MBN, Monte Bubbles Network: Kiefer Sutherland, Eva Longoria and Michael Douglas “THE SENTINEL” Production Notes

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ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY

Kiefer Sutherland, Eva Longoria and Michael Douglas THE SENTINEL Production Notes

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ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY
Kiefer Sutherland, Eva Longoria and Michael Douglas “THE SENTINEL” Production Notes

Pete Garrison is a U.S. Secret Service agent who saved a president’s life by

jumping in front of a hail of bullets, over twenty years ago. Well-liked and respected by his colleagues in the Secret Service, Garrison is a career agent who now heads the First Lady’s detail. He lives in a high-level, orderly world of hierarchical structure, plans, maps, motorcades, code names, lingo and procedures. It's a universe that makes sense, until secrets begin to tear it apart. Pete's fellow agent and friend, Charlie Merriweather, hints at wanting to share critical and confidential information. Before that can happen, however, Merriweather is shot dead at his house in a crime that is made to look like a botched robbery.

The investigation falls to the Secret Service’s top investigative agent, David Breckinridge, a volatile combination of by-the-book and hothead, Garrison's protégé, and, until recently one of Garrison’s best friends. Breckinridge follows the evidence and only the evidence and scrupulously tries to avoid working from his gut. That’s what being a great investigator requires. Garrison, as perhaps the greatest protective agent in the service, often has to work from gut, from pure instinct. In protective work that is often all you have.

Garrison’s and Breckinridge’s recent falling out was triggered by Breckinridge’s mistaken belief that Garrison was having an affair with Breckinridge's now ex-wife.

Jill Marin, a tough, sassy and ambitious young agent who just graduated second in her class at the Secret Service Academy, arrives for her first field posting. She has requested a work detail with Breckinridge because Garrison, while leading a field instruction exercise at the Academy told Jill that Breckinridge was the best investigator in the entire Service.

Together the trio begins to uncover what appears to be an inside job to assassinate the president – a traitor in the ranks of the Secret Service. It's never happened in the institution's 141-year history.

Suspicion ultimately falls on Garrison, who's going to find it extremely difficult to clear his name because someone is framing him.

Whoever is framing Garrison knows he’s vulnerable because he’s devoting considerable effort to hiding a monumental secret. Suspected of being treasonous, Garrison goes on the run, pursued by Breckinridge and Marin – his own colleagues – as he tries to nail the real mole and save the president's life.

“THE SENTINEL is a political thriller about the agents assigned to protect the president and First Lady," says Michael Douglas. "For the first time in its history, there is a mole in the Service plotting to kill the president. I play an agent assigned to protect the First Lady. It's about my redemption. My character is a career officer who's committed an act of indiscretion, and I find that intriguing. I don't know many people who are all good or all evil. So there is moral ambiguity. I'm attracted to characters like Pete Garrison, who is flawed but tries to overcome his flaws in some way. Even Secret Service agents make mistakes.

“THE SENTINEL is unpredictable, topical and has a few twists and turns in it,” Douglas continues. “It's fascinating to learn about the Secret Service’s inner workings and some of the technologies used by the Secret Service. I hope audiences will gain a little more understanding of what goes on behind the scenes: the number of death threats, the amount of research the USSS agents do. These are brave souls."

As a producer, Douglas is always looking for interesting and provocative stories.

"Finding good material sounds simple but it's not,” says Douglas. “I've had my share of message movies but only because they worked as entertainment. I love acting, but the fact is that I don't see that many pictures I'd like to do, so sometimes you have to develop them. I liked the idea behind THE SENTINEL because in an era of fear and paranoia, the notion of an unseen enemy is credible – that’s the film’s big 'what if?'"

Furthur Films secured the rights to the novel The Sentinel by Gerald Petievich, before its publication. "We thought the book’s premise would make a thoughtful, compelling and classic-style political thriller," says producer Marcy Drogin. "Every iconic institution has had its share of scandal, but the U.S. Secret Service is held to a higher standard. That was intriguing to us, to peel away the layers.

“Also,” Drogin continues, “it provided the quintessential Michael Douglas role as a flawed but sympathetic character.”

In order to present certain aspects of the Secret Service as realistically as possible, the film’s screenwriter and co-producer, George Nolfi, undertook extensive research.

"From the beginning I wanted the story to be realistic," Nolfi says. "I wondered: How is the president really protected? Where do the threats come from? What would truly put his life in danger, and how would the Secret Service react?"

As Nolfi honed the screenplay, Douglas and Drogin brought in Clark Johnson to direct. Johnson had previously directed a pilot about the Secret Service called "The Service,” which pointed to his interest in the topic. Johnson, also a respected actor, has worked in almost every area of the film business, including stunts, special effects, and

camera. In addition, he is experienced with law enforcement action thrillers, ensemble pieces, multiple cameras, large set-ups and special effects. For THE SENTINEL, Johnson used this extensive background to depict the reality and grittiness of the Secret Service world.

Johnson worked closely with Douglas and Drogin to cast the picture. Once Douglas was on board, Kiefer Sutherland, Eva Longoria and Kim Basinger followed in the other three key roles. It was not Douglas' first time working with Sutherland; Douglas had produced "Flatliners," one of the movies that catapulted Sutherland into the ranks of exciting new film stars. "That was when I first met Kiefer and saw how talented he was. In THE SENTINEL, he brings tremendous credibility to his role," says Douglas.

Sutherland responds with equal enthusiasm about Douglas. "If you look at Michael’s films, they're Class A. I had the pleasure of working with him when I was very young, and he was so gracious and kind to me. I watched his films over the years and learned what makes him a phenomenal producer. There's a sense of responsibility and dignity in all his films. I've watched his table-read, his notes, how he handles himself on set. It's been an education and a pleasure, and I'm grateful for that."

As the lead investigator in the film, Sutherland's David Breckinridge sometimes lets his personal feelings interfere. "He has a past," acknowledges Sutherland, "and our past often trips us up. Those elements start to break down what could be a perfect investigator.

“We as a society have an appreciation of any specialist in any field, where education and training have been taken to a certain level,” Sutherland continues. “I'll never forget the Secret Service agent who moved to the left of President Reagan, closed his eyes and waited. He stayed in that position to take those hits. Would I have the courage or presence of mind to remember my training in that circumstance? That's the first question I asked myself. We have to have an incredible amount of respect for Secret Service agents."

Sutherland also was pleased to collaborate with on-screen partner Eva Longoria.

“She has an incredible sense of focus,” he says. “The character she plays betrays her personality and that's the mark of a great actor."

Longoria’s Jill Marin was trained at the Academy by Michael Douglas' character, Pete Garrison, and she joins the Sutherland character's office upon graduation. Jill doesn't initially know about the personal conflict between the two men. “[Screenwriter] George Nolfi beautifully weaves together their stories,” says Sutherland. “Jill’s history with Garrison reminds David Breckinridge of his connection to Garrison. This makes her question the direction of the investigation. It’s all about loyalties.”

Sutherland, like the others, enjoyed having an actor as a director in Clark Johnson.

"There is a commonality there," said Sutherland. "That's undeniable. Clark has an innate sensitivity and that's a two-way street. To know what it's like to work in your shoes is a gift."

Eva Longoria chose THE SENTINEL for her first big movie role because it is so different from her hit TV series "Desperate Housewives." "It's a triangle between Michael, Kiefer and me, but it's not a love triangle,” says Longoria. “That's why I chose this movie. It's the opposite of Gabrielle [Solis, her TV character]."

Longoria plays the only woman on the team. "She's an eager beaver," says Longoria about agent Jill Marin. "She wants to learn, totally downplays her sexuality, has to prove herself twice as much as a man, and is determined to be the best she can be.

She’s new but not complacent; she thinks outside the box. It's not about the clothes, the hair and the make-up, the way it is for [“Desperate Housewives’] Gabrielle. Jill Marin is all about the work."

Although Longoria is slightly built, that was not a liability. "The Secret Service is made up of aggressive, intelligent, fit, ambitious individuals with an air of confidence," she says. "It's not about size. Jill is definitely one of the boys.

“I felt comfortable amid all the testosterone because I'm a tomboy,” Longoria adds. “I grew up on a ranch and used to go target-shooting with my dad. I shot my first gun when I was six! I was the best shot." Longoria found it an exciting journey. "I asked the Secret Service advisors a lot of questions. I have newfound respect to these people and what they do for our country."

Martin Donovan, who plays Special Agent in Charge William Montrose, says, "It wasn't until I read the script that I realized how much we take the Secret Service for granted. One of my goals was finding the humanity behind the image they present. They appear implacable, stoic, hyper-vigilant and intimidating, but they have a grace in their physicality. The detail leader of the Presidential Protective Division has to be able to hold his own at cocktail parties with world leaders. And our Secret Service advisors tell me they are inundated with questions at such events."

The filmmakers cast well-known actors, both American and Canadian, in the smaller but pivotal roles. Bringing them to life are David Rasche (“Sledge Hammer”) who portrays President John Ballentine, Blair Brown ("The Days and Nights of Molly Dodd") as the National Security Advisor, Gloria Reuben ("E.R.") as Nancy Merriweather, Ritchie Coster (“Traffic” miniseries) as the villainous The Handler, Chuck Shamata (Father Rorick in "Cinderella Man" and founding member of the Actors Repertory Company) as Secret Service Director Overbrook, Taborah Johnson (host of "Polka Dot Door") as the First Lady's Chief of Staff, Raoul Bhaneja (Pete Subramani in "Train 48"), as agent Aziz Hassad, and Kristin Lehman (Dr. Lily Reddicker in "Judging Amy") as the ex-wife of agent David Breckinridge.

Johnson cast himself as Agent Merriweather, who has inside information that he is silenced from sharing and whose murder uncovers the plot to kill the president.

SECRETS OF THE SECRET SERVICE

In order to bring the interior world of the Secret Service to cinematic fruition, the producers brought in a retired Secret Service agent as an advisor. Gerald A. Cavis, a recently retired USSS agent and nationally recognized law enforcement expert, spent years protecting presidents and developing law enforcement and security techniques. In his career, Cavis, who lent his expertise to every aspect of the Secret Service activities and details portrayed in the movie, had direct responsibility for overall security at such events as the 2001 and 2004 presidential campaigns and inaugurals, the NATO 50th Anniversary Summit in Washington, D.C., and the visit of Pope John Paul II to St. Louis.

He has been a primary consultant to other large events such as the G-8 Summit at Sea Island, Georgia, the presidential debates and the Athens Olympics.

Cavis has been a field agent, specializing in interrogation, the polygraph program, and undercover work. In D.C., he served on the elite Presidential Protective Division (PPD) from 1994 to 1997, during President Clinton’s term, rose to supervise one of four teams directly responsible for the president’s safety, and was also in charge of Clinton's second inaugural.

Now a national security specialist and educator, Cavis brought a network of law enforcement's most sought-after professionals, such as his colleague Kevin Billings, another former agent, who protected presidents and dignitaries for more than 20 years.

Cavis was impressed with the filmmakers’ – and the source material’s – intent to accurately portray the world of the Secret Service. "Gerald Petievich, the author of the book, was a former Secret Service agent himself," says Cavis. "And [screenwriter]

George Nolfi did an outstanding job. His level of knowledge and research to create the realism was almost scary."

The screenplay is liberally sprinkled with bits of lingo. "George and Clark and I talked a lot about the dialogue," said Cavis, "so the actors would talk like real agents."

The look of the government offices – how the radio console, desks and computers were set up – had to be as accurate as possible, although a few liberties were taken to accommodate camera movements and visual style. Garrison's White House office, for instance, would be very modular and functional, with a lot of paperwork and supervisory documents for signing, while the desk of the agent in charge of the detail would be clean because he would have a staff to handle his paperwork.

In order to accomplish the forensics reports and threat letters, Cavis sat with the production design staff and guided them in the designs. He helped the costumers select shoes and boots: Secret Service agents wear tie shoes rather than slip-ons, "so they don't come off when you take off running," he explained. The fabrics were high-end, "not like an FBI agent in double-knit nylon," says Cavis. He also helped to choose the right sunglasses, earpieces and sleeve microphones. In addition to props, costumes and the art department, Cavis and Billings advised on the motorcade cars and armored protection vehicles.

WEAPONS TRAINING

Cavis and weapons specialist Charles Taylor taught Michael Douglas, Kiefer Sutherland and Eva Longoria to shoot real guns the way Secret Service agents actually do it. This tactical training, similar to some of what agents actually receive in the Academy, taught the actors gun safety, including handling, drawing and holding, plus range safety, range rules, aiming, firing, holstering, loading and reloading. The experts outfitted the actors with the same weapons – 9mm Sig-sauers, holsters, belts and rounds – as those used by agents, plus proper protective clothing, including ballistic vests, and eye and ear protection. "Kiefer does a lot of gun handling on the set of '24,' said Cavis, "but not with real guns. He found it very useful to learn how to find the right site picture that enables you to hit the target, and he shot very well. Michael had had some training as well and he also shot very well."

After the live ammunition shooting, the actors learned how to approach, ride in, and exit a motorcade, which way they would turn, how to move and act as they surround the person they're protecting, protocols on how to use their bodies as shields, how to protect themselves, and how to ID a suspicious person, all with a high degree of authenticity. They received instruction in the shift formations agents use while walking with the President or First Lady, such as the "Diamond" or the "Box" shape. The motorcade has a particular alignment and organization of vehicles. They practiced entering and exiting cars and buildings in the correct way, plus covering and evacuation procedures. All training and procedures were correlated to the particular script requirements and scene set-ups.

Eva Longoria was the best shot among the cast members. Cavis explains why. "She had no bad habits. She listens very well and was able to translate that into the correct posture, trigger-pull, site-picture alignment, and physical requirements for hitting the target." Douglas, Sutherland and Longoria were required to do live fire shooting on an indoor range, with target practice at three yards, five yards, seven yards, 15 yards and 30 yards, both standing and kneeling, with time limits. They then shot from 30 yards, ran 15 yards, shot at another target, and then shot through an open doorway. All were scored and then debriefed. Longoria hit every one at 30 yards. Then they put the targets next to each other. "She was exceptional," said Cavis. "In fact she would be recognized as a good shot even in the Secret Service. It was impressive."

Michael Douglas adds his praise, "Eva's a crack shot. I wasn't ready for how good she was. They told us that she's better than 90% of the police officers out there. She's quite the athlete.”

All three stars gained new respect for what these agents do. It's difficult to run, move and shoot at the same time. "Our stars have that cool and confident look," says weapons specialist Charles Taylor. "They all exude it. But women are generally better shooters. They're more still. They don't have all that testosterone coursing through them.

They just look through the site and not at the target and they hit it."

THE LOOK OF THE SENTINEL

"The look of this movie is one of kinetic energy," says director Clark Johnson. "That's why we used many cameras and lots of moving shots." Johnson and his director of photography, Gabriel Beristáin, previously collaborated on "S.W.A.T.," in which they created spectacular depictions of Los Angeles. On THE SENTINEL, they merged the look of a big action thriller with the glamour of the White House and a very elite law enforcement organization. "So much happens within that world," says Beristáin. "We wanted to give that world a visual style, a high beat, visual staccato.

"We worked out a progression to allow us to create and have our lighting and cameras react to the action. It's a well-protected world at the beginning, with warm tones, elegant and classical camera movement. As the story becomes more ominous and nightmarish, our cameras and lighting respond to it, becoming cooler and more hectic in their movements. There are some overlaps of course. It's not a mechanical, but a philosophical process. We are thinking in terms of audience emotion. We don't want the audience to guess; we want to keep them wondering. Camera movement should not give away the story."

The high shine and polish of the White House co-exists with a darker raw world as Garrison goes on the run. Johnson and Beristáin used a number of techniques, including traditional camera set-ups, video, Steadicam, hand-held, and sophisticated monitors showing the primary image as well as other glimpses into that world.

Examining a world rife with surveillance, the filmmakers provide a feeling of watching and of being watched, and of feeling that one is fully inside the world of the U.S. Secret Service. "We thought it would be interesting to see our film from the point of view of the audience,” says Beristáin. “The world we depict is not simple. The characters become paranoid and suspicious, even more aware of the people around them. The world around our characters is collapsing. It’s chaotic.

Beristáin was responsible for lighting two of the most beautiful women in the world: Kim Basinger and Eva Longoria. "Both have interesting character arcs," says the cinematographer. "And I was lucky enough to have two women who look beautiful under any lighting circumstances.

“The First Lady’s world is crumbling in a way that could be disastrous. She had to go through a transition. We used much more than just glamorous lighting and her face responded to any lighting situation with dignity, grace and elegance. Eva's beginnings in the movie are modest and humble, in a dark little Secret Service office where she meets Kiefer Sutherland's character. As she grew as a character, we made the camera and the lighting on her different, making her a little more heroic. She took anything—direct lighting on her, low angles, not soft, no filtration—she looked absolutely marvelous. It was my privilege and my pleasure to work with both of them." Beristáin comes from a

European tradition of filming, where he says, “they celebrate the lighting you give them.

Kim and Eva took it the same way the great European actors I used to work with did – and did it magnificently."

Production designer Andrew McAlpine’s creations included an in-studio “Presidential Protective Division” (PPD) room, where the agents do their office work. It entailed an elaborate set-up of dozens of computer screens with streamed images, desks, work stations, protective intelligence and forensics reports, plus such details as mousepads, paperweights, chairs, binders, plaques, photos and flags.

Costume designer Ellen Mirojnick, who has worked on eight Michael Douglas pictures, decided to treat the Secret Service uniforms and suits in an elegant and sophisticated way, with garments sharply cut and sculpted to the body. Using dark, rich navies, no-pattern shirts, and an assortment of specific tonalities from blues to grays, she and her team created a look that added up to a uniform for the army they created. Like the other filmmakers, Mirojnick strove for realism – but made a slight exception for Eva Longoria. "She looks a little more beautiful than regulation allows," laughs Mirojnick.

"Our version is a little more stylish. The women wear pantsuits so they can run, but the fit is the key."

ABOUT THE CAST

MICHAEL DOUGLAS (Pete Garrison, Producer), an actor with over thirty years of experience in theatre, film, and television, branched out into independent feature production in 1975 with the Academy Award-winning "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest.” Since then, as a producer and as an actor-producer, he has shown an uncanny knack for choosing projects that reflect changing trends and public concerns.

The son of Kirk and Diana Douglas, Michael was born in New Jersey. In 1968, He moved to New York City to study at the American Place Theatre with Wynn Handman, and at the Neighborhood Playhouse, where he appeared in workshop productions.

A few months after he arrived in New York, Douglas got his first big break when he was cast in a pivotal role in the CBS Playhouse production of Ellen M. Violett's drama, "The Experiment,” which was televised nationwide on February 25, 1969.

Douglas' convincing portrayal won him the leading role in the adaptation of John

Weston's controversial novel, "Hail, Hero!” His second feature was "Adam at 6 A.M." (1970). Douglas next appeared in the film version of Ron Cowen's play "Summertree" (1971), produced by Kirk Douglas' Bryna Company, and then "Napoleon and Samantha" (1972).

Impressed by Douglas' performance in a segment of television series "The FBI,” producer Quinn Martin signed the actor for the part of Karl Malden's sidekick in the police series "The Streets of San Francisco,” which premiered in 1972 and became one of ABC's highest-rated prime-time programs in the mid-1970s. Douglas earned three successive Emmy Award nominations for his performance.

Long interested in producing a film version of Ken Kesey's novel "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest,” Douglas purchased the movie rights from his father. A critical and commercial success, "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Actor and Best Actress, and went on to gross more than $180 million at the box office.

Douglas suddenly found himself in demand as an independent producer. His next producing project, "The China Syndrome" (1979) received Academy Award nominations for Jack Lemmon and Jane Fonda, as well as for Best Screenplay.

Despite his success as a producer, Douglas resumed his acting career in the late 1970s, starring in "Coma" (1978), "It's My Turn" (1981), and "The Star Chamber" (1983). Douglas also starred in "Running" (1979), and in "A Chorus Line" (1985). Douglas' career as an actor/producer came together again in 1984 with the release of "Romancing the Stone.” A sequel, "The Jewel of the Nile,” followed in 1985.

It took Douglas nearly two years to convince Columbia Pictures executives to approve the production of "Starman,” the sleeper hit of the 1984 Christmas season, which earned an Oscar nomination for Best Actor for Jeff Bridges. In 1986 Douglas created a television series based on the film.

Douglas returned to the screen in 1987 appearing in two of the year's biggest hits: "Fatal ttraction” and “Wall Street,” the latter earning him an Academy Award for Best Actor.

Douglas next starred in "Black Rain" and then in "The War of the Roses” (1989).

In 1988 Douglas formed Stonebridge Entertainment, Inc. which produced "Flatliners” and "Radio Flyer.” Douglas followed with "Shining Through.” In 1992 he starred with Sharon Stone in the erotic thriller "Basic Instinct,” one of the year's top grossing films.

Douglas gave one of his most powerful performances opposite Robert Duvall in Joel Schumacher's controversial drama "Falling Down.” That year he also produced the hit comedy "Made in America.” In 1994-95 he starred in "Disclosure.” In 1995 Douglas portrayed the title role in The American President” and in 1997, starred in “The Game.”

Douglas formed Douglas/Reuther Productions with partner Steven Reuther in May 1994. The company, under the banner of Constellation Films, produced “The Ghost and the Darkness” and “John Grisham’s The Rainmaker.” Douglas and Reuther also produced “Face/Off.”

In 1998, Douglas starred in “A Perfect Murder,” and formed a new production company, Furthur Films. Furthur’s first film was “One Night at McCool’s” (2000). That year was a milestone one for Douglas. “Wonder Boys” opened in February 2000 to much critical acclaim. Douglas was nominated for a Golden Globe and a BAFTA Film award for his performance.

Douglas starred in "Traffic" (2000), which was named Best Picture by New York Film Critics, won Best Ensemble Cast at the SAG Awards, won four Academy Awards, and was named on over 175 top ten lists.

In 2001, Douglas starred in “Don’t Say a Word” for Fox / Regency. In 2002, he received an Emmy nomination for a guest role on the series “Will & Grace.”

Douglas starred in two films in 2003: “It Runs in the Family,” which Douglas produced and starred with his father Kirk Douglas, his mother Diana Douglas and his son Cameron Douglas. He also starred in the comedy “The-In Laws,” with Albert Brooks.

Later this year, Douglas will be seen in the Universal comedy “You, Me and Dupree” with Owen Wilson, Matt Dillon and Kate Hudson.

Douglas filmed a segment for Showtime’s children’s series “What’s Going On?” He also completed a feature-documentary directed by Lee Grant entitled “A Father, A Son, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” centered on the complex relationship between himself and his father, Kirk.

In July of 1998 Douglas was named a Messenger of Peace for the United Nations by Secretary General Kofi Annan. His two areas of concentration are nuclear abolition and small arms proliferation.

KIEFER SUTHERLAND stars as David Breckinridge, a Secret Service agent assigned to investigate a plot to kill the president.

Sutherland first collaborated with Michael Douglas when the latter produced the 1990 film "Flatliners," which Sutherland headlined with Julia Roberts, Kevin Bacon and William Baldwin.

Sutherland currently stars as Jack Bauer in the fifth critically acclaimed season of the Fox hit "24," for which he has won a Golden Globe® Award, a SAG Award™, two Emmy® nominations and a Golden Globe nomination. The show, which also won a Golden Globe Award for Best Drama, received its highest ratings to date for its fourth season.

In 2004 Sutherland starred in the independent period piece "River Queen" in New Zealand, starring Samantha Morton and directed by Vincent Ward. That year Sutherland also starred in the Warner Bros. film "Taking Lives," opposite Angelina Jolie and Ethan Hawke, and provided the narration for the Warner Bros. film, "NASCAR: The Imax Experience." In 2003 he played painter Paul Gauguin in "Paradise Found," and in 2002 starred with Colin Farrell in Fox's "Phone Booth," directed by Joel Schumacher.

Sutherland starred with Robert Carlyle in the 2001 World War II drama "To End All Wars," which screened successfully at both the Toronto and Telluride Film Festivals in 2002. Based on the best-selling book Through the Valley of the Kwai, the film is an account of life as a POW in a Southeast Asian prison camp.

In 1998, Sutherland starred in Showtime’s critically acclaimed original picture "A Soldier's Sweetheart," which premiered as a gala screening at the 1998 Toronto International Film Festival. In 1997, he co-starred with William Hurt and Rufus Sewell in New Line Cinema's "Dark City," directed by Alex Proyas. The Cannes Film Festival showcased it as a special presentation.

In 1992, Sutherland starred in Castle Rock Entertainment's military drama "A Few Good Men" with Jack Nicholson and Tom Cruise. In 1994, he starred with Jeff Bridges and Nancy Travis in the American version of "The Vanishing" for 20th Century Fox.

A veteran of more than fifty films, Sutherland has been starring in movies since 1984's "The Bay Boy," which won him and director/writer Daniel Petrie Genie Award nominations. Sutherland eventually moved from Canada to Los Angeles, landing television appearances in "The Mission," "Amazing Stories" and the TV movie "Trapped in Silence" with Marsha Mason. Some of his memorable earlier film performances include those in "Stand by Me" and "At Close Range" (1986), "The Lost Boys" and "Promised Land" (1987), "1969," "Bright Lights, Big City” and "Young Guns" (1988), "Renegades" (1989), "Chicago Joe and the Showgirl," "Flashback" and "Young Guns 2" (1990), "Article 99" (1992), and "The Three Musketeers" (1993).

In the 1996 Paramount thriller, "Eye for an Eye," directed by John Schlesinger, Sutherland portrayed an unremorseful, brutal murderer opposite Sally Field and Ed Harris. Later that summer, he co-starred with Samuel L. Jackson, Sandra Bullock and Matthew McConaughey in the screen adaptation of John Grisham's novel, "A Time to Kill."

Sutherland has also turned his hand to directing, with "Woman Wanted" (2000), "Truth or Consequences" (1997), the glowingly reviewed Showtime film "Last Light" (1993), and an episode of the TV series "Fallen Angels" (1993). In addition, he does voice work, mostly recently on "The Land Before Time X: The Great Longneck Migration" (2003). Sutherland also produces, having been co-executive producer of "24" since 2003 and producer in 2002-3. He was also executive producer of the TV movie "Natural Selection" in 1994.

EVA LONGORIA plays Jill Marin, a freshly minted Secret Service agent as smart and ambitious as she is beautiful. Assigned to the more experienced agent played by Kiefer Sutherland, Jill was trained by Michael Douglas’ character. The three team up to uncover a plot to assassinate the President.

One of the hottest stars in television, Longoria plays Latin sexpot Gabrielle Solis on the ABC mega-hit "Desperate Housewives," which draws more than 27 million viewers weekly. Recently named one of People’s "50 Most Beautiful" and the "#1 Hottest Woman in the World" on Maxim’s 2005 annual "Hot 100" list, Longoria was also voted by Variety as one of the "Ten New Faces to Watch," Rolling Stone’s "People of the Year," USA Today’s "TV’s Hot 11" and TV Guide’s "New Faces of Fall." She has signed an exclusive worldwide contract as the newest face of L’Oréal beauty products.

In 2005 Longoria wrapped a role as a lawyer in the tough-minded indie film "Harsh Times," alongside Christian Bale and Freddie Rodriguez and directed by David Ayer ("Training Day"). She co-starred as a quirky psychic in the 2004 CBS MOW "The Dead Will Tell," opposite Anne Heche, Jonathan LaPaglia and Kathleen Quinlan. She starred as a detective on "L.A. Dragnet," the modern-day take on the classic police drama by Emmy Award-winning producer Dick Wolf.

Longoria celebrated her theatre debut in the popular comedy farce, "What the Rabbi Saw." Acknowledging her "comedic flair," Back Stage West proclaimed, "Eva Longoria is sensational." Flexing her comic muscles further, Longoria now stars in and co-produces "Hot Tamales Live," a critically acclaimed comedy/ variety show performing regularly at The Comedy Store and consistently selling out across the country. The show is available on DVD/ videocassette and pay-per-view.

