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Thursday, August 26, 2010

Media Man Bloggers Blog: Sam Bankman-Fried: ‘I didn’t steal funds’

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Friday, August 20, 2010

PKR nominated for Casino News Media - Media Man - Global Gaming Directory Awards, by Greg Tingle - August 2010

PKR.com nominated for Casino News Media - Media Man - Global Gaming Directory Awards - August 2010

Award winning online casino and online poker room, PKR.com, made the finals of the Casino News Media - Media Man - Global Gaming Directory "Online Casino of the Month" and "Online Poker Website of the Month".

The news comes as PKR enjoys a wave of momentum with a website revamp, more games, champion players flying the flag for PKR, and "Avatar" type technologies and sports betting on the way.

PKR also offer one of the world's most impressive new player sign ups and rewards systems.

For a unique poker and casino experience in 3D, check out PKR.com today.

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Sunday, August 15, 2010

Virgin Casino Launches Two New Games‎

Virgin Casino Launches Two New Games‎

Virgin Casino, part of the leading online gaming company – Virgin Games, has today launched two new slots, Pharaoh's Treasure, by online games producer, Ash Gaming, and Spring Break, by Microgaming. Pharaoh's Treasure, which has an ancient Egyptian theme, has a progressive jackpot that can only be won at Virgin Casino.

Pharaoh's Treasure is a five-reel 20-line Vegas-style slot. The game features a progressive jackpot in the Tutankhamun's Tomb bonus round, as well as a wild symbol, scatter symbol with win multipliers, and free spins.

Spring Break features five reels and nine paylines and has symbols made in the style of spring vacation, with barbeques, beer and bikini clad girls! Features include a free spin bonus and a wild symbol.

Warren Eloff, Head of Products at Virgin Games, commented:

"I anticipate that Pharaoh's Treasure will be a very tempting game for our players, as when the progressive jackpot is won it's guaranteed that it will go to a Virgin Casino customer! We are committed to offering our customers the best quality and variety of games on the market and these new additions fit the criteria.

Founded in 2004, Virgin Games has over 1,000,000 players and over 200 games on its site. Through the introduction of a custom built Virgin Games platform in 2008, Virgin Games seeks to provide its players with the widest possible choice of casino games. A growing selection of games can be found at Virgin Games from a number of producers including Microgaming, WagerWorks, Cryptologic, Freemantle and Ash Gaming.

Notes to editors:

About Virgin Games:

Virgin Games (www.virgingames.com) launched in June 2004 and has quickly established itself as one of the leading gaming websites in the UK. Virgin Games comprises three distinct offerings:

Virgin Casino, offers content from a range of games suppliers including WagerWorks, Microgaming, Cryptologic, Freemantle and Ash Gaming, bringing consumers classic casino games like Blackjack and Roulette, as well as great feature slots like Monopoly, Rubik's, X-Factor and the highly popular MegaJackpots progressive games, with a current jackpot value of over £2,500,000

Virgin Poker, part of the Boss Media network, offers a huge array of games and content for beginners through to experienced pros – as well as the most generous loyalty scheme in the industry

Virgin Bingo, part of the Virtue Fusion network, offers cash prizes worth thousands of pounds in the progressive jackpots, as well as Virgin prize bingo and a range of unique Virgin Games bingo games.

*Sorry, no U.S or Australian players. See World Casino Directory

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Friday, August 13, 2010

PartyCasino News: PartyCasino Offers 10 Packages To Landmark Oktoberfest

PartyCasino Offers 10 Packages To Landmark Oktoberfest

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6th August 2010 – This year marks the 200th Oktoberfest and what promises to be the biggest, best and most memorable edition of one of the world’s biggest parties ever! Palladium VIP’s on PartyCasino.com can secure their place there very simply: be one of the first 10 players to collect 10,000 PartyPoints by playing slots and jackpot slots between 16th and 31st August and they will win a package.

A PartyCasino.com spokesman said: “Once all 10 packages have been claimed the promotion is over, so it is first come first served! The Palladium VIP hospitality at Oktoberfest is already legendary and with the big beer party celebrating its 200th birthday this year promises to be even bigger. PartyCasino.com has the most frequent game launches and largest jackpots in the industry so customers are spoiled for choice for games through which to earn the points needed to secure the trip to Germany’s biggest party.”

The package is from 24th – 26th September and includes:

·Two night’s accommodation, with breakfast, at a five-star hotel in Munich for the winner and a guest.
·Dinner with an open bar followed by a poker tournament in the Davidoff Lounge at the Allianz Arena.
·Activity or Spa treatment.
·Two passes to the Oktoberfest on Saturday night.
·Entry to a VIP party at Pacha nightclub.
·Exclusive VIP hospitality provided by Palladium VIP’s expert events team, on hand and available to you throughout your trip.

Please note that customers have to opt-in to this promotion.

PartyPoker.com also has 35 Oktoberfest prize packages available through a promotion that is running now until the 29th August. See: PartyPoker.com

Palladium VIP’s had a memorable trip to the Oktoberfest last year. See: Palladium Lounge

PartyGaming is regulated and licensed by the Governments of Gibraltar, Italy and France and by the Alderney Gambling Control Commission. The Group is also certified as a responsible gaming operator by GamCare, the leading UK authority on the provision of advice, practical help, support and counselling in addressing the social impact of gambling. PartyGaming’s shares are also a constituent member of the FTSE4Good Index Series, which enables investors to identify companies that meet globally recognised corporate responsibility standards.

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Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Gunned Down Casino Model Holly Graham Finally Faces Crazed Ex In Court, by Greg Tingle

Australian casino news remains all the rage, with crime, revamps and politics dominating the news. Today we update you on Australia's Star City Casino gunman and the ex casino model who is moving forward with her life, beating the odds. Media Man and Gambling911 give you a front row seat at the courtroom.

Star City Casino Gunman Stared Down In Court; Ex Casino Model Moves Forward With Life...

Former model Holly Graham has faced the violent and crazed ex-boyfriend who aimed a hand gun at her and opened fire at Sydney's Star City Casino.

This was the first time the 30-year-old former model and fitness instructor had seen Todd Devaney since he attempted to murder her on 5th May 2008.

