Poker News, Views & Reviews

2005'S Most Influential Names in Poker

2005-12-28T08:37:00.000-08:00

Bluff Magazine Releases Their Official 'Poker Power 20' Naming the 20 Most Influential People in the Sport of Poker Poker is a game of power: The power to be courageous, the power to win with nothing in your hand but a fistful of determination and the power to turn rags into royal flushes. Bluff Magazine polled a panel of industry heavyweights and poker pundits to identify the most powerful and influential names at the final table of the poker industry - 'The Poker Power 20'. This definitive list ranks individuals and organizations based on their demonstrated ability and willingness to be an evolutionary force in the industry.

'The Poker Power 20' is more than a list of top money earners in poker. "To truly reflect the juggernaut that poker has become, 'The Poker Power 20' includes the companies, the brains trusts and the innovators that have aided poker's phenomenal commercial success," said Bluff Editor, Michael Caselli.

The near exponential growth of poker can be measured in more than just financial terms. Poker's success and influence is now felt all across the entire social spectrum and can be measured by the number of celebrities, heroes and revered entrepreneurs it has created, along with the unbelievable amount of new players it is attracting. All those finalists honoured in 'The Poker Power 20' have been integral components of this redefinition of poker in the public consciousness. The list of finalists includes modern-day poker heroes such as Doyle Brunson, Chip Reese, Chris Moneymaker, Daniel Negreanu, and Phil Hellmuth - everyone's favorite guy to love to hate. It also includes behind-the-scenes poker movers and shakers such as tournament director Johnny Grooms, player agent Brian Balsburgh and WPT co-founders Steve Lipscomb and Lyle Berman. Additionally, 'The Poker Power 20' honors pioneering websites such as PartyPoker and PokerStars. The results of Bluff Magazine's 'Poker Power 20' will be available in its January issue.

About Bluff Magazine (http://www.bluffmagazine.com): Bluff Magazine is America's Largest Poker Magazine with 250,000 copies printed and distributed nationwide. Bluff's 191,000 newsstand copies and 60,000 event, location, and subscription copies gets Bluff into the hands of poker enthusiasts eager to keep up with the fast-paced modern poker lifestyle. Regular contributors to Bluff Magazine include: Jennifer Tilly, Marcel Luske, Josh Arieh, Annie Duke, Antonio Esfandiari, Clonie Gowen, Phil Laak, Michael Mizrachi, Mike Caro and Phil Gordon. Media resources courtesy of Bluff Media.

Poker For Dummies®

2005-11-05T06:43:00.000-08:00

The Deluxe Poker Set For Dummies® includes everything you need to learn the ins and outs of the hottest poker games; Texas Hold 'Em, 7-Card Stud, and Omaha 8.
Poker For Dummies®

NASCAR® Texas Hold 'em Poker

2005-11-05T06:37:00.000-08:00

Ante up! Hold 'em, fold 'em, or just admire 'em. NASCAR® Texas Hold 'em Poker from USAopoly will please car racing fans and gaming enthusiasts alike!
NASCAR® Texas Hold 'em Poker

Texas No Limit Hold 'Em Poker

2005-10-02T11:34:00.000-07:00

It's the most popular game at the poker tables these days.
So check out this brief primer on Texas Hold 'Em.

http://texas.allinfoabout.com/features/texas_hold_em.html

Online Poker Blogger Championship

2005-10-02T11:32:00.000-07:00

October 23rd, 2005 – 4:00pm EST / 1:00pm PST

PokerStars is proud to announce the inaugural PokerStars Online Poker Blogger Championship! This is an exclusive FREE poker tournament open ONLY to Internet bloggers of all topics. At PokerStars, we know the power of the Internet. We know poker is not a passing fad. We know blogging is the new medium and it's not going anywhere. That's why PokerStars was the first online poker site to launch a fulltime Official PokerStars blog for its players.

Dead Man's Estate Funds Free Online Poker Site

2005-09-26T19:01:00.000-07:00

Eccentric Millionaire Goes ''All In'' One Last Time

Today LastCallPoker.com (http://www.LastCallPoker.com) a free Texas Hold' Em Web site designed and funded by deceased millionaire, Lionel "Lucky" Brown was launched on the Internet. Last Call Poker uses the web's most sophisticated poker system, featuring a no-download Flash engine, an in-game chat system, and a level of graphic design and interactivity unmatched in the online games industry. Brown, upon his death, willed five million dollars of his fortune to the creation of LastCallPoker.com to facilitate the development and maintenance of this online game site. Lucky Brown always said that a hand of poker he won at the end of the War gave him the seed money for his fortune. As his final resting place has been kept secret, an undisclosed amount of money has been set aside for "wakes" to be held in cemeteries nationwide where poker fans will play Tombstone Hold 'Em, a poker variant Brown invented while serving in Europe at the end of World War II. Graveyard Games are currently scheduled for cemeteries in San Francisco, Washington D.C., New York, Atlanta, Los Angeles and others to be announced. Rules for Tombstone Hold 'Em and a calendar of events can be found at http://www.LastCallPoker.com/allin. About LastCallPoker.com Built with a dead man's money, Last Call Poker (http://www.LastCallPoker.com) is a 100% free poker site that offers Texas Hold' Em gameplay without the requirement of downloading from the Internet. More information is available at LastCallPoker.com. Media resources courtesy of Ace Communications.

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Hollywood Poker Announces Winners in World Poker Tour Celebrity Shootouts I and II

2005-08-25T13:12:00.000-07:00

Last Celebrities Standing and Tournament Winners to Play in Legends of Poker Tournament on August 27, 2005 Hollywood Poker (http://www.hollywoodpoker.com) proved it wasn't bluffing with its impressive turnout for The Hollywood Poker World Poker Tour Celebrity Shootouts I and II. Kane Hodder ("Jason X") slashed his way through the celebrity competition to join Josh Malina ("West Wing") as the last celebrities standing in their respective tournaments. Together they will represent Hollywood Poker, along with James Woods, Vince Van Patten and tournament winners Aron Marquitz and Patrick Johnson from Celebrity Shootouts I and Shootout II, in the World Poker Tour Legends of Poker event August 27th in Bell Gardens, California. There they will compete for the grand prize and a chance to call themselves legends. Marquitz and Johnson took down first place prize money from the $10,000 guaranteed prize pools for each tournament, as well. Josh Malina, playing on behalf of the celebrities from the first tournament, boasted, "I love playing on HollywoodPoker.com. I am a huge fan of the World Poker Tour and I could not be more psyched to represent Hollywood Poker." Pamela Gidley ("Mafia!") made her presence felt, becoming the last lady-celebrity standing and earning a seat to the ladies event at the Bicycle Casino. She shared, "HollywoodPoker.com is quickly becoming my new obsession. I am honored to represent the ladies of Hollywood Poker at the ladies tournament at the WPT at the Bike." She will be playing in the Ladies Event on August 31st for the opportunity to win a spot to the World Poker Tour Ladies Night tournament on September 1st and be the only non-invitee allowed to play with the toughest ladies on the planet (visit http://www.worldpokertour.com for more details). Celebrities who participated in Celebrity Shootouts I and II, included James Woods, Kirk Acevedo ("Band of Brothers"), Joshua Malina, Kane Hodder, Nicholas Gonzalez ("Anacondas 2"), Jon Landau (Titanic), Vince Van Patten ("World Poker Tour"), Michael Woods ("Rudy: The Rudy Guiliani Story"), Michael Ian Black ("Stella"), Jon Favreau ("Swingers"), Jonathan Baker ("The Amazing Race"), Seth Meyers ("Saturday Night Live"), Anthony Denison ("The Closer"), Kelli Williams ("The Practice"), Ken Howard ("Crossing Jordan"), Jimmy Van Patten, Scott Baio ("Charles in Charge"), James Woods ("Pretty Persuasion"), Erik Palladino ("Over There"), Alan Rosenberg ("Robots"), Morris Chestnut ("Boyz n the Hood"), Tom McGowan ("As Good as it Gets"), Bob Goen ("Entertainment Tonight"), Noah Emmerich ("The Truman Show"), Yancey Arias ("One Life to Live"), Pamela Gidley, Brad Sherwood ("Whose Line is it Anyway"), Joe Cortese ("American History X"), Ronny Cox ("Total Recall"), Mimi Rogers ("Austin Powers"), Michael Kane ("All The Right Moves"), and Timothy Busfield ("Field of Dreams"). About Hollywood Poker (http://www.hollywoodpoker.com) Hollywood Poker is where the "Stars come to Play!" Our mission is to provide players with world-class, secure online poker entertainment with access to exclusive celebrity games. Hollywood Poker delivers the most technologically advanced online poker games, regular tournaments with huge prize pools, the industry's most professional and responsive player support team and vibrant and exciting game rooms and community message boards. At Hollywood Poker every player gets the star treatment. You don't get your own trailer and bowls of M&Ms with "all-the-brown-ones-picked-out," but you can depend on Hollywood Poker to be the most secure, the most responsive, the easiest to use and the most exciting entertainment experience! Visit us today at Hollywood Poker (http://www.hollywoodpoker.com). Media resources courtesy of B/W/R Public Relations.