The youngest of four sisters who grew up on a ranch in Corpus Christi, Texas, Longoria attended Texas A&M-Kingsville, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology. After graduating from college, she entered a talent contest that brought her to Los Angeles, where she was spotted and subsequently signed by a theatrical agent. Longoria’s timing couldn’t have been better and she was determined to see where her acting dreams would take her.

After landing roles on "The Bold and the Beautiful," "General Hospital" and co-starring on "Beverly Hills 90210," she auditioned and won the role of Isabella on the popular series "The Young and the Restless." Her career was successfully launched and she considers herself blessed to have had the opportunity to work on the #1 daytime drama.

Longoria is actively involved with Special Olympics and worked with the John Kerry-John Edwards presidential campaign, educating Latino voters about the candidates.

KIM BASINGER stars as First Lady Sarah Ballentine, who finds herself caught in a plot to assassinate her husband.

Since making her motion picture debut opposite Robert Redford in Barry Levinson's "The Natural," the Academy Award-winner has appeared in more than 30 feature films and has established herself as an international screen icon.

Basinger wrapped production in 2004 on "Jump Shot," a crime drama about gambling, starring with Danny DeVito, Kelsey Grammer, Nick Cannon, Ray Liotta and Forest Whitaker. The film was directed by Mark Rydell.

Also in 2004, Basinger received critical praise for her moving performance opposite Jeff Bridges in Focus Features’ "The Door in the Floor," based on the John Irving novel, "Widow for a Year." She also starred in New Line Cinema’s thriller "Cellular," about a kidnapped woman with only a cell phone standing between her and death.

Basinger received her Academy Award® in 1998 for her role in Warner Bros. and Regency’s critically acclaimed film "L.A. Confidential," based on the James Ellroy classic crime novel of the same title and directed by Curtis Hanson. Basinger's performance also earned her a Golden Globe Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award and a BAFTA nomination. The film earned nine Academy Award nominations in all.

In 2003, Basinger starred opposite Eminem in "8 Mile," and in 2002 opposite Al Pacino and Téa Leoni in "People I Know," In 2000, she starred in Paramount’s "Bless the Child," directed by Chuck Russell and also starring Jimmy Smits and Rufus Sewell.

That year, Basinger starred in Hugh Hudson's "I Dreamed of Africa" for Columbia Tri-Star. The film, shot on location in Venice, Italy and South Africa, is based on the best-selling true story by Kenya activist Kuki Gallmann.

Basinger's film credits include the box-office blockbuster "Batman"; Adrian Lyne's sensual thriller "9 1/2 Weeks"; "No Mercy"; Robert Altman's "Ready to Wear" ("Prêt-à-Porter") and "Fool For Love"; "Final Analysis" opposite Richard Gere; "The Marrying Man,” "The Getaway"; Blake Edwards' "Blind Date" opposite Bruce Willis; "Cool World"; "The Real McCoy" and "Nadine" opposite Jeff Bridges.

MARTIN DONOVAN plays experienced Secret Service agent William Montrose, who for many years has worked with fellow agent Pete Garrison, played by Michael Douglas, and who has a dark secret.

Donovan headlines the upcoming dramatic thriller, "The Visitation," also starring Edward Furlong and Kelly Lynch, in which miracles start to happen when a stranger hits town. In 2005 he also wrapped "The Quiet," a drama about a deaf orphan girl starring Camilla Belle, Elisha Cuthbert and Edie Falco, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival. In 2004 he starred in the three-part mini-series, "Traffic," about global trafficking in drugs, weapons and people. He played Mary-Louise Parker's love interest, in the Showtime series, "Weeds."

In television movies, Donovan played John F. Kennedy in "RFK" (2002); Prince Nikitin, opposite Liv Tyler and Ralph Fiennes, in "Onegin" (1999); a math teacher who seduces a child in Oprah Winfrey's "Amy & Isabelle" (2001); and Tom Buchanan in the 2000 adaptation of "The Great Gatsby." In "Custody of the Heart" (2000) he starred with Lorraine Bracco as a stay-at-home husband suing his professional wife for custody of their children. He worked with Bracco again in "Scam" (1993), about con-artists.

Donovan’s many other credits include "Saved!," “Agent Cody Banks," "Insomnia," "Pipe Dream," "The Book of Life," "Flirt," “Amateur," “Simple Men," "Surviving Desire," "Trust," “The Portrait of the Lady,” and “Malcolm X.”

ABOUT THE FILMMAKERS

CLARK JOHNSON (Director) is helming his second feature film with THE SENTINEL. The veteran actor of more than 50 movies, MOWs and series became famous as Detective Meldrick Lewis in the hit TV series "Homicide: Life on the Street" (1993-99). He also directed five episodes of the series. In THE SENTINEL, Johnson plays the pivotal part of Secret Service agent Charlie Merriweather, whose murder sets in motion the presidential assassination plot investigation. In 2003, he directed the feature film “S.W.A.T.,” an action thriller starring Samuel L. Jackson and Colin Farrell.

Since 1991, Johnson has amassed 19 directorial credits, including the 2001 HBO movie "Boycott," about African Americans' bus boycott during the 1950s civil rights movement. In addition to "Homicide: Life on the Street," Johnson has directed episodes of "The Shield," "Third Watch," "The West Wing," "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," "NYPD Blue" and "The Wire." He first directed in 1991, with an episode of "African Skies," a TV series about two teenagers, one black and one white, living in post-apartheid South Africa.

As an actor, Johnson most recently starred as Detective Stephen Tree in the 2005 TV movie "Tripping the Wire: A Stephen Tree Mystery," as well as in the dystopian "The Limb Salesman" (2004), "On Their Knees" in 2001, and "Disappearing Acts," "Task Force: Caviar," "Deliberate Intent," "Fear of Fiction," "Virtual Mom," and "Homicide: The Movie," all in 2000. Also that year he played a feature role in Clément Virgo's "Love Come Down," about two brothers, one black, one white, from a blended family. Johnson had starred in Virgo's earlier films "Rude" (1995) and "The Planet of Junior Brown" (1997).

Johnson played football while attending Concordia University in Montreal, before getting into the film business as a driver on "The Last Chase" in 1981. His first big break came with the CBS series "Night Heat" in which he played Detective Dave Jefferson from 1986 to 1988. Roles in "Adventures in Babysitting" (1987), "Iron Eagle II" (1988), and “The Women of Brewster Place" (1989) followed. He played the part of J.J. as well as did some of the stunt work on the film "Renegades" (1989), which starred Kiefer Sutherland.

Johnson's next directorial project will be "Killing Floor" for Mutual Film Company in 2006.

GEORGE NOLFI (Screenwriter/Co-Producer) wrote "Ocean's Twelve" (2004), the sequel set three years after "Ocean's Eleven" and directed by Steven Soderbergh. The film stars George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Julia Roberts, and Catherine Zeta Jones.

Nolfi grew up in Boston, Chicago and Washington, D.C. Living in Washington sparked a lifelong interest in government and national security issues. He studied public and international affairs at Princeton University and political philosophy at Oxford. He was a political science Ph.D. student at UCLA when he sold his first script, which was about an undercover CIA officer during the Yugoslavian Civil War in the 1990s.

MARCY DROGIN (Producer) is president of production of Furthur Films. She began working with Michael Douglas eight year ago, as co-producer on the thriller “Swimfan,” released by Twentieth Century Fox, then as a co-producer on "It Runs in the Family," a feature film about a dysfunctional family starring the Douglas clan, including Michael Douglas' father Kirk, mother Diana and son Cameron.

Drogin has continued to supervise Furthur’s development slate and bring in original material set-up at various studios. In addition, she has served as the senior production executive on Michael Douglas’/ Furthur’s other recent films, including “The In-Laws,” “Don’t Say A Word” and “One Night at McCools.”

From 1994-1998, she worked as an executive producer, creative executive and literary, theatrical and film scout for various studios, production companies and producers in the motion picture and television industries, including: Baltimore/Spring Creek Productions, Columbia Pictures, Industry Entertainment, More-Medavoy Management, IFC/Next Wave Films, Def Pictures and Parallel Pictures. During this period, Drogin covered the New York book, theatre and independent film worlds, scouting for material and talent for production companies to develop and produce for film and/or television.

She also produced the following film, television and theatre projects: “Servy-n-Bernice 4ever,” “The Professional” and “The Flatted Fifth” (plays and films), the feature documentaries “The Last Dance” and “Denver Clan Unmasked” for European Public Television, and the recent Broadway revival of “The Sound of Music.”

Drogin is an honors graduate of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts and serves on the board of Working Playground, a non-profit company dedicated to bringing arts programs to urban young people in New York City’s public schools.

ARNON MILCHAN (Producer) is widely renowned as one of the most prolific and successful independent film producers of the past 25 years, with over 100 feature films to his credit. Born in Israel, Milchan was educated at the University of Geneva. His first business venture was transforming his father’s modest business into one of his country’s largest agro-chemical companies. This early achievement was a harbinger of Milchan’s now-legendary reputation in the international marketplace as a keen businessman.

Soon, Milchan began to underwrite projects in areas that had always held a special interest for him – film, television and theater. Early projects include Roman Polanski’s theater production of “Amadeus,” “Dizengoff 99,” “La Menace,” “The Medusa Touch” and the mini-series “Masada.” By the end of the 1980s, Milchan had produced such films as Martin Scorsese’s “The King of Comedy,” Sergio Leone’s “Once Upon at Time in America” and Terry Gilliam’s “Brazil.”

After the huge successes of “Pretty Woman” and “The War of the Roses,” Milchan founded New Regency Productions and went on to produce a string of successful films including “J.F.K,” “Sommersby,” “A Time to Kill,” “Free Willy,” “The Client,” “Tin Cup,” “Under Siege,” “L.A. Confidential,” “The Devil’s Advocate,” “The Negotiator,” “City of Angels,” “Entrapment,” “Fight Club,” “Big Momma’s House,” “Don’t Say a Word,” “Daredevil,” “Man on Fire,” “Guess Who,” “Mr. and Mrs. Smith” and “Big Momma’s House 2,” currently in theaters.

Upcoming projects include: “Just My Luck,” a comedy starring Lindsay Lohan and Chris Pine, directed by Donald Petrie; “My Super Ex-Girlfriend,” a comedy starring Uma Thurman, Luke Wilson, Anna Farris, Eddie Izzard and directed by Ivan Reitman; “The Fountain,” a sci-fi fantasy starring Hugh Jackman and Rachel Wiesz, directed by Darren Aronofsky; “Firehouse Dog,” a family comedy starring Josh Hutcherson, Bruce Greenwood, Dash Mihok, Steven Culp and Bree Turner, directed by Todd Holland; “Jumper,” a sci-fi action-adventure directed by Doug Liman; and “Dallas,” based on the television phenomenon directed by Robert Luketic.

Along the way, Milchan brought on board two powerful investors and partners who share his vision: Nine Network and Twentieth Century Fox. Fox distributes Regency movies in all media worldwide (excluding an output arrangement Regency has in Germany), including on U.S. pay television, and international pay and free television.

Milchan also successfully diversified his company’s activities within the sphere of entertainment, most specifically in the realm of television through Regency Television (“Malcolm in the Middle,” “The Bernie Mac Show,” “Living with Fran,” “Thief” and “Windfalls”) and sports, where the company was at one time the largest shareholder of PUMA, the worldwide athletic apparel and shoe conglomerate based in Germany, which was later sold after a successful re-branding of the brand in 2003. In addition, Regency has worldwide television rights to the Sony Ericcson Women’s Tennis Association events from 1999 through 2007. Regency owns a large stake in the Israeli Network, a television station brought to the United States via a satellite distribution agreement with Echostar. Recently, Regency also acquired a large stake in Channel 10, one of only two commercial broadcast stations in Israel.

BILL CARRARO (Executive Producer/UPM) recently executive produced "Stay," a psychological thriller from Regency Enterprises, starring Ewan McGregor, Naomi Watts and Ryan Gosling. He was executive producer of "Willard," the award-winning 2003 remake of the 1971 Daniel Mann original hit as well as for "Undercover Brother" in 2002, about an African-American undercover agent.

In 2000, Carraro produced "Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2," for which he was also the second unit director. The same year he produced "Frequency," a time-travel thriller starring Dennis Quaid and Jim Caviezel. "The Best Man," starring Taye Diggs, which Carraro produced in 1999, was the winner of several Black Reel as well as Image Awards. Carraro executive produced Chow Yun-Fat's second American movie, the explosive thriller "The Corruptor," also starring Mark Wahlberg, and "American History X," the crime drama with Edward Norton and Edward Furlong as two neo-Nazi skinhead brothers.

Carraro moved from production manager to associate producer in 1989 with "Rude Awakening," about two hippies who disappear in the '60s and return to yuppie-ridden New York in the '80s. He followed that with various co-producing, associate producing and executive producing positions throughout the '90s, including the Emmy-winning and Golden Globe-nominated HBO television movie "The Tuskegee Airmen" in 1995, based on the true story of the first African-American fighter pilots and starring Laurence Fishburne.

GABRIEL BERISTÁIN, ASC / BSC (Director of Photography) was born in Mexico, educated in Britain and trained in Europe. He first worked with director Clark Johnson on Johnson's feature film directorial debut, "S.W.A.T," in 2003.

Beristáin's diverse body of work runs from Mike Newell's "The Good Father" in 1985 starring Anthony Hopkins through the exquisite art film "Caravaggio" (1986) by Derek Jarman, winner of the Silver Bear at Berlin, to the Stephen King thriller directed by Taylor Hackford, "Dolores Claiborne" (1995), with Kathy Bates and Jennifer Jason Leigh. He was camera operator on Stephen King's "The Green Mile" in 1999, directed by Frank Darabont.

Beristáin’s feature credits also include “The Distinguished Gentleman" (1992), "Trial and Error" (1997), "Fatal Instinct" (1993) and "Bound by Honor" (1993). Also in 1993, he was the cinematographer of the Northern England shoot of the lush and elegant Australian feature "Wide Sargasso Sea," following that the next year with "Tale of the Mummy," about a cursed Egyptian tomb.

In 1997 Beristáin was the director of photography on the drama-thriller "The Spanish Prisoner" (1997), written and directed by David Mamet. In 2004 he did "Blade: Trinity" with Wesley Snipes, having also done "Blade II" in 2002. Having already worked with Kirk Douglas on the comedy "Greedy" (1994) also starring Michael J. Fox, about a family fighting for an aging uncle's inheritance, Beristáin then worked with Michael Douglas in 1996 as director of photography on the second unit of "The Ghost and the Darkness." In 2005 Beristáin completed "The Ring Two" with Naomi Watts, for Dream Works SKG, as well as the adventure comedy "The Shaggy Dog," starring Tim Allen.

In 2000 Beristáin turned his hand to directing with "El Grito," a Mexico/U.S. co-production about a tabloid reporter who uncovers a series of murders that hit close to home. He has also produced and/or directed several Mexican and Colombian features and shorts, as well as the Irish feature "Joyriders" and many international co-productions.

ANDREW McALPINE (Production Designer), who graduated from Nottingham University in England, gained fame for his work on Jane Campion's "The Piano," for which he received both the BAFTA Award and the Australian Film Institute Award for best production design in 1993. His first award for production design was in 1974, when he won the Calouste Gulbenkian Designer's Award for the use of holography in theater.

After his first film, "Bones," in 1984, and his first television production, "Zastrozzi: A Romance," a 1986 mini-series, McAlpine worked on "Sid and Nancy,” the award-winning dramatic biography of the doomed relationship between Sid Vicious of The Sex Pistols and Nancy Spungen. In 1988 he did the design for Denzel Washington's debut in a U.K. film, "For Queen and Country." He had worked on U.K./U.S. co-productions before, including "Stormy Monday" with Melanie Griffith, Tommy Lee Jones and Sting, in addition to U.K. movies such as "The Rachel Papers." In 1990 he did the Japanese movie "Shadow of China," followed by the period drama "American Friends" and Deceived" with Goldie Hawn.

McAlpine's first American movie was the crime drama "Bad Company" in 1995, starring Ellen Barkin and Laurence Fishburne. From there he moved to Spike Lee's "Clockers," Jodie Foster's "Home for the Holidays" with Holly Hunter, Disney's "Flubber," "Holy Man" with Eddie Murphy, "The Beach" with Leonardo DiCaprio, "Alien Love Triangle" with Kenneth Branaugh, and "The Recruit" (2003), about betrayal in the CIA, with Al Pacino and Colin Farrell. In 2003, he first worked with Michael Douglas on "The In-Laws," the comedy about an undercover CIA agent and his daughter's wedding. His latest movie is "Aeon Flux," a science-fiction action thriller about a secret agent, starring Charlize Theron.

CINDY MOLLO, A.C.E. (Editor) edited the films “Ready to Rumble” and “Panic.” She has worked extensively for television, notably as supervising editor on the acclaimed series “Homicide: Life on the Streets” (for which she was nominated for an American Cinema Editors’ Eddie award) and “Oz.” Her other credits include the television films “Spartacus,” “Touching Evil,” “Lucky,” “Skinwalkers” and “Dash and Lillie.” She received an Emmy nomination for her work on the series “Dash and Lilly.”

ELLEN MIROJNICK (Costume Designer) worked on her first feature film in 1977, "French Quarter." In 1980, she did the costume designs (with Kristi Zea) on the 1980 breakout hit "Fame.” "The Flamingo Kid" (1984) and "Nobody's Fool" (1986) followed.

In 1987 Mirojnick's long association with Michael Douglas began, first with "Fatal Attraction" and "Wall Street" both in 1987, and then on "Black Rain" (1989). That year she also did Steven Spielberg's "Always," as well as Blake Edwards' "Switch" in 1991, "Speed" in 1994, "Showgirls" in 1995 and "Twister" in 1996.

Her work on Douglas' films continued with the blockbuster "Basic Instinct" in 1992. In the same year she did "Chaplin," for which she was nominated for a BAFTA Award for Best Costume Design, along with John Mollo. Other Douglas films she has worked on are "The Ghost and the Darkness," "A Perfect Murder," "One Night at McCool's," "Don't Say a Word" and "It Runs in the Family." Some of her other movie credits include "Mickey Blue Eyes," "What Women Want," "Unfaithful," and "The Chronicles of Riddick."

Mirojnick herself was the subject of a documentary on costume design in movies: "Hollywood Fashion Machine Special: The Costume Designer" (2000). She even played a physics teacher in the romance drama "Reckless" in 1984.

CHRISTOPHE BECK (Composer) has scored numerous films in virtually every genre, from “The Pink Panther” (2006) to “Under the Tuscan Sun,” the film adaptation of the best-selling novel.

Beck began his scoring career on the Canadian television series “White Fang,” and from there went on to score the television series “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” in seasons two through four. Beck received an Emmy, for Outstanding Music Composition,

for his work on “Buffy,” in season three (1998) and after completing one more season on the show, decided to move into film scoring.

Beck’s recent film credits also include “Elektra,” “Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous,” “Two for the Money,” and “Yours, Mine and Ours” (2005). Previously, he scored “A Cinderella Story,” “Garfield,” “Cheaper by the Dozen,” “Just Married,” “Confidence,” “Without a Paddle” and “American Wedding.”

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Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire: The IMAX Experience grosses $20 million

Magical Film Reaches New Milestone for a Digitally Re-Mastered 2D IMAX Release

IMAX Corporation and Warner Bros. Pictures today announced that Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire: The IMAX Experience has grossed more than $20 million, becoming the first digitally re-mastered 2D IMAX release to reach the milestone. The IMAX release has now grossed a total of $20,033,758 million worldwide for a cumulative per screen average of $188,998. The film has shown strong legs since debuting in IMAX(R) theatres, setting numerous records for a Hollywood simultaneous release, including biggest three-day opening weekend and highest per screen average. The box office success demonstrates the growing consumer enthusiasm for Hollywood films that have been digitally re-mastered into the unparalleled image and sound quality of The IMAX Experience(R).

"We are thrilled with the unprecedented box office performance of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire in IMAX theatres," said Dan Fellman, President of Domestic Distribution at Warner Bros. Pictures. "The IMAX release helped contribute to the overall excitement surrounding the Harry Potter campaign as well as the theatrical success of the film."

"This milestone is another testament to the winning combination of fantastic filmmakers, the efforts of the talented marketing and distribution teams at Warner Bros. Pictures and IMAX Corporation, and the power of The IMAX Experience," said Greg Foster, Chairman and President of IMAX Filmed Entertainment. "With more event titles scheduled to be released to our expanding theatre network in 2006, we are confident the popularity of experiencing Hollywood films in IMAX's format will continue to grow."

Of the seven films that grossed more than $200 million for 2005, three were simultaneously released by Warner Bros. Pictures in IMAX's format: Batman Begins, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.

About IMAX Corporation

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Founded in 1967, IMAX Corporation is one of the world's leading entertainment technology companies and the newest distribution window for Hollywood films. IMAX delivers the world's best cinematic presentations using proprietary IMAX, IMAX(R) 3D, and IMAX DMR(R) technology. IMAX DMR (Digital Re-mastering) makes it possible for virtually any 35mm film to be transformed into the unparalleled image and sound quality of The IMAX Experience. The IMAX brand is recognized throughout the world for extraordinary and immersive entertainment experiences. As of December 31, 2005, there were 266 IMAX theatres operating in 38 countries.

IMAX(R), IMAX(R) 3D, IMAX DMR(R), IMAX MPX(R), and The IMAX Experience(R) are trademarks of IMAX Corporation. More information on the Company can be found at www.imax.com.

Source: IMAX Corporation

CONTACT: Media: IMAX Corporation, New York,

The Real Opus Dei Premieres One Month Prior to Sony’s DaVinci Code Release

Dan Brown’s bestseller DaVinci Code makes it to the big screen with Tom Hanks premiering May 19^th by Sony Pictures.

Releasing one month prior on April 19^th, is a film being released in New York showing the real Opus Dei entitled “Passionately Loving the World: Ordinary Americans Living the Spirituality of St. Josemaria.” The premiere screening of the video will occur at the official New York inauguration of the St. Josemaría Institute on April 19 at Lighthouse International Auditorium of Manhattan. The video is available free of charge, however donations are accepted. Contact them either by phone, 877-stjosemaria, www.stjosemaria.org or www.opusdei.org.

Religious organizations have been up in arms about the portrayal of Jesus Christ and other Christian doctrines, and the portrayal of Opus Dei within the DaVinci Code. Although well known as fiction, many people may believe there to be some truth. As contributing factors, Opus Dei has written an open letter to the Sony Corporation (the company producing the movie) and its shareholders, directors, and employees with an excerpt following:

“In recent months it is possible that you may have heard about Opus Dei, in the context of the aforementioned film. It is likely that for many this was the first time that you have had occasion to hear the name of this institution of the Church, and some of you might have wished to know more about it. Therefore this office feels obliged to state its availability to inform whoever wants to know about the real Opus Dei, which has nothing to do with the description sketched in the novel. Whoever wants information can ask this office, and we will respond as soon as possible with great pleasure: our doors are wide open…As you already probably know, there are some aspects of The Da Vinci Code novel that distort the figure of Jesus Christ, and which affect the religious beliefs of Christians.”

This fiction bestseller which enjoyed nearly 58 weeks at or near the top of the New York Times bestseller list, sold 40 million in hardback and 6 million paperbacks and spun off more than a dozen books exploring and deciphering the DaVinci Code. It has been controversial to say the least. So controversial, that more than a handful of books came out to decipher the DaVinci Code as well as organizations defending their portrayals.

Being a “late adopter” to this craze of an adult fiction book, I wondered why there was such a buzz. Dan Brown admits it’s fiction, but the fascination from so many people came from the possibility that just perhaps there was truth interwoven into this slice of fiction thriller. Similar to Robert Langdon and Sophie Neveu within the book, many have embarked on a quest for clues to truths for all to see in Leonardo DaVinci’s art. Travel guides have even been developed guiding you on this adventure.

I haven’t heard any changes of faith based on reading the DaVinci Code, however I have noticed a renewed fascination in art and interest in reading Dan Brown’s other books. Like many, I’m looking forward to seeing the movie, and wonder how close it will come to the book.

Time Warner Inc. Presents 'Elements of an Icon' - Exclusive Exhibit Honoring SIR ELTON JOHN's Amazing Contribution to Music and Pop Culture Opening Today at Time Warner Center

Never-Before-Seen Items, Rare Stage Costumes from Elton's Private Collection On Public Exhibit for Limited 12-Day NYC Engagement In Conjunction with the opening of Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures' LESTAT-The MUSICAL

Today Time Warner Inc. is proud to present "Sir Elton John - Elements of an Icon," a public exhibition of the extravagance, the unforgettable showman, the visual exuberance, and the one- of-a-kind contribution to pop music and culture that is Sir Elton John. Elton John fans and music enthusiasts are invited to visit Time Warner Center as it is transformed into a hip retro lounge -- the perfect environment for this truly original and must-see exhibition. The public space overlooking Central Park and Columbus Circle will be filled with an exceptional array of Elton John's fabulously unique feathered, sequined, and bejeweled stage wardrobe that has been the signature style statement of this pop music icon's illustrious career.

The never-before-seen collection will be open to the public from April 18 through April 30, exclusively at Time Warner Center in New York. This very special event coincides with the opening of the much-anticipated Broadway musical LESTAT - Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures' inaugural production of a show inspired by Anne Rice's "The Vampire Chronicles" and featuring the first theatrical score from the legendary songwriting team of Elton John and Bernie Taupin.

The "Elements of an Icon" exhibit will be displayed throughout Time Warner Center. The second floor of the complex will present Elton John's dazzling costumes, imagery and accessories -- most notably, the signature oversized glasses and floor-to-ceiling posters that illustrate Elton John's legendary career. The focal point of the exhibit will feature the artist's red lacquer grand piano, which is synonymous with the musician himself.

Costumes from the original San Francisco performance of LESTAT will be showcased on the first floor of Time Warner Center, while on the fourth floor, artwork by Golden Globe Award-winning lyricist Bernie Taupin will be available for visitors to view.

The exhibit will run Tuesday, April 18 through Sunday, April 30. Viewing hours are 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Sunday.

A variety of complementary exhibits and events surrounding LESTAT and Elton John will also be hosted at Time Warner Center throughout April. Other exclusive events include:

-- Dave McKean Book Signing at Borders in Time Warner Center

On Monday, April 24, at 7:00 p.m., LESTAT visual concept designer Dave McKean will sign books that contain his work including "The Vampire Chronicles" and "The Alchemy of MirrorMask" at Borders Columbus Circle in Time Warner Center.

-- Samsung Experience

Samsung Experience will show exciting clips all day from LESTAT.

-- New Orleans-Style Cuisine at Williams Sonoma Grande Cuisine

From 3 to 4 p.m. daily, April 18-30, Williams Sonoma (located on the first floor in The Shops at Columbus Circle) will offer tastings of New Orleans- style cuisine in honor of the city where the LESTAT story is staged.

-- Morgenthal Frederics Opticians

View private label eyewear inspired by Elton John's eye glass collection and see a selection of Sir Elton's treasured glasses.

Inspired by Anne Rice's "The Vampire Chronicles" and featuring the first theatrical score from the legendary songwriting team of Elton John and Bernie Taupin, LESTAT will open at Broadway's Palace Theatre on April 25, 2006. For more information on LESTAT please visit www.lestat.com.

About Time Warner

Time Warner Inc. is a leading media and entertainment company, whose businesses include interactive services, cable systems, filmed entertainment, television networks and publishing.

Source: Time Warner Inc.

UPS AND IMG FASHION TO DELIVER FASHION’S FUTURE
10 Emerging Designers from Around the World
To Be Featured at Olympus Fashion Week

Calling all new fashion designers! UPS and IMG Fashion today announced they are accepting applications worldwide for 10 emerging designers to show their Spring 2007 collections at Olympus Fashion Week in New York City from Sept. 8-15.

The selected designers will show onsite in the UPS Hub, a venue constructed exclusively for the global shipping company in the famed Bryant Park tents. UPS launched the “UPS Delivers Fashion’s Future” initiative in September 2005 by featuring collections by Doo Ri, Project Alabama, Willow and Tomer, among others.

