends gave the nickname of Mowgli," he said. "I'm very happy with that, even though my foreign friends in the (wrestling) fights keep calling me Mowgli, Mowgli."
Kim's bruising route to the final owed more to the Rocky films than Disney, however. He suffered a nasty blow to the right eye in the first qualifying round and it had closed by the time he reached the final.
"I couldn't open the eye, I couldn't see," he said. "The swelling got bigger and bigger as I went on."
After winning the final, Kim knelt on the wrestling mat and kissed his country's flag as a packed arena cheered.
IRAN'S HAT-TRICK
There was more success for Iran in the second final of the night when Ghasem Rezaei won the Greco-Roman heavyweight class, taking his country's wrestling gold tally to three.
The Iranian, who only managed 16th place in Beijing four years ago, beat Russia's Rustam Totrov in the final of the 96kg weight class.
Jubilant Iranian supporters roared and waved their nation's flags as Rezaei kissed and hugged his coach in celebration.
Rezaei had beaten the Armenian favourite Artur Aleksanyan in the quarter-final. Totrov won bronze at the world championships in 2011 and was among the favourites for gold in London.
"To see all the Iranians inside the stadium and back home, to bring smiles to their faces is the happiest moment of my life," said Rezaei.
It was the final day of the Greco-Roman, a discipline where holds must be above the waist and athletes are restricted from using their legs to bring down an opponent.
The freestyle - where athletes can use their legs to defend and attack - runs from Wednesday to Sunday. (Reuters)
Olympics wrestling: Ghasem Rezaei wins another gold for Iran...
Ghasem Rezaei added another Olympic wrestling gold to Iran's haul in London, beating Rustam Totrov in the -96kg Greco-Roman final.
Rezaei, 26, beat his Russian opponent 2-0 1-0 at ExCeL.
It was the third wrestling gold medal of the Games for Iran, following previous victories in both the men's -55kg Greco-Roman and men's -60kg Greco-Roman categories.
Armenia's Artur Aleksanyan and Jimmy Lidberg of Sweden took bronze medals.
They defeated Yunior Estrada Falcon of Cuba and Belarusian Tsimafei Dzeinichenka respectively.
Rezaei, who finished 16th in Beijing four years ago, lifted his opponent off the mat to win the first period before successfully defending a par terre in the second.
Iran had not won any golds in the Greco-Roman discipline before London.
Final Results
Rank Athlete Country Result
1 Rezaei IRI 3
2 Totrov RUS 0
3 Aleksanyan ARM 3
3 Lidberg SWE 3
Tarash gets lonely at training - 28th July 2012...
Australian wrestler Farzad Tarash struck an unexpected training snag on just his second day at the Olympics.
No one to train with.
Tarash arrived at the Redbridge training facility just outside London early Friday morning (local time) only to find himself all alone.
Typically before a big meet, rival wrestlers pair up for training sessions and for a two or three minute bout.
But Tarash, 25, couldn't find anyone in his 60kg division to match up with, although some Cuban wrestlers arrived just as he was leaving.
It seems the Melbourne engineer is a tad more driven than some of his wrestling mates.
"Yeah, Cuba came but it was a little bit too late," he told AAP.
"I think it's very quiet because people are taking it easy because it's going to be a long night with the opening ceremony."
Tarash is unlikely to make the podium in London, but is hoping to feed off the experience.
"I know most of the wrestlers in my weight division and it's good to have them as training partners.
"Some have very broken English, but we seem to understand each other somehow.
"Wrestling is not a sport where you need too many words." (AAP)
Cuba's Lopez wins wrestling gold - 7th August 2012...
Mijain Lopez of Cuba won gold Monday in the men's 120-kilogram category of the Greco-Roman wrestling at the London Olympics.
Lopez defeated Heiki Nabi of Estonia 2-0, 1-0 to win his second straight Olympic gold medal.
Lopez is the third wrestler to win multiple golds at 120 kilograms, joining Russian legend Alexander Karelin and Alexander Koltschinkski of the former Soviet Union.
Lopez, the four-time world champion, also beat Turkey's Riza Kayaalp in the semis after losing to the Turk in Istanbul during last year's world championships.
beating Estonia's Heiki Nabi
in the final.
Turkey's Riza Kayaalp and Johan Euren of Sweden took bronze medals. (AP)
Iran's Noroozi wins Olympic wrestling gold...
Omid Noroozi of Iran won the gold medal Monday in men's 60-kilogram Greco-Roman wrestling at the London Olympics.
Noroozi, the defending world champion, beat Georgia's Revaz Lashkhi 1-0, 1-0 to give Iran its second Greco-Roman medal in as many days.
Hamid Soryan won the country's first Greco-Roman gold on Sunday.
Noroozi beat Kazakhstan's Almat Kebispayev in a rematch of the 2011 world championship final, then took out Lashkhi for his first gold medal.
Russia's Zaur Kuramagomedov and Japan's Ryutaro Matsumoto won bronze medals. (AP)
First Second unveils André the Giant comic...
First Second has confirmed its André the Giant biography.
Cartoonist Box Brown is working on the book charting the life of the professional wrestler and actor, reports ICv2.
André Roussimoff was a star and one-time champion of the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE).
He is also known for his role in cult classic movie The Princess Bride.
Roussimoff has the condition acromegaly, which saw him grow to 7'4" in height. He died of heart failure in 1993 at the age of 46.
Box is the author of Xeric grant-funded graphic novel Love Is a Peculiar Type of Thing.
The untitled André the Giant biography is scheduled for release in 2014.
