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SPORTS & AUTOS

Los Angeles Police-Celebrity Golf Tournament

Mark Wahlberg and Others Set to Golf With Cops on Saturday, May 20th

The 35th Annual Los Angeles Police-Celebrity Golf Tournament is scheduled for Saturday, May 20, 2006, 10 a.m., at Rancho Park Golf Course, 10460 W. Pico Boulevard in West Los Angeles. The Tournament is the major fundraising event for the Los Angeles Police Memorial Foundation. The Foundation provides assistance to Los Angeles Police Department personnel during catastrophic circumstances due to death, illness or injury.

Thousands of families and individuals enjoy the day at the golf course as they have the opportunity to see their favorite celebrities, obtain autographs and view a number of LAPD displays. In addition, five bands will be featured beginning at 11 a.m. and will be performing live at the Tournament. The confirmed bands include Melt, BB Chung King, Stoney Curtis Band, Led Zepland and the Hollywood All Stars. Adult admission is $5. Children 12 and under are free. Gates open at 8 a.m.

Confirmed celebrities include:

Mark Wahlberg Four Brothers, The Italian Job

Banks, Jonathan Actor - "Wise Guy"

Beard, John News anchor

Carbajal, Michael Professional Boxer

Carpenter, David Actor -- "Gods and Generals"

Carson, Jim Radio personality -- KEarth 101

Canseco, Jose Former Major League Baseball Player

Dourdan, Gary Actor -- "CSI - Las Vegas"

Edner, Bobby Actor -- "Spy Kids"

Felder, Don Musician -- Eagles

Howell, C. Thomas Actor -- "24" & "Hildalgo"

Jenner, Bruce Olympic Champion & "Skating With the Stars"

Johnson, Anne-Marie Actress -- "Jag"

Jones, Mickey Actor

Mane, Tyler Actor -- "Troy"

Mantegna, Joe Actor -- "Joan of Arcadia"

Marino, Mike Actor/Comedian

Masak, Ron Actor

McDonough, Neal Actor -- "Medical Investigation"

Morrow, Rob Actor -- "Numb3rs" & "Northern Exposure"

O'Donnell, Chris Actor -- "Batman"

Paich, David Musician

Parker, Lu News anchor - Former "Miss USA"

Parr, Shawn Radio personality -- KZLA

Patterson, Scott Actor -- "Gilmore Girls"

Pesci, Joe Actor - "Goodfellas" & "Casino"

Phelps, Brian Radio personality -- KLOS

Richards, Gary Former Soccer Player -- Radio personality

Scott, Dougray Actor

Smith, Stuart Musician -- Guitarist for Heaven & Earth

Teeguarden, Pam Former Tennis Player

Trickey, Paula Actress -- "Pacific Blues"

Vachon, Rogie Former Hockey Player

 

Source: Los Angeles Police Memorial Foundation

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

Officials Tell USOC That Angelenos Want the Olympics to Return

In Meeting With Mayor Villaraigosa and SCCOG, The USOC Learns That Majority Favor Olympics Back in Los Angeles; Bid for the 2016 Games has Broad Support of the Community's Residents

Executives of the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) met today with Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and members of the Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games (SCCOG) to discuss Los Angeles' desire to host the 2016 Olympic Games.

One of the topics reviewed was a recently completed survey conducted by Harris Interactive(R) revealing that 89 percent of Angelenos favor a bid to host the 2016 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. These results follow the Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games (SCCOG) announcement last September of its intention to bring the Games back to the area.

"We are delighted that the people of Los Angeles are so enthusiastic about having the Olympic games back in our city," said Barry Sanders, Chairman of the Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games (SCCOG). "The support, excitement and eagerness displayed from Angelenos confirms that the Olympic Games are the most unifying force in the L.A. community, and mirrors the unanimity of the city's civic and political leadership."

Those polled favored having the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2016 for a variety of reasons, including economic benefits to local communities, pride in being the host city, a chance to meet favorite athletes in person, and an opportunity to repeat the success of the 1984 Olympics. The poll also found that 65 percent would want to attend an event or ceremony if the Games returned to Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa underlined his support for the efforts to bring the Games back to the city. "Los Angeles is built for the Olympic Games. Our world-class sporting venues, international sports fans and history of success make Los Angeles an ideal host city. Knowing there is this excitement from Angelenos to host the games makes this effort even more important," said Mayor Villaraigosa.

Los Angeles has hosted two Olympic Games -- in 1932 and again in 1984. Sanders remarked that "Among our citizenry, Los Angeles offers the world's only opportunity to create a multi-generational tradition for the Olympics. Many young people who attended the 1932 games saw their children attend the 1984 Games, and can have their grandchildren or great-grandchildren attend the 2016 Games."

Under International Olympic Committee (IOC) rules, only one city per country is allowed to bid for the right to host the Games. Under the rules, the United States Olympic Committee is responsible for choosing a United States candidate city no later than the summer of 2007. The IOC will select the 2016 host city in 2009 from a list of qualified international candidates.

The survey of 978 adults aged 18 and over living in Los Angeles County, California was conducted online by Harris Interactive on behalf of the Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games (SCCOG) from February 21 - March 2, 2006. Data were weighted for age by sex, race/ethnicity, education income and propensity to be online.

About the Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games (SCCOG)

Formed in 1939, the SCCOG is a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote the Olympic Movement in Southern California. Since its inception, the SCCOG has bid for the Olympic Games on behalf of and in conjunction with the City of Los Angeles, garnering the award of the Games for 1984. Further information about the SCCOG can be found on their Web site at www.sccog.org.

Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games

Harris Interactive(R) Opinion Survey Findings

Bid for the Olympic Games

89% of Angelenos favor a bid to host the Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

When asked for their reasons, of all Angelenos polled:

* 83% favor the Olympic Games returning to Los Angeles due to the

economic benefits for local communities, and

* 75% favor the Olympic Games returning to Los Angeles because of the

pride in being the host city and country.

In related questioning:

* 65% of all Angelenos polled said they would attend the events and

ceremonies if they were held in Los Angeles.

* Gymnastics is the most popular summer sport Angelenos like to watch

with over 70% responding favorably. Swimming was the next favorite.

The survey of 978 adults aged 18 and over living in Los Angeles County, California was conducted online by Harris Interactive on behalf of the Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games (SCCOG) from February 21 - March 2, 2006. Data were weighted for age by sex, race/ethnicity, education, income and propensity to be online.

Source: Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games

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

CarMax Foundation Awards $155,000 Grant to Promote Youth Driver Education

CarMax, Inc. (NYSE:KMX) , the nation's largest retailer of used cars, announced today that the CarMax Foundation has awarded Driver's Edge a $155,000 grant for its national young driver education program. Driver's Edge is a nonprofit organization developed to help address the growing number of youth-related automobile collisions and fatalities in the United States. In the previous year, Driver's Edge received a $100,000 grant from the Foundation.

"The grant from the CarMax Foundation will help our organization continue to provide young drivers with potentially life-saving information," said Jeff Payne, president, chief executive officer, and founder of Driver's Edge. "Our program is designed to teach young drivers better skills and driving behavior. We believe it is essential to provide young drivers with a hands-on approach to safety and collision avoidance techniques in order to better prepare them for the real-life driving conditions they will face every day."

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2004, more than 5,890 young drivers aged 16 to 20 were killed in motor vehicle collisions; another 456,000 were injured. Motor vehicle collisions are the leading cause of death for this age group, outnumbering the combined deaths resulting from drug use, guns, and other violence.

"The CarMax Foundation promotes automobile passenger safety awareness and is committed to funding programs that show measurable results and benefits to the community," said Joe Kunkel, president of the CarMax Foundation and senior vice president of marketing and strategy for CarMax. "We are proud to be a part of this outstanding program that is working to make a difference in youth driving safety."

To date, more than 22,000 young people have attended a Driver's Edge program. In 2005, Driver's Edge visited 12 cities nationally and conducted continuing programs in Las Vegas and Reno, Nevada. Cities and dates for the 2006 National Tour are available on http://www.driversedge.org/.

About the CarMax Foundation

The CarMax Foundation's National Funding Program assists nonprofit organizations that address or improve automobile safety for families and children. The Foundation is supported by CarMax. CarMax, a FORTUNE 500 company and one of the FORTUNE 2006 "100 Best Companies to Work For," is the nation's largest retailer of used cars. Headquartered in Richmond, Va., CarMax currently operates 70 used car superstores in 33 markets. CarMax also operates seven new car franchises, all of which are integrated or co-located with its used car superstores. For more information on the CarMax

Foundation, go to http://www.carmax.com/inc/companyinfo/foundation.pdf.

About Driver's Edge

Las Vegas-based Driver's Edge is a Nevada 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Driver's Edge offers a free educational program for young drivers aged 15 to 21, teaching real life emergency avoidance and response techniques and overall driver safety. This innovative program is taught on an ongoing basis in Las Vegas, Nev., with annual national tours visiting multiple U.S. cities each year. The program is funded entirely by corporate sponsorship, public grants, and charitable donations. Please visit http://www.driversedge.org/ for more information.

Web site: http://www.carmax.com/
http://www.driversedge.org/
http://www.carmax.com/inc/companyinfo/foundation.pdf

Increase Fuel Economy for Summer Driving Season

Wal-Mart's Tire & Lube Express Offers Ways to Help Drivers Maximize Miles per Gallon

BMemorial Day Weekend brings the start of summer driving season, a time when Americans traditionally increase the number of miles they drive with visits to the beach, long weekends and road trips. This year, with the average price of regular gasoline at $2.928 in the United States and climbing, many families are reconsidering travel plans. While it seems that fuel prices will continue to remain at a record high, there are many simple and inexpensive ways to maximize miles per gallon and Wal-Mart's Tire & Lube Express Centers offer a variety of unique services, including a free tire pressure check.

"In addition to engine performance, anything that impedes the movement of a vehicle down the road, such as tire rolling resistance, wind resistance, brake drag, wheel alignment and driveline friction, affects fuel mileage," said Jay King, Director, Tire & Lube Express Operations.

Some of the most common problems are low tire pressure, brake drag and improper wheel alignment, which could potentially double the required road horsepower and cut fuel economy by as much as 20 percent. There are numerous additional factors affecting fuel consumption, such as driving style, fuel system efficiency, and method of gasoline fill-ups, among others.

Tire Pressure

One of the most important factors in maintaining fuel efficiency is tire pressure, as properly inflated tires improve fuel economy by approximately 3.3 percent. Under-inflated tires wear more quickly, requiring more frequent replacement, and can cost drivers approximately one mile per gallon. While tires should be inflated at the highest recommended level, too much tire pressure is equally problematic, most often indicated by greater tread wear in the center. As part of its overall commitment to help shoppers save time and money, Wal-Mart offers a free tire pressure check service at its Tire & Lube Express, which customers can have done while they shop.

To provide its customers with additional security, Tire & Lube Express offers an optional lifetime rotate and balance ($7.50 per tire) and a nation wide Road Hazard Warranty ($9.76 per tire), which in addition to the manufacturers wear warranty, provides protection against punctures and damage to the tire under normal driving conditions.

Brakes and Wheel Alignment

Poorly adjusted brakes may "drag," thereby increasing both roll resistance and steering pull, which minimize fuel economy. Because many brakes drag and the degree can vary among vehicles, an expert opinion is often required but inspections are typically free of charge. Improper wheel alignment also increases fuel consumption, making regular check-ups on both front and rear wheels crucial.

Fuel System Efficiency

Efficient fuel systems are key to vehicle power and performance and, as part of Wal-Mart's continued commitment to assisting its customers with improved fuel economy, Tire & Lube Express introduces its new Fuel Injection Service for only $19.88. This two-step service, which features a liquid intake cleaner and a fuel system cleaner, takes only 15 - 20 minutes to complete.

