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Posted by monte at 05:59 PM | Permalink

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People thinking about a visit to the Palm Springs Air Museum to see the Da Vinci Experience exhibit can now have a sneak peek at some of the machines to be displayed by visiting http://www.davinciexperience.info/ . The exhibit will open on November 3rd and will be at the museum through March of next year.

"Our interest in creating the Da Vinci Experience Web site was to provide interested potential visitors with the fastest, cleanest and simplest way to get the essential information they need to see replicas of the more than 60 machines designed and described by Leonardo da Vinci," said Godfrey Harris, Curator of the exhibit.

The Web site includes directions and ticket information for the exhibit, information about how the exhibit was created, how it is being presented, and pictures of some of Da Vinci's machines.

The machines in the exhibit are organized around three themes: transportation, military and mechanical. Each replica has been built according to Da Vinci's notes and with the materials available in 15th century Italy. Eleven machines are full-size and 25 are interactive. People of all ages will be fascinated by the chance to manipulate these machines to see how Da Vinci intended them to function. Each replica is displayed with an illustrated explanatory text, some with mechanical drawings of their modern equivalents, and some with 3-D animations of their operation.

Questions about the exhibit can be directed to the Palm Springs Air Museum at 760-778-6262, ext. 239 or e-mailed to davinci@palmspringsairmuseum.org .

Contact: Godfrey Harris

Posted by monte at 05:52 PM | Permalink

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San Diego Comic Con International 2006 -- Booth #719 -- Marvel Comics and Planetwide Games, Inc. announced today a teaming up of titanic proportions: Planetwide Games entered into a multi-year licensing deal with Marvel Entertainment to create new content for Planetwide Games' original "Comic Book Creator(TM)" interactive entertainment software. Under the terms of the agreement Planetwide Games has the right to create and publish versions of the interactive software and content booster packs for "Comic Book Creator" based on classic Marvel's characters such as the X-Men, Spider-Man, Fantastic Four, Hulk, Daredevil, Ghost Rider, The Punisher, Captain America, Thor, The Avengers, and Dr. Octopus, to name a few.

"Marvel Heroes are some of the most recognizable and beloved characters in the history of entertainment," said Kevin Donovan, president of Planetwide Games. "By marrying Marvel's pantheon of heroes with our original 'Comic Book Creator' self-publishing software, we are making it possible for legions of fans to tap their own creativity in creating professional quality digital and homemade comic books with authentic Marvel Comics art for their personal enjoyment."

Paul Gitter, Senior vice president consumer products, Marvel Entertainment, added, "We see 'Comic Book Creator' interactive entertainment software as an exciting and original way to extend the Marvel brand experience for the consumer. Many of these heroes are very near and dear to our fans. They feel a personal connection to them, and 'Comic Book Creator' allows users to explore team-ups, battles and storylines that until now only existed in their imaginations."

Planetwide Games recently launched "Comic Book Creator," interactive entertainment software that allows consumers to utilize their own video game screenshots, DVD movies, digital photos or art assets to create authentic-looking comic books and comic strips. The company also plans to introduce the www.ComicBookSociety.net, an online social community site that will encourage users from all over the world to collaborate on and share their comic creations, compete in head-to-head competitions and participate in online digital comic book events.

Planetwide Games will also offer Marvel Comics content "Booster Packs" for "Comic Book Creator" and will feature special categories of characters from the Marvel Heroes Universe.

About Planetwide Games

Based in Orange County, CA, Planetwide Games, Inc. has established itself as a provider of innovative software applications, proprietary online technology and video games. The Company's applications, games and self-publishing platform for user generated content easily integrates into DVD home entertainment products, music CD's, internet portals, major game publishers and developers' titles, or can be sold separately through digital downloads and retail box sales. Planetwide Games is providing an enhanced game playing experience with name-brand awareness and ease-of-use.

Visit http://www.mycomicbookcreator.com/marvelheroes, http://www.planetwidegames.com/, http://www.planetwidecomics.com/, http://www.mycomicbookcreator.com/ and http://www.comicbooksociety.net/.

NOTE: Comic Book Creator and Drag n' Drop Comics are trademarks of Planetwide Games Inc. TM & (C) 2006 Planetwide Games, Inc. All rights reserved.

Posted by monte at 05:50 PM | Permalink

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Sony is making sure home movies meet the high-def expectations of home theater fans with its new HDR-UX1 and HDR-SR1 Handycam(R) camcorders.

