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G2E: Financing available for forthcoming casino projects, though at a premium
Wall Street investors continue to be interested in investing in quality casino-resort projects despite tight capital markets, but operators will pay a premium in markets like New York City, where there will be a lot of competition for customers. New York has authorized three casino licenses for the downstate region centered on New York City, for which 11 applicants are vying, including Caesars Entertainment, Wynn Resorts, MGM Resorts International, and Las Vegas Sands. “A U.S. Treasury is a risk-free investment at 5% and if I’m thinking about investing in a brand-new New York greenfield project that costs $5 billion, that’s going to require a pretty big premium above 5% for me to get excited,” said Howard Wang, managing director at Ares Management during a panel session at the Global Gaming Expo.
Workers picket Harrah’s Philadelphia for first time since casino opened
Amidst the banging of drums and shaking of bells in front of the Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino and Racetrack parking garage, approximately 150 members of three unions shouted, “No contract, no peace.” “It’s the first time we’ve ever taken public action at this property since it opened,” Ben Albert, secretary/treasurer of Unite Here Local 54, said. “The wages lag way behind the rest of the industry and are not where they should be based on how the company is doing”… Members of Unite Here 54, Laborers Local 413 and Teamsters Local 107 picketed in front of the facility Friday.
The Sphere wasn’t built for sports. The biggest players want in anyway
After just one U2 concert at Las Vegas’ new $2.3 billion Sphere, UFC president Dana White described himself as “obsessed” with the venue and the prospect of getting the mixed-martial arts property there as soon as possible. “The Sphere is a whole other level,” White said. “I don’t run the Sphere, and it’s not my company, but it’s so good that for at least the first year, they should do nothing but incredible experiences. … I will put on the greatest live combat sports event anybody has ever seen at the Sphere. I’m so in on this, it’s not even funny. The first live transmission from there should be us.”
Caesars’ Virginia revenue dips slightly in September, but ahead of Hard Rock in Bristol; Rivers Portsmouth leads state
Gaming revenue for the Danville Casino dipped slightly again last month, but remained well above its counterpart in Bristol. The temporary facility brought in about $19.14 million in September, down from the $19.63 million posted in August. The Virginia Lottery released the figures Friday. The casino in Bristol — another temporary site with more slots and tables — brought in $12.71 million.
Arizona: DraftKings Sportsbook at TPC Scottsdale to open this week
It’s only a matter of days until the DraftKings Sportsbook at TPC Scottsdale has its grand opening. The sportsbook will open its doors on Oct. 20, according to a Monday press release. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will commence at 1 p.m. with PGA Tour and DraftKings executives. Arizona Cardinals legend Larry Fitzgerald will place the ceremonial first bet. The DraftKings Sportsbook, which sits across the street from the TPC Scottsdale Champions Course clubhouse, was developed under a first-of-its-kind agreement with the PGA Tour.
High roller offers $500K reward, says he was drugged while gambling at MGM Grand
A California real estate executive and sports agent who has high-roller status with MGM Resorts International has sued the company after he says he was drugged with a substance used by veterinarians to sedate animals while playing blackjack in the MGM Grand’s private gambling salon. Dwight Manley, 57, who filed the amended complaint in July, on Thursday offered a $500,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the persons responsible for drugging him.
NCAA’s attitude toward sports betting takes dramatic shift, more focused on athlete protections than punishments
A few years ago, the NCAA’s stance on sports wagering was clear: Don’t bet. The organization didn’t want players and coaches wagering, and the NCAA also wasn’t thrilled about having any relationship with regulated sports betting. That attitude seems to be shifting, as NCAA officials are aware of the increased fan engagement legalized betting brings. A changing attitude toward sports betting doesn’t just include a growing appreciation for the external benefits of sports wagering, such as increasing fan interest.
Disney goes all in on sports betting with ESPN Bet
In early 2019, an analyst asked Disney Chief Executive Bob Iger if sports betting could coexist with the House of Mouse’s brand. He said he didn’t see the company facilitating gambling in any way. Just four years later, the world’s most beloved name in family entertainment is going all-in on sports betting. In August, the company struck a 10-year deal with sports-betting company Penn Entertainment to bring gambling to Disney’s ESPN sports network. Sports fans will be able to wager on games on their phones through a new app called ESPN Bet that accepts bets through Penn’s sportsbook.