Designers are required to have been in business for at least two years and to have sold a minimum of two collections to a variety of boutiques and department stores. The 10 designers will be selected by a panel composed of key domestic and international fashion editors, retailers and industry professionals. These emerging designers will have their venue rental subsidized by UPS, which includes state-of-the-art lighting, sound and staging and inclusion in all Olympus Fashion Week collateral materials, marketing, public relations and advertising. They also will benefit from special collateral and marketing materials developed specifically by UPS for this initiative.

Designers interested in participating and who meet these requirements should send materials, including look books, videos and sketches,by June 1st to:

IMG Fashion

Attention: UPS Delivers Fashion’s Future

420 West 45^th Street

New York, NY 10036

Phone, email and in person inquires will not be accepted and no materials will be returned.

The Search is on for ABC's Next Bachelor Will he be from Philly?

ABC's popular series, "The Bachelor," is searching for America's most eligible man. Producers are canvassing the country for men who are ambitious, charming and successful and who are looking to find love.

Filming of this popular romance series will take place in an exotic, tropical location promising to make this the most romantic season ever, according to production sources.

"Philadelphia is a dynamic city from which many talented, famous Americans have hailed," said Danielle Barba, casting producer. "It could be that our eligible Bachelor is next."

If you are an attractive, single 28-35 year-old accomplished CEO, architect, lawyer, entrepreneur or businessman and think you can handle twenty-five beautiful women, send photos, a brief biography and your contact information to:

Danielle@kasstinginc.com

Deadline is April 25, 2006

Source: Kassting inc.

The Public Broadcasting System is considering making its television shows available on the Internet or portable devices like MP3 players

its new president and chief executive officer said on Monday.

She also pointed to PBS's archive of educational shows like "Nature," "Frontline" and other documentaries as a possible resource that could be accessed "anytime, anywhere."

She said some PBS stations already make some shows available free on the Internet but that depends on broadcast rights, which can vary. She noted that PBS does not have the financial resources available to commercial broadcasters.

"So I think we probably will look at partnerships," she told reporters after the speech. She said initial discussions were under way with possible corporate partners, but PBS was trying to figure out the right direction.

Kerger pointed to podcasting already done by the "Newshour with Jim Lehrer," but noted that news largely has a limited shelf life.

"I think we will not do a full flung leap into any one area. I think we'll start to experiment and I think we'll experiment along the product that seems to make the most sense," she said.

HALLMARK HAS DECIDED TO HOLD its cards

Faced with a weak mergers and acquisitions market for cable networks, Crown Media Holdings, which operates the Hallmark Channel, has pulled itself off the auction block. Instead, the company said it would rededicate itself to improving its operations and building its video-on-demand and high-definition TV businesses after some eight months on the block.

David Evans, president-CEO, said the company "determined that the greatest value for our shareholders will be derived by our continued operation of our business."

Separately, Chris Moseley, executive vice president-CMO of Hallmark Channels, will leave the company at the end of the month. Moseley, a former marketing executive at ABC, joined the company in 2000.

Crown Media, which also runs the fledgling Hallmark Movie Channel, is an anomaly in today's consolidated cable programming business, where media giants such as Time Warner and Viacom use leverage from groups of channels to strengthen their hand in ad sales and cable and satellite TV distribution negotiations.

Crown Media reportedly sought $2 billion - nearly double the value Bank of America has placed on Court TV, which is in more homes and has similar ratings to Hallmark Channel. Crown, however, does have a significant programming library. In a sign of how soft the takeover market may be for cable networks, the asking price was well below the $5.3 billion Disney paid for the Fox Family channel and other assets in 2001, though Disney was widely criticized for overpaying for the channel, now known as ABC Family.

Investors showed their disappointment with Crown's perceived diminished value, driving the company's stock price down nearly 18 percent on news that the sale was a no-go.

The company posted revenue growth in 2005 with a 43 percent increase to $197 million, largely due to a 37 percent jump in advertising revenue to $146 million. But the company posted net losses of $233 million in 2005 and $317 million in 2004.

Ratings are on the rise for the family-oriented Hallmark Channel, as distribution has climbed to 72 million-plus homes. Household prime-time ratings this season are up 17 percent, while adult 25-to-54 ratings have climbed 50 percent.

But its prime-time median age is a hoary 61.1, something the company said it will work to lower over time. Evans said the company will "emphasize programming and marketing promotions to continue our efforts to target a younger audience."

Programming tent-poles include older off-network series such as "MASH" and "Walker, Texas Ranger," movies and offerings from the Hallmark library.

The Hallmark Channel has carriage agreements with distributors scheduled to expire soon and the company said it has begun efforts to renew those deals on favorable terms.

Crown Media is 67-percent-owned by greeting-card maker Hallmark Cards.

'Broadcasters See Red Over White Space,' Move To Block New Media Devices

NEW GENERATION OF PERSONAL media and communication devices operating in so-called "white space," - a portion of the broadcast spectrum set aside for television station is as yet "unassigned" and thus unused - may interfere with both analog and digital television broadcasts, according to a David Rehr, CEO of the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), asserted in a letter sent to Sen. Ted Stevens, chairman of Senate Commerce Committee. The NAB is urging Congress to delay opening up "white space" to unlicensed devices, including those being developed by companies such as Qualcomm, Intel, and Microsoft, until at least early 2009.

By then, the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) is expected to finish hammering out standard 802.22, which should allow the devices to work alongside regular TV broadcasts with little or no interference.

Additionally, Feb. 18, 2009 is the "hard date" agreed by broadcasters for the final switchover to digital TV, at which point broadcasters will relinquish a substantial portion of the TV spectrum for use by broadband devices.

While more bandwidth is scheduled to become available with the transition to digital TV, NAB spokesman Dennis Wharton pointed out that interference with TV broadcasting before the transition is complete could imperil the whole process, setting back both TV broadcasters and manufacturers of the new unlicensed broadband devices.

"We've been in a very delicate transition from analog TV service to digital TV service, and we need to make sure we get this digital TV transition done before we start rearranging the bandwidth," he said. "Our concern is that if there is a problem, people who can't get access to their local television signals are going to be burning somebody, either their local broadcasters, or the unlicensed devices, or the legislature that allowed this to happen, or the FCC."

The manufacturers of the new generation of unlicensed devices have pointed to FCC models, which project no interference with local TV broadcasts. But the NAB's Wharton, says similar FCC forecasts have been wrong in the past. "A lot of the digital re-packing numbers and interference projections are based on computer models, but sometimes affairs don't turn out how the FCC projected it," he noted.

FAST-GROWING ONLINE COMMUNITY MYSPACE.COM IS looking to place its user-generated content into TV shows.

There is stuff in development," Shawn Gold, senior vice president-marketing for MySpace.com, tells MediaDailyNews. Gold declined to disclose which networks or programs MySpace was working with, but said in an email, "We are not limited by the News Corp. family."

The enormously popular social networking site is working on deals that, Gold says, would extend the life of a TV sponsorship for a marketer, "integrating social networking into the TV show and their traditional TV buy." All this would expand the life of a TV deal from "30-seconds to 3-months," he adds.

MySpace now has 77 million members, mostly younger users, and is adding 230,000 or more a month. It has been touted as an emerging powerful tool for youth oriented marketers.

Already some 100 advertisers regularly buy into the site including Honda Motors, Toyota Motor Sales, Wendy's International, and Cingular Wireless, to name a few. Additionally, MySpace already has many deals with TV networks, which sponsor the site.

All this would be in line with News Corp's so-called "Generation Fox" pitch, an effort to sell the collective reach among 12- to 34-year-olds of Fox Networks to national advertisers.

"News Corp. has been an asset in helping to scale up the business, putting muscle behind our safety [initiatives] and building out our content," says Gold.

CMA Announces Another CMA Music Festival First: A Triple Header, Headline Event With Hank Williams Jr., Brooks & Dunn, and Lynyrd Skynyrd in Concert June 8 at the Coliseum

Other Performers Include Gary Allan, Sara Evans and Blake Shelton Plus Additional Special Guests and Surprise Artists Tickets Go On Sale April 22 For Only $30

The legendary Hank Williams Jr., CMA's most awarded duo Brooks & Dunn, and 2006 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees Lynyrd Skynyrd will perform live in concert at The Coliseum in Nashville at 8 PM on June 8.

The triple headlining bill of superstars will be joined by special guests Gary Allan, Sara Evans, Pat Green, Little Big Town and Blake Shelton. A limited number of single night tickets, which are only $30 plus applicable handling fees, will go on sale April 22 at 10 AM by visiting www.ticketmaster.com to buy online, or charging-by-phone at (615) 255-9600 or 1-800-CMA-FEST (262-3378).

"This is Nashville's concert event of the year and a first for CMA Music Festival to have these three amazing entertainers bringing their unique and wildly popular stage shows to our fans," said CMA Chief Operating Officer Tammy Genovese. "Add to that the incredible talents of our special guests and surprise artists and you will definitely have a night to remember. This Festival is building a reputation of presenting unique musical collaborations and this one features all our rowdy friends."

Winner of seven CMA Awards (including two consecutive wins as Entertainer of the Year in 1987 and 1988), Williams has sold more than 50 million albums worldwide, achieving 20 Gold, five Platinum, one double-Platinum and one quadruple-Platinum album thus far in his career. Among his many hits are "Family Tradition," "All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight," "Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound," "A Country Boy Can Survive," "Born to Boogie," "All My Rowdy Friends (Have Settled Down)," "There's A Tear In My Beer" and more. His four-time, Emmy award-winning rallying anthem "Are You Ready For Some Football?" was the musical signature of ABC Television Network's "Monday Night Football" national broadcasts for more than a decade. The Curb recording artist will release his new album, That's How They Do It In Dixie, on June 6. Williams last performed at CMA Music Festival in 2004.

On Mar. 18, Brooks & Dunn broke the all-time Houston Livestock and Rodeo attendance record with an audience of 72,867. The superstars, who were previously announced as performing at CMA Music Festival, have won 15 CMA Awards thus far in their career, including Entertainer of the Year in 1996 and an unprecedented 13 wins as CMA Vocal Duo of the Year. The pair, who has sold more than 28 million albums, hosted the CMA Awards in 2004 and 2005. Their most recent album is Hillbilly Deluxe, featuring the hit singles "Play Something Country" and "Believe."

Southern rock royalty Lynyrd Skynyrd will make their CMA Music Festival debut in 2006. The group has performed their unique mixture of blues, rock and Country Music to sold-out audiences nationwide for more than 30 years. Some of their most-loved hits include "Sweet Home Alabama," "Gimme Three Steps," "What's Your Name," and "Free Bird." Lynyrd Skynyrd has sold more than 27 million albums worldwide, achieving 16 Gold, 13 Platinum and 7 multi-Platinum albums thus far. Their most recent album is Lyve: The Vicious Cycle Tour. The band remains an inspiration to their fans, having continually triumphed over tragedy by surviving the deaths of several key members, including lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines and background vocalist Cassie Gaines in a tragic 1977 plane crash (a subsequent 10 year hiatus for the band ended in 1987 with Ronnie's younger brother Johnny assuming the duties of lead vocalist); as well as guitarist Allen Collins in 1990; and bassist Leon Wilkeson in 2001.

Outside of Lynyrd Skynyrd, lead vocalist Johnny Van Zant also performs with brother Donnie (the lead singer of rock band 38 Special) as the Country Music duo Van Zant. They were nominated for CMA Vocal Duo of the Year in 2005. Van Zant's debut album, Get Right With The Man, was released on Sony Nashville in 2005.

This one-of-a-kind concert event is also included in the full four-day ticket package to 2006 CMA Music Festival, which takes place Thursday-Sunday, June 8-11.

All of the artists participating in CMA Music Festival donate their time. They are not compensated for performing. In appreciation of their continued support, CMA recently launched "Keep the Music Playing," a program which donates half the net proceeds from the event to the Nashville Alliance for Public Education, to support music education in metro Nashville's public schools on behalf of the artists. To date, CMA has donated more than $800,000 on behalf of the artists who participate in the Festival.

CMA Music Festival is organized and produced by the Country Music Association. CMA Board member Tony Conway is the Executive Producer of CMA Music Festival. Premiere Radio Networks is the official radio broadcaster. Promotional partners include Crisco(R), Greased Lightning(R) and Wrangler(R). Fan Fair(R) is a registered trademark of CMA.

Source: Country Music Association

Many affiliates say any notion that they can leverage networks into preserving vestiges of exclusivity is unrealistic.

Ask stations affiliated with Disney's ABC, which last year became the first network to make prime-time programming assets available on-demand to a new partner, Apple's iTunes. ABC didn't tell its local stations at the time it was reviewing its vows of exclusivity.

ABC's announcement last week that it is making ad-supported current episodes of "Lost," "Desperate Housewives," "Commander in Chief" and the entire season of "Alias" available for streaming on ABC.com in May and June didn't catch affiliates by surprise. It did, however, catch them in mid-conversation about how the network might compensate the affiliates for the further loss of exclusivity.

Fox Broadcasting has just agreed to cut its affiliates in on any revenues that result from on-demand extensions of its programming. And CBS appears poised to make a similar arrangement with affiliates.

But stations' participation in the profits from prime-time shows being available on-demand does not change the undeniable fact that by making shows available via any distribution means other than affiliates, the local stations lose the clout that comes with being able to offer viewers and advertisers something no one else can.

NBC Enters Repurposing

Limits on the networks' rights to repurpose prime-time programming or distribute shows outside their traditional primary prime-time runs have largely been negotiated as part of sports cost-sharing agreements. The local stations agreed to help defray the cost of the networks' major sports contracts in return for the networks agreeing that the majority of its programming would remain exclusive to affiliates in the programs' first runs.

NBC, the only one of the Big 4 broadcast networks that has never had a written repurposing agreement with its affiliates, announced in April 2000 that it would repurpose "NBC Nightly News" after its network broadcast on Pax stations. But NBC abandoned the plan after the affiliates howled that such a move would siphon viewers away from "Nightly" on their stations.

Now "Nightly News" and "Meet the Press With Tim Russert" are available on-demand on MSNBC.com immediately after their West Coast network broadcasts.

NBC recently opened new territory when it prepurposed midseason drama "Conviction's" first episode for free on iTunes before the Dick Wolf show premiered on NBC.

CBS put a spin on prepurposing with its deal with Yahoo to create a "60 Minutes" microsite starting next fall that will offer content related to stories on the newsmagazine.

Most news coverage of the "60 Minutes" deal said the content would go up on the Web after the newsmagazine's network broadcasts, but that was based on presumption. What the network didn't announce was that the content goes up on the Yahoo site before the conclusion of the East Coast broadcast of "60 Minutes" and before the magazine is broadcast in later time zones.

Whetting Appetites

CBS argues that the content does not duplicate the "60 Minutes" stories. In a preview two weeks ago "60 Minutes" broadcast an extended interview with Tiger Woods. Yahoo offered myriad short clips: Mr. Woods bouncing the golf ball off his club and hitting balls at a cameraman (both featured in the interview), along with career highlights. The clips started with a plug for Buick featuring Tiger Woods.

CBS regards the Yahoo deal as a way to whet viewers' (especially young viewers') appetite for the "60 Minutes" broadcast, not as a substitute for it.

But many affiliates see it as a disturbing twist that sets a precedent they hope the CBS affiliates advisory board will protest.

As for ABC, the network maintains that after testing the popularity of its ABC.com broadband offerings, which include ads that viewers cannot skip, it believes it will have a better sense of the format's potential when it talks to affiliates.

ABC affiliates suggested that in addition to revenue sharing, other promising options might include offering links to the broadband offerings on the Web sites of the local stations, which then might be able to attach locally sold ads.

"The key here is whether or not the networks are really going to demonstrate they value what these stations do in exposure of network programming," a station group executive said.

Ask stations affiliated with Disney's ABC, which last year became the first network to make prime-time programming assets available on-demand to a new partner, Apple's iTunes. ABC didn't tell its local stations at the time it was reviewing its vows of exclusivity. ABC's announcement last week that it is making ad-supported current episodes of "Lost," "Desperate Housewives," "Commander in Chief" and the entire season of "Alias" available for streaming on ABC.com in May and June didn't catch affiliates by surprise. It did, however, catch them in mid-conversation about how the network might compensate the affiliates for the further loss of exclusivity. Fox Broadcasting has just agreed to cut its affiliates in on any revenues that result from on-demand extensions of its programming. And CBS appears poised to make a similar arrangement with affiliates.

But stations' participation in the profits from prime-time shows being available on-demand does not change the undeniable fact that by making shows available via any distribution means other than affiliates, the local stations lose the clout that comes with being able to offer viewers and advertisers something no one else can. Limits on the networks' rights to repurpose prime-time programming or distribute shows outside their traditional primary prime-time runs have largely been negotiated as part of sports cost-sharing agreements. The local stations agreed to help defray the cost of the networks' major sports contracts in return for the networks agreeing that the majority of its programming would remain exclusive to affiliates in the programs' first runs.NBC, the only one of the Big 4 broadcast networks that has never had a written repurposing agreement with its affiliates, announced in April 2000 that it would repurpose "NBC Nightly News" after its network broadcast on Pax stations. But NBC abandoned the plan after the affiliates howled that such a move would siphon viewers away from "Nightly" on their stations.Now "Nightly News" and "Meet the Press With Tim Russert" are available on-demand on MSNBC.com immediately after their West Coast network broadcasts.NBC recently opened new territory when it prepurposed midseason drama "Conviction's" first episode for free on iTunes before the Dick Wolf show premiered on NBC. CBS put a spin on prepurposing with its deal with Yahoo to create a "60 Minutes" microsite starting next fall that will offer content related to stories on the newsmagazine.

Most news coverage of the "60 Minutes" deal said the content would go up on the Web after the newsmagazine's network broadcasts, but that was based on presumption. What the network didn't announce was that the content goes up on the Yahoo site before the conclusion of the East Coast broadcast of "60 Minutes" and before the magazine is broadcast in later time zones.CBS argues that the content does not duplicate the "60 Minutes" stories. In a preview two weeks ago "60 Minutes" broadcast an extended interview with Tiger Woods. Yahoo offered myriad short clips: Mr. Woods bouncing the golf ball off his club and hitting balls at a cameraman (both featured in the interview), along with career highlights. The clips started with a plug for Buick featuring Tiger Woods.CBS regards the Yahoo deal as a way to whet viewers' (especially young viewers') appetite for the "60 Minutes" broadcast, not as a substitute for it.But many affiliates see it as a disturbing twist that sets a precedent they hope the CBS affiliates advisory board will protest. As for ABC, the network maintains that after testing the popularity of its ABC.com broadband offerings, which include ads that viewers cannot skip, it believes it will have a better sense of the format's potential when it talks to affiliates.ABC affiliates suggested that in addition to revenue sharing, other promising options might include offering links to the broadband offerings on the Web sites of the local stations, which then might be able to attach locally sold ads."The key here is whether or not the networks are really going to demonstrate they value what these stations do in exposure of network programming," a station group executive said.

Asaca Chosen to Demonstrate Two New Storage Solutions at NAB HD Pavilion’s Live HD Broadcast Station

Asaca’s new OSVault Network Archive Server and TeraCart BD Library will be integrated into a fully functional local DTV station

Asaca Corporation, a leading developer of high-capacity, high-performance data storage solutions, announced today that the company has been chosen to provide not one, but two key storage components for this year’s NAB-HD Pavilion, booth #C11537 at NAB 2006. Asaca’s new OSVault Network Archive Server and TeraCart BD Library will be integrated into a fully functional local DTV station that will include all the technical, operational and management elements required to broadcast DTV signals in both SD and HD.

“For the second consecutive year, the best solutions the HD broadcast industry has to offer will be pooled together at the NAB HD Pavilion in a full-functioning television station, broadcasting live from the show floor,” said Chuck Larabie, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Asaca/ShibaSoku Corporation. “We were thrilled to have both the OSVault and TeraCart BD chosen as integral storage components for NAB-HD Pavilion’s live DTV station.”

Asaca’s Network Attached OSVault can be configured with a choice of Multiport Gb or 10Gb Ethernet interfaces to deliver over-sized HD files and can offer scaleable capacities up to 48 drives per tray or 24TB per server. Following a simple plug and use installation, the OSVault can be easily accessed just like any other file server on the network.

Attached to the OSVault will be Asaca’s new Blu-ray technology, the TeraCart BD. Together, the OSVault/TeraCart BD can provide up to 100 Terabytes of network attached archival storage. Futhermore the TeraCartBD library can be easily configured internally to simultaneously manage 50GB recordable, Dual-Layer BD-IT media as well as DVD-RAM, DVD-ROM, DVD±R, DVD±RW, CD-ROM, CD-R and CD-R/W media within the same library. In addition, using the built in software, the ASACA library can also be customized to manage multiple virtual libraries within the same cabinet enabling broadcasters to work on several projects simultaneously.

As part of the total broadcast environment at the NAB HD Pavilion, the Asaca solutions will store raw and edited content of recorded interviews and mini-documentaries that will be produced for the show on a variety of how-to topics and broadcast throughout the NAB show floor.

About Asaca

Founded in 1971, the Asaca/ShibaSoku Corporation has its US headquarters in Golden, Colorado. A leading developer of high-capacity, high-performance data storage solutions, the company is focused on serving broadcast and data storage markets worldwide. For complete information on the TeraCart Series, visit the Asaca website at: www.asaca.com.

Dominant Information Site Owned by Newspaper in Top Markets

According to the Spring 2006 Newspaper Audience Database (NADbase) report, released by the Newspaper Association of America, 116 million adults are reading the newspaper over the course of a week, and 55 million Internet users visit a newspaper Web site over the course of a month, Unique visitors to newspaper Web sites jumped 21 percent in 2005, and page views increased by 43 percent over that same period. Newspaper web sites attracted 14 percent more 25- to 34-year-olds and 9 percent more 18- to 24-year-olds.

NAA President and CEO, John F. Sturm, said "Readership is the most comparable measure of the value of newspapers... This latest wave of... data shows once again the strong gains that our industry is making in leveraging the power of their Web sites to broaden their appeal to today's audiences."

According to the report, 78 percent of the 149 million adults who live in the top 50 markets read a newspaper over the course of five weekdays and one Sunday. In addition, 69 percent of 18- to 24-year olds in the these markets are reading a newspaper during the course of a week.

65.7 percent of consumers with household incomes of $150,000 or more read the newspaper on an average weekday, and more than 71.7 percent on an average Sunday.

Data from Nielsen//NetRatings shows that unique visitors to newspaper Web sites in 2005:

Represented on average more than one-third of all Internet users over the course of a month

Jumped 21 percent during the period

Increased page views by 43 percent

Newspapers own 11 of the top 25 national news and information Web sites,

and locally, newspapers provide the dominant information site in most of the top 75 markets. In November, newspaper Web sites reached more than one-third of all Internet users.

Imperia Entertainment Finishes Pickup Shots in Moscow on Its Feature Film, ``Say It In Russian'';

Editor of Movie Legends ``China Syndrome,'' ``Urban Cowboy'' and ``Saturday Night Fever'' Takes Over Imperia Entertainment, Inc. announced today that its shooting team returned from Moscow over the weekend, where they have successfully completed all of the pickup shots to finish the feature film, "Say It In Russian." The company has already been approached by several international film distributors for the film, which is in the lineup for the Cannes Film Market May 17th through 28th. "Now it's up to our editor, David Rawlins, to complete the job," said Kenneth Eade, Executive Producer and Company Chairman. "I think he's up to the task, having edited some of the most momentous films of the past five decades," he added.

About "Say It In Russian"

"Say It In Russian" is a full length feature film, shot on 35mm. It is a romantic adventure, shot in Paris, Moscow and Los Angeles, starring Faye Dunaway, Rade Sherbedgia ("Snatch"), Steven Brand ("The Scorpion King"), Alex Nesic ("Sleeper Cell") and introducing Agata Gotova, with supporting roles played by Steven Berkoff ("Beverly Hills Cop"), Musetta Vander ("O Brother, Where Art Thou?"), Elya Baskin ("Moscow on the Hudson") and Oleg Vidov ("Red Heat"), among others.

About Editor David Rawlins

"Say It In Russian"'s editor, David Rawlins, has a legendary career which spans five decades. His films have sparked world cultural and political movements, such as "Kung Fu," "The China Syndrome," "Saturday Night Fever," and "Urban Cowboy." His films also include the works of legendary film makers Sam Peckinpah ("The Osterman Weekend"), John Hughes ("Baby's Day Out") and Mel Brooks ("Life Stinks"), as well as studio movies "Mr. Magoo," "Firestarter" and "Back to School."

About Imperia Entertainment, Inc.

Imperia Entertainment, Inc. (http://www.imperiaentertainment.com) is a company which has emerged as a player in the area of independent film production and distribution, once monopolized by the major film studios. In conjunction with its distribution subsidiary, Imperia International Distribution, the company engages in investing in and producing and distributing full-length feature films. Along with its equity interest in the widely anticipated "All That I Need" (http://www.allthatineed.net), released in theaters last December and coming to DVD in February, Imperia's film properties include its feature film "Say It In Russian," directed by Jeff Celentano ("Primary Suspect," "Gunshy") and edited by David Rawlins ("Saturday Night Fever"), "Brothers," by Tarquin Gotch ("Home Alone"), "Whiskers," by Jordan Klein ("Flipper," "Splash," "Cocoon"), the award-winning "Autograph" television series (http://www.autograph.tv), which airs on the Colours Television Network and the "Faces and Names" television series.

GRAND PRIX 40th Anniversary Two-Disc Special Edition'' Debuts on DVD July 11 from Warner Home Video

One of the greatest racing spectacles ever to reach the motion picture screen starring James Garner will debut on DVD July 11 -- "Grand Prix: 40th Anniversary Two-Disc Special Edition" from Warner Home Video. John Frankenheimer ("The Manchurian Candidate," "Birdman of Alcatraz," "Ronin") directs a superb international cast in this epic saga of four Formula 1 race car drivers gunning for glory on tracks around the world. Filled with high-octane excitement and authenticity, the film won three Academy Awards(R) -- for Editing, Sound and Sound Effects. The Special Edition boasts four never-before-seen featurettes, the archival documentary "Grand Prix: Challenge of the Champions" (taking viewers behind-the-scenes of '60s racing), a new digital transfer from restored 65mm elements and a remastered Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack. "Grand Prix: 40th Anniversary Two-Disc Special Edition" will sell for $20.97 SRP.

Heading the all-star cast are James Garner ("Move Over," "Darling," "The Notebook"), Eva Marie Saint ("North by Northwest," "On the Waterfront"), Yves Montand ("Let's Make Love," "On a Clear Day You Can See Forever"), Toshiro Mifune ("Seven Samurai," "Throne of Blood"), Brian Bedford ("Nixon"), Jessica Walter ("Play Misty for Me," TV's "Arrested Development"), Antonio Sabato ("Desert Warrior"), Francoise Hardy ("Masculine-Feminine"), Claude Dauphin ("Barbarella") and Genevieve Page ("Belle de Jour").

"Grand Prix" was shot in stunning locations throughout France, Italy, Monaco, England and Belgium at a series of races, winding up at the British Grand Prix, where glory awaits one champion and tragedy another. The film also offers a rare glimpse inside the Ferrari factory in Maranello, Italy.

The split-screen images in "Grand Prix" capture the overlapping drama involved in racing and you-are-there POV camerawork intensifies the hard-driving thrills. Nearly 30 top drivers of the day took part in the excitement.

Crown Media Holdings to Continue to Operate Channels; Solid Fundamentals Provide Positive Long-Term Outlook

Crown Media Holdings, Inc. owner and operator of Hallmark Channel, today announced that after extensive review of strategic alternatives including a possible sale of the Company, the Board of Directors has decided to terminate this process and fully commit the Company's resources to continuing to operate its channels and its VOD and HD programming services.

"We worked diligently with the Special Committee and our financial advisors to evaluate various strategic initiatives" stated David Evans, President and CEO. "Ultimately the Board determined that the greatest value for our shareholders will be derived by our continued operation of our business. Given the record ratings results, subscriber growth, and solid advertising and subscriber fee revenue increases we have been able to achieve, we believe that the underlying business fundamentals are in place to enhance the value of Crown Media by building a more successful business. Our results in the first quarter continue to reflect the success of our programming strategy and subscriber expansion as we solidify our appeal to viewers and advertisers on a broad national level."

