Schedule Announced for 41st Annual World Series of Poker®

Set to Run From May 27 - July 17, 2010 at the Rio® All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS, NV (December 17, 2009) – The 41st annual World Series of Poker® (WSOP®) -- a set ofpoker tournaments open to anyone 21 years of age or older -- returns Thursday, May 27, 2010 when live action and satellites begin. The annual poker extravaganza, which dates back to 1970, is televised exclusively on ESPN from the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas and consists of a comprehensive slate of the game’s most popular variations running from May 27-July 17, 2010.

A total of 57 coveted gold bracelets will be up for grabs in 2010 – equal to last year’s total. July 4th is the tournaments sole “off day”, and will be dedicated to satellites for all those seeking another entry option into poker’s biggest event.

On Friday, May 28, the first open bracelet event will be the $50,000 buy-in Player’s Championship – the most expensive buy-in event to ever open up the World Series of Poker. Playing for the bracelet and the prestigious Chip Reese Memorial Trophy, the event will follow an eight-game format made popular by the late poker legend, and those participating in the mythical “Big Game” around Las Vegas card rooms. Over the first four days, Limit Hold’em, Omaha Hi-Low Split-8 or Better, Seven Card Razz, Seven Card Stud, Seven Card Stud Hi-Low Split-8 or Better, No-Limit Hold’em, Pot-Limit Omaha and 2-7 Triple Draw Lowball will be played, with the Final Table being No-Limit Hold’em, as was the case when Reese won the inaugural $50K buy-in event in 2006. ESPN will provide television coverage of this event under the new format.

The opening weekend (May 29-30), features a $1,000 buy-in No-Limit Hold’em tournament, which last year established a non-Main Event record of 6,012 entrants. The four-day event includes two starting flights, one each on Saturday and Sunday at 12 noon.

Another first at the WSOP this year, the first 5 weekends of the series will feature $1,000 buyin No-Limit Hold’em tournaments with two starting flights. May 29-30, June 5-6, June 12-13, June 19-20 and June 26-27 will offer No-Limit Hold’em players from the weekend warrior to the most advanced player the opportunity to compete in some of the largest fields of the year for huge prize pools and a gold bracelet. A sixth event on July 1-2, will also offer the same event at the same buyin level, just days before the Main Event commences.

The 41st annual WSOP will conclude, as is customary now, with the $10,000 No-Limit Hold’em Championship (aka the Main Event) which begins play Monday, July 5 and should reach its final table (nine players) on Saturday, July 17, at which time play will be halted for the third consecutive year. The famed tournament’s culmination will be held with the “November Nine” from November 6-9, before a live audience with special primetime coverage from ESPN.

"Whatever your game and whatever your bankroll, the 2010 WSOP schedule offers something for everyone,” said WSOP Tournament Director Jack Effel, who will oversee the event for the fifth consecutive year. "We are planning for the largest WSOP ever and look forward to welcoming all players to the Rio in Las Vegas next summer."

The entire convention center of the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino will be exclusively dedicated to the 2010 World Series of Poker for the first time, with tournament tables in the 58,000 square foot Pavilion and the 38,000 square foot Amazon Room. The final number of tables in play is subject to regulatory approval, given just prior to the tournament commencing.

Player comfort is also being addressed by new rules regulating the daily amount of play. Excluding the Main Event, gold bracelet tournaments will begin at 12 noon and 5 PM Pacific Time each day, with a maximum of 10-one hour levels being played for the noon starts, while the 5 PM events playing a maximum of 8 one-hour levels. Day 1 play is expected to conclude at 12:45 AM for noon starts and 2:45 AM for the 5 PM starts. For those advancing past the first day, re-starts for noon bracelet events will be at 2:30 PM, and 5 PM tournaments will restart at 3 PM, with a maximum
of 10 levels being played each day until a champion is crowned. The Main Event features two-hour levels and play begins at 12 noon each day.

Registration for all bracelet events will remain open until the start of the third level(approximately 2 hours, 20 minutes after start time) – or until all available seats have sold. Preregistration for the 2010 WSOP is now available on-site at the Main Cage of the Rio in Las Vegas and online through www.wsop.com. This is the earliest registration has ever opened, as players now have more than five months to register for the first event, and more than six months to register for the Main Event.

Players are encouraged to register in advance to avoid being shutout of their favorite events. Any foreign entrants who wire transfer monies will receive the exchange rate into U.S. dollars at the time of the wire transfer, thus locking in their exchange rate in advance.

New policies and procedures regarding Main Event registration will be detailed in the future, but entrants can expect to be assigned starting days after a certain date. The only way to guarantee your starting day will be to pre-register prior to the determined cut-off date.

All Harrah’s properties in Las Vegas offer special reduced room rates for entrants of WSOP bracelet events. Rates start as low as $69 for players staying at the host property, the Rio. Imperial Palace offers rates as low as $30, and Bally’s, Flamingo, Harrah’s, Paris and Caesars Palace provide WSOP player rates as low as $45-$100 a night. Click here for the special WSOP player hotel rates.

The 2010 WSOP marks the 41st running of the game’s most prestigious annual tournament. In 2009, the WSOP generated the most entries ever (60,875) from 115 different countries that competed for more than $174 million while awarding 57 championship gold bracelets, globally recognized as the game’s top prize.

To view the entire schedule, visit www.wsop.com/schedule where you can download event
structures, pre-registration forms or save the schedule to your calendar and even link it to your Facebook, Twitter or other social network sites. Media can add a WSOP schedule widget to their websites, by going to http://wsop.com/poker-widgets/

Among the highlights of the 2010 schedule:

· 57 gold bracelet events over 51 days.

· Expanded footprint – The giant Pavilion Ballroom (58,000 sq. feet) will be in use this year for poker in the Rio Convention Center. The Pavilion is the largest ballroom at the Rio, and along with the famed Amazon Room (38,000 sq. feet), will make-up the playing rooms for this year’s WSOP. The entire convention space will be used.

· Expanded capacity – Along with expanded footprint, comes more poker tables. A
record 295 tables were utilized last year, and this year’s configuration is still being plotted, but expected to offer about 20 percent more tables.

· No Food Tent – The outdoor food tent will now become an indoor food court
experience. The Miranda Ballroom, last year used as a room for play, will be converted into a food court with a variety of popular food items for players and spectators.

· Sensational Structures & Starting Chips – Drafting off last year’s success, all gold bracelet events in 2010 will feature triple the buy-in in starting chips and deep structures, providing plenty of play.

· $25K 6-Handed No-Limit – A new event this year will be a $25,000 buy-in 6-handed
No-Limit Hold’em 4-day event. Event #52 begins on Wednesday, June 30 at 12 noon.

· $50K Players Championship – The Chip Reese Trophy is up for grabs at the $50,000
buy-in eight-game mixed event, dubbed the Players Championship, which is being
morphed from the $50K H.O.R.S.E. tournament run the past four years. This new eightgame format will serve as the true test of the game’s greatest all-around player and receive star treatment, with ESPN cameras covering the five-day event for television.
Event #2 starts on Friday, May 28 at 5:00 PM.

· Still Plenty of H.O.R.S.E. – A new $10,000 buy-in H.O.R.S.E. Championship
tournament will be offered, to go along with $1,500 and $3,000 buy-ins to the popular
game.

· The 4th annual Ante Up For Africa Celebrity-Charity Tournament -- $5,000 buy-in
No-Limit Hold’em celebrity and charity tournament on Saturday, July 3, (two days
before the Main Event begins) featuring the opportunity for anyone age 21 or older to
enter and be seated at the same table as A-list celebrities and top poker pros.

· The Ladies Only No-Limit Hold’em Championship – On Friday, June 11, featuring a
$1,000 buy-in and helping to raise awareness for the Nevada Cancer Institute, the
official community relations partner of the World Series of Poker.

· The Seniors Only No-Limit Hold’em Championship – On Friday, June 18 , featuring
a $1,000 buy-in for all poker enthusiasts 50 years of age or older.

· June $550 No-Limit Hold’em Tournaments – Every Tuesday, Wednesday and
Thursday at 1:00 PM throughout June, the Rio will host new $550 No-Limit Hold’em
tournaments for those looking for a Hold’em fix. These are one-day structured
tournaments, and not bracelet events.

In addition, a complete array of satellites, from single-table to mega, will be offered beginning from May 27-July 8. Nightly No-Limit Hold’em tournaments will be offered from May 27-July 4 at 7:00 PM and 11:00 PM.

All winners will be required to provide a valid picture ID. Tax forms will be completed for those with winnings in excess of $5,000 net of event buy-in. Players without a Tax Identification Number and foreign players from non-tax treaty countries are subject to up to 30 percentage tax withholding. WSOP reserves the right to cancel, change or modify the tournament or any tournament event, in part or in whole, without notice.