‘Creepy’ feeling around Atlantic City casinos in wake of cyberattacks
The eerie calm that has washed over Atlantic City casinos the last few weeks has nothing to do with Halloween or the changing of the seasons. It is not even because most of the gambling industry is gathered in Las Vegas this week for the Global Gaming Expo (G2E). The recent cyberattacks on two of the largest US casino operators have noticeably impacted Atlantic City casinos. Or at least that is the general feeling in town lately. New Jersey gambling regulators will publish September’s revenue results for the AC casino industry on Oct. 16.
After cyberattacks crippled casino companies, how vulnerable is Las Vegas?
Las Vegas has always prided itself on its economy of leisure. In the span of a weekend, visitors can dine at the finest restaurants, witness world-class entertainment and sporting events and shop at top luxury brands without leaving the Strip—sometimes, without leaving their hotel. All that came to a standstill last month as two casino giants fell prey to revenue-crippling cyberattacks that have left us wondering: How vulnerable is Vegas, really? Casino-goers attempting to use mobile check-in, digital keys, credit cards, ATMs, slot machines and other services at some MGM Resorts properties were shocked to find widespread outages on September 11.
Mets owner seeking to construct casino outside Citi Field
New York (New York City) - Chantz Martin, Fox News - Steve Cohen spent a record amount on the New York Mets payroll heading into the 2023 regular season. Now, the billionaire who purchased the franchise ahead of the 2021 season hopes to build attractions around the team's home ballpark in Queens. Cohen suggested that a casino would give fans options before and after games. "The fans want something to do before the game, after the game," Cohen said.
Champagne, private shopping, $1.5M in jewel, luxury retailers prepare for F1
Nevada (Las Vegas) - McKenna Ross, Review-Journal - The Regis Galerie has long marketed itself as the spot on the Strip for top Italian art, Spanish porcelain and worldly fine jewelry – even legendary pop star Michael Jackson shopped at the boutique in The Venetian’s Grand Canal Shoppes. But Ike Dweck, vice president of the art gallery, is kicking it into overdrive to cash in on the immense activity expected in November… Dweck’s place — and hundreds of other luxury retailers on the Strip — are preparing for an influx of high net-worth shoppers in Las Vegas during the Formula One Grand Prix on Nov. 16 to 18, which is projected to bring 120,000 visitors to the region.
iGaming Ontario releases Q2 market- performance report
Canada (Ontario/igaming) - Mark Keast, CDC Gaming Reports - The regulated Ontario igaming market continues to experience growth, according to a quarter-two fiscal-year 2023-24 (July 1 through September 30). Ontario reached $14.2 billion in total wagers in Q2, not including promotional wagers (bonuses). That’s up from $14 billion in Q1 (April 1 to June 30, 2023). Ontario saw $540 million in total gaming revenue in Q2, down from $545 million in Q1.
Best Bookies ceases Price Pty Ltd service following ACMA warning
Oceania (Australia) - Jessie Sale, SBC News - Best Bookies’ Price Pty Ltd has been issued a formal warning from the Australian Communications and Media Authority (AMCA) for operating an unlicensed online wagering service. The group is described as an ‘internet site allowing punters to securely bet with a range of independent licensed Australian bookmakers using a single betting account’. However, it has been found that the service allowed customers to compare betting odds across licensed wagering operators and placed bets with those operators on their behalf…Best Bookies’ Price Pty Ltd has now ceased providing this service.
Amy Howe, Jason Robins examine growth of sports betting
Nevada (Las Vegas/G2E) - Rege Behe, CDC Gaming Reports - A conversation that touched on Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, pickleball, Formula 1 racing, and a flurry of field goals in the National Football League seems like it could have taken place in one of the coffee shops, bars, or hallways at the Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas. Instead, those topics were broached, some in depth, others lightly, during the Wednesday keynote session “The Playmakers” moderated by CNBC’s Contessa Brewer and featuring the CEOs Amy Howe of FanDuel and Jason Robins of DraftKings.
Indigenous women defy odds in Tribal leadership
Nevada (Las Vegas/G2E) - Rege Behe, CDC Gaming Reports - Monday was Indigenous People’s Day and Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernie Steven wanted to make sure it was celebrated correctly. At the Global Gaming Expo education session “Shattering Ceilings: Women Leaders in Tribal Gaming,” Stevens introduced three tribal women who could “tell people who we are, tell people our true history,” he said. Holly Cook Macarro, an expert on political matters focused on tribal legislative and policy and principal at The Angle; Porch Band of Creek Indians Tribal Chair Stephanie Bryan; and Melanie Benjamin, the Chief Executive/Chairwoman of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, told stories of how they came to become tribal leaders, despite odds often stacked against them.