"Our management team is prepared to meet the challenges ahead with the talent and experience that have made us a top ten cable channel with over 72 million subscribers. We intend to implement cost saving strategies and emphasize programming and marketing promotions to continue our efforts to target a younger audience. We have initiated discussions with our distributor partners in order to renew our licenses and intend to aggressively pursue those renewals on favorable terms. We will continue to pursue opportunities to improve our capital structure. We are extremely pleased to have the support of our partners as we work together to operate the business on a long-term basis."

Hallmark Cards, Inc., which owns 67% of Crown Media, has indicated its continuing support of the channel by agreeing to extend its trademark license agreement with Crown Media. "We are proud to be associated with a channel with such strong ratings and advertiser support." said Don Hall, Jr., President and CEO of Hallmark Cards, Inc. "Our relationship with Crown Media has been mutually beneficial. Crown Media has been able to leverage the consumer recognition and strength of the Hallmark brand and together we have collaborated on successful co-marketing programs between Hallmark Channel and the more than 4,000 Hallmark Gold Crown stores."

The Company announced in August 2005 that its Board of Directors had authorized management to explore strategic alternatives for the Company. After pursuing a number of alternatives and meeting with interested parties, the Company and the Special Committee of the Board has determined that the best course of action at this time is to continue to operate the business. The Company will continue to explore ways in which it can improve its capital structure.

About Crown Media Holdings

Crown Media Holdings, Inc. owns and operates cable television channels dedicated to high quality, broad appeal, entertainment programming. The Company currently operates and distributes the Hallmark Channel in the U.S. to over 72 million subscribers. The program service is distributed in over 5,300 cable systems and communities as well as direct-to-home satellite services across the country. In 2005, Crown launched its second 24-hour linear channel, Hallmark Movie Channel. Through its subsidiary, Crown Media Distribution, LLC, Crown also distributes titles in the U.S. from its award-winning collection of movies, mini-series and films for exhibition in a variety of television media including broadcast, cable, video-on-demand and high definition television. Significant investors in Crown Media Holdings include: Hallmark Entertainment Holdings, Inc., a subsidiary of Hallmark Cards, Incorporated, Liberty Media Corp., and J.P. Morgan Partners (BHCA), LP, each through their investments in Hallmark Entertainment Investments Co.; VISN Management Corp., a for-profit subsidiary of the National Interfaith Cable Coalition; and The DIRECTV Group, Inc.

Grande Vitesse Systems Unveils the GVS9000 4NXU With 10 Hr. of Uncompressed HD Virtual Tape Recording

With the ability to simultaneously write, edit, and share 16 uncompressed SD or HD data with fiber for SAN or gigabit over NAS networks in a live environment the GVS9000 4NXU will revolutionize the live/broadcast/entertainment/feature film production workflow.

With GVS 9000 4NXU you can capture and edit uncompressed data in real time and then view the HD uncompressed content as it is getting recorded to the hard drive. During the recording process, the data can also be edited, or additional storage added without any interruptions. The quality of the end result is not sacrificed either. The resolution of the recorded material is much better and crisper at 1080i/p 4:4:4 HD-SDI or Analog. And the data is QuickTime native, so there is no need for conversion.

The 4NXU’s rugged, rack-mounted casing allows for ease of transport and mobility without damage. All of the 4NXU VTRs operate independently, offering redundancy without affecting the original data; making it the ideal unit for working storage, transport and archival.

GVS9000 4NXU’s has 16xremovable drive modules per unit, allowing the user to easily expand recording time and with it’s unique tape-less feature there is no need to convert tapes to digital; multiple camera events can be edited on the spot making the production process much faster.

The 4NXU is compatible with a large number of 3^rd party tools. After the content is read and edited, it can be easily removed to other systems over the local network or by removable drives to any location or it can be synced to play. Multiple 4NXU VTRs can be synced to play the same or different content to projectors or live play to air. Whether your environment is FinalCut, Avid, or Pinnacle, the 4NXU gives you a single, flexible platform for content production and post production.

DISH Network Customers Eligible to Receive a $25 Visa(R) Prepaid Card With New Starz Movie Pack Subscription

Starz InBlack's Doug Williams to Host Free Preview Weekend

Starz Entertainment Group LLC (SEG) and EchoStar Communications Corporation's satellite TV service and its DISH Network(TM) are offering an exclusive free preview weekend to DISH Network customers from 6:00 a.m. ET on Friday, April 28 to midnight ET Monday, May 1. DISH Network customers who subscribe to the Starz Movie Pack during the weekend are eligible to receive a $25 prepaid Visa(R) card.

Doug Williams, host of Starz InBlack's original comedy series "The 1st Amendment Stand-up," will host the free preview weekend. The free preview weekend on DISH Network will highlight eight channels in the Starz Movie Pack including Starz East, Starz Cinema East, Starz Cinema West, Starz InBlack, Starz Edge, Starz Kids & Family and Encore East.

Hollywood blockbuster hits exclusive to the Starz Movie Pack airing during the free preview weekend include "Stealth," "A Lot Like Love," "Christmas with the Kranks," "Herbie: Fully Loaded," "Hitch," "Sin City," "XXX: State of the Union," "Are We There Yet?," "National Treasure," "Finding Neverland," "Blade: Trinity and Ladder 49."

"We are delighted to offer our customers a Starz free preview weekend," said Jody Martin, senior vice president of marketing at DISH Network. "Starz consistently delivers great movies, and we are happy to give DISH Network customers this opportunity to enjoy their favorite hit films with the added bonus of a $25 prepaid Visa(R) card to new Starz Movie Pack subscribers."

DISH Network customers who sign up for the Starz Movie Pack from Saturday, April 15 through Friday, June 30 are eligible to receive a $25 prepaid Visa(R) card (requires minimum three month Starz Movie Pack paid subscription with DISH Network). For instructions on how to receive the $25 prepaid Visa(R) card and terms and conditions of the reward card offer visit www.dishnetwork.com/smp25.

"The free preview weekend is consistent with our goal of adding value to DISH Network households," added Eric Neal, director of affiliate marketing at SEG. "We provide an unparalleled library of movies, and each channel delivers something new and unique for all movie lovers."

About EchoStar Communications Corporation

EchoStar Communications Corporation serves more than 12 million satellite TV customers through its DISH Network(TM), the fastest growing U.S. provider of advanced digital television services in the last five years. DISH Network offers hundreds of video and audio channels, Interactive TV, HDTV, sports and international programming, together with professional installation and 24-hour customer service.

About Starz Entertainment Group

Starz Entertainment Group LLC (SEG) is a premium movie service provider operating in the United States. SEG offers 16 movie channels including the flagship Starz(R) and Encore(R) brands with approximately 14 million and 26 million subscribers respectively. Starz Entertainment Group airs more than 1,000 movies per month across its pay TV channels and offers advanced services including Starz HDTV, Starz On Demand and Vongo(SM). Starz Entertainment Group is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Liberty Media

Source: Starz Entertainment Group LLC

Web site: http://www.starz.com/
http://www.dishnetwork.com/smp25

The first HD DVD titles are slated to go on sale today.

Contrary to speculation, Toshiba players have, in fact, arrived at Best Buy and should be on sale today in at least some of the chain’s locations.

Sources said players were shipped out beginning Sunday and are scheduled to go on sale at all Best Buy stores and select Sears, Wal-Mart, Costco and Tweeters locations by the end of this week. Software also will be available at those retailers.

Meanwhile, Universal Studios Home Entertainment is rushing Serenity to stores so it will join the two Warner Home Video titles slated to be available for sale today, The Last Samurai and Phantom of the Opera.

Warner’s Million Dollar Baby was supposed to be available today as well, but has been postponed.

Other Universal titles in the HD DVD pipeline include Apollo 13 and Doom on April 25, followed by Jarhead, Cinderella Man and Assault on Precinct 13 on May 9, and The Chronicles of Riddick, The Bourne Supremacy, Van Helsing and U-571 on May 23.

Studios are shipping fewer than 10,000 copies of each title, in accordance with Toshiba’s initial shipment of 10,000 players.

NewTek, Inc.,

manufacturer of industry-leading video and 3D animation products, announced today that it will give away a free TriCaster(TM) to one lucky NAB 2006 attendee. Anyone who visits NAB Booth SL526 and watches a TriCaster demo will be entered in the drawing, worth $4,995 US. The drawing will be held Thursday April 27, 2006 at 12p.m. PST, at the NewTek Booth, winners need not be present to win.

NewTek’s award-winning TriCaster is enhancing production and distribution capabilities for corporate presenters, educators, local access, and media ministries. This turnkey, portable, live production system combines live cameras, PowerPoint®, produced video and titles with an easy-to-use interface. Seamless presentations are now in your reach with simultaneous output to live web stream, video and projector.

TriCaster has won more industry awards in its first year than any product in NewTek history,” said Philip Nelson, NewTek Vice-President of Sales and Video Marketing. “TriCaster’s ability to simultaneously live switch, web stream and display to a projector has taken the industry by storm Delivering it all in such a small form factor at such an affordable price is icing on the cake.”

Pricing and Availability

TriCaster is available now starting at $4,995 US. For more information or to purchase, call NewTek Sales at 800-368-5441or visit http://www.newtek.com

About NewTek

With headquarters in San Antonio, Texas, NewTek is a leading provider of full-featured video editing, live production, presentation and visual effects tools including TriCaster(TM), VT[5](TM), SpeedEDIT(TM), 3D Arsenal and LightWave 3D®.
Website: http://www.newtek.com/

LightWave and LightWave 3D are registered trademarks of NewTek..

TriCaster, SpeedEDIT, iVGA, TriCaster VM and 3D Arsenal are trademarks of NewTek, Inc.

All other products or brand names mentioned are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

DreamVision President/CEO Brings Critical Hope to Russian Orphans in Dire Need;

Film Producer/Composer Dedicates His Life to Save the Lives of Countless Children

During the past weeks, news has continued to spread throughout Russia of the story of American producer/composer Rick Silanskas and the vision that led him to find a specific little girl he saw in a dream who became his daughter. The miraculous journey and discovery of "Nadia" has literally become a beacon of hope for every orphaned child throughout the entire Russian Federation. Rick dedicated the remainder of his life and resources to reach each of the nearly one million orphaned babies and children in dire need without any conditions or agendas. His efforts in critical regions of Russia have now affected countless children in orphanages, baby homes, institutions and hospitals suffering without running water, heat and sanitation with unprecedented results as he personally travels from village to village seeking permanent help for each of the children, their caregivers and families. Rick's determination has now become one of the most serious and critical efforts ever focused upon the lives of these children without exception through his "Project Anna Foundation", a non-profit strategic arm specifically created to reach the children of Russia.

The story of the miracle that began in 2002 has recently been documented in the acclaimed book "Unshakable" written by renowned author Paula Felps. In addition, the award winning television documentary "Nadia's Story," directed by Jimmy Huckaby which documents the events that led to the discovery of this child, is now being seen around the world.

The most urgent and critical strategic efforts begun by Rick Silanskas are now being prepared as a direct message of hope for every orphaned and homeless child in Russia. "The Symphony of Hope," a major world wide musical television special will premiere as one of the most important international cultural celebrations in recent history. The premiere will emanate from the United States and will feature an original musical suite composed by Rick Silanskas along with numerous musical performances by world renowned artists and special guests. This "international embrace" will also trace the journey that began in December 2002 and now has become one of the most important humanitarian efforts ever created for the children of Russia.

Production will soon commence on two major motion pictures that will chronicle the dramatic journey Rick embarked upon beginning in December 2002. The live action drama, "Unshakable" will be based upon the novel of the same name and when complete will feature a multi-nation "World Premiere." The story will also be told as a full length animated musical motion picture entitled "Anna" featuring some of the newest creative 3D technology available in the industry. Profits from these productions will directly affect the lives of the children Rick has dedicated his life to reach without exception.

In a recent interview, Rick Silanskas said, "These children have been entrusted to me through the miracle that changed my life forever. And with everything I have and the talents I have been given, I will not stop until every single orphaned child in the entire Russian Federation is touched by hope and everything they need unconditionally. We are one family in this world and their lives are all that matter. Time is not an option for these precious children and I cannot allow any delays to affect the completion of this work that will touch their lives for years to come."

The premiere of the world event "Symphony of Hope" will be announced soon. The production will be released domestically and internationally through DreamVision Motion Pictures and Television (352) 241-6031. The book "Unshakable" is available world wide and can be previewed at http://www.projectanna.org.

Airecable of Nuevo Laredo, Mexico Moves Ahead of Local Satellite and Cable Providers

Offers MMDS for Digital TV Market Equipped with Conax CAS7 Conditional Access Technology Airecable of Neuvo Laredo, Mexico launched its digital MMDS (Multipoint Microwave Distribution System) operation with the content protection solution from Conax AS, one of the world’s leading suppliers of conditional access technology for digital television operators. MMDS technology, sometimes referred to as ‘wireless cable”, is a type of television distribution system, like a cable head-end, that offers its subscribers a mix of digital channels from a variety of sources. The channels are then distributed to the MMDS operator’s customers by transmitting the programming over MMDS frequencies (2.5 to 2.7 GHz range) along with MDS, OFS, and ITFS frequencies, if they are available. Wireless cable uses Super High Frequency ("SHF") channels to transmit satellite cable programming over-the-air instead of through overhead or underground wires. The Airecable installation in Mexico represents a new benchmark for MMDS systems in North America and around the world.

“Conax’s proven technology enables us to deliver new digital content over our MMDS broadcasting system. We currently offer 90 channels of local, children’s, music, cultural, films, variety, sports, and digital radio programming with more to come,” commented Ruben Bazan Jr., President Airecable. “We expect to grow our digital customer base to well above 100,000. Conax CAS7 gives us a strong competitive advantage over competing systems in our market with room to expand our very popular local programming, which is unique to Airecable. We plan to build in new Conax modules to offer our subscribers more services and flexible ordering options, as we move forward.”

“Digital customers of Airecable will receive new set top boxes with Conax Smart Cards. This will put Airecable ahead of their competition for the next five-to-ten years. Conax CAS7 with EPG (Electronic Program Guide) will be delivered as a part of a turn-key solution for Airecable,” said Jorgen K H Bertheau, President of Conax USA, Inc.. “The Conax CAS7 conditional access solution we have provided is easy to scale as Airecable’s subscriber base rapidly grows. Conax looks forward to serving them and all their subscribers in the coming years.”

Conax will be exhibiting for the fourth time at the National Association of Broadcasters Show in Las Vegas this April

About Airecable, S. A. de C. V.

Airecable is an MMDS (Multipoint Microwave Distribution System) ‘wireless cable’ provider based in Neuvo Laredo, Mexico. Founded in 1998, Airecable serves more than 40.000 viewers and offers 63 top-rated channels of high-quality digital television programming and 18 audio channels for children, adolescents and adults, including sports, films, cartoons, the news, series, musical comedies, etc. It offers a secure and efficient method for ordering pay-per-view and premium events with parental controls. Premium channels include 2 HBO, HBO EXTRA, Movie City, Cinecanal and Play Boy Channel/Venus. It is the first of its kind in all the Mexican Republic. Airecable of Neuvo Laredo, Mexico is an MMDS broadcaster.

www.airecable.com

About Conax AS

Conax is a leading supplier of state-of-the-art conditional access and payment solutions for digital TV, offering complete CA solutions for two-way broadband, multicast in broadband networks, and broadcast via satellite, terrestrial, wireless or mobile TV. As a pioneer in the field of conditional access, Conax is a globally-oriented player, with a solid base of clients in 60 countries. Its headquarters is in Oslo, Norway. Conax has subsidiaries in USA and India and sales & support offices in Canada, Singapore, China, South Korea, Brazil and Germany. Conax is ISO 9001 and BS7799 certified.

www.conax.com

Grande Vitesse Systems Unveils the GVS9000 4NXU With 10 Hr. of Uncompressed HD Virtual Tape Recording

The USA TODAY Hollywood Hero Award Honors

a Los Angeles Area Entertainment Personality Who Has Made Remarkable Contributions of Time and Energy to Help Those Less Fortunate

Actress, Dancer and Choreographer Zina Bethune Will Be Honored As the Award's First Recipient Actress, dancer, choreographer Zina Bethune will be honored May 17 as the first recipient of The USA TODAY Hollywood Hero Award. The award recognizes her outstanding contributions to the community through Infinite Dreams, a program of the multimedia Bethune Theatredanse company.

Bethune and Infinite Dreams will be feted at an award gala on the evening of May 17 at The Beverly Hilton hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif. Grammy(R)- nominated and Jazzweek Vocalist of the Year, The Tierney Sutton Band, will perform at the Gala. Guests include: Martin Landau, Edward James Olmos, Tippi Hedren, Esai Morales, Ray Bradbury, Tara Lipinski, Roscoe Lee Browne, Julie Newmar, Reni Santoni, Stefanie Powers, Veronique Peck, Alison Angrim, Tracy Newman, and James 'Gypsy' Haake.

In an effort to raise funds for the Infinite Dreams program, net proceeds from the event will be donated to Infinite Dreams. Funds will be obtained through ticket sales and silent auction of valuable merchandise.

Infinite Dreams, a dance and drama outreach program, is an acclaimed education and performance program that provides children and teens with disabilities an opportunity to affirm their capabilities by participating in the world of movement and dance. It is the only program of its kind under the auspices of a professional dance company.

"By participating in the arts these student challenge themselves and achieve amazing success," said USA TODAY President and Publisher Craig Moon. "The Infinite Dreams program helps its students develop confidence, which in turn instills in them an affirmation of their own unique capabilities and enriches their quality of life. Zina Bethune and Infinite Dreams embody the spirit of The USA TODAY Hollywood Hero Award."

Infinite Dreams, which launched in 1983, serves more than 1,000 children from the ages of 4 to 16 at nine sites in Southern California. The program has graduated more than 6,200 students.

"The art of dance can really transcend all the physical and stereotypical limitations," said Bethune, artistic director of Bethune Theatredanse and Infinite Dreams. "After all, the spirit isn't disabled. Dance is not how far a child can reach their legs or arms. It is the creation, the sharing, and the partaking that is the beauty. We don't ask, 'How much can you move?' We say, 'Come dance with us.' "

Infinite Dreams has been cited as an exemplary organization by the National Endowment for the Arts and is a recipient of commendations from Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton; L.A. Mayors Tom Bradley, Richard Riordan and James Hahn; and a recipient of the U.N.'s "Medaille d'Excellence."

In what will become a USA TODAY signature event, the USA TODAY Hollywood Hero Award will be presented annually to an entertainment personality who has made remarkable contributions of time and energies with a non-profit organization, and has truly enriched the quality of life of others. The USA TODAY Hollywood Hero Award recipient will be unique in that his or her efforts extend far beyond a charitable contribution or simply lending one's celebrity to enhance a cause or concern.

About Zina Bethune

Best known for her starring roles on the ABC prime time series "The Nurses" and the CBS daytime drama "Love of Life," Ms. Bethune has also guest- starred on a variety of series, from classics such as "Gunsmoke" and "Route 66" to "Police Story" and "Party of Five," and in feature films including "The Boost" and Martin Scorcese's "Who's That Knocking At My Door?" In addition to her acting career, she has also been heralded as a prima ballerina with such companies as the New York City Ballet and San Francisco Ballet. She also starred in Tommy Tune's musical of "Grand Hotel" on Broadway.

Bethune's extensive list of credits has been accomplished while faced with serious physical disabilities including dysplastic hips, scoliosis and lymphoedema. Overcoming these physical challenges required nine surgeries, some of which were experimental in nature. Ms. Bethune used her earlier dance training with George Balanchine to not only teach herself how to walk again but also to dance, going on to perform as prima ballerina with the Royal Danish Ballet.

In recent years, Bethune has dedicated her energies and resources to the establishment of Infinite Dreams, her education and performance outreach program that brings the performing arts to children and teens who suffer with disabilities. Her development of a complete methodology for Infinite Dreams empowers its young students to believe their spirit is not disabled and that art can transcend limitations.

About Infinite Dreams

Infinite Dreams, Bethune Theatredanse's dance and drama outreach program, is an acclaimed education and performance program providing disabled children an opportunity to affirm their capabilities by participating in the world of movement and dance.

Bethune Theatredanse-Infinite Dreams has been named an Exemplary Site in the United States by the National Endowment for the Arts. Bethune Theatredanse-Infinite Dreams has received commendations from Presidents Clinton, Bush and Reagan and Senator Dianne Feinstein. The company has also been the recipient of numerous Community Service Awards and Citations from L.A. Mayors Richard Riordan and Tom Bradley, the Governor's committee for Employment of the Disabled, The Media Access Awards, the Pasadena Mayor's Committee, the CeCe Robinson Award, and radio's Citizen of the Week. The children of Infinite Dreams have participated in programs at numerous Special Arts Festivals, Permanent Charities, Telethons and Council for Exceptional

Children galas.

Artistic Director Zina Bethune and Infinite Dreams have performed at the White House and the Kennedy Center, which was subsequently televised on the NBC special, "From the Heart." They have performed at the Disneyland Space Theatre, the Young Audiences Concert Series and with Bethune Theatredanse on regional and national television programs including Romper Room, ABC's POV, CBS's Outreach spots, NBC's Kudos, KJH's New Faces, New Beginnings KTLA's Hour Magazine, ABC's Mike & Maty, the Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy, Children's Variety Club Telethons and were the feature story for KCET's "California Stories."

Infinite Dreams and Zina Bethune were also the subjects of ABC's "Heroes - - Made in the U.S.A." as well as the subject of the PBS documentary, "Heart Dancing."

Funded through private, tax deductible contributions to meet matching grants, and proceeds from the Bethune Theatredanse performances, Infinite Dreams has continuously been the recipient of the California Arts Council's highest award each year in the Artists in Social Institutions category. It has also received funding from the National Endowment for the Arts. All publicity and promotion efforts, advertising and administration responsibilities and costs are generously donated by corporations and individuals throughout the Los Angeles area who have long supported in this unique program.

About USA TODAY

USA TODAY is the nation's top-selling newspaper. It is published via satellite at 36 locations in the USA and four sites abroad. With a total average daily circulation of 2.3 million, USA TODAY is available worldwide. USA TODAY is published by Gannett Co., Inc. . Included in the USA TODAY brand are USATODAY.com, an award-winning news and information site on the Internet; USA TODAY Sports Weekly, a weekly magazine for baseball, professional football and NASCAR enthusiasts; and USA TODAY LIVE, the television arm of the USA TODAY brand that brings the spirit and quality of the newspaper to television.

Source: USA TODAY

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

SPORTS & AUTOS
Oakland & Dodger Baseball
Detroit 3, Oakland 4 at McAfee Coliseum
Detroit Record: (7-7)
Oakland Record: (7-7)

Winning pitcher - Justin Duchscherer (1-0)
Losing pitcher - Justin Verlander (1-2)
SV - Huston Street
at McAfee Coliseum (7-7) (7-7) - Justin Duchscherer (1-0) - Justin Verlander (1-2) - Huston Street DET HR - None
OAK HR - N. Swisher 2 (6)
None N. Swisher 2 (6) Chi. Cubs 1, Los Angeles 2 at Dodger Stadium
Chi. Cubs Record: (8-5)
Los Angeles Record: (7-8)

Winning pitcher - Takashi Saito (1-0)
Losing pitcher - Will Ohman (1-1)
at Dodger Stadium (8-5) (7-8) - Takashi Saito (1-0) - Will Ohman (1-1)

First Look: All-new Audi TT, Jeep 4-door Wrangler, Jeep Patriot, Scion Fuse, Maserati GT Coupe; Wrap-up of NY Auto Show; First Drive in the All-new Audi Q7 - and Then Find Out Why GM Buys More Viagra Than Anyone Else - This Week, on TheCarConnection.com

TheCarConnection.com lifts the covers on an assortment of hot new products in this week's issue. Get a close-up look at the next-generation Audi TT, climb into the backside of Jeep's new 4-door Wrangler, preview Jeep's mini-ute, the new Patriot, and see whether Scion set sparks flying with its new Fuse Coupe concept.

Then check out the changes on Maserati as TheCarConnection's spy photographers capture the all-new GT Coupe.

If that's not enough, TheCarConnection.com (http://www.thecarconnection.com/ ) has the Internet's most complete coverage of the New York Auto Show. Check out the details on nearly two dozen new cars, trucks and crossovers, including Lexus' "ultimate flagship," the LS600h hybrid, the all-new Infiniti G35 and Nissan Altima, Scion's slick Fuse concept, and Ford's rent-a-muscle-car, the Mustang Shelby Hertz GT-H.

In this week's reviews, TheCarConnection goes for a spin in Audi's first crossover/ute, the new Q7; then test drive Ford's latest incarnation of its pickup/SUV, the Explorer Sport Trac.

Join TheCarConnection.com for a Great Drive down Germany's Autobahn into the scenic Harz Mountains.

And see why award-winning columnist -- and mechanic -- Doug Flint says America is getting overflushed.

In business news, see why former DaimlerChrysler CEO Juergen Schrempp was driven from the stage by a chorus of boos. And learn why the automaker is taking its Jeep brand global.

In TheCarConnection's blog, find out why General Motors is buying more Viagra than anyone else.

Then ride down Memory Lane in a classic Dodge Challenger, complete with shaker scoops and an original Hemi.

Let TheCarConnection's OnSite Mechanic help you solve all your automotive service problems.

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

XM Satellite Radio's Hot Import Nights Takes the Runway In Boston

Nation's Hottest Custom Cars, Celebrity Rides from the Boston Celtics and Top New York Fashion Come Together for a Night of Runway Style, Entertainment and Competition

Boston welcomes back XM Satellite Radio's Hot Import Nights (HIN) at the Bayside Expo Center on April 29, 5 p.m. to midnight. HIN, the nation's largest lifestyle custom car show, will feature not only some of the nation's hottest cars from Valvoline's Super Street Cars on Tour, but will also host the largest and most prestigious fashion show HIN has experienced yet, featuring top names from the model, photography and makeup world.

In the spirit of high end fashion, the show will also feature a special VIP Auto Fashion element of the ultimate dream cars, concept vehicles, celebrity rides and industry exhibits. Show attendees will get to experience one-of-a-kind cars like Ferraris, Porsches, Lamborghinis, Mercedes, BMWs, Cadillacs and more.

HIN presents "The Spring" fashion show produced by NYC runway model, Polina. Show attendees get to experience an exclusive fashion show, as runway fashion models strut their stuff wearing the hottest spring trends. Models will be flying in from all over the U.S. to partake in this high end fashion event.

The unprecedented fashion show will feature Boston's famed photographer and makeup artist, Andrew Swaine and Danielle Federico of Face Designs. Andrew's work has been included in Rolling Stone, Time and Black Enterprise, while Danielle has worked on TLC's "A Makeover Story", NBC's "New Morning Show" and in a variety of music videos and independent films. Models from FHM, Maxim and the Versace and Vera Wang runways will hit the HIN runway wearing designs from some of Boston's hottest designers, including Maria Santana, Lauren Ratta and Olga Kinnard. Santana will present her latest collection straight from the runways of New York, while Ratta will showcase her designs from high-end Boston favorite, Stil Inc. and Kinnard will be supplying Haute Couture.

Returning sponsor Valvoline will present Super Street Cars on Tour with the one-of-a-kind Charge Speed STI straight from Japan, the newly designed, wide-body Tein Civic SI, the full carbon fiber chassis CWest S2000 and the chameleon color-changing HKS-powered IS300. Show visitors can get up-close and personal with the hottest, trendiest cars in the customized world, straight from the pages of the top tuner magazines. In addition, motocross champion Travis Pastrana will feature his Subaru rally car, and Boston Celtics players Paul Pierce, Al Jefferson, Tony Allen, Kendric Perkins and Ryan Green will all display their celebrity rides.

On the XM Satellite Radio Stage, local club DJs and b-boy groups will compete for top accolades. On the Mazda stage, HIN's Glo-Go dancers will show off their go-go skills against Boston's best dancers in the new Rockstar Energy Drink National Glo-Go Dancer Competition, a city-to-city dance rivalry.