These are the first consumer camcorders to record in full 1080i HD resolution and Dolby(R) Digital 5.1 surround sound, offering a choice in recording media. While the HDR-UX1 model records directly to readily-available, three-inch DVD discs for effortless playback and sharing, the HDR-SR1 camcorder's built-in 30GB hard drive facilitates mass video storage as well as in-camcorder and PC editing.

"With more families adopting high-definition televisions and acquiring HD content, we want to give them a variety of ways to enjoy their home video in the same high quality," said Linda Vuolo, director of marketing for camcorders at Sony Electronics. "Our HD camcorder line offers people greater functionality and more choice to make high-def video creation fun and easy."

High-Def is Not Just For Sports

Sony's new HD camcorders bring home movies fully into the home theater fold. They feature HDMI(TM) outputs for simple, one-cord connection to an HD television with no data conversion and subsequent degradation of picture quality.

Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound assures a life-like audio experience when viewing your home movies. This experience can be further enhanced with the sold-separately Sony ECM-HW1 Bluetooth(R) wireless microphone, which amplifies the center channel sound of the multi-point surround system and even lets you record them wirelessly up to 100 feet away.

The HDR-SR1 hard disk drive model is the perfect choice for that week-long vacation in Hawaii when the convenience of long recording times and not having to manage removable media is much appreciated. This model records more than ten hours of high-def video in long play mode. You can extend the recording time of the HDR-UX1 model up to an hour in long play mode by using Sony's new +R double-layer, single-sided DVD.

Effortless HD Playback

HD content recorded on DVDs with either the HDR-UX1 or HDR-SR1 models can be played back on Blu-ray Disc devices, such as the forthcoming Sony BDP-S1 player and PLAYSTATION(R) 3 video game console. Standard DVD drives on compatible PCs can also play back these DVDs with the bundled software.

Both support the new AVCHD(TM) camcorder recording format based on the MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 codec for video compression and Dolby digital audio. This technology makes it possible to not only achieve high-quality HD video and audio, but also produce camcorders that are power efficient and compact.

Both models allow for quick data transfer from the camcorder to a compatible PC for playback and editing. The hard disk drive unit also features Sony's One Touch Disc Burn button for easy DVD creation using a PC.

Imaging Technologies for Like No Other

These lightweight camcorders feature Sony's ClearVid CMOS Sensor(TM) and Enhanced Imaging Processor(TM) technologies. Together, they provide high-resolution and heightened sensitivity for virtually smear-free video with vivid color and clarity.

Other benefits include four-megapixel digital still capture, a Dual Record function that allows you to shoot video and simultaneously capture 2.3 megapixel stills, and a Smooth Slow Record function to shoot video in slow motion.

Both models are also equipped with an advanced Carl Zeiss(R) Vario-Sonnar(R) T* lens to ensure true-to-life color saturation and minimize unwanted glare and flare from reflected light. Even while shooting, the camcorders' extra-large, 3.5-inch SwivelScreen(TM) LCD screens display video with high-contrast and optimal color due to Sony's Clear Photo Plus LCD(TM) technology. Video is easy to view on screen from any angle and in virtually any environment. The screens double as touch-sensitive control panels, giving easy access to many of the camcorders' settings.

The HDR-UX1 camcorder will be available in September for about $1,400, and the HDR-SR1 will hit stores in October for about $1,500. Options will include a full line of accessories, including lights, lenses, microphones, InfoLithium(R) batteries, chargers and cables.

Both models will be available online at Sonystyle.com, at Sony Style(R) retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail), and at authorized dealers nationwide. Pre-orders will begin on July 21st at www.sonystyle.com/handycam.

AVCHD Licensing and Supporting Companies

On July 13, Panasonic and Sony announced the commencement of licensing for AVCHD, the high-definition digital video camera recorder format, as well as an expansion of the format's specifications. The two companies have been promoting this format extensively throughout the industry and the following companies have expressed their support for AVCHD.

AVCHD Supporting Companies

Consumer Electronics Manufacturers:

Canon Inc.

Pioneer Corporation

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Sharp Corporation

Non-liner Editing Software Suppliers [Software Supporting AVCHD]

Adobe Systems Incorporated [Adobe Production Studio]

CyberLink Corporation [PowerDVD, PowerDirector]

InterVideo, Inc. [WinDVD]

Nero AG [Nero 7 Premium (Nero 7 Ultra Edition)]

Sonic Solutions [Easy Media Creator 9]

Sony Media Software [Vegas 7.0]

Ulead Systems, Inc. [Video Studio, DVD MovieWriter]

Source: Sony Electronics Inc

Posted by monte at 05:38 PM | Permalink

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Traveling the American road, Ford Motor Company will stop at Magic City Ford in Roanoke on July 19, as part of a 68-city, cross-country tour to show how it plans to "take back the American Road" through bold, relevant products. It will punctuate that point in dramatic style by showcasing the latest version of the iconic Ford Mustang, a provocative "Grabber Orange" version.