Fans of Andre will be delighted to hear that an Andre The Giant online slot game is available on Virgin Casino - Virgin Games, which can be accessed via the Media Man network.
McMahon finds herself on familiar Connecticut turf: attacked, ahead - 28th July 2012...
Pro wrestling mogul Linda McMahon finds herself in a familiar position this summer -- attacked as a candidate depending more on her personal wealth than her political skills to win a U.S. Senate seat in Connecticut -- but once again the likely Republican primary winner.
The only real difference for the millionaire, former professional wrestling executive is the primary attacks this year have been exceptionally harsh, even compared to those against McMahon in her debut 2010 run.
One ad two years ago shows a wrestler pretending to smash a folding chair over the head of his opponent, then McMahon, a former World Wrestling Entertainment chief executive officer, standing in the ring hand-in-hand with husband and company founder Vince McMahon.
This year’s primary opponent, former GOP Rep. Christopher Shays, recently called McMahon “clueless” and said she is the political opponent for whom he has the least respect, after having served 32 years in elected office.
“I have never run against an opponent that I have respected less,” Shays told the New Haven Register after a July 18 debate, then characterized McMahon’s performance as “embarrassingly clueless.”
McMahon’s camp and political analysts have said the recent comments from the well-respect Shays suggest his frustration and realization that his political career might be coming to a close as McMahon holds a significant lead just weeks before the August primary.
“It has become increasingly clear that Shays has become unglued,” McMahon campaign manager Tim Murtaugh said. “It’s sad to see his career end this way.”
A recent Quinnipiac poll shows McMahon leading Shays by 29 points.
Shays, a moderate with support from such Washington Republicans as Karl Rove, appeared to suggest after the debate that he faces long odds in extending his political career, considering the campaign could not afford TV ads – crucial when trailing late and because he has under-whelming name recognition despite 21 years in the House.
His campaign said this week it had received an infusion of money for media buys and remains optimistic about winning.
Communications Director Amanda Bergen didn’t question the validity of the Quinnipiac poll, but said it might not reflect true voter sentiment because voters disconnect during the summer.
“People won’t start paying attention until early August,” she said.
Bergen said the campaign is also focusing on Republican primary voters and spending its advertising money in their specific markets.
“This election is too important to waste,” she said. “Chris votes on principle (and) he has the experience to hit the ground running.”
The Shays campaign also has repeatedly characterized McMahon as scripted and unprepared for Congress, much like she was criticized in the 2010 primary against former Rep. Rob Simmons and in the general election with Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal, who defeated her.
Regardless of who wins, either candidate will have a difficult time defeating the Democrat challenger in the race for the open seat of Sen. Joe Lieberman, an independent, considering the blue state has a no Republicans in either the House or Senate.
Meanwhile, McMahon continues to poor millions of her own money into the race, as she did in 2010. And her campaign continues to stick to its message and look ahead to a match up with likely Democratic nominee Rep. Chris Murphy.
“Linda McMahon will be the Republican winner on the night of August 14,” Murtaugh told FoxNews.com.
He also said the campaign is sticking to its grass-roots campaign effort to contacts thousands of voters and tell people that McMahon is not a career Washington politician, but in fact a jobs creator whose wrestling business started as a kitchen table operation that once went bankrupt.
“She understands the plight of the small business person because she has lived through it,” Murtaugh said. (Fox News)
Brock Lesnar - Ryback backstage fight? - Internet rumour lights up...
Rumors of former UFC Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar attacking WWE rising superstar Ryback have been sending the internet news sites crazy.
The rumor has been covered on several pro-wrestling news sites, including Mexican wrestling website SuperLuchas, WrestlingInc.com and Pro Wrestling Observer.
SuperLuchas—as well as multiple sources throughout the Internet—claims that the news was first broken by the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, despite the lack of evidence of the reputable newsletter ever publishing such news.
According to the websites which cite the alleged Wrestling Observer Newsletter report:
Lesnar left the building after getting into a physical altercation with fellow WWE superstar, Ryan Reeves, known in ring as Ryback.
Not much information is being let out, but the source says Lesnar was in the arena early to rehearse a major angle with SummerSlam opponent Triple H. Before things even began, Reeves, who was also in the building, got into a heated argument with Lesnar. It is uncertain what the argument was about.
Reeves put his hands on Lesnar, though the source tells us that people who witnessed it said Reeves was going to apologize. Lesnar shoved Reeves back and a shoving match ensued. Lesnar threw Reeves to the floor and hit him in the face three times before being pulled off.
Reeves suffered a laceration above his left eyebrow which is required stitches. 'Ryback' will not be competing tonight as he was originally planned. Lesnar left the building immediately, and all efforts to reach him have failed.
Ex Olympian Kurt Angle in movie...
You can donate as little as $2 to help get Angle's first starring role in a feature film, Singlet: The Dana Kelly Story, made. Angle plays Dana Kelly in the film, which takes a look at the world of Olympic Weightlifting. You can get more details here
http://www.moviehatch.com/index.php/component/option,com_moviehatch/competition,-1:/movie,640/task,detail/
Media Man Wrap-Up...
We told you we had a ripper news update for today. Fans, as always, keep checking the Media Man blogs for more news on these developing news stories.
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Tuesday, August 07, 2012
The Bourne Legacy red carpet premiere at State Theatre, Sydney, Australia
Profiles
Movies Hollywood Universal Pictures Sydney Entertainment Australia
The Bourne Legacy tonight enjoyed its Sydney, Australia red carpet premiere (and a bike stunt) at the world famous State Theatre.
