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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.

Media Man Boobs profile

Media Man Marilyn Monroe profile

Goddess profile

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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Saturday, June 26, 2010

Property News Media Website Updated

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Friday, June 25, 2010

Aussie Pokies Clubs Say Govt Recommendations Cost $4 Billion!, by Greg Tingle - 25th June 2010

Australian pokies clubs and hotels say that the new Australian Productivity Commission Reports recommendations would cost them $4 billion dollars to implement. Media Man and Gambling911 take the probe to the one armed bandits...with this free of charge report...

With new Australian Prime Minister Julie Gillard sworn into office yesterday, many campaigners, lobby groups and the like are attempting to strike while the iron is hot.

Media Man understands that new PM came into office on the same day that the Australian Productivity Report on gambling was released into the public domain. Coincidence or not? In the U.S its not that uncommon for various controversial and high stakes bills to be sworn in just before public holidays et al, and some folks call these happenings "Midnight Bills", a term coined to mate the cloak and dagger - art of war type practice.

The Aussie clubs lobby powers that be state upgrading pokies to meet Productivity Commission recommendations could cost up to $4 billion back! Yep, you read right. We reckon you could buy a few clubs, even casinos, for that sort of money.

The timing of last months pokies auction is curious also. The purchaser may have thought they got a bargain, but maybe not, if those pokies become useless or too expensive to bother upgrading.

Mr Jeremy Bath, Exec Director of Clubs Australia advised some smaller outlets with one armed bandits that could be say a decade old may not be able to afford to purchase new pokies that go for about $25,000 a pop.

"Manufacturers haven't been building them so they could be upgraded," he tells.

The Productivity Commission this past Wednesday made some 48 recommendations to tackle "problem gambling", including a $1 a bet limit on pokies, restricting to $20 the amount of cash a player could insert into a machine and a "pre-commitment" system allowing pokie lovers to set their own voluntary spending limits.

Ball advised technology that was very expensive to install and implement would not in fact end "problem gambling".

"The best strategy for problem gamblers will always be to ensure the counselling and education they need is readily available so they don't gamble at all," he said.

The GM of the Australian Hotels Association South Australian branch, Ian Horne, advised some of the commission's recommendations were "pretty confronting" and disputed by the industry because of the lack of evidence backing the claims.

"They basically say a lot of their recommendations are a leap of faith," he said.

"We don't want a leap of faith, we think we deserve something a bit more concrete."

The federal government has taken up just one of the commission's recommendations, which would allow gamblers to voluntarily set limits on the amount they intend to spend in a single gambling session.

Media Man believes that some of the report recommendations have merit, such as the setting limits point.

A Media Man spokesperson said "People enjoy playing the pokies and its no secret that a small percentage run into problems, just like some drivers have car accidents, some sports persons get injured, some people shoplift, some look for fights at clubs, and you get the idea. The problem remains, we are dealing with people here, not robots. Studies have shown that gambling addiction can be found in the genes - the human makeup - DNA. Machines are not the problem, just as guns are not the problem - people are... some people are just not suited to playing the pokies. If you make them illegal they will only go underground. Education and counselling are key parts of whats needed. For those people who think they may have a problem, stay away from pokies, or just don't even start. Of course, in the online environment some pokies can be played for free. In theory its simple, don't put in money if you have a problem, or think you might. Again, we're dealing with humans, not robots, so there's likely to always be some kind of problem behavior, as there is in just about every aspect of society".

The New South Wales Minister for Gaming and Racing, Kevin Greene, said he looked forward to working with the new COAG council, but appeared to signal problems.

"NSW will continue to play a leadership role in national discussions but we will not agree to any approach that diminishes the strict responsible gambling initiatives already in place in our state," Mr Greene said.

The clubs industry, which derives about 60% of its revenue from gambling, and poker machine manufacturers welcomed the government's response to the report.

While responsibility for gambling regulation lies with the states, the commission said that the federal government could use its corporations powers to regulate gambling machines if necessary.

Independent Senator Nick Xenophon, who ran for Parliament on a no pokies platform, was far from impressed with the Government's response.

"The Federal Government's response on this report is nothing short of a disgrace," he said.

"We don't need more talk, we don't need more reports and reviews, we actually need action on this and the fact is the Productivity Commission - by recommending $1 bets - is a way forward to actually deal with this issue."

Some of Australia's most popular pokies include Cleopatra, Queen Of The Nile, Black Rhino, 50 Lions, Where's The Gold, Penguin Pays and Show Me The Money. Online pokies that enjoy strong popularity, many by PartyGaming in third party agreements with outfits like IGT - WagerWorks, Hasbro and Marvel, include Cleopatra, Sinatra, Monopoly, Thor, Rambo, The Incredible Hulk, Tomb Raider, Hitman and Mission: Impossible. That reminds us, Tomb Raider movie goddess, Angelina Jolie, is also strongly rumoured to be considering the lead in a Hollywood remake of Cleopatra. Her Brad Pitt has also been talked about for Mark Anthony. The movie remake would also be a platform to relaunch the famous 'Cleo' game titles. Richard Branson's Virgin Games and new Virgin Gaming is also understood to be getting Tomb Raider before year end. Only in Hollywood... and the igaming sector. Know the odds, and keep it fun.

*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.

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Thursday, June 24, 2010

Australians To Score Gigs At Marina Bay Sands, by Greg Tingle - 24th June 2010

Readers, punters, media analysts... the Asia Pacific region continues to breath new life back into American casino and hotel developers. The Las Vegas Sands company is one of the most recent to see Asia changing their fortunes for the better. Media Man and Gambling911 pick up the chop sticks and Samurai sword with this special report...