She was overheard whispering to her parents that she was "scared". The still attracting and brave Holly said it was important that she was there at the District Court in Sydney when he finally pleaded guilty to the crime.

Holly had not seen the mongrel for close to 5 years on the day she was shot, having cut off their troubled relationship in August 2004.

One needs little imagine to how frightened Holly was when he suddenly emerged inside the exclusive Star City gym, accessible only by members and casino guests.

Devaney proceed to move his right hand from behind his back and revealed a gun, which he cold bloodily pointed at the middle of Holly's, "like something out of the movies", before shooting 3 rounds.

The then casino model turned and ran for her life, "never been so scared".

Round 1 passed through her ribs and a 2nd shattered a glass window. The 3rd hit Holly's lower abdomen and exited close to her right hip.

She was certain death was coming with medical records documenting she was extremely lucky to have not passed away.

Evidence emerged that a casino cleaner who witnessed the shooting advised Devaney turned towards him after opening fire "seeming confident and not afraid as he placed the pistol into his backpack and walked to the fire exit door."

On his way out of the casino he has the nerve to ask a staff member for directions, this time appearing "breathless". Soon after police cornered him in a nearby street where he was sweating profusely and had put on a fake moustache and beard attempting to hide this true identity. Needless to say it didn't work.

In the crims clothing were 3 guns, a latex face mask, a police badge and a set of rosary beads.

A police search of his backpack revealed yet another another police badge, multiple rounds of ammunition, gloves, a balaclava, a black wig and two Star City swipe cards - one to access the gym.

He had gone to some effort to plan and get away with the murder, however his devious vision had been foiled. He was known to be a dangerous and edgy individual and some people were not surprised the evil one has attempted such a crime.

Devaney pleaded guilty to shooting Holly with intent to murder her and 3 counts of possessing an unauthorised firearm.

Outside the court, with a brave smile, Holly said she was lucky to have made a full recovery and that seeing Devaney again had been "nerve-wracking".

"I'm very, very happy he has pleaded guilty. I wanted to hear the words. It means he accepted what he did. I just hope he's put away for a long time."

Happy Holly said she had to summon all of her courage to see him and was helped by her parents and a male friend.

Those close to the former model advise she is moving forward with her life in leaps and bounds.

Media Man has confirmed that security at Star City has been beefed up considerably at the premises since the shooting.

Devaney will be sentenced in red October.

Greg Tingle of Media Man Int. is a Special Contributor to the Gambling911.com Website

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Friday, August 06, 2010

PartyGaming News: Half year report for the six months ended 30 June 2010

PartyGaming News: Half year report for the six months ended 30 June 2010

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Total revenue up 30% to €181.2m (2009: €139.9m) driven by acquisitions and strong growth in casino and sports betting

Continuing Clean EBITDA* up 14% to €48.1m (2009: €42.3m)

Continuing Basic Clean EPS* of 6.0 € cents (2009: 6.7 € cents); Total Basic Clean EPS of 6.0 € cents (2009: 6.6 € cents)

Transformational Proposed Merger with bwin expected to complete in first quarter 2011
Solid progress in newly regulated markets (France and Italy); Denmark is on-track to open early in 2011

Net cashflow from Continuing operations up 65% to €55.3m (2009: €33.5m) with net cash at 30 June 2010 of €146.8m (2009: €166.7m)

* EBITDA/EPS before the provision for costs associated with the Group’s Non-Prosecution Agreement, reorganisation costs, and before non-cash charges relating to share-based payments (see reconciliation of Clean EBITDA to operating profit (loss) below).

# Operations located physically outside of the US but which relate to US customers that were no longer accepted following the enactment of the UIGEA.
Commenting on today’s results announcement, Jim Ryan, PartyGaming Chief Executive Officer, said:

“We delivered another robust financial performance in the first half and also made great progress in executing our strategy. While poker was impacted by the football World Cup and remained difficult from a competitive perspective, our other verticals continued to perform strongly. Total revenue was up 30% and Clean EBITDA from Continuing Operations was up 14% versus the prior year. As previously announced, Clean EBITDA margins in the first half were slightly lower than expected due to the delayed launch of cash game poker in Italy but we retain our previous full year guidance of approximately 28%, subject to the returns achieved on planned marketing spend in both France and Italy where we are continuing to expand the share of our respective poker networks.

‘‘Our proposed merger with bwin is a transformational opportunity for the Group and we expect that it will provide significant strategic, operational and financial benefits for the shareholders of both companies. Whilst there is much work to do ahead of completion in early 2011, we are excited about the prospects for what will then be the clear market leader in online gaming with strong positions in all key product verticals and territories.”

On current trading and outlook Jim Ryan added:

“Since 30 June 2010, the Group has continued to perform in-line with the Board’s expectations. Seizing a strong position in newly regulated markets is a key focus for us. Our strategy of combining a strong B2C franchise with significant local brands is already proving to be a powerful force as evidenced by our network’s position in French poker. As other markets follow Italy and France, we expect that a limited number of large networks and brands will emerge to become market leaders – we are determined that together PartyGaming/bwin will be one of them. This natural consolidation of the marketplace will accelerate through corporate mergers and acquisitions and as one of the largest players in the sector we remain committed to continue playing an active role. Whilst the macroeconomic and competitive environments remain challenging, we remain confident about the Group’s prospects for the rest of the year and beyond.”

Contacts:
PartyGaming Plc +44 (0) 207 337 0100
Peter Reynolds, Director of Corporate Affairs
John Shepherd, Director of Corporate Communications

Interview with Jim Ryan and Martin Weigold
An interview with Jim Ryan, Chief Executive Officer, and Martin Weigold, Group Finance Director, in video/audio and text will be available from 7.00am BST on 6 August 2010 on: http://www.partygaming.com and on http://www.cantos.com.

Analyst meeting, webcast, dial-in and conference call details: 6 August 2010
There will be an analyst meeting for invited UK-based analysts at Numis Securities, The London Stock Exchange Building, 10 Paternoster Square, London, EC4M 7LT starting at 9.30am BST. There will be a simultaneous webcast and dial-in broadcast of the meeting. To register for the live webcast, please pre-register for access by visiting the Group website (www.partygaming.com). Details for the dial-in facility are given below. A copy of the webcast and slide presentation given at the meeting will be available on the Group’s website later today.