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2K Sports Deals Out Real World Class Pros and Real Venues in World Poker Tour(R) Video Game

2005-08-18T20:12:00.000-07:00

2K Sports, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc., today announced details regarding the professional poker player lineup and world class poker venues found in the World Poker Tour (WPT) video game, based on the highly-popular television series of the same name. This combination of world-class venues coupled with real pros, brings players authenticity and realism that can only be found in World Poker Tour. World Poker Tour will include the following professionals: Erick Lindgren - Named the first World Poker Tour Player of the Year in 2004, Erick is a two-time WPT winner, and currently the seventh all-time WPT money leader. Erick uses his expert sense of people's behavior to enhance his true game skill and natural risk-taking nature. Erick is the author of the soon-to-be released new World Poker Tour book, WPT: Making the Final Table. An avid sports enthusiast, Lindgren is always in the game. Evelyn Ng - Evelyn is a WPT Ladies' Night runner-up, in addition to an NBC sports commentator. Coming up through the ranks from a poker dealer to a professional touring pro, Evelyn continues to perfect her tournament strategy and play. She is an active and visible participant in the WPT main and ladies events. Michael "the Grinder" Mizrachi - Over the past few years, this 24-year-old Florida man dabbled in dealing cards, but quickly realized he could make more money playing cards than dealing them. "The Grinder" then took to grinding, putting together a sizable bankroll and playing poker for a living. Michael "the Grinder" Mizrachi is the next powerful young poker professional to make his presence felt on the WPT, making consecutive final tables at the WPT's season 3 stops in Tunica, and then taking the top prize at LA's Commerce Casino. Lyle Berman - Lyle is the CEO of Lakes Entertainment, Inc., a Minnesota-based publicly traded company whose primary business is managing tribal casinos. He serves as the chairman of the board for World Poker Tour Enterprises, Inc., which is a majority owned subsidiary of Lakes Entertainment, Inc. Berman is also one of the world's top poker players. He was inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame at Binion's Horseshoe in Las Vegas. In April 1996, Berman received the Gaming Executive of the Year Award. Antonio "The Magician" Esfandiari - With three WPT Final Table appearances, including a win at the LA Poker Classic No Limit Hold'em Championship in 2004, this professional magician shows he knows "card magic." Antonio is a natural showman and his magic tricks are world class. He is also the author of the upcoming book WPT: In The Money. Phil "The Unabomber" Laak - Players and fans alike are drawn to the Unabomber's persona, but none take it to the next level like Phil Laak. A "genius" player, in his own words, his "philosophical" style and theatrical table manners make him a player everyone wants to see. Phil's tournament record includes a World Poker Tour first place win, and top ten places in a variety of professional tournaments. Phil is considered one of the World Poker Tour's "Bad Boys of Poker." Mimi Rogers - Mimi Rogers is a native of Coral Gables, Florida, and proud mother of two, as well as an actress of great renown on both the big and small screen. Mimi Rogers is not only a proven Hollywood talent, but a passionate poker player. Sweet and sexy on the outside, Mimi's pleasant demeanor belies her underlying intelligence and competitiveness. Mike Sexton - Mike Sexton is one of the commentators for the World Poker Tour. A former European poker champion, Mike is one of the premier ambassadors of poker. Mike conceived and created the "Tournament of Champions of Poker," setting a new standard for poker tournaments. And, of course, he still actively plays poker. Vince Van Patten - Vince, a former child actor and tennis pro, discovered his passion for poker at the early age of 13 when his father, actor Dick Van Patten, taught him to play. By age 17, Vince was playing in home games, holding his own against the power brokers of Hollywood. Vince brings solid experience to hosting televised sports and poker broadcasts, as well as a Hollywood home-game perspective to WPT. World Poker Tour features six Tour-exclusive casinos. These include The Bicycle Casino in Bell Gardens, CA; Commerce Casino in Commerce, CA; Bay 101 in San Jose, CA; Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantaucket, CT; Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, NJ; and The Aviation Club de France, in Paris, France. These real-world locations are completely accurate, right down to the carpeting, lighting, room decor, and floor layout.

World Poker Tour invites gamers and poker-junkies alike to try their luck and skills against some of the poker series' most famous professional players. Commentary provided by World Poker Tour pros Mike Sexton and Vince Van Patten, real World Poker Tour venues and broadcast overlays bring players the only true poker experience. The World Poker Tour video game will hit store shelves in fall 2005 for popular handheld and console systems. For more information, please visit http://www.2Ksports.com About Take-Two Interactive Software Headquartered in New York City, Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO) is an integrated global developer, marketer, distributor and publisher of interactive entertainment software games and accessories for the PC, PlayStation(R) game console, PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system, the Xbox(R) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the Xbox 360(TM) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube(TM), Nintendo DS(TM) and Game Boy(R) Advance. The Company publishes and develops products through its wholly owned labels Rockstar Games, 2K Games, 2K Sports and Global Star Software; and distributes products in North America through its Jack of All Games subsidiary. Take-Two also manufactures and markets video game accessories in Europe, North America and the Asia Pacific region through its Joytech subsidiary. The Company maintains sales and marketing offices in Cincinnati, New York, Toronto, London, Paris, Munich, Madrid, Vienna, Milan, Sydney, Breda (Netherlands) and Auckland. Take-Two's common stock is publicly traded on NASDAQ under the symbol TTWO. For more corporate and product information please visit our website at http://www.take2games.com. All trademarks and copyrights contained herein are the property of their respective holders. Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox Live are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. About WPTE WPT Enterprises, Inc. is a company engaged in the creation of internationally branded entertainment and consumer products driven by the development, production, and marketing of televised programming based on gaming themes. WPTE is the creator of the WORLD POKER TOUR(R), a television show based on a series of high-stakes poker tournaments that airs on the Travel Channel in the United States and more than 100 countries and territories globally. WPT Enterprises currently licenses its brand to companies in the business of poker equipment and instruction, apparel, publishing, electronic and wireless entertainment, DVD/home entertainment, casino games, and giftware. For show information, tools for improving poker play, and other WPT news, fans may log on to http://www.worldpokertour.com. The company is also engaged in the sale of corporate sponsorships. WPT Enterprises, Inc. is a majority owned subsidiary of Lakes Entertainment, Inc. Photos and media information can be found online at: http://www.worldpokertour.com/media. Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Reform Act of 1995: This press release contains forward-looking statements made in reliance upon the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The statements contained herein which are not historical facts are considered forward-looking statements under federal securities laws. Such forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs of our management as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to them. The Company has no obligation to update such forward-looking statements. Actual results may vary significantly from these forward-looking statements based on a variety of factors. These important factors are described in the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 30, 2005 in the section entitled "Cautionary Statement and Risk Factors". Media resources courtesy of 2K Sports.

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THE QUEST HAS BEGUN: Tournament repped by Doc Hollywood/Artist International (DHYK)

2005-08-05T10:40:00.000-07:00

The Palms Hotel and Casino and POKER: Quest of Champions PRESENTS: THE LABOR DAY PRO-SHOOTOUT at The Palms

The Palms Hotel and Casino and POKER: Quest of Champions have announced the beginning of THE QUEST...the PRO-SHOOTOUT at The Palms.

Ten world class players will come together to compete for one entry into the tournament that boasts THE RICHEST FIRST PRIZE IN THE GAME....The $15 million POKER: Quest of Champions. A sponsored seat into the main event is up for grabs, with the MAIN EVENT slated to begin New Year's week at The Palms Hotel and Casino.

Angelo Halkias Pokerquest COO said "The field of entrants for this event is comprised of Titans from the combined worlds of Poker, Hollywood, and Business."

It all takes place Labor Day weekend, Sunday Sept. 4, 2005 at the Palms Casino in Las Vegas. The Tournament begins at 1 pm.

Join us at The Palms to witness some of the world's best players do battle for a shot at Immortality...

This tournament has already caught the attention of Hollywood stars such as James Woods, Michael Vartan, and Mimi Rogers and World Renowned Poker Champions such as Daniel Negreanu, Johnny Chan, Reza Payvar, Amir Vahedi, Phil Hellmuth, and T.J. Cloutier all of which have contracted to play as the remaining open seats are quickly being filled by celebrity players from around the world.

Unlike many of the current tournaments, the Quest will feature only 100 players, at ten shoot-out tables. The winner from each table advances to the final table. The ultimate winner will take home $15 million dollars, the highest first-place professional poker pay out in the history of the sport, after beating the 18 other players. "We designed this format to showcase the drama inherent within professional sports," said Jason Augustine, CEO of PokerQuest Entertainment.

Last week, Las Vegas-based PokerQuest Entertainment signed with Los Angeles based Artist International Management's manager Joel Newton to represent The Quest and shop the tournament for a network television deal.

Doc Hollywood Studios, Inc., founded by CEO Steven Saxton is an entertainment holdings company and upon completion of the recently announced acquisition, will become majority stockholder to Doc
Hollywood Kidz / Doc Hollywood Records (Pink Sheets: DHYK), Doc Hollywood Productions, DH1 Reality TV, Bop City Records, and Artist International Management. The company is in the business of producing innovative theatrical motion pictures, television programming, and recorded music dedicated for both traditional and new media formats.

This entertainment programming is unique, commercial, highly creative, and designed to appeal to specific demographic groups. This occurs while taking advantage of the inherent synergies of a full service studio with integrated talent, financing, and distribution of motion picture, television, and music projects.

This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Investors are cautioned that all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Although Doc Hollywood Kidz believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements contained herein are reasonable, any assumption could be inaccurate, and therefore, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements included in this press release will prove to be accurate.

In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements included herein, the inclusion should not be regarded as a representation by Doc Hollywood Kidz or any other person that the objective and plans of Doc Hollywood Kidz will be achieved.

Media resources courtesy of Doc Hollywood Studios, Inc.

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PokerQuest Entertainment Signs with Doc Hollywood's Artist International Management (DHYK) for ''The Quest'' Poker Tournament, Poker Quest of Champion

2005-07-27T12:11:00.000-07:00

Doc Hollywood Kidz (Pink Sheets:DHYK):

-- $15 Million Grand Prize will be Largest in Tournament History with Hollywood Celebrities and Poker Royalty Already Onboard

-- Lineup Includes 5 World Champions, 8 World Series Of Poker Bracelet winners, 3 World Poker Tour Champions and some of the largest Cash Game players in the world

Las Vegas-based PokerQuest Entertainment has signed with Los Angeles based Artist International Management's manager Joel Newton to represent The Quest, a poker tournament featuring a whopping $15 million first prize. Doc Hollywood/Artist International's CEO Steven Saxton and Joel Newton are currently in talks to finalize a network television deal. To be held at THE PALMS Hotel "The Quest" is currently slated to be held in January 2006, with some of the biggest names in Hollywood and the poker world already onboard.