Female slot players a growing demographic
Nevada (Las Vegas/G2E) - Buck Wargo, CDC Gaming Reports - The number of female slot players continues to grow in the U.S., but game designers shouldn’t try to appeal to them by use of the color pink or flowers. Instead, they should make games that are fun for everyone to play. That was the message from a Global Gaming Expo educational session, “How Female Designers Are Influencing Game Design,” moderated by Carolyn Tomcyzyk, senior director of art design at Konami Gaming. Francine Maric, better known as “Lady Luck HQ” on social media, said that her followers online look for games that are simple and have vitality. “They want to see action. They want to see jackpots,” Maric said.
Las Vegas Grand Prix to begin at 10 p.m.
Nevada (Las Vegas) - Mick Akers, Review-Journal - The Las Vegas Grand Prix, scheduled to be contested on the third-longest circuit on Formula One’s 2023 schedule, will begin as expected at 10 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 18, race organizers confirmed. The late start is to allow the race to feature the renowned lights of the Las Vegas Strip. The circuit will be brightly lit via lighting trusses that are already being installed on the Strip and other areas of the track.
Gambler ups the ante with federal lawsuit against Resorts World
Nevada (Las Vegas) - John L. Smith, CDC Gaming Reports - A gambler’s protracted battle with Resorts World Las Vegas reached a new level Monday with a lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court that accuses the Strip casino-resort company and its former president of negligence and the infliction of emotional distress for failing to prevent known fraudsters and persons convicted of gambling-related crimes from playing in the casino. The lawsuit filed by attorneys Marshall Cole and David Merrill on behalf of California resident Robert J. Cipriani, who goes by the moniker “Robin Hood 702” on social media, comes following the ouster of Resorts World Las Vegas President Scott Sibella for a violation of company policy amid press reports of an ongoing investigation by IRS Criminal Investigations and U.S. Homeland Security agents of Las Vegas hotels, including Resorts World.
Odesza at Zouk, Disco Kiss Mondays at Cathédrale and more
Nevada (Las Vegas) - The Weekly Staff - Las Vegas nightlife scion and rising star Dustin Drai has been promoted to president of Drai’s Management Group. He will now oversee the marketing and entertainment efforts and initiatives of Drai’s Beachclub, Nightclub and After Hours at the Cromwell, as well as the company’s expansion to Texas with Drai’s Dallas, set to open in late 2024. Electronic music duo Odesza’s first-ever nightclub performance will be part of New Year’s Eve weekend at Zouk Nightclub at Resorts World.
MGM sends special offers in wake of September cyberattack
National (cyberattack) - McKenna Ross, Review-Journal - MGM Resorts International has begun sending out loyalty rewards to customers affected by the September cyberattack on the company. A promotion shared by a popular social media blogger shows an offer for a complimentary stay for that MGM Rewards loyalty member.
Rise of mobile betting increases revenue, more problem gambling
New York (igaming) - Connor Smith, Spectrum News - Taxes on mobile sports betting in New York generated $727.4 million in the 2022-23 fiscal year and have continued to grow in the first quarter of the current fiscal year, according to a new report from state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli. The rise of mobile sports betting, though, also led to a 26% rise in problem gambling-related calls to the Office of the Addiction Services and Supports from 2021-2022, according to the New York State Gaming Commission. This, DiNapoli said, should lead to more attention on the impacts of mobile sports betting — particularly on younger people.
Atlantic City Dave & Buster's expected to open in December
New Jersey (Atlantic City) - Selena Vazquez, The Press - The opening of the Dave & Buster's entertainment center at the former site of rapper Jay-Z's 40/40 Club has been pushed back to December, city officials said. "According to our Director of Licensing and Inspection Dale Finch, we are looking at an anticipated opening date of early December," said Alexxus Young, a spokesperson for the city, adding the license that Dave & Buster's is requesting requires City Council approval. The North American chain of combination arcade, sports bar, restaurant and entertainment complexes has 155 locations in the United States, according to the company.
122-year-old Atlantic City property turning into apartments
New Jersey (Atlantic City) - Selena Vazquez, The Press - For the past decade, the former Morris Guards Armory at 10 S. New York Ave. has been vacant, but that is set to change over the next couple of months. John Longacre and his real estate development company, LPMG Companies, expect to put about 32 studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartment units, along with other retail spaces, on the real estate market by the end of the year. The building was constructed in 1901 and was used as an armory for the city's independent volunteer military club, the Morris Guards, until 1983. "We're trying to get people to see Atlantic City in a different way," Longacre said.