A bush tucker bag of hard working Aussies including project managers and engineers are expected to be attracted to Asia by casino and resort super developer, the Las Vegas Sands.

This comes off the back of the announcement some 24 hours ago that The Sands had opened its $US5.5 billion Marina Bay Sands project in downtown Singapore, snatching some of the attention away from Macau, a favorite of Crown's James Packer.

By The Numbers

Let's swing into some impressive statistics...

2561-room hotel, which has a cricket stumps look about it

3 55-storey towers complete with 1.2ha park area on its pinnacle

In addition, part of the 15.5ha Marina Bay Sands development is 800,000 square meters of retail (Chanel, Gucci, Hermes and Louis Vuitton), world class restaurants, a museum, theatres and a casino. We understand 1 or 2 varieties of casino babes and poker babes are not far away for those seeking such services... for the well informed and connected, but please don't ask us for further detail pertaining to those babes. They are not on our books ok mates.

Sands tipped that its upcoming major projects were likely to include Korea, Japan or both.

The Singapore complex enjoyed its opening yesterday, however the project still has about six months of construction left. Bring on the Aussies, and try to include some GenerationOne skilled up workers. We don't think Crown's (and City Of Dreams connection) James Packer will mind too much, if its for the greater good of getting more Aussies into sustainable employment opportunities.

Las Vegas Sands Corp Asia construction VP Mr Matthew Pryor, who ran the Marina Bay Sands development, advised the firm had staff putting the final finishing touches on the museum, theatres and a couple more retail therapy "zoos".

Media Man insiders understand the project is coming up to being 5 months late...almost sounds like a project from Australia's Labor party! Thank god there's no Painters and Dockers Union to contend with, nor is a Tim 'Earthquake' Bristow type "enforcer" required, as documented in 'Not For Publication', hard news stories by Australian journalist and writer, Chris Masters. Oriental and American friends, if you get too many more delays you could always try Aussie Mick Gatto, who is a world calibre "consultant" and arbitrator of sorts. Gatto is a can-do type of guy who is also known as a skilled motivator and negotiator. Mr Gatto is represented by Media Man friend and occasional associate, Max Markson aka 'Mr Fame'.

Spreading its wings (not legs)... LVS has also sized up Macau, revisiting to complete a $US3.8bn-plus construction that was put on ice, thanks to the financial mess the world got itself in, fingers pointing to the World Bank and U.S Bush administration, no thanks either to 'Mr Ponzi Scheme' Bernie Madoff and partners in crime, you mongrels.

We understand a new shot of life will be injected into Macau, which previously had seem multiply thousands of working loosing their jobs.

Mr Pryor advised "It is hard to get the right people. We started hiring during the boom, I built the team up since 2003 and scaled it up consistently in that time".

At Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, 30% of the 100 top brass and 75 out of 100 engineers are from Australia.

Australian Contractor Connection...

Australia's Alfasi company were contractors for the Marina Bay Sands Singapore project, and would you believe that their budget stretched from the initial $US3.5bn forecast to $US150m, thanks to 4 months of delays and a calamity of issues and challenges, including a 7000 ton life of steel which had to go up 200 metres into the sky.

These days many insiders say Sands Oriental connection will see the sky the limit for the casino hotel developer giant.

One of the difficulties was lifting 7000 tonnes of steel 200m in the air for the hotel complex.

Mr Pryor is a key part of the comeback by Sands.

Media Man and Gambling911 wish the developer well and are delighted to learn of the great employment opportunities by Sands.

Long live the Australian - Oriental - American connection. Viva Sans, Macau, Japan... the world. 'Sin City' Singapore? Stranger things have happened.

*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 bakers dozen of sectors they cover.

Website Network

http://www.mediamanint.com/profiles/saffron2.html

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Australian Casino And Gambling News: Huge Week, by Greg Tingle - 23rd June 2010

Readers, punters, media and gambling tycoons, and everyone else... yet another huge gambling, gaming and sports betting week. Of course, most of the world still has World Cup fever, and sports betting records are tipped to be broken on that front. Down under in Australia the long awaited Productivity Commission reports has finally made its way into the public domain, and its mainstream news to say the least. Media Man and Gambling911 round up the blood hounds and sniffer dogs with your latest fix on news, with just a dash of PR and ambush marketing on the side for good measure...

Crown Casino News - James Packer Gets Nine Network Australia CEO David Gyngell On The Board...

Yep, long time friend and associate of 'Our James' has shaken things up with an updated Crown Limited board of directors.

Nine Network CEO David Gyngell has been appointed as a director of Crown, as has Sydney University professor of medicine John Horvath.

Mr Packer advised that professor Horvath will chair a new formed arm...a committee of the board and we like the sound of it...the Responsible Gaming Committee. They will oversee and enhance the company’s responsible gaming programs and performance.

The two new directors certainly bring with them significant and diverse experience to the Crown board. Some knockers in the Aussie media are questioning the move, as they almost always try to find negative stories to run on Crown and the gaming and gambling sector.

Mr Packer has long enjoyed an interest (and investment) in both media and the health sector. Media Man understands that Packer's interest in the health sector may have been sparked by his late fathers involvement, which saw Kerry having his life saved several times. Kerry has encountered a number of heart attacks in his later years. The machine that is understood to help kick start the heart was later named the 'Packer Wacker', in tribute and respect to Kerry. Packer Jr and fellow entrepreneur, Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest (GenerationOne visionary), also share considerable experience in witnessing the ups and downs of health relating to Australia's indigenous community. Packer Jr did some work on a family cattle station or two in his youth and hence got a close up look at health and well being issues. This is understood to be just one of the motivating factors in seeing Packer hook up with GenerationOne, as well as commit to employing 100s, with the view to 1000s, of suitable and trained up indigenous casinos in his Crown Limited empire.