Regular Inspections

It's no secret that engines operating at peak performance levels require less fuel. Drivers should take vehicles for inspections and tune-ups on a regular basis, using approximately every 30,000 miles as a guideline. Problems such as worn spark plugs, clogged air and fuel filters should be repaired immediately to enhance maximum performance. The Associates at Wal- Mart Tire & Lube Express recommend changing oil every 3,000 miles; this service is available at all locations. The Best Value oil change starts at $21.96 and includes up to 5 quarts of featured oil, new oil filter, chassis lubrication, fluid check-and-fill, electronic battery test, interior vacuuming, tire pressure check and more.

Filling up

Because gas expands during the day and exponentially in very warm temperatures, filling gas tanks in the cooler temperatures of early morning or evening is beneficial; especially during the heat of summer.

Driving

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, nearly 50% of energy required in city driving is related to acceleration rather than sustained cruising. By anticipating traffic conditions, staying with traffic and gradually, smoothly increasing speed, the use of horsepower and fuel can be significantly minimized.

About Tire & Lube Express

Wal-Mart Tire & Lube Express offers low-cost, high-quality care and services for vehicles at more than 2,200 locations nationwide. The quick- service oil change and tire shops are located at most Wal-Mart Supercenters, providing services to customers while they shop.

About Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE:WMT)

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. operates Wal-Mart Stores, Supercenters, Neighborhood Markets and SAM'S CLUB locations in the United States. The company also operates in Argentina, Brazil, Canada, China, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Germany, Guatemala, Honduras, Japan, Mexico, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico, South Korea and the United Kingdom. The company's securities are listed on the New York and Pacific stock exchanges under the symbol WMT. More information about Wal-Mart can be found by visiting http://www.walmartfacts.com . Online merchandise sales are available at http://www.walmart.com and http://www.samsclub.com .

Mercedes-Benz Financial Expands Role with the Entrepreneurs' Organization; Firm Will Sponsor Group's Global Student Entrepreneur Awards

-- Mercedes-Benz Financial is renewing its support of the entrepreneurial spirit that drives business greatness by expanding its partnership with the Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO), a global peer community of entrepreneurs dedicated to supporting, educating and encouraging one another to build upon their personal and professional success.

The EO Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) presented by Mercedes- Benz Financial, and the EO Accelerator Program, will come under the partnership umbrella this year. These newly sponsored programs will fall within an existing agreement in which Mercedes-Benz Financial supports a Global Leadership Conference -- designed to train EO member leaders -- in Washington, D.C., May 18 - 20, and the EO Chicago University, a gathering of approximately 450 EO members to learn and network August 16 - 20.

"This partnership is a natural for Mercedes-Benz Financial," said Juergen Rochert - Vice President, Mercedes-Benz Financial. "Working with an organization dedicated to strengthening local economies on a worldwide basis by helping entrepreneurs improve their operations is a perfect fit for our core value of financial and social responsibility. Our customer base, especially the Mercedes-Benz dealers in this country, understands and represents the entrepreneurial spirit that EO is dedicated to advance and reinforce."

Darton Case, President of the EO Global Board of Directors, said the partnership with Mercedes-Benz Financial will enable the Entrepreneurs' Organization to advance its vision to build the world's most influential community of entrepreneurs.

"Having the program support of Mercedes-Benz Financial will enable EO to nurture tomorrow's business leaders as they strive for economic development in their communities," Case said.

The GSEA program recognizes exceptional entrepreneurial spirit, skill and creativity among undergraduate college students who already are running their own businesses. Regional competitions take place in 10 regions around the world with the winners from each advancing to the global finals in Chicago.

A panel of judges will select winners in three categories:

-- 2006 Global Student Entrepreneur who embodies the overall criteria for

the GSEA and will receive a $10,000 prize plus an invitation to attend

an EO University

-- 2006 Innovation Award which recognizes creativity in a business

concept with a $3,000 award plus the opportunity to be mentored by an

EO member for one year

-- 2006 Social Impact Award recognizing a student business owner who has

addressed a community need through his or her business. The winner

will receive $3,000 and the opportunity to be mentored by an EO member

for one year.

The EO Accelerator Program extends EO educational programs currently offered to its members to the community of emerging entrepreneurs who might not yet qualify for EO membership.

This program consists of a series of seminars addressing the needs of first-stage entrepreneurs, including mentorship, sales and revenue development, staffing, goal setting and strategic planning and sound financial systems and practices.

About Mercedes-Benz Financial

Mercedes-Benz Financial provides financing for Mercedes-Benz dealers' inventories and their retail customers. Currently, 350,000 drivers in the United States enjoy the benefits of leasing or financing their Mercedes-Benz vehicles through Mercedes-Benz Financial, which is part of DaimlerChrysler Financial Services Americas LLC. DCFSA's group of companies operates in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico and South America. DCFSA is part of the DaimlerChrysler Financial Services Group, headquartered in Berlin, Germany, which operates in 39 countries and has an employee base exceeding 11,000 and a global portfolio of approximately $139 billion. DaimlerChrysler Financial Services Group is one of the leading financial services enterprises worldwide. For more information visit http://www.mercedesbenzfinancial.com/ .

About the Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO)

The Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) -- for entrepreneurs only -- is a global community that enriches members' lives through direct peer-to-peer learning, connections to experts and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. EO is the catalyst that enables entrepreneurs to learn from each other, leading to greater business success and an enriched personal life. EO is comprised of more than 6,000 members in more than 40 countries, with an average member age of 37 and average annual revenue of US$12.5 million. The organization is committed to building the world's most influential community of entrepreneurs. For more information on EO or to apply for membership, visit http://www.eonetwork.org/ or call +1.703.519.6700.

Source: Mercedes-Benz Financial

Web site: http://www.daimlerchryslerfinancialservices.com/na
http://www.mercedesbenzfinancial.com/
http://www.eonetwork.org/

 

Major League Gaming 2006 Playoffs Hit the Big Apple

Pro Circuit Tour Will Co-Locate with Ziff Davis's DigitalLife Event at the Javits Center

Remaining 2006 Circuit Dates Announced

Major League Gaming and Ziff Davis today announced that the MLG 2006 Circuit Tour Playoffs will be located at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City alongside the DigitalLife show, scheduled for October 12-15, 2006. The announcement brings together the very best digital consumer technology and lifestyle event with the hottest emerging sports media phenomenon.

"As a New York-based gaming league, having our playoff competition in New York City alongside 50,000 additional spectators at the leading digital lifestyle event in America is an exciting prospect for us," said Matthew Bromberg, president and COO of Major League Gaming.

MLG is the only professional video gaming league in America. By raising video game competition to the level of professional sport, and packaging that competition for the mass market, MLG provides players, game publishers, and media partners a unique connection with the 168 million Americans playing video games today.

"We are delighted to welcome the MLG 2006 Circuit to DigitalLife," said Paul O'Reilly, Vice President, Ziff Davis Media. "Video games are a critical component of today's digital lifestyle and we look forward to showcasing MLG's top tournament action."

As MLG heads into its Dallas competition this weekend, the league also announced the remaining competition locations and dates of the Boost Mobile Major League Gaming 2006 Pro Circuit presented by Scion. The first competition was held in April at the Meadowlands Exposition Center in the New York area, where MLG experienced record turnout. The remaining cities and dates are:

-- Dallas -- May 19-21

-- Anaheim -- June 23-25

-- Chicago -- July 21-23

-- Orlando -- August 25-27

-- New York City (playoffs) -- October 13-15

-- Las Vegas (championship) -- November 17-19

About DigitalLife

DigitalLife is a four-day digital lifestyle and entertainment event, featuring the latest in consumer electronics, video games and other must-have digital products and services for the home, work and play. DigitalLife will be held October 12-15, 2006, at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City. For more information, visit www.digitallife.com.

About Ziff Davis Media Inc.

Ziff Davis Media is a leading integrated media company serving the technology and videogame markets. The Company is an information services provider of technology media including publications, websites, conferences, events, eSeminars, eNewsletters, custom publishing, list rentals, research and market intelligence. In the United States, the Company publishes 7 magazines including PC Magazine, eWEEK, CIO Insight, Baseline, Electronic Gaming Monthly, Computer Gaming World and Official U.S. PlayStation Magazine. The Company exports the power of its brands internationally, with publications in 40 countries and 20 languages. Ziff Davis leverages its content on the Internet with a network of highly-targeted technology and gaming sites including PCMag.com, eWEEK.com, ExtremeTech.com and 1UP.com. The Company also produces highly-targeted b-to-b and consumer technology events including DigitalLife. Additional information is available at www.ziffdavis.com.

About MLG

MLG is the first professional video game league. By raising video game competition to the level of professional sport, the company is creating a sports media business that provides players, developers, publishers, media partners, and advertisers a unique connection to the video game lifestyle enjoyed by 168 million Americans. With the support of major sponsors, MLG operates a pro tour that in 2006 will make 7 stops in major cities across the U.S., exclusively featuring the best gamers in the world. We produce a variety of online and broadcast-quality programming that showcases MLG's pros and this exciting new sports entertainment phenomenon. More information can be found at http://www.mlgpro.com/.

Source: Major League Gaming

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

Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT Captures Robb Report Best of the Best Sedan

Super-sedan seduces editors with combination of stunning performance and stand alone good looks

Maserati North America is proud to announce that the Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT has won the prestigious Robb Report Best of the Best competition for sedans. Robb Report chose the Quattroporte Sport GT over several high-profile and higher-cost competitors including the new Bentley Continental Flying Spur and the new Maybach 57S. The Quattroporte Sport GT also defeated the new Audi S8 and the BMW M5.

Scheduled to hit newsstands on May 23, Robb Report magazine's 18th annual "Best of the Best" offers readers an unprecedented selection of new products and services that exemplify the very finest that the luxury world has to offer.

The culmination of a year's search for the most extraordinary new products and services, "Best of the Best" features premium-quality automobiles, yachts, jewelry, vacations, wines, and fashion, and other exceptional items.

The Quattroporte is now the first two-time winner of Robb Report's "Best of the Best," having also taken the award at its 2004 launch. The end of the review sums up the Quattroporte Sport GT in near perfect fashion:

"The Quattroporte is a styling masterpiece ... the unpretentious Pininfarina shape will continue to turn heads when other sedans have become yesterday's styling fad. It is these concours-winning looks, underpinned by performance and fit and finish that are world-class, that make the Quattroporte Sport GT our favorite new sedan."

ABOUT THE QUATTROPORTE SPORT GT

"The Sport GT version of the Quattroporte was created to further enhance the high performance spirit that sets the Quattroporte apart from any other luxury sedan," commented Maserati North America President and CEO James Selwa. "We appreciate this award as the Robb Report is noted for their expertise in fine goods."

Features available only on the Sport GT include a black chrome trimmed grille and side air intakes which take their inspiration from Maserati's race cars, and a red striped Trident typical of Maserati competition cars of the past. The car's overall sporty character is also enhanced in the interior by the carbon fiber center console, sport steering wheel and hand-brake grip and lightweight aluminum pedals.

The performance of the transmission has been increased: the Sport button allows the driver to significantly cut gear change times up to 35 percent thanks to enhanced software in the electro-hydraulic transmission system's CPU. At high engine speeds, the 4.2 liter Ferrari engineered V8 growls an even more sonorous basso thanks to a specially tuned exhaust system.

Particular attention was given to the programming of Maserati's renowned Skyhook adaptive damping software to provide a higher level of dynamic handling, while still allowing the driver to set the system for comfortable cruising. Sculptured 20" wheels communicate immediately the car's great sporting ability and feature specially produced tires with a pressure monitoring system. The high performance Brembo braking system now features metal weave tubing and cross-drilled discs with titanium-colored calipers.

MASERATI POSTS RECORD YEAR IN NORTH AMERICA

With 2,100 cars delivered in the twelve months of 2005, Maserati North America achieved an over 90 percent increase in volume compared to 2004. 1,550 were the Maserati Quattroporte, the high-performance sedan that quickly became the leader in its market segment. In fact, for 2005, the Quattroporte topped all competitors with over 40 percent share of the market for individual sedans between $100,000 and $170,000.

