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Breaking
Entertainment News via Grok
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January
5, 2025
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News
Here's
a snapshot of what's buzzing in the entertainment
world today:
Angelina
Jolie has made headlines with her new hairstyle, debuting
bangs at a recent red carpet event post-divorce.
Taylor
Swift and Travis Kelce were spotted having a cozy
New Year's celebration, adding fuel to the gossip
mills.
Vanessa
Williams has announced a brief hiatus from her career
following a family tragedy.
Kristen
Bell has warmed hearts with her actions ahead of the
New Year, capturing fans' admiration.
The
Jonas Brothers kicked off the New Year with a performance
that sent their fans into a frenzy.
Ariana
Grande has humorously mentioned that her voice for
the role in 'Wicked' might stick with her permanently.
Christina
Haack and Josh Hall are reportedly clashing in a new
HGTV show, "The Flip Off."
The
Golden Globes are set to kick off the awards season,
with Viola Davis and Ted Danson giving masterclasses
in artistry at a special ceremony.
Additionally,
trending news includes:
Marianne
Jean-Baptiste securing a critics' trifecta for her
role in 'Hard Truths', though her Oscar chances remain
uncertain due to the film's mixed reception. (Trending
on X)
LiAngelo Ball has released a new song titled 'TWEAKER',
creating significant buzz with its catchy lines. (Trending
on X)
Shayla, a popular character, has stirred deep emotions
among fans, possibly due to a significant storyline
change or development. (Trending on X)
For
more entertainment updates, keep an eye on platforms
like X for the latest and most engaging news from
the world of celebrities, movies, music, and more.
(Grok)
Breaking
News via Grok
January
5, 2025
Grok
Here
are some of the top breaking news headlines from recent
updates:
Domestic
Violence Incident in Brighton: A tragic shooting in
Brighton, New York, resulted in the deaths of two
adults and a child, identified as a domestic violence
case. Emergency services responded promptly to the
scene at Hollyvale Drive.
Virgin
Australia Crew Incident in Fiji: Two Virgin Australia
crew members were allegedly assaulted and robbed during
a night out in Nadi, Fiji, on New Year's Eve. The
incident has raised concerns about safety in tourist
areas.
Heatwave
in South-East Australia: A forecasted heatwave is
expected to bring temperatures over 40°C in parts
of Sydney, with Melbourne also experiencing significant
heat. This weather event is prompting concerns about
fire risks and public health.
Flooding in Queensland: Brisbane has seen its wettest
year in over a century, leading to flooding in parts
of North Queensland. The heavy rainfall has caused
disruptions and raised flood warnings.
Search
for Missing Fisherman Halted: The search for a missing
fisherman off the coast of New South Wales was paused,
with family members still holding out hope. This incident
underscores the dangers of fishing in coastal waters.
Trump's
NATO Consideration: There are discussions about President-elect
Trump potentially pulling the U.S. out of NATO, a
significant policy shift that could impact global
alliances and security.
Urfan
Sharif Assault in Prison: Urfan Sharif, convicted
for the murder of his daughter, was attacked in HMP
Belmarsh, leading to discussions about prison justice
and security.
These headlines cover a range of topics from local
tragedies to potential shifts in international policy,
reflecting the diverse nature of current events. Remember,
for the most up-to-date information, checking trusted
news sources or following live updates is advisable.
Combat
Sports Week At Media Man; Elon Musk's X And Grok Take
Publishers, Reporters, Fans Et Al Around The World
Of Sports In A TKO Second!: Media Man
October
1, 2024
News
Alex
Pereira's Arrival for UFC 307
Alex
Pereira, known as 'Poatan', is gearing up for a highly
anticipated UFC fight at UFC 307 against Khalil Rountree
Jr., scheduled for October 2024. The fight week has
begun with both fighters, including notable figures
like Jose Aldo, checking in for the event. There's
considerable excitement around this match, primarily
due to the knockout capabilities of both fighters.