Additionally, the search for Miss HIN Boston will take place on the mainstage. Ursula Mayes, Miss HIN 2005, will host this competition to find the next contender in the search for Miss HIN 2007. Ursula can be seen elsewhere this year as one of Maxim's "Sexiest 100" and on the new NBC program, "Deal or No Deal." Miss HIN 2006, Amber Lancaster, a former Seattle Seahawk's Sea Gal, Miss Hawaiian Tropics and last year's Miss Makita, will sign autographs with other top-name models in the M Lounge. The Bombshell Models will also attend the Boston show to challenge anyone willing to take them on at the poker tables for BombSearch, the poker-playing competition that will test the card skills of local ladies across the nation in the search for the next Bombshell Model.

XM Satellite Radio's Hot Import Nights is presented by returning sponsor Valvoline, in addition to returning sponsors Dunlop Tires; Meguiar's; Mazda; Circuit City; Chevrolet; Subaru; NGK Sparkplugs; BombshellPoker.com; and media sponsors Modified Magazine; Modified Luxury & Exotics, Super Street; Import Tuner; Sport Compact Car; Rides; MPH; Performance Auto & Sound Magazine; Road and Track; C-16; XXL; KING; and Car and Driver magazine. New 2006 sponsors include Rockstar Energy Drink; Shell V-Power; Atomic Loud Speakers; and the National Guard. More information on HIN can be found at http://www.hotimportnights.com.

About Action Media and Vision Entertainment

Action Media, parent company of Vision Entertainment, is the leading media and event company targeting the Gen X-Y audience, integrating lifestyle events including cars, music, video games and fashion. Producing more than 20 annual events in the top North American markets, Action Media and Vision Entertainment are now one of the leading communities for every positive aspect of youth culture. The current portfolio of Vision Entertainment events includes Hot Import Nights, VIP Auto Fashion Show, Nightshift, the RC Expo (RCX), Fresh Tracks Snow and Skate Expo and Holiday Havoc. Action Media's online assets now include Online Showoff and Model Showoff as well as a partnership with IGN.com. -0-

2006 Hot Import Nights/Night Shift and VIP Schedule

HIN Washington DC Dulles Expo Center April 22

HIN Boston Bayside Expo Center April 29

HIN Charlotte Merchandise Mart May 13

HIN Atlantic City AC Convention Center May 20

HIN Indianapolis Indy Convention Center June 17

HIN Orlando OC Convention Center July 8

NS New York Shea Stadium July 15

NS Chicago Soldier Field July 29

HIN Los Angeles Los Angeles Convention Center August 19

NS Las Vegas Sam Boyd Stadium Sept 9

NS San Francisco SBC Park Sept 23

HIN Seattle Qwest Field Sept 30

HIN Dallas Dallas Convention Center October 7

NS Phoenix Firebird Intl. Raceway October 14

VIP Los Angeles LA Convention Center Nov 18

HIN Honolulu Blaisdell Convention Center Dec 2

HIN Miami Miami Beach Convention Center Dec 16

Golf Research in Play Launches a Revolution in Golf Equipment

New Golf Equipment Manufacturer and Online Retailer Introduces Its Premium- Quality, Highly Affordable G.R.I.P. Hyper Steel Hybrids, G.R.I.P. CNC Milled Wedges and G.R.I.P. Sweetness Putter

A revolution in golf equipment has begun with the launch of Golf Research In Play (G.R.I.P.), a golf equipment manufacturer and an online retailer dedicated to developing and offering the finest quality golf clubs -- golf clubs that make the game easier to play, more fun, and more affordable for the recreational golfer. Available through http://www.gogrip.com/, G.R.I.P.'s new, innovative golf club offerings include its G.R.I.P. Hyper Steel Hybrids, G.R.I.P. CNC Milled Wedges and the G.R.I.P. Sweetness(TM) Putter.

As a result of extensive research, G.R.I.P. was established to meet the needs of the "middle market" recreational golfers. These golfers desire technologically advanced, well-constructed golf clubs that add to the enjoyment of the game, while not being too expensive. They want to play better golf and increase their enjoyment on the golf course as a result of their club purchases.

"Through G.R.I.P.'s extensive research, we discovered an entire market of recreational golfers who share a passion for golf and are highly interested in new, affordable golf clubs that feature the latest designs and technology, but do not want to break the bank with their club purchases. Until now, this 'middle market' of golfers had been forgotten," said Michael Blair, director of golf club development, G.R.I.P. "In response to their needs, we have developed 100 percent original golf clubs made from superior materials that are a fraction of the price of the current major golf brands."

G.R.I.P.'s new offerings include:

G.R.I.P. Hyper Steel Hybrids

The G.R.I.P. Hyper Steel Hybrids offer recreational golfers the distance of a fairway wood and the accuracy of an iron. Made from a heat-treated, cast steel, these hybrids are stronger than most golf clubs on the market. Hyper Steel produces a unique solid "ting" sound on contact as the ball explodes off the club face. In addition, these hybrids come pre-assembled with a heavy, six-gram brass screw in the heel and a lighter, three-gram aluminum screw in the toe for fade control and slice reduction.

Featuring the perfect amount of offset to give golfers additional forgiveness and accuracy, the G.R.I.P. Hyper Steel Hybrids are technologically advanced, easy to hit, fun to use and save strokes. Coming in four different lofts, including 2H, 3H, 4H and 5H models, and featuring Uni-flex High Modulus Graphite shafts, the MSRP for the G.R.I.P. Hyper Steel Hybrids is $69.95.

G.R.I.P. CNC Milled Wedges

To be launched in May 2006, G.R.I.P.'s CNC Milled Wedges are cast from 8620 mild carbon steel for a proper spin and an exceptionally soft feel on contact, unlike the craftsmanship behind traditional standard stainless steel wedges. These wedges feature unique milling gradient specifications to provide ideal spin rates and feel around the greens for precision shot-making. As a result of their design, each G.R.I.P. wedge makes it easier to address the ball, line up shots and control ball trajectory. Available in 52 degree Gap Wedge, 56 degree Sand/Fairway Wedge and 60 degree Lob Wedge models, and featuring a classic teardrop wedge shape and True Temper Steel shafts, the MSRP for G.R.I.P. CNC Milled Wedges is $49.95.

G.R.I.P. Sweetness Putter

The G.R.I.P. Sweetness Putter allows golfers to easily line up and aim putts with its eye-catching, oversized, two-bar design. With a center aiming line between its "Dual Tension Rods," golfers can visually align their putts and produce a straight putting stroke.

The front and back of the Sweetness putter utilize reinforced weighting ports for even weight distribution through the putting stroke and perfect balance from set up to follow-through. In addition, Sweetness features a double insert on the face of the club. The face's soft, CNC-milled aluminum center is surrounded by a soft polymer for producing a smooth, true roll. The MSRP for the G.R.I.P. Sweetness Putter is $69.95.

About G.R.I.P.

A revolution in golf equipment has been started by Golf Research In Play. Launched in April 2006, G.R.I.P. is a golf equipment manufacturer and an online retailer dedicated to developing and offering the finest quality golf clubs -- golf clubs that make the game easier to play, more fun, and highly affordable for the recreational golfer. Delivering the best in high-performance golf technology, G.R.I.P. offers a 30-day satisfaction guarantee and a one-year warranty against manufacturers defects for all of its golf clubs. For more information and to order products, visit http://www.gogrip.com/ or call 1-800-881-5774.

Source: Golf Research In Play (G.R.I.P.)

AVP Announces Three-Year Extension With Bud Light

~ AVP Announces a Three-Year Extension With Bud Light, Retaining The World's Best-Selling Light Beer as the Official Beer of the AVP Tour ~

AVP Pro Beach Volleyball Tour, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of AVP, Inc. , a lifestyle sports entertainment company focused on professional beach volleyball announced today a three-year extension of its agreement with Bud Light, making it the 'alcohol and non-alcohol' official malt beverage of the AVP Tour.

Bud Light will continue to be a vital marketing partner of AVP and will serve as the title sponsor for the AVP Bud Light Santa Barbara Open, as well as, the presenting sponsor for the Tempe, Hermosa Beach, Seaside Heights, and Manhattan Beach Open.

Parent company Anheuser-Busch has been a long-time supporter of the AVP Tour, beginning in 2001 with sponsorship by Michelob Light and ultimately Bud Light.

"We are thrilled to extend our successful relationship with Bud Light," said Leonard Armato, CEO and Tour Commissioner. "Bud Light and Anheuser-Busch have been very supportive of the AVP Tour over the last several years, with Bud Light's active and robust marketing campaigns, helping us to reach a larger audience creating even more excitement around our events. We not only appreciate Bud Light's involvement to date, but enthusiastically look forward to continuing our mutually beneficial relationship over the next three years."

"AVP is one of the fastest-growing, contemporary sports in the U.S. that showcases some of the world's best professional volleyball players," said Kathy Casso, Anheuser-Busch's senior director of sports marketing and Bud productions. "Its energetic, fun and outgoing fan base of both male and female beer drinkers is a great fit for Bud Light and we're excited to continue our support in helping the Tour to grow."

About the AVP Pro Beach Volleyball Tour, Inc.

AVP Pro Beach Volleyball Tour, Inc. is a leading lifestyle sports entertainment company focused on the production, marketing and distribution of professional beach volleyball events worldwide. AVP operates the industry's most prominent national touring series, the AVP Pro Beach Volleyball Tour, which was organized in 1983. Featuring more than 150 of the top American men and women competitors in the sport, AVP will stage 16 events throughout the United States in 2006. In 2004, AVP athletes successfully represented the United States during the Olympics in Athens, Greece, winning gold and bronze medals, the first medals won by U.S. women in professional beach volleyball. For more information, please visit www.avp.com.

About Bud Light/Anheuser-Busch

Brewed by Anheuser-Busch, Bud Light is the world's best-selling light beer, and the best selling beer in the United States.

Based in St. Louis, Anheuser-Busch is the leading American brewer, holding nearly 50 percent share of U.S. beer sales. The company brews the world's largest-selling beers, Budweiser and Bud Light. Anheuser-Busch also owns a 50 percent share in Grupo Modelo, Mexico's leading brewer, and a 27 percent share in Tsingtao, the No. 1 brewer in China. Anheuser-Busch ranked No. 1 among beverage companies in FORTUNE Magazine's Most Admired U.S. and Global Companies lists in 2006. Anheuser-Busch is one of the largest theme park operators in the United States, is a major manufacturer of aluminum cans and is America's top recycler of aluminum cans. For more information, visit www.Anheuser-Busch.com.

Source: AVP Pro Beach Volleyball Tour, Inc.

Web site: http://www.anheuser-busch.com/

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

Steps cross America is Joined by Kristi Yamaguchi to Rally, Motivate and Reward All Americans to Walk for Fitness

Relay team of twelve Americans will walk a specially made Sportline(R) pedometer millions of steps across the United States, as a part of Sportline Steps Across America

Sportline, America's #1 brand of pedometers and walking accessories, will kick off the launch of Sportline Steps Across America, an initiative dedicated to spreading the word about the benefits of walking with a pedometer as part of a fit, active lifestyle. For the first time a specially made Sportline Pedometer will be walked across America by a relay team of 12 pre-selected Americans, covering 3,100 miles in 14 weeks.

Kristi Yamaguchi, World Champion Figure Skater and the official spokesperson for Sportline Steps Across America, will be in New York today to send off the Walkers on their trek across the country, which is scheduled to finish in Los Angeles on July 17th, 2006. Yamaguchi, who recently gave birth to her second child, has devoted much of her post-skating career to educating others about the benefits of living a fit, active lifestyle.

"As a wife and mom I continue to live an active lifestyle and I recognize the benefits of keeping a healthy regime including eating right and exercising, even if it's just taking a 30 minute walk with my kids," says Yamaguchi. "I encourage Americans to show their support as the Sportline Steps Across America Walkers come to a town near you. Their inspirational message is important for all Americans: It's easy to step into a more active lifestyle by walking for health, fitness, and fun!" Profiles on all the Walkers can be found at http://www.stepsacross.com/ .

Yamaguchi will host an "Every Day Well-Being" Expo at Chelsea Piers in New York City on April 18, 2006, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. From there, the team of National Walkers will head out of Manhattan on their 3,100 mile journey. The coast-to-coast walk will traverse through dozens of cities in 11 states and the District of Columbia over the course of 14 weeks.

The twelve National Walkers were specially chosen from over 300 people to participate in the program. They hail from Atlanta, Ga., Myrtle Beach, S.C., Coronado, Calif., Los Angeles, Calif., Dallas, Texas, Miami, Fla., Sacramento, Calif., Herndon, Va., Batesville, Ark., Ventura, Calif., and Sedona, Ariz. "It is my desire to spread my love of walking and running with children and adults alike as I take 'Steps Across America,'" said National Walker Illene Stewart of Batesville, Ark. Each of the National Walkers will be carrying their own TracFone prepaid wireless phone to keep in touch with family and friends every step of way.

"The benefits of walking are clear. Research shows that people who wear a pedometer walk nearly 2000 more steps per day than fitness walkers who do not. Sportline Steps Across America is an important initiative; devoted to helping everyday American's become motivated to achieve an overall healthier lifestyle," said Brian Anderson, President of Sportline. "With help from Kristi Yamaguchi and our team of Walkers, who embody the spirit of physical fitness, this program can inspire thousands of people to get out and walk as part of their everyday fitness regime."

The Sportline Steps Across America Walkers will be making stops at Wal-Mart stores across the country and hosting "Every Day Well-Being" Expos where the public can come and learn more about incorporating walking and wellness ideas in their lives. Additionally, in coordination with the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, the Steps Across America President's Challenge will be issued at every Sportline Steps Across America event to motivate and reward all Americans to walk for exercise.

Additionally, the National Walkers will be joined by another work out partner along the route -- a dog, sponsored by Iams(R). Exercising with a pet can provide further inspiration to make a walking regime part of a healthy everyday lifestyle for all Americans.

Sportline(R) is the Title Sponsor of Steps Across America and TracFone Prepaid Wireless is Presenting Sponsor in cooperation with Wal-Mart and in association with: 7-Up(R), Centrum(R), Coppertone(R), IAMS(R), Image Fitness, Jif(R) / Smucker's(R), Kodak, Os-Cal(R), PayDay PRO, Weight Watcher's(R) Smart Ones(R), & Wisk(R). Other sponsors include: Advil(R), Alavert(R), Jennie-O Turkey Store(R), Carnation(R) Instant Breakfast(R) from NESTLE, and Otis Spunkmeyer(R). Sportline Steps Across America is an official sponsor of the President's Council for Physical Fitness and Sports 50th Anniversary.

To keep up with the walking team's historic step-by-step journey, and to register for the Steps Across America President's Challenge, please visit http://www.stepsacross.com/ .

Steps Across America is a registered trademark of CoActive Marketing Group

About Sportline

Sportline has been designing, developing and manufacturing Personal Fitness Monitors for 20 years, distributing them primarily in the sports and active recreational markets as well as through private brand channels. The strength of the Sportline product collection is a result of the company's commitment to design and development focused on quality and innovation. Sportline leads the Fitness Electronics industry across a wide range of product categories from performance pedometers, accelerometers and sport timers to heart rate and hydration monitors. Additionally, the company markets a broad line of fitness walking accessories offering unique storage, safety and reflective solutions. For more information on Sportline, visit us Web site at http://www.sportline.com/ .

About TracFone Wireless, Inc.

TracFone Wireless, based in Miami, Florida, is America's largest prepaid wireless service provider and was the first prepaid wireless MVNO in the U.S. In 1996, the company was the first to introduce a pay-as-you-go wireless service with no contracts, no hidden taxes or fees and no monthly bills. Its prepaid wireless service incorporates a customer-friendly, cost-control feature that displays the exact remaining airtime balance on the phone. TracFone Wireless is a subsidiary of America Movil , Latin America's largest mobile phone provider, with more than 93 million cellular subscribers across the continent. For more information on TracFone Wireless, visit the Web site at

http://www.tracfone.com/ .

About Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

Wal-Mart is committed to helping our customers take care of their health. Every Day Well-Being initiatives highlight health and wellness topics and make them relevant to our customers. Every Day Well-Being is a service mark of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., which operates Wal-Mart Stores, Supercenters, Neighborhood Markets and SAM'S CLUB locations in the United States. The company also operates in Argentina, Brazil, Canada, China, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Germany, Guatemala, Japan, Mexico, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico, South Korea and the United Kingdom. The company's securities are listed on the New York and Pacific stock exchanges under the symbol WMT. More information about Wal-Mart can be found by visiting http://www.walmartfacts.com/ . Online merchandise sales are available at http://www.walmart.com/ .

About Kristi Yamaguchi

Kristi Yamaguchi is an Olympic Gold Medalist; two-time World Champion, U.S. National Champion and a four-time World Professional Champion. A wife and mom, she continues to live an active lifestyle and recognizes the benefits of keeping a healthy regime including eating right and exercising. During Kristi's skating career she was the first U.S. women to compete in both pairs' events and ladies' singles, win pairs titles in 1989 and 1990, plus the first American to win the Olympic Gold Medal since Dorothy Hamill in 1976. Kristi has also won four titles and was honored as 1996 Skater of the Year by American Skating World. She has been named to the U.S. Hall of Fame by the United States Figure Skating Association and to the World Skating Hall of Fame, was and has also been inducted into the USOC Olympic Hall of Fame.

About President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports

Established by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956 as the President's Council on Youth Fitness, the Council was later expanded to include Americans of all ages and abilities. Today, the Council is a federal advisory committee of up to twenty members, who recommend programs and initiatives on physical activity, fitness and sports to the President through the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). President George W. Bush established the HealthierUS initiative in 2002 to stress prevention through healthy lifestyle choices, including daily physical activity, sound nutrition, preventive screenings, and safe behaviors. For information about the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, go to http://www.fitness.gov/ . To start a physical activity and fitness program, log on to http://www.stepsacross.com/ and sign up to take the President's

Source: Sportline

Web site: http://www.sportline.com/
http://www.stepsacross.com/
http://www.tracfone.com/
http://www.walmartfacts.com/
http://www.walmart.com/
http://www.fitness.gov/

Audi Presents Streets of Tomorrow Offers Consumers Upscale, Urban Driving and Lifestyle Experience

High-End Test-Drive Showcases All-New Audi Q7 SUV

Audi of America, Inc. announced today that it will present Streets of Tomorrow -- a unique, upscale lifestyle and driving experience featuring the all-new 2007 Audi Q7 in 10 major U.S. cities this Spring. Each local event, open to all, will be staged at an intriguing urban venue for guests to participate in an array of experiences tailored to their personal interests, such as gourmet cooking demonstrations from top local chefs and lectures on exotic travel destinations. The ride and drive experience will offer guests the opportunity to understand Audi's innovation, technology and design, and put them behind the wheel of the all-new Audi Q7, all-new 2007 RS 4, and the full line of Audi vehicles.

Audi's Streets of Tomorrow will kick-off simultaneously in New York City, at Belmont Park, and in San Diego, at the Four Seasons Aviara resort, April 29-30. The rest of the tour will unfold as follows: Chicago, at The Chicago Illuminating Company, and Los Angeles, at the Pacific Design Center, on May 6- 7; Philadelphia, at Turbine Hall, and San Francisco, at the Computer History Museum, on May 13-14; Atlanta, at Mason Murer Fine Art, and Seattle, at Seattle Center Exhibition Hall, on May 20-21; Miami, at The InterContinental West Miami Hotel, on May 27-28; and Dallas, at Southfork Ranch Event & Conference Center, on June 3-4.

Breaking new ground for its inaugural consumer test-drive event and first sport utility vehicle, Audi has created an engaging experience for each city, with local flavor and personal touches throughout. Many of the events will include demonstrations and interactive sessions conducted by a variety of prestigious partners to educate consumers about lifestyle trends. Guests will work with a concierge to design a personalized program, selecting the interactive sessions they wish to attend before and after their test-drives. Partners include exotic travel company Abercrombie & Kent, Bang & Olufsen premium sound systems, and Ducati superbikes. All venues will also feature a gourmet cafe, live entertainment, representatives for Audi motorsports and product development, digital music download and management demonstrations, and other special interest opportunities.

The driving experience at Audi's Streets of Tomorrow begins with a street drive of the all-new 2007 Audi Q7, the SUV from the creator of quattro(R), under real-life conditions. Coming off the road, guests will enter the Audi Circuit featuring two different courses: the quattro(R) course and the performance course. Audi's full model line and competitor vehicles will be available for testing on the quattro(R) course, which feature elements for acceleration, slalom, and evasive maneuvering. The timed performance course will allow guests to appreciate the all-around handling and performance of the new 2007 Audi RS 4.

"True to Audi's heritage, Streets of Tomorrow is a festival of innovation, technology, design, and performance," said Stephen Berkov, director of marketing for Audi. "It will give consumers an all-encompassing lifestyle and driving experience indicative of Audi, as well as one of the first opportunities to drive the highly anticipated Audi Q7, the all-new high- performance RS 4, along with the full line of Audi vehicles."

Audi's Streets of Tomorrow is open to everyone, but interested participants must register in advance online at http://www.audistreetsoftomorrow.com/ . Drivers must be over the age of 25, with a valid license. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. For additional details about Streets of Tomorrow, please visit http://www.audistreetsoftomorrow.com/ .

The all-new 2007 Audi Q7 is the company's first sport utility vehicle, from the creator of quattro(R). A synthesis of safety, performance, design, and versatility, the Audi Q7 demonstrates just what Audi's advertising campaign highlights: that Big can be Beautiful, Safe can be Exhilarating, Powerful can be Efficient, and Functional can be Elegant. The Audi Q7 is expected to be on sale in mid June 2006. To learn more about the Audi Q7, please visit http://www.audiusa.com/audiq7 .

About Audi

Audi of America is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan, and markets performance-oriented European luxury vehicles: the A3, A4, RS 4, A6, A8, TT and the all-new Audi Q7. For more information about additional Audi-related events and corporate news, visit http://www.audiusa.com/ .

Source: Audi of America, Inc.

Chrysler Group Certified Pre-owned Vehicles (CPOV) Appeal to Budget Conscious Consumers

The purchase of a vehicle is a significant investment on any budget. So, it is important for consumers to find a dependable car at the right price. Certified pre-owned dealerships offer value-added vehicles with features such as enhanced warranties and CARFAX Vehicle History Reports. These factors have increased customer traffic and used-vehicle sales at dealerships in recent months.

Chrysler Group Certified Pre-owned Vehicle (CPOV) sales set an all-time monthly sales record with a 14 percent increase in March, and sales rose 7 percent for the quarter, which was also a record. Industry-wide, pre-owned vehicle sales surpassed 150,000 units in March 2006.

The program appeals to buyers on many levels since these certified used-vehicles withstand a rigorous 125 point inspection to ensure the Chrysler, Jeep (R) or Dodge product is brought up to "new-vehicle" standards. In addition, 43 percent of consumers who buy a CPOV plan to return to the dealership of purchase for routine maintenance, which is nearly twice the non-CPOV buyer average.

What sets a CPOV apart from the rest?

"The right combination of value, price and the high vehicle inspection standards our CPOV dealers adhere to, allows consumers to feel confident in purchasing a Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge CPOV product," said Ray Fisher, Vice President - Sales, Service and Parts Operations, Chrysler Group. "Also, the hard work and effort provided by our Five Star dealers is the main reason for the rise in repeat business and the continued success of the CPOV program."

Chrysler Group offers one of the most comprehensive Certified Pre-owned Vehicle programs in the industry. For a vehicle to be certified under the Chrysler Group's used vehicle program, it must be a 2001 through 2006 model pre-owned vehicle with less than 65,000 miles and pass a stringent 125 point inspection. Chrysler Group's CPO vehicles are backed by an 8-year/80,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, a 3-month or 3,000-mile Maximum Care(TM) warranty, 24-hour, 365-day full roadside assistance and a $35 per day rental car allowance, in addition to a CARFAX Vehicle History Report(TM) and Buyback Guarantee.

Marketed as "Brand Spankin' Used(TM)," Chrysler Group's CPO vehicles are sold only through Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealerships which have earned the automaker's Five Star Certification. Five Star Certification is a comprehensive validation of the dealership's facilities, operational processes, salesperson and technician training accreditation as well as customer satisfaction survey ratings. Approximately 2,400 Chrysler Group dealerships in the U.S. are certified Five Star dealers.

DOD
NBA and Toyota Announce 2006 Finals Trophy Tour to U.S. Military Bases

- Tour to Bring NBA Legends, Interactive NBA Experience, Larry O'Brien Trophy, and Toyota Tundra 'Trophy Mobile' to Five U.S. Military Bases in Conjunction With the USO

- The NBA and Toyota today announced the launch of a 2006 Finals Trophy Tour to five military bases in the heartland of the U.S. The 2006 Finals Trophy Tour was developed by Toyota and the NBA, in conjunction with the USO, to thank the U.S. Armed Forces for their dedication and service.

The NBA and Toyota created a customized tour that will provide an exciting Finals-themed experience to military personnel and their families. During each stop of the 2006 Trophy Tour, the NBA and Toyota will bring a fleet of Finals-themed vehicles including the specially designed Toyota Tundra "Trophy Mobile," the Larry O'Brien Trophy, an interactive NBA-themed activity center, and NBA players or legends.

"The NBA is proud to partner with Toyota and the USO on executing the 2006 Finals Trophy Tour as a way to thank and honor our military personnel and their families for the service they provide to our country," said Heidi Ueberroth, Executive Vice President Global Media Properties and Marketing Partnerships for the NBA. "Toyota and the NBA focus on creating memorable experiences for NBA fans through unique vehicles and basketball interaction, so we are pleased to deliver the NBA experience and the Larry O'Brien Trophy to five military bases."

"Our military men and women face some of life's most difficult situations in service to our country," said Don Esmond, Toyota's Senior Vice President and also a Marine Corps helicopter pilot in Vietnam, where he earned a Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross and Purple Heart. "We appreciate their dedication and commitment, and we're glad we can help bring some fun and excitement to everyone at these five bases through the NBA experience."

"The USO is pleased to support the NBA and Toyota in bringing the 2006 Finals Trophy Tour to military bases in the United States," said John Hanson, USO Senior Vice President for Marketing and Communications. "The NBA has a long history of support for service members, and NBA players and Legends participated on the USO's first tour to Baghdad in 2003. We look forward to a continuing partnership with the NBA."

The 2006 Trophy Tour is among the many ways that Toyota and the NBA have built upon their marketing partnership to find innovative ways to showcase Toyota vehicles and bring the NBA experience to a diverse group of fans and communities. Toyota participates in several marquee NBA events including NBA All-Star, the NBA Playoffs, the NBA Draft, Rhythm 'n Rims, and the acclaimed series "Toyota's Moving Forward Moments" on NBA TV, which has featured NBA stars Amare Stoudemire, Elton Brand, and others.

Military Trophy Tour Dates:

Offutt Air Force Base

Location: Offutt, Nebraska

Date: May 13

Fort Leavenworth

Location: Leavenworth, Kansas (located on KS/MO border)

Date: May 19

Fort Bliss

Location: El Paso, Texas

Date: June 1

Fort Riley

Location: Fort Riley North, Kansas

Date: June 24

Fort Carson

Location: Fort Carson, Colorado

Date: July 3

About Toyota

Toyota established operations in the United States in 1957 and currently operates ten manufacturing plants including one under construction. There are more than 1,400 Toyota, Lexus and Scion dealerships in the U.S. which sell more than 2 million vehicles a year. Toyota directly employs more than 32,000 people in the U.S. and its investment here is currently valued at more than $13 billion, including sales and manufacturing operations, research and development, financial services and design.

About the USO

For more than 65 years, the USO has been providing morale, welfare and recreational services to U.S. military personnel and their families. The USO is a nonprofit, charitable organization, relying on the generosity of the American people to support its programs and services. For more information on the USO, visit www.uso.org.

About the NBA

The NBA, founded in 1946, is a global sports and entertainment brand that features 30 teams in the United States and Canada. During the 2005-06 season, the NBA will distribute 44,000 hours of programming to 215 countries and territories in 43 languages. The league's worldwide reach can also be seen with 82 international players on NBA rosters. Domestically, the NBA will broadcast 142 games on national television this season on ABC, TNT, ESPN and ESPN2, and is on pace to eclipse attendance records for the third consecutive season.