ABOUT THE WSOP: The World Series of Poker (WSOP) is the largest, richest and most prestigious gaming event in the world awarding millions of dollars in prize money and the prestigious gold bracelet, globally recognized as the sport’s top prize. Featuring a comprehensive slate of tournaments in every major poker variation, the WSOP is poker’s longest running tournament in the world, dating back to 1970. In 2009, the event attracted 60,875 entrants from 115 different countries to the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas and awarded over $174 million in prize money. The WSOP in December, 2008 was named the 7th most admired sports brand in North America by the Turnkey Sports Survey, trailing only the older and more established NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, NASCAR and PGA Tour among sports properties. In addition, the WSOP has experienced groundbreaking alliances in broadcasting, digital media and corporate sponsorships, while successfully expanding the brand internationally with the advent in 2007 of the World Series of Poker EuropeSM. For more information on the World Series of Poker, please visit thier website at www.wsop.com.

* World Series of Poker and WSOP are trademarks of Harrah's License Company, LLC ("Harrah's"). Harrah's does not sponsor or endorse, and is not associated or affiliated with, This and That or its products, services, promotions or tournaments.

http:blog.billbruce.info

Ante Up For Africa

More Big Name Stars Come Out To Play At The 3rd Annual Ante Up For Africa Celebrity Charity Poker Tournament

LOS ANGELES, CA (June 18, 2009) – Stars Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Brad Garrett, Mekhi Phifer, and top poker professional Phil Hellmuth have joined the growing list of celebrities who plan to play in the Ante Up For Africa charity tournament July 2 at the 40th annual World Series of Poker. Some of Hollywood's biggest stars are expected to go all in for the 3rd Ante Up For Africa (AUFA) Celebrity-Charity poker tournament.

Annually, the largest celebrity poker tournament in Las Vegas, the event is accessible for the public to play with their favorite stars or watch as spectators. A full house of celebrities will join Academy Award Nominee, Don Cheadle and “Celebrity Apprentice Star” and WSOP Bracelet winner Annie Duke at the event taking place during the 2009 WORLD SERIES OF POKER® (WSOP) at Rio in Las Vegas on Thursday, July 2 at 2 PM.

This No-Limit Hold’em poker tournament has an entry fee of $5,000 and provides entrants the opportunity to walk away with a six-figure payday. The event allows players to rub elbows with top Hollywood stars, athletes and poker professionals while contributing to a great cause. Celebrities and athletes will join poker’s most notable players to raise public awareness and funds to support the victims of the humanitarian crisis in Darfur, Sudan.

Among those confirmed to participate, subject to availability, are Cheadle, Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Brad Garrett, Cedric The Entertainer, Charles Barkley, Danny Masterson, Herschel Walker, Jason Alexander, Kenny Smith, Montel Williams, DEan Cain, Tia Carrere, Sarah Silverman, Mike Tyson, Nelly, Rob Schneider; Poker Professionals Howard Lederer, Andy Bloch, Tiffany Michelle, Erik Seidel and Phil Hellmuth with more to be confirmed.

The tournament will feature a fast-paced structure designed to complete the competition within five hours. Seating for the tournament is open to anyone age 21 or older. Players can register in person at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, or online through June 18, 2009 at www.worldseriesofpoker.com under the registration tab.

This event, as is every World Series of Poker tournament, is open to the public for viewing and admission is free. The event will take place in the famed Amazon Ballroom in the Rio Convention Center, just one day prior to the start of the WSOP Main Event, the game’s most prestigious poker event.

Cheadle, an accomplished poker player, and Duke, who has more than $4 million in tournament winnings, are committed to raising both public awareness about the tragedy in Darfur and funds to aid its victims. As the world’s richest sporting event, the WSOP awarded more than $180 million in 2008 and attracted participants from a record 124 nations.

In the previous events, many of the in the money finishers volunteered to donate half of their winnings to the charity. Proceeds from the event will go to the ENOUGH Project and Refugees International, organizations whose goals include raising public awareness and providing aid to the survivors of Darfur.
More information about the tournament is available at www.worldseriesofpoker.com. If you would like more information regarding the organization, please log onto www.anteupforafrica.org and follow us on twitter at www.twitter.com/anteupforafrica.

For more information, please contact:
Danika Berry for Ante Up For Africa
db Agency Public Relations
323-544-1482
danika@dbagencypr.com

Seth Palansky for WSOP
702-407-6344
spalansky@harrahs.com

Deanna Pettit for Rio
702-777-7610
dpettit@harrahs.com

About the World Series of Poker
The World Series of Poker (WSOP) is the largest, richest and most prestigious gaming event in the world awarding millions of dollars in prize money and the prestigious gold bracelet, globally recognized as the sport's top prize. Featuring a comprehensive slate of tournaments in every major poker variation, the WSOP is poker's longest running tournament in the world, dating back to 1970. In 2008, the event attracted 58,720 entrants from 124 different countries to the Rio in Las Vegas and awarded over $180 million in prize money. The creation of the new delayed Main Event final table more than doubled ratings on ESPN year-over-year. In December, 2008 the WSOP was named the 7th most admired sports brand in North America by the Turnkey Team Brand Index trailing only the more established NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, NASCAR and PGA Tour among sports properties. In addition, the WSOP has formed groundbreaking alliances in broadcasting, digital media and corporate sponsorships, while successfully expanding the brand internationally with the advent in 2007 of the World Series of Poker Europe. For more information on the World Series of Poker, please visit our website at www.worldseriesofpoker.com.
* World Series of Poker and WSOP are trademarks of Harrah's License Company, LLC ("Harrah's"). Harrah's does not sponsor or endorse, and is not associated or affiliated with, This and That or its products, services, promotions or tournaments.

Ante Up For Africa (AUFA) is a non-profit organization founded in 2006 by Don Cheadle, Annie Duke and Norman Epstein. We are dedicated to raising money and awareness for Africans in need. To date, Ante Up For Africa has raised close to $2 million for the cause and has donated to organizations such as Not On Our Watch (NOOW), ENOUGH and The International Rescue Committee. For more information, please log onto www.AnteUpForAfrica.org.

http:blog.billbruce.info

UPDATES:

• Ante Up for Africa Red Carpet and After-Party - Geoff Fisk (PokerListings.com)
• Ante Up For Africa Promo Video

Official World Series Of Poker® (WSOP) Launch Party Saturday, May 30

Lacey Jones To Host Official World Series Of Poker® (WSOP) Launch Party at ND's The Club, Saturday, May 30 at 10:30 PM inside the RIO

LAS VEGAS, NV – With the 40th Annual World Series of Poker, the world’s largest, richest and most prestigious gaming event, set to kickoff at the end of May at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, there’s no better way to celebrate the milestone event by throwing a party at one of the hottest new spots in the city. Everyone 21 and older is welcome to attend the celebration on Saturday, May 30th at ND’s the Club inside the Rio. Festivities begin with a VIP cocktail mixer at 9:00 PM “invite only” and the event officially kicks off at 10:30 PM. “We’re excited that the World Series of Poker chose ND’s The Club as the official launch party venue,” said ND, owner of ND’s The Club. “We welcome all the poker players, poker fans, tourists and locals to this much anticipated event.”

Professional poker player and model, Lacey Jones, is hosting the party, and special guest DJ Digital Boy will provide the music. Do It Right Productions, a full service marketing and PR firm will serve as the event organizer. Event is open to the public, all poker players, pokers fans, tourists and locals are welcome to attend this event. Capacity is limited.

UPDATE:

• Video: Lacey Jones hosts WSOP Kick-Off Party (PokerListings YouTube Channel)

About the World Series of Poker
The World Series of Poker (WSOP) is the largest, richest and most prestigious gaming event in the world awarding millions of dollars in prize money and the prestigious gold bracelet, globally recognized as the sport’s top prize. Featuring a comprehensive slate of tournaments in every major poker variation, the WSOP is poker’s longest running tournament in the world, dating back to 1970. In 2008, the event attracted 58,720 entrants from 124 different countries to the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas and awarded over $180 million in prize money. The creation of the new delayed Main Event final table more than doubled ratings on ESPN year over year. The WSOP in December, 2008 was named the 7th most admired sports brand in North America by the Turnkey Sports Survey, trailing only the older and more established NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, NASCAR and PGA Tour among sports properties. In addition, the WSOP has experienced groundbreaking alliances in broadcasting, digital media and corporate sponsorships, while successfully expanding the brand internationally with the advent in 2007 of the World Series of Poker EuropeSM. For more information on the World Series of Poker, please visit our website at www.worldseriesofpoker.com.
* World Series of Poker and WSOP are trademarks of Harrah's License Company, LLC ("Harrah's"). Harrah's does not sponsor or endorse, and is not associated or affiliated with, This and That or its products, services, promotions or tournaments.