Huge Powerball jackpot goes to lucky lottery player in California
National (lottery) - Jim Salter, Associated Press - A player in California won a $1.765 billion Powerball jackpot Wednesday night, ending a long stretch without a winner of the top prize… Before someone won the giant prize, there had been 35 consecutive drawings without a big winner, stretching back to July 19 when a player in California matched all six numbers and won $1.08 billion.
New Catawba chief rejects deal to break up with casino developer
North Carolina (Indian gaming) - Gavin Off, Charlotte Observer - The Catawba Nation’s new chief rejects the cost of a financial deal that would break most ties with a company that’s been instrumental in launching its Two Kings Casino outside Charlotte. The deal, approved by the tribe’s previous administration, would require the Catawba to pay SkyBoat, LLC a $125 million payout, Chief Brian Harris said…But it’s too much money, said Harris, who was elected chief this summer and must sign the agreement for it to be finalized.
New coalition forms to weigh in on gaming compact negotiations
New York (Indian gaming) - Ryan Whalen, Spectrum News - Existing non-native casinos and racinos in the Finger Lakes and Western New York and unions representing their employees are formally launching a coalition to have a voice in the ongoing negotiations for a new gaming compact between the state and the Seneca Nation of Indians. The Fair Compact for All Coalition includes representatives from del Lago Resort and Casino, Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack, Hamburg Gaming and Batavia Downs. They want to ensure any new Seneca gaming compact t protects the future of their operations and the communities they say have come to depend on their success.
The Shoshone-Bannock Casino announces hunting packages
Idaho (Indian gaming) - Idaho State Journal - The Shoshone-Bannock Casino Hotel, in conjunction with the Tribes’ Fish & Game, invites hunting enthusiasts to join in on some of the best waterfowl and pheasant hunting in Idaho on the Fort Hall Indian Reservation now through December. Hunters can choose from one-day and two-day packages, allowing them to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and wildlife of the Fort Hall Indian Reservation while also enjoying comfortable accommodations in the hotel and delectable dining options.
State Confronts Indian Boarding School Past with New Committee
Washington (Indian Country) - Jenna Kunze, Native News - Washington State’s Attorney General’s office has formed a Truth & Reconciliation Tribal Advisory Committee to collect oral testimonies and recommend how the state can address present-day harms caused by Indian boarding school policies. Washington, a state home to 29 federally recognized tribes, hosted 17 of the nation’s more than 500 Indian Boarding Schools, according to an up-to-date list from the Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition. The institutions operated from the 1800s through 1970 with the aim to forcibly assimilate Native children into white society.
Osage Casinos Celebrate Grand Opening of New Casino Hotel in Pawhuska
Oklahoma (Indian gaming) - Indian Gaming Magazine - Osage Casinos recently celebrated the grand opening of a new state-of-the-art casino and hotel in Pawhuska. This long-awaited property has been under construction since 2021 and is now open to the public following a ribbon-cutting celebration…On the day the new casino officially opened, the existing location closed. With a transformation from a 8,335 sq. ft. venue to this expansive new facility, the Pawhuska community is excited for the update. A
Casino News Media
Why Knowledge is Power: Navigating the World of Regulated Online Gambling
Every top casino search will feature an online casino's bonus offerings, payment methods and at least a blurb as to what differentiates their product from the rest of what's out there. We know Slotland, Mansion and Mr. Green are reputable per their longevity in the realm of online gambling. But what about those sites that do not appear on such listings?
Online Casino Complaints
The fact is, the longer a casino has been around, the more likely you'll be able to find a handful of complaints about said casino. Even a site like Mansion there are bound to be dissatisfied customers. There is no avoiding this fact.
But when one stumbles upon multiple complaints about a particular online casino, that becomes a problem.
There are many websites that feature forums where players share their bad experiences. These include long established Casino Meister (older than Gambling911) and, on the poker side, TwoPlusTwo.
Additionally, conduct searches via Google and other search engines. And remember to be careful. Some companies, usually those that are a little on the rogue side, employ services that ensure only positive supposed "real customer" experiences appear at the top of review pages. Scroll down or filter and you'll almost always find the real truth, one single star review listed after the other.
A Word About Regulated Online Casinos
Yes there are a few benefits to playing with a regulated casino or online sportsbook, the top being the ability to reach out to a commission or other licensing body. This doesn't always mean they are safe. Gambling911.com warned that 5Dimes was going to shut down. That site claimed otherwise. We notified their regulatory body. They did nothing. 5Dimes closed weeks later. The regulatory body simply removed their company from its list of licensees and players were screwed out of any futures bets.