Gyngell is also health savvy, and is quite the keen surfer, sometimes spotted at Bondi Beach, where Packer also has a pad. Gyngell has not taken to Packer's love of polo, but give him time... he's a nature lover. Gyngell was a driving force is seeing Network Nine get more positive and feel good lifestyle programs and the like on his network. Network Nine is also a long time supporter of beyondblue, as far as offering fair and balanced coverage of well being, mental health and such.

Last year James Packer was a guest of honour at Victor Chang Cardiac Research fundraiser, and is understood to have been extremly generous of heart, spirit and pocketbook.

Back to the situation at hand, Crown Limited announced that Westfield’s David Lowy has resigned from the board of Crown.

For the 2009 financial year, Crown booked a $1.197 billion loss. Readers will be aware that Crown is travelling along nicely this year, with multiply upgrades, new Lear jets, happy casino whales, dolphins, fish and tuna, and positive dealings continue with the creme of the sports, gaming and entertainment world... folks like Richard Branson, Tiger Woods, Tom Cruise, and a good mix of state and federal politicians. Almost 'Casino Jack' like (but done in a legal, ethical and above board way), for a corporate if you understand. Crown's current share price is $8.030.

Australian Casinos May Get Ambush Marketing In Casino War...

Motivated by the massive exposure that the hot and sexy soccer babes aka buxom and leggy beer babes, Bavaria Beer style generated at the World Cup, Crown and Star City powers that be have been reading up on ambush marketing, impossible to miss on the internet in recent days. Of course Perth based Kym Illman and his Messages On Hold are front of mind. Sharne Warne enjoys friendships, if not business relationships, with both Illman and Packer.

Soccer has Bavaria Beer and orange coloured dresses, and could Crown or Star have Warnie and or Messages On Hold. Warne enjoys getting down to Crown several times a year, with with Gyngell now on the Crown board, expect a ramp up in media savvy activity.

Crown Casino Push On To Bankrupt Former Whale Client Gone Bad...

Crown Casino still plans to bankrupt ex casino high-roller Harry Kakavas, who failed to score victory in court last year. Kakavas, a self-proclaimed pathological gambler, was due to be issued with a bankruptcy notice late last month, after an application by Crown to the Federal Magistrates Court.

Aussie Productivity Commission: Treat Gambling Like Drinking!...

Feeling thirsty punters? Drink up, or then again, take it easy. As coverage on Gambling911 recently, the Australian Productivity Commission report into gambling reckons gambling needs to be treated somewhat like drinking alcohol. The commission found there was strong evidence that gambling had adverse health, emotional and financial impacts on many more people than those categorised as problem gamblers.

Proposal For Pokies Limits: Size Of Wagers Included...

Aussies would be able to wager only up to $1 at a time on pokies under proposals outlined in the Productivity Commission’s final report on gambling. Under the initiative, gamblers would also no longer be able to stuff $50 notes into poker machines, in order to limit losses.

Clubs and casinos did get some decent news however. The Community Services Minister Jenny Macklin said the government Did Not agree with the commission’s recommendation to "liberalise" online gaming.

The commish advised if pokies are played at "high intensity", punters can lose $1500 per hour. Of course, you can win big dollars too, if your very lucky.

"The amount of cash that players can feed into machines at any one time should be limited to $20". The current limit is up to $10,000. Spin to win, or don't. It your call grown ups. People need to take responsibily for their own thoughts and actions. Do you trust 'Big Brother' and the 'Thought Police'? Ponder than for a moment, and then think about all the crazy fines and government red tape you have every had to put up with.

Muldura Casino Proposal Continues To Move Forward Despite Detractors...

The smart money is still on Victoria town Mildura to get its' Jewel.

We ask questions of those in the know... Does the opening of a new casino necessarily mean that rates of gambling in a community increase? Professor Alan Jackson, the Director of the Problem Gambling and Treatment Centre at Melbourne University, says there is an "initial surge of participation" and problem gambling levels, but over a period of time those levels drop back as communities adapt to the higher level of opportunity available. He adds a casino is good for tourism initially but over time most places find that the bulk of business comes from the local community. There are interesting measures used in places such as Singapore to mitigate gambling harm that Australians might not find "palatable", but Jackson believes that maximising tourism and limiting harm is also possible in Australia. However, the community is right to be cautious.

Church Bible Bashers Lodge Petition Against Gaming Licences...

A church has lodged a petition with the Mildura Rural City Council opposing any more gaming licences in the municipality.

The Anglican Church's Bendigo Diocese says the 400 signatures on the petition were gathered in only 48 hours.

The petition comes as debate continues over proposals for the Jewel Casino in Mildura.

Aussie - Vietnamese Women Gambling Crime Link?...

Viet women are considerably overrepresented in Victoria's female prison population after moving into crime to repay gambling debts, says community leader of sorts Cam Nguyen.

Nguyen, founder and chief of the Australian Vietnamese Women's Association, said the women were overwhelmingly convicted of drug-related offences or crimes such as receiving stolen goods or fraud.

But she said the motivation for resorting to crime was usually to pay debts from gambling.

She said there was a pattern of women with poor English skills who were socially isolated, being drawn to the casino by its glamour. Hotel poker machines did not have the same appeal.