The tournament has caught the attention of Hollywood. James Woods, Michael Vartan, and Mimi Rogers who have already contracted to play as the remaining open seats are quickly filled by celebrity players from around the world.

Doubling the record $7.5 million prize from the most recent World Series of Poker, the $15 million dollar prize for the champion of The Quest is the highest first-place professional poker pay out in the
history of the sport. The tournament buy-in of $250,000 is ten times higher than the sports previous record.

"We wanted to create a tournament that would catch the attention of the world and highlight the amazing talent of these great players," said Jason Augustine, CEO of PokerQuest Entertainment. The "great players" already contracted to play in the Quest include Chris Moneymaker, Sam Farha, Scotty Nguyen, Eli Elezra, Johnny Chan, Phil Helmuth, Amir Vahedi, John Juanda, Phil Laak, Phil Ivey, David Levi, Erik Seidel, Chip Reese, Annie Duke, Doyle Brunson, Jennifer Harman, T.J. Cloutier, Mel Judah, Howard Lederer, and Daniel Negreanu.

Overall, the tournament includes 5 World Champions, 8 World Series Of Poker Bracelet winners, 3 World Poker Tour Champions and some of the largest Cash Game players in the world.

Augustine explained the enthusiasm for the tournament's extremely high price tag. "I expect a good mix of celebrities and the extremely wealthy poker enthusiasts based on the calls we've already gotten. Even at $250,000 people are lining up to be a part of The Quest."

"I see the final table of the Quest as the most exciting to ever take place in the history of poker, and we are extremely excited to work with PokerQuest Entertainment to bring this amazing event to
television" said Joel Newton at the announcement.

Unlike many of the current tournaments, the Quest will feature only 100 players, at ten shoot-out tables. The winner from each table advances to the final table. The ultimate winner will take home $15 million dollars after beating the 18 other players. "We designed this format to showcase the drama inherent within professional sports" said Augustine.

"The stakes are incredible, the sport has never seen anything like this", Augustine added.

The tournament will be held at The Palms, one of Las Vegas's top casino resort hotels. PokerQuest Entertainment is also in talks with the WWE's Stacy Keibler to join the tournament's television broadcast as an on-air host.

Doc Hollywood Studios, Inc. is an entertainment holdings company and upon completion of the recently announced acquisition, will become majority stockholder to Doc Hollywood Kidz / Doc Hollywood Records (Pink Sheets:DHYK), Doc Hollywood Productions, DH1 Reality TV, Bop City Records, Artist International Management, and has a strategic alliance with Arclight Films. The company is in the business of producing innovative theatrical motion pictures, television programming, and recorded music dedicated for both traditional and new media formats. This entertainment programming is unique, commercial, highly creative, and designed to appeal to specific demographic groups. This occurs while taking advantage of the inherent synergies of a full service studio with integrated talent, financing, and distribution of motion picture, television, and music projects.

This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Investors are cautioned that all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Although Doc Hollywood Kidz believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements contained herein are reasonable, any assumption could be inaccurate, and therefore, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements included in this press release will prove to be accurate. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements included herein, the inclusion should not be regarded as a representation by Doc Hollywood Kidz or any other person that the objective and plans of Doc Hollywood Kidz will be achieved.

Media resources courtesy of Doc Hollywood Kidz.

Poker Stars Soon to Be on Big Screen as Well as Small

2005-07-22T07:05:00.000-07:00

Lucky You'' to Showcase Game's Top Players in Featured Roles Hot on the heels of the largest and richest World Series of Poker in history, poker fans will soon see their favorite poker stars on the big screen as well, in what will be the first film set in the exploding world of professional poker. In Spring 2006, poker fans will be able to see more than two dozen of their favorite poker icons sharing the screen with these Hollywood stars -- Eric Bana ("Troy"), Drew Barrymore ("Charlie's Angels") and Robert Duvall ("The Godfather"). Playing themselves or fictional counterparts in "Lucky You" -- the first Hollywood film to capture the excitement and drama of the worldwide poker phenomenon -- are Jack Binion, Doyle Brunson, Johnny Chan, Hoyt Corkins, Eli Elezra, Antonio Esfandiari, Sam Farha, Maureen Feduniak, Chris Ferguson, Ted Forrest, Phil Hellmuth, Chau Giang, Barry Greenstein, Jennifer Harman, Dan Harrington, John Hennigan, Karina Jett, John Juanda, Jason Lester, Erick Lindgren, Minh Ly, Mike Matusow, Daniel Negreanu, David Oppenheim, Max Pescatori, Matt Savage, Erik Seidel, Huck Seed, Mimi Tran, Cyndy Violette, Marsha Waggoner and Robert Williamson III. Brunson, Lester and Savage also served as consultants on the film. Directed by Academy Award winner Curtis Hanson ("L.A. Confidential," "Wonder Boys," "8 Mile") and based on an original screenplay by Academy Award winner Eric Roth ("Forrest Gump," "The Insider"), "Lucky You" explores the story of a professional poker player (Bana) who gets a lesson in life from a struggling singer (Barrymore) as he collides with his estranged father (Duvall) in the world of high stakes poker in Las Vegas. "With millions of people watching poker weekly on television, it was important to capture the authenticity of the game and its players," said Hanson. "To that end, the poker tables in 'Lucky You' are primarily populated by poker players, not actors pretending to be poker players. Our stars trained for months in order to convincingly play side by side with top poker professionals cast in fictional roles." The filmmakers shot for seven weeks in Las Vegas this past spring. The casinos featured in the film include the Bellagio, Binions and the Aladdin. Upon their return to Los Angeles, shooting continued on Hollywood sound stages that housed perfect replicas of Benny's Bullpen at Binion's (where the WSOP was played until 2004) and the Bellagio poker room (circa 2003). After arriving at the Bellagio set, Daniel Negreanu exclaimed: "It blew me away. It was very strange and surreal. It's like this is the exact Bellagio poker room." The scenes depicted at the Bellagio poker room included Bana and Duvall participating in the "Big Game" with such players as Sam Farha, Barry Greenstein, Chau Giang, Minh Ly, Ted Forrest and Erick Lindgren. "One of the things that made it totally realistic," notes Negreanu, "is the fact that it's a lot of the real pros that actually play in that game." Among the many other poker scenes in the film are some extended sequences that take place at a fictional World Series of Poker (circa 2003) and feature a myriad of recognizable pros. Jason Lester, who finished fourth in the final event at the World Series of Poker in 2003, served as an on-set consultant for the film's depiction of the WSOP. According to Lester: "This movie is getting it right. I can't recall any movie ever really showing high stakes gambling in such an authentic manner. Having real poker players makes it more realistic and that's so important for any kind of gambling movie." Similarly, Erick Lindgren described the Benny's Bullpen set as "Unbelievable! I just feel like this movie is going be great because I see how authentic everything is." "Lucky You" is a Deuce Three/DiNovi Pictures Production. The producers are Denise DiNovi, Carol Fenelon and Curtis Hanson. The executive producers are Bruce Berman and John Kirby. The film will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, and in select territories by Village Roadshow Pictures. Media resources courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures.

Phil Gordon Unleashes Monster Hand with Launch of Innovative Poker Instructional DVD

2005-07-14T09:15:00.000-07:00

Phil Gordon, a professional poker player who has won in excess of $1.3 million in tournament play and is one of only four multi-time winners on the World Poker Tour, announced this week the release of his instructional DVD, "Final Table Poker with Phil Gordon." Released by EXPERT INSIGHT, and available exclusively online (http://expertinsight.com/), the DVD is designed as the first in a series of titles where leading experts -- from chess to NASCAR -- share their thoughts on winning strategies in sports. "My impression of the titles currently available on the subject of poker is that they are dry, visually uninteresting and often even torturous to watch by even the most diehard of fans," said Gordon in making the announcement. "My goal with this project was to take an entirely different approach to instructional videos by bringing an inventive, entertaining and theatrical-quality approach to teaching the winning ways of Texas Hold'em. In the process, I've realized that the Expert Insight approach can transfer perfectly to almost any category. We see this as the first of many titles to come." Imagine yourself at the final table of a high stakes game of Texas Hold'em. Seated around you are some of the best players in the world. "Final Table Poker with Phil Gordon" allows the viewer to go inside the mind of a top professional as you play along with Phil Gordon, feel the pressure and excitement of tournament play, and see and hear how winning decisions are made. From preflop play, flop, turn, river, bluffs, pot odds and tells, all aspects of winning strategy are covered in the groundbreaking instructional DVD. Added Executive Producer Rafe Furst: "Working on the production of the 'Final Table Poker with Phil Gordon,' I had the opportunity to reinforce Phil's concepts through repeatedly watching the material from production to completion. As a result, it immediately elevated my game. I finished in the money three times at this year's World Series of Poker -- a first for me -- and I recently won a nationally televised 'Ultimate Poker Challenge' tournament. I can think of no better endorsement." Gordon is also expert analyst and co-host of TV's "Celebrity Poker Showdown." His definitive strategy guide to No Limit Hold'em, The Little Green Book of No-Limit Hold'em (Simon Spotlight Entertainment) is scheduled for release Oct. 4, 2005. Media and press resources courtesy of Vonjessen Duclos Inc.