Ford is taking its story to cities across America this summer and fall bringing the Mustang and later, two other vehicles that represent Ford's bold, American design. "It's easy to sit in our own offices in Detroit and create our own reality about what it means to be competitive, but when you take your story to Americans in the cities where they live, you're seeing reality in the flesh," says tour director Greg Pawlowski who is driving from city-to-city this summer to talk (and listen) to consumers about how Ford is responding to their wants and needs.

"When we say Ford is looking at the world through customers' eyes, we mean every word," adds Pawlowski. "That means bold design, more standard safety features, higher quality and, as of July 13, the best warranty and roadside assistance packages of any full-line manufacturer -- American, European or Asian."

On the first leg of the tour, Pawlowski is bringing along the Grabber Orange Mustang GT as a tangible example of how Ford is reconnecting with its customers.

Nearly one out of every two sports cars sold in America is a Mustang, and it remains one of the hottest-selling cars in the country. It's also America's favorite convertible. It is one of the few products to ever "cross over" into the popular culture mainstream. In its 43-year history, Mustang has co-starred in countless movies and been celebrated in pop music, including the classic, "Mustang Sally." It was voted by Americans to be one of the most popular icons of the last century in a poll conducted by the U.S. Postal Service in 1999.

"Mustang buyers told us that they wanted more options and colors to suit their individual tastes," says Pawlowski. "We've responded with a whole array of features including two new attention-generating colors, heated front seats, SIRIUS radio, and yet another Mustang first, a DVD-based navigation system."

At future stops, Pawlowski will swap out the Mustang for other vehicles that reflect Ford's customer-driven thinking and innovation, including a 2007 ethanol-powered F-150 pickup, and the all-new Edge crossover that is poised to define the hot crossover market in much the same way that Ford defined the SUV market in the 1990s with the Explorer.

"Today's auto marketplace is more competitive than ever before," Pawlowski says. "We've gone from 'The Big Three' to 'The Big Six' carmakers and it's a global dogfight. It is not business as usual and we are listening to our customers and responding to their needs. We are reclaiming the American road, and we will rely on our products, not just our heritage, to do it."

Source: Ford Motor Company

Posted by monte at 05:36 PM | Permalink

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LAKE Ferrari North America's Shell Historic Challenge enters its fifth and final event of the 2006 season, returning to Lime Rock Park, July 21-22, with a grouping of 35 rare and collectible Ferrari, Maserati and pre-war Alfa Romeo vehicles that will include up to eight impressive Ferrari 250 GTOs.

According to Maurizio Parlato, president and CEO of Ferrari North America, Inc., the GTO is widely considered to be the quintessential Ferrari model, and one of the greatest sports cars of all time -- as it was virtually unbeatable in its class at Sebring, LeMans, the Tour de France, and other great races of the period. "The heritage and beauty of these cars are one aspect of the enjoyment of Historic races," said Parlato. "However, even more impressive is the authenticity and craftsmanship these vehicles display as they continue to showcase exactly what placed Ferrari on the forefront of sports car racing in the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s."

The Ferrari Shell Historic Challenge was created to offer owners of these historic racers the opportunity to compete against other owners in a controlled racing series. It is a series meant for the enjoyment of all its participants, and the rules are written to support that intention. Ferrari Shell Historic Challenge drivers are expected to compete in a gentlemanly spirit of fair play, with respect for the regulations, their competitors, and the cars. During the event, not only will fans enjoy the sights, sounds and track experience of these classic cars, but they can also tour the paddock areas where they can view the vehicles up close.

Competing in two separate programs (Disc Brake and Drum Brake groups), the Ferrari Shell Historic Challenge has been in existence since 1993. This season, the Disc Brake group has been dominated by three key drivers -- Lawrence Stroll, Tom Price and Jim Fuchs -- and for the Lime Rock race, both Stroll and Price will be driving a pair of 250 GTOs, while Fuchs will continue to compete in his 512 BB/LM. Peter Giddings continues to lead the Drum standings for the season, driving the oldest car in the field, his ex-Whitney Straight Maserati 8CM.

