Energizer Brings the Magic of Disney-Pixar's Cars Straight to Your Home
To understand the internet you have to be open to change.
Content is King
Written by Joyce L Chow & William Hoehne May 13, 2006
MBN
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MONTEBUBBLISM: Smuggled Puppies vs. Illegal Aliens
Smuggled Puppies vs. Illegal AliensHow can one expect illegal aliens to stop crossing the border looking for jobs,
when people continue buying smuggled puppies that they know are too young?
ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY
The Da Vinci Code film Audio Tour debuts at The Louvre
The Da Vinci Code'' Spurs a 'Quest for Answers' Across the Country; Coast to Coast, Readers Look for Truth Using New Book by International Speaker and Religious Researcher Josh McDowell
WagerWeb.com Posts Odds for ``The Da Vinci Code'' Opening Weekend Gross Sales
ACADEMY AWARD WINNER MEL GIBSON STARS IN THE ACTION DRAMA "WE WERE SOLDIERS," TO BE BROADCAST AS THE "CBS SUNDAY MOVIE," MAY 28
Energizer Brings the Magic of Disney-Pixar's Cars Straight to Your Home
New Energizer Promotions Offer Chance to Win Power Wheels(R) Lightning McQueen, Collect 3 CARS Characters With Built-in Launchers
CRIMINAL MINDS" FINISHES IN ITS CLOSEST COMPETITIVE POSITION
TO A FIRST-RUN "LOST" IN VIEWERS AND KEY DEMOGRAPHICS
FINAL ROUND OF PERFORMERS AND PRESENTERS SET FOR
THE "41ST ANNUAL ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS,"
TO BE BROADCAST LIVE FROM LAS VEGAS,MAY 23 ON THE CBS TELEVISION NETWORK
VH1's Music Radar - Wed., May 10, 2006 - Tues., May 16, 2006
Dior Rolls out the Red Carpet for Monica Bellucci Who Will Represent its Legendary Lipstick Rouge Dior
Vonage Survey also finds that most people would Prefer Bill Cosby over
George Clooney as the Ideal Famous American to call their Mom as a Fun
Surprise on Mother's Day
Social Networking Sites Grow 47 Percent, Year Over Year, Reaching 45 Percent of Web Users, According to Nielsen//Netratings
Omarion & BET Join Forces to Premiere New Single, 'Entourage,' as Exclusive Ringtone
PENGUINS!
WildTangent Studios launches stunning new game at E3
Simon Property Group and Publicis Groupe Launch OnSpot Digital Network, Major New Digital Channel
Tiny KISS vs. MiniKiss Battle Continues on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart
Beacher's Rockhouse Newest Addition Changes Lineup
Patriots Come in All Species
Residents of Tampa, Florida, to Get Verizon FiOS TV
City Council Opens the Door to More Consumer Choice, Better Competition for the Public; New Local Franchise Area Has Over 333,000 Residents
Top Modeling Agency CEO Appears on Cover of Supermodels Unlimited
Ancient Greek Images Portrayed Genesis Events - Independent Record of Mankind's Origins Uncovered
BET's MEET THE FAITH Celebrates Mother's Day With Oprah
TV's Top Talk Maven Makes BET Appearance on Sunday, May 14 at 11:00 A.M. ET/PT
Ben Gordon Brings Instant Energy to H3 Press Conferences Set for Public Debut of 'BG7'
InterCasino, One of the Largest and World's First Online Casinos, and InterPoker Extend Relationship With Global Gaming Software Developer CryptoLogic
InterCasino and InterPoker, the Largest Licensees of the CryptoLogic Network, Agree to Renew Their Exclusive Agreement With WagerLogic Through 2012
Zeno Featured on Tyra Banks Show
Evan Page: Video for Debut Single ``Next Ex'' Chosen to Be Screened During the New York Short-Short Film Festival Saturday, May 20th
There's Still Time To Bid On Phones Signed By Celebrities In The Verizon Wireless HopeLine Online Phone Auction
DIRECTV and BabyFirstTV Transform Traditional Television with the Launch of First-of-its-Kind Channel Dedicated to Babies and Toddlers; Groundbreaking New Channel Offers an Interactive Co-Viewing Experience for Children and Parents
Theatre Information Systems Launches Product That Simplifies Buying Cinema Advertising
GameSpot Announces Winners of 2nd Annual GameSpot E3 People's Choice Awards; Industry Award Based on Gamers' Online Behavior During Opening Day at E3 as Tracked by GameSpot Trax, the Real-Time Market Intelligence Tool
ChiefÆ Manufacturing Introduces the new Speed-Connect™ Series of accessories focused on reducing installation time.
C O R R E C T I O N -- Comcast/
AFTER TRAVELING TO FIVE CONTINENTS, 10 COUNTRIES AND MORE THAN 59,000 THOUSAND MILES, FIND OUT WHICH TEAM WILL BE THE FIRST TO CROSS THE FINISH LINE AND TAKE HOME THE MILLION DOLLAR PRIZE,
THINKFilm in the 'BLACK'
ACTIVISION SET TO ACQUIRE VIDEO GAME PUBLISHER REDOCTANE
AND ITS HIGHLY POPULAR GUITAR HERO FRANCHISE
Yedang Online’s next generation blockbuster ‘PristonTale2 – 2nd Enigma’ unveiled.
Video Gamers: You Are Invited to Join Pro Gamers, TV Celebs, and Others From Around the World as Part of the Official E3 Community at: http://e3.imeem.com
(obviously material got out late)
Left Behind Games Hosts the First Public Showing of LEFT BEHIND: ETERNAL FORCES at the 2006 E3 Expo
Illusion Softworks Embraces AGEIA PhysX Technology; Top Developer in Czech Republic to Leverage AGEIA PhysX Processor for Unprecedented Realism in Game Environments and Characters
Electronic Arts Launches Madden NFL 07 on Mobile Phones
NetDevil Inks License Agreement for AGEIA PhysX SDK; Highly Rated Developer of MMO Games Plans Future Support for AGEIA PhysX Processor
DREAMGEAR TURNS UP THE VOLUME WITH ONE OF THE WIDEST SELECTIONS OF UNIQUE PLAYSTATION PORTABLE™ SPEAKERS
PSP™ MOVIE MAGIC GOES MOBILE
NAB saw the unveiling of several new A/V connectivity, extension and scaling solutions from Gefen, summarized below.
Steven Van Zandt Presents Teen Band ''Creation'' with Special Honor from We Are Family Foundation
Just in Time for Father's Day, Fox Home Entertainment Introduces Five New DVD Collections Perfect for Dad
Marvel Super Heroes Take Center Stage at E3; Marvel Video Game Releases From Leading Partners Activision, Konami and 2K Games To Be Unveiled At 2006 Electronic Entertainment Expo
Muvico Theaters Attacked by Corporate Internet Sabotage; Federal and State Authorities Are Investigating Malicious Attack That Has Disrupted Certain Operations & Its Hallmark Customer Service Throughout Its Circuit
''Johnstown Flood'' DVD Honors the Spirit of Survival Despite Devastation
DISNEYS:GOAL! THE DREAM BEGINS
SPORTS & AUTOS
PokerStars.com and Aston Martin Racing Ready to Blast Off in Houston
World's Largest Poker Tournament Website and Prestigious International Racing Team Agree to Partnership for the 2006 Le Mans Season
Chrysler Group's Employees Help Brighten Lives for the Delray House and Neighborhood Children
BMW Charity Pro-Am at The Cliffs Names Volunteer of the Year
BMW to Operate World's First Green Paint Shop
Football Team to Be Honored for a Game It Never Played
Sacrificed Glory for Honor
Toyota Awards $1.12 Million in Scholarships to 100 High School Seniors
Winners at top of class in both academics and community service
2006 Sailing Season Kicks Off with Match Racing
HD Radio to Rock Toyotafest
Long Beach Crowd to Experience Digital Radio
CBS Sports Deals 'ULTIMATE BLACKJACK TOUR'
'Chicago Shamrox' Name and Logo Unveiled by Chicago Indoor Pro Lacrosse Franchise
Tennis Legends Donate Time to Raise Money for Tennis and Education Program at the Junior Tennis Champions Center (JTCC)
Hybrid Cars Give Business Travelers Price Break at the Pump; EV Rental Cars, An Environmental Rental Car Company, Adds to Its Hybrid Fleet While Politicians Debate Fuel Economy Standards
Snap N' Sold Corp.
Emerging U.S. Talent at the Center of Fox Soccer Channel's Upcoming Coverage of the Cal South National Cup; One-Hour Tournament Highlights Program to Air Saturday, May 20
Lance Armstrong Featured in Latest NHL Promo
DOD
DoD Identifies Casualties
DoD, Veterans Mourn U.S. Rep. Sonny Montgomery
The U.S. House of Representatives voted yesterday to allow military forces to be used in border-security operations under certain circumstances.
America Supports You: VFW Gets Boost from Patriotic Musicians
Asian-Pacific Americans Play Major Role in Nation's Defense, Admiral Says
NEWS AND NEWS IN SPANISH
El panel de deportes de GLOBALCOMM destaca la tendencia en distribución de contenido móvil; Entre los oradores se encuentran representantes de ESPN
Publishing, WIRED Magazine, Sprint, Amp'd Mobile y Current Analysis
Bargain Hunters Find Coupons and Deals From More Than 5,000 Companies in One Location at WebbyPlanet.com Site Has Partnerships With Various Name Brands Such as Dell, Overstock.com
Loudeye renueva su acuerdo con Microsoft para proporcionar sus ofertas al almacén MSN Music en Europa
Vatican News
- Pope Receives College of Santa Maria dell'Anima
- Copy of the Virgin of Fatima Returns to the Vatican
- Religion Is Part of the Solution to Terrorism
- Cardinal Canizares to Take Possession of His Title on May 21
NASA AUTOMATED ROCKET SAFETY SYSTEM PASSES KEY TEST
NASA EXPENDABLE LAUNCH VEHICLE STATUS REPORT
UNION REASON FOR LOSING A VOTE
New Offering from America's #1 Selling Coffee Delivers Major Category Innovation
President Bush's Job Approval Rating Reaches New Low of 29 Percent Positive, Down Seven Points Since April, According to Harris Poll
Speedus Files Patent Suits Against Verizon Wireless
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Center for Elephant Conservation(R) Announces Birth of 20th Asian Elephant Calf
Aún Hay Tiempo para Hacer Ofertas por Teléfonos Firmados por Celebridades en la Subasta de Teléfonos en Línea HopeLine de Verizon Wireless
Fondos Recaudados se Donarán para Prevención de la Violencia Doméstica
Latino Issues Forum Recibe Subsidio de US$150,000 de la Fundación Comcast para Apoyar Compromiso Cívico y Proyecto Educativo en Línea
Comenzará en Fresno Gestión para Cerrar la Brecha Tecnológica en el Sector Latino no Lucrativo
Des Moines Man Gives Wife 'Million Dollar' Mother's Day Gift
Andy Long Creates Pixel Website Dedicated to Mothers, www.MillionDollarMother.com, to give to his Wife on Mother's Day.
NASA'S SPACE SHUTTLE PROCESSING STATUS REPORT:
Lingerie Bowl 3 Red Carpet
______________________________________________
ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY
Step Inside The Da Vinci Code
The Da Vinci Code film Audio Tour debuts at The Louvre
Fans of The Da Vinci Code the world over will have the opportunity to experience the thrill and intrigue of the gripping mystery like never before when they visit The Louvre in Paris. In conjunction with Columbia Pictures and Imagine Entertainment, media firm Soundwalk has created The Da Vinci Code film Soundwalk, the official audio tour based on the film releasing worldwide May 19th.
Soundwalk's latest audio tour gives visitors to The Louvre a new and ingenious way to experience one of the world's most prestigious museums. Through captivating narration by internationally acclaimed actor and The Da Vinci Code film star Jean Reno (The Professional, Mission Impossible), listeners literally re-trace the thrilling storyline through the eyes and footsteps of its central characters.
Reno, who plays Detective Bezu Fache in the film, brings the riveting mystery to life through behind-the-scenes commentary on historical facts and insights to this still-unfolding storyline. Music and sound clips from the film are interlaced throughout, creating a visceral & cinematic experience.
"I'm thrilled to be a part of helping people to experience one of France's greatest treasures from this new perspective," says Reno.
Stephan Crasneanscki, Soundwalk founder and president hopes that the tour will appeal to both fans of the Da Vinci Code and lovers of the museum. "We're extremely proud and excited to create what will be a new and innovative way to interact with and experience the Da Vinci Code and The Louvre."
Anyone wishing to retrace the steps of The Da Vinci Code film will be able to rent The Da Vinci Code Soundwalk on special edition MP3 players beginning May 19th inside The Louvre, just in time for the debut of the film and the Summer travel season. The 50-minute audio tour is 10 Euros, or about $12.60 US. The tour is also available via download at http://www.audible.com/ and http://www.itunes.com/. For more information please visit http://www.davincicodewalk.com/.
ABOUT SOUNDWALK
Soundwalk is a pioneering enterprise dedicated to new forms of media whereby the consumer virtually interacts with his or her surroundings. Soundwalk has extended the potential of the audio tour experience by creating an ever-growing series of narrated tours of neighborhoods around the world, each integrating music, sound clips and interviews with local experts and characters of interest. Ground-breaking and cutting edge, many of their projects are also award-winning, including the Sonic Memorial of Ground Zero, narrated by writer Paul Auster and produced in collaboration with NPR. Most recently Soundwalk have teamed with Puma to create a series of 'SoundRuns' and World Cup '06 themed tours around several German cities.
ABOUT THE DA VINCI CODE
From director Ron Howard, producer Brian Grazer and screenwriter Akiva Goldsman, the Oscar(R)-winning team of A Beautiful Mind, and producer John Calley (the Oscar(R)-nominated The Remains of the Day), comes the film version of Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code, one of the most popular and talked about novels of our time, with a cast headed by two-time Academy Award(R) winner Tom Hanks, Audrey Tautou, Sir Ian McKellen, Alfred Molina, Jurgen Prochnow, Paul Bettany and Jean Reno. Produced by Grazer and Calley, The Da Vinci Code involves a thrilling murder investigation that unearths a secret that could change the course of history.
Web site: http://www.davincicodewalk.com/
The Da Vinci Code'' Spurs a 'Quest for Answers' Across the Country; Coast to Coast, Readers Look for Truth Using New Book by International Speaker and Religious Researcher Josh McDowell
Before the semester ended, the president of Phoenix College's Christian Club was busy handing out Josh McDowell's The Da Vinci Code: A Quest for Answers.
The books were designed to aid any student who may have questions about the new Tom Hanks movie opening May 19.
Joseph Martinez, 21, routinely hands out soda, water and information, especially when it comes to issues of faith.
"When The Passion of the Christ came out, there was a lot of discussion on campus. People had a lot of questions," said the third-year nursing major. "Now, they definitely have a lot of questions, even though clearly it's a work of fiction. People want answers. The book had a lot to do with the culture of the history."
As religious historian McDowell speaks this month with thousands about the truths and falsehoods inherent in Dan Brown's best-selling novel, The Da Vinci Code, thousands of other people are reading about and spreading the information themselves. They are either familiar with McDowell's religious-based historical study and speaking persona, or they are hearing about him through the media and ordering his recently released book at http://www.josh.org.
The Da Vinci Code: A Quest for Answers is a 128-page conversational-style book that addresses Brown's imagery with easy-to-grasp answers about Jesus Christ's relationship with Mary Magdalene and the origin of the Holy Grail.
On the other side of the country in Alabama, Anna King, like Martinez, was handing out the books. She said her husband, Pastor Michael King of North Brewton Baptist Church, was planning to use the book and study guide in service. King also purchased books to give to the pastors in the Escambia Baptist Association of 35 area churches, and she planned to send copies to her grown children. She learned about McDowell's book after hearing him on a morning radio show.
"In this rural area, it's amazing what our people don't know. We were shocked that so many didn't know about (the motion picture, 'The Chronicles of Narnia:) The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe,' when it came out. You have to educate people."
As part of his current book tour, McDowell will speak at Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, California. The church ordered 22,000 copies of his book to give away to anyone who attends weekend services on May 20-21. Aaron Kerr, Saddleback's Personal Peace Pastor, said he heard that one man is sharing The Da Vinci Code: A Quest for Answers with his family to help his children answer questions posed at school.
And in Allen, Texas, Dr. James Toney is leaving the books in his waiting room for anyone who may be planning to see the movie after getting their teeth cleaned.
Author, speaker, researcher and theologian Josh McDowell has spoken to more than 10 million people in 84 countries at more than 700 universities and colleges. He has authored or co-authored more than 100 books with more than 42 million in print worldwide. McDowell's most popular works are The New Evidence That Demands a Verdict and More Than a Carpenter. His most recent books are The Da Vinci Code: A Quest for Answers and The Last Christian Generation. He holds a graduate degree from Talbot Theological Seminary. He has been married to his wife Dottie for 34 years and has four children. The McDowells live in Dana Point, California.
WagerWeb.com Posts Odds for ``The Da Vinci Code'' Opening Weekend Gross Sales
WagerWeb.com (http://www.wagerweb.com), one of the Internet's largest and most trusted wagering sites, posted odds today offering bettors a chance to predict the opening three-day weekend total gross sales for "The Da Vinci Code." WagerWeb.com, which has taken more than 50,000,000 bets since its creation, is known for offering odds on the hottest issues fueled by the news media. Recently, WagerWeb.com gained national attention for its offering of odds for the Duke Lacrosse Players' DNA results and trial outcomes, how many Hurricanes would hit the U.S. this year, as well as who will win the top rated TV show, "American Idol."
"With a flood of controversy surrounding this movie and nonstop chatter on the Net and the news, our players can't wait to wager," says Dave Johnson, CEO of WagerWeb.com. "We think the opening weekend movie gross can go either way based on the whims of moviegoers," Johnson adds. Senior Vatican officials are urging a boycott while activists in countries like India and Jordan are calling for an all out ban of the film.
The odds for "The Da Vinci Code's" three-day opening weekend total box office sales are as follows: -0-
More than $65 million USD -110 (Bet $110 to win $100)
Less than $65 million USD -110 (Bet $110 to win $100)
About WagerWeb
WagerWeb.com, founded in 1997, is a privately held, offshore online gaming company, fully licensed and located in San Jose, Costa Rica. With almost 10 years of experience, innovation and gaming technology, WagerWeb.com features a sportsbook, a racebook and casino and has accepted more than 50,000,000 wagers since the company's launch.
Tellem Worldwide
ACADEMY AWARD WINNER MEL GIBSON STARS
IN THE ACTION DRAMA "WE WERE SOLDIERS," TO BE BROADCAST
AS THE "CBS SUNDAY MOVIE," MAY 28
Academy Award winner Mel Gibson ("Braveheart") stars in WE WERE SOLDIERS, the story of the first major battle of the American phase of the Vietnam War, to be broadcast as the "CBS Sunday Movie," May 28 (9:00-11:30 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.
WE WERE SOLDIERS is the fact-based tale of men under fire, their common acts of uncommon valor, and their loyalty to and love for one another during one of the most savage military battles in U.S. history. On Nov. 14, 1965 in the la Drang Valley of Vietnam in a small clearing called Landing Zone X-Ray, Lt. Col. Hal Moore (Gibson) and 400 troopers from the U.S. 7th Air Cavalry become surrounded by 2,000 enemy soldiers in what would become the first, and perhaps the worst, major battle of the Vietnam War.
WE WERE SOLDIERS co-stars Madeleine Stowe, Greg Kinnear, Sam Elliott and Chris Klein and was directed by Randall Wallace for Paramount Pictures.
RATING: To Be Announced
Energizer Brings the Magic of Disney-Pixar's Cars Straight to Your Home
New Energizer Promotions Offer Chance to Win Power Wheels(R) Lightning McQueen, Collect 3 CARS Characters With Built-in Launchers
Starting in May, Energizer is marking the upcoming release of Disney-Pixar's animated feature film, Cars, with new Cars-inspired character car launchers and flashlights. The free collectible Energizer(R) Cars launchers will be available in specially marked packs of Energizer(R) MAX(R) AA eight batteries at participating retailers nationwide while supplies last. The packages will contain one of three Cars characters: Lightning McQueen, Mater or Doc.
To further enhance the Cars experience, Energizer is also offering a new collection of Cars-inspired flashlights. The new Cars collection is focused on children and includes a flashlight with easy-to-use slide switch for little hands, three different "Pop-the-Hood" squeeze light key chain reproductions of Lightning McQueen, Mater and Sheriff, and a 2-way light that acts as both a flashlight and an area light.
In addition, Energizer is teaming up with Mattel to launch a sweepstakes where children can win their very own Fisher-Price(R) Power Wheels(R) Lightning McQueen racecar. Other prizes include Fast Talkin' Lightning McQueen, an interactive Cars replica that can be programmed to do tricks and stunts, and Super Tow Mater, a radio-controlled vehicle that brings children all the mischief of the lovable Mater. Consumers can enter to win by visiting http://www.energizer.com/cars .
"We are excited to work with Disney-Pixar to enhance everyone's movie experience," said Jeff Ziminski, Vice President Marketing, Energizer. "Kids will have a great time as they recreate the Route 66 adventure at home with these collectible launchers and flashlights, modeled after the most popular Cars characters."
About Cars
After taking moviegoers magically into the realm of toys, bugs, monsters, fish, and superheroes, the masterful storytellers and technical wizards at Pixar Animation Studios ("The Incredibles," "Finding Nemo," "Monsters, Inc.") and Academy Award(R)-winning director John Lasseter ("Toy Story," "Toy Story 2," "A Bug's Life") hit the road with a fast-paced comedy adventure set inside the world of cars. Lightning McQueen (voice of OWEN WILSON), a hotshot rookie race car driven to succeed, discovers that life is about the journey, not the finish line, when he finds himself unexpectedly detoured in the sleepy Route 66 town of Radiator Springs. On route across the country to the big Piston Cup Championship in California to compete against two seasoned pros, McQueen gets to know the town's offbeat characters -- including Doc Hudson (a 1951 Hudson Hornet with a mysterious past, voiced by PAUL NEWMAN), Sally Carrera (a snazzy 2002 Porsche voiced by Bonnie Hunt) and Mater (a rusty but trusty tow truck voiced by Larry the Cable Guy). Fueled with plenty of humor, action, heartfelt drama and amazing new technical feats, CARS opens in theaters on June 9, 2006.
About Mattel
Mattel, Inc., (NYSE:MAT) is the worldwide leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of toys and family products, including Barbie(R), the most popular fashion doll ever introduced. The Mattel family is comprised of such best-selling brands as Hot Wheels(R), Matchbox(R), American Girl(R) and Tyco(R) R/C, as well as Fisher-Price brands ( http://www.fisher-price.com/ ), including Little People(R), Rescue Heroes(R), Power Wheels(R) and a wide array of entertainment-inspired toy lines. With worldwide headquarters in El Segundo, California, Mattel employs more than 25,000 people in 42 countries and sells products in more than 150 nations throughout the world. The Mattel vision is to be the world's premier toy brands -- today and tomorrow.
About Energizer
Energizer Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:ENR) , headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, is one of the world's largest manufacturers of primary batteries and flashlights and a global leader in the dynamic business of providing portable power. In addition, Energizer is the parent company of Schick-Wilkinson Sword, the second largest manufacturer of wet shave products.
Source: Energizer Holdings, Inc.
Web site: http://www.energizer.com/
http://www.fisher-price.com/
http://www.energizer.com/cars
CRIMINAL MINDS" FINISHES IN ITS CLOSEST COMPETITIVE POSITION
TO A FIRST-RUN "LOST" IN VIEWERS AND KEY DEMOGRAPHICS
Gap Narrows as "Criminal Minds" Trails "Lost" By Less Than 3.5 Million Viewers
For the First Time
CBS's freshman drama CRIMINAL MINDS finished in its closest competitive position to a first-run episode of "Lost" in viewers and key demographics, according to Live Plus Same Day National Nielsen ratings for Wednesday, May 3.
CRIMINAL MINDS (8.1/12, 12.17m) trailed "Lost" by -3.39 million viewers, marking the first time it was less than 3.5 million viewers behind the ABC drama. CRIMINAL MINDS also finished in its best competitive position to a first run "Lost" in adults 25-54 (4.5/10 vs. 7.4/16, -2.9), adults 18-49 (3.5/08 vs. 6.4/15, -2.9) and adults 18-34 (2.1/06 vs. 5.3/15, -3.2).
This is the first time CRIMINAL MINDS trailed a first-run "Lost" by less than three full rating points in both adults 18-49 and adults 25-54.
In their first head-to-head broadcast (9/28/05), CRIMINAL MINDS trailed "Lost" by -7.3 rating points in adults 25-54, -6.4 in adults 18-49, -5.5 in adults 18-34 and by -12.56m viewers.
FINAL ROUND OF PERFORMERS AND PRESENTERS SET FOR
THE "41ST ANNUAL ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS,"
TO BE BROADCAST LIVE FROM LAS VEGAS,MAY 23 ON THE CBS TELEVISION NETWORK
Dierks Bentley, Little Big Town, Sara Evans, Montgomery Gentry,
Keith Urban and Gretchen Wilson Set to Perform
Jason Aldean, Billy Currington, Billy Ray & Miley Cyrus, Lonestar, Jo Dee Messina, Craig Morgan, Julie Roberts, Michelle Stafford and The Warren Brothers Set to Participate
Dierks Bentley, Little Big Town, Sara Evans, Montgomery Gentry, Keith Urban and Gretchen Wilson are set to perform on the 41ST ANNUAL ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS, hosted by Reba McEntire, to be broadcast live from Las Vegas' MGM Grand, Tuesday, May 23 (8:00-11:00 PM, live ET/delayed PT) on the CBS Television Network. Jason Aldean, Billy Currington, Billy Ray & Miley Cyrus, Lonestar, Jo Dee Messina, Craig Morgan, Julie Roberts, Michelle Stafford and The Warren Brothers are set to present.
These artists join previously announced performers Trace Adkins, Big & Rich, Brooks & Dunn, Kelly Clarkson, Kenny Chesney, Toby Keith, Miranda Lambert, Martina McBride, Brad Paisley, Rascal Flatts, Sugarland and Carrie Underwood. Previously announced presenters include Craig Ferguson, Dr. Phil & Robin McGraw, Kathryn Morris, Emily Procter, Blake Shelton, Tony Stewart, Hannah Storm and Cowboy Troy.
Dierks Bentley is nominated for Top Male Vocalist and was previously recognized with the Academy's Top New Artist of the Year award. First-time nominee Little Big Town is nominated for Top New Vocal Group and Top Vocal Group. Sara Evans is nominated for Top Female Vocalist. She has received a total of nine nominations to date. Montgomery Gentry is nominated for Top Vocal Duo and was previously recognized with the Academy's Top New Vocal Duo award.
Keith Urban is nominated for Entertainer of the Year and Top Male Vocalist, and last year took home awards in the Top Male Vocalist and Album of the Year categories. Gretchen Wilson is nominated for Top Female Vocalist, an award she took home last year in addition to the Top New Artist honors.
Presenting awards are Billy Currington, nominated for Top New Male Vocalist; Billy Ray & Miley Cyrus, who star together on Disney Channel's "Hannah Montana"; Lonestar, nominated for Top Vocal Group; Jo Dee Messina, a previous Top New Female Vocalist winner; Michelle Stafford from the CBS daytime drama "Young and the Restless" and The Warren Brothers, nominated for Top Vocal Duo. Also participating in this year's broadcast are Jason Aldean, nominated for Top New Male Vocalist and Craig Morgan, nominated for Top New Male Vocalist.
The Academy of Country Music was founded in 1964 with a mission to support, promote and enhance the advancement of the country music industry worldwide. The Academy, which is comprised of more than 4,000 professional members and a newly established Associate Membership, is headquartered in Burbank, Calif.
THE 41ST ANNUAL ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS is produced for television by dick clark productions. The show is executive produced by Allen Shapiro and R.A. Clark, and produced by Barry Adelman. The executive in charge of production is Bob Bardo, and the executive in charge is Fran LaMaina.
RATING: To Be Announced
VH1's Music Radar - Wed., May 10, 2006 - Tues., May 16, 2006
NEW YORK, May 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Notable this week ...
New Video Adds:
Beginning Monday, May 8
Keane "Is It Any Wonder"
Nelly Furtado featuring Timbaland "Promiscuous"
Godsmack "Speak"
Gomez "How We Operate"
India.Arie "I Am Not My Hair"
Wolfmother "Woman"
"You Oughta Know" -- VH1 fills you in on artists on the rise. Get acquainted with these essential new artists.
Daniel Powter -- Daniel Powter is having anything but a bad day. In 2005, his single "Bad Day" was the biggest airplay song in Europe and its now becoming a big hit in America too. "American Idol" has even picked up the song as their theme for departing contestants. Fans of smart, insightful pop music will be happy to hear his self titled album is scheduled to be released on April 11th.
The Fray -- With the release of their debut album, "How To Save A Life," The Fray are ready to show the world that Denver actually is a "rock city." The timeless songs on their debut are soaring ballads with a ragged edge. Led by choir-trained singer Isaac Slade, the band invokes the sound of Coldplay mixed with Bright Eyes.
KT Tunstall -- KT Tunstall has become a sensation in Great Britain with her soulful style of songwriting. Her debut, "Eye to the Telescope" is an intimate album with a rock crunch that comes from an appreciation for the beats of Bo Diddley.
James Blunt -- This ex-soldier has gone from riding in tanks to topping the UK charts with the ballad "You're Beautiful," that Elton John has compared to his own hit "Your Song." The candor and catchiness of Back to Bedlam is the reason for Blunt's success -- the CD showcases a disarmingly tender voice that speaks with the heart of a true romantic.
What's on VH1.com?
Hear Music First
Mason Jennings: Boneclouds -- (Epic)
This acoustic troubadour has built up a lot of buzz with his homemade albums. There are shades of Jack Johnson, and an unmistakable humanist vibe. http://www.vh1.com/artists/az/jennings_mason/1281708/album.jhtml
Ben Folds & Rupert Gregson Williams: Over The Hedge Soundtrack -- (Sony)
The piano-busting songwriter, Ben Folds contributes smart, sardonic music for the new animated movie. William Shatner singing "Rockin' the Suburbs"? Clash covers? It's gonna be wild.
www.vh1.com/movies/movie/240437/moviemain.jhtml?popThis=popMovieHMF(1279578)
)Dirtie Blonde: Dirtie Blonde -- (Jive)
Get inside the mixed-up head of Amie Miriello. She'll wow you with her passionate vocals and high-voltage rock 'n' roll.
http://www.vh1.com/artists/az/dirtie_blonde/1279565/album.jhtml
You Oughta Know
You Oughta Know Corinne Bailey Rae!
British songbird can sound bittersweet yet buoyant. Get better acquainted with the singer with the world premiere of her new video for "Put Your Records On," where she and her pals celebrate summer with a bike ride through the countryside. Also, flip through some beautiful photos and hear clips from her self-titled debut album. http://www.vh1.com/artists/you_oughta_know/
Video Premiere
Keane: "Is It Any Wonder" -- (Interscope)
They're back, they're edgier, and you won't believe what they've done in their new video. Let's just say you might want to strap yourself in. www.vh1.com/artists/az/keane/artist.jhtml?extPop=popVspot(1530418,85137)
What's on VH1 Classic?
On Saturday, May 13 at 5:00 PM, VH1 Classic premieres "Metallica: Some Kind Of Monster." Award-winning filmmakers Bruce Sinofsky and Joe Berlinger (of the Paradise Lost films on HBO) direct "Metallica: Some Kind of Monster," a documentary about rock stars in therapy. After 20 years of heavy metal, a few members of Metallica decide to hire psychologist Phil Towle to work out some group tensions during the making of their album "St. Anger." Most of the therapy sessions involve drummer Lars Ulrich and singer/guitarist James Hetfield, with some input from guitarist Kirk Hammett. Also included are former band members Dave Mustaine of Megadeth and ex-bassist Jason Newsted. The band works through difficulties in group dynamics, personal demons, and relationship issues. The film shows recording sessions as well as therapy sessions, including the recruitment of bassist Robert Trujillo and the much-publicized controversies of Internet file-sharing and Hetfield's drug rehabilitation are also discussed. "Metallica: Some Kind Of Monster" will re-air on Sunday, May 14 at 11:30 AM.
Launched in May 2000, VH1 Classic is a 24-hour network that present videos, concerts and music specials all day long, featuring the best of rock, soul and pop artists from the 60's, 70's and 80's, including The Beatles, The Stones, Tina Turner, Led Zeppelin, Marvin Gaye, The Who, Stevie Wonder, The Police and many more. Learn more at http://www.vh1classic.com/ .
Dior Rolls out the Red Carpet for Monica Bellucci Who Will Represent its Legendary Lipstick Rouge Dior
On Wednesday, 10 May 2006, Parfums Christian Dior announced that Monica Bellucci has been signed up by the company to represent Dior's new legend-in-the-making lipstick: Rouge Dior.
Dressed in Dior for the announcement, Monica Bellucci was wearing a specially-designed John Galliano creation. This exquisitely streamlined evening gown was made in red silk satin, embroidered with opulent red sequins and a scattering of dazzling rhinestones, with a seductive and dramatic red silk taffeta cape. This was the very epitomy of Rouge Dior - glamorous, voluptuous and subtly seductive.
At the precise moment that the beautiful new Dior 'muse' blew a kiss to a darkened Paris and the rest of the world, the city's most beautiful monuments seemingly blushed in response - as dozens of powerful red lights blazed onto the Palais de Chaillot, Place de la Concorde, Place Vendôme and the glass roof of the Grand Palais.
This was an emotive occasion for everyone at Dior, as this remarkable renaissance of Rouge Dior was staged just a few metres from the Place de la Concorde's Obelisk, which inspired the packaging for Monsieur Dior's original lipstick.
During the event, Claude Martinez, Chairman of Parfums Christian Dior, paid homage to Monica Bellucci as "a great actress, a triumphant woman and a citizen of the world". Monica Bellucci responded by saying: "Rouge Dior is the new symbol of seduction, and I'm very proud to represent Dior makeup around the world."
In turn, Ruth Newton Jones, Managing Director of Parfums Christian Dior, UK & Ireland, confirmed that she believes women will see Monica Belluci as the perfect ambassador for Rouge Dior. "She is admired for her famously sensual lips and her supreme femininity, and she possesses a rare blend of grace and splendour that is the hallmark of a true cinematic icon."
Dior has had a love affair with the cinema for half a century, and has enhanced the beauty of the world's greatest actresses over time - from Marlene Dietrich and Lauren Bacall to Charlize Theron and Sharon Stone.
For Dior, the signing of Monica Bellucci was a dream. And for Rouge Dior, Tyen, Parfums Dior's Artistic Director, has turned the dream into reality, spotlighting her perfect mouth and her bewitching elegance and sensuality in true Dior style.
The next sighting of Monica Belluci will be in Cannes, as a member of this year's Cannes Film Festival jury, presided over by acclaimed film Director Won Kar-Wai. Every evening between the 17th and 28th of May, she will ascend the steps of the Palais des Festivals - and what could be more fitting than wearing the world's most legendary red lipstick as she walks the legendary red carpet!
Editor's Note
Rouge Dior will go on sale throughout the world on 1 September 2006, with 32 new shades that celebrate the cinema.
Vonage Survey also finds that most people would Prefer Bill Cosby over
George Clooney as the Ideal Famous American to call their Mom as a Fun
Surprise on Mother's Day
Vonage Marketing Inc., a subsidiary of Vonage Holdings Corp., a leading broadband phone company,today announced that Americans chose Faith Hill over Angelina Jolie as
hottest celebrity mom in a survey recently conducted by Vonage and Kelton
Research. The survey also discovered that American kids would prefer their
moms to receive a surprise Mother's Day call from Bill Cosby over George
Clooney.
"While Faith Hill and Angelina Jolie are huge stars the most important
star is my mom," stated Michael Tribolet, president of Vonage America Inc.
"While many moms would love a surprise call from Bill Cosby or maybe even
George Clooney, a call from one's child should never be a surprise. Using
Vonage(R) children can make unlimited calls to mom anytime using our
premium unlimited service."
Who's a Hot Momma
* Faith Hill narrowly beat out Angelina Jolie and Catherine Zeta-Jones as
the hottest celebrity mom (19% vs. 15%) each for Angelina Jolie and
Catherine Zeta-Jones.
* Other hot moms trailing these three were Reese Witherspoon (14%), Pamela
Anderson (5%), Britney Spears (4%) and Kimora Lee Simmons (2%)
* According to the results of the survey, Faith Hill was the overall
winner, but when you break it down between men and women, international
jet-setter Angelina Jolie wins among males (18% of males vs. 13% of
women).
Surprise Call for Mom
* Bill Cosby narrowly beats out George Clooney (19% vs. 16%).
* Trailing them are Garth Brooks (10%), Tom Jones (9%), and Jay Leno (8%).
So Besides Her Children, who Does Mom Want to Chat With?
* CBS agrees, most Americans say their mom would prefer to go to Katie
Couric over other talk-show hosts if she needed help or advice (31%).
Regis Philbin comes in a close second to who Mom would want to talk with
besides her children. (25%)
* Trailing Katie Couric and Regis Philbin are Kelly Rippa (16%), Ellen
Degeneres (14%), Elizabeth Hasselbeck of "The View" (8%), and Joy Behar
of "the View" (6%).
METHODOLOGY:
The Mother's Day Survey was conducted by Kelton Research between March
13th, 2006 and April 10th, 2006 using Random Digit Dialing of both listed
and unlisted numbers. Quotas are set to ensure reliable and accurate
representation of the total U.S. population, 18 years of age and older.
Results of any sample are subject to sampling variation. The magnitude
of the variation is measurable and is affected by the number of interviews
and the level of the percentages expressing the results.
In this particular study, the chances are 95 in 100 that a survey
result does not vary, plus or minus, by more than 3.1 percentage points
from the result that would be obtained if interviews had been conducted
with all persons in the universe represented by the sample.
About Vonage
Vonage is a pioneer in the Internet telephony industry. The award
winning Vonage(R) service is sold on the web and through national
retailers. Vonage Holdings Corp. is headquartered in Holmdel, New Jersey.
For more information about Vonage's products and services, please visit
http://www.vonage.com or call 1-VONAGE-HELP. Vonage(R) is a registered
or call 1-VONAGE-HELP. Vonage(R) is a registeredtrademark of Vonage Marketing Inc., a subsidiary of Vonage Holdings Corp.
SOURCE Vonage Marketing Inc.
Web Site: http://www.vonage.com
Social Networking Sites Grow 47 Percent, Year Over Year, Reaching 45 Percent of Web Users, According to Nielsen//Netratings
Successful Sites Drive High Visitor Retention Rates
Nielsen//NetRatings, a global leader in Internet media and market research, announced today that April's top 10 social networking sites collectively grew 47 percent year over year, increasing from an unduplicated unique audience of 46.8 million last year to 68.8 million in April 2006, reaching 45 percent of active Web users.
MySpace, which has attracted significant media attention of late, topped the list with 38.4 million unique visitors and a remarkable year-over-year growth rate of 367 percent (see Table 1). Blogger took the No. 2 spot, garnering 18.5 million unique visitors and growing 80 percent year over year, followed by Classmates Online with 12.9 million unique visitors and a 10 percent year-over-year increase. Newcomer YouTube and the more established MSN Groups rounded out the top five, with 12.5 million and 10.6 million unique visitors, respectively.
"Social networking sites are the reality television of the Internet," said Jon Gibs, senior director of media, Nielsen//NetRatings. "The content is relatively inexpensive for publishers to produce, and social networking is not a fad that will disappear. If anything, it will become more ingrained in mainstream sites, just as reality TV programming has become ubiquitous in network programming," Gibs continued. "However, again like reality programming, the concept of 'reality' alone, or in this case 'social networking,' is not enough. In this competitive marketplace, sites also have to provide consumers with distinct content they can identify with."
Table 1: Top 10 Social Networking Sites* for April 2006
(U.S., Home and Work)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Site Apr-05 UA (000) Apr-06 UA (000)YOY Growth
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
MySpace 8,210 38,359 367%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blogger 10,301 18,508 80%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Classmates Online 11,672 12,865 10%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
YouTube N/A 12,505 N/A
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
MSN Groups 12,352 10,570 -14%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
AOL Hometown 11,236 9,590 -15%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yahoo! Groups 8,262 9,165 11%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
MSN Spaces 1,857 7,165 286%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six Apart TypePad 5,065 6,711 32%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xanga.com 5,202 6,631 27%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: Nielsen//NetRatings, May 2006
* Note: This is a custom category and does not appear in
Nielsen//NetRatings' syndicated service.
Loyal Users
The interactive nature of social networking sites keeps visitors coming back. MySpace enjoyed the highest retention rate among the group, with 67 percent of all March at-home visitors returning in April (see Table 2). MSN Groups and Facebook also benefited from a loyal following, with 58 and 52 percent of visitors returning month over month, respectively. Xanga.com and MSN's new social networking site MSN Spaces rounded out the top five sites ranked by retention rate, with 49 and 47 percent, respectively.
"The social networking sites that are seeing strong growth have developed a unique online presence that is continually refreshed by user generated content," said Gibs. "This promotes ongoing consumer interest and visitor loyalty. However, while these sites have seen explosive growth over the past 12 months, this is a fickle youth audience, and the masses that have rushed to these sites, could turn their attention elsewhere. The question that remains is 'how strong are the social networks that consumers are building on these sites?'"
Table 2: Top 5 Social Networking Sites ranked according to Retention
Rate, April 2006 (U.S., Home Only)
---------------------------------------
Brand Retention Rate (%)
---------------------------------------
MySpace 67.04
---------------------------------------
MSN Groups 57.62
---------------------------------------
Facebook 51.73
---------------------------------------
Xanga.com 48.92
---------------------------------------
MSN Spaces 47.33
---------------------------------------
Source: Nielsen//NetRatings, May 2006
Omarion & BET Join Forces to Premiere New Single, 'Entourage,' as Exclusive Ringtone
Chart-Topping Singer's Avidly-Awaited New Track Debuts On BET's '106 & Park' On Friday, May 12
'Entourage' To Be Available Exclusively As Ringtone Via BET.com/BET Mobile
The chart-topping R&B superstar Omarion and the groundbreaking entertainment network BET have joined forces to make Omarion's new single, "Entourage," available for the first time in any format as a ringtone exclusively through BET Mobile.
The new Omarion single, "Entourage," will premiere on the BET hit series, "106 & Park," on Friday, May 12 (check your local listings). Fans will hear the song for the first time and learn how to get their exclusive Omarion "Entourage" ringtone:
To download the exclusive ringtone of "Entourage," the new Omarion
single, directly to their mobile phones, cellphone users simply text
message the letter "O" (for Omarion) to "23888"
"Entourage" is the first taste of Omarion's upcoming sophomore album, one of the year's most eagerly-awaited new releases.
When Omarion's debut album, O, debuted on the Billboard Top 200 bestselling albums chart at #1 the week of its release in March 2000, the contemporary R&B powerhouse (who rose to stardom while still in his teens as a frontman for the groundbreaking urban "boy band" B2K) entered the ranks of bona fide hip-hop stardom.
Tracks from O -- including "O," "Drop That Heater," "I Wish," "I'm Tryna," "Never Gonna Let You Go (She's A Keepa)," and "Touch" -- have generated sales of more than a million ringtones. The video for "O," the title track from Omarion's debut solo album, peaked at #1 on BET's "106 & Park."
Born and raised in Inglewood, California, Omarion rose to fame while still a teen as a member of the groundbreaking urban "boy band" B2K. His soulful vocals and undeniable charisma helped B2K score a hit with the group's very first single, "Uh Huh," in 2001; achieve gold status with the group's self- titled debut album in 2002; and go RIAA platinum with the group's best-selling sophomore outing, Pandemonium! in 2003.
Omarion's undeniable mediageniality has led to numerous television guest appearances including "Punk'd," "The Sharon Osbourne Show," and "Soul Train." In addition to his musical performances, Omarion has acted on the big screen with key roles in "You Got Served" and "Fat Albert." Omarion stars in "Somebody Help Me," an innovative horror film directed by Chris Stokes and has been attached to screenwriter/producer Tyger Williams' ("Menace II Society") upcoming "Street Soldier."
ABOUT 106 & PARK
As BET's highest rated music series of all time, 106 & PARK has quickly become the leading music video countdown show on television. Live from New York City, the most energetic show on the planet comes fully equipped with an incredible audience and exclusive live performances. And there's more, 106 & PARK allows fans to vote for the videos that they would like to see on the countdown via the networks website: BET.com. 106 & PARK is compared heavily with MTV's TRL but the numbers show the two can't compete -- THE PARK is the number one slot among black households.
ABOUT BET
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom, Inc. (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:and) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is the nation's Leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 81 million households according to Nielsen media research, and can be seen in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. BET is the dominant African-American Consumer brand with a diverse group of businesses extensions: BET.com, the Number 1 Internet portal for African Americans; BET Digital Networks -- BET J, BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; and BET Mobile, a service venture into the lucrative world of ring tones, games and video content for wireless devices.
www.omariononline.com
www.epicrecords.com
Source: Sony Urban Music/Epic Records
PENGUINS!
WildTangent Studios launches stunning new game at E3
WildTangent Inc., a leading developer and publisher of downloadable games, announced the release of a spectacular new casual game at E3, Penguins!
Penguins are cute, not very bright, in denial about their flightless condition, and desperately in need of your help to escape the zoo. To help 25 hapless penguins overcome the many obstacles they face along their escape route, players may employ a wide selection of devices including canons, trampolines, fans, rocket packs, and springs. Without your aid, penguins will obliviously stumble off in any available direction or worse, into the hands of the dreaded zoo keepers.