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Poker Pro Magazine and Lou Krieger Team up as Poker Pro Hits the Street!; Esteemed Poker Columnist and Author to Offer Keen Insight to Poker Pro Reade

2005-06-30T10:56:00.000-07:00

Poker Pro Magazine announced today that best-selling author and renowned poker columnist, Lou Krieger, has joined its publication as a contributing writer. Lou Krieger is well known for penning more than 400 columns on poker strategy and seven books including Poker for Dummies and The Poker Player's Bible. Krieger is also the host of Royal Vegas Poker, http://www.royalvegaspoker.com, and the College Poker Championship. Poker Pro's premier issue will be available on July 1, with a total initial distribution of 52,000 copies! There will be more than 40,000 newsstand copies distributed in major outlets throughout the United States and Canada, including traditional newsstands, Barnes and Noble, Borders, Hastings, Tower, Walmart, and major airports. In addition, another 8,000 copies will be distributed to major casino card rooms, and more than 4,000 complementary copies are on-hand for visitors at our booth, number 833, during the World Series of Poker expo, July 6th-9th. The strong demand for poker coverage, even before the premier issue went to print, resulted in the need to increase page count by 20 pages in the bimonthly publication. The 100-page glossy magazine offers up close interviews with poker's best and brightest players, hotel and casino reviews, online casino reviews, international tournament coverage and has been approved by the "Grandfather of Poker" Doyle Brunson. Poker Pro offers exciting and informative cover-to-cover reading for beginner to intermediate players and professionals. In conjunction with the publication, Poker Pro launches their new rich media content Web site, http://www.thepokerpromagazine.com, on July 1, 2005. The Web site gives poker enthusiasts access to the "Official Poker Pro Poker Blog" and online contests including: Poker Vacation Contest and "Be in the Magazine" contest. Poker Pro's top-quality publication, exclusive interviews and articles that are written by some of the best poker minds in the world, including Lou Krieger, keeps its readers ahead of the game, prepared, and better informed for their next showdown. "We are delighted to have Lou Krieger on board as a regular contributor to Poker Pro," said Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Will Jordan. "Lou's expertise and name recognition as a leading columnist in the industry further establishes Poker Pro as a credible source of cutting edge reporting in the world of poker." Resources courtesy of Poker Pro Magazine.

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WORLD POKER TOUR Offers Autographed Final Table Cards, Chips & Felt from WPT World Championship on eBay

2005-06-24T06:33:00.000-07:00

Each Item is Authenticated & Registered by Professional Sports Authenticator Proceeds from Winning Bids will go to Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation

Remember the frenzy for Mark Maguire's record home run baseball? The next frontier in must-have sports collectibles is about to begin: The WORLD POKER TOUR(TM) (WPT) will offer player autographed cards and chips from the Season Three WPT World Championship on eBay beginning the day after the show's first airing on The Travel Channel, Wednesday, June 29. The auction will be posted from June 30 to July 7. The autographed cards and chips from the Final Table will be offered in an attractive frame, along with photographs of the players, all authenticated and registered by Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA). All proceeds of the auction will go to the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation. Offered at auction on eBay will be: -- Framed Set - Season III WPT World Championship Final Hand Cards. This is a classic!...A complete set of cards featuring all five community cards and the two sets of hole cards of the top two finishers. Both players from the Final Table have signed the community cards and each of them have individually autographed their specific hole cards. All cards are framed together along with photos of the two top finishing players.

More than 452 players turned out for the nearly $11 million WPT World Championship at the Bellagio, which awarded a record WPT first prize of $2.8 million. -- Framed Set - Season III WPT World Championship Final Table Players Autographed WPT Chips - This features one chip signed by each of the Final Table players along with a photograph of the Final Table competitors. -- Framed and Autographed 32" by 79" Table Felt from the Season III WPT World Championship. Features signatures of the two Final Table heads-up competitors. Additionally, the WPT will place up for auction a selection of other sought-after collectibles signed by the top personalities connected with the Tour. -- Ace card signed by Daniel Negreanu (four available) - WORLD POKER TOUR Season Three Player-of-the-Year, a winner of two major WPT events--the Borgata Poker Open and Bellagio's Five Diamond World Poker Classic, netting Negreanu more than $2.9 million in the two events. -- King card signed by Mike Sexton (two available) - the WPT's commentator, often considered the "Vin Scully of Poker" and "Poker's Leading Ambassador." He is the author of "WPT: Shuffle Up & Deal" a book on the New York Times best-seller list that gives fans an inside look at the WPT and tips for improving their game. A world class player in his own right, Sexton is recognized worldwide as the authoritative voice of the WPT. -- King card signed by Vince Van Patton (two available) - WPT commentator, who is called the "King of the Hollywood Home Game." As an actor and member of a famous Hollywood family headed by Dick Van Patten, Vince learned his poker playing with the entertainment industry's elite poker enthusiasts. He teams with Sexton and is known for his witty style of commentary. -- Queen card signed by the beautiful Shana Hiatt (four available)-- host of the WPT who has introduced viewers to so many exotic tournament locales, including Aruba, Paris, Bahamas and Las Vegas. You've seen her on the pages of FHM, Stuff, Playboy and Player Magazine. -- Joker card signed by Antonio Esfandiari (two available)--known as the "The Magician," for his career before poker and his facility at card and chip tricks, the 25-year-old Esfandiari won $1.4 million at the WPT's Season Two LA Poker Classic. There is no sleight of hand in this debonair young man's rising profile on the WPT Tour. "The WORLD POKER TOUR is pleased to share these special mementos of our record setting Season Three WPT World Championship with some of our enthusiastic fans--and in so doing make a special donation to the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation," noted Steve Lipscomb, Founder and CEO of WPT Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ:WPTE). "We look forward to continuing to make available selected pieces of WPT memorabilia as we grow and our players take on star status." The WPT first aired on the Travel Channel in the U.S. on March 30, 2003, and it continues to lead the way in developing poker as a major international sport. The highest rated show ever on The Travel Channel, the WPT is now seen in 67 countries and territories worldwide. WORLD POKER TOUR(R) airs every Wednesday at 9 p.m. ET/PT on the Travel Channel in the U.S. About WPT Enterprises, Inc. WPT Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ:WPTE) is a company engaged in the creation of internationally branded entertainment and consumer products driven by the development, production, and marketing of televised programming based on gaming themes. WPTE is the creator of the World Poker Tour(R), a television show based on a series of high-stakes poker tournaments that airs on the Travel Channel in the United States and more than 67 markets globally. WPT Enterprises currently licenses its brand to companies in the business of poker equipment and instruction, apparel, publishing, electronic and wireless entertainment, DVD/home entertainment, casino games, and giftware. For show information, tools for improving poker play, and other WPT news, fans may log on to http://www.worldpokertour.com. The company is also engaged in the sale of corporate sponsorships. WPT Enterprises, Inc. is a majority owned subsidiary of Lakes Entertainment, Inc. (NASDAQ:LACO). Photos and media information can be found online at: http://www.worldpokertour.com. About The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation is the worldwide leader in the fight against pediatric AIDS and other serious and life-threatening diseases affecting children. The Foundation's innovative research programs, collaborative training initiatives, advocacy efforts, and rapidly expanding international programs are bringing dramatic changes to the lives of children worldwide. To learn more about the Foundation and its programs, visit the Web site at http://www.pedaids.org. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a "safe harbor" for forward-looking statements. Certain information included in this press release (as well as information included in oral statements or other written statements made or to be made by WPT Enterprises, Inc.) contains statements that are forward-looking, such as statements relating to the expansion of WPT's brand licensing, the development of new television and film projects, the development of WPT corporate sponsors and other business development activities, as well as statements regarding other capital spending, financing sources and the effects of competition. Such forward-looking information involves important risks and uncertainties that could significantly affect anticipated results in the future and, accordingly, such results may differ from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of WPT. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, WPT's significant dependence on the Travel Channel as a source of revenue; the potential that our television programming will fail to maintain a sufficient audience; the risk that competitors with greater financial resources or marketplace presence might develop television programming that would directly compete with WPT's television programming; the risk that WPT may not be able to protect its entertainment concepts, current and future brands and other intellectual property rights; risks associated with future expansion into new or complementary businesses; the termination or impairment of WPT's relationships with key licensing and strategic partners; and WPT's dependence on its senior management team.

Media and press resources courtest of WPT Enterprises, Inc.

The New York Times to Start a Weekly Column on Poker by Writer James McManus; Debuts Saturday, June 25

2005-06-23T18:30:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, June 25, The New York Times will introduce a weekly column on poker written by James McManus, a novelist and writing teacher who is best known for parlaying a $4,000 seat into a $250,000 win at The World Series of Poker in 2000. "While poker has attracted an immense following on TV and the Internet, nobody is writing the kind of regular column Jim will give us, a literate combination of the drama, strategy, psychology and color of card play that should interest both serious players and the simply curious," said Bill Keller executive editor, The New York Times. The column, "Poker," will appear weekly in the Saturday Sports section of The Times and in the national edition of the paper. It will cover the world of poker including its lore, lingo, home games, games held online and major tournaments and it will be written for interested newcomers and aficionados. The column joins The Times's other top-quality game columns on bridge, chess, video games and daily crosswords. The Poker column will be available online at http://www.nytimes.com/sports. "Poker is now the country's most popular card game," said Mr. McManus. "The column will help players finesse their skills by giving them a sense of the game's lore and history, which is very much a part of successful playing. It will help readers become better players." Mr. McManus is the author of "Positively Fifth Street," (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2003). He is also a writing teacher at The School of The Art Institute of Chicago. A lifelong poker player, in the spring of 2000, while on assignment for Harper's magazine to cover the competition, he entered the World Series of Poker in Las Vegas. He started with $4,000 and parlayed that sum into a $10,000 seat in the event. He finished fifth out of 512 players. He won $250,000 in that tournament. His win became legendary in the poker world and was chronicled in his article for Harper's. About The New York Times Company The New York Times Company (NYSE: NYT), a leading media company with 2004 revenues of $3.3 billion, includes The New York Times, the International Herald Tribune, The Boston Globe, 16 other newspapers, eight network-affiliated television stations, two New York City radio stations and more than 40 Web sites, including NYTimes.com, Boston.com and About.com. For the fifth consecutive year, the Company was ranked No. 1 in the publishing industry in Fortune's 2005 list of America's Most Admired Companies. The Company's core purpose is to enhance society by creating, collecting and distributing high-quality news, information and entertainment.