The two-day event at Lime Rock will also include track days for the Empire State Region Ferrari Club of America. More than 75 Ferraris, including Ferrari 355 and 360 Challenge cars and perhaps a few 333 SP prototypes, are expected at this FCA event.

Following the Lime Rock event, the Ferrari Shell Historic Challenge will travel to Italy in October for the series Finals.

Ferrari North America, Inc. is headquartered in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., and is the exclusive importer for Ferrari vehicles in North and South America, including the F430 Berlinetta, F430 Spider convertible sports car, and 612 Scaglietti (luxury performance 2+2). For more information please visit http://www.ferrariusa.com/ .

Source: Ferrari North America, Inc.

Web site: http://www.ferrariworld.com/
http://www.ferrariusa.com/

Posted by monte at 05:33 PM | Permalink

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Sony is planning to do its part to help drivers enjoy safe hands-free conversations and crystal clear, streaming music on the road.

The Sony MEX-BT5000 car stereo is the company's first audio-streaming AM/FM CD receiver with wireless Bluetooth(R) technology. The car stereo automatically connects with cellular phones and other devices, including portable music players that have Bluetooth connectivity.

Hands-free Operation

Placing calls from the MEX-BT5000 car stereo is effortless. Bluetooth technology transfers up to 50 phonebook contacts and six speed-dial entries from your phone to the stereo. The contact information appears on the receiver's high-resolution screen so drivers can easily call friends even when the phone is out of reach.

An integrated microphone on the faceplate detects voices and eliminates the need for additional wiring so the installation process is quick and easy. The integrated noise and echo reduction signal processing enhances phone call clarity.

"In three words, the car stereo is simple, safe and sleek. It's easy to use, has outstanding sound clarity and looks great in any car," said Brennan Mullin, general manager for mobile electronics at Sony Electronics. "By giving people a hassle-free, all-in-one audio solution, our intention is to help make drivers' lives easier while raising their expectations for car stereos."

Music Streaming Car Stereo

Whether streaming music from a mobile phone or digital music player, this car stereo brings new excitement to music. With the touch of a button, music aficionados can easily read key information including album, artist and track on the full motion florescent display. They can play, pause, skip, fast- forward or back up songs, and the BBE(TM) MP signal processing technology restores the much of the depth of sound frequently lost during MP3 compression.

The MEX-BT5000 car stereo supports multiple codecs, including MP3, WMA and ATRAC(R) as well as audio CDs.

Music phones with Bluetooth technology, including the Sony Ericsson Walkman(R) phones, work with the MEX-BT5000 car stereo to stream music from the phone throughout the vehicle's stereo system.

"It's genius, and it's the way things are headed. No more wires to deal with. When you step into your car, it just works," said Frances Britchford, vice president of marketing for Sony Ericsson. "Pretty soon, consumers aren't going to settle for anything less than hands-free everything in the car."

Clear and Crisp Sound

In addition to its wireless Bluetooth capability, the MEX-BT5000 head unit offers high sound quality and excellent functionality. With its DRIVE-S HX CD playback mechanism, the unit provides outstanding sound clarity and durability.

Its Dynamic Soundstage Organizer II shapes and raises the soundstage, filling the car with music while its three-band parametric equalization sculpts the tone. The 24-bit Digital-to-Analog conversion ensures optimum fidelity to all digital sources, and the S-MOSFET power stage delivers a massive 52W X 4 channels to help ensure loud, clear sound even during bumpy rides.

An included remote provides remote playback and phone operation controls. The White LED key illumination brightens and clarifies the screen display, and the screen flips down, making it easy to play CDs. The unit comes with a Sony Bus Control for CD changers and is satellite-radio ready.

Pricing and Availability

The MEX-BT5000 car stereo will be priced around $400. It will be available in August both online at www.sonystyle.com and at authorized retailers nationwide.

Source: Sony Electronics Inc

Posted by monte at 05:30 PM | Permalink

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On July 22nd from 4-5pm ET on CBS, nine NFL players will be featured in the "JB Awards Television Special," a one-hour television show that offers exclusive in-depth interviews of the JB Award recipients honored this past April at the NFL Players Gridiron Gala, in Washington, D.C. For the third consecutive year, the NFL Players Association and PLAYERS INC have partnered with James Brown, who is returning to CBS Sports as host of "THE NFL TODAY," to create this television special.