More than 200 licensees manufacture and promote NBA products, which are sold in more than 100,000 retail stores in 100 countries on six continents. Major categories include video games, apparel, sporting goods and trading cards. The NBA also owns and operates the world's only NBA Store in New York City and NBAStore.com. The NBA Store receives over 1,000,000 visitors annually, and features an array of multimedia attractions, including a fully operational broadcast booth and an official half-court used for special events, and regularly-scheduled appearances by NBA and WNBA players, legends and celebrities. NBAStore.com receives over 20,000,000 visitors each year and offers three international stores online in Chinese, Japanese, and Spanish.

As fans witness tremendous performances on the court, some of the NBA's most significant efforts occur off the court. This past year, the league launched its most ambitious community outreach endeavor, NBA Cares. Over a five-year span, players and teams will raise and contribute $100 million for charity, donate more than one million hours of volunteer service to communities worldwide, and build more than 100 educational and athletic facilities where children can learn and play. For more information on the NBA, visit NBA.com.

Source: Toyota

http://www.uso.org/

'Faces of the Fallen' Extended at Women's Memorial Until May 31

"Faces of the Fallen," a compelling exhibit featuring more than 1,300 portraits honoring America's servicemen and women who died fighting the war on terrorism in Afghanistan and Iraq, will stay on display at the Women's Memorial here until May 31, officials said. More than 230,000 visitors were drawn to the memorial since the exhibit opened in March 2005, retired Air Force Brig. Gen. Wilma Vaught, the president of Women in Military Service for America, said. That set a one-year record for the number of people visiting the memorial, she noted, calling the exhibit's impact on the memorial "incredible." "That was a very welcomed thing for all of us, because when people come, they not only see that exhibit, they also see the other exhibits about women in the military," said Vaught, who spearheaded the campaign that raised more than $20 million to build the memorial that opened in 1997. "A few people told me that when they went home they told their friends and relatives that the Women's Memorial was the single most impressive place they visited." The memorial is across the street from Arlington National Cemetery's main gate. She said the Faces of the Fallen exhibit has generated heartwarming and touching letters and notes from visitors.

The most heartwarming letter, she said, came from a lieutenant colonel who met the father of a fallen servicemember in the exhibit. "He told her that it was the first time he had felt that an adequate tribute had been paid to his son for his sacrifice," Vaught said. "It's a tragedy, and you can feel the spirit looking at the portraits," said Annette Polan, founder of Faces of the Fallen. "For each portrait, there's a whole community of lives that will never be the same - spouses, mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers and friends." She said some people leave notes and letters by the portraits that are like conversations: "I saw your mother last week, and we had a cup of tea together." Noting that more than 200 volunteer artists from across the country created the portraits, Polan said the artists worked from sometimes poor quality digitized photographs from the Internet. The artists produced the portraits in an assortment of media: pen-and-ink drawings, watercolors, oils, textiles, relief and collage, and sculpture. Probably the most famous portrait in the heartfelt exhibit is that of Army Cpl. Pat Tillman, 27, who gave up the glamorous life of a professional football star to become an Army Rangers

He was killed in Afghanistan on April 22, 2004. Natasha Mokina painted his portrait. Other heroes include the only Medal of Honor recipient from Operation Iraqi Freedom, Sgt. 1st Class Paul R. Smith, 33, who was killed on April 4, 2003. Artist Kathy Berg Emery painted his portrait. Polan said among the nine portraits she painted is the first serviceman killed in Iraq, Marine Corps Maj. Jay T. Aubin, 36, who died on March 20, 2003. The exhibit opened without having portraits of some fallen servicemen and women. Some portraits are still not available, Polan noted. "We haven't added to the total number since the exhibit opened," she said. Silhouettes are used for missing servicemembers, and the silhouettes are replaced with portraits as they're received. Silhouettes have also been used for eight portraits that families didn't like. "We're going to ask artists in each state where the exhibit travels to paint portraits of all the servicemen and women from their state who have been killed," Polan said. "The portraits would stay on permanent display at the museum in that state." Face of the Fallen was named as one of the top five gallery exhibitions for 2005 by the Washington Post, said Polan, who teaches at Washington's Corcoran Gallery.

She also teaches seminars on the contemporary art scene in New York and Washington. Polan said creating the exhibit was a gut reaction for her. "My mother had died at the age of 81 a few months before I got this idea, and it was a difficult time for me," she explained. "In trying to deal with my own grief, I decided to reach out to others. One way I have of getting through difficult times is working. If you feel like you doing something for somebody else, you will not think about yourself so much. "I wanted to create something permanent that would honor all the men and women who lost their lives and offer some kind of support to their families," she said. "It was a task too big for one person to do, nor should one person do it." The idea to create Faces of the Fallen came to her one morning when she saw four pages of thumbnail photographs of servicemen and women who were killed in Iraq and Afghanistan in the Washington Post. "I intuitively thought this is something I can do to help others and also deal with my own sense of loss through working," she said. "I didn't really know where we'd show the portraits, I just knew I would show them.”

‘I've been incredibly lucky in contacting the right people at the right time to help me do this." Polan said she made it clear to artists she contacted that the exhibit was not a statement for or against the war. "This is a honor, a memorial so these lost lives wouldn't be forgotten,' Polan said she told the artists. John Phelps is a professional artist who painted the portrait of his own fallen son, Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Chance Phelps, who was killed in Iraq at the age of 19. Otherwise, Polan assigned portraits arbitrarily to the various participating artists, in chronological order by date of death. "A lot of the artists have developed relationships with family members of men and women they portrayed," Polan noted. "Artists are an intelligent group of people who often don't have a public voice. This has given them an opportunity to speak up through their artwork."

A Letter to Military Children from the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

I want to take this opportunity to recognize the extraordinary contributions of our Nation's military families, who have faced many challenges - from family separations to frequent moves - with great courage. I would especially like to acknowledge a special source of inspiration: children of military families. You are patient and understanding when duty calls and your Mom or Dad cannot attend a soccer game, music recital, birthday party, or other important family or school activity.

You are heroes in a quiet, thoughtful way, and I am grateful for the unconditional love you give your Mom and Dad. Many of you have experienced the sad and sometimes frightening experience of having your Mom or Dad far from home, serving around the globe in places like Iraq and Afghanistan. Through your personal courage and support, you serve this Nation too - and I am proud of you! Frequent moves are a way of life for the military child. It is never easy to say goodbye to friends and familiar routines, to begin again in a new school, a new neighborhood - and sometimes a new country! But your resilience and self-confidence are strengths that others admire, including your parents. Growing up in a military family offers some challenges, but it also provides some special rewards.

Cheney Thanks Fairchild Airmen for Terror War Support

Vice President Dick Cheney told servicemembers gathered at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash., yesterday they're playing a key role in the global war on terror and that their countrymen believe in them and their mission. The vice president visited the home of the 92nd Air Refueling Wing and told a gathering of about 600 airmen and other servicemembers they're helping prevent the spread of terrorism around the world and protecting the United States. Fairchild's 50 active-duty and eight Air National Guard KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft and their crews support operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom and Noble Eagle and other missions around the world.

These refuelers operate largely behind the scenes, keeping other Air Force aircraft in the air and living up to their motto: "Nobody kicks ass without tanker gas," Air Force Maj. Carol Gering, base public affairs officer, told American Forces Press Service Other major units at Fairchild are the Air National Guard's 141st Air Refueling Wing; the Air Force Survival School; the 36th Rescue Flight; and the Joint Personnel Recovery Agency's Personnel Recovery Academy. Cheney told these airmen, as well as invited Army, Navy and Marine Corps guests, that they're vital to the global war under way. "The war on terror goes on," he said. "Thanks to you, it's a war we're going to win." More than 450 Fairchild airmen are deployed to Southwest Asia in support of the terror war, including refuelers, civil engineers, security forces, and survival experts from the SERE School, Gering said. Cheney told the servicemembers conditions on the ground in Iraq and Afghanistan -- not artificial timetables set by politicians in Washington, D.C. -- will determine when the mission is completed. "The only way to lose this fight is to quit, and that is not an option," he told the group.

Terrorist attacks aren't caused by using strength, but rather, by the appearance of weakness, he said. He vowed that the United States will remain strong and see the war through to victory, drawing applause and hoots from the crowd. "The president and I want you to know how much we appreciate everything you do for the United States," he said. "America believes in you." Gering called the vice president's speech a welcome message for "Team Fairchild." "It's nice to be recognized for the role we play in supporting the mission," she said. "Because they perform a support role, our airmen are largely unsung heroes. So it's really great to see them acknowledged and publicly thanked. Because without tankers, the whole rest of the operation (in support of the terror war) couldn't exist."

During the rally, Cheney officiated at the re-enlistment of 18 airmen, soldiers and Marines. Re-enlisting from the 92nd Air Refueling Wing were: Air Force Tech. Sgts. Tami Anderson, Julianna Dumlao and Scott Viers; Staff Sgts. Jeffrey Brod, Jun Codiamat and Vidal Hill; and Senior Airmen John Jones and Jason Murphy. Also re-enlisting, from the Air Guard's 141st Air Refueling Wing, were Master Sgts. Johnnie Gandolfo and Michael Lyon, and Tech. Sgts. Robert Gibson and Eugene Lewan. Three Army Reserve soldiers and a Marine Reservist also re-enlisted at the Fairchild rally. They were: Army Master Sgt. Leanne Holsteine, Sgt. 1st Class Susan Beaulaurier and Staff Sgt. Brian Taylor, and Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Joseph Bowman.

NEWS and NEWS now in Spanish

ACR: Tom Cruise's Unsupervised Use of Fetal Keepsake Ultrasound Ill Advised, Irresponsible, and Potentially Dangerous

Actor Tom Cruise's claim to be qualified to perform unsupervised ultrasound exams on his fiance, Katie Holmes, because he "read the manual" that came with the machine is irresponsible, potentially dangerous, and due to his celebrity status, may incorrectly influence others to place their unborn children at risk by performing such exams with no medical supervision.

"Radiologist physicians, certain other doctors, and ultrasound technologists receive years of specialized education and training in order to safely and effectively perform these exams. Others should not think that unsupervised use of medical equipment is completely safe and should, under no circumstances, view fetal keepsake videos as a substitute for appropriate medical attention or emulate Mr. Cruise's reported unsupervised use of ultrasound equipment," said James P. Borgstede, MD, FACR, chair of the American College of Radiology Board of Chancellors.

Untrained individuals, even if they have the financial means, should not buy, or be allowed to buy and operate, ultrasound machines which are, in fact, medical devices that are not to be used without a medical indication.

Accordingly, the ACR and the California Radiological Society support efforts such as (CA) Assembly Bill 2360 (AB 2360), in its current form, recently introduced into the California legislature, which would ban companies from providing ultrasound equipment to unlicensed, untrained individuals.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has previously stated, "Persons who promote, sell or lease ultrasound equipment for making 'keepsake' fetal videos should know that FDA views this as an unapproved use of a medical device. In addition, those who subject individuals to ultrasound exposure using a diagnostic ultrasound device (a prescription device) without a physician's order may be in violation of state or local laws or regulations regarding use of a prescription medical device."

Ultrasound imaging, also known as ultrasound scanning or sonography, is a method of obtaining images from inside the human body through the use of high frequency sound waves. The sound waves' echoes are recorded and displayed as a real-time, visual image.

Ultrasound is generally considered safe when used by properly trained providers for medical purposes. Physicians routinely use ultrasound imaging to check the size, location, number, or age of fetuses in the womb; the presence of some types of birth defects; fetal movement; breathing; and heartbeat.

"However, ultrasound should not be considered completely innocuous. Laboratory studies have shown that diagnostic levels of ultrasound can produce physical effects in tissue, such as mechanical vibrations and rise in temperature, particularly when used for a prolonged period of time," said ACR Chair Borgstede.

The FDA stated on August 30, 2005, that "public health experts, clinicians and industry agree that casual exposure to ultrasound, especially during pregnancy, should be avoided. Viewed in this light, exposing the fetus to ultrasound with no anticipation of medical benefit is not justified."

The American College of Radiology fully supports the FDA views that fetal ultrasound be performed only for medical purposes, by certified technologists, with a prescription from an appropriately licensed provider.

"Fetal images are an opportunity to diagnose problems prior to birth that may require treatment. These images should be obtained by certified technologists under the supervision of physicians properly trained in ultrasound. The images should be interpreted by properly trained physicians and the results discussed with the parents and treating physicians in order to plan for the best care of the baby and mother," said ACR Chair Borgstede. "Mr. Cruise has not indicated that his ultrasound equipment has been used in this manner."

Source: American College of Radiology

Schwarzenegger Signs Historic HIV Reporting Bill, Notes AHF
Notes AHF

SB 699 (Soto, D, Ontario), Co-Sponsored by AIDS Healthcare Foundation, LA County and the California Health Officers Association Will Prevent Loss of Millions in Federal AIDS Funds

What: Media Availability on Gov's Signing of SB 699 (HIV Reporting Bill)

When: Monday April 17th From 3:30 - 5 p.m.

Where: Senator Nell Soto's Office-Room 4074 State Capitol Building Sacramento CA 95814

Who: Senator Nell Soto, (D, Ontario) Craig Vincent-Jones, Executive Director, Los Angeles County Commission on HIV Jessie Gruttadauria, Acting Director of Public Affairs, AIDS Healthcare Foundation Carla Bailey, a Californian living with HIV and co-chair of the Los Angeles County Commission on HIV Whitney Engeran III, Executive Director, Being Alive, Long Beach Mario Guerrero, Public Affairs Manager, Bienestar Dana Van Gorder, Director of State and Local Affairs, San Francisco AIDS Foundation

Following a private bill signing ceremony with Governor Schwarzenegger this morning, a group of AIDS advocates will host a press conference in Senator Nell Soto's office (State Capitol Room 4074) to mark the Governor's signing of SB 699 (Soto, D, Ontario), a landmark bill that allows for the confidential reporting of HIV infection by health care providers and labs by the name of the patient to local health officials and the state Department of Health Services. The urgency bill was sponsored by AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the nation's largest AIDS group and operator of the largest alternative, community-based HIV testing program in California which conducts more than 15,000 HIV tests annually, Los Angeles County and the California Health Officers Association. The bill, introduced in January and which cleared both the Assembly and Senate by unanimous votes, will allow for more prudent public health practices and will also prevent the loss of millions in federal AIDS funds when the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) changes its reporting requirements beginning October 1st 2006.

Last week, the California Senate voted 32 to 0 in support of the urgency measure. The Assembly had previously approved the bill in a unanimous 67 to 0 vote. Governor Schwarzenegger, who has expressed support for the legislation, is widely expected to sign the bill when it reaches his desk. In addition to the co-sponsors (AHF, LA County and California Health Officers Association) SB699, has enjoyed widespread statewide support among AIDS groups (including Altamed, Bienestar, San Francisco AIDS Foundation and many others), county public health departments (including seven of nine local HIV planning commissions) as well as the Legislature's influential Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Caucus.

"I wish to thank Governor Schwarzenegger for signing SB 699. More people than ever are living with HIV and AIDS, and with the Governor's support, we have taken a major step toward ensuring that Californians will have access to the treatment and services they require," said Senator Nell Soto (D, Ontario), author of the bill. "Too many people with HIV or AIDS lack private health coverage but are still not eligible for Medi-Cal. Failure to pass and sign this legislation into law would have been unconscionable, but I thank my colleagues as well as the Governor for working together to make SB 699 a reality."

"AIDS Healthcare Foundation thanks Governor Schwarzenegger for swiftly signing SB 699 into law and we applaud both the Governor and the Legislature for recognizing the urgency of this issue," said Michael Weinstein, President of AIDS Healthcare Foundation, one of the principal co-sponsors of the bill in a statement. "We thank Senator Nell Soto for her perseverance and years-long leadership in shepherding this historic legislation to the Governor's desk. We are heartened that so many divergent groups from around the state worked together to ensure passage of this bill, and we look forward to continuing to work together to help California during this crucial transition phase to this new HIV reporting system."

"SB 699 will save lives and money," said Carla Bailey, a Californian living with HIV and co-chair of the Los Angeles County Commission on HIV. "We have to know who is infected so that we have a better understanding of the epidemic in the state and can better allocate resources where the money is most needed. Names-based reporting will give California a better chance at getting -- and keeping -- people in care and treatment."

"I'm really proud of California today, especially the HIV/AIDS service community and clients, who worked together with our elected officials to get this important measure passed. A lot of people and organizations have put a lot of time and effort and resources into it, and made sure that concerns were addressed in the bill and consequences understood," said Craig Vincent-Jones, Executive Director, Los Angeles County Commission on HIV. "The group deserves a lot of credit -- especially Senator Soto and her staff, our partners and co-sponsors, AIDS Healthcare Foundation and the Health Officers Association -- who have been there since the beginning, advocating for it when its wasn't necessarily popular. We've done the right thing for the state, for public health, and, especially, for people with HIV/AIDS."

"While cases of AIDS have been reported by name since the beginning of the epidemic, California has been reporting its HIV cases via a cumbersome, costly and oftentimes inaccurate code-based system," said Bruce Pomer, Executive Director of the California Health Officers Association, in a statement. "This new reporting system, supported by every county health department in the state, will allow for better tracking of the disease so more prudent public health measures may be enacted."

"We thank the Governor for helping us to protect vital funding to assure the highest response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in California," said Mark Cloutier, executive director of the San Francisco AIDS Foundation. "Not only will this legislation protect the state from losing millions in CARE Act funding, it will provide us with valid, uniform data to strengthen our planning of HIV/AIDS services. SB 699 also encourages individuals to learn their HIV status by ensuring the continued availability of anonymous HIV testing and it contains strong provisions to protect the confidentiality of Californians who are HIV-positive."

"Thanks to the leadership of Senator Soto, the LA County Board of Supervisors and a coalition of AIDS organizations led by AHF, we have preserved and protected our share of federal dollars that were threatened by our failed HIV reporting system," said Whitney Engeran, III, Executive Director, Being Alive, Long Beach. "The passage of this bill represents the work of an unprecedented coalition of public and private partners dedicated to preserving the resources we have all worked so hard to build for Californians living with HIV and AIDS."

Under the Ryan White CARE Act Reauthorization of 2000, the federal government will begin allocating federal HIV/AIDS funds to states and local governments by number of HIV cases starting on October 1, 2006. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has determined that the most accurate method of HIV test data collection is by name of the test subject. CDC will therefore accept only names-based test data (CDC will receive aggregated data only based on states' names-based tracking, but the names themselves will not be shared with federal officials). Previous California law prohibited the identification of a test subject except with the written consent of the test subject. Therefore, California HIV test results, which have been collected based on a non-name, unique identifier basis, will no longer be accepted by Federal officials -- a move that would have jeopardized more than $50 million in annual federal HIV/AIDS funding to California.

"I want to thank Senator Soto, the Los Angeles County Commission on HIV; the California Health Officers Association; Being Alive, Long Beach; San Francisco AIDS Foundation, Bienestar; Carla Bailey and Robert Butler and all those who have been there from the very beginning on this issue and have worked closely together to help move this legislation forward," said Jessie Gruttadauria, AHF's Acting Director of Public Affairs. "This effort demonstrates what can be accomplished to further prudent public health policy when diverse stakeholders mobilize toward a common goal -- ensuring that all those living with HIV/AIDS in California have access to the care and services they need."

SB 699 brings California's current HIV reporting system into line with national reporting norms by utilizing a name-based system like those currently in place in all but six states and the District of Columbia. Several of the states already reporting HIV incidence by name include four with the largest populations of people living with HIV/AIDS: New York, Florida, Texas and New Jersey.

And while cases of AIDS have been reported by name since the beginning of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, the State of California has only required local health officials to report HIV cases since July 2002, which it has so far done via a code-based system.

Source: AIDS Healthcare Foundation

VNU TO PRESENT STRONG CASE FOR PRIVATE- EQUITY OFFER AT TODAY’S EGM

Company publishes EGM presentation slides on www.vnu.com; Presentation includes a review of business performance and prospects

a leading global information and media company, said it will make a compelling and thorough case for why the private-equity offer for VNU is the best course for the company’s stakeholders in a presentation today during an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) of VNU shareholders in Amsterdam.

The presentation is being made available on the company’s Web site at 4:00 p.m. (CET), the starting time of today’s EGM at Hotel Okura Amsterdam, Ferdinand Bolstraat 333.

The presentation focuses on the process that led to the offer, VNU’s business performance and prospects, a review of alternatives, and the valuation of the offer. The company noted that the presentation shows that previously disclosed pricing and consolidation issues affecting its Marketing Information group had a negative impact on the group’s EBITDA of EUR 15 million in 2004 and EUR 31 million in 2005.

VNU said that the EGM will allow shareholders to review the facts of the Offer, and give them an opportunity to discuss the Offer with the Supervisory and Executive Boards so that they will be able to make a well-informed decision by May 5, 2006, the end of the tender period.

The company reiterated that the EUR 28.75 all-cash offer represents the best alternative for VNU shareholders:

20% premium over the two- year average share price

23% premium to the unaffected share price of EUR 23.25

13.3x 2005 EBITDA and 18.9x 2005 EBITDA (minus Capex)

Delivery of cash to shareholders as early as mid-May

Fully values three-year growth and cost savings projections, and eliminates execution and timing risks of both

This is a release in accordance with section 9b of the Dutch Securities Trading Supervision Decree (Besluit toezicht effectenverkeer 1995).

About VNU

VNU is a global information and media company with leading market positions and recognized brands in marketing information (ACNielsen), media measurement and information (Nielsen Media Research) and business information (Billboard, The Hollywood Reporter, Computing, Intermediair).

VNU is active in more than 100 countries, with headquarters in Haarlem, the Netherlands, and New York, USA. The company employs nearly 41,000 people. Total revenues were EUR 3.5 billion in 2005. VNU is listed on the Euronext Amsterdam (ASE: VNU) stock exchange. For more information, please visit the VNU web site at www.vnu.com.

Are You Ready for Plastic Surgery

A new website has the answer EVANSTON, Ill., April 18, 2006 -- A "nip" or "tuck" used to be something reserved for the very vain or the very rich, but advanced technology, improved price tags, and regular media coverage have brought plastic surgery into the mainstream. Terms like "Liposculpture" and "Mini-Facelift" have even entered household vernacular. With this increased exposure to cosmetic options, more and more people are left wondering, "Am I ready for plastic surgery?"

At http://www.PlasticSurgeryPortal.com, men and women interested in honing their appearance now have help answering that question. The latest website from SignatureSpecialists, Inc., Plastic Surgery Portal helps visitors determine if now is the right time for cosmetic intervention, and evaluates the best way to access it. The recommended first step on this free website is to take the "Am I Ready" quiz. This seemingly whimsical questionnaire places the quiz-taker at levels of "plastic surgery readiness," and will even guide them to the next logical step in the research process.

A person's customized path might lead them to information about suitable procedures, or to a profile of nearby surgeons, so they are given the exact resources they need, when they need them. PlasticSurgeryPortal.com also features a community message board where plastic surgery enthusiasts, novices, and professionals can mingle. Also provided is a handy list of questions to ask a plastic surgeon during a consultation, and a list of FAQs that covers common plastic surgery curiosities. For the latest breakthroughs in the world of cosmetic enhancement, users can also visit the plastic surgery news section, updated on a daily basis. Brought to Market by SignatureSpecialists, Inc.

The http://www.PlasticSurgeryPortal.com service and website is a creation of SignatureSpecialists, Inc. SignatureSpecialists is an Evanston, IL-based company that is devoted to consumer advocacy and quality in the luxury markets. SignatureSpecialists has created a large network of certified service providers in the U.S. Network locations can also be found in Australia, Canada, and Puerto Rico. To learn and gather information about services and service providers, consumers can visit http://www.SignatureForum.com. There they will find information about luxury services, a "locate a specialist" section that helps them in choosing a network service provider, quality/satisfaction scores for all network providers, and forums that promote community dialogue. SignatureSpecialists also provides consumers the opportunity to participate in service provider advocacy, which gives them the chance to tell others about their experience with a specific provider.

Three recent announcements from the Broadcast Communications Division of Harris Corporate.

"Harris Corporation Demonstrates Unique IP-based Content Management and Delivery Capabilities with Integrated Demonstrations at NAB2006" (released 4/18/2006) -Digital newsgathering, IPTV, localized ad insertion, new services provisioning and mobile TV among the featured applications 2.) "Harris Corporation to Acquire Optimal Solutions, Inc." (released 4/17/2006) -Expands Broadcast Communications Division software offering and complements Harris Next-Generation H-Class(tm) Total Content Delivery Platform 3.) "Tim Thorsteinson Named President of Harris Corporation's Broadcast Communications Division"

Harris Corporation Demonstrates Unique IP-based Content Management and Delivery Capabilities with Integrated Demonstrations at NAB2006 Digital newsgathering, IPTV, localized ad insertion, new services provisioning and mobile TV among the featured applications CINCINNATI, April 18, 2006 - Harris Corporation (NYSE: HRS) will illustrate its innovations in digital content management and delivery at NAB2006. Demonstrations at Harris booths #SU2929 and #C807 will convey the company's unique ability to support next-generation, IP-based business models, and to integrate business systems for content management and distribution with video infrastructure from the Leitch business portfolio. Visitors to the Harris displays will be shown how Harris customers can improve workflow efficiencies over IP networks, enabling them to offer new services and reduce operational costs. "As the media and entertainment industry moves to an IT-centric model, our customers face a learning curve to integrate new revenue-generating business models with their evolving back office," said Tim Thorsteinson, president, Harris Broadcast Communications Division. "At NAB2006, Harris will demonstrate multiple real-world applications that convey the value we bring in creating new ways of managing and delivering content in the emerging IP arena." Demonstrations that encompass the intelligent management of news, interstitial material, and long- and short-form programming include the following. *

Digital Newsgathering - This demonstration shows how broadcasters and content originators can support end-to-end newsgathering in an application called NewsNet(tm). The NewsNet application supports the full digital news workflow by providing shared access to content hosted on NEXIO(tm) servers by leveraging industry standards such as the media object server (MOS) communication protocol. NewsNet(tm) spans the full range of news applications: ingest, editing, management, monitoring, rundown and play-out. The Digital Newsgathering demo can be viewed in the South Hall at the "News" wall located at Harris booth #SU2929. * IPTV - This demonstration shows Harris' unique ability to supply the three core capabilities a provider needs to run an IPTV network: software to manage content delivery, video infrastructure for reliable program transport, and network monitoring to maintain quality of service. The Harris IPTV offering can be viewed in the South Hall at the "Content Processing and Channel Release" wall located at Harris booth #SU2929. * Localized Ad Insertion - MSOs and newly emerging service providers rely on their IP networks to reach more tightly segmented audiences with localized versions of branded programming and ads.

The Localized Ad Insertion demonstration is unique in that it shows how Harris Automation can be used to manage not only the insertion of the localized content, but also the associated branding, from a central location. Customers can view this demonstration in the South Hall at the "Content Processing and Channel Release" wall located at Harris booth #SU2929. * New Service Provisioning - In this application Harris shows how content originators can apply the H-Class(tm) Content Delivery Platform to intelligently automate the business rules associated with finding, managing, repurposing, and distributing digital content - along with all permutations of the same content - to different subscribers. Harris enables new services to new subscribers by linking H-Class(tm) Digital Asset Management with H-Class(tm) Intelligent Transport. Demonstrations of content flow in support of new service provisioning can be found in the South Hall at Harris booth #SU2929 in the H-Class(tm) Platform demonstration area. * Mobile TV - In support of the evolving mobile TV market, Harris has extended its proven transmission capabilities to enable its customers to broadcast content to subscribers using mobile devices. Harris will be delivering content to mobile devices via its Atlas(tm) digital UHF transmitters for DVB-H and FLO(tm) modulation, as well as its new Cool Play(tm) 1670 MHz transmitter for DVB-H modulation. Customers can view these demonstrations in the Central Hall at Harris booth #C807.