Pereira has publicly stated his intention to 'break'
Rountree, intensifying the event's buildup. Discussions
and analyses have focused on Pereira's recent UFC
activities, potential retirement, and the high stakes
of the main event, suggesting it could be one of the
most thrilling UFC main events recently. Additionally,
Khalil Rountree hinted at employing a never-before-seen
move during the fight, adding an element of mystery
and anticipation. (Grok)
News
UFC
307 and DWCS Week 8
UFC
307 is generating significant buzz, particularly for
the main event where Alex Pereira has promised an
intense confrontation against Khalil Rountree, vowing
to 'break' him. This fight is not only a highlight
of the event but also showcases both fighters' formidable
striking power, with predictions leaning towards a
knockout rather than a decision. Alongside this main
event, the UFC community is abuzz with excitement
for other matchups, discussing fighters' skills and
predicting outcomes. Concurrently, the Dana White's
Contender Series (DWCS) Week 8 is taking place, spotlighting
emerging talents like Christien Savoie, who are competing
for the chance to earn UFC contracts. The DWCS not
only serves as a platform for new fighters but also
engages fans with live events and betting odds, adding
another layer of anticipation and discussion around
the UFC's upcoming events. (Grok)
News
UFC
307 Fight Week
UFC
307, scheduled for Saturday, features a highly anticipated
main event between Alex Pereira, known for his striking
prowess, and Khalil Rountree Jr., who has hinted at
a unique move he might employ during the fight. The
event has sparked considerable interest among fans
and analysts, with discussions focusing on the fighters'
capabilities and potential outcomes. Alongside the
main event, the Dana White Contender Series (DWCS)
Week 8 is also taking place, offering emerging fighters
a chance to secure UFC contracts. Notable fighters
like Jose Aldo, Kevin Holland, and Stephen Thompson
are also highlighted, adding to the excitement with
their upcoming matches. The event is set to be broadcast
live, with various analyses and predictions circulating
among enthusiasts. (Grok)
News
Torrez
Finney's Third DWCS Victory
Torrez
Finney achieved a significant milestone by becoming
the first fighter to win three times on Dana White's
Contender Series (DWCS). In his third appearance on
DWCS, which took place on October 1, 2024, Finney
secured a first-round TKO victory over Abdellah Er-Ramy.
This performance not only marked his third win on
the series but also showcased his dominant skills,
leading to widespread acclaim across social media
platforms, particularly X (formerly known as Twitter).
Following this victory, there was a consensus among
observers and fans that not offering Finney a UFC
contract would be an oversight, given his undefeated
record and his consistent performance under the DWCS
spotlight. This achievement cements his status as
a top prospect in the middleweight division, with
many expecting him to finally receive a UFC contract.
(Grok)
News
Khalil
Rountree's Mystery Move at UFC 307
Ahead
of UFC 307, Khalil Rountree Jr. has hinted at employing
a unique, never-before-seen technique in his upcoming
fight against Alex Pereira, the current light heavyweight
champion. Rountree, known for his striking prowess,
aims to dethrone Pereira with a knockout, seeking
to establish himself as a formidable force in the
UFC. The event has drawn significant attention, with
fans and analysts speculating on Rountree's strategy
and the potential outcome of this high-stakes match.