Mrs Nguyen said that earning up to $30,000 grand acting as a drug "mule" importing illicit drugs could be attractive to women deep in debt. She also advised many Vietnamese women who had not learned English were socially isolated. Gambling was one of their few recreational outlets.

Crown Casino has a number of effective safeguards in place to help prevent punters getting in over their head.

Australian TV - Mr Sin: The Abe Saffron Story on ABC-TV - This Thursday Punters...

Want a business model for organised crime? Look up "Mr Sin", if you haven't already.

Writer-director Hugh Piper has done with the story on the man who satisified the vices, lust, desires of many otherwise law abiding Aussies.

Setting the stadard for the Australian underworld, he amassed a multimillion-dollar fortune in cash, property, goods... you name it. Other crims tryied but useually failed in matching his success.

All the cliches come to mind...power, greed, sex and corruption. Insiders reckon Underbelly fans and anti fans will enjoy this true yarn.

Piper interviewed all sorts in his 'Mr Sin' voyage of discovery. Writers, politicians, ex-police and corrupt investigators...the lot.

His profile was larger than life, and with that came pros and cons... "named by three separate Royal Commissions as the number one Mr Big of Australian crime".

From information Media Man was able to obtain... "Abe used lawyers and accountants to set up businesses that fronted his illegal gambling, sex and liquor empire. He turned the profits from his nefarious activities into real estate which allowed him to reign as the boss of Kings Cross while maintaining the veneer of respectability".

To protect his empire Saffron corrupted or blackmailed anyone he needed. Former NSW Premier Sir Robert Askin, judges, and the like all stand out like dogs "alls. "The police commissioner is a standout", a Media Man crewman was overheard.

'Mr Sin' is understood to have got a lot of his ideas and business formual from Las Vegas... why, of course.

The late Frank "Lefty" Rosenthal would be proud (or at least be tuned in for this Thursday)!

Website

http://www.abc.net.au/tv/guide/netw/201006/programs/DO0842H001D2010-06-24T212500.htm

Profiles

Abe Saffron

Tim Bristow

http://www.mediamanint.com/profiles/bristow2.html

Underbelly

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Punters Interested To Bet On Former WWE Superstars Success In UFC And MMA World...

With news that more professional wrestlers aka "sports entertainers" (term thanks to WWE owner Vince McMahon) are set to enter the mixed martial arts world, seems sports betting fans and wrestling fans will have more more to get excited about. Enter Dave Batista, whose next?

Brock Lensar may have been the first former WWE superstar to make his considerable mark on the MMA world (via UFC) but he won't be the last. Enter Dave Batista, fresh off a scripted loss to WWE's who Media Man spys say is heading to StrikeForce...competitor of sorts to the UFC.

Gambling911 and Media Man have been scouring the planet to see who may take odds - bets on Batista's upcoming Strikeforce debut, before year end we understand. Comon' PartyGaming - PartyBets, Gamebookers, BetUS, Betfair, Centrebet, Paddy Power and SBG Global.

Public Challenge To Sports Betting Companies!...

We issue a public challenge to offer betting options on Batista and other pro wrestlers going to the mixed martial arts world!

Wrestling Legend Ric Flair Speaks On UFC (MMA) And WWE Fans...

"MMA doesn’t affect wrestling at all. I’m not saying wrestling fans don’t watch MMA, but it is two different audiences. My take on MMA is that those guys are phenomenal athletes and extraordinarily tough and committed but the people that are crazy about them got nothing going on themselves. I actually think most of the male public that is crazy for that are living vicariously for something they can never be. Wrestling is more entertainment-based. MMA is what it is, those guys are out there trying to kill each other. And the guys that are sitting at home going "Wow" could never find that within themselves on the first day of their life. When Lesnar fights, I like watching Brock… and I recognize a lot of names … you’ve got to have so much respect for what those guys put themselves through but it is a limited time frame [they've got]. It’s hard to develop a star in that business that’s going to have any longevity. In wrestling a guy that develops a name for himself can do it fifteen years."

Gambling911 fans or anti fans. Does Flair's quote piss you off, or do you like his tell it like it is attitude? Tell us in the forum, and we can't wait for Hollywood's crazed comedian nutter Tony Clifton, to offer his 2 cents worth again. Shame about what happened to the late Andy Kaufman (former inter gender pro wrestling champion of the world!!!). Trust us, Andy was not the UFC type... ask Jerry 'The King' Lawler.

'The Nature Boy' has enjoyed previous Gambling911 coverage thanks to his gambling and gaming entrepreneur exploits... namely being former NC Education Lottery front man, and the current man of the moment for the South Carolina Lottery. Woooooo! as Flair would say.

Wrap Up...

As you can see, another big week. Readers, please not, we do not intend to glamorise crime, with or without gambling and gaming. Gambling has been a part of live in most counties for hundreds of years, and in many parts, is a significant part of the culture... look no further than Australia, Las Vegas and Macau. We urge punters...er... readers to bet responsible, and to be aware of the differences between fantasy (not that type mates) and reality. Please obey laws in your state or territory, and bet responsibly and keep it fun.

Entertainment based website portals Media Man and Gambling911 are proud to have brought you this report (internet filter free... as far as we know!).

*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 bakers dozen of sectors they cover. *Media Man is currently ramping up its ambush marketing arm, both online and offline! The company motto is "Putting Your Name Out There!"

*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited.

