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April 30, 2006

Los Angeles Times Names Book Prize Winners

To understand the internet you have to be open to change.

Written by Joyce L Chow & William Hoehne April 30, 2006
Written by Joyce L Chow & William Hoehne April 30, 2006

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ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY
MORE THAN FOUR MONTHS BEFORE My Network TV launches, the Fox O&Os that make up its affiliate core are starting to re-brand to reflect the coming network.
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Making good on a promise made months ago, Warner Home Video has announced the first disc with HD DVD content on one side and standard-DVD content on the other.
Raven Symone Opens First Annual 'School's Out!' Radio Disney Music Festival at Morey's Piers June 17
Carson Kressley, Jai Rodriguez of 'Queer Eye' Join Singer Deborah Gibson & Actors Hal Sparks, Wilson Cruz to Kick Off AIDS Walk/Ft. Lauderdale, April 30th
North Shore Animal League America's Tour for Life 'Grand Finale' Celebrity Event at FAO Schwarz In New York City
Los Angeles Times Names Book Prize Winners
26th Annual Literary Awards Presented April 28 at UCLA's Royce Hall
NEWS 12 NETWORKS ADOPTS SONY'S XDCAM HD PROFESSIONAL DISC SYSTEM FOR ENG
Up-Mobile Announces Exclusive Rights to Offer The 2006 FIFA World Cup(TM) Official Mascot TV Series For Mobile Distribution
SPORTS & AUTOS
Oakland & Dodger baseball
Olympic Accommodation Provider for Media, Sponsors, and National Olympic Committees Debuts in Football 2006
DOD
Diplomacy remains America's choice in dealing with Iran
Civilian Leaders Wowed by USS Ronald Reagan's Capabilities
NEWS from China and news in Spanish

Radio Address by President Bush to the Nation
'Had Enough? Vote Democratic!' Is NOT ENOUGH, Need New Double-Citizenship Party
New Government Report Slams SBA on Oversight of Alaska Native Corporations
VATICAN NEWS
Chinese president meets senior UN officials
Chinese President Hu Jintao met with US Vice President Dick Cheney, Senate President Pro Tempore Ted Stevens and National Security Advisor to President Bush Stephen Hadley respectively in the guesthouse where he stayed.
LA ANTIQUE SHOW & Hamshere Gallery with International Canine Pedigree

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ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY
MORE THAN FOUR MONTHS BEFORE My Network TV launches, the Fox O&Os that make up its affiliate core are starting to re-brand to reflect the coming network.
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WWOR in New York, for example, is now "My 9."

WWOR, formerly UPN 9, has placed its newscasts under the "My 9 News" flag and refers to itself in on-air and radio promotions as "My 9."

In Dallas, KDFI is now "My 27." The other stations will gradually take on similar labels throughout the summer.

In February, Fox Television Stations group announced that it would help launch the 12-hour-a-week My Network TV in September to provide programming for its 10 UPN stations that will lose their network affiliation when UPN disbands this fall (UPN and The WB are merging to form The CW). At the time, My Network TV said it would "maintain and strengthen affiliates' community brand recognition with a complete look and feel of a national network that empowers localism."

The Fox-owned My Network stations are in the three largest markets--New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago--and cover 24 percent of the country. The network has since signed up other affiliates, giving it coverage over a wide swath of the country. It's unclear whether the My Network TV stations outside the Fox group such as the 17 owned by the Sinclair Broadcast Group will take on a similar re-brand.

Making good on a promise made months ago, Warner Home Video has announced the first disc with HD DVD content on one side and standard-DVD content on the other.

Rumor Has It… will be in stores May 9, the same day as the regular DVD of the film, a Rob Reiner-helmed romantic comedy starring Jennifer Aniston and Kevin Costner.

The announcement comes exactly one week after the first two HD DVD players, both from Toshiba, arrived in stores, along with just three software titles: Serenity from Universal Studios Home Entertainment and Warner’s The Last Samurai and The Phantom of the Opera.

Steve Nickerson, SVP of market management for Warner, had said several weeks ago that Warner would be releasing a series of “hybrid” discs to ease the transition among consumers from standard to high-def DVD.

“Purchasing a disc now in this format gives consumers the greatest flexibility in viewing options: If they own an HD DVD player, they’ll get all the benefits of HD DVD,” Nickerson said. “If they’re considering a future purchase of an HD DVD player, they can still enjoy the movie [on their existing DVD player] until they upgrade.”

Warner also announced three more titles to be released in the HD DVD format: Goodfellas and Swordfish on May 2 and Training Day on May 9.

They join three previously released HD DVD titles from Warner: Samurai, Phantom and Million Dollar Baby, which had originally been earmarked as part of the April 18 launch package but due to technical issues didn’t arrive in stores until late last week.

Goodfellas, Swordfish and Training Day list for $28.99, while Rumor Has It… will be available at $39.99.
will be in stores May 9, the same day as the regular DVD of the film, a Rob Reiner-helmed romantic comedy starring Jennifer Aniston and Kevin Costner. The announcement comes exactly one week after the first two HD DVD players, both from Toshiba, arrived in stores, along with just three software titles: from Universal Studios Home Entertainment and Warner’s and Steve Nickerson, SVP of market management for Warner, had said several weeks ago that Warner would be releasing a series of “hybrid” discs to ease the transition among consumers from standard to high-def DVD. “Purchasing a disc now in this format gives consumers the greatest flexibility in viewing options: If they own an HD DVD player, they’ll get all the benefits of HD DVD,” Nickerson said. “If they’re considering a future purchase of an HD DVD player, they can still enjoy the movie [on their existing DVD player] until they upgrade.” Warner also announced three more titles to be released in the HD DVD format: and on May 2 and on May 9. They join three previously released HD DVD titles from Warner: and which had originally been earmarked as part of the April 18 launch package but due to technical issues didn’t arrive in stores until late last week. and list for $28.99, while will be available at $39.99.
Raven Symone Opens First Annual 'School's Out!' Radio Disney Music Festival at Morey's Piers June 17

Morey's Piers, New Jersey's premier seaside amusement destination, and Radio Disney, the only 24/7 listener driven radio network where kids and families can rock out together, have joined forces to present the first annual "School's Out!" Radio Disney Music Festival. This mega-concert event will feature Raven (formerly credited as Raven-Symone), one of today's hottest young artists, along with two other Radio Disney performances. Morey's Piers is currently promoting the June 17 concert event with advance ticket sales on its website http://www.moreyspiers.com/, and by calling 1-866-MOREYS-1.

Raven is the star of the hit Disney Channel Series, "That's So Raven." She is also best known for her role as Olivia in the long-running hit series, "The Cosby Show." The multi-faceted teen began her successful music career at age five when she released her first hit single "What Little Girls Are Made Of." Her CDs, to date, include "This is My Time," "Undeniable," "Here's to New Dreams" and the soundtrack from "The Cheetah Girls."

"At just 20 years old, Raven has worked alongside Bill Cosby, launched a music career through Radio Disney, and starred in her own TV show on the Disney Channel. We are extremely excited to present Raven at the Radio Disney AM640 School's Out Summer Concert at Morey's Piers," said Elyse Lupin, Promotions Entertainment Manager for Radio Disney.

"Morey's Piers and Radio Disney are the perfect partners to bring fun and first-class family entertainment to kids and families. With Morey's Piers' unique beach location and thrilling attractions, along with the excitement and enthusiasm that Radio Disney generates with its talented young artists, you have the perfect formula for a full family recreation experience," said Will Morey, President of Morey's Piers.

Financial support for the first annual "School's Out!" Radio Disney Music Festival has been provided by the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority.

Tickets for the concert are limited. Tickets purchased in advance are $15 for Festival only (5pm - 7pm) and $30 for Festival and Morey's Piers ride wristband and Waterpark admission, good from noon to midnight. Any remaining tickets purchased the day of the Festival at Morey's Piers are $20 for Festival only and $48 for Festival and Morey's Piers ride wristband and Waterpark admission. All seats are general admission. Go to http://www.moreyspiers.com/ for advance ticket sales, specific concert times and featured artists.

About Radio Disney:

Radio Disney, the number-one family destination on the radio, is available to 97% of the U.S. through broadcast, satellite and cable distribution. Radio Disney has developed a growing and loyal audience of kids, tweens and their families, especially moms. The 24/7 network offers family friendly music and programming as well as superstar promotions. It has won the "Silver Angel Award for Excellence in Programming," "Parenting's Media Excellence Award" and Radio Ink's "Reader's Choice Award" for best full time format. In addition, Radio Disney can be heard internationally and is currently available in the United Kingdom, Japan, and most of South America.

About Morey's Piers:

Morey's Piers is a family owned and operated amusement center established in 1969. It is located in the center of Wildwood New Jersey, a family resort shore community offering beaches, shopping, dining, nightlife and accommodations. Morey's Piers attractions span six beach blocks and include three amusement Piers and two beachfront Waterparks: Surfside Pier at 25th Avenue, Mariner's Landing Pier at Schellenger Avenue, Adventure Pier at Spencer Avenue, Raging Waters Waterpark on Mariner's Landing Pier and Ocean Oasis Waterpark and Beach Club on Surfside Pier. Convenient to the major population centers of the northeast but a world apart, Morey's Piers combines the pure joy of an amusement park with the sights and sounds of a classic boardwalk and the rhythm of beach life. Morey's Piers is committed to providing a spectacular family recreation experience in an exceptionally safe, clean, friendly and unique environment. Admission to the Piers is free.

Web site: http://www.moreyspiers.com/

Carson Kressley, Jai Rodriguez of 'Queer Eye' Join Singer Deborah Gibson & Actors Hal Sparks, Wilson Cruz to Kick Off AIDS Walk/Ft. Lauderdale, April 30th

Sponsored by AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Walk Benefits Local HIV/AIDS Service Organizations, Raises Awareness of Broward County's Increasing AIDS Epidemic

what: AIDS Walk/Ft. Lauderdale

when: THIS Sunday, April 30th OPENING CEREMONY BEGINS @ 9:15AM

where: Huizenga Plaza, Downtown Ft. Lauderdale

who: CARSON KRESSLEY, Queer Eye for the Straight Guy JAI RODRIGUEZ, Queer Eye for the Straight Guy DEBORAH GIBSON, Singer HAL SPARKS, Actor (Queer as Folk) WILSON CRUZ, Actor (My So-Called Life, Rent)

contact: Ft. Lauderdale: WILLIAM ARCHER, AIDS Walk/Ft. Lauderdale, 866.883.WALK Los Angeles: LORI YEGHIAYAN, AHF Communications Specialist, 323.860.5527, 323.377.4312 c

In response to the rising incidence of HIV in Broward County, Craig R. Miller, MZA Events and AIDS Healthcare Foundation proudly present AIDS Walk/Ft. Lauderdale this Sunday, April 30th, 2006 starting and ending at Huizenga Plaza in downtown Ft. Lauderdale. Carson Kressley and Jai Rodriguez (Queer Eye for the Straight Guy), singer Deborah Gibson, actors Hal Sparks (Queer as Folk, Survival of the Richest) and Wilson Cruz, as well as Jessica Care More (Poet, Author and Activist) and others, will join a diverse crowd of thousands of walkers to raise awareness and funds to fight the AIDS epidemic in Broward County. AIDS Walk/Ft. Lauderdale, the first in Broward County for some years, comes on the heels of a study released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cementing South Florida as a major epicenter of the disease in the U.S. with a sizable increase in new AIDS cases in 2004.

Despite updated data showing a small decrease in new AIDS cases in 2005, an increase in new HIV cases in the county indicates that the epidemic is continuing to spread in South Florida.

AIDS Walk/Ft. Lauderdale will focus on funding vital services for people living with HIV/AIDS in Broward, as well as dramatically increasing prevention efforts throughout Broward County. The event benefits AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the nation's largest AIDS organization which operates free AIDS treatment clinics in the US, Africa, Central America and Asia; Minority Development and Empowerment Inc.; Mount Bethel; Mount Olive Development Corp.; and Broward House. All of these organizations' dedicated staff and volunteers provide services to men, women and children affected by HIV/AIDS in Broward County. For more information, to make a donation, or to register as a walk participant go to: www.AIDSWalk.net

"As the rate of HIV cases continues to increase in Broward County, we at AIDS Healthcare Foundation and Positive Healthcare/Florida appreciate this opportunity to bring a renewed awareness to the community to help reverse this alarming trend," said Joey Wynn, AHF Community Affairs Manager, Florida Division. "The AIDS Walk has always been a symbol of collaboration as people come together to fight HIV in their communities and we are grateful to be a benefiting organization of AIDS Walk/Ft. Lauderdale. We look forward to continued collaboration with the communities of South Florida as we seek to address the epidemic head-on, expanding not only our prevention efforts, but also the HIV/AIDS medical services we provide to HIV-positive Floridians who urgently need care."

In addition to operating an HIV/AIDS treatment clinic in Florida, AIDS Healthcare Foundation also runs a Medicaid disease management program serving 10,000 Floridians living with HIV/AIDS. Positive Healthcare/Florida, is the most successful disease management program in the state, as well as the first and only HIV/AIDS disease management program in the United States to have received Full Accreditation by the prestigious National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). AHF outreach efforts have succeeded in bringing hundreds of untreated HIV-positive Floridians into care who urgently need it.

Source: AIDS Healthcare Foundation

North Shore Animal League America's Tour for Life 'Grand Finale' Celebrity Event at FAO Schwarz In New York City

Today North Shore Animal League America's Tour for Life 'Grande Finale' event will take place at FAO Schwarz' flagship store at Fifth Avenue and 58th Street in New York City from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Celebrities along with homeless puppies and kittens from North Shore Animal League America fill the windows of FAO Schwarz, the world's most famous toy store, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. to help save shelter pets. The event, which marks the final stop of the League's annual Tour for Life, continues with pet adoptions in the League's mobile adoption unit from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Additionally, League supporters are invited to a private shopping hour at FAO Schwarz from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. FAO Schwarz will generously donate 15% of the proceeds from this hour to North Shore Animal League America.

Celebrities in attendance will include: Beth Ostrosky, Edie Falco, Malcolm in the Middle's Erik Per Sullivan, American Idol's Constantine Maroulis, Hallie Kate Eisenberg, Queer Eye for the Straight Guy's Jai Rodriguez, Josh Flitter, and Memoirs of a Geisha's Zoe Weizenbaum.

A cooperative initiative with animal shelters across the country, Tour for Life helps save pets across America and reinforces the importance and advantages of adopting shelter cats and dogs. Since its inception in 2001, Tour for Life has placed thousands of needy animals with loving families. Tour for Life commenced on March 29 as two of the League's Mobile Adoption Units began across the country, each on a separate route, helping over 100 shelter and rescue groups across the country find homes for orphaned pets.

FAO Schwarz, the gracious host of this year's grand finale event, join North Shore Animal League America to save lives of numerous pets across the country. For 143 years, FAO Schwarz has enchanted children and adults alike with its unequaled collection of toys and other fine children's products. On April 29th they will help enchant the lives of homeless puppies and kittens by helping them to find loving homes.

Tour for Life is sponsored by Purina(R), Bayer Healthcare(R), LLC Animal Health Division, Fort Dodge Animal Health(R), and Nylabone(R) Products.

If you'd like to attend today's event, please contact Tina Loncaric at 917.892.9350 or Heather Hunter at 516.232.5998

About North Shore Animal League America

North Shore Animal League America, headquartered in Port Washington, NY, is the largest no-kill animal rescue and adoption organization in the world. The League reaches across the country to rescue, nurture and adopt nearly 20,000 pets into happy and loving homes every year. Since being founded in 1944, they have placed closed to 1 million puppies, kittens, cats and dogs into carefully screened homes. One of the first animal rescue agencies on the ground in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the League rescued more than 1000 pets from the region, 790 have been adopted and 22 reunited with their families.

The League is home to the Alex Lewyt Veterinary Medical Center, which provides 24-hour care for the pets sheltered at the League. Every year the medical center takes care of more than 10,000 outpatient visits, administers more than 27,000 vaccinations and performs over 14,000 free spay/neuter procedures for every adopted animal. The League also has a National Shelter Rescue team, and offers a wide variety of programs such as a mobile adoption program, adoption counseling, a Public Education Team and has created a community Pet Outreach Team. For more information on North Shore Animal League

Web site: http://www.nsalamerica.org

Los Angeles Times Names Book Prize Winners
26th Annual Literary Awards Presented April 28 at UCLA's Royce Hall

The Los Angeles Times presented its annual Robert Kirsch Award for lifetime achievement and honored nine Book Prize winners during its 26th annual Book Prizes ceremony, April 28 at UCLA's Royce Hall.

Joan Didion, renowned as a journalist, playwright, essayist and novelist, was presented with the Robert Kirsch Award for lifetime achievement. Born in Sacramento and a graduate of the University of California at Berkeley, Didion draws much of her writing from her life in California. Her books include "Play It as It Lays," "A Book of Common Prayer," "Slouching Towards Bethlehem," "Democracy: A Novel," "The White Album," and her most recent book, "The Year of Magical Thinking."

The citation noted, "Joan Didion is the voice of contemporary California. From her definitive collections 'Slouching Towards Bethlehem' and 'The White Album' -- which evoke a landscape of dislocation, fragmentation, where the center is not holding -- to her more recent 'Where I Was From' and 'The Year of Magical Thinking,' she has never aspired to anything less than telling us who we are."

The Robert Kirsch Award, presented this year by Tim Rutten, recognizes the body of work by an author who resides in and/or whose work focuses on the Western United States and whose contributions to American letters merit body-of-work recognition. The late Robert Kirsch served as The Times' book critic for more than 25 years before his death in 1980. He was a novelist, editor and teacher as well as one the nation's foremost book critics.

This year's Los Angeles Times Book Prizes honored outstanding literary achievement in nine categories: biography, current interest, fiction, first fiction, history, mystery/thriller, poetry, science and technology, and young adult fiction. Each winner, including Didion, receives a $1,000 cash award.

National Endowment for the Arts Chair Dana Gioia served as the master of ceremonies for the presentation of the Book Prizes.

Book Prizes winners

Biography: Hilary Spurling, "Matisse the Master: A Life of Henri Matisse, the Conquest of Colour," 1909-1954 (Alfred A. Knopf); presented by Blanche Wiesen Cook

Current Interest: Anthony Shadid, "Night Draws Near: Iraq's People in the Shadow of America's War" (Henry Holt); presented by Ronald Brownstein

Fiction: Gabriel Garcia Marquez, "Memories of My Melancholy Whores" [translated from the Spanish by Edith Grossman] (Alfred A. Knopf); presented by Luis J. Rodriguez

Art Seidenbaum Award For First Fiction: Uzodinma Iweala, "Beasts of No Nation: A Novel" (HarperCollins); presented by David L. Ulin

History: Adam Hochschild, "Bury the Chains: Prophets and Rebels in the Fight to Free an Empire's Slaves" (Houghton Mifflin); presented by Leo Braudy

Mystery/Thriller: Robert Littell, "Legends: A Novel of Dissimulation" (Overlook Press); presented by Mary Higgins Clark

Poetry: Jack Gilbert, "Refusing Heaven: Poems" (Alfred A. Knopf); presented by Dana Goodyear

Science and Technology: Diana Preston, "Before the Fallout: From Marie Curie to Hiroshima" (Walker & Company); presented by Robert Lee Hotz

Young Adult Fiction: Per Nilsson, "You & You & You" [translated from the Swedish by Tara Chace] (Front Street/Boyds Mills Press); presented by Adam Gopnik

2005 Book Prize finalists (including winners)

BIOGRAPHY

Andrew Delbanco, "Melville: His World and Work" (Alfred A. Knopf)

Doris Kearns Goodwin, "Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln" (Simon & Schuster)

Marion Elizabeth Rodgers, "Mencken: The American Iconoclast" (Oxford University Press)

Hilary Spurling, "Matisse the Master: A Life of Henri Matisse, the Conquest of Colour," 1909-1954 (Alfred A. Knopf)

Steven Watts, "The People's Tycoon: Henry Ford and the American Century" (Alfred A. Knopf)

CURRENT INTEREST

Steve Bogira, "Courtroom 302: A Year Behind the Scenes in an American Criminal Courthouse" (Alfred A. Knopf)

Kurt Eichenwald, "Conspiracy of Fools: A True Story" (Broadway Books)

Jonathan Harr, The Lost Painting (Random House)

Anthony Shadid, "Night Draws Near: Iraq's People in the Shadow of America's War" (Henry Holt)

John Updike, "Still Looking: Essays on American Art" (Alfred A. Knopf)

FICTION

E.L. Doctorow, "The March: A Novel" (Random House)

Mary Gaitskill, "Veronica" (Pantheon Books)

Gabriel Garcia Marquez, "Memories of My Melancholy Whores" [translated from the Spanish by Edith Grossman] (Alfred A. Knopf)

Nick Hornby, "A Long Way Down" (Riverhead Books)

Haruki Murakami, "Kafka on the Shore" [translated from the Japanese by Philip Gabriel] (Alfred A. Knopf)

ART SEIDENBAUM AWARD FOR FIRST FICTION

Kirstin Allio, "Garner" (Coffee House Press)

Karen Fisher, "A Sudden Country: A Novel" (Random House)

Olga Grushin, "The Dream Life of Sukhanov" (Marian Wood/G.P. Putnam's Sons)

Uzodinma Iweala, "Beasts of No Nation: A Novel" (HarperCollins)

Marlon James, "John Crow's Devil" (Akashic Books)

HISTORY

Richard J. Evans, "The Third Reich in Power, 1933-1939" (Penguin Press)

Christopher Bayly and Tim Harper, "Forgotten Armies: The Fall of British Asia, 1941-1945" (Belknap Press/Harvard University Press)

Adam Hochschild, "Bury the Chains: Prophets and Rebels in the Fight to Free an Empire's Slaves" (Houghton Mifflin)

Tony Judt, "Postwar: A History of Europe Since 1945" (Penguin Press)

Sean Wilentz, "The Rise of American Democracy: Jefferson to Lincoln" (W.W. Norton)

MYSTERY/THRILLER

Michael Connelly, "The Lincoln Lawyer: A Novel" (Little, Brown)

James Crumley, "The Right Madness" (Viking)

John Harvey, "Ash & Bone" (Harcourt)

Robert Littell, "Legends: A Novel of Dissimulation" (Overlook Press)

Peter Robinson, "Strange Affair" (William Morrow/HarperCollins)

POETRY

Jack Gilbert, "Refusing Heaven: Poems" (Alfred A. Knopf)

Gail Mazur, "Zeppo's First Wife: New and Selected Poems" (University of Chicago Press)

Marilyn Nelson, "The Cachoeira Tales and Other Poems" (Louisiana State University Press)

Lucia Perillo, "Luck Is Luck: Poems" (Random House)

Donald Revell, "Pennyweight Windows: New & Selected Poems" (Alice James Books)

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Sean B. Carroll, "Endless Forms Most Beautiful: The New Science of Evo Devo and the Making of the Animal Kingdom" (W.W. Norton)

Mariana Gosnell, "Ice: The Nature, the History, and the Uses of an Astonishing Substance" (Alfred A. Knopf)

Brad Matsen, "Descent: The Heroic Discovery of the Abyss" (Pantheon Books)

Chris Mooney, "The Republican War on Science" (Basic Books)

Diana Preston, "Before the Fallout: From Marie Curie to Hiroshima" (Walker & Company)

YOUNG ADULT FICTION

John Green, "Looking for Alaska" (Dutton/Penguin Young Readers Group)

Margo Lanagan, "Black Juice" (Eos/HarperCollins Children's Books)

Per Nilsson, "You & You & You" [translated from the Swedish by Tara Chace] (Front Street/Boyds Mills Press)

Andreas Steinhofel, "The Center of the World" [translated from the German by Alisa Jaffa] (Delacorte Press/Random House Children's Books)

Markus Zusak, "I Am the Messenger" (Alfred A. Knopf/Random House Children's Books)

About the Book Prizes

The Los Angeles Times Book Prizes were established in 1980. Los Angeles Times Book Prizes finalists and winners are selected by eight three-member committees. Fiction category judges also choose the first fiction category finalists and winner. Most of the judges are published authors and serve a two-year term. None of the judges, except for the Kirsch award, are current Los Angeles Times employees.

There is no nationality requirement for author nominees in any category. With the exception of significant new translations of a deceased author's work, all authors should be living at the time of U.S. publication.

The Book Prizes have honored numerous internationally distinguished literary figures including Ray Bradbury, Lawrence Ferlinghetti, Allen Ginsberg, Tony Hillerman, Christopher Isherwood, Milan Kundera, Ursula Le Guin, Frank McCourt, David McCullough, Larry McMurtry, Tillie Olsen, Ishmael Reed, Carl Sagan and W.G. Sebald.

Information about the Book Prize awards ceremony and awards program is available at www.latimes.com/bookprizes.

About the Los Angeles Times

The Pulitzer Prize-winning Los Angeles Times is the largest metropolitan daily newspaper in the country, with a daily readership of nearly 2.4 million and about 3.4 million on Sunday. With its media businesses and affiliates -- including latimes.com, TheEnvelope.com, Times Community Newspapers, Recycler Classifieds, Hoy, and California Community News -- the Los Angeles Times reaches approximately 7.7 million or 59 percent of all adults in the Southern California marketplace every week.

The Los Angeles Times, which this year marks its 125th anniversary covering Southern California, is part of Tribune Company (NYSE:TRB) , one of the country's leading media companies with businesses in publishing, the Internet and broadcasting. Additional information about the Los Angeles Times is available at www.latimes.com/mediacenter.

Source: The Los Angeles Times

NEWS 12 NETWORKS ADOPTS SONY'S XDCAM HD PROFESSIONAL DISC SYSTEM FOR ENG

News 12 Networks, a division of Cablevision Systems Corp., is adopting Sony's new XDCAM HD™ Professional Disc™ system for all electronic news gathering (ENG) and news production applications. The group plans to roll-out 90 XDCAM HD camcorders across its channels over the next two years.

News 12 Networks operates seven 24-hour local news channels covering Westchester County, the Hudson Valley, Long Island, the Bronx and Brooklyn in New York; southwestern Connecticut; and 14 counties in New Jersey. The news programs are telecast on cable television systems in each region.

According to Norm Fein, senior vice president for news development at News 12 Networks, the workflow benefits of Sony's optical technology are well-suited to the daily demands of gathering and producing regional news programming.

"Any news organization understands unpredictable schedules and the importance of timeliness, but regional news is unique in that it requires a certain added level of spontaneity," Fein said. "Our crews' shooting assignments vary greatly from day to day, even hour to hour, ranging from local community events and feature profiles to breaking news and emergencies. Our electronic news gathering equipment needs to be equally flexible to keep pace. With Sony's XDCAM HD system, we have found the right technology that can grow with us into an HD future."

Initially, the stations will down-convert recorded content to standard definition. "But the ability to archive an HD master greatly increases the image quality of our file footage for later use, and when our organization is ready to make a full migration to HD, the ENG and production infrastructure will already be in place," said Steve Weinberg, senior vice president of business and news operations for News 12 Networks.

In addition to the benefits of HD resolution images, Weinberg noted that News 12 was attracted by the special advantages of optical disc production, including in-camera editing capabilities, the ability to easily browse footage as thumbnails and preview content on the camcorder's LCD screen, high-speed transfer of proxy A/V and high-resolution data using the MXF file protocol, and immediate random access to data in the field or on the set using the Sony Professional Disc media.

Based on blue-laser technology, the XDCAM system's Professional Disc media enables multi-format flexibility and variable record times. It is also re-writable from 1,000 erase/write/read cycles up to 10,000 erase/write/read cycles in ideal conditions, based on Sony's own testing.

The flexibility possible with XDCAM Professional Disc media allows a production crew to re-use it without experiencing image degradation, providing real budgetary benefits. Professional Disc media is manufactured using Sony's hard coating technology, which results in a disc more resistant to scratches while reducing the static electricity that can attract dust.

The Sony XDCAM HD family of optical products includes two camcorders and two decks, and the same Professional Disc media used in the standard definition version of the XDCAM system is also compatible with the new HD version. As a result, professional users can record up to two hours of high definition content on the versatile optical media, maintaining their workflow continuity by combining HD resolution with the same IT-based benefits made possible by XDCAM technology since its initial launch in 2004.

Up-Mobile Announces Exclusive Rights to Offer The 2006 FIFA World Cup(TM) Official Mascot TV Series For Mobile Distribution

Up-Mobile, Corp., a leading interactive mobile applications and service provider specializing in Hispanic audiences, today announced that it has acquired the exclusive mobile rights to offer Spanish-language content in the U.S. and Latin America featuring the 2006 FIFA World Cup(TM) Official Mascot TV Series.

In today's media-driven society, mascots are images fans can identify with. GOLEO VI, the Official Mascot, is a warm-hearted lion and a versatile "living" character together with his sidekick Pille, the strong-minded football; he can dance, talk, sing and make people laugh. It consists of two separate productions, the first being a live-action puppet format with 21 episodes of 40 seconds each, and the second a 3D animation made up of 24 spots of 10 seconds each.

Ready for mobile distribution, Up-Mobile plans to take full advantage of their rights to distribute the 2006 FIFA World Cup(TM) Official Mascot TV Series. Up-Mobile's Official Mascot TV Series related packages include video clips from the series, 3D animations capturing the most interesting moments of GOLEO VI's road to the 2006 FIFA World Cup(TM), all adapted to view on the go.

"A love of soccer runs deep in the veins of Latino sports fans," said George Rincon, co-founder and COO of Up-Mobile, Corp. "We're thrilled to take part in the momentum surrounding the 2006 FIFA World Cup and are proud to be the exclusive Spanish-language provider of mobile content featuring the 2006 FIFA World Cup Official Mascot TV Series in the U.S. and Latin America."

The Official Mascot TV Series is produced by Creation Club (CC) GmbH, a 100 percent subsidiary of EM.TV AG. For sponsorship opportunities please contact Marcia Grenet-Vidal at Marcia.grenet-vidal@up-mobile.com .

About Up-Mobile

Up-Mobile is a leading interactive mobile content and service provider specializing in Hispanic audiences, providing media companies, wireless carriers and advertisers with innovative value-added and revenue-generating mobile content and premium services enhancing wireless consumers experiences.

Up-Mobile is headquartered in Miami, Florida and has offices in San Diego, Mexico City, and Caracas, with interconnection and product distribution throughout the region. Some of their clients and partners are comprised of major brands and leading music publishers and wireless carriers in the Americas.

Up-Mobile is a subsidiary of Investment Media Group (IMG), a global distributor of Spanish-language television programs and filmed entertainment. For more information about Up-Mobile, visit http://www.up-mobile.com/ .

Source: Up-Mobile, Corp.

SPORTS & AUTOS
Oakland & Dodger baseball
Oakland Rainout
Los Angeles 4, San Diego 2 at PETCO Park
Los Angeles Record: (12-12)
San Diego Record: (8-15)

Winning pitcher - Brett Tomko (3-1)
Losing pitcher - Clay Hensley (1-2)
SV - Danys Baez (8)
at PETCO Park (12-12) (8-15) - Brett Tomko (3-1) - Clay Hensley (1-2) - Danys Baez (8)
LAD HR - N. Garciaparra (2)
SD HR - None
N. Garciaparra (2) None

Olympic Accommodation Provider for Media, Sponsors, and National Olympic Committees Debuts in Football 2006

Corporate Concierge, a specialized event accommodation agency, focused on the short- and long-term accommodation needs of sporting, commercial, media and government organisations operating at international events, aims to please with customised habitat solutions at Germany's World Cup 2006.

Corporate Concierge launched accommodation solutions during the Athens (2004) and Turin (2006) Olympic Games. "The accommodation was very welcoming and comfortable," said France Television Sports Logistics Manager, Michel Andichon. "The apartment pre-inspections in Sestriere (Turin, Italy) were efficient and performed in an uncomplicated manner," he said.

The World Cup team of Corporate Concierge boasts members out of 18 countries with service capability to nearly all nations in their mother tongue. The program consists of furnished apartment solutions with quality-controlled standards, hotel options, advanced internet options and transportation.

The offered apartment standards tri-consist of: 'standard', 'business' and 'deluxe' with differences lying in general inventory, location and representative capacity. "CC's focuses on one-stop shopping, supporting the benefits of cost-efficiency and added value, while not compromising on the essential hotel standard service," says Robert Hofmann.

Due to the complexity of a 12-city setup with World Cup, CC has implemented two packages for logical ease: The city package, which offers staying in an apartment in one of the host cities of choice, and the Team Package, which offers an apartment in each host city while following the team of choice.

Corporate Concierge praises their ability to consistently scrutinise their classic service, while simultaneously seeking contemporary solutions. Recent developments include the provision of customised broadband internet solutions either via bundled DSL, S-DSL or internet via satellite.

For examples of our accommodations, please visit: http://www.corporate-concierge.de

Un proveedor de alojamiento olímpico para medios, patrocinadores y comités olímpicos nacionales debuta en 2006 en la categoría de fútbol

Corporate Concierge launched accommodation solutions during the Athens (2004) and Turin (2006) Olympic Games.Corporate Concierge, una agencia especializada en el alojamiento para eventos, centrada en las necesidades de alojamiento a corto y largo plazo de las organizaciones deportivas, comerciales, de medios y gubernamentales que funciona en los eventos internacionales, se complace al presentar sus soluciones de hospedaje para la Copa del Mundo de Alemania 2006.

Corporate Concierge lanzó sus soluciones de alojamiento durante los Juegos Olímpicos de Atenas (2004) y Turín (2006). "The accommodation was very welcoming and comfortable," said France Television Sports Logistics Manager, Michel Andichon."El alojamiento era muy acogedor y cómodo", afirmó el responsable de logística de France Television Sports, Michel Andichon. "The apartment pre-inspections in Sestriere (Turin, Italy) were efficient and performed in an uncomplicated manner," he said."Las pre-inspecciones del apartamento de Sestriere (Turín, Italia) fueron eficaces, y se realizaron sin ninguna complicación", afirmó.

The World Cup team of Corporate Concierge boasts members out of 18 countries with service capability to nearly all nations in their mother tongue. El equipo del Campeonato del Mundo de Corporate Concierge prestará servicio a 18 países, con una capacidad operativa para casi todos los países en su lengua materna. The program consists of furnished apartment solutions with quality-controlled standards, hotel options, advanced internet options and transportation.El programa está formado por soluciones en forma de apartamentos amueblados con los estándares de control de calidad, opciones de hoteles, opciones avanzadas de Internet y transporte.

The offered apartment standards tri-consist of:Los estándares de los tres tipos de apartamentos ofrecidos están formados por: 'standard', 'business' and 'deluxe' with differences lying in general inventory, location and representative capacity.'estándar', 'negocios' y 'lujo', cuyas diferencias residen en el inventario general, localización y capacidad de representación. "CC's focuses on one-stop shopping, supporting the benefits of cost-efficiency and added value, while not compromising on the essential hotel standard service," says Robert Hofmann."CC se centra en las compras de una sola vez, apoyando los beneficios de la eficacia de costes y de los valores añadidos, al mismo tiempo que no compromete el servicio estándar esencial del hotel", comentó Robert Hofmann.

Due to the complexity of a 12-city setup with World Cup, CC has implemented two packages for logical ease:Debido a la complejidad de la disposición de las 12 ciudades de la Copa del Mundo, CC ha implementado dos paquetes para disponer de una utilización lógica: The city package, which offers staying in an apartment in one of the host cities of choice, and the Team Package, which offers an apartment in each host city while following the team of choice.El paquete de ciudad, que ofrece la estancia en un apartamento en una de las ciudades elegidas, y el paquete de equipo, que ofrece un apartamento en cada una de las ciudades en las que juega el equipo seleccionado.

Corporate Concierge praises their ability to consistently scrutinise their classic service, while simultaneously seeking contemporary solutions. Corporate Concierge alaba la capacidad continuada de escrutinio de su servicio clásico, al mismo tiempo que busca las soluciones contemporáneas. Recent developments include the provision of customised broadband internet solutions either via bundled DSL, S-DSL or internet via satellite.Entre los recientes desarrollos se incluye la provisión de las soluciones personalizadas para Internet de banda ancha, ya sea vía DSL, S-DSL o Internet vía satélite.

For examples of our accommodations, please visit:Si desea ejemplos de nuestros alojamientos, visite: http://www.corporate-concierge.de

DOD
Diplomacy remains America's choice in dealing with Iran

President Bush said today. "We're forming a strong coalition of like-minded countries that believe that the Iranians should not have a nuclear weapon," he said during a White House press conference. "And I've told the American people that diplomacy is my first choice, and it should be the first choice of every American president in order to solve a very difficult problem." "It's very important for the Iranians to understand there's a ... common desire by a lot of nations of this world to convince them, peacefully convince them, that they ought to give up their weapons ambitions," Bush said. The International Atomic Energy Agency said today Iran has ignored calls to suspend uranium fuel enrichment and remains in defiance of the U. N. Security Council, according to news reports. The president distinguished Iran from Iraq. "There are significant differences between Iran and Iraq," Bush said. He noted that Iraq had a history of aggressive acts that included using weapons of mass destruction on its own people, invading its neighbors, and firing at U.S. aircraft. "Iraq went through 16 different Security Council resolutions," Bush said. "There was resolution after resolution." To date, the Security Council has not passed a resolution regarding Iran's desire to acquire nuclear weapons capabilities. Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad reportedly told a rally in northwest Iran today that "those who want to prevent Iranians from obtaining their right, should know that we do not give a damn about such resolutions." Asked if he thought the Iranian president was someone he could work with, Bush replied: "That's going to be his choice eventually, and it's going to be very important for Mr. Ahmadinejad to recognize the world is united in our desire, and it's his choice to make."

Civilian Leaders Wowed by USS Ronald Reagan's Capabilities

Civilian opinion leaders who visited the USS Ronald Reagan today got a taste of what it's like to be the biggest, toughest guy on the block - one whose presence brings comfort to his friends but fear in his enemies. The business, civic, organizational and academic leaders, all participants in the Joint Civilian Orientation Conference, visited the world's largest aircraft carrier on its maiden deployment to the Persian Gulf. They met the crew, toured the flight and navigation bridges, flight-control deck and flight deck and watched F-18 Hornet and Super Hornet aircraft take off for some of the 30 sorties they fly over Iraq every day. "We believe this is a very worthwhile effort," Rear Adm. Mike Miller, commander of the Ronald Reagan Strike Group, told the group after it flew in from Bahrain. "We believe we are helping preserve the peace and stability of the Arabian Peninsula." Speaking to group members in the "in-port cabin" that's fashioned to look like the Reagan Administration's White House "Red Room," thanks to donations by the Hampton Roads Navy League, Miller said he's convinced the Reagan is making an impact in the region. "We are firmly convinced that we are making life better for the people here," he said. "People here don't say, 'When are you going away?' They say, 'Please don't leave.'" The Reagan, the ninth Nimitz-class carrier, is the Navy's Mighty Hulk, the largest weapon in the entire U.S. arsenal. It's as long as the Empire State Building is tall and boasts 47,000 tons of steel, a 4.5-acre flight deck and the two nuclear reactors that propel it in excess of 30 knots, Miller explained.