Meanwhile, new sparring footage of Pereira with Sean
Strickland has been released, showcasing Pereira's
skills and improvement in English. Other notable fighters
like Kevin Holland and Jose Aldo are also featured
in the event, but the main event between Pereira and
Rountree remains the focal point, with expectations
set high for an explosive encounter. (Grok)
News
Diyar
Nurgozhay's Head Kick KO
Diyar
Nurgozhay recently showcased his striking prowess
at Dana White's Contender Series, where he secured
a notable victory via a head kick knockout against
Bartosz Szewczyk during the light heavyweight bout
at DWCS 74. This event took place on October 1, 2024,
at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. Nurgozhay, maintaining
his undefeated record, delivered the knockout in the
second round, further solidifying his reputation in
the MMA community. This performance not only electrified
the audience but also significantly boosted his potential
for earning a UFC contract, given the platform's purpose
of scouting new talent for the UFC roster. This victory
adds to Nurgozhay's highlight reel, known for his
finishing capabilities, as he continues his journey
with an eye on the UFC. (Grok)
News
New
WWENXT Logo Debuts on The CW
WWE
NXT has introduced a new logo as part of its transition
to The CW network, marking the beginning of a new
era for the wrestling brand. The rebranding, effective
from October 1, 2024, aims to evoke a more classic
aesthetic. The debut on The CW was highlighted by
various wrestling personalities and news outlets,
with many expressing enthusiasm for the new look and
the show's premiere. The debut episode featured significant
matches, including a championship bout and a street
fight, indicating a strong start to NXT's new chapter
on The CW. (Grok)
News
Roxanne
Perez Retains NXT Title with Cora Jade's Return
Roxanne
Perez successfully defended her NXT Women's Championship
against Giulia in a recent WWE NXT event, marked by
an unexpected twist when Cora Jade returned to assist
Perez in retaining her title. This intervention was
pivotal in Perez's victory, sparking varied reactions
among fans. While some expressed disappointment with
the match's conclusion and the manner of Giulia's
defeat, others were thrilled by Cora Jade's comeback,
anticipating new storylines. Despite the controversial
finish, the match received praise for its quality.
(Grok)
News
Mixed
Reactions to New NXT Titles
Based
on the information gathered from posts on X and general
web sentiment, the introduction of new NXT titles
has generated a mix of reactions among fans and observers:
Design
Critique: There's a noticeable divide over the aesthetic
of the new NXT titles. Some fans have expressed a
preference for the previous designs, particularly
the "rainbow titles" which were admired
for their vibrant yet balanced color scheme. The new
designs have been described by some as less appealing
initially, but there's an acknowledgment that acceptance
might grow over time. For instance, one user likened
the transition in perception from the old to the new
titles humorously, suggesting that while the initial
reaction might be negative, eventual adaptation is
expected.
Nostalgia
and Change: The change in title designs seems to reflect
broader changes within NXT, including its move to
The CW network. This shift has stirred mixed feelings,
with some fans feeling nostalgic about the "black
and gold" era of NXT, which these new titles
symbolically depart from. However, there's also excitement
about what this change could mean for NXT's future,
especially with the involvement of figures like Shawn
Michaels in crafting the new era.
Performance
and Presentation: Despite mixed feelings about the
titles' design, there's a consensus on the quality
of the matches and the presentation of NXT on The
CW. The debut of NXT on this new platform, highlighted
by significant matches like Ethan Page vs. Trick Williams
for the NXT Title, and the involvement of high-profile
figures or matchups, indicates that while the titles
themselves might be divisive, the content and direction
of NXT are still highly anticipated and discussed.
Fan
Engagement: The new titles have certainly engaged
the fanbase, sparking conversations not just about
design but about what these changes signify for NXT's
identity and its place within WWE's broader ecosystem.
This engagement ranges from criticism to cautious
optimism, with some fans seeing it as a necessary
evolution for NXT to stand out in the crowded landscape
of wrestling entertainment.
Cultural
and Identity Shifts: There's an underlying discussion
about what these titles represent for NXT's brand
identity. Some fans have humorously or critically
remarked on the choice of design, questioning if it
aligns with NXT's desire to carve out a unique identity
or if it's merely a shift for the sake of change.
This touches on broader themes of brand evolution
and fan acceptance of change in professional wrestling.
In
summary, while the new NXT titles have sparked a variety
of reactions from critique over their design to nostalgia
for previous eras, there's an underlying excitement
about the narrative and performance aspects of NXT's
new chapter. The conversation around these titles
encapsulates fans' emotional connection to NXT's history
and their hopes or concerns for its future under its
new presentation. (Grok)
News
Wes
Lee Wins Street Fight at WWENXT
During
a recent WWE NXT event, Wes Lee defeated Zachary Wentz
in a highly praised street fight. The match, described
as both brutal and entertaining, featured intense
action characteristic of street fights. Both wrestlers
received acclaim for their performance, with fans
and commentators noting the match as a highlight of
the evening's programming. The fight included dramatic
moments, such as Wentz missing a table dive, adding
to the spectacle. This victory for Wes Lee was celebrated,
with many expressing enthusiasm for the match's quality
and hoping for future encounters between the two.