For 2006, the Maserati range has been broadened to eight highly focused and exciting models. New for 2006 are the Quattroporte Sport GT and Executive GT. The Sport GT offers the highest level of performance while the Executive GT embraces exquisite luxury. The two door line now features a thrilling 400 horsepower open air Spyder based on the GranSport, a limited edition GranSport and the MC Victory, which honors Maserati's capture of the 2005 Manufacturer title in European FIA GT competition.

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

 

DOD

America Supports You: Navy Pilot Runs for Veterans

It took running 26.2 miles for Lt. Cmdr. Richard Ryan, a Navy pilot, to decide how to spend his free time while preparing for his next assignment as an attaché in the Middle East. Originally, Ryan thought he'd volunteer at the National Naval Medical Center, in nearby Bethesda, Md., or at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here. But as he toughed his way through the 2005 Marine Corps Marathon, Oct. 30 here, with "a lot of guys who were obviously just back from Iraq," a new idea struck him. "I was thinking about running one marathon per month, which at that time seemed clearly insane, to raise some money for these guys' charities," he said, referring to organizations that support injured servicemembers and their families. "When I first said I was going to try 12, & most of my friends -- almost to a person -- said, 'You're insane. There's no way.'" Still, he said, he needed to do this "to promote immense awareness ... one mile at a time," for a good cause -- or, rather, four good causes. Since his initial idea of 12 marathons in 12 months, Ryan has added to his plan.

He now plans to run 28 races of varying lengths to raise awareness and financial support for The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, or TAPS; the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund; and two British charities, the British Legion and Childhood First. TAPS is a nonprofit organization supporting families, friends and military servicemembers affected by a death in the armed services. The Semper Fi Fund provides financial other support to Marines, sailors, and families of those injured serving our nation. Ryan said the British Legion works much like TAPS, and Childhood First helps care for Britain's at-risk youth. Ryan said he chose those British charities because his father is English. Ryan also has played rugby for the past 20 years. "About half of my personal contacts and supporters are from commonwealth nations," he said. Ryan said he hopes the verbal encouragement he's gotten from his fellow servicemembers will parlay into more cash donations. To date, Ryan has raised about $10,000 for his chosen charities. Direct financial donations to the organizations can be made through his "Marathons for Hope" Web site, www.marathonsforhope.org. "I don't handle any of the money myself," he said. "Every dollar that people are donating is going directly to one of the charities."

With the completion of the May 7 Potomac River Run Marathon here, Ryan completed what he refers to as the original "dirty dozen," a reference of his original plan to run 12 marathons for charity. But he's only a little over six months into his year of running and said he is hoping to get companies with military affiliations to add their monetary support to his charities. Before the Marine Corps Marathon, Ryan had run one other marathon, 10 years earlier. "I was not, by any means, in marathon shape," he said. Two marathons in a year is a good number for those who consider themselves marathoners, Ryan said. "(My) idea is to do things that shock people." Ryan said he dedicates all his races to specific fallen servicemembers or crews. But he plans to dedicate the 2006 Marine Corps Marathon to all of his brothers and sisters in arms who have lost their lives in the global war on terrorism. If all goes as planned, Ryan is scheduled to complete 24 full marathons, one 30-miler, a pair of 50-milers and a 100-mile race by the end of his year here studying Arabic. The JFK 50-Mile Race, Nov. 19 in Hagerstown, Md., is his last scheduled run.

Military and Emergency Services Awarded Free Admission At Paramount's Great America Memorial Day Weekend (May 27 -29)

Weekend Includes Fireworks, Live Shows and Breakfast with SpongeBob SquarePants(TM)

(For more information and photos, visit www.pgathrills.com/news)

Paramount's Great America salutes our nation's military, fire, police, and emergency services with FREE admission to the Santa Clara, California theme park Memorial Day Weekend May 27 - 29 and June 1 - 4. Members of the military, police, fire, and other emergency services can present a valid ID at Will Call or Guest Services and receive FREE admission and 50% off up to six (6) full-priced general admission tickets for family members. Whether traveling by car or public transportation, Paramount's Great America is Northern California's most accessible theme park and offers more than 50 rides and attractions, live shows and events including:

Breakfast with the Nicktoons! (May 27 - 29)

Paramount's Great America serves up a limited time, all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. It's the only breakfast in Northern California where families can meet and hug Nickelodeon characters like SpongeBob SquarePants(TM) and Dora the Explorer(TM). Purchase admission and meal tickets online at www.pgathrills.com.

Boomerang Bay Beach Club Offers Holiday Weekend Fun and Relaxation

Splish, splash and slide at Crocodile Dundee's Boomerang Bay Beach Club, an 11-acre water park inside Paramount's Great America featuring 13 waterslides, the area's longest lazy river, exclusive poolside cabanas and a heated lagoon. Paramount's Great America is the only theme park in California with a water park inside -- free with park admission.

School of Rock - LIVE IN CONCERT (Opens for summer May 27)

Paramount Pictures' blockbuster feature comedy returns in a wildly energetic, high-voltage, live rock concert in the park's Paramount Theatre. Featuring raw acoustics and first-rate rock concert theatrics, School of Rock - LIVE IN CONCERT includes a full band and a play list of unforgettable rock and roll classics by artists such as Led Zeppelin, Joan Jett and Van Halen. The pulse-pounding 25-minute show is free with park admission and runs Thursday through Monday.

Memorial Day Weekend Fireworks (May 28)

Paramount's Great America celebrates Memorial Day Weekend with a fireworks extravaganza choreographed to rock music beginning at 9 p.m.

Paramount's Great America is open May 27 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., May 28 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and May 29 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The best summer value is a 2006 WOW! Card. Guests can purchase one regular-price admission at Paramount's Great America and enjoy the rest of the 2006 season for FREE with the WOW! Card. Offer expires May 29. For more information, visit www.pgathrills.com.

Source: Paramount's Great America

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

Pentagon Tests Bio-Attack Response

A full-scale bio-exercise in the Pentagon parking lot today tested how the Pentagon police, in partnership with local emergency services, would respond to a biological attack at the military headquarters. The Pentagon Force Protection Agency, Arlington County Fire Department, Red Cross, and other local and federal agencies participated in the exercise, dubbed "Gallant Fox 06," based on a scenario involving a suspected anthrax attack inside the Pentagon that triggered a sensor. In the scenario, testing was done and the presence of anthrax was confirmed. All the people who would be involved in a biological attack response did a functional exercise April 12, during which they participated from their respective command posts and worked out details and logistics, said Jim Aiken, with the Pentagon Force Protection Agency.

Today's exercise was to demonstrate how affected people would be evacuated from the building, decontaminated, treated and transported, he said. Sixty-two Red Cross volunteers played the roles of affected Pentagon employees. They were evacuated out of the Pentagon to a decontamination site in the building's north parking lot. There they removed their "contaminated" clothing, took showers to rid themselves of any anthrax spores, and were given antibiotics to prevent infection. Some players also simulated special situations, like symptoms of anthrax infection or people with disabilities who needed assistance.

Aiken said that the value of today's exercise was twofold, because it gave agencies a chance to practice procedures and also let the Pentagon police and local responders meet and work with each other. "You get to know them and get to build trust and confidence," he said. The exercise was a success, but the agencies did identify some areas where improvement is needed, said Arlington County Fire Chief Jim Schwartz. The decontamination of potentially contaminated people poses a challenge, he said, because right now the procedures are for people to remove their clothes outside, shower in a trailer, and come back outside. "You can imagine what kind of circumstances we would be facing if this were a day in mid-winter, trying to do the kinds of things that we were doing," he said. The agencies involved are always working on communication and coordination of effort, Schwartz said, but the National Capital Region already excels in that area. "This is the best-prepared region in the country," he said. He applauded the level of collaboration among the many jurisdictions involved and engaged across professional boundaries. "You will find no better example in the entire country than what's going on right here in the National Capital Region," Schwartz said. In the event of a real biological attack, the procedures wouldn't differ greatly from those practiced today, Aiken said. Everything would be on a larger scale, however, because there would be a lot more than 62 people needing decontamination, he said. Where the decontamination site is placed would be based on availability of resources and the scale of the operation, he said.

 

Geospatial-Intelligence Agency Provides More Than Just Maps

It might not be a household name, like, say, the CIA, but the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency is an integral part of the U.S. intelligence community. Geospatial intelligence, or GEOINT, is the collecting and analysis of satellite imagery of the earth's surface. The mission of the agency, headquartered here, is to provide that type of intelligence to support national security objectives. "If it's something manmade or natural on the face of the earth and it has national security implications, then we map it, chart it, analyze it, and make that information available," Sue Meisner, an NGA spokeswoman, said. "Geospatial intelligence provides layers of data, or foundation data, upon which other intelligence agencies can build upon." GEOINT might be used to help pilots navigate through mountainous terrain during low-flying missions or target enemy positions for precision-weapons strikes.

NGA was formerly known as the National Imagery and Mapping Agency. Even though the agency now deals mostly with electronic products, it still produces hard-copy maps. Because NGA is a member of the U.S. intelligence community and is a Department of Defense combat-support agency, its director reports to both the director of national intelligence and the secretary of defense. The agency gets its raw imagery from either National Reconnaissance Office satellites or through commercial operations, such as DigitalGlobe, a Colorado-based digital-mapping company. NGA also contributes to humanitarian-relief efforts, such as tracking floods and fires, and has aided domestic law enforcement agencies during major events like the Super Bowl. "Our main mission and focus is to support the military overseas," Meisner said. "But stateside, if a lead federal agency such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency says we need your help to respond to a hurricane, then we can step in."

The agency fields support teams around the globe. About a quarter of the NGA workforce operates outside of its headquarters. A lot of its personnel are collocated with combatant commanders or at other intelligence agencies. Scott Kather, an NGA geospatial analyst, has deployed twice to Iraq to help troops on the ground. During his second deployment, from October 2005 to February 2006, he was with the 101st Airborne. He said some troops were vaguely familiar with NGA mapping products, but most knew little about the agency itself. Kather said his goal was to find out what the agency could do to help the troops perform their mission and then provide the appropriate products. "If they thought there were some bad guys at a particular coordinate, I would find an image of that coordinate," Kather said. "A lot of the time all they wanted was that image on a PowerPoint slide. What they were looking for mostly were ways in and ways out.

That was about 90 percent of what I did over there." Kather said he got a great deal of satisfaction from helping the troops in Iraq. "I've been with NGA 15 years, and it was the most gratifying thing I've ever done," he said. "Just going over there and working directly with the customer, & that meant a lot to me." Air Force Brig. Gen. Michael Planert, the NGA military executive, who has been with the agency for just six months, said he didn't know much about the agency when he arrived. "My view of this agency was maps and charts," Planert said. "But what I'm finding is a lot more than that." He said one big challenge the agency faces is getting the word out about what it does and letting people know how to access its products, particularly combat troops. "I think the marketing part is important, letting people know the capability and products we have and how to get them," Planert said. "We want to get the GEOINT into the foxhole."

Paralympians Visit Wounded Servicemembers

Visiting athletes encouraged Walter Reed Army Medical Center patients yesterday to challenge every limitation that comes their way. "There's no such thing as a limitation, whether that's a physical limitation, a mental limitation (or) an economic limitation," soccer U.S. Paralympian Jon McCullough said, explaining that limitations are other people's perspectives. "As an individual, you can surpass any type of limitation that somebody else puts on you." He knows this firsthand. The former Coast Guardsman suffered a brain injury that left him with little feeling in his left leg. He's been competing since the 1996 Summer Games in Atlanta, and served as an athlete representative for this year's Winter Games. John Register, associate director of outreach and development for U.S. Paralympics, said the visit by the 2006 Winter Olympians and Paralympians was also a chance to thank the servicemembers.

"We really just want to say 'thank you' to the men and women in uniform that allow us to do what we do," Register said. "It's because of servicemen and women who are over there on the front lines that allow the State Department to say, 'Yes, you can go compete in foreign countries.'" U.S. Paralympics is a division of the U. S. Olympic Committee. It also encompasses the U. S. Paralympic Military Program, which serves as a tool to help rehabilitate wounded veterans. The military program is bringing the Paralympic sport back to its roots, Register said, in programs started by injured World War II veterans. "When they came back with injuries, they began wheelchair sports," he said. "It grew into the Paralympic Games in 1960." The Vietnam War brought forth another group of injured veterans who started skiing.