That size, speed and capability make a powerful statement, said Command Master Chief Yoshimi Core of the carrier's air wing. "It's a wonderful feeling to (look) at that a mass of steel and mass of power and be able to influence people by our mere presence," he said. "We're able to reassure people that we're out here having a presence," or in other cases, to send a warning. Capt. Terry Kraft, the Reagan's commander, described himself as the mayor of a city of 5,000 people with a nuclear power plant beneath it and an airfield above. But with all its size and power and state-of-the art technology, the $5 billion dollar vessel's greatest attribute, he said, is its sailors. "This is a modern marvel," Kraft said of the carrier, which began its first-ever deployment since its 2003 commissioning. "But the most impressive thing on board are the 5,000 great Americans.

We give these sailors incredible responsibility, and I couldn't be more proud of them." About 80 percent of the Reagan's sorties are in direct support of troops "over the beach" - serving in Iraq, Kraft told the group. Sorties launched from the carrier's flight deck monitor convoy routes to detect IED sites and gather valuable intelligence they pass on to ground troops, he explained. In addition, two shore-based EA-6B Prowlers jam radio frequencies to prevent insurgents from using cell phones and similar devices to activate improvised explosive devices. At the same time, the Reagan crew conducts broader maritime security operations in the Gulf, both with its ships and aircrews. "Our goal is for terrorists not to be able to operate anywhere in the Persian Gulf or off the coast of the Horn of Africa," Kraft said. By making it more difficult for terrorists to operate, the Reagan crew is "changing the battlefield," he said, "and creating a sanctuary for our forces." "Our number one mission is the service we provide for the guys on the ground," said Lt. Cmdr. John Clary, an F-18C pilot aboard Reagan. "We're their eyes and ears, circling overhead and burning holes in the sky." The gratification of the job comes from knowing that he's "one more 18- or 19-year-old kid got there safely," thanks to support from the sky, he said. Earlier in the war, success was measured in bombs drops and targets taken out, Kraft told the group.

Now, it's measured more in terms seconds of disrupted road identified as potential IED sites and actionable intelligence forwarded to the ground. "The bottom line is that we save lives over the beach, not that we drop bombs," he said. While helping save U.S. lives, members of the Reagan crew said they believe they're making a contribution to Iraq and the entire region. "We're supporting the Iraqi people and helping to keep the world safe," said Lt. Cmdr. Paul Crawford, assistant navigator on the carrier's bridge, which he called "the nerve center of the ship." "What we're doing is providing a presence to make sure that things are fair for everyone," he said.

With less than a year in the Navy under her belt, Seaman Ashley Kolbinskie said she's proud of her role supporting U.S. ground troops in harm's way. "We're giving air protection for troops on the ground. Anything they can't handle, we're here for them," she said. But like her fellow crewmates, Kolbinskie said she recognizes the regional implications of her efforts. "It makes me feel happy that we have freedom, and to be able to help other people get it, too," she said. As the JCOC participants watched the F-18 Hornets and Super Hornets roar off the flight deck, even Operations Specialist Marion Cox took pause. "When you see this every day, you sometimes lose sight of how cool it is," she said. But no one within the JCOC group failed to notice just "how cool it is." Ted Sarandis, a freelance sportscaster based in Boston, described watching the planes shoot of the deck as "a complete adrenaline rush." Sarandis turned almost poetic when he described how the Reagan's crews operate on the flight deck. "It's a thing of synchronized beauty, a bit like watching a mechanized ballet," he said. "Awesome!" was how Robert McDonald, senior vice president for 3M Marketing and Sales, described the experience. An engineer, McDonald resisted the urge to peek into every nook and cranny to check out the electronics as he passed through the carrier's departments. "I'm fascinated by all this," he said. "It's absolutely amazing." Larry Oney, chief executive officer for Hammerman & Gainer International, relished the chance to see an aircraft carrier at sea conducting real-life missions. "Not many people get to see it up close like this," he said. "This has got to be the highlight of the trip." For James Schenck, executive vice president and chief operating officer for the Pentagon Federal Credit Union, gave his first exposure to real-life Navy operations two thumbs up.

Schenck called the Reagan "a testament to America" that "really gets your attention" for its power-projection capabilities. "I have to say, this makes me a proud American taxpayer," he said. Participants in the JCOC program are business, civic, community and academic leaders from around the country who are spending the week observing U.S. Central Command at work. This JCOC trip is the first to the Middle East since the Defense Department started the program in 1948 to help educate civilian "movers and shakers" about the military.

NEWS

Radio Address by President Bush to the Nation

The following is a transcript of the radio address by President Bush to the nation:

THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. Last weekend, the people of Iraq formed a national unity government. This is an important milestone on the road to democracy in Iraq, and it marks the beginning of a new chapter in America's involvement. Last Sunday, I talked to the President, Prime Minister- designate, and Speaker of the new government. And this week, I sent Secretary of State Rice and Secretary of Defense Rumsfeld to Baghdad to meet face-to- face with the new Iraqi leadership. We've all been impressed by the Iraqi leaders' commitment to maintain the unity of their country and effectively represent the Iraqi people.

The new Iraqi government will face many challenges. Iraqi leaders agree that the new government must continue to build up the Iraqi Security Forces to defeat the terrorists and must establish control over militias. They also agree that the new government must rebuild critical infrastructure, strengthen the Iraqi economy, and ensure that all Iraqis benefit as their nation grows in security and prosperity.

During their meetings in Baghdad, Secretaries Rice and Rumsfeld made clear that Iraq will have the continued support of America and our coalition partners, as we begin the new chapter in our relationship. We will help the new Iraqi government assume growing responsibility for the nation's security. And as Iraqis continue to make progress toward a democracy that can govern itself, defend itself, and sustain itself, more of our troops can come home with the honor they have earned.

The terrorists clearly recognize the threat that the new unity government poses to their dark plans for Iraq and the broader Middle East. This week the terrorist Zarqawi, leader of al Qaeda in Iraq, released a video in which he denounced the new government and promised further acts of terrorist violence. Zarqawi lashed out at what he called "this rotten play of democracy" and declared that Iraq's new government will become "a poisoned dagger" in the heart of his plans for the Muslim world.

On Wednesday, Iraq's leaders united to strongly condemn Zarqawi's statements. One Iraqi official declared that the terrorists and insurgents, quote, "are feeling this might be the last chance they have to survive. They're fighting everyone in Iraq -- every Iraqi. I think that shows how weak they are." End quote. A newly appointed first Deputy Speaker of the Iraqi parliament said that Zarqawi fears the new government will unify Shiites and Sunnis and Kurds. He said, quote, "I believe that Zarqawi was caught off guard by the new government taking shape because it will be a very strong one representing all Iraqis." End quote.

The new leaders of Iraq are showing great courage in the face of terrorist threats. In recent weeks, terrorists have assassinated three siblings of top Iraqi politicians -- but the new leaders of Iraq remain determined to lead their nation toward a future of democracy and peace. These brave leaders deserve our continued support -- and I have told them they can count on America to stand with them.

The enemy is resorting to desperate acts of violence because they know the establishment of democracy in Iraq will be a double defeat for them. First, it will deny the terrorists their immediate aim of turning Iraq into what Afghanistan was under the Taliban -- a safe haven where they can plot and plan more attacks against free nations. Second, in the long term, a democratic Iraq will be a major blow to the terrorists' hateful ideology because it will send a powerful message across the region that the future of the Middle East belongs to freedom.

There will be more tough fighting ahead in Iraq and more days of sacrifice and struggle. Yet the enemies of freedom have suffered a real blow in recent days, and we have taken great strides on the march to victory. Iraq's leaders now have laid the foundations for a democratic government of, by, and for the Iraqi people. By helping the Iraqi people build their democracy, America will deal the terrorists a crippling blow and establish a beacon of liberty in the Middle East -- and that will make our Nation and the world more secure.

Thank you for listening.

END

Source: White House Press Office

'Had Enough? Vote Democratic!' Is NOT ENOUGH, Need New Double-Citizenship Party
Robert David Steele Vivas

Robert David STEELE Vivas, CEO of OSS.Net, Inc, a life-long moderate Republican and career intelligence officer who is the #1 Amazon reviewer of non-fiction books about democracy, strategy, intelligence, economics, ecology, war, and peace, has today proposed a new political party focused on electoral reform. He says:

"A really superb Op-Ed by Tim Roemer in the New York Times today (Saturday, 29 April 2006) entitled 'Enough Already,' suggested that all the Democrats need to win in 2006 and 2008 is the simple slogan, 'Had Enough? Vote Democratic!' This worthy gentleman is half-right.

"The Democrats, in my view, cannot beat the Republicans base-on-base or on the issues. Even a character debate will be a toss-up. There is, however, a major opportunity for a lasting revitalization of democracy if the Democrats will match up their most promising unity candidate with a new party, the American Independence Party, and a commitment to a Coalition Cabinet and Coalition Legislature committed to electoral reform.

"This new party would be unique in history in that it would specifically foster the concept of 'dual citizenship' and respect the original political allegiances of the moderate Republicans, the conservative Democrats, the Independents, Libertarians, Greens, Reforms, and the newly mobilized from both the Latin and Asian immigration pool as well as the survivors of the Dean revolution.

"This new party would have 'wings' and leaders from all American political parties, and they would commit to support Democratic *and* Republican legislative incumbents or challengers who agree to dual citizenship in the American Independence Party, and its single reform focus: restoring the vote to *all* Americans. Electoral reform, including instant run-offs, the end of gerrymandering and even physical districts, restoration of multi-party debates, and voting on week-ends so the working poor have a shot at voting without losing work, all need to be part of an American Independence Act of 2007 that will have it greatest effect in 2008. In addition we need to end "party line" voting that forbids our elected representatives from voting for their district instead of their party, and of course end campaign financing while introducing publicly funded campaigns and higher salaries for representatives, teachers, cops, firemen, and preventive health care professionals and other public servants.

"Only one issue can unite all sensible Americans: 'does your vote count?' The answer for most is a resounding 'NO.' If we were to establish a new party and an interim Coalition Cabinet now even before a final candidate for President is chosen, and commit publicly to this single lasting 'fix' on the system, everything else will fall into place including wiser foreign and domestic policy, an end to the double deficit, and a restoration of the moral legitimacy of the Republic. We must restore informed engaged democracy (collective intelligence), honest public policy and moral capitalism, and America the Good instead of America the Idiot Bully.

"In 2006 we demand that incumbents and challengers commit to this unification reform idea. In 2007 we pass the American Independence Act that implements sustainable electoral reform. In 2008 we elect a President and a Coalition Cabinet and Coalition Legislature that restores America the Good, an American Republic that is Of, By, and For We the People."

Web: http://www.oss.net/

New Government Report Slams SBA on Oversight of Alaska Native Corporations

The Government Accountability Office has released a new report detailing a significant lack of oversight by the Small Business Administration in its Alaska Native Corporation 8(a) contracting program. The report states, "SBA lacks adequate data regarding the 8(a) contracting program in general and does not collect any information on ANCs' 8(a) activity." The GAO cited a number of examples where Alaska Native Corporations and their partners were able to take unfair advantage of a program set up to assist small, disadvantaged, women-owned and minority-owned businesses. The SBA is mandated with overseeing the 8(a) contracting program, but one contracting official told GAO that "SBA has 'stepped aside' when it comes to overseeing 8(a) contracts and that it would not occur to her to coordinate ... with SBA." According to the report, ANC 8(a) contracts grew from $265 million in 2000 to over $1 billion in 2004, with a total procurement figure during those years of $2.9 billion.

Special provisions allow the government to make these awards without competition in some instances. In addition, because ANCs are permitted to own an unlimited number of subsidiaries, the actual size of the corporation can be far greater than would be allowed under normal SBA size standards. "The Alaska Native Corporation 8(a) program was designed for abuse and should be abolished immediately," said Lloyd Chapman, President of the American Small Business League. "Most of the benefits go to firms outside of Alaska, many of which are large, white male-owned businesses. This program has allowed billions of dollars to be diverted away from legitimately disadvantaged firms.

Here is yet another example of the types of abuse in small business contracting that the SBA has condoned through its lack of action." Chapman asserted that more than the SBA, he blames the Bush Administration for slashing the agency's resources to the point where it's unable to perform its mission: "This damaging report is another nail in the coffin of the SBA. The Republicans are just itching for an excuse to close the agency and eliminate all Federal contracting programs for small and disadvantaged firms." While SBA told GAO that it has implemented procedures to increase oversight of the ANCs, they failed to provide investigators with any evidence to support this. About the ASBL The American Small Business League was formed to promote and advocate policies that provide the greatest opportunity for small businesses - the 98 percent of U.S. companies with less than 100 employees.

The ASBL is founded on the principle that small businesses, the backbone of a vital American economy, should receive the fair treatment promised by the Small Business Act of 1953. Representing small businesses in all fields and industries throughout the United States, the ASBL monitors existing policies and proposed policy changes by the Small Business Administration and other federal agencies that affect its members.

VATICAN NEWS
DIVINE LAW DOES NOT ELIMINATE HUMAN FREEDOM

Today in the Vatican, Pope Benedict XVI received members of the Pontifical Biblical Commission, who have just celebrated their annual plenary session dedicated to the relationship between the Bible and morality. The session was presided over by Cardinal William Joseph Levada, president of the commission.

The Pope greeted the participants, recalling the fact that he knows them personally, having been president of the same commission. He also highlighted the important theme discussed during the plenary session.

''The primordial impulse of human beings'', he said turning to consider the subject of the plenary, ''is their desire for happiness and a fulfilling life. Nevertheless, there are many today who think that such fulfillment must be attained autonomously, with no reference to God or to His law. Some have even suggested the absolute sovereignty of reason and freedom in the field of moral norms. ... The proponents of this 'moral laicism' affirm that human beings, as rational creatures, not only can but must freely decide the value of their own behavior''.

''This false conviction'', he continued, ''is rooted in a supposed conflict between human freedom and any kind of law." However, "the law of God does not mitigate or eliminate human freedom, on the contrary, it guarantees and promotes it. ... Moral law, established by God at the creation and confirmed in the Revelation of the Old Testament, finds its fullness and greatness in Christ. Jesus Christ is the way of perfection, the living and personal synthesis of perfect freedom in His total obedience to the will of God''.

''In revealing the Father and in His own actions, Jesus also reveals the norms for just human behavior. He explicitly underlines this connection when, at the conclusion of His lessons regarding love for one's enemies, He says 'be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect'.''

''The path indicated by Jesus through His teachings is not a rule imposed from the outside. He Himself walks this path and asks no more than that we follow Him. ... In the search for a Christologically inspired ethic, it is always necessary to remember that Christ is the Word Incarnate Who renders us participants in His divine life, and with His grace He sustains us on the path towards true fulfillment.''

''The essence of human beings'', concluded the Pope, ''appears definitively in the Word made man," and "this relationship with Christ defines the highest fulfillment of man's moral actions. ... It is not an act dictated solely by external norms, it proceeds from the vital relationship that unites believers to Christ and to God.''

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PAPAL MESSAGE TO CONGREGATION FOR THE CAUSES OF SAINTS

VATICAN CITY, APR 27, 2006 (VIS) - Made public today was a Message from Pope Benedict XVI to Cardinal Jose Saraiva Martins C.M.F., prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, which has just concluded its plenary session.

''From her beginnings", says the Message, "the Church has dedicated great attention to the procedures that elevate Servants of God to the glory of the altars. The causes of saints are considered 'major causes' because of their noble and material impact on the lives of the people of God."

The Pope recalled prior interventions by earlier pontiffs who sought to improve the celebration and study of the causes of saints, quoting, among others, Pope John Paul II who in 1983 promulgated the Apostolic Constitution " Divinus Perfectionis Magister" and the "Normae servandae in inquisitionibus ab Episcopis faciendis in Causis Sanctorum."

"The experience of more than 20 years since this text was published has prompted this congregation to publish an 'Instruction for the procedure of diocesan inquiries into the causes of saints,' which is chiefly addressed to diocesan bishops and constitutes the first theme examined by the plenary," says the Holy Father. The instruction "attempts to facilitate the application of the 'Normae servandae' in order to safeguard the seriousness of investigations", into virtues, causes of martyrdom or possible miracles.

"It is clear", writes the Pope "that a cause of beatification or canonization cannot be initiated in the absence of a proven reputation for holiness, even when dealing with people who have been distinguished for their evangelical coherence and for particular ecclesial or social merits."

Going on to refer to the second theme of the plenary session - "the miracle in the causes of saints" - Benedict XVI recalls that "miracles constitute divine confirmation of a judgement expressed by the ecclesial authorities on [a person's] virtuous life. I hope that the plenary will study this subject deeply in the light of the tradition of the Church, of modern theology, and of the most accredited discoveries of science. It should not be forgotten that in examining purportedly miraculous events the competency of scientists and theologians comes together, although the decisive judgement falls to theology which alone is capable of interpreting miracles in the light of the faith. ... It should also be clearly borne in mind that unbroken Church practice establishes the need for a physical miracle, a moral miracle is not enough."

On the third subject, "martyrdom," the Pope writes: "If the motive that impels [people] to martyrdom remains unaltered, having its source and its model in Christ, what have changed are the cultural contexts of martyrdom and the strategies 'ex parte perscutoris' who seek to give ever less explicit prominence to their aversion to the Christian faith, ... but fake different reasons, for example political or social ones. It is of course necessary to find incontrovertible proof of willingness to suffer martyrdom, ... and of the victim's acceptance thereof. But it is equally necessary that, directly or indirectly but always in a morally certain fashion, the 'odium Fidei' of the persecutor should be apparent. If this element is lacking, there is no real martyrdom in accordance with the perennial theological and juridical doctrine of the Church."

Finally, Benedict XVI referred to indications contained in John Paul II's Apostolic Constitution "Divinus Perfectionis Magister" concerning the need to associate bishops with the Holy See in dealing with the causes of saints. On the basis of these indications, Pope Benedict said, "I have implemented the widespread desire that the substantial difference between the celebration of beatification and that of canonization should be more deeply underlined; and that particular Churches should be more visibly involved in the rite of beatification, it being understood that only the Roman Pontiff may concede veneration to a Servant of God."

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AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE HOLY SEE AND BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA

On Wednesday, April 19, the first anniversary of the election of Pope Benedict XVI, a Basic Agreement between the Holy See and Bosnia-Herzegovina was signed at the presidential palace in Sarajevo. The agreement confirmed a number of principles and defined certain issues regarding questions of common interest.

The Holy See was represented by Archbishop Alessandro D'Errico, apostolic nuncio to Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Bosnia-Herzegovina by Ivo Miro Jovic, Croatian member of the country's collegial presidency.

According to a communique made public today, the Agreement, "bearing in mind the respective independence and autonomy of State and Church and their willingness to collaborate with each other, establishes the juridical framework for their reciprocal relations. In particular, it regulates the juridical position of the Catholic Church in civil society; her freedom and independence in her apostolic activities and in the regulation of her own affairs; and her freedom of worship and of action in the fields of culture, education, pastoral care, charity and the mass media. The text also makes provision for the running of Catholic schools of all levels; spiritual assistance to the armed forces, and in prisons and hospitals; and the organization of Catholic healthcare and charity structures''.

The Agreement, the communique concludes, ''will come into force following the exchange of the instruments of ratification."

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AUDIENCES

VATICAN CITY, APR 27, 2006 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received in separate audiences:

- Cardinal Camillo Ruini, His Holiness' vicar general for the diocese of Rome and president of the Italian Episcopal Conference.

- Cardinal Rosalio Jose Castillo Lara S.D.B., president emeritus of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State.

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IN MEMORIAM

VATICAN CITY, APR 27, 2006 (VIS) - The following prelates died in recent weeks:

- Archbishop Longinus da Cunha of Ende, Indonesia, on April 6, at the age of 60.

- Bishop Charles Joseph Henderson, former auxiliary of Southwark, England, on April 10, at the age of 81.

- Archbishop Pasquale Macchi, prelate emeritus of Loreto, Italy, on April 5, at the age of 82.

- Archbishop Jose Mendez Asensio, emeritus of Granada, Spain, on April 15, at the age of 85.

- Bishop Andre Nguyen Van Nam, emeritus of My Tho, Vietnam, on March 16, at the age of 84.

- Bishop Sebastian Valloppilly, emeritus of Tellicherry of the Syro-Malabars, India, on April 4, at the age of 94.

.../DEATHS/... VIS 060427 (130)

POPE'S TELEGRAM FOR VICTIMS OF ATTACK IN NASSIRIYA

Following is a telegram sent by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, Secretary of State, in the name of the Holy Father, to Archbishop Angelo Bagnasco, military ordinary for Italy, regarding the attack of April 27th in Nassiriya, Iraq in which three Italians and one Romanian were killed.

"The Supreme Pontiff received with great sadness news of the attack in Nassiriya in which three Italian members of the armed forces and a Romanian colleague, generously contributing in a mission of peace, lost their lives. The Holy Father expresses his firm condemnation of this new act of violence which, together with other cruel acts perpetrated in Iraq, constitutes yet another obstacle in the path toward harmony and reconstruction in that tormented country."

"His Holiness would like to express his profound spiritual closeness to the families of the victims in the midst of a grave sorrow which also effects the Italian and Romanian armed forces and their respective national communities. The Holy Father also assures his fervent prayers for the young lives cut short, invoking heavenly consolation for those who mourn this tragic loss and he sends to all a special apostolic blessing, thinking in particular about those wounded and those, both civilian and military, who are dedicated to the arduous task of helping the people of Iraq, subjugated to so many difficulties."

TGR/ATTACK IN NASSIRIYA/BAGNASCO VIS 060428 (230)

HELP CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE TO FIND TRUE HAPPINESS

VATICAN CITY, APR 28, 2006 (VIS) - Made public today was a Message from the Pope to participants in the 12th plenary session of the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences, which is being held in the Vatican from April 28 to May 2, on the theme: "Vanishing Youth? Solidarity with Children and Young People in an Age of Turbulence."

Benedict XVI opens his Message by affirming the existence of "two significant and interconnected trends: on the one hand, an increase in life expectancy, and, on the other, a decrease in birth rates."

"This situation is the result of multiple and complex causes - often of an economic, social and cultural character - which you have proposed to study," he adds. "But its ultimate roots can be seen as moral and spiritual; they are linked to a disturbing deficit of faith, hope and, indeed, love. ... Perhaps the lack of such creative and forward-looking love is the reason why many couples today choose not to marry, why so many marriages fail, and why birth rates have significantly diminished."

Often children and young people, "instead of feeling loved and cherished, appear to be merely tolerated. In 'an age of turbulence' they frequently lack adequate moral guidance from the adult world," and many of them "now grow up in a society which is forgetful of God. ... In a world shaped by the accelerating processes of globalization, they are often exposed solely to materialistic visions of the universe, of life and human fulfillment."

"Parents, educators and community leaders ... can never renounce their duty to set before children and young people the task of choosing a life project directed towards authentic happiness, one capable of distinguishing between truth and falsehood, good and evil, justice and injustice, the real world and the world of 'virtual reality'."

Pope Benedict encourages the participants in the plenary to give "due consideration to the question of human freedom, which is "the condition for authentic human growth. Where such freedom is lacking or endangered, young people experience frustration and become incapable of striving generously for the ideals which can give shape to their lives as individuals and as members of society."

Christians, the Holy Father concludes, cannot fail "to be convinced that faith, lived out in the fullness of charity and communicated to new generations, is an essential element in the building of a better future and safeguarding intergenerational solidarity."

MESS/PLENARY/ACAD-SS VIS 060428 (410)

DECREES OF THE CONGREGATION FOR THE CAUSES OF SAINTS

VATICAN CITY, APR 28, 2006 (VIS)- Today, during a private audience with Cardinal Jose Saraiva Martins, C.M.F., prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, the Pope authorized the congregation to promulgate the following decrees:

MIRACLES

- Blessed Filippo Smaldone, Italian, diocesan priest, founder of the Congregation of the Salesian Sisters of the Sacred Heart (1848 - 1923).

- Blessed Rafaele Guizar Valencia, Mexican, bishop of Veracruz, Mexico (1878 - 1938).

- Blessed Rosa Venerini, Italian, foundress of the Congregation delle Maestre Pie Venerini (1656 - 1728).

- Blessed Teodora Guerin, ne Anna Teresa, French, foundress of the Congregation of the Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary of the Woods in the United States. (1798 - 1856).

- Venerable Servant of God Basile Antonio Maria Moreau, French, priest and founder of the Congregation of the Holy Cross (1799 - 1873).

- Venerable Servant of God Mariano de la Mata Aparicio, Spanish, priest of the Order of Saint Augustine. (1905 - 1983).

- Venerable Servant of God Margarita Maria Lopez de Maturana, Spanish, foundress of the Institute of the Missionary Sisters of Mercy (1884 - 1934).

MARTYRS

- Servants of God Cruz Laplana y Laguna, Spanish, bishop of Cuenca, Spain (1875 - 1936) and Fernando Espanol Berdie, Spanish, diocesan priest (1875 - 1936).

- Servant of God Narciso Estenaga Echevarria, Spanish, bishop of Ciudad Real, Spain (1882 - 1936).

- Servant of God Libero Gonzalez Nombela, Spanish, diocesan priest (1896 - 1936).

- Servant of God Eusebio del Bambino Gesu, Spanish, professed priest of the Order of the Discalced Carmelites (1888 - 1936).

- Servant of God Felice Echevarria Gorostiaga, Spanish, professed priest of the Order of the Minor Friars (1893 - 1936).

- Servant of God Teodosio Rafael ne Diodoro Lopez Hernandez, Spanish, professed religious in the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian School (1898 - 1936) and three brothers from the same institute.

- Servant of God Sara Salkahazi, Hungarian, of the Institute of the Sisters of the Assistance (1899 - 1944).

HEROIC VIRTUES

- Servant of God Ciriaco Maria Sancha y Hervas, Cardinal of S.R.C., Spanish, archbishop of Toledo, Spain, founder of the Congregation of the Sisters of Charity of Cardinal Sancha (1833 - 1909).

- Servant of God Vincenza Maria Poloni ne Luigia, Italian, foundress of the Institute of the Sisters of Mercy of Verona (1802 - 1855).

- Servant of God Maria Bucchi ne Maria Matilde, Italian, foundress of the Congregation of the Most Precious Blood of Monza (1812 - 1882).

- Servant of God Esperanza Gonzalez Puig, Spanish, foundress of the Congregation of the Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (1823 - 1885).

- Servant of God Cataline Coromina Agusti, Spanish, foundress of the Institute Josephine Sisters of Charity (1824 - 1893).

- Servant of God Maria Dolores Marquez Romero de Onoro, Spanish, foundress of the Congregation of the Philippian Daughters of Sorrowful Mary (1817 - 1904).

- Servant of God Maria Rosa Flesch, German, ne Margherita, foundress of the Congregation of the Franciscan Sisters of Saint Mary of the Angels (1826 - 1906).

- Giuseppina Nicoli, Italian, of the Society of the daughters of Charity (1863 - 1924).

CSS/DECREES/SARAIVA VIS 060428 (530)

CELEBRATIONS PRESIDED BY THE HOLY FATHER: MAY AND JUNE

VATICAN CITY, APR 28, 2006 (VIS) - Today, the Office of the Liturgical Celebrations of the Supreme Pontiff published the calendar for the celebrations that the Holy Father will preside from May to June.

MAY

- Monday, 1: At 5:30pm, the Holy Father will visit the Sanctuary of the Virgin Mary of Divine Love (close to Rome) and will pray the rosary.

- Saturday 6: At 9:30pm, the Holy Father will celebrate Mass in St. Peter's Basilica, commemorating the five hundredth anniversary of the founding of the Pontifical Swiss Guard.

- Sunday 7: The fourth Sunday of Easter, at 9:00am in the Vatican Basilica, the Pope will ordain to the priesthood deacons from the diocese of Rome.

- Thursday 25-Sunday 28: Apostolic trip to Poland.

JUNE:

- Saturday 3: At 8:30pm in St. Peter's Square, the Holy Father will preside at the Pentecost Vigil with the participation of various ecclesial movements and the new communities.

- Sunday 4: The Solemnity of Pentecost, Holy Mass will be celebrated at 9:30am in St. Peter's Square.

- Thursday 15: The Solemnity of Corpus Christi. At 7:00pm, Holy Mass in the basilica of Saint John Lateran, procession to the basilica of St. Mary Major and Eucharistic benediction.

- Thursday 29: The Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul. Holy Mass will be celebrated at the basilica of St. Peter and will include the imposition of the pallium on metropolitan archbishops.

OCL/CELEBRATIONS MAY:JUNE/... VIS 060428 (250)

HOLY FATHER'S PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR MAY

VATICAN CITY, APR 28, 2006 (VIS) - The Holy Father's general prayer intention for May is: "That the abundance of the gifts the Holy Spirit bestows on the Church may contribute to the growth of peace and justice in the world."

His mission intention is: "That in the mission countries those responsible for the public institutions may, with suitable laws, promote and defend human life from its conception to its natural termination."

POPE PRAYER INTENTIONS/MAY/... VIS 060428 (80)

AUDIENCES

VATICAN CITY, APR 28, 2006 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received in separate audiences:

- Cardinal Jose Saraiva Martins C.M.F., prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints.

- Cardinal Crescenzio Sepe, prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples.

- Bishop Robert James Carlson of Saginaw (United States of America).

- Cherie Blair.

He is scheduled to receive this afternoon Archbishop Angelo Amato S.D.B., secretary of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.

AP/.../... VIS 060428 (80)

NOTE

VATICAN CITY, APR 28, 2006 (VIS) - As previously announced, Monday, May 1, feast of St. Joseph the Worker and a holiday in the Vatican, there will be no VIS service. Transmission will resume on Tuesday, May 2.

.../.../... VIS 060428 (40)

Chinese president meets senior UN officials

Chinese President Hu Jintao met here Friday with the United Nations Human Settlement Program (UN-HABITAT) Executive Director Mrs. Anna Kajumulo Tibaijuka and the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) acting Executive Director Shafqat Kakakhel.

Hu said the UN-HABITAT has made positive efforts to promote human residence construction and global sustainable development.

He said the UNEP has played an important role in pushing for the solution of global environmental issues, promoting international cooperation in this regard, and helping developing countries improve environmental protection capability.

He said China has always supported international cooperation in the above-mentioned fields, and will further strengthen exchanges and cooperation with the two UN programs and continue to support their work.

Tibaijuka said China has many beneficial experiences in human habitat development, which the UN-HABITAT is popularizing in other areas of the world.

The UN-HABITAT values China's assistance to the African people in this regard, she said.

Kakakhel said the UNEP appreciates China's attention to and efforts for environmental protection.

He said China has always firmly supported the UNEP's work, and the cooperation between the two sides has progressed steadily at bilateral, regional and global levels.

The UNEP is expecting to deepen cooperation with the Chinese side to jointly meet the challenge in this regard, he said.

Hu arrived here Thursday on a three-day state visit to Kenya as Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki's guest.

Kenya is the last leg of Hu's five-nation tour which has already taken him to the United States, Saudi Arabia, Morocco and Nigeria.

Chinese President Hu Jintao met with US Vice President Dick Cheney, Senate President Pro Tempore Ted Stevens and National Security Advisor to President Bush Stephen Hadley respectively in the guesthouse where he stayed.

When meeting with Cheney, Hu said that this morning he and President Bush held successful talks. Both leaders agreed that China and the US are countries with great influence in the world and share wide strategic interests. Under the new international situation, both sides should strengthen dialogue, expand consensus, increase mutual trust, deepen cooperation, push forward China-US constructive and cooperative relations in the 21st century comprehensively and make new contributions to promoting peace, stability and prosperity in the Asia Pacific region and the world at large.

Cheney said that the United States and China have established sound, solid and healthy relations. In today's world, the US-China relations are so important that he supports the establishment of US-China strategic relationship.

When meeting with Stevens and other members of the US Senate and House of Representatives, Hu expressed appreciation for their long-term support for the development of China-US relations. He noted that we attach great importance to the exchanges with the US Congress. More and more US parliamentarians have realized the importance of building China-US relations and raised a number of positive suggestions on furthering bilateral economic, trade, cultural and educational exchanges and cooperation. He expressed hope that they would continue to pay attention to China-US relations and contribute more to promoting the non-governmental contacts of the two countries and enhancing the mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples.

Stevens said that 60 years ago as a member of the US 14th Air Force he participated in the battle against Japanese invaders in China. At that time he was the youngest member of the 14th Air Force, but today he is over 80 years old. He felt happy from the bottom of his heart to see China's progress and the development of US-China relations. The US-China relations have global significance, and peace and stability in the Asia Pacific region and the world, to a large extent, depend on the development of US-China relations. The parliamentarians also introduced their opinions on enhancing bilateral cooperation in such fields as energy, environmental protection and aviation to Hu Jintao.

During his meeting with Hu Jintao, Hadley said that President Bush thanks President Hu for his successful visit to the US. The visit has promoted the already existing positive relations between the US and China, demonstrating to the two peoples that to maintain sound relations between the US and China is beneficial to the two countries and their people.

Hu said that through the visit he has got great confidence that under the current international situation China and the US share extensive and important strategic interests. China and the US not only are stakeholders but also should be constructive partners. To strengthen the mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries not only brings tangible benefits to the two peoples but also is of great importance to peace, stability and prosperity in the Asia Pacific region and the world at large. The healthy and stable progress of China-US relations benefits our two peoples and people of the world as well.

State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan was present at the meetings.

Hamshere Gallery with International Canine Pedigree Discovered at The LA Antique Show

Written by Joyce Chow and William Hoehne

Pet enthusiasts, especially those with an appreciation for art or jewelry need look no further than Hamshere Gallery out of London. Discovered at The Los Angeles Antiques Show, with internationally prominent galleries and art dealers approved by the prestigious Antique Dealer’s Association of California, a mischievous grin caught my eye.

ham1

Hamshere Gallery holds the largest collection of antique dog paintings in England and the largest collection of period and antique sport jewelry in the world. Following is an interview with John Hamshere, of Hamshere Gallery, www.hamsheregallery.com

MB: I’m here at the LA Antiques Show and noticed some beautiful antique dog paintings and had to stop. Can you tell me about your company, Hamshere Gallery?

JH: We have the largest collection of dog paintings and dog jewelry probably in the world. There’s nobody that has anything this sort of size, specializing in this way and a large collection of dog painting in England, and everybody has dogs.

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MB: Did you know 60% of the population in the U.S. has pets?

I didn’t know that. It’s a very interesting statistic. In England, it’s the second biggest hobby after gardening. I don’t know what it’s like in America. The second biggest hobby after gardening is pets.

MB: They count it as a hobby?

ham4

JH: In expenditure terms, how people spend their money. It’s very interesting. My dogs at home aren’t a hobby, they’re members of the family. They’re not pets. They’re the kids, as well as the kids, so we’ve got many kids.

Statistics wise they divide it up into a hobby, or a pursuit if you like, so gardening’s the first, pets are the second biggest. So it doesn’t surprise me the 60%.

MB: We’re at an antiques show, does your company only have antiques or do they have more current things too for animals?

JH: At the moment., we have only antiques. We just started with one fantastic artist, who really is extraordinary. who came upon us because she stood in front and saw the quality of the work and saw the individualism of the work, if you like, and realized that all the paintings you see here, people actually had the dog in front of them, and painted with the dog in front of them. Today people paint, very easily, you can get something very cheaply done or reasonably done through a photograph. These dogs were painted over a day maybe over 2 days, and somebody sat there and went back to the client went back to the customer, and took time painting the dog.

ham5

We found somebody like that, who want s it exactly the same, who can see why they all have feeling. They all have realism. They all have life. They all have an understanding. Dog paintings comes in a way whereby often the people that paint dogs, they take many years to specialize in painting dogs. They have a feeling for dogs. They have a feeling for animals. They may have lived on a farm. They may have had horses. They may have had a farm or own a farm. They have lived with nature. They live with animals and perhaps the only way to really make it in dog paintings, is to live with them, and have the dog there and understand the dog, and paint the dog, and know the characteristics of the dog.

MB: Are you a painter or an artist?

JH: I ‘m not a painter. I’d love to have the talent, but I don’t, I can’t. I can take photographs, good photographs. I have an eye. I have an appreciation. The reason you see such wonderful paintings here is I have an eye, to be able to pick, to select the right quality. I can do it through a camera lens but I can’t do it with a brush or a pencil.

ham8

MB: You’ve touched on a special artist, can we know their name or is that a secret?

JH: It will be released very soon, very shortly.

MB: Since you work with all these antiques, over time, what makes one dog painting more valuable than another?

JH: It’s a little bit like art really. The problem with art is sometimes it’s fashion, sometimes people chase particular names, sometimes they chase particular dogs. There might be more people chasing Poodles or King Charles Cavaliers. There might be few people chasing Pyrenees Mountain Dogs or Burmese Mountain Dogs. It’s the popularity.

In America there’s an artist called Arthur Wardle and Arthur Wardle is just a sought after artist. There’s an artist called Maldur, she’s a sought after artist, whereas I think her father, George may be equally or might be better., but he’s not sought after as much as Maldur. Maldur, Americans love and is a sought after artist

MB: In the Us do they pay more for the artist or the breed?

JH: It’s the breed, the artist, of course quality. People who look at the paintings. It’s like, why does anything sell or make a certain price? There is a name. There is a breed, there is fashion, but there is quality. The best things, people can see quality and they buy quality.

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MB: Do you find the same thing happens in Europe?

JH: It’s the same in Europe and England. Americans are no different. It’s fashion, quality, name, dog, artist. Its’ the same criteria It doesn’t make any difference.

MB: You mentioned you’ve been at other shows, and you’ve mentioned the AKC/Eukanuba nationals in Tampa, where else have you shown?

JH: Westminster of course followed by Crufts. If I keep going on to dog shows, I would go to the European dog show in Helsinki. We probably won’t go to the World Dog Show in Poland, no particular reason we’ve got other commitments.

MB: So you make the big circuit?

JH: We have to make the big circuit. Our clients, people who buy at the antiques shows don’t got to the dog shows, and the dog show people don’t come to the antiques shows, although they might both buy antique dog paintings.

MB: Do you carry other animals other than dogs because I notice a few cats

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Basically dogs and some cats. When it comes to the jewelry, you’ll see other fabulous pieces such as this fabulous diamond polo player, a fabulous Victorian diamond horseracing, very English football from 1910, Lalique pendant from 1910. So we specialize in sporting jewelry and dog paintings and some cat paintings.

MB: If you were to advise someone that was starting to collect antiques with dogs in them, what would you advise them to buy?

Buy what you like. Whatever you’re buying in antiques, never buy for investments. Buy because you want to put in on your wall, put that in your cabinet, put it on your dresser or table. You want to sit around an antique table, you want an antique painting. Buy it because you like it never buy it for investment. Nothing ever goes down. Everything gets more expensive. Buy it because you want to enjoy it and you want to have it as a lifestyle Something you want to walk into your home and say, fantastic, that’s beautiful, I remember buying it at this show in 1989 or 2006 or whenever you bought it or whatever that period was.

We’re looking forward to discovering Hamshere Gallery’s artist that caught the eye of owner John Hamshere. Until then, digital pictures will capture the spirit.

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April 29, 2006

Dakoda Dowd

To understand the internet you have to be open to change.