Megastar Jeremy Renner has seen his career take off in recent years after appearing in a string of popular movies including 'The Hurt Locker', 'Avengers' and 'The Bourne Legacy'. The 41-year-old says it is impossible for him to pick a favourite out of the vast number of films he's starred in.
"My favourite movie... it's difficult to say," Jeremy admitted to Sydney radio's Kyle and Jackie O. "It's a bit like having to choose which is your favourite child."
Renner features in the latest Bourne movie following the departure of Matt Damon. He found it tough to abide by some of the rules surrounding the top secret nature of The Bourne Legacy's script.
"They flew the script in at midnight and you were allowed to look at it for two hours before they flew it back. I'm a slow reader anyway so I felt pressured," Jeremy explained. "I had to really rifle through it! I mean what were they going to do, have it burst into flames on me or something?!"
Although he felt stressed, Jeremy agrees with the concept. The actor respects the need for secrecy with storylines in the film industry.
"We are in the age where nothing is sacred or private anymore. It gets to the point where no one wants to come see movies if they know the ending anymore so why spoil it for people?" Jeremy continued. "Especially in a big franchise like Bourne where there is a big fan base."
Story...
After agent Jason Bourne goes rogue as seen in the original "Bourne" trilogy--CIA agent Eric Byer (Edward Norton), head of the government's secret Outcome program which has used a chemical process to create super agents, decides to end that program by killing all the agents in the field. One such agent, Aaron Cross (Jeremy Renner) manages to survive the culling and with the help of biochemist Dr. Marta Shearing (Rachel Weisz) goes on the run from Byers' agents as he tries to get the chemicals he needs to survive.
"The Bourne Legacy" is a very interesting approach to reviving a franchise because it's not a reboot as much as a sequel that takes place concurrently and overlapping with "The Bourne Ultimatum." This idea is the brainchild of Tony Gilroy, who was involved in the the first three "Bourne" movies before directing "Michael Clayton" and "Duplicity." He returns to the "Bourne" franchise.
In The Bourne Legacy, writer/director Tony GIlroy expands the Bourne universe created by Robert Ludlum with an original story that introduces us to a new hero (Jeremy Renner) whose life-or-death stakes have been triggered by the events of the first three films.
For The Bourne Legacy, Renner joins fellow series newcomers Rachel Weisz, Edward Norton, Stacy Keach and Oscar Isaac, while franchise veterans Albert Finney, Joan Allen, David Strathairn and Scott Glenn reprise their roles.
The buzz is that this is an awesome film, so be watching out for release dates in your region.
Release Date: August 10, 2012
Genre: Action-Thriller
Studio: Universal
Starring: Jeremy Renner, Rachel Weisz, Edward Norton, Albert Finney, Joan Allen, Scott Glenn, Stacy Keach, Oscar Isaac
Directed By: Tony Gilroy
Written By: Tony Gilroy and Dan Gilroy
Produced By: Frank Marshall, Patrick Crowley, Jeffrey M. Weiner, Ben Smith
Full Cast List:
Jeremy Renner as Aaron Cross
Rachel Weisz as Dr. Marta Shearing
Scott Glenn as Ezra Kramer
Stacy Keach as Retired Adm. Mark Turso, USN
Edward Norton as Retired Col. Eric Byer, USAF
Donna Murphy as Dita Mandy
Michael Chernus as Arthur Ingram
Corey Stoll as Zev Vendel
Prue Lewarne as CNN Reporter
Tony Guida as Dr. Benezara
Sonnie Brown as Dr. Lieberburg
Neil Brooks Cunningham as Dr. Dan Hillcott
Zeljko Ivanek as Dr. Donald Foite
Robert Christopher Riley as Outcome #6 (as Rob Riley)
Albert Finney as Dr. Albert Hirsch
Dennis Boutsikaris as Terrence Ward
Oscar Isaac as Outcome #3
David Strathairn as Noah Vosen
Corey Johnson as Ray Wills
Jennifer Kim as Outcome #4
Page Leong as Mrs. Yun
Joan Allen as Pam Landy
John Arcilla as Joseph
Clayton J. Barber as Gene (as Clayton Barber)
Michael Berresse as Leonard
Elizabeth Marvel as Dr. Connie Dowd
Websites
The Bourne Legacy
The Bourne Trilogy
Universal Pictures Australia
Universal Pictures
State Theatre
Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr
Eva Rinaldi Photography
Music News Australia
Media Man News
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
Media Man News
Media Man Entertainment
Movies Hollywood Universal Pictures Sydney Entertainment Australia
The Bourne Legacy tonight enjoyed its Sydney, Australia red carpet premiere (and a bike stunt) at the world famous State Theatre.
Megastar Jeremy Renner has seen his career take off in recent years after appearing in a string of popular movies including 'The Hurt Locker', 'Avengers' and 'The Bourne Legacy'. The 41-year-old says it is impossible for him to pick a favourite out of the vast number of films he's starred in.
"My favourite movie... it's difficult to say," Jeremy admitted to Sydney radio's Kyle and Jackie O. "It's a bit like having to choose which is your favourite child."
Renner features in the latest Bourne movie following the departure of Matt Damon. He found it tough to abide by some of the rules surrounding the top secret nature of The Bourne Legacy's script.
"They flew the script in at midnight and you were allowed to look at it for two hours before they flew it back. I'm a slow reader anyway so I felt pressured," Jeremy explained. "I had to really rifle through it! I mean what were they going to do, have it burst into flames on me or something?!"
Although he felt stressed, Jeremy agrees with the concept. The actor respects the need for secrecy with storylines in the film industry.