Penguins! is an entirely original new downloadable game unlike any on the Internet today. As penguins progress through the 100+ levels of the game, they can collect coins that players can spend at the zoo store to buy additional levels, posters, post cards, music, wallpaper and hilarious penguin costumes. Penguins! is also the first downloadable casual game to incorporate in-game content delivery from the web. This allows WildTangent Studios to continually create and publish new free content for Penguins! players to download from the in-game zoo store long after the game has been released.
Penguins! will be available with free trial play from www.WildGames.com on the opening day of E3. Penguins! will also be distributed through the WildTangent Game Console that ships with over 60% of new consumer PCs in North America.
WildTangent Studios has a reputation for producing the most innovative, family-friendly, high production value casual games available on the Internet; including last year’s hit original title Fate, which won runner-up for RPG of the year in PC Gamer Magazine, second only to Dungeon Siege 2, a $14 million dollar retail game from Microsoft. Other well known casual games from WildTangent Studios include Polar Bowler, BlasterBall, and BlackHawk Striker 2.
Casual downloadable games like Penguins! have become the fastest growing segment of the game industry and according to IDC Research, downloadable PC games will grow to a billion dollar business by 2008. WildTangent is one of the leaders in pioneering online game publishing with a catalog of over 225 downloadable games from all of the industry’s top casual game developers.
Legal Disclaimer: No Penguins were actually harmed in the making of this game. Stunts performed by penguins in this game were executed by trained professionals and should not be tried by penguins at home. Any virtual penguin resemblance to actual South African Jackass Penguins is purely coincidental. Prolonged use of a canon to fire penguins against your monitor won’t damage your screen but does say something about you. Save a penguin – Visit www.wildgames.com today!
No Penguins were actually harmed in the making of this game. Stunts performed by penguins in this game were executed by trained professionals and should not be tried by penguins at home. Any virtual penguin resemblance to actual South African Jackass Penguins is purely coincidental. Prolonged use of a canon to fire penguins against your monitor won’t damage your screen but does say something about you. Save a penguin – Visit today!
Casual games update: How new business models are accelerating the growth of today's game marketplace
WildTangent’s CEO and co-founder, Alex St. John, will be speaking on the above panel on the first day of E3.
About WildTangent
Founded in 1998, WildTangent is the leading publisher of online and downloadable games. WildTangent is the pioneer of in-game and around-game advertising solutions. The company publishes over 200 leading 1st and 3rd party game titles through a distribution network, that includes the WildTangent games network, Wildgames.com, leading PC Manufacturers, ISPs, and portals. From family friendly games like the Polar franchise to action adventure titles such as Fate, WildTangent provides online entertainment which appeals to a broad range of consumers.
In 2005 WildTangent won major OEM distribution deals that ship The WildTangent games console directly on the desktops of Dell and HP and Toshiba notebooks, representing over 60% of PCs in North America .
Simon Property Group and Publicis Groupe Launch OnSpot Digital Network, Major New Digital Channel
First National Mall-based Digital Broadcast Network Aims to Revolutionize the Shopping Experience by Driving Marketing Closer to Upscale Consumers
-- Publicis Groupe (NYSE:PUB) , the world's fourth largest communications company, and Simon Property Group, Inc. (NYSE:SPG) , the largest publicly traded retail real estate company in North America, announced today the launch of a new, high- definition digital network, offering lifestyle programming, news, shopping center content and consumer advertising to Simon Mall shoppers in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and other major American markets.
OnSpot Digital Network is a 50/50 venture between Publicis Groupe and Simon Property Group and is a direct initiative of David Simon, chief executive officer, Simon Property Group, and Maurice Levy, chairman and chief executive officer of Publicis Groupe. OnSpot will be headquartered in Chicago and led by Simon Badinter, chairman and chief executive officer of Publicis' Medias & Regies Europe and North America, and Stewart Stockdale, chief marketing officer, Simon Property Group and president, Simon Brand Ventures. Both Badinter and Stockdale will serve as co-chairmen of OnSpot Digital Network.
According to Badinter, "The OnSpot network offers prime time all the time, and with this new joint venture, Publicis Groupe is once again at the forefront of digital innovation. Together with Simon Property Group we are offering marketers a new and unique opportunity for ongoing brand awareness with extremely upscale consumers. By extending the dialogue between a brand and a consumer directly into the shopping environment, we can help brands make a tremendous impact at the time that it matters most: when consumers are poised to make a purchase."
"Our exciting deployment of this first-of-a-kind digital network is specifically designed to reach consumers at the ever-important point-of- purchase," Stockdale added. "Our shopping centers are excellent venues in which to sell impressions because they are extremely targeted, high traffic locations.
"We have undergone an extensive process during the past year of testing the digital initiative at Roosevelt Field Mall on Long Island, NY, measuring consumer reaction and ad recall of major brands. Earlier we announced that Simon shopping centers will be measured for reach and frequency by Arbitron, which will address marketers' questions on advertising metrics through this channel."
OnSpot Digital Network will broadcast content in high-definition on nearly 2,000 screens at 50 premier Simon Malls covering most of the nation's Top 10 markets by the end of the summer. OnSpot enhances the shopping experience by airing messages not only visually but audibly, and by airing content designed specifically for these point-of-sale locations.
OnSpot's state-of-the-art, digital, high-definition screens will be positioned at strategic locations throughout the malls, including major entrances, center courts, food courts, escalators, major corridors and other high traffic areas, to ensure high frequency and optimal consumer contact.
OnSpot segments will incorporate lifestyle, news, entertainment, shopping center and advertising content that will appeal to an estimated 500 million shopper visits per year at the 50 malls served by the new network. (Simon's nearly 300 shopping centers around the country have about 2.2 billion consumer visits a year.)
About OnSpot Digital Network
OnSpot Digital Network is a 50/50 venture between Publicis Groupe, the world's fourth largest communications company, and Simon Property Group, the largest publicly traded retail real estate company in North America. OnSpot Digital Network is a new digital media channel that will transmit digital advertising via broadband networks to air on high-definition plasma displays in premier Simon Malls. OnSpot Digital Network will launch in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and other major markets, and a nationwide implementation to over 50 malls across the U.S. is expected to be completed by late summer 2006.
About Simon Brand Ventures
Simon Brand Ventures (SBV), Simon's business-to-consumer arm, has pioneered the transformation of shopping malls into a medium, where consumer brands can build one-on-one relationships with shoppers, who make 2.2 billion visits to Simon Malls each year. Simon's vast franchise of market-leading shopping centers nationwide provides SBV the foundation to monetize the distribution system through numerous consumer ventures, including the new OnSpot Digital Network. Seeds for OnSpot Digital Network were planted in 2003 when SBV commissioned Arbitron to validate its mall pedestrian traffic (www.simon.com/arbitron). SBV is engaged in a number of other initiatives, including the Simon Giftcard(R), the launch of Simon platform programs such as Simon Kidgits Club(R), Simon Super Chefs Live!(R), Simon DTour Live(R), and Simon Evening of Giving(R); additional national media delivery channels including static, outdoor digital and experiential marketing and advertising vehicles; and multiple national and local marketing alliances with Coca-Cola, Visa U.S.A. and Cingular Wireless, among others.
About Simon Property Group
Simon Property Group, Inc., headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, is a real estate investment trust engaged in the ownership, development and management of retail real estate, primarily regional malls, Premium Outlet(R) centers and community/lifestyle centers. The Company's current total market capitalization is approximately $42 billion. Through its subsidiary partnership, it currently owns or has an interest in 285 properties in the United States containing an aggregate of 200 million square feet of gross leasable area in 39 states plus Puerto Rico. Simon also owns interests in 51 European shopping centers in France, Italy, and Poland; 5 Premium Outlet centers in Japan; and one Premium Outlet center in Mexico. Additional Simon Property Group information is available at http://www.simon.com/ .
About Medias & Regies
Founded in Paris, France in 1938, Medias & Regies is a media sales entity covering press, radio, cinema, outdoor, Internet and mall media, with 750 employees in France, Europe and the U.S. Clients include advertising agencies, centralized purchasing organizations, advertisers and media buyers
About Publicis Groupe
Publicis Groupe (Euronext Paris: FR0000130577 and member of the CAC40 Index - NYSE: PUB) is the world's fourth largest communications group, as well as the world's second largest media counsel and buying group. Its activities span 104 countries on five continents.
The Groupe's communication activities cover advertising, through three autonomous global advertising networks: Leo Burnett, Publicis, Saatchi & Saatchi, as well as through its two multi-hub networks Fallon Worldwide and 49%-owned Bartle Bogle Hegarty; media consultancy and buying through two worldwide networks ZenithOptimedia and Starcom MediaVest Group; and marketing services and specialized communications including direct marketing, public relations, corporate and financial communications, event communications, multicultural and healthcare communications.
Tiny KISS vs. MiniKiss Battle Continues on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart
Beacher's Rockhouse Newest Addition Changes Lineup
-- Band members of Tiny KISS give the boot to drummer Tim Loomis.
Tiny KISS has been the number one Little Person KISS tribute band, since they came on the scene. The band, composed of three midgets, and a 350 pound woman, is the newest addition to Beacher's Rockhouse at the Imperial Palace Hotel & Casino in July of 2006. After signing a reported 1.5 million dollar contract for two years at the Strip location the band has hit the press junket with a bang. After appearances on national broadcasts such as VH1's Best Week Ever, Tucker Carlson, and Jimmy Kimmel the band has been on a proverbial "tilt-o-wheel."
Tiny KISS was on its way to Chicago to film a segment for The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. When being interviewed by Daily Show producers Loomis started to get weak in front of the camera, agreeing to makeup with MiniKiss front-man Joey Fatale. Rumors were circulating around the Little Person community that Loomis had this all planned. His statements were extremely timid and self-centered. Tiny KISS had a meeting (without Loomis) and came to a decision that they're not run by one person and they were insistent on tossing Loomis out of the band. The episode of The Daily Show on Comedy Central will premiere Thursday, May 11th at 11:00PM.
When several of the members of Tiny KISS were interviewed there was an obvious underlining annoyances with Loomis. Wee Matt commented, "Tim got soft, He was acting like a midget ... He's just another generic dude." The grand respect this band once had for their leader had dwarfed into nothing. Guitarist Shorty Rossi stated, "We can't have a leader who is going to befriend our enemy," a retort to Loomis' cowardly responses while being interviewed for The Daily Show. Loomis' actions let a lot of people down, especially Jeff Beacher, Creator/Host of Beacher's Madhouse & Beacher's Rockhouse, the venues where the band performs nightly. When asked for comment Beacher offered the following, "the situation is hard, Loomis was like a brother to me," he then became extremely emotional and admitted that he "actually cried the night he heard that Little Tim was a Little Benedict Arnold."
On the opening day at Rehab, a weekly pool-party hosted by the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, there was reportedly a scene between Big Beth Mara, and former drummer Loomis. When Beth spotted Tim at the party she became enraged and her only comment was "I'm so hungry, I wish I could eat him."
Tiny KISS will be holding an Audition to replace Little Tim Loomis on Wednesday June 14th 2006 from 5:00pm - 9:00pm at The Joint, located inside the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. You will be able to see the new Tiny KISS perform nightly beginning July 1st inside Beacher's Rockhouse at the Imperial Palace Hotel & Casino. Visit Tiny KISS on their website at www.tinylegends.com, or to purchase tickets for Tiny KISS live at Beacher's Rockhouse go to www.vegas.com
Web site: http://www.tinylegends.com/
Patriots Come in All Species
Meet Pentagon Representatives, Heroic Dogs and Their Handlers
It's not too late for Press to RSVP for a cocktail reception honoring the Dog Heroes of September 11th at the National Press Club.
Lt. Col. Jim Ballard, deputy chief of the Pentagon's Special Operations Division and K-9 program, and Lt. John Wayman will be attending and speaking at our event. They will also be bringing a handler and a dog with the Pentagon's K-9 unit. Along with the K-9 unit, he also oversees the S.W.A.T. team and dignitary protection, so we're very pleased to have him!
This event is in conjunction with Book Expo America where author Nona Kilgore Bauer will be signing books Saturday afternoon.
As you plan coverage of 9/11: Five Years Later, consider the following stories about search and rescue dogs:
* Interviews with author Nona Kilgore Bauer, a renowned and award-winning
writer specializing in dogs, or with Margaret Logreira, spokeswoman for
the National Search & Rescue Dog Foundation, to discuss what it takes
to make a search and rescue dog and the critical need for more dogs.
Nona and Margaret will be at the cocktail reception.
* Visits with rescue dogs and their handlers, including demonstrations of
their finely developed search skills, which take years to develop. A
"find the reporter" demonstration makes for a highly dynamic segment.
Several handlers and their dogs will also be at the reception.
* The rescue dogs of 9/11 served not only as search and rescue dogs, but
also as therapy dogs for those people at the disaster sites.
* Many of these same dogs went into action after Hurricane Katrina. They
are able to focus on their critical task in the most chaotic and
dangerous environments. Yet, many more need to be trained to meet the
need.
The book conveys the courage and stamina of these dogs and is packed with more than 250 photos, featuring 77 interviews with handlers, rescuers, veterinarians and others who were comforted by these animals in the aftermath of the September 11th attacks.
National Press Club
Fourth Estate Restaurant
529 14th Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20045
Saturday, May 20
6:00-8:00 PM
Residents of Tampa, Florida, to Get Verizon FiOS TV
City Council Opens the Door to More Consumer Choice, Better Competition for the Public; New Local Franchise Area Has Over 333,000 Residents
The Tampa City Council today voted for consumer choice and competition in the cable-TV market by awarding a far- reaching franchise to Verizon for its FiOS TV product, to be delivered via its new, all-fiber network.
The Tampa franchise brings competition and consumer choice to over 333,000 residents in the city and makes Florida one of Verizon's most competitive frontiers for FiOS services. In time, the Tampa franchise, combined with Verizon's franchises for Temple Terrace, Manatee County, Bradenton, Hillsborough County and Pasco County, will enable over 1.5 million residents in Verizon's Florida service territory to enjoy stepped-up competition and more consumer choice for video services in the region.
"Local governments in the heart of our region have decided that their residents deserve competition, choice, value and industry-leading fiber technology," said Alan Ciamporcero, Verizon's Southeast region president. "The Tampa City Council and members of the city's staff have worked diligently to craft a fair and reasonable franchise. We commend both for recognizing how technology has changed the market and for bringing an exciting alternative to Tampa residents, who are the real winners from today's decision."
Initially, Verizon will offer FiOS TV to 35,000 households in localities ranging from Sulphur Springs and Seminole Heights to Hyde Park and Palma Ceia. Service will be extended throughout the entire city within five years of the initial offering.
"We look forward to further building out our fiber network and bringing its benefits to all city residents as quickly as possible," Ciamporcero added.
As the fiber network is completed, residents will enjoy FiOS broadband products that deliver very fast data speeds ranging from up to 5 Mbps to up to 30 Mbps (megabits per second). Verizon, which launched FiOS TV last September, also offers the service in parts of California, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, North Texas and Virginia.
When Verizon reported its 2006 first-quarter earnings, it noted that it has achieved a 10 percent penetration of FiOS TV-eligible households in its Florida market overall. In Temple Terrace, market penetration is 16 percent since FiOS TV was introduced in that community in December.
Verizon's Tampa franchise will provide an unrivaled video service to city residents. Under the agreement, which covers 15 years, Verizon will provide FiOS TV to some Tampa residents shortly and will make TV available to all residents by 2011.
In addition, the agreement contains provisions for six public, educational and governmental access channels; a $1 million commitment to the city, plus ongoing support for public, education and government (PEG) channels and an institutional network on a per subscriber basis; cable service to over 170 public schools and to certain government buildings at no cost; and other important benefits including insurance, indemnification and enforcement protections.
Verizon's FiOS TV delivers hundreds of digital video and music channels, high-definition programming, video-on-demand content, a robust interactive programming guide and other customer-friendly features. Verizon is constructing its fiber-optic network in 16 states, or more than half the states where it offers landline communications services.
Customers can buy FiOS TV as a stand-alone service or packaged with voice and FiOS high-speed data services, which are already available in some areas. For information on Verizon's FiOS Internet Service and FiOS TV offerings, visit http://www.verizon.net/fios and http://www.verizon.net/fiostv.
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ) , a Dow 30 company, is a leader in delivering broadband and other communication innovations to wireline and wireless customers. Verizon operates America's most reliable wireless network, serving 53 million customers nationwide; one of the most expansive wholly-owned global IP networks; and one of the nation's premier wireline networks, serving mass market and wholesale customers. Based in New York, Verizon has a diverse workforce of more than 250,000 and generates annual consolidated operating revenues of approximately $90 billion. For more information, visit http://www.verizon.com/.
Top Modeling Agency CEO Appears on Cover of Supermodels Unlimited
Andrea Patrick Forte, the CEO and Owner of Patrick Talent Agency and wife of 50s rock 'n roll icon Fabian, is the cover model of the 2006 summer "Most Beautiful" issue of Supermodels Unlimited magazine - America's top modeling magazine. The magazine is expected on the newsstands by mid-May.
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Kimberly Lawrence, editor-in-chief of Supermodels Unlimited had this to say recently. "Andrea serves as not only a role-model, but an inspiration to everyone involved in the modeling industry. She is beautiful, charming and most importantly, genuine. She is more than just a gorgeous face on our cover; she is an amazing woman that has touched all of our lives forever."
"The collaboration for my cover photo with the photographer, Sam Tang; my stylist, Connie Merandi; and, the make-up artist Laura Page was such a creative and exciting process for me!" I want to acknowledge and applaud the hard work of all of the staff at Supermodels Unlimited who put together such a comprehensive and beautiful magazine and especially Kimberly Lawrence for her vision and her unique gift of bringing to women a magazine that helps them to realize their full potential. Thank you for your beautiful spirit," says Andrea Patrick Forte.
No newcomer to the modeling industry, Forte is an accomplished actress, model, dancer, a columnist for the magazine, and a spokesperson for the American Diabetes Association. She is a former Miss Pennsylvania USA and Miss West Virginia-MAO. Fifteen years ago, Forte founded the Patrick Talent Agency. Her energetic approach to every client's project has resulted in the agency's stellar reputation as a national leading provider of corporate spokesmodels, models for print, television show hosts, and top entertainment. In 1998, she married singer and actor Fabian Forte, who is now appearing at the new Dick Clark Theater in Branson throughout 2006. The couple resides in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area.
Celebrating 15 successful years, Patrick Talent Agency is owned and operated by Andrea Patrick Forte - an accomplished model, actress, and an international magazine advice columnist for aspiring models.
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Web site: http://www.patricktalent.com/
Ancient Greek Images Portrayed Genesis Events - Independent Record of Mankind's Origins Uncovered
Solving Light Books announced today the release of a 600-slide PowerPoint presentation, an expansion of the book, "The Parthenon Code: Mankind's History in Marble" (ISBN: 0970543832) by Robert Bowie Johnson, Jr. The PowerPoint restores the east pediment of the Parthenon in color by computer, explains its meaning and, displaying more than 500 ancient images, shows that the characters and events portrayed in Greek art match those described in the early chapters of Genesis. Only the viewpoint is different. The Greeks believed that the serpent enlightened, rather than deluded, the first couple in paradise.
Greek artists did not portray "myths" as is commonly believed, but rather a visual narrative of their history meant to be easily grasped by their many illiterate countrymen. The gods looked exactly like people because they were the Greeks' (and our) ancestors. Socrates himself referred to the gods as his "lords and ancestors."
The Greeks called the first couple Zeus and Hera, a brother/sister - husband/wife pair whom their poets and playwrights traced to an ancient garden of ease, always depicted with a serpent-entwined apple tree. Like Adam and Eve, they had two antagonistic sons, Hephaistos corresponding to Kain (Cain), and Ares corresponding to Seth. Surviving images of those figures, the Greek Noah, and many others provide us with a new and independent record of mankind's origins, a discovery of Rosetta Stone proportions.
"Once you see that Greek artists celebrated the resurgence of the way of Kain after the Flood, the meaning of their art becomes obvious," says Johnson. "The ancient painted and sculpted record clearly shows that the Greeks pushed Noah and his God out of the picture, worshipped their ancestors as gods, and exalted mankind as the measure of all things," he added.
The Greeks summarized their boast to posterity on the east pediment of the Parthenon, explaining who they were and where they came from. The PowerPoint offers the first comprehensible and coherent color restoration of it. The pediment's profound, familiar theme resonates today even as it did 2400 years ago.
The PowerPoint features seven vase depictions of the Greek version of Eden, thirty-one of Noah's Flood and its aftermath, and thirteen of Nereus, the Greek Noah.
PowerPoint Trailer, Sample Sections, Restored Pediment, Noah, Eden Images: http://www.theparthenoncode.com/
BET's MEET THE FAITH Celebrates Mother's Day With Oprah
TV's Top Talk Maven Makes BET Appearance on Sunday, May 14 at 11:00 A.M. ET/PT
Oprah Winfrey will make her first-ever interview appearance on BET's new dynamic Sunday talk show MEET THE FAITH on Sunday, May 14 at 11 a.m. ET/PT, it was announced today by Reginald Hudlin, President of Entertainment for BET.
Ms. Winfrey will discuss her widely-publicized Legends Ball, a 3-day celebratory event that honored 25 African American women whose impact on our culture and world is unparalleled. During her interview, Oprah shares the idea that sparked the event and why she selected these women. She also talks about what grounds her spiritually and how these Legends have influenced her life.
"Everybody wants to know what Oprah is like in person," says Hudlin. "I can tell you firsthand that what you see is what you get. She's as open, warm, intelligent and insightful as what you see on TV. I was very proud of our host, Carlos Watson, as he masterfully interviewed the master of interviewers."
Hosted by Carlos Watson, one of the brightest stars and most dynamic and versatile news commentators, MEET THE FAITH is a dynamic new Sunday talk show that offers a fresh and provocative take on world events through moral discussion, a surprising and unexpected blend of guests, and unconventional topics. The half-hour weekly show features a cutting-edge look and feel, as well as smart and provocative substance. In unprecedented fashion, this show will inform, entertain and stir the larger American conversation.
Julie Anderson and Carlos Watson are Co-Executive Producers of this BET series. Reginald Hudlin, Byron Phillips and Nina Henderson Moore are the BET executives in Charge.
ABOUT BET
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom, Inc. (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:and) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 81 million households according to Nielsen media research, and can be seen in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of businesses extensions: BET.com, the Number 1 Internet portal for African Americans; BET Digital Networks -- BET J, BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; and BET Mobile, a service venture into the lucrative world of ring tones, games and video content for wireless devices.
Source: BET (Black Entertainment Television)
Web site: http://www.bet.com/
Ben Gordon Brings Instant Energy to H3 Press Conferences Set for Public Debut of 'BG7'
Ben Gordon together with H3Enterprises, Inc. will be holding press conferences in Chicago and New York to publicly launch "BG7", the healthiest Energy Drink to hit the market to date. "BG7" is made with pure organic White Tea, which has five times the antioxidants and health benefits of Green Tea. The "BG7" celebrations will also include updated information relating to Gordon's ongoing relationship with HTRE as well as projected store-opening dates for H3's HipHopSodaShops in Manhattan. The first media event will take place in Chicago on Wednesday, May 17th at Michael Jordan's renowned 160 BLUE Restaurant at 2:00 PM, located at 1400 W. Randolph Avenue.
Gordon, a product of New York's Mount Vernon High School, led the UConn Huskies to their second NCAA championship in 2004 hitting an amazing number of clutch shots throughout the Big East and NCAA tournaments. His spectacular end of game heroics did not stop there. Ben became the first rookie in NBA history to win the prestigious "Sixth Man of the Year" award while having 21 double- digit fourth quarter games, a number only surpassed by LeBron James. Ben averaged 21 points a game and three assists in the Bulls recent six game series with the Miami Heat in the first round of the NBA playoffs.
"Joining TeamH3 and having my own energy drink is a tremendous opportunity," said Gordon. "BG7 will definitely bring high energy and good health to all of America. Being able to team up with some of the greatest talent in the business world also gives me a strong foundation for my future after basketball. I particularly want to thank my good friend, Adrian Walton, for introducing me to the H3 Family and making all of this possible."
"Ben Gordon is a shining example of how to be a superstar both on and off the court," said Brian "H3" Peters, President and Founder of HTRE. "He's always been a difference maker wherever he's played and wherever he lives. There's certainly no better person or player to have behind our WhiteTeaEnergyBlast than Ben Gordon himself, who through his endless array of buzzer beaters and overall 'Crunch Time' play has become the definition of the words 'Get Clutch'. It is truly a special honor for everyone associated with TeamH3 to welcome Ben aboard."
"Having a rising NBA superstar like Ben Gordon representing Team H3 says all you need to know about the future of our young company," said H3's Director of Corporate Communications and HarlemHoopHero, Adrian Walton. "HTRE is about creating economic empowerment through investment in our own culture and our own communities. Being able to be in business with some of my best friends and knowing the impact we can have as a team is as good as it gets."
Safe Harbor: Certain information included herein may contain statements that are forward-looking, such as statements relating to plans for future expansion and other business development activities. Such forward-looking information is subject to changes and variations which are not reasonably predictable and which could significantly affect future results.
InterCasino, One of the Largest and World's First Online Casinos, and InterPoker Extend Relationship With Global Gaming Software Developer CryptoLogic
InterCasino and InterPoker, the Largest Licensees of the CryptoLogic Network, Agree to Renew Their Exclusive Agreement With WagerLogic Through 2012
InterCasino, one of the largest and most award-winning online casinos in the world, and InterPoker, the home of Extreme Poker, announced that they have agreed to extend their current commercial terms with WagerLogic, a subsidiary of leading Internet gaming software developer CryptoLogic Inc. As part of the agreement, InterCasino and InterPoker, the largest licensees of the CryptoLogic network, reaffirmed the same royalty arrangements until at least January 1, 2012, and will continue to use WagerLogic's complete Internet gaming solution.
"As our largest licensees, InterCasino and InterPoker both have put forth tremendous efforts to attract and retain extremely high caliber customers," said CryptoLogic President and CEO Lewis Rose. "In extending our agreement with our largest licensee, we hope to continue to provide them with the latest and best software innovations for their customers."
Customers have long come to appreciate InterCasino and InterPoker as the most customer-friendly gaming sites on the web. InterCasino has been voted "Top Casino" by the readers of both Gambling Online Magazine for five years in a row (from 2001 to 2005), "Best Online Casino 2005" by Casino Player Magazine, and was named the "Top Online Casino for Slots in 2005" by Strictly Slots Magazine -- the latest in the company's long list of player accolades. InterCasino also ranks among the world's top five most popular casino sites by Casino City.
"Our customers expect the best from InterCasino and InterPoker, and CryptoLogic's software innovations -- from the Marvel Slots to Texas Hold 'em -- provide gamers worldwide with the most authentic and exciting wagering experience available on the web," said InterCasino spokesperson Peter Marcus. "By renewing our agreement with CryptoLogic, our customers will continue to enjoy the award-winning software that makes InterCasino and InterPoker the most popular place to play online."
About InterCasino.com
Founded in 1996, InterCasino is one of the oldest, largest and most awarded online casinos in the world, having hosted over 300 million games and paying out more than $3 billion in customer winnings to date. With player security and site integrity at the forefront of their efforts, InterCasino partners with NETeller.com, a publicly traded company on the London AIM exchange, to transfer funds securely and conveniently. InterCasino utilizes Ecash Direct, one of the most reliable and trusted e-commerce applications in the world, which has processed more than $39 billion in uncompromised electronic transactions for customers in more than 240 countries. InterCasino's award winning software is provided by industry software leader CryptoLogic, Inc., one of the few gaming software companies certified to strict standards similar to land-based gaming, and the developer of its own patented and the highly popular Millionaires Club(TM) progressive jackpot slot.
Source: InterCasino
Web site: http://intercasino.com/
Zeno Featured on Tyra Banks Show
Almost 90 million frustrated Americans suffer from acne, but on May 11, 2006, Tyra Banks collaborated with Tyrell, the makers of a new acne-treatment device called Zeno, to lower that number. Audience members of today's Tyra Banks Show were some of the first to witness the revolutionary Zeno at work and all walked away with a free Zeno after guests from the hit show "America's Next Top Model" touted its effectiveness, style and safety.
Zeno, the first FDA-cleared medical device designed to treat mild to moderate acne, has 90 percent efficacy in clinical trials -- resolving most blemishes within 24 hours. By delivering a precisely controlled low-level heat dose directly to the pimple, Zeno makes the acne-causing bacteria self- destruct. This new medical device, which has received numerous accolades from the beauty world including Allure's "Best of Beauty Award," is a safe, quick and effective alternative to other over-the-counter acne treatments.
About Tyrell, Inc. and Zeno
Established in Houston, Texas, in September 2002, Tyrell, Inc. is the leading pioneer in an exciting new category of home-based medical devices. The company was formed to develop and launch Zeno, a product set to revolutionize over-the-counter treatment of acne pimples. Utilizing proprietary ClearPoint technology, this electronic medical device applies sustained heat therapy to destroy the bacteria that causes common acne, dramatically reducing the healing time of pimples.
Source: Tyrell, Inc.
Indie911's 1-Minute TV Show Hits on Its Own Terms; Online TV Series ``Kindred'' Makes Debut This Week on Indie911.com
Online music and film mecca Indie911.com has debuted a groundbreaking online TV series called "Kindred," comprising a series of fast-paced minute-long episodes. Through their video iPods and computers, viewers follow the story of George W. Bush (not the one you're thinking of), and the chaos that comes into his life when a woman from the future is delivered in a Fed-Ex box from President Arnold Schwarzenegger.
In this sci-fi thriller, viewers tag along with George and his female intruder, Lilja, as she takes over his life and he willingly follows her on her mission to fix the past and change the future. In each intense vignette, viewers are left intrigued, not quite sure what to make of what happened in the episode, and brimming with curiosity at what will happen next. Viewers can see the first episode of the noir-ish thriller right now on http://www.indie911.com. Over each of the next seven weeks a new episode will be made available.
Along with dozens of other podcasts, Indie911 created "Kindred" specifically for the small screen through its relationship with Silverlake, CA-based production company, Scopotone. Viewers can stream or download the weekly series from Indie911.com or iTunes and visit both George and Lilja's pages on the Indie911 website to connect with and learn more about each character.
"The web is fast becoming a worldwide TV network for audiences seeking fresh entertainment -- so long as it's short and compelling," Indie911's founder and CEO Justin Goldberg says. "Indie911 caters to the creativity that thrives outside of the mainstream, the best artists and audiences usually do. Podcasting and streaming video is a medium with unlimited worldwide distribution; it's a very exciting time."
Geared toward younger, tech-savvy consumers, Indie911's programming will be distributed directly to mobile devices with the ability to display original video and audio programming via cell phones, video iPods, and Sony's Play Station Handheld.
The "Kindred" series is a dynamic new addition to Indie911 and the world of podcasts. Indie911, the internet's largest source for credible independent music and film, currently generates nearly 3 million monthly page views by fusing its music with a "people" network that allows fans to connect directly with artists. Their dedication to the independent spirit of music and film provides artists with an outlet for their craft and an intense connection with its audiences that have attracted fans worldwide. "Kindred" premiered on April 25, and a new episode will be shown each week.
In addition to watching "Kindred" on the Indie911 website, viewers can also subscribe to the Indie911 video podcast channel on iTunes and each new episode will automatically be downloaded to their computer as an iPod-ready video, making "Kindred" always accessible, and even better, free.
Indie911
Evan Page: Video for Debut Single ``Next Ex'' Chosen to Be Screened During the New York Short-Short Film Festival Saturday, May 20th
Canadian-born, Las Vegas-based rocker Evan Page has not only caught the attention of her 20,000+ MySpace "friends" but now the eyes and ears of the New York Short-Short Film Festival where her debut single video for "Next Ex" has been chosen to be screened. The festival will be held at the Anthology Film Archives in Lower Manhattan on Saturday, May 20th. You can watch the video here http://www.myspace.com/evanpagemusic.
Since she put it up last fall, Page's MySpace page (no pun intended) has been, in her words, "beyond ridiculous," scoring over 21,000 hits (and counting) by fans who can't get enough of the song and video for "Next Ex," the tough minded, edgy yet humorous first single from her fully DIY, seven song debut project No Ordinary Girl. Traffic has gotten so heavy on the site that Page hired a team to manage it. The overwhelming response -- which includes airplay on college radio stations in Washington and Oregon -- has led to quick sales of over 6,000 units of the album.
The song's popularity is due to its tremendous, built-in appeal to girls of all ages -- its hook asks, "Do you want to be my next ex-boyfriend?" -- as well as its crossover attraction to guys who relate to the tomboy elements of Page's personality. The song's elaborately produced video, which was directed by Dave Swuz of Springfield Films -- best known for the popular indie film "Stealing God" -- incorporates scenes of the singer indulging in her love of hockey, which she has played for over 10 years.
Luck Media & Marketing, Inc.
http://www.myspace.com/evanpagemusic
There's Still Time To Bid On Phones Signed By Celebrities In The Verizon Wireless HopeLine Online Phone Auction
Money Raised Will Be Donated to Support Domestic Violence Prevention
Hurry to the keyboard! There are only 4 days left to bid on autographed phones from Donald Trump, Dr. Phil, Krissy Wendell and more in the HopeLine(R) Online Phone Auction.
Through early next Tuesday, anyone can bid on celebrity-autographed phones during the second HopeLine Online Phone Auction. Verizon Wireless will donate all proceeds from the auction to Safe Horizon, the leading provider of services for victims of violence in New York City. Safe Horizon has been at the forefront of helping victims of crime and abuse for over a quarter of a century and moves more than 350,000 victims from crisis to confidence each year by offering a chance to tell their story in their own words, a guide through the criminal justice system or a safe place to sleep.
Participants in the HopeLine auction can bid to purchase phones signed by:
-- Donald Trump, chairman and president, The Trump Organization
-- Dr. Phil McGraw, host of the Dr. Phil Show
-- Misty May, beach volleyball world champion
-- Clark Haggans, linebacker for the world champion Pittsburgh Steelers
-- Krissy Wendell, captain of the U.S. women's hockey team
-- Kelly Clark, snowboarder
To bid on the signed phones, customers simply log on to http://www.verizonwireless.com/hopeline, and click on the 'Phone Auction' banner to be taken to the 'HopeLine Online Phone Auction' site, which is being conducted on eBay. The winning bidders will sport one of the hottest new phones:
* Motorola RAZR V3c -- Equipped with access to Verizon Wireless' V CAST
multimedia service, the Motorola RAZR V3c seamlessly unites fashion
and technology to provide the ultimate multimedia experience with a
must-have product. The Motorola RAZR V3c retails for $79.99 after a
$50 mail-in rebate and two-year customer agreement.
* LG VX8100 -- With EV-DO technology for access to V CAST Music and dual
speakers for stereo sounds, the LG VX8100 is the ultimate in high
speed, high tech and high style. The LG VX8100 retails for $69.99
after $50 mail-in rebate with two-year customer agreement.
* Samsung SCH-a950 -- The Samsung SCH-a950 is loaded with features,
including access to V CAST Music. The a950's intuitive design and
external music controls give users complete control of their mobile
entertainment experience. The Samsung SCH-a950 retails for $149.99
after $50 mail-in rebate with two-year customer agreement.
* Motorola E815 -- Delivering access to Verizon Wireless' hot V CAST
wireless broadband multimedia service and a host of other cutting-edge
features, the Motorola E815 is the perfect phone for the customer who
loves to stay on the forefront of new technologies. The Motorola E815
retails for $49.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate and two-year customer
agreement.
Verizon Wireless is a recognized corporate leader for its commitment to preventing domestic violence and raising awareness of the issue. The company's HopeLine program collects wireless phones and accessories from any wireless service provider, and then refurbishes the phones or recycles them in an environmentally safe way. Proceeds benefit victims of domestic violence and non-profit advocacy agencies, providing essential communication tools of wireless phones and wireless services, and financial grants.
For more information on Verizon Wireless' HopeLine program or how to donate a wireless phone, visit http://www.verizonwireless.com/hopeline.
About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless owns and operates the nation's most reliable wireless network, serving 53 million voice and data customers. Headquartered in Bedminster, NJ, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). Find more information on the Web at http://www.verizonwireless.com/. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at http://www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.
Web site: http://www.verizonwireless.com/
http://www.verizonwireless.com/hopeline
DIRECTV and BabyFirstTV Transform Traditional Television with the Launch of First-of-its-Kind Channel Dedicated to Babies and Toddlers; Groundbreaking New Channel Offers an Interactive Co-Viewing Experience for Children and Parents
DIRECTV, Inc., the nation's leading digital television service provider, will be the first to offer the new BabyFirstTV (http://www.BabyFirstTV.com) channel to its customers today. BabyFirstTV is a new premium channel in the United States dedicated to providing rich, positive content for babies, toddlers and their parents. The channel is created by leading experts in child development and education, and provides interactive opportunities for parents and baby to bond, learn and explore together. BabyFirstTV gives parents an incredible value with access to hundreds of hours of new and different programming for less than the price of a single baby-branded DVD. As part of BabyFirstTV's national rollout, DIRECTV will offer subscribers free access to the programming for the month of May in celebration of Mother's Day (a $9.99 value).
Supported by top child development experts, BabyFirstTV specifically is tailored to meet the needs of babies up to three years of age in a safe and inspiring commercial-free learning environment. The channel transforms traditional TV into a developmental interactive tool that relies on television as a means to deliver high-quality programming and an engaging experience for both parents and baby. Featuring 80 percent original content, BabyFirstTV offers parents a positive way to bond with baby and help foster learning and development.
"BabyFirstTV offers unique, interactive features and content that makes it different than any other children's programming or DVDs in the market today," said Sharon Rechter, executive vice president, Business Development and Marketing and one of BabyFirstTV's founders. "We created BabyFirstTV to provide parents with affordable and age-appropriate content -- offering new opportunities to interact with their children. The channel offers a positive, educational and engaging experience for babies during their early stages of learning, while providing high quality content when and where parents want it."
"We have seen a strong demand for high-quality programming for babies and their parents that is safe and suitable for young viewers, and content that can help them bond and interact together," said Dan Fawcett, executive vice president, DIRECTV. "DIRECTV is excited to give free subscriptions to BabyFirstTV for the month of May to express our gratitude to all the inspiring parents who are looking for new, innovative ways to bond and learn with their children."
BabyFirstTV Programming Features
BabyFirstTV offers the following programming elements to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for both parents and their children:
-- Original and Award-winning Content: BabyFirstTV features 80 percent original content customized for infants and toddlers from six months to three years old -- including more than 38 original programs such as "Rainbow Horse," "Sandman" and "I Can Sign." The channel also offers parents the popular and award-winning baby DVD brands, including Brainy Baby(TM), First Impressions(TM), So Smart(TM) and Baby Songs(TM). BabyFirstTV has an agreement with Sterling Publishing (owned by Barnes and Noble) to incorporate many children's books into their "Story Time" program.
-- Interactive Parents' Subtitles: The channel offers subtitles for parents to guide them on words and movements to use with baby during the programs -- making the experience as interactive and engaging as reading a book.
-- Color-coded Programming Guide: BabyFirstTV helps inform parents about the educational value of each segment with its unique color-coded system. The BabyFirstTV flower logo changes colors according to the specific program content. For example, blue for Numbers Parade, red for Language Playground, etc.
-- Multi-layer Content: BabyFirstTV content is adaptable to the different levels of a baby's development. Each show offers elements that can appeal to younger babies and older toddlers simultaneously, so children at various levels and age groups can focus on something different within the same program.
-- Flexible Programming: BabyFirstTV features programming, as well as video-on-demand (VOD) capabilities to offer parents access to content when and where they want it. The channel also offers content for different times of the day -- daytime programs engage and delight baby, while evening content helps soothe the baby to prepare for sleep.
-- Best Value for Money: BabyFirstTV provides hundreds of hours of high-quality programming for a fraction of the price of existing baby-DVDs. The channel's monthly fee ($9.99) is lower than the price of a single baby-DVD.
-- Programming Just for Parents (Coming Soon): By Summer 2006, BabyFirstTV will offer one hour of daily programming (extended to two hours in 2007) geared only to parents, offering tips and advice, including proper nutrition, safety, etc.
Parent and Child Co-Viewing Experience
Many babies watch television on a daily basis; in fact, 68 percent of children under two watch on-screen media every day(a). Understanding that television is a part of today's environment, BabyFirstTV provides parents with the tools to transform television into an active learning and interaction opportunity with their child. The programming features interactive subtitles and a unique color-coded system that helps inform parents about the specific value of each segment -- as the flower logo changes color, parents can identify the educational focus of the program. Starting today, parents can download a Parents' Guide on the BabyFirstTV Web site to access tips and guidance for their children's television viewing and ultimately take an active role in their overall development.
BabyFirstTV's content is supervised and supported by a worldwide Advisory Board that provides academic supervision as a key to ensuring programming quality. The board is comprised of leading child psychologists and development experts, including: Dr. Edward McCabe, M.D., Ph.D, professor and executive chair of the UCLA Dept. of Pediatrics, and physician-in-chief of the Mattel Children's Hospital at UCLA; Dr. Arthur Pober, BabyFirstTV chief educational officer; Dr. Richard Woolfson, author and child psychologist; Dr. Mary Ann LoFrumento, author, pediatrician and parenting expert; Dr. Lynne Kenney Markan, child psychologist and parenting expert; and Reveta Bowers, administrator and head of school at The Center for Early Education. The Board provides their "stamp of approval" on all BabyFirstTV programs and ensures that they offer a safe, positive learning environment with no commercials, no violence and no over-sensory stimulants.
"We're trying to redefine the way traditional television is perceived -- it's more than a box in your living room," said Dr. Edward McCabe, M.D., Ph.D, physician-in-chief, Mattel Children's Hospital at UCLA and BabyFirstTV Advisory Board member. "When used responsibly, television can be a powerful interactive medium that provides parents with unique opportunities to bond with their children. The key is the quality and interactive nature of the content, and this is what BabyFirstTV offers to parents."
Availability
BabyFirstTV is available today for the first time on DIRECTV for $9.99 a month. In celebration of Mother's Day, DIRECTV is offering subscribers free access to the channel throughout the month of May.
About DIRECTV, Inc.
DIRECTV, Inc. is the nation's leading digital television service provider with more than 15 million customers. DIRECTV and the Cyclone Design logo are registered trademarks of DIRECTV, Inc. DIRECTV (NYSE:DTV) is a world-leading provider of digital multichannel television entertainment. DIRECTV is approximately 37 percent owned by News Corporation.
About BabyFirstTV
BabyFirstTV is the first channel in the U.S. dedicated to providing rich, innovative inspiring content designed to enhance baby's development in a delightful and engaging way. Supported by leading child development experts, the network is specifically tailored to meet the needs of babies in a safe and inspiring commercial-free learning environment. Featuring 80 percent original content, BabyFirstTV offers parents a positive way to bond with baby and help foster learning and development. For more information, go to http://www.BabyFirstTV.com.
(a) Kaiser Family Foundation, "Zero to Six: Electronic Media in the Lives of Infants,
Theatre Information Systems Launches Product That Simplifies Buying Cinema Advertising
Cinema Direct Media is a Web-Based Media Tool That Networks Theatres in the Rest of America and Allows Users to Select Screens for Advertising Based on Location, Theatre Technologies, and Demographics
Today at the CAC (Cinema Advertising Council) and Ad Age Group's "2nd Annual Marquee Marketing at the Movies," Theatre Information Systems announced the launch of Cinema Direct Media, a web-based media planning and buying tool. Cinema Direct Media is an online software program which networks movie theatres in the Rest of America(TM) -- the 30 percent of movie screens not currently represented by the industry's two largest cinema advertising vendors. Cinema Direct Media allows users to plan smart campaigns by selecting specific screens for advertising based on various factors including location, theatre technologies, and detailed demographic reports.
"We've essentially created a 3rd complementary network of theatres with available onscreen advertising space," said James Tiller, president of Theatre Information Systems (T.I.S.). "While we anticipate that agencies will continue to place their ad buys through the industry's two largest on-screen cinema advertising companies, they previously have been unable to easily research theatres located in the Rest of America(TM). Cinema Direct Media now does this for them, turning a process that used to take a month into something that only takes a minute. Our service will enable advertisers to secure wider and deeper penetration into the marketplace."
The software program enables users to do a quick online search for screens around the nation and obtain detailed information on the demographic that the theatres support, including age, education level, income bracket, gender, and race. The tool is available as a free subscription to advertising agencies and offers the best national rate for ad space. Cinema Direct Media currently represents 5,500 screens nationwide and anticipates expanding to 8,000 screens.
"Cinema advertising is incredibly successful and is one of the fastest growing advertising mediums," said Bob Martin, president of UniqueScreen Media, Inc. "This tool will add to the growing momentum of cinema advertising and benefit everyone in the industry, including other cinema advertising vendors. By allowing agencies to also place ads with the Cinema Direct Media theatres on a spot buy basis, their advertisers' needs will be better served."
About Theatre Information Systems
Theatre Information Systems is the creator of Cinema Direct Media, a web-based media planning and buying tool which allows advertisers and agencies to easily search for, filter, and buy cinema onscreen advertising. Cinema Direct Media is the only program that networks the Rest of America(TM) -- the approximately 30 percent of movie screens not represented by the industry's two largest companies. The software allows users to efficiently plan smart campaigns by selecting specific screens for advertising based on location and theatre technologies, and providing detailed GIS mapping and demographic reports such age, gender, race, education, and income levels of specific theatre audiences. Cinema Direct Media vastly simplifies the process of locating onscreen advertising space, turning what used to take a month into a minute. By making the Rest of America(TM) visible, Cinema Direct Media helps the whole industry by putting these theatres on the map, creating new revenues for them, and making it easier for agencies to buy targeted cinema advertising. Cinema Direct Media is available as a free subscription to advertising agencies and offers the best national rate for ad space. Cinema Direct Media currently represents 5,500 screens nationwide and anticipates soon growing to 8,000 screens across the U.S.