(Grok)
News
WWE
Bad Blood
WWE
Bad Blood is making a comeback in 2024, marking the
fourth event under this name and the first since 2004.
Here's what you need to know:
Event
Date and Location: The event is scheduled for Saturday,
October 5, 2024, at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta,
Georgia. This date coincides with the 27th anniversary
of the first Bad Blood event.
Broadcast
Details: Bad Blood 2024 will be available via traditional
pay-per-view (PPV) worldwide and will also air on
WWE's streaming platforms, specifically Peacock in
the United States and WWE Network internationally.
Historical
Significance: The original Bad Blood in 1997 introduced
the Hell in a Cell match, which has been a staple
of the event, including in its previous iterations
in 2003 and 2004.
Matches
and Card: One of the main matches includes Liv Morgan
vs. Rhea Ripley for the Womens World Championship,
with a unique twist where Dominik Mysterio will be
suspended above the ring in a shark cage to prevent
interference.
There's
also speculation and reports about a Hell in a Cell
match between CM Punk and Drew McIntyre, though there
was some uncertainty about whether this would be the
main event or if a tag team match involving Roman
Reigns, Cody Rhodes, Solo Sikoa, and possibly Jacob
Fatu would close the show. However, recent discussions
and fan reactions suggest a strong possibility of
Punk vs. McIntyre main eventing due to the historical
significance of Hell in a Cell at Bad Blood.
Themes
and Anniversaries: The event is not only a nod to
its own history but also leverages the anniversary
of the first Hell in a Cell match. The involvement
of high-profile figures like CM Punk, Drew McIntyre,
and the intertwining storylines with Roman Reigns
and Cody Rhodes adds layers to the event's narrative.
Fan
and Industry Buzz: There's considerable excitement
around the return of Bad Blood, especially concerning
how WWE will utilize the Hell in a Cell structure
this time, given its history with the event. Fan posts
on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) show anticipation
for the matches, particularly the potential main events,
and how WWE might script the outcomes to impact ongoing
WWE storylines.
This
event represents not just a wrestling spectacle but
a significant moment in WWE's calendar, blending nostalgia
with current rivalries, making Bad Blood 2024 a must-watch
for WWE fans. (Grok)
News
Beterbiev
vs Bivol: Clash of the Undefeated
The
latest on Beterbiev vs. Bivol, titled "Clash
of the Undefeated," centers around their upcoming
fight scheduled for October 12, 2024, in Riyadh, Saudi
Arabia. Here's what's been circulating and reported:
Fight
Details: Artur Beterbiev (20-0, 20 KOs) will face
Dmitry Bivol (23-0, 12 KOs) in a unification bout
for the IBF, WBC, WBO, and WBA light heavyweight titles,
marking a significant event in boxing as both fighters
are undefeated.
Beterbiev's
Condition: After a knee injury forced a postponement
from an initially planned June fight, Beterbiev has
confirmed his 100% recovery and readiness for this
bout. His approach to training and recovery underscores
his intent to maintain his 100% knockout record.
Bivol's
Perspective: Dmitry Bivol has expressed that this
fight is not personal but a professional challenge
to become the undisputed champion. His strategy likely
involves his well-known boxing skills, with an emphasis
on counterpunching and movement, aiming to possibly
outbox or even, as speculated by some like Chris Algieri,
potentially knock down Beterbiev.
Public
and Expert Opinions: There's a mix of predictions
and excitement around this match. Some fans and analysts
believe Bivol's boxing IQ and defensive skills might
give him an edge, while others favor Beterbiev's relentless
pressure and knockout power. The discussion often
revolves around whether Bivol's style can withstand
or adapt to Beterbiev's aggressive tactics.