Content Is King

Written by Joyce L Chow & William Hoehne April 29, 2006

MBN

www.montebubbles.com for more MBN news

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First there was ABC,CBS,CNN,FOX
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More then 100 pages of news a day
BROADCAST NEWS COMING SOON
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SUNDAYS ARE NOW PICTURE DAY

International news from Asia and Latin news in English and Spanish here now

More exciting changes coming each day.
Watch for the MBN Politically incorrect SUV

MONTEBUBBLISM: I won’t say that our editor is old as a dinosaur and slow, all I can tell you is that when he goes out to do anything that turtles ask him if he will move over so they can pass him.
Breaking News:
Dowd has won 185 junior trophies, and is the nation's top-ranked golfer in the graduating class of 2011. As a sixth-grader she was the No.2 golfer on the team at Northside Christian High. Dakoda finished in second place at last year's Florida Class A high school regional tournament, and if you have not guessed yet Dakoda (Koda) Dowd shoots in the low 70s. Look for Dakoda to be beating up on her competition for years to come.
Dakoda (Koda) Dowd is not your average 13 year old when it comes to golf.
The 13-year-old golf prodigy was invited to Reunion, Florida after event organizers learned that her mother Kelly Jo – who doctors say may only have months to live – wanted to see Dakoda play against the pros once in her lifetime. So Ginn organizers offered a sponsor's exemption, which eventually became a special exemption through the LPGA.
Dowd shot a 74 in the first round. She was tied for 53rd after the first round, beating or tying 15 women who've combined to win 33 major championships.

Dakoda tapped in for a double bogey on the 18th hole for an 82 on Friday. She missed the final-round cut by 8 strokes.

ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY
Below are the winners of the 2006 Billboard Latin Music Awards
Craig Ferguson at Barnes & Noble
Statement on Rush Limbaugh From Kraig T. Kitchin, President/COO Premiere Radio Networks
Grendel At The La Opera Seven performances only
And the Beat Goes on With 'VH1 Rock Docs'
IN JUST THREE YEARS, ONLINE'S broadband video advertising upfront has grown from about a $30 million marketplace to one that will reach at least $500 million
Rodale Selects Onstream Media to Provide Digital Media Services
Walt Disney Company, CBS, and Grupo Televisa are now considering buying Univision
TNT'S COMMERCIAL-FREE PREMIERE OF NEW drama "Saved" will be sponsored by Dodge and Quiznos.
CBS NEWS HITS THE HIGHWAY TO COVER THE GAS PRICE CRISIS
CRYSTAL VISION AT NAB2006
American Conservative Union Supports House Move Toward Consumer Choice
Animal Planet and Comcast Invite Knoxville-Area Residents to Spend Quality Time With Their Family and Pets as ANIMAL PLANET EXPO Rolls Into Town on May 13 at World's Fair Park
More Celebreality Blooms on VH1 This Summer!
Celebrity Cruises' Century Presents Venetian Gem
Ship's $55-Million Makeover Includes Specialty Restaurant, Sushi Bar and More
Hundreds of Sleuths 'Uncover the Arts' in Old City for WHYY Treasure Hunt
The World's Most Famous Dog Launches a New Natural Pet Food, Biscuit and Treat Line, Lassie Natural Way(TM)
Playstation Extends Sponsorship of UEFA Champions League
HotMovies.com Takes Lead From iPod(R), Launches MyClips(R) Customized Playlist Upgrade
Sportsmemo.com Announces the May 1 National Debut of the First and Only
Weekday All Sports Gaming Show on Sports Byline USA and Sirius Satellite Radio
Six Flags Marine World Unveils Tava's Jungleland - A Spectacular New Kids' Adventure Area Featuring Seven New Rides
Shakira U.S. Arena Tour Kicks Off With a Technology Boost From Verizon Wireless
Brand New Heavies, Doug E. Fresh & Slick Rick, Goapele, Kindred, Loose Ends, Musiq, New Orleans and Houston Artists Added to the Stellar Coca-Cola Presents the 2006 Essence Music Festival Line-Up
Pastor Rick Warren to Headline LifeLight Music Festival
'Acapulco Heat: Season One' - The First Electrifying Season Arrives on DVD June 27, 2006
Mary J. Blige, Jamie Foxx, Busta Rhymes, Sean Paul, Three 6 Mafia, Chris Brown, T.I. and Mobb Deep Among Those To Perform at Biggest Hip Hop Concert in the World - HOT 97'S SUMMER JAM 2006
Los Angeles Times, Paramount Pictures Turn Everyday Newsrack Experience Into Extraordinary Mission
Universal Spokesperson Statement Regarding EEOC Suit Against Universal Pictures
Backstreet Boys' Brian Littrell Releases Debut Solo Album Welcome Home on May 2
TV Guide Magazine Debuts New Weekly Column - ''Downloads''
AT&T and Starz Entertainment Group to Offer Vongo Movie Download Service to Broadband Customers
mDisney Launches Beta Version of Pirates of the Caribbean Multiplayer Mobile Game
Rival high-definition DVD technologies HD DVD and Blu-ray Disc will never compromise into a single format.
One in Four Viewers Interested in Watching Full-Length Episodes Online
The Club DNA - A New Way to Deter Auto Theft
Rejecting warnings that it was "selling out the public,"
Airplane!” Lands at Academy
For all its buzz, podcasting is a cowboy industry -- and much of its future lies in the hands of a handful of companies vying to play sheriff and bring order.

Buena Vista Games Enters Agreement to Publish Four New Games from Q ENTERTAINMENT
Videos from Legendary Punk Rockers Now Available for the ZVUE
Actor Tony Danza Signs Agreement to do a Cooking Show Produced by Clear Cut Film Technology Studios at Patsy's Italian Restaurant in Manhattan, NY
Evan Rachel Wood Joins Service of ``KING''
Fox Reality Announces New Original Programming: ''MY BARE LADY''; Transatlantic Co-Production with Zig Zag Productions Promises to ''Reveal All''
Gefen Switchers Integrate with Euphonix System to Create Digital State-of-the-Art Professional Audio/Video Mixing Environment
Bill Cosby Hosts 5th Annual 'Great Night in Harlem' Concert Presented by DIRECTV and BET J at the Apollo Theater Benefiting The Jazz Foundation of America (JFA)
ENTERTAINMENT & LIVING: FCC's Indecency Rules
Universal Pictures' United 93 Opens Nationwide on April 28
Marvel Studios Engages All-Star Roster For New Film Slate; Jon Favreau To Direct Iron Man
Walt Disney Pictures and MySpace.com Launch World Premiere of ''Pirates of the Caribbean
Dame Elizabeth Taylor Statement
Newport Beach Film Festival Announces 2006 Award Winners; Awards Ceremony to Be Produced by Media Alliance of Orange County
Now Casting - HGTV Needs Your Help Finding Offbeat Homes in Indiana and Coast-to-Coast
E3Expo, AIAS and LACMA Announce Art Selected for 3rd Annual Into the Pixel

SPORTS & AUTOS

OAKLAND & DODGER BASEBALL
NFL Draft Day, Silver Ticket Program and Commemorative 5-Liter NFL Kickoff Keg Can
1963 Maple Leafs Voted NHL's 'All-Time Greatest' Single-Season Squad
Unclear Offers Frustrate Media Buyers Eager to Buy in
PLAYERS INC Licenses Trading Card Companies to Promote All NFL Players
Patrick on tour to promote autobiography
Teens and Parents Invited to View GEICO 'Real Teen Driving' DVD May 5
DOD
DoD Identifies Casualties
Kids of Deployed Military Parents Need Consistency
America Supports You: Arizona Bikers Roll Out for Troops
DoD Implements NSPS to Spiral 1.1
NEWS & News In Spanish
Bush Nominates Unknown Executive to Head Small Business Administration
Business Ethics Magazine Names Whirlpool One of 100 Best Corporate Citizens
Company One of Only 16 Named to List All Seven Years
Annual Toys 'R' Us Gala Hosts Toy Industry for a Night of Entertainment and Fundraising to Benefit Children in Need
Playstation amplía el patrocinio de la Liga de Campeones de la UEFA
Leading Western and Eastern European Automotive Logistics Executives Meet in Russia
Ejecutivos europeos de Oriente y Occidente de Automotive Logistics se reúnen en Rusia
Katie Couric One of 20 Named 'Rays of Hope' for Cancer Survivorship
Honorees
White House Applauds National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month
President Bush Encourages Progress for Treatments, Cures
NASA Launches Satellites for Weather, Climate, Air Quality Studies
NASA Honors Pioneer Astronaut Frank Borman
Un Día Sin Mexicanos, el Cortometraje de Sergio Arau se Transmitirá Este Lunes en el Canal México 22

____________________________________________________

ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY
Below are the winners of the 2006 Billboard Latin Music Awards, handed out April 27 in Hollywood, Fla., and broadcast live on Telemundo. The event honors the most popular albums, songs and performers in Latin music, as determined by the actual sales and radio airplay data that informs Billboard's weekly charts during a one-year period ending with the Feb. 5 issue.

Hot Latin Song Of The Year:
(Hot Latin Song, Tema del Año)
"La Tortura" Shakira featuring Alejandro Sanz (Epic/Sony BMG Norte)

Hot Latin Song Of The Year, Vocal Duet:
(Hot Latin Song, Dueto Vocal del Año):
"La Tortura" Shakira Featuring Alejandro Sanz (Epic/Sony BMG Norte)

Hot Latin Songs Artist of the Year:
(Hot Latin Songs, Artista del Año)
Juanes

Latin Pop Album of the Year, Male:
(Álbum Pop del Año, Masculino)
"En La Luna" Reyli (Sony BMG Norte)

Latin Pop Album Of The Year, Female:
(Álbum Pop del Año, Femenino)
"Fijacion Oral Vol. 1" –Shakira (Epic/Sony Music)

Latin Pop Album Of The Year, Duo or Group:
(Álbum Pop del Año, Dúo o Grupo)
"Rebelde" RBD (EMI Latin)

Latin Pop Album Of The Year, New Artist:
(Álbum Pop del Año, Nueva Generación)
"Rebelde" RBD (EMI Latin)

Top Latin Albums Artist Of The Year:
(Top Latin Álbums, Artista del Año)
Daddy Yankee

Latin Rock/Alternative Album Of The Year:
(Álbum Rock /Alternativo del Año)
"Consejo" La Secta AllStar (Universal Latino)

Tropical Album Of The Year, Male:
(Álbum Tropical del Año, Masculino)
"Ironia" Andy Andy (Wepa/Urban Box Office)

Tropical Album Of The Year, Female:
(Álbum Tropical del Año, Femenino)
"Como Olvidar: Lo Mejor De Olga Tañón" Olga Tañón (Warner Latina)

Tropical Album Of The Year, Duo Or Group:
(Álbum Tropical del Año, Dúo o Grupo)
"God’s Project" Aventura (Premium Latin/Sony BMG Norte)

Tropical Album Of The Year, New Artist:
(Álbum Tropical del Año, Nueva Generación)
"Ironía" Andy Andy (Wepa/UBO)

Regional Mexican Album Of The Year, Male Solo Artist:
(Álbum Regional Mexicano del Año, Solista Masculino)
"Mis Duetos" Vicente Fernández (Sony BMG Norte)

Regional Mexican Album Of The Year, Male Duo or Group:
(Álbum Regional Mexicano del Año, Dúo o Grupo Masculino)
"Y Sigue La Mata Dando" Grupo Montez De Durango (Disa)

Regional Mexican Album Of The Year, Female Group or Female Solo Artist:
(Álbum Regional Mexicano del Año, Solista o Grupo Femenino)
"Y Seguimos Con Duranguense!!!" Los Horóscopos De Durango (Disa)

Regional Mexican Album Of The Year, New Artist:
(Álbum Regional Mexicano del Año, Nueva Generación)
"La Reina Del Pasito Duranguense" Diana Reyes (Musimex/Universal Latino)

Latin Pop Airplay Song Of The Year, Male:
(Tema Latin Pop Airplay del Año Masculino)
"La Camisa Negra" Juanes (Surco/Universal Latino)

Latin Pop Airplay Song Of The Year, Female:
(Tema Latin Pop Airplay del Año, Femenino)
"Vìveme" Laura Pausini (Warner Latina)

Latin Pop Airplay Song Of The Year, Duo or Group:
(Tema Latin Pop Airplay del Año, Dúo o Grupo)
"La Tortura" Shakira Featuring Alejandro Sanz (Epic/Sony BMG Norte)

Latin Pop Airplay Song Of The Year, New Artist:
(Tema Latin Pop Airplay del Año, Nueva Generación)
"Algo MÁs" La 5a Estación (Sony BMG Norte)

Tropical Airplay Song Of The Year, Male:
(Tema Tropical Airplay del Año, Masculino)
"Que Ironía" Andy Andy (Wepa/Urban Box Office)

Tropical Airplay Song Of The Year, Female:
(Tema Tropical Airplay del Año, Femenino)
"Bandolero" Olga Tañón (Sony BMG Norte)

Tropical Airplay Song Of The Year, Duo or Group:
(Tema Tropical Airplay del Año, Dúo o Grupo)
"Ella Y Yo" Aventura Featuring Don Omar (Premium Latin)

Tropical Airplay Song Of The Year, New Artist:
(Tema Tropical Airplay del Año, Nueva Generación)
"Lamento Boliviano" Amarfis y La Banda De Atakke (Amarfica/J&N)

Regional Mexican Airplay Song Of The Year, Male Solo Artist:
(Tema Regional Mexicano Airplay del Año, Solista Masculino)
"Dueño De Ti" Sergio Vega (Sony BMG Norte)

Regional Mexican Airplay Song Of The Year, Male Group:
(Tema Regional Mexicano Airplay del Año, Grupo Masculino)
"Eres Divina" Patrulla 81 (Disa)

Regional Mexican Airplay Song Of The Year, Female Group Or Female Solo Artist:
(Tema Regional Mexicano Airplay del Año, Solista o Grupo Femenino)
"Si La Quieres" Los Horóscopos De Durango (Disa)

Regional Mexican Airplay Song Of The Year, New Artist:
(Tema Regional Mexicano Airplay del Año, Nueva Generación)
"Dueño De Ti" Sergio Vega (Sony BMG Norte)

Latin Tour Of The Year:
(Gira del Año)
Luis Miguel

Reggaeton Album Of The Year:
(Albúm Reggaeton del Año)
"Barrio Fino: En Directo" Daddy Yankee (El Cartel/Interscope)

Reggaeton Song Of The Year - *new category
(Tema Reggaeton del Año)-*nueva categoría
"Mayor Que Yo" Baby Ranks, Daddy Yankee, Tonny Tun Tun, Wisin y Yandel, Hector "El Father"

Latin Ringtone Of The Year - *new category
(Ringtone Latino del Año)-*nueva categoryía
"La Tortura" Shakira Featuring Alejandro Sanz (Epic/Sony BMG Norte)

Latin Dance Club Play Track Of The Year:
(Tema Dance del Año, Club Latino)
"I Don’t Care/Que MÁs Da (Dance Remixes)" Ricky Martin Featuring Fat Joe (Columbia/Sony BMG Norte)

Latin Rap/Hip-Hop Album Of The Year:
(Álbum Rap/Hip-Hop Latino del Año)
"Kickin’ It…Juntos" Akwid & Jae-P (Univision)

Latin Greatest Hits Album Of The Year:
(Álbum de los Grandes Éxitos Latinos del Año)
"La Historia Continua…Parte II" Marco Antonio Solis

Latin Compilation Album Of The Year:
(Álbum Recopilación Temas Latinos del Año)
"Chosen Few: El Documental" Various Artists (Chosen Few Emerald/Urban Box Office)

Latin Jazz Album Of The Year:
(Álbum Jazz Latino del Año)
"Sandoval: Live At The Blue Note" Arturo Sandoval (Half Note)

Latin Christian/Gospel Album Of The Year:
(Álbum Cristiano/Gospel del Año)
"Dios Es Bueno" Marcos Witt (Canzion/Sony BMG Norte)

Songwriter Of The Year:
(Compositor del Año)
Juanes

Producer Of The Year:
(Productor del Año)
Luny Tunes
Hot Latin Song Of The Year:(Hot Latin Song, Tema del Año)"La Tortura" Shakira featuring Alejandro Sanz (Epic/Sony BMG Norte)
Hot Latin Song Of The Year:(Hot Latin Song, Tema del Año)"La Tortura" Shakira featuring Alejandro Sanz (Epic/Sony BMG Norte)

Hot Latin Song Of The Year, Vocal Duet:(Hot Latin Song, Dueto Vocal del Año):"La Tortura" Shakira Featuring Alejandro Sanz (Epic/Sony BMG Norte)Hot Latin Songs Artist of the Year:

(Hot Latin Songs, Artista del Año)JuanesLatin Pop Album of the Year, Male:

(Álbum Pop del Año, Masculino)"En La Luna" Reyli (Sony BMG Norte)Latin Pop Album Of The Year, Female:(Álbum Pop del Año, Femenino)"Fijacion Oral Vol. 1" –Shakira (Epic/Sony Music)Latin Pop Album Of The Year, Duo or Group:

(Álbum Pop del Año, Dúo o Grupo)"Rebelde" RBD (EMI Latin)Latin Pop Album Of The Year, New Artist:(Álbum Pop del Año, Nueva Generación)"Rebelde" RBD (EMI Latin)Top Latin Albums Artist Of The Year:

(Top Latin Álbums, Artista del Año)Daddy YankeeLatin Rock/Alternative Album Of The Year:

(Álbum Rock /Alternativo del Año)"Consejo" La Secta AllStar (Universal Latino)Tropical Album Of The Year, Male:(Álbum Tropical del Año, Masculino)"Ironia" Andy Andy (Wepa/Urban Box Office)Tropical Album Of The Year, Female:

(Álbum Tropical del Año, Femenino)"Como Olvidar: Lo Mejor De Olga Tañón" Olga Tañón (Warner Latina)Tropical Album Of The Year, Duo Or Group:

(Álbum Tropical del Año, Dúo o Grupo)"God’s Project" Aventura (Premium Latin/Sony BMG Norte)Tropical Album Of The Year, New Artist:

(Álbum Tropical del Año, Nueva Generación)"Ironía" Andy Andy (Wepa/UBO)Regional Mexican Album Of The Year, Male Solo Artist:

(Álbum Regional Mexicano del Año, Solista Masculino)"Mis Duetos" Vicente Fernández (Sony BMG Norte)Regional Mexican Album Of The Year, Male Duo or Group:

(Álbum Regional Mexicano del Año, Dúo o Grupo Masculino)"Y Sigue La Mata Dando" Grupo Montez De Durango (Disa)Regional Mexican Album Of The Year, Female Group or Female Solo Artist:

(Álbum Regional Mexicano del Año, Solista o Grupo Femenino)"Y Seguimos Con Duranguense!!!" Los Horóscopos De Durango (Disa)Regional Mexican Album Of The Year, New Artist:

(Álbum Regional Mexicano del Año, Nueva Generación)"La Reina Del Pasito Duranguense" Diana Reyes (Musimex/Universal Latino)Latin Pop Airplay Song Of The Year, Male:(Tema Latin Pop Airplay del Año Masculino)"La Camisa Negra" Juanes (Surco/Universal Latino)Latin Pop Airplay Song Of The Year, Female:(

Tema Latin Pop Airplay del Año, Femenino)"Vìveme" Laura Pausini (Warner Latina)Latin Pop Airplay Song Of The Year, Duo or Group:(Tema Latin Pop Airplay del Año, Dúo o Grupo)"La Tortura" Shakira Featuring Alejandro Sanz (Epic/Sony BMG Norte)Latin Pop Airplay Song Of The Year, New Artist:

(Tema Latin Pop Airplay del Año, Nueva Generación)"Algo MÁs" La 5a Estación (Sony BMG Norte)Tropical Airplay Song Of The Year, Male:

(Tema Tropical Airplay del Año, Masculino)"Que Ironía" Andy Andy (Wepa/Urban Box Office)Tropical Airplay Song Of The Year, Female:

(Tema Tropical Airplay del Año, Femenino)"Bandolero" Olga Tañón (Sony BMG Norte)Tropical Airplay Song Of The Year, Duo or Group:(Tema Tropical Airplay del Año, Dúo o Grupo)"Ella Y Yo" Aventura Featuring Don Omar (Premium Latin)Tropical Airplay Song Of The Year, New Artist:

(Tema Tropical Airplay del Año, Nueva Generación)"Lamento Boliviano" Amarfis y La Banda De Atakke (Amarfica/J&N)Regional Mexican Airplay Song Of The Year, Male Solo Artist:(Tema Regional Mexicano Airplay del Año, Solista Masculino)"Dueño De Ti" Sergio Vega (Sony BMG Norte)Regional Mexican Airplay Song Of The Year, Male Group:

(Tema Regional Mexicano Airplay del Año, Grupo Masculino)"Eres Divina" Patrulla 81 (Disa)Regional Mexican Airplay Song Of The Year, Female Group Or Female Solo Artist:

(Tema Regional Mexicano Airplay del Año, Solista o Grupo Femenino)"Si La Quieres" Los Horóscopos De Durango (Disa)Regional Mexican Airplay Song Of The Year, New Artist:(Tema Regional Mexicano Airplay del Año, Nueva Generación)"Dueño De Ti" Sergio Vega (Sony BMG Norte)Latin Tour Of The Year:(Gira del Año)Luis MiguelReggaeton Album Of The Year:

(Albúm Reggaeton del Año)"Barrio Fino: En Directo" Daddy Yankee (El Cartel/Interscope)Reggaeton Song Of The Year

- *new category(Tema Reggaeton del Año)-*nueva categoría"Mayor Que Yo" Baby Ranks, Daddy Yankee, Tonny Tun Tun, Wisin y Yandel, Hector "El Father"Latin Ringtone Of The Year - *new category(Ringtone Latino del Año)-

*nueva categoryía"La Tortura" Shakira Featuring Alejandro Sanz (Epic/Sony BMG Norte)Latin Dance Club Play Track Of The Year:

(Tema Dance del Año, Club Latino)"I Don’t Care/Que MÁs Da (Dance Remixes)" Ricky Martin Featuring Fat Joe (Columbia/Sony BMG Norte)Latin Rap/Hip-Hop Album Of The Year:(Álbum Rap/Hip-Hop Latino del Año)"Kickin’ It…Juntos" Akwid & Jae-P (Univision)Latin Greatest Hits Album Of The Year:

(Álbum de los Grandes Éxitos Latinos del Año)"La Historia Continua…Parte II" Marco Antonio SolisLatin Compilation Album Of The Year:

(Álbum Recopilación Temas Latinos del Año)"Chosen Few: El Documental" Various Artists (Chosen Few Emerald/Urban Box Office)Latin Jazz Album Of The Year:

(Álbum Jazz Latino del Año)"Sandoval: Live At The Blue Note" Arturo Sandoval (Half Note)Latin Christian/Gospel Album Of The Year:(Álbum Cristiano/Gospel del Año)"Dios Es Bueno" Marcos Witt (Canzion/Sony BMG Norte)Songwriter Of The Year:

(Compositor del Año)JuanesProducer Of The Year:(Productor del Año)Luny Tunes Craig Ferguson at Barnes & Noble
Wed, May 3 at 7:30 pm
Wed, May 3 at 7:30 pm

Third St Promenade

1201 Third St, SM

(310) 260-9110

for booksigning of "Between the Bridge and the River"

This rambunctious debut novel from the host of CBS's The Late Late Show follows the picaresque adventrues of two Scottish friends and 2 American half brothers - with hilarious stops along the way poking fun at everything from Hollywood and Vegas to Starbucks and Hooters.

Statement on Rush Limbaugh From Kraig T. Kitchin, President/COO Premiere Radio Networks

"I'm pleased that a settlement has been reached between Rush Limbaugh and the state of Florida that finally brings this matter to an end. Rush's not guilty plea is consistent with the position he has taken all along. Throughout it all, he has continued to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to his listeners, affiliates, and advertisers. We have always stood by Rush -- for good reason -- and will continue to do so."

Source: Premiere Radio Networks

Grendel

Composed by Elliot Goldenthal
Directed by Julie Taymor
WORLD PREMIERE - May 27, 2006

Academy-Award wining composer Elliot Goldenthal and Tony-Award winning director Julie Taymor collaborate on Grendel, a ground-breaking operatic premiere inspired by the Beowulf legend. Over 1,000 years ago, two anonymous scribes wrote down an epic poem about a Scandinavian hero who ended the bloody reign of the monster Grendel. John Gardner’s 1971 novel approaches the classic story from the monster’s viewpoint. Estranged from nature and outcast from the world of men, Grendel is a passionate thinker trapped in the body of a beast, who struggles with his own existential conflicts and observations about humanity, and about himself.

Using projections, puppetry, masks and Goldenthal’s richly layered and highly emotional score, Taymor creates an enthralling visual landscape. In this world of kings, queens, storytellers and warriors, Taymor and her co-librettist, J.D. McClatchy, present a Grendel that is a quintessentially modern anti-hero. With language ranging from medieval to modern, Grendel serves as a gripping theatrical allegory of the human struggle.

PRODUCTION DATES: May 27,2006 to June 17,2006 ,seven shows only
May 27,2006 to June 17,2006 ,seven shows only
PRE-PERFORMANCE LECTURE:

One hour prior to each performance.
Michael Walsh will lead the pre-performance lecture.
Pre-performance lectures are generously sponsored by the Flora L. Thornton Foundation and the Opera League of Los Angeles.

And the Beat Goes on With 'VH1 Rock Docs'
VH1 Expands Rock Docs Franchise to Include Eight Additional Music-Based Documentaries Covering Heavy Metal, Hip-Hop, Classic Rock and More

VH1 will expand its documentary series "VH1 Rock Docs" to include eight new high-end feature-length programs. Each of the documentaries will reveal an untold story in the history of rock and hip-hop music, combining never-before-seen footage with a unique and unconventional narrative approach. The documentaries will tell some of the most unique stories of artists and music from a wide range of genres, styles, and musical perspectives.

For this new slate, which includes internally-produced and acquired projects, VH1 builds on the previously announced "Rock Docs" "DMC: My Adoption Journey," "Heavy: The Story of Metal," "The Last Days of Left Eye" and "The U.S. vs. John Lennon."

THE DRUG YEARS

VH1, in association with Sundance Channel, has produced the original documentary series "The Drug Years," a four-part look at the rise of illicit drug use and its cultural impact in the second half of the twentieth century. Spanning the 1950's to the present, "The Drug Years" explores the development of a commercial drug culture in America, using archival footage, never-before-seen film and interviews to illustrate how popular culture -- including music, movies, comedy, television, and theatre -- both shaped and reflected public perceptions of illicit drugs. "The Drug Years" also looks at how drugs became part of the nation's political landscape, from the youth rebellions of the 1960's to the War on Drugs and beyond.

MY GENERATION: WHO'S STILL WHO (Spitfire and VH1)

Authorized by The Who and directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Murray Lerner, "My Generation: Who's Still Who" is the definitive audio-visual record of the legendary British rock band, The Who. Produced by Spitfire and VH1, (Spitfire's last project was the Peabody Award winning documentary "Bob Dylan: No Direction Home") and making its television premiere on VH1, "My Generation: Who's Still Who" moves from the group's origins as a 1960s schoolboy R&B cover band, through their meteoric rise and artistic breakthroughs. The film also documents the infighting, the breakups and reconciliations, and the untimely deaths of drummer Keith Moon and bassist John Entwistle. In addition to never-before-seen private materials released by the group and its fans worldwide, the film includes interviews with prominent witnesses and personal friends. Rare and unreleased concert footage and outtakes are also featured. After its premiere on VH1, the documentary will also air on VH1 Classic.

TUPAC RESURRECTION

Making its network window premiere on VH1, Lauren Lazin's Academy-award nominated portrait of Tupac Shakur, "Tupac: Resurrection" explores Tupac's life viscerally and dramatically-through his own words and music, and through vivid images of the world as he experienced it. The first-ever documentary about Shakur's life created in collaboration with his mother, Afeni Shakur, and Amaru Entertainment, "Tupac: Resurrection" features never-before-seen concert footage, excerpts from his poetry and journals, and private home-movie material. The documentary features a soundtrack of Shakur's best-selling music, as well as the music he loved and was inspired by. Not merely a celebration of his life and artistry, "Tupac: Resurrection" explores honestly and openly Shakur's many complexities, examining his artistic gifts, passions and conflicts.

METAL: A HEADBANGER'S JOURNEY

Making its television premiere on VH1, "Metal: A Headbanger's Journey" follows 30-year old anthropologist Sam Dunn, who has decided to study the plight of a different culture, one he has been a part of since he was a 12-year old: the culture of heavy metal. Sam sets out on a global journey to find out why this music has been consistently stereotyped, dismissed and condemned and yet is loved so passionately by its millions of fans. Along the way, Sam explores metals' obsession with some of life's most provocative subjects -- sexuality, religion, violence and death -- and discovers some things about the culture that even he can't defend. Shot on location in the UK, Germany, Norway, Canada and the US, this documentary is the first of its kind. It is both a defense of a long-misunderstood art form and a window for the outsider into the spectacle that is heavy metal.

AWESOME; I F**KIN' SHOT THAT! (thinkfilm)

Making its television premiere on VH1, "Awesome; I F**kin' Shot That!" is an innovative feature film experience. The Beastie Boys handed out 50 cameras to audience members at their sold-out performance in New York's famed Madison Square Garden in October 2004. These 50 different passionate perspectives shot from the point of view of the audience take the viewer deep inside the world of a live Beastie Boys show, prismatically and kinetically capturing the experience of a live musical performance like no film has ever done.

FADE TO BLACK

Making its network window premiere on VH1, "Fade To Black" offers an intimate look at hip-hop artist Jay-Z, aka Shawn Carter, that reveals the multiple Grammy Award winning artist as never before. From his background and rise to fame to the recording of his last album, the film chronicles the legendary concert of Jay-Z's performance at Madison Square Garden in November 2003. In an unprecedented event, a hip-hop artist sold out an arena in only two hours. The event was a spectacular culmination of Jay-Z's recording career prior to his self-proclaimed retirement from solo performing. Yet this one night also defined a musical generation, showcasing the evolution and reach of the world's most popular music genre. Viewers get the rare glimpse of Jay-Z's creative process as he searches for inspiration, poetry, and perfection in his songs. Narrated by Jay-Z, this documentary takes on reflections of his entire musical career and his journey that led to this one astounding, fabled evening -- rightfully called "Fade To Black."

BOB DYLAN: NO DIRECTION HOME (Spitfire)

Martin Scorsese's Peabody Award winning, definitive documentary of the legendary singer, Bob Dylan is the first feature length film biography done on the artist. The two-part film, which focuses on the singer-songwriter's life and music from 1961-1966, includes never-seen performance footage and interviews with artists and musicians whose lives intertwined with Dylan's during that time. The film also features previously unreleased footage from Bob Dylan's groundbreaking live concerts, studio recording sessions and interviews. After its premiere on VH1, the documentary will also air on VH1 Classic.

NEIL YOUNG: HEART OF GOLD (Paramount Classics)

Jonathan Demme's highly-regarded documentary making its network window premiere on VH1. Legendary singer/songwriter Neil Young is filmed on the occasion of the world premiere of Young's "Prairie Wind" concert at Nashville's hallowed Ryman Auditorium. Young's music provides an emotionally rich view into this unique artist's relationship to family, friends, mortality, and the passage of time. Young is accompanied onstage by many long time musical companions, including country star Emmylou Harris, Neil's wife Pegi Young, and bandleader/steel guitarist Ben Keith. The documentary will also air on VH1 Classic.

VH1 connects viewers to the music, artists and pop culture that matter to them most with series, specials, live events, exclusive online content and public affairs initiatives. VH1 is available in 87 million households in the U.S. VH1 also has an array of digital services including VH1 Classic, VH1 Soul, VH Uno and VH1 Country. Connect with VH1 at www.VH1.com.

VH1 is a registered trademark of MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom International Inc. MTV Networks also operates and offers joint ventures, licensing agreements and syndication deals whereby its programming can be seen worldwide.

*all times ET/PT

Web site: http://www.vh1.com/

IN JUST THREE YEARS, ONLINE'S broadband video advertising upfront has grown from about a $30 million marketplace to one that will reach at least $500 million

and as much as $1 billion this year, making it the size of a major broadcast network TV daypart, akin to late night, early morning or early evening news, executives helping to develop that market said Thursday during Media magazine's 2006 Outfront Conference in New York. "It will be a $500 million marketplace over the next 12 months for traditional video, 15- and 30-second commercial advertising being either integrated into in-stream environments or in engaged ad units that can support video," estimated Adam Gerber, vice president-ad products & strategy at broadband video developer Brightcove.

"Is it going to become the primary place tat marketer's put their TV budgets? I don't think so. But I think over the long-term, you are going to see major shifts in how advertisers are spending money," added Gerber, who prior to joining Brightcove was head of new media at MediaVest, and was part of the team that helped initiated the so-called broadband upfront at Starcom MediaVest Group three years ago.

But that's the conservative estimate, said Matt Wasserlauf, president-CEO of another broadband video advertising developer, Broadband Enterprises. "The inventory exists today to support a billion dollar business. There could be a billion dollar industry in pre-roll 15- and 30-second commercials."

One of the things that could limit the scale of that market, cautioned Brightcove's Gerber, was a growing perception that so-called "pre-roll," or the commercial units that run intrusively before online video content, may not be as effective as conventional TV commercials.

"Give us a chance," he pleaded to a roomful of planners and buyers, noting, "Already, people are talking about how horrible a model pre-roll is. We need to focus on the model's positives."

Despite strong high-speed penetration rates and consumers' insatiable hunger for video content, Gerber and his fellow "New Channel for Content Distribution" panelists are still fearful of being overlooked by agencies because of negative presumptions and impatience for an immature ad model.

"We're not even in the first inning of broadband," Gerber said, "It's more like batting practice."

"Let's just hope no one comes up with a 5 percent solution," remarked Allison Bodenmann, executive vice president of national sales of WorldNow, the broadband services provider. Bodenmann was referring to ad agencies' hastily reacting to the advent of cable TV by blindly allocating 5 percent of their budgets for the new medium.

"The general idea is that broadband deserves a much closer look by agencies than they gave cable originally," Gerber later explained to OnlineMediaDaily.

Backing up Gerber's defense of broadband, Bodenmann assured members of the audience that "The tech will be there very soon" to silence critics who consider pre-roll ads clunky and half-baked.

To varying degrees, each panelist was professedly optimist about broadband, but none more so than Matt Wasserlauf, president and CEO of Broadband Enterprises, which specializes in broadband video sales, syndication, and original production.

"Television has been the predominant medium for a number of generations, but every generation up to 24-year-olds are going online before TV," said Wasserlauf.

Rejecting the common perception that inventory is scarce, Wasserlauf asserted, "The doors are open and there's plenty of opportunity." To support his position, Wasserlauf noted a comScore statistic that over 4 billion "monetizable" streams exist online per month. (A comScore spokeswoman later confirmed that number for December of last year.)

Still, a lack of agency procedure when planning online buys appears to be slowing progress.

How are agencies and advertisers managing their broadband spending: Line item budget or judgment call?

As an example, Curt Hecht, executive vice president of ad products and strategy at GM Planworks was asked just how planners like himself are managing their broadband spending: line item budget or judgment call. In response, he said: "We attach to properties we care a lot about," adding, "At the end of the day that leads to a line item, but we don't start out that way."

Looking ahead toward a brighter future for pre-roll, Gerber noted the potential for behavioral and contextual targeting technology as the ad model's great hope. "The challenge is audience metrics," he said.

Rodale Selects Onstream Media to Provide Digital Media Services
Leading Global Health and Wellness Publisher to Utilize Onstream Media's Services to Create New Revenue Opportunities From Its Existing Video Content Libraries
Services to Include Ad Insertion Into On-Demand Video Streaming

Onstream Media Corporation , a leading online service provider of live and on- demand, digital media communications and applications, announced today that Rodale Inc., the authoritative source for trusted content in health and wellness around the world, has deployed Onstream Media and its Digital Media Services Platform (DMSP) to provide content processing, various professional services including the development of a video search application with custom players, hosting and dynamic advertisement insertion into Rodale's on-demand (IP-PPV) streaming video content.

"Onstream Media provides Rodale with the opportunity to drive new revenue streams that enhance its strategic digital initiatives for its content and brands as well as leverage its existing advertising franchise," said Ken Citron, Chief Technology Officer and Senior Vice President, Rodale.

Using Rodale's long form video content, as well as the online publishing capabilities of Onstream Media's DMSP and other proprietary technologies, Rodale is expanding the Web presence of its streaming video content among end- users through the creation of shorter length, indexed vignettes and a powerful one-to-one marketing platform. To this end, Rodale has already successfully deployed Onstream Media's turnkey video search application and custom players and seamlessly integrated them into Rodale's site designs and individual Web properties. This implementation provides Rodale with the capability to insert dynamic advertisements into video streams that match a distinct viewer profile.

Other advanced technical solutions provided by Onstream Media to Rodale include:

* Fluid transformation of high resolution streams into a myriad of formats and bandwidth speeds. * Automated ingest and digitization of long and short format programs, cataloging each discreet scene as an independent media asset. * Comprehensive metadata tagging of each video scene, and its contents. * A fast multi-format play out center capable of streaming video from multiple media player formats, such as Flash Video and Windows Media, that can be delivered on multiple platforms such as PC's, Mac's, mobile smart phones, and iPods. * Transaction processing for packaging and selling video on-demand (IP-PPV).

"We're pleased to be partnering with Rodale as it will enable them to better leverage their well-renowned brands such as Men's Health, Prevention and Runner's World in the online space and drive new revenue streams more effectively and efficiently from Rodale's online properties and content," said Randy Selman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Onstream Media. "Although both traditional and new media publishers have been using the Web to stream their video content, there has been no successful, cost effective way to generate revenues from this content until now. Using Onstream Media's DMSP, publishers can now monetize this video content through highly targeted, integrated advertising, that is customized to the profiles of individual users (ad insertion), subscriptions or e-commerce all of which is easily facilitated by the publisher using the DMSP."

About Rodale Inc.

Rodale Inc. is the authoritative source for trusted content in health, fitness and wellness around the world, reaching nearly 40 million people each month. The company publishes some of the best-known health and wellness lifestyle magazines, including Men's Health, Prevention, Women's Health, Runner's World, Best Life, Bicycling, Backpacker, Mountain Bike and Organic Gardening, and is also the largest independent book publisher in America with a collection of international titles, including The South Beach Diet and The Abs Diet franchises. Rodale's broad range of media platforms includes magazines, books, video and extensive Web sites. The company is also a leader in direct response marketing and has more than 25 million active customers in its database. http://www.rodale.com/ .

About Onstream Media Corporation

Founded in 1993, Onstream Media (is a leading online service provider of live and on-demand communications and digital media services including encoding, editorial, hosting, digital asset management, streaming, e-commerce/pay-per-view and distribution via the Onstream Digital Media Services Platform. Onstream Media's pioneering ASP Digital Media Services Platform (DMSP) provides its customers with the necessary tools for webcasting, web conferencing, managing digital assets, publishing content on the Internet and establishing e-commerce storefronts to transact business online. All of Onstream Media's services are focused on increasing productivity and revenues, and reducing capital expenditures and operational costs of any organization in an affordable and highly secure environment. As a result, 78% of the Fortune 100 CEOs and CFOs and almost half of the Fortune 1000 companies have used Onstream Media's services.

Onstream Media customers include: AOL, AAA, AXA Equitable Life Insurance Company, Disney, MGM, Deutsche Bank, Thomson Financial/CCBN, PR Newswire and the U.S. Government.