About ND’s The Club
ND's The Club debuts a multi-faceted club experience at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino. Combining the elements of an interactive production with live performances, ND's introduces an exciting and unique evolution of nightlife to Las Vegas. This nightclub provides a total sensory experience with state-of-the-art technology and integrated performances by talented dancers and singers backed by live music. Interludes with surreal characters, elaborate costumes, and high-tech digital imaging make "ND's The Club" a premier nightlife destination. For further inquires please visit www.ndstheclub.com

http:blog.billbruce.info

San Diego WSOP Circuit Poker Series Includes 22 Tournaments

Big Turnout Expected at Rincon's Sixth-Annual WSOP Circuit Competition

Valley Center, CA - February 23, 2009 – By Nolan Dalla - (PRESS RELEASE) -- The world's largest and most prestigious poker tournament series is returning again to Southern California. For the sixth consecutive year Harrah's Rincon, the San Diego area's premier gaming and resort destination, will be hosting a World Series of Poker Circuit event. This year's 13-day tournament series takes place from March 19th through April 1st, 2009.

The World Series of Poker is the world's richest sporting event. Last year, the WSOP competition in Las Vegas alone awarded nearly $170 million in prize money to winners - more than Wimbledon, the Masters, and the Kentucky Derby combined. Five years ago, the WSOP hit the road for the first time in history. Poker tournaments were offered at multiple Harrah's properties spread throughout the United States. Rincon was one of the first casinos ever to host a WSOP-related event held outside of Las Vegas. Turnout has been strong every year, making Rincon one of the Circuit's most popular attractions.

This year's action-packed schedule includes 12 major daily tournaments, plus ten more late afternoon tournaments - bringing the combined menu to 22 total tournaments. This makes the upcoming Rincon series one of the busiest poker destinations of the season. In addition, the Rincon Poker Room will offer multiple satellites and around-the-clock cash-game action.

The Harrah's Rincon Casino and Resort is nestled in a quiet valley between the mountains 45-miles northeast of San Diego. Rincon, which has multiple dining, entertainment, and spa/fitness options for guests of all ages, is a convenient destination for poker enthusiasts throughout Southern California. In years past, Rincon's WSOP Circuit tournaments have attracted thousands of poker players with all levels of experience, from recreational competitors to world champions. Former WSOP champions Doyle Brunson, Chris "Jesus" Ferguson, Greg "Fossilman" Raymer, and Jerry Yang have attended in recent years. Rincon has also been visited by other poker greats, including Phil Ivey, Daniel Negreanu, Berry Greenstein, Phil Gordon, Chris Moneymaker, Annie Duke, Howard Lederer, Scotty Nguyen and many other superstars.

This year's poker tournament schedule includes a wide variety of poker games, including Limit Hold'em, No-Limit Hold'em, Pot-Limit Hold'em, Omaha High-Low, Seven-Card Stud High-Low, and H.O.R.S.E. In addition, there will be a ladies-only poker tournament and a special tournament for seniors. Tournament buy-ins start as low as $125. The Rincon championship event will be played on the final three days of the series (March 30th through April 1st) and will cost $5,150 to enter. Super-satellites for the championship event costing as little as $65 will be held daily, 24-hours a day.

"Harrah's Rincon is proud to be a fixture on the World Series of Poker Circuit," said Robert Livingston, Vice President & Assistant General Manager at Harrah's Rincon. "I know all our casino and hotel employees look forward to the excitement of this big-time tournament coming to Southern California. This year, we really intend to roll out the red carpet for everyone, whether they just want to play a little poker for fun or strive to become a world champion."

This year's tournament director is Jimmy Sommerfeld, one of poker's most respected and experienced gaming officials. The Harrah's Rincon poker room manager is Alexia Alsop, who will be working with her staff to coordinate San Diego's premier poker event. Additional staffing will be provided by the elite and prestigious Poker Tournament Consultants group.

To kick things off, Harrah's Rincon will host a "World Series of Poker Boot Camp," held on March 15th. The hands-on instructional series has proven to be wildly popular and immensely helpful to poker players of all levels. The special $399.99 package includes poker lessons from experts, entry into two daily poker tournaments (to be held Sunday, March 15th at 7 pm and Monday March 16th at 12 noon), a seat into a WSOP satellite tournament, a choice of hotel room accommodations, and a $50 food and beverage credit. This tremendous package value can be booked online at: www.harrahs.com. Later, on March 27th, Eric Lynch will be in attendance for a book signing. He is the author of "Winning Poker Tournaments One Hand at a Time."

Rincon is also providing special luxury hotel accommodations to poker players for as low as $81 per night. In addition, entrants who purchase a tournament buy-in $500 and greater will receive a $15 food coupon which can be used at several casino restaurants.

More about Harrah's Rincon

Winner of the 2007 SHRM Workplace Excellence Award (Marble Award in the Large Company category) and owned by the Rincon San Luiseno Band of Mission Indians and managed by HCAL, a subsidiary of Harrah's Operating Company, Harrah's Rincon Casino & Resort is located at 777 Harrah's Rincon Way (33750 Valley Center Road) in Valley Center, CA, 20 minutes northeast of Escondido. With approximately 1,600 employees and an identity as a top resort-gaming destination, the casino offers state-of-the-art amenities and the unparalleled customer service that has made Harrah's a nationally recognized brand.

* World Series of Poker and WSOP are trademarks of Harrah's License Company, LLC ("Harrah's"). Harrah's does not sponsor or endorse, and is not associated or affiliated with, This and That or its products, services, promotions or tournaments.

Christina Lindley Meet and Greet

Actress, Model, Professional Poker Player / Blogger, and Former Tennessean Christina Lindley to Play in Harrah’s Tunica World Series of Poker Circuit Event

TUNICA, MS - January 23, 2009 – Fresh from filming “Best Damn Poker Show 2” on ESPN actress, model, poker player / blogger, and former Nashville, Tennessee resident is making her way to Tunica, Mississippi to compete in the World Series of Poker Circuit Event at Harrah’s Tunica. Lindley will meet and greet fans and sign autographs Saturday, January 31, 2009 from noon to 2 p.m.

At the early age of fourteen, Christina got her first big break when a photographer discovered her at a mall in Georgia. He entered her in the Seventeen Magazine/JCPenney Cover Model Contest and Christina was one of the finalists. She appeared in her first layout in Seventeen Magazine followed by YM. Since then she appeared in countless national and international magazines including: “Maxim,” “Stuff,” :FHM,” “Celebrity Interview in Playboy,” “Fitness RX,” “Muscle And Fitness,” “TV Direkt,” “Olympian News,” “Ironman Magazine,” Boss,” “Muscular Development,” “MuscleMag,” “In Touch Weekly,” “People,” and “Star Magazine.”

Her national campaigns for print, commercial, and endorsements have included: Penta water, Vizio Flat screen Televisions, Pantene Pro-V, Strut, BSN, Bodybuilding.com, Lasvegasdirect.com, movietickets.com, and several others.

Once she found success in the modeling and fitness industry, naturally, the road led west. Christina packed up and moved to Hollywood intent on pursuing a career as an actress in film and television.

No stranger to hard work, she hit the ground running immediately engrossing herself in training with the best acting coaches in Hollywood including: Howard Fine, Larry Moss, and Eric Morris. She also began honing her comedic chops at the world famous Groundlings in Los Angeles. The Groundlings is the famous launching pad for the likes of Phil Hartman, Will Ferrell, and countless other SNL Alum.

In the short time since her arrival in LA, she has extensive film and television credits to her name. She just wrapped on three projects that will be released in 2008: A guest starring role on the all improv non-scripted "Head Case" on STARZ! Network starring Alexandra Wentworth, and she costars alongside the likes of Tom Cavanaugh in the first ever Lifetime miniseries produced by Emmy award Winning producer Stanley Brooks called "The Capture of the Green River Killer", as well as cameo in the feature film "Playboys" starring Trever Moore and Zach Creggor.

Her past film and television credits include: a costarring role in the 20th Century Fox film "The Marine" starring John Cena and Kelly Carlson, a national promo for the NFL and NBC promoting the FLEX SCHEDULE, "Campus Ladies" for Oxygen and famed “Curb your Enthusiasm” director Robert B. Weide, HBO's “Entourage,” appearing in the second season on MTV's popular tv show "Wild N'Out" with Nick Cannon as a "Wild N'Out" girl, GRB Entertainment's "Princes of Malibu". A guest star on Bravo's “Blowout,” Spike TV's “Video Game Awards” assisting Snoop Dogg in giving geeks there cheat codes, SPIKE TV's guide to dating for men called "The Playbook.” “Undiscovered” starring Ashley Simpson (The Hot Chick), Carrie Fischer (Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle) and Kip Perdue (Thirteen), as well as a Nick Cassavettes film (he directed “John Q and The Notebook”) called “Alpha Dogs,” featuring Bruce Willis (The Whole Ten Yards), Justin Timberlake (Longshot), and Sharon Stone (Catwoman).