Online Casino Pluses
Once you land on a review page, the benefits are clear and easy to compare. Promos will be pushed the most. Here are just some of the great promotional offers we stumbled upon.
Matching deposit bonuses
100 to 200+ free spins
Bitcoin only deposits (see below)
Free bets
Be careful. You don't just deposit money, get free money, then request it all back. Each casino and sportsbook implements its own rollover/play requirement. 10X is one of the best rollovers. This means your initial $20 will need to be played through ten times before you can request the free bonus money. If 10X is a turnoff, casino gambling might not be your thing. Some play through requirements do not permit withdrawal during this period and this may be a legitimate turnoff to some. Why can't you request a withdrawal on winnings while still working on your play requirement. It is important to read the Q&A section of the web casino site. Avoid any online casino that does not feature a Q&A page or Terms and Agreement section.
You'll Need to Fund Your Online Gambling Account
Some online casino payment methods are better than others. By better, we mean faster.
Yes, Bitcoin is among the best but it’s akin to learning how to ride a bicycle. There is a learning curve at first but funding with Bitcoin and similar cryptocurrencies will become second nature by the 4th or 5th time. Just ALWAYS check that your Bitcoin stamp matches at the start and end of the string and you should not have any problem. Gambling sites often have no problem sending five figure amounts through Bitcoin wallets. This payout, often received in a matter of hours seven days a week, can then be converted to your favorite currency via the Bitcoin exchange.
Remember too that there are fees involved with all payout methods employed. Wires and ePayments may be quick but costly. Each site lists varying fees for the same payment method and not all are competitive. Many online gambling sites offer “Bitcoin Only” bonuses with more lucrative incentives. One loosely guarded secret that the online casinos won’t advertise: They hate credit card transactions. Gamblers are notorious for charging back. Hence the rationale for pushing Bitcoin deposits.
Why Knowledge is Power: Navigating the World of Regulated Online Gambling
Every top casino search will feature an online casino's bonus offerings, payment methods and at least a blurb as to what differentiates their product from the rest of what's out there. We know Slotland, Mansion and Mr. Green are reputable per their longevity in the realm of online gambling. But what about those sites that do not appear on such listings?
Online Casino Complaints
The fact is, the longer a casino has been around, the more likely you'll be able to find a handful of complaints about said casino. Even a site like Mansion there are bound to be dissatisfied customers. There is no avoiding this fact.
But when one stumbles upon multiple complaints about a particular online casino, that becomes a problem.
There are many websites that feature forums where players share their bad experiences. These include long established Casino Meister (older than Gambling911) and, on the poker side, TwoPlusTwo.
Additionally, conduct searches via Google and other search engines. And remember to be careful. Some companies, usually those that are a little on the rogue side, employ services that ensure only positive supposed "real customer" experiences appear at the top of review pages. Scroll down or filter and you'll almost always find the real truth, one single star review listed after the other.
A Word About Regulated Online Casinos
Yes there are a few benefits to playing with a regulated casino or online sportsbook, the top being the ability to reach out to a commission or other licensing body. This doesn't always mean they are safe. Gambling911.com warned that 5Dimes was going to shut down. That site claimed otherwise. We notified their regulatory body. They did nothing. 5Dimes closed weeks later. The regulatory body simply removed their company from its list of licensees and players were screwed out of any futures bets.
Online Casino Pluses
Once you land on a review page, the benefits are clear and easy to compare. Promos will be pushed the most. Here are just some of the great promotional offers we stumbled upon.
Matching deposit bonuses
100 to 200+ free spins
Bitcoin only deposits (see below)
Free bets
Be careful. You don't just deposit money, get free money, then request it all back. Each casino and sportsbook implements its own rollover/play requirement. 10X is one of the best rollovers. This means your initial $20 will need to be played through ten times before you can request the free bonus money. If 10X is a turnoff, casino gambling might not be your thing. Some play through requirements do not permit withdrawal during this period and this may be a legitimate turnoff to some. Why can't you request a withdrawal on winnings while still working on your play requirement. It is important to read the Q&A section of the web casino site. Avoid any online casino that does not feature a Q&A page or Terms and Agreement section.
You'll Need to Fund Your Online Gambling Account
Some online casino payment methods are better than others. By better, we mean faster.