That was the birth of the winter Paralympic games, Register added. While the program has been in existence in some form since World War II, interest tends to lull when there's no conflict resulting in large numbers of disabling injuries, he said. Small clinics have been held to reintroduce servicemembers and their families to Paralympic sport. Yesterday, that reintroduction had Olympic and Paralympic athletes, as well as several Walter Reed patients, taking part in wheelchair basketball, wheelchair curling and sitting volleyball. These sports, among others, are good ways to get back into life, soccer Paralympian John McCullough said. "As far as life beyond the disability, it's just a stepping stone in getting involved in society again, believing in themselves," McCullough said. "The idea of being able to compete in sport with a physical disability allows you to recognize that you can compete in any arena outside of sport as well." After participating in the sports offered during yesterday's visit, Walter Reed patients saw new opportunities. "This obviously has opened my eyes to know what kind of activities are out there," Army Spc. Maxwell Ramsey, a lower left leg amputee, said. "I had a lot of fun with the & wheelchair basketball." Ramsey, who is planning to attend wheelchair games in Alaska this July, was anxious to talk with Register, who moves well on this prosthesis.

"I've only been here at Walter Reed for two-and-a-half months, so I'm still working on walking," he said. "The way (Register is) able to walk and handle himself on his leg obviously is of great interest to me." Shouts of friendly competition filled the Walter Reed gym as athletes and patients tried out the different sports. This sense of camaraderie and teamwork is a good investment in getting back to life after a disability, McCullough said. Today, the visiting athletes went to the White House, where President Bush praised their spirit and the examples they set as athletes. "At the games you showed the best values of our country," Bush said. "You were humble in victory and gracious in defeat. I want to thank you for being such great ambassadors of our country." He added his thanks to the champions in the group, who included "the dudes and dudesses of the snowboarders," for upholding the special responsibilities the come with being a winner.

The Department of Defense announced today that the United States would cease operations at the Army Prepositioned Site (APS) at Eygelshoven, Netherlands.

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Due to U.S. European Command force structure realignment and transformation, and the attendant reduction in storage requirements that has occurred in the central region of Europe during the past several years, the U.S. Army storage facility at Eygelshoven has been identified as excess to the Army's needs and will begin the process to be returned to the host nation. Consequently, Army Field Support Battalion-Eygelshoven will be inactivated and U.S. operations at APS Eygelshoven will cease by the end of September 2006. These actions are expected to save $13.1 million annually, and will affect eight U.S. service members, thirteen DoD civilian employees, 28 host nation employees, and 144 host nation contractors. As with all stationing actions, the United States has coordinated with host nation officials before this announcement.

NEWS & ASIAN NEWS & NEWS IN SPAINISH

Reading is Fundamental Celebrates 40th Anniversary by Distributing More Than 300,000 Books in Single Day

RIF Week Celebration Encourages Families to Enjoy Reading Activities Every Day

 

Imagine nearly 300,000 children oohing and aahing over a dizzying array of free, new books that are theirs to choose, take home and keep forever. This was the scene Tuesday as children in all 50 states celebrated Reading Is Fundamental, Inc.'s (RIF) 40th anniversary by participating in the largest single book distribution event in the organization's history. Nearly 350,000 books were distributed as more than 460 RIF programs throughout the country hosted fun and even silly activities in honor of RIF's 40th anniversary.

"For forty years, RIF's mission has been to help children recognize how much fun reading can be," said Carol H. Rasco, RIF president and CEO. "By participating in our largest book distribution ever, today's RIF kids are playing a very important role in celebrating the joy of reading and adding their own stories to the history of our organization."

RIF's "World's Largest Book Distribution" event was held in conjunction with the organization's annual Reading Is Fundamental Week celebration. RIF week, May 14 - 20, is a week-long campaign of reading that is designed to help families see that reading can be both fun and part of one's daily activities. For suggestions and resources for celebrating RIF Week, including daily activity calendars and printable activity sheets, visit http://www.rif.org/rif_week.mspx.

Since RIF Week only lasts for seven days, RIF offers the following tips to help families to encourage their children to make reading a part of their lives outside of the classroom:

* Leave a variety of reading materials including books, magazines, and

colorful catalogs in conspicuous places around your home;

* Encourage older children to read to their younger brothers and sisters -

- older children enjoy showing off their skills to an admiring audience;

* Play games that are reading-related. Check your closet for spelling

games played with letter tiles or dice, or board games that require

players to read spaces, cards, and directions;

* Set aside a regular time for reading in your family, independent of

schoolwork. For instance, the 20 minutes before lights out, just after

dinner, or whatever fits into your household schedule. As little as 10

minutes of pleasure reading a day can help improve your child's skills

and habits;

* Participating in a summer reading challenge, like RIF's "Summer Reading

Is Out of This World" individual reading incentive program, presented by

Target. To register visit the RIF website at http://www.rif.org/summer.

Reading Is Fundamental, Inc. (RIF), founded in 1966, motivates children to read by working with them, their parents, and community members to make reading a fun and beneficial part of everyday life. RIF's highest priority is reaching underserved children from birth to age 8. Through community volunteers in every state and U.S. territory, RIF provides 4.5 million children with 16 million new, free books and literacy resources each year. For more information and to access reading resources, visit RIF's website at http://www.rif.org/.

Celebrating the Joy of Reading for 40 Years

AAA Predicts a Slight Increase in Memorial Day Travel

Travel will be up slightly this Memorial Day holiday despite high gas prices and increasing vacation costs, according to AAA. AAA estimates that 37.6 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home this holiday, a 0.9 percent increase from last year.

Approximately 31.4 million travelers (84 percent of all holiday travelers) expect to go by motor vehicle, a 0.7 percent increase from the 31.2 million who drove a year ago.

Another 4.3 million (11 percent of holiday travelers) plan to travel by airplane, up 1.5 percent from last Memorial Day. A projected 1.9 million (5 percent of all holiday travelers) vacationers will travel by train, bus, or other mode of transportation, about even with a year ago.

"High gas prices and increased vacation costs won't deter Americans from traveling this Memorial Day," said Gail Weinholzer, spokesperson for AAA Minnesota/Iowa. "Families may travel closer to home or for fewer days but they will continue to take vacations and plan getaways."

Holiday auto travelers will find gas prices nationwide currently averaging $2.93 for a gallon of self-serve regular gasoline -- up 17 cents from a month ago and more than 75 cents higher than this time last year.

Air travelers will also be paying more to fly this weekend. AAA's Leisure Travel Index shows flights over the holiday weekend averaging 10 percent more this year than last year. Hotel rates will also be up about 5 percent from a year ago. The greatest increase will be seen in rental car rates -- up about 19 percent from a year ago -- adding almost $6 to the average daily car rental rate, the highest average rate for Memorial Day weekend in the past six years.

"Fewer seats and higher fuel costs have resulted in an increase in ticket prices," said Weinholzer. "Regardless of higher airfares travelers can expect full planes and busy airports for Memorial Day weekend and throughout the remainder of the summer."

AAA's travel agents continue to see increased interest in summer travel compared to a year ago, especially in international travel, which continues to grow in popularity. In addition, cruise sales for AAA travel agencies are up 4.7 percent, online bookings have increased 35 percent and sales of trip insurance are up 4 percent during the same period last year.

The greatest number of Memorial Day auto travelers will originate in the West with 7.5 million travelers, followed by the Southeast with 6.9 million; Midwest, 6.7 million; Northeast, 5.8 million; and Great Lakes, 4.6 million.

The West is expected to produce the largest number of air travelers with 1.4 million, followed by the Midwest with 1.2 million; Southeast, 853,000; Northeast, 555,000; and Great Lakes, 400,000.

Cities top the list of preferred destinations this holiday with 23 percent of travel volume. Small towns and rural areas took a close second with 22 percent, followed by ocean/beach at 16 percent; mountain areas, 8 percent; and lakes, 13 percent. State/national parks, 1 percent, and theme/amusement parks, 6 percent rounded out the list. Another 10 percent responded with other, and 2 percent said they didn't know.

Guest bedrooms across the country will be full this Memorial Day holiday as 41 percent of travelers expect to stay with friends or relatives. Hotel/motels rank second with 35 percent; followed by cabin/condo, 8 percent; no overnight stay, 7 percent; and camper/trailer/RV/tent, 5 percent. Another 1 percent responded with other and 2 percent didn't know.

Research for Memorial Day travel is based on a national survey of 1,500 adults by the Travel Industry Association of American, which conducts special research for AAA.

AAA ( http://www.aaa.com/ ) offers automotive, travel, insurance and financial services to more than 48 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA Minnesota/Iowa is part of The Auto Club Group, with 4.1 million members in eight Midwest states.

Source: AAA

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

USA TODAY Names 2006 All-USA High School Academic Team

USA TODAY named 20 students to its 20th annual All-USA High School Academic First Team. The students will each receive a trophy and $2,500 cash award.

"We're pleased to be able to honor these remarkable students who have demonstrated both impressive scholarship and leadership. They are destined to make a difference," said USA TODAY Editor Ken Paulson.

Following are the 20 First Team members:

* William F. Alden, Harvard-Westlake School, North Hollywood, Calif.

Parents: Robert Parson and Joan Freeman Alden

* Stephanie J. Brinton, East High School, Salt Lake City, Utah

Parents: Greg and Sally Brinton

* Eunice G. Buhler, Lake Forest High School, Lake Forest, Ill.

Parents: Robert and Violetta Kapsalis Buhler

* Daniel B. Cayce, Bearden High School, Bearden, Ark.

Parent: Joannie Cayce

* Jonathan B.B. Cross, James W. Robinson, Jr. Secondary School, Fairfax,

Va.

Parents: James and Karen Cross

* Shiv M. Gaglani, West Shore Junior/Senior High School, Melbourne, Fla.

Parents: Mukesh and Vanita Gaglani

* Alexander Gribov, Mayfield High School, Mayfield Village, Ohio

Parents: Michael and Irene Gribov

* Lindsay K. Haines, Wheeler High School, Marietta, Ga.

Parents: David and Hiemi Haines

* Brett A. Harrison, Half Hollow Hills High School West, Dix Hills, N.Y.

Parents: Aaron and Rhonda Harrison

* Laura A. Huppert, Piedmont High School, Piedmont, Calif.

Parents: Chris and Susan Huppert

* Daniel A. Litt, Orange High School, Pepper Pike, Ohio

Parents: Jonathan and Maria Litt

* Aliza I. Malz, Hunter College High School, New York, N.Y.

Parents: Abraham Malz and Ruth Ellen Stark

* Anish J. Mehta, Indian Hill High School, Cincinnati, Ohio

Parents: Jayesh and Jyoti Mehta

* Sarah K. Rapoport, Horace Mann School, Riverdale, N.Y.

Parents: Samuel and Sandra Rapoport

* Albert D. Shieh, Chaparral High School, Scottsdale, Ariz.

Parents: Fei-Ying and Chan-Long Shieh

* Justin M. Solomon, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science &

Technology, Alexandria, Va.

Parents: Rod Solomon and Nancy Griesemer

* Michael A. Viscardi, Josan Academy (home school), San Diego, Calif.

Parents: Anthony and Eunjee Viscardi

* Xin (Cindy) Wang, Illinois Mathematics & Science Academy, Aurora, Ill.

Parents: Shiying Wang and Bin Liu

* Ilana R. Yurkiewicz, Lawrence High School, Cedarhurst, N.Y.

Parents: Jack and Shelley Yurkiewicz

* John C. Zhou, Detroit Country Day School, Beverly Hills, Mich.

Parents: Suwei and Xiaofeng Zhou

The team of 20 was selected by a panel of judges from just over 1,700 nominees nationwide. Outstanding individual scholarship or intellectual achievement, and leadership roles in activities on or off campus were the most important criteria to the judges. Students also were judged on academic performance, honors, awards, rigor of academic pursuits and the ability to express themselves in writing.