Press and media resources courtesy of The New York Times.

Poker Expert Phil Gordon to Kick in with Daily Podcast from 2005 World Series of Poker

2005-06-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

Beginning this week (6/6/05), poker fans will be able to connect to the high-stakes excitement of the 2005 World Series ofPoker in Las Vegas by subscribing, free of charge, to top pro and commentator Phil Gordon's daily podcast from this legendary event. Both iPod owners and other interested digital downloaders can subscribe to Phil's reports by logging onto http://www.expertinsight.com. A professional poker player who has won well in excess of $1.3 million in tournament play, expert analyst, and co-host of TV's "Celebrity Poker Showdown," Gordon will provide fans with a table-eye view of the hottest action on the floor. He will break down the thought process, strategy, and twists and turns as they unfold, in the quest to lay down a winning hand in poker's premiere event -- and stay alive in the quest to walk away with an estimated $10 million in cash and the title of World Series of Poker Champion. Gordon's journal-style Web posting will be transmitted daily throughout the tournament as he takes listeners on a journey all the way to the Final Table on July 15th. Mixed into Phil's early commentary are his interviews with world-class poker pros and celebrities such as Daniel Negreanu, Layne Flack, Erick Lindgren, Annie Duke, and James Woods. Gordon believes that podcasting, which combines the freedom of expression of blogging with XML-based audio downloading technology, is the perfect venue for providing poker fans with a sense of context, excitement and insight on breaking news from the tournament. Gordon has also taken a progressive approach to instructional videos with the release of his DVD, "Final Table Poker With Phil Gordon" (more information available at http://www.expertinsight.com). Rather than a traditional tutorial, Gordon places viewers at the final table of a high-stakes tournament and inside the mind of a professional as he breaks down how winning decisions are made in tournament play. Gordon's definitive strategy guide to No Limit Hold'em, The Little Green Book of No-Limit Hold'em (Simon Spotlight Entertainment), is also scheduled for release October 4, 2005. Media and press resources courtesy of Vonjessen Duclos Inc.

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World Poker Tour Kicks off Sizzling Season IV At the Mirage Poker Showdown

2005-05-26T12:30:00.000-07:00

WPT Expected to Continue Creating Poker Millionaires in Season IV Keeping the momentum in high gear, the WORLD POKER TOUR(TM) (WPT) launched its sensational Season IV at The Mirage with another record-setting tournament. More than 317 players turned out for the $3,074,900 event, which will boast a first prize of $1,128,278. Drawing an international field of leading poker luminaries along with talented newcomers, The Mirage Poker Showdown, follows on the heels of the WPT World Championship in April at Bellagio. The event capped the WPT's blockbuster $70 million third season. The WPT has awarded more than $100 million cumulatively through its first three years. The prize purse and attendance numbers for The Mirage Poker Showdown continue the WPT's tradition of breaking records at each stop on its global tour of thrilling high stakes poker tournaments, filmed for airing on The Travel Channel. The Mirage event is the first of 16 on the 2005-06 calendar which visits exotic locales such as Paris, Aruba and the Bahamas. Given that "Anyone can play; Anyone can win" on the World Poker Tour, it is expected that Season IV's champions will be a mix of famous names and new faces. Among the popular players who have topped the win column are the venerable Doyle Brunson, Daniel Negreanu, Erick Lindgren, Gus Hansen, Phil Laak, Michael Mizrachi, Antonio Esfandiari, David Ulliott, Barry Greenstein, Howard Lederer and Layne Flack. To date, the WPT has created 24 new poker millionaires, with many more likely to join the ranks during Season IV. "The launch of our fourth season is especially gratifying," said Steve Lipscomb, Founder and CEO of WPT Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: WPTE). "We've clearly outlived the skeptics who said that the WPT was just a fad. The game continues to grow in popularity both at the professional and home game level, thanks to our success. As a professional sports league, we are maturing and expanding, providing great entertainment for our fans and a steadily increasing amount of prize money for our players. In Season IV, we look forward to a year of new horizons, robust growth and plenty of exciting surprises at the poker table." The WPT is the league that launched the poker phenomenon when it first aired on the Travel Channel on March 30, 2003, and it continues to lead the way in developing poker as a major international sport. The WPT is the only major sports league whose goal is to make everyone a better player while also setting the gold standard in entertainment. Viewers and aspiring tour players can log on to http://www.worldpokertour.com for ways to improve their game. The highest rated show ever on The Travel Channel, the WPT is now seen in 67 countries worldwide. WORLD POKER TOUR(R) airs every Wednesday at 9 p.m. ET/PT on the Travel Channel. All WPT tournaments (with the exception of the pro/celebrity WPT Invitational) are open to pros and amateurs alike who ante up each tournament's buy-in or play in satellite tournaments for a chance to win an entry. Players can sign up for satellites offered by the casinos and online poker rooms that host WPT tournaments. Anyone age 21 or older wishing to play in WPT tournaments should contact the participating casino to obtain information on the buy-in fee and registration deadlines. Satellite information can be found at http://www.worldpokertour.com. The Season IV Tour dates are as follows: World Poker Tour Season IV Tournament Schedule Hosting Casino / Tournament Name Location Date ------------------------- --------------------- ---------------------- The Mirage Poker Showdown The Mirage May 23-25, 2005 Final Table May 26, 2005 ------------------------- --------------------- ---------------------- Grand Prix de Paris Aviation Club de July 25 - 29, 2005 France, Paris, France Final Table July 29, 2005 ------------------------- --------------------- ---------------------- Legends of Poker The Bicycle Casino, August 27 - 31, 2005 Los Angeles, CA Final Table August 31, 2005 ------------------------- --------------------- ---------------------- Borgata Poker Open The Borgata, Atlantic September 19 - 22, City, NJ 2005 Final Table September 22, 2005 ------------------------- --------------------- ---------------------- UltimateBet's Aruba Poker UltimateBet.com, September 26 - October Classic Aruba 3, 2005 Final Table October 1, 2005 ------------------------- --------------------- ---------------------- Doyle Brunson North Bellagio October 18-21, 2005 American Poker Las Vegas, Nevada Final Table ChampionshipOctober 21, 2005 ------------------------- --------------------- ---------------------- World Poker Finals Foxwoods Resort November 13 - 16, 2005 Casino, Final Table November Mashantucket, CT 18, 2005 ------------------------- --------------------- ---------------------- Bellagio Five Diamond Bellagio December 13 - 16, 2005 World Poker Classic Las Vegas, NV Final Table December 16, 2005 ------------------------- --------------------- ---------------------- PokerStars.com Caribbean PokerStars.com, January 4- 11, 2006 Adventure Atlantis, Paradise Final Table January Island, Bahamas 10, 2006 ------------------------- --------------------- ---------------------- World Poker Open Gold Strike January 22 - 26, 2006 Casino/Horseshoe Final Table January Casino, Tunica, MS 26, 2006 ------------------------- --------------------- ---------------------- L.A. Poker Classic Commerce Casino February 17 - 21, 2006 Angeles, CA Final Table February 21, 2006 ------------------------- --------------------- ---------------------- WPT Invitational Commerce Casino, February 22 - 23, 2006 Commerce, CA Final Table February 23, 2006 ------------------------- --------------------- ---------------------- Bay 101 Shooting Star Bay 101, San Jose, CA February 27 - March 3, 2006 Final Table March 3, 2006 ------------------------- --------------------- ---------------------- PartyPoker Million PartyPoker.com, March 12 - 19, 2006 Mexico Cruise Final Table March 17, 2006 ------------------------- --------------------- ---------------------- World Poker Challenge Reno Hilton, Reno, NV March 27 - 31, 2006 Final Table March 31, 2006 ------------------------- --------------------- ---------------------- WPT World Championship Bellagio April 18 - 24, 2006 Las Vegas, NV Final Table April 24, 2006 ------------------------- --------------------- ---------------------- About WPT Enterprises, Inc. WPT Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ:WPTE) is a company engaged in the creation of internationally branded entertainment and consumer products driven by the development, production, and marketing of televised programming based on gaming themes. WPTE is the creator of the World Poker Tour(R), a television show based on a series of high-stakes poker tournaments that airs on the Travel Channel in the United States and more than 67 markets globally. WPT Enterprises currently licenses its brand to companies in the business of poker equipment and instruction, apparel, publishing, electronic and wireless entertainment, DVD/home entertainment, casino games, and giftware. For show information, tools for improving poker play, and other WPT news, fans may log on to http://www.worldpokertour.com. The company is also engaged in the sale of corporate sponsorships. WPT Enterprises, Inc. is a majority owned subsidiary of Lakes Entertainment, Inc. (NASDAQ:LACO). Photos and media information can be found online at: http://www.worldpokertour.com. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a "safe harbor" for forward-looking statements. Certain information included in this press release (as well as information included in oral statements or other written statements made or to be made by WPT Enterprises, Inc.) contains statements that are forward-looking, such as statements relating to the expansion of WPT's brand licensing, the development of new television and film projects, the development of WPT corporate sponsors and other business development activities, as well as statements regarding other capital spending, financing sources and the effects of competition. Such forward-looking information involves important risks and uncertainties that could significantly affect anticipated results in the future and, accordingly, such results may differ from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of WPT. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, WPT's significant dependence on the Travel Channel as a source of revenue; the potential that our television programming will fail to maintain a sufficient audience; the risk that competitors with greater financial resources or marketplace presence might develop television programming that would directly compete with WPT's television programming; the risk that WPT may not be able to protect its entertainment concepts, current and future brands and other intellectual property rights; risks associated with future expansion into new or complementary businesses; the termination or impairment of WPT's relationships with key licensing and strategic partners; and WPT's dependence on its senior management team. For more information, review WPT's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Media and press resources courtesy of WPT Enterprises, Inc.