Dial-in details to listen to the analyst presentation: 6 August 2010
9.20 am Please call +44 (0) 20 3003 2666
Title PartyGaming Interim Results
9.30 am Meeting starts
A recording of the meeting will be available for a period of seven days from 6 August 2010. To access the recording please dial the following replay telephone number:
Replay telephone number +44 (0) 208 196 1988
Replay passcode: 9050397#

About PartyGaming Plc

The Group is a constituent of the FTSE 250 share index with its shares listed on The London Stock Exchange under the ticker: PRTY. In the year ended 31 December 2009, PartyGaming’s Continuing operations generated revenue of €310.1m and Clean EBITDA of €93.8m.

PartyGaming is regulated and licensed by the Governments of Gibraltar, Italy and France and by the Alderney Gambling Control Commission. The Group is also certified as a responsible gaming operator by GamCare, the leading UK authority on the provision of advice, practical help, support and counselling in addressing the social impact of gambling. PartyGaming’s shares are also a constituent member of the FTSE4Good Index Series, which enables investors to identify companies that meet globally recognised corporate responsibility standards.

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Sunday, August 01, 2010

Hugh Hefner planning London casino - 31st July 2010

Playboy founder Hugh Hefner wants to expand his business empire further and open casinos in London, England, and Macao, China.

Hugh Hefner wants to open a casino in London.

The 84-year-old Playboy founder wants to further expand his business empire as he is planning to move away from "adult programming" because he doesn't feel it is the right direction to go in anymore.

He said: "We will be announcing casinos in both Macao, China, and London. As far as media goes, I think we'll be involved in more mainstream ventures.

"We already have spin-offs of 'The Girls Next Door' on the E! Channel with both Holly Madison and Kendra Wilkinson, as well as a pilot with Bridget Marquardt on A&E. We're going to be doing more of that.

"That's the direction we're moving in; we're moving away from the adult programming because it's not the future. I think it gets in the way of who we are, and who we want to be."

The media mogul believes that as time goes by, his other ventures will become more famous and even more successful than the iconic men's magazine he founded.

He explained in an interview with website The Daily Beast: "Frankly, early on, as a single title company, the strength of the brand led us into other directions. The first Playboy products - cuff links, T-shirts, and things of that kind - began in the late '50s and the first Playboy club opened in 1960.

"In their early years, the Playboy clubs were so hugely popular that the company's ability as a 'branding' vehicle became obvious.

"In the early years the magazine carried the brand while I think that, in the future, the brand will increasingly help to carry the magazine."

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Monday, July 19, 2010

PartyCasino: The World's Leading Online Casino; A PartyGaming Company

PartyCasino: The World's Leading Online Casino

New Players get up to $500 sign up bonus at PartyCasino.com

PartyGaming also operates casinos, online poker rooms and bingo through various websites, including PartyCasino.com, PartyPoker.com, PartyBingo.com, WPTCasino.com and WPTPoker.com

PartyCasino is the Group’s most popular casino brand by far although other brands include CasinoKing and CasinoLasVegas.com The Group's casinos offer a huge variety of over 150 games including slots, blackjack, roulette, and video poker. As well as these traditional online casino games, the Group also offers virtual horse and virtual dog racing as well as multi-player blackjack.

Except for casino tournaments, all players place bets against the house, and the outcome is determined by randomly generated results. Wager limits vary from $0.01 to $1,000, depending on the game. Casino revenue represents the net win, being the amount wagered less player winnings and any change in liability of progressive prize pools. Bingo revenue represents player buy-in less prize payouts.

In 2007, the Group’s casino product was substantially improved through a series of software upgrades, the addition of a number of new slot machines and the integration of the acquisitions from EOL and IOG. Casino, which includes bingo games, is the Group’s second largest business segment and in 2007 it generated Continuing revenue of $146.7 million (2006: $51.0 million) and Continuing Clean EBITDA of $43.6 million (2006: $15.9 million).

PartyGaming's principle brands include PartyPoker.com, PartyCasino.com and World Poker Tour

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Monday, July 12, 2010

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Friday, July 02, 2010

PartyPoker Sponsors TV show

PartyPoker Sponsors TV show

GIBRALTAR - (PRESS RELEASE) - 28th June 2010 - PartyPoker is proud to sponsor the new season of 'The Poker Show with Jesse May,' with the first one hour show being broadcast on Wednesday 30th June and available to download from 12pm. The Matchroom Sport produced show is available to download on the PartyPoker.com blog and through ITunes every Wednesday and Sunday throughout July. To mark the new sponsorship the guests for the opening show will be Team PartyPoker.com's Mike Sexton, Tony G and Kara Scott.

After each of the first eight scheduled shows there will be an exclusive $5+1 tournament on PartyPoker.com every Thursday and Monday (under the specials tab). Winners of each of the eight tournaments go into a final freeroll on Sunday 1st August where the winner will get a seat for the televised Main Event of the WPT London Poker Classic, which runs from 30th August – 4th September (value of £5,000). The tournaments are password protected and the passwords will be available through listening to the show and joining the mailing list. There are also exclusive great value bonuses for new and existing PartyPoker.com customers available through the show.

Jesse May said: "I'm very excited about the new format. The last three seasons have been trial and error but I think we have cracked the formula. The key words are big names and fast paced – the strength of the show has always been all the great contacts we have in the poker world but now we think we are coming to something that the listeners will love hearing rather than just the people we interview."

Shortly after the opening show Jesse flies out to Las Vegas to join the thick of the action at the WSOP and the second instalment of the series will be online on Sunday 4th July. Further shows with exclusive content from Vegas will be available on the 7th, 11th, 14th, 18th, 21st and 25th July before the show takes a brief break for Jesse to get his breath back. The show returns on Sunday August 29 to build up to the WPT and WSOPE coming to London. The one hour episodes then continue to be posted online every Wednesday and Sunday until the final show of the series on Wednesday September 29.

The Poker Show with Jesse May has run for three series - beginning in April 2009 and finishing in May this year.