Criteria for the All-USA High School Academic Team were developed in consultation with USA TODAY's co-sponsors: the National Education Association (NEA) and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

The 2006 All-USA High School Academic Team final judges were:

* Ashley Bass, 1995 All-USA High School Academic Team

* Art Buikema, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

* Michael Clark, National Education Association

* David Evans, Harvard College

* Richard Flanary, National Association of Secondary School Principals

* Jay Goldman, American Association of School Administrators

* Meg Gruber, National Education Association

* Shanda Ivory, National Association for College Admission Counseling

* Barry Stark, National Association of Secondary School Principals

* Robert Thornton, Housatonic Community College

* Martin Wilder, University of Mary Washington

* Richard Wong, American School Counselor Association

For more information on these winners as well as the second- and third- team members, see the Thursday, May 18 editions of USA TODAY and USATODAY.com.

USA TODAY is the nation's top-selling newspaper. It is published via satellite at 36 locations in the USA and at four sites abroad. With a total average daily circulation of 2.3 million, USA TODAY is available worldwide. USA TODAY is published by Gannett Co. Inc. (NYSE:GCI)

Source: USA TODAY

European Travel Commission Forecasts Record Tourism Year in 2006

Europe could receive more American travelers this year than the record 13.12 million set in 2000. In an upward trajectory since 2003, US arrivals in Europe climbed past 12 million, to 12.6 million in 2005 -- four percentage points from 2000, surpassing the European Travel Commission's projected 12.4 million.

"It's wonderful to see rising numbers for a third straight year," said Conrad Van Tiggelen, ETC chairman. "While Europe is America's favorite overseas destination with more than 40% of overseas travelers, we are always communicating new reasons to visit."

Indeed, Europe's popularity has stood steadfast in recent years despite the downturn in global travel following 2001, fluctuating exchange rates and competition from emerging destinations.

"For this generation in particular," Van Tiggelen continued, "we try to show that Europe is a constantly evolving blend of culture, beauty and excitement, with some of the most cutting edge travel trends."

"Europe hopping" is the latest trend -- mixing countries in unusual ways, thanks to Europe's 50 low-cost airlines. Fly from Barcelona to Bratislava for euro 100, for example, Berlin to Belfast for euro 35, or Glasgow to Krakow for euro 20. The ETC website (http://www.visiteurope.com/) has a search engine with 500 flight connections.

Film tourism has taken off in the wake of blockbuster movies, and this year brings the huge Da Vinci Code movie. France, Britain and Scotland have teamed up with Eurostar, the high-speed train connecting Paris and London, to offer Da Vinci Code travels and an online promotion (http://www.jointhequest.com/) with extraordinary prizes including free lifetime travel Eurostar and accommodations for five years at the Ritz Hotel in Paris and Claridge's in London.

Today's time-pressed Americans are combining Europe vacations with personal passions. Car enthusiasts can tour the Aston Martin and Mini Cooper factories before taking a car on the road. Foodies can learn haute cuisine in Paris from celebrated French chef Alain Ducasse, or at the Ritz Escoffier School. Violin making can be learned in Cremona, lace making in Brussels, and so on.

American cruise passenger totals grew by 9% last year to 9.76 million, (out of 11.18 million worldwide) as Americans grasped its cost-effectiveness and comfort. Northern Europe and the Mediterranean were among the top destinations, and this year the Med is hotter yet. Major cruise lines and ports are ratcheting up projects to meet demand.

Retiring Baby Boomers herald a coming wave of mature travelers. With more leisure time, they are catching on to the European pastime of renting a countryside villa for a month of "la dolce vita." While Provence, Tuscany and Greece remain popular, lesser-known regions also make great home bases for day trips. Slovakia, for example, is ideally positioned for exploring the Adriatic, Budapest, Vienna and Krakow.

For more information about travel to Europe, click on the official Web site of the European Travel Commission at http://www.visiteurope.com/. Here you will find practical travel planning tips, links to the tourism Web sites of the 34 member countries, and a searchable database of exciting events and festivals.

Source: European Travel Commission

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

WHO Official Tells World to Prepare For New Diseases

A senior official of the World Health Organization (WHO) today warned countries to learn from the experience of the 2002-2003 SARS outbreak in order to be ready for new and possibly more deadly diseases in the future.

"As we have already seen with avian influenza, the threat from emerging diseases did not end with SARS," said Dr Shigeru Omi, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific. "I am sure there will be similar and maybe even worse diseases to come."

One of the lessons from SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome), Dr Omi said, was that governments have to provide health systems with the resources needed to protect the public. "Many health systems were undermanned and under-resourced when SARS struck," Dr Omi said. "The result was great human suffering, enormous fear and staggering economic losses."

Dr Omi was speaking at a press conference here to launch a new book on what happened during the SARS outbreak, produced by the WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific. Dr Omi said he hoped the 300-page book, written largely by experts involved in the battle, would serve as "an enduring archival reference, giving future generations the guidance they will need when facing similar public health threats."

Another lesson from SARS, Dr Omi said, was that transparency always is the best policy. "Because the outside world was not informed of what was going on in the initial stages of the outbreak, the virus managed to reach a tourist hotel in Hong Kong. From that moment on, international outbreak was inevitable. If we had known more about what was happening in those early weeks, things would probably have been different."

SARS also served as a wake-up call on the need to change animal husbandry practices in Asia, Dr Omi said. It is still a mystery how the SARS virus jumped from animals to humans, he said, but it was clearly related to the conditions in some wet markets where wild animals are jammed together and slaughtered, thereby raising the chances of cross-infection and the emergence of new and dangerous pathogens.

"Today, we are seeing a similar problem with avian influenza, which has exposed the conditions in backyard farms in Asia and elsewhere. Raising chickens, ducks and pigs together, often in unhygienic conditions and close to human habitations, sets the scene for human infection with a new virus," Dr Omi said.

By early July 2003, WHO declared that human-to-human transmission of the SARS virus had been broken, but only after a total of 8098 probable cases with nearly 800 deaths. Some 98% of the cases were in the Western Pacific Region, particularly China, Hong Kong, Singapore and Viet Nam.

Web site: http://www.who.int/

Sprite Redefines Itself

Brand To Be Reenergized with Breakthrough Advertising Campaign and First Packaging Update in a Decade

Beginning this summer, Sprite(R), the number one lemon-lime soft drink, is back in a bold, breakthrough way. Focusing on the brand's refreshing "Lymon(TM)" taste, in the U.S. Sprite will hit the streets in full force with an array of programs that includes a new advertising campaign and the first packaging update since the early 90s.

Sprite's relaunch will be fueled by the Sprite "SubLYMONal(TM)" advertising campaign, which features commercials that are actually the opposite of subliminal advertising. Each spot begins with a voiceover that says, "Welcome to 'SubLYMONal' advertising. For best results, do not blink." The commercials even indicate that they are "DVR Ready," tempting people to record and replay them to discover embedded content within. The Lymon-focused action in each ad is interrupted by flashing images and messages and each spot closes with the words, "SubLYMONal Message Complete" and the tagline "Obey(TM)."

"SubLYMONal is a totally integrated marketing message that focuses on Lymon, Sprite's proprietary lemon-lime flavor formula, which makes Sprite among the world's most thirst-quenching soft drinks," said Don King, Group Director, Sprite, Coca-Cola North America. "As a brand that focuses on young people, Sprite deserves arresting advertising that cuts through the monotony of ordinary commercials, and this multi-faceted campaign does just that. Because our new 'SubLYMONal' campaign overtly parodies the concept of subliminal advertising and acknowledges up front that the commercials contain hidden content, we are sure that people will want to interact with this advertising."

People will be able to find special codes embedded in the commercials that can be entered at the brand's new website, www.SubLYMONal.com, to unlock exclusive content. The site allows people to actually interact with the advertising and it provides different ways for them to create their own "SubLYMONal" experiences.

"Through the 'SubLYMONal' campaign we have created our own proprietary tongue-in-cheek science that is designed to insert Lymon into the brains of teen consumers," continued King. "SubLYMONal still echoes the "trust your instincts" message of the "Obey Your Thirst" campaign, but it is focused on reminding people that Lymon tastes so good."

In addition to the "SubLYMONal" campaign, Sprite's packaging graphics have been completely redesigned. The new packaging design features the familiar silver, green and blue colors as well as the Sprite brand name and bubbles. The updated imagery is enhanced by the inclusion of a new "S" brand icon that will be featured on all packaging and marketing elements.

The brand relaunch will begin on May 23 at Guastavino's in New York at the first Sprite Street Couture Showcase. The exclusive event will feature collections from five of fashion's top streetware designers, including Etnies, LRG, Rocawear, Triple Five Soul and WESC, as well as an influencer after party. For Sprite, the celebration reunites the brand with its roots in hip hop culture, which has evolved to urban street culture since the brand first embraced the fledgling movement in the early eighties.

The new advertising campaign, which features four 30-second television commercials, one 60-second cinema ad, and numerous print and outdoor executions, was created by Sprite's agency of record, Crispin Porter + Bogusky of Miami. Online elements, including the new website www.SubLYMONal.com, were developed by AKQA of San Francisco.

About The Coca-Cola Company

The Coca-Cola Company is the world's largest beverage company. Along with Coca-Cola, recognized as the world's most valuable brand, the Company markets four of the world's top five soft drink brands, including Diet Coke, Fanta and Sprite, and a wide range of other beverages, including diet and light soft drinks, waters, juices and juice drinks, teas, coffees and sports drinks. Through the world's largest beverage distribution system, consumers in more than 200 countries enjoy the Company's beverages at a rate exceeding 1.3 billion servings each day. For more information about The Coca-Cola Company, please visit our website at www.coca-cola.com.

Source: Coca-Cola North America

ATCi Integra un Sistema de Enlace Satelital para Nuevo Canal en Español

Nuevo canal parte del servicio DirecTV Para Todos

Antenna Technology Communications Inc., proveedores de servicios comerciales de comunicación satelital, anunció hoy que ha completado el contrato para diseñar, integrar e instalar un sistema completo de enlace satelital ascendente para el más reciente canal en español. ATCi suministró un enlace ascendente de avanzada, totalmente redundante, que permitirá a los mexicanos de regiones fuera de Ciudad de México y que viven en los Estados Unidos mirar los programas favoritos de sus pueblos, ciudades y regiones de origen.

ATCi manejó todo el proyecto, desde el diseño "llave en mano" y la integración hasta la instalación y pruebas. El enlace de ATCi incluyó el paquete completo de equipos de RF, con antena, amplificadores, codificadores y módems, así como el diseño a medida, la integración y la implementación ajustada a los requisitos del cliente.

"Nos honra haber sido elegidos por este canal progresista y novedoso como su proveedor de soluciones llave en mano. Con la reciente expansión de nuestras ofertas de sistemas de enlaces ascendentes, ATCi mantiene su compromiso de apoyar el crecimiento de emisiones satelitales tanto en Latinoamérica como en el mercado hispano de los Estados Unidos.", dijo Gunnar Light, Director Gerente de Ventas Internacionales de ATCi.

El nuevo canal incluirá programación regional y original de emisoras públicas, productores independientes y estaciones locales de más de seis regiones de todo México.

Acerca de ATCi

ATCi aumenta las posibilidades de ganancias de sus clientes mediante la provisión de servicios de banda ancha y sistemas de comunicaciones satelitales a medida, globales y con base en tierra. La compañía asume el compromiso de proveer tecnologías de vanguardia para satisfacer las necesidades emergentes de televisoras por cable, corporaciones, gobierno, instituciones educativas y pequeñas y medianas empresas. ATCi tiene su sede central en Chandler, Arizona, y oficinas operativas de ventas en América del Norte y China. Para obtener más información sobre productos y servicios ATCi, llame al 480-844-8501 o visite nuestro sitio web en http://www.atci.com/.