About Harris Broadcast Communications Division Harris is an international communications and information technology company serving government and commercial markets in more than 150 countries. With headquarters in Melbourne, Florida, the company has annual sales of over $3 billion and more than 13,000 employees - including 5,500 engineers and scientists - dedicated to the development of best-in-class assured communications(tm) products, systems, and services. The company's operating divisions serve markets for government communications, RF communications, broadcast communications, and microwave communications

Harris Corporation to Acquire Optimal Solutions, Inc. Expands Broadcast Communications Division software offering and complements Harris Next-Generation H-Class(tm) Total Content Delivery Platform MELBOURNE, Florida, April 17, 2006 - Harris Corporation (NYSE: HRS) has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Optimal Solutions, Inc. (OSi), a privately held provider of air-time sales, traffic and billing software systems to over 350 call-letter broadcast stations in North America.

The scalability of OSi's Windows(r)-based platform is unmatched in the industry and can support a single call-letter station or scale to support the largest station groups and network/affiliate relationships with one software installation. "The acquisition of OSi will further strengthen our portfolio and commitment to provide Total Content Delivery solutions to the industry," said Howard Lance, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Harris Corporation. "OSi expands our capabilities in enterprise-wide software for managing and scheduling advertising and programming for broadcasters, and complements the Harris next-generation H-Class(tm) platform." The H-Class(tm) platform will serve the diverse business models of broadcast networks, cable networks and media content providers as well as the emergence of new services such as IPTV, mobile TV, and on-demand video delivery. "The combination of OSi and Harris will offer the industry unprecedented value - across the widest range of customers and business models," said Ed Adams, president of OSi. "We are proud to add our software offering and talent to the Harris team. Both customers and employees will benefit from the size and resources of Harris, and the long-term commitment Harris has made to the media industry."

OSi was founded in 1996 and is based in Kansas City, Missouri. Revenue for the 12 months ended March 31, 2006, was approximately $5 million and the company currently has approximately $27 million in revenue under contract. Harris will acquire OSi for approximately $32 million in cash, subject to customary closing conditions, and OSi's shareholders may receive additional payments over the next three years if certain operating goals are achieved. The transaction is expected to close in early May. The acquisition is expected to be neutral to Harris fiscal year 2006 earnings per share, excluding acquisition-related charges, and accretive in fiscal year 2007. Harris is an international communications and information technology company serving government and commercial markets in more than 150 countries.

With headquarters in Melbourne, Florida, the company has annual sales of over $3 billion and more than 13,000 employees - including 5,500 engineers and scientists - dedicated to the development of best-in-class assured communications(tm) products, systems, and services. The company's operating divisions serve markets for government communications, RF communications, broadcast communications, and microwave communications. Additional information about Harris Corporation is available at www.harris.com.

Tim Thorsteinson Named President of Harris Corporation's Broadcast Communications
Tim Thorsteinson Named President of Harris Corporation's Broadcast Communications

Harris Corporation has named Timothy E. "Tim" Thorsteinson, 52, president of the company's Broadcast Communications Division. Mr. Thorsteinson, a 15-year veteran of the broadcast industry, had been serving as president of the Leitch Technology business unit of the Harris Broadcast Communications Division. Harris acquired Leitch in October 2005. He succeeds Jeremy C. Wensinger who is being promoted to a senior leadership position within the Harris Government Communications Systems Division. "Tim is well known and highly respected within the broadcast industry," said Howard L. Lance, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Harris. "His appointment comes at an exciting time for Harris and the industry as the transition to digital technologies continues to accelerate. He has a proven track record of operational success within the industry and a vision that will keep Harris at the cutting edge of product innovation and customer responsiveness.

He inherits a broadcast organization that has achieved excellent forward momentum over the past two years under the leadership of Jeremy Wensinger." Mr. Thorsteinson joined Leitch Technology Corporation as president and CEO in November 2003. He led the company's financial turnaround and expansion through organic growth and acquisitions. Prior to joining Leitch, Mr. Thorsteinson was vice president of Grass Valley products for Thomson Broadcast & Media Solutions, where he was responsible for a variety of product lines including switchers, server/storage units, digital news production, signal management, film imaging product lines, and TV/film production products. Previously, he served as president and CEO of the Grass Valley Group. Prior to joining Thomson/Grass Valley, Mr. Thorsteinson was with Tektronix, Inc., from 1991 to 2001. As president of the Video and Networking Division of Tektronix, he implemented a major R&D program focused on the transition of the worldwide broadcast industry from analog to digital and into the multimedia age.

Previously, he served as president of Tektronix Pacific Operations, one of three units established to accelerate growth in key international markets. Before joining Tektronix, Mr. Thorsteinson served 12 years with National Semiconductor Corporation where he designed several highly successful programs focused on process re-engineering and total quality management. He received his bachelor's degree from the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California. Harris is an international communications and information technology company serving government and commercial markets in more than 150 countries. With headquarters in Melbourne, Florida, the company has annual sales of over $3 billion and more than 13,000 employees - including 5,500 engineers and scientists - dedicated to the development of best-in-class assured communications(tm) products, systems, and services. The company's operating divisions serve markets for government communications, RF communications, broadcast communications, and microwave communications. Additional information about Harris Corporation is available at www.harris.com.

Wal-Mart Announces Significant Changes in Health Benefits for Part-Time Workers

Susan Chambers, Wal-Mart Stores Inc.'s Executive Vice President of Human Resources, speaking at the 3rd Annual World Health Care Congress, announced several changes in the health benefits made available to Wal-Mart's part-time employees.

These changes include shortening the waiting period for company health insurance from two years of employment to one year; providing part-time employees with the ability to cover their children; offering a policy option for as little as $11 per month; and expanding the pharmaceuticals available under a $3 co-pay arrangement. The company will also offer employees a discount on healthy foods sold at company stores.

Chambers explained Wal-Mart's announcement by saying, "Every American deserves health care and we want to lead by taking this step."

The health coverage available for part-time employees is the same coverage that is offered to full-time employees, including the company's executives. Also, the amount of a part-time employee's health insurance policy that is paid for by the company is the same amount that is paid by the company for full-time employees and executives. There is no minimum number of hours a part-time employee must work to be eligible for health coverage, and there is no lifetime cap on an employee's claims.

These announcements take effect as of May 13, 2006, and Wal-Mart will be having a special mid-year enrollment period to give part-time employees the opportunity to enroll. Approximately 150,000 part-time Wal-Mart employees could be affected.

About World Congress

World Congress is the producer of The World Health Care Congress, The World Health Care Congress -- Europe, The Care Continuum Congress, The World Healthcare Innovation and Technology Congress, The Health & Human Capital Management Congress, and The World Congress Leadership Summit Series. World Congress events convene CEOs and senior executives from all segments of the healthcare industry, with the latest thought leaders and case studies, representing innovative, solution-oriented approaches to make significant advances in healthcare cost and quality.

Source: World Congress

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

President Hu Jintao and Bill Gates to Discuss Microsoft's Commitment to the Chinese Software Industry

Microsoft welcomes Chinese delegation to Redmond campus.

Microsoft Corp. is pleased to welcome Chinese President Hu Jintao to its Redmond campus today as part of the Chinese delegation's initial stop in the president's first official visit to Seattle. The president and a delegation of government and industry leaders will arrive in Seattle today to meet with Washington state and local government officials, as well as local business and community leaders.

"It's a pleasure to welcome President Hu to the state of Washington and to Microsoft," said Bill Gates, chairman and chief software architect of Microsoft. "During the last 10 years, China's information technology industry has emerged as a global center for growth and innovation. We're encouraged by China's efforts to strengthen intellectual property protection, which will provide the foundation for continued expansion of the IT industry in China. We look forward to working with the Chinese government and partner companies in China to create new opportunities for growth."

During his visit to the campus, President Hu and senior government officials will meet with Gates and other Microsoft executives. Among the expected topics of discussion will be Microsoft's commitment to helping further the development of a strong software industry in China, continued cooperation with Chinese universities and schools, support for China-based research and development, and training and alliances with Chinese companies. The president will also tour the Microsoft(R) Home of the Future.

"Microsoft is committed to growing together with China's IT industry, helping local Chinese customers develop strong, sustainable IT infrastructures and a clear road map for future development," said Tim Chen, corporate vice president and chief executive officer of Microsoft Greater China Region. "With the recently announced cooperative engagement agreements with computer manufacturers to pre-load genuine Windows(R) operating systems, we see even greater opportunities in China and the chance to build long-lasting relationships with customers and partners in China."

Microsoft has a full range of operations in China, including research and development, basic research, technical support, and sales and marketing organizations. Microsoft has established an extensive network of partners in China with over 3,000 partners, including authorized distributors, dealers, retailers, and solution and service providers.

Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire will host President Hu and his delegation at an official dinner Tuesday evening, at Bill and Melinda Gates' private residence. They will be joined by other elected officials and civic and business leaders from Washington state.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

NOTE: Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries. The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

Source: Microsoft Corp.

White Paper: Employee Obesity is Number One Factor in Productivity Loss
New Leade Health Paper Shows Lifestyle Intervention Programs Reduce Obesity-Related Costs, Raise Productivity

Leade Health, health coaching pioneers in the areas of weight management, stress management, tobacco cessation, and cardiovascular health, announced today the release of a new white paper, "The Business Case for Weight/Obesity Management Using Health Coaching Interventions." The paper not only addresses the impact of obesity on workplace productivity and medical costs, but focuses on health coaching as a way for employers to combat employees' weight issues through lifestyle intervention programs.

The free research paper can be downloaded via the following link:

http://www.leadehealth.com/about_whitepaper.html

Key elements of the report cover research on obesity-related diseases, including:

-- Medical costs for obese employees are 77 percent higher than for

healthy weight employees; obesity-related disabilities cost employers

up to $8,720 per claimant.

-- Obesity is estimated to account for 43% of all health care spending by

U.S. businesses on coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes,

hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, stroke, gallbladder disease,

osteoarthritis of the knee, and endometrial cancer combined.

-- Obese workers have the highest prevalence of work limitations, with 6.9

percent experiencing such limitations compared to three percent among

normal weight workers.

Employers are concerned not only with the ever-increasing costs and millions of lost work-days associated with obesity, but the rapid and dramatic increase in obesity over the last few years (a 74% increase in 10 years). With the shift from a manufacturing economy to a service economy, work environments are becoming more sedentary.

"Obesity is a growing epidemic in American society, but employers can turn the tide of rising health care costs with lifestyle intervention programs such as health coaching," explains Michael Mulvihill, President and CEO of Leade Health. "Studies have found that even modest weight loss or weight stabilization with an increase in physical activity can translate into significant health and economic benefits."

The paper suggests that overweight patients in well-designed programs can achieve a weight loss of as much as 10% of baseline weight. Lifestyle management programs that include physical activity, healthy eating, and good nutrition can also significantly help prevent costly conditions such as diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Conservative ROI estimates show that for every dollar spent on intervention programs, between $4.56 and $4.73 can be saved through restored productivity and medical savings.

At Leade Health, nearly 10,000 people have participated in iCanChange(TM), the firm's health coaching program for weight management. Of those, 89 percent have achieved weight loss or weight stabilization after one year. To learn more about Leade Health's health coaching services, please visit www.leadehealth.com.

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

Las Superestrellas del Reggaetón Wisin y Yandel Lideran la Primera Cumbre de Hip Hop en la Ciudad de Nueva York sobre el Empoderamiento Financiero

La Hip-Hop Summit Action Network (Red de Acción de la Cumbre de Hip Hop) comunica su mensaje especialmente a la comunidad latina para alentar su participación en el evento "Get Your Money Right" (Cómo Manejar tu Dinero Acertadamente) en la Cumbre de Hip Hop en la Ciudad de Nueva York sobre el empoderamiento Financiero, el 22 de abril de 2006 en el Salón de Baile Hammerstein en el Manhattan Center en 311 West 34th Street (entre las avenidas 8 y 9). Las puertas se abrirán al medio día. El patrocinador principal de la Cumbre es Chrysler Financial y el patrocinador presentador es Anheuser-Busch, Inc.

Las superestrellas del Reggaetón, Wisin y Yandel lideran esta Cumbre que se centrará en ofrecer los conceptos básicos sobre la instrucción financiera.

"En un momento en que nuestra sociedad se encuentra polarizada, cabe mencionar que el hip hop trasciende las divisiones étnicas y del idioma, enfatizó Russell Simmons, presidente del directorio de la Hip-Hop Summit Action Network. "Por lo tanto, estamos orgullosos además de dar la bienvenida a Wisin y Yandel a la Cumbre, del papel de liderazgo que desempeñarán en ayudarnos a comunicar nuestro mensaje a la comunidad latina".

"Estamos muy contentos de unirnos a Russell Simmons y a la Hip-Hop Summit Action Network en su misión de promover la importancia de la instrucción financiera en la Cumbre de Hip Hop en la Ciudad de Nueva York", indicaron las estrellas del Reggaetón, Wisin y Yandel. "Compartir este mensaje con la comunidad latina es un factor de especial importancia para nosotros puesto que consideramos que toda la gente joven debe saber que tomar las decisiones correctas sobre el dinero sólo les ayudará a disfrutar un futuro financiero mejor y más saludable".

"La Hip-Hop Summit Action Network acepta con orgullo las contribuciones de los latinos para la evolución del Hip Hop", comentó Jasmin Frangul, directora de asuntos hispanos para Rush Communications. "La gira 'Get Your Money Right' utiliza el poder de la educación que trasciende las barreras raciales para cultivar las mentes de nuestra gente joven y ayudarlos a tomar decisiones más acertadas para su futuro financiero". El cuaderno de ejercicios de "Get Your Money Right", que se entregará a los participantes, está disponible en ingles y español y se puede descargar en el sitio, http://www.hsan.org/.

"Celebramos el surgimiento del Reggaetón como la representación de los genios creativos de la juventud latina a través del mundo", afirmó el Dr. Benjamin Chavis, presidente y CEO de HSAN. "La ciudad de Nueva York es el principal centro de hip hop y Reggaetón y nuestra Cumbre sobre el empoderamiento financiero tendrá un impacto duradero en nuestras comunidades".

Source: Chrysler Financial

Atención al Cliente y Facturación de SPL Situado en el Cuadrante de los Líderes por el Cuadrante Mágico para Sistemas de Información de Clientes de Empresas de Servicio Público*

El recién lanzado Gartner Magic Quadrant for Utilities Customer Information Systems (Cuadrante Mágico de Gartner para Sistemas de Información de Clientes de Empresas de Servicio Público), 1H06 (por Zarko Sumic, 31 de marzo de 2006) ha situado al producto de Atención al Cliente y Facturación de SPL WorldGroup en el cuadrante de los Líderes.

La evaluación se basa en "la plenitud de la visión" y "la capacidad de ejecutar".

"Vemos esto como una confirmación de la sobresaliente calidad de nuestra tecnología y la profundidad de nuestro compromiso con los clientes", dijo el CEO de SPL, Larry Hagewood.

Tendencias del Mercado

El nuevo informe de Gartner observa que "la tendencia entre las compañías norteamericanas de reagrupar las operaciones de gestión de red de distribución y ventas al detalle, enfatiza los sistemas de información de clientes (CIS) que pueden actuar como habilitadores de optimización de proceso de negocios de funcionalidad cruzada (como la gestión de clientes y la gestión de activo/trabajo). Esta tendencia ha dado lugar a una mayor concentración en la tecnología de gestión de procesos de negocios y en la arquitectura de integración".

"Hemos estado discutiendo la tendencia hacia la optimización de negocios de funcionalidad cruzada con nuestros clientes desde hace algún tiempo", dijo Hagewood. "Tenemos el compromiso de garantizar que nuestros clientes puedan lograrla.

"La Atención al Cliente y Facturación de SPL está en el centro de nuestro conjunto enSUMIT de aplicaciones integradas para Gestión Estratégica de Empresa de Servicio Público", explicó Hagewood. "Es un ancla firme para la orquestación de proceso de negocios de organización cruzada que enSUMIT posibilita: la vinculación de clientes, activos, interrupción y distribución, y fuerzas de trabajo móviles a través de una serie insuperada de soluciones de software preintegradas e interoperables de misión crítica.

"enSUMIT no se limita a atender las necesidades norteamericanas", continuó Hagewood. "En mercados australianos desregulados, por ejemplo, los distribuidores buscan crear procesos comerciales entre los activos, el sistema de distribución y los equipos en el terreno. En consecuencia, necesitan la funcionalidad no sólo de Atención al Cliente y Facturación para Distribución, sino también de Gestión de Trabajo y Activos Empresariales de SPL, Gestión de Distribución e Interrupción de Servicio de SPL, y Gestión de Fuerza de Trabajo Móvil de SPL.

"Lo mismo ocurre en Europa", prosiguió Hagewood, "donde ya tenemos un cliente con dos aplicaciones de enSUMIT. Estamos hallando un gran interés en nuestro enfoque de aplicaciones múltiples preintegradas en el Oriente Medio y en África. Y, por supuesto, el enfoque de enSUMIT hacia los procesos de negocios a nivel de empresa tiene una resonancia en la industria del agua en todo el mundo".

El Cuadrante Mágico de Gartner para Sistemas de Información de Clientes de Empresas de Servicio Público, 1H06 constituye la primera vez que Gartner usa la estructura del Cuadrante Mágico para un informe de CIS en una empresa de servicio público. Según el informe, "los productos de software evaluados son todos comercializados como soluciones 'autónomas' de atención al cliente y facturación. Para que los consideren en este mercado, los distribuidores deben tener un alcance global y ser capaces de resolver las necesidades del mercado al detalle regulado y disputable".

* Advertencia sobre el Cuadrante Mágico

Gartner Inc. patentó el Magic Quadrant for Utilities Customer Information Systems (Cuadrante Mágico para Sistemas de Información de Clientes de Empresas de Servicios Públicos), 1H06, el 31 de marzo de 2006 y se puede volver a usar con su permiso. El Cuadrante Mágico es una representación gráfica de un mercado en y durante un período específico. Describe los análisis de Gartner sobre cómo ciertos distribuidores responden a los criterios de ese mercado, según lo define Gartner. Gartner no respalda a ningún distribuidor, producto o servicio descrito en el Cuadrante Mágico y no aconseja a los usuarios de la tecnología que seleccionen únicamente a los distribuidores situados en el cuadrante de los "Líderes". El Cuadrante Mágico es exclusivamente una herramienta de investigación, y no una guía específica de acción. Gartner rechaza cualquier garantía, explícita o implícita, con respecto a esta investigación, incluida cualquier garantía de capacidad de comercialización o idoneidad para un uso concreto.

Acerca de SPL

SPL ( http://www.splwg.com/ ) suministra las probadas aplicaciones de software que ayudan a las empresas de servicio público en todo el mundo a lograr una ventaja competitiva y la excelencia en el desempeño comercial, a la vez que garantiza el menor costo total de propiedad de tecnología. Las soluciones de SPL en atención al cliente y facturación, gestión de trabajo y activos empresariales, gestión de fuerza de trabajo móvil, y gestión de distribución e interrupción de servicio, están creadas específicamente para compañías de electricidad, agua y servicios. Trabajando con socios de tecnología e integración de sistemas en distintos países, SPL tiene un historial sin paralelo de implementaciones exitosas. SPL se concentra en el rendimiento de la inversión de los clientes y fomenta relaciones a largo plazo basadas en la confianza. Visite SPL en http://www.splwg.com/

(C) 2006 SPL WorldGroup, Inc. Todos los derechos reservados. SPL es una marca comercial usada por SPL WorldGroup B.V. o sus subsidiarias. SPL está registrada como marca comercial en los Estados Unidos y en otras jurisdicciones. Todas las demás marcas comerciales y nombres de marcas, productos y compañías en el presente se usan solamente con fines de identificación y son la propiedad de sus dueños respectivos.

Source: SPL WorldGroup

Cendant elije a Jeff Clarke como nuevo consejero delegado y director general

- Cendant selecciona al destacado ejecutivo industrial tecnológico Jeff Clarke para ocupar el cargo de consejero delegado y director general de su División de Servicios de Distribución de Viajes

- El nuevo nombre de la División de Servicios de Distribución para Viajes de la compañía será Travelport

Cendant Corporation ha anunciado hoy que el destacado ejecutivo tecnológico Jeff Clarke ha sido nombrado consejero delegado y director general de su División de Servicios de Distribución de Viajes (TDS), cargo que ocupará a partir del 1 de mayo de 2006.

Clarke pasa a TDS procedente de CA, anteriormente Computer Associates Inc., donde trabajó como responsable de operaciones de software de la compañía desde 2004. La elección de Clarke como consejero delegado y director general sirve también para fortalecer al equipo de liderazgo de TDS, y completa así la directiva de la división. Gordon Bethune pasó a ser el nuevo presidente de la división desde el mes pasado.

"Jeff Clarke ha sido una estrella emergente en el sector tecnológico durante muchos años, y estoy muy contento de que haya acordado aceptar su posición como consejero delegado y director general", afirmó el presidente y consejero delegado de Cendant, Henry R. Silverman. "Las destacadas capacidades de gestión y de operaciones de Jeff han desempeñado un papel integral en la revitalización del éxito de CA. Como responsable de operaciones globales de Hewlett-Packard tras su fusión con Compaq Computer Corporation, ayudó a facilitar una de las integraciones más grandes y de mayor éxito dentro del sector tecnológico. La experiencia única de Jeff le han convertido en un reputado ejecutivo, destacando su preparación para continuar con el fortalecimiento de TDS como uno de los principales negocios de servicios de distribución de viajes en todo el mundo".

"Tal y como indicamos en diciembre de 2005, hemos pasado de la fase de adquisición a la fase de ejecución dentro del desarrollo de TDS, por lo que Jeff se ha convertido en la elección ideal que ha liderado este avance. Sus experiencias en CA y HP serán extremadamente valiosas para conseguir una mejora de los ingresos y de los beneficios brutos de nuestra cartera de negocios y marcas global. Junto al amplio respaldo de Gordon Bethune en el sector de los viajes, ya hemos logrado completar a nuestro equipo administrativo de nivel mundial".

Clarke comenzó su carrera trabajando para Digital Equipment Corporation en 1985, donde llegó a desempeñar varias posiciones financieras, operacionales e internacionales antes de entrar a formar parte de Compaq en 1998. Se convirtió en el responsable financiero de Compaq y en el vicepresidente financiero y administrativo antes de que pasara a liderar la integración con HP. Clarke pasó a trabajar para CA en 2004, y su cargo fue el de responsable de operaciones, donde se encargó de las ventas, servicios, estrategia empresarial, desarrollo empresarial, finanzas y tecnología de la información para la compañía, con un valor de 3.500 millones de dólares.

"Estoy muy ilusionado de disponer de una oportunidad como esta para dirigir la compañía gracias a un equipo administrativo tan importante y a una destacada cartera de activos", comentó Clarke. "TDS, gracias a marcas tan importantes como Orbitz, Galileo y GTA (Gullivers Travel Associates), se encuentra en una posición de privilegio para experimentar un crecimiento destacado en los próximos meses y años, y estoy muy contento de poder formar parte de este éxito".

Bethune pasó a formar parte de TDS en marzo, tras una carrera dentro de la industria de las líneas aéreas, incluyendo su cargo como consejero delegado de Continental Airlines, donde consiguió dar la vuelta a través de una destacada carrera. Entre 1979 y 1988, Bethune desempeñó cargos ejecutivos en otras destacadas líneas aéreas, incluyendo Braniff, Western y Piedmont, además de trabajar como vicepresidente y responsable general de Boeing Corporation.

TDS pasará a llamarse Travelport, Inc.

La compañía también ha anunciado que TDS, compuesta por importantes marcas industriales de la industria de los viajes, como Orbitz, Galileo y GTA (Gullivers Travel Associates), ha sido renombrada como Travelport, Inc.

"Poder disponer del nombre de Travelport nos ofrece la oportunidad de crear una importante y unificadora marca para los diferentes negocios de viajes empresariales que componen nuestra compañía. También nos permite disponer de la oportunidad de mejorar el valor ya existente de la marca dentro del nombre Travelport, identificando a nuestra compañía como destino de las reservas de viajes", comentó Bethune. "Travelport seguirá centrándose en la transformación de la experiencia de los viajes, mejorando los sistemas operativos y empleando una aproximación más centrada en los clientes".

La división seguirá llamándose TDS hasta que se anuncien el logo y la identidad completa de la marca, que se espera se anuncien a principios de verano.

Travelport tendrá su sede en Nueva Jersey, y es una de las principales compañías de distribución de viajes más diversa geográficamente y con una mayor integración vertical en todo el mundo, y cuenta con más de 8.000 empleados que trabajan en más de 130 países.

Acerca de Cendant Corporation

Cendant Corporation es el principal proveedor de servicios para viajes y servicios residenciales inmobiliarios. Con cerca de 85.000 empleados, Cendant, con sede en Nueva York, proporciona estos servicios a los negocios y consumidores de más de 100 países. Si desea más información acerca de Cendant, sus compañías, marcas y documentos actuales de la SEC, visite la página web de la compañía en http://www.cendant.com.

Acerca de TDS

La División de Servicios de Distribución de Viajes de Cendant Corporation es una de las colecciones más diversas geográficamente y de mayor tamaño de marcas de viajes y negocios de distribución de todo el mundo. La división, que dispone de cerca de 8.000 personas y que realiza sus operaciones en casi 130 países, incluye: GDS (sistema de distribución global) Galileo, que presta servicio a más de 50.000 agencias de viajes y cerca de 60.000 hoteles; GTA (Gullivers Travel Associates), un destacado proveedor online mundial al por mayor de hoteles, servicios de destino, paquetes de viajes y tours para grupos; y las principales agencias de viajes online, como Orbitz(R).

Declaraciones sujetas a riesgos e incertidumbres

Algunas de las declaraciones de este comunicado son "declaraciones sujetas a riesgos e incertidumbres", incluidas en el Private Securities Litigation Reform Act de 1995. Estas declaraciones sujetas a riesgos e incertidumbres implican riesgos conocidos y desconocidos, incertidumbres y otros factores que podrían hacer variar los resultados reales, prestaciones o logros de la compañía, que serían materialmente diferentes de los resultados futuros, prestaciones o logros expresados o implicados en las declaraciones sujetas a riesgos e incertidumbres. Las declaraciones precedidas por, seguidas de o indicadas de otra forma incluyen las palabras "cree", "espera", "anticipa", "ha previsto", "está proyectado", "se estima", "planea", "podría aumentar", "podría fluctuar" y expresiones similares o verbos futuros o condicionales como "podrá", "deberá", "podría", "es posible" y "pudiera" son normalmente declaraciones sujetas a riesgos e incertidumbres y no hechos históricos. Cualquiera de las declaraciones que haga referencia a las expectativas u otras caracterizaciones de eventos futuros, circunstancias o resultados son declaraciones sujetas a riesgos e incertidumbres. La compañía no puede proporcionar ninguna garantía de la separación o de cualquiera de las transacciones propuestas relacionadas en este comunicado (incluyendo una venta posible de Travelport) cuando finalice, ni tampoco puede asegurar los términos en los que las transacciones se consumarán. Estas transacciones están sujetas a algunas condiciones pendientes, incluyendo la aprobación final del Consejo Directivo de Cendant.

Son varios los riesgos que podrían causar que los resultados futuros fueran diferentes de los expresados en las declaraciones sujetas a riesgos e incertidumbres, que no sólo se limitan a: riesgos inherentes a la separación contemplada y transacciones relacionadas (incluyendo la venta posible de Travelport), incluyendo los riesgos relacionados con los préstamos y costes relacionados con las transacciones propuestas; aumento de la demanda de algunos de los equipos administrativos de Cendant como resultado de las transacciones propuestas; cambios en los negocios, condiciones económicas y políticas de los EE. UU. y de otros países en los que Cendant y sus compañías tienen negocios; de las acciones de los organismos reguladores; cambios en los resultados operativos; y acceso a los mercados de capital y cambios en los tipos de crédito, incluyendo los que se podrían producir como consecuencia de las transacciones propuestas. Otros factores desconocidos o no predecibles que también podrían afectar de forma adversa a los resultados y logros de Cendant y de sus compañías. Teniendo en cuenta estos riesgos, incertidumbres, presunciones y factores, los eventos de las declaraciones sujetas a riesgos e incertidumbres mencionados en este comunicado podrían no ocurrir. Deberá tener cuidado al considerar estas declaraciones sujetas a riesgos e incertidumbres, que sólo hablan hasta la fecha mencionada, y en el caso de no mencionar ninguna fecha, hasta la fecha de emisión de este comunicado. Las presunciones más importantes y los factores más destacados que podrían hacer que los resultados reales fueran diferentes de los expresados en las declaraciones sujetas a riesgos e incertidumbres se especifican en el documento 10-K de Cendant para el año finalizado el 31 de diciembre de 2005, incluyendo los textos denominados "Declaraciones sujetas a riesgos e incertidumbres", "Factores de riesgo" y "Discusión Administrativa y Análisis de la Condición Financiera y Resultados de las Operaciones". Excepto por las obligaciones contractuales de la compañía para desvelar el material informativo de la legislatura de los valores federales, la compañía no tiene ninguna obligación de publicar ninguna revisión de las declaraciones sujetas a riesgos e incertidumbres, eventos presentados o que se presentarán tras conseguir que los eventos no previstos a no ser que se soliciten a través de la ley.