Reader Contact Information:
GameSpot Announces Winners of 2nd Annual GameSpot E3 People's Choice Awards; Industry Award Based on Gamers' Online Behavior During Opening Day at E3 as Tracked by GameSpot Trax, the Real-Time Market Intelligence Tool
GameSpot (http://www.gamespot.com), a leading source for trusted gaming content and community and a property of CNET Networks, Inc. (Nasdaq:CNET), today announced the winners of its Second Annual GameSpot E3 2006 People's Choice Awards, honoring the most anticipated games at the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) 2006 conference. The awards are the first to recognize the most popular PC and video games based solely on the real-time online behavior of millions of gamers who visited the GameSpot family of sites on May 10, opening day of E3.
Big winners of the award this year include Halo 3, Spore, and the Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.
"With all of the breaking news stories and amazing booths at E3, it's hard to tell what games people are most excited about," said Josh Larson, director of industry products for CNET Networks Entertainment. "With the real-time feedback from GameSpot Trax, the game industry can get an immediate sense of how the newest games are resonating among potential consumers. All winners are likely to become among the most popular games of the 2006 holiday season and beyond."
GameSpot Trax is the industry's most advanced tool for tracking and analyzing essential game data. On Wednesday, May 10, from 12:01am to 5:00pm, GameSpot Trax monitored the information requests generated from the surge of tens of millions of page views of gamers who scoured the GameSpot network of Web sites for details on the games highlighted at E3. By analyzing the tens of millions of interactions that users had with GameSpot's content on the games, GameSpot Trax was able to identify the 20 most anticipated games of the show.
Following is a list of the winners in alphabetical order: -0-
Game Name Publisher Platform
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
Dragon Quest Swords: The Masked Square Enix
Queen and the Tower of Mirrors Wii
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
Fable 2 Microsoft Xbox 360
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
Final Fantasy III Square Enix DS
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
Final Fantasy Versus XIII Square Enix PS3
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
Final Fantasy XIII Square Enix PS3
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
Gears of War Microsoft Xbox 360
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
Halo 3 Microsoft Xbox 360
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
Heavenly Sword Sony PS3
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Activision Multiple
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Konami
Patriots PS3
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
Metroid Prime 3: Corruption Nintendo Wii
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
Red Steel Ubisoft Wii
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
Sonic the Hedgehog Sega PS3, Xbox 360
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
Spore EA PC
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
Super Mario Galaxy (working Nintendo
title) Wii
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
Super Paper Mario Nintendo GameCube
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
Tekken 6 Namco PS3
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Nintendo
Princess Wii, GameCube
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
Warhawk Sony PS3
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
World of Warcraft: The Burning Blizzard
Crusade PC
--------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------
About GameSpot
Celebrating its 10-year anniversary in 2006, GameSpot's (http://www.gamespot.com) expert editorial team provides more than a million daily visitors with comprehensive, engaging, and unbiased game information for console, PC, and portable platforms. The site's award-winning coverage includes previews and reviews on the hottest titles, breaking news, live Web casts, online tournaments, game downloads, videos, guides, hints, and more. GameSpot also has one of the most active online gaming communities fueled by a free, innovative social networking service that makes it easy and fun for gamers to meet and interact with other like-minded enthusiasts. The GameSpot family includes GameFAQs, Game Rankings, and GameSpot Trax, the industry's premier real-time market intelligence tool. GameSpot is part of CNET Networks Entertainment division which includes MP3.com, TV.com, and Metacritic.com.
About CNET Networks
CNET Networks, Inc. is a worldwide media company and creator of content environments for the interactive age. CNET Networks takes pride in being "a different kind of media company," creating richer, deeper interactive experiences by combining the wisdom and passion of users, marketers and its own expert editors. CNET Networks' leading brands -- such as CNET, GameSpot, MP3.com, Webshots, and ZDNet -- focus on the personal technology, entertainment, and business technology categories. The company has a strong presence in the US, Asia and Europe.
CNET Networks, Inc.
ChiefÆ Manufacturing Introduces the new Speed-Connect™ Series of accessories focused on reducing installation time.
ChiefÆ Manufacturing Inc., the industry leader in A/V mounting solutions, and makers of the award-winning RPA™ Series projector mount and accessories, launches a new and innovative line of accessories focused on increasing the speed of installation.
Designed as an upgrade to Chief’s existing line of ceiling mount accessories, the new Speed-Connect™ Series minimizes installation times with value added features. Built to work seamlessly with the new RPA Elite™ Series of projector mounts, the Speed-Connect™ Series includes:
Quick and Easy 1-1/2” NPT Adjustable Extension Columns
These extension columns include a revolutionary notched design allowing for maximum flexibility and extension options. They include flow-through cable management, with a cable exit port for a clean appearance. Chief’s exclusive
All-Points™ security is included. Available in black, silver and white.
Newly Designed Ceiling Plate with Cable Management
The Low-profile, aesthetic design includes integrated cable exit port for a clean installation. Available in black, silver and white.
Enhanced Lightweight Suspended Ceiling Kit
This installer-friendly solution includes Chief’s WireVice™ Cable Suspension System for quick tie-off and easy adjustment. Plus, the innovative TwisTile™ Ceiling Tile Cutter easily pierces quick, circular holes in the tile so there’s no need for other tools.
Advanced Suspended Ceiling Replacement Tile Kit
This kit allows infinite placement of the extension column within the tile for maximum flexibility. It includes Chief’s WireVice™ Cable Suspension System for quick tie-off and easy adjustment, and the innovative TwisTile™ Ceiling Tile Cutter for piercing quick, circular holes in the tile.
Perfect for any projector installation, the Speed-Connect™ Series of accessories provide maximum flexibility and dramatically reduce installation times. Backed by Chief’s dedicated Customer Service team, these accessories are smartly designed and blend seamlessly into any environment.
U.S. Patents Pending.
About Chief
Chief Manufacturing, a division of CSAV – Chief Sanus Audio Visual, has more than 28 years of proven product and service excellence. Committed to responding to industry needs in the Pro AV, Residential and Office markets, Chief offers a complete line of mounts, lifts and accessories for flat panel TVs and projectors.
Chief continues to design innovative mounting solutions that complement the technology they support. With multiple product awards and patented designs, Chief provides unique mount features, and is recognized for delivering not only quality products, but knowledgeable, helpful customer service.
U.S. and Europe sales offices support a global network spanning the Americas, Europe, the Pacific Rim and beyond. Chief distribution centers are located in Minnesota and the Netherlands. www.chiefmfg.com.
C O R R E C T I O N -- Comcast/
In the news release, CBS's Survivor Finale and Survivor Reunion to Be Offered for Free to Select Comcast (NASDAQ:CMCSA) (NASDAQ:CMCSK) Digital Cable Customers Through General Motors Sponsorship, issued earlier today by Comcast over PR Newswire, we are advised by the company that the CBS boilerplate was incorrect. Please reference the correct boilerplate below:
About CBS
CBS Corporation (NYSE:CBS.A) (NYSE:CBS) is a mass media company with constituent parts that reach back to the beginnings of the broadcast industry, as well as newer businesses that operate on the leading edge of the media industry. The Company, through its many and varied operations, combines broad reach with well-positioned local businesses, all of which provide it with an extensive distribution network by which it serves audiences and advertisers in all 50 states and key international markets. It has operations in virtually every field of media and entertainment, including broadcast television (CBS and UPN), cable television (Showtime and CSTV Networks), local television (CBS Television Stations), television production and syndication (CBS Paramount Television and King World), radio (CBS Radio), advertising on out-of-home media (CBS Outdoor), publishing (Simon & Schuster), theme parks (Paramount Parks), digital media (CBS Digital Media Group and CSTV Networks) and consumer products (CBS Consumer Products). In Fall 2006, UPN will cease operations and The CW, a new fifth broadcast television network, will launch as a joint venture between Warner Bros. Entertainment and CBS Corporation. For more information, log on to http://www.cbscorporation.com/.
Source: Comcast
Web site: http://www.comcast.com/
AFTER TRAVELING TO FIVE CONTINENTS, 10 COUNTRIES AND MORE THAN 59,000 THOUSAND MILES, FIND OUT WHICH TEAM WILL BE THE FIRST TO CROSS THE FINISH LINE AND TAKE HOME THE MILLION DOLLAR PRIZE,
ON THE TWO-HOUR SEASON FINALE OF "THE AMAZING RACE 9,"
WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT
"Five Continents…Ten Countries…And More Than Fifty-Nine Thousand Miles" -- After traveling to five continents, 10 countries and more than 59,000 thousand miles, one Team will be the first to cross the Finish Line and take home the one million dollar grand prize, on the two-hour season finale of THE AMAZING RACE 9, Wednesday, May 17 (8:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.
As the Teams race through Japan, they quickly learn that little mistakes can cost big time when there are only three teams left and the finish line is within reach. The last two legs of the Race around the world prove both mentally and physically grueling and it is a tight contest until the very end.
THE AMAZING RACE has won three consecutive Emmy Awards for Best Reality Program.
Following are the 11 Teams, listed in no particular order:
Name: BJ AVERELL (Male)
Occupation: Online Tutor
Age: 26
Hometown: Los Angeles
Name: TYLER MACNIVEN
Occupation: Filmmaker
Age: 25
Hometown: San Francisco
Relationship: BEST FRIENDS
(More)
CBS Television...2
Name: SCOTT BRAGINTON-SMITH
Occupation: Sales
Age: 41
Hometown: West Harwich, Mass.
Name: JOHN LOWE
Occupation: Wealth Manager
Age: 38
Hometown: Dorchester, Mass.
Relationship: LIFE-LONG FRIENDS (ELIMINATED 2/28)
Name: YOLANDA BROWN-MOORE
Occupation: Science Teacher
Age: 27
Hometown: Chicago
Name: RAY WHITTY
Occupation: Attorney
Age: 31
Hometown: Chicago
Relationship: DATING
Name: MONICA CAYCE
Occupation: Student
Age: 23
Hometown: Fayetteville, Ark.
Name: JOSEPH MEADOWS
Occupation: Homebuilder
Age: 23
Hometown: Fort Smith, Ark.
Relationship: DATING (ELIMINATED 5/10)
Name: DESIREE CIFRE
Occupation: Writer
Age: 24
Hometown: New York
Name: WANDA LOPEZ-ROCHFORD
Occupation: Corporate Trainer
Age: 44
(More)
CBS Television...3
Hometown: Smyrna, Ga.
Relationship: MOTHER AND DAUGHTER (ELIMINATED 3/21)
Name: MICHELLE GARNER
Occupation: Homemaker
Age: 36
Hometown: Hattiesburg, Miss.
Name: LAKE GARNER
Occupation: Dentist
Age: 37
Hometown: Hattiesburg, Miss.
Relationship: MARRIED PARENTS (ELIMINATED 4/12)
Name: JONI GLAZE
Occupation: Children's Minister
Age: 44
Hometown: Katy, Texas
Name: LISA HINDS
Occupation: Realtor/Artist
Age: 48
Hometown: Santa Rosa Beach, Fla.
Relationship: SISTERS (ELIMINATED 3/7)
Name: BARRY LAZARUS
Occupation: Retired Physician
Age: 63
Hometown: Silverthorne, Colo.
Name: FRAN LAZARUS
Occupation: Retired Accountant
Age: 61
Hometown: Silverthorne, Colo.
Relationship: MARRIED 40 YEARS (ELIMINATED 4/26)
Name: JEREMY RYAN
Occupation: Valet
(More)
CBS Television...4
Age: 26
Hometown: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Name: ERIC SANCHEZ
Occupation: Waiter
Age: 27
Hometown: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Relationship: FRIENDS
Name: DAVID SPIKER
Occupation: Musician
Age: 30
Hometown: Manhattan, Kansas
Name: LORI WILLEMS
Occupation: Pizza Hut Manager
Age: 25
Hometown: Manhattan, Kansas
Relationship: DATING (ELIMINATED 4/5)
Name: DANI TORCHIO
Occupation: Recent College Graduate
Age: 22
Hometown: Staten Island, N.Y.
Name: DANIELLE TURNER
Occupation: Recent College Graduate
Age: 22
Hometown: Staten Island, N.Y.
Relationship: CHILDHOOD FRIENDS (ELIMINATED 3/28)
THE AMAZING RACE 9 is an adventure reality show hosted by Phil Keoghan. The show features 11 teams of two on a trek around the world for approximately 30 days. At every destination, each team of two will have to compete in a series of challenges -- some mental and some physical -- and only when the tasks have been completed will they learn their next destination. Teams who are farthest behind will gradually be eliminated as the contest progresses, with the first team to arrive at the final destination winning $1 million.
(More)
CBS Television...5
Jerry Bruckheimer, Bertram van Munster, Jonathan Littman and Hayma Screech Washington are the executive producers for Bruckheimer Television and Earthview Inc., in association with Touchstone Television and Amazing Race Productions. THE AMAZING RACE was created by Bertram van Munster and Elise Doganieri.
RATING: To Be Announced
On the web: http://www.cbs.com/primetime/amazing_race9/
Photos are available on www.cbspressexpress.com
THINKFilm in the 'BLACK'
THINKFilm has acquired all worldwide rights to OFF THE BLACK, the highly acclaimed drama starring Nick Nolte and Trevor Morgan, and written and directed by James Ponsoldt, it was announced by the company's Theatrical Head Mark Urman. The film, which premiered earlier this year at the Sundance Film Festival, will be theatrically released in the US in November, and THINKFilm will be inaugurating international sales at Cannes starting next week.
OFF THE BLACK is a coming-of-age story of teenager Dave Tibbel (Morgan) who copes with his own distant father (Timothy Hutton) by forming an unlikely friendship with a disheveled, irascible high school umpire, Ray Cooke (Nolte). As they grow more dependent on each other, Ray asks Dave to go to his 40th high school reunion and pretend to be his son, a benevolent act of deception that winds up opening unexpected dimensions in the two men.
About the acquisition, Ponsoldt says, "I am very pleased to have THINKFilm handle my film. After meeting with Mark Urman, I knew I had found the company to bring my film to the widest possible audience." Urman adds, "James is a wonderful, classical storyteller, and he has shown equal strength with a veteran like Nick and a newer performer like Trevor, both of whom are absolutely marvelous in the film."
OFF THE BLACK, which also stars Oscar-winner Timothy Hutton and Oscar-nominee Sally Kirkland, is produced by Scott Macaulay and Robin O'Hara of Forensic Films, executive produced by Bob Hariri, Meg Mortimer, Maggie Meade and Steve Kalafer, with cinematography by Tim Orr, editing by Sabine Hoffman and costume design by Caroline Duncan, and musical composition by Claire Campbell, Brian Petway and Alex Neville.
The deal was negotiated by Daniel Katz, THINKFilm Vice President of Acquisitions, and Richard Rapkowski, THINKFilm VP of Business & Legal Affairs, with Andrew Herwitz, president of the Film Sales Company and Victoria Cook of Frankfult, Kurnit, Klein and Selz, on behalf of the producers.
THINKFilm
THINKFilm is a privately held production distribution company now in its fourth year of operation, boasting four Academy Award nominations in as many years, and a win with BORN INTO BROTHELS in 2005; the company's most recent production, MURDERBALL, was recently Oscar-nominated for Best Documentary feature. Upcoming releases include the Gael Garcia Bernal/William Hurt thriller, THE KING, on May 19; the Amy Sedaris/Stephen Colbert/Paul Dinello comedy, STRANGERS WITH CANDY, on June 28; the highly acclaimed Ryan Gosling drama, HALF NELSON, on August 11; and the Heath Ledger/Abbie Cornish drama CANDY in October. For more information, please visit www.thinkfilmcompany.com.
Contact:
Web site: http://www.thinkfilmcompany.com/
ACTIVISION SET TO ACQUIRE VIDEO GAME PUBLISHER REDOCTANE
AND ITS HIGHLY POPULAR GUITAR HERO FRANCHISE
Activision Establishes Leadership Position in Music-Based Gaming
Underscoring its commitment to broaden its product portfolio and deliver compelling entertainment experiences to consumers worldwide, Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) announced today that it has entered into an agreement to acquire video game publisher RedOctane, Inc. the publisher of the popular Guitar Hero franchise. This acquisition will provide Activision with an early leadership position in music-based gaming, which the company expects will be one of the fastest growing genres in the coming years.
Guitar Hero is the fifth highest teen-rated game ever released on the PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system with a 92 rating. The game challenges players to be a lead guitarist of their own rock and roll band. The game is sold with a guitar-shaped controller that lets consumers simulate playing the guitar for more than 30 popular songs that were made famous by such artists as the Red Hot Chili Peppers, David Bowie, and Ozzy Osbourne. Guitar Hero features six venues, eight unique characters, many guitars, and a range of difficulty levels, as well as a two-player mode that lets gamers challenge friends to see who rocks harder.
is the fifth highest teen-rated game ever released on the PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system with a 92 rating. The game challenges players to be a lead guitarist of their own rock and roll band. The game is sold with a guitar-shaped controller that lets consumers simulate playing the guitar for more than 30 popular songs that were made famous by such artists as the Red Hot Chili Peppers, David Bowie, and Ozzy Osbourne. features six venues, eight unique characters, many guitars, and a range of difficulty levels, as well as a two-player mode that lets gamers challenge friends to see who rocks harder.
“Our acquisition of RedOctane perfectly aligns with Activision’s strategy to broaden its portfolio by entering new genres that have strong global appeal,” said Ron Doornink, Director and Strategic Advisor, Activision, Inc. “Guitar Hero integrates music and gaming in a unique and highly engaging way that delivers a compelling game experience for both the current-and next-generation consoles. The success we are seeing today is a strong indicator that Guitar Hero and the many potential extensions, new platform exploitations and international versions appear to be somewhat transition proof, as consumers are responding to this product on current-generation platforms in a manner that defies traditional late-cycle behavior. We think the online capabilities of the next-generation platforms offer new and well differentiated opportunities to create additional revenues from downloadable music, which today represents one of the most popular downloadable content categories.”
Mike Griffith, President and CEO of Activision Publishing, Inc., added, “Activision’s well-established worldwide distribution capabilities coupled with the strength of the Guitar Hero franchise, places us in a position today to capitalize on the millions of current-generation systems in the market. Just as we lead the industry in making music an integral part of the game experience, we will now be making music itself a game, which is appealing to audiences all around the world.”
“RedOctane is incredibly excited about joining forces with Activision to lead the industry in the music-based gaming category,” said Kai Huang, President and Co-Founder of RedOctane, Inc.
Charles Huang, COO and Co-Founder of RedOctane, Inc., added, “The powerful combination of our deep understanding of the music-based gaming category and Activision’s global publishing infrastructure will enable us to realize our vision to remain the leader in music-gaming space.”
Under the terms of the agreement, RedOctane will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Activision and the company’s management team and key employees will sign long-term employment contracts with Activision. RedOctane will continue to be based in Sunnyvale, CA. The transaction is expected to close during the current fiscal quarter. The closing of the transaction is subject to various specific and general closing conditions. North Point Advisors acted as financial advisor to RedOctane. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed. Activision does not expect that this acquisition will have a material impact on its fiscal year 2007 earnings outlook.
About RedOctane
RedOctane, Inc. is a publisher, developer, and distributor of interactive entertainment software, hardware and accessories. The company offers its interactive entertainment products in versions that operate on the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system console from Sony Computer Entertainment, Xbox™ video game system from Microsoft, and on personal computers ("PC"). RedOctane's leading software product offerings include In The Groove for the PlayStation 2 and Guitar Hero for the PlayStation 2. RedOctane also designs, manufactures, and markets high quality video game peripherals and accessories and has won awards for the Ignition® Dance Pad and the Guitar Hero SG® Controller. RedOctane is headquartered in Sunnyvale, California. More information about RedOctane and its products can be found on the company's World Wide Web site, which is located at www.redoctane.com.
About Activision
Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products. Founded in 1979, Activision posted net revenues of $1.47 billion for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2006.
Activision maintains operations in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Australia, Scandinavia, Spain and the Netherlands. More information about Activision and its products can be found on the company's World Wide Web site, which is located at www.activision.com.
Yedang Online’s next generation blockbuster ‘PristonTale2 – 2nd Enigma’ unveiled.
Yedang Online’s next generation blockbuster ‘PristonTale2 – 2 Enigma’ unveiled.Teaser site, first CG and play clip OPEN!
Overseas sales begin with E3 game show.
Close Beta in August 2006 & commercial during first half of 2007.
Yedang Online Corp. (www.ydonline.co.kr, CEO Nam Chul Kim) has opened the teaser site of the original MMORPG ‘PristonTale2 (Sub Title: 2nd Enigma)’, next generation blockbuster currently under development.
The ‘PristonTale2’, which Yedang Online Corp. has spent 100 hundred million won over the 3 years period, is the next generation action type MMORPG developed using the technology and know how of the previous 1st generation 3D MMORPG ‘PristonTale.
The dynamic action of the arcade or the console game has become operable through easy handling to overcome the weakness of the MMORPG game, action, and free character growth and strong community system, unique to ‘PristonTale2’ are the distinguishing features of this game.
Especially, by introducing the unreal 2.5 praised as the best game engine for graphic, the distinctive character portrait, real life background depiction and the strong and extravagant effect has united to create an intense and realistic graphic.
The teaser sites gives off tips on the background story and a world view of the 3 tribes on Priston continent in search of the ancient sealed Enigma, character information, and also the CG and first ever play movie clip of PristonTale2, the most laborious works are released.
Deuk Ki Moon, the chief R&D officer of Yedang Online Corp. said that “This game has been developed by the core developers who worked for PristonTale1 and we have distinguished PristonTale2 by topping the latest trends with the technical know how gained previously. We aim to achieve over the 100,000 CCU per month and we are confident that we can revive the glory of the role playing game once again.”
Starting with the opening of the teaser site and the movie clip release, PristonTale2 – 2nd Enigma will be exhibited at the world’s largest game show E3 between 10th and 12th of May 2006 hosted in LA convention center in demonstrative version, to attract numerous eligible overseas buyers.
PristonTale2 – 2nd Enigma is planned to hold Close Beta in August 2006 and to go commercial during first half of next year.
Video Gamers: You Are Invited to Join Pro Gamers, TV Celebs, and Others From Around the World as Part of the Official E3 Community at: http://e3.imeem.com
(obviously material got out late)
Online Community to Provide an Unfiltered Look at All Things E3, Including Video Game News, Gossip, Parties, Celebrity Sightings and More
imeem announced today that it has teamed with the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) to setup an official online community for sharing photos, videos and blogs. The community, which can be found at http://e3.imeem.com, is designed for conference attendees, hardcore gamers and anyone looking to get the inside scoop on all the happenings at the video game industry's largest conference. -
WHO: You are invited to join gamers and game fanatics such as
Kristen Reilly a.k.a. "Batgirl" from the PMS gamer clan, Dana
Snyder a.k.a. "Master Shake" from Aqua Teen Hunger Force, and
others.
WHAT: The Official E3 Community for sharing photos, videos and blogs.
What's the hottest game? Which console looks cooler - Wii or
PS3? What's the juiciest rumor you heard? Who threw the best
party? Share your behind-the-scenes photos, video and blog
entries on all the happenings at this year's conference. Even
better, see what other people did at this year's show through
their eyes.
WHEN: The 2006 E3Expo takes place from May 10 - 12, 2006 at the
Los Angeles Convention Center. The official E3 Community is
already online and growing.
WHERE: http://e3.imeem.com
HOW: Logon to http://e3.imeem.com, create a user profile and start
sharing.
About imeem
imeem is a technology leader delivering the next generation platform for social media. As a consumer-focused company, imeem allows users to easily communicate with friends and family and find new people and groups over the internet. With imeem's free download users can share digital media, IM, and publish blogs.
The imeem software is available for both Mac and PC users. The imeem service is available through http://www.imeem.com. All are 100% free.
imeem, inc. is located in Palo Alto and funded by Morgenthaler Ventures.
Imeem
Left Behind Games Hosts the First Public Showing of LEFT BEHIND: ETERNAL FORCES at the 2006 E3 Expo
Left Behind Games (OTCBB:LFBG) debuted one of the world's first high-quality Christian video games, LEFT BEHIND: ETERNAL FORCES, at this year's Electronics Entertainment Expo (E3) in Los Angeles. The real time strategy (RTS) title took center stage during a press conference on Wednesday, May 10, in the NVIDIA booth.
The press conference featured Left Behind Games CEO Troy Lyndon presenting the first public live demo of the exciting new RTS game scheduled for release during the second half of 2006. LEFT BEHIND: ETERNAL FORCES is based on the wildly popular Left Behind book series published by Tyndale House Publishers.
ABOUT LEFT BEHIND GAMES:
Left Behind Games Inc. was founded in October 2001 for the purpose of developing games based upon the intensely popular Left Behind series. The mission of Left Behind Games is to become the world's leading independent developer and publisher of quality interactive entertainment products that perpetuate positive values and appeal to mainstream, Christian and gamer audiences, while remaining committed to increasing shareholder value and pursuing the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in all business affairs. For more information, visit http://www.leftbehindgames.com
The Bohle Company for Left Behind Games
Illusion Softworks Embraces AGEIA PhysX Technology; Top Developer in Czech Republic to Leverage AGEIA PhysX Processor for Unprecedented Realism in Game Environments and Characters
AGEIA(TM) Technologies, Inc., the pioneer in hardware-accelerated physics for games, announced today at E3 that Czech Republic game developer Illusion Softworks is supporting the AGEIA PhysX(TM) processor in upcoming game titles. The AGEIA PhysX processor is available now in game PCs from Dell, Alienware and Falcon Northwest, and on add-in boards from ASUS and BFG Technologies.
Developers at Illusion Softworks are known for their uncompromising attention to detail in recreating historical environments, from the gangster era of the 1930s to World War II Europe to the jungles of Southeast Asia. Game research at Illusion Softworks includes photography expeditions to Vietnam, consultations with Special Forces soldiers, and liaisons with archivists and museum experts.
This devotion to realism makes Illusion Softworks a perfect match for the hyper-realistic physics capabilities of AGEIA PhysX technology. By supporting the AGEIA PhysX processor, Illusion Softworks can deliver environments and characters that not only look and act real, but "feel" real to the gamer.
"We take tremendous pride in the realism of our games, and AGEIA PhysX technology will enable us to boost that realism to a new level with rich, physics-based interactivity," said Petr Vochozka, CEO of Illusion Softworks. "Support for the AGEIA PhysX processor will help us create realistic motion, physical reactions and character flexibility that match our true-to-life historical environments."
"Illusion Softworks shows an uncommon dedication to excellence in games, so it is an honor that they have chosen AGEIA PhysX technology as their physics solution," said Kathy Schoback, vice president of content acquisition at AGEIA. "For AGEIA, it's another testament to the quality of our technology, and another step forward in our expansion into growing European markets."
About Illusion Softworks
Illusion Softworks is located in the Czech Republic and was founded by Petr Vochozka and the venture capital investors Cash Reform Group. The mission statement of Illusion Softworks has been clear from the beginning -- to make the best computer games for personal computers (PCs) and consoles. The company is responsible for the highly successful "Mafia," "Hidden & Dangerous" and "Vietcong" franchises and employs 200 of the most talented developers in the Czech Republic. Illusion has contracts in place with Take2 Interactive (http://www.take2games.com) and Atari (http://www.atari.com) and two brand new IPs in development.
About AGEIA
AGEIA(TM) Technologies, Inc., is the pioneer of hardware-accelerated physics for PC games and has developed the world's first dedicated physics processor, the AGEIA PhysX processor. The AGEIA PhysX processor powers massive and pervasive real-time interactive worlds that for the first time obey the laws of classical physics. AGEIA provides a world-class cross platform software development kit to simplify advanced physics programming for the PhysX processor, as well as next-generation gaming consoles. AGEIA is changing the face of gaming by working with more than sixty leading developers and publishers to deliver the next generation of physically immersive entertainment. The company, headquartered in Mountain View, Calif., is privately held.
For more information visit http://www.ageia.com.
AGEIA and PhysX are trademarks of AGEIA Technologies, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
For AGEIA Technologies, Inc.
Electronic Arts Launches Madden NFL 07 on Mobile Phones
TOUCHDOWN! Electronic Arts Inc. (Nasdaq:ERTS) today announced that sports fans across North America will now be able to play their favorite game of pigskin with the touch of a button. Madden NFL 07 will debut on mobile phones on August 22, 2006 in sync with the game launch on console.
"The Madden franchise consistently delivers the most authentic and invigorating gridiron experience," said Mitch Lasky, Senior Vice President of EA Mobile. "With the new Madden playbooks and staggering 3D graphics, Madden NFL 07 for mobile will deliver a one-of-a-kind NFL experience to wireless gamers everywhere."
Madden NFL 07 catapults wireless gamers into fierce 11-on-11 football action with official NFL teams, players and logos from all 32 NFL teams. With in-game commentary from legendary Al Michaels and John Madden, the game allows mobile users to choose from over 50 plays including precision passes and hard-hitting tackles -- using Madden's team-specific playbooks. Football fans navigate a beautifully textured field with grass, field numbers and hash marks in a new, 3D stadium environment. Players can choose to kick off a seven or sixteen-game season, or enjoy just a single game. Regardless of the game mode, Madden NFL 07 immerses mobile gamers into complete NFL action. Featuring advanced wireless graphics and sound effects, the game displays motion-capture animations rendered in real-time, and is presented in a TV style allowing after-play and camera-cut scenes of players. Madden NFL 07 also includes layered audio, which allows players to hear quarterback and field athlete dialogue, cheers and chants from the crowd and compliments from the renowned game narrators as they take their teams to mobile victory.
About Electronic Arts
Electronic Arts Inc. (EA), headquartered in Redwood City, California, is the world's leading interactive entertainment software company. Founded in 1982, the company develops, publishes, and distributes interactive software worldwide for videogame systems, personal computers and the Internet. Electronic Arts markets its products under four brand names: EA SPORTS(TM), EA(TM), EA SPORTS BIG(TM) and POGO(TM). In fiscal 2006, EA posted revenue of $2.95 billion and had 27 titles that sold more than one million copies. EA's homepage and online game site is http://www.ea.com. More information about EA's products and full text of press releases can be found on the Internet at http://info.ea.com.
Electronic Arts, EA, EA SPORTS, EA SPORTS BIG, and POGO are trademarks or registered trademarks of Electronic Arts Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. John Madden and NFL are trademarks of their respective owners and used with permission. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Electronic Arts
NetDevil Inks License Agreement for AGEIA PhysX SDK; Highly Rated Developer of MMO Games Plans Future Support for AGEIA PhysX Processor
AGEIA(TM) Technologies, Inc., the pioneer in hardware-accelerated physics for games, announced today at E3 that NetDevil, Ltd. has signed a license agreement to use the AGEIA PhysX(TM) SDK in future game titles. NetDevil's latest release, Auto Assault, is garnering rave reviews from game industry press as well as online user review sites such as MMORPG. With the AGEIA PhysX SDK, NetDevil developers can add intense physics realism to future games and expansion packs, especially for PC users with the AGEIA PhysX Accelerator installed in their systems.
The AGEIA PhysX SDK enables developers to create vehicles, weapons and characters that not only look real, but act real and feel real to the gamer. AGEIA PhysX Accelerator cards are available now from ASUS and BFG Technologies and in game PCs from Dell, Alienware and Falcon Northwest.
"The AGEIA PhysX processor is an exciting advancement for MMO games, because it delivers client-side processing power for handling immersive, real-time physics," said Scott Brown, President of NetDevil. "AGEIA PhysX technology is a powerful and easy-to-implement physics solution that will help our developers continue to pursue excellence and innovation in the MMORPG space."
"NetDevil is taking the MMO genre to new places, and we're excited that they've chosen to take AGEIA PhysX technology along for the ride," said Kathy Schoback, vice president of content acquisition at AGEIA. "With talented developers such as the team at NetDevil, we're only beginning to see the possibilities that AGEIA PhysX technology can bring to games."
About NetDevil
NetDevil was founded in 1997 under the inspiration of Jumpgate(TM), the world's first massively multiplayer space simulator universe. NetDevil is an independent game development company dedicated to the construction of massively multiplayer universes. NetDevil is committed to creating immersive, interactive virtual worlds in unique settings outside the typical fantasy genre. For more information, please visit http://www.netdevil.com/.
About AGEIA
AGEIA(TM) Technologies, Inc., is the pioneer of hardware-accelerated physics for PC games and has developed the world's first dedicated physics processor, the AGEIA PhysX(TM) processor. The AGEIA PhysX processor powers massive and pervasive real-time interactive worlds that for the first time obey the laws of classical physics. AGEIA provides a world-class cross platform software development kit to simplify advanced physics programming for the PhysX processor, as well next-generation gaming consoles. AGEIA is changing the face of gaming by working with more than sixty leading developers and publishers to deliver the next generation of physically immersive entertainment. The company, headquartered in Mountain View, Calif., is privately-held. For more information visit http://www.ageia.com.
Note: AGEIA and PhysX are trademarks of AGEIA Technologies, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
DREAMGEAR TURNS UP THE VOLUME WITH ONE OF THE WIDEST SELECTIONS OF UNIQUE PLAYSTATION PORTABLE™ SPEAKERS
The New i.Sound™ Line Brings Excitement and Innovation to Accessories
This year at the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) 2006, dreamGEAR will unveil a line of products that everyone will be talking about and which goes beyond simply gaming to provide the latest speakers and accessories across all platforms.
Leading the pack with an extensive variety of high-quality, portable speakers for the PSP™ (PlayStation® Portable), dreamGEAR continues to provide the latest in innovative accessories for gamers everywhere. The recently launched i.Sound line of speakers for the PSP™ and iPod® devices delivers top quality sound in a sleeker, smaller and more stylish package fit for the lifestyle of a new generation.
"dreamGEAR is excited to bring the latest in design and innovation to E3 this year with i.Sound. This new line of speakers is the next best thing to being there," says dreamGEAR co-founder Richard Weston. "Whatever your passion may be, i.Sound puts you inside the game or movie, enhancing your listening experience without draining your wallet."
i.Sound's user-friendly and compact speakers are highly versatile, allowing gaming fanatics to enjoy room-filling sound wherever they go. Surprisingly, i.Sound's crisper, richer sound comes not only in an unbelievably small package, but also at an affordable price.
Below is a brief description of the latest dreamGEAR and i.Sound products that will be exhibited at E3 2006.
i.Sound Drive-in Cinema Speaker System With Remote Control: The i.Sound Drive-in Cinema Speaker System With Remote Control, chosen as an Innovations 2006 honoree in the Vehicle Audio category at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), turns an ordinary PSP into a complete in-car entertainment system for a fraction of the cost of built-in systems. This viewing kit is custom designed exclusively for PSP™ and features 4X built-in micro drivers that pump out sound equivalent to larger drivers without sacrificing quality. It also has a wired remote control, 2 headphone inputs and 2 pairs of headphones – all of which attach securely to any car's headrest for an unmatched on-the-road movie experience. The suggested retail price is $59.99 and is available at Circuit City, Wal-Mart, Toys R Us, GameStop and other specialty video game retailers nationwide. The i.Sound Drive-in Cinema is also available at http://www.isound.net.
Lava Glow: The new Lava Glow is the first and only liquid-filled, glowing wireless controller for PlayStation® 2 that will light up your game like never before. The latest 2.4 GHz technology provides Extreme Glow Effects from the liquid filled grips for a gaming experience that goes beyond the ordinary. The Lava Glow features 10 pressure sensitive buttons, dual analog sticks and a custom-designed D-pad for increased gaming control. Its ergonomic design also provides the ultimate in comfort. The suggested retail price is $24.99.
i.Sound Movie Max: The new i.Sound Movie Max turns an ordinary PSP™ into a mini-home theater and provides the ultimate audio experience, whether playing video games, listening to music or watching movies. The 4 high quality microdrivers will intensify the highest highs and the lowest lows to deliver maximum sound quality. The compact design is perfect for portable use and the included wireless remote control provides added convenience. The i.Sound Movie Max has a universal design that makes it compatible with PSP™, NDS® (Nintendo DS), all iPod® models, MP3 players or any audio device with a standard headphone jack. The suggested retail price is $69.99.
i.Sound 4X Glow: The i.Sound 4X Glow is one of the first speaker systems on the market designed exclusively for the iPod® nano. The i.Sound 4X Glow features 4X micro drivers for a listening experience that rivals today's top portable speakers. The well-structured casing allows the nano to rest inside, even when the speakers are folded up. In addition, the custom blue glowing effect makes these speakers stand out as a leader in style. The 4X Glow has a suggested retail price of $59.95.
i.Sound Max Portable Speaker System: One of i.Sound's most recent releases for iPod®, the i.Sound Max Portable Speaker System and docking station with a full function remote control, was chosen as an Innovations 2006 Design and Engineering Showcase honoree in the Audio Accessories category by the Innovations Award Team at CES. i.Sound Max has a unique tubular casing and provides peak performance in a sleek, compact design for mobile use. Better yet, it charges an iPod® while in use. It is suitable for all iPod® models as well as MP3 players, CD players and any other audio device with a standard headphone jack. The suggested retail price for the i.Sound Max is $99.95 and is currently available at JCPenney, f.y.e (for your entertainment), Coconuts Music and Movies, Warehouse Music, Strawberries, Spec's, Planet Music, Saturday Matinee, Sam Goody and Suncoast.
i.Sound Plasma: Unlike any iPod® or PSP™ speakers ever seen before, the i.Sound Plasma transforms listening to music into a multi-dimensional experience for the senses. The interchangeable Plasma Globes sit above the speakers and contain an electrifying color lightshow that reacts to the beat of your music for a visually stimulating effect, while 4X driver speakers provide exceptional sound. The i.Sound Plasma comes with an iPod® stand and is compatible with all iPod® models, PSP™, MP3 players, CD players, PC, satellite radio and any other audio device with a standard headphone jack. The suggested retail price is $99.99.
dreamGEAR is one of the fastest growing video game accessory companies in the United States, as well as a leader in providing a wide range of high quality portable speakers for the PSP™ and all iPod® models under its i.Sound brand. dreamGEAR's founders bring together over 50 years of entertainment and gaming technology experience and are dedicated to providing the latest in design, performance and quality. Fueled by a passion for innovation and a desire to meet the needs of its valued customers, dreamGEAR offers high quality affordable accessories across all video game platforms. dreamGEAR is excited to be a part of this year's E3 to showcase their latest accessories.
For more information on dreamGEAR or i.Sound, please visit http://www.dreamgear.net or http://www.isound.net.
The Innovations Design and Engineering Award is based upon descriptive materials submitted to the judges. The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) did not verify the accuracy of any submission or of any claims made and did not test the item to which the award was given.
PSP™ MOVIE MAGIC GOES MOBILE
i.Sound™ Drive-in Cinema Provides The Ultimate In-Car Entertainment System
With the beginning of the busy vacation season, thousands of families will pack up their cars and head out on long, sometimes grueling car trips. The new i.Sound™ PSP™ Drive-in Cinema Speaker System With Remote Control from dreamGEAR® turns a regular PSP™ (PlayStation® Portable) into a complete in-car entertainment system. Never before has keeping kids happy been so simple or affordable, throwing those continuous "are we there yet?" questions out of the passenger side window.
The Drive-in Cinema is designed exclusively for the PSP™ and easily attaches to any car's headrest for an unmatched on-the-road movie experience. The Drive-in Cinema features a wired remote control and four built-in microdrivers that pump out sound equivalent to larger drivers without skimping on quality. Two pairs of headphones and two headphone inputs allow children to watch without distracting parents or other passengers. With the exception of an in-car popcorn popper, the family vehicle instantly transforms into a movie theatre.
No matter how long the car ride, the Drive-in Cinema brings lasting road trip relief to both parents and children. Besides being simple to use, the Drive-in Cinema charges the PSP™ while viewing a movie, so children can still play games after the movies have ended.
"The Drive-in Cinema provides a more practical and affordable alternative to expensive in-car entertainment systems that can cost up to $3,000," says dreamGEAR co-founder Richard Weston. "It is now possible to enjoy your favorite movie while on the road without draining your wallet."
Designed to satisfy the toughest critics, the new i.Sound product line includes portable speaker systems for the iPod®, iPod® video, iPod® Mini/Shuffle, iPod® nano, PSP™, MP3 Players, CD players, laptops, PC's and any other audio device with a standard headphone jack. Fit for the lifestyle of a new generation, the i.Sound line sets higher standards for the entire speaker market.
The i.Sound PSP™ Drive-in Cinema has a retail price of $59.99 and is available at Circuit City, Wal-Mart, Toys R us, GameStop and other specialty video game retailers nationwide. The i.Sound Drive-in Cinema is also available at http://www.isound.net. For more information on dreamGEAR, please visit http://www.dreamgear.net.
NAB saw the unveiling of several new A/V connectivity, extension and scaling solutions from Gefen, summarized below.
The coming months promise additional product innovations, building on Gefen’s reputation as a provider of just-in-time tools that enhance professional and consumer systems worldwide. To keep you informed of the latest developments, Gefen distributes new product releases and occasional implementation successes via email. You may unsubscribe at any time by replying or clicking on the link at the bottom of each message. We look forward to delivering the solutions that enable you to maximize your HD computer and a/v systems: DVI and HD SDI Scaling Solutions Aside from a professional quality conversion, these boxes offer: format scaling of multiple resolutions up to 1080p; broadcast-quality scaling with optimal sharpness during up/down conversion of standard and high definition formats; and intuitive on-screen menu that allows for quick and easy selection and retrieval of preferences, also available through the RS-232 connection. CAT-5 Extender Upgrades These enhanced CAT5 extenders provide an easy method of moving digital displays, USB keyboard/mouse, RS-232 touchscreens and audio components away from the computer will maintaining brilliant HD resolutions through DVI connectors. 8x1 DVI Switcher A rack mountable unit that allows eight separate HD video sources to be viewed on one HDTV display using just one DVI input. Supports HD video up to 1080p or 1920x1200.
DVI Audio Extender Extends both digital and analog audio devices in addition to digital video, providing several options for the user and making this a very useful tool. HD video is supported up to 1920x1200 resolutions as data is sent at an average rate of 12.8 Mbps. 1x3 Component Distribution Amplifier Splits one component source and distributes it to three displays at the same time while retaining high quality sound and imagery on all three displays. Ideal for distributing video throughout the environment without requiring multiple sources. DVI/Component to HDMI Adapters The DVI Audio to HDMI Adapter links DVI sources and digital audio devices to HDMI displays; the Component Audio to HDMI Adapter connects component sources with analog audio to HDMI displays allowing for unbeatable system integration possibilities. 1:2 DVI Dual Link Splitter Enables one HD computer to drive two Apple Cinema Displays at their highest dual link DVI resolutions with perfect clarity and performance.
Offers post-production professionals a plug-and-play method of working with mirrored displays in the work environment. All-Fiber HD Cables Allow HDTV sound and video to be transmitted at high levels of performance, immune to signal interference. Intricately woven fiber optics components provide added protection from EMI emitting from audio/video equipment and atmospheric conditions. About Gefen: A leader in the high definition digital domain, Gefen delivers advanced technologies with multi-platform extension, switching, distribution and conversion capabilities. Gefen equipment is utilized all over the world in professional AV/IT and consumer electronics/home theater environments. Their add-on hardware maximizes system functionality by enabling AV systems to go beyond their original capabilities. Additional information may be found at www.gefen.com.
For more information: Linda Morgan linda@gefen.com 610.436.4759
New Country Music Artist Michael Lee Austin Hits Billboard Internet Music Chart at #7 - Beating Out Rascal Flatts, Toby Keith, Keith Urban and Tim McGraw LOS ANGELES, May 11, 2006 -- Up-and-coming country music artist Michael Lee Austin shocks the music industry by topping out big-name acts such as Rascal Flatts, Toby Keith, Keith Urban and Tim McGraw and becoming the Internet's Best-Selling Country Music Album this week. Austin's label Alive Records has focused their marketing efforts towards cutting-edge techniques on the Internet. Armand Morin, VP of Marketing for Alive, happens to be one of the world's foremost Internet marketing experts. Mr. Morin stated, "We planned to do this and our efforts have certainly paid off. You have to understand this was not a one-person project in promoting Michael's album. We used a simple concept of joint ventures with other Internet marketing companies.
The relationships we have created over the years is what sparked this incredible feat. If we can do this with a first-time artist such as Michael Lee Austin, imagine what we could do with a well-known act." Michael Lee Austin debuted at #7 on the Billboard Internet Music Chart and #63 on Billboard's Overall Country Music Chart. For a first-time artist to do this is absolutely incredible. Austin's "Labor Pains" CD is continuing to sell all over the world and is quickly gaining a lot of attention. Country music radio is currently playing the latest single off Austin's album, "Cold Window Pane," and getting fantastic airplay across the country.
Steven Van Zandt Presents Teen Band ''Creation'' with Special Honor from We Are Family Foundation
Steven Van Zandt presented the teen band Creation with a Special Recognition Award from the We Are Family Foundation (WAFF) at the Foundation's Fourth Annual Celebration held April 25th at Manhattan Center's Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City.
Creation, comprised of six 13-year-olds, was honored for their commitment to making a difference in the lives of children and their global message of peace and tolerance. 100% of the proceeds from their new World Without Windows CD is being donated to WAFF -- a charity organization that is dedicated to promoting diversity, understanding, respect and the vision of a global family.