PharmaVentures lanza el primer programa televisivo comercial farmacéutico

- PharmaVentures explota el canal de medios de más rápido crecimiento para lanzar el primer programa televisivo comercial farmacéutico

PharmaVentures ha anunciado hoy el lanzamiento de un nuevo programa televisivo basado en Internet: PharmaVentures Business Review.

El doctor Fintan Walton, consejero delegado de PharmaVentures, dijo: "Este programa, el primero de una serie mensual, proporciona a los telespectadores de los sectores farmacéutico y biotecnológico un análisis y debate sobre las principales transacciones y tendencias de la industria. Ofrece un acceso exclusivo a entrevistas actuales con altos ejecutivos y expertos, incluyendo puntos de vista desde el sector financiero corporativo".

Accesible a través de la página web de PharmaVentures en varios formatos de medios, la transmisión en televisión explota el canal de medios de más rápido crecimiento disponible. Según una investigación desarrollada por Accustream iMedia Research en 2005, las producciones de vídeo vistas alcanzaron un 50,2% en 2005 y se prevé que crezcan en un 32% este año.

Además de proporcionar cobertura en directo de noticias y temas de actualidad en la industria, y una revisión de las tendencias del mercado, la primera edición de Business Review incluye entrevistas con los principales agentes en la financiación de compañías de biotecnología australianas, así como mesas redondas centradas en Fusiones y Adquisiciones en los sectores farmacéutico y biotecnológico. El doctor Fintan Walton lidera un debate con un panel de expertos que incluye a:

- Glyn Edwards, consejero delegado, Antisoma;

- Charles Macfarlane, director ejecutivo de Worldwide Alliances, Licensing and Acquisitions, Procter and Gamble;

- Ulrich Kinzel, director, Nomura Code Securities

Los temas debatidos incluyen tendencias recientes y si M&As funciona realmente.

El doctor Fintan Walton explicó:"PharmaVentures Business Review se fundamenta en una serie de productos inteligentes disponibles a través de la marca PharmaDeals y es la primera de la próxima generación de productos de inteligencia estratégica. Utilizando el canal de Internet para distribuir un programa de televisión, podemos ofrecer un servicio de valor a la industria a niveles previamente inalcanzables y permitir a las compañías involucradas aprovechar los beneficios que aportará dicha exposición de alto nivel".

PharmaVentures ofrece patrocinio corporativo y oportunidades publicitarias a los interesados en promocionar su compañía en este formato único. Puede acceder a PharmaVentures Business Review en www.pharmaventuresbusinessreview.com.

PharmaVentures (www.pharmaventures.com) es una organización líder en consecución de resultados que asiste a las compañías farmacéuticas y biotecnológicas de todo el mundo en todos los aspectos de la consecución de acuerdos. Con dos áreas de especialidad -Consultoría e Inteligencia- trabajamos con nuestros clientes para sacar el máximo valor a sus transacciones. Con sede en Oxford (Reino Unido), la compañía también tiene oficinas en Estados Unidos.

Source: Pharma Ventures Ltd

NASA WANTS YOUR INNOVATIVE IDEAS

NASA is seeking proposals for creating and managing innovative activities, events, products, services and other education methods for increasing America's science and technological literacy. One objective of this request for entrepreneurial offers is to distribute information nationally about the agency's programs and projects. NASA's intent is to enter into partnerships that will result in the establishment of one or more non-reimbursable Space Act Agreements with organizations. In exchange for a collaborator's investment to creatively distribute NASA information, the agency will consider negotiating brand placement, limited exclusivity and other opportunities as part of a strategic collaboration. NASA continues to strengthen the nation's education programs and support the country's educators, who inspire, prepare and encourage young minds. The agency plans to establish long-term relationships with stakeholders to increase the nation's science and technology literacy. For information about the response for entrepreneurial offers, visit: http://prod.nais.nasa.gov/cgi-bin/eps/synopsis.cgi?acqid=120084 For information about NASA's education programs, visit: http://education.nasa.gov

NASA is seeking proposals for creating and managing innovative activities, events, products, services and other education methods for increasing America's science and technological literacy. One objective of this request for entrepreneurial offers is to distribute information nationally about the agency's programs and projects. NASA's intent is to enter into partnerships that will result in the establishment of one or more non-reimbursable Space Act Agreements with organizations. In exchange for a collaborator's investment to creatively distribute NASA information, the agency will consider negotiating brand placement, limited exclusivity and other opportunities as part of a strategic collaboration. NASA continues to strengthen the nation's education programs and support the country's educators, who inspire, prepare and encourage young minds. The agency plans to establish long-term relationships with stakeholders to increase the nation's science and technology literacy. For information about the response for entrepreneurial offers, visit: For information about NASA's education programs, visit:

NASA SET TO LAUNCH LUNAR RECONNAISSANCE ORBITER IN 2008

After successful completion of its mission confirmation review on Wednesday, May 17, NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter project has been given the authority to proceed to the implementation phase. The confirmation review represents NASA's formal decision for authorizing additional work and sets the project's cost estimate. The mission was deemed to be within budget and on schedule to launch in October 2008. After a 30-year hiatus, the orbiter represents NASA's first step towards returning humans to the moon. The spacecraft will spend an unprecedented year mapping the moon from an average altitude of approximately 30 miles. It will carry six instruments and one technology demonstration to conduct investigations specifically targeted at preparing for future human exploration. The orbiter is being built at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md. The instruments are being provided by various organizations throughout the U.S. and one in Russia. The instruments will generate a global map of the moon; to determine which potential landing sites are free from hazards; to measure light and temperature patterns at the moon's poles; to search for potential resources, such as water; and to assess the deep-space radiation environment and its potential effects on humans. The next spacecraft milestone is the critical design review, scheduled for later this year. This review represents the completion of detailed system designs and marks the transition into the manufacturing, assembly, and integration phase of the mission development cycle. For information about NASA's exploration efforts and the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter mission, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/exploration For information about NASA and agency programs, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/home

 

The World Pizza Champions Announce: Tony Gemignani Appears on Emeril Live

Pizza Party

This weekend Tony Gemignani will appear on a special "Pizza Party" episode of Emeril Live. Tony will demonstrate acrobatic dough throwing and showcase his book "Pizza".

Air Times

May 20, 2006 8:00 PM ET/PT

May 21, 2006 3:00 AM ET/PT

Click Here for More Info From the Food Network...

Join our Revolutionary "How To" Pizza Site.

Join our revolutionary "How To" pizza site and be one on one with experts in the pizza industry. Learn how to make/work Sauce, Dough, Appetizers, Take & Bake, Desserts, Pizza Ovens, Fundamentals and much more.

Our site contains real live videos of real live operators in their actual kitchens showing you their secrets, industry experts and consultants will give you tips and techniques to help build your business, and if you are thinking of competing at the World Pizza Games, then this is where you can learn from Gold Medal winners.

Most importantly you will see these all demonstrated, not just a recipe on paper. Think of it as getting a one on one training session from the experts for a fraction of the cost. Content is provided from across the USA and the World, giving you access to different points of view, styles and techniques.

Click Here for More Info...

About the World Pizza Champions

Professionals of the Pizza Industry

The World Pizza Champions are made up of members Michael Shepherd of Michael Angelo's Pizza in Kenton & Rushsylvania, Ohio; Tony Gemignani & Ken Bryant of Pyzano’s Pizzeria in Castro Valley, CA; Joe Carlucci of Famous Joe's in Danbury,CT; Siler Chapman of Pizza Works in Fort Mills, SC and Sean Brauser of Romeo's Pizza in Medina, OH.

Each member has earned the highest awards in several different categories in the pizza industry. They are considered by many pizza operators worldwide as professionals and pioneers.

Team members have appeared on the Today Show, Tony Danza Show, The Tonight Show, The Ellen Show, ESPN, the Food Network, Good Morning America, BBC Radio, and numerous industry magazine covers.

They have come together to form an affiliation to promote their restaurants and their skills. Individually each of them have performed on shows across the nation, but now they plan to tour the world as a team. The World Pizza Champions perform and/or compete at numerous festivals, fairs, sporting events, and food shows all year long.

America's #1 Pizza Team, The World Pizza Champions, will be in a town or on a TV near you.

The World Pizza Champions are made up of members of in Kenton & Rushsylvania, Ohio; & of Pyzano’s Pizzeria in Castro Valley, CA; of Famous Joe's in Danbury,CT; of in Fort Mills, SC and of in Medina, OH. Each member has earned the highest awards in several different categories in the pizza industry. They are considered by many pizza operators worldwide as professionals and pioneers. Team members have appeared on the Today Show, Tony Danza Show, The Tonight Show, The Ellen Show, ESPN, the Food Network, Good Morning America, BBC Radio, and numerous industry magazine covers. They have come together to form an affiliation to promote their restaurants and their skills. Individually each of them have performed on shows across the nation, but now they plan to tour the world as a team. The World Pizza Champions perform and/or compete at numerous festivals, fairs, sporting events, and food shows all year long. , The World Pizza Champions, will be in a town or on a TV near you.

Website: http://www.worldpizzachampions.com

 

 

NASA ANNOUNCES AMERICAN GEOPHYSICAL UNION PRESENTATIONS

NASA researchers will meet with the media and present findings on Earth and space science topics at the American Geophysical Union's 2006 Joint Assembly meeting, May 23-26 at the Baltimore Convention Center, One West Pratt Street, Baltimore. For more information, media should call the Goddard Space Flight Center Office of Public Affairs at (301) 286-4044, or the meeting's press room at (410) 649-7373. Reporters off-site can join all of these events by calling 1-866-785-0537 and entering passcode 7525439. Press Conference: Measuring Earthshine to Illuminate Earth's History, Climate Change, and the Search for Extraterrestrial Life Time: May 23, 10:00 a.m. EDT, Room 323 Related Session: A21A Robotic telescopes being developed to better understand climate and search for life. Press Conference: New Discoveries at the Edges of the Solar System Time: May 23, 2:00 p.m. EDT, Room 323 Related Session: SH21A New findings from Voyagers 1 and 2 at the edge of the solar system. Press Conference: New Observations from Space Poised to Offer Cost-Effective Early Warning Flood and Landslide Detection Time: May 24, 1:00 p.m. EDT, Room 323 Related Session: H23A New observations from space may be used to develop early warning systems. Press Conference: Revolutionizing Space Exploration With Onboard Computers Time: May 25, 9:00 a.m. EDT, Room 323 Related Session: IN43A Learn about current and future missions that will use new software technology. Science Writer's Workshop: Upcoming AIM and THEMIS Missions to Study Earth's Atmosphere Time: May 25, 10:00 a.m. EDT, Room 323 Related Sessions: ED33A, SM41A, IN43A, SA52A Two upcoming NASA missions will help understand how solar activity affects the Earth. For more information and related Web links, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/vision/earth/lookingatearth/2006_joint_assembly.html For information about NASA and agency programs, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/home

- We Are All Our Brother's Keepers

- Promoting Common Good without Violating Lay State

- Pope to Receive Metropolitan Kirill

- Audiences

WE ARE ALL OUR BROTHER'S KEEPERS

- Benedict XVI today received the Letters of Credence of five new ambassadors to the Holy See: Moukhtar Wawa Dahab from Chad; Amitava Tripathi from India; Domingos Dias Pereira Mascarenhas from Cape Verde; Valeriu Bobutac from Moldova; and Anne Maree Plunkett from Australia.

"You belong," said the Pope in French addressing the five new ambassadors together, "to the great family of diplomats who, throughout the world, strive to build bridges between countries with the aim of creating and reaffirming relations between peoples, both in the area of fraternal solidarity and in that of economic and cultural exchanges. ... This ... presupposes firm will and breadth of vision, in order not to reduce the decisions that must be taken to mere responses to the urgent needs of the moment."

"In order for this to happen, it is not enough to decide on peace or collaboration among nations. What is required is a solid commitment that does not seek only the interest of ... a particular section of society, to the detriment of the general interest, but that aims above all at the common good of a whole country, and ... of humanity entire. In this age of globalization, it is important that the management of public life does not depend ... only upon economic considerations, the search for ever-increasing profit, and the inconsiderate use of the planet's resources to the detriment of peoples, especially the least favored, thus jeopardizing the long-term future of the world."