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Friday, June 18, 2010

Crown Casino Aims To Sue Ex High-Roller Client Re $50m Debt, by Greg Tingle - 18th June 2010

Australian casinos do not like clients and former clients who owe them money. Punters er readers might remember a Mr Harry Kakavas aka 'King Of Hedges Avenue', who won big at Crown Casino, and lost bigger. Media Man and Gambling911 play Pink Panther and bring its responsible readership this special report...

Crown Casino plans to bankrupt ex casino high-roller Harry Kakavas, who failed to score victory in court last year. Kakavas, a self-proclaimed pathological gambler, was due to be issued with a bankruptcy notice late last month, after an application by Crown to the Federal Magistrates Court.

High Rollin' Harry was or is a real estate developer by trade, some insiders say "A poor man's Donald Trump", still quite an accomplishment.

At one point 'The King' was one of the world's most successful (or high profile) gamblers in the world, known well to casino tycoon's such as the late, great, Kerry Packer. KP is understood to have one made certain that Crown Casino powers that be, including son James, knew "our friend" Harry.

Mr Kakavas last year was unsuccessful in his bid to sue crown for his alleged losses of a whale whopping $35 million smack a roos.

The recent action comes after a Victorian court dismissed (ruled out) Mr K's multi-million-dollar court action and upheld the casino's $1m counter-claim for the repayment of funds advanced during his patronage to the 'World Of Entertainment', wear Harry appeared to 'Wear The Crown', before he lost it and more.

Mr Kakavas, 43, is appealing against the counter-claim decision.

In a recent appearance before the Supreme Court of Victoria's Court of Appeal, Mr Kakavas's legal counsel advised that his client (Mr K) did not in fact have the funds to meet the judgement debt and would be bankrupt in the absence of a successful appeal. You know, the cliche "loosing the shirt off his back".

His personal debts exceeded $50 million, which may be some kind of record if tested by Guinness (not the beer), with cash, cheques et al owed to multiple casinos and hotels worldwide, along with a swag of ex biz partners, family, friendlies, the Australian Taxation Office... the whole box and dice.

His once ultra successful company, Elite Property Investment Group, is in the grasp of a court-appointed liquidator, thanks to an application by the tax office, while a another casino owner, the Paradise Enterprises, the Bahamas connection, is also attempting to have Mr Kakavas close up shop.

Mr Kakavas hasn't been terrible easy to contact as of late. Speaking appearances are understood to mainly occur in or around court room premises. Mr K could not be contacted earlier this week when press came a calling. His solicitor from last year's Crown Limited, Andrew Joseph of firm Strongman & Crouch, advised Rupert Murdoch owned News Limited he was not representing him on the bankruptcy matter.

An application for get this mouthful "substituted service of bankruptcy notice" doesn't sound pretty), which is generally sought in cases where there are issues in serving a debtor personally, claims that bankruptcy documents were to be sent to Mr Kakavas, care of Mr Joseph's office, on 28th May. Both bankruptcy applications have yet to be "determined" (looked over, ruled on etc) by the court.

Mr Kakavas, was one of Australia's original high-rolling patrons, who also rated considerable on the worldwide unofficial whale ratings weigh in.

"He was the highest of this country's high rollers. And he spread his wings. His gambling took him from the Gold Coast not only to Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth, but also to Las Vegas, Hong Kong, Macau and the Bahamas," spoke judge David Harper in his December 8 decision.

"Over a 16-month period he turned over $1.479 billion in Melbourne alone. He enjoyed some spectacular wins. In the end, however, he lost all he won, and more."

Problem Gambler Or Not? We Think We Know...

The Melbourne-born entrepreneur moved to Australia's Gold Coast in 2001 and cemented a name for himself buying and selling property on the ultra exclusive Hedges Avenue patch.

What not everyone knew was that he was also a "problem gambler" of whale like proportions who was self-excluded from many of the worlds casinos, including Packer's Crown in Melbourne, at various times. Circa 1995 saw Harry done for fraud... understood to be linked for his passion for baccarat, also a favorite for James Bond 007 (who has his '56 Aston Martin DB coming up for auction in Red October). Unlike most Bond flicks, Harry's casino dealings don't look to have a happy ending, but will he 'Die Another Day' or one day return to his former kingship ala 'Casino Royale', with or without cheese? ... and wine.

Mr Kakavas had claimed that Crown powers that be were aware of his gambling "disability" (or passion?) and had acted "unconscionably" in luring him ala "hook, line and sinker" (our words, not Harry's) to gamble. That's of course part of Harry's side of the story.

Justice Harper found that while Crown did seek to attract him as a customer... offering him use of its corporate jet at the time (Crown now has 2 or 3 we understand), and hosting him including during the Australian Open Tennis circa 2005, it did not in face exploit his "disability".

We ponder how "disability" played so heavily into the way the cards and diced turned sour for Harry. With thanks to our un met friend (thus far) Jimmy Wales of Wikipedia...

The World Health Organization defines Disability as follows: "Disabilities is an umbrella term, covering impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. An impairment is a problem in body function or structure; an activity limitation is a difficulty encountered by an individual in executing a task or action; while a participation restriction is a problem experienced by an individual in involvement in life situations. Thus disability is a complex phenomenon, reflecting an interaction between features of a person’s body and features of the society in which he or she lives."

An individual may also qualify as disabled if he/she has had an impairment in the past or is seen as disabled based on a personal or group standard or norm. Such impairments may include physical, sensory, and cognitive or developmental disabilities. Mental disorders (also known as psychiatric or psychosocial disability) and various types of chronic disease may also be considered qualifying disabilities.