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Take Your Place Among Poker's Greatest Players in Funkitron's New Computer Game

2005-05-20T17:00:00.000-07:00

POKER SUPERSTARS INVITATIONAL TOURNAMENT

Game Based on NBC and FOX Sports Net's Popular Poker Tournament Now's your chance to make poker history. Fans are invited to take on the world's top professional poker players in Funkitron's new computer game, POKER SUPERSTARS INVITATIONAL TOURNAMENT -based on the hit poker series seen on FOX Sports Net and NBC. The championship show, shown on NBC on Super Bowl Sunday, drew one of the largest poker audiences in history. In the POKER SUPERSTARS INVITATIONAL TOURNAMENT game, players challenge poker masters Doyle Brunson, Howard Lederer, Johnny Chan, Gus Hansen, T.J. Cloutier, Phil Ivey, Barry Greenstein and Chip Reese to a round, season or cash game of No-Limit Texas Hold 'Em. This exclusive gathering of poker professionals has collectively won more tournaments and money in cash games than any other comparable group of players, giving players the chance to be the best of the best. "This computer game is a great simulation of the Superstars Invitational," said Barry Greenstein. "The presentation and quality of the graphics make you feel like you're right in the middle of the action," added Doyle Brunson. "Poker is experiencing an explosion in popularity among all ages," said Dave Walls, president of Funkitron, Inc. "The POKER SUPERSTARS INVITATIONAL TOURNAMENT computer game invites fans of all levels into the thrilling fun of a poker tournament against some of the world's top poker professionals. Beginners can learn the fundamentals in a non-intimidating setting and benefit from the frequent tips, while experts will enjoy challenging computer opponents and the excitement of playing against the pros." Meet the Competition: The World's Top Poker Players In the game, players are pit against eight poker masters with an impressive background and poker resume: 1. Doyle Brunson - Author of the poker bible and winner of nine World Series bracelets, including back-to-back World Championships 2. Howard Lederer - A cool and calculating veteran who has been called the Professor of Poker 3. Johnny Chan - The back-to-back World Champion and Hall of Famer who was revered in the hit movie "Rounders" 4. Gus Hansen - A former backgammon champion who has made a name for himself in poker with his aggressive style 5. T.J. Cloutier - One of the all-time top money winners at the World Series of Poker, and winner of more than 50 major tournaments 6. Phil Ivey - The aggressive young gun who already has four World Series titles to his name 7. Barry Greenstein - The Robin Hood of Poker, he has donated millions of his tournament winnings to charity 8. Chip Reese - The youngest-ever inductee into the Poker Hall of Fame and considered by many pros to be the best all-around player About POKER SUPERSTARS INVITATIONAL TOURNAMENT Game POKER SUPERSTARS INVITATIONAL TOURNAMENT features game tips, advanced poker AI computer opponents, game speed-up options for quick play designed for practice, three game modes (Round - one TV show, Season - a tournament, or Cash Game - limit game). The unique player card system tracks a player's best winnings, best pots and winning hands. POKER SUPERSTARS INVITATIONAL TOURNAMENT is now available for a suggested retail price of $19.95 at http://www.funkitron.com, as well as major game sites and retailers. About Funkitron, Inc. Funkitron, Inc. is a game publishing company founded by game industry veteran Dave Walls in 2001. Funkitron is known for creating high-quality, fun games that appeal to a broad audience and can be distributed digitally via online networks. The company has had much success with hits such as "SCRABBLE(R) Deluxe", "Slingo(R) Deluxe", "Boggle(R) Supreme" and the just released "Poker Superstars Invitational Tournament(TM)". For more information about Funkitron, please visit http://www.funkitron.com Media and press resources courtesy of Funkitron, Inc.

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Eagle Games Announces DD Poker Schedule for 2005

2005-05-19T08:15:00.000-07:00

The WSOP(R), Celebrity Poker Showdown(R), DD Poker 2006 and Annie Duke Eagle Games and Donohoe Digital today announced the summerschedule for their best selling DD Tournament Poker franchise. To celebrate the poker season swinging in to full gear, EagleGames is offering a Hot Days, Hot Deals promotion. The best selling DDTournament Poker: No Limit Texas Hold'em 2005 Collector's Edition is now available at fine retailers everywhere for only $9.99 (no we arenot bluffing). DD Tournament Poker continues to be the highest ratedPC/Mac Texas Hold'em software available. July 6 - 10, Eagle Games will have a booth at the World Series of Poker where it will be giving fans a sneak-peek at the newest title inthe series. DD Poker 2006, which features a stronger, and more configurable AI (Artificial Intelligence), extensive statistical andanalytical tools, free online play, and an updated interface, is dueto hit stores on September 1. "We are very excited about DD Poker 2006. Doug and his team at Donohoe Digital have really taken DD Pokerto the next level with this release," said Glenn Drover, president andfounder of Eagle Games. "Last year DD Tournament Poker 2005 set thestandard for poker software, and this year DD Poker 2006 raises the bar." To celebrate the release of DD Poker 2006 and the ongoing endorsement relationship with Annie Duke, DD Poker will be aco-sponsor of a series of poker tournaments in the Chicago area. The tournaments will take place August 1st - 14th at Resorts East Chicagoin Gary, Indiana. (Information about these tournaments will soon beavailable at http://www.q101.com.) Annie Duke, who according to ESPNis the most recognizable poker personality in the world, will play in the tournaments on August 12th and 13th. "We are thrilled to continueour relationship with Annie. She is a great player and a tremendous ambassador for the game of poker," said Drover. The latest in a series of accolades for DD Tournament Poker 2005,it just received the PC Magazine Editor's Choice(TM) award (June 7thissue) and it was selected as a training tool for the celebrities appearing on Bravo's Celebrity Poker Showdown(R). Celebrity PokerShowdown's new season begins in August. DD Tournament Poker: No Limit Texas Hold'em and DD Poker 2006 ispublished by Eagle Games (http://www.eaglegames.net) and developed byDonohoe Digital (http://www.ddpoker.com). The WSOP, Celebrity PokerShowdown and Bravo are in no way affiliated with Eagle Games, Donohoe Digital, or DD Poker. Media and press resources courtesy of Eagle Games.

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Canadian Club--R-- Deals a Smooth National Poker Program Giving Consumers Chance to Win $2.5 Million

2005-05-19T06:30:00.000-07:00

Thousands of In-Market Promotions Support National Tournament with Chance to Play World Poker Champion Chris Moneymaker For the Big Jackpot Allied Domecq Spirits, North America, a marketing-led brands business, and Canadian Club(R) whisky are putting all their cards on the table, to the tune of $2.5 million. In May, Canadian Club will unveil its biggest marketing promotion to date -- a national poker program giving ten lucky winners the chance to compete alongside World Series of Poker Champion Chris Moneymaker in Las Vegas for the multi-million dollar purse. Appropriately coined, "Dealing up a Smoother Night," the program features thousands of on-and off-premise promotions developed to help Canadian Club's consumers stay smooth as they aim to duplicate Moneymaker's feat - as an amateur back in 2003, he parlayed a $40 bet into a $2.5 million cash prize.

From May through August, 2005, five regional poker tournaments featuring more than 350 on-premise poker-themed events will take place at sports bars in five key Canadian Club markets. The five winners will qualify to go to Las Vegas to compete in the final tournament hosted by Moneymaker. An additional four players will be chosen from regional sweepstakes, and a tenth player will be selected based on a national website contest (via http://www.CCSmooth.com) that will be heavily promoted through off-premise merchandising and in 10 additional markets where CC will conduct more than 400 on-premise poker nights.

The game isn't over after the tourney and sweepstakes end, as CC stays at the table and deals up more than 2,500 events in 17 markets throughout the summer. Canadian Club is also raising the ante with a special edition poker bottle, available in the retail trade between May and July, 2005.