A native of the South, Christina grew up in Atlanta, Georgia and attended high school in Nashville, Tennessee.

Christina currently resides in Los Angeles, and is a contributing writer to several national fitness magazines.

Harrah's Entertainment, Inc. is the world's largest provider of branded casino entertainment through operating subsidiaries. Since its beginning in Reno, Nevada over 70 years ago, Harrah's has grown through development of new properties, expansions and acquisitions, and now owns or manages casinos on four continents. The company’s properties operate primarily under the Harrah’s, Caesars and Horseshoe brand names; Harrah’s also owns the London Clubs International family of casinos. Harrah's Entertainment is focused on building loyalty and value with its customers through a unique combination of great service, excellent products, unsurpassed distribution, operational excellence and technology leadership. More information about Harrah's is available at www.harrahs.com

Contact: Patrick Collins 662-357-6924, pcollins1@harrahs.com

http:blog.billbruce.info

Caesars Palace Classic

LAS VEGAS, NV - October 30, 2008 –- The 2008 Caesars Palace Classic attracted a record number of entries. The field of 311 players eclipsed last year's mark of 286.

Due to the large field size, play went longer than expected on Days 1 and 2. Day 3 will be played on Thursday, October 30th, starting at 2 pm. The 19 remaining players will battle down to the final ten, which will constitute the final table.

Final table play is expected to begin sometime on Thursday evening and will be played through to a conclusion.

The current chip leader is 2007 WSOP Main Event finalist Hevad Khan. Also of interest is Sabyl Cohen, who ranks in third place. Cohen was the highest female player to finish in the 2006 WSOP Main Event. Gold bracelet winner Johnny "World" Hennigan also remains in the running.

20. Johnny D’Silva Bad Aibling (Germany) 17,738
21. William Heimiller Henderson, NV 17,738
22. Tony Ma S. El Monte, CA 17,738
23. Todd Peterson Henderson, NV 17,738
24. Dar Mahboubi Beverly Hills, CA 17,738
25. Keone Young Los Angeles, CA 17,738
26. Noah Schwartz Bay Harbor Island, FL 17,738
27. Kathy Liebert Las Vegas, NV 17,738

Source: Nolan Dalla reporting

http:blog.billbruce.info

John Juanda Wins 2008 WSOP Europe

John Juanda wins the record breaking Main Event at the World Series of Poker Europe presented by Betfair

LONDON, UK; October 3, 2008 --- At 10:32 am American John Juanda was the last man standing at the dramatic final table of the World Series of Poker Europe played at The Casino at The Empire, Leicester Square. Outlasting a starting field of poker heavyweights including Daniel Negreanu, Phil Ivey, Phil Hellmuth and Doyle Brunson the newly crowned 2008 WSOPE champion Juanda has taken home the £868,000 cash first prize and a coveted WSOPE winner's bracelet.

Juanda is the first American to win a WSOPE bracelet and his victory in London has ended his own personal drought dating back to 2003. Juanda came into the final table as chip leader and his shrewd and cunning performance throughout has landed him his 4th WSOP bracelet.

In a pulsating encounter which saw the record for the most hands played at a final table emphatically smashed, Juanda had to overcome two determined, rising Russian stars to claim the title. First he eliminated Ivan Demidov, the first man to reach both the WSOP and WSOPE final tables, and then he had to overcome Stanislav Alekhin, the man who had led for long periods of the day’s play. In the final heads up of the six day Main Event which lasted more than 19 hours Juanda revealed a (insert hand) beating Alekhin’s (insert cards).

Attracting the best players from around the world, WSOPE is the most prestigious event to take place outside of the US and compliments the WSOP which takes place annually in Las Vegas.

Beginning on the 19th September this year's WSOPE has seen established pros and Betfair online qualifiers go head-to-head to compete for the millions of prize money on offer.

Taking place at The Casino at The Empire, Leicester Square this year's showcase tournament has featured 1047 entrants for the four sanctioned bracelet events (No-Limit Hold'em / H.O.R.S.E / Pot Limit Omaha and World Championship No Limit Hold'em), with 362 chasing the Main Event dream.

1st Place – John Juanda (£868,800)
2nd Place – Stanislav Alekhin (£533,950)
3rd Place – Ivan Demidov (£334,850)
4th Place – Bengt Sonnert (£271,500)
5th Place – Daniel Negreanu (£217,200)
6th Place – Scott Fischman, USA (£171,950)
7th Place – Robin Keston, England (£135,750)
8th Place – Toni Hiltunen, Finland (£108,600)
9th Place - Chris Elliott, Scotland (£81,450)

Link: WSOPe2008.com

- Report by Nolan Dalla

http:blog.billbruce.info

World Series Of Poker EUROPE is off and running

BIGGEST NAMES, BRACELETS, BROAD TV EXPOSURE
AND THE CHANCE TO DETHRONE THE QUEEN. WORLD SERIES OF POKER EUROPE PRESENTED BY BETFAIR IS OFF AND RUNNING AT THE CASINO AT THE EMPIRE IN LONDON

LONDON, U.K., September 19, 2008 – The 2nd annual World Series of Poker Europe Presented by Betfair has arrived, and so have the biggest names in poker from all across the world.

With ESPN set to televise this year’s WSOPE Main Event in the U.S. and across Europe, the 2008 World Series of Poker Europe will become the most broadly televised poker tournament ever – and the first European poker tournament to receive TV coverage in the United States.

“We had tremendous success at the inaugural World Series of Poker Europe, but are convinced the changes to this year will result in an even better tournament,” said WSOP Director of Marketing Ty Stewart. “Registration is tracking ahead of last year and the lineup of names and the addition of another bracelet event have brought an electric buzz to start off this tournament.”

This television exposure and the chance to win the most prestigious prize in all of poker – a WSOP gold bracelet – is drawing the biggest names in poker.

“Betfair are delighted with the launch of the WSOPE. The player feedback has been tremendously positive and we look forward to this being the largest and most successful tournament in Europe this year,” said Ben Fried, head of poker for Betfair.

Among the players registered to participate in the 2008 WSOPE include the following professionals: 11-time WSOP bracelet winner Phil Hellmuth, 10-time WSOP champion Doyle Brunson, 10-time WSOP champion Johnny Chan, Defending WSOPE Main Event Champion Annette Obrestad, Daniel Negreanu, Phil Ivey, Allen Cunningham, Layne Flack, Patrik Antonius, Gus Hansen, Josh Arieh, Howard Lederer, Robert Williamson III, Barry Greenstein, Chris Ferguson, Mike Matusow, Max Pescatori, Vanessa Rousso, David Williams, Eric Seidel, Michael Mizrachi, Robert Mizrachi, Nenad Medic, David Benyamine, Tuan Le, Eli Elezra, Steve Zolotow, Ted Lawson and November Nine finalists Craig Marquis, Ivan Demidov, Peter Eastgate & Kelly Kim.

Last year, 18-year-old Norwegian Annette Obrestad bested a star-studded field to win the inaugural WSOPE Main Event and take home the largest prize ever for a female in any sporting contest, £1 million. Obrestad, who celebrated her 20th birthday yesterday, returns to defend her crown, against what promises to be another tough field of the game’s best poker players.

The 2008 WSOPE features four gold bracelet events, a £1500 No-Limit Hold’em that opens the tournament today and tomorrow (two start days), plus a £2500 H.O.R.S.E. event (9/22), a £5000 Pot Limit Omaha (9/24) and the Main Event (9/26), a £10,000 No Limit Hold’em World Championship.

http:blog.billbruce.info

Pre-Registration Opens For 2008 World Series of Poker®

LAS VEGAS - March 5, 2008 – Harrah’s Entertainment, Inc. said today pre-registration for the 2008 World Series of Poker Presented by Milwaukee’s Best Light is now open.

Players will be able to pre-register online at www.worldseriesofpoker.com or in person at the main cage of the Rio® All-Suite Hotel & Casino, host property for the 2008 WSOP. Pre-registration instructions and tournament rules are posted on the website.

“We’ve received only positive comments about the 2008 schedule, which offers WSOP bracelets in eight variations of poker and at multiple buy-in levels,” said Jack Effel, WSOP tournament director. “Because no alternates will be seated at the 2008 WSOP, we encourage players to pre-register early to guarantee their seats. Once again, acceptable forms of payment will include cash, cashier’s checks, wire transfers and Rio casino chips.”