A disability may occur during a person's lifetime or may be present from birth. A physical impairment is any disability which limits the physical function of limbs or fine or gross motor ability.

Crown Casino is said to be feeling "very able bodied, profitable and confident", according to a fly on the wall at Media Man's Australian office. Chinese whispers from MM's Macau pad are buzzing of the same message.

A Crown Casino spokesman declined to comment as the Harry K VS Crown Limited matter was still before the court.

*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 bakers dozen of sectors they cover.

*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited

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Tuesday, June 15, 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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Saturday, June 12, 2010

Movie Futures Betting Market Delayed Again, by Greg Tingle - 10th June 2010

The betting public remain excited about betting on movies via futures, while Hollywood isn't so keen. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission is fully expected to make some tough and important decisions within a a week. Media Man and Gambling911 act as director and producer with this timely update...

Federal (U.S.) regulators have postponed for a week the final decision on whether to allow a new online betting exchange to proceed to trade future box office receipts for movies.

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission extended to 14th June Monday's deadline for deciding on the proposed futures contracts re the new Trend Exchange. The delay was requested by the exchange, an agency spokesman advised.

The big Hollywood studios almost universally oppose futures trading of box-office receipts. They point to a scenario where rival studios could sabotage films by betting against them! Not a bad defence, and not a bad strategy either. Media Man and Gambling911 think a number of safeguards should be built into the proposals to prevent corruption and other untoward aspects.

The news nor the buzz isn't all bad we learned. Investor groups that put up the money (funds etc) to make films say it would help generate new capital for the movie industry, which has seen better days.

Still Marvel Entertainment, Sony Pictures and WWE Studios are going strongly most analysts agree, while a number of movie houses could be going under soon (no names to protect the innocent and guilty).

The CFTC approved the establishment of the Trend Exchange and another exchange for futures, the Cantor Futures Exchange.

A number of Aussie's in the "Gumleaf Mafia", both based in Hollywood and 'Sin City' Sydney think the movie betting exchanges will add new life, spark and even employment opportunities in the industry, but actors are reluctant to go on record citing fear it could cost them potential acting employment opportunities if they spoke out on the matter at this time.

Media Man is chasing the story and following up with the offices of DreamWorks, Marvel Entertainment, Sony Pictures, Warner Bros, as well as seeking comment from Mickey Rourke (Iron-Man 2 and Sin City), Robert De Niro (Casino), Firass Dirani (The Killer Elite and Underbelly), John "Vulcan" Seru (Resistance and Underbelly) and George Miller (Max Mad director). *Miller is understood to be putting together Max Mad 4 (but with no Mel Gibson).

Rumours persist that Australian gaming and lifestyle tycoon, James Packer (50% owner of Betfair) has an element of interest in. A Media Man spokesperson said that if Mr Packer is in fact interested in becoming pro actively involved in the movie futures business they would be interested to meet and attempt to thrash out a deal. Mr Packer is a friend and business associated of sorts with the great Shane Warne (face of controversial 888). Media Man has previously conducted b2b with 888 and has also done some media appearances with Warne poker "partner in crime" Jeff Fenech (Aussie boxing legend and trainer), so based on the 6 degrees of separation rule, it appears that one of two catch ups between the Aussie 'Gumleaf Mafia' (open to interpretation) are in order. A Media Man spokesperson did reveal that MM top brass has been in pro active negotiations with long time Warne mate and associate, Kim Illman ("ambush marketing" gun and head of Messages On Hold). Illman also has links to Packer, Crown Casino and MM some time mentor of sorts, Max Markson (Markson Sparks!), so its apparent big things are likely to be in the works and "relationship marketing" forces are in play. Media Man has previously gone on recent with their being impressed with Betfair and PartyGaming (which has a spread betting deal in place with InterTrader). PartyGaming's PartyCasino.com is acknowledged as the online casino leader when it comes to Hollywood themed online slot games, two games of which feature long time James Packer friend Tom Cruise (Mission: Impossible and Top Gun).

When quizzed more about the Australia connection to the Hollywood movie futures exchange Media Man disclosed as Packer deal would be their preference, but are open to Shane Warne and Max Markson also. When pushed further a MM director said "We want to be right in thick of the action re Hollywood betting exchange. Packer is the ideal partner, but Richard Branson is also ramping up Virgin Games and Virgin Gaming. Max Markson of Markson Sparks! is also well connected in Hollywood, and also Markson competitor of sorts, Harry M. Miller Group sports an impressive background in the arts - entertainment spectrum. The 'Gumleaf Mafia' getting more involved in ventures such as movie betting is only a natural turn of events. Paddy Power doing betting on Volcano eruptions is just the tip of the iceberg when its comes to innovative betting options. Party, Packer and Virgin all have the ability to blow Paddy Power out of the water. It's just a matter of time mate".

*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 including sports betting is just one of a bakers dozen of sectors they cover.

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Friday, June 11, 2010

Star City Casino Hotbed For Aussie Casino Cheats, by Greg Tingle - 11th June 2010

Down under in Australia, land of the convicts, seems some of those criminal tendencies keep coming to the surface at land based casinos and pubs. As the "Friendly Casino War" continues between James Packer owned Crown Casino in Melbourne and Star City in Sydney, its seems apparent that Sin City's Star have more of a cheating clientele, or at least that's what the official numbers are showing. Media Man and Gambling911 put on our private detective coats and load up the plastic handcuffs and batons with this special report.

Aussie's seem to have quite the cheating casino type make up according to information obtained by Media Man. Just as compulsive gambling may be in the genes as recently reported by Gambling911, so might be cheating and straight out stealing.