CC's association with poker - which began at the grassroots level in 2001 - "capitalizes on the tremendous phenomenon that poker has now become, from the cities to suburbia," said Susan Kilgore, Canadian Club Marketing Director at Allied Domecq Spirits, North America. Kilgore added that the timing of Allied Domecq's major investment in the national program coincides with Canadian Club's return to sales growth. After years of flat or declining sales, the Canadian category is now increasing its share of the U.S. spirits industry, with Canadian Club leading the way, thanks to consumers' increasing interest in premium spirits. According to AC Nielsen, CC consumption increased by roughly 9 percent for the 4-week period ending April 30, 2005. Canadian Club is widely regarded as the benchmark for premium Canadian whiskies, and is known for its light, smooth and mellow taste. "CC is the perfect ingredient for a winning poker match, and we are thrilled to offer our 'band of brothers' a smooth taste and attitude when they're throwing down their chips," said Dan Tullio, the brand's Master Distiller. Canadian Club signature "Smooth" cocktails will be featured throughout all on-premise poker events, and Canadian Club-branded poker tables, chips, cards and consumer giveaways will be part of the CC tournaments. Canadian Club "Smooth" ambassadors, direct mail, email newsletters and off-premise point-of-sale materials also will promote the Canadian Club poker program. Participation in tournament events will be limited to adults of legal drinking age. In addition to hosting the final weekend of the Canadian Club poker tournament, Chris Moneymaker will make several guest appearances at on- and off-premise events, and will attend promotions with distributors in leading Canadian Club markets. Moneymaker was an amateur player who came out of nowhere to win the 2003 World Series of Poker, proving to newcomers and poker pros alike that anything is possible with a chip and a chair. "Chris Moneymaker is the ideal spokesperson for our poker program - he is a proven, smooth winner, just like Canadian Club," Tullio said. About Canadian Club(R) The only Canadian whisky blended before aging in used white oak barrels for a full six years, CC is widely regarded as the benchmark for premium whiskies, and is known for its light, smooth and mellow taste. The flagship brand is complemented by other high-end products within the CC line, including Classic 12 by Canadian Club (which features carefully selected, barrel-blended whiskies that are matured for twelve years to create a blend rich in mellow and natural smoothness), and CC Reserve (which is blended and then aged slowly for a full decade in small oak barrels, resulting in superior quality and exceptional character). For more information, visit http://www.canadianclubwhisky.com Canadian Club(R) Whisky, 40% alc./vol., Allied Domecq Spirits, USA, Westport, CT. Canadian Club is imported and marketed by Allied Domecq Spirits, North America, based in Westport, CT. Allied Domecq reminds consumers: "There's Strength in Moderation. Drink Responsibly." About Allied Domecq PLC - Brands People Want Allied Domecq PLC is one of the world's largest premium spirits, wines and food service operations. A global company with annual sales of more than GBP3,229 million/$5,844 million*, Allied Domecq serves consumers through its operations in more than 50 countries, supported by 12,000 highly skilled employees. Core spirits brands include Ballantine's, Beefeater, Canadian Club, Courvoisier, Kahlua, Malibu, Maker's Mark, Sauza, Stolichnaya and Tia Maria. Allied Domecq's wine portfolio features Campo Viejo, Champagne Mumm, Champagne Perrier Jouet, Clos du Bois and Montana. Allied Domecq owns or distributes 14 of the top 100 international premium spirit brands and its brand portfolio commands world No. 1 or No. 2 positions in six leading categories. Dunkin' Brands, Inc., the company's international quick service restaurants business, includes Dunkin' Donuts, Baskin-Robbins and Togo's which operate in more than 50 countries, with over 12,000 franchised outlets worldwide. Allied Domecq's performance is driven by its globally recognised portfolio, its geographically diverse market and customer presence, and the talents of its people. Allied Domecq is traded on both the London Stock Exchange (LSE:ALLD) and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE:AED). Further information on the company can be found at http://www.allieddomecq.com. Media and press resources courtesy of Allied Domecq Spirits.

Yahoo! and Sprint Team to Offer Multiplayer PC-to-Mobile Games

2005-05-16T15:00:00.000-07:00

Sprint to Be the First Carrier to Offer Yahoo! Poker, a PC-to-Mobile Multiplayer Game Yahoo! Inc., a leading global Internet company, and Sprint today announced an agreement to offer Yahoo! Games' multiplayer PC-to-mobile games to customers in the Game Lobby from Sprint. Sprint is the first carrier to offer Yahoo!'s new games to consumers, the first of which is Yahoo! Poker, a game that enables people on their Sprint PCS Vision(SM) Phones to play against thousands of people playing Yahoo! Poker on their PCs at any time, as well as mobile-to-mobile and PC-to-PC game play. Yahoo! Poker will be available on select Sprint handsets in mid-June.

"For more than two years, Sprint customers have enjoyed multiplayer games," said Jason Ford, general manager -- Games, Sprint. "The addition of Yahoo!'s PC-to-mobile games brings the game community experience to the next level by enabling our customers to play, chat and interact with gamers on PCs too. This is yet another example of how Sprint is leading the way in offering the most advanced mobile game applications to improve the user experience." Yahoo! Poker Antes Up New Services and Features Yahoo! Poker, one of the first multiplayer PC-to-mobile games in the U.S., exemplifies Yahoo!'s new style of games. Yahoo! Poker has an updated look and feel and integrates Yahoo! personalization and community features, such as Yahoo! Messenger and Yahoo! Avatars, to make game play more vivid and engaging.

Yahoo! Poker is a Texas Hold 'Em game that enables up to 10 people to play at once, connected with their mobile phones or through Yahoo! Games on their PC. The game offers multiple game play options, including a tournament style no-limit multiplayer game like the pros play, as well as a single-player career mode that takes a player through five different casinos. The game is fully integrated across devices so that players can bring their chip stack with them from the PC to their phone and back.

Taking advantage of Yahoo!'s community strengths, the game leverages Yahoo! Messenger for Mobile so players with the client downloaded on their phone can find their friends online and join them at a table to enjoy a round of Texas Hold 'Em. Additionally, Yahoo! Avatars are incorporated so players can bring their online persona into the Poker game to have a little fun taunting opponents.

"We are delighted to expand our relationship with Sprint and offer our exciting lineup of multiplayer PC-to-mobile games to the growing community of on-the-go gamers," said Geoff Graber, general manager of Yahoo! Games. "We are confident Yahoo! and Sprint users will be thrilled to be the first to try out Yahoo! Poker and see how fun and easy it is to enjoy other PC-to-mobile multiplayer games with their friends from their mobile device." The Game Lobby from Sprint Is Popular with More than 500,000 members The Game Lobby from Sprint, powered by M7 Networks, is a virtual mobile community for gamers to meet, recommend games and challenge each other. It is accessed from both the fixed Internet and the mobile web by more than 500,000 members and includes many features: -- Single gamer username across games and publishers -- Centralized listing of high score postings -- Ability for users to manage their identity and determine what information is stored in their profile, such as pictures -- Opportunity to rate and review games -- Ability for users to create a buddy list of other members for challenging and instant messaging -- Option to opt in to receive new game alerts -- Interoperability with other game communities for cross- carrier buddy communication, game ratings and leaderboards -- The new status points program where users earn points for their activities to enhance the fun, competitive nature of the virtual games community About Yahoo! Games Yahoo! Games (http://games.yahoo.com) is the leading destination for online games with one of the largest game communities on the Internet. Millions of new users and gamers of all types visit Yahoo! Games each month to play and to discover the best in games. Yahoo! Games' industry leading and extremely popular casual games area attracts users who enjoy downtime with popular games like card, arcade, word and board to play alone or with others, as well as playing and trying out the latest downloadable games. Yahoo! Games also gives hard core video gamers what they want, from the latest game news, cheats, tips, previews and other exclusive game information, to helping them easily connect with friends to play their favorite multiplayer games. Game fans who want Yahoo! Games wherever whenever have Yahoo! Mobile Games, available on most major carriers.

About Sprint Sprint offers an extensive range of innovative communication products and solutions, including global IP, wireless, local and multiproduct bundles. A Fortune 100 company with more than $27 billion in annual revenues in 2004, Sprint is widely recognized for developing, engineering and deploying state-of-the-art network technologies, including the United States' first nationwide all-digital, fiber-optic network; an award-winning Tier 1 Internet backbone; and one of the largest 100-percent digital, nationwide wireless networks in the United States. For more information, visit http://www.sprint.com/mr. Yahoo! and the Yahoo! logo are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Yahoo! Inc. All other names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective owners. Media and press resources courtesy of Yahoo!

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InfoSpace Invites Poker Players to Face-off in the Hold'em Poker

2005-05-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

Stake your Claim as the Grand Champion and Play Poker with Robert Williamson III in Las Vegas

Calling all poker enthusiasts -- InfoSpace, a leading provider of mobile entertainment content, and ThwartPoker Inc., the world's leading provider of skill-based strategy poker, today announced the upcoming Hold'em Poker+ for Prizes(TM) Mobile Mega Tournament Championship. From May 16, 2005 to August 14, 2005, players can download Hold'em Poker+ for Prizes, published by InfoSpace Games, on their mobile phones and compete against other mobile gamers for prizes to become the Hold'em Poker+ Grand Champion. The Grand Champion will win a trip for two to Las Vegas to dine and play poker with Robert Williamson III, World Series of Poker champion and the host of Poker Royale on GSN. The grand prize will include airfare, hotel for two nights and rental car.

"With the Hold'em Poker+ for Prizes Mobile Mega Tournament Championship, we're taking one of our most popular games and allowing everyone to compete for a poker player's dream vacation," said Andy Riedel, vice president of game development at InfoSpace. "With the skyrocketing popularity of poker and the growing success of our 'For Prizes' Network, we expect this to be one of our largest tournaments ever."

Hold'em Poker+ is one of the most widely played mobile skill-based strategy poker games in the world. In this unique twist to traditional Texas Hold'em Poker, three community cards are first dealt followed by four rounds in which the players pick their cards based on desired face value. Played against virtual opponents, the object of the game is to skillfully put together a winning hand without being blocked, while trying to block a virtual opponent that might be building a better hand.

"Hold'em Poker+ for Prizes is an exciting twist for America's most popular game, Texas Hold 'em," said Robert Williamson III. "I am proud to launch the Mobile Mega Tournament Championship and I look forward to playing with fans on my cell phone."

The simple gameplay lends itself well to the mobile screen, allowing poker experts and novices alike to compete in head-to-head and weekly high-score tournaments. After three months of skill-based competition in the Hold'em Poker+ For Prizes Mobile Mega Tournament, the Grand Champion will emerge. Sony PSPs will be awarded to the Best Score Champion, the Best Average Score Champion, and the Best Ranking in Head-to-Head Champion. Other prizes include a $1,000 Amazon gift certificate, a $250 Amazon gift certificate, $100 and $50 gift certificates for poker merchandise, yearly subscriptions to ALL IN Magazine, and copies of the newly released poker DVD From the Kitchen Table to the Final Table featuring Robert Williamson III.