"We are in the age where nothing is sacred or private anymore. It gets to the point where no one wants to come see movies if they know the ending anymore so why spoil it for people?" Jeremy continued. "Especially in a big franchise like Bourne where there is a big fan base."
Story...
After agent Jason Bourne goes rogue as seen in the original "Bourne" trilogy--CIA agent Eric Byer (Edward Norton), head of the government's secret Outcome program which has used a chemical process to create super agents, decides to end that program by killing all the agents in the field. One such agent, Aaron Cross (Jeremy Renner) manages to survive the culling and with the help of biochemist Dr. Marta Shearing (Rachel Weisz) goes on the run from Byers' agents as he tries to get the chemicals he needs to survive.
"The Bourne Legacy" is a very interesting approach to reviving a franchise because it's not a reboot as much as a sequel that takes place concurrently and overlapping with "The Bourne Ultimatum." This idea is the brainchild of Tony Gilroy, who was involved in the the first three "Bourne" movies before directing "Michael Clayton" and "Duplicity." He returns to the "Bourne" franchise.
In The Bourne Legacy, writer/director Tony GIlroy expands the Bourne universe created by Robert Ludlum with an original story that introduces us to a new hero (Jeremy Renner) whose life-or-death stakes have been triggered by the events of the first three films.
For The Bourne Legacy, Renner joins fellow series newcomers Rachel Weisz, Edward Norton, Stacy Keach and Oscar Isaac, while franchise veterans Albert Finney, Joan Allen, David Strathairn and Scott Glenn reprise their roles.
The buzz is that this is an awesome film, so be watching out for release dates in your region.
Release Date: August 10, 2012
Genre: Action-Thriller
Studio: Universal
Starring: Jeremy Renner, Rachel Weisz, Edward Norton, Albert Finney, Joan Allen, Scott Glenn, Stacy Keach, Oscar Isaac
Directed By: Tony Gilroy
Written By: Tony Gilroy and Dan Gilroy
Produced By: Frank Marshall, Patrick Crowley, Jeffrey M. Weiner, Ben Smith
Full Cast List:
Jeremy Renner as Aaron Cross
Rachel Weisz as Dr. Marta Shearing
Scott Glenn as Ezra Kramer
Stacy Keach as Retired Adm. Mark Turso, USN
Edward Norton as Retired Col. Eric Byer, USAF
Donna Murphy as Dita Mandy
Michael Chernus as Arthur Ingram
Corey Stoll as Zev Vendel
Prue Lewarne as CNN Reporter
Tony Guida as Dr. Benezara
Sonnie Brown as Dr. Lieberburg
Neil Brooks Cunningham as Dr. Dan Hillcott
Zeljko Ivanek as Dr. Donald Foite
Robert Christopher Riley as Outcome #6 (as Rob Riley)
Albert Finney as Dr. Albert Hirsch
Dennis Boutsikaris as Terrence Ward
Oscar Isaac as Outcome #3
David Strathairn as Noah Vosen
Corey Johnson as Ray Wills
Jennifer Kim as Outcome #4
Page Leong as Mrs. Yun
Joan Allen as Pam Landy
John Arcilla as Joseph
Clayton J. Barber as Gene (as Clayton Barber)
Michael Berresse as Leonard
Elizabeth Marvel as Dr. Connie Dowd
Websites
The Bourne Legacy
The Bourne Trilogy
Universal Pictures Australia
Universal Pictures
State Theatre
Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr
Eva Rinaldi Photography
Music News Australia
Media Man News
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
Media Man News
Media Man Entertainment
Casino News Media: Sydney, Australia; UK, Fiji, Macau, California, U.S
Profiles
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Crown Limited Does Deal With Barangaroo In Sydney...
In big news today, James Packer’s Crown Limited (ASX: CWN) has struck a deal to build a $1 billion hotel development at Barangaroo, on Sydney’s foreshore. Crown signed an agreement with the developer, Lend Lease Limited (ASX: LLC) earlier today, but said it will only go ahead if Crown gains approval to including VIP gambling facilities (in other words – a casino). Just yesterday, Crown announced that it was spending up to $568m to build a six star hotel at its Burswood casino in Perth.
Work on Fijis first ever Casino to begin...
Work on Fiji’s first casino will begin this month as investors will meet to give contracts to local companies in Denarau this week.
One Hundred Sands – the company behind the project has managed to raise $400million for construction.
However the initial projections for phase one of the project which will see the construction of a convention center, casino and resort is $290m.
Managing Director Larry Claunch says overseas investors are often given misconceptions about Fiji’s investment potential by local private sectors.
“There has been a lot of criticism if we could raise the money in a timely fashion – we have, criticism and comments if we can finish on time – we will – its going to be probably a fastest development anybody has ever seen and it going to be fun to watch.”
Claunch says the current government played a vital role for this investment.
“I didn’t come to Fiji with a though of developing a casino or anything for that matter – I really just came here to eat fresh fish – but after seeing the vision of this government I knew everything was possible and I was all in.”
Five hundred locals will be employed during the construction and around 600 to 850 will be employed at the casino.
The new casino is expected to begin operation from September next year.
Aspers Casino looks forward to end of Games...
Though it’s happening right on the doorstep of his company’s flagship casino, Richard Noble is looking forward to when the 2012 London Olympic Games finish.
The chief operating officer of Aspers Group – a joint venture between the Australian Securities Exchange-listed Crown and the Aspinall family, which operates Aspers Casino at Westfield Stratford City next to Olympic Park – says weekly takings and average visitor numbers are down about 20 per cent in the first week of the Games.