The program introduces viewers to the annual awards presentation which honors some of the NFL's biggest heroes for their off the field achievements in the community, while benefiting Special Olympics D.C. Honorees who received individual JB Awards and who are highlighted in the TV special include: Mark Brunell (Washington Redskins) - Perseverance; Ernie Conwell (New Orleans Saints) - Act of Kindness; Brett Favre (Green Bay Packers) - Courage; Joe Horn (New Orleans Saints) - Act of Kindness; and Ray Lewis (Baltimore Ravens) - Empowering Youth.

Additionally, JB Award recipients were nominated by their teammates for their commitment to achieve excellence off the field through building better communities and stronger families. Out of the 32 players nominated (one per team), Brown personally selected 10 players to receive a JB Award. Inspirational stories highlighted in the TV special will also include personal accounts from the following JB Award recipients: Torry Holt (St. Louis Rams); Kurt Warner (Arizona Cardinals); Roy Williams (Dallas Cowboys); and Steve McNair (Tennessee Titans)*, who received a JB Award as well as the NFL Players Association's most prestigious honor -- the Byron "Whizzer" White Award. The award is presented annually to the player who serves his team, community and country in the spirit of Byron Raymond "Whizzer" White. The late Supreme Court Justice was a scholar, athlete, patriot, humanitarian and public servant -- the personification of the ideal to which professional football players aspire.

* Teams are listed according to the team the player was a member of when

teammates voted for him to receive the JB Award.

About PLAYERS INC:

Formed in 1994, PLAYERS INC is the licensing and marketing subsidiary of the NFL Players Association. Representing more than 1,800 active and 3,500 retired NFL players, PLAYERS INC "takes the helmets off" the players and markets them as personalities as well as professional athletes. Through an exclusive sponsorship agreement between the NFL and PLAYERS INC, NFL players are integrated into NFL sponsor activation programs through PLAYERS INC. In addition, under an exclusive agreement between the NFL and PLAYERS INC, NFLPLAYERS.COM, PLAYERS INC's official website, is part of the NFL Internet Network. Each year PLAYERS INC negotiates and facilitates more than 3,500 player marketing opportunities for NFL players. PLAYERS INC activities include retail licensing, corporate sponsorships and promotions, special events, radio and television projects, publishing and internet. For more information, please visit NFLPLAYERS.COM.

Source: PLAYERS INC

Posted by monte at 04:58 PM | Permalink

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Miss America will be available on multiple networks and multiple platforms as CMT announces an expanded programming strategy to support the 2007 MISS AMERICA PAGEANT. Beginning in January, CMT and its sister networks, VH1, MTV and Logo, will air a newly produced, two-hour special featuring all 52 Miss America contestants as they meet in Los Angeles and prepare for their odyssey to become Miss America. VH1 is available in 90 million homes; MTV in 90 million; Logo in 20 million and CMT in 83 million. CMT remains the exclusive home of the pageant.

"With largely unduplicated viewership from CMT, our sister Viacom networks will greatly expand Miss America's reach and expose the organization to a phenomenally large set of new viewers," said Paul Villadolid, vice president, programming and development, CMT. "We'll also utilize our new broadband channel, CMT LOADED, and other properties with additional programming that will fully maximize the strength of the Miss America property."

"We're extremely excited about the overwhelming amount of programming that CMT and other Viacom properties have committed to Miss America," said Sam Haskell, chairman of the board, Miss America Organization. "This is exactly the kind of synergy we were hoping for when we made our initial deal with CMT."

Beginning in December, CMT will devote nine hours to Miss America programming that will repeat on the network leading up to the MISS AMERICA PAGEANT in January 2007. Additional programming will be available exclusively on CMT LOADED, VOD, CMT.com, CMT Radio and CMT Mobile. Miss America-related programming will include:

CONTESTANT SPECIAL - two-hour special featuring the 52 State Finalists as they meet in LA and prepare for their quest to become the new Miss America. In addition, viewers will be able to cast their vote via phone and online at CMT.com for "Miss Congeniality," which will be announced live during the Pageant. This program takes the place of the previously announced documentary series, FINDING MISS AMERICA. Special to air on CMT, VH1, MTV, Logo and available on CMT LOADED.

TOTAL ACCESS: JENNIFER BERRY - one-hour special following Jennifer Berry on her yearlong journey as Miss America 2006. From her crowning moment in Las Vegas to traveling the country in support of her platform, this special gives a never-before-seen look at the life of Miss America. Special to air on CMT and available on CMT LOADED.

GREATEST MISS AMERICA MOMENTS - one-hour special documenting the evolution of Miss America over the past 85 years. Past and present Miss Americas reveal what it's like to spend a year as American "royalty" - from personal stories of courage and hope, to the drama and controversy of an institution caught in the crossfire of social change. Special to air on CMT and available on CMT LOADED.

