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ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY

'The Daily Show's' Jon Stewart, Jack Black, Sacha Baron Cohen Aboard for Live On-Air Star-Studded Event for Autism in New York City

Video Access Alliance to Host Forum on the Importance of Video Choice and Diverse Programming A "blog" (derived from the term "Web log") is basically just a Web site Lara Croft Catapults Onto the Nintendo Platforms 'Bold Moves' Puts Consumers at Center of All Ford-Brand Marketing Disneyland Resort in Southern California will welcome the "Happiest Guest on Earth" Tuesday, May 2,

Jive Records R&B Platinum Artist Chris Brown Prepares to Release Performance DVD 'Chris Brown's Journey' June 6th Nick at Nite Unveils Roll-Out of New Hit Sitcoms When Home Improvement, A Different World, Newsradio and Designing Women Join Line-Up Beginning July 2006 Through September 2007 Atari Announces New Game Structure for 'Alone in the Dark' - First Details on Developer Eden's Innovative Season Format and Game Structure -

The 'Must Have' for the Car Guy - AutoWeek Provides Readers 'The Inside Track' Into the New Disney/Pixar Animated Film 'Cars' ParisHotels.com Decodes Da Vinci's Paris MTV Networks Upfront Presentation: Feed the Need Cirque du Soleil Joins Las Vegas Sands to Premiere a New Show in Asia's Las Vegas(TM) VH1 Soul is Open for Business National Geographic Channel's 'Explorer' Deconstructs the Science Behind the Water That Drowned New Orleans TV Land Unveils Latest Original Programming Slate Featuring New Series, Renewals and Specials The N Commences Production on The Block (working title), a New Series That Explores the Emotional Life of Teens From Executive Producers Sri Rao and Richard Kramer Love, Relationships, Family Death and the Arrival of a Long Lost Sibling Hits Close to Home on South of Nowhere Season 2 The N Unveils the Secrets That Lie Buried Beneath the Snow on Whistler, a New Hour-Long Mystery Premiering Friday, June 30 Spike TV Tackles Subject of Fatherhood 'Pros vs. Joes' Returns for Season 2 on Spike TV in 2007

Get Ready to 'SCREAM' With First Annual Horror, Sci-Fi and Fantasy Awards Show From Spike TV Spike TV Revs Up Its 2007 Lineup With 'Bullrun' New Series Follows High Action Automotive Rally Across the Country

Mercury Recording Artist Julie Roberts Encourages Oscar Mayer Fans to Sing the Jingle and be a Star! Comedy Central(R) to Air First-Ever Live Special Event 'The Daily Show's' Jon Stewart, Jack Black, Sacha Baron Cohen Aboard for Live On-Air Star-Studded Event for Autism in New York City

Sinclair and CW Television Network Enter Into Affiliation Agreements Company Updates Financial Impact Sinclair Secures Renewal of FOX Station Affiliations

Sony BMG's Newly Launched Burgundy Records to Release Brand New Aaron Neville Album Sinclair Secures Renewal of FOX Station Affiliations

A&E Television Networks Partners with Cox Communications New Orleans to Help Create Hundreds of SoaringQuilts(R) and SoaringPillows(R) for Hospitalized Children in New Orleans with the Help of St. Bernard Unified School New Online Magazine for Advertising Industry Launched Today by Neotrope(R)

Cingular Launches Rowdy: Racing 'Radio' on Your Cingular Phone National Radio Revenue Leads Growth Through February Current Analysis Expands Analytical Team with New Hires, Promotions

Celebrity Impersonators Turn Heads at Annual Convention in Las Vegas; Imperial Palace Hosts Gathering of Look-Alikes

ELVIS WHITE Hits Big at 2nd Annual Grammy Block Party!

Johnny Cash's ``American V: A Hundred Highways'' to Be Released on the Fourth of July; Starbucks Announces Relationship With William Morris AgencyBuena Vista Games to Create and Publish New Original Video Game Property

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SPORTS & AUTOS

Oakland & Dodger Baseball

NASCAR Driver Jon Wood to Attend Red Cross Training

'FORMULA D' on G4 Roars Into Second Season on June 18 With Back-To-Back, Exclusive Coverage of 'Streets of Long Beach' and 'Road Atlanta' Events Drift Racing Fast Becoming Next 'Hot' Motor Sports Racing Series

Hyundai Reports Record April Sales Audi of America Announces April Sales

April Sales Report for Volvo Cars in North America

DaimlerChrysler AG Reports 6 Percent Decrease in U.S. Sales for Passenger Vehicles for April 2006

Roll out the red carpet ... COMEDY CENTRAL is gearing up for a live mega-watt event! The all-comedy network is partnering with Jon Stewart's Busboy Productions for its first-ever live on-air special event, it was announced today by Elizabeth Porter, senior vice president, specials and talent, COMEDY CENTRAL. "Comedy Love Call," a live benefit for Autism education and research programs, will feature Stewart and many of comedy's leading lights at New York City's Beacon Theater. Mark your calendars; COMEDY CENTRAL is going live on Sunday, October 15 with "Comedy Love Call." Live from New York City's Beacon Theater, Stewart and a list of comedy and celebrity all-stars including Adam Sandler, Jack Black, Sacha Baron Cohen ("Da Ali G Show"), Stephen Colbert ("The Colbert Report") and Triumph the Insult Comic Dog ("Late Night with Conan O'Brien"), among many others, will perform to raise money to help ease the severe shortage of effective schools and education programs for autistic children and adults. "Comedy Love Call" will also benefit Autism Speaks, an organization created to benefit Autism research. The Autism epidemic now affects 1 in 166 children, according to the Center for Disease Control. In addition to live performances, viewers will be treated to sketches and short films from some of the most talented names in the comedy world. Stay tuned -- more names to be announced.

Randal Pinkett, President and CEO of BCT Partners; Winner of NBC's 'The Apprentice, 2005 with Donald Trump,' to Moderate Forum to Promote Emerging Minority Networks

The Video Access Alliance, a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating on behalf of independent, emerging, and minority networks, will host a forum to discuss the importance of video choice and diverse programming. "The Apprentice" Randal Pinkett will moderate this forum and members of the Video Access Alliance will showcase the variety of content offerings that independent networks provide to consumers.

PARTICIPANTS:

* Julia Johnson, chairperson of the Video Access Alliance

* Randal Pinkett, President and CEO of BCT Partners; Winner

of NBC's "The Apprentice, 2005 with Donald Trump"

* Black Education Network

* The Horror Channel

* ImaginAsian TV

* The Tennis Channel

* The Outdoor Channel

* The America Channel

* The Employment & Career Channel

EVENT: Forum to discuss the importance of video choice

DATE/TIME: Thursday, May 4 at 12 Noon

LOCATION: Rayburn House Office Building

Room 2322

About the Video Access Alliance

The Video Access Alliance is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to serving as an advocacy and advisory group for independent, emerging and minority networks, video programmers, application and content creators, and other industry participants. We will work to:

* Pursue public policies to accelerate competitive entry of alternative

video distribution platforms and expand the options for reaching

audiences that are open to independent, emerging and minority networks,

film and TV producers and other application and content creators.

* Ensure more platforms with more capacity are deployed to carry our

programming. This is essential to enabling our independent voices to

be heard.

* Promote the unique offerings of independent networks, application and

other content creators.

* Educate the public policy makers on the important role that independent

emerging and minority networks, independent programmers, film and TV

producers, and other content creators play in content development.

* Enable new providers who use the latest technology to better organize

and present programming, which also is critical to getting our voices

to be heard.

Source: Video Access Alliance

with two key differences: First, it's extremely easy to add information to it. A blog is like an online journal, so you just log in, type what happened today, post it, and you're done! Second, you can add a simple little feature that automatically tells a whole bunch of other Web sites that you've made an update to your blog -- every time you make a change.

However, what you may not know is that a blog can also be a very powerful marketing tool for your business, and some people actually earn an income just from blogging alone.

The fact is, blogging is fast becoming an extremely important strategy for any online marketer. An effective blog can:

drive swarms of traffic to your main Web site;

generate more product sales;

create an additional stream of advertising income;

be a great customer-service tool;

and much more!

Blogs have an informal, conversational style, and readers can join in by commenting on each post. Blogs can be chatty, informative, opinionated and often humorous, and it's this "human" aspect of blogs that draws many people to them.

But the best part about blogs is how accessible they are to everyone. Blogs are free (or very inexpensive) to set up using services like Blogger or TypePad. They're also easy to use (you can literally create your own blog in less than five minutes) and easy to promote with all the new tools and resources that have been created specifically for blogs.

The fact is, blogs are no longer just online diaries of people's personal lives. Both online and offline businesses can use blogs to take their products and services to a wider audience, increasing their traffic, leads and sales.

Let's look more closely at a few of the extremely powerful ways your business can benefit from a blog. With an effective business blog, you can:

Your blog can act as a kind of interactive FAQ, allowing your customers to submit questions and you to answer them. You can also provide product updates, how-to articles and other information of relevance to your customers. Prospective customers who see your blog will be encouraged by your commitment to good customer service.

With its automatic archiving feature -- by date and category -- a blog is a fantastic content-management system. It's easy for you to post new information on a regular basis, and it's easy for your visitors to find the information they want. With a well-written, regularly updated blog, you can become a reliable resource in your industry and build a following of loyal readers who depend on your content. These people will be your best potential customers.

If you already have a Web site, a blog can give your traffic levels a real boost. For starters, your blog will attract new visitors that you can then redirect to your main sales Web site through links and special offers. But an even more effective technique is to use strategic keywords and links to specific sales pages to dramatically improve the search engine rankings of both your blog and your main Web site.

You can give your credibility a real boost by regularly posting valuable and relevant information on your blog. It's a great way to establish yourself as an expert in your subject area, and allow your visitors to feel much more comfortable buying from you.

You can actually sell products directly from a blog, or you can use your blog to mention new products and direct visitors to your sales Web site.

There are now several advertising programs available, such as Google AdSense, that allow you to monetize your blog and generate an extra revenue stream.

Excited yet? You should be -- blogging's not just a winning strategy, it's also a lot of fun! The beauty of blogging is that you can easily incorporate it into your daily schedule of tasks. You can even blog when you're on the road.

But what does it take to become a really successful blogger?

If your content isn't interesting and relevant to your target market, your blog won't work. It's as simple as that. You'll be surprised, however, how easy it is to find things to write about if you really put your mind to it. It could be news articles about your industry, product updates, interviews, personal insights into topics of importance to your target audience, and much more.

I won't lie to you: there are some days when I really find it hard to find the time to post a new article. But if I don't post, no one will come back. It's like subscribing to a daily newspaper but only getting a copy delivered now and then! So post often and your audience will keep coming back. And regularly adding fresh content to your blog also gives you a boost in the search-engine rankings.

It's important that you write in your own voice. A blog is no place for formality and corporate speak. It's more of a forum, a place where ideas can flourish and topics of current interest can be debated. You don't even need to be a brilliant writer; you just need to be able to relate to your audience and give them good content.

Starting a blog can take as little as five minutes. Of course, starting a blog is the easy part; turning your blog into a strategic tool that drives traffic and sales to your online business is a completely different matter.

Building a truly effective blog that keeps people coming back again and again takes a lot more than five minutes; it takes time and dedication to develop a blog that keeps your audience coming back for more.

Video Gaming's Leading Lady Makes Her Debut on the Nintendo GameCube(TM), Nintendo DS(TM) and Game Boy(R) Advance This Fall

Eidos Interactive, one of the world's leading publishers and developers of entertainment software, is pleased to announce further details of Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Legend on Nintendo GameCube(TM), Nintendo DS(TM) and Game Boy(R) Advance. Available this fall, the handheld versions will faithfully capture the detail and breadth of Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Legend for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, Xbox(R) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and the soon-to-be-released Nintendo GameCube version.

Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Legend on the Nintendo platforms will deliver the same innovative level of gameplay and high production value experience that has helped the PlayStation(R)2 and Xbox(R) versions rise to the top of the sales charts all over North America and Europe. Nintendo fans will be able to experience Tomb Raider's dynamic controls, Lara's fluid movement system, engaging puzzles, and gorgeous environments.

"There are a host of new and exciting features for Lara on the Nintendo platforms," said Senior Brand Manager Kathryn Clements. "With the stunning graphics of the original games optimised to Nintendo's platforms, Legend will further extend the reach of the Lara universe."

Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Legend is the seventh title to be released in the Tomb Raider(TM) series, which originally launched in 1996 and is still one of the best selling videogame franchises of all time, with over 28 million copies sold.

For further information visit: www.tombraider.com

About Eidos Interactive Ltd

Eidos Interactive Ltd is part of SCi Entertainment Group Plc (SEG) one of the world's leading publishers and developers of entertainment software. Following the acquisition of EIDOS Plc in May 2005, the Group has a valuable combined portfolio of intellectual property including: Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Legend, Conflict: Global Storm, Hitman: Blood Money, Championship Manager, Just Cause, Battlestations: Midway, Urban Chaos: Riot Response and the interactive rights to Reservoir Dogs and Highlander.

(TM), (R), Game Boy Advance, Nintendo GameCube and Nintendo DS are trademarks of Nintendo. (C)2004

*Xbox and Xbox 360 are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries.

"PlayStation" and the PS Family logo are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

All product titles, publisher names, trademarks, artwork and associated imagery are trademarks, registered trademarks and/or copyright material of the respective owners. All rights reserved.

Source: Eidos Interactive Ltd

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

* "Bold Moves" is the Ford brand's new marketing communications platform, providing a consistent message about Ford and its products. * All Ford print, broadcast and digital communications will adopt Bold Moves beginning on May 2, with the debut of a 60-second commercial on FOX-TV's American Idol featuring a new song by two-time Grammy(R) winner Kelly Clarkson. * New ways to communicate, including original Ford-produced TV programming and on-line documentaries, will follow this summer and fall

On FOX-TV's "American Idol," Ford Motor Company's Ford brand will launch "Bold Moves," a new marketing communications platform that will showcase Ford products, customers and employees making bold moves in their lives.

"At the center of Bold Moves are the choices people make every day about how to live their lives - that's what drives the action," says Cisco Codina, group vice president, North America Marketing, Sales and Service.

"What you will see is very original in execution, but very Ford at its heart," adds Mark Fields, Ford Motor Company executive vice president and president, The Americas. "It starts to fulfill the promise we made in January, as part of our Way Forward plan, to think like our customers and see the world through their eyes."

The Way Forward plan, which was unveiled in January, is Ford's roadmap for transforming its business in North America and restoring it to profitability no later than 2008. It includes a huge investment in clarifying the brand identities of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury to better connect with customers.

The research that underpins Bold Moves began in the winter of 2005 and was described by Fields in remarks at the 2006 Los Angeles International Auto Show:

"When we started out on our 'Way Forward' plan, our first step was a reassessment of what people think of us today. What are our weaknesses? What are our strengths? Our research confirmed for us what we knew in our hearts. Ford's strength and identity are defined by three words: bold ... American ... and innovative. Yes, we are a global company. And we proudly sell premium brands like Volvo and Jaguar. But Ford is best in this market when our cars and trucks embody the American spirit."

Bold Moves

Ford's Bold Moves initiative will cover both the brand and individual Ford nameplates, and it will provide a new, common creative platform for Internet, broadcast and print advertising at the national, regional and local level.

"It's not business as usual at Ford, and we're playing to win with bold products like the F-Series, the Fusion and the Edge," says Al Giombetti, president, Ford and Lincoln Mercury marketing and sales, and vice president, Ford Motor Company. "Bold Moves underscores those points but says to customers, 'this is about you - not us.'"

"Bold Moves is so much more than a tag line change," says George Rogers, president and CEO of JWT Detroit, which developed the campaign. "It's a new way of thinking at Ford that delivers marketing actions and more brand and customer focus."

Key elements of the Bold Moves launch include:

* The Bold Moves Anthem - Bold Moves debuts in a 60-second commercial on "American Idol" featuring people in real life situations that require a bold move. The scenes range from a teenager getting his driver's license to a woman with breast cancer entering the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation's Race for the Cure(R) - a cause Ford has long supported. The song "Go," newly-recorded by two-time Grammy(R)-winning RCA Records recording artist Kelly Clarkson, provides the musical backdrop.

* Bold Product Commercials - Throughout the year, Ford will use high profile television properties, including "American Idol" (FOX), NASCAR Nextel Cup racing (FOX and NBC), "Monday Night Football" (ESPN) and the "Bowl Championship Series" (ABC), to air 30- and 60-second commercials for individual products ranging from the Ford Escape to the Ford Fusion that all will feature customers making bold moves in their lives. These will be integrated with print and digital executions.

* Kelly Clarkson Summer Tour - Ford will be the exclusive automotive sponsor of Clarkson's 24-city summer concert tour, which begins in West Palm Beach, Fla., on June 30. At each stop on the tour, a fan will win a new Ford.

* Warriors in Pink - Ford has long supported the Susan G. Komen Foundation's Race for the Cure, which benefits breast cancer research, and plans to step up support to increase visibility of the cause. For example, a portion of tickets sold for Kelly Clarkson's summer concert tour will be donated to Ford's Warriors in Pink effort supporting the Susan G. Komen Foundation Race for the Cure.

* Bold Moves: The Documentary - Ford is developing an online documentary series that will chronicle the inside-workings of the automaker as it designs, engineers and brings to market new designs to fuel the turnaround in the company's North American automotive business. Viewers can see a new 2-3 minute video each week beginning this summer that will take them behind the scenes of important decisions and events at Ford as they occur. The URL of the Website that will host the vignettes will be announced later.

* Original TV Programming - Ford will develop and produce a new reality- driven TV series. The series could provide a behind-the-scenes view of anything from the design of a concept car to the development of a new high performance Mustang, with unlimited opportunities for everyday customers to participate at one level or another.

Immediately following the May 2 episode of "American Idol," all national Ford product marketing programs will embrace the Bold Moves creative concept. Tailored broadcast and print executions of Bold Moves have been designed for dealer use at the regional and local level.

Bold Moves marketing plans are in development for all-new Ford products launching this year, including the 2007 Ford Shelby GT500, the 2007 Ford Fusion with all-wheel drive, the 2007 Ford Expedition and Expedition EL and the 2007 Ford Edge.

Bold Moves was developed by Ford and JWT Inc. in Detroit and New York.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures and distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 300,000 employees and 108 plants worldwide, the company's core and affiliated automotive brands include Aston Martin, Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercury and Volvo. Its automotive- related services include Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit http://www.fordvehicles.com/ .

About JWT Inc.

JWT, which celebrates its 141st anniversary this year, ranks as the fourth largest full-service network in the world. Its parent company is WPP (NASDAQ: WPPGY) .

Source: Ford Motor Company

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

as Disney Parks around the world celebrate their Honorary 2,000,000,000th Guest -- almost the combined populations of China and India.

With streamers and music, the lucky Guest will be greeted by Mickey Mouse and other Disney Characters, the Mayor of Main Street, USA, and the Disneyland Ambassador. The Ambassador will present a Golden Key to the Kingdom, a one-of-a-kind proclamation and a lifetime pass to all 11 Disney Parks around the world, which are located in Anaheim, California; Orlando, Florida; Tokyo, Japan; Paris, France and Hong Kong.

The special Guest will be treated like a VIP during his or her stay at the Disneyland Resort and will enjoy exclusive tours of Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure, an opportunity to ride an attraction with Mickey Mouse and will serve as the Grand Marshal of Disneyland's 50th anniversary parade.

The visit of the 2-billionth Disney Parks Guest occurs during the Happiest Celebration on Earth, a celebration of Disneyland's 50th Anniversary and 50 years of Disney Parks around the world (Disneyland opened its gates on July 17, 1955). The celebration continues throughout the summer at Disneyland and Disney Parks, where guests can experience all new attractions and entertainment.

Source: Disneyland Resort

Also Makes His Presence Known as He Wins Several Awards Including an MTV TRL Award, an NAACP Image Award, and Soul Train Music Award All for Outstanding New Artist!!

Jive Records PLATINUM recording artist Chris Brown continues to take the world by storm. Chris is about to release his first performance DVD entitled "Chris Brown's Journey" June 6th. In this never-before-seen footage you will go on a whirlwind promotional album tour with Chris to the UK and Japan, hit the 2006 Grammys with him and watch as he prepares for his first-ever live tour. Also on this DVD -- the hit videos and the behind-the-scenes making of "Run It!," "Yo" and "Gimme That." Krump with Chris while he shows you his fully-loaded dance moves and check out the BONUS CD with 2 NEVER-RELEASED tracks, "So Glad" and an international remix of "Run It!" As a special treat, make your own remix of Chris' hit "Gimme That" with the UMIXIT software!

In just 6 short weeks after his November 2005 release, the teen sensation reached platinum status due to his first blazing single "Run It" (produced by Scott Storch which has been # 1 on several charts: Billboard's Hot 100 Singles, Billboard's Hot 100 Airplay, Singles Sales and on the radio charts# 1 at Top 40 Rhythm and on the R&B Mainstream/Hip Hop charts) as well as his second single "Yo (Excuse Me Miss)" (produced by Dre and Vidal) which is about a boy seeing a beautiful girl that he can't allow to escape his grasp. His current single "Gimme That,"(featuring Lil' Wayne) is quickly climbing the radio charts as well. Explains Chris, "It's just explaining how I'm coming out, the typical bragging about yourself a little bit but not too much and telling the girl who might be older than you, 'You may be three years older, but you're hot, gimme that.'" The just released promotional video in which Chris co-directed with Erik White is in medium rotation on MTV as well as the BET networks.

With his success, Chris recently won an MTV TRL AWARD for Favorite Artist Under 21, an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding New Artist as well as a Soul Train Music Award for Best R&B/Soul or Rap New Artist!!! Look out for him on another US tour late this summer with Lil Wayne, Ne-Yo and Dem Franchize Boyz!!

Upcoming Print Press includes features in Interview, Vibe, Teen People, CosmoGirl Jet and Ebony.

Upcoming Television Performances include The Today Show Summer Concert Series (August 11).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION REGARDING CHRIS BROWN PLEASE VISIT HIS WEBSITE

at http://www.chrisbrownworld.com/

Source: Jive Records

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

The Cosby Show Spin-Off A Different World Kicks off New Slate in July

Nick at Nite -- the #1 basic cable network among Adults 18-49 -- will add even more hit shows to its line-up of popular comedies like The Cosby Show, Fresh Prince of Bel Air and Roseanne with the addition of A Different World, Designing Women, Newsradio and Home Improvement, it was announced today at the MTV Networks Upfront Presentation at The Theatre at Madison Square Garden. The new series rollout will begin in July, 2006 and continue through September, 2007.

"Nick at Nite is the premier destination for sitcoms like Home Improvement that have a strong appeal to the Nick at Nite audience," states Larry W. Jones, President, TV Land and Nick at Nite. "These programs represent the perfect fit for our viewers and we are thrilled to add them to our already stellar line-up."

For 2006 year to date, Nick at Nite is pacing to record its highest-rated and most-watched year ever among its target A18-49 audience on a total programming day basis. Driven by the continued success of modern hit sitcoms The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, The Cosby Show and Roseanne, the network is currently the number-one basic cable network among Adults 18-34, Women 18-49, Women 18-34 and Women 25-54.

The shows premiering on the network beginning July include:

A Different World (July 19, 2006) -- This ensemble comedy was a spin-off of the hugely popular The Cosby Show and aired on NBC from 1987 to 1993. Set at the fictitious, historically black Hillman College in the South, it centered around Denise Huxtable (Lisa Bonet), one of the four daughters on The Cosby Show. Denise is constantly trying to adjust to the changes of living away from home on her own as well as deal with her roommates Jaleesa (Dawnn Lewis), a young divorcee and Maggie (Marisa Tomei), a free-spirited and naive girl who also happens to be one of the only white students on campus. Other characters in the series include Whitley Gilbert (Jasmine Guy), a rich Southern belle; Dwayne Wayne (Kadeem Hardison), a nerdy but fast-talking New Yorker, his best friend Ron Johnson (Darryl Bell) and Walter Oakes (Sinbad), who was the dorm director. There were various changes after the first season when Lisa Bonet left the series. Debbie Allen took over as producer and director after the first season, turning the show into one which explored more social and political issues. Controversial topics such as AIDS, racial discrimination, date rape and the 1992 Los Angeles uprisings were all addressed, and several new characters were added, such as: Kim Reese (Charnele Brown), a pre-med student; Mr. Gaines (Lou Myers), the cafeteria cook; Col. Taylor (Glynn Turman), the campus ROTC commander; Freddie Brooks (Cree Summer), an environmental activist and Lena James (Jada Pinkett), a feisty freshman from Baltimore. The series also gave more prominence to the romantic relationship of Dwayne and Whitley, who became the show's main stars.

Newsradio (July, 2006) -- This sitcom, which aired on NBC from 1995 to 1999 showcases the hilarious antics at WNYX, a whimsical #2 all news radio station in New York City. Dave Nelson (Dave Foley) has just been brought in from Wisconsin as the news director by the station's owner, Jimmy James (Stephen Root). A bit overwhelmed by his new job, Dave must also deal with his new co-workers who are rather eccentric and witty. The staff includes: on-air anchors Bill (Phil Hartman) and Catherine (Khandi Alexander) who are constantly sniping at each other, Matthew (Andy Dick), an inept reporter, Beth (Vicky Lewis), a crazy secretary and Joe (Joe Rogan), the maintenance man. Rounding off the staff is Lisa (Maura Tierney), a smart and ambitious writer who actually should have gotten Dave's job. The two end up beginning an on- again off-again romance that becomes the hot topic of conversation among their friends and colleagues. The untimely death of Phil Hartman led the show to cast Jon Lovitz in 1998 as Max Lewis, a new on-air personality.

Designing Women (October, 2006) -- This critically-acclaimed series stars Dixie Carter, Delta Burke, Jeanne Smart and Annie Potts as four outspoken Southern women running Sugarbaker and Associates, an interior decorating business in Atlanta. The show, which aired on CBS from 1986 to 1993, focuses on their personal and professional lives, as they deal with their business, romances and friendship. Julia Sugarbaker (Carter)is the founder of the business and the classy and smart one of the bunch. Her sister Suzanne (Burke), is a former beauty queen who uses her flirtatious ways to charm both clients and men, Mary Jo (Potts), is a recently divorced mom with two kids and Charlene (Smart) is the trusting business manager who has never been married. Anthony (Meshach Taylor) is their outspoken deliveryman/handyman, who also happens to be an ex-con, but constantly gives his opinion on everything going on in the ladies' lives.

Home Improvement (September, 2007) -- This comedy stars Tim Allen as Tim Taylor, host of a TV show in Detroit called Tool Time. Ironically, Tim's accident prone nature lands him in the emergency room more often than not. Right-hand-man Al Borland (Richard Karn) -- his flannel-wearing co-host -- is usually there to help him out, and Tim's neighbor Wilson (Earl Hindman) whose face is usually hidden behind a fence, is often doling out advice. Jill (Patricia Richardson) is Tim's wife, who is studying to be a psychiatrist and also dealing with Tim's crazy antics. The two are raising three sons - Mark, Randy and Brad (Taran Noah Smith, Jonathan Taylor Thomas and Zachery Ty Brian), who viewers get to see grow up throughout the series' run. Over the course of the series, which aired on ABC from 1991 to 1999, Pamela Anderson, Heidi Keppert and Debbe Dunning all play the Tool Time girls on Tim's show.

For more information about Nick at Nite's originals line-ups, visit

Currently seen in more than 88 million U.S. homes, Nick at Nite features timeless hit comedies: The Cosby Show - this Emmy Award-winning sitcom is one of the network's highest-rated shows: Full House -- this popular family comedy is one of the highest-rated and most popular syndicated programs in television; and Roseanne, one of the most talk-about and celebrated sitcoms in television history.

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom Inc. , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 100 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these brands are trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 90 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

Source: Nick at Nite

Web site: http://www.nickatnite.com/
http://www.tvland.com/

Atari, Inc. (today revealed details about the innovative game structure of its upcoming next-generation game Alone in the Dark. Continuing the pioneering heritage that began with the first Alone in the Dark in 1992, Alone in the Dark will feature an episodic game structure to enhance the players' engagement with the story and keep them riveted to the screen. The originator of the survival horror gaming genre, Alone in the Dark is being developed by Eden Games for the Xbox 360(TM) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Windows platform and will deliver a fiercely gripping and terrifying gaming experience.

Taking inspiration from the presentation style and structure of a number of acclaimed and globally popular TV action dramas, Alone in the Dark is split into distinct episodes in a season-style format. Eden Games has departed from the typical ten-hour game based on film-style scripts and structures and focuses on TV-season format in order to deliver a constant sustained pace and high level of narrative intensity.

"Our new format for Alone in the Dark greatly enhances the pace and tension, keeping players permanently hooked into the engrossing story surrounding the mysteries of Central Park and beyond," said David Nadal, Game Director, Eden Games. "You barely have time to breathe before the next cliffhanger hits you ... "

With approximately 30-40 minutes of gameplay comprising each episode, the structure of Alone in the Dark is adapted for an audience familiar with the hard-hitting, bite-size delivery of contemporary TV dramas, offering easy accessibility whether the player has hours to devote or only wants a quick TV-style fix.

Each time the player launches a saved game, the episode will begin with a video summary of the previous episode to quickly re-immerse the player in the story, removing the need to remember where they were or what they were doing. Every episode will close with a nail-biting cliff-hanger ending to rattle players' nerves, and if the player is leaving the game, a video teaser of the next episode will play to leave them wanting more.

The original Alone in the Dark is the video game that launched survival gaming and set the standard within the genre. Alone in the Dark returns with a heart-stopping action survival experience realized through the use of state-of-the-art real-time physics and unprecedented environmental interaction. Delivering an exhilarating, action-oriented experience within a highly detailed, open environment, Alone in the Dark once again takes the lead for innovation and excellence within the genre.

About Eden Games

The second largest game development studio in France, Eden Games has achieved international recognition through the creation of games including V-Rally 1, 2 and 3, Need For Speed: Porsche, Kya: Dark Lineage and Titeuf. Base in Lyon, France, Eden Games is a wholly owned subsidiary of Infogrames Entertainment SA.