When Aspers at Westfield Stratford City, the country’s largest casino, opened on December 1 last year, Noble told The Australian Financial Review it was immediately popular. “In our first three days we had 30,000 visitors which was about 100 per cent above our business case. After that we were averaging 25,000-30,000 visitors per week. But in the last few months we’ve seen the three carparks here at the Westfield get cut down to one and now it is none, so we have been adversely affected.”
There have been restrictions placed on visitor numbers to Westfield Stratford by the London Olympic Games Organising Committee (LOCOG). These include only Games ticket holders being allowed access to Westfield between 8.30am and 5pm on Friday and Saturday.
Noble says this cut down on the ability of regular Aspers patrons to visit the casino. He said it also affecting the numbers of people in the local area attracted to Westfield during the Games, who could have potentially visited the casino for the first time. LOCOG is also likely to institute another similar “lock-out” later this year due to fears about congestion at the mall, which is between Olympic Park and public transport links.
With the Olympics not providing the boost in business once hoped, Noble says Aspers will now concentrate its marketing efforts on the post-Games period. “On the 18th of September, after the Olympics and then the Paralympics are over, we will be having a huge relaunch.”
Noble says the casino concentrates on a high volume of customers who spend relatively little. It has a catchment area of 4.1 million people.
“And that is just in the east and the area around, north to Luton and east to Southend,” he said.
“But what’s been surprising and also delightful is that we’ve managed to get a lot of visitors from the west of London as well.”
A change to British gaming laws in 2007 allowed for the casino to be built without previous restrictions that meant patrons had to become members. Aspers also owns casinos in Newcastle, Swansea and Northampton and is planning to open a new venue in Milton Keynes in 2003.
Overall, he says Aspers is pleased about how the Stratford business has performed given it has already expanded since its December 2011 opening. It now has 57 gaming tables, the highest number in Britain, up from 38 when it opened. It has room to accommodate 80 tables. There are also now 138 electronic gaming terminals, up from 92. The site will soon feature a bespoke poker room to go with the sports bar, VIP bar and terrace, which has been hired out to corporate clients for the Games.
But Noble, who is otherwise enjoying the Games, can’t wait until September. “Some of our patrons are not able to get here at the moment but that will change once all this is over.” (The Australian Financial Review)
Police detain 150 in Macau casino raids amid fears of new gang war...
HONG KONG (Reuters) - Police detained more than 150 people in weekend raids on casinos and hotels in Macau after a recent spate of killings raised fears of a new gang war in the world's largest gambling destination.
The former Portuguese territory was gripped by gang wars in the late 1990s and the recent murder of three people in two weeks, thought linked to the gambling industry, comes just months ahead of the release from jail of triad boss "Broken Tooth" Wan Kuok-koi, who wreaked havoc at that time.
About 1,300 people were rounded up on Friday and Saturday in Macau and 150 of those were taken in for questioning in the operation codenamed "Thunderbolt".
"This operation is an annual exercise to maintain public security. It is a joint exercise undertaken by police in Guangdong province, Macau and Hong Kong to crack down and prevent crime in this region," a Macau police spokeswoman said.
In Hong Kong, police raided 21 locations on August 2 as part of the joint operation and arrested 130 people on suspicion of various crimes including money laundering involving HK$300 million (24.77 million pounds), illegal gambling and prostitution.
Police also seized cash, watches and cars worth more than HK$11 million.
The Macau raids came just weeks after a Chinese woman was found murdered in a residential area minutes away from the cavernous gambling halls of gaming magnate Sheldon Adelson's Venetian casino.
That followed the murders of two Chinese nationals at the five-star Grand Lapa hotel in Macau, a one-hour ferry ride from Hong Kong, and an attack at the end of June on a senior figure in Macau's junket industry, which extends credit to rich gamblers.
By contrast, only five homicide cases were recorded between June 2011 and May 2012, according to Macau police statistics.
Macau, which like Hong Kong is a special administrative region of China, has boomed since the 1999 handover from Portugal, with Las Vegas moguls including Adelson and Steve Wynn setting up glitzy casino hotels.
That growth, however, has slowed significantly in the past three months, forcing junket operators into more aggressive debt-collecting tactics.
Many of the smaller junket companies, which collect gambling debts in exchange for a commission from casino operators, are struggling to stay in business.
IGT partners with California casino...
American computerised gaming equipment designer and manufacturer International Game Technology (IGT) has signed a deal that will see the Golden Acorn Casino and Travel Center in California host an online casino application from its Double Down Interactive subsidiary.
Las Vegas-based IGT purchased the casual games developer in January and revealed that the Golden Acorn Casino is set to utilise its technology in order to offer casino players free-play gaming experiences.
“Golden Acorn recognises the opportunity to provide gaming entertainment to its players across various channels,” said Eric Tom, Global Sales Executive Vice-President for IGT.
“This solution is allowing it to grasp an opportunity to evolve as the landscape of gaming also changes permitting it to drive engaging gameplay directly to its casino guests and fans of the Golden Acorn Casino and Travel Center brand.”
IGT stated that the revenue sharing partnership will see Golden Acorn use its own website in order provide players with a ‘truly convergent gaming experience’ that is to include access to a ‘full-casino-style offering of games in one convenient place’.
“Offering the same game titles on the web that we offer inside our casino gives us the unique opportunity to deliver fun and engaging casino-style experiences to our players,” said David Baggerly, Marketing Director for Golden Acorn Casino and Travel Center, which is located 47 miles from downtown San Diego near the Mexican border.
“This is an incredible chance to drive interactive slot culture to our players while allowing them to stay connected to our brand.”