CMT TOP 20 COUNTDOWN - two-and-a-half-hour show counting down the week's top videos with host Lance Smith reporting on-site at the 2007 MISS AMERICA PAGEANT. This special edition will feature interviews with pageant contestants that will premiere on CMT and be available on CMT LOADED.

CMT INSIDER - half-hour magazine show with host Katie Cook going behind the scenes at the upcoming pageant. This special edition of CMT INSIDER will premiere on CMT and be available on CMT LOADED and CMT Mobile.

2007 MISS AMERICA PAGEANT - two-hour pageant final that includes swimsuit, talent and evening wear competitions; and the crowning of Miss America 2007; premiering exclusively on CMT. Pageant location and venue to be announced.

TALENT PRELIMINARIES - Cameras will document each contestant's talent performance from the Preliminaries leading up to the Pageant; available exclusively on CMT LOADED.

CONTESTANT PROFILES - One-minute profiles on each state finalist; available on CMT LOADED and VOD, CMT.com, CMT Mobile, and CMT Radio.

The 2006 MISS AMERICA PAGEANT, hosted by James Denton, premiered on CMT last January and ranks as the most-watched telecast in CMT's history with total viewers*. Since its premiere, re-airings of the Pageant have been seen by more than 22 million different viewers.

For the first time in its 85-year history, the MISS AMERICA PAGEANT took place outside of Atlantic City and debuted in Las Vegas. Jennifer Berry, of Oklahoma, is the current Miss America.

CMT, America's No. 1 country music network, carries original programming, specials, and live concerts and events, as well as a mix of videos by established country music artists and new cutting-edge acts, including world premiere exclusive videos. Founded March 6, 1983, CMT, owned and operated by MTV Networks, reaches 83 million households in the United States. Go to country music's biggest web site at http://www.cmt.com/.

The Miss America Organization is one of the nation's leading achievement programs and the world's largest provider of scholarship assistance for young women. Last year, the Miss America Organization and its state and local organizations made available more than $45 million in cash and scholarship assistance. For more information, go to http://www.missamerica.org/.

Posted by monte at 04:56 PM | Permalink

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Posted by monte at 04:55 PM | Permalink

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Posted by monte at 04:31 PM | Permalink

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'Signature Cruise Events in cooperation with Minstrelz Music announces the launch of the very first New Christy Minstrels Fan Cruise. Fans of the Minstrels can sail with their favorite musicians on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Vision of the Seas for "The New Christy Minstrels Cruise" in 2007. Depart April 22 from Los Angeles to the Mexican Riviera ports of Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas.

Minstrels Founder Randy Sparks, along with Barry McGuire, Clarence Treat, Art Podell, Jackie Miller-Davidson, Gayle Caldwell, Dolan Ellis and Larry Ramos supported by Minstrels of a more recent vintage will be on board to host fans, followers, and friends for a week of Minstrels music, margaritas and memories.

It has been more than 40 years since a group of 8 young men and 2 young women made their national television debut on The Andy Williams Show in the fall of 1962. That group, The New Christy Minstrels, would go on to win a Grammy for their debut recording, "Presenting The New Christy Minstrels."

Forty-five years after it was put together in 1961 by founder, Randy Sparks, the group has embarked on a mission to let their fans and the world know that The New Christy Minstrels are still singing.

In announcing the cruise, Randy Sparks recently said, "We'll still do the classics, our hits from long ago, but I think you'll also be amazed that we can still create new musical memories ... You're invited to join us for the greatest nautical hootenanny of all time." "THE NEW CHRISTY MINSTRELS" fan cruise sets sail on April 22, 2007.

Source: Signature Cruise Events 

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

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

Posted by monte at 04:30 PM | Permalink

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Models Feature Enhanced 'Computer-free' Connectivity With New Hard Disk Handycam Camcorders

 Sony Electronics today expanded its DVDirect(TM) DVD recorder family with two new models -- the video- and digital photo-capable VRD-MC3 and the video-only VRD-VC30 recorders.

Both sport "computer-free" synchronization with Sony's new Hard Disk Handycam(R) camcorders, making it easier than ever to preserve and share memories.

The next-generation DVDirect recorders also enable easy, real-time recording of home video footage, digital still images (VRD-MC3 only) and TV shows from digital video recorders to DVDs, all without the need for a computer.

The VRD-MC3 and VRD-VC30 recorders allow for quick and effortless high-quality video transfers from a digital camcorder via a Hi-Speed USB using Handycam cameras or Digital Video (DV) interfaces.