Undercard
and Event: The undercard features notable fights,
enhancing the event's appeal. Names like Chris Eubank
Jr., Fabio Wardley, and Jai Opetaia add to the night's
boxing spectacle.
General
Sentiment: The fight is widely anticipated as one
of the biggest in 2024, not just for the titles at
stake but for the clash of styles and the potential
for defining moments in both fighters' careers. The
narrative around this fight often highlights the rarity
of seeing two such high-caliber, undefeated champions
facing off, especially at light heavyweight.
This
event is not just a fight for belts but is seen as
a significant moment in boxing, where the outcome
could solidify one fighter's legacy or dramatically
alter perceptions of both in the sport. (Grok)
News
AEW
Dynamite 5-Year Anniversary Show
The
AEW Dynamite 5-Year Anniversary Show, set for October
2, 2024, at the Petersen Events Center in Pittsburgh,
PA, is gearing up to be a landmark event for All Elite
Wrestling. Here's what's on the slate based on the
latest information:
Main
Event: A high-stakes, title-for-title match is scheduled
where Bryan Danielson will defend his AEW World Championship
against Kazuchika Okada, who is bringing his AEW Continental
Championship into the match. However, there's a twist:
Okada's championship will only be on the line for
the first 20 minutes of the match. If the match goes
beyond that, only Danielson's AEW World Championship
remains in contention.
Another
Title Defense: Will Ospreay will defend his AEW International
Championship against Ricochet. This match has been
highlighted as part of the anniversary celebration.
Other
Matches:
Hangman Adam Page is set to face Juice Robinson. Dr.
Britt Baker, D.M.D. will return for a match, although
the opponent hasn't been specified in the latest updates
provided, there was mention of her facing Serena Deeb
in some fan discussions or reports.
Special
Features: The episode is not just about the matches
but also about celebrating five years of AEW Dynamite.
Tony Khan, AEW's President, has teased a significant
announcement which could potentially set the tone
for the future of AEW. This adds an element of anticipation
beyond the in-ring action.
Broadcast
Details: The show will have a significant overrun,
courtesy of TBS Network, indicating more content than
the usual runtime, possibly to accommodate the extra
matches or the celebration elements.
This
anniversary episode is not just a showcase of wrestling
talent but also a milestone for AEW, marking its growth
and the journey it has had over the past five years.
The inclusion of champion vs. champion matches underscores
AEW's commitment to big matches on big nights, promising
fans a memorable event to commemorate this occasion.
(Grok)
News
Danielson
vs. Okada: Title-for-Title Match
On
the 5-year anniversary of AEW Dynamite, a significant
wrestling event is scheduled for October 2, 2024,
in Pittsburgh, PA, where Bryan Danielson, the AEW
World Champion, will face Kazuchika Okada, holder
of the AEW Continental Title. This match is unique
as it features a title-for-title stipulation with
a twist: the Continental Championship, which usually
has a 20-minute time limit, will only be at stake
for the first 20 minutes of the match. However, the
World Championship, with its 60-minute time limit,
will remain in contention for the entire duration.
This setup has sparked varied reactions among wrestling
fans, with some questioning the effectiveness of the
stipulation, while others are excited about the potential
of the match. The event is set to be a highlight of
AEW Dynamite's milestone celebration, pitting two
of wrestling's top talents against each other in what
promises to be a memorable clash. (Grok)
News
Conor
McGregor's Stroll on Emirates Pitch
Conor
McGregor was spotted walking around the Emirates Stadium
pitch following Arsenal's victory over PSG in the
Champions League. Videos and photos showed McGregor
enjoying himself, including interactions with Arsenal
player Declan Rice. This appearance led to various
reactions and discussions online, with many finding
amusement in McGregor's post-match activities. Meanwhile,
Arsenal secured a 2-0 win against PSG, with goals
from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka. The match also marked
the debut of Mikel Merino for Arsenal, who joined
from Real Sociedad. Additionally, Thomas Partey was
highlighted for his exceptional performance during
the game. However, there were concerns about Jurrien
Timber, who felt a muscular issue during the match,
prompting Arsenal to manage his playing time carefully.