Peace, the Pope went on, "is rooted in respect for religious liberty, which is a fundamental and primordial aspect of the freedom of belief of individuals and of the freedom of peoples. It is important that, in whatever part of the world, everyone can follow the religion they choose, and practice it openly and without fear, because no one can base their existence only on material wellbeing. Accepting this individual and collective dimension will, without doubt, have beneficial effects on social life."

The Holy Father concluded his address by calling on the international community to show more concern for people than for mere economic questions. "It is our duty," he said, "to be responsible for one another and for the progress of the world, because no one can answer as Cain did to God: 'Am I my brother's keeper?'"

The Pope then gave each diplomat a written copy of a speech addressing the particular situation in his or her own country. To the ambassador from Chad the Holy Father expresses his hope that, "through dialogue between the parties concerned, violence may cease and a time of reconciliation arrive," and that "leaders of the region may act with determination in favor of justice and peace."

The Holy Father congratulates the Indian diplomat for his country's efforts to resolve, "with negotiations and peaceful methods, the long running controversy with Pakistan," and highlights how "increasing dialogue and cooperation is essential in order to face other challenges in the region, such as the violence associated with political and religious extremism." In his discourse to the Moldavian ambassador, Benedict XVI explains how "the Church naturally takes to heart the debate over the status of Transdnistria. While fully appreciating the complexity of the question, I urge your government to persevere in the search for a peaceful solution, and to work in harmony with the organs of the European Union and the Council of Europe."

Addressing the Australian representative, the Holy Father writes of his joy at the celebration of World Youth Day 2008 in Sydney, and highlights the "respect for transcendent order that has led Australians to recognize the fundamental importance of marriage and stable domestic life at the heart of society." In his speech to the Cape Verde ambassador, the Pope looks forward to "a new impulse of international solidarity with the African continent, subject to such harsh trials, that it may start down the path of integral development, reconciliation and peace."

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PROMOTING COMMON GOOD WITHOUT VIOLATING LAY STATE

This morning in the Vatican's Synod Hall, the Pope received participants in the 56th general assembly of the Italian Episcopal Conference, the theme of which is the life and ministry of priests.

Benedict XVI opened his address by referring to one of the bishops' "essential tasks" as always remaining "close to our priests," watching over their formation, concerning themselves with their material and spiritual wellbeing, ensuring they do not face difficulties alone, and performing "a careful selection of candidates for the priesthood."

"I join you, dear Italian bishops, in addressing a great thank-you to our priests for their continual and often unseen dedication, and in asking them, in a fraternal spirit, to entrust themselves to the Lord and to walk with generosity and courage down the road that leads to sanctity, also bringing comfort and sustenance to us bishops as we travel the same road."

The Holy Father pointed out how during their general assembly the prelates had also discussed the fourth national ecclesial congress of Verona. The event is due to be held from October 16 to 20 on the theme: "Witnesses of the Risen Jesus, hope of the world" and, said the Pope, "I will have the joy of participating."

"In Verona," he continued, "we must concentrate above all on Christ and hence on the Church's priority mission to live in His presence, and to make that presence visible to everyone."

Going on to quote his recent Encyclical "Deus caritas est," Benedict XVI recalled how the Church is aware of the fundamental "distinction between what belongs to Caesar and what belongs to God, in other words, the distinction between Church and State, or the autonomy of the temporal sphere."

"At the same time," he added, "and precisely by virtue of her mission of salvation, the Church cannot rescind her task of purifying reason by the proposal of her own social doctrine based upon 'what is in accord with the nature of every human being,' and reawakening moral and spiritual forces by opening people's will to the authentic needs of what is good."

The Holy Father likewise underlined how, "without doubt, a healthy laicism of the State ensures that temporal matters are dealt with according to their own norms; to this, however, are associated ethical concerns that have their foundations in the very essence of man and that therefore, in the final analysis, can be traced back to the Creator."

He added: "In current circumstances, by recalling the value for public and private life of certain ethical principles rooted in the great Christian heritage of Europe, and in particular of Italy, we commit no violation of the laicism of the State, rather we contribute to guaranteeing and promoting the dignity of the person and the common good of society."

The Pope concluded by highlighting the need to offer "a clear testimony to all our brothers and sisters in humanity. By doing so we do not burden them with useless weight, but help them, to progress along the road of life and of true freedom."

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POPE TO RECEIVE METROPOLITAN KIRILL

This evening in the Vatican, Benedict XVI will receive in audience Metropolitan Kirill of Smolensk and Kaliningrad, president of the Department for Foreign Ecclesiastical Relations of the Patriarchate of Moscow.

Following the audience, due to take place at 6 p.m., the Orthodox representative will attend a concert given by the choir of Moscow's Sretenskiy Monastery in the Auditorium in Via della Conciliazione near the Vatican. The concert marks the consecration of the first Russian Orthodox church in Rome, dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria, which is due to take place tomorrow.

 

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AUDIENCES

The Holy Father today received in audience Kazimierz Marcinkiewicz, prime minister of Poland, accompanied by an entourage.

 

Snow gaining on Tsingtao Ads mock rival's Olympic sponsorship

Snow, one of China's few national beer brands, is capitalizing on a dramatic rise in sales and popularity with a new marketing strategy aimed at cementing its position as a major player among young adults. The campaign also playfully mocks mainstream rival Tsingtao’s Olympic Games sponsorship.

Sales of Snow beer, produced by China Resources Snow Breweries, a joint-venture between China Resources Enterprise and SABMiller, the world's second-largest brewer, rose 47% by volume in 2005, topping 15 million hectoliters. Snow beer is made in 41 breweries across China.

Its fast growth puts Snow neck-and-neck with Tsingtao, one of the few major beer brands in the mainland with national distribution. Snow and Tsingtao, partly-owned by Anheuser-Busch, each have a market share of about 14%, according to industry estimates.

Although China is the world's largest beer producer, the average Chinese adult drinks just 23 liters of beer a year, according to the China National Food Industry Association. That is much less than consumption of almost 30 liters per capita in Hong Kong, 100 in Australia, 118 in Germany and 159 in the Czech Republic.

“The brand is growing through a mixture of distribution and marketing, but it needs to get talked about more to look like a big brand” compared to its better-known rival, said Charles Sampson, China CEO of the agency behind the new campaign, Publicis Groupe’s Saatchi & Saatchi, Beijing. “We’re going for big status. We want to create the voice of the common man.”

To raise its profile among its target 25-35 year-old age bracket, the agency countered Tsingtao, the national beer sponsor of the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, by calling Snow the official sponsor of beer lovers in a way that appeals to the strong nationalism of Chinese consumers.

The summer-long campaign broke in print and outdoor media on May 16. A lighthearted 30” spot begins with a beer drinker watching soccer on television. He heads out of his house and walks through the streets and markets of his city, picking up drinking buddies along the way.

As he walks, he tells viewers, “No one sponsors my shoes. I can’t run very fast. I don’t jump very high. But we are pretty amazing. I work hard to give my family a great life. I love to drink beer and have friends all over the place. When our country wins we shout louder than anybody. Without us there won’t be any victory.” It ends with a blast of fireworks and the tag line, “Beer lovers, Snow will always support you. Your official partner.”

“No one sponsors him to wear clothes, and he can’t jump hurdles but he still thinks he’s a pretty good guy,” said Beijing-based Mr. Sampson. “We’re making heroes out of Chinese beer drinkers while making the point that Snow is a big brand. Our research shows this approach taps into classic beer values about male friendship, celebration and being with the guys.”

The approach is a departure from Snow’s previous positioning as a more working class beer, the choice of consumers who work hard but need to play hard to keep pace with China’s fast-growing economy.

Next month, the tradtional advertising will be supported in China--the world’s largest mobile phone and Internet markets by number of users--with an interactive mobile and online campaign developed by The Hyperfactory, a New Zealand-based mobile marketing company that recently formed an alliance with Publicis Groupe.

To maintain Snow’s momentum, China Resources Snow Breweries is expanding production. Earlier this month, the company announced a new $35 million brewery in Harbin with the capacity to produce 2.3 million hectoliters of Snow beer annually in China’s northeastern industrial “rust belt” region. The acquisition is a major step in the joint-venture’s efforts to overtake Tsingtao.

Last February, the company bought 85% of Qingyuan brewery in Quanzhou in southeastern Fujian province, where beer consumption is almost double the national average at 39 liters per person. The $8.9 million deal was “part of our national strategy for Snow to expand into southern China prudently,” said Hong Kong-based Mark Chen, managing director of China Resources Enterprise in Hong Kong.


CSL turns 3G phones into TV sets Ads star Hong Kong director Andrew Lau

Already home to the world’s largest broadband TV platform, nearly universal mobile phone ownership and a blanket of wi-fi hot spots, Hong Kong has yet another reason to call itself one of the world’s most high-tech cities.

The Chinese territory’s leading mobile phone operator, Hong Kong CSL, launched a 3G Mobile TV service it hopes will be the next killer app in turning mobile phones into miniature television sets.

3G stands for the third generation of mobile devices. First generation handsets provided basic cellphone services. The second generation added perks such as text messaging, or SMS.

The last wave of mobile phones, dubbed 2.5G, provided limited video capabilities, but 3G phones carry far more bandwidth for data. Their most impressive feature is the ability for real-time person-to-person video calling, but they also allow access to games, e-mail and real-time news, weather and entertainment video options.

CSL is offering customers of its high-end 1010 phone service live news, finance and entertainment around the clock. The technology was developed by Golden Dynamic and is powered by NMS Communications’ mobile video technology.

Live mobile TV isn't entirely new. In Asia, South Korea and Japan have been experimenting with systems with mixed results, and there are less ambitious efforts underway in the U.S. CSL thinks its relatively easy-to-use technology and good content will makes the CSL service more successful.

The service launched 20 real-time channels, costing just under 8 cents per minute, a price that is likely to drop over time. Contnet comes from Hong Kong’s two terrestrial broadcasters, TVB and ATV, and its I-Cable system as well as foreign media companies like BBC World, Bloomberg Television and Fashion TV. A horse racing channel is likely to be popular among Hong Kong’s avid gamblers.

So far, the mobile TV service is not running advertisements, but it is gaining traction as a platform to promote movies and albums: "We have constantly received inquires from film traders and music publishers on collaboration opportunities after the exclusive launch of different mobile dramas,” said Michelle Au, CSL's general manager, marketing communications & PR in Hong Kong.

CSL, which introduced 3G and wi-fi services in 2004, is marketing the new mobile TV service with creative from Leo Burnett Worldwide featuring Andrew Lau Wai Keung. The well-known Hong Kong director of films such as Infernal Affairs went in front of the camera, for a change, in a 30” TV spot, accompanied by print and outdoor ads.

Launched this month, the ads compare 3G’s innovation and ease-of-use with Mr. Lau’s vision of life in the future--simple, convenient and resonant, not the cold, complicated and disordered world of the future portrayed in most movies. The story ends with Mr. Lau and his son watching 3G Mobile TV on a beach.

“Seeing a need from our target [audience], who have a hectic lifestyle and get turned off with things that require hassle and effort, simplicity became 3G Mobile TV’s core offering,” said Barbara Yeh, group brand director at Leo Burnett, Hong Kong. "[Mr. Lau] shares the same vision of simplicity.”