By connecting to the new Sony DCR-SR80, DCR-SR60, DCR-SR40 camcorders, users can simply push the "DVD burn" button on the HDD Handycam Station, and the new recorders will automatically detect the camcorder's newest contents and immediately burn them to DVD.

For easier sharing and archiving users can also consolidate several mini-DVDs into a single full size DVD by directly connecting, via USB, to Sony DVD Handycams.

"Our new DVDirect recorders provide an effortless solution for burning content directly from a camcorder to a DVD with a touch of a button providing home movie and digital photographers with the simplest, most convenient means for sharing and preserving their precious memories," said Bob DeMoulin, marketing manager for branded storage products in Sony Electronics' IT Products Division.

The VRD-MC3 model also enables computer-free recording of digital still images directly from flash memory cards to DVD so you can store photos or create a slideshow for playback on a home DVD player or PC DVD ROM drive.

Additionally, the new DVDirect models can transfer television shows directly from a digital video recorder to a DVD, allowing users to create a backup, free up space on their DVR for additional recording or take their content with them for playback on a portable device.

The multi-function VRD-MC3 recorder has a 2.5-inch color LCD with a wide-view filter -- three times wider than the previous model -- for easy previewing of video and images when used in stand-alone mode.

The VRD-MC3 recorder features slots for five of the most popular digital camera flash media cards, including Memory Stick(R) and Memory Stick Duo(TM) storage media, Compact Flash(R), Secure Digital (SD), and xD cards. The recorder also keeps the JPEG files in their original high-resolution format, and is PictBridge(TM)-compatible, making it ideal for printing individual digital pictures and backing up files.

Computer-free Recording

For optimum flexibility, both models also incorporate Hi-Speed USB, digital video (i.LINK(R)/FireWire(R)/IEEE 1394), and analog S-video and composite video inputs, enabling direct connection of a DVR, camcorder or VCR to transfer tape-based videos to DVD.

The new models maintain Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound, as well as 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios. Both units can also burn up to 12 hours of high-quality hardware-encoded MPEG-2 video on DVD+R DL double layer discs and up to four hours of video or up to 2,000 photos (VRD-MC3 only) onto supported standard, single layer discs. These discs can then be played back and enjoyed on most home DVD players or computer DVD-ROM drives.

Advanced Capabilities in Computer-attached Mode

Both DVDirect recorders come with the Nero(R) Essentials software suite to be used when they are attached to a PC via Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) for consumers who like to customize their home movies and digital pictures.

The included software applications help create copies of home movies and slideshows, as well as DVD discs with customized menus and other advanced features. The bundle includes DVD-video playing, backup, disc label creation and drive tool software.

In computer-attached mode, the VRD-MC3 and VRD-VC30 models can burn DVD+R and DVD-R discs at 16X max, which equates to about six minutes of recording time for about two hours of video. Both also support 8X DVD-R DL/DVD+R DL/+RW, 6X DVD-RW, 40X CD-R and24X CD-RW maximum recording speeds.

Availability and Pricing

Both DVDirect recorders will be available in October for about $250 (VRD-MC3) and $200 (VRD-VC30). Sony DVDirect products are sold through sonystyle.com, at Sony Style retail stores nationwide, and at authorized resellers and retailers across the country. Pre-orders are now being accepted online at sonystyle.com.

Source: Sony Electronics Inc.

Posted by monte at 04:28 PM | Permalink

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After a year in production, Portsmouth New Hampshire's Hatchling Studio's short film "The Toll" is set to premiere July 20th at the Comic-Con International Independent Film Festival in San Diego, California.

Written and directed by Zack Pike, "The Toll" is a computer animated mockumentary featuring a troll that lives under a bridge. As the camera rolls, the troll's comments on work, life, and love range from somewhat inappropriate to outrageously delusional, slowly revealing the hilariously tragic figure of a monster in denial. "The Toll" will premiere on July 20th in Room 26 AB at 5:50 pm at the Comic-Con International Independent Film Festival. The screening will be followed by a Q & A session with the filmmakers. Additionally, during the Festival Hatchling executives and animators will be on hand at Booth 1332.

"We created 'The Toll' to show our studio's storytelling and animation capabilities in the CGI arena. We have received great reviews from the viral clips we have released and are looking at doing more with this storyline," said Hatchling Studios CEO/Producer Marc Dole.