(Grok)
Combat
Sports News/Profile via Grok
Combat
sports encompass a wide range of athletic competitions
where the primary objective is to physically subdue
an opponent. Here's a brief overview of some popular
forms:
1.
Boxing
Origin:
Ancient Greece, but modern boxing is often associated
with 18th-19th century England.
Rules:
Competitors use only their fists, wearing gloves,
and aim to score points by landing punches on the
opponent's upper body or head. A fight can end by
knockout (KO), technical knockout (TKO), or points
decision.
2.
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)
Origin:
While various forms of mixed combat have existed historically,
modern MMA was popularized through events like the
UFC starting in the 1990s.
Rules:
Allows a mix of striking and grappling techniques
from various martial arts. Fighters can win by knockout,
submission (tap out), judges' decision, or disqualification.
3.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)
Origin:
Derived from judo in Brazil in the early 20th century,
made famous by the Gracie family.
Rules:
Emphasizes ground fighting and submission holds. Competitors
aim to force a submission through joint locks or chokeholds.
Points can also be scored for position control and
takedowns.
4.
Wrestling
Freestyle
and Greco-Roman: Common in the Olympics, Greco-Roman
restricts holds below the waist.
Professional
Wrestling (Pro Wrestling): More entertainment-focused,
with choreographed matches, high flying moves, and
storylines.
5.
Kickboxing
Origin:
A group of stand-up combat sports based on kicking
and punching. It evolved from Karate, Muay Thai, and
Western boxing.
Rules:
Similar to boxing but includes kicks. Variants include
allowing knee strikes and elbows (influenced by Muay
Thai).
6.
Muay Thai
Origin:
Thailand, known as the "Art of Eight Limbs"
because it uses punches, kicks, elbows, and knees.
Rules:
Similar to kickboxing but with a heavier emphasis
on clinching (a kind of standing grapple) and use
of all eight points of contact.
7.
Judo
Origin:
Japan, developed by Jigoro Kano in the late 19th century
as a physical, mental, and moral pedagogy.
Rules:
Based on throws (Nage-waza) and ground techniques
(Katame-waza). The objective is to either throw or
takedown an opponent to the ground, immobilize them,
or force a submission through joint locks or strangles.
8.
Karate
Origin:
Okinawa, Japan, with influences from Chinese martial
arts.
Styles:
Many styles with different focuses, but generally
emphasizes striking with punches, kicks, knee strikes,
and open-hand techniques like knife-hands.
9.
Taekwondo
Origin:
Korea, developed in the 1940s and 1950s.
Rules: Known for its high, fast, and spinning kicks.
Competitors
score points in Olympic Taekwondo for strikes to the
torso or head.
10.
Krav Maga
Origin:
Israel, designed as a self-defense system for the
Israel Defense Forces.
Rules:
Not typically a sport, but some organizations hold
competitions. Focuses on real-world scenarios, aiming
to neutralize threats quickly and efficiently.
Each
combat sport has its unique culture, training methods,
and competitive environments, reflecting diverse historical,
cultural, and practical contexts. If you're interested
in any particular sport, each has its own set of governing
bodies, leagues, and famous athletes or events that
could be explored further! (Grok)
Flashback
Online Poker Bill Introduced in U.S. Senate
New Bill Is Separate from Barney
Frank's Similar Online Gambling Bill, with a Higher-Profile
Position in the Senate
August
6, 2009 (CAP Newswire) -- New Jersey Democrat
Robert Menendez has just introduced into the U.S.
Senate a brand new piece of legislation designed
to legalize and regulate Internet poker.
"To
amend title 31, United States Code, to provide
for the licensing by the Secretary of the Treasury
of Internet poker and other games that are predominantly
of skill, to provide for consumer protections
on the Internet, to enforce the tax code, and
for other purposes," the bill begins.