In December 2005, these extraordinary children performed at a benefit concert in New York City and raised over $55,000; enough money to fund the building of a school being built by Building with Books (BwB) in Mali, Africa, send 10 U.S. high school students from BwB after school programs along to assist with building the school, and fund other WAFF educational programs.
"It was an honor to be acknowledged for all of our hard work with such a beautiful award in the setting it was held," said Raechel of Creation. "We felt so special to be honored at the same time as honorees, Quincy Jones, Sir Elton John and Tommy Hilfiger, people we've looked up to our entire lives. The warmth we received added to our already strong ambition to continue our mission and help change the world, one beat at a time."
Former President Jimmy Carter and Rosalyn Carter sent a letter to WAFF calling the teens "...truly inspirational individuals who have become positive role models to their peers through their music and message of bringing people together."
Also honored at the event, hosted by talk show host Montel Williams, were Sir Elton John, Tommy Hilfiger, Quincy Jones and The Comcast Family of Companies. A host of other celebrities attended the cocktail party before the awards ceremony including Katie Couric and Gayle King.
Creation's fan base includes former president Bill Clinton, legendary saxophonist Clarence Clemons and world renowned songwriter/producer Nile Rodgers, who co-wrote the hit song "We Are Family," recorded by Sister Sledge in 1979, and founded the We Are Family Foundation (WAFF) in 2002. Most recently Creation performed at the US Doctors for Africa Gala Benefit in Washington DC, where they also met with Congressman Towns and toured Capitol Hill, and were interviewed on his television show.
Creation - seventh graders Thomas (bass/vocals), Raechel (lead vocals/guitar), Peter (keyboards), Sam (drums/percussion), Molly (lead vocals/guitar) and Josh (lead guitar) - formed two years ago to rock out their message of diversity and multiculturalism, and that they do in full force in World Without Windows.
Produced by Kids Creation Music LLC, the CD is filled with 10 original tunes of engaging, dance-inducing rock anthems ripe with passionate, thought-provoking lyrics. The CD retails for $15.00. To order or for more information about Creation please visit http://www.creationband.org.
About We Are Family Foundation
We Are Family began in response to tragic events of September 11, 2001. Legendary songwriter/producer Nile Rodgers and Tommy Boy Music president, Tom Silverman, gathered 200 celebrities on the weekend of September 22nd to re-record Nile's world renowned hit song "We Are Family" to commence the healing process. The event was captured on film as a documentary by director Danny Schechter entitled "The Making and Meaning of We Are Family" and a music video by director Spike Lee. The music video aired as a public service announcement simultaneously on Disney Channel, Nickelodeon and PBS on March 11, 2002 with a unified message of the importance of a global family. Nile had no idea that the hit song he and his late music partner Bernard Edwards wrote for Sister Sledge in 1979 would be a part of history again by helping to bring people together and give them hope that we can live together in a peaceful world. The We Are Family Foundation was formed in 2002 and celebrates our common humanity and the vision of a global family by creating and supporting programs, which inspire and educate individuals of all ages about diversity, understanding, respect and multiculturalism and to support those who are victims of intolerance. Visit http://www.wearefamilyfoundation.org.
About Building with Books
Building with Books (BwB) is a not-for-profit organization that engages primarily urban youth through after-school programs and in their classrooms. BwB integrates global education presentations into social studies classes, and through their after-school programs students contribute intensive community service while helping to actually build schools in developing countries around the world. BwB has established these programs in schools in New York, Michigan, Pennsylvania, California and Illinois. In the past year, students in the U.S. contributed nearly 60,000 hours of service working with elders homeless and young children through BwB. Since BwB began in 1991, BwB has built schools in remote villages of developing countries on four continents. BwB has just completed construction of their 150th school. There are now more than 65,000 children and parents that have attended BwB schools built world-wide.
Just in Time for Father's Day, Fox Home Entertainment Introduces Five New DVD Collections Perfect for Dad
Fox Home Entertainment:
-- "Classic Western Collection: THE OUTLAWS"
-- "Heroes Of War Collection: NAVY BATTLES"
-- "Heroes Of War Collection: FRONTLINE COMBAT"
-- "Heroes Of War Collection: SOLDIERS' STORIES"
-- "Classic Crime Collection: STREET JUSTICE"
-- Debuting May 23, 2006, Each Stellar Set Includes Four Classic Films Packed With Action, Bravado, Guts And Glory
Give dad a gift that he'll enjoy for years to come with Fox Home Entertainment's new action-packed DVD collections arriving May 23, 2006. Each of the five themed collections includes four classic films for the low price of just $29.98 U.S./$34.98 Canada: "Classic Western Collection: THE OUTLAWS" includes "Culpepper Cattle Company," "The Proud Ones," "Broken Lance" and "Forty Guns"; "Heroes of War Collection: NAVY BATTLES" includes "Frogmen," "Sink The Bismarck," "Morituri" and "The Enemy Below"; "Heroes of War Collection: FRONTLINE COMBAT" includes "D-Day The Sixth of June," "Decision Before Dawn," "Guadalcanal Diary" and "Halls of Montezuma"; "Heroes of War Collection: SOLDIERS' STORIES" includes "Men of Honor," "Courage Under Fire," "Tigerland" and "The Thin Red Line"; and "Classic Crime Collection: STREET JUSTICE" includes "The St. Valentine's Day Massacre," "The Seven-Ups," "The French Connection" and "Murder, Inc." Loaded with star power such as Spencer Tracy, Robert De Niro, Marlon Brando, Robert Mitchum, Jack Palance, Gene Hackman, Denzel Washington, George Clooney and more, these collections have something for every dad's taste.
Also available as individual DVDs are "Compulsion," starring Orson Welles, "The Seven-Ups," starring Roy Scheider, "Murder, Inc.," starring Peter Falk, and "The St. Valentine's Day Massacre," starring Jason Robards. Each DVD has a suggested retail price of $14.98 U.S./$16.98 Canada.
A recognized global industry leader, Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment LLC is the worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox film and television programming on VHS and DVD as well as video acquisitions and original productions. Each year the Company introduces hundreds of new and newly enhanced products, which it services to retail outlets -- from mass merchants and warehouse clubs to specialty stores and e-commerce -- throughout the world. Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment LLC is a subsidiary of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, a News Corporation company.
Marvel Super Heroes Take Center Stage at E3; Marvel Video Game Releases From Leading Partners Activision, Konami and 2K Games To Be Unveiled At 2006 Electronic Entertainment Expo
At this year's Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), Marvel Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: MVL) will once again explode into the video game arena as several highly anticipated Marvel Super Hero themed games are unveiled from industry-leading partners Activision, Inc. (NASDAQ: ATVI), Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc., a unit of Konami Corporation (NYSE: KNM) and 2K Games, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO).
"We are very excited to have an incredible array of Marvel video games from these top tier publishers showcased at E3 this year, including the first two Next-Gen Marvel titles X-Men: The Official Game and Marvel: Ultimate Alliance," said Ames Kirshen, Vice President, Interactive for Marvel Entertainment. "Marvel Super Heroes lend themselves extremely well to captivating game play, and we are confident these newest releases will not disappoint. Marvel fans and gamers alike are in for a real treat."
Marvel inspired video games that will be debuted at E3 by Marvel's video game licensees include:
Activision
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance is an all-new action/RPG that features over 140 Marvel Super Heroes and Super Villains and the largest roster of comic book characters ever seen in a video game. Players get to create their Super Hero dream team from over 20 playable characters including Spider-Man, Wolverine, Blade and Captain America, and through their actions determine the fate of both planet Earth and the Marvel Universe - revealed in one of several epilogues. Marvel: Ultimate Alliance will be available for the PlayStation(R) 3, Xbox 360(TM), Nintendo Wii(TM), PlayStation(R) 2, Xbox, Sony PSP(TM), Nintendo Game Boy Advance, and Windows PC platforms. The game is not yet rated by the ESRB.
X-Men: The Official Game catapults players into an original storyline that serves as a prelude to Twentieth Century Fox and Marvel Studios' upcoming film, 'X-Men: The Last Stand.' The game allows players to command the distinct powers of Wolverine, Nightcrawler and Iceman as they face off against formidable enemies, battle through massive environments and embark on an epic quest to save mutant-kind. X-Men: The Official Game has been rated "T" (Teen - violence) and will be available for the PlayStation 2, Xbox, Xbox 360(TM), Nintendo GameCube and PC platforms. The game for the Nintendo DS and Nintendo Gameboy Advance has been rated "E-10+" (Everyone 10 and older - fantasy violence).
Konami
This Fall, Konami is releasing Marvel Trading Card Game, a card based-strategy video game featuring the Marvel Universe, for the Nintendo DS(TM), PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system and PC platforms. Based on the best selling trading card game from Upper Deck, Marvel Trading Card Game allows players to collect over 800 cards based on their favorite Marvel characters and compete in cross-platform online play in a variety of different modes.
Marvel Trading Card Game lets players assemble their own deck and take on different challenges to gain more cards based on legendary Marvel characters such as Spider-Man, The Incredible Hulk, the X-Men, the Avengers, the Fantastic Four, Ghost Rider and more. In the game's single player story mode, players choose to play as hero or villain, then select a series of enemies to battle. In between each clash, detailed comic book scenes tell the game's story as players choose to move on to the next enemy or explore a branch in the story for the chance to acquire additional cards.
2K Games
Ghost Rider is a new third person action video game based on the well-known Marvel Super Hero and upcoming feature film. Ghost Rider is being developed for current generation systems by Climax Group and is scheduled for simultaneous release with the movie in February 2007. Continuing the storyline from the upcoming Columbia Pictures/Marvel Studio's movie, Ghost Rider drops players into the role of Johnny Blaze, a celebrity motorcycle stunt rider who is transformed into a Super Hero with powers to avenge any evil he encounters. Featuring many of the characters and motorcycles from the comic book and upcoming movie, Ghost Rider will engage gamers in an immersive, supernatural third person world with a seamless blend of hand-to-hand combat and high-speed motorcycle action.
About Activision, Inc.
Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products. Founded in 1979, Activision posted net revenues of $1.47 billion for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2006.
Activision maintains operations in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Australia, Scandinavia, Spain and the Netherlands. More information about Activision and its products can be found on the company's World Wide Web site, which is located at http://www.activision.com.
About Konami
Konami is a leading developer, publisher and manufacturer of electronic entertainment properties. Konami's titles include the popular franchises Metal Gear Solid(R), Silent Hill(R) and Castlevania(R), among other top sellers. The latest information about Konami can be found on the Web at http://www.konami.com. Konami Corporation is a publicly traded company based in Tokyo, Japan with subsidiary offices, Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. in the United States and Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH in Frankfurt, Germany. Konami Corporation, the parent company of Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. is traded in the United States on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol KNM. Details of the products published by Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. can be found at http://www.konami.com/gs.
About Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc.
Headquartered in New York City, Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. is an integrated global developer, marketer, distributor and publisher of interactive entertainment software games and accessories for the PC, PlayStation(R) game console, PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system, Xbox(R) and Xbox 360(TM) video game and entertainment systems from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube(TM), Nintendo DS(TM) and Game Boy(R) Advance. The Company publishes and develops products through its wholly owned labels Rockstar Games, 2K Games, 2K Sports and Global Star Software; and distributes products in North America through its Jack of All Games subsidiary. Take-Two also manufactures and markets video game accessories in Europe, North America and the Asia Pacific region through its Joytech subsidiary. The Company maintains sales and marketing offices in Cincinnati, New York, Toronto, London, Paris, Munich, Madrid, Vienna, Milan, Sydney, Breda (Netherlands), Auckland, Shanghai and Tokyo. Take-Two's common stock is publicly traded on NASDAQ under the symbol TTWO. All trademarks and copyrights contained herein are the property of their respective holders. For more corporate and product information please visit our website at http://www.take2games.com.
About Wii
Nintendo's next system, Wii (formally code-named Nintendo Revolution), will feature a controller designed to be used with either one hand or two - a first in the videogame industry. When picked up and pointed at the screen, the controller gives a lightning-quick element of interaction, sensing motion, depth, positioning and targeting dictated by movement of the controller itself.
About Columbia Pictures
Columbia Pictures, part of the Columbia TriStar Motion Picture Group, is a Sony Pictures Entertainment company. Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America (SCA), a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. SPE's global operations encompass motion picture production and distribution; television production and distribution; digital content creation and distribution; worldwide channel investments; home entertainment acquisition and distribution; operation of studio facilities; development of new entertainment products, services and technologies; and distribution of filmed entertainment in 67 countries. Sony Pictures Entertainment can be found on the World Wide Web at http://ww.sonypictures.com.
About Marvel Entertainment, Inc.
With a library of over 5,000 characters, Marvel Entertainment, Inc. is one of the world's most prominent character-based entertainment companies. Marvel's operations are focused on utilizing its character franchises in licensing, entertainment, publishing and toys. Areas of emphasis include feature films, DVD/home video, consumer products, video games, action figures and role-playing toys, television and promotions. Rooted in the creative success of over sixty years of comic book publishing, Marvel's strategy is to leverage its character franchises in a growing array of opportunities around the world. More information about Marvel can be found at http://www.marvel.com.
TM, (R), Game Boy Advance, Nintendo GameCube, Nintendo DS and Wii are trademarks of Nintendo.
Activision is a registered trademark of Activision, Inc. and its affiliates. All other trademarks and trade names are the property of their respective owners.
Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360 and Xbox Live are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and / or other countries.
MARVEL, and all related Marvel characters are (C) and trademarks of Marvel Characters, Inc., and are used with permission. Super Hero(es) and Super Villain(s) are co-owned registered trademarks. Copyright (C) 2006 Marvel Characters, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.marvel.com. Licensed by Marvel Characters, Inc.
Upper Deck Entertainment, Vs. System, and the card hologram are trademark or registered trademarks of The Upper Deck Company, LLC. (C) 2006 The Upper Deck Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
"PSP" is a trademark and "PlayStation" and the "PS" Family logo are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Internet connection and Memory Stick Duo(TM) may be required (sold separately).
Muvico Theaters Attacked by Corporate Internet Sabotage; Federal and State Authorities Are Investigating Malicious Attack That Has Disrupted Certain Operations & Its Hallmark Customer Service Throughout Its Circuit
Muvico Theaters has become the latest victim of the upward trend in corporate internet sabotage. This past weekend, Muvico's computer systems were infected by a Trojan virus that was deliberately timed to paralyze theater operations and severely affect Muvico Theaters' mission of providing the premium customer service that has become the hallmark of the 233-screen theater circuit. The malicious attack inconvenienced thousands of movie-goers during the opening weekend of the blockbuster film Mission Impossible III.
Federal and state authorities are investigating the illegal infiltration of the movie circuit's IT system and the surreptitious insertion of a malicious computer virus into the circuit's IT system late afternoon on Friday, May 5th. The assault on Muvico's computer system appears to have been deliberately timed to attack after the in-office staff had left for the weekend. Muvico management noted that before the attack hit and infected its internet server at 5:55 p.m. Friday, the alarm in its headquarters building was triggered at approximately 5:30 p.m., and all occupants were instructed to immediately vacate the building until it was deemed safe to re-enter shortly after 6 p.m. (after the virus was engaged).
"While it is disconcerting from a management perspective to be a victim of internet sabotage, it was most unnerving to know that Muvico's mission of delivering its hallmark customer service was jeopardized and compromised," said Muvico Theaters President Michael Whalen. "We want our guests to know that we and the federal authorities are taking this calculated intrusion very seriously, and apologize to them for any inconvenience this vicious attack may have caused them, and Muvico's IT team in conjunction with security experts are working around the clock to restore and improve security of our web-based operations to prevent this from happening again."
Whalen added that as soon as the breach was identified, all IT communications were disengaged to prevent any further damage and ramifications from occurring, and that the system will not be in full operation until there are safeguards in place to insure the security of the system for all of those who engage it, from corporate offices and theater operations to the movie-going public.
Movie-goers most affected were those who purchased their tickets with credit cards or through Muvico Theaters' on-line web-based advance ticket program. Until the systems are back in full operation, Muvico management reminds all on-line purchasers of advance tickets to bring their on-line receipts and credit cards to the Guest Services desk at their perspective theater to pick up their tickets. Muvico kindly asks its guests to be patient as they work toward ensuring all of their systems are operational and clean of any computer virus.
Whalen reported that while Muvico does not yet know when its system will be in full operation, it is doing everything it can do to minimize inconvenience to its guests, such as manual credit card processing, and providing portable cash registers at its locations to expedite service. Additionally, ATM machines will be installed in the near future to enhance the overall guest experience.
"While there is never a good time for such a blatant attack on any company, this is a particularly unfortunate time for all involved, from both revenue and guest services perspectives, with the groundswell excitement surrounding what promises to be the season's most highly attended films such as Mission Impossible III , Poseidon, and Da Vinci Code," added Whalen. When asked to comment on the apparent coincidence of the computer attack and recent highly-publicized litigation, Whalen refused to speculate about any connection.
Whalen added that Muvico has a zero tolerance policy for this type of activity and will work closely with federal authorities to identify and prosecute the infiltrator(s) to the fullest extent of the law.
"We have much to protect at Muvico, and at the forefront is our commitment to customer service," concluded Whalen.
Muvico Theaters, based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, currently operates 12 theaters with 233 screens in Florida, Maryland and Tennessee with 120 additional screens in various stages of development across the eastern United States. For more information, contact 954-564-6550 or visit http://www.muvico.com.
''Johnstown Flood'' DVD Honors the Spirit of Survival Despite Devastation
Wednesday, May 31, 2006 marks the 117th anniversary of one of the worst natural disasters in American History - the Johnstown Flood. Narrated by Academy Award(R) winner Richard Dreyfuss, Inecom Entertainment Company's "Johnstown Flood" DVD recreates the tragic event through documented and illustrated first-hand accounts from victims while emphasizing the spirit of survival and the bond of community. In honor of the tragic event, a 56-minute version of the documentary is airing nationally on public television and the 84-minute DVD is available at video stores, Internet retailers, educational and institutional distributors and large retail chains such as Borders and select Barnes & Noble stores nationwide.
It has been reported that the National Park Service recently acquired the South Fork Fishing and Hunting Club in Johnstown, Pennsylvania and hopes to have it open for tours this summer. In 1889, this exclusive club maintained the dam that broke causing the 40-foot wave of water that killed more than 2,200 people. Also making headlines this week is "Johnstown Flood" narrator, Richard Dreyfuss, whose Hollywood blockbuster film, "Poseidon," debuts May 12, 2006.
About Inecom Entertainment Company
Inecom Entertainment Company finances and distributes independent films by partnering with innovative producers and working with celebrated talent such as Ronald F. Maxwell, Richard Dreyfuss, Keith Carradine and Gene Wilder.
Since 2001, Inecom has released eight feature documentaries and multiple instructional films for U.S. and international distribution including "EXPO - Magic of the White City" narrated by Gene Wilder, "Gettysburg and Stories of Valor" narrated by Keith Carradine, and narrated by Ronald F. Maxwell are "Lincoln and Lee at Antietam - The Cost of Freedom" and "Horses of Gettysburg." Inecom's upcoming productions include "Winters of War," "The Clara Barton Story" and "World War I Minutes."
GOAL! THE DREAM BEGINS
The exciting, fast-paced and glamorous world of international soccer.
Production Information
How far would you go to live your dream? When Santiago Munez (KUNO BECKER) is
given the chance of a lifetime, he must leave his family, his life in Los Angeles, and everything that he knows to travel halfway around the globe to England and into a completely foreign
As an underprivileged Mexican- American immigrant growing up in a poor section of Los Angeles, Santiago seemed destined to follow his father’s path in life: laboring at menial jobs to earn just enough money to support his family. A naturally gifted athlete, his amazing talent on the soccer field seemed wasted in recreation league
games while he could only dream of playing on the world stage of professional soccer. But when a British scout (STEPHEN DILLANE) discovers his talent and gets him a tryout with one of England’s premier soccer clubs, Newcastle United, Santiago must choose between his father’s fate and his own destiny.
Now alone in a world where soccer is a religion and players are gods, this underdog must
prove that he’s got the talent and determination to make it amongst the best in the world.
GOAL! THE DREAM BEGINS takes audiences into the electrifying, heart-pounding action of the world’s most popular sport and features cameos from some of soccer’s hottest superstars such as David Beckham and Newcastle United captain Alan Shearer.
Directed by Danny Cannon from a screenplay by Dick Clement & Ian La Frenais and Mike Jefferies & Adrian Butchart, and a story by Jefferies and Butchart, GOAL! THE DREAM BEGINS is produced by Mike Jefferies, Matt Barrelle and Mark Huffam. The executive producers are Lawrence Bender and Peter Hargitay. Co-Executive Producer is Stuart Ford. Co-Producers are Danny Stepper and Jo Burn. The film also stars Anna Friel, Marcel Iures, and Alessandro Nivola. Buena Vista Pictures distributes.
ABOUT THE PRODUCTION
The cinema has given audiences scores of beloved and inspiring films about sports, from
“Rocky” to “Field of Dreams” to “Miracle.” Producers Mike Jefferies and Matt Barrelle
wondered why Hollywood had never made a great movie about the world’s most popular sport: soccer.
ABOUT THE PRODUCTION
“We’ve seen tremendously successful films about baseball, basketball, golf, you name it,” says producer Jefferies. “It seemed incredible to me that soccer has never been the subject of a decent movie. We set out to change that.”
In 2002, when Jefferies and Barrelle were at the World Cup in Japan, their idea for this film began to take shape, and the project quickly gathered steam. Producer Jefferies says, “We were convinced that we could make a film about this young man’s story that resonated on a dramatic level and create something engaging that has appeal beyond a sporting audience, that would cross over demographics, territory, and gender. We knew we had something exciting.”
Novices in the motion-picture business, Jefferies and Barrelle found an opportunity to meet with an Oscar®-winning director to discuss their project. As a result of the meeting, Barrelle, Jeffries and co-producer Danny Stepper boarded a plane to Paris to meet with officials at the Fédération Internationale de Football Association—better known around the world as FIFA.
“We met with FIFA to gain access,” explains Jefferies. “We wanted to be able to use their soccer properties and to be able to film in stadiums and receive clearances, as well as to mitigate any problems we might have with licenses or image rights. We needed FIFA to hold our hand and help us navigate those channels.”
Cementing the deal with FIFA was critical to securing the involvement of the squads and
enhancing the authenticity of the film. “Securing the assistance of FIFA was incredibly
important to us, and making arrangements with the teams and actual players was critical as well,” explains Barrelle. “We wanted to use authentic teams because the fans know what’s going on, and soccer fans are the most fanatic fans in the world. You can’t cheat them. We didn’t want to do that, and you’ll see that success on screen.”
After considering several teams to be the featured team in the film, the filmmakers opted to go with Newcastle United. “Newcastle appealed to us for many different reasons,” explains Mike Jefferies. “They have very passionate and devoted fans who are so fervent, it’s almost like a religion to them. They’ve got a tremendous stadium, and we also met our creative requirements in that the city is very cinematic.”
Furthermore, Newcastle is in the northern part of the country, and with its grey clouds and fanatical supporters, it made for an even stronger contrast to Santiago’s balmy hometown, Los Angeles. “Plus the crowd in Newcastle is incredibly passionate, which was fantastic in terms of footage, and capturing that on film was very important to us,” says Barrelle.
Once Newcastle was selected, the producers had to approach the team and secure its
cooperation. The squad was amenable to participating in the film. “They loved the idea of exposing their brand around the world,” says Matt Barrelle. “They understand the commercial aspects of boosting the brand—the more money they have, the more money they can spend on players. The better players they have, the more they win.
“They understood what a Hollywood film could do for Newcastle United,” adds Barrelle.
“We made a deal pretty quickly with them.”
Jefferies says establishing trust with Newcastle Chairman Freddie Shepherd was the key to their successful relationship. “They knew we understood that their core activity is playing professional soccer. We had to be completely respectful of that and work around it,” he says. Filmmakers refrained from filming the players during training on days before a game.
“We wanted to be respectful of their boundaries. We wouldn’t shoot on a match day; we
wouldn’t distract the players. But before and after games they were very accommodating. They got excited about this film project. Newcastle and FIFA put every resource at our disposal,” praises Jefferies.
The ease of the relationship reflected the overall professionalism of the squad. “Newcastle United is a good example of a very close-knit, professionally run team,” observes Matt Barrelle. “If things work together on the field, they work together in other aspects as well. We were very fortunate to work with Newcastle.”
With the infrastructure in place, including the full cooperation of Newcastle United and FIFA, the filmmakers sought a director for their film. They found him in Danny Cannon, who most recently was executive producer on the “CSI” television series.
Growing up in Luton, England, Cannon was enamored with soccer. “Professional soccer
players impress me enormously,” he explains. “They always have, even when I was a kid. They are brilliant at what they do.”
The producers had the utmost confidence in their choice of a leader to helm this sprawling production. “This is an incredibly artistic film; what Danny is doing creatively has never been done in any sports film,” says co-producer Stepper. “We’ve seen films about horse racing and golf and everything else, but no one’s done a film about the world’s biggest game. So when we set out to do that, not only was it ambitious, but the way we were actually filming the action was incredibly unique. This is a film that only Danny Cannon could deliver.”
With a director in place, the filmmakers turned to veteran screenwriters Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais, the Emmy®- and BAFTA™-winning team behind the screenplays for such films as “The Commitments” and “Still Crazy” and the HBO® television series “Tracey Takes on…”
The duo came aboard relatively late in preproduction. “We met with Mike Jefferies and
Danny Cannon,” recalls Clement. “We got the go-ahead to write a draft not long after that.”
La Frenais is originally from the City of Newcastle and both writers live in Los Angeles,
so they were well educated about their subject.
“We understand the city where the story is set,” says La Frenais. “We understand what
soccer means in a sociological sense.”
But for the screenwriters, the story transcended the soccer field. “Everybody understands
the story of a kid coming from nowhere, dragging himself up and out of his environment and being a fish out of water,” says Dick Clement. “Everybody understands what is at stake, what Santiago is aiming for.”
A large question still loomed on the horizon: who would play the role of the endearing and talented central character, Santiago Munez?
CASTING SANTIAGO
“We wanted to cast somebody who wasn’t already a star,” says Matt Barrelle. “It was also important for us to find a young man who looked like an athlete, was a very good actor, and had a Hispanic/Spanish/Argentinean/Mexican appearance for his heritage. We also wanted someone who had a charismatic presence on camera, and who looked innocent. Santiago comes across as very cheeky and innocent in the film, which is important.”
It was a tall order, and only a unique talent could fill it. But Mexico-born actor Kuno
Becker succeeded. Becker is one of Mexico’s most recognized stars in the international
Hispanic television market.
“Having a good actor who was credible in the role was most vital,” says Barrelle. “We
figured we’re making a movie here, not running a sports team. A lot of other sports films have gone for a professional sportsman rather than a good actor.”
The filmmakers auditioned a large cross section of actors. “We auditioned Hispanic actors, all of whom could play soccer,” says Jefferies. “It was tough out there! We were very, very lucky to find Kuno. He was a perfect mix for us.”
“Kuno is an amazing young man on many different levels,” comments Danny Stepper.
“Personally, he is just a great guy. We wanted to surround ourselves with people who were good to work with, and he was great. And he’s a good soccer player, which is important. To be credible, he had to be a good soccer player. He was a great choice for us.”
Kuno earned the respect and admiration of his director as well: “Nobody works harder than Kuno. He trained hard, played hard, rehearsed over and over and brought so much of himself to the part. He is an extraordinary talent. You haven’t heard of him yet, but you won’t be able to stop talking about him—star quality, completely,” says Danny Cannon.
For the 27-year-old Becker, the process has been a whirlwind. “It’s been crazy,” he says. “I learned so much every day. We tried to make it look as real as possible. I hope it’s working!”
Becker’s fellow actors weren’t oblivious to the huge burden on his shoulders. “I felt for
Kuno as soon as I met him, because I knew it was a huge undertaking to come to a different country when he doesn’t know anyone and to go straight to Newcastle and be put with all the real players to train,” says Anna Friel, who plays Santiago’s love interest. “It’s incredibly daunting for anybody, and I think he’s handled it incredibly well. And he doesn’t complain—
he’s one of the few actors you’ll ever meet who literally will never grumble about anything. It’s very admirable.”
The filmmakers then sought to back up Becker with a stellar supporting cast. Similar to the ensembles of the “Lord of the Rings” and “Harry Potter” films, the filmmakers wanted to make it about the story, not the actors. “That was really important to us,” explains Matt Barrelle. “We wanted talented, no-fuss actors around Kuno. We wanted to take away from who the actors were and really make a go at the story of GOAL! THE DREAM BEGINS, the kid’s odyssey.”
American actor Alessandro Nivola came aboard to play Gavin Harris, whom Nivola describes as “the hot new player. I’m a very expensive player with expensive tastes and a habitually wild attitude toward my career and my personal life. Gavin provides a sort of bad education for Santiago, but he also has great respect for the guy’s talent, and he
keeps sticking his neck out for him. Gavin is one of those people who often do the right thing by accident, which makes for a lot of comic situations. He has a combination of mischief, charm and the ability to get away with murder and have people still like him.”
Nivola loved that the character was a lovable rogue. “Anytime that you get a chance to surprise an audience and do something unexpected, it’s always something to latch onto as an actor,” Nivola says.
Glen Foy, the ex-soccer player from Scotland who played for Newcastle years ago but suffered an injury and then became a soccer talent scout, is played by Stephen Dillane. Dillane explains how his character stumbles upon diamond-in-the-rough Santiago. “Glen’s watching his grandson play soccer, and he spots this young Mexican-born player called Santiago and he’s very excited by how he plays, so he contacts Newcastle and brings Santiago over for a trial. He takes the boy into his home, looks after him for a while and sees him through a few ups and downs and eventually becomes his agent,” explains Dillane.
The actor recognizes that Foy has multiple reasons for recruiting Santiago. “If you do a job and you’ve been excited by what’s possible and you see the potential in somebody, you want to see it flower,” explains Dillane. “I guess there’s also a kind of egocentric thing—you want to be the one who is responsible in some way for giving the kid the opportunity to fulfill his promise.”
Anna Friel, who was in the early months of a pregnancy during filming and, by her own
admission, has never been to a soccer match, was cast as Santiago’s love interest, Roz. She was impressed by the script. “It flowed very well; it was a nice story with endearing and sympathetic and tangible and accessible characters. It all linked together in quite a substantial, believable way,” say Friel. “It seemed different from other sports movies I’ve seen.”
Roz quickly becomes Santiago’s love interest after they meet in the hospital and, according to Friel, “temperatures rise. She’s taking his blood pressure, so there’s a lot of flirtation from the very beginning.”
If Roz gels with Santiago, she bristles with the flashy Gavin. “She thinks Gavin is a poseur,” explains Friel. “She’s not all into lavish spending and an extravagant lifestyle. She’s very down to earth and very unimpressed with fame, which is why I think Santiago’s drawn to her. She’s a nurse; she leads quite a simple life. She’s not a huge soccer fan and thinks most soccer players are jerks, but she changes her mind when she meets Santiago.”
Sean Pertwee took on the role of soccer agent Barry Rankin. “Barry’s a shark. He’s self-
obsessed; he’d poach anyone from anyone. He’d do anything to get by, to make ends meet,” says Pertwee.
Barry is the typical agent, who “has the right suits, the right girls, the right cars,” says
Pertwee. “He has two guys that he hangs around with, basically to pull girls in, give the boys whatever they want…booze, drugs. He’s a bit of a rotter, really.”
Danny Stepper points out that while Barry’s “the sleazy agent, and he does all the things
that sleazy agents do,” he is essential to Santiago’s success. “Barry does hold the keys to the key positions of soccer, and Glen’s trying to negotiate through that to help Santiago find his way in the world of soccer.”
Cassandra Bell, who admits she “knows nothing” about soccer, plays Christina, the
girlfriend of Gavin Harris. Bell found the character a refreshing change of pace for her. “I see her as a strong, sophisticated lady, which is quite unusual for a girlfriend of a soccer player. She knows what she wants. She loves her boyfriend dearly; she puts up with quite a bit to a certain extent because she loves him so much,” says Bell. “She knows what this is all about, so she’s been in this situation for quite a while. It’s just a question of how long she can put up with certain things.”
Of course, when Bell took the role, she had visions of a wardrobe full of tight tops and
plenty of makeup. “I was quite surprised,” says Bell. “It’s refreshing to turn it around a little bit and see her as a stronger woman and not the usual, stereotypical girlfriend.”
The veteran soccer player who gives Santiago a rough time, Hughie Magowan, is played by Kieran O’Brian. “It’s nice to play a hard nut,” smiles O’Brian.
O’Brian’s character is ruffled when Santiago arrives on the scene. “Magowan has been in
Newcastle a while and he’s coming towards the end of his career. He can’t make it back into the first team. This young upstart, Santiago, comes along and he’s got all the tricks.
Everything’s going to go for him. Hughie doesn’t like it, and it puts his nose out of joint.”
Magowan then wants to see if Santiago’s really good enough for the team.
“In the end, of course, he is good enough for the team, and I think you see that Hughie appreciates that and just wants to win,” observes O’Brian. “He’s not a bad guy. He wants everyone fighting for the club, and however he needs to go about that is what he will do.”
Tony Plana joined the cast as Hernan Munez, Santiago’s father and a significant influence in his life. At first Hernan doesn’t support Santiago’s dreams of achieving something more than just a steady income from his father’s gardening business.
“Hernan had to go to extremes to get his family to America. He doesn’t quite connect with the idea of Santiago dreaming any higher than he should,” explains Plana. “It’s really about a struggle between Hernan’s very limited dreams about just having his own business and maybe making it to the next socio-economic level and Santiago, who has dreams of making it to the top in the soccer world.”
Hernan is a man who has been left by his wife; he’s both father and mother to his family. His own mother, Mercedes (played by Miriam Colon), is the “mother” in the family. “It’s a bit of a twist on the dynamic of family. It makes for some interesting fireworks,” says Plana.
With the cast in place, it was time to hit the field. But first, all soccer-playing actors would undergo rigorous soccer training with soccer consultant and choreographer Andy Ansah. Mr. Ansah’s experience combines twelve years of hands-on experience as a professional soccer player in England and six seasons in various production
positions on the highly successful English drama “Dream Team.”
Even director Danny Cannon underwent training. “To get myself in shape, I trained for five weeks, three times a week with some of the actors who were semi-professionals who played really well in the minor leagues,” says Cannon. “I didn’t let them know I was the director at first. I think they figured it out pretty quickly when I was the oldest there and the worst player by far.
Seriously, I liked training with them because I thought if I’m going to go out there and push them around all day, then at least I’ll do basic training with them and gain their respect first.”
Kuno Becker’s training, for obvious reasons, was more intense. He trained for five weeks, four or five hours a day, and also did physical training in the gym. Some actors were trained by Newcastle’s youth coach, who brings all the young players up through the system. It gave many of the actors who might have played in their younger days a chance to relearn and master the fundamentals of the sport.
“I played soccer in school, but it’s nothing like playing professionally,” says Becker. “Not that I’m playing professionally now—I’m just trying to improve my technique a little bit and learn the basics, to make it look real.”
For Alessandro Nivola, the two weeks of training was a dream come true. “I got more than I ever imagined from the experience,” he says. “It was sort of a boyhood fantasy. It was great because I was able to go back to basics again and do all the simple things and learn to do them well.”
Orchestrating the entire training effort was Andy Ansah, who made the entire cast look like pros. They couldn’t be more thankful for Ansah’s skills. “I’ve got to give a lot of praise to Andy for executing all the things I needed,” says director Cannon, who also relied on Ansah for much of the soccer choreography. “Without Andy, I think this would be impossible because he knows how to play soccer, and he has a mind for the shots that we needed,” continues Cannon. “He’s very patient, very nice, very honest, so it’s very easy to work with him. He knows what we’re doing and he knows soccer.”
“Andy’s a good guy. He taught me so much. All the people in Newcastle, too,” says Kuno Becker, who suffered several minor injuries and general aches and pains from the intense training, along with his fellow cast members. “When I first got there, they started to teach me everything—how to pass a ball, how to run with the ball.
They’ve been so good for me.”
Despite all of the preparation, “I don’t think anything could prepare the guys for what they had to go through in terms of playing with real players,” says Matt Barrelle. “It’s a huge leap from a game on a Saturday afternoon to playing professionally, and these guys do it every day—plus the weight training every night, the special diet. It’s stepping up from being an actor who can play soccer to being a soccer player—that is a huge thing.”
A hectic shooting schedule for principal photography began January 29, 2005. For
producer Mike Jefferies and the other filmmakers, it was a momentous occasion. “It was a three-year journey from conception to the first scene we filmed,” says Jefferies. “That was a big moment.”
“For years we’d been pushing this through…it was amazing to be here and to see how far
we’d come. It’s been an incredible journey,” echoes Danny Stepper.
Production on the rags-to-riches tale began in Newcastle, where the unit shot in the actual St. James’ Park and surrounding facilities. “We shot some fantastic footage in the training
room, in the weight room with Newcastle United captain Alan Shearer and the guys there,” says Matt Barrelle. “All the players were up for doing this.”
As for the action on the field, Cannon wanted to capture the beauty of the game and also its warrior-like quality. It would be the first time a film unit has shot in a live Premiership game, so the effort required the cooperation of a number of entities and some logistical maneuvering. The production inked a deal with Sky TV to secure some space
around the grounds to ensure good camera positions.
“We didn’t want to grab the TV footage and reuse that again and try and blow it up,” says Matt Barrelle. “We wanted to have our own cameras capture the action.”
Capturing this brand of fast-paced action wasn’t easy, as director Danny Cannon will attest. “It’s quite an undertaking when you have seven cameras all shooting different things at once at a real game, then days or weeks later shooting the close-ups and pieces of drama with non-players.”
Each game had a different tempo and its own challenges. “Chelsea was about Kuno’s first experience of the big game, so that’s the way we shot it—like the first interpretation, first glimpse of the size of soccer,” says Cannon. “In a later game, Santiago gets his first chance to start. How should he feel? Should we be in his shoes or outside looking in?
You want to plan ahead, but a soccer game is about spontaneous action, it’s unpredictable, so you just have to wing it and get the pieces you need bit by bit.”
Once the footage is on film, the action sequence is then re-created a day or two later. “We bring back some actual players playing the match in Newcastle,” says Matt Barrelle. “We also bring back the actors and replace some of the players with the actors and put them in the middle with the action and recreate the actual goal that was scored, or the goal that was nearly scored. It looks pretty amazing.”
Working with Kuno Becker also necessitated a bit of sleight-of-hand cinematography. “I
worked together with Danny, Andy, my double and everybody to make it look real,” explains Becker of his role in the process. “The key was to try to make it look as real as possible.”
Perhaps the most difficult aspect of the Newcastle shoot had nothing to do with soccer.
“The hardest thing has been the weather in Newcastle,” says Cannon. “The
unforgiving climate has beaten us up a little bit. It’s incredibly hard work just
staying out in the snow and the sleet and the rain and the hail in these sub-zero
temperatures, motivating people to play harder and act more intensely when they just want to put their coats back on.”
Even the manufactured conditions were barely tolerable. “We were shooting for two days with
the rain machine from seven in the morning until about nine at night. Ten-hour shoots two days running, under the rain machines, with the wind blowing—I saw grown men cry over those two days,” says Kieran O’Brian. “There were a lot of cold hands and feet. But it looks amazing.”
Actors who were far less involved with the action on the field sympathized with their
fellow thespians. “Hats off to the boys on this because Newcastle is very cold. Sometimes the guys have been outside in minus five for ten hours just solidly playing soccer in the freezing cold, so all respect to them,” says Anna Friel.
As a result of the brutal conditions, Danny Cannon was as much a cheerleader as a director. “You are trying to capture the same amount of energy and the same amount of skill that’s in a real soccer game. You try and get as emotionally involved,” he explains. “That’s been the hardest part for me—keeping everyone energized, maintaining that intensity, keeping that need to win. Plus, you’re trying to make your actors look like they deserve to be in the Premiereship. I lost my voice a few times directing from the terraces. Some things never change, I found myself shouting the same things I shout to my team on match days.”
Despite the weather, the “inside access” the production afforded was a thrill for cast and
crew, who are also fans.
“Just standing on the sideline for the Liverpool game and watching the players warm up and come out and warm down afterwards was great. The athleticism, the skills, what they’re able to do with a ball—just standing there was breathtaking,” says Stephen Dillane. “We had a game of soccer on the Newcastle indoor training field that was good fun. It’s been a thrill. I’m a fan, so it’s been great just to be around it.”
The use of St. James’ Park during real games was another delight for the cast. “It was amazing,” echoes Kuno Becker. “Being in this stadium with fifty-two thousand people and filming a scene was unbelievable. Soccer players are used to it—and that’s why I think they cannot just leave the game, because of that feeling.”
Working with the real soccer stars who made cameos in the film was equally exciting. Real Madrid midfielder David Beckham, one of the sport’s most well-known talents, made an appearance playing himself in the film. “David was great,” praises Danny Cannon. “There was no pretension to him. He’s a very likable guy. He was very open, and you’re 90 percent of the way there when you’re open like that—you can be yourself, relax. He did a great job.” For Kuno Becker, working with Beckham was “awesome. Can you imagine shooting a scene with him? It was a lot of fun, and I think the audience is going to get into it more because we have a lot of the real players involved.”
If anyone feared the production would distract the real Newcastle United squad as filming took place around them during the heart of their season, they needn’t have. “They won five in a row while we were up there,” says producer Matt Barrelle. “It was great for us that Newcastle was winning while we were shooting. The atmosphere was
fantastic, and we came up with excellent footage. Everybody was very nice to us around the town.”
After a stop in London for the filming of some party scenes and scenes at Gavin’s flat and
filming at Pinewood Studios, the production moved to Los Angeles for the last two weeks of the shoot.
The sunny breezes of the West Coast weren’t just a welcome change for the cast and
crew…they were essential to the story. “Having the sun in L.A. was very important for us, because we needed the contrast,” Barrelle points out. “The sun here, the grey, gloomy clouds of Newcastle.”
The unit shot at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood. The production also shot at a mansion in Beverly Hills, among other locations.
For the soccer scenes, the production worked with players from Hollywood United Soccer Club. “The Hollywood United Soccer Club is made up of a lot of English soccer players who live in and around L.A. They all congregate and come together,” explains soccer consultant and choreographer Andy Ansah.
As principal photography came to a close, the cast had time to reflect on the experience and give kudos to their team captain, director Danny Cannon.
“We were so lucky to have him because it’s so hard to find somebody who really loves and knows everything about soccer and is a good director,” says Kuno Becker. “That combination is rare, and we had it here.”
The film required a director who could inject juice into the action scenes while understanding the nuances of the dramatic material. “This is not just a soccer movie,” says Stephen Dillane. “It’s about a hero who comes through and succeeds. He resists the temptations and goes through his trials and tribulations.
It shows how much you’ve got to hold yourself together to get through everything and what’s required to actually achieve something, however talented you are.”
“You can watch soccer on TV any day,” says Kuno Becker. “This film is more about telling a story. Even if you don’t like soccer it doesn’t matter because you’re going to like the film. It’s a story about universal feelings.”
“What we wanted to do with GOAL! THE DREAM BEGINS was create a story that really moved people,” says producer Mike Jefferies. “We wanted to make people excited,
make them sad, make them thrilled, make them laugh—and soccer happens to be the
backdrop. Soccer is the number-one participation sport in the U.S.,” Jefferies points out. “The level of interest is high here in the U.S.”
“Professional soccer is not marketed as much as the NBA and NFL,” says Danny Stepper. “But now, with the tremendous work that has been done by major-league soccer and hopefully the work of our movie and the work that FIFA is doing in the U.S., there’s hope. The climate is perfect. I mean, the game is incredible, and if people can see the game on the scale and magnitude that we see it in Europe, how can they not
love it?”
ABOUT THE CAST
KUNO BECKER (Santiago Munez) is one of Mexico’s most recognized stars in the international Hispanic television market.
Last year Becker starred in the feature film “The Nomad,” a historic epic set in 18th century Kazakhstan, directed by Ivan Passer from a screenplay by Rustam Ibragimbekov. The film co stars Jay Hernandez and Jason Scott Lee. He previously starred with Antonio Banderas and Emma Thompson in Academy Award®-winning writer/director Christopher Hampton’s “Imagining Argentina.” In addition, he starred in the romantic comedy “Isla Bella,” opposite Esai Morales and Charlotte Anaya.
Becker made his feature-film debut in the Fox Searchlight Pictures film “Lucia, Lucia” (aka “La Hija de Canibal”) opposite Cecilia Roth. Becker is best known on television as the brooding rich son on the hit show “Soñadoras,” a role that propelled him to teen-heartthrob status from his adoring fans across Latin America and the U.S.
Becker won Mexico’s prestigious Heraldo Award, as well as the Califas de Oro Award, given to actors in Mexico. He twice has been named “Best Young Actor” by Eres magazine
(Teen People of Latin America) and has graced the covers of numerous magazines.
Born and raised in Mexico City, Becker studied violin at the Mozarteum of Salzburg,
Austria, from the age of six and went on to become an accomplished violinist. At 17, he
decided to become an actor. He later graduated from Televisa’s Center for Artistic Education
in Mexico.
STEPHEN DILLANE (Glen Foy) most recently appeared in the feature films “Klimt,” “The Greatest Game Ever Played,” “Nine Lives,” “Haven,” and “King Arthur.” His other motion-picture credits include Franco Zeffirelli’s “Hamlet,” “Two If by Sea,” “Firelight,” “Welcome to Sarajevo, “The Darkest Light,” “Ordinary Decent Criminal,” and “The Parole Officer.” In addition, he starred in “Spy Game,” “The Truth About Charlie,” “The Gathering,” and “The Hours.”