Source: Onstream Media Corporation

Walt Disney Company, CBS, and Grupo Televisa are now considering buying Univision

SOME MAJOR MEDIA COMPANIES LOOK to be shifting position on a possible purchase of Univision--Walt Disney Company, CBS, and Grupo Televisa are now all actively considering buying the large Spanish-language network, according to published reports.

Recently, media companies had expressed that Univision' price tag---at $40 a share amounting to $14 billion--was too high. Univision, controlled by billionaire Jerrold Perenchio, has been pondering a sale of a company since February.

A number of media companies, including Disney and CBS, did take an initial look at Univision's financial books. Walt Disney Co., however, has been analyzing Univision's books more closely in recent days, according to reports.

CBS may have a different agenda. Yesterday, Les Moonves, chief executive officer of CBS, told investors and journalists in a press conference about its first earnings report as a public company, saying that "we're not looking for an acquisition of that size."

Or perhaps that expensive. Univision's proposed price tag would equate to 19 times cash flow and a 36 price/earning ratio. By way of comparison, Viacom is selling at 11 times cash flow; CBS is an even cheaper 8 times cash flow.

Grupo Televisa, the big Mexican TV production company and broadcaster, has a significant 11 percent stake in Univision, and provides the channel with much of its programming. Last month, The New York Times reported that it has been formalizing a bid with private investors, including Providence Equity Partners, Madison Dearborn Partners, the Cisneros Group of Venezuela, and the media entrepreneur Haim Saban.

Because of Grupo Televisa's stake, media analysts have said the most likely scenario is that a major U.S.-based media company would need a joint bid with Grupo Televisa to gain control of Univision.

This would mean its chief executive, Televisa Chairman and President Emilio Azcarraga, would need to do a Rupert Murdoch--becoming a U.S. citizen as well as relocating its headquarters to the U.S., abiding by Federal Communication Communications rules.

A Univision spokeswoman had no comment about the possible buyers

TNT'S COMMERCIAL-FREE PREMIERE OF NEW drama "Saved" will be sponsored by Dodge and Quiznos.

"Saved" is one of three shows on the Turner network set to premiere this summer with no commercial interruptions--a move that could blunt the impact of ad-skipping DVRs and ease advertisers' concerns about increasing clutter.

Earlier, TNT said the second-season debut of hit "The Closer" would be ad-free and sponsored by Audi. "Nightmares & Dreamscapes: From the Stories of Stephen King" is the third show, although TNT has not announced a sponsor.

Dodge's relationship with "Saved"--which focuses on the personal struggles of a paramedic--also includes product placement. Both Dodge and Quiznos will receive exposure in TNT's marketing efforts behind "Saved," including mentions in on-air promos, print ads, and on tnt.tv.

Agency PHD made the multi-pronged deals with Turner on behalf of clients Dodge and Quiznos.

"Saved" will run Mondays at 10 after "The Closer," forming an original drama block that launches June 12.

In addition, AOL will have a brand integration role in "Saved," as well as on "The Closer." "We can showcase the value of AOL within the actual storyline, making it relevant to the characters' lives," said Richard Taylor, senior vice president of brand marketing for AOL. In an interview prior to Turner's upfront, David Levy, president of Turner Entertainment Group Ad Sales and Marketing, said circumventing DVR ad-skipping wasn't the chief reason behind the ad-free premieres. "We're looking at innovative ways to get the clients' messages across," he said.

Linda Yaccarino, executive vice president at Turner, cited "an uncluttered environment" as an enticement for Dodge and Quiznos.

CBS NEWS HITS THE HIGHWAY TO COVER THE GAS PRICE CRISIS
The Five-Part Series, "CBS News: Eye on the Road," Begins May 1
on the CBS EVENING NEWS WITH BOB SCHIEFFER
CBS News is hitting the road to get a first-hand look at how extraordinarily high gas prices are affecting ordinary people. Correspondent Sharyn Alfonsi and her crew will travel from Florida to Massachusetts on Interstate 95 in three vehicles: a Toyota Prius hybrid; a Ford Expedition SUV and a mid-size Honda Accord. Along the way, Alfonsi and her team will talk to Americans who suffer every time the price at the pump rises. The five-part series, "CBS News: Eye on the Road," begins Monday, May 1 (6:30-7:00 PM ET/PT) on the CBS EVENING NEWS WITH BOB SCHIEFFER. CBSNews.com will also feature Alfonsi's reports.
CBS News is hitting the road to get a first-hand look at how extraordinarily high gas prices are affecting ordinary people. Correspondent Sharyn Alfonsi and her crew will travel from Florida to Massachusetts on Interstate 95 in three vehicles: a Toyota Prius hybrid; a Ford Expedition SUV and a mid-size Honda Accord. Along the way, Alfonsi and her team will talk to Americans who suffer every time the price at the pump rises. The five-part series, "CBS News: Eye on the Road," begins (6:30-7:00 PM ET/PT) on the CBS EVENING NEWS WITH BOB SCHIEFFER. CBSNews.com will also feature Alfonsi's reports.

Alfonsi and producer Michael Solmsen will start in Miami, Fla., where the increased price of fuel has a direct impact on healthcare and other services -- like Meals on Wheels -- provided to the state's elderly population. They'll finish the trip in Cambridge, Mass., but will make stops in the following cities:

Sylvania, Ga., where farmers facing a 113% increase in fertilizer costs may be forced out of business

Zebulon, N.C., home of the Carolina Mudcats, a minor league baseball team that travels more than 10,000 miles by bus per season and whose fans drive to the small town located outside Raleigh

Arlington, Va., one suburb where commuters are rethinking their drive into the nation's capital

Alfonsi will record a video diary and blog -- updated throughout the day -- for CBSNews.com with exclusive commentary about the places she's been and the people she's interviewed. In addition, CBSNews.com will feature exclusive web-only footage, as well as an interactive map of the crew's trip. The "CBS News: Eye on the Road" team will track how much gas each of their vehicle's uses and post the average price for each region on CBSNews.com.

Rome Harman is the executive producer of the CBS EVENING NEWS.

CRYSTAL VISION AT NAB2006

2006 is the year of Crystal Vision HD with the launch of eleven new High Definition products.

Three of these are being demonstrated using the booth’s blue screen chroma key set. Now shipping, Safire HD is the first affordable solution to High Definition chroma keying. Fitting in the standard Crystal Vision frames, this modular chroma keyer works with all common High Definition formats as well as SDI and is ideal for studio, sport and all other live chroma keying applications. ViViD HD is ideal for compensating for the delays caused by other equipment in the system, including graphics generators in HD virtual studios. The easy-to-use module provides over half a second of delay in HD and three seconds in Standard Definition, with a minimum setting of a few microseconds and the delay adjustable in time steps. The third virtual studio product is LKEY HD – a High Definition linear keyer designed to key graphics over HD or SD video streams. Distinguished by its unusually small size, the ability to fit six HD linear keyers in 2U saves the customer valuable rack space and makes it especially suitable for multi-layer keying.

Crystal Vision is best known for its expertise in embedded audio, and TANDEM HD brings real flexibility to HD embedding. It can be configured as either a single embedder or single de-embedder and can be used with either one or two groups of audio, depending on how many piggybacks are fitted to the motherboard. Simple to operate, TANDEM HD offers gain control as well as audio routing. The ultimate combined-function HD product, SYNNER HD is a synchroniser, tracking audio delay and embedder/de-embedder on one board. Taking in tri-level syncs or normal Black and Burst, it will synchronise an HD or SD signal containing embedded audio, and can optionally embed or de-embed two groups of audio by fitting two piggybacks to the main board. It offers sophisticated routing, allowing swap and replace of the individual audio channels. There is also a new HD/SDI video frame synchroniser designed for applications without embedded audio: the SYN HD.

Up-and-down is a combined up, down and cross converter with adaptive motion compensation. By using the very latest chipset Crystal Vision has created the most advanced up/down converter at a realistic price, with the added advantage of the 100mm x 266mm module using minimum space. Up conversions are Standard Definition to 720p and 1080i, at both 50Hz and 59.94Hz, while down conversions are 720p and 1080i to Standard Definition at both frame frequencies. Cross conversions of 720p to 1080i and 1080i to 720p are also available. Also new are four low cost HD/SDI distribution amplifiers for those who do not require remote control operation. The HDDA105C, HDDA105N, HDDA111C and HDDA111N between them offer the options of reclocking and non-reclocking and five or eleven outputs.

With most of the world still Standard Definition, Crystal Vision has not forgotten that market. Demon 2 is an updated version of one of Crystal Vision’s most popular products, the Demon de-embedding monitor. Part of Crystal Vision’s new generation of converters which give improved performance at a lower cost, Demon 2 uses the highest quality 12 bit DAC and can convert SDI with embedded audio into combinations of component, composite, Y/C and SDI - along with 20 bit AES and analogue audio simultaneously.

The Smart DA is an intelligent SDI distribution amplifier giving up to eight outputs that will monitor the video and embedded audio and provide warnings should any problems occur. The status of the signal can be viewed by using the Smart DA with Crystal Vision’s Statesman PC Control System, with indications of input present, input standard, video black, video frozen, audio group present, audio silence, EDH missing, EDH full field error and EDH active picture error. A number of alarms can also be set, including video absent, audio absent, black picture, frozen picture and silent audio, as well as three EDH alarms. The Smart DA is ideal for big systems requiring immediate indication of signal or transmission problems, especially in unmanned automatic playout facilities.

The ADDEC 12 bit decoding converters provide an excellent way to bring a variety of analogue sources into a digital environment. Used with sources generated by cameras, tape machines or graphics generators, they can convert different analogue signals (composite PAL/NTSC, Y/C or YUV) to SDI, making them ideal for multi-applications and resulting in reductions in cost and rack space. The SDI output is excellent, thanks to data sampled at 54Mbit per second, the five line comb decoder and the 12 bit A to D which reduces quantising noise. Input sources can be of any quality from full broadcast to VHS, with damaged or jittery signals accepted. The internal video proc-amp allows adjustment of gains and levels for further picture improvements. There is a decoding converter to suit every application and budget. ADDEC-100 has no timing adjustments, making it the straightforward low cost option. ADDEC-200 and ADDEC-300 both have timing adjustments including an on-board framestore synchroniser and the option to add a fixed delay. The advantage of full board edge control makes the ADDEC-300 the fully-featured version.

Based at Whittlesford near Cambridge in the UK, Crystal Vision provides digital keyers and a full range of digital and analogue interface equipment including converters, decoders, encoders, aspect ratio converters and audio embedders to the professional broadcasting industry worldwide.

American Conservative Union Supports House Move Toward Consumer Choice

Bill Lauderback, Executive Vice President, American Conservative Union today made the following statement:

"It appears that the House Energy and Commence Committee is ready to introduce the cable TV establishment to the American system of free enterprise. The introduction would come via the Communications Opportunity, Promotion and Enhancement (COPE) Act which the committee has in mark-up today.

"The COPE Act would finally bring meaningful competition to the cable market by eliminating the archaic local video franchise regulations which have insulated incumbent providers from the realities of a free market for decades. These local franchise regulations have preserved a monopoly business model that has behaved in the classic monopoly manner, exploiting captive consumers with unconscionably inflated prices and indifferent service.

"COPE would replace the labyrinth of 30,000 local video franchise agreements with one national agreement that would allow any new competitor or incumbent cable provider to offer service anywhere in the country. Since the market we know as cable has evolved into a broader market for broadband services, competition is in the national interest as well as in the interest of consumers.

"A vibrant, competitive market will attract the kind of consumer broadband infrastructure investment already being made by new competitors in areas where they have been allowed to enter the market. This investment must be encouraged because America has allowed itself to sink to a ranking of 14th in the world in terms of consumer broadband infrastructure.

"As the Committee strips away the competition-impeding local franchise regulations, we congratulate its members for not further opening a 'Pandora's Box' of new and unnecessary regulations around the false issue of 'network neutrality.' This issue is a thinly disguised attempt to convince Congress to regulate advanced on-line services that haven't been invented yet to correct problems that don't exist. Whatever final telecom legislation Congress eventually passes, we would hope that it would focus on video choice and not be weighed down by issues such as new regulations that would compromise the principle of free enterprise."

Source: The American Conservative Union

Animal Planet and Comcast Invite Knoxville-Area Residents to Spend Quality Time With Their Family and Pets as ANIMAL PLANET EXPO Rolls Into Town on May 13 at World's Fair Park

- Interactive Exhibits and Games Provide Free Fun for the Whole Family, Including the Family Pet! - - Comcast to Make $1,000 Donation to Young-Williams Animal Center -

Energy, imagination and playfulness abound as Knoxville welcomes ANIMAL PLANET EXPO, an event sure to entertain animal lovers of all ages. Animal Planet and Comcast, plus national sponsors, the Smart Spot(TM) program from PepsiCo and the makers of Fresh Step(R) litter, invite Knoxville-area residents to bring their families -- along with Fido and Fluffy -- to celebrate the unique sights, sounds and emotional experiences only animals can provide during ANIMAL PLANET EXPO May 13, from 10 AM to 5 PM on the Performance Lawn at World's Fair Park, located at 954 World's Fair Park in Knoxville.

An annual summer tour, ANIMAL PLANET EXPO has been delighting people around the country for eight years, giving families the opportunity to experience animal-friendly family fun, the Animal Planet way. Inspired by the only television network dedicated to the connection between humans and animals, this year's ANIMAL PLANET EXPO has expanded to offer participants an even richer experience than ever before.

From high-flying Frisbee dog shows and interactive animal trivia games, to "ooh" and "ahh" inspiring live animal shows, the Main Stage features flocks of captivating animal entertainment and demonstrations. The Frisbee dog show times are 11 AM, 12 PM, 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM, and the Main Stage live animal presentation times are 1 PM and 4 PM.

Also part of ANIMAL PLANET EXPO is the not-to-be-missed Discovery Kids' Endurance Experience, a hands-on adventure that allows kids to experience the mental and physical competition of Discovery Kids Channel's wildly popular ENDURANCE series. In Discovery Kids' Endurance Experience kids can compete in a number of challenges that simulate the sights, sounds and physical experience of competing on ENDURANCE, including a climbing wall and a timed "hanging" challenge-plus, USA Swimming is sponsoring an all-new water-based challenge.

Visitors to Animal Planet Expo Theater will find themselves getting up close and personal with exotic animals like a python, an alligator, a fox, a porcupine or a lemur, as they experience animal wildlife firsthand with a captivating demonstration set in a natural habitat. Theater shows will run every half-hour throughout Saturday, with the first show at 10:30 AM and the last at 3:30 PM.

In addition, visitors will see firsthand the clarity of high-definition programming with a sneak-peek at Discovery Channel's groundbreaking new ATLAS series in the Discovery HD Theater Dome. Forms to enter for a chance to win an HD television set will be available to fill out while enjoying breathtaking footage of a country like China or Australia, as they have never been seen before.

Other activity pavilions to enjoy at ANIMAL PLANET EXPO include the following:

* Animal House -- Get to know even more live animals, while animal

experts introduce visitors to exotic species from around the world.

* Safari Snaps -- Download the ultimate digital photo of you with a

virtual version of Animal Planet's Jeff Corwin and Steve Irwin.

* Bug House -- Hear what the buzz is about and learn about a variety of

bugs and butterflies from around the globe.

* Kids' Zone -- Kids can get their faces painted, try the "Happy Gator"

obstacle course and play other fun games.

* Heroes of Animal Planet -- Protect your pet just as the stars of ANIMAL

HEROES: PHOENIX do by creating your own personalized pet tag and engage

in a unique sniff test from the makers of Fresh Step(R) litter.

* Connection Zone -- Kids play a panda-themed game for a prize, while

adults view demonstrations and take advantage of special offers on the

April 28, 2006

Eureka Seven

To understand the internet you have to be open to change.

Written by Joyce L Chow & William Hoehne April 28, 2006

MBN

www.montebubbles.com for more MBN news

INTERNET ADVERTISING IS THE FUTURE

Info@montebubbles.net

First there was ABC,CBS,CNN,FOX
and NBC and now there is MBN
( unofficially the sixth largest supplier
of NEWS by an American company.)
More then 100 pages of news a day
BROADCAST NEWS COMING SOON
VIA PODCAST
SUNDAYS ARE NOW PICTURE DAY

International news from Asia and Latin news in English and Spanish here now

More exciting changes coming each day.
Watch for the MBN Politically incorrect SUV

MONTEBUBBLISM: When someone that doesn’t win and is very wealthy tells you that you’re a disgrace because you always win and have no great resources behind you, consider it a compliment.

ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY
Eureka Seven
The Los Angeles Antiques Show and Historically Important Chairs
Nick Lachey, Jagged Edge & Sean Paul to Appear at Style Stage NYC's Two Day Fashion, Shopping & Music Extravaganza!
And everyone read happily ever after
BET's 106 & PARK and Tom Cruise Travel to Harlem on Special Assignment to Launch '106: IMPOSSIBLE'
Revolution Studios' 'Perfect Stranger,' Starring Bruce Willis and Halle Berry, Completes Principal Photography
Rockie Lynne Tops Country Singles Sales Chart for 9th Consecutive Week
Debut CD, Rockie Lynne, in Stores Next Tuesday, May 2
Helen Reddy to Receive Veteran Feminists of America's First Lifetime Achievement Award at May 1 Event in Los Angeles
Nuts for Mutts Dog Show
Yahoo! Movie Fans Get an All Access Pass Behind the Scenes of 'Mission: Impossible III'
'How Art Made the World,' a Five-Part Documentary Series Co-Produced by KCET and the BBC, Premieres June 26, on PBS
Eric Clapton Joins With the Entertainment Industry Foundation and Mercedes-Benz to Bring Attention to the Need for More Arts and Music Education Programs
Victoria's Secret Launches its First Ever 'What Is Sexy' List
It's All Shiny and New VH1 Premieres/Encores for the Week of April 28 - May 3 2006*
Live television coverage of the 2006 Scripps National Spelling Bee will be moving to primetime this year on the ABC Television Network.
March of Dimes Holds 36th Annual WalkAmerica Crisis of Premature Birth Continues as Rates Hit Historic High Disney Channel's 'Mickey Mouse Clubhouse,' a New Playhouse Disney Series for Preschoolers
Secrets of the Code; Feature Film Documentary Exploring The Da Vinci Code Scheduled for 'Sneak-Peek' at Tribeca Film Festival
'NUMB3RS' Stars David Krumholtz and Navi Rawat to Promote 'We All Use Math Every Day' Education Initiative at NCTM Annual Meeting and Exposition in St. Louis
BBC Mundo and Latinoamerica TV Have Reached an Agreement to Provide Headlines and International News to the Hispanic Community in the United States.
'Laguna Beach's' Lauren (LC) Heads for LA to Pursue Fashion and Life After Laguna in New MTV Series 'The Hills' Premiering Wednesday, May 31st at 10:00PM (ET/PT)
Jane Seymour to Serve as Honorary Chairperson of National Fishing and Boating Week
Dwight Yoakam's Line of Bakersfield Biscuits Brand(R) of Frozen Foods Is Now Offered in Local Chicago-Area Jewel Food Stores
Sony Computer Entertainment America Adds Two New Executives to Group Management Structure
Virgin Megastores Launch New Fashion and Accessories Line With Rock N Roll Fashion Show
Dave Matthews Band Makes $1.5 Million Challenge Grant to Support New Orleans Habitat Musicians' Village
Cingular Wireless Named Number One Company for Latinos
DiversityInc. Magazine Unveils The 2006 DiversityInc Top 50 Companies for Diversity
New Holland is Featured in the Latest James Bond Film 'CASINO ROYALE'
Up-Mobile Announces Exclusive Rights to Offer The 2006 FIFA World Cup(TM)
Official Mascot TV Series For Mobile Distribution
TV Land's Top Ten Celebrates Everything We Love About Television Beginning In May With Special Mother's Day Installment
THE NATIONAL TELEVISION ACADEMY PRESENTS
THE 33rd ANNUAL CREATIVE CRAFT DAYTIME EMMY AWARDS
Pilot for TV Series 'Winning In America' Hosted By TV Icon Sy Sperling Set for Production This Summer in NYC and FL
Video Without Boundaries Adds 17 New Online Retailers
Sony Introduces First Spanish Language VAIO PC in the U.S.
Motorola Introduces New Local Content Distribution System That Makes Television More Relevant
Gary Oldman Premieres New Mobile Movie Studio
Wasp'3D's Software and Service Capacity Garners Extraordinary Response at NAB 2006
NAB ANNOUNCES NAB2006 AIM AWARD WINNERS
First Page Search Engine Listing Provides Brand Lift Promoters and retailers of HD DVD players and software continue to spin positively about the new format and its impact on consumers since the format’s April 18 launch.
McClatchy is selling off of the newspaper that once held all of Knight Ridder's digital dreams
Starcom Chief Proclaims Death of TV Upfront
Early adopters who bought one of the first two Toshiba HD DVD players had mixed comments about the official start of packaged media’s high-def era.
McDonald's Offering Virtual Fitness DVDs with Meals New Asian Salad Meal Targets Balanced Lifestyle Choices Gold Medalist Apolo Ohno Lends His Talent to Math Education Awareness
Raytheon Launches Hippest Homework Happening and Helps Thousands of America's Students Make Homework History
Absolute Poker Takes the Wheel With Jeff Natland at The Gumball 3000 Rally to Race Around the World in 8 Days
Reader's Digest Music to Sponsor Engelbert Humperdinck's 2006 U.S. Tour Beginning in Las Vegas April 27
Live television coverage of the 2006 Scripps National Spelling Bee will be moving to primetime this year on the ABC Television Network.

SPORTS & AUTOS
Baseball All-Stars Paul Molitor, Don Baylor and Eric Davis Team Up with Leading Cancer Support Groups to 'Strike Out Cancer'
Golf Comic Born Out of Dark Times
In Wake of High Gas Prices, Demand for Diesel Cars and SUVs Jumped 31 Percent in 2005
Popular Tee Time Web Site Gets Makeover - New Name
More Local Golf Information, News and Events Available to Phoenix Area Golfers
Major League Baseball Announces Holiday Inn Hotels as 'Official Hotel of Major League Baseball'
ALS Advocate Curt Schilling to Meet Northeast Ohio ALS Patient Marilyn Benschoter
Mercedes-Benz Diesel May Cure Sticker Shock at the Pump
Full-Size Luxury Sedan Achieves 37 MPG and Up to 780 Miles Per Tank
DOD
DoD Identifies Casualties
Victim Rescued From Kidnappers
Life Aboard USS Reagan Revolves Around Support to Iraq
Maritime Ops in Middle East Have Deterrent Effect
America Supports You: Circus Brings Fitness, Fun to Military Kids
U.S. Ship Returns Polish Combat Cargo From Middle East
NEWS AND NEWS IN SPANISH
Xinhua Finance and Milken Institute Create New China Indicators; Eight New Indicators Provide Insight into Key Sectors
List of Xinhua Finance/Milken Institute Indicators
Absolute Poker se pone al volante por medio de Jeff Natland en el Gumball 3000 Rally
BBC Mundo, el servicio de radio e Internet en español ofrecido por la BBC, proveerá por primera vez contenido informativo en televisión gracias a un nuevo acuerdo suscrito con el importante canal latinoamericano de televisión Latinoamericana Televisión.
Cingular Wireless fue Nombrada la Empresa Número Uno Para los Trabajadores Latinos
Party City Ofrece Consejos Prácticos Infalibles para Disfrutar una Fabulosa Fiesta del Cinco de Mayo
The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation Partners with Middleton Doll
Writer Launches 'Da Vinci Code' Website With Original Commentary on Book
Infinium Labs, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: IFLB) today announced that its CEO and President, Greg Koler, is featured in an online interview on the Web site of WallSt.net.
Safer Fishing? What's 'The Catch'?
Lloyd Chapman, President of the American Small Business League, released this statement regarding Hector Barreto's resignation
Jebsen & Co., the Porsche importer for China, is gearing up for a major marketing push
Johnson & Johnson has appointed Ogilvy & Mather to handle its corporate branding business in China
Chinese President Hu Jintao’s visit earlier this month to Microsoft Corp.’s campus in Redmond
Vatican News
President Announces Tony Snow as Press Secretary
TIFFANY & CO. LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE IN CHINA
__________________________________________________
ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY
Eureka Seven

Leading video games publisher and developer NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. announced today that "Eureka Seven(TM) Vol 1: The New Wave," an exciting mecha combat adventure for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, is scheduled to ship this fall. A prequel to the anime series from Bandai Entertainment, "Eureka Seven Vol. 1: The New Wave" promises an intense action-based storyline rife with stunning aerial boarding and thrilling robot battles.

Featuring transformable mechas called LFO (Light Finding Operation), "Eureka Seven Vol. 1: The New Wave" introduces Sumner Sturgeon, a budding LFO pilot trainee on a lush, futuristic planet whose primary energy source are "trapars" - invisible energy particles that provides lift for aerial travel. An aspiring elite military officer, Sumner can transform his LFO into its humanoid form to surf the skies on a ref board or remain in vehicle mode to participate in exhilarating high-speed chases. "Eureka Seven Vol. 1: The New Wave" offers a variety of gameplay modes as the gamer can switch from playing the character and controlling the LFO mechas in real time. With customizable mechas, this upcoming title guarantees an intriguing storyline and exciting combat in an unforgettable
sci-fi world.

More information about "Eureka Seven Vol. 1: The New Wave" is available
at www.namcobandaigames.com.

The Los Angeles Antiques Show and Historically Important Chairs

The Los Angeles Antique Show Designers/Architects/Press Preview Event was for a “professionals only, no sale” first look . W e were able to leisurely enjoy antiques, decorative and fine arts midst Grey Goose sponsored martinis, The Robb Report wine bar, Typhoon Asian delectables, and DJ Moses Truzman (aka Audiomoe). Evolving since 1996, the preview begins this “must do” antiques extravaganza which allows one to view 66 invited internationally prominent galleries and art dealers approved by the prestigious Antiques Dealer’s Association of California.

Thursday night, the LA Antiques Show held an opening benefit for the Women’s Guild of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center to raise funds for women’s health projects. The show continues open to the public April 28-30, 2006.

Walking through the entrance of the LA Antiques Show, you’ll see a special loaned exhibition of chairs titled 17^th/18^th/19^th/20^th Historically Important Chairs from Private Collections curated by Ray Azoulay of Obsolete, www.obsoleteinc.com, a Venice California gallery. Two chairs of particular interest were the Opium Arm Chair circa 1900 by Carlo Bugatti(1856-1940), the father of Ettore Bugatti of automotive racing design legend and a handmade Japanese Root Chair circa early 19^th century reminiscent of the Lord of the Rings.

As you would expect from an antiques show, English and European furniture from Chappell & McCullar, www.chappelmccullar.com, from San Francisco. You’ll also find Art nouveau ceramic masterworks from Jason Jacques Gallery, www.jasonjacques.com from New York City, pre-revolutionary icons Treasures of Imperial Russia, www.art-of-imperial-russia.com, of Newport Beach, eloquent Japanese screens by German based Erik Thomsen Asian Art, www.erikthomsen.com. I f you’re fond of canines, you’ll especially enjoy unusual 19^th century antiques including exquisite canes from Robertsons of New Hope PA and Hamshere Gallery, www.hamsheregallery.com, of antique dog paintings and the largest collection of period and antique sporting jewelry in the world which has exhibited at Crufts, Westminster and other internationally known dog shows.

A lecture series daily at 2 pm, includes Friday’s lecture about Willliam Haines Legendary Hollywood Decorator, Saturday with Van Cleef & Arpels: A Century of Glamour and Excellence, and Sunday is the The Real Tresure of Citizen Kane: the Unfamiliar Collection of William Randolph Hearst.

Enjoying the arts, shopping for antiques, enriching your life, sprinkle in a few friends and you have the beginnings of a memorable day.

Nick Lachey, Jagged Edge & Sean Paul to Appear at Style Stage NYC's Two Day Fashion, Shopping & Music Extravaganza!

BUTTON, Inc., (topbutton.com) and Clear Channel Radio NY's Z100, WKTU and Power 105.1 are teaming up for "Style Stage NYC," the largest shopping party in the U.S. The two day fashion, shopping and music event will take place Friday, May 5 and Saturday, May 6 at the Metropolitan Pavilion and Altman Building, located at 125 and 135 West 18th Street in New York City.

This fashion and music experience will feature performances from some of today's hottest recording artists including Nick Lachey, Sean Paul, Jagged Edge and many more. With over 60 designer sample sales under one roof, shoppers can also enjoy up to 60 percent off of the hottest designer handbags, denim, shoes, apparel, accessories and many more!

The two day event will be split into three different sessions for admission. Tickets are $79 for VIP Opening Night, held from 6-10 p.m. Friday, May 5, which will feature a special performance by Sean Paul and opportunity for some lucky guests to meet the artist after the performance. There will be meet and great sessions with celebrities like Christina Milian and others. Friday night's admission price also includes a special gift bag valued at $75 along with complimentary wine and hors d'oeuvres. There are limited numbers of VIP tickets available and attendees must be 21 or older for admittance.

Tickets are priced at $49 for Experience I, to be held from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, May 6, featuring a special performance by Jagged Edge. Experience II, which is also priced at $49, will be held from 3-7 p.m. on Saturday, with a special performance by Nick Lachey. There are no age requirements for either of the Saturday sessions.

Tickets will be sold via www.topbutton.com/stylestage/ starting on March 30, with all major credit cards accepted.

About TOP BUTTON

Founded in 1999, TOP BUTTON, Inc. is a leading, target marketing service that enables fashion-forward advertisers to reach style-conscious consumers. TOP BUTTON has run successful sales and fashion event promotions for nearly 4,500 designer showrooms, upscale department stores, designer boutiques and online fashion merchants. TOP BUTTON currently has an unduplicated reach exceeding 630,000 subscribers, growing by 25,000+ new subscribers every month, with an audience that is extremely targeted to the high-end, fashion-forward consumer. For more information, visit www.topbutton.com

About Clear Channel Radio New York

Clear Channel Radio New York reaches over 7 million listeners throughout the Tri-State area on WLTW-FM 'Lite FM', WKTU-FM 'The Beat of New York', WHTZ-FM 'Z100, New York's #1 Hit Music Station', WAXQ-FM 'Q104.3, New York's Only Classic Rock Station', WWPR-FM 'Power 105.1' New York's New #1 For Hip Hop and R&B', and WALK-AM/FM 'Long Island's Best Variety.' For more information visit www.clearchannelny.com

And everyone read happily ever after…

Once upon a time, there was a book festival that grew more rousing and fun every year, and would bring together authors, exhibitors and book lovers from nearly everywhere!

Come join us at the 11th Annual Los Angeles Times Festival of Books. Free to the public, it occurs the last weekend in April — Saturday, April 29 10am-6pm and Sunday, April 30 10am-5pm — and offers something for all ages and interests. Every year, it adds up to be America's largest and grandest literary event…

131,000+ Passionate Readers
370+ Famous Authors
300+ Popular Exhibitors
900+ Loyal Volunteers
6 Exciting Stages
2 Interactive Children’s Areas

And on Friday, April 28, also join us for the 26th Annual Los Angeles Times Book Prizes, a renowned awards ceremony honoring great and noble writers and their works for 2005. For more information, click here.

Don’t miss the 2006 Festival of Books and Book Prizes Ceremony. Over two festive days and one fascinating evening, come fall in love with the written word in lots of special ways!

BET's 106 & PARK and Tom Cruise Travel to Harlem on Special Assignment to Launch '106: IMPOSSIBLE'

Cast Members Ving Rhames, Laurence Fishburne and Michelle Monaghan Join Tom Cruise, Kanye West and Many More on the Red Carpet for the Exclusive BET Premiere of MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE III

*Event Unleashes on Wednesday, May 3 @ 6:00 p.m. ET*

LIVE from Magic Johnson Theatres in Harlem, BET's flagship music countdown show, 106 & PARK, goes undercover as 106: IMPOSSIBLE to produce the most action packed, premiere of MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE III yet. Hosted by Big Tigger and Julissa with special red carpet correspondent, Terrance the ultimate mission will include a live remote taping of our Top 10 Live Countdown, a Lamborghini by way of boat arrival for Cruise, a celebrity red carpet, exclusive interviews, and an "Agent Ethan Hunt" top secret get away all occurring on Wednesday, May 3 @ 6:00 p.m. As long time friend of BET, and no stranger to "106," Cruise brings along cast members Ving Rhames, Laurence Fishburne, and Michelle Monaghan to promote their pulse racing action thriller.

ABOUT 106 & PARK

As BET's highest rated music series of all time, 106 & PARK has quickly become the leading music video countdown show on television. Live from New York City, the most energetic show on the planet comes fully equipped with an incredible audience and exclusive live performances. And there's more, 106 & PARK allows fans to vote for the videos that they would like to see on the countdown via the networks website: BET.com. 106 & PARK is compared heavily with MTV's TRL but the numbers show the two can't compete -- THE PARK is the number one slot among black households.

ABOUT BET

BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom, Inc. (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:and) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 81 million households according to Nielsen media research, and can be seen in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of businesses extensions: BET.com, the Number 1 Internet portal for African Americans; BET Digital Networks -- BET J, BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; and BET Mobile, a service venture into the lucrative world of ring tones, games and video content for wireless devices.

Visit us @ http://www.bet.com/

Source: BET (Black Entertainment Television)

Revolution Studios' 'Perfect Stranger,' Starring Bruce Willis and Halle Berry, Completes Principal Photography

Directed by James Foley, the suspense thriller also stars Giovanni Ribisi, Patti D'Arbanville, and Clea Lewis Revolution Studios has completed principal photography on "Perfect Stranger," a suspense thriller directed by James Foley and starring Academy Award(R) winner Halle Berry and Bruce Willis, it was announced by Revolution Studios' New York-based partner Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas. The film, which was shot entirely in New York City, will be released in 2007 by Columbia Pictures.

"Perfect Stranger" focuses on Rowena Price (Halle Berry), a reporter for a major New York City newspaper who goes undercover to investigate the unsolved murder of one of her childhood friends. The path leads her directly into the office and the personal life of multi-millionaire Harrison Hill (Bruce Willis), CEO of a powerful advertising agency. Investigating him from all angles, Rowena assumes new identities in life and on line. She then harnesses the devastatingly effective tools of cyberspace in an attempt to bring her victim to justice. The film also stars Giovanni Ribisi, Gary Dourdan, Patti D'Arbanville and Clea Lewis.

"Perfect Stranger" is produced by Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas ("Maid in Manhattan," "Mona Lisa Smile"). Daniel A. Thomas and Stephanie Langhoff serve as co-producers. Ron Bozman ("The Silence of the Lambs," "Philadelphia," "Changing Lanes"), Charles Newirth ("America's Sweethearts," "Christmas with the Kranks") and Deborah Schindler ("Maid in Manhattan," "Mona Lisa Smile") are executive producers. Stephen Eads ("The Whole Nine Yards," "Hostage") is associate producer. The original screenplay is by Todd Komarnicki (the upcoming "Pathfinder"), based on an idea by Daniel A. Thomas.

Revolution Studios was formed by Joe Roth in May 2000, to independently produce and finance films in partnership with Sony Pictures Entertainment, Starz Entertainment Group and Fox Entertainment Group.

Source: Revolution Studios

Rockie Lynne Tops Country Singles Sales Chart for 9th Consecutive Week
Debut CD, Rockie Lynne, in Stores Next Tuesday, May 2

Nashville's hottest country singles sales story of 2006 belongs to newcomer Rockie Lynne, whose debut single "Lipstick" holds down its lock on the #1 position on the Soundscan Country Singles Sales Chart for the NINTH week in a row.

Lynne's self-titled debut album will be released next Tuesday, May 2nd on Universal Records South.

"Lipstick" topped the country singles sales chart in just its second week of commercial release, ending American Idol Carrie Underwood's 37 week hold on the top spot.

Rapidly building a national following for his high-octane live show, this weekend Lynne headlines a show at Nashville's famed Wildhorse Saloon and also makes his third appearance on the legendary stage of the Grand Ole Opry.

The release of Rockie Lynne adds another chapter to this artist's incredible saga. In this day of American Idol, Lynne wasn't looking for a record deal, Universal Records found him. His life literally changed in one day, when at the age of 39, he was "discovered" singing and playing his songs in a tiny tavern in rural Minnesota.

This chance meeting with a record executive attending a bachelor party led to Lynne's self-made CD landing on the desk of Universal Records Executive VP Kevin Law. After one listen, Law knew he had something. He flew Rockie to New York where he was signed on the spot.

With Minneapolis serving as his home base, the year before he was signed to a record contract this North Carolina native played over 300 one-nighters in honkytonks, dive bars and clubs, all the while honing his craft as a guitarist, songwriter and live performer.

Billboard magazine recently declared, "Rockie Lynne seems poised for stardom ... helped along by his fierce work ethic, telegenic face and most of all, his triple-threat talent as a singer, songwriter and guitar whiz."

Lynne's self-titled debut album, co-produced by Blake Chancey, Kevin Law and Tony Brown, will be released on Universal Records South on May 2, 2006.

Source: Universal Records South

Web site: http://www.universal-south.com/

Helen Reddy to Receive Veteran Feminists of America's First Lifetime Achievement Award at May 1 Event in Los Angeles

New CD Anthology, Helen Reddy: The Woman I Am - The Definitive Collection, in Stores May 2

Reddy's New Memoir, The Woman I Am, in Stores May 4

WHO: Helen Reddy, world renowned recording artist

WHAT: Veteran Feminists of America luncheon and awards ceremony, where

Reddy will be honored with the organization's first Lifetime Achievement Award

WHERE: Feminist Majority Auditorium in Los Angeles

433 South Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90212

WHEN: Monday, May 1

1:30pm-5:00pm

DETAILS:

At the Veteran Feminists of America (VFA) luncheon and awards presentation, Movie-TV-theater star Kathy Najimy will present music luminary Helen Reddy with VFA's Medal of Honor, thanking her for inspiring strength and optimism through her music for past and future generations.

Actor Michael Learned (who portrayed "Mother" in CBS' "The Waltons") will present a VFA plaque to Reddy. Reddy and Learned share a familial bond, as Learned's son Lucas is married to Reddy's daughter Traci. All of the proud family members will attend the event, and Reddy and Learned's8-year-old granddaughter, Lily, and Najimy's 9-year-old daughter, Samia, will assist the proceedings.

Following her acceptance speech, Reddy will discuss the topic of "women's music" with a panel including NOW president Kim Gandy; Alan O'Day, composer of Reddy's hit song "Angie Baby," and Jennifer Abod, co-founder of New Haven Women's Liberation Rock Band, moderated by Sheila Tobias, author of Faces of Feminism. The afternoon festivities will close with recording artist Jessie Williams performing "I Am Woman," with attendees joining in to sing the anthem as they did on countless occasions during the early days of the women's movement.

"Helen was always there for us," recalls Veteran Feminists of America president Jacqui Ceballos. "She opened her house to help launch a rape treatment center in 1977; she supported our fight for the ERA; she sang at the NOW 20th anniversary gala; and she inspired us always with her 'I Am Woman'."

Veteran Feminists of America is a non-profit organization of the women and men who created the Second Wave women's movement. Its purpose is to document accurate information about the feminist revolution and to pass the torch persuasively to younger women. The Tribute Committee, headed by business leader Marlene Crosby of Santa Monica, includes author-activist Gloria Steinem, actor Lily Tomlin, film executive Sherri Lansing, author Judith Krantz, feminist leader Peg Yorkin, producer Jane Wagner, National Organization for Women president Kim Gandy and attorney Lisa Specht.