Guests at the Golden Acorn will be able to enjoy online social versions of Texas hold‘em poker in addition to some of IGT's top-performing slot titles including Da Vinci Diamonds and Cleopatra. New games are to be added automatically while first-time users will receive one million dollars in virtual chips.
Development agreement for Bally and High 5 Games...
Bally Technologies has entered into a multi-year agreement with games developer High 5 Games to publish a substantial number of new H5G games under the Bally brand for the worldwide land-based, mobile and online business-to-business casino gaming markets.
“We’re excited to partner with a game creator that has such a world-class track record of developing high-performing and engaging game content,” said Jean Venneman, Vice President of Product Management and Licensing at Bally Technologies. “We look forward to leveraging H5G’s newest game content to help casino operators across the world drive revenues and delight players.”
Ramesh Srinivasan, Bally's President and Chief Operating Officer, added, “The partnership with H5G reflects our commitment to delivering best-of-breed, cross-platform game content to our customers. This promise is reflected in the more than 25 game studios we have established across the globe, augmented by relationships with proven game developers like H5G that enable us to deliver a diverse array of creative, interactive, and exciting game content.”
“We are delighted to partner with Bally Technologies, a long-time leader in the casino gaming industry,” said Anthony Singer, Chief Executive Officer of H5G. “With Bally’s sophisticated new ALPHA 2 game platform, and a new Bally Interactive division committed to mobile, online, and social business-to-business game content, we believe that the sky is the limit for this next generation of H5G games.”
Bwin.party Digital Entertainment Plc : The bearish trend should continue...
07/18/2012
Opinion : Bearish under 115.5 GBp
Target price : 83.4 GBp
Stop loss: 115.5 GBp
LONDON STOCK EXCHANGE
Bwin.party (BPTY) was formed from the merger of bwin Interactive Entertainment AG and PartyGaming Plc in March 2011 to create the world’s largest listed online gaming. Incorporated and licensed in Gibraltar, the Group has over 2,700 employees across Europe, India, Israel and the US. It commands leading market positions in each of four product: online sports betting, poker, casino and bingo with some of the world’s biggest online gaming brands including bwin, PartyPoker, PartyCasino and Foxy Bingo.
A month ago, we forecasted a downtrend with a target price at GBp 102. This target was reached and we reiterate our opinion. In a bearish trend, BPTY continues to decline.
From a fundamental viewpoint, the group is in a bad financial situation. Analysts have recently downgraded their forecasts for earnings per share. This indicator is often a precursor of a declining profitability and a worsening climate of investor confidence. Even if the company has a lot of cash, it is overvalued : BPTY’s PER for 2012 is 38.9x and 16.3x for 2013 and growth rates are low.
From a technical viewpoint, prices are in a downward trend. Moving averages are trending down and put pressure on the stock, which confirms this downward momentum. This trend may continue toward the GBp 95 support. Moreover, the security is testing a pivot point at GBp 102.6 in weekly data and the significant breakdown of this level would be a new bearish signal.
Taking into account fundamental and technical elements, investors can initiate a short position in BPTY with a first target price at GBp 95. If the security crosses this level, the second target price will be the long term support at GBp 83.4. A return towards GBp 115.5, the short-term resistance area, will invalidate the bearish strategy, which justifies a stop loss. (4 Traders)
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Crown Limited Does Deal With Barangaroo In Sydney...
In big news today, James Packer’s Crown Limited (ASX: CWN) has struck a deal to build a $1 billion hotel development at Barangaroo, on Sydney’s foreshore. Crown signed an agreement with the developer, Lend Lease Limited (ASX: LLC) earlier today, but said it will only go ahead if Crown gains approval to including VIP gambling facilities (in other words – a casino). Just yesterday, Crown announced that it was spending up to $568m to build a six star hotel at its Burswood casino in Perth.
Work on Fijis first ever Casino to begin...
Work on Fiji’s first casino will begin this month as investors will meet to give contracts to local companies in Denarau this week.
One Hundred Sands – the company behind the project has managed to raise $400million for construction.
However the initial projections for phase one of the project which will see the construction of a convention center, casino and resort is $290m.
Managing Director Larry Claunch says overseas investors are often given misconceptions about Fiji’s investment potential by local private sectors.
“There has been a lot of criticism if we could raise the money in a timely fashion – we have, criticism and comments if we can finish on time – we will – its going to be probably a fastest development anybody has ever seen and it going to be fun to watch.”
Claunch says the current government played a vital role for this investment.
“I didn’t come to Fiji with a though of developing a casino or anything for that matter – I really just came here to eat fresh fish – but after seeing the vision of this government I knew everything was possible and I was all in.”
Five hundred locals will be employed during the construction and around 600 to 850 will be employed at the casino.
The new casino is expected to begin operation from September next year.
Aspers Casino looks forward to end of Games...
Though it’s happening right on the doorstep of his company’s flagship casino, Richard Noble is looking forward to when the 2012 London Olympic Games finish.
The chief operating officer of Aspers Group – a joint venture between the Australian Securities Exchange-listed Crown and the Aspinall family, which operates Aspers Casino at Westfield Stratford City next to Olympic Park – says weekly takings and average visitor numbers are down about 20 per cent in the first week of the Games.
When Aspers at Westfield Stratford City, the country’s largest casino, opened on December 1 last year, Noble told The Australian Financial Review it was immediately popular. “In our first three days we had 30,000 visitors which was about 100 per cent above our business case. After that we were averaging 25,000-30,000 visitors per week. But in the last few months we’ve seen the three carparks here at the Westfield get cut down to one and now it is none, so we have been adversely affected.”