A graduate of the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, Dillane’s early theater work included repertory seasons at Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, Contact Theatre, Manchester and Chester Gateway Theatre. At the National Theatre in London he had leading roles in such productions as “The Beaux’ Stratagem,” “Dancing at Lughnasa,” “Long Day’s Journey Into Night,” and “Angels in America.” At The Royal Court Theatre he starred in “Hush.” He won the Richard Burton Shakespeare Globe Award in 1995 for his title role as “Hamlet” at the Gielgud Theatre.
In addition, he appeared in productions of “Endgame,” “Hurlburly,” “Uncle Vanya,” “Our Late Night,” and “The Real Thing” (for which he won the Evening Standard’s 1999 Best Actor Award for his role as Henry. He reprised this role on Broadway and won the 2000 Tony Award® for Best Actor in a Play, as well as the Theatre World Award and the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actor in a Play. He returned to the West End to play George in “Life After
George” and subsequently played Alexander Herzen in the Tom Stoppard Trilogy “Coast of Utopia” at the National Theatre directed by Trevor Nunn. His other recent theatre credits include a one-man show of “Macbeth” at the REDCAT Theatre in Los Angeles.
ANNA FRIEL (Roz Harmison) made her feature-film debut in Stephen Poliakoff’s “The Tribe,” starring opposite Joely Richardson and Jeremy Northam. She subsequently appeared in “The Stringer,” “The Land Girls,” “Rogue Trader” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” “Sunset Strip,” “Watermelon,” “An Everlasting Piece,” “The War Bride” (for which she was nominated for a Genie Award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role), the critically acclaimed “Me Without You” and “Timeline.” More recently, Friel starred in “The Jury,”
“Niagara Motel,” and “Irish Jam.” She also starred opposite Rob Lowe in the CBS television production of the romantic comedy
“Perfect Strangers.”
Born in North West England, she first joined Oldham Theatre Workshop in 1989,
performing in numerous productions in theaters across England. The following year, she was cast on the BBC series “In Their Shoes,” and also starred in Alan Bleasdale’s critically acclaimed miniseries “G.H.B.” In addition, Friel starred as Bella Wilfer in “Our Mutual Friend,” the television adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic. She also starred as a regular on the popular series “Brookside,” playing the gritty role of Beth Jordache. During her last year on that program she received the National Television Award for Best Actress.
On stage in London, Friel starred at the Almeida Theatre in “Look Europe” with Harold
Pinter. On Broadway, she starred in Patrick Marber’s “Closer” and was honored with a Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Featured Actress in a Play as well as Special Achievement Award for an Ensemble Performance. More recently she starred in the London stage play “Lulu” at the Almeida for which she received the Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in 2002.
MARCEL IURES (Erik Dornhelm) is one of Romania’s most acclaimed actors. He appeared in such English-language films as “Interview with the Vampire,” “Mission: Impossible,” “The Peacemaker,” “Hart’s War,” and “Layer Cake.”
Among Iures’ most noted Romanian films are “The Last Messenger,” “The Oaktree,” “Society’s Pillars,” “The Big Holiday,” The Duel,” and “Romanian.” His other feature films include “Le Vicaire” for director Costa Gavras, “The Tulse Luper Suitcase” for director Peter Greenaway, and “Isolation” for director Billy O’Brian.
ABOUT THE FILMMAKERS
ALESSANDRO NIVOLA’s (Gavin Harris) first professional leading role earned him a Drama Desk Award Nomination for his performance opposite Helen Mirren on Broadway in Turgenev’s “A Month in the Country.” The following year, he drew critical acclaim and a Blockbuster Award nomination for playing Nicolas Cage’s paranoid genius younger brother in John Woo’s “Face/Off.” His other feature films include “I Want You,”
“Mansfield Park,” Kenneth Branagh’s musical film of Shakespeare’s “Love’s Labour’s Lost,” “Best Laid Plans,” “Jurassic Park 3,” “Time Code,” “The Clearing” and “Junebug.” He earned an Independent Spirit Award nomination for his performance as the rock singer Ian McNight in Lisa Cholodenko’s “Laurel Canyon.” He returned to the theater to play Orlando to Gwyneth Paltrow’s Rosalind in “As You Like It” at Williamstown.
Nivola is a graduate of Yale University with a BA in English.
ABOUT THE FILMMAKERS
DANNY CANNON (Director) grew up in Luton, England, and began his career as a
theater actor. While working with a small repertory company, he directed several short films.
Acclaimed film director Alan Parker saw Cannon’s work and championed the young director (he was only 19) in “BBC Showreel,” an annually televised film competition. Cannon took first prize, and Parker persuaded him to enroll at the prestigious National Film and TV School.
Cannon’s debut feature film was “The Young Americans.” He subsequently directed “Judge Dredd,” starring Sylvester Stallone, “Phoenix,” starring Ray Liotta, Anjelica Huston, and Giovanni Ribisi, and “I Still Know What You Did Last Summer,” starring Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze, Jr. Cannon has also directed a number of commercials and music videos.
After directing the pilot for “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” he was a producer and writer of the pilots for both “CSI: Miami” and “CSI: New York.”
Prior to founding milkshakefilms in 2001, MIKE JEFFERIES (Producer/Story by/
Screenplay by) was a business executive in the media and entertainment industries.
Jefferies has an extensive career in international media having founded European-based
Mondiale Corporation Group in 1990. He conceived, built, and then sold this London-based media group to the Daily Mail Group in 1999 after winning the HRH Queen’s Award for Export. Subsequently, Jefferies moved to the United States in 2000 where he founded the successful B2B media group Line 56, which he also successfully sold via a management buyout in early 2001.
Born in Liverpool, Jefferies is a die-hard fan of Liverpool Football Club.
Prior to joining milkshakefilms in 2002, MATT BARRELLE (Producer) established his
career as an entrepreneur and investor specializing in the building and commercialization of business ventures in the sports, media technology and entertainment industries.
Barrelle aggressively expanded then prepared for sale the Australia and Hong Kong-listed
corporate telecommunications firm Davnet Telecommunications. After this, Barrelle founded and was CEO of the publicly listed TSE group, a global sports and entertainment services company.
Barrelle has also gained the following qualifications: Masters of Business (England),
Property & Economics Degree (Australia) and Justice of the Peace accreditation (Australian Government). Barrelle was also a guest speaker on the conference circuit given his experience in project and transaction financing, marketing and M&A in the entertainment and media industries.
MARK HUFFAM (Producer) has produced a string of major international film releases,
including “Thunderbirds,” “The Hours,” “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin” and “Johnny English.”
He also Associate Produced and Unit Production Managed Steven Spielberg’s “Saving Private Ryan.”
DANNY STEPPER (Co-Producer) is an expert in brand building and integration through
entertainment content. A skilled marketing and sales leader with strong customer
management/relationship experience and a proven track record of profit creation, Danny
makes his movie-producing debut with GOAL! THE DREAM BEGINS.
Stepper earned his MBA from Pepperdine University in Malibu, California. He is bilingual, having studied at the Colegio Magisterio, San Sebastian, Spain, and the Instituto De Lingua Espanol, San Jose, Costa Rica.
Stepper worked for several years for the Coca-Cola Company, rising through the ranks to
eventually become national director.
JO BURN (Co-Producer) has served in various production capacities throughout her
career in motion pictures. Most prominent among her feature-film credits as co-producer are “Thunderbirds” for director Jonathan Frakes and “Johnny English” for director Peter Howitt. Burn was production supervisor on the acclaimed HBO® film “The Gathering Storm,” as well as the theatrical hit “The Mummy Returns” for director Steve Sommers, with whom she previously worked as unit production manager on his Universal Pictures’ hit “The Mummy.”
Burn’s other credits include unit production manager on director Stephen Daldry’s critically acclaimed, Academy Award®-winning feature “The Hours,” as well as Danny Boyle’s “The Beach.” Burn was production manager on George Lucas’ “Star Wars: Episode I—The Phantom Menace” and unit production manager on “Mortal Kombat” and “Fairytale: A True Story.”
Burn most recently served as line producer on Stephen Daldry’s forthcoming drama,
“Everest.”
LAWRENCE BENDER (Executive Producer) has enjoyed an illustrious career in the
motion-picture industry. His most celebrated films include “Kill Bill, Vol. 1,” “Kill Bill, Vol.
2,” “Good Will Hunting,” “Pulp Fiction,” “Anna and the King,” “Jackie Brown,” “Reservoir
Dogs,” “Innocent Voices” and the current and critically acclaimed “An Inconvenient Truth.”
Bender’s other producing credits include “Havana Nights: Dirty Dancing 2,” “Knockaround,”
“The Mexican,” “A Price Above Rubies,” “White Man’s Burden,” “Killing Zoe,” and “Fresh.”
In television, Bender has produced for all the major broadcast and cable networks,
including “Dr. Vegas,” for CBS, and “The Legend of Earthsea” for the Sci-Fi Channel in
association with Hallmark Entertainment. Bender was nominated for a GLAAD Award as
ABOUT THE FILMMAKERS
executive producer for MTV’s “Anatomy of a Hate Crime,” about the murder of Matthew Shepard.
Bender began his career as a production assistant at the American Film Institute in 1985.
Three years later, he made his producing debut on the horror film “The Intruder,” on which he shared story credit with writer/director Scott Spiegel. In addition to his feature film and television work, Bender has enjoyed success producing commercials and music videos with his production company, A Band Apart.
Bender is also a passionate social and political activist. In 2003, he founded the Detroit
Project with Arianna Huffington, Laurie David and Ari Emmanuel. He also traveled to the Middle East with the Israeli Policy Forum. While there, Bender met with members of the Keneset in Israel, with President Hosni Mubarak in Egypt, and with the Palestinian Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas in the West Bank.
Bender is a member of the Executive Forum for the Natural Resources Defense Council
(NRDC), sits on the Board of Trustees of the Israel Policy Forum (IPF) and is a member of the Pacific Council. He is also on the Advisory Board to the Dean at Harvard’s John F.
Kennedy School of Government and serves on the board of The Creative Coalition. He is a recent recipient of the Torch of Liberty Award from the ACLU and spends much of his time fundraising for political and social causes.
Swiss-born PETER HARGITAY (Executive Producer) began his career in Public
Relations and formed his own consultancy network in 1981 in Zurich. He then branched out to twelve European countries and became a leading adviser for crisis communication in Europe. In the 1980s, Hargitay entered the publishing industry in Zurich by launching the first bilingual lifestyle magazine. As Hungary’s first Honorary Consul to Zurich and Zug cantons in Switzerland, Hargitay launched the first financial and stock market weekly in Budapest.
Hargitay also branched out into entertainment. He produced and was involved in several
West End musicals, including “King,” a big-budget production about Martin Luther King, “A Little Night Music,” and “Five Guys Named Moe.” He sold his group of companies in the mid1990s and retired in the Caribbean.
Hargitay returned to Europe in 2001 and has been an adviser to personalities of relevance
in the world of soccer since 2002. In this role, he provided GOAL! THE DREAM BEGINS with vital access to FIFA, The FA, The FA Premier League, UEFA, AC Milan, Newcastle United and other leading clubs, as well as adidas and, through FIFA Marketing and TV AG, virtually all other FIFA sponsors. Hargitay negotiated the terms of the FIFA endorsement and the commercial rights exploitation agreement (brand, trademarks) as well as the contract with UEFA and secured the support of The FA and, through that, SKY TV. All this was facilitated by his role as Special Adviser to the FIFA President.
Hargitay was educated in Switzerland, London and Paris. He holds an MA in modern
languages; minor subjects in international business law, business and psychology. He also has a degree in communications and lectures communications at several European universities (post-graduate level).
STUART FORD (Co-Executive Producer) is Chief Operating Officer of the Los Angeles
and New York-based private equity firm FilmBank Capital, which specializes in structuring and raising investment for large-scale Hollywood studio slate financings.
In tandem with his FilmBank duties he is a co-executive producer of the GOAL! trilogy of movies. The trilogy, produced by L.A.-based milkshakefilms, is backed by soccer world-governing body FIFA and has global distribution partners in The Walt Disney Company,
Village Roadshow and Toshiba Entertainment, as well as commercial partnerships with
adidas, Coca-Cola, ESPN, Major League Soccer and MSN.
Between 1998 and mid-2004, he was a senior executive at New York-based Miramax Films. There, Ford filled a variety of roles, most prominently as executive vice president and co-head of Miramax International, the studio’s international distribution and sales arm. Ford and his team handled the sale and/or distribution of almost 30 Miramax and Dimension Films titles a year in more than 42 countries.
Prior to working at Miramax International, Ford was co-head of Miramax’s acquisitions
division, which was responsible for acquiring the best foreign-language and independent
product for distribution in the United States and internationally. During a two-and-a-half-year period, Ford’s team acquired box-office and critical hits such as “Amelie,” “City of God,” “Hero,” “Dirty Pretty Things,” “Fahrenheit 911,” and “The Station Agent.” Prior to his acquisitions responsibilities, as senior vice president of international operations Ford helped establish Miramax production flagships in London, Rome, Beijing and Sydney, overseeing the business aspects of the company’s international production activity on a variety of English, Italian and Chinese language films.
Ford also produced Neil Davenport’s acclaimed documentary feature “Laughter Club” and served as executive producer on Piotr Uklansky’s “Summer Love” with Val Kilmer, which will premiere in Director’s Fortnight at this year’s Cannes Film Festival.
Ford has been profiled by The Hollywood Reporter as one of the top executives under 40
in the U.S. entertainment industry. Educated at St. Edmund Hall, Oxford BA, MA (Hons)
Law.
The Emmy®- and BAFTA™-winning writing team of DICK CLEMENT & IAN LA
FRENAIS (Screenplay by) rank among Britain’s most accomplished comedy writers. They have contributed several of the most enduringly popular comedy television series of the last three decades.
Clement and La Frenais also enjoyed significant success as writers for the cinema with
their script for the cult film “The Commitments.” Their other screenplays include “Still
Crazy” and “Excess Baggage.” They were also writers on the popular HBO® television series “Tracey Takes on…”
ADRIAN BUTCHART (Story by/Screenplay by) was born in Britain where he began his
career writing for television. In 2003, he made his U.S. debut as co-writer of the feature film “I Love Your Work,” produced by Muse Films and starring Giovanni Ribisi, Franka Potente, Christina Ricci, Joshua Jackson, Jason Lee, Vince Vaughn and Elvis Costello. That year, he also produced and performed in the IFC documentary “Running with the Bulls” with cowriter and actor Adam Goldberg.
In 2005, Butchart and Mike Jefferies wrote “Goal! 2” with Terry Loane, which was shot on location in Madrid. Directed by Jaume Collet-Serrat, the film is due for release in late
2006/early 2007. He again teamed with Mike Jefferies to write “Goal! 3,” the final chapter of the trilogy, which will be shot in and around the World Cup Finals of 2006 in Germany.
ABOUT THE FILMMAKERS
MICHAEL BARRETT (Director of Photography) studied painting and printmaking at
UCLA and film at Columbia University in New York. He received three ASC award
nominations for his work on the CBS series “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” and won an ASC award for the pilot episode of “CSI: Miami.” His feature titles include the films “Safe Men,” “The Suburbans,” “75 Degrees in July,” “Skeletons in the Closet,” “Lone Star State of Mind,” and “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.”
LAURENCE DORMAN (Production Designer) has served as production designer on
such films as “Asylum,” starring Ian McKellan, Natasha Richardson and Martin Csokas;
“Young Adam,” starring Ewan McGregor, Tilda Swinton, Peter Mullan and Emily Mortimer; “Silent Cry”; “Pandaemonium”; and “Milk.”
For television, Dorman’s credits include “Perfect Strangers,” “Bramwell,” and “Coming
Home.”
CHRIS DICKENS (Editor) began his film-industry career in London, editing television
comedy and drama programs for the BBC and Channel Four. Among his credits for episodic series in Britain are “At Home with the Braithwaites,” “Ends,” “Change,” and “Mettle,” among others. He also edited numerous miniseries including “The Glass” and “Hawk,” as well as the made-for-television films, “Lenny Blue,” “Sparkhouse,” “Sirens,” “A Small World,” “Cruise of the Gods,” “Oh Marbella!” “Paul and Pauline Calf’s Cheese and Ham Sandwich,” and “Lucky Jim.”
Dickens made his feature film-editing debut with “Shaun of the Dead.” He subsequently
edited “Coogan’s Runner,” “Seed of Chucky,” and “Middle of Nowhere.” He is currently
editing “Hott Fuzz” for Working Title Films.
GRAEME REVELL (Composer) began his film-scoring career on the thriller “Dead
Calm,” for which he won an Australian Oscar® for best score. His subsequent feature-film credits include “Strange Days,” “The Crow,” “From Dusk Till Dawn,” “The Basketball Diaries,” “Hard Target,” “The Hand That Rocks the Cradle,” “The Craft,” “Until the End of the World,” “The Saint,” “The Negotiator,” “The Seige,” “The Insider,” “Mars: Red Planet,” “High Crimes” and “Out of Time.” He won the award for best music at the Venice Film Festival for his score to Wayne Wang’s film “Chinese Box.” In addition, he scored “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider,” “Collateral Damage,” “Daredevil,” “Sin City,” “The Adventures of Shark Boy and Lava Girl” in 3-D, “Darwin Awards,” and “Harsh Times.”
In addition to his work in feature films, Revell scored the first season of television’s “CSI: Miami.”
Revell was honored with BMI’s Richard Kirk Award for Career Achievement, a lifetime
achievement award given annually to a composer for his outstanding work and contributions in motion picture and television music.
Born in Auckland, New Zealand, in 1955, Revell graduated from the University of
Auckland with degrees in economics and politics.
JASON ALEXANDER (Music Supervisor), an English native, moved to Los Angeles to
work in film and music. Working as a recording engineer and a production manager for several years in the U.K., he learned a lot about making music and working with bands. Moving to Los Angeles and starting as an assistant in a music-supervision company, he learned the art and business of putting music into film and television. Having honed his craft for several years, he set up his own company in Los Angeles—Hit The Ground Running, Inc. (HTGR).
HTGR is an independent music-supervision company providing creative music solutions to the film and television world. Now in it’s fourth year, the company has grown to employ two additional supervisors and is training two more. They love music and they love film.
Information contained within as of April 28, 2006.
ABOUT THE FILMMAKERS
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GOAL! THE DREAM BEGINS
A DANNY CANNON FILM
Rated PG
FOR LANGUAGE, SEXUAL SITUATIONS, AND SOME
THEMATIC MATERIAL INCLUDING PARTYING © Buena Vista Pictures Distribution. All Rights Reserved. goalmovie.com
TOUCHSTONE PICTURES Presents
A milkshake films Production
A LAWRENCE BENDER Production
A DANNY CANNON Film
GOAL! THE DREAM BEGINS
Directed by . . . . . . . . . . . . . DANNY CANNON
Screenplay by . . . . . . . . . . DICK CLEMENT & IAN LA FRENAIS and
MIKE JEFFERIES & ADRIAN BUTCHART
Story by . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MIKE JEFFERIES and ADRIAN BUTCHART
Produced by . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MARK HUFFAM
Produced by . . . . . . . . . . . . MATT BARRELLE
Produced by . . . . . . . . . . . . . MIKE JEFFERIES
Executive Producer. . . . LAWRENCE BENDER
Executive Producer . . . . . . PETER HARGITAY
Co-Executive Producer. . . . . . . STUART FORD
Co-Producer . . . . . . . . . . . . DANNY STEPPER
Co-Producer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JO BURN
Director of
Photography . . . . . . . . . . MICHAEL BARRETT
Production Designer . . LAURENCE DORMAN
Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CHRIS DICKENS
Costume Designer . . . . . . . . . LINDSAY PUGH
Music by. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . GRAEME REVELL
Music Supervisor. . . . . . JASON ALEXANDER
Casting by . . . . . . . . . LUCINDA SYSON CDG
and ELAINE GRAINGER
Unit Production Manager . . . . . . . . . . JO BURN
First Assistant Director . . . . CHRIS NEWMAN
Second
Assistant Director . . . . . RICHARD GOODWIN
Co-Producer . . . . . . . . . . . . CHRIS OUWINGA
CAST
(in order of appearance)
10-Year-Old Santiago. . LEONARDO GUERRA
Hernan Munez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TONY PLANA
Mercedes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MIRIAM COLON
Santiago Munez . . . . . . . . . . . KUNO BECKER
Cesar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JORGE CERVERA
Referee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HERMAN CHAVAS
Julio. . . . . . . . . . . . . . ALFREDO RODRIGUEZ
Chinese
Restaurant Manager. . . . . . . . . . . . DONALD LI
Val. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . KATE TOMLINSON
Tom. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JAKE JOHNSON
Rory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ZACHARY JOHNSON
Glen Foy . . . . . . . . . . . . . STEPHEN DILLANE
Barry Rankin. . . . . . . . . . . . . SEAN PERTWEE
Armando . . . . . . . . JONATHAN HERNANDEZ
Gavin Harris . . . . . . . ALESSANDRO NIVOLA
Christina. . . . . . . . . . . . . . CASSANDRA BELL
Sales Person. . . . . . . . . . . . . RHYDIAN JONES
Erik Dornhelm. . . . . . . . . . . . MARCEL IURES
Reporter 1 . . . . . . . . . CHRISTOPER CONNEL
Reporter 2 . . . PETER MICHAEL MCGOWAN
Immigration Official 1 . ANDY HAWTHORNE
Immigration Official 2 . . . . . MICHAEL GUNN
Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ASHLEA SANDERSON
Kid 1. . . . . . . . . ALEX PARKIN-GOODCHILD
Kid 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CALLUM AYNSLEY
Foghorn . . . . . . . . CHRISTOPHER FAIRBANK
Phil. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CRAIG HEANEY
Walter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JACK MCBRIDE
Bobby Redfern. . . . . . . . . . . . ROBERT DIXON
Roz Harmison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ANNA FRIEL
Hughie Magowan . . . . . . . . KIERAN O’BRIEN
Mal Braithwaite. . . . . . . . . . . . . . GARY LEWIS
Carl Francis. . . . . . . . . . . . ASHLEY WALTERS
Jamie Drew . . . . . . . . . . . . KEVIN KNAPMAN
Bluto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LEE ROSS
Des . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . STEPHEN GRAHAM
Bouncer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ANDY KIDD
Alan Shearer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HIMSELF
Lorraine. . . . . . . . . . . EMMA FIELD-RAYNER
Martin Tyler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HIMSELF
CREDITS
Fan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BRIAN LONSDALE
Cleaner 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . GLYNIS BROOKS
Cleaner 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MAXINE EVANS
Sister. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BLONDELL TAYLOR
Patient. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DANIEL MAIER
Carol. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FRANCES BARBER
Woman in Tower Block . . MADELINE MOFFAT
Teenager. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LOUIS LENNIE
Teenager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BADEN BURNS
Taxi Dispatcher . . . . . . . NICHOLAS LUMLEY
Gordon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MIKE ELLIOT
Drunk Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . LOUISE FRANKLIN
Mr Ives. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LESLIE RANDALL
Geordie Fan. . . . . . . . . . . . . BRYAN JOHNSON
Fan 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . GREG ELLIS
Sven-Göran Eriksson . . . . . . . . . . . . . HIMSELF
David Beckham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HIMSELF
Raúl González Blanco . . . . . . . . . . . . HIMSELF
Zinedine Zidane. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HIMSELF
Ground Attendant . . . . . . . . . . . SHIVANI GHAI
Associate Producers. . . . . . . ALLEN HOPKINS
STEVIE HARGITAY
NICOLAS GAUTIER
JONATHAN HARRIS
Co-Producer. . . . . . . . . . . . . DARRYN WELCH
Produced in Association with
TOSHIBA ENTERTAINMENT/
LITTLE MAGIC FILMS
International Sales Agent
STUART FORD
Football Choreographer
& Consultant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ANDY ANSAH
A Camera Operator . . . GEORGE RICHMOND
B Camera Operator. . . . . . . . . . SEAN SAVAGE
Art Director. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . STUART ROSE
Set Decorator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JANE COOKE
Location Manager. . . . . . . . . . . . . EMMA PILL
Financial Controller. . . . . . . DIANNE TWIDDY
Production Sound Mixer . . . . JOHN MIDGLEY
Script
Supervisor . . . ANGELA NOAKES WHARTON
Post Production Supervisor . . . KATHY SYKES
Additional Editing. . . . . . . . . . . . . TOM LEWIS
Make-Up and Hair Designer SIAN RICHARDS
Special Effects Supervisor . . PAUL CORBOULD
Production
Coordinator. . . . . . . . . . STEPHANIE DOLKER
Assistant Production
Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . VICTORIA MORGAN
Clearances. . . . . . . . . . . CLARISSA NEWMAN
Assistant to
Danny Cannon . . . . . . . MICHELLE PINKNEY
Assistant to Mike Jefferies
and Matt Barrelle . . . . . . . . . . SUSIE ALTMAN
Assistant to
Danny Stepper . . . . . . . NATHAN ANDERSON
Production Assistant . . . . . . . . MATT JENKINS
London Contact . . . . . . . . . . . DAVID ZEALEY
Production Runner . . . . . . . . . . . . . ED SYMON
Third Assistant Director. . . . . TOM GLAISYER
Second Assistant
Director (Crowd) . . . NICK SHUTTLEWORTH
Floor Runners . . . . . . . . . CATHERINE TYLER
CIAN O’CLERY
A Camera
Focus Puller . . . . . . . . . CHUNKY RICHMOND
B Camera Focus Puller . . . . . . . . BEN WILSON
A Camera Loader . . . . . . . . WILL HUMPHRIS
B Camera Loader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ED JONES
A Camera Grip . . . . . . . . . . MALCOLM HUSE
B Camera Grip . . . . . . . . . . . . . GARY HYMNS
Additional Grip. . . . . . . . . . . . . . GARY SMITH
Camera Truck Driver . . . . BRIAN GREENWAY
Grip
Truck Driver. . . DEREK ‘NODDY’ GARRARD
Camera Trainee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . TOM TAYLOR
FT 2 Grip Trainee. . . . . . . . . . . DAVID WELLS
C Camera Operator . . . . . . . . . . . . CHAS BAIN
C Camera Focus Puller . . . . . . . . . CHRIS BAIN
Video Playback Operator . . . . MARTIN WARD
Video Assistant. . . . . . . . . . . . . DYLAN JONES
Boom Operator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JUNE PRINZ
Sound Assistant . . . . . . . . . STEVE HANCOCK
Production Accountant . . . STEPHEN EARNER
Assistant Accountant . . . . . . . . . . FRY MARTIN
Accounts Assistant . . . DIARMUID COGHLAN
Post Production Accounts. . . . . . . . POSTSUMS
Co-Location Manager
Newcastle . . . . . . . . ANGUS MORE GORDON
Assistant Location Managers . . . FINLAY PILE
ALI JAMES
Location Scout. . . . . . . . . . . . . . NICK OLIVER
Location Runner. . . . . . . . . . . DONNA WEZEL
Casting Assistant. . . . . . . . . . KATE RINGSELL
Assistant Script Supervisor . . . KAREN FRYER
Dialogue Coaches . . . . . JOAN WASHINGTON
WILLIAM CONNAGHER
First Assistant Editor. . . . . . . . . MARK NEALE
Second Assistant Editor. . . . JAMES RENFROE
VFX Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . HEIDI FREEMAN
Trainee Assistant Editor . . JOANNA PARTYKA
Post Production Coordinator . . MATT JENKINS
Supervising
Make-Up Artist. . . . . . . . . FELICITY WRIGHT
Hair/Make-Up Artists . . . . TARA MCDONALD
SU WESTWOOD
Hair/Make-Up Trainee. . VIENNA MCMAHON
Costume Supervisor . . . . CAROLYN HUNTER
Wardrobe
Master . . . . . . . . . BRENDAN HANDSCOMBE
Wardrobe Assistants . . . . CHARLOTTE CHILD
GEORGIANA SAYER
JUSTINE WARHURST
Assistant Art Director. . . . . . . . . GAVIN FITCH
Standby Art Director . . . . . . . . DAVID DORAN
Graphics Artist. . . . . . . . . . . . . TINA CHARAD
Art Department
Assistant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . MICHELLE HOSIER
Production Buyer . . . . . . . . DOMINIC CAPON
Property Master . . . . . . . . . . DAVID BALFOUR
Assistant Prop Master. . . . . . . . . JOHN WELLS
Store Man . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ROB HILL
Charge Hand
Stand-by Props. . . . . . . . BRADLEY TORBETT
Stand-by Props . . . . . . . . . . . JASON TORBETT
Dressing Props . . . . . . . . . DAVID CHEESMAN
MARLON COLE
Prop Maker. . . . . . . . . . DUNCAN MCDEVITT
Props Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BRIAN HEATH
LEE WILSON
Construction Supervisor . HARRY METCALFE
Supervising Carpenters . . SHAP McDONNELL
MIKE SMITH
HOD Painter . . . . . . . . . . . . . GARY GLEESON
Standby Carpenter. . . . . . . . . . . PAUL MARAH
Standby Painter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PETER EDGE
Standby Rigger . . . . . WOLFGANG WALTHER
Standby Stagehand . . . . . . . . . . . KEVIN HUSE
Gaffer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JOHN HIGGINS
Best Boy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . KEVIN EDLAND
Electricians. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAUL KELLY
STEWART MONTIETH
DAVE MOSS
MARTIN WELLAND
Generator Operator . . . . . . . . . . . RON SAVORY
Electrical Rigger . . . . . . . PETER GRAFFHAM
Rigging Gaffer. . . . . . . . . . . . . WAYNE LEACH
Rigging Electricians . . . . . . . WARREN EVANS
TOMMY O’SULLIVAN
Sound Design Post Production . . REELSOUND
Supervising Sound Editor . . . . MARK HESLOP
Sound Effects
Editor. . . . . . . . . . FRANCIS WARD LINDSAY
Sound Designer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . TOM SAYERS
Coordinating
Dialogue Editor . . . . . . . . GILLIAN DODDERS
Dialogue Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . SIMON PRICE
Supervising ADR Editor . . . . SUSAN FRENCH
ADR Editors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TRUDY OFFER
PAUL WRIGHTSON
Foley Editor . . . . . CHRISTOPHER ACKLAND
Assistant Sound Editor . . . . . . ADAM DANIEL
Foley Artists. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JACK STEW
DIANNE GREAVES
Rerecording Mixers. . . ROBIN O’DONOGHUE
RICHARD STREET
Assistant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ESTHER SMITH
VISUAL EFFECTS BY FRAMESTORE-CFC
Visual Effects Supervisor. . . . MARK NELMES
Visual Effects Producer . . . . . . . . . TIM KEENE
Visual Effects
Line Producer . . . . . . . . . CHARLES HOWELL
Digital Visual Effects
Supervisor . . . . . . . . . . . . . ANTHONY SMITH
CREDITS
Compositors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JOHN PECK
SULE BRYAN-HURST
MARCO CHECA GARCIA
NIKI BERN
Digital Paint Artists . . . . . . . . ALED PROSSER
TARA WALKER
TIM YOUNG
HOWARD PROTHEROE
MARTIN TAYLOR
REBECCA MANNING
TOM BASKAYA
Animation Supervisor. . . . . . . KEVIN SPRUCE
Animator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ROSS BURGESS
TD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ALAN WOODS
Trackers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAOLO MITTON
JOE LEVESON
Head of VFX Editorial . . . . . . . . ROZ LOWRIE
VFX AVID Editor . . . . . . . . . RICHARD POET
VFX Film & DI Editorial . . . . GAVIN ROUND
VFX Editorial Assistant. . . KERRY DOWNING
Head of Render Support. . . . . ALEX HESSLER
Render Support . . . . . . . . ROB RICHARDSON
Head of
Systems Support. . . . CHRISTOPHER MESLIN
Systems Support Engineer . . . . KIM LOAN DO
Head of Data Operations . . . . . . CAL SAWYER
DIGITAL GRADE BY FRAMESTORE-CFC
Colourist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ADAM GLASMAN
Producer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MARIA STROKA
Senior Producer . . . . . . . . CLAIRE MCGRANE
Executive Producer . . . . . . . . JAN HOGEVOLD
Assistant Colourist &
Digital Assembly. . . . . . . BRIAN KRIJGSMAN
Scanning &
Recording Manager . . . . . . . . ANDY BURROW
Scanning, Recording &
Digital Clean-Up. . . . . . . . . . . . . . DAN PERRY
ANNABEL WRIGHT
JONATHAN DREDGE
PAOLA VARVARO
JOE GODFREY
PAUL DOOGAN
JASON BURNETT
TOM BUNNELL
GARETH JONES
BENEDICT GILLINGHAM-SUTTON
PETER FORSON
ADAM HAWKES
Data Operator. . . . . . . . . . . DIANNE GORDON
CHARLIE HABANANANDA
MARIA MICHALOPOULOU
STUART NIPPARD
Film Mastering Engineers . ALISTAIR HAMER
KEVIN LOWERY
Marketing Executive . . . . . . DANNY STEPPER
Marketing &
Communications. . . . . . . . STEVIE HARGITAY
On Set Publicist. . . . . . . . . . . LINDA GAMBLE
Unit Publicist . . FREUD COMMUNICATIONS
Stills Photographer . . . . . . . . . . LIAM DANIEL
Health & Safety Officers . . . . . DAVID DEANE
DON BONAER
Unit Nurse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JEANIE UDALL
Transport Manager . . . . GARY BIRMINGHAM
Assistant Transport Manager . . PHIL ALLCHIN
Unit Drivers
WASEEM BARLAS
MARTIN BIRMINGHAM
JIMMY CARRUTHERS
FREDDIE CHIVERTON, LEE ISGAR
AERIAL CREW
Pilot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MARC WOLFF
Camera Operator . . . . . . . . . JOHN MARZANO
Camera Assistant . . . JOHN GLYN WILLIAMS
Safety Engineer . . . . . . . . . . . . STEVE NORTH
LA CREW
UPM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DARA WEINTRAUB
Key Second
Assistant Director. . . . . . . . . . . . LYDA BLANK
2nd 2nd
Assistant Director . . ROBERT ‘SKID’ SKIDMORE
B Camera Operator . . . . . . . . . DAN TURRETT
C Camera Operator . . . . . . . . DALE MYRAND
Video Playback . . . . . . . . . . DAVE SCHMALTZ
Key Grip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MICHAEL COO
Art Director. . . . . . . . . . . THOMAS T TAYLOR
Set Decorator . . . . . . . . ROBERT KENSINGER
Sound Mixer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JIM STUEBE
Special Effects Supervisor . . . . JOE PANCAKE
Production Accountant . . . . . . SUE BOKOBZA
Costume Supervisor . . . . . . . NANCY COLLINI
Chief Lighting Technician . . . . CORY GERYAK
Production Coordinators . . LISA GREENSPAN
SARA SCARRITT
Assistant
Production Coordinator. . . . CARRIE ARNOLD
Production
Secretary . . . . ANGELA GOODWIN MINUTY
Production Assistants. . . . . . . . . DEREK WADE
TED ALVAREZ
Set PAs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SETH HANSEN
SETH HENDRIX
CATE NELSON
KEVIN WALSH
BALIN HEWITT
BRETT ROBINSON
ZACK SMITH
B Camera 1st AC. . . . . . . . . . TYGER BELTON
C Camera 1st AC . . . . . . . . . . . . DARON KEET
A Camera 2nd AC. . . . . . . . . . CHRIS CUEVAS
B Camera 2nd AC . . . . . . . ALBERT FRIGONE
C Camera 2nd AC . . . . . . . . . . AMY ABRAMS
Camera Loader . . . . . . . . MICHAEL ALVAREZ
Best Boy Grip. . . . . . . . . . CRAIG KOHATALA
Key Rigging Grip . . . . . . . . . . . . LARRY AUBE
Best Boy Rigging Grip . . . . . . . JACK KORBEL
Dolly Grip. . . . . . . . . . . MICHAEL BRENNAN
Grips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JOHN CLEVELAND
MARK COO
ART GARCIA
ELI GOLUB
Rigging Grips . . . . . . . . . . RUBEN J. CHACON
SCOTT ODERMAN
24 Frame Playback . . MATTHEW MORRISEY
Sound Mixer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JIM STUEBE
Boom Operator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . KEVIN HYDE
Utility Sound. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ABEL SCHIRO
First Assistant Accountant . . . SAM BOKOBZA
Payroll
Accountant . . . . . . . TERESA L. HUMPHREYS
US Post Production
Accountant. . . . . . . SIMONE DE CARMARGO
Location Manager/
Production Supervisor . . DOUGLAS DRESSER
Assistant Location
Managers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CARLOS ARAGON
DOUG McCLINTOCK
JEFF STANFORD
MATT WERSINGER
Casting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BELINDA GARDEA
Extras Casting . . . . . . . . . . . . . SANDE ALESSI
JENNIFER ALESSI
Department
Head Hair . . . . . . . . . . CHARLOTTE PARKER
Key Hair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DENA FAYE
Department
Head Make-Up . . . . . . . . . . JUNE BRICKMAN
Key Make-Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . JANE ENGLISH
Costumers . . . . ANNETTE DUNFORD-LEWIS
BRANDY LUSVARDI
ALISON STEIN
Costume Assistant. . . . . . . . MITCH BAYLOCK
Art Assistant . . . . . . . . . . . . JAMES CARHART
Leadman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . THIERRY LABBE
Set Dressing Buyer . . . . . . . CARYN MARCUS
Set
Dressers . . . MATTHEW KERN ATZENHOFFER
PETER KANG
MARK S. KUZY
HUGH PRITCHARD
CARL DENOOYER
JOHN ERIC RYAN JR.
BURTON SANDERS
ERIK G. SODERSTROM
On Set Dresser . . . . . . . . . . J BROOK SHAFER
Property Master. . . GUILLAUME DELOUCHE
Assistant Property Master . . JAMES MEEHAN
Assistant Chief
Lighting Technician . . . . . LARRY SUSHINKSI
Lamp Operators. . . . . . . . . . . MAREK BOJSZA
JEFF CHASSLER
DAMON LEIBOWITZ
KEITH MORGAN
CONNER VANDEER
BRIAN WORONEC
Rigging Electrician . . . . . . . . . DAVID YELLIN
Football Coordinator . . . . . IAN CARRINGTON
Unit Publicist . . . . . LINDA BROWN-SALOME
Stills Photographer. . . . . . . BRUCE BIRMELIN
Cast Assistants . . . . . . . . . . . . . KATE PULLEY
SCOTT YAMANO
Set Medics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . ANTONIO EVANS
MICHAEL J. MCKELVEY
Studio Teacher. . . . . . . . . . . WENDY WILHITE
Catering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . GALA CATERING
Craft Service. . . . . . . . . . . . MICHAEL KEHOE
Craft Service Assistant . . . . . . . . . TIM MCGEE
Transport Coordinator . . . . . . . . . DON POOLE
Transport Captain . . . . . . ARTHUR TRAPOLSI
CREDITS
Drivers
WILLIAM L. ARJONA, FABIAN ARROYO
MIKE BELPEDIO, DAVE COFFEY
GREG DIRADO, RONALD P. DYER
KENNY FARNELL, JUAN M. GONZALEZ
BRIAN GURNEY, JAMES HAGEN
TOME HOKE, DARRELL JANSON
BILL JARRETT, JIM JOHNSON
RICHARD A. JOHNSON
WILLIAM B. K. KANE, DEAN MACKLEM
BYRON MCGEE, WILLIAM R. POWELL
DOMENIC RODRIGUEZ
CHARLES ROTHSTEIN, DAVID C. SEVERIN
SHANE SUMMERS, JOHN TEEPLE
MELINDA WRIGHT
Completion Guarantor. . . . . . FILM FINANCES
Insurance . . . . . TOTALLY ENTERTAINMENT
Cameras & Lenses by . . . . . . . . . PANAVISION
Aerial Coordination
Provided by . . . FLYING PICTURES LIMITED
Megamount by . . . . . CAMERA REVOLUTION
Video Equipment. . . JOE DUNTON & CO LTD
Electrical Equipment. . . . LEE LIGHTING LTD
Colour by. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TECHNICOLOR
A THOMPSON SERVICE
Laboratory Contact . . . . . . . . . . . JOHN ENSBY
End Credit Roller . . . . . . . . . . . . . CINEIMAGE
Negative
Cutting . . . PROFESSIONAL NEGATIVE CUTTING LTD
Dolby Sound Consultant . . . . JAMES SEDDON
Editing Facilities
and Equipment . . . . . . MIDNIGHT TRANSFER
Post Production Script Services. . . . . . . . FATTS
Health &
Safety . . . . . . . . DAVID DEANE ASSOCIATES
Location Facilities
Supplied by. . . . . . . . . . . . WILLIE’S WHEELS
Overseas Shipping by . . . . . . . FILM FREIGHT
Airplane Charters. . . . . . COOLAIR CHARTER
Background Artistes
Supplied by . . . THE CASTING COLLECTIVE
Catering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CREW CATERING
Couriers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PRECISION
Transport . . . . . FILM UNIT DRIVERS GUILD
LAYS INTERNATIONAL
FILM SUPPORT SERVICES
Legal
Services. . STROOCK & STROOCK & LAVAN LLP
Schuyler Moore & Brianna Becker
SARA CURRAN SOLICITORS
Sara Curran & Lucy O’Driscoll
Legal Clearances . . . . . . MARSHALL/PLUMB
Music Programmer . . . . . . . . . . DAVID RUSSO
Music Editors . . . . . . . . . . . . MICHAEL PRICE
ASHLEY REVELL
PETER CLARKE
Music Recorded by. . . . . . . . . GEOFF FOSTER
NICK WOOLAGE
Music Mixed by . . . . . . . . . . . GEOFF FOSTER
Music Conducted by . . . . . . . . NICK INGMAN
Score Coordination . . . . . . BECKY BENTHAM
for HOTHOUSE MUSIC LTD
Music Recorded at. . AIR STUDIOS, LONDON
ANGEL STUDIOS, LONDON
Music Mixed at . . . . AIR STUDIOS, LONDON
Assistant Engineers . . . . . . . CHRIS BARRATT
STEVE ORCHARD
JAMES STONE
IAN WOOD
Music Orchestrated by . . . . . . . NICK INGMAN
CLIFF MASTERTON
KEVIN TOWNEND
RICK WENTWORTH
ANDREW MCKENNA
JOHN BELL
Orchestra Leader . . . . . . . . . GAVYN WRIGHT
Orchestra
Contractor . . . . . . . . ISOBEL GRIFFITHS LTD
Music Preparation . . . . . RON SHILLINGFORD
DOUG LOGAN
DAKOTA MUSIC LTD
JOHN BAKER
Music Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . RUDY CHUNG
Music
Consultant. . . DEBRA BAUM, THE ORLA GROUP
Music
Licensing . . . . EVELYN WONG & KIER LEHMAN
HIT THE GROUND RUNNING
Soundtrack Consulting. . . EMI RECORDS LTD
SIN ELLA
Written by Jacques Joseph Baliardo,
Maurice Victor Baliardo,
Tonino Antoine Baliardo, Andre Jean Reyes,
Francis Marie Reyes, and Nicolas Reyes
Performed by GIPSY KINGS
Courtesy of Nonesuch Records
by Arrangement with
Warner Strategic Marketing
Under Exclusive Licence to
Sony BMG Music Entertainment (UK) Limited.
Licensed Courtesy of Sony BMG Commercial
Markets (UK)
Published by Sony/ATV Music Publishing
CUBAFRO CON AMIGOS
Written by Darren Rock, Ursula Classen,
and Mark Woolford
Performed by BALLISTIC BROTHERS
Courtesy of Soundboy Entertainment Ltd.
Published by Deconstruction Songs Ltd/
BMG Music Publishing Ltd and
Chrysalis Music Ltd.
LOOK UP
Written by Dan Binns and Sam Hardaker
Performed by ZERO 7
Courtesy of Warner Strategic Marketing UK
Published by Universal Music Publishing Ltd.
CAST NO SHADOW (UNKLE Beachhead Mix)
Written by Noel Gallagher
Performed by OASIS
Courtesy of Big Brother Recordings
Under Exclusive License to SINE
a Division of Sony BMG Entertainment (UK) Ltd
Licensed Courtesy of
Sony BMG Commercial Markets (UK)
Published by Sony/ATV Music Publishing
BLACKOUT
Written by James Lavelle and Richard File
Performed by UNKLE
Courtesy of Universal-Island Records Ltd.
Under Licence from Universal Music
Enterprises
Published by Copyright Control
ACQUIESCE
Written by Noel Gallagher
Performed by OASIS
Courtesy of Big Brother Recordings
Under Exclusive License to SINE
a Division of Sony BMG Entertainment (UK) Ltd
Licensed Courtesy of
Sony BMG Commercial Markets (UK)
Published by Sony/ATV Music Publishing
CLUB FOOT
Written by Sergio Pizzorno
and Christopher Karloff
Performed by KASABIAN
Licensed Courtesy of
Sony BMG Commercial Markets (UK)
Published by EMI Music Publishing Ltd.
PAINT THE SILENCE
Written by Joel Cadbury, Brett Shaw
and Jamie McDonald
Performed by SOUTH
Courtesy of Mo Wax Labels Ltd
and Kinetic Records Inc.
Published by Warner Chappell Music Ltd.
FUNKY DOLLAR BILL
Written by David Ranyard and Darren Pickles
Performed by SUPERCHARGER
Courtesy of Warner Strategic Marketing UK
Published by Reverb Music Ltd.
PLAYING IN THE DISTANCE
Written by Rupert Lyddon and Lawrence Rudd
Performed by GRAND NATIONAL
Courtesy of Sunday Best Recordings
Under Licence from Sunday Best Recording
Published by Universal Music Publishing Ltd.