PartyGaming's principle brands include PartyPoker.com, PartyCasino.com and World Poker Tour

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Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Planet Hollywood Resort - Casino Sells Marilyn Monroe Boobs, by Greg Tingle - 30th June 2010

Marilyn Monroe was the world's most famous sex symbol, a title she will always carry. The blonde goddess was also the proud owner of the most gorgeous tits, a fact not missed by the powers that be at Planet Hollywood. Media Man and Gambling911 probe the most famous boobs in Hollywood for lovers of casino babes and poker babes the world over...

Punters, photographers and fans of poker her babes and casino babes are lapping it up.

A threesome set of Marilyn Monroe boob shot X-rays from a 1954 hospital visit have sold for $51,457 at the Hollywood Legends auction conducted at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. We're getting mixed reports of whether Sly Stallone, Arnie or Bruce Willis were on hand for happy snap shots, but Monroe and her delightful tits were the star attractions, with the likes of the Pink Pussycat not giving any competition.

Julien's Auctions, which sold the X-rays, estimated that they would only fetch a total of about $3,500.

Not that you hot readers will care that much, but additional Monroe-abilia that sold included a chair from her last photo shoot that went for $40,022.

The hot auction included items from other actresses, including a pair of earrings worn by Kate Winslet in Titanic that sold for $28,588 and a dress Audrey Hepburn wore when she starred opposite Fred Astaire in the musical Funny Face that fetched $64,322.

What didn't we learn today? Sex Still Sells. The smart money says it always will, cum hell or high waters broken.





Wrap Up

What great tits Marilyn had. Good or bad taste, or tasty? Tell us in the Gambling911 forum. We expect to hear from Tony Clifton and Howard Stern "The King Of All Media" in the very near future. Got Milk? Punters, as always, know the odds and have fun.

The Late News

Angelina Jolie from Tomb Raider fame rumoured to play Cleopatra and Brad Pitt rumblings for the Marc Anthony role. Tomb Raider also rumored to appear at Virgin Gaming... just thought we would mention that. Love that line from the late Johnny Cash... "The Virgin's are trimming their wings"... (When The Man Comes Around). We understand at least one of the Kennedy's came ... around to party. Pun fully intended.

*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911

*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a bakers dozen of sectors they cover. They also publish Casino News Media.

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Thursday, June 24, 2010

Monday, June 14, 2010

Virgin boss Richard Branson one Elle of a hero - 14th June 2010

Aussie beauty Elle MacPherson has named wily British entrepreneur Richard Branson as her business role model.

MacPherson, who has created a multi-million-dollar empire out of her name thanks to lingerie, cosmetics and TV deals, said the billionaire Virgin boss was an inspiration.

"I'm reading one of his books at the moment and I admire him," she said.

"It's really interesting to look at the way he has built his brand and how he combines what he loves with his business - he's broadminded and diverse and so definitely passionate."

MacPherson, who has taken over the hosting role on Britain's Next Top Model this year, said despite making her name as a swimwear model she never considered launching a bikini line.

"People did ask me why I wasn't doing bathing suits as they associated me with beachwear, especially after appearing in one in Sports Illustrated," she said in the UK interview.

"But I was wary of the fact it's a seasonal product and not economically viable all year round. Besides, lingerie is my passion."

MacPherson, 47, has also made an odd admission - that she only ever looks in the mirror when she's working. "I honestly don't look in the mirror, except for when I am working and then I see an image that supports my brand," she said. Credit: News Limited

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Sunday, June 13, 2010

Virgin gets around town - 12th June 2010

Founder leads fast-paced life. Promotes race team, unveils new phone

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Sir Richard Branson wouldn't let a little jet lag keep him from staying on message.

The founder and chairman of Virgin Group was in town to promote his racing team, which will take part in this weekend's Grand Prix, and a new mobile phone being offered through Virgin Mobile.

However, Branson, who arrived in town yesterday afternoon and was escorted immediately to a media event, refused to say much about a rumoured return to video games for the company. He'll be making an announcement at the E3 video game conference on Tuesday.

"All I can say is that many years ago, we had a really good games company," Branson said during a sit-down interview at the Primadonna Restaurant on St. Laurent Blvd., at the corner of Sherbrooke St. "We actually sold it and we no longer have a games company, and we'll have to watch this space."

Virgin Games and later Virgin Interactive, founded in 1981, was a highly successful venture. It produced games such as Westwood's Dune II and Command & Conquer, Revolution's Broken Sword and its sequel, Trilobyte's The 7th Guest.

Branson confirmed there would be some announcement about video games, and while many have speculated he would start a gaming company, he said "it's not necessarily what you are thinking."

The British trade magazine MCV reported last month Virgin would get back into gaming, offering an online-only distribution service for video game publishers.

Branson, who downed two coffees in the 18-minute span of the interview, said he travelled to Montreal to see the Virgin-sponsored team race, and to unveil Virgin's new phone -the HTC Legend, Virgin Canada's first foray into smartphones. The Virgin Mobile Canada brand is owned entirely by Bell Canada Enterprises.

Branson lamented about the state of the music business. He said the industry has changed a lot since he started the Virgin group in 1970 as a mail-order record retailer, but this might be its most challenging time.

As a result, he said, Virgin is getting away from distribution and is closing shops that are struggling.

"The music industry is pretty much f---ked at the moment," he said. "We are going much more toward live music, putting on free live concerts all over the world. Live is where it's at. You can make some money selling music, but it's more and more difficult."

He added book publishing will be in the same boat in about 10 years time as the iPad, Kindle and other electronic readers will bring about the death of bookstores.

"The writing is on the wall," Branson said, ignoring an obvious pun.

Branson, who is known for his publicity stunts, raced in go-karts against Indycar racer Alex Tagliani on the block between Sherbrooke St. and Prince Arthur Ave. He came in last, just behind Tagliani, but joked he would have performed better if he hadn't just got off the plane.

As for his plans in Montreal, Branson was scheduled to see the Cirque du Soleil show last night, which he called "Montreal's most famous brand" and then take in the races this weekend before heading to Los Angeles.