The
bill would establish a new legal regulatory framework
for Internet poker in the United States, and also
put in place certain consumer protections such
as age restrictions. Officially entitled S.8309,
the Internet Poker and Games of Skill Regulation,
Consumer Protection, and Enforcement Act, it was
introduced today.
No
matter what success this bill meets with, it represents
another huge milestone in the nationwide struggle
to reclassify poker from gambling to a game of
skill. This movement seeks to enable online poker
to be not only legalized but also change the way
it is regarded in popular culture.
That
movement has gained a lot of transaction over
the past year, with smaller court victories in
states such as Colorado, Pennsylvania, and South
Carolina, and with Representative Barney Frank’s
recent efforts to legalize and regulate certain
sectors of online gambling with his own legislation
(which is separate from this bill).
Home
to the original U.S. gaming resort destination,
Atlantic City, New Jersey has long had its own
internal struggles regarding the legality of gaming,
and has recently clashed with the federal government
on this basis. So it makes sense that the author
of this new legislation is is from New Jersey
— and a Democrat, the party that is apparently
more open to the idea of fully legalized online
gambling. (Although it technically has bipartisan
support, the vast majority of supporters of Barney
Frank’s recent pro-Internet gambling efforts
have been Democrats.)
The
Poker Players Alliance (PPA) not only supports
the new bill, but has provided a copy of it at
its website. Check
it out here.
Greg
Tingle comment...
This
online poker bill is most welcome news, and has
been a long time coming.
Down
under in Australia poker and I dare say, online
poker, is already a strong part of our popular
culture, just as are kangaroos, meat pies and
Holden cars, and having a punt on the (horse)
races and a bit of a spin on the pokies. By the
way, Sportingbet is introducing V8Bet, so punters
can be on the V8 Supercar racing, (Holden and
Ford).
Some
may not like this, and some will, but there's
strong rumblings that sports betting might try
to significantly ride off the back of this poker
bill, as there could be legal arguments that there
certainly are elements of skill (knowledge etc)
in picking sports bet winners. A similar scenario
of sorts with the game known as "Spot The
Ball", which has long been a part of British
culture, with numerous British newspapers running
Spot The Ball competitions. Property listing companies
such as Play4Property.com
are taking the Spot The Ball game internationally,
which isn't that hard to do with the internet
as an medium of media, backed up by traditional
media, journalism, marketing et al.
Friends,
the rules have changed, and will continue to,
in regards to online poker, online games of skill,
online gambling, and the way business is conducted
between people, corporations, media companies
et al.
A
few apt quotes from some gentlemen with some good
ideas and track record of success, getting things
done, and changing the world, and the rules of
play!
James
Packer - "Internet is like electricity"
Rupert
Murdoch - "Big will not beat small anymore.
It will be the fast beating the slow"
Charles
Darwin - "In the long history of humankind
(and animal kind, too) those who learned to collaborate
and improvise most effectively have prevailed"
My
tip, look to California to plug into online poker,
online sports betting, and quite likely, online
gambling as a whole. They have been pro active
and early adopters on other social issues such
as the environment, poverty and health.
You
can bet that Harrah's Entertainment and their
chain of hotel - casino - resorts will be watching
this space, as will Macau's Cotai Strip, and even
Parliament House down under in Canberra, Australia.
In
this space, I'm sure glad to be a journalist,
media agent and website portal developer, rather
than an owner of a casino or online casino. The
online poker and online casino happenings are
most certainly extremely newsworthy items to cover.
It's of course part of the larger civil liberties
and freedom of speech - censorship debate. We
should have the right to do what we like in our
homes, as long as it doesn't hurt anyone. Also
remember, sometimes the law is an ass, so just
because something is legal or illegal, doesn't
mean it is necessarily right or wrong. It just
means its (current) law, some of which get changed
for the better, some not.
As
always, know your limits, bet with your head,
not over it. If the gambling, or poker playing
stops being enjoyable, its likely time to stop.
Have fun, whether poker, pokies, spot the ball,
or some other game tickles your fancy.
Media Man Australia
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