BADDEST, RUFFEST
Written by Aniff Akinola and Lloyd Hanley
Performed by BACKYARD DOG
Licensed Courtesy of
Warner Strategic Marketing UK
Published by BMG Music Publishing Ltd.
and Chrysalis Music Ltd.
CREDITS
ELEVACION
Written by Jorge Hernandez, Douglas Aguirre,
Edwin Cruz and Christopher Sibilla
Performed by
REYES DEL BAJO MUNDO (RDBM)
Courtesy of Barbara L Jordan/Heavy Hitters
WET! WET! WET!
Written by Concetta Kirschner and Milo Berger
Performed by PRINCESS SUPERSTAR
Licensed Courtesy of Rapster Records
Published by SMV Schacht Musikverlage
GmbH/Figs.D Music Inc.
HUMAN LOVE
Written by Paul Harris, Ben Harris
and Steven Smith
Performed by DIRTY VEGAS
Licensed Courtesy of EMI Records Ltd.
Published by Copyright Control
PARTY HARD
Written by CamuTao, Jared Bridgeman
and Jeffrey Haynes
Performed by THE PERCEPTIONISTS
Courtesy of Def Jux
Under License from Def Jux
by Arrangement with Zync Music Inc.
AUTUMN
Composed by Antonio Vivaldi
Performed by
ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA
Courtesy of Extreme Music Library
THIS IS THE LAND
Written by Aaron Fletcher
and Paul James Butler
Performed by THE BEES
Licensed Courtesy of Virgin Records Ltd.
Published by Universal Music Publishing Ltd.
LEAP OF FAITH
Written by Richard File, James Lavelle
and Joel Cadbury
Performed by UNKLE feat.
Joel Cadbury of SOUTH
Courtesy of Surrender All Ltd.
Published by Copyright Control
FEED YOUR MIND (Club Mix)
Performed by PAUL OAKENFOLD
MORNING GLORY (Dave Sardy Mix)
Written by Noel Gallagher
Performed by OASIS
Courtesy of Big Brother Recordings
Under Exclusive License to SINE
a Division of Sony BMG Entertainment (UK) Ltd
Licensed Courtesy of
Sony BMG Commercial Markets (UK)
Published by Sony/ATV Music Publishing
PLAYGROUND SUPERSTAR
Written by Shaun Ryder, Gary Wheelan,
Kav Sandu, Dave Parkinson
Performed by THE HAPPY MONDAYS
Courtesy of THE HAPPY MONDAYS
WILL YOU SMILE AGAIN
Written by Conrad Keely, Jason Reece
and Kevin Allen
Performed by
AND YOU WILL KNOW US
BY THE TRAIL OF DEAD
Courtesy of Interscope Records
Under license from Universal Music Enterprises
Published 2004 by Steal Our Music (ASCAP)
WHO PUT THE WEIGHT OF THE WORLD
ON YOUR SHOULDERS
Written by Noel Gallagher
Performed by OASIS
Published by Oasis Music/Sony/
ATV Music Publishing Ltd.
Vocals and Guitar by Noel Gallagher
Bass by Gem Guitar, Piano, Celest and
Percussion by R. File
Guitar by John Justin Stewart,
Drums by Terry Kirkbride
Strings Arranged by Andrew Skeet
Orchestra by London Philharmonic
Recording, Engineering, Mixing, Additional
Production and Programming by Cameron Craig
Additional Recording R. File
Recorded at Ex Snake Ranch
and Treehouse Studios
Mixed by Chris Allen at J Sound
Produced by UNKLE (J. Lavelle, R. File)
Surrender All Ltd.
Soundtrack Available on
Big Brother Recordings Ltd/Sony BMG
With special thanks to
JOSEPH S. BLATTER • BRENTFORD FC
EPSILON MOTION PICTURES
FULHAM FC • GIEVES AND HAWKES
MIKE GIULIANO
NEWCASTLE CITY COUNCIL
NORTHERN FILM AND MEDIA
OASIS, BIG BROTHER & UNKLE • QPR
READING BLUE COATS SCHOOL
FREDDIE SHEPHERD
SIR RICHARD STEELE PUB
RAY THOMPSON • VILLAGE ROADSHOW
YORK CENTRAL
PRODUCTION FINANCING PROVIDED BY
COMERICA ENTERTAINMENT GROUP
JAIME RIGAL AND JONATHAN HEINE
GLOBESTEPPER PRODUCTIONS
Originated on Motion Picture Film Supplied by
CREDITS
MPAA #41835
SHOT AT PINEWOOD STUDIOS AND
ON LOCATION IN LONDON, NEWCASTLE
AND LOS ANGELES
CREDITS
The characters and incidents portrayed and the
names herein are fictitious, and any similarity to
the name, character or history of any actual
persons living or dead is entirely coincidental
and unintentional.
This motion picture is protected under the laws
of the United States and other countries and its
unauthorised duplication, distribution or
exhibition may result in civil liability and
criminal prosecution.
© 2005 Goal Limited. All Rights Reserved.
Distributed by
BUENA VISTA PICTURES DISTRIBUTION
PG
FOR LANGUAGE, SEXUAL SITUATIONS, AND SOME
THEMATIC MATERIAL INCLUDING PARTYING
SPORTS & AUTOS
PokerStars.com and Aston Martin Racing Ready to Blast Off in Houston
World's Largest Poker Tournament Website and Prestigious International Racing Team Agree to Partnership for the 2006 Le Mans Season
PokerStars.com, the world's largest poker tournament website, and Aston Martin Racing, have extended their relationship following the hugely successful partnership in March where the team recorded a double podium finish at Sebring, Florida. The deal will see Aston Martin's two DBR9 race cars branded with PokerStars.com throughout the remainder of the American Le Mans Series (including Houston this weekend), two events in the United Kingdom, and the world-renowned Le Mans 24-hour endurance race in France later this year. The partnership will also involve both brands working together in a number of interesting and innovative ways over the coming year, including the use of a fully-themed show car at public events like the World Series of Poker. The partnership will also offer players at PokerStars.com the chance to get involved at races across America and Europe.
The team is currently preparing for the second race on the 2006 American Le Mans Series. The Lone Star Grand Prix will be held on Friday, May 12th in and around Reliant Stadium, home of the NFL's Houston Texans.
Houston poses significant challenges for all the competitors, as the race will take place on a nine-turn, 1.7 mile track composed of streets around the stadium and the downtown Houston area. The track is notable for having several hairpin turns and fast straightaways, which will test even the best drivers on the series.
Aston Martin Racing Team Principal George Howard-Chappell said, "The next (race) will be interesting as we have never been to (the venue) before. The street course in Houston will present its own challenges for the team ... . The two DBR9s have been given a performance break and will run 25 kg lighter than at Sebring, which should result in really close racing between Aston Martin Racing and our competitors."
The two cars will be numbered 007 and 009. Car 007 will be driven by Tomas Enge from the Czech Republic and Darren Turner from the UK. Car 009 will be driven by Pedro Lamy from Portugal and Stephane Sarrazin from France.
Official Partner, PokerStars.com is looking forward to the race in Houston. Texas is home to an estimated 350,000 players with accounts at PokerStars. As many as 80,000 players live in the Greater Houston area.
"There are thousands of loyal poker players from the Great State of Texas, many in the Houston area," said Chris Welch, PokerStars.com Group Marketing Director. "We are eager to join forces with the elite Aston Martin Racing team and compete in what should be a thrilling race. I know that many auto racing fans are already poker players. In turn, we hope to introduce the American Le Mans Series to a whole new audience of poker playing Texans."
The Lone Star Grand Prix started with qualifying at 6:15 pm CDT on May 11th. The race will begin at 8 pm CDT on May 12th.
For more information about Aston Martin Racing, please visit: www.astonmartinracing.com
For more information about PokerStars.com, please visit: www.pokerstars.com
About PokerStars
PokerStars (www.pokerstars.com) is the world's most innovative online poker site. PokerStars was the first site to introduce features that became industry standard such as sophisticated multi-table tournaments, integrated game statistics, players' notes, personalized images, time bank for tournaments and big bet ring games, satellite tournaments, multi-table sit and go tournaments, and much more.
To date, PokerStars has dealt nearly five billion hands and run more than 20 million poker tournaments, awarding well over $4 billion in prize money. PokerStars is the world's largest poker tournament room, with over 5 million registered player accounts. PokerStars' support team is truly unique, as help and assistance is available around the clock from people who know and understand the game of poker and the importance of impeccable customer service.
The PokerStars.com site is also one of the most secure. PokerStars uses industry-leading security software to ensure the integrity of the system, including encryption, card shuffle randomness and preventative measures against cheating and collusion. Money covering player's balances is held in segregated accounts managed by the Royal Bank of Scotland, ensuring that PokerStars can fulfill its obligations to players at all times.
In February 2006, PokerStars.com became the first poker website ever to reach the 100,000 simultaneous player mark. That watershed achievement marked the largest poker event in history. Every week, the PokerStars.com Sunday Million is played, which the largest weekly tournament on the planet with a $1 million guaranteed tournament prize pool.
PokerStars is an official member of the World Poker Tour, and the title sponsor of the European Poker Tour (EPT) and the PokerStars Caribbean Adventure. In the fall, PokerStars hosts the world's largest online tournament, the World Championship of Online Poker (WCOOP). PokerStars also sponsors major events around the globe, such as the World Cup of Poker and other exciting tournaments.
During the last three years, PokerStars.com sent more players to the World Series of Poker (WSOP) than any other source or website. A whopping 1,116 entrants (19 percent of the field) qualified to play in the 2005 WSOP via PokerStars satellites. PokerStars is the site where the 2003 and 2004 World Series of Poker champions won their entries into the WSOP. The reigning world poker champion, Joe Hachem, has also been an active player at PokerStars since 2001. He joined Moneymaker and Raymer as official representatives of PokerStars.com, thus fortifying the company trademark, "Where Poker Players Become World Champions."
Source: PokerStars.com
Web site: http://www.pokerstars.com/
http://www.astonmartinracing.com/
Chrysler Group's Employees Help Brighten Lives for the Delray House and Neighborhood Children
Employees build playground area for local children
WHAT: More than 100 Chrysler Group employees will roll up their sleeves and work together to build a playground for the Delray Neighborhood House in Southwest Detroit.
Delray House is a community center that provides social and educational resources for the Southwest Detroit community, including computer labs, health and welfare courses, field trips and summer camp. The center serves more than 600 youth.
The Chrysler Group and Chief Executive Officer Tom LaSorda are leading efforts to enhance the Delray House and the resources it offers the community. Last year, the DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund donated a 2006 Dodge Sprinter to the center for transportation and $112,000. The Chrysler Group volunteers will save the Delray House $60,000 in expenses.
WHO: Chrysler Group Employees
Delray House neighbors and friends
WHEN: Saturday, May 13, 2006
9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
WHERE: Delray House
420 Leigh Street
Detroit, MI 48209
DETAILS: From I-75 traveling north: Go over the Rouge River I-75 Bridge and exit at the Dearborn Street exit (at bottom of bridge). Turn right on Dearborn Street. At the second street (Lyon) turn right. The Delray Neighborhood House is straight ahead at the end of the street. Cross Leigh and enter the parking lot.
From I-75 traveling south: Exit at Springwells. Turn left and cross I-75 and Fort Street. Springwells is now called "West End." Follow West End to Melville and turn right. Follow Melville through a slight jog to Dearborn Street. Make a "hard" left (Dearborn is at an angle). Almost immediately turn right on Lyon. The Delray Neighborhood House is straight ahead at the end of the street. Cross Leigh and enter the parking lot.
http://www.daimlerchrysler.com/
BMW Charity Pro-Am at The Cliffs Names Volunteer of the Year
Dan Wood, from Central, S.C., has been named the BMW Charity Pro-Am at The Cliffs' Volunteer of the Year.
Wood, who is executive director of the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA), was selected from more than 1,500 candidates as the top volunteer of the tournament. Wood sold sponsorships that helped earn money for all of the 29 charities involved, entertained clients, solicited other volunteers and organized ticket sales through the NCCAA. He also served as a starter at The Cliffs Valley course Thursday-Saturday.
By being named Volunteer of the Year, Wood was recognized on the 18th green following the completion of the tournament and received a plaque, a Nationwide Tour jacket and a $100 gift certificate to the Nationwide Tour store. He also becomes eligible to be named Volunteer of the Year by the Nationwide Tour. Nationwide Insurance Co. selects a volunteer from each tournament. The overall Volunteer of the Year is selected at the end of the season from amongst each tournament’s volunteer of the year. It takes more than 1,500 volunteers to put on the BMW Charity Pro-Am at The Cliffs golf tournament.
Wood will also be recognized by tournament officials at the charity check presentation in late June when the dollar amount raised from the 2006 tournament is announced.
The first five tournaments have raised more than $3 million for area charities.
Thirty-three thousand (33,000) fans witnessed professional Ken Duke win the 2006 tournament. The win was the first of Duke's career, although the Hope, Arkansas-native has recorded two second-place finishes on the Nationwide Tour (2003 Chitimacha Louisiana Open; 2005 Canadian PGA Championship). Duke, a 1992 graduate of Henderson State (Ark.) University, finished the tournament at –13 under par (69, 68, 68, 68) beating Jess Daley by one stroke. He followed up his win by qualifying for the PGA TOUR’s Wachovia Championship and tying for 14th.
Celebrities that participated in this year's tournament included: Kevin Costner, John Elway, Catherine Bell, Dhani Jones, Wayne and Janet Gretzky, Brett Hull, Javier Colon, Cheech Marin, John and Lisa O'Hurley, George Rogers, Ben Wright, Jennifer Mills, Pat Green, long-drive champion Sean "The Beast" Fister, and actor and Spartanburg native Fred Griffith. Famed international golfer and Grand Slam winner Gary Player also participated.
The 29 charities that benefited from the golf tournament were: A Child's Haven, Inc.; Blue Ridge Literacy Council; Bon Secours St. Francis Health System Foundation, Inc.; Boy Scouts of America; Compass of Carolina; Fellowship of Christian Athletes; Foothills Family Resources; Hands on Greenville; Hidden Treasure; Mountain Area Child and Family Center; National Christian College Athletic Association; North Greenville University; North Greenville Food Crisis Ministry; Partners for a Healthy Community, Inc.; Phillis Wheatley Association; Pickens County Sheriff’s Scholarship Foundation; Pickens County YMCA; Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas; St. Joseph’s School; The Charles Lea Center; The Eblen Charities; The First Tee; The Walker Foundation; United Ministries; Young Life; Zest Quest.
The BMW Charity Pro-Am at The Cliffs is the only tournament on the Nationwide Tour where amateurs and celebrities are grouped with Nationwide Tour professionals in a three-day better-ball competition. Amateurs, celebrities and pros rotate between each of the three courses on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, with the 14 lowest scoring pro-amateur/pro-celebrity teams advancing to play Sunday's final round at The Cliffs Valley course. Celebrities play once at each course on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The professional winner of the overall 72-hole event takes home $112,500 from the total purse of $625,000, which is one of the largest purses on the Nationwide Tour. Amateurs and celebrities compete for individual prizes and cash donations to the charity of their choice out of the beneficiaries selected by South Carolina Charities, Inc.
For more information on the BMW Charity Pro-Am at The Cliffs golf tournament call (864) 297-1660 or visit the tournament's website at www.bmwcharitygolf.com.
BMW to Operate World's First Green Paint Shop
BMW Manufacturing Co. announced today that it will use recycled methane gas generated by the Palmetto Landfill near Spartanburg to provide energy to its paint shop.
BMW is working with long-standing partner Durr Systems of Plymouth, Mich., to modify and upgrade equipment so landfill gas can be used to fuel the paint shop. Durr Systems specializes in developing and implementing energy performance projects in industrial facilities and is a partner in the Environmental Protections Agency's (EPA) Landfill Methane Outreach Program, which helps businesses lower operating cots, protect the environment and build a sustainable future.
"BMW is the first automotive paint shop to integrate the use of landfill gas in its process equipment," said Dave Ciuffoletti, Durr's vice president of sales. "BMW should be congratulated for its environmental stewardship. By taking advantage of a renewable resource, BMW has truly become the world's first green paint shop."
BMW Manufacturing gained international recognition on June 20, 2002, when the automotive manufacturer first announced that a 9.5-mile pipeline has been constructed from the landfill to its facility to provide some of the plant's energy needs. With today's announcement, about half of BMW Manufacturing's energy is now provided by this renewable resource, saving the company at least $1 million per year in energy costs.
By utilizing previously unused energy from landfill gas, BMW Manufacturing is reducing area emissions of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, by approximately 17,000 tons and is recovering enough energy to heat 10,000 homes per year. The quantity of greenhouse gases reduced is the equivalent of driving a car around the globe 4,300 times, or more than 100 million miles.
Landfills are the largest human-made methane source in the United States. Methane is produced as waste decomposes. When released into the air, it is a greenhouse gas and contributes to local air pollution.
"Three of our core principles are innovation, protecting the environment, and being a good corporate citizen," said Briggs Hamilton, BMW Manufacturing's environmental section manager. "This is such a positive for everyone involved. There literally hasn't been a downside to this project. This project allows us to take a previously wasted energy source and use it to generate electricity, which protects the environment and our community through lower emissions."
The efficient cogeneration of electricity and hot water has been a part of BMW's overall plan since construction began on this plant in 1993. The move to use recycled landfill gas to power the paint shop began in 2004.
"The paint department is the largest consumer of energy in any automotive manufacturing plant," said Dara Leadford, an engineering section manager who has been working on the project. "Fifty percent of our energy is used in the paint department for controlling the process environment that is a necessity for a quality surface finish."
BMW's partners in this multi-million dollar project are Durr Systems, Ameresco Energy Services and Waste Management Inc.
Durr Systems is an industrial service and product provider with the tools and expertise to develop and implement energy performance improvements projects in industrial facilities. Ameresco designed, built and owns the pipeline, gas processing and gas compression facilities as well as manages the overall operations of the project. Waste Management, which owns and operates the Palmetto Landfill, currently supplies landfill gas to 69 gas-to-energy projects in 21 states.
BMW is a charter member of the EPA's National Environmental Performance Track that recognizes companies for their environmental stewardship and performance. The company is also a member of the South Carolina Environmental Excellence Program. The company is on the Dow Jones Sustainability Group Index, which rates environmentally friendly companies.
BMW Manufacturing Co. (www.bmwusfactory.com) is a subsidiary of BMW Group in Munich, Germany. In addition to the South Carolina manufacturing facility, BMW's North American subsidiaries include sales, marketing and financial services operations in the United States, Canada and throughout Latin America; an information technology consulting and systems integration firm in South Carolina; and a design firm in California.
Football Team to Be Honored for a Game It Never Played
Sacrificed Glory for Honor
Called the Best College Football Team Ever
The University of San Francisco will give an honorary degree to its undefeated 1951 football team because of a game it never played. The team sacrificed glory for honor when, during an era of segregation, it refused to leave its two African-American players behind to help secure a bid for a post-season bowl game. USF will honor the team for its courage, its selflessness, and its unity during commencement ceremonies Friday, May 19.
During the 1951 season, the team crushed all opposition and had a perfect record of nine wins and no losses or ties. The team expected an invitation to a bowl game, but that invitation never came. When it was suggested that the team drop its Africa-American players to increase its chances of receiving a bid, the team refused.
The team is often called the best in the history of college football. Nine of its starting players were drafted into the National Football League, five went on to play in the NFL Pro Bowl, and three -- Ollie Matson, Gino Marchetti and Bob St. Clair -- were inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame. The team's sports information director, Pete Rozelle, later became commissioner of the NFL, and was also inducted into the Hall of Fame. The late Rozelle said of USF's 1951 team, "If we had an expansion franchise, I would start it with just that team. They were so great!"
The University expects at least a dozen members of the team to attend the ceremony, including Burl Toler, the first African-American to become an NFL official, and Ralph Thomas, who played for the Washington Redskins. The team will be honored during commencement ceremonies for USF's College of Arts and Sciences on Friday, May 19th at 9 a.m. The ceremony will be held at the University's Saint Ignatius Church at the corner of Fulton Ave. and Parker Blvd. in San Francisco.
The following is part of the citation that will be read at the ceremony:
The University of San Francisco is proud to honor its 1951 football team at the close of the institution's 150th anniversary year. The team members exemplify the values that remain at the core of USF's identity as a Jesuit Catholic university: dedication to a common good, rather than the interests of any one individual; respect for the dignity and worth of every human being; and an unwavering commitment to excellence on the field, in the classroom, and in one's personal and professional life.
The team's story is told in the book, Undefeated, Untied and Uninvited, (Griffin Publishing Group, 2002).
Web site: http://www.usfca.edu/
Toyota Awards $1.12 Million in Scholarships to 100 High School Seniors
Winners at top of class in both academics and community service
Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., (TMS) rewarded 100 high school seniors with $1.12 million in college scholarships for their commitment to education and community service at an awards banquet tonight.
The winners, who make up the 10th class of Toyota Community Scholars, were chosen from a pool of nearly 9,000 students nationwide nominated by their schools. To be eligible, students must be proven leaders both in the classroom and in their communities.
Based on its accomplishments, the 2006 class learned at an early age that "giving back" to the community was not an obligation, but, rather, a way of life. As one Scholar, Tyler Sanchez of Racine, Wis., put it: "My life has been enriched through my community service, and I see myself one day as a responsible business executive playing a major role in my community."
For the 2006 class, their dreams of making a difference became reality through programs ranging from raising money to help pay for 300 families' winter heating bills to recycling over 80,000 tons of household goods (furniture, appliances, clothing, toys, books) and distributing them to thousands of needy individuals to creating a diversity program that is now implemented in five high schools.
"This tenth class of Toyota Scholars, like every group before them, has accomplished so much at such a young age," said Irv Miller, TMS group vice president of corporate communications. "Their dedication to academics and community service is an inspiration to all of us. It is exciting to imagine where their lives will take them as the future leaders of America."
The scholarships are valued at $20,000 or $10,000 each, over four years, for study at a four-year college or university starting in the fall of 2006. Since the Toyota Community Scholars program began in 1997, TMS has awarded over $11 million in scholarships to 1,000 students across the U.S.
Emily Evans, a Toyota Community Scholar from Hudson, Ohio, is a prime example of the dedication to community service exhibited by this year's class. As the founder of "Children's Aid," Evans has raised over $17,000 for the Suzhou Children's Welfare Center in China. But this project is much more than just fund-raising for the orphanage. Evans has traveled twice to China to work with the children, many of whom have physical or mental disabilities and were abandoned by their parents.
Because of her dedication, numerous children have received medical procedures, including cleft lip and palate repairs, surgery to correct spina bifida, heart surgery, and skin grafts for burn victims.
In all, over 100 children living in the orphanage have been helped by Evans and "Children's Aid," which boasts over 200 supporters.
Consequently, Evans, like many of the Scholars, found community service to be the roadmap to what she wants to do in the future. "By pursuing East Asian Studies and law, I hope to be able to work with families to take the anxiety, uncertainty, and cost out of international adoption. This could be through pro-bono work, as an adoption lawyer, or by using my contacts with orphanages to match children with families."
The Toyota Community Scholars program is administered by Educational Testing Services in Princeton, N.J. The 12 national winners ($20,000 each) and 88 regional winners ($10,000 each) were selected by a panel of college and university admissions officials from across the U.S.
The scholarship winners were guests of honor tonight at an awards banquet in Louisville that was attended by education, community, business and government leaders. Bernard Kinsey, an internationally recognized expert and leader in the field of urban revitalization and economic development, was the keynote speaker.
The two-and-a-half-day program included a tour of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc., in Georgetown, which builds the Camry, Avalon and Solara vehicles. In addition, the Scholars cruised the Ohio River on the Belle of Louisville (a historic paddle wheeler), and participated in a "ride and drive" that put them behind the wheel of five Toyota vehicles: the new FJ Cruiser and Yaris, plus the family of Scion vehicles: xA, xB, and tC.
Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. is the marketing, sales, distribution and customer service arm of Toyota, Lexus and Scion in the United States, marketing products and services through a network of 1,427 Toyota, Lexus and Scion dealers in 49 states. Established in 1957, TMS and its subsidiaries also are involved in distribution logistics, motorsports, and research and development.
2006 TOYOTA COMMUNITY SCHOLARS
CITY HIGH SCHOOL
ALABAMA
Sarah Epps Huntsville Huntsville High School
ALASKA
Tatiana Butler Kenai Nikiski Junior Senior High School
ARIZONA
Kimberly Lin Phoenix Desert Vista High School
Robert Ryan * Mesa Mountain View High School
ARKANSAS
Daniel Cayce * Thornton Bearden High School
Frederick McCollum Forrest City Forrest City High School
CALIFORNIA
David Freed Vista Vista High School
Laura Huppert * Piedmont Piedmont High School
Kaitlin Kelly-Reif Carmichael Mira Loma High School
Shirley Palomino * Thousand Oaks Thousand Oaks High School
Katherine Robinson Santa Rosa Ursuline High School
Nicole St. Omer Roy Seal Beach Rosary High School
COLORADO
Karen McKinnon Boulder Boulder High School
DELAWARE
Anjali Gupta Hockessin Charter School of Wilmington
FLORIDA
Justin Chang Miami Lakes North Miami Senior High School
Maria Chicuen Miami Felix Varela Senior High School
Scott Drucker Hollywood Pine Crest School
Xavier Gonzalez Miami Miami Coral Park Senior High
School
Courtni Kerr Tavernier Coral Shores High School
Shannon Marrero * Gainesville Eastside High School
Jhanavi Pathak St. Petersburg St. Petersburg High School
GEORGIA
Ashley Buford Cordele Crisp Academy
HAWAII
Evan Alicuben Hilo Waiakea High School
Xiaomeng Hu Honolulu Moanalua High School
Mary Rose Lansangan Aiea Aiea High School
IDAHO
Abigail Fairman Hailey Wood River High School
ILLINOIS
Mi Chen Naperville Illinois Math & Science Academy
Michael Jacobson Prospect Heights John Hersey High School
Margaret McGlynn Belleville Althoff Catholic High School
Jeffery Nelson Chicago Morgan Park High School
INDIANA
Kate Goeller Terre Haute Terre Haute South Vigo High
School
IOWA
Xin Pan Ames Ames High School
Anne Wignall Newton Newton High School
KANSAS
Angel Romero Milford Junction City Senior High School
KENTUCKY
Kala Faulkner Ashland Rose Hill Christian School
Neil Gupta Prospect Saint Xavier High School
LOUISIANA
Karlnelius Duhon Westlake Lake Charles Boston High School
Aoko Jordan Monroe Wossman High School
Hannah Moore Athens Glenbrook School
MAINE
Melissa Carter Princeton Woodland High School
MARYLAND
Rebecca Parks * Reisterstown Franklin High School
MASSACHUSETTS
Nicole LeBlanc Westford Westford Academy
Tara Sullivan * Worcester Worcester Academy
Kejia Tang Williamstown Mount Greylock Regional High
School
MICHIGAN
Efrain Merchan Battle Creek Lakeview High School
Samir Shah Canton Plymouth High School
Chelsey Spriggs Detroit Renaissance High School
John Zhou Northville Detroit Country Day School
MINNESOTA
Irina Vaynerman Eagan Eastview High School
MISSISSIPPI
Caleb Page Newton Newton County Academy
Kevin Reeves Yazoo City Yazoo City High School
MISSOURI
Julia Rubin Saint Louis Parkway Central High School
Logan Skelley Joplin Joplin High School
Sky Vanderburg Moberly Moberly Senior High School
NEBRASKA
Jami Harper Grand Island Home School Clearing House
NEVADA
Christopher Lin-Brande Reno Reno High School
NEW JERSEY
Michael Bifano Marlton Cherokee High School
Chanelle Wilson Marlton Charter Tech High School
NEW MEXICO
Ashley Crooks Albuquerque Albuquerque Academy
NEW YORK
Matthew Bauman Melville Half Hollow Hills High School
East
Donnell Cunningham New York John V. Lindsay Wildcat Academy
Shoshana Iliaich Rego Park Baccalaureate School for Global
Education
Sarah Joselow Ossining Ossining High School
Kathleen Quandt Schoharie Schoharie Central School
Ruben Rafaelov Briarwood Thomas Edison Voc-Tech High
School
Amy Richards Northport Kings Park High School
Danielle Shaffer Roslyn Roslyn High School
NORTH CAROLINA
Bita Emrani Greensboro Early College at Guilford
Sudha Meghan Chapel Hill East Chapel Hill High School
Qi Xi Wilmington John T. Hoggard High School
NORTH DAKOTA
Miranda Uriell Lakota Lakota High School
OHIO
Emily Evans * Hudson Western Reserve Academy
Ronald Tisdale Perrysburg Perrysburg High School
Albert Trinh * Maineville Saint Xavier High School
OKLAHOMA
Charles Graft Clinton Clinton High School
Tiffany Grant Sperry Sperry High School
Carrie Highfill Enid Chisholm High School
Ronald Pittman Okeene Okeene High School
OREGON
Irene Libov * Beaverton Southridge High School
PENNSYLVANIA
Anthony Orlando Sugarloaf Mining and Mechanical Institute
Robert Sigman Huntingdon Valley Lower Moreland High School
Helena Tzou New Stanton Hempfield Area Senior High School
SOUTH CAROLINA
Christine Richard Georgetown Georgetown High School
SOUTH DAKOTA
Chelsea Hageman Hoven Hoven High School
TENNESSEE
Lucas Hunt Lawrenceburg Loretto High School
TEXAS
William Key Morton Whiteface High School
Enhao Li Plano Plano West Senior High School
Leonard Parker * Houston G.W. Carver High School
UTAH
Stephanie Baker West Jordan Hillcrest High School
VIRGINIA
Diana Burk Alexandria West Potomac High School
Tristan Hayes Portsmouth I C Norcom High School
Jennifer MacLure Woodbridge Stonewall Jackson High School
Paul Martin Martinsville Magna Vista High School
WASHINGTON
Brett Dahlberg Bremerton Central Kitsap High School
Alicia Pumpian Issaquah Issaquah High School
WISCONSIN
Hayley Born La Crosse Aquinas High School
Lauren Levac Hartland Arrowhead High School
Katrina Richardson Shiocton Shiocton High School
Tyler Sanchez * Racine The Prairie School
WYOMING
Brittany Worton Riverton Riverton High School
* National winner - $20,000 scholarship
All others receive $10,000 scholarship
2006 TOYOTA COMMUNITY SCHOLARS
Community Service Snapshots
Following is a small sampling of community service projects performed by the 2006 class of Toyota Community Scholars (more detail can be provided upon request; student interviews can also be arranged):
- Combined a passion for music and a desire to do something positive in
the community and produced a CD with seven of his own original piano
compositions in a professional recording studio. He garnered the
support of a local healthcare company to cover all the costs of
production, and then sold the CDs to raise $7,000 for the United Way
and the American Kidney Fund. (Tyler Sanchez, Racine, Wis.)
- Uses her bilingual skills as a volunteer each week at a free medical
clinic for the uninsured, managing other student volunteers, taking
patient vital signs, performing medical interviews, and presenting
patients to doctors in the examination rooms. The child of Peruvian
immigrants, she was once a patient of free clinics. (Shirley Palomino,
Thousand Oaks, Calif.)
- As a sixth grader, teamed with her high school-aged sister and founded
PALS to help integrate their previously segregated schools. This is
accomplished through activities such as "Mix it up Day," where students
eat lunch with peers they may not have spoken to before and counselors
go to each table to have discussions about diversity. PALS initially
started at two schools, but has since grown to include five schools and
reach approximately 5,000 students. Each year, golf tournaments are
held and raise more than $70,000 to support the PALS program. (Shannon
Marrero, Gainesville, Fla.)
- Became the first youth to receive the Arkansas Recycler of the Year
award in 2005 from the Arkansas Recycling Coalition for founding
Recycle to Reuse, a program that collects unwanted furniture,
appliances, clothing, toys, books and household items for reuse by
those in need. These items are collected and distributed to the needy
at giveaway events every three months. The program has recycled more
than 80,000 tons of unwanted items. (Daniel Cayce, Thornton, Ark.)
- Started Becky's Aid Projects to provide "birthday boxes" (wrapped
shoeboxes filled with toys and a stuffed animal or doll) for children
of needy families and those in local crisis centers. Hundreds of
"birthday boxes" later, she started "Boxes for Marines," which
collected care items such as food and toiletries for a Marine unit
deployed to Iraq. When Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast, she
collected 120 backpacks filled with clothing and school supplies for
hurricane victims in Mississippi. (Rebecca Parks, Reisterstown, Md.)
- Seeing a need at the La Casa de Esperanza orphanage in Rocky Point,
Mexico, this Scholar took matters into his own hands and started Fill a
Bag with Hope. He enlisted the help of 145 volunteers, Wal-Mart Corp.,
Bashas' Supermarkets and the Phoenix Suns to collect food and supplies
for the children at the orphanage. A total of 76 "Bags of Hope," 525
institutional-sized cans of food, 46 bags of rice, sugar, flour and
beans, two rooms of furniture and window curtains were collected and
delivered across the border to the La Casa de Esperanza. (Robert Ryan,
Mesa, Ariz.)
Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
2006 Sailing Season Kicks Off with Match Racing
Beginning Saturday, May 13, 2006, eight skippers will compete in Bayview Yacht Club's (BYC) first match racing event of the year, the 2006 Spring Match Racing Invitational. BYC, organizer of the Bacardi Bayview Mackinac Race, was established in 1915 on the Detroit River and is recognized as one of the most prestigious sailboat racing clubs in the world.
As the competition format for the famed America's Cup, match racing is a unique and aggressive kind of sailing. Just two boats race against each other at a time. Certified umpires are on the water to make immediate decisions and issue penalties if competitors break rules. Action is close. Maneuvers are fast. Races are short -- about 15 minutes -- to allow time for all teams to race each other at least once during the event. Bayview Yacht Club offers a unique setting for match racing as course marks are often set within yards of the club lawn so spectators have a "ring-side" view.
Sailing begins at noon Saturday and 11 a.m. Sunday in front of Bayview Yacht Club, 100 Clairepointe, Detroit. http://www.byc.com/ .
Chris Van Tol, of Grosse Pointe Park, is the most accomplished match racing skipper competing this weekend, currently ranked 14th in the United States. Van Tol placed second at the 2005 U.S. Match Racing Championship (held in California) and won two Bayview-hosted match racing events last year. He also placed second at the Great Lakes Match Racing Championship in October.
Among those seeking to beat Van Tol is Adam Hollerbach, of Grosse Pointe Farms, who finished second to Van Tol twice last season at regional events. Hollerbach, crewing for his brother, has won the Great Lakes Match Racing Championship and other regional events. In recent seasons, he has begun seeking his own match racing successes as a skipper.
Other skippers are match racing newcomers Kent Colpaert, of Grosse Pointe Park, Perrin Fortune (Grosse Pointe), Bora Gulari (Detroit), David Shriner (Sterling Heights), Alex Simon (Grosse Pointe Woods) and Keith Ziegler (Westland).
The Bayview event will be raced on the club's fleet of Ultimate 20 sailboats (http://www.u20class.org/ ) by three-person teams. Following racing this weekend, skippers will receive points toward their match racing rankings as determined by the International Sailing Federation.
Source: Bayview Yacht Club
Web site: http://www.byc.com/
http://www.u20class.org/
HD Radio to Rock Toyotafest
Long Beach Crowd to Experience Digital Radio
Enthusiasts visiting the 11th annual Toyotafest May 13th at the Queen Mary in Long Beach will be able to experience HD Radio(TM) and discover the benefits of digital-quality AM and FM, as well as a new multicast world of programs, thanks to a specially outfitted Scion xB featuring an HD Radio receiver. A new HD Radio equipped JVC car radio will also be given away at the event.
The Toyota Owner's and Restorer's Club (TORC), the group hosting Toyotafest, expects more than 5,000 fans of the Japanese automaker to walk amongst the more than 300 Toyota, Lexus and Scion models, including the HD Radio equipped Scion xB.
HD Radio technology offers listeners more choice through new HD2 multicast channels, significantly higher quality reception and innovative data services all through local AM and FM radio stations. And, it's free, though listeners do need HD Radio equipped products to experience these new features.
Eight hundred (800) AM and FM stations across the country have started using HD Radio technology to broadcast digital signals, with some 215 FM stations offering unique, second (in some cases third) channels of additional programming. In Los Angeles alone, there 28 HD Radio stations now on the air ranging from KABC to KROQ. Nine of these stations are offering additional content via their HD2 multicast channels.
The number of stations broadcasting in HD Radio is growing daily and expected to exceed 3,000 nationwide within the next few years. The ever- increasing list of radio stations can be found at: http://www.ibiquity.com/hdradio/hdradio_hdstations.htm.
Source: Ibiquity Digital
Web site: http://www.ibiquity.com/
CBS Sports Deals 'ULTIMATE BLACKJACK TOUR'
CBS Sports announced today a two-season commitment to broadcast the ULTIMATE BLACKJACK TOUR as complementary programming to its fall sports lineup.
CBS Sports will broadcast the first of ten ULTIMATE BLACKJACK TOUR programs on Saturday, Sept. 16 (2:00 PM, ET). Additionally CBS Sports has committed to broadcasting a second season beginning in Spring 2007.
THE ULTIMATE BLACKJACK TOUR, founded by world-renowned gaming expert Russ Hamilton, is a special series of Elimination Blackjack(TM) tournaments with a unique patent-pending format that gives the "average Joe" a chance to play alongside the best players in the world such as World Blackjack Champion Ken Einiger, as well as poker champions like Phil Hellmuth, Johnny Chan, and Annie Duke.
"This special Elimination Blackjack(TM) is a unique format that should create excitement for the viewers," said Rob Correa, Senior Vice President Programming, CBS Sports. "We feel this will be a great companion to our existing Saturday afternoon lineup."
"CBS is the perfect partner for this venture," said UBT executive producer, Houston Curtis. "After meeting with the top broadcast and cable outlets in the country, we consider it the ultimate validation of our concept to be associated with one of the world's foremost leaders in sports programming."
The deal with CBS Sports foreshadows big things for the UBT as Blackjack is already a significantly more popular game than poker in the U.S. and worldwide. "Poker has gone crazy," said Hellmuth, a nine-time WSOP Champion. "Now you have another tournament game of skill. The UBT is going to be huge."
The special, patent-pending "elimination" format contains "forced eliminations," "secret bets," and, for the first time, reveals the dealer's hole card to the audience. These elements combine to add a heightened sense of drama that's unlike anything the genre has ever seen. "The UBT has figured out how to make blackjack exciting for television and I'm absolutely hooked," said poker champion Duke. "It was a blast to play and equally exciting to watch."
UBT producers invited more than 100 of the world's top card players to compete in Las Vegas for a chance to play in one of seven "Final Table" championship events in Los Angeles and win a share of over one million dollars in prize money. The seven championship programs, along with two special programs -- the "Legends of Blackjack" and the "Ladies of Blackjack" -- plus the "UBT Tournament of Champions" were shot at CBS Television City.
The second season will follow a defined worldwide tour schedule and be open to the public. Additionally, players will be able to compete for a seat at each event's final table by playing in free Elimination Blackjack(TM) competitions on the ULTIMATE BLACKJACK TOUR's official website, PLAYUBT.COM. The site will also provide Elimination Blackjack(TM) playing tips and in-depth analysis of the televised events.
In an effort to generate massive awareness about the Tour and enhance the standard slotting of network promos, UBT Chief Marketing Officer Larry Kopald said that discussions are underway with major sponsors and promotional partners in preparation for a national media blitz scheduled to coincide with the launch of the series on September 16.
The UBT is produced by Blackjack Entertainment, headed by executive producers Houston Curtis of Big Vision Entertainment and top entertainment attorney, Jon Moonves. Also serving as executive producers are Sam Korkis and Mark Ganshirt of Red 23 Entertainment.
Source: ULTIMATE BLACKJACK TOUR
Web site: http://playubt.com/
'Chicago Shamrox' Name and Logo Unveiled by Chicago Indoor Pro Lacrosse Franchise
Connie Kowal named Team President; Phil Ryan VP Lacrosse Operations
The "Chicago Shamrox" was announced today as the name of the new Chicago indoor professional lacrosse franchise of the National Lacrosse League (NLL). The announcement was made by the team ownership, which includes former NBA player and former Chicago Bulls coach Kevin Loughery and business executives Kevin Loughery, Jr., Don Sallee and Doug Schaer.
The Chicago Shamrox ownership group also named Conrad "Connie" Kowal as team President and Phil Ryan as Vice President, Director of Lacrosse Operations.
These announcements were part of a National Lacrosse League "state of the league" address by NLL Commissioner Jim Jennings. The NLL "Champion's Cup" title game will be televised live on ESPN2 this Saturday, May 13, at 5PM CT, as the Buffalo Bandits host the Colorado Mammoth at the HSBC Arena in Buffalo.
"The Shamrox name was the top choice of the fans in our Internet voting contest," said Kevin Loughery, Jr., managing partner and governor of the Chicago franchise. "We listened to the fans and we really like the name Shamrox. And we have some terrific logos that we trust our fans, players, coaches and staff will be proud to wear."
The team also announced a new official website, http://www.chicagoshamrox.com/. Team merchandise is also available now by ordering online at the team website. Season Ticket deposits, for only $25, are now being accepted at the Shamrox website or by phone at 866-4CHI-NLL.
Conrad "Connie" Kowal was named as President of the Chicago Shamrox. Kowal is a Chicago native who has been a sports executive for over 26 years, with front office experience in Major League Baseball, the NFL and other sports organizations. His background includes executive positions with the Chicago Cubs for 14 seasons (1985-1998) and, from 2003 to 2005, as Senior Director of Marketing and Business Development for the NFL's New Orleans Saints.
"We're excited to have Connie Kowal as our team president, someone with Chicago roots and someone so experienced in sports," said Kevin Loughery, Jr. "His background and success in sports gives us a solid leader in building, promoting and energizing our Chicago Shamrox indoor lacrosse efforts in the Chicago market."
"I am very excited and look forward to building this organization and Chicago Shamrox indoor lacrosse in Chicago," said Kowal. "Lacrosse is an exciting sport, a sport that is on an incredible growth pattern, and indoor lacrosse is a great sport to watch. Sports fans in general, and lacrosse fans in particular, will really enjoy the action of Chicago Shamrox indoor lacrosse when we open up the NLL season at the new Sears Centre arena in Hoffman Estates in January of 2007."
Phil Ryan brings lacrosse experience, both on and off the field, to the Chicago Shamrox. He has played collegiate (Washington College, MD) and professional lacrosse (Detroit, NLL, 1994), has been a successful coach at the youth, high school and collegiate levels in Chicago, and has helped expand the sport of lacrosse in the Chicagoland area as a partner with the business enterprise, Lacrosse America. He also had a successful career as an executive with Merrill Lynch.
"Phil brings a vast knowledge of lacrosse to our Chicago Shamrox organization," said Shamrox co-owner Kevin Loughery, Jr. "He's played the game, coached the game and been in the business of lacrosse. He'll be extremely important to our team on the field, and important to our community relations off the field."
"This is a great opportunity for me to be a part of the growth of lacrosse in Chicago at the professional level," said Ryan. "Lacrosse has been such a big part of my life, particularly in building the development of lacrosse in Chicago, so I am really excited to make Chicago Shamrox indoor lacrosse something special in Chicago."
The Chicago Shamrox inaugural NLL season begins in January 2007 at the new Sears Centre arena in suburban Hoffman Estates. The National Lacrosse League is in its 20th season of play and hosts its NLL Champion's Cup this Saturday, May 13, at 6PM ET (live ESPN2 telecast) featuring the Buffalo Bandits and the Colorado Mammoth at the HSBC Arena in Buffalo. Besides the Chicago Shamrox, the NLL will also add a franchise in New York expanding the league to 13 teams in 2007.
Transactions:
LACROSSE
National Lacrosse League
Chicago: Announced SHAMROX as team name; Conrad "Connie" Kowal named team
President and Phil Ryan as VP, Director of Lacrosse Operations
Web Site: http://www.chicagoshamrox.com/
Tennis Legends Donate Time to Raise Money for Tennis and Education Program at the Junior Tennis Champions Center (JTCC)
JTCC Student Athletes to be Honored at the Event
Junior Tennis Champions Center (JTCC), a non-profit focused on high performance junior tennis training will host a Celebrity Pro-Am Fundraiser on May 12-13, 2006. Over 20 tennis legends, world's former top 10 players and other celebrities together with business leaders in the Washington, DC region will join their forces in this event to raise money for tennis and education financial aid for the tennis players of all economic backgrounds at the Junior Tennis Champions Center (JTCC).
The Celebrity Pro-Am Fundraiser, to be held at the JTCC headquarter in College Park, MD, will feature tennis legends such as Richey Reneberg (world's former #1 in doubles), Zina Garrison (world's former #4), Jimmy Arias (world's former #5), Eliot Teltcher (world's former #6), MaliVai Washington (world's former #11), David Wheaton (world's former #12), Tim Wilkison (world's former top 25), local tennis hero Paul Goldstein (world's current top 100), and many more. The celebrities will team up with the local leaders in the business community for a competitive doubles game of round robin. "It is a fun tennis event to benefit local talented junior tennis players and I am very excited to be a part of it. It is so great that all the net proceeds will go to the junior players' financial aid," said Paul Goldstein, a rising professional tennis player from Washington, DC ranked #58 in the world.
Among catered reception, exclusive auction, and other entertainment, the Celebrity Pro-Am Fundraiser will also include an awards ceremony honoring its graduates and rising stars. "Our last player from the first generation of JTCC participants, Eleanor Peters, previously ranked #1 in the United States in girls 16's, has received a full scholarship at the University of Maryland for fall 2006. She is a role model for our new generation of players and a great example of the kind of champions we want to develop," said the JTCC Director of Player Development, Vesa Ponkka. The JTCC Alumni include four professional tennis players currently playing on the ATP and WTA Pro Tours, and 14 players on tennis scholarships in top Division I universities.