(Credit: The Gazette)

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Tuesday, June 01, 2010

Saturday, May 15, 2010

Crown Casino Client Ferrari Stolen With Virgin Valet, by Greg Tingle - 14th May 2010

Down under in Melbourne, Australia, one casino punter was feeling extremely lucky, pouncing on an opportunity to steal (not win) a Ferrari F430, when a casino valet handed him the keys. Media Man and Gambling911 follow the story in high speed pursuit...

Melbourne Police have now arrested the formally lucky punter after a Crown Casino valet mistakenly handed over the keys to a Ferrari F430 Spider and he took off for a joyride lasting half a day to Coolaroo of all places.

The 32-year cheeky fella was reportedly wearing a tracksuit when a casino valet gave him the keys to the bright red, V8 supercar about 12.30am today.

Police advise the punter drove north up the Tullamarine Freeway but was pinched by police about 6.30am as he fuelled up at a servo in Coolaroo, on Melbourne's outer northern region.

"He is currently assisting police with their inquiries," she said.

Forensic police will today examine the car, which has been towed to a holding yard in Campbellfield.

The attendant at the servo advised the man filled the beast up with petrol before police nabbed the bandit.

"He just filled up with petrol, came in here, paid for it and the cops were outside and just got him," he said.

"The cops I think were already after him."

The happening starting to generate a serious of state, national and international news stories, with Melbourne 3AW radio enjoying banter with a witness "Mark".

"Someone walked out of the casino past me and the security guard, got in and drove off,". The security guard said to me - because he only had an old tracksuit on - and he said 'you can't pick 'em can you'."

Crown Casino spokesman, top brass, Gary O’Neill said the incident was a first for the casino. He explained customers using valet parking were provided with a ticket to be returned to the casino parking attendant when time to collect your car.

"It has happened in the past from time to time that people lose their tickets, and in these circumstances we ask for proof of identification and a valid driver’s licence. Those procedures were followed on this occasion," he said.

"The procedures that we have followed in the past have not resulted in this particular incident, but that’s not to say our system is perfect," he said.

"We’re cooperating fully with the police investigation."

Mr O’Neill said the incident had been caught on film by their CCTV cameras and the footage would be handed over to police. Crown Casino is known for its world class security, as is it's Sydney competitor Star City. The Australian land casino industry was forced to upgrade security in recent years following a succession of undesirable incidents. Industry insiders sometimes joke about the plastic handcuffs initiative and footy and cricket stars getting pissed at casino events but this matter was very serious in nature. The casino wants its VIPs, high-rollers, whales and the like to know that their transport is in safe hands at Crown Casino.

Melbourne's Police 'Highway Patrol' is known to be world class and its understood that at least 99% of police corruption as featured on Network Nine 'Underbelly' has been cleaned up.

Crown tag lines include 'World Of Entertainment' and 'Wear The Crown'.

Mr James Packer, Australian and Asia Pacific casino and gaming king, remains the owner of Crown Limited. He also owns Burswood Casino aka Burswood Entertainment Complex in Western Australia, and has a number of interests in Macau and Britain, as well as new media - internet entities. Packer remains passionate for sport, meeting Virgin king Richard Branson last year at the Melbourne F1 Grand Prix and enjoys polo, as did his late father Kerry Packer.

Ok you want more on the sports car...we hear you...

The F430 went on sale in 2005 with the Spider convertible going for a cool $444,000 AUD, plus options and on-road costs.

F430 production was ceased earlier this year and will be replaced by the flashy458 Italia, which we understand has a two-year waiting list.

Casinos have long been associated with fast cars (and fast, sexy women). In recent years the online casino and online poker sector has plugged into the demo, with PartyGaming and PKR offering sports car as high level prizes.

A few months ago PartyGaming and PKR Poker had a Porsche up for grabs, but no one qualified to win. Not to be disheartened, Party's casino and poker brands are once again offering dream machine grand prizes...

Last week Richard Branson's Virgin Racing came to sponsorship terms with online poker powerhouse Full Tilt Poker. The massive exposure of Virgin's F1 involvement on a international scale was a key reason the deal went ahead.

A number of weeks before the public Virgin - Full Tilt Poker deal, PartyGaming's PartyPoker signed up F1 superstars Jaime Alguersuari and Giancarlo Fisichella as brand ambassadors. Poker legend and World Poker Tour mainstay Mike Sexton remains the global PartyPoker ambassador. Last month following the sporting theme, PartyPoker also signed up Italian football legend Francesco Totti. The financial terms of the poker sponsorship deals are not currently known, as all parties appear to want to keep the details under wraps. Speaking of big names, rumours are circulating that PartyGaming may be in the midst of doing another deal and announcement with movie legend of Rambo and Rocky fame, Sylvester Stallone. Sly is featured in the Rambo online slot game, exclusive to PartyGaming.

PartyGaming's PartyCasino

and

PartyPoker.com

PartyCasino - Grand Win Auto - Win A Maserati GranTurismo

PartyPoker - Drive The Dream - Win a Aston Martin DB9 Coupe

Crown Casino Share Price - CWN: 8.290

*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911

*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered

*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited

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Monday, May 03, 2010

Australian Casino News: Jenny Woo Poker Babe of Month, by Greg Tingle

It's been a huge week for Australian gambling, gaming, sports betting and censorship news. This is likely the biggest Australian casino and gambling news week in modern history. Let's see... NRL Melbourne Storm sports betting scandal, Melbourne Gangland Killer Carl Williams dies and gets buried, Sin City Sydney Crime & Corruption Expo, Computer kiosk gambling device tested by law, Aussie Daniel Tzvetkoff to remain in Vegas jail facing money laundering charges, Aussie internet filter delayed for months, Melbourne's Crown Casino to host The Logies tomorrow night, with 'Underbelly' nominated for awards... wait, there's more!...

Australia - Asia Pacific casino king, James Packer and his City Of Dreams Macau also faces its latest challenge with the opening of competitor casino, Marina Bay Sands in downtown Singapore, and New Zealand's SKYCITY was host to the 2010 New Zealand Gaming Expo.

Oh, how could we forget...Gambling911's Jenny Woo, wooing us (and 'Nature Boy' Ric Flair), picked up Media Man 'Poker Babe Of The Month' and PartyPoker's Kara Scott grabbed 'Casino Babe Of The Month', so it was a jam packed week and month.