Yes, Bitcoin is among the best but it’s akin to learning how to ride a bicycle. There is a learning curve at first but funding with Bitcoin and similar cryptocurrencies will become second nature by the 4th or 5th time. Just ALWAYS check that your Bitcoin stamp matches at the start and end of the string and you should not have any problem. Gambling sites often have no problem sending five figure amounts through Bitcoin wallets. This payout, often received in a matter of hours seven days a week, can then be converted to your favorite currency via the Bitcoin exchange.
Remember too that there are fees involved with all payout methods employed. Wires and ePayments may be quick but costly. Each site lists varying fees for the same payment method and not all are competitive. Many online gambling sites offer “Bitcoin Only” bonuses with more lucrative incentives. One loosely guarded secret that the online casinos won’t advertise: They hate credit card transactions. Gamblers are notorious for charging back. Hence the rationale for pushing Bitcoin deposits.
Kevin Nash teases NWO - New World Order return...
Kevin Nash, who was likely joking, teased an nWo reunion on his Twitter account recently, writing, "A lot of you wanted an NWO reunion,there will be one.As you know we only come in take over mode.Stay tuned!!!" The message was then re-tweeted by TNA Executive Eric Bischoff.
Nash later wrote, "Rock will never walk out of the Rumble with the belt we got Phils back... Sorry @CMPunk we got your back!!!!"
Nash also stated that Punk would be the leader and that the nWo army would be there "to protect the gold."
Wrestling legend Rey wants Pacquiao-Floyd in WWE ring...
During Rey Mysterio's tour stop in Manila, Philippines, Mysterio teased a mixed tag match with top boxing stars Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather, Jr., who "competed" at WrestleMania 24 four years ago. “I love Manny. In fact, Manny, if you’re watching right now, I’m inviting you to join forces with Rey Mysterio in the WWE to take on “Money” (Floyd) Mayweather," Rey said on Manila TV, playing off Mayweather and Pacquiao unable to come together on a dream boxing fight. "I know you don’t need me to take him on but this is just a teaser: me and you versus him and Alberto Del Rio."
'Stone Cold' Steve Austin and 'Iron' Mike Tyson at WWE Summerslam weekend function...
WWE Hall of Famers "Stone Cold" Steve Austin and Mike Tyson are scheduled to attend a Summerslam Weekend function in Los Angeles, according to WWE announcer Jim Ross. Ross wrote in his latest blog on jrsbarbq.com: "If you see me wandering around L.A. Summerslam weekend, I'm there for a major, THQ function at the Grammy Museum the night before the PPV. Among those scheduled to attend the private affair are @steveaustinBSR and @miketyson, among many others."
WWE Announcer Legend Jim Ross Blog Update...
WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross is back with his latest blog about Monday's 1,000th episode of RAW, here are just a few highlights:
RAW 1000: "Memorable week especially kicking it off with RAW1000 in St Louis. No guarantees that any of us will be around for RAW2000 so I particularly enjoyed my experiences Monday night.
"The reality of the matter is this...it is highly unlikely, thanks Gorilla, that exact collection of performers will EVER be under the same roof again. I look back upon my attendance at RAW1000 as a privilege and am grateful to have had the opportunity to see so many old friends that have meant a great deal to me over my long career."
Inducting Mick Foley in the WWE Hall of Fame: "@RealMickFoley when asked who would induct him if/when Mick goes into the WWE HOF mentioned Terry Funk and yours truly. While I would love to honor Mick on that special occasion, there is no way that I would ever put myself in the same category with Terry Funk. Terry mentored Mick and treated Mick like a son. While I'd love to induct Mrs. Foley's Baby Boy into the WWE HOF, I think that Terry Funk is the best choice. However, I stand ready if called upon."
If CM Punk would reform the nWo: "A follower on @JRsBBQ on Twitter asked if I thought @CMPunk would reform the nWo. I have no idea if this topic is any thing more than speculation based on my friend Kevin Nash having some fun with the subject on Twitter. Bottom line is that I don't know but I would be surprised if Punk headed up a faction at this time because he seems to be such a solitary man. The only way that I see that ever happening at this stage of Punk's career is if he had complete control on who comprised the group."
Pro Wrestling giant Great Khali has tumor removed...
WWE wrestler Great Khali (Dalip Singh) had a tumor removed on Wednesday, which will put him out of action for 2-3 months. The tumor was on Khali's pituitary gland, which caused him to increase in height to over seven-feet-tall. However, if left untreated, the tumor could have been fatal, according to WWE's chief medical director, Dr. Joseph Maroon. It's the same issue that affected Andre the Giant. Surgery was performed at UPMC Presbyterian in Pittsburgh, Pa.