TIFFANY ANNOUNCES 25% INCREASE IN QUARTERLY DIVIDEND

Tiffany & Co. (NYSE: TIF) today reported that its Board of Directors has declared a 25% increase in the quarterly dividend rate on its Common Stock. This action increases the rate from $0.08 per share per quarter to a new rate of $0.10 per share per quarter, or $0.40 per share on an annualized basis. The dividend will be paid on July 10, 2006 to stockholders of record on June 20, 2006. Michael J. Kowalski, chairman and chief executive officer, announced the increase at the Company's Annual Meeting of Stockholders. He said, "This increase reflects Tiffany's strong financial position and the Board's confidence in our growth potential. It marks the fourth consecutive year of dividend increases, and means that the rate has more than doubled during that period." Company Description Tiffany & Co. operates jewelry and specialty retail stores and manufactures products through its subsidiary corporations. Its principal subsidiary is Tiffany and Company. The Company operates TIFFANY & CO. retail stores and boutiques in the Americas, Asia-Pacific and Europe and engages in direct selling through Internet, catalog and business gift operations. Other operations include consolidated results from ventures operated under trademarks or trade names other than TIFFANY & CO. For additional information, please visit www.tiffany.com

Hertz Announces 'Wonders of America' Sweepstakes Promotion

Sweepstakes Grand Prizes Feature Hertz Six-Day Car Rental, Six-Days/Five-Nights Hotel Accommodations From Marriott International, Round-Trip Coach Airline Tickets for Two From CheapTickets.com and a $500 Gift Card From American Express

The Hertz Corporation announced its participation in a unique 'Wonders of America' Sweepstakes program*, developed in partnership with the Travel Industry Association and inspired by the U.S. Postal Service "Wonders of America" stamp series.

Available May 1, 2006 through July 15, 2006, the promotion encourages visitors to enter for chances to win one of seven Grand Prizes that include a six-day car rental voucher from Hertz; round-trip coach class airfare for two good for travel to the 48 continental United States from CheapTickets.com; a five-night, six-day hotel voucher from Marriott International; and a $500 American Express Gift Card. The Grand Prizes are courtesy of The Hertz Corporation, Marriott International, Inc., CheapTickets.com and American Express. To enter the sweepstakes, visitors click on the link for Wonders of America Sweepstakes at www.SeeAmerica.org.

"We're excited about the Wonders of America Sweepstakes," commented Pamela Wright, Vice President, Travel Industry and Partnership Marketing for Hertz. "As this sweepstakes is all about superlatives -- the longest river or the highest mountain, for example -- Hertz, being the largest leisure car rental brand in the US, is a natural sponsor of the program."

Following a one-time registration process, a map of the United States and three randomly-generated Wonders of America stamps will appear. Visitors can use their cursors to drag each of the stamps to the home state of the wonder. Once all game stamps have been matched with their corresponding states, the visitor is entered in the sweepstakes.

Stamp placement need not be correct to earn sweepstakes entry, but all stamps need to be placed within a state to be eligible. Winners will receive prize vouchers and will be responsible for planning their own travel arrangements to the destination of their choice.

After playing the game, visitors to the site will also have an opportunity to learn more about the Wonders of America through a series of stamp fact pages. Each page will include facts about the location of each stamp's state and links to state and local tourism web sites where the wonder can be found.

Hertz allows travelers to explore America with confidence, with its signature NeverLost in-car navigation system, providing voice and visual directions as you drive from your current location to the destination of your choice. This popular feature allows for trouble-free travel and quick, easy access on road trips almost anywhere -- whether you're enroute to a downtown business conference, or Mount Rushmore with the family.

The first car rental company to introduce on-board navigation on a nationwide basis in the United States, Hertz has long been the market leader in this area. For reservations or to find participating Hertz locations, go to www.hertz.com. A NeverLost-equipped Hertz vehicle may also be reserved through travel agents or by calling the toll-free number at 1-800-654-3131.

Hertz operates from 7,600 locations in approximately 150 countries worldwide.

*No Purchase Necessary. Wonders of America Sweepstakes is sponsored by Travel Industry Association and is open to legal residents of the United States, 25 years of age or older as of 5/1/06. Void where prohibited by law. For rules, visit www.seeamerica.org. Starts at 12:00:00 P.M. ET on 5/1/06 and ends at 11:59:59 P.M. ET on 7/15/06.

 

SOURCE: The Hertz Corporation

FinSock Announces They Will Enter Web 2.0 Market June 2006

After two years of development and successful client reviews, FinSock announced today they will release a web-based small business software solution in June. The Web 2.0 application will allow business owners and their employees the ability to break the confinement of the conventional office.

The "simple solution" provided by FinSock promises to ease the minds of business owners by enabling them to run their business without the high costs and/or headaches usually associated with technology. Comprised initially of a few key features, FinSock will be available for a predictable monthly fee as an on-demand subscription basis. As a web-based solution, FinSock's appeal is that it will ultimately reduce or eliminate any implementation risks and costly technical infrastructure typically associated with small business software solutions.

"With the web-based application model being considered the next evolution in business software solutions, we feel the timing of our core release is perfect," says FinSock COO Rich Svir. "FinSock may not be the total software solution to all companies. It will, however, position itself as a simple, yet robust, software solution for the small or startup businesses. FinSock is ideal for certain companies who are currently frustrated with the high up-front hardware and software costs, ever changing IT complexity, and IT resources."

FinSock's immediate applications scheduled for the June 2006 release include: AddressBook, Calendar, MessageCenter, FileCabinet, ClientManager, HRMonitor, and Scheduler.

FinSock was developed two years ago, as a web-based business software solution. With the world wide release looming, it looks to be a major competitor in the Web 2.0 market of today. For more information about FinSock, please visit the Web site: www.finsock.com.

The United States National Slavery Museum Hosts Fundraising Gala at Warner Theatre

'We Are One People' Gala Will Feature Performances by Bill Cosby, Ben Vereen and Other Special Friends

The United States National Slavery Museum (www.usnsm.org) will be hosting its first national fundraising event at the Warner Theatre in Washington on June 3, 2006. The star-studded evening will feature Bill Cosby, Ben Vereen, and other special friends in song, dance, comedy, and more -- all in the effort to establish the only museum to focus exclusively on telling a more complete story of slavery in America.

The 'We Are One People' Fundraising Gala will take place at 7:30 p.m. at the Warner Theatre. There will also be a private cocktail reception from 6-7 p.m., as well as a "Meet & Greet" event after the show at 10 p.m.

The Hon. L. Douglas Wilder, former Virginia Governor, current Mayor of the City of Richmond, Virginia, and founder of USNSM will provide opening and closing remarks. In addition, Andrea Roane, Anchor of WUSA-9 News, will serve as the Mistress of Ceremonies.

"We are very excited about putting on a first-class fundraising gala that will feature an outstanding performance by both Bill Cosby and Ben Vereen," said L. Douglas Wilder, founder of the USNSM and chairman of its board of directors. "Both Bill Cosby and Ben Vereen are legends in the entertainment industry and major supporters in advancing the U.S. National Slavery Museum. We are honored to have their support."

"I am honored to be involved in raising the awareness of this unique project and the pivotal role of slavery in the history of this great nation," said Ben Vereen.

The evening will also include a number of dynamic presentations of the unique design of the museum by C.C. Pei of Pei Partnership Architects, as well as Lyn Henley from the Henley Company, who is designing the actual exhibits with a wonderful team of fabricators from Lexington, Inc. The museum will offer the most cutting-edge high-tech audiovisuals, including a 450-seat theater as well as three other dynamic theaters, taking visitors on a journey through time.

"The U.S. National Slavery Museum is offering a thorough picture of slavery in our country and should become a light for all to see," said Cosby. "The magnitude of the museum we are building together in Fredericksburg, Va., takes into account the full body of the word 'museum' -- it will tell the true story of slavery in the U.S. and the building of our country."

About the United States National Slavery Museum

Located in Fredericksburg, Virginia on 38 acres along the Rappahannock River, the USNSM will be the first and only museum in the U.S. aimed at exclusively telling the story of slavery in America. The museum will offer 100,000 +/- square feet of permanent and temporary exhibit space, including a full-scale replica of a slave ship. Its exhibits will be driven by the most cutting-edge high-tech audiovisuals, including a 450-seat theater as well as three other dynamic theaters, taking visitors on a journey through time.

The museum's chairman of the Board of Directors is the Hon. L. Douglas Wilder, who came up with the concept at an African/African American conference in Gabon. Other founding board members include Dr. William Cosby, Dr. Jacob Gelt Dekker, Professor Emeritus John Hope Franklin, Dr. William R. Harvey, the Late Mrs. Ruby G. Martin, Esq., Prince Ermias Sahle-Selassie and Dr. H. Patrick Swygert.

 

SOURCE: United States National Slavery Museum

Chick-fil-A Responds to Customers' Cravings With New Hand-Spun Milkshakes

Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A, Inc. is enhancing its dessert menu with the addition of hand-spun Milkshakes. On May 22, the chain will roll out four flavors of Milkshakes: cookies & cream, strawberry, chocolate and vanilla.

"For years, our customers have pleaded for us to add milkshakes to the menu," said Woody Faulk, Chick-fil-A's vice president of brand development. "Nearly 70 percent of the customers we interviewed said they wanted the opportunity to enjoy milkshakes at Chick-fil-A. Yet, the message was loud and clear -- they expected nothing less than the highest quality product from Chick-fil-A, which meant using the finest ingredients and for the shake to be hand-spun."

On May 22, Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A, Inc.
will roll out four flavors of hand-spun
Milkshakes: cookies & cream, strawberry, chocolate
and vanilla.

 

The new Milkshakes are made from Chick-fil-A's popular "home-style" Icedream®, and are topped with light whipped cream and a maraschino cherry. Premium ingredients, including Oreo® Sandwich Cookies and HERSHEY'S chocolate syrup, guarantee the high level of quality that complements Chick-fil-A's menu. Milkshakes will be offered in a 20 oz. cup and are priced starting at $2.79 each at most locations.

"Today, our overall menu must satisfy both a discerning and demanding customer with more choices," added Faulk. "Our challenge is to add appropriate quality choices while maintaining product leadership with our core menu items in a quick-service setting. These hand-spun Milkshakes, like the recent additions of our new fruit cup, premium coffees, a new chargrilled sandwich, and enhanced breakfast line-up, help us to do this as we continue to offer a menu of choices that balance taste and nutrition."

Before rolling out its new dessert option nationally, Chick-fil-A conducted an extensive year-long evaluation of the new Milkshakes in 26 restaurants in Raleigh and Durham, North Carolina. In a corporate-sponsored survey in the test restaurants, customers rated the hand-spun Milkshakes a 4.6 out of 5 in overall taste. Customers also said the new Milkshakes tasted like authentic ice cream parlor milkshakes, with comments like: "It was the first fast-food milkshake that actually tasted like it was homemade."

Solving the Speed of Service Challenge

Chick-fil-A has been recognized by QSR Magazine as having the "Best Drive-Thru in America" for three of the past four years. In keeping with this distinction, preparation time was a key factor for considering Milkshakes as a new menu item. New equipment, ingredients, packaging and processes were evaluated extensively to ensure that the quality was in keeping with Chick-fil-A's menu profiles, while not compromising speed of service at high-volume drive-thrus or at the front counter.

"One of the biggest challenges we faced when developing Milkshakes was minimizing impact on operational issues, primarily in the area of speed of service," said Brian Wray, who managed Chick-fil-A's Milkshake rollout. "If either is compromised, we run the risk of jeopardizing our relationship with our customers. The last thing we want is to have a great-tasting product that creates long lines in the drive-thru and at the cash register. There is no reason why a customer who does not order a Milkshake should be held up by someone who is purchasing a Milkshake."

About Chick-fil-A, Inc.

Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A, Inc., the nation's second-largest quick-service chicken restaurant chain (based on sales), currently has more than 1,250 restaurants in 38 states and Washington, D.C. Credited with inventing the chicken sandwich and first introducing the chicken nugget concept, Chick-fil-A serves nutritious and freshly prepared food products in malls, Free-Standing Units, Drive-Thru Only Restaurants, Chick-fil-A Dwarf House® and Truett's Grill® full-service restaurants, and through licensed outlets in college campuses, hospitals, airports, businesses and industrial sites.

In 2005, Chick-fil-A reported system-wide sales of more than $1.975 billion, sustaining its 38-year-streak of consecutive sales gains. Chick-fil-A is an 11-time recipient of Restaurants & Institutions magazine's Choice In Chains Customer Satisfaction award.