The number of cheaters at Sydney's Star City Casino is alarming, and that's only the ones we know about.

Fines are being handed out left, right and centre, yet cheaters keep coming back for more. This may be linked to the face that Star City is Sydney's only land based casino, mind you, a $100 or so plane ticked will fly a punter down to Melbourne so they can try their luck at Crown Casino.

Fines issued to punters at Star are almost an every day occurrences we've learned. Cheats are trying every trick in the book, both old and new. Favorites include moving chips to winning numbers, underage teenagers showing fake IDs and banned patrons trying to worm into the casino.

Infringements at the Star volcanoed roughly 70% circa 2007-08, and this punting financial year is expected to further escalate.

Cheaters caught totals 23 mongrel mug punters.

The casino itself is not off the hook either. Tabcorp, the parent company of Star, has had its knuckles dusted by the casino regulator at least 4 times this punting year for breaches re responsible gaming requirements. Minors being located in gaming areas like slots, table games and the big wheel, are a major problem.

A source choosing to remain anonymous leaked "We understand the teens seem to like the Hollywood themed games and some of them see themselves at James Bond 007 types. Most of them also seem to know about Monopoly, Cleopatra, Queen Of The Nile, and of course poker. Gambling, gaming and poker is always in the news, the TV, the newspapers, magazines, associated with sports, so its just everywhere".

Media Man via News Limited secured figures that show that nine months to March 31 this year, 51 underage teens were busted trying to enter the casino using phony IDs.

Casino Penalties From Gaming Enforcer

20 breaches of responsible gaming rules, including:

* Teenage girl used fake ID to successfully get into the casino and busted drinking and gambling;

* Casino staff member who didn't immediately report a minor to a casino authority inspector;

* 17-year-old young bloke busted gambling on the premises; and

* 13 more kids, all aged under 14, busted in the casino area, however its understood it was accidental.

Star City's spokesman (casino) advised staff are being trained up to spot tech in fake IDs, which made up about 40% of the fines issued.

Sydney leading newspaper, The Daily Telegraph, reveled last week, there is a sophisticated operation run by teenagers that alters driver's licences for $80. It' a bit hit with teens who like casinos and exclusive clubs. Star City said the number of teens caught with fake IDs was fairly steady. They are reviewing its procedures and security staff were being trained to better identify phony cards.

A Star City spokesman "We review all breaches to see how we can improve our procedures to prevent minors gaining access to licensed areas. The numbers have remained pretty steady over the last few years but our security officers are constantly being trained to detect the latest style of fake IDs."

Daring excluded persons caught sneaking back into the casino rose significantly to 55.

Anyone busted using a fake ID is fined $110, banned persons $550 and cheats $660.

Media Man is not a legal advisory service, but recommends Do We Cheatem & How. Just kidding!

Casino lovers, young and old, please obey the law. God knows we have enough serious casino crime to cover already, without listing you by name.

The rumour mill says Tony Clifton and Andy Kaufman are considering doing some jokes about casino cheats, so if you what to make the list, you know what it entails.

In the meantime, online casinos continue to increase their safeguards, with award winning PartyCasino.com getting the gold star and browny points for its outstanding security, safeguards, service and play for free and play for money offerings. Online casinos continue to chip into the traditional gambling market, but the powers that be at Star City and Crown Casino have plans on the way to further incorporate online games. Packer, head of Crown Casino, is a 50% owner of sports betting operator Betfair, which plans to add online poker and online casino. PartyCasino.com remains a favorite with Aussies, and punters keep calling for an online Underbelly and Kerry Packer slot game, but have to make do with The Godfather, Rambo, Cleopatra, Hitman, Sinatra, Tomb Raider and Mission: Impossible and a few others for the meantime.

Punters, feel free to chip in via the Gambling911 forum, and as always, know the odds, bet with your head, not over it, and have fun.

*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 bakers dozen of sectors they cover.

*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited

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Thursday, June 10, 2010

Aussie Pokie Pub Palace Kings Cash In Tax Cuts, by Greg Tingle - 10th June 2010

Down under in Australia the Aussie pubs have more to say cheers to and celebrate, as the gaming industry remains under the spotlight. Media Man and Gambling911 probe the pokie bean counter inc...

Aussie hotels and pubs aka "pokie palaces" owned by some of Sydney's must cashed up pub tycoons won't have to pay tax or have their tax bill cut on poker machine profits following an overhaul of sorts to gambling taxes in the state budget, which the industry has celebrated as "a result of historic proportions".

The government is calling the changes as a "rescue package" for small country pubs, but Fairfax Media is stating that the upmarket Beresford Hotel in Sydney's Surry Hills, bought by the multimillionaire Justin Hemmes just two months ago for $14.6 million, is among 485 pubs that will no longer have to pay tax on gambling profits. Jackpot Bingo!

A tax-free threshold of $200,000 will apply to pokies profits for five years from July 1, mixed in with a new taxation scale. The changes mean 1100 NSW pubs - or 65% will either end up paying no tax or significantly less.

The Beresford's pokies profits are only about $50 grand... so its annual gambling tax bill will be trimmed to Nil... bonus. American and European clubs and casinos are following the Aussie gambling tax cuts with keen interest.

A spokesman for the Hemmes family company, Merivale Group, said "Merivale controls or owns eight venues with poker machines, one of which is the Beresford Hotel. The Beresford is the only venue of the eight not required to pay tax, leaving seven of the eight paying tax. As a group, Merivale is paying more tax as a result of the changes".