The 39th edition of the WSOP will run from May 30 through July 16, 2008, and will include 55 bracelet tournaments. Buy-ins for open events will range from $1,000 to $50,000. The buy-in for the Main Event – the No-Limit Hold’Em World Championship – will remain at $10,000. The full event schedule is at www.worldseriesofpoker.com.

Harrah's Entertainment, Inc. is the world's largest provider of branded casino entertainment. Since its beginning in Reno, Nevada, more than 70 years ago, Harrah's has grown through development of new properties, expansions and acquisitions, and now owns or manages casinos on four continents. The Company's properties operate primarily under the Harrah's®, Caesars® and Horseshoe® brand names; Harrah's also owns the London Clubs International family of casinos and the World Series of Poker®. Harrah's Entertainment is focused on building loyalty and value with its customers through a unique combination of great service, excellent products, unsurpassed distribution, operational excellence and technology leadership. For more information, please visit www.harrahs.com.

Source: Pre-Registration Opens For 2008 World Series of Poker® Presented by Milwaukee’s Best Light (worldseriesofpoker.com)

http://blog.billbruce.info

World Series of Poker® Available To More Than 200 Stations

Weekly Nationwide Broadcasts Will Introduce WSOP to New Audiences

LAS VEGAS, NV January 22, 2008 – Harrah’s Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: HET) today announced the launch of World Series of Poker® Radio, the official weekly radio show of the World Series of Poker Presented by Milwaukee’s Best Light.

WSOP Radio is produced by Bluff Media and is available to more than 200 stations of the Sports Byline Radio Network. The broadcasts can be heard every Monday from 8 p.m. Eastern Time to 10 p.m. Eastern.

“World Series of Poker Radio is the latest addition to our broadcasting and new media portfolio and opens up a new way for us to connect with our fans and players,” said WSOP Commissioner Jeffrey Pollack. “We’re now ‘on the air’ every week with the biggest names in the game, news from the WSOP and insights from top poker analysts.”

Listeners can participate in the show by calling 1-866-925-TALK. Guests will include celebrities, past and present WSOP champions, tournament officials and up and coming players from around the world.

World Series of Poker Radio will be hosted by Nick Geber, a regular commentator on “World Series of Poker Live” and three-year host of Fox Sports World TV’s “Fox Football Friday.” Geber began his broadcasting career at Fox Radio in Los Angeles and has been heard on Sporting News Radio, Sirius Satellite Radio, Sports Byline Radio and the American Forces Radio. He is an avid poker player and regularly plays tournaments and cash games throughout the Los Angeles area.

"I'm very excited to bring poker’s ‘Major League’ to the airwaves," Geber said. "Now sports radio and poker fans can follow and participate in the action of the World Series of Poker every Monday!"

In addition to www.worldseriesofpoker.com and www.bluffmagazine.com, World Series of Poker Radio can be heard on American Forces Radio affiliates, www.sportsbyline.com, Cable Radio Network (CRN) and a variety of local radio affiliates in major markets nationwide, including:

KFCD 990 AM, Dallas
KGOW 1560 AM, Houston
KELA 1470 AM, Seattle
KSLG 1380 AM, St. Louis
WMOH 1450 AM, Cincinnati
KCXL 1140 AM, Kansas City
KSHP 1400 AM, Las Vegas
WSFN 790 AM, Jacksonville
KASR 92.7 FM, Little Rock
KPUA 670 AM, Honolulu
WNKT 107.5 FM, Columbia, S.C.
WXRB 1350 AM, Savannah
KSOO 1140 AM, Sioux Falls
KGNC 710 AM, Amarillo

More stations will be added weekly. World Series of Poker Radio also can be accessed over cell phones using Upsnap beginning January 28.

Harrah's Entertainment, Inc. is the world's largest provider of branded casino entertainment. Since its beginning in Reno, Nevada, more than 70 years ago, Harrah's has grown through development of new properties, expansions and acquisitions, and now owns or manages casinos on four continents. The Company's properties operate primarily under the Harrah's®, Caesars® and Horseshoe® brand names; Harrah's also owns the London Clubs International family of casinos. Harrah's Entertainment is focused on building loyalty and value with its customers through a unique combination of great service, excellent products, unsurpassed distribution, operational excellence and technology leadership. For more information, please visit www.harrahs.com.

Source: WSOP Press Release

STATS LLC and World Poker Tour® Partner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

STATS LLC and World Poker Tour® Partner to Offer Poker Industry’s First Ever Sports-Style Breakdowns and Analyses

Analysis and Stats of Every WPT Final Hand Played Will Be Featured on WorldPokertour.com, Allowing Fans to Study the Game Like Never Before

Los Angeles and Northbrook, IL – January 22, 2008 – STATS LLC, the world’s leading sports information provider, and WPT Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: WPTE), the leader in worldwide poker entertainment, announced today a partnership to deliver the first ever in-depth analyses and strategic breakdowns for the poker industry.

STATS—which provides data collection and analysis for 85 sports leagues and more than 55,000 events per year, including Major League Baseball, National Football League, and National Basketball Association—will deliver stats and information from every past and present World Poker Tour® (WPT) final table. WPT STATS data results are now available in the WPT player database exclusively on www.worldpokertour.com with new updates following each tournament, allowing poker fans and players to study intricacies of the game in ways never available before.

STATS will compile the aggregate actions of each final table hand in the company’s proprietary databases featuring over 100 tournaments in World Poker Tour history, as well as all tournaments going forward. STATS’ information will detail “playing style” along with situational analysis, breakdowns and trends for a more complete portrait of each World Poker Tour star. Examples include how often a player plays a pot; how often they take a hand to “showdown”; and the average bet size relative to the pot by player.

“This is an incredibly exciting move for us, as it will really change the way the game is studied and played,” said Ken Graiwer, Vice President of WPT Interactive. “This partnership with STATS will really bring poker information up to the level of sports analytics, giving fans and players a whole new perspective on the game. Before, you could watch the show to see how players play and speculate on why—NOW you can actually access statistical information on why they played a certain way and the success of their particular methods. Players can study each other and themselves.”

“We’re excited to partner with the World Poker Tour and unveil new insights for one of the world’s most popular games,” said Steve Byrd, Executive Vice President at STATS. “STATS enjoys a proven history of providing an alternative way for both fans and media alike to view and understand sports. We strongly believe this type of analyses will make the game more enjoyable for the growing legion of World Poker Tour fans.”

In 2003, WPT revolutionized televised poker and brought Texas Hold'em, the “Cadillac of Poker,” to the forefront of international excitement. WPT has turned poker into a sporting event that draws the young and old, men and women and people of all nationalities into the game; it has reshaped the face of poker and has raised the competitive bar to a new level. Now in it’s sixth season, WPT has made over 100 tour stops around the globe, has been licensed for broadcast in over 150 countries and territories, has awarded over $300 million dollars in prize money, created over 80 WPT Poker-Made Millionaires™ and recently announced a partnership with the Chinese Leisure Sports Administration Center to build the first ever National Traktor Poker Championship in China.

Contact: Nick Stamm
STATS, Inc.
847-583-2110
stamm@stats.com

Lyndsay LaGree
World Poker Tour
323-330-9876 (o)
llagree@worldpokertour.com

About STATS LLC
With more than 25 years experience in mission critical sports data collection, processing and distribution - STATS is the world's leading sports information, content and statistical analysis company. STATS offers a world-wide portfolio of sports information solutions - including the company’s hallmark of real-time scores, historical sports information and turnkey fantasy sports operation along with AP editorial content, breaking sports news and photos. STATS’ innovative sports information solutions are utilized in numerous business segments: professional teams; sports broadcast production, cable and satellite networks; interactive television; broadband, wireless and internet; game developers and fantasy sports providers; print media and wire services. STATS has offices in Bangalore, Barcelona, Beijing, Chicago, Hong Kong, London, Los Angeles, Mexico City, Milan, Mumbai, Münster, New York, The Hague and Tokyo.www.stats.com

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®, a television show based on a series of high-stakes poker tournaments that airs on the Travel Channel in the United States and is scheduled to begin broadcasting on GSN in early 2008. WPTE is licensed for broadcast globally. WPTE also offers real-money online gaming on its website, www.worldpokertour.com, which prohibits wagers from players in the U.S. and certain other restricted territories. WPTE 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. The company is also engaged in the sale of corporate sponsorships. For show information, tools for improving poker play, and other WPT news, fans may log on to www.worldpokertour.com. WPTE is a majority-owned subsidiary of Lakes Entertainment, Inc. (Nasdaq: LACO). Photos and media information can be found online at: www.worldpokertour.com

http://blog.billbruce.info

UltimateBet Brings Matt Savage On Board As Aruba Tournament Director

I'll be joining Matt in Aruba for the UltimateBet Aruba Classsic

May 30, 2007 – Nobody says “shuffle up and deal” quite like Matt Savage. And this fall, those words will be echoed from under a palm tree. UltimateBet.com today announced that the world’s leading tournament director is on board to oversee their signature 2007 Aruba Poker Classic tournament.