About Atari

New York-based Atari, Inc. (develops interactive games for all platforms and is one of the largest third-party publishers of interactive entertainment software in the U.S. The Company's 1,000+ titles include hard-core, genre-defining franchises such as DRIVER(TM), The Matrix(TM) (Enter The Matrix and The Matrix: Path of Neo), Stuntman(TM) and Test Drive(R); and mass-market and children's franchises such as Nickelodeon's Blue's Clues(TM) and Dora the Explorer(TM), and Dragon Ball Z(R). Atari, Inc. is a majority-owned subsidiary of France-based Infogrames Entertainment SA (Euronext - ISIN: FR-0000052573), the largest interactive games publisher in Europe. For more information, visit http://www.atari.com/

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Source: Atari, Inc.

The May 29, 2006 issue of AutoWeek magazine will provide readers with the 'The Inside Track' into the new Disney/Pixar animated comedy adventure, "Cars."

"This special issue continues to show that AutoWeek is at the forefront of great car stuff. This is the complete insider's guide that car guys must have before they take their kids and grandkids to see this epic animated family- friendly motion picture. We received access to this movie and to the creative geniuses behind it and we are not going to skimp on bringing it to life. This will definitely be a keepsake issue," said Dutch Mandel, editor and associate publisher of AutoWeek.

"Cars" is set inside the world of automobiles. Lightning McQueen (voiced by 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. En 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, voiced by Paul Newman), Sally (a 2002 Porsche 911, voiced by Bonnie Hunt), and Mater (a rusty but trusty tow truck, voiced by Larry the Cable Guy) -- who help him realize there are more important things than trophies, fame and sponsorship.

This special AutoWeek "Cars" issue will include:

* Special cover art created by Pixar Animation Studios

* The making of "Cars" - Where did the idea come from? Who is the genius behind this story? What's next?

* The four key people in the "Cars" family and how they go about making movies.

* Lightning McQueen "interview." The cars are the stars in this movie and each has his/her own personality!

* Racer's Edge: The juicy details that a car guy cannot miss!

This issue is only available to AutoWeek subscribers. Subscribe today to be sure to receive this special issue by visiting http://www.autoweek.com/ and click on 'subscribe.'

AutoWeek, with 3.2 million readers each week, is America's only newsweekly for car enthusiasts and those especially interested in the most up-to-date news and information on new vehicles, product evaluations, motorsports and automotive trends. AutoWeek - The Inside Track. http://www.autoweek.com/

crothe@crain.com

Source: AutoWeek

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

This summer's most highly anticipated blockbuster reflects Paris as a city of art, intrigue, history, culture, and thrills. While the normally sedate Louvre has become home to one of the most disturbing and perplexing murder scenes, luckily booking a trip to Paris for fans of The Da Vinci Code this summer will be as carefree as a boat ride down the Seine.

Movie buffs around the world will be dazzled by Tom Hanks' wit and Audrey Tautou's attractive appeal while also riveted by electrifying, action-packed shots of Paris. Paris is tough to get around when you're being stalked by the Police, wanted for a murder you didn't commit, however ParisHotels.com makes unlocking the secret code of Paris seem like child's play for the average traveler. Move confidently through the streets like a local by planning ahead of time on ParisHotels.com, the all-in-one Parisian best friend.

In addition to cutting the reservation time down to minutes, ParisHotels.com also gives the discerning traveler a guarantee of quality. With a database of one- to four-star properties all vetted by the site's founders, users of any budget will feel confident in their hotel of choice, in their neighborhood of choice. If they have any questions before their trip, ParisHotels.com has live customer service representatives to chat with users and answer any questions they have. Because investigating the most infamous sections of Paris stirs both the mind and appetite, the website conveniently has more than 100 quality restaurant recommendations throughout the city. Visitors will find in the museums, churches and streets of Paris, a little mystery can be romantic, luckily planning their trip to Paris won't be mysterious at all.

ParisHotels.com is a traveler's new French best friend, always ready to vet and recommend the best accommodations and dining and entertainment options the City of Light has to offer. With more than 100 hotels, 100 restaurants, cafes and bars and dozens of tour and entertainment suggestions it is surfers' most comprehensive online Paris resource. Visitez le site www.Parishotels.com et reservez votre sejour des aujourd'hui.

Source: ParisHotels.com

MTVN's Fourth Annual Joint Presentation Focused on Ability to Connect Audiences, Advertisers through Multiple Platforms, Global Reach and Unrivaled Brand Strength

Exclusive Performances, Special Appearances Lighting Up The Theater at Madison Square Garden Featured Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jerry Seinfeld, Kanye West, Jamie Foxx, Lucy Liu, Jessica Alba, Jon Stewart, Mr. T, Miss America Jennifer Berry, The Hogans, Jesse McCartney, Miranda Lambert, Carlos Mencia, Chris Kattan, Ludacris, Stephen Colbert and Sarah Silverman

Presentation Included Insights from First-of-Its-Kind Engagement and Transference Study, Surveying Effectiveness of Advertising and Multi-Platform Entertainment Brands

At its fourth annual joint upfront presentation, MTV Networks (MTVN) presented the advertising community with a multi-platform message underscoring how the company's brands -- which include MTV, MTV2, VH1, Comedy Central, CMT, Logo, Nick at Nite, Spike TV, The N and TV Land -- are best positioned to feed the needs of both consumers and advertisers in the digital media age. The presentation, led off by MTVN Chairman and CEO Judy McGrath, focused on how the company's multiple platforms, global reach and unrivaled brand strength connect to audiences worldwide, offering advertisers the greatest opportunities to reach viewers of all ages and demographics.

Held this evening at The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City, the event was highlighted by exclusive musical performances and special guest appearances by some of the biggest names in entertainment. Among those featured were Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jerry Seinfeld, Kanye West, Jamie Foxx, Lucy Liu, Jessica Alba, Jon Stewart, Mr. T, Miss America Jennifer Berry, The Hogans, Jesse McCartney, Miranda Lambert, Carlos Mencia, Chris Kattan, Ludacris, Stephen Colbert and Sarah Silverman, among others.

"MTV Networks is all about developing original content specifically for every platform -- for television, wireless and broadband," said McGrath. "In a lot of ways, the technology has finally caught up with us. We are the only pure play content company with a global footprint and a multi-media playbook."

Through its 122 channels, more than 100 Web sites, broadband channels and mobile content spanning 171 countries and territories, MTVN continues to set the standard for creating relevant content that connects with target audiences throughout the demographic spectrum and across the digital landscape. MTVN's portfolio of brands is reaching its highest audience levels ever, at a time when more than 61% of its core viewers consume their entertainment content on multiple screens.

McGrath continued, "We have the most loyal and digitally wired audiences in the world, the very consumers who are driving the digital revolution. Our portfolio of brands is enjoying record audience levels because wherever our viewers are, we know how best to connect to them with original and relevant content. Our advertisers know this, and they can count on us to reach every demo across the trusted and influential environments we create worldwide."

Michael Wolf, President and COO, MTV Networks, also remarked, "If there's one thing that has become clear in this multiplatform world, it's that brands matter, and we know that our audiences look to MTVN as the navigator through their choices. Because we listen to them, they've led us to other businesses that they find relevant, which means MTVN now has even more touch points for advertisers. We know that our audiences are into user-generated content, social networking and gaming, so we've made strategic acquisitions like IFILM, GameTrailers, NeoPets and, just last week, XFIRE."

MTVN's 2006 Upfront presentation also featured a look at the company's first-of-its-kind Multiplatform Engagement and Transference Study. The study was a survey providing new insight into the effectiveness of advertising and the impact of entertainment brands that live across multiple platforms.

The study, done in partnership with OTX, focused on quantifying audience "Engagement" -- defined as a deep consumer connection to a media brand's content -- and "Transference," the degree that consumers extend the positive feelings they have for media brands to the advertisers associated with them.

Among the survey's key findings were:

* Engagement and Transference multiply when media and advertising embrace

multiple platforms;

* Regular viewers of MTV Networks are more strongly engaged with and

influenced by the ads they see vs. viewers of broadcast or other cable

networks

* The MTV Networks' brand family offers the strongest Transference of

positive brand feelings not only on television, but also on broadband

and online platforms.

"We set out to do an expansive study to find how consumers react to multiplatform media brands as content providers and advertising vehicles," said Colleen Fahey Rush, Executive Vice President, Research, MTVN. "As programmers looking to forge the strongest relationship we can with our consumers, we've deployed content on all platforms, on every screen."

Fahey Rush also said, "We know that advertisers and agencies are looking for a compass in navigating this emerging digital world. Associating themselves with the strongest brands that are creating terrific opportunities to reach consumers in a well-rounded, multiplatform way looks to be an effective strategy, as proven by this study."

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 120 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, with all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 100 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

Source: MTV Networks

International Creative Force is the Newest Addition to the Cotai Strip(TM)

Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE:LVS) and Cirque du Soleil announced today that they will create a one-of-a-kind show that will be featured on the Cotai Strip(TM) currently being developed by Las Vegas Sands in the People's Republic of China Special Administrative Region of Macao. The new show, conceived and created solely by Cirque du Soleil will open in the Spring of 2008 in a theater built specifically to their specifications and will have a capacity of approximately 1,800 seats.

"Cirque du Soleil is an international creative force and we are thrilled that they are bringing their unique brand to Asia's Las Vegas(TM). As a recognized leader in the international entertainment community, Cirque du Soleil has continually proven their ability to create one-of-a-kind, innovative and enduring shows that many have tried to imitate," said William P. Weidner, president and chief operating officer of Las Vegas Sands Corp. "We are certain that all of Asia will line up to see one of the most successful and spectacular performance troupes in the world and we are excited they have chosen to bring their unique brand of entertainment to the Cotai Strip."

The deal outlines plans for Las Vegas Sands to develop and own the 1,800 seat theater as well as operate the food and beverage concession stands. The design of the theater and creative and artistic decisions surrounding all show elements will be the domain of Cirque du Soleil.

Cirque du Soleil officials also said they are excited to participate in this unique project as its first step in China. The creative challenge is very interesting since this area has yet to be developed for its entertainment offers.

In addition to the new Cirque du Soleil theater, the Cotai Strip is expected to be home to five other entertainment venues including a 15,000 seat arena that will feature some of the world's biggest superstars. "This is exactly what we envision for the Cotai Strip: creating an entertainment destination, the likes of which no one has ever seen before in Asia," emphasized Mr. Weidner. "The addition of Cirque du Soleil and the ability to showcase other innovative and popular talent will help us to establish The Cotai Strip as an entertainment mecca."

The Cotai Strip is a master planned development of resort and casino properties on Cotai, an area of reclaimed land between the islands of Taipa and Coloane in Macao. Las Vegas Sands is developing The Venetian Macao, which is currently under construction as well as hotel projects including a Four Seasons hotel, Starwood's Sheraton and St. Regis brands, a Shangri-La Hotel and a Traders hotel, and a Hilton Hotel and Conrad Hotel. Las Vegas Sands said it expects to make additional hotel, retail and entertainment announcements in the weeks ahead.

Statements in this press release, which are not historical facts, are "forward looking" statements that are made pursuant to the Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties or other factors beyond the Company's control, which may cause material differences in actual results, performance or other expectations. These factors include, but are not limited to general economic conditions, competition, new ventures, government regulation, legalization of gaming, interest rates, future terrorist acts, insurance, and other factors detailed in the reports filed by Las Vegas Sands Corp. with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Las Vegas Sands Corp.

Las Vegas Sands Corp. is a hotel, resort, and gaming and exhibition/convention company headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. The company owns The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino and the Sands Expo and Convention Center, where it hosts exhibitions and conventions, in Las Vegas and the Sands Macao in the People's Republic of China Special Administrative Region of Macao. The company is also developing additional casino hotel resort properties, including The Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino in Las Vegas and The Venetian Macao Casino Resort in Macao.

About Cirque du Soleil

From a group of twenty street performers at its beginnings in 1984, Cirque du Soleil is now a major Quebec-based organization providing high-quality artistic entertainment, with over 3,000 employees from over 40 different countries, including 900 artists.

Since its inception in 1984, Cirque du Soleil has brought wonder and delight to more than 50 million spectators over 100 cities on four continents. In 2006, Cirque du Soleil will present 13 shows simultaneously throughout the world. Cirque du Soleil has received such prestigious awards as the Emmy, Drama Desk, Bambi, ACE, Gemeaux, Felix, and Rose d'Or de Montreux. Cirque du Soleil's International Headquarters are in Montreal, Canada.

Source: Las Vegas Sands Corp.

R&B Music Network Available in 20 Million Homes to Begin Selling Commercials 3rd Quarter 2006

VH1 Soul, the home for today's R&B stars and upcoming artists, will begin selling on-air time to advertisers in third quarter of this year. Now available in 20 million homes and seen in the top 20 U.S. markets for African-Americans, the network is opening up its schedule for sponsorships based on significant interest from marketers who want to reach the channel's upscale adult African-American audience.

"VH1 Soul viewers are passionate about the channel and its mix of today's top names and new faces in R&B," said Eric Sherman, Senior Vice President and General Manager, VH1 Soul. "Reaching 20 million households, the channel is now large enough that advertisers are requesting that opportunity to connect with this upscale audience. We're looking forward to creating multiplatform marketing solutions for our advertising partners this year."

"VH1 Soul has grown into an essential component of VH1's mission to be the music authority for adults," said Tom Calderone, VH1 General Manager. "The network, along with VH1, VH1 Classic and our broadband channel VSPOT, deliver music, news, tour information and exclusive interviews that are all accessible on whichever linear or digital platform our viewers want and expect."

Recently VH1 Soul commissioned a viewer profile study to better understand the demographic and psychographic make-up of the VH1 Soul audience. The online study surveyed 1,000 VH1 Soul viewers in the top 10 African American markets and showed that VH1 Soul viewers are young, affluent and educated individuals that are well versed in technology and are true music-lovers.

VH1 Soul re-launched on February 1, 2006 in nearly 20 million homes with its first-ever line-up of 10 separate themed music video program blocks that spotlight the top names and new faces in R&B music today. Those blocks include "Top 10: Best In Soul," a countdown show of the best soul and R&B videos of the week, "Soulphrodisiac" featuring sexy, soulful love songs and ballads, and "Speak Your Soul" playing the videos that viewers request through vh1soulrequests@vh1.com.

In addition, VH1 Soul continues to support R&B artists with World Premiere videos and Album Release Parties. The latest World Premiere video to debut is LL Cool J's newest release, "Freeze." The network also presents current tours which include promoting concerts and ticket information on the channel and through the VH1 Soul web site http://www.vh1soul.com/. Recent tours presented by VH1 Soul include Anthony Hamilton and Heather Headley.

Launched in 1997, VH1 Soul is the 24-hour network that brings music lovers the hottest, soul, neo-soul an R&B hits from the 90s and today featuring core artists such as Alicia Keys, Jill Scott, Outkast, Mary J. Blige and Usher. VH1 Soul, the premier source for all R&B and soul music, is now seen in the Top 20 U.S. markets for African-Americans and is available in nearly 20 million U.S. households.

Source: VH1 Soul

Web site: http://www.vh1.com/
http://www.vh1soul.com/

Program Follows the Water from Katrina's First Strike to Total Deluge and Includes Exclusive Earliest Footage of the 17th Street Canal Levee Breach by a Government First Responder, According to U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs

More than 40 million Americans live in the hurricane zone along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts. When a major storm threatens, people tend to focus on the winds, but water can be just as deadly and destructive. That's the lesson of New Orleans. Even though the city was spared a direct hit by the hurricane, water crashed through the levees, invaded homes and changed lives forever. The images have been seen around the world, but do we understand the science behind the water that caused such horrific destruction? National Geographic Channel's Explorer answers these questions as it follows the awesome power of water in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, which caused a great American city to drown.

Premiering May 17, at 9 p.m. ET/PT, "Explorer: Drowning New Orleans" shows viewers the science behind the disaster through eyewitness accounts and never- before-seen video, including exclusive footage of the 17th Street Canal levee breach shot at approximately 11:11 a.m. on Monday, August 29 by Captain Paul Hellmers of the New Orleans Fire Department. This footage is the earliest known visual documentation by a government responder of the levee breach that allowed Lake Pontchartrain to flow unimpeded into the Big Easy. Hellmers was a member of the first team to officially report the catastrophic breach that provided the baseline confirmation of this disastrous development and set in motion the response that has since been subject to scrutiny and controversy.

The airdate for the show will follow the anticipated release of what is referred to as "The Senate Report" on the Hurricane Katrina disaster, issued by the U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. The report, expected to be the most comprehensive analysis of the tragedy to date, will incorporate two still frames and eyewitness transcript from Hellmers' footage.

"Based on the Committee's research to date, the video shot by Captain Hellmers of the New Orleans Fire Department is the earliest known visual documentation secured by a government first responder of the 17th Street Canal breach site," said to David Porter, Counsel to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. "Further, we believe that Captain Hellmers was a member of the first governmental response team we believe was first to visually confirm, and officially report to authorities, that the catastrophic breach had occurred."

Within 48 hours, Hurricane Katrina's impact resulted in 250 billion gallons of water flooding the Big Easy, causing loss of life and destroying more than 150,000 homes. "Explorer" follows the water trail and delves into what went wrong on those fateful days in late August 2005. With important lessons to be learned, the show will also describe why many say the catastrophe was a man-made disaster and engineering failure.

Settled by the French in 1718, New Orleans resides below sea level and is surrounded by water from the Gulf of Mexico, Mississippi River and Lake Pontchartrain. One of the most vulnerable cities during hurricane season, New Orleans depends on three critical defenses -- barrier islands, wetlands and levees. The first two are products of nature, but the last defense is man- made. More than 300 miles long, the levees were built to withstand up to a Category 3 hurricane and keep water from pouring into New Orleans. The French built the city's first levees, which are huge mounds of earth, often packed with clay. Current-day New Orleans also relies on concrete floodwalls, but even these can fail in two ways. The first is overtopping -- when water reaches extraordinary levels and pushes over the top. That's what happened on the Intracoastal Waterway in east New Orleans. The second is catastrophic failure -- when intense water pressure exerts so much force that the walls simply burst. Unfortunately, the 17th Street Canal levee met this fate when a 12-foot storm surge struck with immense force.

At 6:10 a.m. on Monday, August 29, Hurricane Katrina lands as a Category 4 hurricane in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana, about 60 miles southeast of New Orleans. This is when something very complicated -- and very bad -- begins to unfold -- New Orleans is about to be hit by a storm surge from a direction few suspect. Around 7:00 a.m., the storm surge barrels down the Intracoastal Waterway and the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet Canal, colliding as a funnel. This added burst of energy causes the supercharged surges to blast over the levees.

Hurricane Katrina is long gone, but unbeknownst to the citizens of New Orleans, the disaster is just beginning. By 9:00 a.m., most of New Orleans is still dry, but that will soon change when the 17th Street Canal levee is breached and water from Lake Pontchartrain pours into the city. Captain Hellmers documents the levee breach with his handheld video camera at approximately 11:11 am, as his team called in their observations to authorities and setting in motion the official response to this tragic development.

As the water rises, thousands of people who stayed in the city scramble to find higher ground in attics and on rooftops. It isn't until the next day, August 30, that the flooding receives wide coverage in the press. Amid chaos, firefighters on the scene are some of the first responders and the first to realize New Orleans has not escaped unscathed. "You could taste the salt, and right off the bat you knew that that was a big problem, because with normal rainwater, you don't taste the salt," commented Captain Tom Howley. "We knew the levees had busted somewhere."

Had the 17th Street Canal levee stayed intact, the flooding would probably have been minimal and New Orleans would have been spared much hardship. In the months following Katrina, many experts and government officials speculated about precisely when the 17th Street Canal levee breached. Now exclusive footage featured in "Explorer: Drowning New Orleans" provides the clearest evidence to date establishing a base timeline for the breach and the beginning of the official response.

On August 31, nearly 48 hours after Katrina made landfall in Louisiana, the floodwaters finally stop rising when the level in the city matches the level of Lake Pontchartrain. In other cities, water drains naturally to low- lying areas. But this isn't the case for low-lying New Orleans, where every drop has to be pumped out by a sophisticated grid of 22 pumping stations. The stations can pump out 30 billion gallons a day, but the devices are useless until the holes in the levees at the 17th Street Canal, London Avenue Canal and Industrial Canal can be fixed.

Katrina had weakened to a Category 3 hurricane when she hit the Big Easy, precisely the kind of storm the levees were built to withstand. The levees weren't overtopped, so why did they fail? "Explorer" explains the latest scientific theories behind what is among the worst engineering failures in U.S. history and what might have been done differently to spare New Orleans. The program also examines what lessons can be learned from the science of water.

"Explorer" is produced for the National Geographic Channel (NGC) by National Geographic Television & Film (NGT&F).

Based at the National Geographic Society headquarters in Washington, D.C., the National Geographic Channel (NGC) is a joint venture between National Geographic Television & Film (NGT&F) and Fox Cable Networks. Since launching in January 2001, NGC initially earned some of the fastest distribution growth in the history of cable and more recently the fastest ratings growth in television. The network celebrated its fifth anniversary January 2006 with the launch of NGC HD which provides the spectacular imagery that National Geographic is known for in stunning high definition. NGC has carriage with all of the nation's major cable and satellite television providers, making it currently available to 59 million homes. For more information, please visit http://www.nationalgeographic.com/channel.

Source: National Geographic Channel

'I Pity The Fool' Starring Mr. T Among Shows Greenlit

TV Land tonight unveiled a slate of new originals, returning series and specials, the first of which begin airing June 28th, it was announced at the MTV Networks Upfront Presentation held at New York's The Theatre at Madison Square Garden. The latest development slate underscores TV Land's commitment to superserve baby boomers, the first generation of Americans who grew up watching television. The presentation was punctuated by a live appearance by Mr. T, who was on-hand to promote "I Pity the Fool," one of the new series debuting on the network.

TV Land's newest programming reflects the network's positioning of how the classics you love inspire the originals you won't want to miss. Over the past three years, TV Land has shown an increased commitment to delivering original content to complement its proven classic TV line-up and has garnered several Emmy nods along the way.

"We're very excited to premiere new original programming with a boomer demographic in mind," states Sal Maniaci, Senior Vice President, Development and Original Production, TV Land and Nick at Nite. "Our mission is to produce TV shows for the TV generation and this slate certainly delivers."

For 2005, TV Land earned its most-watched year ever among its core demo of Adults 25-54 and among total viewers on a total programming day basis. Bolstered by new original programming and its proven roster of hit classic TV programming, the network finished the year up +17% among A25-54 versus YAGO and up +20% among total viewers in total programming day over last year. Additionally, TV Land had its most-watched prime time ever in its 10-year history. The network is currently pacing to have its most-watched year ever among total viewers.

The slate of TV Land Originals is as follows:

NEW SERIES

"I Pity The Fool" -- TV Land has picked up six episodes of this Dr. Phil- meets-Tony-Robbins reality show in which Mr. T stars in the unlikely role of social scientist traveling across the country to dispense his own classic Mr. T style advice. Whether it's viewers struggling with problems at home or fans seeking tips on gaining professional success, Mr. T becomes immersed in the situation at-hand and becomes a catalyst for change. "I Pity The Fool" is produced by Lionsgate in association with Left/Right Films and Remag Guerilla. Stephen Belafonte, Ken Druckerman and Banks Tarver are executive producers. Slated to premiere October 2006. (30 minutes)

"My First Time"** -- This six-part series looks at the roles that changed celebrities lives. Bolstered by original interviews with each star profiled, every 30-minute episode will feature some of the biggest talents in Hollywood and trace their first "big break." Additionally, each show will contain footage of that first scene that put them in the public eye. In some cases, these will be performances that the stars themselves would probably rather forget. Series is produced by Scott Sternberg Productions. Premiering Wednesday, June 28 at 10 p.m. (30 minutes)

"Back to the Grind" -- Viewers join celebrated actors as they perform the same job their characters did on their respective hit TV series. The stars will be required to perform the same tasks they once did on-camera, only this time without any help from writers. This six-part series is executive produced by Michael Levitt and Eugene Pack. Premiere date TBD. (30 minutes)

RETURNING SERIES

"TV Land Confidential" -- This series returns for a second season with six more episodes delivering behind-the-scenes tales from viewers' favorite comedies, dramas and commercials. Told by the people who were there including the stars, producers and others in the know, viewers will again laugh alongside these insiders as they share their stories. This series is executive produced by David P. Levin of Brainstorm Inc. Slated to premiere October 2006. (30 minutes)

"Sit Down Comedy with David Steinberg" -- Back for a second season, legendary comedian, producer and director David Steinberg hosts another six episodes of this one-on-one comedy forum. Viewers get more than just laughs when celebrated performers who got their starts in television open up about their personal lives and careers in entertainment. Dark Light Pictures is producing the series. Premiere date TBD. (30 minutes)

SPECIALS

"Boomer Knows Best" (working title) -- These four one-hour specials -- airing over the course of one week -- take an entertaining, fun and thorough look at the boomer generation. From how they live, play, wire the world and love, this series of specials tells the story of a generation that has influenced the world like no other group and continues to stay on the move blazing past traditional beliefs and stereotypes that get in their way. World of Wonder is producing. Slated to premiere September 2006.

"Urban Myths and Legends"* -- This one-hour special sets the record straight regarding some of the most talked about stories that TV viewers swear they've seen or heard. Did Mikey from the Life cereal commercials really die from eating Pop Rocks and drinking soda? Did Greg Brady exhibit odd behavior in the episode "Law & Disorder" because Williams was under the influence? Did Carly Simon write "You're So Vain" about ex-boyfriend Warren Beatty or did she write it about her ex-husband James Taylor ... or someone else all together? Urban Myths and Legends talks to the stars, producers and other television trivia sleuths to explore these entertaining and intriguing figments of our collective imaginations. Gay Rothenthal Productions is producing. Slated to premiere December 2006.

"100 Most Memorable Catchphrases"* -- The third installment in the successful annual "100 Most" franchise, this year's five-part special counts down the most memorable things ever said on television. From "You're Fired" to "Dyn-o-mite," television has inspired some of the most unforgettable catchphrases. This special counts down these famous lines and reminds us why we love to repeat them. Gay Rosenthal Productions is producing the special. Slated to premiere December 2006.

"TV Land's Top Ten"* -- This series of specials celebrates television for the passionate TV viewer. By culling the best moments from hit TV shows and commentary from stars, experts and those in the know, each special counts down a different Top Ten. The specials are being produced for TV Land by TV Land Productions in conjunction with Robert Small Entertainment. Premieres throughout Summer 2006.

TV Land and all related logos and titles are trademarks of Viacom International, Inc.

TV Land Productions was created in 2003 to develop original programming that complements the network's successful acquired programming slate. TV Land Productions has also produced "The TV Land Awards Show: A Celebration of Classic TV" (March 2003, 2004 and 2005), the Emmy-nominated "The Dick Van Dyke Show, Revisited," the network's first original special for broadcast, which premiered on CBS in May 2004, the Emmy-nominated "Still Brady ... After All These Years" reunion special in September 2004 and "Chasing Farrah" (Spring 2005), the original reality series that followed iconic Hollywood actress and sex symbol Farrah Fawcett. Over the last year, the network premiered a variety of original series and specials in 2005 including: "TV Guide and TV Land Present: The 100 Most Unexpected TV Moments," "Living in TV Land," "TV Land Confidential" and "Sit Down Comedy with David Steinberg." For more information about TV Land's original Wednesday night line-ups, visit http://www.tvland.com/.

Now seen in over 85 million U.S. homes, TV Land's program mix features popular dramas, sitcoms, westerns, Retromercials and a TV-referential interstitial environment, all programmed with a specific audience in mind -- the first generation of Americans to grow up watching television and features all-time Classic hits like "All in the Family," "I Love Lucy," "The Andy Griffith Show," and "Bonanza."

MTV Networks, a division of Viacom International Inc. , owns and operates the following television programming services -- MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, mtvU, VHI, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, MTV INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 12 digital services, all of which are trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

* Previously announced

** Formerly known as My First Break

Source: TV Land

Web site: http://www.nick-at-nite.com/
http://www.tvland.com/

10 Half-Hour Episodes Shot on Location in and Around Philadelphia

The N, the nighttime network for teens, hits the city of brotherly love to commence production on a new half-hour series, The Block (working title). The series, which recently commenced production on location in and around Philadelphia, will continue shooting until Monday, June 19. The new series will premiere on The N in 2007.

The Block is written, directed, created and executive produced by Sri Rao. Richard Kramer, an award-winning writer/producer on many acclaimed series including, the first series of Tales of the City, thirtysomething, Once & Again and My So Called Life, also serves as executive producer.

"Sri Rao and Richard Kramer have created an honest and unapologetic look at teen life in 2006," said Amy Friedman, Senior Vice President, Development / Creative Director, Nickelodeon Digital Television. "What makes this show unique is the compelling male point of view, which we believe our audience will love."

The Block is an ensemble drama that explores the lives of five teenagers growing up in a typical suburban neighborhood. The series takes an honest look at the journey of adolescence -- figuring out who you are in the context of who you were and who you want to be. The Block delves into the spaces these teens live their lives outside of school -- chronicling the relationships with parents, families, friends and crushes.

The story opens with Brady Carter, the quintessential 16-year-old jock. Charming and outgoing, Brady is the guy that all the girls want and all the guys want to be. But underneath the charisma lies the true struggle that all boys face -- figuring out how to be a man. Through Brady, The Block explores the emotional life of boys -- a world that covers hardship with bravado and connection with competition.

Brady lives at home with his father and older brothers Noah and Justin. His four neighbors, Dia, Coral, Meghan and Ethan, each play an integral part in his life.

Brady's girlfriend is Dia, a beautiful and feisty bi-racial Indian American girl. On the outside, everyone thinks they know who Dia is -- the "smart girl." But on the inside, Dia knows that's all a sham. Her journey will be to reconcile others' expectations of her with who she is in reality.

New to the neighborhood is Coral, a troubled girl with tragedy in her past. As Coral connects with Brady and his brother Noah, she must learn how to live life -- how to move beyond the pill-popping cliche and let happiness in.