The current JTCC roster includes three players ranked top 10 in the United States, five players ranked top 50 in the United States, and 21 players ranked top 10 in the Mid-Atlantic region (VA, DC, MD). "We are looking forward to developing the next champions from our new generation of players, and our current rising stars include Trice Capra, who is currently ranked #1 in the United States in girls 14's, and Jared Pinsky, who recently reached #1 ranking in the United States in boys 16's," said Frank Salazar, JTCC Director of Coaching.
The JTCC was launched in 1999 with the mission to be the best training center in the world for talented young tennis players of all economic backgrounds. Through high quality coaching, education, mentoring, tutoring, and community service, the JTCC strives to develop and train tennis champions who uphold the highest competitive, academic, ethical, and personal values as they realize their full potential.
Source: Junior Tennis Champions Center
Web site: http://www.jtcc.org/
Hybrid Cars Give Business Travelers Price Break at the Pump; EV Rental Cars, An Environmental Rental Car Company, Adds to Its Hybrid Fleet While Politicians Debate Fuel Economy Standards
While the Bush administration and Congress debate how to alter fuel economy standards, and soaring gas prices continue to cause financial hardship for 7 in 10 Americans, business travelers are turning to alternative means of transportation to save corporate coffers from the squeeze at the pumps. But companies can't put important business travel arrangements on hold, so one small car rental company is offering a solution to weary business travelers in the western states.
EV Rental Cars, the nation's only rental car agency exclusively offering hybrid vehicles, is rapidly building its fleet in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, and Phoenix.
"We have a responsibility to the environment and to the economy to help business travelers who are suffering from political foot-dragging and oil company profiteering," said EV Rental Cars Chairman Jeff Pink. During the next six to twelve months Pink is planning on adding as many as 500 hybrid vehicles to the EV Rental Cars fleet in Las Vegas alone, which is one of the top three highest volume rental car cities in America.
"In a hybrid rental vehicle I can drive around Las Vegas for two days and never have to refill the tank before returning to the airport," said Patrick Pharris, President and CEO of Promethean Partners, the advertising broker for the environmentally friendly Las Vegas Monorail.
A particular benefit of renting EV Rental Cars' hybrid vehicles is that these vehicles qualify for the carpool lane in California, even when the driver is the only occupant.
EV Rental Cars has the largest fleet of used hybrids that are now available for sale to the public.
BENEFITS OF RENTING A HYBRID CAR:
-- Up to 50 miles-per-gallon, 600 miles per tank
-- California drivers qualify for the carpool lane, even if driving alone
-- Seats up to five passengers
-- Runs on electric and uses no gas when driving at slow speeds
The hybrid vehicles provided by EV Rental Cars include the Toyota Prius, Toyota Highlander, and the new Honda Civic Hybrid models. Each gets nearly 50 miles a gallon and has a range of about 600 miles per tank of gasoline. Both are half electric and half gasoline-powered cars that seat five passengers. Each is equipped with integrated charging systems, which mean they never have to be recharged from an outside source.
EV Rental Cars opened its doors in December 1998 as the first and only rental company in the United States to rent only environmental vehicles to the public. EV Rental Cars' fleet has grown to more than 350 cars at 8 locations throughout the country. Airport locations include California sites in Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, a site in Phoenix, AZ and its newest location in Las Vegas, NV. The company has prevented more than 100 tons of air pollution and passed on to its customers more than $1 million in fuel costs savings by acting environmentally. EV Rental Cars is an affiliate of Fox Rent-A-Car. For more information on EV Rental Cars, visit them on the Web at http://www.evrental.com
Echo Media Group
Snap N' Sold Corp.
(Pink Sheets:SNPD) announced today that the Company will be an exhibitor during "The Money Show" conference to be held at the Paris Hotel & Casino and Bally's Hotel & Casino (properties of Harrah's Entertainment, Inc.) in Las Vegas, NV from May 16th - 18th . Snap N' Sold's Management will be on hand and will join the staff of subsidiaries Thrifty Brothers, EZ Auctions & Shipping and HotAutoWeb.com at booth #440 to introduce individual investors and investment professionals to the company and its service offerings. Additionally, Snap N' Sold's Director of Charitable Fundraising and former NFL star Wide Receiver, Hassan Jones, will be in attendance and signing autographs on Wednesday, May 17th from 11am to 2pm. All Snap N' Sold shareholders are encouraged to attend and meet with members of the Snap N' Sold Family.
A flagship production of InterShow(TM), "The Money Show" series are 3 day educational conferences for individual investors and are held each year in Florida, Las Vegas, San Francisco, and Atlantic City. Each Money Show attracts from 8,000 to 12,000 sophisticated investors, who come to enjoy superior programming featuring as many as 50 of the world's leading financial authorities. These industry leaders share their expertise, specific recommendations, and strategies in up to 200 workshops, panel discussions, and intensive seminars. This programming, combined with as many as 200 display booths in the state-of-the-art exhibition hall, makes the Money Show America's #1 marketplace for investor education and expert advice. This years money show, http://www.lasvegasmoneyshow.com/MS/lasVegas/main.asp, is being sponsored by such names as the New York Stock Exchange, subsidiary of the NYSE Group (NYSE:NYX) and Fidelity Investments(TM), and is anticipating capacity crowds at the promotion of media partners including SmartMoney(TM), a joint venture of Dow Jones & Company (NYSE: DJ) and The Hearst Corporation, MSN Money(TM), CNBC(TM), an 80/20 joint venture between General Electric Company (NYSE:GE) and Vivendi Universal's (NYSE:V) and Barron's(TM).
Snap N' Sold President, John DeLisa, commented, "We are excited at the prospect of taking part in the Las Vegas event to create more awareness for Snap N' Sold within the individual and institutional investment communities. Many of the attendees at these shows are small business owners and opportunity seekers that come not only for the world class investment education, but also to network and look for investment opportunities. The Money Show represents a fantastic opportunity for us to promote expansion of regional operations by attracting interested and motivated people with investment capital to deploy and a desire to develop a thriving business."
About Snap N' Sold Corp.
Snap N' Sold Corp is engaged in the eBay (NASDAQ:EBAY), drop store industry with competitors, Las Vegas based Net2Auction Inc. subsidiary of AmeriResource Technologies, Inc., Dallas based Orbit Drop, Inc. and as well as other auction facilitators like the EZ2Companies.com. Snap N' Sold is managing its growth through the acquisition of community-centered retail "thrift stores" that will continue operating in that business while also acting as local eBay drop store 'consignment centers' and corporate and estate asset disposition offices. Snap N' Sold Corp. also through its HotAutoWeb subsidiary, http://www.hotautoweb.com, is engaged in the business of direct-to-consumer sales and auctions of highly-coveted classic, race cars and hot rods. While HotAutoWeb currently sells other forms of conveyance, such as RVs, airplanes, motorcycles and boats, the company will be building vehicle-specific web sites to facilitate listings and sales in the same manner as HotAutoWeb. The company is also instituting a National Regional Representative Program to drive local service representation and national listing and sales growth.
Emerging U.S. Talent at the Center of Fox Soccer Channel's Upcoming Coverage of the Cal South National Cup; One-Hour Tournament Highlights Program to Air Saturday, May 20
Fox Soccer Channel and the California Youth Soccer Association-South today announced the creation of a one-hour highlights program dedicated to the 2006 Cal South National Cup, the first leg of the U.S. Youth Soccer National Championship Series. Cal South is the Southern California-based youth state association of the United States Soccer Federation and United States Youth Soccer Association. The Cal South National Cup is the organization's premier annual soccer tournament. Debuting on Saturday, May 20, at 4:00 p.m. ET/1:00 p.m. PT, the program will feature exclusive footage from the boys' and girls' Under-15 and Under-17 finals, as well as results and interviews from the Cal South National Cup U14, U16 & U18 Boys and Girls finals.
The show will be hosted by Fox Soccer Channel's Mark Rogondino, best known among FSC viewers for his pre- and post-game commentary during the Barclays English Premier League season.
The Cal South National Cup has enjoyed tremendous success over the past three decades and is regarded as the single greatest launching pad for this country's men's and women's soccer stars of tomorrow. In fact, many of the game's biggest stars playing today in the U.S. participated in the Cal South National Cup. Seven players on the 23-man roster named to the U.S. World Cup Team have roots in the Cal South program, including Landon Donovan, Carlos Bocanegra, Steve Cherundolo, Jimmy Conrad, Frankie Hejduk, Eddie Lewis and John O'Brien. On the women's side, national team legends Julie Foudy and Joy Fawcett emerged onto the national scene after their participation in the Cal South National Cup; other notable tournament alumnae include standouts Shannon Boxx and rising star Amy Rodriguez.
In addition to capturing the coveted Cal South National Cup, winners in each of the various age groups automatically qualify for the U.S. Youth Soccer Western Regional Championships. Winning their age bracket at the Western Regionals will send the teams to the prestigious U.S. Youth Soccer National Championships, which will be televised exclusively on Fox Soccer Channel in August 2006.
About Cal South
The California Youth Soccer Association - South (Cal South) is the premier state association of United States Youth Soccer Association and the United States Soccer Federation representing over 10,200 teams and 137,000 players, coaches and league administrators throughout Southern California. Cal South's teams and players have excelled at every level, winning more national championships and placing more players on U.S. National Teams than any other state association in the country. Cal South is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, organized in the State of California for the purpose of providing athletic opportunities for our community's youth in the sport of soccer. For more information, visit http://www.CalSouth.com.
About Fox Soccer Channel
Fox Soccer Channel is affiliated with Fox Sports International, an international sports programming and production entity housed within Fox Networks Group. Fox Networks Group, an operating unit of News Corporation, consists of the FOX Broadcasting Company, Fox Cable Networks, FOX Sports and Fox Networks Engineering & Operations (FNE&O). For more information, visit Fox Soccer Channel online at foxsoccer.com.
Lance Armstrong Featured in Latest NHL Promo
Seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong is the latest celebrity featured in the Stanley Cup Playoffs broadcast advertising campaign. The former professional cyclist voiced the newest 'My Stanley Cup' ad, which also features Joe Thornton of the San Jose Sharks; Eric Staal of the Carolina Hurricanes; Joe Sakic of the Colorado Avalanche; Martin Brodeur of the New Jersey Devils; and Scott Niedermayer, Teemu Selanne and Andy McDonald of the Anaheim Mighty Ducks. The ad will debut during the May 13 NHL on NBC broadcast.
In the spot, written and produced by NHL Productions, Armstrong says "No one remembers who came in second. There is no immortality for second best. No champagne bath...No engraving. Just a lonely walk down a quiet hall and the silence can break your heart." The spot will air on NBC, OLN, CBC, TSN, local affiliates and the NHL Network.
"Players who have won the Stanley Cup describe the Playoffs as a marathon filled with sprints. I can identify with that description," said Armstrong. "I was honored to be asked by the NHL to do a voiceover for the Playoffs. I have always admired how hard NHL players work to achieve their ultimate goal."
Armstrong is the latest celebrity to narrate a broadcast ad for the 2006 Stanley Playoffs. The NHL unveiled three 'My Stanley Cup' spots in April featuring actors Kiefer Sutherland, Denis Leary and Howie Mandel.
The spot will be available for viewing on NHL.com. NHL and Stanley Cup are registered trademarks and My Stanley Cup is a trademark of the National Hockey League. All Rights Reserved. for the NHL
DOD
DoD Identifies Casualties
The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died in Ad Diwaniyah, Iraq, on May 6, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their M1083 cargo truck during combat operations. Both soldiers were assigned to the Army National Guard's 3rd Battalion, 172nd Infantry (Mountain), Brewer, Maine. Killed were: Staff Sgt. Dale J. Kelly Jr., 48, of Richmond, Maine. Staff Sgt. David M. Veverka, 25, of Jamestown, Pa.
Four Marines died yesterday when their tank rolled off a bridge in Iraq's Anbar province. The Defense Department also has identified a Marine killed May 10. The Marines, all assigned to Regimental Combat Team 5, drowned when the U.S. M1A1 main battle tank they were traveling in rolled into a canal near Karmah. "We are a close-knit family, and this loss affects us all," said Col. Larry D. Nicholson, commanding officer of Regimental Combat Team 5. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of these Marines during this difficult period." The accident is under investigation, but the deaths were not a result of enemy action, U.S. officials said. The names of the deceased are being withheld pending notification of the families. Meanwhile, DoD has identified a Marine who died supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. Alessandro Carbonaro, 28, of Bethesda, Md., died May 10 at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Germany, from wounds received in Anbar province May 1. He was assigned to 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.
Soldier MIA from the Korean War is Identified The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Korean War, have been identified and returned to his family for burial with full military honors. He is U.S. Army Corporal Henry D. Connell of Springfield, Mass. He will be buried in his hometown on Saturday. Connell was assigned to Company L, 8th Cavalry Regiment, when his unit engaged North Korean forces near Taegu, South Korea, in September 1950. He sustained injuries from a fall while evacuating wounded soldiers from the battlefield. Connell was sent to a military hospital in Japan, from which he was later reported erroneously to be absent without leave. An investigation proved that Connell had returned to his unit, now battling Communist Chinese forces in North Korea in early November 1950 near Unsan, about 60 miles north of the capital of Pyongyang. He had been reported missing in action from that battle. Between 1991-94, North Korea turned 208 boxes of remains believed to contain the remains of 200-400 U.S. servicemen. One of those boxes, received on July 12, 1993, contained two dog tags for Connell, as well as human remains. The accompanying North Korean documents indicated the remains had been exhumed in Unsan County. Over the next several years, forensic anthropologists at the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) at Hickam AFB, Hawaii, were able to determine that the box contained the remains of at least four individuals. Some of those remains represented a 14-18-year-old male who stood approximately 70 inches tall at the time of his death. Korean War medical records indicated that Connell was 17 years, 9 months of age, and stood 69.5 inches tall. Among several forensic identification tools, scientists from JPAC and the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory (AFDIL) also used mitochondrial DNA as one of the forensic tools in the identification of Connell's remains, matching a DNA sequence from a maternal relative.
DoD, Veterans Mourn U.S. Rep. Sonny Montgomery
The Defense Department, Department of Veterans Affairs and millions of servicemembers and veterans are mourning retired U.S. Rep. Gillespie "Sonny" Montgomery, who died today at 85 in Meridian, Miss., following a long illness. "With the passing on of Sonny Montgomery, America has lost a true patriot, and the men and women in uniform have lost one of their most passionate advocates," Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld said in a statement issued today. "A decorated veteran of World War II -- where he won the Bronze Star for capturing a German machine gun nest -- as well as the Korean War, Sonny Montgomery brought his personal experience and expertise in military matters to bear in a lifetime of public service," Rumsfeld said.
The secretary called it a privilege to serve with Montgomery when he first joined the House of Representatives in the late 1960s. "Because of the way he treated everyone with grace and respect, Sonny would go on to become one of the most beloved and respected members of the Congress on both sides of the aisle," Rumsfeld noted. Montgomery's outstanding legislative accomplishment, Rumsfeld said, was the Montgomery G.I Bill that bears his name and has "extended educational benefits to countless thousands of soldiers in the nation's all-volunteer service." "The title of a recent biography of Sonny Montgomery put it well," Rumsfeld said. He truly was 'The Veteran's Champion.'" Montgomery served for 13 years as chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee and was known as a champion of servicemembers and veterans.
One of his biggest achievements was writing the modernized GI Bill that boosted recruiting for the all-volunteer force. President Bush presented Montgomery the Presidential Medal of Freedom in November "for his service to our country and for his dedicated work to honor and improve the lives of the men and women who sacrifice for our liberty." The medal is the nation's highest civilian award. During the ceremony, Bush lauded Montgomery as a "tireless champion for America's veterans." "A decorated veteran of World War II and the Korean War, Sonny Montgomery brought his personal experience and expertise to his service on the Veterans' Affairs Committee and Armed Services Committee," the president noted. "He sponsored the landmark Montgomery GI Bill, which has helped make higher education and professional and vocational training accessible to millions of America's veterans." Today, Veterans Affairs Secretary R. James Nicholson referred to Montgomery as "Mr. Veteran." "He was one of America's strongest advocates for the men and women in uniform, and he was a dedicated statesman," Nicholson said in a statement released today. "After nearly three decades on the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, including 13 years as its chairman, Sonny left an indelible mark on the history of veterans and military services in America." Nicholson said. "His efforts to improve veterans' educational benefits reached a zenith in 1984 with what we now refer to as the Montgomery GI Bill of Rights. "Sonny Montgomery once said, 'Patriotism is a pretty simple word, but also a beautiful word to most Americans,'" Nicholson said. "Sonny Montgomery exemplified patriotism, and he will be greatly missed." Army Lt. Gen. H Steven Blum, chief of the National Guard Bureau, called Montgomery "the quintessential citizen-soldier who set the conditions for the success of the all-volunteer force." Within National Guard circles, he was known as "Mr. National Guard," and the Enlisted Association of the National Guard named its highest tribute for him, the G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery Eagle Award. "The National Guard as an institution and individual Guardsmen past, present and future owe 'Sonny' Montgomery an enormous debt of gratitude for his lifetime of effort on our behalf," said retired Brig. Gen. Stephen M. Koper, president of the National Guard Association of the United States. "To us, he is more than a giant. He is, and forever will be, 'Mr. National Guard.'" In addition to an education benefit and National Guard award, Montgomery has a long list of other military institutions named in his honor. Among them are the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Jackson, Miss., the Naval Reserve Training Center at Naval Air Station Meridian, and the Sonny Montgomery Airport at Forest, Miss. In addition, the Mississippi Air National Guard's C-17 Globemaster III transport plane is named "The Spirit of G.V. 'Sonny' Montgomery." Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
The U.S. House of Representatives voted yesterday to allow military forces to be used in border-security operations under certain circumstances.
In a 252-171 vote, House members agreed on an amendment to the Sonny Montgomery National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007. Representatives also voted yesterday to name the bill after Montgomery, a retired congressman and tireless veterans advocate. Montgomery died today at age 85. The act gives authority to the Defense Department to assign military members to assist Homeland Security organizations in preventing the entry of terrorists, drug traffickers and illegal aliens into the United States and in inspecting cargo, vehicles and aircraft entering the United States to prevent weapons of mass destruction or other terrorist or drug trafficking items from entering the country.
The act specifies that such a move must be made at the request of the secretary of Homeland Security, who must certify that the action "is necessary to respond to a threat to national security posed by the entry into the United States of terrorists, drug traffickers, or illegal aliens." Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman stressed that the military already has been helping other government agencies in some border-security functions, namely surveillance with unmanned aerial vehicles. "I think it's important to understand that the United States military does provide some assistance to the states currently," he said. Governors in some border states use National Guard servicemembers in border-security missions, as well. Whitman said it's important to remember that governors have authority to mobilize their National Guard forces as they see fit as long as they pay for the mobilization from within state budgets. The Posse Comitatus Act of 1878 largely forbids the U.S. military from becoming involved in domestic law-enforcement actions.
The Coast Guard and National Guard troops under the control of state governors are excluded from the act, however. "This county has always had a certain level of discomfort & with military doing things that are law enforcement-type activities," a senior official said on background. Critics of such military use point to the case of 18-year-old Ezequiel Hernandez, who was shot and killed by a U.S. Marine patrol near the Rio Grande River at Redford, Texas, in 1997. The Marines said Hernandez fired at them, and the corporal who pulled the trigger was not charged with a crime. But the case brought about widespread attention to and debate on the role the U.S. military plays in border enforcement. Similar issues have been raised about the military's role within the United States since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. The federal government also can pay for governors to mobilize their National Guard forces in the case of national emergencies.
This mechanism was used during recovery efforts for Hurricane Katrina. Activated Guard forces remained under their governors' operational control, but federal funds were used to pay for the operation. In addition, National Guard forces can be federalized then used in the same manner as active-duty forces. Press reports today state that Assistant Defense Secretary for Homeland Defense Paul McHale has asked defense leaders to devise options for use of military forces in border-enforcement activities. Defense officials today did not specifically confirm this, but said such a move would be consistent with contingency planning that goes on every day in the Pentagon. "This is a building that develops options, & develops potential courses of action," the official said. "This is not a decision the Defense Department would make, though. Border security (and) policing is not the primary role or mission of the United States military." Language in the bill refers to allowing military members to assist Homeland Security assets in preventing terrorists from entering the United States. Officials have long recognized that illegal trafficking in people and weapons through Latin America poses a threat to the United States. Rumsfeld and his Central American counterparts discussed this issue at a conference in Miami in October.
All in attendance agreed that porous borders to the south can contribute to international terrorism. "Drug traffickers, smugglers, hostage takers, terrorists, violent gangs: These are threats that are serious," Rumsfeld said at the conference Oct. 12. Whitman said today that the United States stresses to South and Central American neighbors the importance of border security. Ungoverned spaces and available funding for illicit activities certainly can have a relationship with terrorism, he said. "That's why we should be concerned," he said. Whitman also said that today's meeting between Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld and Mexican National Defense Secretary Gen. Gerardo Ricardo Vega is "unrelated to any current speculation that I see in current press reporting." "This has been on the schedule for quite some time," he said.
America Supports You: VFW Gets Boost from Patriotic Musicians
American Spirit," a new CD of patriotic songs from musical group Mannheim Steamroller will go on sale May 15 to July 31 to benefit America's servicemembers and their families. A portion of the proceeds will be donated directly to the Veterans of Foreign Wars "Unmet Needs," a military assistance program giving financial aid to military families in need. "We are excited about working with the VFW Foundation and military assistance program," said Chip Davis, the group's creator and main composer. "The donation is our way of thanking the men and women of the U.S. armed forces and their families for all of their sacrifices." On top of the monetary donation, for each CD sold, Mannheim Steamroller will provide a free CD to be sent to the VFW military assistance program for distribution to military families. "On July 31, when we end this promotion, they're going to tell us how many thousands were ordered, and then they'll provide us a comparable amount that we will distribute around the country," Mike Gormalley, the VFW Foundation's senior director, said.
The group contacted Unmet Needs and proposed the project three months ago, Gormalley said. Although the promotion kicks off May 15, Gormalley said he was already getting calls in April from people interested in ordering C's. Since its inception in June 2004, the VFW Foundation has distributed over $1,000,000 to needy families, and the program continues reaching out to other groups to help the support effort. Vermont American, a power tool company, is the biggest donor to Unmet Needs, providing $250,000 per year, Gormalley said, adding that Mannheim Steamroller will be a big help this summer. "We've had smaller donations by groups," he said. "But those are the two main groups right now." Retired Marine Gunnery Sgt. R. Lee Ermey, famous for his role as a drill instructor in the 1987 film "Full Metal Jacket," is the main spokesman for Unmet Needs. Earlier this year, he helped issue a challenge to Junior ROTC units across the country, enlisting high school students' help to support military families. Gormalley said he expects to ramp up that program annually, issuing the challenge each September.
Asian-Pacific Americans Play Major Role in Nation's Defense, Admiral Says
The vast Asian-Pacific region is enormously important to America's national security and the geo-political and economic importance of the region continues to grow, a top Pacific Command official said here this week. Navy Rear Adm. William VanMeter Alford Jr., chief of staff of the U.S. Pacific Command, spoke during the Defense Department's Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month luncheon and military awards ceremony May 10. He said the region is extremely important to national security and represents 60 percent of the world's population, including the two countries with the world's largest population -- China, with 1.3 billion people, and India. "The democratic country with the largest population in the world isn't the U.S., it's India, with more than 1.1 billion people," Alford noted. "As you can see, America's interests in this region are vast and significant. "We see Asian-Pacific Americans in our military leading the way to bridge cultural and communication barriers between the various countries in this region," the admiral said. "We see great Americans doing everything they can for our country as we prosecute the global war on terrorism.
And, we see statesmen, scholars and future leaders developing before our eyes. Asian-Pacific Americans contribute immeasurably to the success of the U.S. Pacific Command and this region." Alford said the American melting pot benefits from the contributions of all its sons and daughters, and the nation honors the contributions of Asian-Pacific Americans and share in their sacrifices. He said people with Asian-Pacific ancestry know that countries of their heritage span more than 50 percent of the Earth's surface, and the region represents millions of square miles of ocean, billions of people, hundreds of religions and cultures, and more than 40 countries. Noting that the Pacific region has vast diversity among the countries, cultures, languages and religions, Alford said, "Twenty-five percent of the world's trade and 50 percent of the world's oil production passes through this region. Today, 35 percent of U.S. trade is with countries in this region." By contrast, Alford said, U.S. trade with the European Union in only 19 percent, 20 percent with Canada, and 18 percent with Latin America. "Asian-Pacific nations account for about 34 percent of the gross world product, while the U.S. accounts for 21 percent," he noted. He noted that Indonesia, the country with the world's largest Muslim population, is within the U.S. Pacific Command area of responsibility. "Indonesia is a country striving to cement democratic rule, a country made up of more than a thousand islands, a country which when compared to the U.S. mainland would span all the way between the east and west coasts." Alford went on to point out that Japanese Americans served exceptional well in World War II. "We recognize not only the 442nd Regimental Combat Team or the 100th Infantry, & but also the lesser known Nisei soldiers who were America's secret weapon.
The soldiers of the military intelligence service were credited with saving countless American lives by their ability to intercept and interpret imperial Japanese army messages. "Today, we receive daily media accounts from Iraq and Afghanistan crediting America's sons and daughters from Hawaii, Guam, America Samoa, the Philippines, the Pacific Islands, East Asia, California and Alaska among others who fight in support of operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom," the admiral noted. "These heroes are spreading the spirit of 'Aloha' and kindness to the Iraqi and Afghan people as they rebuild their countries and welcome a chance to be free," Alford said. He said this year's theme for Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month, "Dreams and Challenges for the Asian-Pacific American," is appropriate "as we look toward our country's future and work to help other countries around the world overcome their challenges to achieve their dreams." Noting that the nation's diversity makes it stronger, Alford said, "Our shared ideas, hopes and dreams bond us as a people. We must remember that the struggle for freedom is ever present and ongoing."
NEWS & NEWS IN SPANISH
El panel de deportes de GLOBALCOMM destaca la tendencia en distribución de contenido móvil; Entre los oradores se encuentran representantes de ESPN Publishing, WIRED Magazine, Sprint, Amp'd Mobile y Current Analysis
La Asociación de la Industria de las Telecomunicaciones (TIA, por sus siglas en inglés) anunció que GLOBALCOMM(TM) 2006 presentará un panel inaugural moderado por Frank Rose de WIRED Magazine, cuyo título será: "¡Gol! ¡Anotación "touchdown"! ¡Jugada de 3 puntos! Cómo el deporte está cambiando el mundo de los servicios móviles" y que tratará sobre la distribución de contenido de deportes en dispositivos móviles. En la medida en que los servicios de banda ancha e inalámbricos han ido convergiendo cada vez más, la instalación de nuevos tipos de programas deportivos sigue liderando la industria. El panel de contenido deportivo se realizará el lunes 5 de junio de 12:15 p.m. a 1:15 p.m. en el McCormick Place.
GLOBALCOMM(TM), la plaza comercial y cumbre de la industria de las comunicaciones de la próxima generación, se realizará entre el 4 y el 8 de junio de 2006, en el McCormick Place de Chicago. GLOBALCOMM(TM) sustituye a SUPERCOMM(R) como el evento anual de la TIA en ese sector.
"¡Gol! ¡Anotación "touchdown"! ¡Jugada de 3 puntos! Cómo el deporte está cambiando el mundo de los servicios móviles" tratará temas relacionados con el aumento de los medios de comunicación deportivos en los dispositivos portátiles desde varios puntos de vista, incluyendo temas de producción, gestión de derechos digitales y demandas del consumidor. Además, los panelistas examinarán las tecnologías que respaldan los sistemas inalámbricos de vídeos deportivos y la capacidad para ofrecer una gran variedad de contenido, películas, televisión y música.
El panel debatirá sobre las ventajas y desventajas de un operador móvil virtual (MVNO, por sus siglas en inglés) o una empresa de telecomunicaciones sólo de deportes o de contenido general. Los panelistas confirmados son: Vlad Edelman, vicepresidente y gerente general de Mobile ESPN Publishing Worldwide, Tom Murphy, vicepresidente de marketing de Sprint Nextel, Aaron Quick, productor ejecutivo de programación deportiva de Amp'd Mobile, y Weston Henderek, analista senior de Current Analysis.
"El contenido deportivo representa el primer segmento de los medios de entretenimientos en ser aceptado por los usuarios de servicios móviles, y organizaciones tales como ESPN y Amp'd se están convirtiendo en empresas de contenido de comunicaciones", señaló Matt Flanigan, presidente de la TIA. "Esta tendencia es de suma importancia para la industria, ya que probablemente será imitada en otras áreas de la industria del contenido, tales como los iTunes o vídeos musicales y música o películas".
Con casi 500 empresas expositoras y los 20.000 asistentes que se esperan, este año GLOBALCOMM(TM) será la principal feria comercial horizontal de telecomunicaciones de América del Norte. GLOBALCOMM(TM) 2006 también presentará, en forma gratuita, el discurso inaugural de Mike Lazaridis, presidente y codirector general de RIM.
GLOBALCOMM(TM) representa la mejor oportunidad para toda la industria mundial de la tecnología de la información y las comunicaciones. Más de 15 por ciento de los asistentes serán de nivel internacional y se contará con la representación de más de 100 países; además, el Departamento de Comercio, Administración de Comercio Internacional trabaja con GLOBALCOMM(TM) para brindar un programa internacional para compradores.
Acerca de la TIA
La TIA es la principal asociación comercial de la industria de la tecnología de las comunicaciones y la información (ICT, por sus siglas en inglés). Como propietaria y productora de GLOBALCOMM(TM), la TIA representa a los proveedores mundiales de ICT, sus proveedores de servicios y clientes empresariales mediante su liderazgo en el desarrollo de normas, la defensa de las políticas nacionales e internacionales y la creación de oportunidades comerciales para sus socios. La TIA representa al sector de comunicaciones de la Alianza de las Industrias Electrónicas (EIA, por sus siglas en inglés). Visítenos en http://www.tiaonline.org.
Acerca de GLOBALCOMM(TM)
GLOBALCOMM(TM) es una marca comercial de la Asociación de la Industria de las Telecomunicaciones (TIA). La cumbre y plaza comercial de la industria de las comunicaciones de la próxima generación se celebrará del 4 al 8 de junio de 2006, en el McCormick Place de Chicago, Illinois, Estados Unidos. Visite el sitio web: http://www.globalcomm2006.com.
SUPERCOMM(R) es una marca comercial registrada de la Asociación de la Industria de las Telecomunicaciones (TIA) y de la Asociación de las Telecomunicaciones de los Estados Unidos (USTA, por sus siglas en inglés). El último SUPERCOMM(R) se celebró en junio de 2005.
Bargain Hunters Find Coupons and Deals From More Than 5,000 Companies in One Location at WebbyPlanet.com Site Has Partnerships With Various Name Brands Such as Dell, Overstock.com
AZ73 LLC today announced the launch of WebbyPlanet.com, a Website that allows consumers to quickly search for and find coupons, rebates, sales and free shipping offered by over 5,000 well-known companies. WebbyPlanet.com is a one-stop destination for time-strapped consumers who don't have time to sift through newspapers and magazines and cut coupons to find deals. Consumers who visit the site receive coupon codes to use for instant online purchases and, occasionally, can download and print coupons for in-store purchases. The site contains discounts offered by direct producers, online stores and discount online marketplaces. A wide range of name-brand companies have marketing partnerships with WebbyPlanet.com, including Dell, Overstock.com, Eddie Bauer, Buy.com and Sephora. Consumers search for deals at WebbyPlanet.com by product, company name or service. Once a company is chosen, discount details are listed in chronological order. The site also links each deal to the company's e-commerce site, so consumers can immediately take advantage of discounts and purchase products. "There are so many online marketplaces out there, but we feel that WebbyPlanet.com is really the only one that gives consumers thousands of useful discounts and ensures they pay less for the things they love," said Carlo Olmi, WebbyPlanet.com's marketing director. WebbyPlanet.com is updated daily to provide visitors with the most recent information and discounts available for products as companies constantly change the terms of their discounts. Consumers can also sign up to receive newsletter updates via e-mail to learn about the most recent coupons posted by their favorite companies.
By the end of 2006, WebbyPlanet.com plans to launch a rebate service that gives consumers who use online coupons an instant discount at checkout, as well as a rebate check soon thereafter. About AZ73 LLC AZ73 LLC owns and operates WebbyPlanet.com, consumer's gateway to online savings, as well as other various Websites in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States. The company focuses on the consumer side of the shopping experience and is dedicated to giving consumers the tools they need to find the best deals online
Loudeye renueva su acuerdo con Microsoft para proporcionar sus ofertas al almacén MSN Music en Europa
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- Disponible en 13 países, los servicios musicales MSN de Microsoft ya llegan a millones de personas a través de las descargas digitales musicales versátiles WMA
Hoy, Loudeye Corp. (Nasdaq: LOUD), líder mundial en soluciones empresariales para medios digitales, ha anunciado que Microsoft Corporation ha renovado sus acuerdos con los servicios OD2 de Loudeye para los almacenes digitales de música en treinta países europeos.
Con cientos de miles de clientes activos utilizando los servicios de música MSN para acceder a los archivos musicales de Windows Media, el servicio disfrutará de una excelente posición en el mercado europeo de las descargas digitales. El servicio de Loudeye MSN Music incluye características como la integración del enlace 'en reproducción' con el popular MSN Messenger, el servicio de mensajería instantánea más utilizado en todo el mundo, para ofrecer la innovadora oferta Streaming Subscription y una biblioteca llena de contenido.
"Estamos muy contentos de que Microsoft haya seleccionado renovar con los servicios OD2 de Loudeye", comentó Mike Brochu, director general y consejero delegado de Loudeye. "Junto a Microsoft, estamos comprometidos a continuar con las innovaciones en nuestras ofertas de servicios para medios digitales".
Ed Averdieck, director administrativo para Loudeye en Europa, añadió: "MSN es uno de los principales portales de Internet de Europa, y estamos muy contentos de trabajar juntos para suministrar un servicios digital de música a sus consumidores. Este acuerdo nos permitirá llevar a MSN Music a un nivel superior en este emocionante mercado de rápido crecimiento".
"MSN se complace al ampliar sus relaciones con Loudeye a nivel europeo", comentó Will Bromage, responsable de desarrollo empresarial de MSN EMEA. "Los servicios de Loudeye son vitales para ayudar a los clientes de MSN Music a experimentar y descubrir su música favorita a través de un amplio abanico de artistas locales y estrellas mundiales. Estamos muy contentos de asociarnos con ellos para que nos ayuden a desplegar un servicio digital de alta calidad".
Acerca de Loudeye Corp.
Loudeye es líder mundial en soluciones empresariales para medios digitales. Loudeye combina sus innovadores servicios con el mayor archivo musical de la industria de los medios digitales y una infraestructura de medios digitales líder a nivel industrial, permitiendo a los socios lanzar de forma rápida y económica una gama completa y personalizada de almacenes y servicios de medios digitales. Si desea más información, visite www.loudeye.com.
Declaraciones prospectivas
Este comunicado contiene información de previsiones dentro del marco de la Ley de Reforma de Pleitos por Valores Privados de 1995. Estos datos se basan en las estimaciones y datos actuales y pueden diferir sensiblemente debido a determinados riesgos, como la posibilidad de que se den cambios adversos en el mercado de la distribución de vídeo y audio digital en el que Loudeye trabaja; la posibilidad de que Microsoft termine el acuerdo antes de la fecha del vencimiento del acuerdo; desarrollos legales adversos o inciertos relativos a copyrights sobre la creación y distribución del contenido digital; la presión de los precios y otras actividades de la competencia; cualquier problema o fallo en la infraestructura de Loudeye; las complicaciones de distribución digital de la infraestructura de red de Loudeye; los fallos en los proveedores de redes y telecomunicaciones a la hora de ofrecer la capacidad de transmisión necesaria; la falta de aceptación de mercado para los productos y servicios de Loudeye; el posible retraso en la adopción de medios digitales o aplicaciones relacionadas en general; y otros riesgos establecidos en los documentos recientes de Loudeye para la SEC en modelos 10-Q y 10-K y otros documentos disponibles a través de EDGAR en www.sec.gov. Estos son los principales riesgos actualmente. Loudeye no asume ninguna obligación de actualizar estas afirmaciones.
Página web: http://www.loudeye.com
- Pope Receives College of Santa Maria dell'Anima
- Copy of the Virgin of Fatima Returns to the Vatican
- Religion Is Part of the Solution to Terrorism
- Cardinal Canizares to Take Possession of His Title on May 21
POPE RECEIVES COLLEGE OF SANTA MARIA DELL'ANIMA
This morning in the Vatican, Benedict XVI received the community of the college of Santa Maria dell'Anima. The institution is celebrating the sixth centenary of its foundation by the Bull of Pope Innocent VII, who exonerated it from all jurisdiction save that of the Pope, and took it under his own personal protection. Santa Maria dell'Anima houses German-speaking priests studying in the pontifical universities of Rome, and is linked with the Roman church of the same name, center of the German-speaking Catholic community in the Italian capital.
"Ever since its inception," said the Pope in German, "two traits have characterized this institution: veneration for the Virgin Mary, Mother of God, and a special link with the Holy See. ... Mary extends her hands to protect the souls of pilgrims, both those on the road of life, and those on the road to Rome."
"Since 1859, during the time of my predecessor Blessed Pope Pius IX," the Holy Father continued, "this institution has ensured that its resident priests and seminarians obtain a full understanding of 'romanitas Ecclesiae,' ... and the German-speaking community in Rome has its home in Santa Maria dell'Anima. Thus, Catholics from those lands have the opportunity of praying, singing and receiving the Sacraments in their own language."
The Pope concluded by inviting the priests and the heads of the institution to give priority, among all their activities, "to sacramental life," and to continue to be a spiritual beacon for the Italian capital city.
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COPY OF THE VIRGIN OF FATIMA RETURNS TO THE VATICAN
- Tomorrow, May 13, 89th anniversary of the first appearance of Our Lady of Fatima, and 25th anniversary of the attack against John Paul II in St. Peter's Square, a copy of the statue of the Virgin from that famous Portuguese shrine will return to the Vatican.
For the occasion, more than 20,000 pilgrims will gather in Rome in order to participate in the 2nd World Day of Pilgrims, being promoted by the "Opera Romana Pellegrinaggi."
The statue of the Virgin will arrive by helicopter at Castel Sant'Angelo on Saturday afternoon whence the pilgrims, led by Cardinal Ivan Dias, archbishop of Bombay, India, will accompany it in procession along Via della Conciliazione and into St. Peter's Basilica. In crossing St. Peter's Square, the procession will halt for a moment at the point in which John Paul II was shot.
In the basilica, after praying the rosary, the pilgrims will participate in a Eucharistic celebration presided by Cardinal Camillo Ruini, the Pope's vicar general for the diocese of Rome and president of "Opera Romana Pellegrinaggi."
After the Mass a celebration in honor of John Paul II will be held in St. Peter's Square, concluding with a firework display.
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RELIGION IS PART OF THE SOLUTION TO TERRORISM
Archbishop Celestino Migliore, Holy See permanent observer to the United Nations in New York yesterday participated in a series of informal consultations of the plenary of the General Assembly on counter-terrorism strategy.
The archbishop began his English-language talk by recalling how, at the beginning of this year, the Pope had called on all men and women of good will to unite their efforts in order to overcome the phenomenon of terrorism and build a just and peaceful coexistence.
In analyzing terrorism, said Archbishop Migliore, the Pope feels that "consideration should be given not only to its political and social causes but also to its deeper cultural, religious and ideological motivations." for this reason, the Holy See "is pleased to note that" the United Nations report on the subject "incorporates a cultural and religious component in its global strategy."
"The Holy See," he went on, "is willing to support initiatives that encourage believers to be agents of peace. ... Moreover, when religion's true nature is rightly understood and lived out, it can become part of the solution rather than the problem." Therefore, the United Nations should "encourage religions to make this important contribution on their own terms: that is, religions are called to create, support and promote the precondition of every encounter, every dialogue, and of every understanding of pluralism and cultural difference. That precondition ... is the dignity of the human person.
"Our common human dignity is a true precondition because it comes before every other consideration or methodological principle, even those of international law. We see it in the 'Golden Rule,' found throughout the religions of the world."
"Encouraging awareness and experience of this common heritage ... will surely help in the translation of this positive vision into political and social categories which will, in their turn, inform the juridical categories linked to national and international relations."
The permanent observer also recalled how "the political, social and economic exclusion of immigrant communities stokes the frustration of young people and has led to breakdowns in order in some places; but the demand for a just solution to these questions remains a legitimate one.
"By resolving such questions, swiftly and justly, nations can rob terrorists of the oxygen of hatred and of grievances, real or imagined, by which they attempt to legitimize their evil deeds and recruit the impressionable."
Archbishop Migliore concluded his talk by highlighting the fact that "counter-terrorism must be characterized by denying the moral high ground to terrorists. This is just one reason why the treatment of terrorists and suspects should be according to international humanitarian norms."
DELSS/ANTI-TERRORISM/MIGLIORE VIS 060512 (450)
CARDINAL CANIZARES TO TAKE POSSESSION OF HIS TITLE ON MAY 21
The Office of Liturgical Celebrations of the Supreme Pontiff today announced that Cardinal Antonio Canizares Llovera, archbishop of Toledo, Spain, will take possession of the title of St. Pancras, in Piazza San Pancrazio 5, Rome, at 10.30 a.m. on Sunday May 21, and not on Sunday May 14 as previously announced.
OCL/POSSESSION TITLE/CANIZARES VIS 060512 (70)
AUDIENCES
- The Holy Father today received in separate audiences:
- Jacques Diouf, director general of the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO), accompanied by an entourage.
- Cardinal Jose T. Sanchez, prefect emeritus of the Congregation for the Clergy.
- Archbishop Fernando Filoni, apostolic nuncio to the Philippines.
- His Royal Highness Duke Franz of Bavaria, accompanied by an entourage.
This evening, he is scheduled to receive in audience Cardinal William Joseph Levada, prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.
AP/.../... VIS 060512 (100)
OTHER PONTIFICAL ACTS
The Holy Father appointed Bishop Georges Pontier of La Rochelle, France, as metropolitan archbishop of Marseille (area 650, population 993,000, Catholics 703,000, priests 311, permanent deacons 22, religious 779), France. The archbishop-elect was born in Lavaur, France in 1943, he was ordained a priest in 1966 and consecrated a bishop in 1988. He succeeds Cardinal Bernard Panafieu, whose resignation from the pastoral care of the same archdiocese, the Holy Father accepted, upon having reached the age limit.
NER:RE/.../PONTIER:PANAFIEU VIS 060512 (90)
NASA AUTOMATED ROCKET SAFETY SYSTEM PASSES KEY TEST
NASA has successfully demonstrated a new automated system which may enhance launch safety and reduce costs for access to space. The autonomous flight safety system detects when a rocket is flying off course and directs itself to end the flight. The new "self-destruct" system, tested on April 5 during a suborbital flight from White Sands Missile Range, N.M., has the potential to dramatically reduce downrange radar, telemetry and command uplink requirements while enhancing reaction time. “The safety system was able to detect the rocket's position and compare it to the projected flight path," said Barton Bull, technology development manager at NASA's Wallops Flight Facility, Wallops Island, Va. “It was a very successful test of the prototype." “In an operational system, if the onboard computers had detected that the rocket was flying off course and there was the potential of it flying outside the launch range, the vehicle would self-destruct,” he said. NASA's Kennedy Space Center, Fla., joins Wallops in supporting the project, designed to let errant vehicles use onboard software to end a flight based on self-contained position and attitude sensors.
NASA has successfully demonstrated a new automated system which may enhance launch safety and reduce costs for access to space. The autonomous flight safety system detects when a rocket is flying off course and directs itself to end the flight. The new "self-destruct" system, tested on April 5 during a suborbital flight from White Sands Missile Range, N.M., has the potential to dramatically reduce downrange radar, telemetry and command uplink requirements while enhancing reaction time. “The safety system was able to detect the rocket's position and compare it to the projected flight path," said Barton Bull, technology development manager at NASA's Wallops Flight Facility, Wallops Island, Va. “It was a very successful test of the prototype." “In an operational system, if the onboard computers had detected that the rocket was flying off course and there was the potential of it flying outside the launch range, the vehicle would self-destruct,” he said. NASA's Kennedy Space Center, Fla., joins Wallops in supporting the project, designed to let errant vehicles use onboard software to end a flight based on self-contained position and attitude sensors.The system will be able to replicate all mission rules available to range safety officers without relying on any commands from the ground. The test incorporated redundant Global Positioning System sensors and used two on-board computer processors. One was loaded with a nominal trajectory and the other was programmed so that a nominal flight would violate safety rules and prompt a self-destruct. The system was not connected to a termination system during the test flight. The safety system functioned and reacted correctly during the entire flight from launch to parachute deployment. The two stage sounding rocket flew to an altitude of 47.5 miles, and the experiment package was safely recovered. The next goal of the project is to complete the design and demonstrate a system compliant with the strict reliability and redundancy rules required by range safety organizations at NASA and Department of Defense launch ranges. The next test flight of the system is tentatively scheduled for fall.