“We’re injecting the hottest poker tourney of the year with even more energy and excitement,” stated UltimateBet spokesperson George MacLean. “With the top tournament director signed on to help us give away an estimated $2.5 Million in prize money, online poker players have an unprecedented number of reasons to drop their jaws.”

To date, Savage has directed countless million-dollar tournaments including the WSOP and various WPT events. He has appeared on more than 300 televised poker shows on ESPN, GSN, Fox Sports, Travel Channel and other popular networks.

However, Savage’s credentials stretch far beyond just calling the shots on the poker room floor. In an effort to standardize tournament rules throughout the world, Savage founded the Tournament Directors Association. In 2003, he was inducted into the Poker Room Manager’s Hall of Fame as its very first member.

In order to secure Savage and return the tournament to its home at the Radisson Aruba Resort & Casino, the date of the weeklong tournament has been pushed back by one week. The 2007 Aruba Poker Classic will now be held from September 29th to October 6th.

The weeklong tournament gives online poker players the opportunity to celebrate their successes at the tables with their fellow poker players and with the industry’s best professionals. Past Aruba Poker Classic attendees have included Phil Hellmuth, Jennifer Tilly, Phil “The Unabomber” Laak, and Annie Duke. This year’s tournament is also attracting celebrities from the entertainment industry. Scott Ian from Anthrax has already secured a seat in this year’s event after winning VH1’s Rock Stars of Poker.

Online poker players can enter a series of freerolls or satellites to win an $8,500 Aruba prize package at UltimateBet.com. The prize package includes the $5,500 main event seat and $3,000 for travel and accommodations.

In 2006, Devon Miller captured the title, taking home $774,960 in cash. This year, with an estimated 750 players in the tournament, the first place prize is expected to be significantly bigger.

For more information on the 2007 UltimateBet Aruba Poker Classic, visit UltimateBet.com.

About UltimateBet
Designed with the assistance of the best poker players in the world - Phil Hellmuth and Annie Duke – UltimateBet provides the best poker games available on the Net. Players can download the free poker software, play in free ring games and tournaments and get tips from these pros to learn the sport or to enhance their playing strategy. UltimateBet currently has over 2 million registered players.

Source: Ultimate Bet Poker News

Related Articles: 2007 UltimateBet Aruba Poker Classic

World Poker Tour Announces Official Season VI Line-Up

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--WPT Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ:WPTE - News) today announced its official tournament schedule for Season VI of its highly popular TV show, the World Poker Tour® (WPT). The schedule includes 19 regular-season WPT tour stops and the annual ladies-only event, Ladies Night V. Several "WPT specials"--or themed invitation events--will be announced at a later date.
WPT introduced several new stops and venues, including new tournaments in the Caribbean's Turks & Caicos Islands, Casino Barcelona in Spain, and Mississippi's prestigious Beau Rivage, a sister property to the Gold Strike Casino and part of the MGM family. Additionally, WPT created additional tournament stops at several existing WPT member casinos.

"It's important to continue delivering fresh and exciting experiences for our players and fans on both the tournament and television level," said Steve Lipscomb, Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of the WPT. "By adding WPT stops in beautiful locations around the world coupled with our move to a gaming-dedicated network like GSN, season six is poised to be the best year yet."

Also filming established WPT tour stops held in the world's most beautiful casinos, WPT will return to Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, The Mirage, Foxwoods Resort Casino, Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Commerce Casino, The Bicycle Casino, Gold Strike Casino and Resort, Grand Sierra Resort and Casino, Bay 101, and Niagara Fallsview Resort Casino. The full Season VI tournament schedule is below.

WPT Season Six Schedule

The Mirage Poker Showdown
The Mirage, Las Vegas, NV
May 19 – 23, 2007: Final Table: May 23

Mandalay Bay Poker Championship
Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, NV
May 29 – June 2, 2007: Final Table: June 2

Bellagio Cup III
Bellagio, Las Vegas, NV
July 10 -15, 2007: Final Table: July 15

Legends of Poker
The Bicycle Casino, Los Angeles, CA
August 25 – 30, 2007: Final Table: August 30

WPT Ladies Night V
The Bicycle Casino, Los Angeles, CA
August 18, 2007: Final Table: August 31

Gulf Coast Poker Championship
Beau Rivage, Biloxi, MS
September 6 – 9, 2007: Final Table: September 9

Borgata Poker Open
Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa, Atlantic City, NJ
September 16 – 20, 2007: Final Table: September 20

Turks & Caicos Poker Classic
The Players' Club, Club Med, Turks & Caicos
September 25 – 30, 2007: Final Table: September 30

WPT Spanish Championship
Casino Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
October 12 – 16, 2007, Final Table Oct. 16

North American Poker Championship
Niagara Fallsview Resort Casino, Niagara Falls, Canada
October 26 – Nov 2, 2007: Final Table: November 2

World Poker Finals
Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mashantucket, CT
November 8 – 13, 2007: Final Table: November 13

Bellagio Five Diamond World Poker Classic
Bellagio, Las Vegas, NV
December 13 – 18, 2007: Final Table: December 18

World Poker Open
Gold Strike, Tunica, MS
January 20 - 23, 2008: Final Table: January 23

Borgata Poker Classic
Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa, Atlantic City, NJ
January 26 – 30, 2008: Final Table: January 30

L.A. Poker Classic
Commerce Casino, Los Angeles, CA
February 23 – 28, 2008: Final Table: February 28

WPT Celebrity Invitational
Commerce Casino, Los Angeles, CA
March 1 – 3, 2008: Final Table: March 3

Bay 101 Shooting Star
Bay 101, San Jose, CA
March 10 – 14, 2008: Final Table: March 14

World Poker Challenge
Grand Sierra Resort Casino, Reno, NV
March 25 – 28, 2008: Final Table: March 28

Foxwoods Poker Classic
Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mashantucket, CT
April 4 – 9, 2008: Final Table: April 9

WPT World Championship
Bellagio, Las Vegas, NV
April 19 – 25, 2008: Final Table: April 25

CardPlayer Media Announces Newly Expanded Player Representation Services

Las Vegas, March 28, 2007 - Card Player Media, the world’s foremost poker authority, announces that it has expanded its player representation services. Card Player Media has added public relations to its already impressive list of services for the professional poker player. Launched in 2006, the player representation services include; contract negotiations, player management, and corporate sponsorships for the poker professionals signed under Card Player Media.

“We are thrilled to be adding public relations services for the poker professionals signed under Card Player Media. We will continue to build on the Card Player reputation 19 years in the making by increasing the national media and corporate exposure of poker players.” Said Barry Shulman, Card Player Media’s C.E.O.

The Card Player public relations services will focus on mainstream media, targeting print and T.V. The services will also include press releases, media training, and image development. “Our goal is to create more mainstream exposure for celebrity poker players. With our public relations services, we will be bringing national media exposure to the best and the brightest poker professionals.” Said Tim Resnik, Chief Marketing Officer, Card Player Media. Players currently under Card Player Representation include: Mike Matusow, John D’Agostino, Barry Shulman, John Friedberg, and Jeff Shulman.

About Card Player Media
Card Player Media is a leading media resource for poker enthusiasts at every level of interest and ability. With more than 19 years of service to the poker industry, Card Player Media is the publisher of Card Player and Card Player Europe. Card Player Media also owns and operates a leading poker information por
tal on the Internet, CardPlayer.com.

Source: Click here to view the CardPlayer post.

www.blog.billbruce.info

Poker Players Move for Summary Judgment Against The World Poker Tour

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Players Argue That WPTE’s Illegal Agreements Constitute “Per Se” and “Quick Look” Violations of the Antitrust Laws

Los Angeles, March 14, 2007 – Today, seven of the world’s leading professional poker players filed a motion for summary judgment against WPT Enterprises, Inc. (“WPTE”) in federal district court in Los Angeles. In their motion for summary judgment, Plaintiffs Chris Ferguson, Andrew Bloch, Annie Duke, Phil Gordon, Joseph Hachem, Howard Lederer, and Greg Raymer have presented undisputed facts which establish that WPTE, which owns the World Poker Tour (“WPT”), has committed multiple violations of federal antitrust laws.