Helen Reddy has a very active month planned for May. She is the subject of a new career and era-defining single-disc anthology CD, Helen Reddy: The Woman I Am - The Definitive Collection, to be released May 2 by Capitol/EMI Music Catalog Marketing. The CD package includes personal track notes written by Reddy specifically for the new release, as well as never-before-published personal photos from Reddy's own archive. The CD's 22 songs include nine #1 hits, Reddy's Grammy-winning rally cry "I Am Woman," and six previously unavailable tracks, making it one of the year's best Mother's Day gifts. The new anthology and twelve of Reddy's original Capitol Records albums will also make their digital release debuts on May 2 at all of the major Digital Service Providers (DSPs).

Already a best-seller in Australia, Reddy's memoir, The Woman I Am, will be published in the U.S. on May 4 by Tarcher/Penguin. Reddy will promote her new CD anthology and book in upcoming national television appearances, including an interview with NBC's "Today" on May 4 followed by a bookstore tour for book-signing events in New York City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.

For more information, visit Helen Reddy's official Website: www.helenreddy.com

Source: Veteran Feminists of America

Nuts for Mutts Dog Show

Nuts for Mutts 5^th Annual Dog Show showcases non-purebred dogs strutting in categories you’d never see at the Westminster Dog Show or AKC/Eukanuba Nationals. Performances are scheduled for this weekend April 29-30^th at Pierce College’s Shepard Stadium in Woodland Hills, a Los Angeles suburb.

You’ll find 30 unique categories such as Best Wag, Best Trick, Most Ear-ristible Ears, Best Kisser, Best Shedding Mutt, Most Vocal and Best Smile. Pre-register online, see what’s available in the silent auction, discover the schedule and how it will progress at www.nutsformutts.com. The show benefits New Leash on Life Animal Rescue, www.nlol.org,

Kim Basinger is the host and judge of Best in Show. Other celebrity judges scheduled to appear include among others: Jillian Barberie (Good Day LA), Galen Gering (Passions), Randy Wayne(Sons and Daughters), Nicole Sullivan(King of Queens). Tuc Watkins(One Life to Live), and Shane & Sia Barbi - The Barbi Twins.

Go nuts, bring your mutts, and enjoy the California Sunshine for a picture perfect family day.

Yahoo! Movie Fans Get an All Access Pass Behind the Scenes of 'Mission: Impossible III'

'M:i:III' Kicks Off the Summer With Exclusive Footage, Webcasts on Yahoo! Worldwide

In anticipation of the release of "Mission: Impossible III" on May 5, Paramount Pictures and Yahoo! Inc. are joining forces to provide moviegoers a wide array of special features, behind-the-scenes footage, and music and movie content. As a result of "M:i:III's" huge presence on the Yahoo! network around the world, audiences will have the chance to see exclusive video from the film's world premiere in Rome and U.S. premiere in New York; a Q&A with Tom Cruise and director J.J. Abrams; music from the film; and never-before-seen clips.

"Tom Cruise and J.J. Abrams are bringing a fresh, high-tech look to the 'Mission' franchise and we wanted to deliver that to Internet users in an innovative way," said Amy Powell, Senior Vice President of Interactive Marketing for Paramount Pictures. "As 'M:i:III' kicks off the summer, we've got an outstanding lineup of behind-the-scenes and live content that rivals the very biggest interactive movie campaigns. We're thrilled to be getting creative with Yahoo!."

Some of the content elements that users will find exclusively on Yahoo! include:

Exclusive Video of the World Premiere in Rome

Yahoo! Movies will give fans the chance to be a fly on the wall and treat them to a look at the world's biggest movie star prior to and at his appearance at the worldwide premiere in Rome on April 24.

Live Red Carpet Coverage from the U.S. Premiere in New York

Ever wonder what it's like to be the world's biggest movie star? Yahoo! Movies' exclusive video coverage of the May 3 U.S. premiere of "M:i:III" currently includes plans to offer a camera view from Tom's perspective as he arrives at the premiere and steps down the red carpet. In addition, Yahoo! plans to offer users the chance to ask Tom questions in real time and see his answers live from the red carpet. Tom will also be announcing the winner of the People's Premiere contest, in which one entrant will win a private screening in their hometown, attended by Cruise.

Video Interviews with Tom Cruise and J.J. Abrams

Interviews with the star and co-writer/director will provide movie fans with DVD-style commentary on exclusive clips from the movie, and also give users a sneak peak into the "Top Ten Things You Didn't Know About 'Mission: Impossible III.'" Users also had the chance to use Yahoo! Answers (http://answers.yahoo.com/), Yahoo!'s online Q&A community where real people ask and answer questions on any topic, to stump Tom Cruise on trivia from his many hit movies -- with J.J. posing the users' questions.

All content will be available on Yahoo.com as well as Yahoo! Australia, Yahoo! France, Yahoo! Germany, Yahoo! Italy, Yahoo! Spain, Yahoo! Taiwan and Yahoo! UK.

"Whether it's giving fans a movie star's perspective at a worldwide premiere or enabling them to interact with one of Hollywood's biggest stars, this program is an excellent example of where entertainment marketing on the Web is headed," said David Katz, head of sports and entertainment for Yahoo!. "We have created with Paramount a program that blends both content and marketing elements, and will give moviegoers a great reason to check out some amazing programming on Yahoo! and then go see 'M:i:III' in theaters."

In addition to the interactive elements on Yahoo!, Yahoo! Music will be the online home of the official theme song from "Mission: Impossible III," performed by Kanye West. The theme is now available to stream for free via Yahoo! Music's Launchcast Internet radio service at http://music.yahoo.com/.

Extensive Tom Cruise and 'M:i:III' content will also be available through Yahoo! Video Search at http://video.yahoo.com/.

About Yahoo!

Yahoo! Inc. is a leading global internet brand and one of the most trafficked Internet destinations worldwide. Yahoo! seeks to provide online products and services essential to users' lives, and offers a full range of tools and marketing solutions for businesses to connect with Internet users around the world. Yahoo! is headquartered in Sunnyvale, California.

Yahoo! and the Yahoo! logo are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Yahoo! Inc. All other names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

About Paramount Pictures

Paramount Pictures is part of the entertainment operations of Viacom Inc., one of the leading global entertainment content companies, with prominent and respected brands in focused demographics.

Source: Paramount Pictures

Web site: http://answers.yahoo.com/
http://music.yahoo.com/
http://video.yahoo.com/

'How Art Made the World,' a Five-Part Documentary Series Co-Produced by KCET and the BBC, Premieres June 26, on PBS

Acclaimed Cambridge University Lecturer Nigel Spivey Leads Viewers on a Fascinating Journey Through the History of Visual Imagery and Its Impact on the World Today

"How Art Made the World," a lively and provocative investigation into the far-reaching influence of art on society, will air over five consecutive Mondays beginning June 26, (10-11 p.m.) on PBS.

Co-produced by KCET and the BBC, the series is hosted by acclaimed art historian and University of Cambridge lecturer Dr. Nigel Spivey, who takes viewers on a quest to comprehend mankind's unique capacity to understand and explain the world through artistic symbols. Speaking in colorful, non-technical language and aided by state-of-the-art computer graphics, Spivey explores the latest thinking by historians, neuroscientists and psychologists regarding the deep-seated and universal human desire to create art.

Each one-hour episode begins with a modern-day mystery which Spivey seeks to untangle through examinations of some of the most exquisite artifacts ever discovered. Combining aspects of history, archeology, forensics, sociology and aesthetics, Spivey leads an extraordinary video expedition that spans 100,000 years and five continents: from the vast galleries of prehistoric art in the caves of Altamira and Lascaux, to astonishing Native American and African rock paintings, to the treasures of Ancient Egypt and Classical Greece, right up to the pop culture and advertising imagery that bombards us in the digital age.

Far more than a survey of art history, "How Art Made the World" explores the essential functions art served in early civilizations and, in some cases, still serves in modern society. Beyond that, the series seeks answers to such vexing questions as: What made our ancient ancestors create art in the first place? What are the forces that subconsciously guide the artist's hand? Why, from the very beginning, have we preferred images of the human body with distorted or exaggerated features?

"The essential premise of the show," says Spivey, "is that of all the defining characteristics of humanity as a species, none is more basic than the inclination to make art. Great apes will smear paint on canvas if they are given brushes and shown how, but they do not instinctively produce art any more than parrots produce conversation. We humans are alone in developing the capacity for symbolic imagery."

In fact, scientists have found growing evidence that our brains are "hardwired" for art and that the shapes, colors and structures inherent in art originate deep within our collective psyche. The series uses the latest research to investigate the biological, social and political forces behind major artistic movements of the past. Spivey then demonstrates how these great turning points in art have reverberated down through the centuries to define the visual landscape we now inhabit.

The series' production team includes Mary Mazur, executive producer for KCET, executive producer Kim Thomas (BBC), series producer Mark Hedgecoe (BBC), Karen Hunte, executive in charge of production (KCET), and Megan Callaway, producer of European co-productions (KCET). Mazur's most recent credits include the powerful six-part documentary "Auschwitz: Inside the Nazi State," which was also a KCET/BBC co-production, and the acclaimed drama series "PBS Hollywood Presents." Executive producer Kim Thomas has won five Emmy Awards(R), several Golden Eagles and the New York Festival Award. Her films include "George Elliot: A Scandalous Life," "In Search of the Brontes," "Frankenstein: Birth of a Monster" and the upcoming BBC miniseries "The Impressionists." Hedgecoe has won awards at the New York Film Festival, Montreal's Festival of Telescience and CRNS Festival International du Scoop et du Journalisme Scientifique. Among his credits are "Walking with the Cavemen" and "Mega Tsunami (Horizon Strand)."

Source: KCET

Eric Clapton Joins With the Entertainment Industry Foundation and Mercedes-Benz to Bring Attention to the Need for More Arts and Music Education Programs
Mercedes-Benz USA Donates $1 Million to EIF's National Arts and Music Education Initiative

Eric Clapton has been named the new ambassador for the Entertainment Industry Foundation's National Arts and Music Education Initiative (EIF's NAMEI), and they join with Mercedes-Benz USA in a charitable campaign. The campaign in support of EIF's NAMEI, called Mercedes-Benz Drive Your Future Performance Awards, was created to inspire students to pursue their dreams, while providing more access to music and arts education programs. This spring, the critically acclaimed musician will appear in a public service announcement in support of EIF's NAMEI and the campaign.

MBUSA will donate $1 million through the sales of 750 Premier Edition GL-Class models sold at select Mercedes-Benz dealerships across the country to benefit EIF's NAMEI, which funds exemplary arts and music programs for children and youth nationwide, including The Recording Academy's Grammy Camp(TM). EIF and The Recording Academy are partners in raising the profile of this cause.

The Entertainment Industry Foundation, the official charity of the entertainment industry, combines the power of the entertainment industry with corporate support to bring attention to important issues like arts and music education.

"I've been very blessed to have music be such an important part of my life," said Eric Clapton, EIF's Ambassador for the NAMEI program. "I'm pleased to help the Entertainment Industry Foundation bring focus to this important cause."

"We're very honored to have Eric Clapton join the Entertainment Industry Foundation and Mercedes Benz in this endeavor," said Paul Halata, president and CEO of MBUSA. "As one of the most celebrated artists of our lifetime, he represents that drive to achieve one's personal best, which is what Drive Your Future is all about. Through our collective commitment, we hope to encourage creativity in young people."

"Arts education is just as important as core subjects like math and science, and yet, funding for arts education programs is declining across the country," said Lisa Paulsen, EIF president and CEO. "We are so grateful for Mr. Clapton's participation because he helps put a spotlight on why it is important to reverse this trend. And thanks to generous corporations like Mercedes-Benz, we are providing more access to exceptional art and music programs to inspire our children."

Separately, Mercedes-Benz will provide a grant of $500,000 to fund Drive Your Future Performance Awards scholarships for graduating high school seniors who are the first generation in their families to attend college and who plan to pursue performing arts degrees. The DYF program will provide 50 high school seniors across the country with a $10,000 scholarship ($2,500 per year for four years). Scholarships will be made available to students pursuing degrees in music, theater, dance and film.

The new DYF Performance Awards scholarships are an extension of the Mercedes-Benz Drive Your Future scholarship program, established in 2004, which commits an average of $1 million in scholarships annually to first generation college-bound students who demonstrate financial need and exceptional achievement in the areas of academic performance, leadership and school and community activities. Drive Your Future scholarship recipients will be announced in May 2006. For more information visit http://www.mbusa.com/driveperformance.

MBUSA will make its donations through the sales of the bold Premier Edition Mercedes GL-Class, which is the new full-sized luxury sport utility vehicle with room for seven passengers. The GL measures 200 inches in length is 75.6 inches wide and 72.4 inches tall and is equipped with a 4.6-liter four-valve-per-cylinder V8 engine producing 335-horsepower, seven-speed automatic transmission and 4MATIC full-time four-wheel drive.

Standard features for this edition range from stunning 20" wheels and dual chrome exhaust to an inviting interior adorned with Nappa leather seats and dual-screen dual source Rear Seat Entertainment System that is built into the front seat headrests. The Premier Edition GL's roomy interior features two third-row seats can be stowed electronically at the push of a button, either separately or together, to provide a totally flat cargo floor along with a stationary sunroof over the 3rd row seat. Interested customers may visit http://www.mbusa.com/driveperformance or their local Mercedes-Benz dealer for more information regarding the Premier Edition GL.

Entertainment Industry Foundation

As the philanthropic leader of the entertainment industry, the Entertainment Industry Foundation has distributed hundreds of millions of dollars -- and provided countless volunteer hours -- to support charitable initiatives addressing some of the most critical issues facing society today. The Entertainment Industry Foundation's National Arts and Music Education Initiative (NAMEI) receives widespread industry commitment to raise awareness about the need for arts education in schools and fund exemplary programs nationwide. For more information, please visit http://www.eifoundation.org/.

Mercedes-Benz USA

MBUSA, headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey, is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of all Mercedes-Benz and Maybach products in the United States. In 2005, MBUSA achieved an all-time sales record of 224,421 new vehicles, setting the highest sales volume ever in its history and achieving twelve consecutive years of sales growth. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found on the Internet at http://www.mbusa.com/ and http://www.maybachusa.com/.

Source: Mercedes-Benz USA

http://www.mbusa.com/driveperformance
http://www.eifoundation.org/
http://www.maybachusa.com/

Victoria's Secret Launches its First Ever 'What Is Sexy' List

WHO: Victoria's Secret Angels Alessandra Ambrosio, Adriana Lima and

Izabel Goulart

WHAT: Victoria's Secret has been the defining icon of sexy. It is a

brand that truly understands sexy and all that it entails -- and

now ... Victoria's Secret is launching its first ever 'What is

Sexy' list of selected people, places, performers, entertainment

options and lifestyle/cultural trends hot for this coming Spring

and Summer. The list will also be featured online at:

www.VictoriasSecret.com/thelist.

Sexiest International City

St. Tropez, France

Sexiest Car

Ferrari 430 Spyder

Sexiest Movie Ever

Unfaithful

Sexiest Song Ever

Sade -- No Ordinary Love

Sexiest Male Athlete

Tom Brady

Sexiest Male Musician

Adam Levine -- Maroon 5

Sexiest Male Actor

Patrick Dempsey

Sexiest TV Series

Entourage

Sexiest Male TV Personality

Jay Leno

Sexiest Couple

Seal and Heidi Klum

Sexiest US City

Los Angeles, California

Sexiest Food

Chocolate

Sexiest Video

These Boots Were Made for Walkin' -- Jessica Simpson

Sexiest Female Athlete

Maria Sharapova

Sexiest Female Musician

Shakira

Sexiest Female Actress

Halle Berry

Sexiest Female TV Personality

Shaun Robinson -- Access Hollywood

Source: Victoria's Secret

Web site: http://www.victoriassecret.com/thelist

It's All Shiny and New VH1 Premieres/Encores for the Week of April 28 - May 3 2006*

Check out all of the brand new premieres headed to VH1 and VH1 Classic this week.

VH1 RAISES THE VOLUME

AND KICKS OFF METAL MONTH WITH ITS LATEST COUNT DOWN EVENT:

"40 GREATEST METAL SONGS" PREMIERING MONDAY-THURSDAY,

MAY 1 AT 11 P.M.*

Hosted by Sebastian Bach

THE SHOW'S ORIGINAL THEME MUSIC WRITTEN & RECORDED BY SCOTT IAN

Hosted by Sebastian Bach, "40 Greatest Metal Songs," premiering Monday-Thursday, starting May 1 at 11 PM,* brings you the 40 most notable metal songs of all time in four rockin' half hour episodes. Whether epic, political, scary or downright silly, these tunes have one thing in common: they will rock your friggin' socks off. Who could resist jumping into the pit during Pantera's 'Walk,' banging your head 'til it hurts to Metallica's 'Master of Puppets,' or throwing up the devil horns to Iron Maiden's 'Number of the Beast?' Scott Ian steps up to the metal month plate by writing and recording the show's original theme music, which is a first in VH1 history. Never before has an artist written and recorded the music for a show that they also appear in.

Each half-hour episode of "40 Greatest Metal Songs" will feature VH1's panel of rock scholars and metal all-stars like Lars Ulrich, Scott Ian, Jerry Cantrell, Ronnie James Dio, Toni Iommi, Dave Mustaine, Lemmy Kilmister, David Draiman of Disturbed, Frank Bello, Riki Rachtman, Jacoby Shaddix of Papa Roach, Evan Seinfeld of Biohazard, Tera Patrick, Chris Jericho, Doro Pesch, Dee Snider and many more who will weigh in on this definitive list of the greatest Metal music the world has ever known. Learn more about the show on http://www.vh1.com/ and make sure to check back to VSPOT for exclusive footage.

http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/the_greatest/series.jhtml

On Friday, April 28

"VH1 AND IFILM'S WEB JUNK 20'S GREATEST HITS VOLUME 4"

You want more of the weirdest of the weird, the dumbest of the dumb and the funniest of the funny from the internet? Well, this week's Web Junk 20, Greatest Hits Volume 4 should do the trick.

(Premieres at 11:00 p.m.)

http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/webjunk_20/series.jhtml

"CELEBRITY EYE CANDY" #105

Each week we'll bring you the most current and amazing celebrity footage, photos and Hollywood fun from every corner of the globe and give you all the juicy details that go with it. Take one part comic strip, a bit of blog culture and a whole lot of tabloid magazine, you start to get the picture.

(Premieres at 11:30 p.m.)

http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/celebrity_eye_candy/series.jhtml

"CAN'T GET A DATE: LETICIA"

Leticia's a friendly research scientist who's having trouble holding a good man down -- even though she's a championship body builder. She's gone on over 300 internet dates but, because of some fake mannerisms, she's never been in a real relationship. In order to find a steady, sturdy man, she'll have to figure out who she is, what she wants, and how to get it -- without arm wrestling.

(Premieres at 12:00 a.m.)

http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/cant_get_a_date/series.jhtml

On Sunday, April 30

VH1'S "SURREAL LIFE" #607 BATTLE OF THE 80'S HAIR BAND

The Surreal Lifers learn that today is Battle of the 80's Hair Bands. CC and the rest of the gang are challenged by Poison tribute band Posin to rock their wigs off performing the Poison hit "Talk Dirty to Me." Tawny is road manager of the band and sets off the rest of the house with her bizarre behavior and inability to run the show. Alexis and Steve both mutiny, and CC is sure this will be the time he grabs a drink because the pressure to perform well is overwhelming. Later, Andrea unleashes her hatred of Florence to a bewildered Maven. She claims that Flo unfairly judges her, and sees her only for her Playboy work. Andrea complains that she takes her clothes off because she can, and challenges Florence to "take your clothes off. You won't look half as good as I do."

(Premieres at 9:00 p.m.)

http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/the_surreal_life_6/series.jhtml

"HOGAN KNOWS BEST" #207 HOGANS GO HOLLYWOOD

Brooke is practicing her songs for a big showcase at a Miami nightclub and she asks Jerry, a fellow touring musician, to come to Florida to help her prepare. But it seems that Jerry is more than just a friend. Hulk gets worried he may no longer be the main man in Brooke's life. So he decides to put Jerry through various tests of manhood to see if he's Hogan material.

(Premieres at 9:30 p.m.)

http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/hogan_knows_best_2/series.jhtml

"So NoTORIous" RELAXED

After an argument with her friends, Tori encounters Farrah Fawcett's masseur, Howard, who has accidentally gotten into the wrong elevator. Howard is a gregarious, ingratiating guy who offers Tori a free massage and suggests she buy all her friends massages to patch things up. But Tori's gesture backfires: Howard is an inveterate gossip who passes information from one friend to the next, and the friends find themselves in a downward spiral, digging deeper in their collective history to reopen old wounds and find new reasons for recrimination, resentment, and rancor.

(Premieres at 10:00 p.m.)

http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/so_notorious/series.jhtml

On Monday, May 1

"40 GREATEST METAL SONGS PART 1" #159

40. Judas Priest - Breaking the Law

39. Alice Cooper - I'm Eighteen

38. Accept - Balls To the Wall

37. Deep Purple - Smoke on the Water

36. Slipknot - Wait and Bleed

35. Quiet Riot - Metal Health (Bang Your Head)

34. Black Sabbath - Paranoid

33. Def Leppard - High N' Dry (Saturday Night)

32. White Zombie - Thunderkiss '65

31. Scorpions - Rock You Like A Hurricane

(Premieres at 11:00 p.m.)

http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/the_greatest/series.jhtml

On Tuesday, May 2

"40 GREATEST METAL SONGS" PART 2 #160

30. Faith No More - Epic

29. Anthrax - Caught in a Mosh

28. Marilyn Manson - The Beautiful People

27. Iron Maiden - Run to the Hills

26. Sepultura - Refuse/Resist

25. Pantera - Cowboys From Hell

24. AC/DC - Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap

23. Korn - Freak on a Leash

22. Metallica - Enter Sandman

21. Guns N' Roses - Paradise City

(Premieres at 11:00 p.m.)

http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/the_greatest/series.jhtml

"LOVE MONKEY" #106 OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS

Tom and the guys attend Carmine Moretti's, the owner of their favorite pizza place, funeral when Tom finds that Carmine's son Ray is an amazing singer and could be a star. But since Ray must now support his family and take over his father's business, Tom must convince Ray not to squander his talent and convince Jeff that Ray has more potential for greatness than the artist Julia wants to represent. Meanwhile, when Shooter and Mike are mugged, they are both forced to deal with the situation in their own way.

(Premieres at 9:00 p.m.)

http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/love_monkey/series.jhtml

On Wednesday, May 3

"40 GREATEST METAL SONGS" PART 3 #161

20. Twisted Sister - I Wanna Rock

19. Alice In Chains - Man in the Box

18. Skid Row - Slave to the Grind

17. Motley Crue - Live Wire

16. Pantera - Walk

15. Rage Against The Machine - Bulls on Parade

14. System of a Down - Toxicity

13. Dio - Rainbow in the Dark

12. Anthrax w/Public Enemy - Bring the Noise

11. Megadeth - Peace Sells (Premieres at 11:00 p.m.)

http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/the_greatest/series.jhtml

MOVIES THAT ROCK DECLINE OF WESTERN CIVILIZATION II

Ozzy Osbourne, Gene Simmons, and Aerosmith's Joe Perry and Steven Tyler are among the Heavy Metal artists interviewed in The Decline of Western Civilization 2: The Metal Years. This follow-up to filmmaker Penelope Spheeris' classic 1981 "punk" documentary, The Decline of Western Civilization is a bit more reflective and word-dominated than its predecessor, but no less entertaining. One striking aspect of the film is its before-and-after comparisons of the impact of MTV. Heavy Metal newcomers tend to overpraise the cable service, while the "oldsters" implicitly decry the mainstreaming -- and in some cases, homogenizing -- of their best work.

(Premieres at 12:00 a.m.)

http://www.vh1.com/movies/movie/8664/moviemain.jhtml

ON VH1 Classic

VH1 Classic will sneak peak episodes two, three and four of "40 Greatest Metal Songs" on Monday, May 1 beginning at 11:30 PM/ET, 8:30 PM/PT. The countdown will feature some of the most talented bands and most memorable songs in metal history including Twisted Sister's "I Wanna Rock," Guns N' Roses' "Paradise City," Metallica's "Enter Sandman" and many more. The first episode premieres on VH1 earlier that night at 11 PM.*

http://www.vh1classic.com/

* all times ET/PT

Contacts: Michelle Clark/VH1

212-846-5576

michelle.clark@vh1staff.com

Source: VH1

CONTACT: Michelle Clark of VH1, +1-212-846-5576,
michelle.clark@vh1staff.com

Web site: http://www.vh1.com/
http://www.vh1classic.com/

Live television coverage of the 2006 Scripps National Spelling Bee will be moving to primetime this year on the ABC Television Network.

ABC will broadcast the final championship rounds of the bee in high

definition from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. EDT on Thursday, June 1. Good Morning

America anchor Robin Roberts will host the ABC broadcast.

Preliminary championship rounds of the bee will air live earlier in the

day on ESPN, which has televised the final rounds of the bee in their

entirety since 1994. The ESPN broadcast is scheduled for noon to 3 p.m.,

EDT. SportsCenter anchor Chris McKendry will host the ESPN broadcast.

"ABC's decision to move the Scripps National Spelling Bee to primetime

affirms for us how deeply this unique event is engrained in the American

psyche," said Kenneth W. Lowe, president and chief executive officer for

The E. W. Scripps Company. "Now, with a wider national network television

audience, more people than ever before will have an opportunity to share in

this extraordinary celebration of academic excellence and experience the

remarkable intensity of competitive spelling."

"We are proud to bring the Scripps National Spelling Bee to ABC for the

first time in its storied, 79-year history," said Andrea Wong, ABC's

Executive Vice President, Alternative Series. "It's exciting for us as a

network to bring this competition of some of America's brightest young

minds to a broader audience."

The Scripps National Spelling Bee, the nation's largest and longest

running educational promotion, is administered on a not-for-profit basis by

Scripps and 268 local sponsors. The majority of local spelling bee sponsors

are daily and weekly newspapers. The purpose of the Scripps National

Spelling Bee is to help students improve spelling, increase vocabularies,

learn concepts and develop correct English usage that will help them all of

their lives.

"The ABC primetime broadcast is the latest in a series of high-profile

acknowledgments that the bee is growing in stature," said Paige P. Kimble,

director of the Scripps National Spelling Bee and 1981 national spelling

champion. "The bee has been the subject of an Academy Award-nominated

documentary, has served as backdrop to two critically acclaimed feature

length films and has inspired a Tony Award-winning play that's currently

running on Broadway and is now touring the United States. For the

championship spellers who gather in Washington every year, the attention

focused on their high level of academic achievement is well-deserved."

The Scripps National Spelling Bee is central to the storyline of

Akeelah and the Bee, a feature-length film that is being released by Lions

Gate Films, 2929 Entertainment and Starbucks Entertainment on Friday, April

28. The film, starring Laurence Fishburne, Angela Bassett and Keke Palmer,

is a fictional account of an African American girl from Los Angeles who

overcomes adversities to win the national spelling bee championship. The

movie is being promoted in Starbucks Coffee locations nationwide.

In 2002, the Scripps National Spelling Bee was the subject of the

documentary film, Spellbound, which was nominated for an Academy Award by

the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Also, spelling bees

inspired the Tony Award-winning Broadway play, The 25th Annual Putnam

County Spelling Bee.

The Scripps National Spelling Bee, which is held each year in

Washington D.C., will begin on Wednesday, May 31, featuring top spellers

from across the U.S. and including competitors from Europe, Guam, Jamaica,

Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, The Bahamas, American Samoa, Canada

and New Zealand. The opening rounds of the bee on May 31 are not televised,

but real-time results are provided via the Internet at the bee's official

Web site, spellingbee.com.

About 275 champion spellers, ranging in age from 9- to 15-years-old,

will be competing this year for the National Spelling Bee Championship.

Spellers participating in the national competition qualify by winning

locally sponsored spelling bees in their home communities.

About Scripps

The E.W. Scripps Company is a diverse and growing media

enterprise with interests in national cable networks, newspaper publishing,

broadcast television stations, electronic commerce, interactive media, and

licensing and syndication.

The company's portfolio of media properties includes: Scripps Networks,

with such brands as HGTV, Food Network, DIY Network, Fine Living, Great

American Country and HGTVPro; daily and community newspapers in 18 markets

and the Washington-based Scripps Media Center, home to the Scripps Howard

News Service; 10 broadcast TV stations, including six ABC-affiliated

stations, three NBC affiliates and one independent; leading online search

and comparison shopping services, Shopzilla and uSwitch; United Media, a

leading worldwide licensing and syndication company that is the home of

PEANUTS, DILBERT and approximately 150 other features and comics; and Shop

At Home, which markets a growing range of consumer goods directly to

television viewers in roughly 57 million U.S. households and online through

shopathometv.com.

SOURCE The E. W. Scripps Company
Web Site: http://www.scripps.com http://spellingbee.com

March of Dimes Holds 36th Annual WalkAmerica Crisis of Premature Birth Continues as Rates Hit Historic High

The nation's oldest and best-loved annual walking event -- the March of Dimes WalkAmerica -- will take place this coming weekend (April 29 and 30), raising funds to help stem the growing crisis of premature birth in the United States.

The $106 million that the March of Dimes plans to raise with this event will support research and other programs to save babies from serious health problems, including premature birth, the leading killer of newborns. Prematurity has increased by more than 30 percent since 1981, and now affects more than 500,000 babies each year.

The top 10 U.S. cities conducting WalkAmerica this weekend will be:

* New York, NY -- Sunday, April 30, beginning at Lincoln Center at 9:00

a.m.

* Los Angeles, CA -- Saturday, April 29 at Griffith Park at 8:00 a.m.

* Chicago, IL -- Sunday, April 30 at Grant Park, Lakefront at 9:00 a.m.

* Philadelphia, PA -- Sunday, April 30 at the Philadelphia Museum of Art

at 9:00 a.m.

* San Francisco, CA -- Saturday, April 29 at The Airfield at Crissy Field

at 9:00 a.m.

* Houston, TX -- Sun., April 30 at University of Houston's Robertson

Stadium at 9:00 a.m.

* Cleveland, OH -- Sunday, April 30 at Quicken Loans Arena at 9:00 a.m.

* Minneapolis, MN -- Sunday, April 30 at Parade Stadium at 11:00 a.m.

* St. Louis, MO -- Saturday, April 29 at The Muny-St. Louis Forest Park

at 10:00 a.m.

* Hartford, CT -- Sunday, April 30 at Hartford Civic Center at 10:00 a.m.

The March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. For more information, visit http://www.marchofdimes.com/ or http://www.nacersano.org/ for Spanish. Register for WalkAmerica by visiting http://www.walkamerica.org/ or by calling 1-800-525-WALK.

Source: March of Dimes

Web site: http://www.marchofdimes.com/
http://www.nacersano.org/
http://www.walkamerica.org/

Disney Channel's 'Mickey Mouse Clubhouse,' a New Playhouse Disney Series for Preschoolers

Previewed at Disney Parks and Resorts Worldwide During Special PremEar in the Park Celebration -- John Tartaglia ("Johnny & the Sprites") Emcees at Walt Disney World --

Kids and families around the world got the first look at Mickey's vibrant new interactive TV series, "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse," during a PremEar in the Park celebration on WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26, at Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, Hong Kong Disneyland, Disneyland Resort Paris, and aboard the Disney Cruise Line. (Tokyo Disneyland Resort will PremEar the show on May 7, 2006 along with the global launch of the series.) At Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Fla., Tony Award-nominee John Tartaglia of Playhouse Disney's "Johnny & the Sprites" emceed the celebration, joining Mickey and his pals to present the exciting new series on a big movie-style screen.

Adam Sanderson, Senior Vice President, Brand Marketing, Disney ABC Cable Networks Group, said, "The 'Mickey Mouse Clubhouse' series launch marks the first time we've had a same-day global launch of a series so we wanted to usher it in with a special celebration and there's no better place than at Disney theme parks."

The PremEar in the Park celebration showcased the first full episode of the new show in local languages and included a meet and greet with the stars -- Mickey and his pals -- immediately following the show. Preschoolers who attended received the first Mickey "ears" hats with a special "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse" logo.

"Mickey Mouse Clubhouse" combines the rich heritage of Disney's beloved classic characters with state-of-the art 3D computer animation. It is the first television series starring Mickey in CGI and although the animation is contemporary, the series' designs are referential to classic character drawings of the 1940s.

Guided by a specific curriculum, "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse" introduces problem solving and early mathematics skills (sequencing, counting, size and distance comparisons, addition, subtraction, weights and balances) in a fun way with lovable characters leading the way.

Each episode starts with Mickey inviting viewers to join him in calling out the "magic" phrase, "Meeska, Mooska, Mickey Mouse!" With that, the fantastic, mouse-shaped structure that serves as the series' shape-shifting home base begins to magically appear. Minnie, Goofy, Donald, Pluto and Daisy all join Mickey as he invites young viewers to help solve challenges, overcome obstacles and go on fun adventures. Interactivity is key from start to finish as Mickey speaks directly to preschoolers, asking questions and encouraging them to play games, participate in special phrases or cheers, and solve puzzles to reach a goal. After successfully completing the day's adventure, Mickey recaps the day's fun activities and lessons learned through the celebratory "Hot Dog!" song. Mickey turns to the audience and, with a wave and a wink, he promises to "See Ya Real Soon."

The "Hot Dog!" song, written and performed by Grammy Award-winning alternative rock band They Might Be Giants, is featured in each episode.

Leslie Valdes is the producer and story editor of "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse." Rob LaDuca and Sherie E. Pollack are directors. The executive producer is Bobs Gannaway. "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse" is from Walt Disney Television Animation.

About Disney-MGM Studios

Disney-MGM Studios immerses guests in the glamour of show business 365 days a year with thrilling attractions, incredible Broadway-style shows, world-class atmosphere entertainment and interactive film, television and radio production facilities. The theme park is part of the 30,500-acre Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Fla.

About Disney's Magical Beginnings

The "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse" PremEar in the Park celebration at the Disney-MGM Studios was part of the launch of the new Magical Beginnings program at Walt Disney World Resort, a new, breakthrough program devoted to families traveling with toddlers or preschoolers. Magical Beginnings offers value travel packages, captivating entertainment, targeted planning tools and a host of services and amenities to make navigating Disney parks with children five years and younger easier then ever. Starting fall 2006, as a part of Magical Beginnings, the Disney-MGM Studios will feature "Playhouse Disney in Concert," a slate of performances by such beloved Disney Channel stars as The Wiggles, The Doodlebops; Johnny & the Sprites, featuring Johnny Tartaglia; Dan Zanes and more. As a part of Magical Beginnings, kids can also dine and get autographs with Playhouse Disney pals JoJo and Goliath, and characters from Little Einsteins will meet and greet guests at Hollywood and Vine at Disney- MGM Studios.

Source: Walt Disney World Resort

Secrets of the Code; Feature Film Documentary Exploring The Da Vinci Code Scheduled for 'Sneak-Peek' at Tribeca Film Festival

While everyone waits for the much- discussed worldwide premier of The Da Vinci Code May 19, audiences will get their first look at a very different film that explores many of the same issues tonight, when a "sneak-peak" session of the independent film documentary, Secrets of the Code, is featured as a special event at New York's Tribeca Film Festival (6:30 PM, Tribeca Cinema 1). Following the showing of highlights from the film as a work-in-progress, there will be a Q and A session with the film's director, Jonathan Stack, who will be joined by author Dan Burstein, editor of the New York Times bestselling book, Secrets of the Code, which has just appeared in a new, updated paperback edition with a first print run of 500,000 from CDS Books/The Perseus Books Group.

"Just as our book, Secrets of the Code, provided readers with an intellectual journey into the multitude of issues alluded to in The Da Vinci Code, the Secrets of the Code film experience is its own unique, emotional, visual, and intellectually thought-provoking journey into this world of alternative gospels, hidden messages, and secret and sacred knowledge," says Dan Burstein, who is a producer of the Secrets of the Code film along with Donald Zuckerman and Brian Edelman.

Secrets of the Code, as directed by Jonathan Stack, emerges as a spiritual road-trip that explores the phenomenon of The Da Vinci Code from many new perspectives. From glimpses of the sacred feminine in a prehistoric cave in France, to musical mysteries hidden in a chapel in Scotland, and from a Templar tomb in London to the catacombs of Rome, the film takes the viewer on an intimate journey along the paths traveled by The Da Vinci Code novel. Along the way, teachers and writers, rabbis, monks, priests, and a variety of intriguing people whose lives have been affected by the novel, tell their stories, creating an evolving dialogue about the questions that have framed the search for meaning since the beginning of time.

"There are numerous reasons why The Da Vinci Code has been such a powerful novel and why, as a film, it may prove to be the biggest grossing movie of all time when it premiers next month," observed Dan Burstein. "Obviously, the possible relationship between Mary Magdalene and Jesus Christ explored in the novel, the role of women in the earliest days of Jesus' movement, the controversy about secret societies like Opus Dei or the so-called Priory of Sion, the role of religion and the Catholic Church in the history of western civilization, intriguing ideas drawn from previously little-known early Christian writings, such as the Gnostic gospels and the recently-published 'Gospel of Judas,' new ways of looking at Leonardo da Vinci -- all of these themes have fascinated readers.

"But the overarching issue, the one that ties all the other fascinations together, is the one that novelist Dan Brown alludes to throughout The Da Vinci Code in the persona of his fictional character, Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon: the human desire to understand man/woman's place in the universe and to create stories that become the basis for powerful myths, religions, and belief systems that seek to provide answers. Jonathan Stack's interpretation of these issues turns Secrets of the Code into a film that is its own independent, entertaining, and thought-provoking meditation on the themes of The Da Vinci Code."

In addition to the Tribeca Film Festival, Secrets of the Code will also be featured at the Hot Docs documentary festival in Toronto on May 1.

For more information about Secrets of the Code, visit: http://www.secretsofthecode.com/

Source: Squibnocket Partners LLC

'NUMB3RS' Stars David Krumholtz and Navi Rawat to Promote 'We All Use Math Every Day' Education Initiative at NCTM Annual Meeting and Exposition in St. Louis

CBS TV Stars' Appearance on April 28 to Include Q&A and Autograph Signing

David Krumholtz and Navi Rawat, stars of the hit CBS show "NUMB3RS," will appear along with show Executive Producer and co-Creator Cheryl Heuton at the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Annual Meeting and Exposition on April 28, 2006, in St. Louis, Mo., to promote the mathematics education initiative "We All Use Math Every Day(TM)." The program is based on a partnership between Texas Instruments (TI) and "NUMB3RS," and conducted in association with NCTM.

Inspired by the hit show "NUMB3RS," We All Use Math Every Day is a unique outreach program that uses the math featured on the TV series to engage and interest more students in math and help them see how it impacts their world. The program includes TI and NCTM-developed classroom activities for teachers and students that can be found on http://www.cbs.com/numb3rs . "NUMB3RS" airs Friday nights (10:00-11:00 p.m. ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.

Krumholtz, who portrays mathematical genius Charlie Eppes, Rawat, who portrays graduate student Amita Ramajuan, and Heuton will participate in a Q&A session about the show at 6:00 p.m. and meet with math teacher attendees afterward to sign autographs.