Media Man and Gambling911 advise its time to take our the probe and dig a little deeper...

NRL Melbourne Storm Sports Betting Scandal...

Apart from whispers in the industry, it all started when punters starting betting on The Storm to take out the "wooden spoon" (last place). A day or two late alarm bells were ringing loud and sports betting outlets effected are estimated to be out of pocket by at least $100,000, possibly at much as $200,000. The Storm are fighting for survival and now allegations are being laid against other NRL footy teams are are also understood to have cheated their way to winning. This story is far from over.

Melbourne Gangland Killer Carl Williams dies in prison bashing; Gets buried in gold coffin

Not a well known gambler, but self described "semi professional gambler" Williams was buried yesterday, in a gold plated coffin no doubt. Police warned the grave diggers and other "need to know" people (like direct family) not to disclose where the coffin is buried. We wonder why... just kidding. Williams luck ran out for good, that much we know. More real life 'Underbelly' news is bound to surface in the near future, helped in part by our sometimes contact Bert Wrout, 'Underbelly' survivor, leaking news and and information to the press. Insiders say the killings are over, and no one is (smartly) willing to attempt to hurt Melbourne "consultant" Mick Gatto.

Sin City Sydney Crime & Corruption Expo - Opens 1st May

Gambling themes and figures a plenty. Touted as the real 'Underbelly' history, focusing on the 1940's to 1980's, George Freeman ('Colourful Racing Identity) and 'Mr Sin' Abe Saffron are the main event (dead) draw cards.

Of all the black-market trades, casinos played the most active role in corrupting police and politicians, paying them thousands of dollars a week in bribes.

Baccarat king Richard Reilly was shot dead in 1967. With him gone, other operators moved in and transformed the city's basic gambling houses into substantial, plush 'Las Vegas'-style casinos. Business-minded criminals such as George Freeman, Lennie McPherson and Stan Smith joined forces to revolutionise gambling and protection rackets in a massive restructuring of the underworld.

Illegal SP (‘starting price') bookmaking exploited off-track betting restrictions to generate huge profits for savvy criminal operators. George Freeman, at one time the largest SP operator in the state, bought influence by using his ability to guarantee winning bets as a powerful form of bribery. Freeman was not alone. Illegal bookies were both the favoured betting choice for punters and the most consistent earner for Sydney's criminal syndicates until the 1980s, collectively turning over as much as $6.4 billion in today's dollars each year. The very integrity of racing was threatened nationwide by corrupt bookmaking that encouraged horse doping and race fixing.

I'm the toughest man in f***king Sydney. I can kill anyone I f***king well want to, but I can't get my f***king dinner on time!

Lennie McPherson to his first wife, 1960

... there was only one thing I wanted out of life. I wanted to be a crook. Not just any crook, but the crook, the BIGGEST - the man with money, power, influence. Working for a living never entered my head.

George Freeman, 1988

Mr saffron should be employed by the Australian forces as a camouflage expert, sir. He's done it successfully for many many years.

Jim Anderson, 1983

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http://www.hht.net.au/sincity


Marina Bay Sands VS Aussie James Packer's City of Dreams Macau

The land based casino wars continue to heat up, and 'Our James'... Australian James Packer is in the thick of the action. Packer's Crown Casino faces increased competition down under in Australia from Sydney's revamped Star City, and now Sands has opened in Singapore, in a move that insiders say will lure whales and dolphins away from Crown Macau, but don't underestimate the loyalty to Packer. Many have bet against the Aussie - Asia Pacific casino king before and lost. The Marina Bay Sands in Singapore is one of the biggest and most expensive casinos every built. Having opened its doors two days ago, throwing down the gauntlet... the dust is just starting to settle. Insiders say James Packer is at the top of the list of other operators who need to stay on guard and answer the challenge. Packer has enough top line connections to stay on top and in favor with the whales, should an all out "war" erupt, as is the case in Australia, where Tabcop Owned Star City Casino has now spent $600 on a revamp, part of which is designed to lure "whales" and the world's top entertainers.

Computer Kiosk Gambling Device (Not) Tested By Law (And Returned)

Following our report on the 25th of the month, there's been some very important developments on the legal situation re the internet kiosks located in Australian pubs and hotels that Australia's Tabcorp called a "gambling device". The courts do not agree! Victory for VenueNet and Australian internet lovers... Media Man and Gambling911 with the story...

Yesterday a computer terminal with internet access that gaming authorities claim is an "unauthorised instrument of betting", was reinstalled! A computer being plugged back in is not normally so newsworthy, but because of the gaming, legal and political connection, it is, so there you go! Back to the pub from where you were seized, you good computer. The (kangaroo not) court ordered it, so hop to it son.

The manufacture of the device er machine, VenueNet, has a business arrangement with Darwin-based bookmaker Sportsbet to offer customers access to their betting accounts through the computer kiosk. The full details of the agreement are commercially sensitive in nature, but its a win-win.

VenueNet is hopeful the court's ruling will facilitate a planned roll out by the truck full of some 200 devices er machines.. up and down the east coast of Australia.

The Victorian Commission for Gambling Regulation confiscated the device er machine from the Rising Sun Hotel in South Melbourne last August, after receiving a complaint from Aussie gaming and racing giant Tabcorp, which currently holds Victoria's exclusive retail wagering licence. Tabcorp are also the current owners of Star City Casino in Sydney (which James Packer of Crown is rumored to have an interest in... a deal once stopped by his late farther Kerry, close to a decade ago).

The 'Kiosk Case' as its now known as in gaming circles is seen as being a test of Australian gambling and igaming laws that have failed miserably to keep pace with technology and has raised doubts about the value of the Victorian wagering licence, which is up for tender. Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Senator Stephen Conroy take note "failed miserably"..."raised doubts"... its the Kiosk Case, not the Aussie internet filter case.

Aussie Daniel Tzvetkoff To Remain In Vegas Jail Facing Money Laundering Charges

Tzvetkoff, also exposed as also processing porn company transactions, remains in jail. He faces up to a 75 year term (if he lives that long). Federal prosecutors said that Intabill utilized the automated clearinghouse system to transfer funds between U.S. checking accounts and various Internet gambling businesses, including online gambling and porn. They charge that Tzvetkoff and others disguised those gambling transactions as repayment of payday loans that consumers had taken out online, as well as transferred funds applied to pre-paid debit cards. He was indicted for money laundering.