TNA Video: Funny or Die Olympic training featuring Kurt Angle and Rob Van Dam...
TNA stars Kurt Angle and Rob Van Dam are featured in Funny or Die video. The theme is Angle returning to the Olympics with RVD as his trainer. You can check out the video at http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/636c3d08e1/olympic-trials-with-kurt-angle?playlist=featured_videos
‘Squirrelly’ move puts U.S. wrestler on map...
LONDON — It began as a goof — two brothers horsing around, dreaming up exotic wrestling moves straight out of the Vince McMahon WWE handbook and trying them out on each other.
The move has since gone viral as a YouTube sensation, become a nickname and, before the 2012 London Games are over, it might become part of U.S. Olympic lore — a highlight burned into our minds forever.
Ellis Coleman and his older brother, Lillashawn, used to wrestle with each other at their high school outside of Chicago when they would dial up crazy moves to use on each other.
The best of them was called the “Flying Squirrel.’’ Ellis never forgot it, and now has turned it into a cottage industry for himself.
Coleman, at age 21 the youngest member of the six-man U.S. Olympic Greco-Roman wrestling team, has used the move about a dozen times in competition.
Perhaps the highest profile time he used it was in last year’s Junior World Championships to come back and beat his opponent in the semifinals. ESPN ranked the move third on its “Best of the Best Highlights’’ for 2011.
“It’s been crazy,’’ Coleman said yesterday. “Every time someone sees it, kids are reaching out to me on Facebook and Twitter asking me to show them the move.’’
In the words of Coleman, one of a host of athletes at these Olympic Games representing the New York Athletic Club, here’s how the move is executed: “You snap the opponent’s head down, leap over him and, as you land on your feet, you grab his waist, pull him over, pick him up and throw him down.’’
In Greco-Roman wrestling, the competitors get points for their various moves. Five points is the most you can get for one move. Coleman said he has used the move about a dozen times and usually gets at least three points for it.
He first unveiled it out of desperation in a match he was losing, stunned his opponent with it and went on to win it.
Coleman said he likes to use the move as an element of surprise and isn’t sure if he will use it in the Olympics.
“If I’m losing, though, you’ll definitely see it,’’ he said. “It’s a risky move. It’s a spur-of-the-moment thing. It’s so sudden you can’t stop it. I always pictured myself, even in the Olympic setting and losing in the finals match, third period with 15 seconds left, hitting the ‘Flying Squirrel’ and everyone going crazy. I still picture it.”
Though Coleman’s teammates chide him for the move, they also embrace his guts for using it.
“They should probably put him on medication for even trying that,” teammate Justin Lester said jokingly. “He’s crazy for doing it, but that’s what’s going to make him good in the long run. You’ve got guys like him who are innovative and aren’t afraid to wrestle.’’
“It’s definitely a move of desperation,’’ said Dremiel Byers, the elder statesman and heavyweight of the Greco-Roman team at age 37.
“It’s his wild card. It lets the opponent know he’ll do anything to win.’’
U.S. Wrestling Greco-Roman coach Steve Fraser said Coleman’s flash has “brought a lot of attention to wrestling and Greco. He’s talented, hungry and young … and a pleasure to work with. He’s a very coachable kid. We love him.”
The “Flying Squirrel’’ craze reached such a pitch that Coleman recently bought himself a live flying squirrel pet and named him Rocky, who is about 45 days old and eats lot of apples and seeds.
“They bond with their owners,’’ Coleman said. “He sleeps during the day and is very nocturnal, so I’ll take him out of his cage and he’ll crawl on me and fly to the curtains. Eventually, when he bonds with me, I’ll be able to take him out in my pocket and he’ll stay there without flying away.’’
Coleman dreams of flying away from these Olympics with some hardware. Something gold, perhaps. (The New York Post)
NSW govt investigates 'floating casino'...
The NSW government is investigating whether cruise company P&O operated an illegal floating casino off the NSW coast.
Hospitality Minister George Souris on Wednesday said a government authority was investigating an allegation that passengers could play blackjack, pontoon, poker and roulette on a cruise that left Sydney on Friday night.
The cruise ship also had 40 poker machines onboard and let passengers charge $5000 on their credit cards for gambling, News Ltd reported.
"I've asked the Office of Liquor and Gaming to investigate whether a casino operation was under way in NSW territorial waters or whether gambling operations were under way in commonwealth waters," he told reporters in Sydney.