Coral's new stepsister is Meghan, the "every girl." With an athletic and "normal" body, Meghan grapples with the same insecurities that many girls face. Her story is about a young woman discovering her sexuality -- a complicated and confusing journey that places her as neither virginal nor promiscuous ... but rather, somewhere in between.

Brady develops an unlikely friendship with Ethan, his gay next door neighbor. Ethan is out with his sexuality and proud. Coming out is "so 1999" -- so his orientation is not an issue. But actually having a relationship with another guy is a totally different story. It's one thing to be out, it's another thing to be emotionally vulnerable.

Chad Hodge, Ian Goldberg (Related), Joshua Sternfeld (Winter Solstice), James Still, Trista Gladden, Jason Schafer (Trick) and Savannah Dooley join as writers.

The series is produced by Sri & Company, an independent film and television production company with offices in New York City and Philadelphia. Sri & Company maintains its own 30,000-square-foot film studio which allows the company to offer a full range of production services. Sri & Company's upcoming slate includes the scripted drama series The Block for The N and the indie film "Tuesday."

The N, the nighttime network for teens, is a programming arm of MTV Networks and is currently available in 48 million households via cable, digital cable and satellite television. The N's mission is to be the authentic voice for teens and help them figure out their lives with relevant, topical programming on-air and online at the network's web site http://www.the-n.com/. The N airs everyday from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. (ET). The N and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom International Inc.

Source: The N

Web site: http://www.the-n.com/

The N Commences Production on 13 New Episodes of the Acclaimed Teen Drama Beginning Monday, May 15 in Los Angeles

The N, the nighttime network for teens, begins production on season two of the teen favorite and critically acclaimed series South of Nowhere. Production of 13 new half-hour episodes from veteran writer-creator-producer Tom Lynch (Romeo!, Scout's Safari, Caitlin's Way), will begin shooting Monday, May 15 on location in Los Angeles. The second season of the original series will premiere on The N October 2006.

Season two of South of Nowhere, which was recently nominated for a GLAAD Award for Best Dramatic Series, will continue to deal with complex story lines as the series delves deeper into the family life of the Carlins' multi-racial home. New issues revolving around identity and other life changing events such as addiction, adoption, being outed, death, racial friction, hate crimes and the arrival of a long lost sibling will all collide and shake the foundation of their everyday lives. How the Carlins choose to confront and accept their biggest hardships will define what and who they are as a family.

"South of Nowhere will continue to portray the authenticity of teens' lives and the struggles that many face with self discovery and self acceptance," said Amy Friedman, Senior Vice President, Development / Creative Director, Nickelodeon Digital Television.

The second season of the acclaimed series will address lingering issues left behind from season one. Plot lines include Ashley's relationship with Spencer and the rift it has caused between Spencer and her mother Paula, as well as Clay's struggle with his personal and racial identity after finding his biological mother.

"In the first season, millions of fans around the country were captivated by the realistic situations confronting our South of Nowhere characters," said Lynch. "It's the viewers' devotion to our storylines that inspires us to be bold, take risks and go deeper into the truth about the lives of teens today. And we promise we won't disappoint!"

Tom Lynch, founder and CEO of The Tom Lynch Company, began his career as a rock-n-roll producer on Don Kirschner's Rock Concert and as creator-writer- producer of Night Tracks. With an extensive roster of television hits to his credit -- including Caitlin's Way, Just Deal, Skate, Galidor: Defenders of the Outer Dimension, and the Emmy-nominated Scout's Safari, which was set and filmed on location in South Africa -- Lynch rediscovered his musical roots with the hip-hop sitcom Romeo!, starring rap artist Master P and his real-life son, Romeo, and Class of 3000, a co-production with Andre Benjamin of OutKast, which debuts this fall. Lynch and the company that bears his name continue to create groundbreaking, uniquely fresh, innovative shows that resonate with audiences around the world by "illuminating the magic of the human experience" -- celebrating all the drama, the humor, the kookiness and reality of human beings' lives.

The N, the nighttime network for teens, is a programming arm of MTV Networks and is currently available in 48 million households via cable, digital cable and satellite television. The N's mission is to be the authentic voice for teens and help them figure out their lives with relevant, topical programming on-air and online at the network's web site http://www.the-n.com/. The N airs everyday from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. (ET). The N and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom International Inc.

Source: The N

Web site: http://www.nick.com/
http://www.the-n.com/

New 13-Episode Online Companion Series, 'Whistler Webisodes,' Begins Friday, June 23 Only at www.the-N.com

The N, the nighttime network for teens, delivers its first original one-hour drama, Whistler -- a dark and gripping mystery shot on location in Vancouver, BC set in the exclusive hilltops of one of the worlds most pristine and high society winter playgrounds. The 13-part series unveils the secrets that lie buried beneath the snow as the puzzling death of an Olympic Gold Medalist begins to unravel. The series will premiere Friday, June 30 at 9 p.m. (ET) on The N.

Things begin to go awry in Whistler, the seemingly perfect world-class mountain resort and home of the 2010 Winter Olympics. The series kicks off as the 2006 Olympic Snowboarding Gold Medalist, Beck McKaye (David Paetkau), is discovered dead on the slopes which sends shockwaves throughout the sleepy community. Beck's mysterious accident forever changes the lives of his friends and family -- especially his younger brother, 17-year-old Quinn. Quinn (Jesse Moss) digs deeper into the hidden life of his beloved brother and uncovers a side of Whistler, and its inhabitants, that he's never known.

"Teens love drama and mystery and Whistler combines the best of both in a breathtaking glittery winter playground," said Sarah Tomassi Lindman, Vice President, Production and Programming, The N. "Whistler's riveting storyline is sure to keep teens on the edge of their seats wanting more."

On Friday, June 23, The N unveils part one of a 13-part online companion series titled, Whistler Webisodes which will air exclusively online at the networks web site, www.the-n.com. The premiere webisode serves as a prequel to the series premiere on Friday, June 30. The additional 12 webisodes will premiere online at the conclusion of each televised episode allowing viewers to log on and catch original narrative online content that delves deeper into the series' existing story lines and mystery.

Whistler goes behind the scenes at the five-star Varland Resort and looks beyond the perfectly groomed ski slopes. Whistler pulls no punches in its frank look at life among the classes who live and work in a city that's a world class tourist destination. The Varlands, epitomizing the wealth and power of Whistler, the McKayes, an average middle class family running a tavern for locals, and the Millers, young sisters struggling to make ends meet, all find their lives inextricably intertwined. The locals, rich and poor, young and old, all hide their own secrets, creating an intense, intricate web of desire, deceit and danger.

Meet the Families:

The Varlands -- Adrien Varland plays puppet master with his employees, his second wife Shelby and his son AJ as he attempts to increase his power and wealth and indulge his hedonistic tendencies.

The Millers -- two young sisters left without parents to care for them, Carrie and Nicole must rely on each other and work to make ends meet as they tread into the treacherous waters of money, power and romance.

The McKayes -- Ethan and Jen McKaye struggle to cope with the sudden death of their son while trying to keep Adrien Varland from destroying their family business. Adding to Ethan's problems is his brother Ryan who works for Ethan's nemesis, Adrien Varland.

Co-produced by Toronto-based Blueprint Entertainment and Vancouver-based Boardwatch Productions, in association with Canadian broadcaster CTV, Whistler features an exciting, multigenerational ensemble cast that boasts Canada's newest break-out stars -- such as David Paetkau (LAX, CSI:Miami, Final Destination 2,) as the doomed Olympic Gold Medalist Beck McKaye; Jesse Moss (Final Destination 3) as Quinn, Beck's shy, introspective brother; Amanda Crew (Final Destination 3, She's the Man) as Beck's beautiful girlfriend Carrie Miller; Brendan Penny (The L Word) as A.J. Varland, the local bad boy, thrill-seeker and sometimes-friend to Quinn; Haley Beauchamp (Smallville) as Feeney, Quinn's best friend; Holly Dignard (The L Word, Battlestar Galactica, Stargate SG-1) as Nicole Miller, Carrie's older sister and surrogate mom; and Adam J. Harrington (Show Me Yours, The Dead Zone) as Quinn's uncle Ryan.

Established veterans include: Nicholas Lea (X-Files, CSI, Chaos) as Beck's father and manager Ethan McKaye, Ingrid Kavelaars (Dreamcatcher, Final Run) as Quinn's beautiful mom Jen while Christopher Shyer (Monk, Traffic) rounds out the talented cast as the powerful Adrien Varland, owner of the Varland Resort Complex.

Whistler was created by Executive Producer and Show Runner Kelly Senecal (National Lampoon's Going the Distance, Just Deal), who also wrote the first two episodes. He is joined on the creative front by the Writer/Executive Producer team of Tony Blake and Paul Jackson (She Spies, Charmed, The Pretender) as well as Writer/Co-Producers Russ Cochrane (Last Exit, The N's Radio Free Roscoe, MTV's Undressed) and Alison Bingeman (CSI-Miami, FX:The Series).

Blueprint Entertainment and Boardwatch Productions are the production entities for Whistler with Noreen Halpern and John Morayniss from Blueprint and Sam Feldman and Janet York from Boardwatch acting as Executive Producers for their respective companies.

CTV, Canada's largest private broadcaster, offers a wide range of quality news, sports, information, and entertainment programming. It boasts the number-one national newscast, CTV News With Lloyd Robertson, and is the number-one choice for prime-time viewing. CTV owns 21 conventional television stations across Canada and has interests in 14 specialty channels, including the number-one Canadian specialty channel, TSN. CTV is owned by Bell Globemedia, Canada's premier multi-media company. More information about CTV may be found on the company Web site at www.ctv.ca.

The N, the nighttime network for teens, is a programming arm of MTV Networks and is currently available in 48 million households via cable, digital cable and satellite television. The N's mission is to be the authentic voice for teens and help them figure out their lives with relevant, topical programming on-air and online at the network's web site www.the-n.com. The N airs everyday from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. (ET). The N and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom International Inc.

Source: The N

Web site: http://www.the-n.com/

Spike TV Launches 'True Dads' - Spike TV's Pro-Social Campaign to Promote and Encourage Active and Engaged Fathers

In concert with Spike TV's new brand positioning and tagline "Get More Action," the network is launching a new multi-faceted public affairs campaign titled "True Dads," designed to encourage men to be actively engaged in their kids' lives, it was announced today by Doug Herzog, President of Spike TV, Comedy Central, TV Land. "True Dads" will join Spike TV and its viewers, affiliates, advertisers and community partners through on-air, online and in-person programs.

"In today's world, we know there are all kinds of dads and families," said Herzog. "Spike dads are men of action, and nothing is more important than an active dad in a son or daughter's life. Our new program will deploy resources to showcase and embrace the incredible responsibility and benefits of active dads, of all kinds, in our society."

True Dads, True Facts:

-- Most fathers (41%) have their first child when they are 20-24 yrs. old

(US Census 2004, Child Trends 2002)

-- Lack of father-child interaction leads children to engage in criminal

behavior, substance abuse and premature sexuality (Journal of Family

Issues, Journal of Marriage and the Family, Adolescents,

www.massey.ac.nz)

-- Children who exhibited violent misbehavior in school were 11 times as

likely not to live with their fathers (Journal of Family Issues,

Journal of Marriage and the Family, Adolescents, www.massey.ac.nz)

-- 78% of fathers agree that watching children grow up is life's greatest

joy (Child Trends, 2002, Parents Magazine, 2002, www.family4life.com)

-- Spending time with family is the top ranked activity that M18-49

especially like doing -- more than listening to music, time with

friends or watching TV. (Roper 2002)

Spike will create a PSA campaign with celebrity dads to bring the message to viewers, and partner with local cable affiliates and grass roots organizations to activate the program in local communities across the country. SpikeTV.com will host an online competition to interact with dads and their kids to produce videos and essays that celebrate fatherhood.

"Because Spike is a top three network for men ages 18-34 and because many of Spike's viewers are fathers, our network is well poised to showcase fatherhood and promote an issue that matters deeply with our audience," added Herzog.

Spike TV is available in more than 90 million homes and is a division of MTV Networks. A unit of Viacom , MTV Networks is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms.

Source: Spike TV

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

America's most bold and outspoken armchair quarterbacks clearly haven't learned their lesson from some of sports' biggest names. Spike TV has green lit another 10-episode season of the popular sports- themed reality series, Pros vs. Joes, featuring regular guys competing in a variety of sports against an incredible array of sports legends. Season one included Jerry Rice, Bo Jackson, Herschel Walker, Dominique Wilkins, Jennie Finch, and Dennis Rodman among others. The new season debuts in March, 2007. The participating athletes to be announced shortly.

Through seven episodes, season one of Pros vs. Joes has tallied 1.2 million viewers with 1.00 HH rating, and has successfully reached the hard-to-reach younger male demographics with a 1.30 in M18-34 and a 1.14 in M18-49.

"Our audience clearly resonated with the concept that answers the age-old question whether you've really got what it takes to compete against a pro athlete," said Doug Herzog, President, Spike TV, Comedy Central, and TV Land.

Pros vs. Joes is produced by Mess Media and MY Entertainment. Serving as executive producers are Scott Messick, President, Mess Media; Michael Yudin, President of MY Entertainment; and Joe Townley. Sharon Levy, Senior Vice-President of Alternative Programming is executive producer for Spike TV.

Spike TV, the first network for men, is available in 90 million homes and is a division of MTV Networks. MTV Networks, a division of Viacom International Inc

Source: Spike TV

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

'SCREAM 2006' Set for October in Los Angeles

Spike TV has announced the creation of "SCREAM" an annual televised event devoted to celebrating the horror, sci-fi and fantasy genres. Promising to be to be a raucous and visually dynamic two-hour telecast, "SCREAM 2006" is slated to premiere this October.

"It's hard to imagine that the multi-billion dollar male-driven horror, sci-fi and fantasy industries have not been recognized in a big mainstream way until now," says Casey Patterson, Executive Producer and Senior Vice President Event Production and Talent Development for Spike TV. "We only need to look to the extraordinary recent box office success of horror and fantasy films to realize that the time has come for SCREAM."

Featuring unique categories, a diverse mixture of popular icons and outrageous creators, "The SCREAM Awards" will honor both the legends and the newest and hottest in horror, sci-fi and fantasy genres across a number of entertainment platforms including movies, television, video games, comic books and music. In addition to recognizing icons and pioneers who have influenced and shaped the industry, the annual awards will also feature several fan-based categories that represent viewer's personal favorites. Categories will include everything from the traditional "Best Horror Film," "Best Comic Book Artist," "Best Special Effects," "Best Comic to Screen Adaptation," and "Best Makeup" to the more scream-worthy offbeat awards including, "Best Blood Curdling Scream," "Best Superhero," "Sickest Slasher," "Highest Body Count in a Movie," "Best Flesh Scene," "Best Jump from Your Seat Scene," "Scream Queen," "Best Sci-Fi TV Show" and "Best Sci-Fi Movie."

"This show will be designed to not only appeal to the hard core dedicated fans of horror, sci-fi, fantasy and cult -- but will also capture the attention of a broader audience that is intrigued by the genre. Honoring such innovative and imaginative industries, gives us unlimited creative opportunities to really make this award show jump out from all the others," says Michael Levitt, Executive Producer.

Michael Levitt, Casey Patterson and Cindy Levitt are co-creators and will serve as Executive Producers of Spike TV's "SCREAM 2006."

Spike TV is available in 90 million homes and is a division of MTV Networks. MTV Networks, a division of Viacom International Inc.

Source: Spike TV

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

Spike TV speeds into action with a new event series, Bullrun, based on the international automotive rally of the same name. The 10-episode high-octane series premieres in first quarter 2007.

Bullrun is produced by Pilgrim Films and Television Inc., Andrew Duncan and David Green, and Maloof Television. Craig Piligian (The Ultimate Fighter, Survivor, American Chopper), Andrew Duncan and David Green (Bullrun franchise owners), and Phil Maloof and Andrew Jameson (Maloof Entertainment Group) will serve as executive producers. Sharon Levy, Senior Vice-President of Alternative Programming is executive in charge of production for Spike TV.

Bullrun will put real people behind their favorite wheels in an all out rally across the United States, with a big money prize and even bigger bragging rights waiting at the finish line. In each episode, a different driving team will be eliminated based on their strategy and driving performance.

Never knowing where they are going on undisclosed cross terrain routes, or what obstacles lay ahead, the drivers and their cars will be the main characters of Bullrun. Spike TV cameras will chronicle all the behind-the-scenes adventures from the open road in America's heartland to late-night partying when the Bullrun drivers will be blowing off steam after a long day driving.

"From the regular guy who pours more heart and soul into his Camaro in his driveway than his relationship, to the millionaire playboy who drives a $500,000 McLaren SLR, Bullrun provides action for any guy in love with his car and offers the freedom and adventure of the road," said Levy.

Bullrun will also feature some of the most exotic and hottest, tricked-out cars ever assembled on television from the Ferrari Enzo, to the Shelby Mustang to the Aston Martin Vanquish.

Spike TV, the first network for men, is available in 90 million homes and is a division of MTV Networks. MTV Networks, a division of Viacom International Inc.

Maloof Television, a division of Maloof Productions which encompasses film, television, music and other areas, is an entertainment production company founded in April 2004 by the Maloof family, whose diversified business portfolio includes ownership of the Palms Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas and the NBA's Sacramento Kings. Visit the website at www.maloofproductions.com.

Source: Spike TV

http://www.maloofproductions.com/

Five Lucky Winners to Appear in National Commercial

Loosen up your vocal cords and get ready to belt out the lyrics to those famous jingles -- the Oscar Mayer(C) jingles! From May 1 to September 4, 2006 the world famous Oscar Mayer WIENERMOBILE(TM) vehicles will be cruising coast-to-coast giving Oscar Mayer fans a chance to see if they can cut the mustard in the Oscar Mayer Sing the Jingle, Be a Star(TM) contest. Hopeful jingle fans have the chance to enter the national "casting call" by singing their own rendition of the Oscar Mayer Wiener Jingle(C), the Bologna Song(C) or the Oscar Mayer Spanish Jingle(C) to land a spot in the limelight.

Rolling Out the Red Carpet

2006 Academy of Country Music "Top New Female Vocalist" Award Nominee, Julie Roberts, who is about to release her sophomore album Men & Mascara, is teaming up with Oscar Mayer to encourage rising stars across the country to enter the contest.

"Ever since I was a little girl, singing has been my passion, so I'm thrilled to partner with Oscar Mayer to support the 'Sing the Jingle, Be a Star' contest," said Roberts. "It's such a fun opportunity for everyone to show off their vocal talent and personal style and five people will actually have a starring role in a national Oscar Mayer television commercial!"

To help kick off the contest, Roberts and the WIENERMOBILE will be at the 2006 Academy of Country Music Awards at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas to cheer on fans who share their rendition of the famous jingles.

Running with the "Big Dogs"

On their cross-country trek, Hotdoggers, the official drivers of the WIENERMOBILES, will be making stops at events nationwide to film Oscar Mayer fans young and old (at least six years of age) as they sing their favorite jingle. Five lucky winners will receive a starring role in a national Oscar Mayer television commercial and a trip for four.

Can You Cut the Mustard?

Whether it's rapped or sang with a country flair, hot dog and bologna lovers are asked to sing their own rendition of the Oscar Mayer Wiener Jingle, the Bologna Song or the Oscar Mayer Spanish Jingle. To enter, contestants can "ketchup" with the WIENERMOBILE at official Oscar Mayer Sing the Jingle, Be a Star events where they will be videotaped singing the jingle of their choice or they can log onto http://singthejingle.com/ for information on how to enter by mail.

Mail-in entries should include a VHS videotape or DVD (no longer than 1 minute) along with an official entry form available on http://singthejingle.com/ . All mail-in entries should be received by August 21, 2006 and sent to Sing the Jingle Entries, P.O. Box 5652, Blair, NE 68009- 5652.

Five Lucky Dogs

Twenty finalists (16 performed in English, 4 in Spanish) will be selected and posted online from October 26-November 27, 2006. During this timeframe, Americans can log onto http://singthejingle.com/ to vote for their favorite finalist or to find additional details on how to vote via cell phone, ballot form or mail. America's vote, along with a panel of Oscar Mayer appointed judges, will narrow the pool of 20 finalists to five grand prize winners (4 performed in English, 1 in Spanish) who will appear in an Oscar Mayer television commercial. Judging will be based on the following criteria: overall performance, style and creativity and suitability for inclusion in an Oscar Mayer television commercial.

For official Oscar Mayer Sing the Jingle, Be a Star entry materials, complete rules and more information, visit http://singthejingle.com/ . No purchase necessary.

Kraft Foods is the world's second-largest food and beverage company. For more than 100 years, we've been dedicated to helping people around the world eat and live better. Hundreds of millions of times a day, in more than 155 countries, consumers reach for their favorite Kraft brands including Kraft cheeses and dinners, Jacobs, Gevalia and Maxwell House coffees, Oscar Mayer meats, DiGiorno pizzas, Oreo cookies, Ritz and Wheat Thins crackers and chips, Philadelphia cream cheese, Milka and Cote'd Or chocolates, Honey Bunches of Oats cereals, Good Seasons salad dressings and Tang and Capri Sun refreshment beverages. They've also started adding our Tassimo hot beverage system, South Beach Diet line and a growing range of better-for-you Sensible Solution products to their shopping baskets, continually expanding their list of Kraft favorites.

Julie Roberts, Mercury Recording artist, self titled album, 'A' (May 2004), was certified gold and led to two Horizon Award nominations (2004) from the Country Music Association. She was also nominated for Top New Artist Nominee (2005) and Top New Female Vocalist Nominee (2006) by the Academy of Country Music Awards, as well as Breakthrough Artist Nominee (2005) by the Country Music Television Awards. Roberts' sophomore album Men & Mascara, produced by Byron Gallimore, is set to debut June 2006.

Source: Oscar Mayer

Roll out the red carpet ... COMEDY CENTRAL is gearing up for a live mega-watt event! The all-comedy network is partnering with Jon Stewart's Busboy Productions for its first-ever live on-air special event, it was announced today by Elizabeth Porter, senior vice president, specials and talent, COMEDY CENTRAL. "Comedy Love Call," a live benefit for Autism education and research programs, will feature Stewart and many of comedy's leading lights at New York City's Beacon Theater.

Mark your calendars; COMEDY CENTRAL is going live on Sunday, October 15 with "Comedy Love Call." Live from New York City's Beacon Theater, Stewart and a list of comedy and celebrity all-stars including Adam Sandler, Jack Black, Sacha Baron Cohen ("Da Ali G Show"), Stephen Colbert ("The Colbert Report") and Triumph the Insult Comic Dog ("Late Night with Conan O'Brien"), among many others, will perform to raise money to help ease the severe shortage of effective schools and education programs for autistic children and adults.

"Comedy Love Call" will also benefit Autism Speaks, an organization created to benefit Autism research. The Autism epidemic now affects 1 in 166 children, according to the Center for Disease Control. In addition to live performances, viewers will be treated to sketches and short films from some of the most talented names in the comedy world. Stay tuned -- more names to be announced.

Source: Comedy Central

Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. announced today that it entered into affiliation agreements with the CW Television Network on its remaining WB, UPN and independent stations. The Company previously announced that 17 of its WB and UPN stations affiliated with FOX's My Network Television.

"With this announcement, we have secured affiliations on all of our WB, UPN and independent stations and brought closure to this issue," commented David Smith, President and CEO of Sinclair Broadcast Group. "When the network changes occur this September, we will be in a much stronger financial and programming position than we were as WB and UPN affiliates.

"When the CW announcement was initially made in January, there was a significant sell-off by the market due to the uncertainty of the stations' affiliation outcome, the market's lack of understanding of how little of our revenue was potentially at risk due to the minimal number of hours programmed by the WB and UPN networks, and FOX's yet to be announced competing network launch of My Network Television. Through our new affiliation agreements, we now have what we believe to be the best programming of the WB and UPN on the CW stations, and creative new programming with a more compelling economic model on the My Network TV stations."

Prior to the My Network TV's announcement, the Company estimated that approximately 1% to 1.5%, or $8 million, of 2005 net broadcast revenues on an annual basis could be at risk. With all WB and UPN stations secured under My Network TV and CW affiliation agreements, the Company's revised estimated impact of the network affiliation changes are for net broadcast revenues to increase by approximately $10.0 million on an annualized basis, of which approximately $3.5 million would occur in 2006. The increase is primarily due to the more favorable inventory arrangement under the My Network TV affiliations. The Company had previously estimated the annual expense increase to be approximately $1.0 million and is now revising that amount downwards to approximately $0.6 million.

Below is a complete list of the markets in which the Company owns and operates, programs or provides sales services to stations which entered into affiliation agreements with the CW Television Network and My Network Television:

KFBT, Las Vegas, NV - CW

KMWB, Minneapolis, MN - CW

KOCB, Oklahoma City, OK - CW

WLFL, Raleigh, NC - CW

WNAB, Nashville, TN - CW

WNUV, Baltimore, MD - CW

WTTO, Birmingham, AL - CW

WDDB, Birmingham/Tuscaloosa, AL (simulcast) - CW

WVTV, Milwaukee, WI - CW

KRRT, San Antonio, TX - My TV

KVWB, Las Vegas, NV - My TV

WABM, Birmingham, AL - My TV

WBSC, Asheville, NC/Greenville, SC - My TV

WCGV, Milwaukee, WI - My TV

WCWB, Pittsburgh, PA - My TV

WDKA, Paducah, KY/Cape Girardeau, MO - My TV

WFGX, Pensacola, FL/Mobile, AL - My TV

WMMP, Charleston, SC - My TV

WNYO, Buffalo, NY - My TV

WNYS, Syracuse, NY - My TV

WRDC, Raleigh, NC - My TV

WSTR, Cincinnati, OH - My TV

WTTA, Tampa, FL - My TV

WTVZ, Norfolk, VA - My TV

WUPN, Greensboro, NC - My TV

WUXP, Nashville, TN - My TV

Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., one of the largest and most diversified television broadcasting companies, currently owns and operates, programs or provides sales services to 58 television stations in 36 markets. Sinclair's television group reaches approximately 22% of U.S. television households and is affiliated with all the major networks.

Source: Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.

Web site: http://www.sbgi.net/

Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. announced today that it (and Cunningham Broadcasting Corporation with respect to certain stations which Sinclair programs under LMA agreements) have agreed to renew the affiliation agreements with the FOX Broadcasting Company for all 19 of its FOX stations. The agreements have a six-year term that run through March 31, 2012.

"We are excited to continue our long-term relationship with FOX and protect our stations' competitive market positions," commented David Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer of Sinclair. "It was important for us to maintain our alliance with FOX. They now have some of the top programs on network television. Their program popularity, coupled with their aggressive approach towards broadband integration and news coverage, may allow our FOX stations to continue growing in viewing and advertising shares.

"Equally important for us was to be affiliated with a network that is not providing an entire day's programming line-up, which allows us to broadcast more locally produced content such as news programming. We believe that the demand for local content will drive the value of our digital television investment and Internet strategies."

Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., one of the largest and most diversified television broadcasting companies, owns and operates, programs or provides sales services to 58 television stations in 36 markets. Sinclair's television group is affiliated with all major networks and reaches approximately 22% of all U.S. television households. For more information, please visit Sinclair's website at http://www.sbgi.net/.

Source: Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.

Web site: http://www.sbgi.net/

15 Soul Classics to Feature New Orleans' Favorite Son

Neville Will Be Joined by Some of Today's Hottest Recording Artists on Select Tracks

Available in Stores and Online This September

Burgundy Records' (SONY BMG) first signing, Aaron Neville, has gone into the studio in Los Angeles to record his new, as of yet untitled album. This is Neville's first Sony BMG release.

Due in September, the album will be comprised of 15 all-time soul classics, including Otis Redding's "Dock Of The Bay" and Sam Cooke's "Bring It On Home To Me."

"Legendary soul classics performed by one of the greatest soul voices of the 20th Century ... it doesn't get better than that," says Joe DiMuro, EVP/General Manager of Sony BMG's Burgundy Records (www.burgundyrecords.com). "By putting our own twist on it, we are making these beloved soul classics new again."

Stewart Levine will produce the album. Levine, who has worked with a bevy of platinum selling artists, including Jamie Cullum, Simply Red and BB King, has produced over 10 Grammy-award winning records.

"This is very natural ground for Aaron, as he grew up immersed in the sounds of classic rhythm and blues. It's not a departure or some grand "concept" -- it's a very natural fit for him and something he's wanted to do for a very long time," says Levine.

A number of exciting collaborations with some very special guests are planned for the album as well.

"I am excited to be a part of Burgundy Records and look forward to giving my existing fans and, hopefully, new fans some brand new music," says Aaron Neville.

New Orleans' "first son" and four-time Grammy(R) award-winning artist, Neville has a trademark angelic voice and an impressive body of work to go along with it.

The Sony BMG Strategic Marketing Group (SMG) recently launched its new record label, Burgundy Records. The Sony BMG SMG imprint plans to sign legendary multi-platinum artists and release new titles in conjunction with an innovative marketing campaign that will promote the artists through traditional and non-traditional channels.

Source: SONY BMG

,
Web site: http://www.sonybmg.com/
http://www.burgundyrecords.com/

Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. announced today that it (and Cunningham Broadcasting Corporation with respect to certain stations which Sinclair programs under LMA agreements) have agreed to renew the affiliation agreements with the FOX Broadcasting Company for all 19 of its FOX stations. The agreements have a six-year term that run through March 31, 2012.

"We are excited to continue our long-term relationship with FOX and protect our stations' competitive market positions," commented David Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer of Sinclair. "It was important for us to maintain our alliance with FOX. They now have some of the top programs on network television. Their program popularity, coupled with their aggressive approach towards broadband integration and news coverage, may allow our FOX stations to continue growing in viewing and advertising shares.

"Equally important for us was to be affiliated with a network that is not providing an entire day's programming line-up, which allows us to broadcast more locally produced content such as news programming. We believe that the demand for local content will drive the value of our digital television investment and Internet strategies."

Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., one of the largest and most diversified television broadcasting companies, owns and operates, programs or provides sales services to 58 television stations in 36 markets. Sinclair's television group is affiliated with all major networks and reaches approximately 22% of all U.S. television households. For more information, please visit Sinclair's website at http://www.sbgi.net/.

Source: Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.

Web site: http://www.sbgi.net/

A&E Television Networks and Cox Communications New Orleans join with Soaringwords, a 501(c)(3) non-profit public charity whose mission is to help millions of ill children and their families heal, to lead a delegation of volunteers from around the country to donate hundreds of SoaringQuilts(R) and SoaringPillows(R) to children in New Orleans who have been affected by Hurricane Katrina. St. Bernard Unified School welcomed the project to put their special decorative touches on each quilt and pillow as a way of reaching out to their hospitalized peers.

Naturally, down quilts and fluffy pillows conjure up images of relaxation and comfortable sleep. But many victims of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans haven't had that luxury -- the area still continues to heal from their trauma. St Bernard Unified School hosted A&E, Cox Communications and Soaringwords for a morning of hope and healing and decorated over 350 quilts and pillows.

Cox and A&E created a special bond with Principal Wayne Warner and St. Bernard Unified School. Bringing this project to the New Orleans community and the devastated Katrina region has been a commitment A&E planned for several months.

Dr. Libby O'Connell, SVP Corporate Outreach and Educational Initiatives for A&E Television Networks spoke about the project's significance. "A&E's Soaringwords New Orleans Project is a great way to get young people involved in giving back to their communities. We are so happy Cox Communications New Orleans is able to join with us in this effort to pay it forward!"

"Since the devastation of the storms we see children accepting the current challenges in their lives so bravely and confronting them with unbelievable determination," stated Brad Grundmeyer, Manager of Public Affairs, Cox Communications New Orleans. "The Soaringwords program is another way to help comfort and inspire children during the rebuilding process."

"It was incredibly healing for children in New Orleans to be able to decorate the quilts and pillows with inspirational messages and artwork. This is such a tangible and personal way for children to inspire hospitalized children and children affected by Katrina to 'never give up!'" said Soaringwords' CEO & Founder, Lisa Honig Buksbaum.

The morning progressed with A&E Television Networks, Cox Communications New Orleans and Soaringwords delegates traveling to New Orleans's Children's Hospital to give their personalized gifts to hundred of patients. Each year it is estimated that 18% of all children in the U.S. suffer from chronic illness (Source: American Academy of Pediatrics). This means that each year 22 million children and their families and friends, potentially 66 million people in all, face the challenges of catastrophic pediatric illness.

"In addition to their medical conditions, the children and families that are being treated at Children's Hospital are suffering from trauma from the enormity of Katrina. The SoaringQuilts(R) and pillows are so colorful and filled with warm wishes and heart-warming artwork. These gifts remind our pediatric patients that people are thinking about them and want them to heal," said Brian Landry, vice-president/marketing, Children's Hospital, New Orleans.

The St. Bernard Unified School Soaringwords project and the Children's Hospital of New Orleans donation are part of A&E's Lives That Make A Difference Initiative, an outreach campaign that focuses on people -- from all walks of life and all age groups -- who have a positive impact on our world. It helps others learn how they can make their local neighborhood or their global community a better place. Through public service or private enterprise, people can make a difference.

Now reaching more than 90 million homes, A&E Network brings viewers a diverse mix of high quality entertainment; ranging from critically acclaimed original movies to the very best dramatic series, the most successful justice shows on cable to the Emmy Award-winning Biography(R) series. Not to mention, the A&E Network's powerhouse Real-Life Series franchise. In 2005, A&E Network holds the distinct record for the most Primetime Emmy nominations (10) for a basic cable network. The A&E Network website is located at http://www.aetv.com/ and the Biography(R) website is located at http://www.biography.com/. The A&E Club is located at http://www.aetv.com/club. For more information and photography please visit us on the web at http://www.aetvpress.com/.

Cox Communications, a Fortune 500 company, is a multi-service broadband communications and entertainment company with more than 6.7 million total customers. Cox is the nation's third-largest cable television provider and offers an array of advanced digital video, high-speed Internet and telephony services over its own nationwide IP network. Cox Communications is a full- service, facilities-based provider of communications solutions for commercial customers, providing high-speed Internet, voice and long-distance services, as well as data and video transport services for small to large-sized businesses via Cox Business Services. Cox Media offers national and local cable advertising in traditional spot and new media formats, along with promotional opportunities and production services. More information about the services of Cox Communications, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cox Enterprises, is available at http://www.cox.com/, http://www.coxbusiness.com/, and http://www.coxmedia.com/.

Cox Communications New Orleans, a system of Cox Communications Inc., has served the parishes of Jefferson, Orleans, St. Bernard and St. Charles for the past 25 years.

Source: A&E Television Networks

Television Networks

Web site: http://www.aetv.com/
http://www.cox.com/

Neotrope(R), an entertainment content and media company established in 1983, announced today the formal launch of Advertising Industry Newswire (www.AdvertisingIndustryNewswire.com), an online magazine with news, commentary, podcasts, articles and feature content covering the ad business from broadcast to Web.

The new online magazine features original exclusive articles, rants, and insight from industry professionals, as well as specially selected news stories related to advertising, marketing, branding, celebrity endorsements, product placement, SEO, and public relations. Advertising Industry Newswire(TM) will also be adding a useful business to business company directory with free listings, and an industry event and trade show calendar very shortly.

The Chief Editorial Director for the online publication is Christopher Laird Simmons, an award-winning author, journalist, photographer, art director, public relations pro, musician and Web developer. Simmons is a member of the PRSA and ASCAP, and has frequently been interviewed by magazines like PC World, Entrepreneur and Trendwatch. He has written articles and columns for numerous national and regional print publications including Computer Player, CrossMedia, Digital Imaging, Print on Demand Business, Micro Publishing News, Polyphony, Search Engine Intelligence, and Spazz.

Simmons has won two Harvey Measurement awards for most responsive magazine advertising, and an ARPL design award from Apple Computer in 1993. He has developed over 500 Web sites since March of 1995 and is considered one of the first "experts" in search engine optimization (SEO), creating a proprietary technology called ContextEngine(R) in 1996 which has evolved over the past decade along with search engines to help Web sites rank higher and "be found." He is also the author of the forthcoming podcast business book, "The Savvy Guide to Podcasting" (Indy-Tech Publishing, Nov. 2006).

Other noted authors and marketing folks who will be contributing original content to the publication include (so far) Scott G ("The G-Man," of G-Man Marketing in Los Angeles), and Carly Zander, who has written for publications like CrossMedia, and Search Engine Intelligence. Guest authors, all experts in their field, will be contributing exclusive articles related to latino marketing, radio and TV spots, market research, and the business of podcasting.

Learn more about the editorial team at: http://advertisingindustrynewswire.com/meet-our-staff/

More information http://advertisingindustrynewswire.com/

Cingular Wireless today announced the launch of Rowdy(TM), a unique on-demand audio entertainment service that delivers news, interviews, and unique insight from the world of stock car racing directly to the wireless handset. Cingular, the nation's largest wireless carrier and primary sponsor of the No. 31 Cingular Chevrolet driven by Jeff Burton, will bring race fans fresh Rowdy content seven days a week.

With the feel of a radio show and many of the features of a podcast, Rowdy gives fans easy and immediate access to their favorite sport and offers insight from experts like former driver Rick Mast, former crew chief Barry Dodson, and award-winning reporters Mark Garrow and David Poole. To connect to Rowdy, priced at $4.99 per month, customers call Cingular's VoiceInfo service, powered by Tellme, by simply dialing *8 on their Cingular phone and then saying "Rowdy."

Rowdy delivers information-rich racing content in an informal, fan-centric format developed after extensive testing with race fans. The show is updated daily, with a five-to-six minute newscast followed by other racing features, such as driver interviews, expert commentary, racing trivia, statistics, and stories from the old days. Subscribers also become part of the broadcast team by leaving their comments to be aired on later shows.

While it feels a lot like radio, Rowdy has some important differences. The program is available on-demand to listeners, at the time and place of their choosing. And Rowdy is navigable: users have the option of skipping forward and backwards, as well as hearing older shows they may have missed or want to hear again. Rowdy also works on any handset, allowing Cingular customers to sign up, without changing phones or plans. As part of the service, subscribers also get a free Rowdy text alert, telling them what is on the show for the day.

Rowdy is yet another example of exclusive motorsports content that Cingular offers its customers. Earlier this year, Cingular launched its MEdia Net Racing Portal, a wireless hub for in-depth information, including top stories from around motorsports, pre- and post- race reports, real-time statistical information on in-race leaderboards and individual driver news. The Racing Portal also features exclusive video packages provided by Burton and members of the TEAM Cingular crew that are delivered through its Cingular Video service.

"This is a unique way for us to provide our customers even greater access to the motorsports world through exclusive content offerings," said Tim McGhee, director of sponsorships at Cingular. "Rowdy is the latest way for Cingular to bring fans closers to the action."

Rowdy is created in partnership with Labrador Communications, Inc., which conceived of the program and produces the daily show. The show is hosted by Reginald "Buck" Fever and Leonard "Bass" Masters, two die-hard race fans with a sense of humor and a deep knowledge of the racing world. Delivering the news from a fan's point of view, Buck and Bass turn to tried and true experts, like Mast, Dodson, Poole, and Garrow, for insight, commentary, and answers to questions any fan would have.

"The phone is really an informal medium," says Randy Castleman, Labrador's CEO, "and in our testing we found fans really enjoyed getting tons of informative content delivered with a healthy sense of fun. One of the things we heard over and over from users was they loved knowing more than their friends about what was going on in the sport. Rowdy really gets into the details."

About Cingular Wireless

Cingular Wireless is the largest wireless carrier in the United States, serving 55.8 million customers. Cingular, a joint venture between AT&T Inc. and BellSouth Corporation , has the largest digital voice and data network in the nation -- the ALLOVER(TM) network -- and the largest mobile-to-mobile community of any national wireless carrier. Cingular is a leader in third generation wireless technology. Its 3G network is the first widely available service in the world to use HSDPA (High Speed Downlink Packet Access) technology. Cingular is the only U.S. wireless carrier to offer Rollover(R), the wireless plan that lets customers keep their unused monthly minutes.

About Labrador

Based in Charlottesville, Va., Labrador Communications is a pioneer in the development of audio, on-demand entertainment for wireless devices. Instead of technology-centric development, Labrador focuses on user-centered entertainment and information services that are not handset or carrier dependent.

About Tellme Networks, Inc.

Tellme operates the world's largest Internet application network for the phone, handling billions of calls per year and used by more than 30 million people every month. Some of the applications running on Tellme's network include customer service for Merrill Lynch, E*TRADE and American Airlines, directory assistance for Cingular and Verizon and e-commerce services for Amazon.com and Fandango. Headquartered in Mountain View, Calif., Tellme is pioneering a new era in Internet communications by simplifying how people use the phone to find people, businesses and information.

Source: Cingular Wireless

Based on the April release of the RAB Radio Revenue Index of more than 150 markets, national radio revenue continued its healthy climb with a 4% increase for the month of February 2006 compared to the same month from a year ago. Local dollars continued to struggle, dropping 3% this February compared to last February. The increase in national dollars was not enough to boost total combined local and national ad sales, which declined 2% in February 2006 over February of 2005.

On a year-to-date basis, Radio revenue results for the first two months of 2006 were similar to the figures for the month of February. National dollars climbed 5% January through February of 2006 compared to those same two months in 2005. Local business dropped 2% January through February 2006 compared to January through February 2005.

The national ad sales index for the 1st two months of the year leads revenues for the period.

Current Analysis today announced a number of promotions and additions to its industry-leading analyst team. Included in these announcements were the hiring of Laurie Gooding as Senior Analyst, Optical Infrastructure and James Kobielus as Principal Analyst, Data Management. Ms. Gooding brings over 18 years of telecom experience, and is widely recognized as a leading industry analyst in the areas of wide area networking and carrier IP convergence. Mr. Kobielus is a well-known, respected IT industry speaker, consultant and author, with over 20 years of experience in the distributed computing and telecommunications industries.

The research firm also announced the promotions of Joel Conover to Research Director, Enterprise Networks and Security, and Samir Bhavnani to Research Director, Computing & Storage. Conover is considered to be one of the industry's foremost authorities in all matters related to enterprise networking by both technology suppliers and members of the IT management community. Bhavnani is recognized as a leading authority in mobile computing and electronics analysis and commentary, often sought by the nation's leading publications and media outlets.

Commenting on the expanded analytical holdings of the company, Vice President of Research Jeremiah Caron stated, "We are constantly seeking to expand and enhance the solutions we deliver. The new members of our analyst management team and the addition of new, top analytical talent are indicative of our commitment to this effort."

Other promotions included:

-- Philip Grote, Industry Analyst, European Page Printers

-- Antoinette Marty, Industry Analyst, Digital Cameras; Retail and E-Commerce Channels

-- Nicki D'Onofrio, Industry Analyst, Mobile Computing, Hard Drives and Flash Memory

-- Steve Kovsky, Principal Analyst, Digital TVs and Displays; Research Leader, Consumer Electronics Group

-- Ian Hamilton, Principal Analyst, Page Printers; Research Leader, Printing Group

-- Bruce McGregor, Senior Analyst, Digital Home Services

About Current Analysis

Current Analysis has been helping leading technology companies improve their competitive responsiveness since 1997. Our business model and solutions are built on the foundation of solid, quality intelligence and data, making Current Analysis the leader for competitive intelligence demands. The company serves more than 40,000 users at over 250 enterprise clients across the telecommunications, IT, and consumer electronics industries. Visit Current Analysis at http://www.currentanalysis.com.

Dean Martin is at the bar with cigar-chomping George Burns. Rodney Dangerfield laments how he gets no respect and Judy Garland belts out a chorus of "Swanee."

Double-take. Times four.

Are you now suddenly a ghost whisperer? A person with The Sixth Sense?

No, you've just seen some of the look-alikes attending the 6th annual Celebrity Impersonators Convention Sunday, May 28, to Wednesday, May 31, at the Imperial Palace Hotel & Casino.

New to the convention this year will be celebrity impersonators of Paris Hilton and Angelina Jolie. Also among the 75-125 impersonators attending will be movie star Elizabeth Taylor; comedian Jay Leno; TV and movie characters Seinfeld's Kramer and Austin Powers; singers Barbara Streisand and Bing Crosby; political leaders George W. Bush and Hillary Clinton; and gossip favorite Anna Nicole Smith.

The convention culminates with the CIC talent showcase and brunch from noon to 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 30. Between 25 and 50 agents and talent buyers are expected to view the performances. Tickets for the show only are available to the general public for $15 beginning Monday, May 15, at the Show and Tour Desk.

"The talent showcase is what the convention is all about," said Elyse Del Francia-Goodwin, founder and organizer of CIC. "Networking in our industry is at the core of successful impersonator bookings."

Last year's talent showcase was the first time Michael Coldiron - a dead ringer for Dean Martin - had attended the celebrity impersonator convention and performed in the talent showcase. Not having any previous stage experience, Coldiron said he was a "nervous wreck" and forgot the second line of his song. Nevertheless, when he finished, he was swarmed by talent agents.

As he was on his way to the airport back to Annapolis, Md., his cab driver was amazed at Coldiron's uncanny resemblance to the "That's Amore" crooner. Coldiron delayed his return flight and, through a connection with the cabbie's wife's sister, met Sandy Hackett, producer of the Rat Pack "Tribute to Frank, Sammy, Joey & Dean" at the Greek Isles Hotel & Casino.

Coldiron said Hackett encouraged him to take voice lessons, study Martin's mannerisms and make a videotape. Bitten by the impersonator bug, Coldiron moved to Las Vegas six months ago and is working on his acting skills. Playing Dean Martin in the Rat Pack tribute is within reach as soon as he polishes his stage presence.

"I never dreamed last year that I would be in Las Vegas now pursuing a Dean Martin impersonator career," Coldiron said. "And it all started with contacting Elyse and her inviting me to attend last year's celebrity impersonators convention."

ATLAtlantans are finally able to answer the question, "Who Is ELVIS WHITE?"

ELVIS WHITE, the hottest new group to hit the streets of Atlanta, and the first group to surface from Atlanta's newly formed 17.20 Records, brought the crowd to their feet when they performed at the 2nd Annual Grammy Block Party, held on the main stage at the 2006 Dogwood Festival at Atlanta's Piedmont Park.

ELVIS WHITE, one of the hottest crossover bands to ever emerge from the Caribbean, has been on a non-stop ride to the top since they landed in Atlanta a year ago. ELVIS WHITE has toured with Keith Sweat; opened for Maze featuring Frankie Beverly; recorded a hit single with hip-hop superstar, AKON; and opened twelve dates in Europe for hip hop icons, The Fugees.

"We were very excited to have our first live festival performance in Atlanta be associated with the Recording Academy," states the band's leader and namesake, Elvis. "Atlanta's music scene is very diverse and we're happy to add our Caribbean flavor to the gumbo pot."

"We loved having ELVIS WHITE participate in our Grammy Block Party," stated Michele Caplinger from the Atlanta Chapter of the Recording Academy. "ELVIS WHITE's performance was thrilling and explosive! I'm looking forward to following their success." Michele Rhea Caplinger. Senior Executive Director - The Atlanta Chapter of The Recording Academy

ELVIS WHITE's debut album PROMISE - Live & Direct is slated for a summer 2006 release.

17.20 Records

CD To Feature Brand New Songs Recorded During The Months Before His Passing

the months leading up to his passing on September 12, 2003, JOHNNY CASH had been recording new material with producer Rick Rubin. On July 4, 2006, "American V: A Hundred Highways," the all-new Johnny Cash album taken from those sessions, will be released on the American Recordings label through Lost Highway. It will include the last song Cash ever wrote.

The songs that comprise "American V: A Hundred Highways" are as eclectic an assortment as any on the previous albums in the American series: "Help Me," a poignant plea to God, the hauntingly beautiful ballad "If You Could Read My Mind," "God's Gonna Cut You Down," a traditional spiritual, the touching "Love's Been Good To Me," the heartrending "On The Evening Train," and "Further On (Up the Road)" are among the tracks on the new album. Songwriters for the tracks run the gamut from Hank Williams to Rod McKuen to Bruce Springsteen.

In addition, two original Cash compositions are featured, "Like the 309" and "I Came to Believe." "Like the 309" is the last song Cash wrote and, like his first recorded single, 1955's "Hey Porter," is a song that incorporates one of his favorite settings, trains: "Everybody take a look/See I'm doin' fine/Then load my box/On the 309." "I Came to Believe" is a song he wrote and originally recorded earlier in his career, and addresses the pain of addiction and connecting to a higher power.

"I think that 'American V' may be my favorite of all of the albums in the American series," said Rubin. "It's different from the others, it has a much different character. I think that this is as strong an album as Johnny ever made."

The months following the May 2004 passing of his wife June Carter Cash were among the most physically and emotionally painful times in Cash's life, but keeping focused on the recording of "American V: A Hundred Highways" proved to be his salvation. Rubin remembers, "Johnny said that recording was his main reason for being alive, and I think it was the only thing that kept him going, the only thing he had to look forward to."

Cash and Rubin began recording the songs that would find their way onto "American V: A Hundred Highways" in 2002, specifically on the day after they finished "American IV: The Man Comes Around" which was released that November. Johnny feared that "American IV" might be his last release, so Rubin suggested that he immediately begin writing and recording new material. Over the next eight months, songs were cut at Rubin's Los Angeles studio and in Nashville at Johnny's main home and at his fabled cabin located across the road. Due to Cash's frail health, Rubin arranged for an engineer and guitar players to always be on call for the days that Cash felt strong enough to work.

"He always wanted to work," said Rubin. "Every morning when he'd wake up, he would call the engineer and tell him if he was physically up to working that day. Our main concern was to get a great vocal performance. Johnny would record a song, send it to me and I would build a new track up under it. In the past, at the end of this process, he'd come to L.A. And we'd go through everything together, he would re-record any vocal bits that needed re-recording. But this time, we didn't have that opportunity."

Last year, Rubin began going through these final recordings. He admitted, "I kind of dreaded doing it, after Johnny passed, going back and listening to it...it was difficult.

"With all of the albums Johnny and I made together, our goal was for each one to be the best it could possibly be, and that remained the case with 'American V,'" Rick explained. Eventually, Cash's long-time engineer David "Fergie" Ferguson, Heartbreakers Mike Campbell (guitars) and Benmont Tench (keyboards), and Smokey Hormel (guitars), all of whom had worked on previous albums in the American series, along with Matt Sweeney (guitars) and Johnny Polonsky (guitars) went into the studio.

"We felt Johnny's presence during the whole process through to the end," said Rubin. "It felt like he was directing the proceedings, and I know that the musicians all felt that as well. Almost all of the songs were cut solely to Johnny's original vocal tracks, the musicians all keyed off his voice and were playing to him, supporting the emotion of his performance. More than once, Fergie and I would look at each other and say 'Johnny would love this,' because it was so good and so different from anything we'd done before, we knew he would be excited by what was happening."

It was decided to wait to release "American V: A Hundred Highways" until the recent Cash hubbub had run its course. What separates this album from the re-packages, compilations, movie soundtracks and everything else that has surfaced since Johnny's passing is, according to Rubin, "These songs are Johnny's final statement. They are the truest reflection of the music that was central to his life at the time. This is the music that Johnny wanted us to hear."

As the Coffee Retailer Transforms Traditional Music Distribution and Motion Picture Marketing, Talent Agency Enlisted to Identify Projects

May 1, 2006 Starbucks (NASDAQ:SBUX) today announced a relationship with the William Morris Agency (WMA) in which WMA will identify music, film and book projects for Starbucks to consider for marketing and distribution in its stores. The relationship signals the significant interest in Starbucks as a partner to labels and studios and provides Starbucks the opportunity to add value to its entertainment strategy and gain access to significantly more content for consideration.

With its national footprint of stores, strong passion and trust from its huge and diverse customer base, and proven track record with word-of-mouth marketing, Starbucks has already demonstrated success in reconnecting its millions of customers with new and unique music options, from the GRAMMY Award winning Ray Charles, to Bob Dylan, Herbie Hancock and new artist Sonya Kitchell who charted with her first ever album co-released and marketed by Starbucks. More recently, Starbucks provided its customers with a unique opportunity to discover Akeelah and the Bee, an inspirational new film which opened April 28, co-presented by Lionsgate, 2929 Entertainment and Starbucks Entertainment.

"While we are a coffee company at heart, Starbucks provides much more than the best cup of coffee -- we offer a community gathering place where people come together to connect and discover new things," said Howard Schultz, Starbucks chairman. "Our customers have given us permission to be part of their entertainment discovery through the trust they have of the brand and our editorial voice introducing them to new music and movies. We believe Starbucks is a very powerful distribution channel, which is why we are so pleased to be working with the largest diversified talent and literacy agency in the world, William Morris Agency, to bring our customers even more forms of entertainment."

"Since Starbucks shook up the music industry when it launched its focused music strategy in 2004 we recognized the important role that they would have on entertainment marketing and distribution going forward," said William Morris CEO, Jim Wiatt. "They are a company that has gained the trust and respect of the millions of customers who walk through their doors each week; and they are a company dedicated to innovation and altruism. As they extend their reach into broader forms of entertainment, we couldn't be more pleased and honored to be working with Starbucks."

"We are extremely pleased about the response that the industry has had in regards to our entertainment strategy. We look forward to working very closely with the William Morris Agency, identifying and bringing forward projects to introduce to our customers that truly reflect our brand values and meet the high quality standard they have come to expect from us," said Ken Lombard, president, Starbucks Entertainment. "We are extremely excited about the value that William Morris is providing to our strategy and more importantly bringing quality entertainment choices to our customers."

Added WMA President, Dave Wirtschafter: "We are incredibly proud to partner with one of the most respected brands in the world. And while Starbucks has already gained a strong foothold in the world of entertainment, we feel that with their existing market awareness and our ability to maximize their position, we can enhance an already formidable brand."

About Starbucks Entertainment

Starbucks Entertainment's first film offering follows a very successful year for the Company's music strategy. Starbucks Hear Music executed initiatives such as the co-production of the GRAMMY(R) award-winning Ray Charles Genius Loves Company album, as well as the exclusive offering of the ten year anniversary acoustic recording of Alanis Morissette's Jagged Little Pill. More recently Starbucks Hear Music co-produced and launched its first global CD release: Herbie Hancock's Possibilities, which is available simultaneously at Starbucks and traditional music retail worldwide, and which has been nominated for two GRAMMY(R)s, marking the second year in a row in which an album Starbucks Hear Music co-released has received multiple GRAMMY(R) nominations. Year one of Starbucks Hear Music's strategy also included co-releasing the first officially sanctioned, professionally produced version of Bob Dylan's rare, historic 1962 "Gaslight" sessions, another Starbucks exclusive, and the unveiling of the Hear Music(TM) Coffeehouses in Miami and San Antonio, which feature the next generation of the Hear Music(TM) media bars, enabling customers to burn a custom CD of their choice from a selection of more than one million digital tracks.

About Starbucks Coffee Company

Through the dedication of our passionate partners (employees), Starbucks Coffee Company has transformed the way people in 37 countries enjoy their coffee, one cup at a time. Starbucks is the premier purveyor of the finest coffee in the world, with more than 11,000 retail locations in North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East and the Pacific Rim. The Company is committed to offering its customers the highest quality coffee and human connection through the Starbucks Experience, while striving to improve the social, environmental and economic well being of its partners, coffee farmers, countries of coffee origin, and the communities which it serves. Through Ethos Water, Starbucks demonstrates its long history of integrating a social conscience into all aspects of its business. The Company surprises and delights its customers by producing and selling bottled Starbucks Frappuccino(R) coffee drinks, Starbucks DoubleShot(R) espresso drinks and Starbucks(R) superpremium ice creams through its joint-venture partnerships, and Starbucks(TM) Coffee and Cream Liqueurs through a marketing and distribution agreement, in other convenient locations outside its retail operations. The Company's brand portfolio includes superpremium Tazo(R) teas, Starbucks Hear Music(TM) compact discs, Seattle's Best Coffee and Torrefazione Italia. These brands' unique and innovative personalities allow Starbucks to appeal to a broad consumer base.

About the William Morris Agency

Founded in 1898, the William Morris Agency is the leading talent and literary agency in the world, with principal offices in New York, Beverly Hills, Nashville, London, Miami Beach and Shanghai. The Agency represents clients in all segments of the entertainment industry, including Motion Pictures, Television, Music and Personal Appearances, Broadway Theatre and Theatrical Touring, Book Publishing, Commercial Endorsements, Sports Marketing and Corporate Consulting. The William Morris Agency can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.wma.com.

Spectrobes; Kyoto-Based Jupiter Corporation Developing Anime-Inspired Action/Role Playing Game for the Nintendo DS

Buena Vista Games, Inc. (BVG), the interactive entertainment arm of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS), today announced that it is creating and publishing the company's first video game based on an original property, Spectrobes. Set to release exclusively for the Nintendo DS(TM), Spectrobes is an anime-inspired action/role playing game that is being developed by Jupiter Corporation in Kyoto. The announcement was made this morning from BVG's local offices in Tokyo.

"We've experienced tremendous success developing new intellectual properties such as KINGDOM HEARTS in Japan, and the innovation and style of Spectrobes are a perfect fit for the expertise of renowned developer Jupiter Corporation," said Graham Hopper, senior vice president and general manager, Buena Vista Games. "Spectrobes is a new and unique property with endless potential for a dynamic entertainment company such as The Walt Disney Company. There is tremendous interest in this franchise from other divisions such as media networks, online and consumer products."

"Based on BVG's original concept and utilizing the creative style of Japanese anime, manga and traditional Japanese art, Spectrobes is an innovative game developed by the outstanding team at Jupiter," said Kentaro Hisai, producer at BVG Japan. "The game's intense real-time battle and unique excavation features should enthrall gamers throughout the world."

Spectrobes introduces two junior Interplanetary Patrol officers named Rallen and Jeena who learn of strange, prehistoric creatures called Spectrobes that possess special powers. These fossilized Spectrobes hold the key to defeating a vicious and merciless force, known only as the Krawl that threatens to destroy the galaxy. The two heroes embark on a mission to save their galaxy - to do so they must excavate, awaken, train and collect all the Spectrobes they can and battle to defeat the Krawl.

Spectrobes is infused with the edgy, highly stylized look and feel of Japanese anime and manga, and uniquely combines original characters, a compelling story and breakthrough gameplay. Spectrobes allows players to excavate, train and battle with nearly 500 unique creatures -- utilizing every interactive feature of the Nintendo DS. Once the creature is excavated using the touch screen portion of the Nintendo DS, the Spectrobe is then awakened and can be utilized in real-time battles with enemies. Players must collect, train and help their Spectrobes evolve in order to progress and succeed in the game. With highly customizable elements and powers, each Spectrobe is unique to individual game players.

The release date for Spectrobes will be announced later.

About Buena Vista Games

Buena Vista Games, Inc. (BVG) is the interactive entertainment arm of The Walt Disney Company. BVG publishes, markets and distributes a broad portfolio of multi-platform video games and interactive entertainment worldwide. The company also licenses properties and works directly with third-party interactive game publishers to bring products for all ages to market. For more information, please log on to http://www.bvg.com.

About Jupiter Corporation

With headquarters in Kyoto, Japan, Jupiter Corporation designs and develops interactive entertainment software and publishes video game titles licensed by Nintendo. Jupiter's motto is "Let's Play! Let's Smile!" and they continue to push boundaries with innovation and creativity. Jupiter's worldwide best-selling titles include Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories, PICROSS Series (Mario's PICROSS, Super PICROSS), and POKEMON Pinball (Game Boy(R) Color version), as well as POKEMON Pinball Ruby and Sapphire, which has sold over million units worldwide. For more information, please log on to

OAK HR - E. Chavez (10) B. Crosby (3)
LAA HR - V. Guerrero (7)

On Tuesday, May 2, NASCAR race car driver Jon Wood and his crew will be turning the Wood Brothers/JTG Racing shop into a training camp. Wood, as part of his work with the American Red Cross, will take time away from the track to focus on another important training -- how to save a life. The #47 team will spend the afternoon taking part in basic first aid and CPR/AED exercises with a Red Cross instructor.