"Tzvetkoff and his co-conspirators obtained unique websites and toll-free numbers for these shell companies and developed phony websites to make the companies appear to have a valid, non-gambling purpose," the indictment said.

Aussie Internet Filter Delayed

The prospect of Internet filtering in Australia is highly unlikely in either the May or June sittings of Federal Parliament. Online gambling websites were among those that appeared on a leaked list of "banned sites".

The Late Mail

Report urges government to take over gambling regulation

A new report urges the federal government to take over the regulation of gambling, which costs Australians $18 billion a year and which states rely on for $4.69bn in tax revenue annually.

The report by Deakin University and the Australia Institute urged the Rudd government to put a 2% tax on all gambling revenue, while using some of that $378 million to give state governments that reduce gambling levels incentive payments to reduce their reliance on tax from poker machines.

Crown Casino Groupier's Scammers Caught

A Crown Casino croupier and his gambling housemate (almost inmate) who teamed up to try beat the house have had the scheme die out.

Quoc Tran, 27, manned the roulette wheel as his mate Hoa Nguyen, 34, placed bets over at least three days in April last year.

A Melbourne court heard while Nguyen placed some legal wagers, other chips downed after Tran called "no more bets" and the ball had landed on its number!

Mr Tran allowed Nguyen to repeat such illegal transactions 15 times, which got them "winnings" of $15,750.

Crown security spied them and called police who arrested the pair, later to plead guilty to charges of theft.

David Grace, QC, advised Nguyen had turned his life around and had also repaid his $7857 to Crown. Nguyen's legal eagle said he had so far repaid $900 bucks.

Deputy chief magistrate Jelena Popovic said the men's efforts went in their favour.

The Footscray pair were released on non-conviction undertakings with orders they pay $750 to the "court fund". Media Man and Gambling911 with them well with their rehab from their past ways.

So readers, er punters, what a week its been. Freeman, Saffron and our old mate, 'Big' Tim Bristow would be proud, and most likely reading the world famous Gambling911 website for updates, if there were still with us. Network Nine's 'Hey Hey' top bloke, 'Pluka Duck', and his handlers, have been reading with great interest.

Till next time, don't do anything we wouldn't do. Know the odds, good hunting and happy punting.

*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911

*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen industry sectors covered

*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited

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Sunday, May 02, 2010

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Sunday, April 18, 2010

Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Offers Marilyn Monroe Boobs, by Greg Tingle - 19th April 2010

Planet Hollywood may have had its ups and downs over the years, but with revelations that the casino is going to offer patrons the opportunity to see Marilyn Monroe’s boobs in a most unique ways, patrons and punters are bound to get a high, and it's even tipped to help the chains bottom line.

Media Man and Gambling911 probe Planet Hollywood and Ms Monroe... not that sort of probe!

Ok punters, its an X-ray of the babes figure (eyes on the boobs for certain) that will be hitting the auction block cum summer time. Those in the know reckon it will fetch about a grand ($1000 bucks).

The virgin shot was snapped 1954 at the Cedars of Lebanon Hospital in Florida as the blonde bombshell underwent surgery for a condition of the womb.

One of the surgeons snapped it and passed it to the family for safe keeping. His daughter has elected to put it up for sale at the vintage Hollywood-themed Vegas casino.

A wide selection on MM memorabilia which will go up for auction at Planet Hollywood on 26th June includes her therapy couch, a pair of skis and her Chanel No5 perfume.

Monroe fans the world over are expected to flock in like bees to honey.

Las Vegas casino bean counters are expecting some rise in takings, as are restaurants, nightclubs and call girls. Websites sporting stories, photos, multimedia and MM items for sale are also expecting a traffic spike. Rumors persist of an upcoming Marilyn Monroe online slot games. NextGen Gaming, Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures, FremantleMedia and Virgin have all said to expressed interest.

The Planet Hollywood brand was launched in New York on October 22 1991, with the backing of Hollywood stars Sylvester Stallone, Bruce Willis, Demi Moore, and Arnold Schwarzenegger.

*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911

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WSOP Releases Top 20 Tournament of Champions Vote-Getters

On Friday, World Series of Poker (WSOP) officials released the top 20 vote-getters for the 2010 Tournament of Champions, which will be played in an all-star game format. The list predictably features some of the top names in poker.

The top three bracelet winners in WSOP history would make their way to Las Vegas to play in the 2010 Tournament of Champions if voting closed today. Phil Hellmuth appears on the list of the top 20 vote-getters and leads the industry with 11 bracelets. Hellmuth has more than $6 million in career WSOP earnings, but has been shut out of the bracelet podium since 2007, when he took down a $1,500 No Limit Hold’em tournament for $637,000. Also appearing in the top 20 are Doyle Brunson and Johnny Chan, who hold 10 WSOP bracelets each, tied for the second most overall.

A total of $1 million will be up for grabs in the Tournament of Champions, which will see 27 players take to the felts on June 27th at the Rio. Five players have qualified automatically for the prestigious event, including Joe Cada and Barry Shulman, who won the 2009 WSOP Main Event and WSOP Europe Main Event, respectively. The three previous winners of the Tournament of Champions events also received automatic bids: Annie Duke (2004), Mike Matusow (2005), and Mike Sexton (2006). Two more spots in the 2010 version will be awarded to qualifiers, although WSOP officials have not announced how players can enter. The tournament will be carried on ESPN.

Only three WSOP Main Event champions since 2000 appear in the top 20 vote-getters: Chris Ferguson (2000), Greg Raymer (2004), and Joe Hachem (2005). Curiously absent is Chris Moneymaker, widely considered to be the man who ignited the modern poker boom after winning the $10,000 buy-in tournament in 2003. A total of 250,000 votes have been cast so far and fans of the game who have not yet weighed in can do so anytime before June 15th at Midnight ET.