Rawat will also make a special appearance at TI's booth (#307) on April 28 at noon for a presentation on We All Use Math Every Day.

Krumholtz and Rawat are enthusiastic about the initiative and especially enjoy hearing teacher and student feedback about how "NUMB3RS" has heightened interest in the use of math beyond the classroom.

"It's a real honor to be part of such an innovative and successful educational program, and at the same time, part of a terrific show," said Krumholtz. "Encouraging kids to study math and how it affects their daily lives has been a great experience and is one of the most rewarding parts of this role."

"I'm excited to be part of such an innovative program that encourages kids to learn more about math and the amazing role that numbers play in life," said Rawat. "Having the chance to help to educate people about the importance of math through the character of Amita makes my job even more rewarding."

"NUMB3RS" Executive Producer and co-Creator Cheryl Heuton added, "It is really gratifying to know that 'NUMB3RS' can serve a purpose beyond pure entertainment. We are glad that TI and NCTM see the educational value in our show. 'NUMB3RS' producers and the cast are happy to spread the word that 'Math is cool!'"

The NCTM conference takes place April 26 - 29 in St. Louis at America's Center and will give attendees the opportunity to participate in more than 1,000 presentations, workshops and exhibits designed to help classroom teachers from all grade levels improve the teaching and learning of mathematics for students.

About Texas Instruments

Educational & Productivity Solutions, a business of Texas Instruments, provides a wide range of advanced tools connecting the classroom experience with real-world applications and enabling students and teachers to explore math and science interactively. Designed with leading educators, Texas Instruments' educational technology and services are tested against recognized third-party research on effective instruction and improved student learning. Such research shows that use of graphing calculators and wireless collaborative technology in the classroom helps teachers implement instructional strategies that lead to higher student interest, engagement and achievement in mathematics.* For more than 15 years, TI has worked closely with educators and administrators to develop student-focused curricular and supplemental classroom materials, and it supports the world's largest professional development organization for the appropriate use of educational technology. More information is available at http://www.education.ti.com/ .

Texas Instruments Incorporated is the world leader in digital signal processing and analog technologies, the semiconductor engines of the Internet age. In addition to Semiconductor, the company's businesses also include Sensors & Controls, and Educational & Productivity Solutions. TI is headquartered in Dallas, Texas, and has manufacturing or sales operations in more than 25 countries.

Texas Instruments is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol TXN.

Handheld technology leadership measured in USA by Decision Analyst, Inc.

*Based on related research on classroom communications systems and specific pedagogy. See http://www.education.ti.com/research for more information.

About the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics is a public voice of mathematics education, providing vision, leadership, and professional development to support teachers in ensuring mathematics learning of the highest quality for all students. With 100,000 members and 240 Affiliates, NCTM is the world's largest organization dedicated to improving mathematics education in prekindergarten through grade 12. The Council's Principles and Standards for School Mathematics includes guidelines for excellence in mathematics education and issues a call for all students to engage in more challenging mathematics. More information is available at http://www.nctm.org/ .

About "NUMB3RS"

Ridley Scott, Tony Scott, Barry Schindel, David W. Zucker, Nicolas Falacci, and Cheryl Heuton are executive producers of NUMB3RS, which was created by Cheryl Heuton and Nicolas Falacci. NUMB3RS is produced by Scott Free in association with CBS Paramount Network Television for CBS. CBS Paramount Network Television is a division of CBS Studios Inc.

About David Krumholtz

In addition to his starring role on "NUMB3RS," Krumholtz is a successful actor whose resume boasts an impressive list of credits ranging from comedic to dramatic roles. His feature films include "Ray," "Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle," "The Slums of Beverly Hills," "The Ice Storm" and "The Santa Clause 1 and 2." Krumholtz has also starred in TV shows including "Chicago Sons," "The Trouble with Normal" and "The Lyon's Den."

About Navi Rawat

In addition to her starring role on "NUMB3RS," Rawat is a successful actor whose resume boasts an impressive list of credits including roles on the Emmy Award-winning "24," to "The O.C." She portrayed Ben Kingsley's daughter in the critically acclaimed film "House of Sand and Fog," and also heads the cast of Project Greenlight's highly-anticipated foray into horror, "Feast" for producer Wes Craven and Dimension Films.

Source: Texas Instruments Incorporated

Web site: http://www.cbs.com/numb3rs
http://www.education.ti.com/
http://www.education.ti.com/research
http://www.nctm.org/

BBC Mundo and Latinoamerica TV Have Reached an Agreement to Provide Headlines and International News to the Hispanic Community in the United States.

BBC Mundo, the BBC's radio and internet service in Spanish, will provide news content on television for the first time thanks to a new agreement with leading Latin American TV channel Latinoamericana Television.

The prestigious English network chose the newscast "Latinoamerica Noticias" to launch their brand for the first time in the Spanish-speaking television. The fact that Latinoamericana Television has been launched in the U.S. for only three months proves the quality of its programming content.

BBC Mundo's news and information site, http://www.bbcmundo.com/ , will provide world events in a news ticker to be featured on all "Latinoamerica Noticias" programs, providing viewers with up-to-the-last-minute information, including entertainment, economy, science and technology.

Carlos Villalobos, Business Development Executive for BBC Mundo, said: "I am very excited by this latest development, as it is the first time that we have entered into the television arena. It complements the BBC's already good presence in Latin America through its extensive network of partner stations and, of course, bbcmundo.com. I'm looking forward to this new venture opening the door in Latin America for more audiovisual content from the BBC in Spanish."

Valentin Rodriguez Bausero, Director of LTV Journalism, added: "Latinoamerica Noticias has been on air in its current form for only 3 months and this agreement consolidates our bid to offer a product which combines the local viewpoint with the global perspective."

Atanasio Aguirre, President of LTV, said: "We very much value this agreement, as we are partnering with a global force for responsible journalism which reaffirms our mission and encourages us to keep developing."

Latinoamerica Television is distributed by Alterna'TV, one of the largest channel distributors of Latin American television in the United States.

About BBC Spanish American Service:

BBC Spanish American Service is rebroadcast by over 300 stations to almost 6 million people in Latin America, featuring the interactive radio and online show BBC Mundo Hoy. Its website, bbcmundo.com, is updated 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provides a wide range of information, including international news and current affairs, world economy, science, technology, arts, entertainment, chat forums and the opportunity to learn English. It registers more than 20 million unique hits and 300 million pages impressions per month.

About Latinoamerica Television:

Latinoamerica Television began broadcasting on January 10, 2006, to a great number of homes via DirecTV Para Todos in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Its programming includes content from some of the most prestigious media companies on the continent, including Canal 13 in Chile, Globo network in Brazil, Canal 12 in Uruguay and Canal 4 Telefuturo in Paraguay.

About ALTERNA'TV:

ALTERNA'TV distributes in the U.S. Spanish-language channels that have been carefully selected as the leaders in their country of origin, such as: ONCE MEXICO, MEXICO 22, ECUAVISA INTERNACIONAL, NDTV THE DOMINICAN CHANNEL, CB TELEVISION MICHOACAN, LATINOAMERICA TELEVISION, MEXICANAL, AYM SPORTS and MI CINE. The ALTERNA'TV channels offer programming in different genres that include documentaries, art and culture, news, music, children's programming, cooking and entertainment in general.

Source: ALTERNA'TV

Web site: http://www.alternatv.com.mx/
http://www.latele.tv/
http://bbcmundo.com/

'Laguna Beach's' Lauren (LC) Heads for LA to Pursue Fashion and Life After Laguna in New MTV Series 'The Hills' Premiering Wednesday, May 31st at 10:00PM (ET/PT)

New Series Tells the Story of Lauren and Her Three New Friends - Heidi, Audrina and Whitney - As They Pursue Their Dreams in the One City Where Anything Can Happen .

MTV announced today that it will premiere "The Hills," the long awaited spin-off of "Laguna Beach," starring Lauren Conrad, on Wednesday, May 31st at 10:00PM (ET/PT). "The Hills" picks up where "Laguna Beach" left off with Lauren moving to Los Angeles to attend fashion school with the hopes of a career in the fashion industry. Having already found a great apartment, a new friend to share it with and a killer internship at Teen Vogue, Lauren will have to balance it all and make it happen in the one city they say dreams come true.

"'The Hills' is to 'Laguna Beach' what 'Melrose Place' was to 'Beverly Hills 90210'," says Tony DiSanto, Executive Producer, 'The Hills.' "Audiences loved Lauren in Laguna, and we are thrilled to be able to continue showing her story as she embarks on the next phase of her adult life juggling work, school and relationships in Los Angeles."

"The Hills" also tells the story of Lauren's three new friends -- Heidi, Audrina and Whitney as all three girls chase different dreams in the same city. Lauren's roommate, Heidi has set her sights on a job with LA's premiere party promoter, Brent Bolthouse. Heidi's first priority is LA's social scene, and she sets her schedule around her nightlife. Audrina lives in the same complex as Lauren and Heidi. Besides working as a receptionist at one of LA's top photography studios, Audrina is also an aspiring model/actress and a bona fide Hollywood "serial-dater." Finally, there is Whitney, a student at USC and a fellow intern of Lauren's at Teen Vogue. Whitney and Lauren have become fast friends; however, Whitney's internship at Teen Vogue takes top priority in her life.

In addition to introducing new friends in LA, "The Hills" features the girls' love interests, which causes added drama, especially when Lauren's old flame comes into the picture.

Fans will be able to experience exclusive content with Lauren and the rest of the cast from "The Hills" on MTV.com and broadband network, MTV Overdrive beginning Wednesday, May 3rd. There they will find the show description, tune-in information and bios and photos of the cast. The latest available trailer of the series will premiere on the site beginning Tuesday, May 9th and a special preview of the series, including an introduction to the cast and a sneak peak of the first episode, will premiere on Saturday, May 27th, during the "Laguna Beach" Marathon. Also on May 27th, fans can check out never- before-seen interviews with Lauren on MTV Overdrive as she dishes about friends, love and school. Once the show launches on Wednesday, May 31st, viewers will be able to log on to http://www.mtv.com/ to watch the "After Show" as well as a special section dedicated to Lauren and Heidi's style picks and a video play list selected by Heidi and more. MTV Mobile will also allow fans to download the cast's favorite ring-tones, wallpapers featuring photos of the cast members and more. The series "After Show" will also be available on MTV's VOD.

"The Hills" was created by Adam DiVello. Tony DiSanto, Liz Gateley and Adam DiVello serve as Executive Producers.

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 100 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services -- MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 95 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

Web site: http://www.mtv.com/

Jane Seymour to Serve as Honorary Chairperson of National Fishing and Boating Week

Acclaimed Stage, Screen and TV Actress Teams with the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation to Promote Family Fishing and Boating.

The nonprofit Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF) today announced that actress and accomplished angler Jane Seymour will serve as honorary chairperson of the sixth annual National Fishing and Boating Week, June 3-11. Seymour will help RBFF promote the many benefits of fishing and boating, and encourage more American families to get out on the water this summer.

"I am very excited to help RBFF because I really believe that fishing is an excellent way for families to spend time together. I know it's had a positive effect on my family and I would not trade anything for the time I spend with my husband and children fishing and boating," said Seymour. "I'm looking forward to sharing our experiences and encouraging others to take their families and friends out on the water."

During National Fishing and Boating Week, communities across the country will host an estimated 2000 events each designed to give families the opportunity to enjoy these great pastimes. This national week of celebration was created to address declining rates of participation that have occurred over the past decade.

Perhaps best known for her starring role on "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman," for which she won a Golden Globe(R) Award, Seymour also won a Golden Globe for her performance in the mini-series "East of Eden" and an Emmy(R) for her role as Maria Callas in "Onassis: The Richest Man in the World." She currently stars in the WB sitcom "Modern Men."

"Jane Seymour is certainly well-known for her many TV and movie roles, but few people know of her love of fishing," said RBFF President Bruce Matthews. "RBFF is honored that she has agreed to be the first woman to serve as chair of National Fishing and Boating Week. She can help us show Americans how fishing can help them relax, unwind and connect to the natural world with their families."

According to a survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation, kids spend an average of 44 hours a week with TV, computers and video games. For parents looking to give their kids an alternative activity the entire family can enjoy, RBFF suggests a day of fishing and boating. RBFF research shows that fishing can help connect kids with nature and improve family communication.

Not only is fishing good for families, but participation is critical to maintaining healthy and productive aquatic environments. The money generated from fishing licenses and special taxes on fishing equipment and motorboat fuel funds approximately 83 percent of state fisheries' management budgets. These funds ensure that fishery resources are well-managed, accessible and conserved for future generations to enjoy.

As honorary chairperson, Seymour will conduct interviews with national media outlets to share her fishing experiences and discuss how outdoor activities such as fishing and boating can help foster a healthy family life.

Seymour's interest in fishing began with her marriage to director/producer James Keach. An avid angler, Keach encouraged Seymour to learn to fish so the two would be able to enjoy fishing together. Since that time, fishing has been a favorite activity for Seymour, Keach and their twin boys, John and Kristopher. The family has fished all over the world and always looks forward to the next time they can be on the water together.

For more information about National Fishing and Boating Week and a schedule of fishing and boating events across the U.S., visit http://www.takemefishing.org/.

About the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF)

RBFF (http://www.rbff.org/) is a nonprofit organization established in 1998 to increase participation in recreational angling and boating, thereby increasing public awareness and appreciation of the need for protecting, conserving and restoring America's aquatic natural resources. Recreational boating and fishing are America's favorite sporting activities, with more than 50 million people participating every year - that's more than play golf and tennis combined.

Source: Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation

Dwight Yoakam's Line of Bakersfield Biscuits Brand(R) of Frozen Foods Is Now Offered in Local Chicago-Area Jewel Food Stores

Dwight Yoakam is more than a Multi- GRAMMY(R) winning country music sensation and actor. The multi-talented star is also the creative force behind his Bakersfield Biscuits Brand(R) of frozen foods which is introducing its line of frozen delicacies into Chicago-area Jewel grocery stores. Jewel customers and Bakersfield Biscuits fans will now be able to purchase the Chicken Lickin's(R) brand Chicken Fries and Chicken Lickin's(R) brand Buffalo Style Bites which are available in the frozen food section of the meat department.

The Jewel Tea Company started it all in 1899 with tea and coffee being sold from the back of horse-drawn wagons in the Chicago area. By 1932, the purchase of 70 former Loblaw stores expanded the business into full-fledged grocery stores. Today, Jewel-Osco operates 204 food and drug combination stores and 77 freestanding drug stores in Illinois, Iowa, Indiana and Wisconsin. One-stop shopping used to mean convenience and broad selection of food and drug products, but Jewel-Osco has since expanded the definition to include on-site banking, full-service bakery services, prepared meals, floral shops and photographic processing services. Jewel-Osco is the Midwest Division of Albertsons, which is located in Boise, Idaho. The company is now 2,400 stores strong in 38 states and employs over 200,000 associates.

"I'm delighted to finally be able to introduce Bakersfield Biscuits Brand 'Chicken Lickin's' Chicken Fries and Buffalo Bites to the Chicago-area," says Yoakam. "We've had a great response to all our 'Chicken Lickin's' products throughout other parts of the country."

Modern Foods markets and distributes the Dwight Yoakam Bakersfield Biscuits Brand line of frozen food products nationwide. "Modern Foods and Dwight Yoakam, as a team, have been very adept at creating innovative retail food products that zero in on the changing needs of the consuming public," says John Marburger, President of Modern Foods, based at the Grissom Aeroplex in Peru, Indiana. "The positive consumer feedback has been tremendous, it just shows we are moving in the right direction."

Yoakam's Chicken Fries are breaded, French fry-shaped all white meat chicken breast patties with rib meat. Also made from all white meat chicken breast meat patties with rib meat, the breading of Buffalo Style Bites has a spicy buffalo-style flavor and are shaped like drumettes and wings. Both products are boneless and fully cooked, come in convenient resealable poly bags and are ready to prepare in just minutes: "Just heat 'em and eat 'em(TM)," says Dwight.

Currently, Yoakam is on his "Watch Out Tour '06" in support of his critically acclaimed album "Blame the Vain." Yoakam can also be seen alongside Tommy Lee Jones in the critically acclaimed motion picture "The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada."

The Bakersfield Biscuits Brand of frozen food products includes three types of Chicken Lickin's Chicken Fries, Chicken Lickin's Buffalo Bites, three types of Lanky Links pork sausage, Platter Patties pork sausage patties, as well as Border bean dips.

For more information on Modern Foods and Yoakam's Bakersfield Biscuits Brand of frozen foods, including a full list of product descriptions and tasty recipes please visit www.modernfoods.net.

For more information on Dwight Yoakam, including biographies, message boards, photos, tour dates and more, please visit his website at www.dwightyoakam.com.

Source: Modern Foods

Web site: http://www.modernfoods.net/media

Web site: http://www.dwightyoakam.com/

Web site: http://www.modernfoods.net/

Sony Computer Entertainment America Adds Two New Executives to Group Management Structure

Company Hires Heads of Marketing and Business Development

Sony Computer Entertainment America today announced the appointment of two executives to new strategic positions within the company. Recognized as veterans in both the electronics and computer entertainment industries, Peter Dille and Philip Rosenberg have assumed the positions of senior vice president, marketing and vice president, business development, respectively. Effective immediately, both individuals will report directly to Jack Tretton, executive vice president and co-COO.

"I am pleased to have Peter and Phil on board, two individuals who have already contributed so much to our industry," said Jack Tretton, executive vice president and co-COO, Sony Computer Entertainment America. "As we move toward supporting a three-platform strategy, it is critical for us to amass seasoned business leaders who can aid in managing category transition while aspiring to new levels of corporate, brand and product innovation. With these new additions to our management team, I am confident that our market leadership will continue."

Dille has a marketing background expanding more than 20 years, including 13 years of direct experience in the videogame space. Most recently senior vice president, worldwide marketing for THQ, a publicly traded global interactive software publisher, Dille returns to the Sony family after having held various marketing and communications roles within the company, including Sony Computer Entertainment America where he was involved in the launch of the original PlayStation(R) game console in 1995. In his new role as senior vice president, marketing, Dille is responsible for all facets of the company's marketing efforts in North America, including overall PlayStation brand management, hardware and software marketing, advertising, creative services, public relations, promotions, and online and direct marketing. He will direct an internal marketing department of approximately 100 employees.

In the newly created role of vice president, business development, Rosenberg will lead the team responsible for driving and creating new revenue opportunities for the company and the PlayStation family of products. His group will work in collaboration with the company's existing sales and marketing teams to create, participate in and cultivate relationships and new business opportunities, while maintaining and growing content alliances.

Rosenberg brings 24 years of direct experience working in the games and interactive entertainment industry. For the past 16 years he has been heading up manufacturer's rep firm The Performance Marketing Group, a company he founded, organized to help support and create go-to-market plans and strategies for consumer products through mass-merchants in the North American region. As president and CEO, Rosenberg led his company to achieving a cumulative $2 billion sales milestone.

About Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation family of products and develops, publishes, markets and distributes software for the PS one game console, the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system and the PSP system for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif. Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Visit us on the Web at http://www.us.playstation.com/

Web site: http://www.playstation.com/

Virgin Megastores Launch New Fashion and Accessories Line With Rock N Roll Fashion Show

Virgin Megastore Hollywood to Host Fashion Panel, Celebrity 'Girls Rock' Fashion Show With Janice Dickinson and Live Concert by morningwood and The Colour

Virgin Megastores are pleased to announce the company's launch into the world of fashion, and in connection with the brand's plan to offer customers the best in pop culture merchandise, will now be offering an expanded line of rock n roll fashion and accessories. As part of the Girls Rock Virgin campaign, Virgin Megastore, Hollywood will host a star-studded event on Wednesday, May 3rd which will include a fashion Q&A panel with some of today's top fashion leaders, a celebrity fashion show and a live in-store concert.

The May 3rd event will kick off with a press/VIP Happy Hour wine reception, sponsored by Virgin Vines and Little Black Dress. Celebrities, guests and press will be entertained with a live in-store concert by one of today's hottest girl-fronted bands, morningwood.

Immediately following the concert, press are invited to a fashion Q&A roundtable event with some of the top leaders in the fashion industry. The 45-minute panel debate/press event will be moderated by Newsweek reporter, Lorraine Ali and will include some of today's top fashion designers and industry leaders including:

* Adrienne Armstrong who has created hot new clothing line, Adeline, with

husband and Green Day frontman, Billie Joe Armstrong

* Robert Bevan, CEO of Mosquitohead

* Denise Scher, Fashion Director of MAGIC

* Andy Howell, Creative Director of Eggprojects

* Edward Dada, Founder of Dragonfly

* Maureen Ferguson, Divisional Merchandising Manager for Virgin

* Missy Suicide, Co- Founder and President of SuicideGirls

Panel topics will include the following questions: Who are the big influences in rock fashion today? When it comes to artists creating their own lines, what is the key to a successful launch and continued growth of that line? Is the market too saturated with artists competing to launch their brands? Why do you think the general public is now embracing rock and roll fashion into their daily wardrobe? What will next summer and falls fashion trends be?

Directly following the panel discussion Virgin Megastore, Hollywood will present its first fashion show, which will be hosted by the world's first supermodel, Janice Dickinson, and will introduce models from her new agency. The fashion show will also feature celebrities as models including: Caroline D'Amore (Fox's The Simple Life); Dominique Swain (Noble Things); Kaley Cuoco (Charmed/WB); Kiara Bailey (Blowout/Bravo); Honey Labrador (Queer Eye for the Straight Girl/Bravo); Wynter Kullman (Law and Order/NBC); Aimmie Lynn Chadwick (What About Brian/ABC); Kimberly Caldwell (Host/TV Guide Channel); Kaya Jones (former lead vocalist for the Pussycat Dolls/ solo recording artist); Carrie Anne Inoba (Dancing With the Stars/ABC). The event will showcase Virgin's new fashion line of rock n roll apparel in a fashion runway show, produced by Niki Shadrow and sponsored by Sexy Hair. Makeup will be provided by Beth Bender Beauty. Shoes will be provided by Michael Antonio and Seychelles.

"This fashion show will give reporters and our invited guests a first hand look at some of the latest in rock n roll fashion that we are excited to be bringing into our stores," explains Maureen Ferguson, Divisional Merchandising Manager, Virgin Entertainment Group, North America. "Virgin has always been the tastemaker of music and entertainment. We now want to spread the word and let consumers and fashion reporters know that Virgin Megastores is the go-to place for the best and broadest assortment of unique rock tees and accessories. From tees highlighting classic bands to up-and-coming artists, our fashions offer something for everyone."

Fashion model icon Janice Dickinson, star of the upcoming Oxygen TV series, The Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency, will emcee the fashion show as well as introduce some of the top models from her new show in Virgin's Girls Rock Fashion Runway Show.

Immediately following the fashion show, Silverlake's up-and-coming rockers, The Colour, will entertain the audience, as well as consumers, when they perform tracks from their forthcoming EP, Devil's Got A Holda Me, available May 16.

The evening will conclude with a VIP/Press after party at the Highlands Club conveniently located on the 4th floor of the Hollywood and Highland complex, just an elevator ride away. The after party will feature the dual talents of DJ Caroline D'Amore and actor Johnny Abrams on the turntables, as well as, complimentary beverages and cocktails from 10 PM - 11 PM.

WHERE: Virgin Megastore/Hollywood

6801 Hollywood Blvd

Hollywood, CA 90028

ABOUT VIRGIN ENTERTAINMENT GROUP

Virgin Entertainment Group is the world's leading multi-channel music and entertainment retailer, providing customers with a range of superior entertainment experiences through a family of integrated Virgin-branded businesses. The "category killer" Virgin Megastores and Virgin Megastore Online at www.virginmega.com are integral parts of a strategy to provide entertainment customers with what they want, how they want it, and when they want it. For more information, or to check out the location of the nearest Virgin retail, go to www.virginmegamagazine.com

ABOUT SEXY HAIR

Sexy Hair(R) products, including Big, Curly, Healthy, Short, Silky, Straight and Simply Sexy Hair, Fresh Concepts(TM), Sex Symbol(R) Aero Tan(R) and Big Sexy Lips(TM), are available in more than 25 countries. Retail sale of Sexy Hair products is authorized only in professional beauty salons, including chain salons such as JCPenney and Trade Secret. For more information on all Sexy Hair products and where to find them, please visit the website at www.sexyhair.com.

Dave Matthews Band Makes $1.5 Million Challenge Grant to Support New Orleans Habitat Musicians' Village

One of the bands at this year's New Orleans Jazz Festival is doing more than making music -- and they are challenging others to help.

Dave Matthews Band announced today that it has issued a $1.5 million challenge grant to help build the New Orleans Habitat Musicians' Village. The Village is a Habitat for Humanity project that seeks to build more than 300 homes in the city's Upper Ninth Ward with musicians and other New Orleanians who were displaced by Hurricane Katrina.

The New Orleans Habitat Musicians' Village was conceived by Branford Marsalis and Harry Connick Jr., honorary chairs of Habitat for Humanity's hurricane rebuilding program Operation Home Delivery. The Village will consist of Habitat-constructed homes and will feature the Ellis Marsalis Center for Music, named for the patriarch of the Marsalis clan, modern jazz pioneer and native New Orleanian.

"After the hurricane first struck, we were shocked by the destruction, and we knew we wanted to help," said Dave Matthews Band. "We organized a concert with the Neville Brothers and the John Butler Trio shortly after the storm. The generosity of our fans and everyone involved exceeded our expectations."

That concert in Denver raised $1.5 million and is the source of funding for the challenge grant. "We want to thank the Denver community for making this grant possible," said Dave Matthews Band. "Many people donated their time and resources to keep costs to a minimum so we could maximize the donation.

"The recovery in New Orleans is moving very slowly," said the band. "This is our way to get the word out that there is more work to do, and ask people to step up to the challenge and make a donation to help." Contributions to the New Orleans Habitat Musicians' Village will be matched dollar for dollar through the grant, raising the total donation potential to $3 million. Donations can be made online by visiting www.habitat-nola.org and clicking on Musicians' Village.

"The entertainment industry and other corporate partners have been phenomenally supportive of the New Orleans Habitat Musicians' Village," said Jim Pate, executive director of New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity and coordinator of Habitat's rebuilding efforts in the Crescent City. "This challenge grant from Dave Matthews Band will focus attention on these positive rebuilding efforts while letting everyone know there is still a lot of work to do."

"We are extremely grateful to Dave Matthews Band and the wonderful citizens of Denver for stepping up to the plate," said Branford Marsalis. "The New Orleans Habitat Musicians' Village is the first step in helping to replace what the city has lost. This contribution, and the others it will generate, will help ensure that New Orleans music will always have a home. That's important to me. It's important to my family. And it's a key to the recovery of the city."

"Dave Matthews Band represents the kind of leadership it will take to bring back New Orleans," said Harry Connick Jr. "Music is the essence of New Orleans and we adamantly refuse to surrender it to the wind and water. And now fellow musicians like Dave Matthews Band and others are helping us make sure that doesn't happen."

"New Orleans and its music were meant to be," said Chris Clarke, senior vice president of Habitat for Humanity International. "We couldn't ask for a better symbol of hope than the houses that are beginning to come out of the ground in the New Orleans Habitat Musicians' Village. The hard work of Branford Marsalis, Harry Connick Jr., and the New Orleans affiliate has made it possible for others, like Dave Matthews Band, to support the project. On behalf of Habitat for Humanity International, we thank Dave Matthews Band for this most generous and sustaining contribution."

As Habitat works to raise additional money, it also will be working with the music community to identify local musicians who are willing to partner with Habitat to help build their homes and to pay a no-profit mortgage. "This is Habitat's traditional partner family model," said Pate, "but it is focused on helping musicians of modest resources who were affected by the hurricanes."

To support the New Orleans Habitat Musicians' Village, please visit: www.habitat-nola.org and click on Musicians' Village, or mail a check to: NOAHH - Musicians' Village; P.O. Box 15052, New Orleans, LA 70175-5052.

About Dave Matthews Band

Dave Matthews Band is one of the most successful rock bands in North America. During the past 14 years, the band has sold over 32 million CDs and DVDs, and more than 12 million tickets on tour. The Band created the Bama Works Fund, established in 1999, and through it has donated millions of dollars in grants to a variety of organizations in their hometown of Charlottesville, Virginia and around the world. Beneficiaries have included public school systems, children's hospitals, community parks, youth community clubs, AIDS organizations, environmental organizations and tsunami relief.

About New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity

New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity, founded in 1983, is an autonomous Louisiana non-profit corporation that serves the parishes of Orleans, Jefferson, Plaquemines, St. Bernard and St. John the Baptist. In its 22-year history, NOAHH has built over 100 Habitat homes. For more information, visit www.habitat-nola.org.

About Habitat for Humanity International

Habitat for Humanity International is an ecumenical Christian ministry that welcomes to its work all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. Since its founding in Americus, Ga., in 1976, Habitat has built more than 200,000 houses in nearly 100 countries, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than one million people. For more information, visit www.habitat.org.

Source: Habitat for Humanity International

Musicians' Village

Web site: http://www.habitat.org/
http://www.habitat-nola.org/

Cingular Wireless Named Number One Company for Latinos
DiversityInc. Magazine Unveils The 2006 DiversityInc Top 50 Companies for Diversity

Atlanta-based Cingular Wireless has achieved the number one ranking for Latinos among American corporations by DiversityInc. Magazine this year. The 2006 DiversityInc Top 50 Companies for Diversity list released April 18 recognizes businesses with a commitment to diversity as indicated by factors such as employee recruitment and retention, and regular and consistent diversity training and communications programs.

"We are pleased to be leaders in this effort among U.S. companies," says Bob Reed, Cingular vice president for diversity and inclusion. "Our entire management team considers diversity a business imperative, and our commitment to diversity -- besides being the right thing to do -- adds value to our company and our communities."

Cingular is also among the top 10 companies on The DiversityInc Top 50 Companies for Diversity: The Specialty Lists for its recognizable commitments to women executives, people with disabilities, and gay/lesbian/bi- sexual/transsexual (GLBT) employees. The company made the Top 50 list in 2005 in the 43rd place but moved up this year to number 15. Additionally, Cingular was chosen last year as one of the 50 Best Places to Work for Hispanic women by LATINAStyle, a national women's magazine.

About Cingular Wireless

Cingular Wireless is the largest wireless carrier in the United States, serving 55.8 million customers. Cingular, a joint venture between AT&T Inc., formerly SBC Communications Inc., (NYSE:T) , and BellSouth Corporation (NYSE:BLS) , has the largest digital voice and data network in the nation-the ALLOVER(TM) network-and the largest mobile-to-mobile community of any national wireless carrier. Cingular is a leader in third generation wireless technology. Its 3G network is the first widely available service in the world to use HSDPA (High Speed Downlink Packet Access) technology. Cingular is the only U.S. wireless carrier to offer Rollover(R), the wireless plan that lets customers keep their unused monthly minutes.

Source: Cingular Wireless

Web site: http://www.cingular.com/

New Holland is Featured in the Latest James Bond Film 'CASINO ROYALE'

- New Holland Will be Making its Silver Screen Debut With the Eagerly Awaited Release of the Latest James Bond Film - "Casino Royale"

The James Bond production company chose New Holland, the global construction equipment manufacturer member of the Fiat Group, to supply a total of 11 machines, including two W190 wheel loaders, to support the making of this latest blockbuster. A W190 will have the starring role in the film's opening sequence where, in a special Bond chase situation, the new James Bond - Daniel Craig - also making his debut appearance, gives chase to one of the film's villains, "Two Fingers".

The remaining New Holland machines, including crawler excavators, backhoe loaders and skid steer loaders, will be used to create a realistic construction site, where the action sequence takes place. Filming for this sequence has already been completed in the Bahamas.

Said Luigi Monti, Vice President Global Marketing for New Holland, "We are proud to announce our partnership in the next James Bond movie Casino Royale! There are many strong similarities between Bond and New Holland. Bond has a strong history, with an impressive heritage of renowned leading actors associated as 'Bond' men.

New Holland has an even longer history and its own star line-up of famous, heritage brands... Fiat Kobelco, Kobelco, O&K, New Holland Construction and Fiatallis: 236 combined years of experience for one stronger, global brand, and in any launch the tradition becomes a new product.

Bond and New Holland are loyal, dependable, trustworthy, solid and have passion for their jobs. Bond has the latest technology at his fingertips and is a problem solver... as is New Holland, with its leading-technology, global alliance partner, Kobelco.

Already a star on job sites around the world, the W190 can be seen on the New Holland stand at Paris' Intermat (Hall 5A, stand G131) to be held from 24 to 29 April at the Centre d'Expositions, ZAC Paris-Nord 2, 93420 Villepinte. Not to be missed.

New Holland is a global, full-line construction equipment brand bringing together the knowledge and experience of its heritage brands - Fiat Kobelco, Kobelco, O&K, New Holland Construction and Fiatallis. New Holland is supported by more than 700 dealers with over 1600 outlets in more than 100 countries, plus the strength and resources of its world-wide commercial, industrial, product support and finance organisations. More information about New Holland and its products can be found on line at www.newholland.com.

Source: CNH Italia SPA

Up-Mobile Announces Exclusive Rights to Offer The 2006 FIFA World Cup(TM) Official Mascot TV Series For Mobile Distribution

About Up-Mobile

Source: Up-Mobile, Corp.

Web site: http://www.up-mobile.com/

TV Land's Top Ten Celebrates Everything We Love About Television Beginning In May With Special Mother's Day Installment

Series of Specials Kicks off on Wednesday, May 10 at 10 p.m. with Top Ten: TV Moms

Andy Griffith, Cher, Dennis Franz, Diahann Carroll, Ed Asner, James Denton, Jane Kaczmarek, Kelsey Grammer, Marion Ross, Ray Romano, Robert Guillaume, Roseanne, Sally Struthers, Smokey Robinson and William Shatner Among Celebrities Featured Throughout Series

Was Carol Brady or Clair Huxtable your favorite TV mom? Was it the Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show or Michael Jackson doing the moonwalk that ranks highest on your list of favorite musical TV moments? Whose TV wedding still makes you smile? Viewers can find out the answer to these and other probing questions when TV Land's Top Ten returns to the network with seven new specials beginning Wednesday, May 10 at 10 p.m. ET/PT with Top Ten: TV Moms.

TV Land's Top Ten: TV Moms takes a look at the most popular moms from sitcoms over the last fifty years. From Clair Huxtable to June Cleaver to Carol Brady, this May 10 installment features interviews with Ray Romano, Roseanne, Jimmy Walker, Aida Turturro, Jerry Mathers, Malcolm Jamal Warner, Sherwood Schwartz, Christopher Knight and David Cassidy -- who lend their insights and thoughts into some of their favorite TV moms.

In addition to the premiere of this new original, TV Land will celebrate Mother's Day with five nights of episodes featuring TV Land's best moms, from Monday, May 8 through Friday May 12, 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. ET/PT. Each night will celebrate a different TV mom -- from June Cleaver to Carol Brady to Marion Cunningham and more -- with TV Land showcasing some of their most memorable episodes.

TV Land's Top Ten series celebrates television for the passionate TV viewer. By culling the best moments from hit TV shows and commentary from stars, experts and those in the know, each special counts down a different Top Ten. The specials are being produced for TV Land by TV Land Productions in conjunction with Robert Small Entertainment.

Viewers logging onto tvland.com after each episode of Top Ten will be able to watch exclusive video footage not seen on-air.

Among the celebrities interviewed for the series include: Abe Vigoda, Andy Griffith, Andy Richter, Angie Dickinson, Ashanti, Carol Kane, Carol Leifer, Cedric The Entertainer, Cher, Christopher Knight, Delta Burke, Dennis Franz, Diahann Carroll, Ed Asner, Ed McMahon, Gavin MacLeod, George Wallace, Gordon Clapp, Howard Hesseman, James Denton, Jane Kaczmarek, Jerry Mathers, Kelsey Grammer, Loni Anderson, Marion Ross, Mya, Paul Anka, Penn and Teller, Ray Romano, Rhea Perlman, Robert Guillaume, Roseanne, Sally Struthers, Sherwood Schwartz, Smokey Robinson, The Smothers Brothers, Vivica A. Fox, William Shatner and more.

The complete Top Ten rollout includes:

May 10: TV Moms - What better way to celebrate Mother's Day, then with a countdown of the greatest TV Moms? Invited to the celebration are Clair Huxtable, Carol Brady and many more of your favorites.

May 31: Dynamic Duos - Who says TV doesn't teach good values? Teamwork is the bedrock of these relationships such as Batman and Robin, Laverne and Shirley and Lucy and Ethel.

June 7: TV Spin-offs - Sometimes a character is so good they need their own show. This episode celebrates the greatest spin-off series of all time.

June 14: TV Weddings - There's no better place to get married than on TV. And there's nothing easier to get hooked on than a good wedding story. This episode crashes the best TV Weddings of all time. Happy couples include Joe and Rhoda, Daphne and Niles, and Luke and Laura.

July 22: Brady Bunch Episodes - You grew up with them and you know the episodes almost by heart. But which episodes, made our list? The road trips to Hawaii and the Grand Canyon? Special appearances by Davy Jones and Joe Namath? From getting caught smoking to pork chops and apple sauce and everything in between, there's so much to choose from!

August 16: Musical Moments - Some of the greatest musical moments of all time have been captured on TV. This episode highlights the best of the best from the Beatles and Elvis to Madonna and Michael.

August 23: TV Cops - Whether cracking open a case or cracking you up, the TV Cop is one of the most beloved TV characters. In this countdown, we list our favorite men and women in blue. Squad members include Andy Taylor, Lennie Briscoe, Sgt. Suzanne "Pepper" Anderson, Joe Friday and that strange man in the rumpled rain coat.

TV Land and all related logos and titles are trademarks of Viacom International Inc.

TV Land Productions was created in 2003 to develop original programming that complements the network's successful acquired programming slate. TV Land Productions has also produced The TV Land Awards Show: A Celebration of Classic TV (March 2003, 2004 and 2005), the Emmy-nominated The Dick Van Dyke Show, Revisited, the network's first original special for broadcast, which premiered on CBS in May 2004, the Emmy-nominated Still Brady ... After All These Years reunion special in September 2004 and Chasing Farrah (Spring 2005), the original reality series that followed iconic Hollywood actress and sex symbol Farrah Fawcett. Over the last year, the network premiered a variety of original series and specials in 2005 including: TV Guide and TV Land Present: The 100 Most Unexpected TV Moments, Living in TV Land, TV Land Confidential and Sit Down Comedy with David Steinberg. For more information about TV Land's original Wednesday night line-ups, visit www.tvland.com.

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THE NATIONAL TELEVISION ACADEMY PRESENTS
THE 33rd ANNUAL CREATIVE CRAFT DAYTIME EMMY AWARDS
Meredith Vieira in New York and John Henson in Hollywood
Host Simultaneous Emmy Awards Ceremonies

The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences presented the 33rd Annual Creative Craft Daytime Emmy® Awards on Saturday, April 22, during simultaneous ceremonies held at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City and the Grand Ballroom at Hollywood and Highland in Los Angeles.