Specifically, the Plaintiffs seek a summary declaration by the Court that WPTE and the casinos which host WPT events have unlawfully conspired to force poker players to sign non-negotiable “releases” that require those players to grant WPTE the right to use their valuable names, likenesses, voices and images for zero compensation so that WPTE can exploit these rights to promote its own products and services. The Plaintiffs contend that the undisputed facts establish that WPTE and the casinos have agreed to boycott and exclude from WPT events any poker player who does not sign such a “release.” The Plaintiffs have also offered undisputed evidence that WPTE and the casinos are conspiring to restrict the number of poker tournaments in competition with the WPT by agreeing that the casinos cannot sponsor any televised non-WPT events. The Plaintiffs contend that these agreements constitute “per se” or “quick look” violations of federal antitrust laws. The “per se” and “quick look” tests apply to conduct which is so inherently anticompetitive that a court may summarily decide that such conduct violates U.S. antitrust laws without the need for full discovery or a trial.

If the motion is granted, WPTE will be permanently enjoined from: (1) agreeing with the casinos to require the Plaintiffs and other poker players to sign releases granting WPTE the right to use those players’ intellectual property rights to promote WPTE products and services; (2) using the grant of Plaintiffs’ intellectual property rights obtained from past releases; and (3) prohibiting casinos from sponsoring non-WPT poker tournaments.

Jeffrey Kessler, lead counsel for the poker players, stated: “If the players prevail in this summary judgment motion, WPTE’s unlawful agreements will come to a quick end without the need for further discovery or a trial. All poker players would then be able to compete in WPT tournaments without being forced to give up their valuable intellectual property rights for no compensation and the casinos would be free to sponsor competing televised poker tournaments of their own.”

A copy of the public version of Plaintiffs’ motion for summary judgment will be available at http://www.wptlawsuit.com/.
Plaintiffs are represented by the law firm of Dewey Ballantine LLP, whose attorneys have successfully represented NFL, NBA, and other players in similar antitrust lawsuits.

CONTACT:
Jeffrey Kessler (212) 259-8050, jkessler@deweyballantine.com
Alexander Kayne (212) 259-6915, akayne@ deweyballantine.com

###
About Dewey Ballantine LLP Dewey Ballantine LLP, founded in 1909, is an international law firm with more than 550 attorneys and locations in New York, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, East Palo Alto, Austin, London, Warsaw, Frankfurt, Milan, Beijing, and Rome. Through its network of offices, the firm handles some of the largest and most complex legal matters in the world.

Players File Suit Against WPT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Seven Top Poker Players File Antitrust Lawsuit Against The World Poker Tour

Players Sue to Enjoin WPTE’s Illegal Business Practices and Seek Damages for WPTE’s Wrongful Conduct

Las Vegas, July 19, 2006 -- Today, seven of the world’s top poker players filed an antitrust Complaint against WPT Enterprises, Inc. (“WPTE”) in federal district court in Los Angeles. By this lawsuit, Plaintiffs Chris Ferguson, Andrew Bloch, Annie Duke, Phil Gordon, Joseph Hachem, Howard Lederer, and Greg Raymer seek to enjoin – and seek treble and punitive damages for – WPTE’s continuing violations of federal and state antitrust laws.

WPTE operates the World Poker Tour (“WPT”), a series of televised, high stakes poker tournaments that are run by various casinos located throughout the United States and in parts of Canada and Europe.

The Complaint alleges that WPTE and the casinos have unlawfully conspired to eliminate competition for the services and intellectual property rights of top, high stakes professional poker players. In particular, the Complaint alleges that the casinos have agreed with WPTE that they will not host any non-WPT televised poker tournaments. The Complaint also alleges that WPTE and the casinos have conspired to fix the price and other terms and conditions under which Plaintiffs and other professional poker players are forced to give up their valuable services and intellectual property rights in order to participate in WPT tournaments.

Plaintiff Chris Ferguson stated as follows: “WPTE has stacked the deck against all poker players who wish to compete in its tournaments. They are using our names and images to sell their products without our prior consent and without any compensation. We cannot let these wrongful actions stand. We will prosecute this lawsuit for as long as it takes to change WPTE’s unlawful ways.”

Plaintiff Annie Duke stated that: “We are bringing this action to change the way WPTE treats players. Our goal is not just to win for ourselves, but to set a precedent so that all players can be dealt a fair hand.”

Plaintiffs are represented by the law firm of Dewey Ballantine LLP, whose lead counsel, Jeffrey Kessler, has successfully represented NFL, NBA, and other players in similar antitrust suits. Mr. Kessler stated the following: “It is now well established that the antitrust laws protect professional athletes and other players when agreements are entered into that restrain competition for their services. This is as true for the business of professional poker tournaments as it is for professional football, basketball, and other sports. Professional poker players are entitled to a free market for their services, which will also benefit consumers since the result will be more and higher quality poker tournaments.”

Plaintiff Greg Raymer stated that: “Our success in this lawsuit will benefit all current and future poker players. I am proud to be part of it.”

Plaintiffs are seven of the most widely recognized and successful professional poker players in the world. Plaintiffs Howard Lederer and Phil Gordon, for example, are two poker superstars who have won three WPT tournaments between them. Plaintiff Chris Ferguson, perhaps the most widely recognized poker player in the world, and Plaintiffs Joseph Hachem and Greg Raymer, have each won the World Series of Poker (“WSOP”) Main Event. Plaintiff Annie Duke has also won a WSOP event, and is regarded as the best and most accomplished female professional poker player in the history of poker. Plaintiff Andrew Bloch has two WPT “Final Table” appearances.

CONTACT:
Jeffrey Kessler (212) 259-8050, jkessler@dbllp.com
David Feher (212) 259-8070, dfeher@dbllp.com

About Dewey Ballantine LLP

Dewey Ballantine LLP, founded in 1909, is an international law firm with more than 550 attorneys and locations in New York, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, East Palo Alto, Houston, Austin, London, Warsaw, Frankfurt, Milan, Beijing, and Rome. Through its network of offices, the firm handles some of the largest, most complex corporate transactions, litigation and tax matters.

Veteran Poker Pro Dan Harrington Shows The Youngbloods Who's Boss

'Action' Dan wins Poker Royale: Battle of the Ages

In a fierce heads up match between “Action” Dan Harrington and Michael “The Kid” Gracz, time and experience was on the veteran’s side as he schooled the young blood on poker. After playing in three previous matches and the finale, Harrington took home the grand prize of $50,000, and the POKER ROYALE: BATTLE OF THE AGES crown.

Known for his “action” at the table, Harrington is one of the most recognized players on the poker circuit today. Gracz has also made a name for himself in his young career. Most recently, he won World Poker Tour’s PartyPoker.com Million IV in March of 2005.

Harrington and Gracz had tough company at the final table. They beat out veterans “Miami” John Cernuto and Wendeen Eolis and youngsters Jennifer Leigh, and Erin Ness. The stakes were high during the final hand. It came down to poker master Harrington having nearly a three-and-a-half-to-one chip lead over young blood Gracz.

Gracz raised with pocket jacks after Harrington called with king/queen suited, as both players tried to trap one another. Then, both players went all in and headed to the flop with eight/king/nine, giving Harrington a pair of kings. With the turn card an ace, and the river a queen. Harrington emerged victorious.

Other players for the veterans were TJ Cloutier (six World Series of Poker bracelets), Barbara Enright (best all around 2002 Legends of Poker) and Maureen Feduniak (1st Place 2003 World Poker Tour Ladies Night Main Event).

Other young poker stars were Dutch Boyd (tied for 11th place in the 2003 World Series of Poker main event), Evelyn Ng (2nd Place World Poker Tour Ladies Night) and Kasey Thompson (Associate Publisher of All In Magazine).

Source: GSN Press Release

http:blog.billbruce.info

Phil “THE UNABOMBER” Laak Becomes Two-Time Champion

Phil 'The Unabomber' Laak Becomes Two-Time Champion In GSN’S Poker Royale: The James Woods Gang vs. The Unabombers

October 29, 2005 – Phil “The Unabomber” Laak has struck again in GSN’s THE JAMES WOODS GANG VS. THE UNABOMBERS IN POKER ROYALE. In a battle of strategy and luck, the hooded and sunglass wearing captain of “The Unabombers” team went heads-up against top female poker player Kathy Liebert for “The James Woods Gang” and took home the final grand prize of $50,000.

This marks Laak’s second win in POKER ROYALE. He previously placed first in POKER ROYALE: COMEDIANS VS. PROS, beating out 12 other players. Liebert, who is a GSN two-time champion on POKER ROYALE (THE WPPA CHAMPIONSHIP and BATTLE OF THE SEXES) went into the final round as the top point earner for her team.

In the final hand of the game, Liebert held pocket eights, with Laak sitting on ace and queen of spades. In usual “Unabomber” fashion, he raised his hood and moved all in, with Liebert following. The flop was 9-7-6 all spades, giving Laak the nut flush. When the turn was a king of hearts, the final card was meaningless.