Página web: http://www.cendant.com

Source: Cendant Corporation

La Empresa Completa Mejoras de Red en Destinos Vacacionales Populares

Justo a tiempo para la temporada vacacional de la primavera, Verizon Wireless, propietaria de la red móvil más fiable del país, ha ampliado y mejorado su red a fin de prepararla para los visitantes y residentes de varios destinos importantes del Sunshine State, incluso los parques de atracciones de Orlando, la Space Coast, el histórico Saint Augustine y los Cayos de la Florida. Las ampliaciones de la red de la Florida fueron concebidas para permitir que los negocios locales tanto como los residentes y visitantes usen simultáneamente sus móviles para hacer llamadas, enviar y recibir TXT Messages y Picture Messages, y descargar juegos y tonos de llamada mientras disfrutan de una recepción más clara y de menos caídas de llamada.

En los últimos meses, Verizon Wireless ha ampliado la cobertura y ha añadido nuevos puntos fijos de interconexión celular en destinos vacacionales populares, entre ellos:

* Orlando, FL -- La empresa construyó un centro de conmutación

valorado en $40 millones en Orlando para mejorar los servicios

telefónicos móviles y ampliar la capacidad de red en beneficio

de los abonados de Florida Central

* Saint Augustine, FL -- La empresa construyó un nuevo y avanzado

punto fijo de interconexión celular digital en el corazón del

distrito histórico de la ciudad

* Boca Raton, FL -- La empresa construyó un nuevo y avanzado punto

fijo de interconexión celular digital cerca de Lynn University

para mejorar la cobertura móvil dentro de los edificios del campus

universitario, así como en el Towne Center y alrededores de

Boca Ratón y a lo largo de Interstate 95

* Cocoa Beach, FL -- La empresa construyó un nuevo y avanzado punto

fijo de interconexión celular digital en la popular "Space Coast"

para ampliar la cobertura móvil de Patrick Air Force Base y proveer

una cobertura continua a lo largo de Pineda Causeway entre

Cocoa Beach y Satellite Beach

* Tarpon Springs, FL -- La empresa construyó un nuevo y avanzado punto

fijo de interconexión celular digital cerca de Alternate U.S. 19,

incluso en los históricos "sponge docks" de la ciudad

* Marathon, FL -- La empresa construyó un nuevo y avanzado punto fijo

de interconexión celular digital para proveer una cobertura fiable

a los visitantes de los Cayos de la Florida

* Clearwater, FL -- La empresa construyó un nuevo y avanzado punto

fijo de interconexión celular digital al oeste de U.S. 19 y de

las carreteras Belleair y Belcher

Estas nuevas instalaciones forman parte de la continua y audaz inversión realizada por Verizon Wireless en su red. La inversión realizada en los últimos seis años totaliza ahora más de $30 mil millones en todo el país para mantener a la empresa en la delantera de la creciente demanda de servicios móviles en todo el país.

Las mejoras realizadas en la cobertura de red son el resultado directo de varios estudios hechos sobre la red, los cuales fueron específicamente concebidos para mejorar el rendimiento de la red de Verizon Wireless. La afirmación de "red más fiable" está basada en estudios de red llevados a cabo por auténticos técnicos de prueba en todo el país. Estos ingenieros realizan más de 300,000 intentos de llamada mensuales en la red de Verizon Wireless y en las redes de otras portadoras nacionales mientras viajan más de 100,000 millas al mes en vehículos de la empresa especialmente equipados para realizar pruebas de calidad.

Las mejoras de red de Verizon Wireless fueron críticas para asegurar la rápida respuesta de la empresa a los desastres naturales durante la temporada de huracanes del 2005. Cerca del 80 por ciento de los centros de Verizon Wireless tienen su propio generador auxiliar, además de alimentación por batería, para mantener la red en operación incluso cuando la fuente de alimentación sufre alguna interrupción. Por ello, la red de Verizon Wireless pudo permanecer en el aire en la Florida mientras las líneas alámbricas terrestres y otras proveedoras móviles fallaron.

Para más información sobre Verizon Wireless, visite http://www.verizonwireless.com/ .

Acerca de Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless es propietario y opera la red inalámbrica más confiable del país, atendiendo a 51.3 millones de clientes de voz y datos. Verizon Wireless tiene su sede en Bedminster, NJ, y es una empresa conjunta de Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) y Vodafone Para encontrar más información, visite el sitio Web http://www.verizonwireless.com/ .

Teamsters Advocate Improvements in Homeland Security
DHS Guidance a Good Beginning for First Responders but More is Needed

On April 13 the Teamsters Union filed a series of recommendations with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on ways in which emergency responders can be better prepared to effectively manage radiological and nuclear terror incidents.

The union's recommendations to the DHS include ensuring equitable safety and health protections for all public employees, broadening advanced training, providing sufficient funds for States and municipalities to implement the guidelines, and establishing firm requirements on the proper maintenance and accessibility of medical records for workers who respond to such incidents.

"The Teamsters represent thousands of emergency responders and law enforcement officers employed by state, county and municipal governments, as well as who would be required to respond to the serious public safety and occupational threats envisioned by the guidance document. In addition, we represent health care workers including nurses, medical technicians, medical transport drivers, allied health professionals and support services staff that would be on the frontline to care for victims of a radiological or nuclear incident," said Jim Hoffa, General President of the Teamsters Union. "We have submitted comments that will help protect not only our members, but the general public as a whole."

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents more than 1.4 million hardworking women and men, including 200,000 public service employees at all levels of government.

Source: International Brotherhood of Teamsters

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

The following is a transcript of remarks by President Bush after roundtable on taxes and the economy:

Europa Stone Distributors, Inc.

Sterling, Virginia

11:12 A.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: I want to thank Carlos and Owen and Adam for inviting us to their business. I also want to thank the other folks that we had a discussion with for coming over. We've got folks that have benefited from the tax relief, both as a small business owner and/or an employee -- except for Mike; he's a firefighter. And it's been a good discussion.

Here's what I come away with. One, the tax relief helped small businesses a lot. And since small businesses create two-thirds of the new jobs of America, it is no wonder that our job base is expanding. When you help the small business owner with tax relief, you're helping to create employment. And that's what we're seeing across the country. We've added 5.1 million new jobs in the last two-and-a-half years. A lot of it has to do with the fact that our small business owners are confident, and they're investing and they're expanding the job base.

I talked to Shannon Bennett. She's a single mom with one young son who saved about $1,200 or $1,300 on her taxes this past year. And it's important for her family that she has got some additional money. Owen -- I mean, Mike has got three children. He's a firefighter. The tax relief helped. In other words, tax relief helped the small business owner; it's helped our families.

And what's interesting is the tax relief is set to expire. Actually, there's some Democrats in Congress who would like to raise taxes now. And if that happens, it will be a tax increase no one expects, no one wants. It will be like getting hit by one of these granite rocks.

And so I strongly urge the United States Congress to understand the positive effects of the tax relief and to keep the taxes low -- keep the taxes low on the working people, keep the taxes low on these small business owners, so that we continue -- so that we can continue to be an economy that leads the world.

And I want to thank you for your time, letting us come by. It's Tax Day. And it's a day to recommit ourselves to low taxes. It's a day that understands that when these people filing out their forms and writing checks to the government that it's the people's money that's coming to Washington, D.C. And we intend to let the people keep more of their own money, for the sake of the economy and for the sake of our families.

So thanks for letting us come by. Appreciate your hard work. I love the fact that you're living the American Dream.

END 11:15 A.M. EDT

Source: White House Press Office

Web site: http://www.whitehouse.gov/

With Airline Tickets From $49 One-Way, Southwest Airlines Makes Air Travel Easy and Affordable

Southwest Airlines (is offering Customers low airfare on flights from coast to coast. With airline tickets as low as $49 one-way with a 21-day advance purchase available only at southwest.com, Southwest Airlines is making air travel easy and affordable. Airfare starts at $49 one-way and varies by destination and day of travel. To book airline tickets, go to: http://www.southwest.com/jp/luvhome.shtml?src=PR_SysSale_041806 "Southwest Airlines counts its pennies so our Customers don't have to -- low costs mean low airfare and savings for our Customers," said Kevin Krone, Southwest Airline's Vice President of Marketing, Sales, and Distribution. "In addition to low airfare, it is the power of our People who deliver excellent Customer Service everyday that make us one of the most admired airlines in the world." The following are examples of the low airfare offers (see Airfare Rules): * $49 one-way flights are available between Baltimore/Washington and Columbus; between Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood and Orlando; and between Los Angeles and Tucson. * $99 one-way flights are available between Indianapolis and Omaha; between Boise and Las Vegas; and between Austin and Jackson. * $119 one-way flights are available between San Diego and Salt Lake City; between Oakland and Phoenix; and between Chicago Midway and Little Rock. Midwest Airfare Sale Arrive at your Midwest destination with money in your pocket with Southwest Airlines' low airfare of $49 (see Airfare Rules) one-way.

These southwest.com-only airline fares are available seven days a week with a 21-day advance purchase. Examples of the super low $49 one-way airline tickets are between Nashville and Chicago Midway; between St. Louis and Omaha; between Kansas City and Oklahoma City; between Little Rock and St. Louis; and between Detroit and Chicago Midway. California Airfare Sale It's time to go, see, and do as Southwest Airlines offers low $59 fares (see Airfare Rules) one-way between select California cities. These southwest.com-only airline fares are available seven days a week with a 21-day advance purchase. Examples of the super low $59 one-way airline tickets are between Burbank and Sacramento; between Burbank and Oakland; between Los Angeles and San Jose; between Ontario and Sacramento; and between San Diego and Oakland. Northwest Airfare Sale Travel the Northwest with Southwest Airlines' airfare ranging from $49 to $99 (see Airfare Rules) one-way. Airline tickets are available seven days a week. These southwest.com-only airline fares are available with a 21-day advance purchase and airline tickets vary by destination.

The following are examples of the low airfare now available: * $49 one-way flights are available between Spokane and Boise; between Seattle/Tacoma and Spokane; and between Portland and Boise. * $79 one-way flights are available between Seattle/Tacoma and Reno/Lake Tahoe; between Portland and Salt Lake City; and between Spokane and San Jose. * $99 one-way flights are available between Portland and Los Angeles; between Seattle/Tacoma and Phoenix; between Spokane and Las Vegas; between Portland and San Diego; and between Seattle/Tacoma and Burbank. Heartland Airfare Sale Visit friends and family with Southwest Airlines' low airfare of $49 and $79 (see Airfare Rules) one-way. These southwest.com-only airline fares are available seven days a week with a 21-day advance purchase. Examples of the low $49 one-way airline tickets are between Austin and Harlingen/South Padre Island; between Dallas Love Field and Little Rock; between Houston Hobby and San Antonio; and between El Paso and Lubbock. Examples of the low $79 one-way airline tickets are between Austin and Little Rock; between Corpus Christi and Houston Hobby; between El Paso and Harlingen/South Padre Island; and between Houston Hobby and Little Rock. Houston Airfare Sale Visiting the Lone Star State has never been more affordable with Southwest Airlines' low airfare between Houston Hobby and select cities. These $89 and $99 (see Airfare Rules) one-way fares are available on Southwest Airlines with a 21-day advance purchase.

Fares are available seven days a week and are available only on southwest.com.

The $89 one-way airline tickets are available between Houston Hobby and Phoenix, Albuquerque, Las Vegas, Chicago Midway, Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood, Ft. Myers/Naples, Orlando, Tampa Bay, or Baltimore/Washington. The $99 one-way airline tickets are available between Houston Hobby and Los Angeles, Oakland, or Philadelphia. Florida Airfare Sale It's time for fun in the sun with Southwest Airlines' Florida airfare, ranging from $49 to $89 (see Airfare Rules) one-way. Fares are available seven days a week for air travel from May 9, 2006, through June 15, 2006. These southwest.com-only airline fares are available with a 21-day advance purchase and fares vary by destination. The following are examples of the low airfare sales: * $49 one-way flights are available between Tampa Bay and Nashville; between Orlando and Raleigh-Durham; between Jacksonville and Orlando; and between West Palm Beach and Birmingham. * $59 one-way flights are available between Tampa Bay and Baltimore/Washington; between Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood and Long Island/Islip; between West Palm Beach and Hartford; and between Jacksonville and Buffalo. * $69 one-way flights are available between Orlando and Cleveland; between West Palm Beach and St. Louis; between Tampa Bay and Omaha; and between Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood and Indianapolis. * $89 one-way flights are available between West Palm Beach and San Antonio; between Tampa Bay and Austin; between Orlando and Albuquerque; and between Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood and Little Rock.

Airfare Rules All fares (except fares for interstate Florida air travel noted above) are available for purchase today through May 11, 2006, and are valid for air travel from May 9, 2006, through the end of Southwest Airlines' published schedule (currently Aug. 3, 2006). For interstate Florida air travel, the fares are available for purchase today through May 11, 2006, and are valid for air travel from May 9, 2006, through June 15, 2006. All airline tickets must be purchased 21 days before departure. Fares are available one-way and are combinable with all other fares. When combining fares, all ticketing restrictions apply. Seats are limited. Fares may vary by destination and day of travel and will not be available on some flights that operate during very busy travel times and holiday periods. Fares do not include a federal segment tax of $3.30 per takeoff and landing. Fares do not include airport-assessed passenger facility charges (PFC) of up to $9 one-way and U.S. government- imposed September 11th Security Fees of up to $5 one-way. Fares are subject to change until ticketed. Airline tickets are nonrefundable but may be applied toward the purchase of future air travel on Southwest Airlines. Fares are valid on Southwest-operated published, scheduled service only and are not available through the Group Desk. Any change in itinerary may result in an increase in fare. Fares are not necessarily common rated in the Bay Area or the Los Angeles Basin. Orange County's John Wayne Airport is not included in this sale. To take advantage of Southwest Airlines' super low fares, Customers who book their air travel via the Internet can subscribe to Southwest Airlines' Click 'n Save e-mail updates as well as Southwest Airlines' newest technological innovation -- DING! DING! delivers Southwest Airlines' hottest deals directly to Customers' desktops allowing Customers to get a jump on the latest southwest.com sales! For more information, visit http://www.southwest.com/ding .

Wendy's Chairman-CEO Announces Retirement
CFO Named Interim CEO; Moves Follow 18-Month Sales Decline

Following an unscheduled board teleconference 10 days ahead of its annual shareholder meeting, the chairman-CEO of Wendy's International late yesterday announced his retirement after 30 years with the burger chain.

Wendy's corporate suite changes follow 18 months of sales declines and franchisee unrest.

"I am proud to have been part of Wendy's for three decades... I believe it is the appropriate time to pass the leadership of the brand to the next generation of leaders," said John "Jack" Schuessler, 55, in a statement.

The marketer's board elected Executive VP-Chief Financial Officer Kerrii B. Anderson to serve as interim president-CEO, and 24-year board member James V. Pickett as chairman, starting immediately. Mr. Pickett, chairman of the Pickett Realty Advisors in Dublin, Ohio, is lead director for the board and chair of the nominating and corporate governance committee. Mr. Schuessler will consult with the company for two years.

The moves are the latest tremors in a seismic 18 months of sales declines, a management and organizational shakeup, shareholder activism that led to a board expansion, and two weeks ago, a franchisee secession. Franchisees later this month will hold a meeting of the Old Fashioned Franchisee Association, an independent association representing 13% of the chain's stores.

A company spokesman denied that Mr. Schuessler's retirement was driven by activist shareholder and now board member Nelson Peltz or from the franchisee unrest. "It was his decision," said a Wendy's spokesman, while confirming that the board meeting wasn't a regularly scheduled one. "With the company focusing on new strategies and opportunities Jack and the board decided that it was time for new leadership."

The company also announced further changes to breathe life back into the once high-flying company. Wendy's board set two small working committees to drive further changes "to make Wendy's even more vibrant and attractive for customers and franchisees, as well as optimizing shareholder value," said Mr. Pickett, in the statement. The Dublin, Ohio-based company said it also will work to enhance its emphasis on operational excellence and the needs of Wendy's outstanding franchisees.

For the coming months, the marketer set three priorities: to strengthen the core Wendy's business with improved operations, new products and more effective marketing; execute "strategic" initiatives to spin off the remainder of the Tim Horton's doughnut chain and pursue options for the Baja Fresh chain; and cut costs based on recommendations from consultant Booz Allen Hamilton. Wendy's already offered 17.25% of Tim Hortons in a public offering and has hired Goldman Sachs to consider options for Baja Fresh.

Many of the marketer's recent efforts coincided with the early March announcement that three executives linked to activist investor Nelson Peltz's Trian Fund Management want to "unlock" value from the company's assets. The fund owns 7.7% of company shares. Wendy's added to the board Trian executives Peter H. Rothschild and Stuart I. Oran; and Jerry W. Levin, a former Pillsbury executive and former chairman-CEO of Sunbeam and Revlon.

Wendy's will announce more specific information at its annual shareholder meeting April 27. Meanwhile, the company plans to hire an executive-search firm to vet internal and external candidates for the permanent CEO post, of which Ms. Andersen, 48, is an internal candidate, a spokesman said. "Kerrii has demonstrated excellent strategic management in many key areas of the corporation over the past six years," said Mr. Pickett, in a statement. "She has a passion for the Wendy's business, is committed to strong relationships with our franchisees and has the respect and support of Wendy's management team. Our entire board supports Kerrii in her new role and we look forward to working with her in the coming months." The marketer also named Brendan P. Foley, 46, as senior VP-controller and assistant secretary, succeeding Dan Boone, 62, VP-technical compliance and consolidations, as he transitions into retirement.

Dyson Wins One Over Hoover in Vacuum Wars
NAD Tells Maytag Brand to Tone Down Ad Claims

In the battle between Dyson and Maytag Corp's Hoover over whose vacuum sucks better, Dyson has won a round. But it was far from a clean sweep.

Dyson was the victor in this round of its battle with Maytag. The NAD told Maytag to stop claiming that its Fusion cleaner suffers 'no loss of suction' ever and that its WindTunnel completely traps all allergens.

The National Advertising Division of the Council of Better Business Bureaus today announced that it has told Maytag to tone down claims that its WindTunnel and Fusion Upright vacuums outsuck Dyson's competing household vacuum. Maytag said it has agreed with the ruling.

But the NAD ruling was more of a middle-ground approach. In effect, Hoover can still contend its vacuums have superior sucking power -- but only if the company is clearly talking about performance on carpets. Hoover was also told to quit claiming that its Fusion cleaner suffers "no loss of suction" ever and that its WindTunnel completely traps allergens.

Dyson, meanwhile, can argue its vacuum is the best overall choice.

But the battles are far from over. Dyson's entry and rise to prominence in the $2.2 billion vacuum sector seems to have brought out the fighting spirit among all competitors. And they haven't been willing to simply fight it out in the market place. Dyson has filed a patent infringement suit against Maytag in a federal court in Delaware. And down in Louisiana, Oreck has filed suit to challenge Dyson's "no loss of suction" ad claims.

At the heart of the case considered by NAD were a number of complaints Dyson made about Maytag's Hoover. The U.K. company asked NAD to stop Maytag from claiming its WindTunnel and Fusion Upright vacuums outsuck Dyson's competing household vacuums. Dyson also requested that Hoover stop using a cyclone logo and that Hoover stop disparaging Dyson products. As part of its case, Dyson cited proprietary research contending that 46% of consumers who viewed Hoover's ads took away the message that Dyson products are ineffective and that Dyson patrols selected them for style rather than performance. Finally it asked that Hoover quit implying that Dyson vacuums lose suction. There were several other claims.

Among the challenged ads was work from Element 79, Chicago, picturing supposed Dyson owners, with a Hoover owner and a narrator saying their vacuums pick up 56% more dirt than Dyson vacuums.

One ad pictures the Dyson owners as status seekers.

"My vacuum is purple. They say it doesn't lose suction," says one supposed Dyson owner. "My vacuum makes me look good," says another. "My vacuum was in a fashion magazine."

Another ad features this statement: "Dyson thinks things should work properly. We couldn't agree more. That's why our self propelled WindTunnel picks up 56% more dirt than Dyson."

Another said simply: "Picks up more dirt than any other brand."

In an unusually technical and long 37-page NAD case report, Dyson disputed that its vacuum loses suction and contended that Maytag's superiority claims hinged on judging one task of a vacuum -- carpet cleaning -- but not a vacuum's overall use on floors, carpets and other surfaces. Dyson also argued its vacuums are more adaptable and perform much better over time.

Maytag argued it was using the right tests and Dyson the wrong ones and urged NAD to stay out while a patent case is pending. It defended its ads, saying the company's research and a study from Consumers Union support the conclusion. It also challenged Dyson's contention that Hoover vacuums are more likely to wear out.

In a statement given to NAD, Maytag said it was pleased that NAD found in its favor on most elements of the challenge.

"Its a simple victory for technology and truth," said Dyson founder James Dyson in a statement. "I have spent millions developing better machines. Research is our lifeblood and it is imperative that we defend our inventions. Of course we would rather be developing new technology than being in the courtroom, but it's vital people know the truth."

As Net Passes Print Ad Revenue, Publishers Get Web Wise

It's a moment that has been anticipated for a decade, but that makes it no less seminal. This is the year, according to Merrill Lynch, the Internet collects more ad dollars than magazines.

Magazine publishers aren't worried about the Web collecting more ad revenue than their medium.

Assuming the forecast is correct, magazines will become the first big medium to watch the Web pass by -- unless you count phone books, which are also projected to fall behind in 2006. Yet magazine publishers insist that's not bad news, but rather an opportunity for those among their ranks that have already started the shift to being digital savvy, media-neutral purveyors of content.

"The people who report on media like to think it's really significant," said Nina Link, president-CEO, Magazine Publishers of America, of the tipping point. "I don't. It just says there are more opportunities to reach consumers and make powerful partnerships. The powerful brands and media are going to thrive."

Christopher O'Connor, senior VP-group account director, MPG, said the digital dawn is frightening, in a way, for everybody because it is so complex, and keeping up with technology is so difficult. It's worrisome for ad-page sales in particular, he said: "Irrespective of what category you're looking at, all clients are looking to digital." As money shifts online, publishers have to be there to collect it.

And they are. The Merrill Lynch prediction coincides with an interactive push by magazine companies unrivaled by anything before it, setting up 2006 to be a watershed year in more ways than one.

"The tectonic plates are moving beneath us," said Rob Gregory, group publisher at Dennis Publishing's Maxim. Results may include further declines in newsstand sales, as impulse readers increasingly make the Web their first stop, but smart publishers will see gains in other areas, he said. "There's a term in the Marines called a force multiplier," Mr. Gregory said. "If you're putting print together with digital the right way, that's the result."

For Maxim, which already operates a sprawling digital platform, multiplying print's force meant making its May issue the inaugural "Maxim Mobile" edition. An editor's letter in the issue, which goes on sale April 25, urges readers to consume the issue with cellphones in hand and to enter contests and submit content whenever they see a "Maxim Mobile" icon.

Another magazine that relies on young men, IDG Entertainment's GamePro, now includes roundups of other outlets' game reviews, something akin to a Web site linking to others' online offerings. "Five years ago we would never have dreamt of including content from other publishers in the magazine," said Dan Orum, publisher-CEO, IDG. "Now we embrace that."

Merrill Lynch analyst Karl Choi said publishers also have to try to bring the strengths that they promote about print-engagement and connections with readers-into digital arenas. "To the extent that user-generated content and social networks are very popular these days, the opportunity for magazine publishers is seeing how they can migrate these relationships online."

In truth, almost everyone is active on almost every digital front. Bauer Publishing's In Touch Weekly has one of the most modest companion sites among magazines, putting it at a disadvantage to Web-friendly rivals Star from American Media Inc. and Us Weekly from Wenner Media. But that reflects Bauer's European business model, under which it collects nearly all its revenue from newsstand sales. Even Bauer has built substantial sites for other magazines, such as teen titles Twist and J-14.

Big publishers are rolling out new Web sites or digital supplements for many titles. Meredith Corp., for example, will introduce a handheld media platform for American Baby in the next few weeks, while Wenner plans a new resource-driven site for Men's Journal this fall. Time Inc. plans to expand its mobile programs, podcasts and blogs to many new titles in coming months.

Rodale, publisher of magazines including Men's Health and Runner's World, already draws online revenue from ads and premium content. CondeNet, the interactive division of Conde Nast Publications, is developing new destination sites like its Style.com. And Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S., which has embraced the Web in a big way, plans a new audio-visual suite on its office's 45th floor.

John P. Loughlin, exec VP-general manager, Hearst Magazines, said he shared Ms. Link's skepticism about the Merrill Lynch forecast and its implications. "The actual tip-over point, and again I would debate whether it's really real or not, is sort of immaterial," he said. "It's not as if publishers have been turnips, unaware that the world has embraced the Web."

That point isn't lost on others. "Maybe by the year 2030 we'll deliver content by holograms that follow you as you walk down the street," said Maxim's Mr. Gregory. "If that's the case, we'll have the best damn holograms in young-guy culture."

Coca-Cola North America and Godiva

Chocolatier announce the launch of a new line of premium blended indulgent

beverages called Godiva Belgian Blends.

The new Godiva Belgian Blends beverages provide a revitalizing

experience "more decadent than just plain coffee."

Godiva Belgian Blends will roll out with three flavors - Dark Chocolate

Mocha, Milk Chocolate Mocha and French Vanilla Latte -- in a sequenced

national launch beginning July 31. Godiva Belgian Blends will be sold in

stylish 9.5 fl. oz. glass bottles - in singles and four packs -- at

convenience stores, supermarkets and other retailers. Advertising agency

will be Leo Burnett, Chicago.

"This is a great opportunity for us to extend our strong portfolio of

licensed products by combining the world's leading premium chocolate brand

with the beverage marketing expertise and distribution capabilities of

Coca- Cola North America, "said Jim Goldman, President, Godiva Chocolatier

Worldwide.

"Collaborating with Godiva on a beverage line like this is a great

opportunity for Coca-Cola North America, and builds upon the reputation of

both companies for high quality, consumer-preferred products," said Don

Knauss, president and chief operating officer, Coca-Cola North America.

Godiva Chocolatier is a unit of the Campbell Soup Company. With

production facilities in Belgium and the U.S., Godiva Chocolatier is

recognized around the world as the leader in fine chocolates. From its

famous truffles and shell-molded chocolate pieces to its European-style

biscuits, gourmet coffees, and hot cocoa, Godiva Chocolatier has been

dedicated to excellence and innovation in the Belgian tradition for 80

years. Current licensed categories under the Godiva brand include ice

cream, liqueur and cheesecake. For more information about Godiva

Chocolatier, please visit http://www.godiva.com .

Coca-Cola North America is a unit of The Coca-Cola Company, the world's

largest beverage company. Along with Coca-Cola(R), recognized as the

world's most valuable brand, the Company markets four of the world's top

five soft drink brands, including Diet Coke(R), Fanta(R) and Sprite(R), and

a wide range of other beverages, including diet and light soft drinks,

waters, juices and juice drinks, teas, coffees and sports and energy

drinks. Through the world's largest distribution system, consumers in more

than 200 countries enjoy the Company's beverages at a rate exceeding 1.3

billion servings each day. .

SOURCE Coca-Cola North America
Web Site: http://www.newproducts.coca-cola.com
http://www.coca-cola.com http://www.godiva.com

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