The Mega Tournament will be available across all carriers offering the Hold 'em Poker+ For Prizes game in the United States. All winners will be announced on September 1, 2005. Full tournament details can be found on http://www.atlas-mobile.com. About InfoSpace InfoSpace, Inc. is a leader in private-label search, online directory and mobile entertainment. InfoSpace consists of two divisions - Search & Directory and Mobile. The Search and Directory division uses our unique metasearch technology to power a portfolio of branded Web sites and provide private-label search and online directory services. InfoSpace Mobile is a global provider and publisher of wireless content, including ringtones, games, graphics and more, as well as infrastructure solutions that help customers build stronger brands and generate revenue. InfoSpace Mobile distributes its applications through mobile operators, including Cingular Wireless, T-Mobile, Verizon Wireless, Nextel, Sprint, Virgin Mobile, Vodafone, 02, Orange, 3, TIM and Telefonica Moviles. More information can be found at http://www.InfoSpaceinc.com. About Robert Williamson III Robert Williamson III is poker's most popular player and commentator. He loves life, playing poker, and drinking fine wine. He has been featured on ESPN, ABC's Primetime Live, The History Channel, Fox Sports, and UPN's Ultimate Poker Challenge. Tune into GSN to see Robert III commentating his third GSN's Poker Royale series on Friday evenings. Robert Williamson III's poker accomplishments include 2002 World Series of Poker Pot Limit Omaha Champion, 2003 World Poker Open PLO Champion, and 2004 Mid-American No Limit Hold 'em Champion. He was named Card Player "Player of the Year" Omaha Champion along with being awarded with the 2002 Inaugural Brian Saltus Player of the Year. Robert III resides in Dallas, Texas with his wife.

About ThwartPoker Inc. Founded in 2001, ThwartPoker Inc. is a developer, publisher and distributor of interactive card games, and is known for its casual, skill-based class of card games named ThwartPoker. The company offers the next evolution of traditional poker, made possible by its patented software that eliminates the randomness of regular poker - and replaces it with skill. ThwartPoker games are skill-based and therefore do not violate U.S. federal gambling law. ThwartPoker games are played at http://www.thwartpoker.com. ThwartPoker for mobile phones was made possible through the company's licensing deal with Infospace Mobile - that has titled the mobile version Hold 'Em Poker+ For Prizes(TM). The company is headquartered in Palo Alto, California. To learn more about ThwartPoker Inc., go to http://www.thwartpoker.com.

This release contains forward-looking statements regarding InfoSpace's mobile business and its Hold'em Poker+ For Prizes Mobile Mega Tournament Championship. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Factors that could affect actual results include the progress and development of the proposed Hold'em Poker+ For Prizes Mobile Mega Tournament Championship and the extent of consumer adoption and participation in the tournament. A more detailed description of certain factors that could affect InfoSpace Mobile's actual results include, but are not limited to, those discussed in InfoSpace, Inc.'s most recent annual report on Form 10-K, in the section entitled "Factors Affecting Our Operating Results, Business Prospects and Market Price of Stock." Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this release. InfoSpace undertakes no obligation to update publicly any forward- looking statements to reflect new information, events or circumstances after the date of this release or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Media and press resources courtesy of InfoSpace.

Tags poker card games gambling

Online Gambling Sites

2005-05-15T19:32:00.000-07:00

betfair.com
Betfair is the trading name of The Sporting Exchange Ltd. The Sporting Exchange Limited is located in the United Kingdom and operates within the confines of the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Act 1963. It holds a bookmaker's permit in England and Wales.

Eurobet
Your online source for lotteries, sports betting, and casino games.

Lucky Surf
LuckySurf.com is a free online lottery, featuring a daily chance to win the $1-million Jackpot and other cash and prizes. To date, LuckySurf.com has over 2 million winners since our web site first launched in September of 1999. Cold, hard cash and prizes, including bars of gold , diamonds, luxury cars, international cruises, high-end electronics and premiere trips to Hawaii, Paris, Cannes, and The Sundance Film Festival have attracted players from around the globe, with dreams of striking it rich, to LuckySurf.com’s web site in droves.

MoneyBalls.com
Win $1,000,000! Money Balls generates the prize money from their advertisers enabling Money Balls to be free to all players.

Omni Casino
As online gaming continues to grow at a tremendous pace, Omni Casino® remains the industry leader by providing for "the most secure and trusted gaming experience on the net".

sportingbet.com
Sportingbet is a tax-free, publicly traded company on AIM, part of the London Stock Exchange with its UK Bookmakers Permit and its additional license held by Capital Consulting Services (N.A.) N.V., a Sportingbet group company. They have over 800,000 customers from over 100 countries and have been trading since 1998.

Sports Interaction
Sports InterAction, located in Kahnawake Mohawk Territory, Canada, is the first online sportsbook to be fully licensed and regulated in North America.

Sportsbetting.com
SPORTSBETTING.COM is the world's premier sports wagering site. With over 15 years experience in gaming and hospitality related businesses they assure you of one-of-a-kind gambling entertainment online.

Tote Bet Express
This UK site offers numerous opportunities for sports pools and betting.

Win 4 Real
Featuring casino gaming and sports betting.

Hollywood Takes on Poker

2005-04-06T13:34:00.000-07:00

A-Listers Affleck, Maguire Set Sights on Final Table

Pokertropolis (http://www.pokertropolis.com), has posted the opening odds for players to win the 37th World Series of Poker (WSOP) finals held at Binion's Horseshoe Casino, July 7-15, and Hollywood A-Lister Ben Affleck is the current favorite to win at 450-1. Affleck's celebrity poker nemesis, Tobey Maguire, trails him at 500-1. James Woods is at 700-1, just behind Greg "Fossilman" Raymer, last year's winner, at 600-1. Other notables include: Matthew Perry, Don Cheadle, Shannon Elizabeth, Dennis Rodman, David Schwimmer, Danny Masterson, Chris Masterson, Mena Suvari and Charlie Sheen all at 1,000-1.

Interestingly, the giants of the screen are well ahead of the giants of poker: Paul "Eskimo" Clark is 800-1, Kathy Liebert and Phil Helmuth, Jr., are 900-1, while Annie Duke and Chris Moneymaker have mountains to climb at 1000-1. David Anthony Williams -- who came second at last year's tournament -- is 1200-1. If there's any consolation, it's that they don't bring up the rear: Larry Flynt will have to hustle all the way through to beat 2000-1 odds. Pokertropolis was the first online poker site to post odds on celebrities in the WSOP finals in 2004. Players betting at Pokertropolis can wager on celebs for their own advantage, at the same time as they're shaping the day-to-day celebrity and pro player odds. Wagering is limited to Pokertropolis members, who may register for free. Bets of $10-$50 may be placed through Pokertropolis' secure payment site, with a variety of choices for payment. Pokertropolis, which caters to new and established players, presents users with a slick interface that provides the look and feel of a brick-and-mortar casino from the convenience of one's own computer. The site has offered online poker for a few years now, with innovations such as low industry rakes and $0.99 tournaments with $200 guaranteed prize pools. It even has a private rooms feature allowing players to hold closed-session, exclusive games with friends.

To place your bet on this year's WSOP, visit http://www.pokertropolis.com.

Media and press resources courtesy of Pokertropolis

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MobileGamingNow, Inc. Announces the Launch of the First Ever Mobile Phone Interactive, Multi-Player Gaming System for Poker

2005-04-04T08:39:00.000-07:00

MobileGamingNow, Inc. Announces the Launch of the First Ever Mobile Phone Interactive, Multi-Player Gaming System for Poker

Gaming software company MobileGamingNow, Inc. (MGN), a Nevada Corporation, announced today the launch of the world's first interactive, multi-player mobile phone gaming system for poker.

Called the Mobile Gaming Platform©, the software creates a turnkey gaming platform for poker to be played on a mobile phone. The first game available on MGN's platform is the popular Texas Holdem. Called MGN Mobile Poker©, up to six players per table can play against each other on mobile handsets by downloading the game to a mobile phone, installing it and logging into the game. "We're the first company to go to market with interactive, multi-player software for playing poker on a mobile phone," said CEO Mark Jensen. MGN acquired the Mobile Gaming Platform© in March of this year. Jensen said MobileGamingNow is commencing with plans to offer licenses for the game Texas Holdem to be played on mobile phones and hosted on the Mobile Gaming Platform©. According to the research service PokerPulse, more than 1.88 million poker players made real money wagers online in February, 2005 with nearly $200 million being wagered every day. For the year 2004, commissions or rakes from online poker will total $1 billion. In 2003, overall Internet gaming wagers totaled nearly $5.7 billion and according to industry analysts, Christiansen Capital Advisors, wagers will grow to more than $18 billion by the year 2010.

According to Screen Digest there are more than 400 million game-enabled handsets world wide and 2004 mobile gaming revenues are nearly $1 billion. Wireless Week estimates there were at least 183.1 million U.S. wireless subscribers in 2004. "We build software and license it to gaming companies," Jensen said. "We believe there are more than 2,000 gaming companies in the market willing to offer Texas Holdem for play on a mobile phone. Players can download and play the play-for-fun version today at our website. Our play-for-money version of Texas Holdem is available for licensing today."

Jensen said according to industry analysts at PokerPulse.com, only 210 sites are dedicated to poker (as of October 2004), and the vast majority of these support only a handful of players. "There is a tremendous opportunity for growth," he said. About MobileGamingNow, Inc. (MGN) MobileGamingNow, Inc, located in Seattle, Washington, acquired a new mobile phone gaming technology called the Mobile Gaming Platform(c) in March 2005. The software company offers a license to gaming companies who, under proper gaming licenses, want to offer mobile Texas Holdem to players. MobileGamingNow's first mobile game on its gaming platform is MGN Mobile Poker, an interactive, multi-player Texas Holdem poker game. The company's website is located at http://www.mobilegamingnow.com.

This press release contains "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of Section 21A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as amended, and is subject to the safe harbors created thereby. Such statements involve certain risks and uncertainties associated with an emerging company. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of risk factors discussed in MobileGamingNow, Inc. reports that will be on file with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Press release and media information courtesy of MobileGamingNow, Inc.

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