Harrah’s Interactive Entertainment Vice President Ty Stewart, who was a recent guest on the UB.com sponsored poker news show “Poker2Nite,” commented in a press release, “The poker community has rallied behind this event and judging by the results thus far, hosting a tournament with a field such as this would be a tremendous event. Saying that, the voting is so tight and close and with two months of voting to go, we can see this list changing dramatically between now and June 15th.”

Only one woman appears in the top 20 vote-getters for the 2010 WSOP Tournament of Champions, Full Tilt Poker’s Jennifer Harman. She’s a two-time WSOP bracelet winner and one of the industry’s top ambassadors. Harman is fresh off holding her annual fundraiser benefiting the Nevada Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and, along with Barry Greenstein, has long been associated with the world of charity.

Also lobbying hard, but not making the current top 20, is Annette “Annette_15” Obrestad, the 2007 WSOP Europe Main Event champion. Obrestad had been camped out in Las Vegas tuning up for the 2010 WSOP, which kicks off on May 28th. She also revealed that she may head to Monaco for the European Poker Tour (EPT) Monte Carlo Grand Final, but will enter the $25,000 World Poker Tour (WPT) Championship first. The WPT Championship kicks off on Sunday from the Bellagio.

Also noticeably absent from the list are the game’s “young guns,” who include Obrestad, Jason Mercier, Brandon Cantu, and Eric “basebaldy” Baldwin. Here are the top 20 vote getters for the 2010 WSOP Tournament of Champions as of Friday. WSOP officials posted the list in alphabetical order:

Doyle Brunson
Johnny Chan
T.J. Cloutier
Allen Cunningham
Antonio Esfandiari
Sam Farha
Chris Ferguson
Barry Greenstein
Joe Hachem
Jennifer Harman
Dan Harrington
Phil Hellmuth
Phil Ivey
John Juanda
Howard Lederer
Daniel Negreanu
Scotty Nguyen
Greg Raymer
Huck Seed
Erik Seidel

Voters can select up to 20 bracelet winners using an online ballot.

(Credit: Poker News Daily)

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Friday, April 02, 2010

PKR Poker News Media: Win a Porsche on PKR by playing online poker, by Greg Tingle - April 2010

Take it to the limit!

Make a deposit on PKR this April and you'll be in with a chance of winning a top of the range Porsche Cayman sports car worth over $55,000!

We're giving every player who deposits $25 an entry to win this amazing ride! Deposit $50 and you'll get two entries, $75 will get you three and so on. The more you deposit the more chances you have to win. No purchase necessary, Terms and Conditions apply.

Deposit for the first time and get five free entries!

Make your first deposit on PKR in April and not only will you get our generous 100% deposit bonus, you’ll also get five bonus Porsche Cayman prize draw entries (a total of six chances to win when you deposit $25).

The promotional period runs from 00:01 GMT Thursday, 1 April 2010 to 23:59 GMT Friday, 30 April 2010 with the winner of the Porsche Cayman announced at PKR Live IV.

Drive in style
The Porsche Cayman is one of the most exciting cars on the road today. A head turner with performance to boot - check it out...

0-60 MPH in 5.1 seconds

171 MPH(265 km/h) top speed

Six cylinder engine

Blue tooth connectivity

Bose Surround Sound System

Porsche Communication Management

*Based on UK retail price converted into US$ on 29/03/2010

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Australian Chook Lotto Goose Not Laying Golden Gambling Egg, by Greg Tingle - 2nd April 2010

Red tape can be a pain in the tail for web publishers, casino entrepreneurs and the like, and man down under Greg Tingle at Media Man invest egg ates for Gambling911 ...

real news, spin or April Fools... you be the judge..think Donald Trump, Calvin Ayre and Steve Wynn have got issues with red tape, rules and regulations... legal eagles may have a field day with what our friends 'Plucka Duck' and TV host Daryl Somers are going through this Easter.

Australian TV, gambling and lotto, don't mix, at least that's the story thus far for an Australian iconic comedy and variety show.

Hey Hey It's Saturday host Daryl Somers is going to need a special licence in every Australian state and territory to get the showcase segment back on the air cum April 14.

He said 'Chook Lotto', where Jacki MacDonald collected numbered frozen chickens from a cage to award prizes to a contestant, is subject to the same rules as any lottery operator because it is considered a game of luck rather than a game of skill.

Somers also had to apply for a permit for resident chook man 'Plucka Duck'.

"It's absurd," Somers said.

"Bureaucracy is now threatening the very nature of show business these days.

"We're talking about a bit of fun on a variety show not a new poker machine venue!

"All we're trying to do is give people a good entertaining segment that's part of Australian television history and it's being tied down by bureaucrats.

"The segment ran for years and didn't turn viewers into problem gamblers."

The 'chook lotto' matter comes just days after Aussie Formula One driver Mark Webber branded Victoria a "nanny state" for its stringent road rules.

Somers was able to get around the laws in last year's hugely successful reunion specials by not awarding prizes.

He now tells us recreating the cage that holds the frozen chooks had been a costly exercise because it now had to meet complex OH&S guidelines.

"It's 10 times more difficult to get anything done these days because of all this pointless bureaucracy," he said.

Opposition state gaming minister Michael O'Brien slammed the 'Chook Lotto' red tape.

"Gambling laws are designed to limit problem gambling and keep corruption at bay," Mr O'Brien said.

"I don't think the underworld is interested in 'Chook Lotto' and I don't think anyone ever lost their house because of 'Chook Lotto' either.

"It does seem that this is bureaucracy gone mad and I would urge the regulator to sit down and do everything it can to try and ensure this icon returns to our screens."

Spokeswoman for State Gaming Minister, Tony Robinson, advise any competition that offers prizes of more than $5000 needs a permit under state law.

"If Chook Lotto is run the way it always has been in the past, it will need a permit in Victoria if the total prize value is above $5000," she said.

"The purpose of requiring permits is to ensure that lotteries are conducted fairly. "Harmonising state regulations will make it easier to run national trade promotion lotteries - but unfortunately not in time for this year's Hey Hey It's Saturday."

Punters, does Somers, the Aussie Gambling minister or the Cook have egg on its face, you be the judge, and Happy Easter, and may you luck be Eggs Lent.

*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911

*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company.

*No chooks, birds or animals were harmed in this special invest egg ation.

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