There have been restrictions placed on visitor numbers to Westfield Stratford by the London Olympic Games Organising Committee (LOCOG). These include only Games ticket holders being allowed access to Westfield between 8.30am and 5pm on Friday and Saturday.
Noble says this cut down on the ability of regular Aspers patrons to visit the casino. He said it also affecting the numbers of people in the local area attracted to Westfield during the Games, who could have potentially visited the casino for the first time. LOCOG is also likely to institute another similar “lock-out” later this year due to fears about congestion at the mall, which is between Olympic Park and public transport links.
With the Olympics not providing the boost in business once hoped, Noble says Aspers will now concentrate its marketing efforts on the post-Games period. “On the 18th of September, after the Olympics and then the Paralympics are over, we will be having a huge relaunch.”
Noble says the casino concentrates on a high volume of customers who spend relatively little. It has a catchment area of 4.1 million people.
“And that is just in the east and the area around, north to Luton and east to Southend,” he said.
“But what’s been surprising and also delightful is that we’ve managed to get a lot of visitors from the west of London as well.”
A change to British gaming laws in 2007 allowed for the casino to be built without previous restrictions that meant patrons had to become members. Aspers also owns casinos in Newcastle, Swansea and Northampton and is planning to open a new venue in Milton Keynes in 2003.
Overall, he says Aspers is pleased about how the Stratford business has performed given it has already expanded since its December 2011 opening. It now has 57 gaming tables, the highest number in Britain, up from 38 when it opened. It has room to accommodate 80 tables. There are also now 138 electronic gaming terminals, up from 92. The site will soon feature a bespoke poker room to go with the sports bar, VIP bar and terrace, which has been hired out to corporate clients for the Games.
But Noble, who is otherwise enjoying the Games, can’t wait until September. “Some of our patrons are not able to get here at the moment but that will change once all this is over.” (The Australian Financial Review)
Police detain 150 in Macau casino raids amid fears of new gang war...
HONG KONG (Reuters) - Police detained more than 150 people in weekend raids on casinos and hotels in Macau after a recent spate of killings raised fears of a new gang war in the world's largest gambling destination.
The former Portuguese territory was gripped by gang wars in the late 1990s and the recent murder of three people in two weeks, thought linked to the gambling industry, comes just months ahead of the release from jail of triad boss "Broken Tooth" Wan Kuok-koi, who wreaked havoc at that time.
About 1,300 people were rounded up on Friday and Saturday in Macau and 150 of those were taken in for questioning in the operation codenamed "Thunderbolt".
"This operation is an annual exercise to maintain public security. It is a joint exercise undertaken by police in Guangdong province, Macau and Hong Kong to crack down and prevent crime in this region," a Macau police spokeswoman said.
In Hong Kong, police raided 21 locations on August 2 as part of the joint operation and arrested 130 people on suspicion of various crimes including money laundering involving HK$300 million (24.77 million pounds), illegal gambling and prostitution.
Police also seized cash, watches and cars worth more than HK$11 million.
The Macau raids came just weeks after a Chinese woman was found murdered in a residential area minutes away from the cavernous gambling halls of gaming magnate Sheldon Adelson's Venetian casino.
That followed the murders of two Chinese nationals at the five-star Grand Lapa hotel in Macau, a one-hour ferry ride from Hong Kong, and an attack at the end of June on a senior figure in Macau's junket industry, which extends credit to rich gamblers.
By contrast, only five homicide cases were recorded between June 2011 and May 2012, according to Macau police statistics.
Macau, which like Hong Kong is a special administrative region of China, has boomed since the 1999 handover from Portugal, with Las Vegas moguls including Adelson and Steve Wynn setting up glitzy casino hotels.
That growth, however, has slowed significantly in the past three months, forcing junket operators into more aggressive debt-collecting tactics.
Many of the smaller junket companies, which collect gambling debts in exchange for a commission from casino operators, are struggling to stay in business.
IGT partners with California casino...
American computerised gaming equipment designer and manufacturer International Game Technology (IGT) has signed a deal that will see the Golden Acorn Casino and Travel Center in California host an online casino application from its Double Down Interactive subsidiary.
Las Vegas-based IGT purchased the casual games developer in January and revealed that the Golden Acorn Casino is set to utilise its technology in order to offer casino players free-play gaming experiences.
“Golden Acorn recognises the opportunity to provide gaming entertainment to its players across various channels,” said Eric Tom, Global Sales Executive Vice-President for IGT.
“This solution is allowing it to grasp an opportunity to evolve as the landscape of gaming also changes permitting it to drive engaging gameplay directly to its casino guests and fans of the Golden Acorn Casino and Travel Center brand.”
IGT stated that the revenue sharing partnership will see Golden Acorn use its own website in order provide players with a ‘truly convergent gaming experience’ that is to include access to a ‘full-casino-style offering of games in one convenient place’.
“Offering the same game titles on the web that we offer inside our casino gives us the unique opportunity to deliver fun and engaging casino-style experiences to our players,” said David Baggerly, Marketing Director for Golden Acorn Casino and Travel Center, which is located 47 miles from downtown San Diego near the Mexican border.
“This is an incredible chance to drive interactive slot culture to our players while allowing them to stay connected to our brand.”
Guests at the Golden Acorn will be able to enjoy online social versions of Texas hold‘em poker in addition to some of IGT's top-performing slot titles including Da Vinci Diamonds and Cleopatra. New games are to be added automatically while first-time users will receive one million dollars in virtual chips.
Development agreement for Bally and High 5 Games...
Bally Technologies has entered into a multi-year agreement with games developer High 5 Games to publish a substantial number of new H5G games under the Bally brand for the worldwide land-based, mobile and online business-to-business casino gaming markets.