Jon, and his Busch Series sponsor Clorox, are joining forces with the Red Cross to bring attention to the need for everyone to receive CPR training; and to know what to do in case of an emergency. Each year, roughly a quarter of a million people suffer sudden cardiac arrest. Being able to administer CPR during the first few minutes of a medical emergency is crucial to the survival and recovery of a victim.

"My pit crew and I understand the importance of reacting quickly to any situation during the race because every second can impact our finish," said Wood. "There is a similarity in having quick reaction time on the track and in a medical emergency. Being in a position to win a race is thrilling, but nothing compares to having an opportunity to save a life." Wood feels it is critical for everyone to attend training and renew CPR certifications so they will be prepared to help save a life. Just like his crew trains each week to perfect a pit stop in just 14 seconds, the American Red Cross works with a team of volunteers, donors, and staff to benefit communities throughout America.

Jon Wood's #47 Clorox Ford Fusion now proudly displays the Red Cross as a symbol of his commitment to spreading the word on the importance of training. Through more than 800 local chapters across the country; the Red Cross trains 33,000 people each day how to stay safe and to respond to the emergencies of others.

In addition to his work to promote safety training, Wood will be a special guest at the upcoming American Red Cross 2006 National Convention. He will draw the grand prize winner of two tickets to a NASCAR race and a chance to be part of the #47 pit crew.

The American Red Cross has helped people mobilize to help their neighbors for 125 years. Last year, victims of a record 72,883 disasters, most of them fires, turned to the nearly 1 million volunteers and 35,000 employees of the Red Cross for help and hope. Through more than 800 locally supported chapters, more than 15 million people each year gain the skills they need to prepare for and respond to emergencies in their homes, communities and world. Almost 4 million people give blood-the gift of life-through the Red Cross, making it the largest supplier of blood and blood products in the United States. The Red Cross helps thousands of U.S. service members separated from their families by military duty stay connected. As part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, a global network of more than 180 national societies, the Red Cross helps restore hope and dignity to the world's most vulnerable people. An average of 91 cents of every dollar the Red Cross spends is invested in humanitarian services and programs. The Red Cross is not a government agency; it relies on donations of time, money, and blood to do its work.

Source: American Red Cross

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

FORMULA D, G4's high-octane series covering the tire-screeching sport of drift racing, launches its second season on Sunday, June 18, with back-to-back episodes of exclusive coverage of the 'Streets of Long Beach' and 'Road Atlanta' Formula Drift Championship battles. FORMULA D on G4 premieres its second season on Sunday, June 18, at 7:00 PM ET/PT.

Ex-athlete Brandon Johnson, former host of Fox Soccer USA, joins FORMULA D as co-host of the G4 series, with Olivia Munn, the new co-host of G4's ATTACK OF THE SHOW, serving as co-host from the race pits. Expert event commentator Adam Matthews will join Johnson and Munn. FORMULA D is being produced this season by veteran Fox Sports producer P.T. Navarro, who brings his vast knowledge producing NFL on FOX games to the FORMULA D booth. As the exclusive television broadcast partner for this fast-rising sport, G4 will focus each episode on one event of the seven-city Formula Drift Championship circuit. Many of the drifting pros featured in FORMULA D appear as stunt drivers in the upcoming feature film, "The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift," which opens on June 16.

"Drift racing is red-hot right now," said G4 President Neal Tiles. "It's emerging from its 'underground' roots and is captivating young guys everywhere. It only seems fitting that the hottest new racing series is on the hottest, young-male network -- G4."

The extreme motor sport of drifting -- in which drivers expertly maneuver their customized cars sideways through turns at top speed -- originated in Japan as an underground street scene more than a decade ago. The sport was introduced to the U.S. in 2003 by Formula Drift, Inc., and has quickly become a cultural phenomenon, experiencing exponential growth. Formula Drift, Inc. is North America's first and only professional drifting championship, and the first to be sanctioned and recognized by a motor sports body, SCCA Pro Racing. FORMULA D's coverage includes profiles and interviews of all of the top drivers, including 2005 Champion Rhys Millen, 2004 Champion Sam Hubinette, Ken Gushi, Daijiro Yoshihara, Vaughn Gittin Jr., and Chris Forsberg, as well as drifting tips and tricks from the pros.

G4's FORMULA D Web site, g4tv.com/formulad, will augment the coverage with exclusive videos of full tandem battles from multiple angles, driver diaries, event info, photo galleries and more.

FORMULA D and the Formula Drift, Inc. event organizers have been at the forefront of the rapidly accelerating popularity of the once-underground sport, offering guidance, support and racing opportunities to up-and-coming drifters. Today, drifting enthusiasts can practice the sport during "Drift Days" at local race tracks, and FORMULA D is open to new drivers who can qualify and earn their drift licenses through a minor league program.

The Formula Drift: Battlegrounds two-disk DVD set, based on G4's exclusive FORMULA D footage, follows the top U.S. professionals as they battle it out for the 2005 championship title. The DVD covers the entire 2005 season with more than six hours of event action, including special G4 behind-the-scenes segments. Formula Drift: Battleground is produced by Live Sockets Entertainment in association with Formula Drift, Inc.

About G4

G4 launched in April 2002 and is now available in 57 million cable and satellite homes nationwide. The #1 podcasted cable network in America and a leader in VOD, G4's programming includes breaking video game industry news, trends, reviews, the hottest games and gear, celebrity interviews and insider opinions. Targeting the male 18-34 audience and its gamer lifestyle, G4 is the last word on games, sports, technology, animation, interactivity, the Internet and broadband. The company is headquartered in Los Angeles and is owned by Comcast Corporation. To learn more, log onto www.g4tv.com.

Source: G4

Hyundai Motor America today announced April sales of 41,025, a new record for the month. Hyundai's sedans continued to lead the charge. Azera sales were up 82 percent over XG350/Azera sales in April 2005, and Sonata sales grew by 46 percent over last year.

"We are very encouraged by the strength of our sedans, with Sonata and Azera showing excellent growth over last year," said Mark Barnes, vice president, National Sales, Hyundai Motor America. "The combination of value and safety continues to resonate with consumers."

All Hyundai cars and sport utility vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by The Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty. Hyundai buyers are protected by a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 7-year/unlimited-mile anti-perforation warranty and 5-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance protection.

Following is the sales breakdown for April 2006:

CARLINE APR/2006 APR/2005 CY2006 CY2005

ACCENT 3,491 4,022 8,256 13,269

SONATA 15,716 10,790 58,587 38,931

ELANTRA 9,121 11,271 34,906 38,106

TIBURON 1,674 2,124 5,337 5,984

SANTA FE 3,639 6,129 14,091 22,218

XG350/AZERA 2,601 1,427 8,861 5,210

TUCSON 4,657 5,195 16,849 17,252

ENTOURAGE 126 0 126 0

TOTAL 41,025 40,958 147,013 140,970

Source: Hyundai Motor America

After a successful first quarter, Audi of America, Inc. continues its sales gains with a 2.9% increase for April 2006. Marking the second best April sales month in its history and the best since 2000, Audi sold a total of 7,412 vehicles. Vehicle sales in April 2005 totaled 7,202. Leading the sales gain for the month was the A4 with a total of 3,623, a 25.0% increase over last year. The A3 continues its strong momentum in the market with total sales of 746.

"Our core model lines -- A3, A4, and A6 -- continue to drive sales upwards," said Johan de Nysschen, Executive Vice President of Audi of America. "With the advent of the 'Year of Performance' beginning in June with the all- new Audi Q7 performance SUV, followed by the RS 4 sport sedan, A4 and S4 Cabriolets, and our luxury sport sedans S6 and S8, we're just at the beginning of a great year for Audi of America."

AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.

APRIL 2006 SALES

Apr-06 Apr-05

Apr-06 Apr-05 Yr/Yr % YTD YTD Yr/Yr %

Actual Actual change Actual Actual change

A3 746 128 482.8% 3,093 175 1667.4%

TT 142 376 -62.2% 355 1,043 -66.0%

A4 3,623 2,899 25.0% 11,443 11,140 2.7%

A4/S4

Cabriolet 859 1,286 -33.2% 2,499 3,142 -20.5%

A6 1,555 1,635 -4.9% 6,039 5,789 4.3%

Allroad - 333 -100.0% 3 958 -99.7%

Q7 - - N/A - - N/A

A8/S8 487 545 -10.6% 1,864 1,790 4.1%

TOTAL 7,412 7,202 2.9% 25,296 24,037 5.2%

Source: Audi of America, Inc.

Volvo Cars of North America, LLC reports April sales of 9,749 units in the United States*. Sales for April were down 9 percent compared to the same period last year.

Overall in North America (United States including Puerto Rico, Canada, and Mexico), 10,858 unit sales represented an 11 percent decrease year-over-year. Sales for Volvo Canada and Volvo Mexico were 981 and 128 units, respectively.

VCNA, part of the Volvo Car Corporation of Gothenburg, Sweden, provides marketing, sales, parts, service, technology and training support to Volvo automobile retailers in the United States, and oversees Volvo operations in Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Volvo has been building cars with Safety in mind since 1927. The 2006 model line-up of Volvo Cars includes: the award-winning new S40 and its wagon counterpart the all-new V50; the award-winning XC90; the sporty S60 sedan -- including the award-winning performance sedan -- S60 R and the performance wagon version -- V70 R; the S80 luxury sedan; the versatile V70 wagon and rugged XC70 (Cross Country); and the all-new Volvo C70.

* U.S. sales include Puerto Rico

VOLVO CARS OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC

Retail Sales by Model 02-May-06

UNITED STATES

April * Year-to-Date *

2006 2005 % 2006 2005 %

Volvo Model

S40 0 1 n/a 0 3 n/a

All New S40 2,109 2,117 -0.4% 8,290 8,536 -2.9%

V40 0 3 n/a 0 5 n/a

V50 311 531 -41.4% 1,389 1,993 -30.3%

S60 1,892 2,222 -14.9% 8,170 8,552 -4.5%

V70 464 694 -33.1% 1,760 2,667 -34.0%

XC70 1,034 1,032 0.2% 4,284 4,443 -3.6%

C70 0 279 -100.0% 9 976 -99.1%

New C70 435 n/a n/a 511 n/a n/a

S80 922 839 9.9% 2,637 4,027 -34.5%

XC90 2,582 3,025 -14.6% 11,150 11,763 -5.2%

USA TOTAL 9,749 10,743 -9.3% 38,200 42,965 -11.1%

CANADA

April Year-to-Date

2006 2005 % 2006 2005 %

Volvo Model

S40 0 0 n/a 0 0 n/a

All New S40 125 172 -27.3% 451 700 -35.6%

V40 0 0 n/a 0 0 n/a

V50 63 91 -30.8% 265 338 -21.6%

S60 237 313 -24.3% 797 737 8.1%

V70 114 128 -10.9% 328 288 13.9%

XC70 125 187 -33.2% 567 670 -15.4%

C70 0 4 n/a 0 7 n/a

S80 36 26 38.5% 139 79 75.9%

XC90 281 242 16.1% 992 922 7.6%

CANADA TOTAL 981 1,163 -15.6% 3,539 3,741 -5.4%

MEXICO

April Year-to-Date

2006 2005 % 2006 2005 %

Volvo Model

S40 0 0 n/a 0 3 -100.0%

All New S40 60 162 -63.0% 360 548 -34.3%

V40 0 0 n/a 0 0 n/a

V50 3 3 0.0% 8 13 -38.5%

S60 13 53 -75.5% 93 173 -46.2%

V70 0 0 n/a 0 0 n/a

XC70 0 2 -100.0% 4 8 -50.0%

C70 0 1 n/a 0 4 n/a

S80 1 13 -92.3% 11 45 -75.6%

XC90 51 72 -29.2% 261 344 -24.1%

MEXICO TOTAL 128 306 -58.2% 737 1,138 -35.2%

NAFTA TOTAL 10,858 12,212 -11.1% 42,476 47,844 -11.2%

*U.S. totals include Puerto Rico

Source: Volvo Cars of North America, LLC

Sparked by record monthly sales for the TSX sports sedan, as well as a new monthly benchmark for the TL performance luxury sedan, Acura sold 19,372 units during the month of April, an increase of 5.3 percent over a year ago, the division announced today.

TSX had the best month in its history, selling 3,911 units, an increase of 22.0 percent above the previous mark of 3,329, set in April 2005. Year-to-date TSX sales are now at 13,144 units -- 17.3 percent better than 2005.

The TL performance luxury sedan was the top-selling Acura in April, setting a new all-time record with 7,975 units for the month, bringing the TL year-to-date sales total to 24,779. Acura cars also reached an all-time record for sales during the month with 14,958.

"We are extremely proud of the continued strong sales of both TSX and TL," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. "Their strength have put us in a position where another record year for Acura is well within reach."

The MDX luxury performance SUV sold 4,414 units in April, bringing its total sales for the year to 17,247 units.

American Honda Vehicle Sales For April 2006

Month-to-Date Year-to-Date

April April DSR** April April DSR**

2006 2005 % Chg. 2006 2005 % Chg.

Acura Division Total 19,372 19,102 5.3% 65,023 67,516 -2.7%

RSX 2,036 2,157 -2.0% 6,186 6,800 -8.1%

CL* 0 0 0 1

TL* 7,975 7,206 14.9% 24,779 25,110 -0.3%

TSX 3,911 3,329 22.0% 13,144 11,320 17.3%

RL 1,031 1,304 -17.9% 3,633 5,463 -32.8%

NSX 5 33 -84.3% 34 81 -57.6%

MDX* 4,414 5,073 -9.6% 17,247 18,741 -7.1%

Selling Days 26 27 101 102

* Honda and Acura vehicles are made of domestic and global sourced

parts.

** Daily Selling Rate

Source: Acura

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported an all-time best-ever sales month totaling 219,965 units in April, up 8.5 percent over the same period last year.

"The market for lower-priced, higher-mileage vehicles is showing strength, as are hybrids," said Jim Press, Toyota Motor Sales president and COO. "Record oil prices have a way of reminding us how close to the cliff we're living."

The Toyota Division recorded an all-time best-ever sales month in April with 195,286 units, an increase of 10 percent, while the Lexus Division posted April sales of 24,679 units.

Toyota Division

Toyota Division's passenger cars posted all-time best-ever sales in April of 114,670 units, an increase of 6.3 percent over last year. The completely redesigned 2007 Camry, which went on sale in late April, recorded best-ever April sales of 40,203 units, an increase of 3.3 percent. Arriving in showrooms the last week of April, the all-new Camry Hybrid had early sales of 86 units. Demand for the Prius gas-electric hybrid continues to outweigh supply, with sales totaling 8,234 units for the month. Making its U.S. debut in mid March, the Yaris subcompact posted robust sales of 6,393 units. The Corolla enjoyed all-time best-ever sales of 36,155 units in April, up 9.3 percent.

Toyota Division light truck sales reported a best-ever April totaling 80,616 units, an increase of 15.6 percent. Hybrid sales showed no signs of slowing, with the Highlander Hybrid gas-electric mid-size SUV reporting an all-time best-ever sales month of 3,768 units. Combined April sales of the Highlander and Highlander Hybrid totaled 10,712 units.

Sales of the RAV4 reached an all-time best-ever of 13,854 units, up 106.4 percent over the same period last year. The all-new FJ Cruiser, which debuted in late March, posted strong April sales of 5,649 units. The 4Runner mid-size SUV sales totaled 9,406 units for the month, up 14.7 percent over last April. Tacoma posted April sales of 15,220 units, up 4.3 percent over the same period last year.

Scion reported strong April sales of 15,444 units. The xA subcompact led the way with all-time best-ever sales of 3,331 units, an increase of 29.5 percent. The tC sports coupe posted April sales of 6,435 units, while the xB recorded sales of 5,678 units for the month.

Lexus Division

Lexus passenger cars posted best-ever April sales of 13,304 units, an increase of 11.2 percent. The IS luxury sport sedans reported best-ever April sales of 4,715 units, a 978.5 percent increase over last April. The IS 250 reported sales of 3,531, with the IS 350 recording 1,184 units. The all-new GS 450h hybrid luxury performance sedan went on sale the last week in April and posted early sales of 141 units.

Lexus light trucks recorded April sales of 11,375 units. The RX luxury utility vehicles posted combined April sales of 8,890 units. The RX 400h luxury hybrid SUV continued its steady sales performance with a total of 2,247 units in April.

Sales of North American-built vehicles accounted for 54.3 percent of total April sales. There were 26 selling days this April compared to 27 selling days last April.

TOYOTA RETAIL SALES

(INCLUDES FLEET & HAWAII)

April, 2006

-- CURRENT MONTH -- -- CALENDAR YEAR TO DATE --

DSR% DSR%

2006 2005 CHG 2006 2005 CHG

YARIS 6,393 0 #N/A 7,732 0 #N/A

COROLLA 36,155 34,336 9.3 118,442 115,994 3.1

CAMRY 40,203 40,435 3.3 133,978 138,939 -2.6

AVALON 8,239 9,229 -7.3 30,782 24,662 26.1

PRIUS 8,234 11,345 -24.6 30,357 34,225 -10.4

SCION xA 3,331 2,671 29.5 10,494 8,607 23.1

SCION xB 5,678 6,002 -1.8 18,648 18,471 2.0

SCION tC 6,435 7,129 -6.3 22,658 21,696 5.5

TOTAL TOYOTA DIV. PASS.

CAR 114,670 112,002 6.3 373,113 366,134 2.9

ES 330 4,603 5,597 -14.6 15,390 20,373 -23.7

LS 430 1,071 2,398 -53.6 4,617 9,080 -48.6

SC 430 579 778 -22.7 1,963 2,548 -22.2

GS 300 1,963 2,657 -23.3 7,638 7,175 7.5

GS 430/450h 373 541 -28.4 1,208 1,681 -27.4

IS 250/350 4,715 454 978.5 17,880 1,774 917.9

TOTAL LEXUS PASS. CAR 13,304 12,425 11.2 48,696 42,631 15.4

TOTAL TOYOTA PASS. CAR 127,974 124,427 6.8 421,809 408,765 4.2

SIENNA 13,912 13,471 7.2 54,302 47,914 14.5

RAV4 13,854 6,971 106.4 47,798 22,631 113.3

FJ CRUISER 5,649 0 #N/A 8,433 0 #N/A

4RUNNER 9,406 8,519 14.7 37,331 35,213 7.1

HIGHLANDER 10,712 12,896 -13.7 40,115 45,495 -11.0

LAND CRUISER 255 425 -37.7 1,140 1,742 -33.9

SEQUOIA 2,771 4,039 -28.8 11,839 16,164 -26.0

TOTAL SUV 42,647 32,850 34.8 146,656 121,245 22.2

4X2 TACOMA 9,109 9,314 1.6 33,808 29,660 15.1

4X4 TACOMA 6,111 5,833 8.8 23,219 19,581 19.8

TOTAL TACOMA 15,220 15,147 4.3 57,027 49,241 17.0

TUNDRA 8,837 10,932 -16.1 40,662 43,660 -5.9

TOTAL PICKUP 24,057 26,079 -4.2 97,689 92,901 6.2

TOTAL TOYOTA DIV. LT

TRUCK 80,616 72,400 15.6 298,647 262,060 15.1

LX 470 507 624 -15.6 1,992 2,609 -22.9

GX 470 1,978 2,843 -27.7 8,071 10,982 -25.8

RX 350/400h 8,890 10,172 -9.2 34,297 33,286 4.1

TOTAL LEXUS LIGHT TRUCK 11,375 13,639 -13.4 44,360 46,877 -4.4

TOTAL TOYOTA LIGHT TRUCK 91,991 86,039 11.0 343,007 308,937 12.1

TOTAL TOYOTA DIV. 195,286 184,402 10.0 671,760 628,194 8.0

TOTAL LEXUS 24,679 26,064 -1.7 93,056 89,508 5.0

TOTAL TOYOTA 219,965 210,466 8.5 764,816 717,702 7.6

MEMO:

DOM. COROLLA 30,769 33,485 -4.6 104,819 112,040 -5.5

DOM. CAMRY 34,299 39,495 -9.8 117,476 135,762 -12.6

DOM. PICKUP 24,057 26,079 -4.2 97,689 92,901 6.2

DOM. RX 330 5,361 5,974 -6.8 20,669 20,860 0.1

SELLING DAYS 26 27 101 102

TOYOTA DIV. IMPORT CAR 41,363 29,793 44.2 120,036 93,670 29.4

LEXUS IMPORT CAR 13,304 12,425 11.2 48,696 42,631 15.4

TOYOTA DIV NA BUILT CARS 73,307 82,209 -7.4 253,077 272,464 -6.2

TOTAL TOYOTA CARS 127,974 124,427 6.8 421,809 408,765 4.2

TOYOTA DIV. IMPORT LT

TRUCK 39,876 28,811 43.7 134,817 105,081 29.6

LEXUS IMPORT LT TRUCK 6,014 7,665 -18.5 23,691 26,017 -8.0

TOYOTA DIV NA BUILT LT

TRUCK 40,740 43,589 -2.9 163,830 156,979 5.4

LEXUS NA BUILT LT TRUCK 5,361 5,974 -6.8 20,669 20,860 0.1

TOTAL TOYOTA LT TRUCK 91,991 86,039 11.0 343,007 308,937 12.1

SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES 48,373 46,489 8.1 182,583 168,122 9.7

Memo: Lexus Sport

Utility 11,375 13,639 -13.4 44,360 46,877 -4.4

SMALL VANS 13,912 13,471 7.2 54,302 47,914 14.5

PICKUPS 24,057 26,079 -4.2 97,689 92,901 6.2

* NORTH AMERICAN BUILT

VEHICLES

COROLLA 30,769 33,485 -4.6 104,819 112,040 -5.5

CAMRY 34,299 39,495 -9.8 117,476 135,762 -12.6

AVALON 8,239 9,229 -7.3 30,782 24,662 26.1

SIENNA 13,912 13,471 7.2 54,302 47,914 14.5

PICKUP 24,057 26,079 -4.2 97,689 92,901 6.2

SEQUOIA 2,771 4,039 -28.8 11,839 16,164 -26.0

RX 330 5,361 5,974 -6.8 20,669 20,860 0.1

TOTAL 119,408 131,772 -5.9 437,576 450,303 -1.9

N.A. VEHICLES % OF

TOTAL 54.3% 62.6% 57.2% 62.7%

SELLING DAYS 26 27 101 102

DSR = DAILY SELLING RATE

Web site: http://www.toyota.com/
http://www.lexus.com/
http://www.scion.com/

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported its highest April on record with sales of 21,270 new vehicles, an increase of 13.1 percent over last April, bringing year-to-date sales to 72,512 new vehicles, a 15.9 percent increase compared to year-to-date 2005.

Passenger car sales of 16,466 units showed an increase of 6.8 percent over April 2005. The strongest increase for the month (and for the year-to-date) was the flagship 2007 S-Class with sales of 3,033 units, an increase of 108.2 percent over last April. Another new model, the 2007 SL550, which arrived at dealerships in mid-April, boosted volume for its model line, which recorded a 22.2 percent gain over April 2005. Other strong performers included CLK-Class coupe and convertible sales of 2,202, a 14 percent increase over April 2005, E-Class sedan and wagon sales of 3,778, an increase of 1.3 percent over last April and SLK-Class sales of 1,202, a 23.7 percent increase over April 2005.

Sales for Mercedes vehicles in the luxury light truck segment -- M-Class, R-Class, GL-Class and G-Class -- continue to gain momentum as a group with a 41.7 percent increase over April 2005 and a 114.6 percent increase over year- to-date 2005 (16,918 v. 7,882). The all new 2007 GL-Class, the first European full-sized luxury SUV, which arrived at dealerships at the end of April, netted sales of 499 units.

Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned program, MBUSA sold 4,055 vehicles in April, bringing annual sales for the year to a total of 14,506 units.

In 2005, MBUSA achieved its twelfth consecutive year of sales growth by setting the highest sales volume in its history with 224,421 new vehicle sales. Headquartered in Montvale, N.J., MBUSA is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of all Mercedes-Benz products in the United States. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found on the Internet at http://www.mbusa.com/.

April April Monthly YTD YTD Yearly

Model '06 '05 % 2006 2005 %

C-CLASS 4,037 4,496 -10.2% 14,017 16,965 -17.4%

E-CLASS 3,778 3,731 1.3% 12,437 12,660 -1.8%

S-CLASS 3,033 1,457 108.2% 10,651 4,933 115.9%

CL-CLASS 64 111 -42.3% 220 472 -53.4%

SL-CLASS 1,112 910 22.2% 2,953 3,362 -12.2%

CLK-CLASS 2,202 1,932 14.0% 7,790 6,522 19.4%

SLK-CLASS 1,202 972 23.7% 3,644 4,085 -10.8%

CLS-CLASS 1,038 1,805 -42.5% 3,882 5,700 -31.9%

R-CLASS 1,672 n/a n/a 6,742 n/a n/a

M-CLASS 2,590 3,248 -20.3% 9,447 7,455 26.7%

GL-CLASS 499 n/a n/a 499 n/a n/a

G-CLASS 43 143 -69.9% 230 427 -46.1%

GRAND TOTAL 21,270 18,805 13.1% 72,512 62,581 15.9%

Source: Mercedes-Benz USA

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) today reported April sales of 10,841 units, an increase of 17.5% compared to April 2005 sales of 9,230.

"While we are encouraged by a very strong month of sales, we sincerely believe that this is only the beginning," said President & CEO Hiroshi Harunari. "Our exciting Eclipse Spyder convertible is just beginning to make a contribution, and there are more exciting products to come in the near future, including the all-new Outlander in the autumn of this year."

* The total sales of 10,841 represent the highest monthly total since

August 2005, and the second best sales month in the past year.

* The 17.5% increase is the largest year-over year monthly sales

increase in nearly 4 years (July 2002) and the largest April

year-over-year monthly increase in 6 years (April 2000).

* Galant was the volume leader at 3,049, up 29.9% from last April's

volume

* Eclipse closed at 2,626, up 165.8% up from last year's volume

* Eclipse Spyder had its best sales month in two years with 827, up

89.7% from last year's volume.

"At a time our industry is facing many challenges, Mitsubishi Motors has begun our fiscal year on a high note and we are positioned well," added Harunari. "We have exciting products and when consumers visit our dealers' showrooms, they are also finding programs that are competitive and meaningful to them as American consumers."

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all manufacturing, finance, sales, marketing, research and development operations of the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation in the United States. Mitsubishi Motors sells coupes, convertibles, sedans, sport utility vehicles, and light trucks through a network of approximately 540 dealers. For more information, contact the Mitsubishi Motors News Bureau at (888) 560-6672 or visit media.mitsubishicars.com.

Source: Mitsubishi Motors of North America, Inc.

Web site: http://media.mitsubishicars.com/

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI brands combined) crossed the 100,000-vehicle sales threshold in April, reporting year-to-date sales of 101,151 vehicles, an 11 percent increase over the 90,918 vehicles sold in the same period of 2005. Almost ten years ago, in December 1996, BMW's U.S. sales exceeded the 100,000-vehicle milestone for the first time after nearly a full calendar year of sales.

The BMW Group also reported an increase of 13 percent in April sales, for 28,563 vehicles over the 25,382 vehicles reported in April 2005.

BMW Brand Reports Jump in April Sales

April sales of BMW brand vehicles rose 20 percent for a total of 25,250 compared to 21,072 reported in the same month a year ago.

BMW brand sales were up 16 percent year-to-date, as the company reported sales of 88,353 vehicles compared to 76,424 vehicles sold in first four months of 2005.

BMW Automobile Sales

BMW's automobile sales were up 23 percent in April to 18,427 versus 14,970 in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date sales also were up 23 percent, to 68,311 automobiles compared to 55,397 in the same period of 2005.

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Sales

April sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles are off slightly, up 12 percent to 6,823 vehicles over the 6,102 sold last April. Year-to-date, sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles are down 5 percent, to 20,042 vehicles compared to the 21,027 sold in the same period of 2005.

Certified Pre-Owned

Sales of BMW's Certified Pre-Owned vehicles reached an all-time record. The company reported sales of 8,368 CPO sales in April 2006, an increase of 24 percent over April of 2005. Year-to-date, CPO sales were up 21 percent, to 28,630 over the 23,631 reported in the same period in 2005.

MINI Brand

MINI Automobiles

MINI USA reported April sales of 3,313 automobiles, down 23 percent from the 4,310 cars sold in April 2005. Year-to-date, the division reported sales of 12,798 automobiles, a drop of 12 percent, compared to the 14,494 cars reported in the first four months of 2005.