Making it to the final table was no easy feat. The captain’s choice format meant that players had to perform in the early rounds and they also had to earn their team captains trust that they could do it under the pressure of the final table. Laak chose Hassan Habib and Cyndy Violette, and aside from Liebert and himself, Woods chose Ted Forrest.

Playing in previous matches for “The James Woods Gang” were Kathy Liebert (ranked in the top 20 players of all time, winner of POKER ROYALE: BATTLE OF THE SEXES), Bob Goen (Entertainment Tonight), Ted Forrest (five World Series of Poker bracelets), Susie Isaacs (two World Series of Poker bracelets) and Nicole Sullivan (Hot Properties, Mad TV).

Representing “The Unabombers” were Jennifer Tilly (2005 WSOP Women’s Final Table bracelet winner), Cyndy Violette (1st Place 2004 World Series of Poker Seven Card Stud), Danny Masterson (That 70’s Show), Hassan Habib (2nd Place 2004 World Poker Tour Championship) and Gail O’Grady (NYPD Blue, American Dreams).

THE JAMES WOODS GANG VS. THE UNABOMBERS IN POKER ROYALE is part of GSN’s Casino Night, airing every Friday at 10:00PM ET/PT. POKER ROYALE: BATTLE OF THE AGES premieres Friday, November 4th at 10:00PM ET/PT. The seven-episode series features six top players over 60 competing against six best players under 30 for a grand prize of $50,000.

Source: GSN Press Release

http://blog.billbruce.info

Veterans Vs. Young Aces Go Head-To-Head POKER ROYALE: Battle of the Ages

For Immediate Release

VETERAN POKER KINGS AND YOUNG ACES GO HEAD-TO-HEAD IN GSN’S POKER ROYALE: BATTLE OF THE AGES

Series Premieres Friday, November 4 at 10:00PM ET/PT Featuring Top Six Players Over 60 Against Top Six Players Under 30-Years-Old,/p>

(Santa Monica, CA) – The test of time and experience goes heads up against the hottest young poker players when GSN’s POKER ROYALE: BATTLE OF THE AGES premieres with two back-to-back episodes on Friday, November 4 at 10:00PM ET/PT. Hoping to send the youngsters into an early retirement, the veteran poker masters will showcase their skills against the newest faces in the game.

The seven-episode series features two teams of six players each. During each match, three players from each team play a game of No Limit Texas Hold ‘Em and earn points based on how they finish the game. The top three point earners from each team will battle it out at the final table in the two-hour grand finale, with the winner taking home a prize of $50,000.

Representing the poker masters are TJ Cloutier (six World Series of Poker bracelets), Dan Harrington (appeared at back-to-back final tables at the 2003 and 2004 World Series of Poker where he won over $2,000,000), “Miami” John Cernuto (three World Series of Poker bracelets), Barbara Enright (best all around 2002 Legends of Poker), Maureen Feduniak (1st Place 2003 World Poker Tour Ladies Night Main Event) and Wendeen Eolis (first woman to finish in the money at the World Series of Poker, 4th place at the World Poker Tour Ladies Night II Invitational).

Playing for the young poker stars are Michael “The Kid” Gracz (1st place 2005 World Poker Tour Party Poker.com IV and World Series of Poker bracelet winner), Dutch Boyd (tied for 11th place in the 2003 World Series of Poker main event), Erin Ness (second highest female in the 2004 World Series of Poker and 2nd place in POKER ROYALE: YOUNG BLOODS), Evelyn Ng (2nd Place World Poker Tour Ladies Night), Jennifer Leigh (22 year-old who has won five multi-tournaments), Kasey Thompson (Associate Publisher of All In Magazine).

Calling the action will be host John Ahlers. Poker analysis will be provided by professional poker player Robert Williamson III and sideline reporting by Lisa Dergan.

POKER ROYALE: BATTLE OF THE AGES is the seventh installment of GSN’s “POKER ROYALE” franchise which has included the WPPA CHAMPIONSHIP, BATTLE OF THE SEXES, CELEBRITIES VS. PROS, YOUNG BLOODS SPECIAL LIVE, COMEDIANS VS. PROS and THE JAMES WOODS GANG VS. THE UNABOMBERS. The program airs every Friday with two back-to-back episodes as part of GSN’s Casino Night.

GSN, the Network for Games, is the only U.S. television network dedicated to game-related programming. The network features game shows, reality series, documentaries, alternative sports programs and casino games. As the industry leader in interactivity, GSN has allowed viewers to play-along with on-air programming via their computers and GSN.com for some time. The recent launch of GSNi (GSN Interactive) has taken interactivity to the next level, affording viewers the chance to play-along with TV shows using only their remote controls. Reaching more than 57 million Nielsen homes, GSN is distributed in the U.S. through all major cable systems and satellite providers. The network is jointly owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment and Liberty Media Corporation. For further media information, visit GSN’s press website at corp.gsn.com.

Source: GSN press release.

GSN Goes “All In” With James Woods And Phil “The Unabomber” Laak

For Immediate Release

NO LIMIT TEXAS HOLD ‘EM POKER TOURNAMENT “THE JAMES WOODS GANG VS. THE UNABOMBERS IN POKER ROYALE”

(Santa Monica, CA) – GSN will begin production on THE JAMES WOODS GANG VS. THE UNABOMBERS IN POKER ROYALE on Monday, July 25th at Pechanga Resort & Casino in Temecula, California. A team of celebrities lead by actor James Woods will take on top professional poker player Phil “The Unabomber” Laak’s team in a No Limit Texas Hold ‘Em tournament. The team captains hope to lead their players to victory, bragging rights, and the final pot. The show will premiere on Friday, November 25 at 10:00PM ET/PT.

“James Woods’ Gang” includes James Woods (actor and professional poker player) and Kathy Liebert (two-time POKER ROYALE winner, and World Series of Poker bracelet winner). “The Unabombers” include Phil Laak (placed 1st in the 2004 World Poker Tour Main Event) and Jennifer Tilly (actress and winner of the 2005 World Series of Poker Ladies Final Table). Additional players to be announced shortly.

THE JAMES WOODS GANG VS. THE UNABOMBERS IN POKER ROYALE is part of of GSN’s poker franchise. The series airs every Friday at 10:00PM as part of GSN’s Casino Night and has included COMEDIANS VS. PROS, YOUNG BLOODS SPECIAL (LIVE), CELEBRITIES VS. PROS, BATTLE OF THE SEXES and THE WPPA CHAMPIONSHIP.



On Wednesday, July 27th, GSN will also begin production at Pechanga Resort & Casino on POKER ROYALE: BATTLE OF THE AGES, pitting the world’s top six poker players over 60 against the top six poker players under 30. The series will shoot for two days and all media are invited to attend. The grizzled veterans include TJ Cloutier (six World Series of Poker bracelets), Dan Harrington (earned 2.14 million in consecutive World Series of Poker Tournaments in 2003 and 2004), Gabe Kaplan (2nd place in the 2005 World Series of Poker Limit Hold ‘Em final day and actor on “Welcome Back Kotter”), Barbara Enright (Best all around 2002 Legends of Poker), Maureen Feduniak (1st Place 2003 World Poker Tour Ladies Night Main Event) and Wendeen Eolis (4th Place 2004 Legends of Poker Ladies Night).

The young whipper snappers include Michael Gracz (2005 World Series of Poker bracelet winner), Dutch Boyd (tied for 11th place in the 2003 World Series of Poker main event), Erin Ness (2nd place POKER ROYALE: YOUNG BLOODS), Evelyn Ng (2nd Place World Poker Tour Ladies Night) and Kasey Thompson (professional poker player). Additional players to be announced shortly. The show will premiere on Friday, October 7 at 10:00PM ET/PT.

Returning as host is John Ahlers, play-by-play voice of the NHL’s Mighty Ducks of Anaheim. Joining him is color commentator and professional poker player Robert Williamson III. Lisa Dergan will also be returning as sideline reporter.

POKER ROYALE is produced by Jeff Mirkin Productions in association with ArmFitz Productions. Maureen FitzPatrick, Jeff Mirkin and John Faratzis serve as executive producers.

GSN, the Network for Games, is the only U.S. television network dedicated to game related programming and interactive game playing. The network features game shows, reality series, documentaries, alternative sports programs and casino games. As the industry leader in interactivity, GSN features interactive programming for every original broadcast, allowing viewers a chance to win prizes by playing along with GSN’s televised games via GSN.com. Reaching 57 million Nielsen homes, GSN is distributed in the U.S. through all major cable systems and satellite providers. The network is jointly owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment and Liberty Media Corporation. For further media information, visit GSN’s press website at corp.gsn.com.

Source: Press Release on GSN website.