“We’re excited to partner with a game creator that has such a world-class track record of developing high-performing and engaging game content,” said Jean Venneman, Vice President of Product Management and Licensing at Bally Technologies. “We look forward to leveraging H5G’s newest game content to help casino operators across the world drive revenues and delight players.”
Ramesh Srinivasan, Bally's President and Chief Operating Officer, added, “The partnership with H5G reflects our commitment to delivering best-of-breed, cross-platform game content to our customers. This promise is reflected in the more than 25 game studios we have established across the globe, augmented by relationships with proven game developers like H5G that enable us to deliver a diverse array of creative, interactive, and exciting game content.”
“We are delighted to partner with Bally Technologies, a long-time leader in the casino gaming industry,” said Anthony Singer, Chief Executive Officer of H5G. “With Bally’s sophisticated new ALPHA 2 game platform, and a new Bally Interactive division committed to mobile, online, and social business-to-business game content, we believe that the sky is the limit for this next generation of H5G games.”
Bwin.party Digital Entertainment Plc : The bearish trend should continue...
07/18/2012
Opinion : Bearish under 115.5 GBp
Target price : 83.4 GBp
Stop loss: 115.5 GBp
LONDON STOCK EXCHANGE
Bwin.party (BPTY) was formed from the merger of bwin Interactive Entertainment AG and PartyGaming Plc in March 2011 to create the world’s largest listed online gaming. Incorporated and licensed in Gibraltar, the Group has over 2,700 employees across Europe, India, Israel and the US. It commands leading market positions in each of four product: online sports betting, poker, casino and bingo with some of the world’s biggest online gaming brands including bwin, PartyPoker, PartyCasino and Foxy Bingo.
A month ago, we forecasted a downtrend with a target price at GBp 102. This target was reached and we reiterate our opinion. In a bearish trend, BPTY continues to decline.
From a fundamental viewpoint, the group is in a bad financial situation. Analysts have recently downgraded their forecasts for earnings per share. This indicator is often a precursor of a declining profitability and a worsening climate of investor confidence. Even if the company has a lot of cash, it is overvalued : BPTY’s PER for 2012 is 38.9x and 16.3x for 2013 and growth rates are low.
From a technical viewpoint, prices are in a downward trend. Moving averages are trending down and put pressure on the stock, which confirms this downward momentum. This trend may continue toward the GBp 95 support. Moreover, the security is testing a pivot point at GBp 102.6 in weekly data and the significant breakdown of this level would be a new bearish signal.
Taking into account fundamental and technical elements, investors can initiate a short position in BPTY with a first target price at GBp 95. If the security crosses this level, the second target price will be the long term support at GBp 83.4. A return towards GBp 115.5, the short-term resistance area, will invalidate the bearish strategy, which justifies a stop loss. (4 Traders)
Websites
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Monday, August 06, 2012
Five Dock VS Burwood soccer final - 5th August 2012
Profiles
Sport Soccer Sydney
Today saw the conclusion of the soccer season for Sydney clubs.
Five Dock took on Burwood in the division 2 finals in a highly anticipated match at Nield Park, Rodd Point.
The past paced match saw a skilled display by both teams.
Five Dock's Perry Zotos was first to score a goal in the first half, in a play set up by local star player Joseph Rinaldi. This was a sign of things to come later in the game, with plays set up in training exercises paying off in actual games.
Burwood retaliated with a goal of their own soon before the the whistle blew on the first half.
The second half commenced with particularly strong ball skills on display by Five Dock, with Rinaldi, Nick Doolan and Zotos leading the attack.
Both teams missed a few chances to score, but Five Dock continues to dominate with superior attack and defence skills.
About 30 minutes into the second half it was time for Rinaldi to score, and minutes later team-mate Zotos did the honours, taking the score to 3-1, which Five Dock maintained to the end.
Coach Peter and team manager Wendy were delighted with Five Dock's game, and overall improvement demonstrated in the season.
Both teams congregated after the game and celebrated the conclusion of the season.
Well done players, coach and all the vocal loyal fans who supported their team this season.
Score:
Five Dock 3, Burwood 1
Websites
Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr
Eva Rinaldi Photography
Media Man News
Australian Sports Entertainment
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
Media Man News
Media Man Entertainment
Sport Soccer Sydney
Today saw the conclusion of the soccer season for Sydney clubs.
Five Dock took on Burwood in the division 2 finals in a highly anticipated match at Nield Park, Rodd Point.
The past paced match saw a skilled display by both teams.
Five Dock's Perry Zotos was first to score a goal in the first half, in a play set up by local star player Joseph Rinaldi. This was a sign of things to come later in the game, with plays set up in training exercises paying off in actual games.
Burwood retaliated with a goal of their own soon before the the whistle blew on the first half.
The second half commenced with particularly strong ball skills on display by Five Dock, with Rinaldi, Nick Doolan and Zotos leading the attack.
Both teams missed a few chances to score, but Five Dock continues to dominate with superior attack and defence skills.
About 30 minutes into the second half it was time for Rinaldi to score, and minutes later team-mate Zotos did the honours, taking the score to 3-1, which Five Dock maintained to the end.
Coach Peter and team manager Wendy were delighted with Five Dock's game, and overall improvement demonstrated in the season.
Both teams congregated after the game and celebrated the conclusion of the season.
Well done players, coach and all the vocal loyal fans who supported their team this season.
Score:
Five Dock 3, Burwood 1
Websites
Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr
Eva Rinaldi Photography
Media Man News
Australian Sports Entertainment
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
Media Man News
Media Man Entertainment
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