BMW Group In America

BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. ROLLS-ROYCE Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand, the MINI brand, and the ROLLS-ROYCE brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, an industrial design firm in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group's global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all Z4 Roadster and X5 Sports Activity Vehicles. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 339 BMW passenger car centers, 334 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 143 BMW motorcycle retailers, 80 MINI passenger car dealers, and 30 ROLLS-ROYCE Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group's sales headquarters for North, Central and South America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

Information about BMW Group products is available to consumers via the Internet at:

http://www.bmwusa.com/

http://www.bmwmotorradusa.com/

http://www.miniusa.com/

http://www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com/

BMW Car Sales Report for April 2006

2006 2005

April 18,427 14,970

Year-to-Date 68,311 55,397

Model April Year-to- Year-to-

Date April Date

2006 2006 2005 2005

325i (E90 & E46) 4,888 16,914 2,504 11,609

325Ci 304 1,162 424 1,459

325Ci convertible 513 1,531 663 2,162

325i sports wagon 0 4 53 284

325xi (E90 & E46) 1,489 5,785 394 2,500

325xi sports wagon (E90 & E46) 209 820 63 338

330i (E90 & E46) 1,572 5,571 820 3,458

330Ci 164 696 327 1,037

330Ci convertible 525 1,633 599 1,806

330xi (E90 & E46) 1,074 3,504 507 2,087

M3 255 817 427 1,356

M3 convertible 158 493 213 667

3 Series 11,151 38,930 6,994 28,763

Z4 2.5i Roadster (US) 41 221 753 2,017

Z4 3.0i Roadster (US) 628 1,119 480 1,125

Z4 Roadster 3.0si (US) 357 541 0 0

Z4 M Roadster (US) 154 299 0 0

Z4 1,180 2,180 1,233 3,142

525i (E60) 993 4,160 1,923 6,162

525xi (E60) 306 1,961 0 0

530i (E60) 813 3,899 1,651 6,233

530xi (E60) 574 3,007 0 0

530xi sports wagon (E60) 188 1,000 9 9

545i (E60) 0 6 988 3,184

550i (E60) 643 2,341 0 0

M5 (E60 & E39) 182 1,424 0 2

5 Series 3,699 17,798 4,571 15,590

645Ci 0 21 324 1,211

650i coupe 242 956 0 0

645Ci convertible 0 16 664 2,076

650i convertible 473 1,863 0 0

M6 58 58 0 0

6 Series 773 2,914 988 3,287

745i 0 0 324 1,471

745Li 0 0 410 2,572

750i 386 1,465 179 179

750Li 1,195 4,866 246 246

760i 4 21 10 44

760Li 39 136 13 96

7 Series 1,624 6,488 1,182 4,608

Z8 0 1 2 4

Z8 Alpina 0 0 0 3

Z8 0 1 2 7

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle (light trucks)

Sales Report for April 2006

2006 2005

April 6,823 6,102

Year-to-Date 20,042 21,027

Model April Year-to- Year-to-

Date April Date

2006 2006 2005 2005

X3 2.5i 28 156 608 2,051

X3 3.0i 4,568 10,483 2,562 8,254

X3 4,596 10,639 3,170 10,305

X5 3.0i (US) 1,643 7,023 2,038 7,579

X5 4.4i (US) 495 2,014 768 2,723

X5 4.8is (US) 89 366 126 420

X5 2,227 9,403 2,932 10,722

MINI Sales Report for April 2006

2006 2005

April 3,313 4,310

Year-to-Date 12,798 14,494

Model April Year-to- Year-to-

Date April Date

2006 2006 2005 2005

MINI Cooper 892 3,673 1,302 4,541

MINI Cooper S 1,340 5,638 1,480 5,403

MINI Cooper Convertible 334 1,086 871 2,490

MINI Cooper S Convertible 747 2,401 657 2,060

Total MINI 3,313 12,798 4,310 14,494

Source: BMW Group

Web site: http://www.bmwgroupna.com/
http://www.bmwusa.com/
http://www.bmwmotorradusa.com/
http://www.miniusa.com/
http://www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com/

Subaru of America, Inc. today reported April sales totaling 16,073 units. Strong sales of the Subaru Impreza led the month, climbing eight percent from the same period last year.

The Subaru B9 Tribeca recorded a strong 1,803 units for the month of April. The Subaru Legacy model line posted a total of 6,259 units, with Subaru Outback posting 4,283 units for the month. Subaru Impreza posted 3,066 unit sales, while Subaru Forester totaled 4,512 units for the month. Subaru Baja recorded 433 units in April.

.

About Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru makes the best-selling All-Wheel Drive car sold in America based on R.L. Polk & Co. new vehicle retail registration statistics calendar year-end 2004. For additional information visit http://www.subaru.com/.

Source: Subaru of America, Inc.

DaimlerChrysler AG , the third largest U.S. auto maker, today reported total group sales of 211,365 passenger vehicles in the U.S. for April 2006, a 6 percent decrease compared to April 2005. All sales figures in this release are on an unadjusted basis unless otherwise noted.

Chrysler Group, which consists of the Chrysler, Jeep(R) and Dodge brands, posted sales of 190,095 vehicles in the U.S., a decrease of 8 percent. Following global sales growth of 4.7 percent to 2.83 million units in 2005, Chrysler Group launches 10 all-new vehicles in 2006, the most aggressive product launch in company history, while introducing some of the most fuel-efficient vehicles to date. Chrysler Group will take its best-selling Dodge brand to international markets in 2006, beginning with the all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber which has arrived at U.S. dealerships to positive customer response and robust sales.

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) posted sales of 21,270 units, up 13 percent compared to the same month last year and posting its best April on record. Boosting sales for the month were the flagship 2007 S-Class sedan and the new 2007 SL550. As a group, sales for Mercedes vehicles in the luxury light truck segment achieved continued success and more than doubled sales volume for year-to-date with a 115 percent increase.

Detailed vehicle sales information for MBUSA and Chrysler Group will be announced later today in separate press releases issued by the groups. April 2005 had 27 selling days while April 2006 had 26 selling days.

DaimlerChrysler AG U.S. Sales Summary Through April 2006

Month Sales % Sales CYTD %

Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Curr Yr Pr Yr Change

CHRYSLER GROUP 190,095 206,546 -8% 752,339 753,278 0%

MERCEDES-BENZ USA 21,270 18,805 13% 72,512 62,581 16%

DAIMLERCHRYSLER 211,365 225,351 -6% 824,851 815,859 1%

Selling Days 26 27 101 102

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

Stronger demand for vehicles offering higher fuel economy helped Ford Motor Company offset lower demand for trucks and SUVs. Ford's April sales totaled 262,722, down 7 percent, but car sales were up 8 percent and truck sales were down 15 percent. Within trucks, crossover utilities (CUVs) posted higher sales and the Escape and Mariner hybrid utility models had record sales.

Higher car sales were paced by the company's new mid-size sedans -- Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln Zephyr. Combined sales totaled 19,548 in April as each of the sedans posted record monthly sales.

"The Fusion, Milan and Zephyr continue to surprise us on the upside," said Al Giombetti, president, Ford and Lincoln Mercury marketing and sales. "These new, fuel-efficient cars are helping our dealers to retain owners and capture new ones. We never have been in a better position to compete for customers in an environment of rising gasoline prices."

Combined sales for Ford's CUVs (Ford Escape and Freestyle and Mercury Mariner) registered a sales increase of 8 percent in April and the Escape and Mariner hybrid models achieved record monthly sales. Sales of the Escape hybrid were 3,039 and sales of the Mariner hybrid were 381.

Ford will expand its CUV portfolio later this year with two all-new CUVs, the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX.

Lincoln and Mercury posted higher retail sales for the second month in a row as sales of the Milan and Zephyr sedans and Lincoln Mark LT full-size pickup offset lower sales of discontinued products (Mercury Sable and Lincoln LS).

Land Rover dealers reported record sales for April and year-to-date. Sales totaled 3,736 for the month (up 19 percent) and 15,035 year-to-date (up 30 percent). April was the seventh consecutive month of record sales for Land Rover.

FORD MOTOR COMPANY APRIL 2006 U.S. SALES

April Month % April CYTD %

2006 2005 Change 2006 2005 Change

Sales By Brand

Ford 215,824 237,842 -9.3 831,724 862,419 -3.6

Mercury 20,368 16,734 21.7 68,014 72,040 -5.6

Lincoln 11,067 9,981 10.9 43,571 41,643 4.6

Jaguar 1,991 2,870 -30.6 7,115 11,577 -38.5

Volvo 9,736 10,725 -9.2 38,101 42,877 -11.1

Land Rover 3,736 3,140 19.0 15,035 11,584 29.8

Total Ford

Motor Company 262,722 281,292 -6.6 1,003,560 1,042,140 -3.7

Memo: Cars and Trucks

Cars 105,655 97,578 8.3 384,078 367,621 4.5

Trucks 157,067 183,714 -14.5 619,482 674,519 -8.2

Total Ford

Motor Company 262,722 281,292 -6.6 1,003,560 1,042,140 -3.7

FORD BRAND APRIL 2006 U.S. SALES

April Month % April CYTD %

2006 2005 Change 2006 2005 Change

Crown Victoria 6,640 6,193 7.2 23,185 23,807 -2.6

Five Hundred 7,846 9,215 -14.9 30,808 31,515 -2.2

Taurus 14,668 17,263 -15.0 66,501 72,377 -8.1

Fusion 12,613 0 NA 42,458 0 NA

Focus 17,917 18,250 -1.8 60,168 64,916 -7.3

Mustang 15,868 19,559 -18.9 56,560 61,820 -8.5

Thunderbird 0 1,536 -100.0 469 4,598 -89.8

GT 180 70 157.1 735 125 488.0

Total Ford Cars 75,732 72,086 5.1 280,884 259,158 8.4

Freestyle 6,491 6,671 -2.7 23,333 22,593 3.3

Escape 16,011 15,080 6.2 58,279 59,179 -1.5

Explorer 13,772 23,800 -42.1 60,488 86,386 -30.0

Expedition 6,305 9,460 -33.4 27,133 35,756 -24.1

Excursion 0 1,237 -100.0 965 4,669 -79.3

Freestar 5,149 8,674 -40.6 20,681 32,196 -35.8

Econoline/Club Wagon 16,886 16,395 3.0 58,042 58,861 -1.4

Ranger 9,070 11,793 -23.1 31,448 38,405 -18.1

F-Series 64,749 71,367 -9.3 264,550 260,775 1.4

Low Cab Forward 318 0 NA 1,193 0 NA

Heavy Trucks 1,341 1,279 4.8 4,728 4,441 6.5

Total Ford Trucks 140,092 165,756 -15.5 550,840 603,261 -8.7

Total Ford Brand 215,824 237,842 -9.3 831,724 862,419 -3.6

LINCOLN AND MERCURY BRAND APRIL 2006 U.S. SALES

April Month % April CYTD %

2006 2005 Change 2006 2005 Change

Grand Marquis 7,204 5,427 32.7 23,693 25,755 -8.0

Montego 2,760 2,191 26.0 8,867 7,471 18.7

Sable 0 2,753 -100.0 0 12,651 -100.0

Milan 3,557 0 NA 11,187 0 NA

Total Mercury Cars 13,521 10,371 30.4 43,747 45,877 -4.6

Town Car 3,693 3,631 1.7 13,902 15,451 -10.0

LS 1,218 1,948 -37.5 4,583 8,871 -48.3

Zephyr 3,378 0 NA 11,162 0 NA

Total Lincoln Cars 8,289 5,579 48.6 29,647 24,322 21.9

Total Mercury

and Lincoln Cars 21,810 15,950 36.7 73,394 70,199 4.6

Mariner 4,330 3,104 39.5 14,327 11,322 26.5

Mountaineer 2,218 2,648 -16.2 8,557 11,621 -26.4

Monterey 299 611 -51.1 1,383 3,220 -57.0

Total Mercury Trucks 6,847 6,363 7.6 24,267 26,163 -7.2

Navigator 1,600 2,198 -27.2 7,594 9,456 -19.7

Aviator 157 1,517 -89.7 1,711 6,579 -74.0

Mark LT 1,021 687 48.6 4,619 1,286 259.2

Total Lincoln Trucks 2,778 4,402 -36.9 13,924 17,321 -19.6

Total Mercury

and Lincoln Trucks 9,625 10,765 -10.6 38,191 43,484 -12.2

Total Mercury

and Lincoln Vehicles 31,435 26,715 17.7 111,585 113,683 -1.8

Total Lincoln Brand 11,067 9,981 10.9 43,571 41,643 4.6

Total Mercury Brand 20,368 16,734 21.7 68,014 72,040 -5.6

JAGUAR BRAND APRIL 2006 U.S. SALES

April Month % April CYTD %

2006 2005 Change 2006 2005 Change

XJ 465 789 -41.1 1,845 3,122 -40.9

S-TYPE 575 798 -27.9 2,424 3,239 -25.2

X-TYPE 407 1,038 -60.8 1,836 4,400 -58.3

XK 544 245 122.0 1,010 816 23.8

Total Jaguar 1,991 2,870 -30.6 7,115 11,577 -38.5

VOLVO BRAND APRIL 2006 U.S. SALES

April Month % April CYTD %

2006 2005 Change 2006 2005 Change

S40 2,100 2,111 -0.5 8,229 8,492 -3.1

V50 310 529 -41.4 1,382 1,989 -30.5

V40 0 3 NA 0 5 NA

S60 1,891 2,218 -14.7 8,160 8,538 -4.4

V70 464 694 -33.1 1,760 2,666 -34.0

XC70 1,034 1,032 0.2 4,281 4,442 -3.6

C70 435 279 55.9 520 976 -46.7

S80 922 838 10.0 2,634 4,021 -34.5

XC90 2,580 3,021 -14.6 11,135 11,748 -5.2

Total Volvo 9,736 10,725 -9.2 38,101 42,877 -11.1

LAND ROVER BRAND APRIL 2006 U.S. SALES

April Month % April CYTD %

2006 2005 Change 2006 2005 Change

Range Rover 929 908 2.3 3,691 3,423 7.8

Range Rover Sport 1,548 0 NA 5,877 0 NA

LR3 1,254 1,923 -34.8 5,443 6,534 -16.7

Discovery 0 61 -100.0 1 688 -99.9

Freelander 5 248 -98.0 23 939 -97.6

Total Land Rover 3,736 3,140 19.0 15,035 11,584 29.8

Source: Ford Motor Company

Mazda North American Operations today released the following sales figures for April 2006:

Mazda North American Operations - April 2006

Month-To-Date Year-To-Date

April April % April April %

2006 2005 Change 2006 2005 Change

Mazda3 9,059 9,994 (9)% 30,791 31,722 (3)%

Mazda5 1,260 -- N/A 6,321 -- N/A

Mazda6 5,518 5,672 (3)% 24,733 23,920 3%

MX-5 Miata 1,767 667 165% 6,129 2,436 152%

RX-8 584 1,001 (42)% 3,501 5,918 (41)%

Protege -- -- N/A 1 1 0%

626 -- -- N/A -- 2 N/A

MPV 894 831 8% 5,117 5,344 (4)%

B-Series Truck 352 205 72% 1,634 2,490 (34)%

Tribute 2,951 3,879 (24)% 11,429 14,435 (21)%

Total Vehicles

CARS 18,188 17,334 5% 71,476 63,999 12%

TRUCKS 4,197 4,915 (15)% 18,180 22,269 (18)%

TOTAL 22,385 22,249 1% 89,656 86,268 4%

MEMO:

IMPORT CAR 12,670 11,662 9% 46,743 40,077 17%

IMPORT TRUCK 894 831 8% 5,117 5,344 (4)%

IMPORT TOTAL 13,564 12,493 9% 51,860 45,421 14%

DOMESTIC CAR 5,518 5,672 (3)% 24,733 23,922 3%

DOMESTIC TRUCK 3,303 4,084 (19)% 13,063 16,925 (23)%

DOMESTIC TOTALS 8,821 9,756 (10)% 37,796 40,847 (7)%

Note: Protege and 626 are discontinued vehicles.

Source: Mazda North American Operations

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

With gas prices on the minds of all drivers, hybrids are playing an increasing role in the marketplace, producing the best-ever monthly sales for Ford Motor Company's hybrid vehicles.

Combined sales of the Ford Escape Hybrid and Mercury Mariner Hybrid more than doubled over March, and increased 68 percent compared to April 2005 sales. Ford has had three months of hybrid sales increases, fueled by rising gas prices, company and government incentives, and increasing consumer awareness of the benefits of Ford's hybrid products.

"There is a strong market for hybrids, provided they are attainable and affordable," says Al Giombetti, President of Ford and Lincoln Mercury. "More and more consumers want to improve their fuel economy, both to save money at the pump and to limit the social and environmental impacts of oil consumption. Offering up to an 80 percent increase in fuel economy, up to $5,925 in tax incentives, and an affordable purchase price makes the Escape Hybrid and Mariner Hybrid very compelling for consumers."

Escape Hybrid Mariner Hybrid Total Increase

January 2006 801 97 898

February 2006 1,233 108 1,341 49%

March 2006 1,441 149 1,590 19%

April 2006 3039 381 3420 115%

"Our sales record is the product of an integrated marketing campaign to raise awareness for Ford's hybrid vehicles," says Barry Redler, SUV Group marketing manager. "As the sales show, consumers clearly have a strong demand for affordable, fuel-efficient hybrid vehicles that deliver both environmental and economic benefits."

In February, Ford launched a new marketing campaign with Kermit the Frog, focusing on the environmental aspects of the Escape Hybrid. In March, Ford launched the tax hotline to help Ford and Mercury dealers stay current on government incentives available to their hybrid customers. On April 4, Ford introduced 0 percent financing for up to 60 months on the Escape Hybrid and Mariner Hybrid, to further enhance their economic value.

Escape Hybrid was the first full-hybrid SUV on the market, and remains the most fuel-efficient SUV on earth. The front-wheel-drive Escape Hybrid returns 36 miles per gallon in the city -- an 80 percent improvement over an Escape V- 6. Escape Hybrid and Mariner Hybrid also meet the most stringent emissions standard achievable by a vehicle that uses fossil fuel, California's AT-PZEV standard.

Because of this impressive fuel efficiency and clean emissions, governments are increasingly rewarding hybrid purchases. A new tax hotline keeps Ford dealers informed on the latest federal, state, and local tax credits available for the company's hybrid customers, which in some states can total as much as $5,925 in tax credits. Some states also offer hybrid drivers other perks, such as HOV lane access, free parking and insurance discounts.

Ford Motor Company has committed to producing up to 250,000 hybrids a year globally by 2010. Ford has also committed to offering hybrid technology in at least eight vehicles, including: Ford Escape, Fusion, Five Hundred, and Edge; Mercury Mariner, Milan, Montego; and Lincoln MKX.

"The Escape Hybrid and Mariner Hybrid have established a hybrid leadership position for the company, in terms of both technological expertise and customer awareness," says Giombetti. "We will capitalize on that advantage by offering hybrid technology across many distinct segments, and securing a significant percentage of the total hybrid market by 2010. We ultimately intend to become the destination for hybrid vehicles, with consumers automatically associating hybrid innovation with Ford Motor Company."

Source: Ford Motor Company

Taylor Twellman, New England Revolution's star forward and 2005 Major League Soccer (MLS) Most Valuable Player (MVP), has entered into a multiyear endorsement deal with Red Bull Energy Drink. The agreement formalizes a longtime relationship between Twellman and the leading energy drink manufacturer. Twellman will represent Red Bull Energy Drink in a variety of activities from soccer camps and clinics, to helping promote the athletic benefits of the drink with other players and teams throughout the league.

"I've worked with Red Bull for years now. Drinking Red Bull before training and matches provides me with the needed energy and focus to give me that extra edge on my opponents," said Twellman. "I'm excited about formalizing this existing relationship, and with the help of Red Bull, am committed to helping raise the profile of soccer here in the U.S."

Prior to being drafted by the New England Revolution in the first round (2nd overall) of the 2002 MLS SuperDraft, Twellman played for the German club 1860 Munich. He has since assembled a laundry list of achievements including being crowned the 2-time MLS scoring champion and MVP of the 2005 All-Star game among others.

Twellman's addition to the Red Bull roster further solidifies the company's involvement in the sport. In addition to the development and support of Twellman, Red Bull currently operates the clubs Red Bull New York and Red Bull Salzburg.

TrinityOne Marketing specializes in maximizing revenue generation and brand awareness for teams, players and companies. TrinityOne Marketing -- The Winning Edge.

Source: TrinityOne Marketing

Reality Racing, Inc. President Lee F. Schaefer today announced the signing of seven (7) NASCAR racing legends as part of the Reality Racing - The Rookie Challenge weekly television program. DONNIE ALLISON, CALE YARBOROUGH, NED JARRETT, BUDDY BAKER, JUNIOR JOHNSON, GEOFF BODINE AND HARRY GANT join BOBBY ALLISON as guest commentators and driver/contestant judges on the new reality program. Each driver will also appear as a featured guest on Reality Racing - In the Drivers Seat, a 30-minute interview program scheduled to begin airing nationally in June 2006.

According to Schaefer, "Our show gives people who believe they have what it takes to be a professional race car driver the chance to live their dream by not only competing against other drives of similar experience, but knowing that the winner of Reality Racing - The Rookie Challenge will be given the opportunity to actually drive professionally as a member of an established race team in a NASCAR sanctioned race. The signing of these legends of the auto racing sport provides our contestants with the best possible trainers and mentors as they strive to accomplish what each of these gentlemen did."

Reality Racing - The Rookie Challenge, a new reality TV show, combines two of the most prevalent on-air entertainment concepts -- stock car racing and reality television -- to create an unmatched, action-packed 13-week hit TV show scheduled to air in the fall of 2006. The Rookie Challenge Champion will receive national exposure, a cash award, a gold championship ring and an opportunity to drive in a NASCAR sanctioned race.

Information can be obtained by viewing the Reality Racing Web site at http://www.realityracingtv.com/ or by contacting the corporate office via telephone at Source: Reality Racing, Inc.

The Customer Research group at Frost & Sullivan (http://www.transportation.frost.com/ ), will host its second quarter analyst briefing webcast on Tuesday, May 9, 2006 at 3:00pm EDT.

A number of recent geo-political and natural events have caused the price of fuel to reach record high numbers. Consequently, the vast majority of vehicle owners in the U.S. are more concerned about the price of fuel than they were 12 months ago. Ultimately, this concern translates into changes in driving behaviors and vehicle purchase intentions.

This Frost & Sullivan briefing evaluates those concerns by providing a gender-based analysis of changes in driving behaviors and vehicle purchase priorities across increasing fuel price points. More specifically, the discussion will focus on the specific price points at which male and female consumers anticipate changing their driving behaviors, the specific price points at which male and female consumers will consider immediately purchasing various types of more fuel efficient vehicles and lastly, changes in male and female future vehicle purchase priorities as a function of increasing fuel prices.

The briefing will benefit all participants in the automotive value chain including, petroleum refiners and retailers, vehicle manufacturers, component suppliers, service and maintenance shops, dealerships, etc., as it casts light on the relationship between consumers' concerns about rising fuel prices and actual consumer behavior.

"Rising fuel prices are a very important issue for the majority of vehicle owners prompting manufacturers to offer more fuel-efficient vehicles. However, many industry participants find it difficult to determine how consumers' concerns about rising fuel prices impact actual consumer behavior," comments Rick Brown PhD, Frost & Sullivan project manager, customer research. "Among the significant findings observed, there appears to be a stark contrast between the reactions of men and women."

Frost & Sullivan, a global growth consulting company, has been partnering with clients to support the development of innovative strategies for more than 40 years. The company's industry expertise integrates growth consulting, growth partnership services and corporate management training to identify and develop opportunities. Frost & Sullivan serves an extensive clientele that includes Global 1000 companies, emerging companies, and the investment community, by providing comprehensive industry coverage that reflects a unique global perspective and combines ongoing analysis of markets, technologies, econometrics, and demographics.

Source: Frost & Sulliva

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died in Baghdad, Iraq, on April 28, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their HMMWV during combat operations. The soldiers were assigned to the 10th Cavalry, 4th Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. Killed were: Staff Sgt. Bryant A. Herlem, 37, of Copperas Cove, Texas Sgt. Jose Gomez, 23, of Corona, N.Y.

A U.S. soldier was killed in Iraq yesterday, and the Defense Department has released the identities of several previous casualties. A Multinational Division Baghdad soldier was killed when a roadside bomb struck his vehicle south of Baghdad, military officials reported. The soldier's name is being withheld pending notification of family. The Defense Department has announced the identities of several servicemembers who died in support of operations in Iraq: - Army Sgt. Matthew A. Webber, 23, of Kalamazoo, Mich., died April 27 at the Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, of injuries suffered when a roadside bomb detonated near his Humvee in Habbaniyah on Nov. 21. Webber was assigned to the Army National Guard's 1st Battalion, 125th Infantry Regiment (Mechanized), Saginaw, Mich. - Army Sgt. Steve M. Sakoda, 29, of Hilo, Hawaii, died of injuries suffered April 29 in Baghdad when a roadside bomb detonated near his Humvee. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky. Two Marines died April 28 while conducting combat operations against enemy forces in Anbar province. Both were assigned to 3rd Amphibious Assault Battalion, 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. Killed were: - Sgt. Lea R. Mills, 21, of Brooksville, Fla. - Cpl. Brandon M. Hardy, 25, of Cochranville, Pa. Two soldiers died in Baghdad on April 28 when a roadside bomb detonated near their Humvee. The soldiers were assigned to the 10th Cavalry, 4th Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. Killed were: - Staff Sgt. Bryant A. Herlem, 37, of Copperas Cove, Texas. - Sgt. Jose Gomez, 23, of Corona, N.Y.

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. Edward G. Davis III, 31, of Antioch, Ill., died April 28 while conducting combat operations against enemy forces in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. Media with questions about this Marine can call the Camp Pendleton Public Affairs Office at (760) 725-5044.

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. 1st Sgt. Bobby Mendez, 38, of Brooklyn, N.Y., died of injuries sustained in Baghdad, Iraq, on April 27, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV during combat operations. Mendez was assigned to the 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Staff Sgt. Mark A. Wall, 27, of Alden, Iowa, died in Mosul, Iraq, on April 27, from a non-combat related cause. Wall was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment, 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Fort Wainwright, Alaska.

As they stepped into the large, gray military cargo plane, their eyes widened and their expressions were equal parts wonder and bewilderment. This was the first time many of the Iraqi children and their parents had ever flown in an airplane, and none had ever been in an aircraft as large as the U.S. Air Force's C-17 Globemaster III. On April 29, airmen flew 110 Iraqi children and 97 of their parents, guardians and escorts from Amman, Jordan, to Baghdad in support of "Operation Smile." Operation Smile, an international nongovernmental organization, provides corrective surgery for children with cleft palates and cleft lips, congenital birth defects that affect about one out of every 600 children, according to the Cleft Palate Foundation. Operation Smile had evaluated the Iraqi children and transported them to Amman for corrective surgery.

According to Chris Anderson, an Operation Smile staff member based in the Middle East, the leadership of Operation Smile had a growing concern for the safety and security of the children on the 22-hour return bus trip from Amman to Baghdad through Iraq's western provinces. "We basically determined that (returning by bus) at this time wasn't the safest option for the kids," Anderson said. "For us, safety of the patients has always been the number one priority." Operation Smile cofounder and chief executive officer Dr. William P. Magee, Jr., and chief medical officer Dr. Robert Rubin wrote to Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld and requested assistance from the Air Force to provide safe airlift for the Iraqi children and their parents. The Air Force received approval for the mission late April 28 evening, and by early on the 29th, the C-17 was airborne and en route to Amman. After the young patients and their parents had settled into their seats, they listened intently as Dr. Talib, a plastic surgery resident traveling with the group, read the preflight safety briefing in Arabic.

Members of the crew reassured nervous passengers that the oxygen masks were only necessary in case of emergency. The passengers recited a brief prayer as the plane began to taxi. "We're asking God for safe passage to Iraq," one of the parents explained. The prayer was repeated several times with increasing urgency and volume as the plane accelerated down the runway and lifted off. One Iraqi woman quietly fingered her prayer beads and hugged her daughter tightly as the plane began its rapid ascent. "This is turning out to be a rewarding mission," Lt. Col. Chris Carlsen, the aircraft's commander, said. "You see all the children with the smiles on their faces. I'm glad to be a part of this. It's a historic and beneficial event for the Iraqi people." Airman 1st Class Alexis Elliott, a loadmaster for the C-17, agreed. "It makes me feel like I'm really helping to do something important," said Elliott, who is on her first deployment with the Air Force.

As the plane landed, taxied and came to a halt at Baghdad International Airport's passenger terminal, the faces of the Iraqi children and their parents explained very clearly what Operation Smile is all about. One jubilant father exited the plane, dropped to his knees and kissed the ground, although it was not clear whether he was celebrating his return to Iraq or just happy to be back on solid ground. "The bottom line is that the military is really trying to do what it can to help," Anderson said. "The support was a great match for us."

This summer, one chapter of the famous "Rolling Thunder" protest movement will take their message out to the ballgame. Paul Schneeberger, the event's coordinator, and other volunteers with Rolling Thunder's New York Chapter 3, will hold a military appreciation night at Dutchess Stadium, in Hudson Valley, N.Y., July 1. "The whole idea of this thing is to get it out into the general public for those people who put those nice little magnets on their cars and say they support the troops to actually put some money in the pot to give to a vet," Schneeberger said. Rolling Thunder began in 1987 with 2,600 demonstrators in Washington, D.C., in an effort to keep the government mindful of its troops who are still missing in action (MIA). The demonstration has grown into a grassroots movement involving hundreds of thousands of volunteers running outreach programs in chapters across the country.

The group will sell t-shirts at booths throughout the stadium, and it will take 20 to 30 military helmets to pass around to the crowd for donations to troops in need. "We're literally going to pass the hat," Schneeberger said. "This way, we might be able to raise more funds from the community for the veterans in our area." A ceremony before the game will include 40 prisoners of war from World War II, who will present the stadium with a POW/MIA flag, Schneeberger said. Civil War and Revolutionary War reenactors may participate in the ceremony as well, and Rolling Thunder will bring its motorcycles onto the warning track. The group is waiting for approval from Dutchess County to let the 2nd Aviation Detachment, from West Point, N.Y., do a flyover.

The detachment is the aviation training division for the United States Military Academy and provides helicopters and small planes for cadets to practice parachute jumping, fast roping and other military insertion and extraction techniques. Support from Croton Dodge car dealership in the village of Croton-on-Hudson made it possible, Schneeberger said. The general manager there, Frank Endress, is a Vietnam veteran and an active troop supporter. Schneeberger said he and the rest of his Rolling Thunder chapter look forward to fostering more events like this to augment their annual trip to Washington, D.C., where they usually make most of their money, much of which goes toward long-term help for veterans. "You can support the troops in the heat of the moment, but this war will go on for 50 years for these kids, whether they're physically injured or whether they have (post-traumatic stress disorder) or whatever it is that affects them," he said. The chapter's 66 volunteers are working on various projects to help disabled veterans have a better quality of life, including visits to local veterans' hospitals and building ramps for those at home in wheelchairs. But, Schneeberger said, the group's main mission will always be keeping the country aware of the POW/MIA issue.

A massive ride every year on Memorial Day weekend through the nation's capital is the cornerstone of their movement. Rolling Thunder will gather at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial here May 26, for a candlelight vigil to begin this year's Memorial Day weekend activities. On May 28, the group will gather in the Pentagon's north parking lot for "Ride for Freedom XIX."