Meredith Vieira hosted the New York ceremony, joined by an all-star lineup of daytime celebrities including Martha Stewart (Martha), Bob McGrath (Sesame Street) Kevin O'Connor (This Old House) and Suzanne Walker Fanning (“Fiskars TV Crafting Show”) plus stars from the Emmy-nominated daytime dramas. In Hollywood, a star-studded ensemble presenting the awards included daytime drama stars as well as Alex Trebek (“Jeopardy!”), Tony Okungbowa (DJ from the Emmy-nominated “The Ellen DeGeneres Show”), best-selling author Greg Behrendt (He’s Just Not That Into You) who will be launching a new daytime talk show this fall, and Kristan Cunningham (“Design on a Dime”). The Hollywood event was hosted by actor/writer/ comedian John Henson (“Watch This”).
hosted the New York ceremony, joined by an all-star lineup of daytime celebrities including (), () () and (“”) plus stars from the Emmy-nominated daytime dramas. In Hollywood, a star-studded ensemble presenting the awards included daytime drama stars as well as (“!”), (DJ from the Emmy-nominated “”), best-selling author () who will be launching a new daytime talk show this fall, and (“”). The Hollywood event was hosted by actor/writer/ comedian (“”).

At the ceremonies, Daytime Emmy Awards were presented in such categories as: Directing in a Talk Show; Casting Director for a Drama Series; Art Direction/Set Decoration/Scenic Design; Writing in a Children’s Series; Costume Design/Styling; Multiple Camera Editing; Music Direction and Composition; Directing in a Children’s Series; Outstanding Children’s Series, Outstanding Game Show/Audience Participation and Outstanding Service Show. And for the first time, an Emmy Award will be presented for Outstanding Content delivered via the Internet, cellphones, PDAs and other small screen devices.

In addition, Caroll Spinney, the puppeteer who plays the roles of Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch on Sesame Street, was honored with this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Spinney was chosen for his work entertaining and educating children for nearly four decades, since the series debut in 1969. His characters have been seen on more than 4,000 episodes, as well as Sesame Street television specials that have taken Spinney to China, Japan, Australia, France, Germany, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Spinney starred in the feature film Follow That Bird and has performed on a number of other shows, including The West Wing and Hollywood Squares.

Daytime Emmy Awards in additional categories, primarily for performances and programs, will be awarded at the 33rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards, telecast live on ABC from the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood on Friday, April 28 (8:00-11:00 PM,ET/PT). This will mark the first time the Daytime Emmy Awards will be broadcast from Hollywood in the 33-year history of the Awards ceremonies.

Daytime Emmy Award recipients are chosen by a panel of their peers in 57 categories. Emmy Awards are presented to daytime television programs that are broadcast nationally between the hours of 2 a.m. and 6 p.m. The eligibility period for this year’s Daytime Emmy Awards was January 1, 2005 – December 31, 2005.

Official Partners for the 33rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards include American Airlines, Dr. Scholl’s, Fiskars, glacéau smartwater®, and Star magazine. Charles Fazzino is the Official Artist of the 33rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards, and created the commemorative poster and program cover.

The 33rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards is a presentation of the National Television Academy in cooperation with the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.

The awards were tabulated by the independent certified public accounting firm of Deloitte & Touche LLP. A breakdown of the Awards by broadcast and cable entities as tabulated by Deloitte & Touche LLP is as follows:

PBS
SYNDICATED
CBS
ABC
Food Network 12
10
9
4
2 KIDS WB
NBC
AOL
Discovery Health
SHOWTIME
2
2
1
1
1

The National Television Academy is a professional service organization dedicated to the advancement of the arts and sciences of television and the promotion of creative leadership for artistic, educational and technical achievements within the television industry. It recognizes excellence in television with the coveted Emmy Award for News & Documentary, Sports, Daytime, Creative Arts, Public & Community Service, Technology & Engineering/Advanced Media and Business & Financial Reporting. Excellence in Primetime programming and international programming is recognized by its affiliate, the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. Regional Emmys are given in 19 regions across the United States. Beyond awards, the National Television Academy has extensive educational programs including National Student Television and its Student Award for Excellence for outstanding journalistic work by high school students, as well as scholarships, publications, and major activities for both industry professionals and the viewing public.

Outstanding Children's Animated Program
JAKERS! THE ADVENTURES OF PIGGLEY
WINKS * PBS
MIKE YOUNG, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
STEPHANIE GOUGEON, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
LOUISA STRETTON, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
BILL SCHULTZ, CO-EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
LIZ YOUNG, SUPERVISING PRODUCER
CARY SILVER, LINE PRODUCER
JOHN OVER, PRODUCER/DIRECTOR
KELLY WARD, DIRECTOR
SINDY MCKAY, HEAD WRITER
LARRY SWERDLOVE, WRITER
DENNIS HALEY, WRITER
MARCY BROWN, WRITER
JENNIFER YALE, WRITER
PETER GARCIA, WRITER
PAMELA HICKEY, WRITER
DENNYS MCCOY, WRITER
MIKE YOUNG, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER STEPHANIE GOUGEON, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER LOUISA STRETTON, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER BILL SCHULTZ, CO-EXECUTIVE PRODUCER LIZ YOUNG, SUPERVISING PRODUCER CARY SILVER, LINE PRODUCER JOHN OVER, PRODUCER/DIRECTOR KELLY WARD, DIRECTOR SINDY MCKAY, HEAD WRITER LARRY SWERDLOVE, WRITER DENNIS HALEY, WRITER MARCY BROWN, WRITER JENNIFER YALE, WRITER PETER GARCIA, WRITER PAMELA HICKEY, WRITER DENNYS MCCOY, WRITER
Outstanding Special Class Animated Program
THE BATMAN * KIDS WB!
SANDER SCHWARTZ, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
ALAN BURNETT, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
DUANE CAPIZZI, SUPERVISING PRODUCER/STORY EDITOR
MICHAEL GOGUEN, SUPERVISING PRODUCER
JEFF MATSUDA, PRODUCER
LINDA M. STEINER, PRODUCER
GLEN MURAKAMI, PRODUCER
SEUNG EUN KIM, DIRECTOR
BRANDON VIETTI, DIRECTOR
SAM LIU, DIRECTOR
GINNY MCSWAIN, DIRECTOR
SANDER SCHWARTZ, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER ALAN BURNETT, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER DUANE CAPIZZI, SUPERVISING PRODUCER/STORY EDITOR MICHAEL GOGUEN, SUPERVISING PRODUCER JEFF MATSUDA, PRODUCER LINDA M. STEINER, PRODUCER GLEN MURAKAMI, PRODUCER SEUNG EUN KIM, DIRECTOR BRANDON VIETTI, DIRECTOR SAM LIU, DIRECTOR GINNY MCSWAIN, DIRECTOR

Outstanding Achievement in Art Direction/Set Decoration/Scenic Design
MARTHA * SYN
JIM FENHAGEN, PRODUCTION DESIGNER
JOHN CASEY, PRODUCTION DESIGNER
ANDUIN HAVENS, ART DIRECTOR
PAM PETERSON, ART DIRECTOR
TAMARA DILWORTH, SET DECORATOR
AARON CARAMANIS, SET DECORATOR
MOLLY MAGUIRE, SET DECORATOR
JIM GARDNER, SET DECORATOR

SESAME STREET * PBS
VICTOR DINAPOLI, PRODUCTION DESIGNER
LYNDON MOSSE, ART DIRECTOR
MIKE PANTUSO, ART DIRECTOR
PETE ORTIZ, ART DIRECTOR
NAT MONGIOI, SET DECORATOR
Outstanding Achievement in Art
Direction/Set Decoration/Scenic
JIM FENHAGEN, PRODUCTION DESIGNER JOHN CASEY, PRODUCTION DESIGNER ANDUIN HAVENS, ART DIRECTOR PAM PETERSON, ART DIRECTOR TAMARA DILWORTH, SET DECORATOR AARON CARAMANIS, SET DECORATOR MOLLY MAGUIRE, SET DECORATOR JIM GARDNER, SET DECORATOR VICTOR DINAPOLI, PRODUCTION DESIGNER LYNDON MOSSE, ART DIRECTOR MIKE PANTUSO, ART DIRECTOR PETE ORTIZ, ART DIRECTOR NAT MONGIOI, SET DECORATOR Outstanding Achievement in Art Direction/Set Decoration/Scenic
Design For A Drama Series
AS THE WORLD TURNS * CBS
PATRICK HOWE, PRODUCTION DESIGNER
TIM GOODMANSON, ART DIRECTOR
DENNIS DONEGAN, SET DECORATOR
CATHERINE MCKENNEY, SET DECORATOR
KAREN HLIPALA, SET DECORATOR
Outstanding Achievement for a
PATRICK HOWE, PRODUCTION DESIGNER TIM GOODMANSON, ART DIRECTOR DENNIS DONEGAN, SET DECORATOR CATHERINE MCKENNEY, SET DECORATOR KAREN HLIPALA, SET DECORATOR Outstanding Achievement for a
Casting Director For A Drama Series
GENERAL HOSPITAL * ABC

MARK TESCHNER, CASTING DIRECTOR

Outstanding Achievement in Single Camera Photography (Film or Electronic)
THE VICTORY GARDEN * PBS
JOEL COBLENZ, DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
JOEL COBLENZ, DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
Outstanding Achievement in Costume Design/Styling
SESAME STREET * PBS
BILL KELLARD, COSTUME DESIGNER/LIVE ACTORS
TERRY ROBERSON, COSTUME DESIGNER/LIVE ACTORS
VICTORIA ELLIS, COSTUME DESIGNER/MUPPETS
ROLLIN KREWSON, COSTUME DESIGNER/MUPPETS
SARAH LURASCHI, COSTUME DESIGNER/MUPPETS
CONNIE PETERSON, COSTUME DESIGNER/MUPPETS
JASON WEBER, COSTUME DESIGNER/MUPPETS
MICHELLE HICKEY, COSTUME DESIGNER/MUPPETS
ANDREA DETWILER, COSTUME DESIGNER/MUPPETS
POLLY SMITH, COSTUME DESIGNER/MUPPETS
JANE PIEN, COSTUME DESIGNER/MUPPETS
Outstanding Achievement in
BILL KELLARD, COSTUME DESIGNER/LIVE ACTORS TERRY ROBERSON, COSTUME DESIGNER/LIVE ACTORS VICTORIA ELLIS, COSTUME DESIGNER/MUPPETS ROLLIN KREWSON, COSTUME DESIGNER/MUPPETS SARAH LURASCHI, COSTUME DESIGNER/MUPPETS CONNIE PETERSON, COSTUME DESIGNER/MUPPETS JASON WEBER, COSTUME DESIGNER/MUPPETS MICHELLE HICKEY, COSTUME DESIGNER/MUPPETS ANDREA DETWILER, COSTUME DESIGNER/MUPPETS POLLY SMITH, COSTUME DESIGNER/MUPPETS JANE PIEN, COSTUME DESIGNER/MUPPETS Outstanding Achievement in
Costume Design For A Drama Series
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL * CBS
BIRGIT MULLER, COSTUME DESIGNER
BIRGIT MULLER, COSTUME DESIGNER
Outstanding Directing In A Talk Show
ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW, THE * SYN
LENN GOODSIDE, DIRECTOR
LENN GOODSIDE, DIRECTOR

Outstanding Directing In A Service Show

EASY ENTERTAINING WITH MICHAEL
CHIARELLO * FOOD
NATALIE GUSTAFSON, DIRECTOR
NATALIE GUSTAFSON, DIRECTOR
Outstanding Directing In A Children's Series
ZOOM * PBS
BOB COMISKEY, DIRECTOR
BOB COMISKEY, DIRECTOR
Outstanding Special Class Directing
79TH ANNUAL MACY'S THANKSGIVING
DAY PARADE * NBC
GARY HALVORSON, DIRECTOR
GARY HALVORSON, DIRECTOR Outstanding Achievement in Single Camera Editing
STARTING OVER * SYN
LEELLEN PATCHEN, EDITOR
STEVEN URRUTIA, EDITOR
KAREN SNYDER, EDITOR
BARRY ZETLIN, EDITOR
PEGGY TACHDJIAN, EDITOR
RAOUL ROSENBERG, EDITOR
MARIA VITAKIS, EDITOR
AARON M. LEWIS, EDITOR
JOE SHUGART, EDITOR
MELISSA PUENTE, EDITOR
MAC CAUDILL, EDITOR
MARC GROSSMAN, EDITOR
AREK HOPE, EDITOR
STEVE MELLON, EDITOR
JAMES GAVIN BEDFORD, EDITOR
LEELLEN PATCHEN, EDITOR STEVEN URRUTIA, EDITOR KAREN SNYDER, EDITOR BARRY ZETLIN, EDITOR PEGGY TACHDJIAN, EDITOR RAOUL ROSENBERG, EDITOR MARIA VITAKIS, EDITOR AARON M. LEWIS, EDITOR JOE SHUGART, EDITOR MELISSA PUENTE, EDITOR MAC CAUDILL, EDITOR MARC GROSSMAN, EDITOR AREK HOPE, EDITOR STEVE MELLON, EDITOR JAMES GAVIN BEDFORD, EDITOR
Outstanding Achievement in Multiple Camera Editing
SESAME STREET * PBS
ROBERT J. EMERICK, SUPERVISING EDITOR
SELBERN NARBY, EDITOR
JOHN TIERNEY, EDITOR
CHRIS REINHART, EDITOR
Outstanding Achievement in
ROBERT J. EMERICK, SUPERVISING EDITOR SELBERN NARBY, EDITOR JOHN TIERNEY, EDITOR CHRIS REINHART, EDITOR Outstanding Achievement in
Multiple Camera Editing For A Drama Series
AS THE WORLD TURNS * CBS
ROBERT MACKLER, EDITOR
MATTHEW GRIFFIN, EDITOR
ROBERT MACKLER, EDITOR MATTHEW GRIFFIN, EDITOR

Outstanding Achievement in Hairstyling

THE TYRA BANKS SHOW * SYN
KIYAH WRIGHT, HAIRSTYLIST
THERESA BROADNAX, HAIRSTYLIST
Outstanding Achievement in
KIYAH WRIGHT, HAIRSTYLIST THERESA BROADNAX, HAIRSTYLIST Outstanding Achievement in
Hairstyling For A Drama Series
GENERAL HOSPITAL * ABC
KIMBER L. ANDERSON, HEAD HAIRSTYLIST
JOE MATKE, HAIRSTYLIST
LINDA OSGOOD, HAIRSTYLIST
MICHAEL ANTON PROCKIW, HAIRSTYLIST
CURT S. DARLING, HAIRSTYLIST
ANZHELA ADZHIYAN, HAIRSTYLIST
JOANN ONORIO, HAIRSTYLIST
KIMBER L. ANDERSON, HEAD HAIRSTYLIST JOE MATKE, HAIRSTYLIST LINDA OSGOOD, HAIRSTYLIST MICHAEL ANTON PROCKIW, HAIRSTYLIST CURT S. DARLING, HAIRSTYLIST ANZHELA ADZHIYAN, HAIRSTYLIST JOANN ONORIO, HAIRSTYLIST
Outstanding Achievement in Lighting Direction
THE OPRAH WINFREY SHOW * SYN
TARA DENISE, LIGHTING DIRECTOR
SEAN POST, LIGHTING DIRECTOR
Outstanding Achievement in
TARA DENISE, LIGHTING DIRECTOR SEAN POST, LIGHTING DIRECTOR Outstanding Achievement in
Lighting Direction For A Drama Series
AS THE WORLD TURNS * CBS
DONNA LARSON, LIGHTING DESIGNER
NICHOLAS VARACALLI, LIGHTING DESIGNER
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL * CBS
RUDY HUNTER, LIGHTING DIRECTOR
LAURI MOORMAN, LIGHTING DIRECTOR
DONNA LARSON, LIGHTING DESIGNER NICHOLAS VARACALLI, LIGHTING DESIGNER RUDY HUNTER, LIGHTING DIRECTOR LAURI MOORMAN, LIGHTING DIRECTOR

Outstanding Achievement in Main Title Design

ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW, THE * SYN
LYNDA KAHN, TITLE DESIGNER
ELLEN KAHN, TITLE DESIGNER
ANNE BABIN, TITLE DESIGNER
ALISA BENFEY, GRAPHIC ARTIST
LYNDA KAHN, TITLE DESIGNER ELLEN KAHN, TITLE DESIGNER ANNE BABIN, TITLE DESIGNER ALISA BENFEY, GRAPHIC ARTIST
Outstanding Achievement in Makeup
THE VIEW * ABC
EVE PEARL, MAKEUP ARTIST
REBECCA BORMAN, MAKEUP ARTIST
KAREN DUPICHE, MAKEUP ARTIST
ELENA GEORGE, MAKEUP ARTIST
LORI KLEIN, MAKEUP ARTIST
Outstanding Achievement in
EVE PEARL, MAKEUP ARTIST REBECCA BORMAN, MAKEUP ARTIST KAREN DUPICHE, MAKEUP ARTIST ELENA GEORGE, MAKEUP ARTIST LORI KLEIN, MAKEUP ARTIST Outstanding Achievement in
Makeup For A Drama Series
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS
PATRICIA DENNEY, KEY MAKEUP ARTIST
ROBERT BOLGER, MAKEUP ARTIST
KATHY JONES, MAKEUP ARTIST
TAIA RED, MAKEUP ARTIST
RALPH WILCOX, MAKEUP ARTIST
PATRICIA DENNEY, KEY MAKEUP ARTIST ROBERT BOLGER, MAKEUP ARTIST KATHY JONES, MAKEUP ARTIST TAIA RED, MAKEUP ARTIST RALPH WILCOX, MAKEUP ARTIST
Outstanding Achievement in Music Direction And Composition
SESAME STREET * PBS
MIKE RENZI, MUSIC DIRECTOR
DAVE CONNER, MUSIC DIRECTOR
TONY GEISS, COMPOSER
DANNY EPSTEIN, COMPOSER
MIKE RENZI, MUSIC DIRECTOR DAVE CONNER, MUSIC DIRECTOR TONY GEISS, COMPOSER DANNY EPSTEIN, COMPOSER
Outstanding Achievement in Music Direction And Composition For A Drama Series
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS
MIKE DOBSON, MUSIC SUPERVISOR
JACK ALLOCCO, COMPOSER
DAVID KURTZ, COMPOSER
MIKE DOBSON, MUSIC SUPERVISOR JACK ALLOCCO, COMPOSER DAVID KURTZ, COMPOSER
Outstanding Original Song
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS
Song Sunshine
Title:
MICHAEL KISUR, COMPOSER/LYRICIST
BRADLEY HATFIELD, COMPOSER
MICHAEL KISUR, COMPOSER/LYRICIST BRADLEY HATFIELD, COMPOSER
Outstanding Performer In A Children's Series
SESAME STREET * PBS
KEVIN CLASH AS ELMO
KEVIN CLASH AS ELMO
Outstanding Performer In A Children/Youth/Family Special
EDGE OF AMERICA * SHO
JAMES MCDANIEL AS KENNY WILLIAMS
JAMES MCDANIEL AS KENNY WILLIAMS

Outstanding Performer In An Animated Program

JAKERS! THE ADVENTURES OF PIGGLEY
WINKS * PBS
MAILE FLANAGAN AS PIGGLEY WINKS
MAILE FLANAGAN AS PIGGLEY WINKS
Outstanding Game / Audience Participation Show
JEOPARDY! * SYN
HARRY FRIEDMAN, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER/WRITER
LISA FINNERAN, SENIOR PRODUCER
ROCKY SCHMIDT, SENIOR PRODUCER
GARY JOHNSON, SENIOR PRODUCER/WRITER
KEVIN MCCARTHY, DIRECTOR
JOHN DUARTE, WRITER
KATHY EASTERLING, WRITER
MARK GABERMAN, WRITER
DEBBIE GRIFFIN, WRITER
MICHELE LOUD, WRITER
ANDREW SHEPARD PRICE, WRITER
JIM RHINE, WRITER
STEVE D. TAMERIUS, WRITER
BILLY WISSE, WRITER
HARRY FRIEDMAN, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER/WRITER LISA FINNERAN, SENIOR PRODUCER ROCKY SCHMIDT, SENIOR PRODUCER GARY JOHNSON, SENIOR PRODUCER/WRITER KEVIN MCCARTHY, DIRECTOR JOHN DUARTE, WRITER KATHY EASTERLING, WRITER MARK GABERMAN, WRITER DEBBIE GRIFFIN, WRITER MICHELE LOUD, WRITER ANDREW SHEPARD PRICE, WRITER JIM RHINE, WRITER STEVE D. TAMERIUS, WRITER BILLY WISSE, WRITER
Outstanding Children's Series
ZOOM * PBS
KATE TAYLOR, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
KATHLEEN SHUGRUE, SENIOR PRODUCER
PAUL SERAFINI, SUPERVISING PRODUCER
MARCY GUNTHER, COORDINATING PRODUCER
MARISA WOLSKY, PRODUCER
KATE TAYLOR, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER KATHLEEN SHUGRUE, SENIOR PRODUCER PAUL SERAFINI, SUPERVISING PRODUCER MARCY GUNTHER, COORDINATING PRODUCER MARISA WOLSKY, PRODUCER
Outstanding Children/Youth/Family Special
REALITY MATTERS: TEEN SEXUALITY *
DSC HLTH
STACEY DEWITT, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
COLLIN SIEDOR, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER/WRITER
CLARE ROY, PRODUCER
KAREN SAVAGE, PRODUCER/WRITER
STACEY DEWITT, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER COLLIN SIEDOR, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER/WRITER CLARE ROY, PRODUCER KAREN SAVAGE, PRODUCER/WRITER
Outstanding Service Show
30 MINUTE MEALS WITH RACHAEL RAY * FOOD
BOB TUSCHMAN, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
MARK DISSIN, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
BOB TUSCHMAN, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER MARK DISSIN, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Outstanding Special Class Special
2005 WALT DISNEY WORLD CHRISTMAS
DAY PARADE * ABC
ANDREW PERROTT, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
JEFF PALMER, SUPERVISING PRODUCER
JOHN BEST, COORDINATING PRODUCER
PHILIP HACK, LINE PRODUCER
DARLENE PAPALINI, PRODUCER
KEVIN YOUNG, PRODUCER
GINA D. JONES, PRODUCER
RHONDA PARKER, PRODUCER
REGIS PHILBIN, CO-HOST
KELLY RIPA, CO-HOST
RYAN SEACREST, CO-HOST
ANDREW PERROTT, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER JEFF PALMER, SUPERVISING PRODUCER JOHN BEST, COORDINATING PRODUCER PHILIP HACK, LINE PRODUCER DARLENE PAPALINI, PRODUCER KEVIN YOUNG, PRODUCER GINA D. JONES, PRODUCER RHONDA PARKER, PRODUCER REGIS PHILBIN, CO-HOST KELLY RIPA, CO-HOST RYAN SEACREST, CO-HOST
Outstanding Achievement in Sound Editing - Live Action and Animation
THE BATMAN * KIDS WB!
THOMAS SYSLO, SUPERVISING SOUND EDITOR
TIMOTHY BORQUEZ, M.P.S.E., SUPERVISING SOUND EDITOR
KEITH DICKENS, SOUND EDITOR
ERIK FOREMAN, SOUND EDITOR
JEFF HUTCHINS, SOUND EDITOR
DANIEL BENSHIMON, SOUND EDITOR
DOUG ANDORKA, SOUND EDITOR
ERIC FREEMAN, SOUND EDITOR
MARK KEATTS, SUPERVISING DIALOGUE/ADR EDITOR
MICHAEL GARCIA, DIALOGUE/ADR EDITOR
MARK KEEFER, DIALOGUE/ADR EDITOR
CHARLES SMITH, DIALOGUE/ADR EDITOR
MARK HOWLETT, SOUND EDITOR
Outstanding Achievement in Live &
THOMAS SYSLO, SUPERVISING SOUND EDITOR TIMOTHY BORQUEZ, M.P.S.E., SUPERVISING SOUND EDITOR KEITH DICKENS, SOUND EDITOR ERIK FOREMAN, SOUND EDITOR JEFF HUTCHINS, SOUND EDITOR DANIEL BENSHIMON, SOUND EDITOR DOUG ANDORKA, SOUND EDITOR ERIC FREEMAN, SOUND EDITOR MARK KEATTS, SUPERVISING DIALOGUE/ADR EDITOR MICHAEL GARCIA, DIALOGUE/ADR EDITOR MARK KEEFER, DIALOGUE/ADR EDITOR CHARLES SMITH, DIALOGUE/ADR EDITOR MARK HOWLETT, SOUND EDITOR Outstanding Achievement in Live &
Direct To Tape Sound Mixing
ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW, THE * SYN
TERRY FOUNTAIN, PRODUCTION MIXER
BILLY SHERRY, SOUND EFFECTS MIXER
TERRY FOUNTAIN, PRODUCTION MIXER BILLY SHERRY, SOUND EFFECTS MIXER
Outstanding Achievement in Live & Direct To Tape Sound Mixing For A Drama Series PASSIONS * NBC
BRUCE BOTTONE, PRODUCTION MIXER
ANTHONY DALFERES, PRODUCTION MIXER
WALTER NEW, RE-RECORDING MIXER
DANIEL BOSWORTH, RE-RECORDING MIXER
RICARDO ALVAREZ, BOOM OPERATOR
GREG FERRARA, BOOM OPERATOR
CAROL SILVERMAN, BOOM OPERATOR
AL TADDEO, BOOM OPERATOR
BRUCE BOTTONE, PRODUCTION MIXER ANTHONY DALFERES, PRODUCTION MIXER WALTER NEW, RE-RECORDING MIXER DANIEL BOSWORTH, RE-RECORDING MIXER RICARDO ALVAREZ, BOOM OPERATOR GREG FERRARA, BOOM OPERATOR CAROL SILVERMAN, BOOM OPERATOR AL TADDEO, BOOM OPERATOR

Outstanding Achievement in Sound Mixing - Live Action and Animation

SESAME STREET * PBS
BLAKE NORTON, PRODCUTION MIXER
BOB SCHOTT, RE-RECORDING MIXER
JIM CZAK, RE-RECORDING MIXER
DICK MAITLAND, RE-RECORDING MIXER
BLAKE NORTON, PRODCUTION MIXER BOB SCHOTT, RE-RECORDING MIXER JIM CZAK, RE-RECORDING MIXER DICK MAITLAND, RE-RECORDING MIXER
Outstanding Achievement in Technical Direction/Electronic Camera/Video Control THE OPRAH WINFREY SHOW * SYN
ANNETTE DESHOTELS, TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
PATRICK RONDOU, ELECTRONIC CAMERA
RICHARD MORT, ELECTRONIC CAMERA
JOHN DICKINSON, ELECTRONIC CAMERA
JOE PAUSBACK, ELECTRONIC CAMERA
MARC CLAUSSEN, ELECTRONIC CAMERA
MICHAEL MAIER, ELECTRONIC CAMERA
JAMEL WARE, ELECTRONIC CAMERA
MICHAEL FREHE, ELECTRONIC CAMERA
MARTY MUZIK, ELECTRONIC CAMERA
WYNN GRIFFITHS, ELECTRONIC CAMERA
MIKE CLAY, ELECTRONIC CAMERA
CLARK GRAY, ELECTRONIC CAMERA
TOMMI SKINNER, ELECTRONIC CAMERA
WADE BOBBITT, SENIOR VIDEO
ROY OTAKE, VIDEO CONTROL
ANNETTE DESHOTELS, TECHNICAL DIRECTOR PATRICK RONDOU, ELECTRONIC CAMERA RICHARD MORT, ELECTRONIC CAMERA JOHN DICKINSON, ELECTRONIC CAMERA JOE PAUSBACK, ELECTRONIC CAMERA MARC CLAUSSEN, ELECTRONIC CAMERA MICHAEL MAIER, ELECTRONIC CAMERA JAMEL WARE, ELECTRONIC CAMERA MICHAEL FREHE, ELECTRONIC CAMERA MARTY MUZIK, ELECTRONIC CAMERA WYNN GRIFFITHS, ELECTRONIC CAMERA MIKE CLAY, ELECTRONIC CAMERA CLARK GRAY, ELECTRONIC CAMERA TOMMI SKINNER, ELECTRONIC CAMERA WADE BOBBITT, SENIOR VIDEO ROY OTAKE, VIDEO CONTROL
Outstanding Achievement in Technical Direction/Electronic Camera/
Video Control For A Drama Series
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS
TRACY LAWRENCE, TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
JOHN BROMBEREK, ELECTRONIC CAMERA
LUIS GODINEZ, JR., ELECTRONIC CAMERA
KAI KIM, ELECTRONIC CAMERA
DEAN LAMONT, ELECTRONIC CAMERA
ROBERT BOSIO, SENIOR VIDEO
SCHA JANI, SENIOR VIDEO
TRACY LAWRENCE, TECHNICAL DIRECTOR JOHN BROMBEREK, ELECTRONIC CAMERA LUIS GODINEZ, JR., ELECTRONIC CAMERA KAI KIM, ELECTRONIC CAMERA DEAN LAMONT, ELECTRONIC CAMERA ROBERT BOSIO, SENIOR VIDEO SCHA JANI, SENIOR VIDEO

Outstanding Writing In A Children's Series
SESAME STREET * PBS
LOU BERGER, HEAD WRITER
JUDY FREUDBERG, HEAD WRITER
JOEY MAZZARINO, WRITER
CHRISTINE FERRARO, WRITER
BELINDA WARD, WRITER
MOLLY BOYLAN, WRITER
ANNIE EVANS, WRITER
TONY GEISS, WRITER
LUIS SANTEIRO, WRITER
EMILY KINGSLEY, WRITER
JOHN WEIDMAN, WRITER
LOU BERGER, HEAD WRITER JUDY FREUDBERG, HEAD WRITER JOEY MAZZARINO, WRITER CHRISTINE FERRARO, WRITER BELINDA WARD, WRITER MOLLY BOYLAN, WRITER ANNIE EVANS, WRITER TONY GEISS, WRITER LUIS SANTEIRO, WRITER EMILY KINGSLEY, WRITER JOHN WEIDMAN, WRITER
Outstanding Special Class Writing ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW, THE * SYN
KAREN KILGARIFF, HEAD WRITER
KAREN ANDERSON, WRITER
DANNY BREEN, WRITER
MARGARET SMITH, WRITER
ALISON BALIAN, WRITER
DANNY CEBALLOS, WRITER
LIZ FELDMAN, WRITER
GREG FITZSIMMONS, WRITER
JILL KUSHNER, WRITER
ELLEN DEGENERES, WRITER
KAREN KILGARIFF, HEAD WRITER KAREN ANDERSON, WRITER DANNY BREEN, WRITER MARGARET SMITH, WRITER ALISON BALIAN, WRITER DANNY CEBALLOS, WRITER LIZ FELDMAN, WRITER GREG FITZSIMMONS, WRITER JILL KUSHNER, WRITER ELLEN DEGENERES, WRITER
Outstanding Achievement in Video Content for Non-Traditional Delivery Platforms
LIVE 8 ON AOL * AOL
JON MILLER, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
JIM BANKOFF, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
KEVIN WALL, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
BILL WILSON, PRODUCER
MICHAEL WOLFSON, PRODUCER
JON MILLER, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER JIM BANKOFF, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER KEVIN WALL, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER BILL WILSON, PRODUCER MICHAEL WOLFSON, PRODUCER

33rd ANNUAL DAYTIME EMMY AWARDS
NETWORK TOTALS
PBS 12
SYNDICATED 10
CBS 9
ABC 4
Food Network 2
Kids WB 2
NBC 2
AOL 1
Discovery Health 1
SHOWTIME 1
PBS 12 SYNDICATED 10 CBS 9 ABC 4 Food Network 2 Kids WB 2 NBC 2 AOL 1 Discovery Health 1 SHOWTIME 1
33rd ANNUAL DAYTIME EMMY AWARDS
MULTIPLE WINNERS
Sesame Street 7
Ellen DeGeneres Show, The 4
The Young And The Restless 4
As The World Turns 3
The Batman 2
The Bold And The Beautiful 2
General Hospital 2
Jakers! The Adventures of Piggley Winks 2
The Oprah Winfrey Show 2
Zoom 2
Sesame Street 7 Ellen DeGeneres Show, The 4 The Young And The Restless 4 As The World Turns 3 The Batman 2 The Bold And The Beautiful 2 General Hospital 2 Jakers! The Adventures of Piggley Winks 2 The Oprah Winfrey Show 2 Zoom 2 Pilot for TV Series 'Winning In America' Hosted By TV Icon Sy Sperling Set for Production This Summer in NYC and FL

Series Created by Fred Silverman's Former Right-Hand Man at NBC, Tom Madden

BTransMedia Group Productions ( http://www.transmediagroup.com/ ) today announced plans to shoot the pilot this summer in New York City and Florida for "Winning In America," a TV series hosted by TV icon Sy Sperling, former president of the Hair Club For Men, known for his famous admission, "And I'm also a client."

"I don't usually make predictions, but I think this series will be a winner as it will appeal strongly to the American spirit in all of us that wants to succeed and then share that success with others," said Sperling.

The series will feature personal stories of winning entrepreneurs told intimately in first-person. Sperling will introduce each episode that will take viewers on an entrepreneurial journey toward achieving the American dream, including intimate details of challenges faced in becoming "Winners in America," according to the series' creator and co-producer Tom Madden. Madden was Vice President, Assistant to the President of NBC and Fred Silverman's right hand before he founded TransMedia Group, a leading public relations firm with an active video production division.

Sperling is one of the most instantly recognized figures in America who has appeared numerous times on late-night television shows, including Jay Leno, Letterman, Conan, and Saturday Night Live, Madden said. The series co- producer is John Bennardo, who was a producer on America's Funniest Videos and Oprah's Oxygen Network.

According to Madden, Sy is a perfect host as his name is on the tips of millions of tongues in America. On a recent episode of "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire," 55 percent of the audience knew who was President of the Hair Club For Men. And once during the Bush/Gore campaign when then-candidate George W. Bush was being chided for mispronouncing names of heads of state, David Letterman asked Mr. Bush the same question and he replied, "You don't mean Uncle Sy Sperling?"

The pilot episode called "Roots: The Hair-Raising Story of a Guy Named Sy," will take viewers on a path starting in the Bronx and leading to Sperling's huge success in establishing the leading brand in the hair weaving industry, which he sold for $40 million and re-sold for $220 million.

Web site: http://www.transmediagroup.com/

Video Without Boundaries Adds 17 New Online Retailers

and Projects $1.5M in Q2 Sales. Without Boundaries, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: VDWB), a leading provider of interactive, media-convergent home entertainment devices, announced today that 17 new retailers will carry select MediaREADY(TM) advanced media centers and portable media devices. Video Without Boundaries, Inc. President and CEO Jeffrey Harrell said, "The addition of these new retailers carrying the MediaREADY product line and our portable media devices gives us a tremendous amount of exposure to customers. We have implemented a distribution plan to offer superior service to support these retailers. Anticipated revenues from our growing number of resellers will be in excess of $1.5 million this quarter." New retailers include PCUniverse.com, PageComputer.com, PCSuperdeals.com, teckvantage.com, bestselectionsunlimited.com, shopblt.com, thenerds.net, computerhq.com, gigapc.com, kernelsoftware.com, nationaltonerwarehouse.com, RandomSource.com, Saleonall.com, iunitek.com, sparco.com, spacecentersystems.com and officenation.com. About Video Without Boundaries Video Without Boundaries is a leader in digital media-on-demand, enhanced home entertainment, and interactive products that connect people simply. The revolutionary MediaREADY 4000 and 5000 are part of a family of interactive, media-convergent home entertainment devices that provide digital capture and storage of TV programs and movies, streaming video and audio from the Internet, plus music, karaoke, games, e-mail, Internet browsing, photos and all generations of MPEG, CDs and DVDs. For more information about the VWB MediaREADY line, visit http://www.vwbinc.com. MediaREADY and Video Without Boundaries are trademarks of Video Without Boundaries, Inc. All other trademarks or registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners. An investment profile about Video Without Boundaries may be found at http://www.hawkassociates.com/videowithoutboundaries/profile.htm.

Sony Introduces First Spanish Language VAIO PC in the U.S.

Now Available With Spanish Operating System and Keyboard

As a prelude to a broader marketing initiative to the growing U.S. Hispanic population, Sony Electronics is introducing a stylish notebook computer that includes a Spanish language operating system and keyboard.

The new Spanish-version FJ en Espanol notebook -- based on Sony's popular VAIO(R) FJ Series -- marks Sony's first Spanish language PC in the United States.

Available in five colors -- including Onyx Black, Pearl White, Sky Blue, Jade Green and Raspberry Red -- the FJ Series provides the option for Spanish speakers to have the latest mobile notebook computer personalized for their home and work lifestyles.

According to the U.S. Census bureau 31 million U.S. citizens over the age of five speak Spanish at home. Until now Spanish-speaking Americans have had little choice in personal computers. The VAIO FJ Series en Espanol gives these consumers an additional option, while paving the way for future Sony corporate-wide initiatives and community outreach programs targeting U.S. Hispanics.

Ramping up to the VAIO FJ en Espanol launch, Sony is introducing a soccer-themed promotion. When consumers purchase an FJ en Espanol notebook PC, they can receive a certificate to receive a soccer jersey personalized with their name and number of choice in the color of their favorite team, matching the color of their computer.

Sony's VAIO FJ Series notebooks are slim, 14.1-inch widescreen PCs that combine portable power and productivity with a sense of style. The built-in camera and microphone helps users to stay in touch with international friends and family with virtual face-to-face conversations, while an onboard DVD+R double layer/DVD+/-RW drive and XBRITE-ECO(TM) LCD technology turn it into a mini-movie theatre to watch DVDs at home or on the go.

VAIO FJ en Espanol notebooks will be available this month at select Sony Style Stores around the country and at www.sony.com/vaioenespanol starting at about $1,400.

Motorola Introduces New Local Content Distribution System That Makes Television More Relevant

The Motorola On-Target System Allows Programmers to Customize National Programming for Local Broadcast -- Creating New Revenue Opportunities and Meaningful Audience Experiences

LMotorola, Inc. today introduced a new content distribution system that allows programmers to customize national video feeds for local audiences by inserting content at affiliate sites. The new Motorola On-Target gives programmers a new way to address different market segments by adding local information into a national broadcast.

With the new Motorola On-Target system, programmers can pre-position regionalized content such as advertisements, and seamlessly insert that content during a selected local available time slot, giving viewers a customized message that is relevant to their regional area.

The new On-Target system will be demonstrated at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) tradeshow (24 - 27 April 2006, Las Vegas Convention Center).

The Motorola On Target system consists of two components: An uplink management component to ingest, manage, create schedule, and distribute content, and a new downlink Integrated Receiver Decoder (IRD) to receive, store and insert customized content into the national feed on a pre-scheduled or real-time basis.

The new Motorola Integrated Server Receiver (ISR) 4410 is an IRD with a internal 200GB hard drive. The hard drive can receive and store MPEG2 video clips, graphics and text that can be used to insert customized spots into a video feed received from a satellite uplink location. Graphics and text can be animated and composited with stored or live content -- with content seamlessly switched between the live and stored feeds.

The Motorola On-Target Control System is an open-source based server that manages content distribution, including a file queue that can send content to all Motorola ISR 4410s, a subset of the ISRs in a system, or a single device. The system also includes automated remote backup of ISR hard devices.

In addition, the system includes an authoring station where editors can create timelines, playlists with graphics and/or text, and preview any sequence prior to distribution. The web-based application can be located at an affiliate site so that local content can be created and uploaded to the On- Target Control System for eventual playout to headend-resident ISR4410s.