NASA EXPENDABLE LAUNCH VEHICLE STATUS REPORT
: E06-014 Mission: Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory (STEREO) Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II Launch Date: July 22, 2006 Launch Times: 3:11 - 3:13 p.m. and 4:19 - 4:34 p.m. EDT Technicians completed state-of-health testing of the two STEREO spacecraft this week, following their May 3 arrival in Florida. Individual system checkout is under way. The STEREO flight batteries are scheduled to be installed next week. The build-up of the Delta II rocket at Pad 17-B is scheduled to begin during the last week of May. For previous status reports visit: http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006 STEREO will use "3D" vision to build a global picture of the sun and its influences. For more information, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/stereo
UNION REASON FOR LOSING A VOTE
The UNITED TOBACCO ALLIANCE
for a Voice and Freedom (UTA) is a partnership between the Bakery,
Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union
(BCTGM) and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace
Workers (IAM). This partnership was formed after workers at Reynolds
American Tobacco requested the participation of both International unions
to form a union at two tobacco plants in Winston-Salem, N.C.
At the request of the majority of workers employed at Reynolds American
Tobacco Company, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) conducted a
secret ballot election on May 11. The preliminary vote stands at 862 for
union representation, 1,228 against union representation, 23 challenged
ballots and two void ballots.
In the weeks leading up to the union election, Reynolds launched a
vicious anti-union campaign designed to intimidate employees into voting
against union representation. Reynolds' well-funded, coercive drive to
instill fear in workers included threats to shut down the plants and move
production overseas, to take away current benefits, conducted captive
audience meetings and played streaming daily anti-union videos in the
workers' lunchroom.
"The company's high priced campaign of half truths, innuendos and
veiled threats coerced a majority of Reynolds' workers into voting no,"
notes John Price, a BCTGM International Representative and UTA Organizer.
"Clearly, workers could not vote freely or fairly."
Due to the egregious behavior of the company and a large number of
violations of worker rights under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA),
Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) charges have been filed against Reynolds. In
addition, the UTA intends to file additional ULPs as well as objections to
the conduct of the election with the NLRB.
Reynolds workers were supported in their organizing efforts by food and
tobacco unions from all over the world. Reynolds' controlling shareholder,
British American Tobacco, based in London, negotiates with unions in most
of its production facilities around the globe. Workers in those facilities
and elsewhere were shocked that BAT, responsible under global labor
standards for its affiliate, stood by while management at Reynolds
threatened to move production from the United States to third world
countries and committed other violations of the law.
The International Union of Foodworkers (IUF), the Geneva
Switzerland-based global union federation for workers in the food, tobacco,
and related industries, provided information to these and other unions and
mobilized letters to BAT protesting the gross violations of worker rights
by its affiliate Reynolds. Those messages of protest to BAT in London and
support for Reynolds workers poured in from unions in the European Union,
Russia, Japan, Africa, Latin America and elsewhere. The International
Confederation of Free Trade Unions (ICFTU) representing union central
bodies around the globe also sent a letter of support.
The IUF also filed complaints against BAT and its affiliate Reynolds
with the national offices in the United Kingdom and U.S. responsible for
monitoring compliance with guidelines for behavior of multinational
enterprises agreed to by governments in the Organization for Economic
Cooperation and Development (OECD). It is a violation of those guideline to
threaten to move production as retaliation for union activity as Reynolds
did in its literature and captive audience meetings.
"The UTA would normally respect the wishes of the majority of the
workers and the results of this union election," says Price. "But workers
were not allowed to vote freely without coercion and intimidation and based
on the overwhelming number of complaints coming directly from Reynolds
workers about the company's behavior, we do not believe this was a fair
election," Price concludes.
SOURCE United Tobacco Alliance
Web Site: http://www.utavoice.org
New Offering from America's #1 Selling Coffee Delivers Major Category Innovation
The Procter & Gamble Company's Folgers(R) brand (NYSE: PG) today introduced Simply Smooth(TM), the first nationally available stomach-friendly coffee in the United States, which offers consumers the freedom and confidence to enjoy their favorite beverage again. It is estimated that about 35-40 million American adults have decreased or eliminated coffee consumption because of stomach discomfort.
Simply Smooth is the first major category innovation since the launch of decaffeinated coffee over two decades ago. The new stomach-friendly coffee provides a very smooth drinking experience, while offering the great mountain grown taste and aroma of Folgers. "The selection of beans and the specific roasting process are designed to limit the formation of compounds, such as certain phenols, that may be associated with stomach discomfort," explained Mark Sterling, M.D., Director, Division of Gastroenterology, UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School. With a growing body of scientific research suggesting that coffee provides many health benefits, Folgers offers consumers a variety of choices to fit within their individual lifestyle. Simply Smooth now compliments these options, including the Folgers decaffeinated varieties like Classic Roast, Gourmet Supreme(R) and Hazelnut, as well as Folgers Classic Roast Half Caff. "New Folgers Simply Smooth provides consumers who have cut back due to stomach discomfort with a great tasting stomach-friendly coffee, and gives them permission to enjoy a second cup," said Doug McGraw, Vice President of Global Coffee for P&G. New Folgers Simply Smooth will be available in medium-roast regular and decaffeinated varieties beginning in May 2006 at mass merchandisers, grocery and drug stores nationwide. The regular variety will be available in convenient 11.5 oz. and 34.5 oz. AromaSeal(R) canisters to help maintain freshness. Decaffeinated Simply Smooth will be offered in the 11.5 oz. AromaSeal(R) canister. Folgers Simply Smooth will be priced in line with Folgers Classic Roast Decaf. Folgers will be supporting the product's launch with a significant multifaceted marketing effort, including a national advertising campaign, promotional activities, public relations, in-store materials and interactive marketing.
Coffee drinkers can learn more about Folgers Simply Smooth at folgers.com. About Procter & Gamble (NYSE: PG) Three billion times a day, P&G brands touch the lives of people around the world. The company has one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands, including Pampers(R), Tide(R), Ariel(R), Always(R), Whisper(R), Pantene(R), Mach3(R), Bounty(R), Dawn(R), Pringles(R), Folgers(R), Charmin(R), Downy(R), Lenor(R), Iams(R), Crest(R), Oral-B(R), Actonel(R), Duracell(R), Olay(R), Head & Shoulders(R), Wella, Gillette(R), and Braun(R). The P&G community consists of almost 140,000 employees working in over 80 countries worldwide.
President Bush's Job Approval Rating Reaches New Low of 29 Percent Positive, Down Seven Points Since April, According to Harris Poll
With just one-quarter of U.S. adults saying the country is headed in the right direction, this measure hits an 11-year low
President Bush's job approval rating continues to decline, reaching its lowest level, 29 percent positive, since he took office in January 2001. This is the first time any poll has shown the president's approval rating to be under 30 percent. On the flip side, 71 percent of U.S. adults rate his job performance negatively. Amongst a backdrop that includes a White House personnel shake-up, CIA Director resignation, and continued rising gasoline prices, only one-quarter (24%) of U.S. adults say things in the country are going in the right direction, while 69 percent say things have pretty seriously gotten off on the wrong track. The war (28%) continues to be the most important issue for the government to address according to U.S. adults, followed by immigration (16%), rising gas and oil prices (14%), and the economy (13%).
These are some of the results from the latest Harris Poll of 1,003 U.S. adults surveyed by telephone between May 5 and 8, 2006 by Harris Interactive(R).
Unlike past measures of President Bush's job approval showing a modest gender gap in opinion, both men (28%) and women (29%) give him essentially the same low positive rating. These figures represent slight declines over the past month when 38 percent of men and 32 percent of women rated President Bush's job performance as positive.
President Bush's core of support is centered among Republicans, two-thirds (67%) of whom rate his job performance as positive. Conversely, Independents (19%) and Democrats (10%) give him very low positive marks. What is undoubtedly disconcerting for the president is his low rating among conservatives, 46 percent of whom rate his job performance as positive and 53 percent who rate it negatively. In fact, majorities of all ideological stripes rate the president's job performance as negative (moderates - 24% positive and 76% negative, liberals - 10% positive and 90% negative).
Mood of the country
Consistent with last month's survey findings, women are more likely than men to be pessimistic about the direction of the country. About one in five women (19%) say things are headed in the right direction compared to 29 percent of men who feel this way. In April, 21 percent of women and 33 percent of men said things were going in the right direction.
From a partisan perspective, less than half of Republicans (48%) say things are headed in the right direction, as do 19 percent of Independents and 13 percent of Democrats. A plurality of Republicans say the country is headed in the right direction (48% right direction and 39% wrong track), while 12 percent have no opinion. When examining the results of this barometer by ideology, a majority of conservatives (53%), moderates (73%), and liberals (87%) say things have pretty seriously gotten off on the wrong track.
Important issues
The war in Iraq remains the most important issue for the government to address (cited by 28% of U.S. adults, up from 23% in April). Immigration, which rose sharply up the issue scale in April because of the nationwide strike, still holds the second slot at 16 percent (down slightly from 19% in April). The biggest mover this month is rising gas and oil prices, mentioned by 14 percent of U.S. adults, up from three percent a month ago. Thirteen percent of U.S. adults think the most important issue for the government to address is the economy, virtually unchanged since April (12%).
Congressional ratings
This month the Harris Poll measured Congress' job approval on several dimensions -- overall, Republican job handling, and Democratic job handling. No matter how the question was asked, less than one-quarter of U.S. adults rate congressional job performance as positive. The overall congressional job approval is 18 percent positive and 80 percent negative. With respect to the two parties in Congress, the job handling rating for Republicans is 20 percent positive and 76 percent negative while for Democrats the rating is 23 percent positive and 72 percent negative.
Congressional job handling ratings are so negative that not even partisans approve of the way their own party is handling its job (Republicans rate Republicans in Congress at 44 percent positive and 53 percent negative while Democrats rate Democrats in Congress at 40 percent positive and 58 percent negative). The job handling ratings are even bleaker when examined by political ideology; at least two-thirds of conservatives, moderates, and liberals rate the job handling of Republicans, Democrats, and the entire Congress as negative.
TABLE 1
PRESIDENT BUSH'S OVERALL JOB RATING
(Not Sures Excluded)
"How would you rate the overall job President George W. Bush is doing as
president - excellent, pretty good, only fair, or poor?"
Base: All Adults
TREND Positive* Negative**
2006 May % 29 71
April % 35 63
March % 36 64
February % 40 58
January % 43 56
2005 November % 34 65
August % 40 58
June % 45 55
April % 44 56
February % 48 51
2004 November % 50 49
October % 51 49
September % 45 54
August % 48 51
June % 50 49
April % 48 51
February % 51 48
2003 December % 50 49
October % 59 40
August % 57 41
June % 61 36
April % 70 29
February % 52 46
2002 December % 64 35
November % 65 33
October % 64 35
September % 68 30
August % 63 37
July % 62 37
June % 70 28
May % 74 25
April % 75 23
March % 77 22
February % 79 20
January % 79 19
2001 December % 82 17
November % 86 12
October % 88 11
August % 52 43
July % 56 39
June % 50 46
May % 59 35
March % 49 38
February % 56 26
*Positive = excellent or pretty good.
**Negative = only fair or poor.
TABLE 2
PRESIDENT JOB RATING - BY PARTY ID
(Not Sures Excluded)
"How would you rate the overall job President George W. Bush is doing as
president?"
Base: All Adults
Party ID
Total Republican Independent Democrat
% % % %
Positive 29 67 19 10
Negative 71 33 81 90
*Positive = excellent or pretty good.
**Negative = only fair or poor.
TABLE 3
PRESIDENT JOB RATING - BY GENDER
(Not Sures Excluded)
"How would you rate the overall job President George W. Bush is doing as
president?"
Base: All Adults
May April
Gender Gender
Total Male Female Male Female
% % % % %
Positive 29 28 29 38 32
Negative 71 72 70 61 66
*Positive = excellent or pretty good.
**Negative = only fair or poor.
TABLE 4
PRESIDENT JOB RATING - BY POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY
(Not Sures Excluded)
"How would you rate the overall job President George W. Bush is doing as
president?"
Base: All Adults
Political Philosophy
Total Conservative Moderate Liberal
% % % %
Positive 29 46 24 10
Negative 71 53 76 90
*Positive = excellent or pretty good.
**Negative = only fair or poor.
TABLE 5
RIGHT DIRECTION OR WRONG TRACK
(No Opinions, Not Sures and Decline to Answers Excluded)
"Generally speaking, would you say things in the country are going in the right direction or have they pretty seriously gotten off on the wrong track?"
Base: All Adults
TREND Right Direction Wrong Track
2006 May % 24 69
April % 27 65
March % 31 60
February % 32 59
January % 33 54
2005 November % 27 68
August % 37 59
June % 38 55
January % 46 48
2004 September % 38 57
June % 35 59
2003 December % 35 57
June % 44 51
2002 December % 36 57
June % 46 48
2001 December % 65 32
June % 43 52
January % 46 39
2000 October % 50 41
June % 40 51
January % 50 38
1999 June % 37 55
March % 47 45
1998 December % 43 51
June % 48 44
1997 December % 39 56
April % 36 55
1996 December % 38 50
June % 29 64
1995 December % 26 62
June % 24 65
1994 December % 29 63
June % 28 65
TABLE 6
RIGHT DIRECTION/WRONG TRACK - BY GENDER
(No Opinions, Not Sures and Decline to Answers Excluded) "Generally speaking, would you say that things in the country are going in the right direction or have they pretty seriously gotten off on the wrong track?"
Base: All Adults
April May
Gender Gender
Total Male Female Male Female
% % % % %
Right Direction 24 33 21 29 19
Wrong Track 69 59 71 65 72
TABLE 7
RIGHT DIRECTION/WRONG TRACK - BY PARTY ID
(No Opinions, Not Sures and Decline to Answers Excluded) "Generally speaking, would you say that things in the country are going in the right direction or have they pretty seriously gotten off on the wrong track?"
Base: All Adults
Party ID
Total Republican Independent Democrat
% % % %
Right Direction 24 48 19 13
Wrong Track 69 39 76 83
TABLE 8
RIGHT DIRECTION/WRONG TRACK - BY POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY
(No Opinions, Not Sures and Decline to Answers Excluded) "Generally speaking, would you say that things in the country are going in the right direction or have they pretty seriously gotten off on the wrong track?"
Base: All Adults
Political Philosophy
Total Conservative Moderate Liberal
% % % %
Right Direction 24 36 20 10
Wrong Track 69 53 73 87
TABLE 9
CONGRESSIONAL JOB APPROVAL RATINGS - OVERALL, REPUBLICANS, DEMOCRATS
(Not Sures Excluded)
Base: All Adults
Congress: Positive* Negative**
Overall % 18 80
Republicans % 20 76
Democrats % 23 72
*Positive = excellent or pretty good.
**Negative = only fair or poor.
TABLE 10
CONGRESS' OVERALL JOB RATING
(Not Sures Excluded) "How would you rate the overall job the Congress is doing - excellent, pretty
good, only fair, or poor?"
Base: All Adults
TREND Positive* Negative**
2006 May % 18 80
February % 25 71
January % 25 72
*Positive = excellent or pretty good.
**Negative = only fair or poor.
TABLE 11
RATINGS OF REPUBLICANS IN CONGRESS
(Not Sures Excluded) "And how would you rate the job Republicans in Congress are doing - excellent,
pretty good, only fair or poor?"
Base: All Adults
TREND Positive* Negative**
2006 May % 20 76
March % 27 68
2005 November % 27 69
August % 32 64
June % 37 58
April % 36 61
2004 September % 38 56
August % 40 54
June % 39 53
April % 35 55
February % 40 52
2003 December % 37 51
October % 40 50
August % 41 51
June % 45 47
April % 52 41
February % 43 49
2002 December % 47 47
November % 47 45
October % 46 45
September % 47 42
August % 41 49
July % 39 52
June % 46 45
May % 48 44
April % 49 39
March % 50 41
February % 50 40
January % 58 34
2001 October (high) % 67 24
August (low) % 37 52
2000 May (low) % 33 60
February (high) % 38 55
1999 October (low) % 32 58
September (high) % 39 55
1998 June (low) % 31 62
February (high) % 44 53
1997 June (low) % 31 67
February (high) % 38 58
1996 May (low) % 29 69
January (high) % 33 66
1995 November (low) % 35 63
April (high) % 42 56
*Positive = excellent or pretty good.
**Negative = only fair or poor.
TABLE 12
RATINGS OF DEMOCRATS IN CONGRESS
(Not Sures Excluded)
"And how would you rate the job Democrats in Congress are doing - excellent,
pretty good, only fair or poor?"
Base: All Adults
TREND Positive* Negative**
2006 May % 23 72
March % 24 70
2005 November % 25 70
August % 31 65
June % 33 61
April % 34 64
2004 September % 34 60
August % 35 58
June % 31 59
April % 32 57
February % 33 58
2003 December % 28 61
October % 34 56
August % 30 60
June % 41 51
April % 39 52
February % 38 54
2002 December % 36 55
November % 40 52
October % 40 52
September % 42 49
August` % 38 54
July % 41 49
June % 45 46
May % 45 45
April % 47 42
March % 48 43
February % 49 41
January % 52 40
2001 October (high) % 68 24
May (low) % 40 51
2000 September (high) % 48 44
June (low) % 38 52
1999 October (low) % 42 50
January (high) % 50 47
1998 September (high) % 49 47
June (low) % 41 53
1997 June (low) % 36 60
February (high) % 43 54
1996 May (high) % 36 62
January (low) % 31 68
1995 November (high) % 34 64
July (low) % 30 66
1994 December % 28 70
*Positive = excellent or pretty good.
**Negative = only fair or poor.
TABLE 13
CONGRESS' OVERALL JOB RATING - BY PARTY ID
(Not Sures Excluded) "How would you rate the overall job the Congress is doing - excellent, pretty
good, only fair, or poor?"
Base: All Adults
Party ID
Total Republican Independent Democrat
% % % %
Positive 18 29 12 14
Negative 80 70 86 82
*Positive = excellent or pretty good.
**Negative = only fair or poor.
TABLE 14
CONGRESS' OVERALL JOB RATING - BY POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY
(Not Sures Excluded) "How would you rate the overall job the Congress is doing - excellent, pretty
good, only fair, or poor?"
Base: All Adults
Political Philosophy
Total Conservative Moderate Liberal
% % % %
Positive 18 23 18 10
Negative 80 76 81 85
*Positive = excellent or pretty good.
**Negative = only fair or poor.
TABLE 15
RATINGS OF REPUBLICANS IN CONGRESS - BY PARTY ID
(Not Sures Excluded) "And how would you rate the job Republicans in Congress are doing - excellent,
pretty good, only fair or poor?"
Base: All Adults
Party ID
Total Republican Independent Democrat
% % % %
Positive 20 44 11 12
Negative 76 53 83 87
*Positive = excellent or pretty good.
**Negative = only fair or poor.
TABLE 16
RATINGS OF REPUBLICANS IN CONGRESS - BY POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY
(Not Sures Excluded) "And how would you rate the job Republicans in Congress are doing - excellent,
pretty good, only fair or poor?"
Base: All Adults
Political Philosophy
Total Conservative Moderate Liberal
% % % %
Positive 20 32 16 9
Negative 76 64 82 89
*Positive = excellent or pretty good.
**Negative = only fair or poor.
TABLE 17
RATINGS OF DEMOCRATS IN CONGRESS - BY PARTY ID
(Not Sures Excluded)
"And how would you rate the job Democrats in Congress are doing - excellent,
pretty good, only fair or poor?"
Base: All Adults
Party ID
Total Republican Independent Democrat
% % % %
Positive 23 10 16 40
Negative 72 83 77 58
*Positive = excellent or pretty good.
**Negative = only fair or poor.
TABLE 18
RATINGS OF DEMOCRATS IN CONGRESS - BY POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY
(Not Sures Excluded)
"And how would you rate the job Democrats in Congress are doing - excellent,
pretty good, only fair or poor?"
Base: All Adults
Political Philosophy
Total Conservative Moderate Liberal
% % % %
Positive 23 18 26 29
Negative 72 77 71 68
*Positive = excellent or pretty good.
**Negative = only fair or poor.
TABLE 19
MOST IMPORTANT ISSUES FOR GOVERNMENT to address
(Spontaneous, Unprompted Replies)
"What do you think are the two most important issues for the government to
address?"
Base: All Adults
'95 '96 '97 '98 '99 '00 '01 '02 '03
Feb April May Jan Feb Aug Dec Dec Jun
% % % % % % % % %
(The) war X X X X X X 12 18 8
Immigration 2 2 2 1 * 1 1 1 2
Gas and oil prices X X X X X X X X 1
The economy (non-specific) 7 14 8 9 7 5 32 34 25
Healthcare (not Medicare) 25 16 10 11 12 15 5 10 14
Iraq / (Saddam Hussein) * * * * 1 - - 11 3
Education 10 14 15 14 21 25 12 11 13
Taxes 12 11 14 16 12 13 6 5 11
Employment/jobs 10 9 5 3 4 4 7 8 8
Foreign policy (non-specific) 2 3 3 5 4 3 2 4 2
Social security X X 6 6 24 16 3 2 4
Homeland/domestic security/
public safety X X X X X X 8 9 3
National security X X X X 2 2 6 3 6
Terrorism X X X X X X 22 17 11
(Programs for) the poor/ poverty 10 2 3 2 2 3 1 2 3
Budget/Government spending X X X X X X X X X
Medicare X 3 4 5 5 6 1 1 4
Human/civil/women's rights 1 2 2 1 * 1 1 1 *
Religion (decline of) 1 * * 1 * 1 2 1 1
Inflation X X X X X X X X X
Homelessness - 3 4 4 3 3 2 2 1
Ethics in government * * * * * * 1 1 1
Environment 1 1 3 2 3 3 1 3 2
Drugs 3 4 8 6 2 5 2 3 3
Crime/violence 21 16 19 13 8 10 1 2 3
Abortion 3 4 2 2 2 6 1 1 1
Military/defense 1 1 2 2 2 4 4 1 5
Welfare 16 13 14 8 4 2 1 1 3
Domestic/social issues
(non-specific) 4 4 2 3 2 2 2 2 1
Bush/president X X X X X X X X X
Peace/world peace/nuclear arms 1 3 1 3 3 1 2 2 3
Medical research X X X X X X X X 2
Middle East peace process between
Palestinians and Israel X X X X X X 2 2 2
Judicial/Legal Issues X X X X X X X X X
Honesty/Integrity/Moral Values X X X X X X X X X
Same sex marriage/rights X X X X X X X X X
School safety X X X X X X X X 2
Anthrax/Biological attack - - - - - - 1 1 1
Downsizing government X X X X X 1 * X X
Disaster relief/Hurricane Relief X X X X X X X X X
CIA leak X X X X X X X X X
FEMA X X X X X X X X X
Family values (decline of) 2 2 2 1 2 1 * * 1
Energy X X X X X X X X 1
Federal budget surplus/deficit 22 22 20 12 5 4 1 1 4
Election/Voter reform X X X X X X X 1 1
Other1 7 7 8 19 2 19 3 8 8
Not sure/refused/no issue 7 7 9 12 16 18 11 10 12
'04 '05 '05 '06 '06 '06 '06 '06
Oct Aug Nov Jan Feb Mar April May
% % % % % % % %
(The) war 35 41 34 26 27 21 23 28
Immigration 2 3 6 4 5 4 19 16
Gas and oil prices 1 10 8 2 2 5 3 14
The economy (non-specific) 28 19 13 17 15 15 12 13
Healthcare (not Medicare) 18 11 11 11 20 16 13 8
Iraq / (Saddam Hussein) 9 6 13 7 5 7 7 7
Education 7 8 10 6 8 7 10 5
Taxes 8 5 9 7 6 5 5 5
Employment/jobs 10 3 4 7 5 8 6 5
Foreign policy (non-specific) 3 2 2 3 3 3 3 4
Social security 4 10 4 6 7 7 5 4
Homeland/domestic security/public
safety 6 2 2 2 3 4 3 3
National security 5 2 3 2 2 3 2 3
Terrorism 7 7 6 4 6 6 3 3
(Programs for) the poor/ poverty * 4 5 3 5 4 4 3
Budget/Government spending X X X X X X X 3
Medicare 3 2 3 3 5 3 3 2
Human/civil/women's rights 1 1 * 1 1 * 1 2
Religion (decline of) 1 * 1 1 * 1 1 2
Inflation X 1 1 1 1 1 1 2
Homelessness * 1 1 4 1 1 2 2
Ethics in government 1 1 3 1 1 X 1 2
Environment 1 3 2 1 2 1 1 2
Drugs * 2 1 2 1 1 2 2
Crime/violence 1 3 2 2 1 1 3 2
Abortion 4 2 1 2 1 2 1 2
Military/defense 3 1 2 4 3 3 2 1
Welfare * 3 1 2 1 1 2 1
Domestic/social issues
(non-specific) 2 2 3 1 * 2 * 1
Bush/president X X 1 1 1 1 * 1
Peace/world peace/nuclear arms * 1 1 2 1 2 1 1
Medical research 2 1 1 1 2 1 1 1
Middle East peace process between
Palestinians and Israel * 1 * * 1 1 2 1
Judicial/Legal Issues * 2 1 * 1 1 * *
Honesty/Integrity/Moral Values 2 2 1 * * 1 1 *
Same sex marriage/rights 1 1 1 1 * * 1 *
School safety * 1 1 * 1 * * *
Anthrax/Biological attack X * 1 * X * * *
Downsizing government 1 * 1 1 * 1 1 *
Disaster relief/Hurricane Relief X X 4 1 1 2 * *
CIA leak X X 1 X X * 1 *
FEMA X X 1 * * X * *
Family values (decline of) 1 1 * * * * * *
Energy 1 4 3 3 4 3 3 X
Federal budget surplus/deficit 2 2 7 4 2 3 3 X
Election/Voter reform * 1 * 1 1 * * *
Other(1) 8 1 1 3 5 4 4 6
Not sure/refused/no issue 9 8 6 6 6 8 4 4
* = Less than 0.5%.
X = Not mentioned as specific issue.
(1) Including government/politics (nonspecific), trade, housing, gun
control, moral values, Supreme Court, air travel safety, issues
involving children, corporate scandals/fraud, and programs for the
elderly (not Medicare/Social Security)
Methodology
The Harris Poll(R) was conducted by telephone within the United States between May 5 and 8, 2006 among a nationwide cross section of 1,003 adults (aged 18 and over). Figures for age, sex, race, education, and region were weighted where necessary to align them with their actual proportions in the population.
All surveys are subject to several sources of error. These include: sampling error (because only a sample of a population is interviewed); measurement error due to question wording and/or question order, deliberately or unintentionally inaccurate responses, nonresponse (including refusals), interviewer effects (when live interviewers are used) and weighting.
With one exception (sampling error) the magnitude of the errors that result cannot be estimated. There is, therefore, no way to calculate a finite "margin of error" for any survey and the use of these words should be avoided.
With pure probability samples, with 100 percent response rates, it is possible to calculate the probability that the sampling error (but not other sources of error) is not greater than some number. With a pure probability sample of 1,003 adults one could say with a 95 percent probability that the overall results have a sampling error of +/- 3 percentage points. Sampling error for the various sub-sample results is higher and varies. However that does not take other sources of error into account.
These statements conform to the principles of disclosure of the National Council on Public Polls.
J27877
QA1, QA2, QA3, QA4, QA5, QA6
The Harris Poll(R) #38, May 12, 2006
By Bill Dalbec, Vice President, Issues and Industry Research Group, Harris
Interactive(R)
About Harris Interactive(R) Harris Interactive Inc. (http://www.harrisinteractive.com/), based in Rochester, New York, is the 13th largest and the fastest-growing market research firm in the world, most widely known for The Harris Poll(R) and for its pioneering leadership in the online market research industry. Long recognized by its clients for delivering insights that enable confident business decisions, the company blends the science of innovative research with the art of strategic consulting to deliver knowledge that leads to measurable and enduring value.
Harris Interactive serves clients worldwide through its United States, Europe (http://www.harrisinteractive.com/europe) and Asia offices, its wholly- owned subsidiary Novatris in Paris, France (http://www.novatris.com/), and through an independent global network of affiliate market research companies. EOE M/F/D/V
Speedus Files Patent Suits Against Verizon Wireless
Speedus Corp. (NASDAQ:SPDE) announced today that its unit CellularVision Technology & Telecommunications, L.P. (CT&T) filed suits on May 11 against Cellco Partnership (d/b/a Verizon Wireless). Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). The suits address technologies now used by Verizon to transmit television to wireless users over cellular networks and the simultaneous transmission of analog and digital signals within the same bandwidth.
Speedus pioneered wireless broadband and cellular transmission of television. A Verizon Communications unit invested in and managed a wireless unit of Speedus Corp. in 1993. "We are astonished by Verizon's infringement here," said Shant Hovnanian, CEO and Chairman of Speedus, "since our past relationship with Verizon shows their full knowledge of our intellectual property holdings. We are asking Verizon to cease and desist from these infringements in their network services."
Two separate complaints were filed in United States District Court in the Southern District of Florida, in which Speedus asserts Verizon Wireless is infringing two Speedus patents. U.S. Patent No. 5,949,793, "Transmission of Digital and Analog Signals in the Same Band," covers cellular transmissions using simultaneous analog and digital technology in the same bandwidth, which Verizon is infringing in its operation of Cellular phone systems nationwide. U.S. Patent No. 4,747,160, "Low Power Multi-Function Cellular Television System," covers the use of cellular systems to deliver television signals, which is also infringed by Verizon.
About Speedus Corp.
Speedus is a pioneer in wireless broadband, owning both wireless spectrum and a portfolio of broadband IP. Speedus also holds controlling interests in Zargis Medical Corp. and F&B Gudtfood Holdings, Inc.
Statements contained herein that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about the Company's product, corporate identity and focus, may be forward-looking statements that are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties. There are a number of important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward- looking statements made by the Company, including, but not limited to, the continuing development of the Company's sales, marketing and support efforts.
Source: Speedus Corp.
Web site: http://www.speedus.com/
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Center for Elephant Conservation(R) Announces Birth of 20th Asian Elephant Calf
The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Center for Elephant Conservation (CEC) proudly announced today the birth of a healthy female Asian elephant -- marking the twentieth birth in what is already one of the most successful Asian elephant breeding programs. The calf, born on April 6, 2006, 9:08 p.m. at 295 pounds, is a rare second- generation offspring of eleven-year-old Shirley and thirteen-year-old Romeo, who were also born into the Ringling Bros.(R) conservation program.
"The endangered Asian elephant has been a revered member of the Ringling Bros. family for 136 years, so our commitment to their salvation around the world is of paramount importance," said Kenneth Feld, Chairman and Producer of Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey(R). "Every calf born into our care represents another important step toward sustaining this remarkable species for generations to come."
A team of expert veterinarians and elephant husbandry specialists will watch over and care for the new calf as she grows and develops. The calf's name will be selected through a national naming vote Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey is conducting with Weekly Reader's Teen Kids News program. The public can vote on the name at http://www.weeklyreader.com/ from Friday, May 19 through Friday, May 26.
The goal of the Ringling Bros. CEC is to focus on the research, reproduction and retirement of Asian elephants. Since its inception, it has seen unprecedented breeding success, due to a dedicated and expert staff of veterinarians, scientists and animal care experts. Ringling Bros. has the largest sustainable population of captive Asian elephants in the Western hemisphere.
"With fewer than 35,000 Asian elephants left in the wild, this birth represents an unwavering commitment by Ringling Bros. to safeguard the future of this endangered species, literally one baby step at a time," said Bruce Read, Ringling Bros. Vice President of Animal Stewardship. "The Ringling Bros. CEC is the central point for our global collaboration in scientific research and we are proud of the important work being done here and the contributions our team is making to ensure the preservation of this magnificent creature."
In the last year Ringling Bros.(R) has committed more than $300,000 to fund the Smithsonian Institution's National Zoo's research projects on endotheliotropic herpes viruses, the single greatest health threat to the Asian elephant, and a reproductive study aimed at increasing the captive population of the Asian elephant. In 2005, Ringling Bros. formed a partnership with the Fort Worth Zoo in Texas, allowing the Zoo the opportunity to acquire, through a companion elephant program, a male Asian elephant from the Ringling Bros. Center for Elephant Conservation in an effort to increase reproduction rates with the female Asian elephants based there.
About the Ringling Bros. CEC: The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Center for Elephant Conservation(R) was founded by Feld Entertainment, Inc., the parent company of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, to ensure that future generations have the opportunity to experience the endangered Asian elephant. Built in 1995, this 200-acre, state-of-the-art facility was designed for the reproduction, research and retirement of the Asian elephant, enabling Ringling Bros. to share its elephant husbandry knowledge with the veterinary and conservation communities worldwide.
For more information about the Ringling Bros. Center for Elephant Conservation visit http://www.elephantcenter.com/.
Web site: http://www.elephantcenter.com/
http://www.weeklyreader.com/
Aún Hay Tiempo para Hacer Ofertas por Teléfonos Firmados por Celebridades en la Subasta de Teléfonos en Línea HopeLine de Verizon Wireless
Fondos Recaudados se Donarán para Prevención de la Violencia Doméstica
¡Corran al teclado! Sólo quedan cuatro días para hacer ofertas por teléfonos autografiados por Donald Trump, Dr. Phil, Krissy Wendell y otros en la subasta HopeLine(R) Online Phone Auction.
Hasta las primeras horas del próximo martes, todos pueden hacer ofertas para obtener teléfonos autografiados por celebridades, durante la segunda HopeLine Online Phone Auction. Verizon Wireless donará todos los fondos recaudados en la subasta a Safe Horizon, proveedor líder de servicios para víctimas de la violencia en la Ciudad de Nueva York. Hace más de un cuarto de siglo que Safe Horizon está a la vanguardia de la asistencia a las víctimas de crímenes y abusos, y ayuda a más de 350,000 víctimas anuales a pasar de la crisis a la confianza, ofreciéndoles la posibilidad de contar su historia con sus propias palabras, guiándolos a través del sistema de justicia penal o brindándoles un lugar seguro donde dormir.
Los participantes en la subasta HopeLine pueden hacer ofertas para adquirir teléfonos firmados por:
-- Donald Trump, presidente y director general, The Trump Organization
-- Dr. Phil McGraw, presentador del Dr. Phil Show
-- Misty May, campeona mundial de voleibol de playa
-- Clark Haggans, linebacker de los campeones mundiales Pittsburgh Steelers
-- Krissy Wendell, capitana del equipo femenino de hockey de los EE. UU.
-- Kelly Clark, corredora de snowboard
Para hacer ofertas por los teléfonos firmados, los clientes sólo tienen que ingresar en http://www.verizonwireless.com/hopeline y hacer clic sobre el anuncio 'Phone Auction' para llegar al sitio de la subasta 'HopeLine Online Phone Auction', que se está realizando en eBay. Los ganadores obtendrán uno de los más cotizados teléfonos nuevos:
* Motorola RAZR V3c -- El Motorola RAZR V3c está equipado con acceso al servicio multimedia V CAST de Verizon Wireless, combina perfectamente moda y tecnología, y ofrece la máxima experiencia multimedia con un producto imprescindible. El Motorola RAZR V3c está a la venta a US$79.99 después de una rebaja de US$50 por correo y un contrato de dos años con el cliente.
* LG VX8100 -- Con tecnología EV-DO para acceso a V CAST Music y altoparlantes duales para sonido estereofónico, el LG VX8100 es lo último en alta velocidad, tecnología y estilo. El LG VX8100 está a la venta a US$69.99 después de una rebaja de US$50 por correo y un contrato de dos años con el cliente.
* Samsung SCH-a950 -- El Samsung SCH-a950 tiene numerosas funciones, incluso acceso a V CAST Music. El diseño intuitivo y los controles musicales externos del a950 brindan al usuario control completo de su entretenimiento móvil. El Samsung SCH-a950 está a la venta a US$149.99 después de una rebaja de US$50 por correo y un contrato de dos años con el cliente.
* Motorola E815 -- Ofrece acceso al servicio multimedia de banda ancha móvil V CAST de Verizon Wireless y muchas otras funciones de tecnología de vanguardia, y es el teléfono ideal para los clientes que adoran estar a la vanguardia de las nuevas tecnologías. El Motorola E815 está a la venta a US$49.99 después de una rebaja de US$50 por correo y un contrato de dos años con el cliente.
Verizon Wireless es una empresa líder reconocida por su compromiso con la prevención de la violencia doméstica y con la toma de conciencia sobre este problema. El programa HopeLine de la compañía se ocupa de reunir teléfonos móviles y accesorios de cualquier proveedor de servicios móviles, y reacondicionarlos o reciclarlos de una manera ambientalmente inocua. Las ganancias del programa benefician a las víctimas de violencia doméstica y a los organismos de defensa sin fines de lucro, proporcionándoles herramientas de comunicación esenciales, como teléfonos y servicios móviles, y subvenciones económicas.
Para más información sobre el programa HopeLine de Verizon Wireless o para solicitar instrucciones para la donación de un móvil, visite http://www.verizonwireless.com/hopeline.
Latino Issues Forum Recibe Subsidio de US$150,000 de la Fundación Comcast para Apoyar Compromiso Cívico y Proyecto Educativo en Línea
Comenzará en Fresno Gestión para Cerrar la Brecha Tecnológica en el Sector Latino no Lucrativo
En un esfuerzo por cerrar la brecha tecnológica en el sector no lucrativo latino, Comcast y el Latino Issues Forum (LIF), un instituto para políticas públicas y defensoría, a nivel nacional, anunciaron hoy que LIF ha recibido un subsidio de US$150,000 de la Fundación Comcast para lanzar un programa que aumentará el uso de la tecnología, la defensa de la comunidad y la participación cívica de las organizaciones basadas en la comunidad que atienden a los latinos (CBO).
La evaluación de LIF de estas CBO sin fines de lucro ha determinado que las organizaciones enfrentan severos recortes presupuestarios en todos los niveles de gobierno y fluctuaciones económicas. También están aguantando un clima político cambiante y reducciones en la ayuda corporativa y filantrópica, cuando luchan por la financiación y recursos que efectivamente utilizan la tecnología para servir mejor a la creciente comunidad latina de California.
"Lo que tenemos es una situación en la que los latinos de bajos recursos se vuelven más y más dependientes de la tecnología; a medida que pasa el tiempo, muchos siguen quedándose atrás", dijo Luis Aretaga, Director Ejecutivo de LIF. "Estamos alborozados de que la Fundación Comcast está brindando estos generosos recursos para ayudar a evitar que el sector latino que no tiene recursos quede separado de las oportunidades socio-económicas y cívicas que puede brindar la tecnología".
El subsidio de US$150,000 de Fundación Comcast, que se pagará en los próximos tres años, se utilizará para lanzar el Proyecto de Compromiso Cívico y Educación en Línea (Online Civic Engagement and Education Project, OCEP) de LIF en el Condado de Fresno, una comunidad con un 40% de población latina. LIF comenzó el OCEP en Bay Area en 2002 y extenderá el proyecto a otras ciudades en la zona Norte de California en los próximos dos años.
El OCEP evaluará las necesidades tecnológicas de las CBO que atienden a los latinos e identificará recursos gratuitos o de bajo costo a los que podrán acceder las CBO. El proyecto también brindará acceso gratuito o de bajo costo para ayuda técnica para 35 CBO latinas, y trabajará para aumentar la comprensión y apoyo para el acceso a banda ancha de la comunidad latina. Además, el OCEP extenderá el sitio Web de LIF para incluir un actualizado directorio sin fines de lucro de las CBO que sirven a latinos en Bay Area y Fresno, así como un área en línea para que esas organizaciones compartan recursos y promuevan el compromiso cívico, la red de contactos y la construcción de coaliciones para la comunidad latina.
"Comcast cree firmemente en apoyar a las organizaciones que fortalecen las comunidades en los vecindarios que atendemos", dijo Jill Schwinn, Directora de Asuntos Gubernamentales para Comcast. "La Fundación Comcast brinda apoyo financiero para estos grupos no lucrativos y nos encanta trabajar con el Latino Issues Forum para cerrar la brecha tecnológica entre el sector no lucrativo latino de Fresno".
El subsidio y el lanzamiento del nuevo proyecto se anunciaron esta mañana en Fresno en un desayuno de prensa patrocinado por Arte Américas (un centro cultural con base en Fresno dedicado a celebrar las artes en México, América Latina, el Sudoeste y California) y el Centro La Familia Advocacy, (una organización con base en Fresno que ayuda a los padres que necesitan servicios para evitar incidentes de abuso o abandono). Luego de la conferencia de prensa en Arte Américas, los asistentes visitaron el laboratorio de computación de la Fresno High School para aprender más sobre las necesidades tecnológicas de las comunidades de bajos recursos y ver cómo esas necesidades son satisfechas con los servicios de Internet de alta velocidad de Comcast e iniciativas como Cable en el Aula.
Acerca del Latino Issues Forum
Establecido en 1987, el Latino Issues Forum es un instituto de apoyo y políticas públicas a nivel estatal y sin fines de lucro, dedicado a ofrecer nuevas e innovadoras soluciones en materia de políticas públicas, para lograr una sociedad mejor, más equitativa y más próspera. LIF también se desempeña como 'cámara de compensación' para ayudar y brindar a los medios noticiosos información exacta y fuentes en la comunidad latina para una cobertura justa y efectiva de los temas. LIF aborda cuestiones de política pública desde la perspectiva del modo en que estas afectarán el futuro económico de la comunidad latina en California.
Acerca de Fundación Comcast
La Fundación Comcast fue creada por Comcast Corporation en junio de 1999 y es el principal recurso de la compañía para apoyo de beneficencia a organizaciones sin fines de lucro calificadas. La Fundación invierte, principalmente, en programas que trabajan para crear un impacto positivo y sostenible dentro de nuestras comunidades en las áreas de voluntariado, alfabetismo y desarrollo de liderazgo de los jóvenes. Desde su creación, la Fundación Comcast ha donado más de US$30 millones a organizaciones en las comunidades en las que presta servicio Comcast. Más información sobre la Fundación y sus programas se puede encontrar en http://www.comcast.com/ bajo "In the Community".
Source: Comcast
Des Moines Man Gives Wife 'Million Dollar' Mother's Day Gift
Andy Long Creates Pixel Website Dedicated to Mothers, www.MillionDollarMother.com, to give to his Wife on Mother's Day.
The Million Dollar Mother website (http://www.milliondollarmother.com/) was created by Andy Long and will launch on Mother's Day, May 14. It was built as a unique gift to his wife, however, Mr. Long has made it possible for anyone to honor their mother on his site. The webpage is modeled after Alex Tew's famous Million Dollar Homepage but adds the ability for advertisers to give a tribute to their own mother or the mother of their children. The tributes area allows the users to provide a written statement about their mother (or their children's mother) as well as display a picture.
As parents of four children ages 7 and under, Andy and Anna Long understand the value of Anna's decision to be a full-time stay-at-home mom. According to the Longs, that decision was probably the hardest and best decision she has made as a mother. "We knew we would have to do without some things and make very wise financial decisions, but it has definitely been worth it," said Andy. According to Anna, "The ability to be there to watch the children learn and grow is priceless." So, an additional mission of MillionDollarMother.com is to help those working moms (or dads) who would also like to be stay-at-home parents. Extra recognition is provided to advertisers who provide a way to make money from home via a web-based or home-based business or through telecommuting. This area of the site is affectionately called BAMH! (Bring a Mom Home!).
Mr. Long believes he has what it takes to make the Million Dollar Mother website a success from both the technical and business perspectives. He has worked for a dot com as the Assistant Controller for several years. In addition, he holds an MBA from Drake University and an MSCIS (Master of Science in Computer Information Systems) from Boston University. To successfully build the site and grow the number of visitors, he is relying on his experience, education, "and a lot of prayer!" he adds with a smile.
Ad space on MillionDollarMother.com sells for $1 per pixel, with a minimum purchase of 100 pixels (one 10 X 10 square). The pixels will stay on the home page for a period of five years. At $20 per year for potentially millions of visitors, Mr. Long believes that this is a very economical way for website owners to advertise. MillionDollarMother.com will provide complimentary website hosting services for a one-page website to advertisers who do not currently have a website.
Find out more about MillionDollarMother.com by visiting
Web site: http://www.milliondollarmother.com/
NASA'S SPACE SHUTTLE PROCESSING STATUS REPORT:
S06-016 NASA's space shuttle fleet is housed and processed at Kennedy Space Center, Fla. Mission: STS-121 - 18th ISS Flight (ULF1.1) - Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Vehicle: Discovery (OV-103) Location: Vehicle Assembly Building Launch Date: Launch Planning Window July 1-19, 2006 Launch Pad: 39B Crew: Lindsey, Kelly, Sellers, Fossum, Nowak, Wilson and Reiter Inclination/Orbit Altitude: 51.6 degrees/122 nautical miles Discovery was moved today from Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 to the Vehicle Assembly Building, a major step toward a launch to the International Space Station. Technicians and crane operators began preparations to lift Discovery into the assembly building's High Bay 3 and attach the shuttle to its external fuel tank and twin solid rocket boosters.
After final integration, a crawler transporter is scheduled to carry Discovery to the launch pad May 19. Discovery was scheduled to move Thursday, but a sheared left-hand jack screw on the lifting sling in the assembly building postponed the rollover until today. Both the right and left-hand screws were removed and replaced. The replacements were inspected, analyzed, proof loaded and installed on the sling. The payloads that will launch aboard Discovery were loaded into the payload transportation canister this week and are scheduled to roll out to the launch pad on May 16. Discovery's payloads include the Italian-built logistics module, known as Leonardo, which will carry food, clothing, spare parts and research equipment to the station. Other payloads include two cargo carriers which contain heat shield tile samples, a spare pump module and a replacement mobile transporter reel assembly.
Red Carpet at the Lingerie Bowl 3 after party
(C) MBN 2006 (pictures by William Hoehne)