While there is a ring of steel around the Iraqi oil terminal platforms in the Northern Arabian Gulf, small rubber boats with special boat crews do much of the heavy lifting for security and stability in the area. Coalition ships move continuously around the Al Basra Oil Terminal and the Khawr al Amaya Oil Terminal, and each sends out small boat crews aboard rigid-hulled inflatable boats to conduct VBSS - visit, board, search, seizure - missions. "They are the 'beat cops' for the area," said Navy Capt. Pat Roane, Lake Champlain's captain. "They reach out from the ships and serve a variety of functions."

The crews run the range and fulfill a variety of missions. Sailors from U.S., British and Australian ships volunteer to serve on these crews. The Lake Champlain, for example, has two crews pulled from volunteers around the ship. "We received training before we left San Diego," said Petty Officer 1st Class Jesse Hayden, an operations specialist. "On days when we are not needed, we work in our specialties. This is sort of on the order of 'other duty as assigned.'" Seaman Jared Wilmouth is a search-and-rescue swimmer with the team, and also a personnel specialist. "You really see you are making a difference on these teams," he said. All coalition ships have this capability. American, British and Australian are always a part of Coalition Task Force 58. Other countries' ships join when available. The teams provide a variety of capabilities. For example, Royal Marine teams can fast rope from helicopters onto a ship for a "noncompliant search operations," said Royal Marine 2nd Lt. Tom Dingwall, aboard the HMS St. Albans. His seven-man squad trains to this standard and can do all other less-invasive boarding drills also.

The platforms are in the middle of a fishing ground and there is an exclusion area around the platforms. Fishing dhows come right up to the line. The teams interact constantly with Iraqi, Kuwaiti and Iranian fishermen. "The teams go out and talk to the fishermen," Doane said. "That way, we know who belongs there and who is there for other purposes." Royal Navy Cmdr. Steve Dainton, commander of the St. Albans, said the conversations are noncontroversial, but it does let the fishermen know that the coalition is present. "We talk to them about where the good fishing grounds are, who is there, conditions on shore, how often they fish - just basic chitchat to gain their confidence," he said. "We also talk to them to gain any information at all to the wider coalition mission." The teams also board oil takers that are lined up to take on fuel from the platforms. The teams often have to climb rope ladders 100 feet up the sides of the tankers.

They are wearing ballistic vests, carrying weapons and a full load of ammunition. "When we first started, I thought some of my mates were going to have a heart attack," said Royal Australian Navy Lt. Cmdr. John Early, the executive officer of the HMAS Ballarat. "But now they scamper up the sides." The fishermen have generally reacted positively to the coalition presence. "One thing that surprised us was how much they value coming in to this area because they know we provide law and order," said Ballarat's captain Cmdr. Mal Wise. "They know they are not going to get shook down with us here." Doane said the mission is a lot like what civil affairs personnel do on land in Afghanistan or Iraq. "You get to know your neighborhood," he said. "You know where the good members of the neighborhood go, and where the ones with ulterior motives hang out."

Press Secretary Named The Department of Defense announced that Eric Ruff assumed the duties of press secretary today in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs. Under the direction of the assistant secretary of defense for public affairs, Ruff will serve as a principal spokeman and assist in explaining the policies, programs and goals of the administration and the Department of Defense to the media and the public. Ruff was previously a special assistant to the deputy secretary of defense and was serving the department in the public affairs office. Prior to working in the Defense Department, Ruff served as director of communications at the Interior Department. He was the communications director for Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison of Texas; and before that, he was the press secretary for Sen. John Warner of Virginia. Ruff has also served in the administration of President George H.W. Bush where he worked in public affairs positions at the Departments of Agriculture and Commerce.

When the premier medical centers from the Army and Navy merge into one joint facility in Bethesda, Md., in 2011, the rich heritage and world-class treatment reputation of Walter Reed Army Medical Center will continue under the same name at a different location, the hospital's commander said here April 30. The Base Realignment and Closure Commission announced the Defense Department initiative to close Walter Reed on May 13, 2005. The famed military medical facility, which is a monument to a long tradition of patient care, medical research and educational development, will continue its legacy under the name of the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

The premier, modernized joint healthcare operation will be jointly staffed with personnel from the Army, Navy and Air Force. "BRAC 2005 provides us the opportunity to better meet the health care needs of the 450,000 eligible beneficiaries in the national capital area and to achieve the long sought goal of integrating healthcare delivery in this multi-service market," Army Maj. Gen. Kenneth L. Farmer Jr. said during the Walter Reed Society's annual meeting at the Mologne House Hotel, on the Walter Reed campus. The 560 member-strong society helps families of wounded servicemembers with expenses to stay in the area while their loved ones recover in this high-cost area. Changes in health care delivery for the 450,000 military members, retirees and their families in the Washington area include: - Walter Reed's main campus will close as a military installation; - A large new community hospital will be built at Fort Belvoir, Va.; and - Malcolm Grow Medical Center, at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., will become an ambulatory care center.

Farmer said there are five main reasons why Walter Reed was selected for closure, even though it's larger than the National Naval Medical Center. - Walter Reed's main hospital building, while only 30 years old by the calendar, is functionally much older. If the hospital remained open, it would face a renewal program that would take 12 to 15 years and hundreds of millions of dollars; - There's more buildable space at Bethesda than at land-locked Walter Reed; - Bethesda is right across the street from a Metro mass-transit stop; - The National Naval Medical Center is right across the street from the National Institutes of Health, with the potential for collaboration in research and in specialty care; and - On the same campus is the nation's only military medical school, the Uniformed Services University of the Heath Sciences. "We envision one unified national capital area military health care system," he said. "Jointly staffed inpatient campuses at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center at Bethesda (north) and Fort Belvoir (south) will provide high quality, efficient and convenient care for our beneficiaries." He said the new Walter Reed will serve as a world-class academic medical center focused on highest quality care, graduate medical education, and clinical research, while serving as a worldwide military referral center. "The Fort Belvoir community hospital will be the major satellite teaching hospital," Farmer said. "Both campuses will be sized to provide health care at the closest facility to the beneficiary whenever clinically appropriate."

Farmer said officials planning the changes envision a 345-bed medical center at Bethesda and a 120-bed community hospital at Belvoir. Vowing to communicate changes in healthcare delivery to patients in a timely fashion, Farmer emphasized that it will take several years to build new facilities and renovate others. He said Walter Reed can't be closed until facilities at Bethesda and Belvoir are completed. "We'll be hard pressed to get that done by the statutory compliance date of Sept. 15, 2011," the general noted. "But that doesn't mean that nothing will change until then." Farmer said an evolutionary approach is being used to integrate the facilities at Bethesda and Belvoir. "We'll functionally integrate long before we physically collocate," he noted. "I expect that we will have some departments or services with one department chief overseeing both locations by this summer." The general stressed that Walter Reed's worldwide casualty-care mission will continue at the new location.

In years past, he said, the Mologne House Hotel on the Walter Reed campus was filled with retirees coming to Washington for medical care and myriad other reasons. Today, the hotel and the nearby Fisher Houses are filled with combat casualties who no longer need to be on the wards and with family members of hospitalized servicemembers. "We'll have to replace that function in some way," the general noted. "We'll assess a number of alternatives to include non-appropriated fund activities like the Army Lodging Program, the Navy Lodge and possibly public-private alternatives. Next year, the Navy will do a major renovation on the bachelor enlisted quarters right across from the hospital entrance to prepare it to house our wounded warriors." Farmer said integrating the functions of Walter Reed and Bethesda "amounts to a corporate merger of two corporations with very different organizational structures and very different cultures." "But it is doable," he said. "And we are doing it."

Freddie Mac is extending many of its emergency hurricane relief policies through August 31, 2006 in the Gulf Coast counties and parishes affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, according to a May 1 Guide Bulletin sent to the company's Seller/Servicers. The extended policies had been scheduled to expire at the end of May. The new Bulletin also makes several underwriting policy changes intended to promote the housing recovery in the least damaged Gulf Coast jurisdictions.

"The May 1 Bulletin continues to give servicers the authority to extend relief to borrowers with properties in the worst disaster areas, while recognizing that there are now more Gulf Coast counties and parishes with the economic strength to justify a return to pre-Katrina business operations," explained Janet Eakes, senior vice president of Freddie Mac's operations division.

Freddie Mac's hurricane policies apply only in federally designated disaster areas where FEMA individual assistance is available. To better support borrower and community recovery efforts Freddie Mac classifies Gulf Coast counties and parishes by their degree of storm damage and adjusts its policies accordingly. Zone One counties have minimal damage, Zone Two moderate damage and Zone Three severe damage. (See below for list of counties and parishes by zone.)

Freddie Mac is extending in every zone its ban on reporting borrowers with storm related forbearance or repayment plans to credit bureaus and a streamlined loan modification process designed to expedite workouts to help storm victims avoid foreclosure.

Lenders must continue to obtain Freddie Mac's prior approval before initiating property preservation activities in Zones Two and Three other than decisions to access abandoned property for insurance claims, the Bulletin says.

At the same time, Freddie Mac continues to encourage servicers to extend mortgage relief to borrowers with Freddie Mac loans on a case-by-case basis regardless of zone. Freddie Mac authorizes servicers to provide a wide range of mortgage relief to storm victims, including forbearance for up to one year from the date of the disaster. (Freddie Mac mortgage relief options are described in the "Owning and Keeping a Home" section on freddiemac.com.)

The Bulletin eases several post-hurricane underwriting requirements in Zone One. For example, mortgages secured by Zone One single-family properties are eligible for low down payment mortgages with a maximum Loan-to-Value ratio (LTV) of 100 percent. The previous maximum had been 95 percent. The Bulletin also removes special collateral requirements for undamaged properties in Zone One.

For more information, lenders can contact their Freddie Mac Account Representative or review the May 1 Guide Bulletin at http://www.freddiemac.com/sell/guide/bulletins.

Freddie Mac Zone Designations by County/Parish*

Zone One Zone Two Zone Three

State (minimal damage) (moderate damage) (severe damage)

AL Choctaw, Greene, Baldwin, Clarke, Mobile

Hale, Marengo, Washington.

Pickens, Sumter,

Tuscaloosa.

LA Allen, Ascension, Assumption, Acadia, Calcasieu,

East Baton Rouge, Beauregard, Iberia, Cameron,

East Feliciana, Jefferson Davis, Jefferson,

Evangeline, Lafourche, St. Orleans,

Iberville, Charles, St. Plaquemines, St.

Lafayette, Helena, St. James, Bernard, St.

Livingston, Pointe St. John The Tammany.

Coupee, Sabine, St. Baptist, St. Mary,

Landry, St. Martin, Tangipahoa,

Vernon, West Baton Terrebonne,

Rouge, West Vermilion,

Feliciana. Washington.

MS Adams, Amite, Clarke, Greene, George, Hancock,

Attala, Choctaw, Forrest, Jasper, Harrison,

Claiborne, Copiah, Jones, Lamar, Jackson, Pearl

Covington, Franklin, Marion, Perry, River, Stone.

Hinds, Holmes, Walthall, Wayne.

Humphreys,

Jefferson, Jefferson

Davis, Kemper,

Lauderdale,

Lawrence, Leake,

Lincoln, Lowndes,

Madison, Neshoba,

Newton, Noxubee,

Oktibbeha, Pike,

Rankin, Scott,

Simpson, Smith,

Warren, Winston,

Wilkinson, Yazoo.

TX Angelina, Fort Bend, Chambers, Hardin, Jasper,

Brazoria, Galveston, Liberty, Sabine, Jefferson,

Harris, Montgomery, San Augustine. Newton, Orange.

Nacogdoches, Polk,

San Jacinto, Shelby,

Trinity, Tyler,

Walker.

*Designation changes are in italics.

Source: Freddie Mac

Freddie Mac is a stockholder-owned company established by Congress in 1970 to support homeownership and rental housing. Freddie Mac fulfills its mission by purchasing residential mortgages and mortgage-related securities, which it finances primarily by issuing mortgage-related securities and debt instruments in the capital markets. Over the years, Freddie Mac has made home possible for one in six homebuyers and nearly four million renters in America. http://www.freddiemac.com/.

Source: Freddie Mac

New Tool Allows Consumers to Have Customized Travel Search Results on Their Favorite Destinations Sent to Them Automatically

Expedia.com(R) the world's leading online travel agency, today introduced a service that allows travelers to set up customized searches for flights, hotels, vacation packages and travel deals and have the results automatically sent to them. Using RSS technology, Expedia.com now provides customers who have personalized homepages, the Google(TM) homepage with the latest prices on trips they're interested in, saving customers the time and trouble of making the same search over and over.

RSS, which stands for Really Simple Syndication, is an increasingly popular way for people to collect continuously updated information from various Web sites. Many news organizations, blogs, and other sites provide RSS "feeds" that are picked up by personalized homepages.

By telling Expedia what destinations and types of trips they would like to monitor, travelers can receive up-to-date, customized travel information in one easy, accessible place, alongside their news headlines, weather updates and other personalized homepage information. Consumers can visit www.expedia.com/RSS to access the service and create custom searches.

"Expedia's real-time alerts on travel deals provide more options and more information than any other in online travel, such as the ability to select alerts for trip types, such as beach destinations and luxury trips," says Sally McKenzie, general manager of Expedia.com. "This is just another example of how Expedia continues to enhance the travel experience by giving travelers the travel intelligence and tools they want, when, where and how they want it."

While other online travel providers are offering RSS, none offer the level of superior travel content that Expedia offers. Expedia brings more variety, greater ease of use, personalized information about multiple destinations, and additional trip details, including hotel content, prices and star ratings.

Adds McKenzie: "This service is flexible and robust, offering a superior experience to other online travel agencies. As the industry leader, Expedia provides advanced technology, more insight and a greater selection of destinations than any other agency."

About Expedia.com

Expedia.com is the world's leading online travel provider, helping more than 25 million travelers per month easily plan and book travel. Expedia.com (http://www.expedia.com/ ) aims to provide personalized service, the latest technology and the widest selection of vacation packages, flights, hotels, rental cars, cruises and in-destination activities, attractions, and services. With the Expedia(R) Best Price Guarantee, Expedia.com promises to offer to its customers the best rates available online for all types of travel, making it the most comprehensive customer guarantee in online travel. Expedia.com is an operating company of Expedia, Inc. CST: 2029030-40

NOTE: Expedia and Expedia.com are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Expedia, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. Google is a trademark of Google Inc. Other product and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective owners

Source: Expedia.com

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

Expo Comida Latina Texas y Nightclub & Bar Beverage, y Food Fiesta Latina celebraron un exitoso evento bajo el mismo techo, que superó las expectativas en el George R. Brown Convention Center, la semana pasada, en Houston, Texas.

Expo Comida Latina Texas es un evento importante de negocios en el sector hispano de alimentos y bebidas en Texas. Los compradores pueden hacer negocios con cientos de expositores y dejan el evento llevándose nuevos productos, nuevos contactos y nueva información.

"¡Estábamos tan emocionados de llevar Expo Comida Latina Texas y Fiesta Latina a Houston! El apoyo al evento por parte de la comunidad comercial fue enorme. Nos honró recibir a nuestros queridos amigos en la Cámara de Comercio Hispana en Houston, el Consejo para Empresas de Minoridades de Houston y la TAMACC (Asociación de Cámaras de Comercio Mexicano-Americanas de Texas) en el desayuno de trabajo para establecer redes de contactos. Se han construido los cimientos para que el evento crezca y lleve anualmente lo mejor de la comida y la bebida hispana a Texas", dice Brian Randall, Vicepresidente de Grupo de Comida Cultural de Diversified Business Communications.

Expo Comida Latina Texas presentó 248 proveedores líderes de alimentos y bebidas hispanas. Entre ellos, siete países estuvieron representados, incluso México, Nicaragua, Corea, Colombia, Guatemala, Canadá y Estados Unidos. En el pabellón mexicano, 14 estados mexicanos exhibidos incluso Puebla, Michoacán, Nuevo León, Estado de México, Colima, Guanajuato, Sonora, Oaxaca, Tamaulipas, Durango, Tabasco, Querétaro, Yucatán y Chiapas. La asistencia al evento alcanzó los 2,618 profesionales detallistas y del negocio del servicio de alimentos.

"La comunidad comercial en Texas recibió con los brazos abiertos a Fiesta Latina y Expo Comida Latina. Nos honró muchísimo tener una increíble respuesta de profesionales del sector bebidas, de dentro y fuera de la zona. El sector hispano en alimentos y bebidas continúa superando todas las estadísticas. Desde nuestras sesiones educativas, hasta los discursos principales, pasando por el piso de exposiciones... aquí, en Houston, se llevaron a cabo negocios", dijo Jennifer Robinson, COO de Oxford Publishing.

Los siguientes expositores introdujeron nuevos productos en Expo Comida Latina Texas:

* Mex Gourmet hizo su debut en Texas presentando uno de los más finos

cafés gourmet mexicanos, llamado Café Garat. En México, Café Garat se

sirve en más del 40% de los mejores hoteles en Cancún, Puerto Vallarta,

Los Cabos, Veracruz, Acapulco y en los mejores restaurantes por todo

México. En Houston, Café Garat se sirve en el famoso restaurante

mexicano, Maria Selma.

* Novamex presentó varios productos nuevos, incluso Chocolate Ibarra

(Chocolate en polvo de México), Sabores Mineragua (agua mineral con

sabor a naranja, lima y toronja), Manzana Verde Mundet (gaseosa de

manzana verde de México), Zuko (bebida en polvo), Jarritos Lima-Limón

(gaseosa lima-limón de México)

* Adapmark Restaurant Menu Design lanzó una nueva línea de papel impreso

para menús que permite al dueño del restaurante imprimir su nuevo menú

en papel de aspecto profesional utilizando una PC en su propio

restaurante.

* Highland Beef Farms dio a conocer una Salsa de Queso Tex Mex en

presentación de 1/2 galón con bomba. La compañía empezó como una granja

ganadera, especializándose en todos los animales de carne alimentados

con granos cultivados en montaña; ahora se ha ampliado hacia nuevos

negocios que se especializan en la fabricación y comercialización de

carnes de alta calidad nutricional y de vida estable, y aperitivos de

queso.

* Cascabel N.A. LLC lanzó Cascabel Energy Drink en 4 paquetes. La bebida

está diseñada para potenciar la energía, la concentración, la

resistencia y el rendimiento.

Las actividades del evento de este año incluyeron una cantidad de sesiones de conferencias educativas que presentaron análisis clave del sector e ideas de desarrollo de negocios para ayudar a simplificar los costos, presentar nuevos artículos en el menú y hacer crecer el negocio. Rudy Beserra, vicepresidente de Asuntos Latinos para Coca-Cola Company, pronunció el discurso magistral. Beserra ha realizado su carrera como un defensor y como una voz de la comunidad latina para fortalecer el puente entre Coca Cola y las cientos de organizaciones y pequeñas empresas latinas en los Estados Unidos.

Chef LaLa (Laura Diaz-Brown) encabezó las demostraciones culinarias a lo largo del evento de dos días. Chef LaLa es una premiada chef, humanitaria, y vocera de los hispanos en el programa 5-A-Day, de la Asociación Estadounidense de la Diabetes y muchas otras organizaciones, y autora de Latin Lover Lite, la primera guía auténtica jamás antes publicada para cocinar los favoritos latinos saludables.

"¡Houston es genial! La pasé formidable conociendo la increíble comunidad de chefs y ejecutivos del sector alimentos en Expo Comida Latina Texas. ¡Nuestro Teatro de Demostración Culinaria estaba lleno hasta la bandera! No veo la hora de volver a Houston", dijo Chef LaLa.

Luego, Expo Comida Latina viajará a Los Angeles, California, el 15 y16 de octubre de 2006, en el Los Angeles Convention Center. En 2007, Expo Comida Latina Texas se realizará el 23 y 24 de abril en Houston, en el George R. Brown Convention Center. Para obtener más información, sírvase visitar: http://www.expo-comida-latina.com/ .

Acerca de Expo Comida Latina

Expo Comida Latina fue lanzada en Los Angeles en 2002 como el primer evento comercial para el mercado latino de alimentos y bebidas. A través de un boletín electrónico bimensual, Comida News, y Expo Comida Latina, la marca está ahora firmemente establecida como recurso líder para la industria de alimentos y bebidas latinos, donde los compradores de servicio de alimentación y detallistas pueden conseguir lo último en el sector y explorar y conocer nuevos productos latinos auténticos de proveedores en toda América. Para más noticias e información sobre Expo Comida Latina y sus eventos en Los Angeles, Nueva York o Texas, visite: http://www.expo-comida-latina.com/ .

Acerca de Diversified Business Communications

Diversified Business Communications, una división de Diversified Communications, reúne compradores y vendedores a través de publicaciones galardonadas y ferias comerciales internacionalmente aclamadas realizadas en cuatro continentes. Algunos de los otros productos en la cartera de alimentos de Diversified incluyen Kosherfest, All Asia Food Expo, el International Boston Seafood Show y Fine Food Australia. Para más información, visite: http://www.divbusiness.com/ .

Acerca de Nightclub & Bar Beverage y Food Fiesta Latina

Este show combina los elementos de un espectáculo tradicional de Nightclub & Bar y ofrece un profundo estudio centrado en el mercado latino/hispano. Es un mercado de ideas y oportunidades donde los profesionales del segmento de la hospitalidad pueden aprender y hacer redes comerciales ya que la nación responde a este mercado en rápido crecimiento. Este evento brinda una completa línea de sesiones educativas que apuntan a potenciar la rentabilidad, junto con un hall de exhibición lleno de nuevos productos y servicios, y ofrece eventos para entablar redes de contacto y crea infinitas oportunidades para que se reúnan compradores y vendedores. http://www.nightclub.com/

Acerca de Oxford Publishing, Inc.

Oxford Publishing, Inc. publica tres revistas comerciales nacionales: Nightclub & Bar, Beverage Retailer, Salud! y Buen Provecho y produce el mayor evento de bebidas y alimentos en el sector con su anual Nightclub & Bar/Detalistas de Bebidas/Convención de Alimentos y Bebidas y Exposición Comercial que se realiza en Las Vegas cada mes de marzo. También producen otras exhibiciones en varias ciudades por todo Estados Unidos, incluso el exitoso lanzamiento East Coast en Atlantic City el pasado octubre. http://www.oxfordpublishinginc.com/

Source: Expo Comida Latina

-- According to the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), 80 percent of children born with the chromosome abnormality are born to women under the age of 35. A common misconception people have is that it's something only older pregnant women need to worry about. That couldn't be farther from the truth.

While it's true that the more advanced the maternal age is, the greater the chances of giving birth to a child with Down Syndrome, people are surprised to find out that it's not the most common group being affected. Those under 35 have much higher fertility rates than those over, so that group as a whole is at greater risk. The NDSS reports that the overall average when taking all maternal birth ages into consideration is that one in every 733 babies is born with Down Syndrome. Considering the millions of babies born each year in this country alone, there are a lot of women under the age of 35 giving birth to babies with the condition.

"The media is great at informing older pregnant women about the risks of Down Syndrome, but they overlook how important it is that younger women be aware of it, as well," says Caroline Brandt, author of "He Has Up Syndrome Not Down Syndrome" (PublishAmerica, 2005). "I want to help take an active role in raising awareness of birth defects among younger women."

Brandt's daughter, Misty, was only 23 years old when she gave birth to Riley, who was born with Down Syndrome. Her book is a heart-felt look at how her family has come to terms with that news. She allows others to be a part of the journey that ultimately helped them to grow and strengthen emotionally.

"When you have a child born with challenges, it affects the entire family. There are challenges that we must all face and accept," says Brandt. "I want to share my story so that others can see what it's like for an average family, and to bring comfort to others that may just be learning that their child has Down Syndrome."

Brandt is a grandmother on a mission, and she is taking action, donating all proceeds from the sale of her book to the Sunshine School in Searcy, Ark. They have roughly 60 students who attend the school, and they are in need of a new facility. Her grandson attends the school and is its youngest student.

"Love is the strength that helps to get people through the tough times," says Brandt. "As a grandmother and mother, I know that better than anyone, and I hope I pass that on to others."

Source: Syndicated News, Inc.

Shares Her Surefire Mom's Day Menu and a Few Tips for Making It Through Sunday Tara Duggan, San Francisco Chronicle's "The Working Cook" columnist and author of The Working Cook: Fast and Fresh Meals for Busy People (The San Francisco Chronicle Press, May 2006), gives us her never-fail-to-please-her Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts as well as a few tips for surviving Sunday’s celebration. "The Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a sophisticated, modern take on Chicken Cordon Bleu, with prosciutto and tangy goat cheese standing in for plain old ham and Swiss cheese, and without the heavy cream sauce," shares Duggan. "A couple of bites later, Mom will be sure to forgive the time you played Play-Doh Picasso on her new rug." "Comfort Mom the way she comforted you," she adds. "Create a warm and nostalgic atmosphere by including some sweet sentiments like a bouquet of her favorite flowers and framed pictures of favorite family moments." Duggan also offers these entertaining tips and time-saving tricks to help you prepare for Sunday’s meal: --

Pick up groceries and even the bouquet on Saturday, so you can spend more time with Mom on Sunday. -- To save time while preparing the chicken, buy two 10-ounce packages of pre-washed spinach leaves (not baby spinach). -- You can stuff the chicken breasts with prosciutto and goat cheese early Sunday morning (then return to the refrigerator), shaving off a couple of minutes of prep. -- Keep Mom out of the kitchen: When she arrives, serve her a flute of sparkling lemonade, or a Bellini (1 part peach juice or puree, 3 parts Prosecco), and make sure she sits down and enjoys it while you put the final touches on dinner. Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts Courtesy Tara Duggan, The Working Cook: Fast and Fresh Meals for Busy People (The San Francisco Chronicle Press, May 2006) Cooking Time: 30 minutes (Serves 4) Ingredients: 2 large eggs 1 B/c cups panko (see Note) 4 boneless, skinless chicken half breasts, about 6 ounces each 4 large slices prosciutto (about 4 ounces) 3 ounces herbed fresh goat cheese Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste 1/4 cup olive oil or vegetable oil 2 cloves garlic, sliced 20 ounces pre-washed spinach 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice and lemon wedges for serving (about 1 lemon total) Preheat the oven to 450°F. Whisk the eggs lightly in a shallow bowl. Place the bread crumbs in another shallow bowl or on a plate.

With a sharp knife, carefully cut horizontally about halfway into one breast to create a large pocket about the length and width of the breast. If possible, try to leave the ends uncut so the stuffing doesn’t fall out. Layer a folded piece of prosciutto along the insides of the pocket, then spread one quarter of the goat cheese over the prosciutto. Carefully close the opening and seal with a toothpick, if desired. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Repeat with the remaining breasts. Dip each breast completely into the egg, allow the excess egg to drip off, then dip into the bread crumbs. Pack the bread crumbs on to cover completely, then shake off any excess. Heat the oil in a large frying pan (or use more oil and two pans) over medium-high heat, until very hot. Carefully place the chicken in the oil and fry until golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and bake in the oven until the chicken is cooked through, about 10 minutes. While the chicken is baking, remove and discard all but about 1 tablespoon of the oil from the frying pan used for the chicken, leaving the brown crispy bits in the pan. Return the pan to medium heat and add the garlic. Sauté briefly, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the spinach, a little at a time, stirring until it wilts. Season with salt and pepper. Add the lemon juice.

Divide the spinach mixture among 4 serving plates. Arrange the breasts over the spinach, garnish with the lemon wedges, and serve. NOTE: Panko, or Japanese bread crumbs, is available in the Asian food sections in some grocery stores and in Asian markets. You can substitute regular packaged or fresh bread crumbs.

Promises a Loss of Two Dress Sizes, Up to 24 Lbs, in 12 Weeks From his upcoming workout guide, Mark Anthony's Once-A-Week Workout (May 2006, Sterling Publishing Co., Inc.), London-based fitness trainer Mark Anthony offers three core moves to get your body beach-ready for this summer. In his radical new approach to fitness for busy people, Anthony believes that in just 45 minutes a week, anyone can achieve dramatic results. "Too many people trying to cram in three or four workouts a week just end up quitting because they can't spare the time - or they cheat themselves by taking it easy, as if saving up for the next day," says Anthony. Instead, he suggests his once-a-week regimen of high-intensity resistance training that burns calories and tones the whole body. He also offers free mp3 workouts on http://www.onceaweekworkout.net to motivate clients through each step. Top 3 Bikini Moves for Women Ball Squats (2 Sets, 25 Reps) -- With your feet wide apart, make sure that your knees and toes are in line and that your toes are pointing outward at 11 and 1 o'clock. Using a medicine ball or soccer ball, squat down under control, so that your thighs are parallel to the floor. Activate your core muscles. --

Throw the ball up, allowing you enough time to stand up tall. -- Squat back down to the start position and catch the ball at the lowest point of the squat. Repeat sequence. Seated Bench Row (2 sets, 12 Reps) -- On an incline bench, grasp a set of dumbbells, with the palms of your hands facing toward you and your arms out at full length. Sit on the bench so that your chest is against the incline pad. Activate your core muscles. -- Pull the dumbbells in toward you, so that they are either side of your chest. Under control, lower to the start position and repeat. Abdomen Rockers (2 Sets, 20 Reps) -- Lying on a flat bench, raise your legs to 90-- with your knees slightly bent and your feet flat towards the ceiling. Place your arms behind your head, gripping the bench for support. Activate your core muscles. -- Lower your legs from the hips keeping your lower back flat. Squeeze, control, contract! Top 3 Muscle Moves for Men Knee Dips (2 Sets, 15 Reps) -- Begin in a sprinter's position: heels against a wall, toes on the floor in line with your knees and hips. Slowly lower both knees until they align with your elbows. Activate your core muscles. -- Push both legs up and back until extended. Under control, return to the start position. Try to keep the legs moving throughout the exercise. Barbell Two-Arm Row (2 Sets, 12 Reps) -- Using a set of dumbbells, arms extended to the floor with your palms facing you, place your left leg forward and your right leg back. -- Lead with your elbows and raise the dumbbells toward your chin, stopping at the collarbone.