"It may be that NSW jurisdiction was breached, it may be that the commonwealth jurisdiction was breached. It may be even that both were breached."
He said NSW had no jurisdiction beyond 12 nautical miles from shore.
"Those are international waters," he said.
"In international shipping after the 12-nautical-mile limit it opens boats to gambling but also to duty-free liquor sales."
James Packer to speak at tourism conference in Canberra...
Billionare James Packer will be the drawcard for hoteliers, resort operators and owners attending a tourism conference in Canberra in late October. Mr Packer will open the Tourism & Transport Forum's annual "Leadership 2012" conference.
The gaming tycoon is a major tourism player given his Crown resorts in Perth and Melbourne attract 25 million visitors a year...
Jackman to Begin Filming ‘Wolverine’ in Australia...
Hollywood star Hugh Jackman will begin filming the next installment of his “X-Men” spin-off movies in Sydney next week, even though the female lead is yet to be confirmed.
Jackman, who admitted struggling to get into shape after packing on the pounds to play Jean Valjean in “Les Miserables,” said his role as Wolverine, which he first played 12 years ago, was “the backbone of my career.”
“I love the character. I still love the character,” he said. “I had no choice at the time, I was going to take anything that came along, but I happened to have walked into probably the most interesting and complex of the superhero characters.”
“I’ve always loved playing it and when I stop loving it I’ll stop doing it,” he added.
Melco Crown Project Gets Red Light on Casino...
Macau casino operator Melco Crown Entertainment Ltd. MPEL +2.32% still doesn't have permission to build a casino at its latest project, according to a revised government contract published Wednesday.
The Macao Studio City project, in which Melco Crown has a 60% equity interest, is designated for a five-star hotel and film facilities, indicates the latest government contract detailing various revisions to the agreement. But the document doesn't mention any casino facilities despite the company's earlier statements they hope to open up to 400 gambling tables at the property. It's possible the government could give the green-light on a casino later, but the uncertainty could complicate the company's efforts to finance the project.
Melco Crown, backed by Lawrence Ho and James Packer—the sons of Macau gambling tycoon Stanley Ho and the late Australian casino-and-media magnate Kerry Packer—is one of six casino license holders in Macau, where it already runs two casino-resort properties in the world's largest gambling hub.
A representative for Melco Crown didn't respond to requests for comment.
In June 2011, Melco Crown signed a $360 million deal to gain control over the Macao Studio City project, resolving a bitter dispute between the project's earlier partners that had escalated to the Hong Kong courts, stalling development for years. New Cotai Holdings LLC, an arm of U.S. investment firms Oaktree Capital Management L.P. and Silver Point Capital L.P., retained its 40% stake in the project.
Earlier this month Melco Crown announced plans to enter the burgeoning Philippines market by teaming up with local property developer Belle Corp. BEL.PH -0.20% to partner on a casino resort that will cost at least $1 billion in an area the Philippines hopes will become Manila's version of the Las Vegas Strip. (The Wall Street Journal)
First Second unveils André the Giant comic...
First Second has confirmed its André the Giant biography.
Cartoonist Box Brown is working on the book charting the life of the professional wrestler and actor, reports ICv2.
André Roussimoff was a star and one-time champion of the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE).
He is also known for his role in cult classic movie The Princess Bride.
Roussimoff has the condition acromegaly, which saw him grow to 7'4" in height. He died of heart failure in 1993 at the age of 46.
Box is the author of Xeric grant-funded graphic novel Love Is a Peculiar Type of Thing.
The untitled André the Giant biography is scheduled for release in 2014. (Digital Spy)
The Expendables 2 slapped with R rating for extreme violence...
Action star-laden sequel The Expendables 2 has been given an R rating for its violent and sexual content in the US.
Bruce Willis, Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger and co will even be throwing some bad language into the mix as they bat off hostile attackers in this follow-up to the 2010 action-packed extravaganza.
Lionsgate was rumoured to have been considering a PG-13 rating for the film, which is due for release in the States on August 17th.
Once again, Stallone assembles his hardened team of old-school mercenaries for a special mission - taking revenge after one of their squad is murdered on the job.
Director Simon West was never in any doubt that the film would receive such a high rating, given the 'very hard' violence and language perpetrated by the all-star cast throughout the film.
'I'm sure there were some financial people who wanted it to be PG-13 because they thought it would somehow make more money or have a broader audience, but there was no way,' he told wegotthiscovered.com.
'When you get these guys on the set, they can't say a line without putting the F-bomb in it, and they can't pick up a gun without blowing several limbs off.' (Metro)