"The Motorola On-Target system delivers a complete end-to-end system for customizing programmers' national feeds at the local level and providing the facilities for value-added services," said Doug Means, Motorola corporate vice president and general manager, Connected Home Solutions. "With the advent of the On-Target system, we are continuing our commitment to provide programmers with innovative solutions to leverage their investments in Motorola digital content delivery networks."

About Motorola

Motorola is known around the world for innovation and leadership in wireless and broadband communications. Inspired by our vision of Seamless Mobility, the people of Motorola are committed to helping you get and stay connected simply and seamlessly to the people, information, and entertainment that you want and need. We do this by designing and delivering "must have" products, "must do" experiences and powerful networks -- along with a full complement of support services. A Fortune 100 company with global presence and impact, Motorola had sales of US $36.8 billion in 2005. For more information about our company, our people and our innovations, please visit http://www.motorola.com/ .

MOTOROLA and the Stylized M Logo are registered in the US Patent & Trademark Office.

Web site: http://www.motorola.com/

Gary Oldman Premieres New Mobile Movie Studio

FirstCall/ -- Award-winning actor and film-maker, Gary Oldman today unveiled a pioneering new mobile video initiative, the Nokia (NYSE: NOK) Nseries Studio, and announced plans to shoot a short film with the new Nokia N93 multimedia computer, also introduced today.

Advanced mobile video devices like the Nokia N93 offer the unique ability to capture and share spontaneous instants in everyday life. To encourage people to shoot and share these moving moments, Nokia has created the Nokia Nseries Studio (www.nokia.com/nseries/studio), a new interactive online community for mobile movies.

Gary Oldman, the director of BAFTA award-winning Nil By Mouth and star of Bram Stoker's Dracula, Leon and Harry Potter: The Prisoner of Azkaban leads an international cast of creative visionaries who are shooting mobile movies for the Nokia Nseries Studio on a Nokia N93. They are all tasked with producing short films based on the theme of 'open your eyes' - capturing the everyday moments that tell a touching, compelling or provoking story about the world we live in.

Today and regularly over the next few months, a selection of these mobile movies will be premiered on the Nokia Nseries Studio where they're available for downloading to mobile devices or PCs. In the summer, Nokia is planning to open up the site so people can upload and showcase their own mobile short films.

Commenting on the initiative, Gary Oldman said: "I am fascinated by the potential of mobile video devices like the Nokia N93. They allow us to catch the fleeting moments we observe in our daily lives and share them as they happen. The possibilities for film-making are endless - I'm looking forward to producing a short film on a Nokia N93 and I hope it inspires people to record the extraordinary moments in their ordinary days and share them with the world."

Tapio Hedman, senior vice president, Multimedia Marketing, Nokia, said: "Connected mobile video devices are the ultimate solution for spontaneous video recording. With the Nokia Nseries Studio we're hoping to encourage more people to shoot and share their life experiences. And with the Nokia N93, people can capture these moments in unparalleled video quality from a mobile device."

About Nokia Nseries

Nokia Nseries is a range of high performance multimedia devices that delivers unparalleled mobile multimedia experiences by combining the latest technologies with stylish design and ease of use. With Nokia Nseries products, consumers can use a single device to enjoy entertainment, access information and to capture and share pictures and videos, whenever and wherever they want.

About Nokia

Nokia is a world leader in mobile communications, driving the growth and sustainability of the broader mobility industry. Nokia connects people to each other and the information that matters to them with easy-to-use and innovative products like mobile phones, devices and solutions for imaging, games, media and businesses. Nokia provides equipment, solutions and services for network operators and corporations.

www.nokia.com

www.nseries.com

Wasp'3D's Software and Service Capacity Garners Extraordinary Response at NAB 2006

Beehive's Wasp'3D - the real-time 3D graphics solution - has fetched extremely positive response at NAB 2006. Wasp'3D, which offers six different core functionalities in single solution, has interested broadcasters as well as resellers and distributors. Prospects were interested in Wasp'3D as a software solution as well as for the kind of services it can provide, including 3D graphics design, database integration and more. This is the first time that Wasp'3D has been introduced at NAB after its worldwide launch. Wasp'3D, the real-time 3D graphics solution from Beehive, is a one of its kind technology that incorporates multiple functionalities in single software - from real-time 3D to chroma keying and virtual sets and from channel branding to 3D compositing and digital video effects. Wasp'3D is applicable for news, weather, business and sports coverage. At NAB 2006, the Wasp'3D product specialists conducted live interactive sessions showing chroma keying, real-time 3D graphics, virtual sets and more. Besides the six core solutions embedded in single Wasp'3d software, the solution is endowed with unique technological advantages including Programmable Palette Technology (PgP), Real-time Phong Shading, futuristic DirectX(tm) technology, compatibility with newsroom systems and more. Cutting-edge Programmable Palette Technology(tm) (PgP Technology(tm)) Wasp'3D comes with unique Programmable Palette (PgP) Technology which provides designers the flexibility and power to create infinite materials and textures by mixing and blending four texture types with each other in a variety of ways.

This in turn can incredibly expand the creative possibilities for the designer as he can easily create an original texture or a material without getting restricted. The PgP technology can also blend Bitmaps (images); Video (live and off-the disk); and DDS textures (Direct Draw Surface) and further expand the canvas of the artist to experiment and create something out-of-the-box. Real-Time Phong Shading (Pixel Shading) With the same number of polygons, Wasp'3D can achieve realistic visual representation of the scene objects using the Phong option. The Specular highlights in Phong is more accurate and the vertex highlight is sharper. Futuristic DirectX(c) Technology Wasp'3D(tm)is based on Microsoft's(c) DirectX(c) technology which is going to be Microsoft's focus area in the future. This makes Wasp'3D(tm) future-proofed in the product life cycle as upgrading to the next level is a mere change of the graphics hardware device with the latest software drivers. DirectX(c) is also the platform on which the multibillion dollar gaming industry depends on. Multiple Graphics Events Run Simultaneously

Wasp'3D(tm) enables multiple graphics events to run simultaneously on screen. The graphics events include crawls/tickers, animated station logos, multiple video insertions, lower thirds, animated 3D elements, supers, bugs, and more. Wasp'3D(tm) also allows on-air graphics to be linked to live data sources. Data can be instantly updated even while the programme is on-air. Integration with Newsroom Systems Wasp'3D(tm) facilitates seamless integration with existing newsroom systems such as iNEWS and ENPS with the help of Wasp'3D(tm) MOS ActiveX(c). It allows full Unicode support, including languages that use complex scripts. Since it runs on powerful enterprise level MS-SQL(c)-based database, content sharing across the Wasp'3D(tm) network becomes easy. Wasp'3D(tm) imports objects from major off-the shelf 3D software via the X-file loader. The Wasp'3D(tm) SDK is available to developers to build components for enhancement. Wasp also provides multi-language support. Users can choose to work with C# or VB.Net

About Beehive Systems: Beehive Systems (http:www.beesys.com) is a global leader in developing cutting-edge broadcast solutions meant to provide superior returns on the client's investment. Our portfolio of end-to-end solutions is designed to deliver out-of-the-ordinary results in real-time 3D and 2D graphics, newsgathering, digital newsroom, interactive TV and digital logging and archiving. With 15 years of broadcast expertise and a commitment to deliver maximum value to our clients, Beehive is the most respected name with international broadcasters like CNBC, Fox-promoted STAR News, KTRK, ESPN, Sony MAX, Astro, SCTV and many more. Beehive is the winner of the prestigious 'Nasscom IT Innovation Award' for 2004.

NAB ANNOUNCES NAB2006 AIM AWARD WINNERS

NAB announced the winners of the fourth-annual Awards for Innovation in Media (AIMs). Attendees at the NAB2006 exhibition voted April 24 and 25 for the technological innovations that best addressed current and upcoming issues in the electronic media industry by boosting efficiency, increasing user flexibility and creativity, and lowering cost.

The top five products within each of the Content Creation, Content Management, and Content Delivery categories received recognition during the NAB2006 Technology Luncheon, sponsored by LG.

Within the Content Creation category, Adobe Systems’ Adobe Production Studio, Apple’s Final Cut Studio, Autodesk - Media & Entertainment’s Maya, the XLH1 HD Camcorder from Canon USA, Red Digital Cinema’s 4K Cinema Camera, Panasonic’s HVX200 Camcorder and Sony’s XDCAM HD received the highest number of attendee votes and were each awarded a 2006 NAB AIM.

Winners in the Content Management category were Grass Valley, Inc.’s REV PRO, LaCie’s Little Big Disk 320GB, the TriCaster PRO from NewTek, Omneon Video Networks’ MediaGrid Active Storage System, openGear from Ross Video Limited in cooperation with Cobalt Digital & Ward-Beck Systems and SmartSound Software’s Sonicfire Pro 4.

Also receiving AIMs within the Content Delivery category were the AmiNET124 from Amino Communications, the Configurable Messenger Transmitter (CMT) from Global Microwave Systems, Volicon, Inc.’s Observer 4CH -- MultiChannel Broadcast Monitor and Vyvx’s inV.

"Attendees at the NAB spring show are especially positioned to recognize the hottest products emerging in the marketplace," said NAB President and CEO David K. Rehr. “NAB extends its congratulations to all of the 2006 AIM winners who received this esteemed recognition.”

A judging panel of editors from key industry publications will review the AIM-winning technologies and other new products exhibited at the show to select an additional winner within each product category.

NAB2006 is the world's largest electronic media show covering the development, delivery and management of professional video and audio content across all media. Complete NAB2006 details are available at www.nabshow.com.

The National Association of Broadcasters is a trade association that advocates on behalf of more than 8,300 free, local radio and television stations and also broadcast networks before Congress, the Federal Communications Commission and the Courts. Information about NAB can be found at www.nab.org.

First Page Search Engine Listing Provides Brand Lift

According to new research conducted by Jupiter Research and sponsored by iProspect, 62% of search engine users click on a search result within the first page of results, and a full 90% of users click on a result within the first three pages of search results. These figures were just 48% and 81%, respectively, in 2002. (But even beyond the benefits of being found within the first three pages of results, the study reports that brand equity is bestowed upon those entities listed in the top results.

Robert Murray, President, iProspect, said "... a percentage of search engine users ascribe industry leadership to those brands within top results, and believe them to be leaders in their fields given their placement in the results. Cleary, this brand lift is a critical element for brand marketers."

The study revealed that 82% of search engine users re-launch an unsuccessful search using the same search engine as they used for their initial search, but add more keywords to refine the subsequent search.

High-level findings include:

36% of search engine users believe that the companies whose websites are returned at the top of the search results are the top brands in their field.

41% of search engine users who continue their search when not finding what they seek, will change engines or their search term if they don't find what they seek on the first page of search results.

88% will change engines or their search term if they don't find what they seek on the first three pages of search results.

82% of search engine users re-launch an unsuccessful search using the same search engine as they used for their initial search, but add more keywords to refine the subsequent search.

In a 2005 Jupiter Research, quoted in the report, 87% of commercial clicks take place on the natural (not sponsored) search results.

Murray concludes that "Search engine users are demonstrating a preference to remain with a particular search engine and re-launch unsuccessful initial searches as longer keyword searches...marketers need to...target these longer keyword phrases so they can be readily found by searchers."

Promoters and retailers of HD DVD players and software continue to spin positively about the new format and its impact on consumers since the format’s April 18 launch.

Toshiba, which shipped about 15,000 HD DVD players to U.S. retailers at two price points, said sales were upbeat for the lower-priced $499 model.

Best Buy reportedly sold 1,000 players at 733 stores the first day they were on display.

“Initial sales results have been very positive and many key retailers quickly sold out, particularly on the $500 model,” said Toshiba marketing VP Jodi Sally. “We are continuing to make shipments daily to fulfill the demands from our retailers.”

A Circuit City spokesperson said the chain currently did not stock HD DVD hardware or movies but was taking pre-orders for HD DVD hardware on its Web site.

Sacramento, Calif.-based Tower Records said it would soon carry a limited number of HD DVD players and remained committed to the format.

“While we are pressing hard for a single format, Tower will carry both the HD and Blu-ray titles,” stated Rick Timmermans, director of video purchasing & merchandising, Tower Records. “We are currently carrying all available HD titles in most stores and they are also available at Tower.com.”

That said, some analysts believe the spin among retailers and manufacturers might have to substitute for actual sales in the short term.

“People aren't clamoring for the next generation of DVD," Laura Behrens, analyst for Gartner Consulting, told Reuters. “It's too complicated, too expensive, and they don't see the benefits
Toshiba, which shipped about 15,000 HD DVD players to U.S. retailers at two price points, said sales were upbeat for the lower-priced $499 model. Best Buy reportedly sold 1,000 players at 733 stores the first day they were on display. “Initial sales results have been very positive and many key retailers quickly sold out, particularly on the $500 model,” said Toshiba marketing VP Jodi Sally. “We are continuing to make shipments daily to fulfill the demands from our retailers.” A Circuit City spokesperson said the chain currently did not stock HD DVD hardware or movies but was taking pre-orders for HD DVD hardware on its Web site. Sacramento, Calif.-based Tower Records said it would soon carry a limited number of HD DVD players and remained committed to the format. “While we are pressing hard for a single format, Tower will carry both the HD and Blu-ray titles,” stated Rick Timmermans, director of video purchasing & merchandising, Tower Records. “We are currently carrying all available HD titles in most stores and they are also available at Tower.com.” That said, some analysts believe the spin among retailers and manufacturers might have to substitute for actual sales in the short term. “People aren't clamoring for the next generation of DVD," Laura Behrens, analyst for Gartner Consulting, told Reuters. “It's too complicated, too expensive, and they don't see the benefits
McClatchy is selling off of the newspaper that once held all of Knight Ridder's digital dreams

After being forced to the auction block by grumpy shareholders and snapped up by McClatchy Co., Knight Ridder has one more indignity to witness: McClatchy is selling off of the newspaper that once held all of Knight Ridder's digital dreams, The San Jose Mercury News.

MediaNews CEO Dean Singleton trumpeted his win, saying he was getting the 'crown jewel of Knight Ridder.'

Photo Credit: AP

MediaNews Group, publisher of The Denver Post and papers from California to Vermont, will acquire the Mercury News and three other Knight Ridder papers from McClatchy in a $1 billion cash deal announced yesterday. McClatchy said last month, when it agreed to buy Knight Ridder, that it would try to sell 12 of Knight Ridder's 32 papers that didn't meet its acquisition criteria, but this is the first deal toward that end.

In a visit to the Mercury News yesterday, MediaNews CEO Dean Singleton trumpeted his win. "While McClatchy may be buying Knight Ridder, we're getting the flagship and crown jewel of Knight Ridder," he told the newsroom, according to a Mercury News report.

Knight Ridder Chairman-CEO P. Anthony Ridder said he would keep an eye on the fortunes of his hometown paper. "I think Dean will do a good job," he said, according to the Associated Press. "I have his cellphone and e-mail addresses and if I see anything I don't like, I plan to let him know."

In the complex deal for the four papers, MediaNews also gains ownership of two more California papers, the Contra Costa Times and the Monterey County Herald, as well as the St. Paul Pioneer Press in Minnesota. Hearst Corp. will actually buy the Pioneer Press and the Monterey Herald, then transfer them to MediaNews in exchange for an equity stake in MediaNews assets outside the San Francisco Bay Area.

McClatchy continues to seek buyers for eight Knight Ridder papers, including The Philadelphia Inquirer and The Philadelphia Daily News; MediaNews has made a bid on both.

Starcom Chief Proclaims Death of TV Upfront

Starcom CEO John Muszynski, whose media agency controls $8.5 billion in TV spending by marketers annually, called on TV executives to up their game if they want to hang onto ad budgets and suggested that the explosion of new media would end the current TV upfront as we know it.

Starcom CEO John Muszynski will be handling upfront negotiations this year.

Long one of the most controversial and outspoken media-agency executives around this time of year, Mr. Muszynski this morning declared that "the upfront must transform from a TV upfront to a video upfront," because content has leaped from TV to encompass all screens.

Increased new-media opportunities would also lead to the emergence of a year-round upfront market, he believes, because of the large degree of collaboration required for multiplatform deals built around a single show. "Lean-in opportunities will lead to a 365-day upfront market rapidly supplying and supporting content that engages people in new environments throughout the year," he said.

Mr. Muszynski, who was the first to encourage clients to think of investing in cross-platform video opportunities across TV, video on demand, wireless and PCs back in 2004, suggested that advertisers would hold money out of the market for the myriad offers that come along outside the traditional fall start of the TV season. He will be taking a more active role in the upfront this year, after Elizabeth Herbst-Brady, senior VP-director of broadcast investment, said she was relocating to New York and has stepped down from conducting this year's negotiations.

Citing statistics offered by Apple CEO Steve Jobs, the Starcom chief said that 8 million iTunes video downloads show "mass behavior has taken effect," but not to the detriment of TV programming. "ABC's 'Lost' saw a 14% spike in the on-air ratings following the launch of downloadable 'Lost' episodes on iTunes." But for a buyer looking to tap the consumer interest in "Lost" beyond the TV screen, they happened outside the upfront.

Mr. Muszynski told TV players, "As long as behaviors involving TV stay strong, your market will stay strong. You are the most powerful mass medium, with the power of sight, sound and motion on your side, and you produce some damn amazing content. We get that. But here's where your challenge becomes much bigger -- you must keep perpetuating TV-interaction behaviors. Because I guarantee you, your 'share of behaviors' will be reflected in your 'share of media budgets.'"

He charged TV sellers with proving that such consumer interaction was working to help sell clients' products. "I urge you all: Up your game in terms of engagement metrics. You show us, prove to us that people pay attention to you and we'll do the same."

Mr. Muszynksi, who was promoted to Starcom CEO last year, has long been one of the most vocal and controversial of the media-agency CEOs. He explained that Starcom was one agency that did not silo its staff, training them in all disciplines. He suggested TV sellers do the same. "Rethink your structures. ... Remove your silos and present us with a sales leader representing all your offerings." He added that TV sellers shouldn't be afraid to sell around the ad. "It's not about putting the product everywhere anymore. It's about getting viewers to pay attention, and then connect with them in other ways."

Mr. Muszynksi, who spoke at a MediaPost upfront event this morning, gave an example of how a movie, "Snakes on a Plane," has developed a wide following and become a catchphrase as consumers adopted and parodied the movie on video site YouTube.com -- before the movie has even been released.

"While TV is not extinct, the upfront as we knew it has come to an end, yielding the birth, this year, of a true video upfront, which will adapt and transform because consumers say so."

Early adopters who bought one of the first two Toshiba HD DVD players had mixed comments about the official start of packaged media’s high-def era.

Most gave the players high marks, both for quality and for value, but faulted the format’s supporters for having just three movies in stores when the machines arrived April 18.

James Stevenson, a 22-year-old freelance journalist in Lincoln, Neb., said he bought the cheaper of the two Toshiba players “because I wanted to get a head start on the next-generation DVDs and give my HD-starved TV more content.”

While he was dismayed at the meager selection of software, he said the player made his standard DVDs look significantly better. “I’m thrilled with that result,” he said.

Lars Peterson, 29, of Cape Girardeau, Mo., agrees. “I bought one of the three units my Best Buy received, two of which are still sitting there a week later,” he said. “While I was checking out a cashier said, ‘What is this thing — I’ve never heard of it,’ so it might be awhile before the general public catches on.”

Peterson said he bought two of the three launch titles, Serenity and The Last Samurai, and found the picture quality “breathtaking. It is some of the best TV content I have seen and I have seen a lot, working as a TV salesman, where I have to watch HD content all day long.”

But the real treat was watching standard DVDs on his new player. “I have owned at least 10 DVD players over the last eight years,” he said, “and I can honestly say the Toshiba player is the best. This is a huge plus, considering the lack of HD movies to currently choose from.”

Unlike Stevenson and Peterson, Bryan Ferriera, 33, of Peabody, Mass., wasn’t fazed by the lack of software when he bought his Toshiba HD DVD player as soon as it came out.

“When DVD launched, Warner was limiting its releases to seven test-market cities, leaving me with exactly four Columbia TriStar titles to choose from,” he said. “Nine years later, HD DVD launches with a similarly limited number of releases. That’s history repeating itself. And it might be a good omen, since DVD really took off from there. Also, I like starting over with new formats and growing a collection slowly over time as more and more titles come out. This doesn’t bother me one bit.”

The $64,000 question to consumers: What about Blu-ray Disc? Most early adopters interviewed for this story say they also will buy Blu-ray players when they become available in June, although some balked at the higher prices — despite conventional wisdom that for early adopters price is generally not a factor.

“Honestly, I am turned off by the higher price tags,” Ferreira said. “Now that HD DVD is out, why would anyone want to pay at least double the price of the HD-A1 to get the same quality?”

“I actually believe Blu-ray is a better technology, but not at twice the price,” said Daniel Rainey, 31, of Tuscaloosa, Ala. “I will buy Blu-ray if they win the war, but that Betamax war lasted eight years before VHS started winning. I ain’t waiting that long.”

Retailer Robert Zohn, who owns Value Electronics in Scarsdale, N.Y., says he took advance orders for 316 Toshiba players, 223 of them the cheaper HD-AI and 93 the pricier ($799) HD-XA1. He’s now on back order for more than 100 additional players, having sold out his initial allotment on day one.

“We will carry Blu-ray, but our full support and dedication is to the HD DVD format,” says Zohn, who does the bulk of his sales online. “However, if sales stay as brisk as they have been and if Toshiba can deliver enough players, I believe the format war will end before Blu-ray ships its first player.”

Neil Brimelow of Bay St. Louis, Mass., begs to differ. He said bought his Toshiba player the Saturday before the official April 18 launch “right when it came in on the FedEx truck, still with the Saturday delivery stickers on the boxes.”

“Unfortunately, I still had to wait until Tuesday to get the software, and in the case of HD DVD, it is software,” he said. “There have been many complaints about load times and boot-up times, and the reason is that the HD DVD player is essentially a computer disguised as a piece of consumer electronics.”

Further dampening his enthusiasm, he said, was the “anemic” selection of films available in the HD DVD format. “There’s no real ‘killer ap’ to get anyone excited to rush out and buy a player,” he said. “The picture quality and sound quality are quite amazing, definitely a step up from standard DVD, but that step-up is diminished when you are forced to watch movies that are several years old.”

Brimelow wound up returning his HD DVD player to Best Buy a week after he bought it. “Why? I hate being on the short end of the stick, and this first player by Toshiba is just that,” he said, citing the fact that the player only supports Dolby Digital HD 2.0. “I was an early adopter when DVD came out nine years ago and paid the same price, roughly, for my first player. But I did not have to worry about it being obsolete coming out of the starting gate, as is the problem with this Toshiba.

“Not having full Dolby HD 5.1 support, when the HD DVD spec calls for that, is just plain stupid

McDonald's Offering Virtual Fitness DVDs with Meals New Asian Salad Meal Targets Balanced Lifestyle Choices

-- The message from McDonald's is clear: Go Active! Building on the brand's established program of Go Active! Happy Meal for Adults, McDonald's introduced a new Asian Salad on April 25 that will be paired with one of four different virtual-training fitness DVDs.

The DVDs feature Maya, a virtual personal trainer, who walks through four customizable 15-minute workouts that include Yoga, Cardio, Core and Strength training. During the initial launch of the Go Active Happy Meal for Adults in 2004, McDonald's distributed 15 million Stepometers and have plans of distributing up to 9 million DVDs during the initial Asian Salad launch.

McDonald's Asian Salad is a colorful blend of warm orange-glazed grilled or crispy chicken, edamame (green soybeans), snow peas, red bell peppers, mandarin oranges, sliced and toasted almonds and up to 16 types of fresh premium greens. As one of several fresh menu choices, McDonald's builds its success upon creating a menu that consistently satisfies the tastes and preferences for its customers. While most Americans do not meet the recommend 3.5 to 6 cups of fruits and vegetables each day, McDonald's Asian Salad provides 3.5 cups of vegetables in one bowl.

The Asian Salad is the most recent addition to the Premium Salad line, which continues to be a very important menu option in the world of quick service restaurants. The salad joins the recently introduced Fruit & Walnut Salad, the Bacon Ranch Salad and Caesar Salad.

About McDonald's

McDonald's USA, LLC, is the leading foodservice provider in the United States serving a variety of wholesome foods made from quality ingredients to millions of customers every day. More than 80 percent of McDonald's 13,700 U.S. restaurants are independently owned and operated by local franchisees. For more information on McDonald's visit

Web site: http://www.mcdonalds.com/

Gold Medalist Apolo Ohno Lends His Talent to Math Education Awareness
Raytheon Launches Hippest Homework Happening and Helps Thousands of America's Students Make Homework History

Thousands of students across America are giving their teachers the night off. They're doing math homework together online with their heroes, including speedskating sensation Apolo Ohno, soccer legend Mia Hamm, basketball star Lisa Leslie and BMX biker Dave Mirra.

The first-of-its-kind Hippest Homework Happening is made possible by Raytheon , a leading technology company, as part of its mission to show American middle schoolers that math can lead to cool careers. Already, more than 18,000 students from across the country are registered to participate.

Ohno, the newest celebrity to lend his name to the MathMovesU program, showed his support by skating onto Capitol Hill in front of members of congress and over 100 seventh graders to preview tonight's Hippest Homework Happening. Instead of their regular math homework, middle school students can visit http://www.mathmovesu.com/ to time Ohno's gold-medal winning speed; measure the angles of Hamm's on-field moves; calculate the rotations behind Mirra's favorite trick; and figure out the math behind a prime-time television show. On the site, students can also apply for cool prizes, scholarships and school grants from Raytheon.

"Math is very relevant in my career and in my life," Ohno said. "From counting laps around the rink and calculating speed to determining the shortest distance between me and the finish line, math is vital to what I do every day -- I think some kids will find that surprising!"

The company launched the MathMovesU program in 2005 to help engage students in math in an innovative, fun way. The initiative targets students in grades six through eight -- at a time when research (1) indicates that math and science performance begins to decline. In a Raytheon-sponsored survey, a majority of middle school students reported that they would be more interested in math if they learned about celebrities (79%) or were shown how people in music, sports and video gaming use math in their jobs (81%). An overwhelming majority of students (93%) said they knew they would need to use math later on in life, but couldn't directly link it to their dream jobs. In fact, many students can't name a compelling career that uses math.

"It's a challenge to get and keep American students interested in math so we need to take a long-term view and address this issue early, during the 'slippery slope' of middle school," said William H. Swanson, Raytheon Chairman and CEO. "We hire nearly 3,000 engineers each year making this a real business imperative for us. We must do something to cultivate math skills in this country and engage our students or our workforce is going to be in crisis."

America's Math Problem

The National Assessment of Educational Progress found that less than one- third of eighth graders reached a level of proficiency or higher in math. The fundamentals -- like homework -- are at the core of the issue. Raytheon surveyed more than 1,000 middle school students and found that a combined 84% of American sixth to eighth graders would rather do one of the following: clean their rooms, eat their vegetables, take out the garbage or go to the dentist than sit down with their math homework.

About one-third of the fourth-graders and one-fifth of eighth-graders cannot perform "basic mathematical computations," and U.S. high school seniors recently tested below the international average for 21 countries in mathematics and science (1). As a result, fewer American students than ever are graduating from college with math and science degrees -- causing a shortage of hundreds of thousands of engineers and scientists needed for American companies.

Capitol Hill Event Shines Spotlight on Math

Ohno will be joined by Professor Jonathan Farley, a mathematician and science fellow at Stanford University's Center for International Security and Cooperation. Farley is also a member of Hollywood Math & Science Film Consulting, working with writers and producers on television shows like "Medium" to ensure that the technical details in the script are accurate, whether they are mathematical, scientific, or medical.

"Many kids struggle to see where math can take them," said Farley, who holds an A.B. in math from Harvard University and a D.Phil. in mathematics from the University of Oxford. "With math as my passion, I've not only traveled to places like India, South Africa, and Jamaica, I've also met some incredibly interesting people, from Navy admirals to actors and producers."

Participating in the Hippest Homework Happening

Students and teachers can still sign up for the Hippest Homework Happening by logging onto http://www.mathmovesu.com/ , and they can apply for scholarships and grants on an ongoing basis. In all, Raytheon will provide $1 million in scholarships and grants this year. Scholarships will be awarded to students who explain how they would help make math "cool" in their schools. Grants will fund classroom help for teachers and fund in-school support for math education.

About MathMovesU

MathMovesU is a unique initiative designed to "elevate math to cool" by combining middle school students' interest in celebrities with grant money, awards and a robust MATHCOUNTS curriculum to encourage excitement about math. The program reaches students at a time when studies(2) show performance declines in math and science, grades six through eight. Raytheon also supports MATHCOUNTS, a national math enrichment, coaching and competition program. You can learn more about MathMovesU and its sponsors by visiting http://www.mathmovesu.com/ , http://www.mathcounts.org/ , http://www.raytheon.com/ , and http://www.bhef.com/ .

(1) National Center for Education Statistics

(2) "A Commitment to America's Future: Responding to the Crisis in

Mathematics & Science Education," Business Higher Education Forum.

January 2005. Page 6.

Web sites: http://www.mathmovesu.com
http://www.mathcounts.org
http://www.raytheon.com
http://www.bhef.com

Source: Raytheon

Absolute Poker Takes the Wheel With Jeff Natland at The Gumball 3000 Rally to Race Around the World in 8 Days

Unique Opportunity to Win a trip to the Playboy Mansion and Play Poker with the Stars

Absolute Poker www.absolutepoker.com the fourth largest online poker website in the world, announced Jeff Natland will drive Absolute Poker's Ferrari F430 Spider as part of its sponsorship of the Gumball 3000 Rally 2006 which kicks off this weekend in London, England. Absolute is Poker is one of only ten overall sponsors of the event. The eighth annual Gumball 3000, the world's largest cult car rally, combines Phileas Fogg's quest to traverse the world in 80 days with a rock star style-tour -- a 3000-mile adventure around the world, starting in London (April 30), making its way through Europe and Asia and finishing eight days later in Los Angeles (May 7). In addition, Absolute Poker will also be giving away chances to win a place at the Gumball 3000 wrap party at the Playboy Mansion. Promotional events are planned at Gumball 3000 events or online at http://www.absolutepoker.com/

"We're raring to hit the road in this amazing event," said Mike Edwards, Absolute Poker marketing manager. "What better combination is there than high- performance cars, a global adventure, rock stars, celebrities and of course our favorite ... poker. Absolute Poker is participating in the Gumball 3000 race because we know our players are all adventurers at heart and they love living in the fast lane as much as we do."

The Absolute Poker Ferrari F430

Jeff Natland is a partner at Arizona Bay, a privately-held technology and business management consulting company based in San Francisco, California. Prior to joining Arizona Bay, Jeff was Chief Information Officer at Neteller, a partner of Absolute Poker and a leading service provider for secure online funds transfer. His car, one of only 120 entries in the race is a charcoal grey 2006 Ferrari F430 Spider -- and it is poised to rip up the road. Ferrari's F430 takes an evolutionary approach in its styling borrowing from the new 612 Scaglietti, and heavily influenced by Ferrari's supercar, the Enzo. The Ferrari F430 is anything but a pretty face, however as its mid- mount engine delivers more than 483 brake horse power (bhp) and can accelerate from 0-60 mile per hour in about 3.9 seconds. Come out to the events and have your picture taken with the Absolute Poker Girls in front of the car. All photos will end up on the Absolute Poker Online Wall of Fame.

Win a Ticket to the Playboy Mansion!

Absolute Poker is making it possible for anyone to join in the fun with two cool promotions. First, anyone who attends the Gumball 3000 events in London, Las Vegas and Los Angeles can pick up a lucky Absolute Poker poker chip or playing card from the Absolute Poker Girls. Every night on the Absolute Poker website between April 30 to May 6, a lucky poker chip number will be revealed and the person with the matching chip will automatically win $1000.

Players can also play in Absolute Poker's Gumball 3000 poker tournaments online to win tickets to the Gumball 3000 events in Las Vegas or to the final party at the Playboy Mansion in Beverly Hills. There will be four tournaments played for tickets to the Las Vegas event and four tournaments played for the Playboy Mansion event in Los Angeles. The tournament winners will win two tickets to either event and travel and expense money for the trip. The tournaments will end May 3 to allow winners to make travel arrangements so they can join the Gumball 3000 drivers, their celebrity and rock star friends at either party in Las Vegas or Beverly Hills.

For more information on Absolute Poker's sponsorship of the Gumball 3000 Rally including Absolute Poker's race entry and the Gumball 3000 Rally Poker Tournament please visit http://www.absolutepoker.com/gumball.

About AbsolutePoker.com

AbsolutePoker.com is the world's fourth largest online poker destination offering worldwide access to multi-player online games 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Absolute Poker's spring 'Win Your Tuition' tournament is currently underway and more information can be found at http://www.absolutepoker.com/tuition. Powered by proprietary software, AbsolutePoker.com has one of the most comprehensive, interactive online poker rooms, providing such innovative features as hand history, stat retrieval, player note-taking, chat, "locate a player," six-player tables, customizable table "skins" and representative image selection. Absolute Poker offers many multi-player games including: Texas Holdem, Omaha High, Omaha Hi/Lo, Seven Card Stud, Seven Card Stud Hi/Lo, and a complete selection of Sit and Go and Multi Table Tournaments. Blackjack was added to the site in April 2006. AbsolutePoker.com offers friendly customer service that is always fast, knowledgeable, and professional. Established in 2003, AbsolutePoker.com is headquartered in Costa Rica and licensed and regulated in Canada.

Source: Absolute Poker

Reader's Digest Music to Sponsor Engelbert Humperdinck's 2006 U.S. Tour Beginning in Las Vegas April 27

Innovative Sponsorship is First Ever for Reader's Digest Music Partnership Includes Release of Career Retrospective 3-CD Box Set

Reader's Digest Music and Engelbert Humperdinck have announced a multi-level partnership that names Reader's Digest Music as the official presenting sponsor of the artist's 2006 U.S. tour, beginning on April 27 in Las Vegas. The Reader's Digest Music Tour sponsorship includes marketing extensions through December 2006 and marks the first time the music division of The Reader's Digest Association, Inc. has partnered with a musician on a tour.

In conjunction with the tour sponsorship, Reader's Digest Music will produce Engelbert Humperdinck's first-ever career-spanning retrospective box set, to be released on May 11, incorporating all of the artist's greatest hits along with his great romantic standards including "Release Me," "Quando, Quando, Quando" and "A Man Without Love."

Additional partnership initiatives include Reader's Digest Music hospitality areas in select tour cities, ticket giveaways, consumer website and Internet promotions, in-venue signage and on-site marketing opportunities at the venues.

Len Handler, Reader's Digest Music's Director of Product Development, said, "We are thrilled to be Engelbert Humperdinck's 2006 tour sponsor. Engelbert's fans are legendary, and he is one of our customers' favorite artists. The Reader's Digest Music brand is synonymous with the world's greatest artists and music, and we are proud to be able to offer Engelbert's first-ever boxed set. We are committed to deeper involvement with our artists and customers, and working closely with Engelbert on the tour gives us a great chance to achieve that goal."

One of the world's most enduring musical artists, Engelbert Humperdinck has generated sales of more than 130 million records -- his honors include 64 Gold albums, 24 Platinum albums, four Grammy Awards, a Golden Globe and a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame -- in a career spanning four decades and counting. He has performed for British Royalty, U.S. Presidents and heads of state worldwide.

His classic hit, "Release Me," recently enjoyed new life in the Top Ten in the Billboard Dance charts after being covered by The Humps as part of a hit dance / remix set. A platinum-selling theme song for a Beavis and Butthead movie endeared him to millions of new fans and showcased his famous sense of humor.

For more information about the "Engelbert Humperdinck U.S. Tour Presented by

Reader's Digest Music" please visit http://www.engelbert.com/.

Reader's Digest Music released its first multi-album record set in 1959, which pioneered the concept of the "boxed set" and launched a direct-marketing music sales phenomenon yet to be matched by any other label. Today, a half-billion albums later, Reader's Digest Music has released more than 4,500 music sets, and has sold more than 225 million box sets in 33 countries.

Reader's Digest Music is a division of The Reader's Digest Association, Inc. (NYSE:RDA) , a global publisher and direct marketer of products that inform, entertain and inspire people of all ages and cultures around the world. The company had consolidated revenues for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2005, of $2.4 billion. Global headquarters are located at Pleasantville, New York. For more information, please visit http://www.rd.com/.

ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK

2006 U.S. TOUR DATES

04/27/06 LAS VEGAS, NV Orleans Hotel & Casino

04/28/06 LAS VEGAS, NV Orleans Hotel & Casino

04/29/06 LAS VEGAS, NV Orleans Hotel & Casino

04/30/06 LAS VEGAS, NV Orleans Hotel & Casino

05/12/06 ATLANTIC CITY, NJ Tropicana Casino and Resort

05/13/06 ATLANTIC CITY, NJ Tropicana Casino and Resort

05/14/06 ATLANTIC CITY, NJ Tropicana Casino and Resort

07/20/06 LAS VEGAS, NV Orleans Hotel & Casino

07/21/06 LAS VEGAS, NV Orleans Hotel & Casino

07/22/06 LAS VEGAS, NV Orleans Hotel & Casino

07/23/06 LAS VEGAS, NV Orleans Hotel & Casino

07/27/06 JACKSON, CA Jackson Rancheria Casino & Hotel

07/29/06 ALBUQUERQUE, NM Route 66 Theatre

08/04/06 LAKE CHARLES, LA L'Auberge du Lac Hotel & Casino

08/05/06 LAKE CHARLES, LA L'Auberge du Lac Hotel & Casino

08/10/06 HIGHLAND, CA San Manuel Indian Bingo & Casino

09/17/06 UNIVERSAL CITY, CA Gibson Amphitheatre

09/21/06 LAS VEGAS, NV Orleans Hotel & Casino

09/22/06 LAS VEGAS, NV Orleans Hotel & Casino

09/23/06 LAS VEGAS, NV Orleans Hotel & Casino

09/24/06 LAS VEGAS, NV Orleans Hotel & Casino

09/27/06 PALA, CA

09/29/06 CHEYENNE, WY Cheyenne Civic Center

09/30/06 DENVER, CO Paramount Theater

10/06/06 VERONA, NY Turning Stone Resort & Casino

10/07/06 WILKES-BARRE, PA FM Kirby Center for Performing Arts

10/10/06 LANCASTER, PA American Music Theatre

10/11/06 PURCHASE, NY Performing Arts Center at SUNY Purchase

10/13/06 ROBINSONVILLE, MS Gold Strike Resort & Casino

10/19/06 RAMA, ONTARIO Casino Rama

10/20/06 RAMA, ONTARIO Casino Rama

11/02/06 LAS VEGAS, NV Orleans Hotel & Casino

11/03/06 LAS VEGAS, NV Orleans Hotel & Casino

11/04/06 LAS VEGAS, NV Orleans Hotel & Casino

11/05/06 LAS VEGAS, NV Orleans Hotel & Casino

11/10/06 ATLANTIC CITY, NJ Tropicana Casino and Resort

11/11/06 ATLANTIC CITY, NJ Tropicana Casino and Resort

11/12/06 ATLANTIC CITY, NJ Tropicana Casino and Resort

Product information: http://www.rdmusic.com/

Web site: http://www.rd.com/
http://www.rdmusic.com/
http://www.engelbert.com/