Bend your elbows and contract the deltoids. Lower the weight back to the starting position. Two-Arm Bench Press (2 Sets, 12 Reps) -- Lie on a flat bench and grasp a barbell with your hands 1 1/2 times shoulder-width apart. Keep your arms straight above you, but not locked. Activate your core muscles. -- Under control, lower the bar in line with your chest, elbows down. Press the bar upward again to the start position while activating both your chest and arm muscles. Coming from a family of distinguished athletes, Mark Anthony has always been aware of just how important it is to train passionately: His father was a sprinter, his grandfather a gymnast and his uncle won the Olympic Gold Medal for power-lifting. Mark Anthony has personally trained more than 1,000 people from all walks of life, including celebrities, and currently runs his own studio in London.

AdvancePath Academics, Inc. (APA) today announced a strategic partnership with the National Farm Workers Service Centers, Inc. (NFWSC) and its Chavez Education Institute (CEI) to jointly combat the escalating high school dropout problem in Latino communities. John Murray, AdvancePath's Chairman and CEO, said, "The dropout problem in the United States is an epidemic, especially among minority populations.

Despite many years of visibility, the dropout numbers keep rising, and are expected to continue to do so, unless we can unite the resources and creativity of the private sector in partnership with the know-how and dedication of public education. At AdvancePath, we partner with school districts to provide communities a new path for out-of-school youth and disengaged students to earn their high school diploma. Education is a societal issue and is the responsibility of not just of educators, but of businesses, community organizations, families, and the students themselves. We're all in this together." Together, AdvancePath Academics and the National Farm Workers Service Centers, with the Chavez Education Institute, will reach out to Latino communities to encourage youth aged 14-18 years old who have left school without their diploma to return to AdvancePath Academies in their local school districts. In the Academies, each student receives a customized curriculum and targeted instruction that will help him or her reach his or her academic potential. AdvancePath will provide an annual scholarship fund, on behalf of the partnership, to be awarded to certain students from within its Academies who enroll in a post-secondary institution. Mr. Murray continued, "One of the most crucial elements in recovering dropout students is community outreach.

We need to win the hearts and minds of the students, and garner the support of their families and the broader communities in which they live, in order to encourage students to complete their education. Once we get them into our academies, we are confident we can help them achieve their high school diplomas. We are delighted to be partnering with the National Farm Workers Service Centers and the Chavez Education Institute whose influence and reach into the Latino communities is unmatched. Built on the beliefs of Cesar Chavez and the 'Si Se Puede' ('yes you can') attitude, the organizations have a deep rooted commitment to their communities and education for all." Sonia Hernandez, the Director of Education for the Chavez Education Institute, commented, "We applaud John Murray and his AdvancePath Team for stepping up to the plate, with a new and innovative model, to help educators and communities address the dropout issue. The cost of a student dropping out, on both a personal and societal level, is huge. Anything that can be done to combat it not only positively affects the lives of students and their current and future families; it will have a long-lasting positive impact on our communities' stability and safety." Ms. Hernandez added, "The NFWSC and CEI have many existing outreach programs as well as education initiatives underway.

We look forward to promoting AdvancePath's work in our communities; I am confident that our organizations will learn from each other and will jointly be able to take best practices to educators in the process." About AdvancePath Academics, Inc. AdvancePath Academics, Inc., partners with school districts to provision and operate learning centers (AdvancePath Academies) co-located on high school campuses to recover, educate, and graduate disengaged, at-risk, and out-of-school youth. At the core of the AdvancePath model is the belief that all students have individual learning styles and needs, and that not all students are suited to the traditional mainstream high school environment. About the National Farm Workers Service Centers, Inc.

The National Farm Workers Service Center is a non-profit organization founded by Cesar E. Chavez in 1966 to address the social and economic issues that confront farm workers and other low-income working families. About the Chavez Education Institute The Cesar E. Chavez Education Institute is a project of the National Farm Workers Service Center launched to address the needs of low-performing students in elementary and secondary schools by providing after-school instructional services in the areas of reading, algebra, and English as a Second Language.

This past January, Be Fit Kids Magazine added two major components to its table of contents, the Teacher Resource Guide and the Just for Parents Section. The Teacher Resource Guide is an effective tool that allows teachers to better implement the magazine into their curriculum. It provides information on suggested objectives and activities written in a lesson plan format that can be used in multiple subject areas, related articles that are linked to provide you with additional topics of discussion, reading assessments to test comprehension, reproducible materials for students and an answer guide to all materials provided in the packet.

The Just for Parents Section includes informative articles that are written especially for parents. With sections like Sharing and Telling, Families that Play Together, Conversation Starters, Visualizing and Speak Up, parents are now better equipped with ideas on how to get the most out of every issue and how to keep the lines of communication open with their kids. Be Fit Kids Magazine is a bi-monthly publication targeting pre-teens and adolescents. With a circulation of 250,000, the magazine is the only one of its kind, providing information about health, sports, nutrition and fitness for kids, encouraging them to eat right and see exercise as a fun vehicle to leading healthier, longer lives. Be Fit Kids Magazine is the source of information that catapults kids into action, allowing them to reach their physical fitness and health goals and, ultimately, their dreams and aspirations in life. Contact: Maria Sanz

California State Assembly Speaker Fabian Nuñez delivered the Democratic Hispanic Radio Address this Saturday, April 29, 2006. Nuñez will discuss the Republican Party's misplaced priorities in Washington that have led to Americans having to pay excessive prices at the pump, and about the Republican Party's failed leadership on immigration reform.

The audio of Nuñez's address will be heard through local Univisión Radio, Latino Broadcasting Company, Radio Fórmula, Radiovisa, Radio Bilingüe, and CNN en Español Radio affiliates after 11:06 a.m. ET on Saturday.

The audio, embargoed until 11:06 a.m. ET on Saturday, can be downloaded here:


The translated text of the address in English appears below:

Good morning. This is Fabián Nuñez, Speaker of the California State Assembly.

This week, Americans continue to suffer from skyrocketing prices at the pump, while big oil companies continued to enjoy record earnings. We also saw a Republican Congress scramble to distance themselves from the same big energy companies that received billions in unnecessary subsidies. Of course the GOP Congress approved these massive subsidies in an energy bill written by and for the big energy companies.

After more than five years of favoring the special interests over the public interest, Republicans in Congress have all of a sudden woken up to the fact that we have to do something for hard working Americans who are paying the price for the Republicans' dangerous incompetence at the pump.

Senate Democrats tried repeatedly this week to eliminate the handouts to the big oil companies. Unfortunately, Republicans rejected every single one of our initiatives to solve this problem. All the President could do was talk. Well, talk is cheap, but gas isn't.

Another area where America needs urgent action, and less talk, is immigration. It remains to be seen if the same Congressional Republicans that voted to criminalize immigrants and who voted twice in two days against comprehensive immigration reform will now allow a real immigration reform. Senate Majority Leader Frist needs to stand up to the right wing of the Republican party and join Democrats to pass a fair bill.

Democrats believe in tough and smart immigration reform that is comprehensive. That means reform that protects our borders, protects U.S. workers and their wages, and brings millions of undocumented workers out of the shadows by allowing those who pay taxes, obey the law, and work hard, to apply for the opportunities of citizenship. We believe that the only way to have real border security is by cracking down on employers who hire undocumented workers, and providing a legal path for workers who want to contribute to the economy of our country. That way, we can focus our resources on catching those who would do us harm, instead of criminalizing those who will make our nation strong.

Democrats will keep fighting for hard working American families. We will continue to oppose the subsidies for big oil companies. We will continue to oppose draconian measures that criminalize immigrants. And we will not rest until we have leaders in Washington that fight for every American, not just the wealthy few.

This is Fabián Nuñez, Speaker of the California State Assembly. Thank you for listening.
Paid for and authorized by the Democratic National Committee, http://www.democrats.org. This communication is not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

Núñez discutirá las prioridades equivocadas del Partido Republicano en Washington que han llevado a que todo estadounidense tenga que pagar costos excesivos de gasolina, y sobre el liderazgo fallido del Partido Republicano en torno a la reforma de inmigración.

El mensaje se transmitirá a través de estaciones afiliadas de Univisión Radio, Latino Broadcasting Company, Radiovisa, Radio Fórmula, Radio Bilingüe, y CNN Radio Noticias luego

Para escuchar el audio del mensaje, use el siguiente enlace:

El Texto del Audio sigue:

Buenos días. Les habla Fabián Núñez, Presidente de la Asamblea estatal de California.

Esta semana, los estadounidenses continúan sufriendo por los precios excesivos de la gasolina, mientras que las compañías petroleras siguen disfrutando de ganancias históricas. A su vez hemos visto un Congreso republicano distanciándose de las compañías grandes de energía que recibieron miles de millones de dólares en subsidios innecesarios. Por supuesto, el Congreso republicano aprobó éstos subsidios desmedidos en un proyecto de ley escrito por y para las compañías grandes de energía.

Después de más de 5 años de favorecer el interés de los ricos por encima del interés público, los republicanos del Congreso, de repente se han dado cuenta de que tenemos que hacer algo por los estadounidenses trabajadores, quienes son los que pagan las consecuencias por la incompetencia Republicana a la hora de comprar gasolina.

Esta semana, los Demócratas en el Senado han tratado, en repetidas ocasiones, de eliminar los subsidios a las compañías grandes de petróleo. Desafortunadamente, los republicanos rechazaron cada una de nuestras propuestas para poder resolver este problema. Todo lo que el Presidente ha hecho ha sido hablar. Pero las palabras se las lleva el viento, mientras que la gasolina viene con un costo muy grande.

Otro tema en el que la nación necesita acción urgente, y menos palabras, es la inmigración. Aún está por verse si los republicanos del Congreso que votaron a favor de criminalizar a los inmigrantes, y los que en el Senado votaron dos veces en dos días consecutivos contra una reforma migratoria integral, ahora permitan una verdadera reforma migratoria. El líder de la mayoría en el Senado, Bill Frist, necesita enfrentar al ala derecha de su partido y unirse a los Demócratas para aprobar un proyecto de ley justo.

Los Demócratas creemos en medidas fuertes e inteligentes para obtener una reforma de inmigración integral. Eso quiere decir una reforma que proteja nuestras fronteras, que proteja a los trabajadores y sus sueldos en Estados Unidos, y que saque de las sombras a millones de inmigrantes indocumentados permitiendo que quienes pagan impuestos, obedecen la ley, y son trabajadores, puedan aplicar por las oportunidades de la ciudadanía. Creemos que la única manera de tener una verdadera seguridad en la frontera es penalizando a quienes emplean a trabajadores indocumentados y proveerle un camino legal a quienes quieren contribuir a la economía de nuestro país. De esa forma nosotros podemos enfocar los recursos en atrapar a los que nos quieren dañar, en vez de criminalizar a los que van a fortalecer nuestra nación.

Los Demócratas seguiremos luchando por las familias trabajadoras. Continuaremos oponiéndonos a los subsidios de las grandes compañías petroleras. Nos opondremos a medidas que criminalicen a los inmigrantes. Y, no descansaremos hasta que tengamos líderes en Washington que luchen por todos los estadounidenses, no solo por los ricos.

Les habló Fabián Núñez, Presidente de la Asamblea estatal de California. Gracias por su atención

will be donated to The Mexican American Opportunity Foundation, a non-profit organization that offers assistance to Mexican American communities throughout six counties in the state of California. “Tommy Lee Jones made such a compassionate film about the plight of the undocumented worker, said Bernard. It made us feel the need to give some of the profits from the film back to the community to support the awareness of a difficult problem.”

“We are extremely grateful to Sony Pictures Classics for this much needed and generous donation,” said Martin Castro, president of MAOF. “Particularly in trying times like these when our country appears to be passionately divided on so many fronts, it is refreshing and encouraging to be able to partner with Sony and thereby come closer to realizing our mission of helping California’s predominately Mexican Hispanic community with invaluable educational and professional development programs. Aside from helping us raise funds to help thousands of needy families whom otherwise would have nowhere to turn to, “Los Tres Entierros de Melquiades Estrada” hits theaters at precisely the right time when we need more open dialogue, understanding and compassion. We encourage all Californians, because immigration affects all of us, to support “Los Tres Entierros de Melquiades Estrada.”

“The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada” A man is shot and quickly buried in the high desert of West Texas. The body is found and reburied in Van Horn’s town cemetery. Pete Perkins, a local ranch foreman (TOMMY LEE JONES) kidnaps a Border Patrolman (BARRY PEPPER) and forces him to disinter the body. With his captive in tow and the body tied to a mule Pete undertakes a dangerous and quixotic journey into Mexico.

Guillermo Arriaga’s dramatic and poetic script weaves past and present as it gradually reveals a great friendship; the lonely subterfuge of an illegal migrant’s life, the cost of a promise made and kept, and culminates in the redemption of a callous if accidental killer.

The U.S.-Mexico border has long been plagued with violence and racism, and many of the events that unfold in The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada are accurate depictions of the ongoing abuse of human rights in the region. But the film offers, in its conclusion, a pure form of contrition for wrongs committed, and a striking note of empathy for the lives so changed.

Directed by Tommy Lee Jones and written by Guillermo Arriaga, THE THREE BURIALS OF MELQUIADES ESTRADA stars Tommy Lee Jones, Barry Pepper, Dwight Yoakam, January Jones, Melissa Leo, and Julio Cedillo as Melquiades Estrada. Cinematography is by Chris Menges. Produced by Michael Fitzgerald, Luc Besson, Pierre-Ange Le Pogam and Tommy Lee Jones.

The film is opening at the following Los Angeles locations: Westside Pavilion, Grande - Downtown, One Colorado - Pasadena, Plant - VanNuys, Pine Square - Long Beach, AMC Norwalk, Fiesta Twin - Santa Ana and Park Twin - Huntington Park


About MAOF (Mexican American Opportunity Foundation) go to http://www.maof.org/newpage1.htm

--Tom Bernard, co-presidente de Sony Pictures Classics, anunció hoy que un porcentaje de los ingresos de la película “Los Tres Entierros de Melquíades Estrada”, dirigida por Tommy Lee Jones

la cual será presentada nuevamente en selectos teatros será entregado a la Mexican American Opportunity Foundation (MAOF), una organización sin fines de lucro que ofrece asistencia a las comunidades mexicano- americanas en seis condados del estado de California. “Tommy Lee Jones realizó una película que muestra tanta compasión hacia la apremiante situación de los trabajadores indocumentados, que nos hizo darnos cuenta de la necesidad de donar algunas de las ganancias de la película a la comunidad para apoyar la concientización de un problema tan difícil”, comentó Bernard.

“Nos sentimos sumamente agradecidos a Sony Pictures Classics por esta donación tan necesaria y tan generosa”, dijo Martín Castro, presidente de MAOF. “Particularmente, en momentos tan difíciles como éstos, en que nuestro país se encuentra apasionadamente dividido en tantos frentes, resulta refrescante y alentador poder asociarnos con Sony y de ese modo acercarnos un poco más a la meta de cumplir con nuestra misión de ayudar a la comunidad predominantemente méxico-americana de California con valiosos programas de desarrollo educacional y profesional. Además de ayudarnos a recaudar fondos para ayudar a miles de familias necesitadas que de otra forma no tendrían a quien acudir, “Los Tres Entierros de Melquíades Estrada” llega a los cines precisamente en el momento más oportuno en que necesitamos comprensión, compasión y un diálogo más abierto. Hacemos un llamado a todos los californianos, porque la inmigración nos afecta a todos, para que apoyen a “Los Tres Entierros de Melquíades Estrada.”

En “Los Tres Entierros de Melquíades Estrada” Un hombre es asesinado de un disparo y rápidamente enterrado en el alto desierto del oeste de Texas. El cuerpo es encontrado y vuelto a enterrar en el cementerio del pueblo. Pete Perkins, el capataz de un rancho local (TOMMY LEE JONES) secuestra a un patrullero de la frontera (BARRY PEPPER) y lo obliga a desenterrar el cuerpo. Llevando con él al preso y con el cadáver atado a una mula, Pete emprende el peligroso y quijotesco viaje a México.

El guión dramático y poético de Guillermo Arriaga entreteje el pasado y el presente a medida que nos revela una gran amistad; el solitario subterfugio de la vida de un emigrante ilegal, el costo de una promesa hecha y cumplida, y el momento cumbre de la redención de un insensible asesino aunque la muerte haya sido accidental.

La frontera entre Estados Unidos y México ha estado desde hace mucho tiempo plagada de violencia y racismo, y muchos de los eventos que tienen lugar en “Los Tres Entierros de Melquíades Estrada” son representaciones muy reales de las continuas violaciones de los derechos humanos que ocurren en la región. Pero la película ofrece, en su etapa final, una forma pura de contrición por los pecados cometidos, y una destacada nota de empatía por las vidas tan cambiadas.

Dirigida por Tommy Lee Jones y escrita por Guillermo Arriaga, LOS TRES ENTIERROS DE MELQUÍADES ESTRADA cuentan con la actuación de Tommy Lee Jones, Barry Pepper, Dwight Yoakam, January Jones, Melissa Leo, y Julio Cedillo como Melquiades Estrada. La cinematografía es por Chris Menges. Producida por Michael Fitzgerald, Luc Besson, Pierre-Ange Le Pogam y Tommy Lee Jones.

El debut de la película será en los siguientes cines de Los Ángeles: Westside Pavilion, Grande - Downtown, One Colorado - Pasadena, Plant - VanNuys, Pine Square - Long Beach, AMC Norwalk, Fiesta Twin - Santa Ana y Park Twin - Huntington Park

BEIJING, April 27 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said here Thursday that China and Russia will continue cooperation in energy "in the long run".

Qin Gang said China and Russia were good neighbors and strategic partners in the energy sector, and cooperation was mutually beneficial.

"The leaders of the two countries have reached an important consensus on the issue, which is reaffirmed in the joint statement released during Russian President Vladimir Putin's China visit in March," Qin said.

Qin Gang said China has been seeking energy cooperation with other countries in a responsible way.

"China is a responsible country and China's energy cooperation with other countries has helped improve their standards of living," Qin said when asked to comment on criticism that China rates oil above human rights in seeking energy cooperation.

He said China encouraged peace, cooperation and development on the international stage and its cooperation with other countries was based on the principle of mutual benefit.

"China will never follow the same disastrous road of the western colonists who bloodily plundered and violated human rights," Qin said.

Qin said China had played a positive role in promoting stability and peace in the Sudan.

"In addition to economic cooperation, China helps local people improve their lives and develop their economy. China also faithfully carries out U.N. resolutions and dispatched peacekeeping forces to Sudan."

The Chinese government is hoping for an objective and comprehensive report by Mohamed El Baradei, director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), on the Iran nuclear issue, spokesman Qin Gang said.

Qin said the issue was at a critical point, and the Chinese government called for international efforts, including help from the UN Security Council, to strengthen the authority and effectiveness of the IAEA, and to resolve the issue through negotiation.

A diplomatic resolution was in the interests of all parties, and was conducive to international and regional peace and stability, Qin said.

He said the Chinese government hoped all sides could maintain patience and be flexible so as to avoid taking any action that could complicate the situation.

The Security Council unanimously adopted a presidential statement on March 29, calling on Iran to suspend all uranium enrichment-related activities and asked El Baradei to report on the progress of Iranian compliance within 30 days.

The Chinese government has condemned the bomb attack that killed nine people in Sri Lanka.

"China condemns all forms of violence," Qin Gang said.

The Chinese government hoped Sri Lanka could realize national peace and stability soon, Qin said.

A suicide bomb attack aimed at Army Commander Sarath Fonseka killed nine people in the capital Colombo on Tuesday afternoon, including the woman bomber, and injured Fonseka and 26 others.

Sri Lankan police said the bomber was believed to be a member of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).

Qin said China had been watching developments in Sri Lanka and supporting its government's efforts to promote national stability,reconciliation of ethnic groups and economic growth.

Qin Gang said the Chinese government hopes Nepal can attain quickly national conciliation and achieve peace, stability and development.

Qin said China, as Nepal's friend and neighbour, was willing towork with the Nepalese authorities to promote China-Nepal friendship and cooperation.

At the invitation of the Chinese government, Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore will visit China from May 10 to 17, Qin announced.

Foreign Minister Abdelwaheb Abdallah of the Republic of Tunisia will pay an official visit to China from May 9 to 13, Qin announced.

The Tunisian Foreign Minister was invited by his Chinese counterpart Li Zhaoxing, Qin said

Qin: Good afternoon, everyone. I will begin with several announcements.

At the invitation of Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing, Foreign Minister Abdelwaheb Abdallah of the Republic of Tunisia will pay an official visit to China from May 9th to 13th.

At the invitation of the Chinese Government, Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore will visit China from May 10th to 17th.

Now I would like to take up your questions.

A: China condemns violence in all firms.

As a friendly neighbor of Sri Lanka, China has always paid attention to the development of Sri Lankan domestic situation, and supported Sri Lankan Government's efforts to promote national stability, national reconciliation and economic development.

We hope that Sri Lanka could realize national peace and stability at an early date.

A: Minister Mentor Lee is a founder of the Sino-Singaporean relations who has long been interested in China's development and dedicated to promote the friendship between China and Singapore. During his visit, Minister Mentor Lee will exchange views with Chinese leaders on the Sino-Singaporean relations and international and regional issues of common interest. Arrangements in that regard are still being finalized. He will also visit Shengyang and Shanghai besides Beijing.

A: On the issue of the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula, China has all along maintained communication and contacts with other parties concerned and worked on them through different channels and by different means. As to the specific issue you mentioned, we will release to you once we have exact information.

On the issue of financial sanctions, we have stated our stance many times. We hope that parties concerned could respect each other, enhance understanding and mutual trust through dialogue and consultations, and to address appropriately the concern of each other, so as to create favorable conditions for an early resumption of the talks. We have not changed our stance on this issue.

China and Japan share common interests in safeguarding regional peace and stability. The two sides should appropriately solve the concern and questions between each other through dialogue and consultations, so as to enhance the exchange and dialogue in broad ranges. As to the specific suggestions, China's relevant departments will study them.

A: China and Russia are friendly neighbors and strategic partners of cooperation. The two sides are highly complementary to each other in the filed of energy. To strengthen the energy cooperation between the two countries serve the common interests of both parties and is a mutually-beneficial and win-win scenario. On the issue of energy cooperation, the two sides have already reached a series of important consensus, be if for Chinese leaders' visit to Russia or President Putin's visit to China. These consensuses were also reflected in the Joint Statement issued by the two sides during President Putin's last visit to China. We will also further our cooperation with Russia in this field from the angel of the strategic partnership of cooperation between the two sides and a long-term perspective. We hope that the relevant departments and enterprises of both sides could conduct in-depth discussion in this regard, so as to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries.

The cooperation between China and Russia in the field of energy is very broad-ranged. It does not only include the upstream exploitation, but also the downstream fields of oil and gas procession and petrochemistry. We are ready to discuss with Russia on how to strengthen the security in energy field to ensure the safety of energy supplies, and on how to safeguard a stable and reasonable oil price in the global oil market. In addition, we are also ready to strengthen cooperation with Russia on the areas of developing and using clean energy, new energy and renewable energy.

A: At present, the Iranian nuclear issue is at a crucial stage. China is also following closely with the upcoming report by the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency. We are hoping that the Director General's report will have an objective and comprehensive assessment on the Iranian nuclear issue.

China hopes that parties concerned could all remain calm, exercise restrain and patience, display flexibility, and cease to adopt any move that would worsen the situation, so as to create favorable conditions to resume talks. We believe that it is a correct choice to appropriately solve the Iranian nuclear issue through diplomacy and negotiations.

A: Sino-Indian relations are developing very well at present. The two sides have, on that background, decided to appropriately solve the border issue of the two countries through equal and friendly consultations, so as to find a fair and reasonable solution acceptable to both sides. This was reflected on the Political Principles Guiding the Border Issue reached by the two sides during Premier Wen Jiabao's visit to India last year. Based on this principle, both sides have already conducted 7 rounds of border talks. Deputy Minister Dai Bingguo went to India to conduct negotiations with India as the latest round of the talks. The two sides reiterated again the principles in the Political Guiding Principles and press ahead the border talks in a serious, pragmatic and positive attitude. The two sides agreed to hold next round of the talks as soon as possible, which should be held in China. The specific date for that would be set through diplomatic channels.

A: We firmly oppose Taiwanese political figures' activities in the U.S. in any name or under any pretext. We hope that the U.S. should abide by its commitment of adhering to One China policy, abiding by the three joint Communiqués between China and the U.S. and opposing "Taiwan Independence", and do not allow Chen Shuibien to conduct activities in the U.S. in any name or under any pretext.

As to the information relating to State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan, I do not have anything particular to offer you.

We have taken notice that some media pointed out that, it is one of the important inducement causing the Solomon riots that some local Chinese businessmen close related with Taiwan participated in the electoral bribery. The Taiwan Authority has wantonly push forward the so call "Dollar Diplomacy" internationally for a long time, which has fostered corruption in some of the countries, causing chaos and turbulence and harming the interests of the local people. Such lessons is worth drawing for relevant countries.

A: As for your first question, the Chinese Government's position is clear and unchanged in handling its relations with Vatican. We hope Vatican can create favorable conditions for improving relations between the two sides.

Regarding your second question, the Chinese side has repeatedly stressed to the US that China protected its citizens' freedom of religious beliefs in accordance with law. Chinese citizens enjoy freedom of religious freedom according to law. Meanwhile we think that, Chinese citizens should fulfill their obligations to abide by law while enjoying their freedom of religious belief.

A: On the Iranian nuclear issue, we maintain it should be properly resolved through diplomatic means and negotiations, which conforms to interests of all sides and serves the interests of international and regional peace and stability. To achieve this aim, we hope relevant parties can exercise restraint, create favorable conditions for resumption of talks, rather than deteriorate the situation. Meanwhile, we think international community's efforts, including UN Security Council's involvement should help to strengthen authority and role of IAEA and resolve the Iranian nuclear issue through negotiations.

A: We have timely released the news on the talks between President Hu Jintao and President Bush as well as other American leaders during Hu's visit to the US. I have nothing to add.

For the second question, the Chinese Government always supports peaceful use of outer space by the international community. We are ready to enhance exchanges and cooperation with relevant countries and international organizations in peaceful exploration and utilization of outer space.

A: According to information I have got from relevant departments, now relevant member countries have just reached a consensus on holding the exercise, yet to discuss its details. There is still time before 2007.It's still too early to talk about such questions.

As for your question on imaginary target, the international community has a basic consensus on anti-terrorism. Double standard should not be played in anti-terrorism. Relevant member countries will conduct anti-terrorism military exercise following the principle of safeguarding regional peace and stability, combating activities inimical to regional peace, stability as well the people's safety.

Through this defense ministers' meeting, all member countries agreed that SCO should strengthen exchanges and cooperation in security, anti-terrorism and other fields. Any means conducive to achieve this aim can be explored and cooperated within the framework of SCO.

A: Although the organization is called "Maoist", neither the Chinese Government, nor any of our domestic organization or person has any connection with this organization. We always pursue the principle of non-interference into any foreign countries' internal affairs. We hope Nepal-our good neighbor, can realize reconciliation at an early date and achieve peace, harmony, stability and development as soon as possible. We are ready to work with Nepal side to push forward China-Nepal good-neighborly friendship of cooperation.

A: I suggest that you refer your question on cross-straits relations to the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office.

On the question of Chen Shuibian's stopover in the US, you'd better ask him what's his real intention, since he knows better what's in his own mind. The Chinese Central Government has consistently treated Taiwan's activities on the international in line with the one China principle. We don't challenge Taiwan's exchange with other parts of the world of non-official nature. We have taken many flexible measures on the basis of the one China principle to facilitate Taiwan's overseas economic and cultural exchanges. But we are firmly opposed to the secessionist activities of the Taiwan authority on the international arena, the "Taiwan independence" forces in particular, in various disguises.

A: First of all, I strongly disagree with you on the view in your question. Please show me conclusive evidence if you accuse China of breaching human rights when having normal trade and economic cooperation with other countries, including energy cooperation. Is the report you quote based on conclusive evidence? Do not continue to spread such a senseless rumor in the international community. As a responsible country, China upholds international peace, cooperation and development. We adhere to the principle of mutual benefit in our cooperation with other countries. We won't follow the western colonialist path of savage looting and bloody violation of human rights. The one who clamors this question should have a deep remorse first and ask themselves whether their record is a glorious one. China has a clear conscience on this question. On the issue of Sudan, we have all along played a positive and constructive role in maintaining and promoting the peace and stability of Sudan. The cooperation between China and Sudan will help develop the local economy and improve people's livelihood. We have also dispatched peacekeeping troops to Sudan in line with the UN resolution. Why don't those media organizations write down this fact in their comment?

A: Whoever holds this view or whatever source it comes from, I expect them to present conclusive evidence. China is a responsible country. We hope all countries in the world are responsible countries and media of all countries should be responsible too.

A: China cast an abstention vote in the recent UN voting on the Sudan issue. Chinese Permanent Representative to the UN Wang Guangya made an explanatory statement, and I'd rather not repeat. If you still have any question, please read his statement, which has given a comprehensive account. On the issue of Sudan, China takes a prudent and responsible attitude. We have to consider the interest of the Sudanese people, the stability, peace and reconciliation of Sudan and the effective role of the regional organizations such as the African Union. When the Abuja Talks comes to a crucial stage, any move should be conducive to promote the process of talks.

A: On the question of what has been discussed in the talks, I suggest you should read the information we have released.

If no more questions are to come up, I have an announcement of briefing to make. Recently, the Chinese Government has taken a number of operations to protect overseas Chinese, which have attracted broad interest from the media at home and abroad. To meet the request of the friends from the press, the IPC of Foreign Ministry will invite Deputy Director-General Wei Wei of the Department of Consular Affairs to hold a briefing at the IPC office at 2:00 pm on April 28 (Friday). He will brief on the consular protection work and take up questions. You are welcome to attend.

In addition, China will greet its Labor Day holiday from May 1st to 7th. According to our usual practice, the regular press conferences on May 2nd (Tuesday) and May 4th (Thursday) will be cancelled. The next press conference will be held on May 9th (Tuesday).

Wish you a nice festival. See you!

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