Calculations passed to Fairfax Media, that Media Man got across demonstrate pubs with gambling profits of up to $700,000 will have annual savings of between $2473 and $27,543.

The Captain Cook Hotel located on Sydney's Flinders Street and owned by the developer Matthew Lepouris, has a pokies profit of about $400,000. The hotel's tax bill will be cut by about $11,000.

The Royal Hotel at Paddo, owned by the Kelly family, and the Bristol Arms on Sussex St, owned by New South Wales largest hotel owner, National Leisure and Gaming, will pay less tax.

The NSW president of the Australian Hotels Association, Scott Leach, celebrated the move in an email to members earlier this week.

"The AHA NSW has successfully lobbied the NSW government to guarantee future gaming tax rates and deliver an immediate tax cut to 65 per cent of NSW hotels," he wrote. "This is a result of historic proportions for the industry following speculation last year the government was seriously considering increasing hotel tax rates."

Insiders say the "deal" was brokered by John Whelan, a former chief-of-staff to the former minister for gaming and racing, Grant McBride, who these days works for the AHA. Ah, relationships, history and networking matters.

Whelan declined to discuss his role in securing the tax changes. The AHA did not return calls.

Media Man and Gambling911 think the situation shows that lobbying can still work with government, when done in a (Legal) "Casino Jack" fashion. Gambling911 and MM pass on our congrats to the pub barons and the NSW government on coming to business terms that suit both parties.

Punters, as always, know the odds, bet with your head, not over it, and have fun.

*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 bakers dozen of sectors they cover.

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Monday, June 07, 2010

Australian Crocodile Hunter: Viva Croc Vegas, by Greg Tingle - 6th June 2010

Las Vegas is set to get a massive shake up Aussie style, thanks to Australia's Team Terri Irwin. The wife of the late, great, Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin, and her world class team have a vision of everyone doing the Crocodile Rock at an upcoming Croc themed show and expo on the famed Las Vegas Strip. Media Man and Gambling911 take the croc probe to the smiling crocodile situation...

An Irwin extravaganza in Las Vegas has been talked about for years, even as far back as to when the late, great, Steve Irwin was still alive. Talk coming from camp Irwin of late suggests the dream is closer to becoming a reality, which is great news for those in the United States who are not quite ready for a trip down under to visit the Irwin's Australia Zoo in Queensland.

The ambitious project doesn't come cheap... put $AUD 300 million in your jaws to chomp on.

Terri is aware of the downturn in Las Vegas, however her Crocodile A Mania may be the thing to help bring the Strip back to life, in a totally wild way. Might give Vegas wild life and famed wild lifestyles a complete new meaning.

Ms Crocodile Hunter said she was hopeful of purchasing the land site before year end and is on the lookout for investors (aren't we all ... Media Man, Gambling911, Virgin Gaming, casino entrepreneurs et al). Still, Irwin offers a unique opportunity to be part of history plugging into the Irwin legacy. Irwin remains a powerful brand and larger than life.

Some naysayers are saying Terri has bitten off more than she can chew, but not Team Media Man. A Media Man spokesperson said "Don't underestimate the power, vision and capability of Team Terri Irwin. Terri largely put Steve on the map in a global fashion, and for about a decade the Irwin path was paved with gold. If anyone can rejuvenate Vegas it would be Terri and her team, much the same as what Australia's James Packer has done in Macau. Aussie's are street smart. Look no further than 'Crocodile Dundee... ok, he's a Hollywood creation, but you get the idea. The smart money is on Terri to succeed in Las Vegas".

Terri's crocodile eyes are wide open and she's excited, yet realistic offering some words of wisdom...

"It's hard to predict how the economy is going to recover but we'd hope by next year we'd have the investors so we can look towards a date for breaking ground. But it's very much on the go-ahead and it'll be such a brilliant icon for Australia. It's going to be so much about Steve and his dreams, and his philosophy and his message. They'll be nothing jumping through a hoop of fire but they'll be incredible effects instead. Like, instead of the Crocoseum, you'll be in, like a rainforest, with waterfalls and they can make the water levels change height so the croc rises out of the water. It'll be an incredible experience without compromising the animals' needs".

Terri advised said the Croc Vegas initiative would employ roughly 900 folks, plenty o them Aussies.

Media Man thinks its part of the continued Irwin global strategy, which helps ride out the world's financial crisis. She will have teams of Aussies and Yankee's working in both Las Vegas and down under in Aussie land at the Steve Irwin Wildwife Reserve on Cape York.

Mrs Crocodile Hunter explains "Once we have the reserve protected then we'll maintain our presence in the Cape with opportunities in Las Vegas".

See's got the fighting spirit all the way, having to employ it in her battle with Cape Alumina, which intends to mine bauxite from a section of the park entitled Pisolite Hills.

"We've got dance troupes we're working in with now and . . . we won't be taking commission. We'll let all the money come back to the indigenous people. There are opportunities for temporary employment. Young people who want to give it a go . . . can go for three months and not feel alienated from their families".

Media Man and Gambling 911 encourage the loyal readership to take a closer look at the Irwin Croc Vegas project. Maybe, (casino) whales, dolphins and crocodiles do mix. Pubic G'day to James Packer, Richard Branson, Donald Trump, Steve Wynn and Sheldon Adelson. Comon' fellas, don't be shy. I bet your bottom dollar Terri and the crew at Australia Zoo would love to hear from you.

*Greg Tingle 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 industries that they cover.

*Media Man is the former agent (Thank God) of Irwin nemesis 'Crocodile' Mick Pitman.

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