"Just about everybody knows enough fairy tales to know what a troll is," said Pike. "'The Toll' explores one troll a bit further, looking at his job, his women problems, his everyday struggles. How often do we hear from a mythical monster about how his day is going?"

Visit www.TheTollMovie.com for a sneak peak and festival screenings.

Additionally, Hatchling Studios' new 2D animation department will premiere their series "Endurance Challenge: Mordred's Isle" online later this month. Featuring the voice of Billy West ("Ren & Stimpy," "Futurama"), "Endurance Challenge" parodies reality-based television. A team of fantastic monsters is pitted against a team of wizards, warriors, and one unwitting nerd who doesn't quite understand the nature of his situation. The two teams compete in dangerous elimination challenges each episode for a huge cash prize. The series is the collaborative creation of Hatchling CEO/Producer Marc Dole, Writer/Director Zack Pike, and Director Matt Ducharme.

"Working on 'Endurance Challenge' with such a great crew has made the whole experience a lot of fun," said Ducharme. "At times, it feels like the project is doing itself."

  Visit www.HatchlingShorts.com to view the first episode.    And,   visit www.Hatchling.com for more information about Hatchling Studios

Posted by monte at 04:07 PM | Permalink

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Obsidian Entertainment to Demonstrate Neverwinter Nights 2 at Consumer Conventions Nationwide

, Inc (NASDAQ:ATAR) and Obsidian Entertainment today announced plans to visit and demonstrate the highly-anticipated Neverwinter Nights 2 at several consumer conventions this summer. Neverwinter Nights 2 is set in the DUNGEONS & DRAGONS(R) Forgotten Realms(R) universe created by Wizards of the Coast, a subsidiary of Hasbro, Inc. (NYSE:HAS) and will transport players back to the embattled city of Neverwinter. DUNGEONS & DRAGONS is under license from the Hasbro Properties Group, the intellectual property development arm of Hasbro.

The Neverwinter Nights 2 Summer Tour will include guest appearances, speaking engagements and product demonstrations at several popular consumer conventions, including San Diego's Comic Con, Gen Con in Indianapolis, Seattle's Penny Arcade Expo (PAX) and Dragon*Con in Atlanta. Attending fans will be treated to in-depth demonstrations of the Neverwinter Nights 2 single-player campaign, its multiplayer capabilities, as well as tutorials of the immensely powerful toolset that will ship with the game this fall.

Obsidian Entertainment attendees will include founders Feargus Urquhart, Chris Avellone, and Darren Monahan, as well as senior producer Ryan Rucinski and designers Josh Sawyer and Annie Carlson. Fans will receive the opportunity to interact with the Obsidian team -- the video game developers behind some of most well-known role-playing franchises of all time -- including Baldur's Gate(TM), Neverwinter Nights, Planescape: Torment(TM), Icewind Dale(TM), Fallout(TM) and Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II(TM).

  The Nevewinter Nights 2 Summer Tour schedule:     Comic Con                 July 20-23          San Diego, CA    Gen Con Indy              August 10-13        Indianapolis, IN    Penny Arcade Expo (PAX)   August 25-27        Bellevue, WA    Dragon*Con                September 1-4       Atlanta, GA  

Media interested in meeting with the Obsidian team for an interview or product demonstration at any of the above conventions should contact Brandon Smith, brandon@maverickpr.net, (310) 404-9906 or Shane DeFreest, shane@maverickpr.net, (818) 793-7713. Neverwinter Nights 2 is scheduled for release in the Fall 2006. More information about Neverwinter Nights 2 can be found at http://www.nwn2.com/ , which includes user forums, project news, development updates and more.

About Obsidian Entertainment

Obsidian Entertainment, Inc. is a premier software development company passionately dedicated to creating high quality, next generation role-playing games for PC and console systems. More information about Obsidian Entertainment can be found online at http://www.obsidianent.com/ .

About THE HASBRO PROPERTIES GROUP

The Hasbro Properties Group (HPG), the intellectual property development arm of Hasbro, Inc., (NYSE:HAS) , translates one of the industry's richest portfolios of brands into a world of fun and excitement for children and adults globally. Through a host of publishing, digital media, lifestyle and entertainment platforms, HPG is able to surround fans worldwide with consumer products that expand Hasbro's core brands, such as TRANSFORMERS, LITTLEST PET SHOP, MY LITTLE PONY, MONOPOLY, G.I. JOE, TONKA and PLAYSKOOL.

About Atari

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

Safe Harbor Statement

With the exception of the historical information contained in this release, the matters described herein contain certain "forward-looking statements" that are made pursuant to the Safe Harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements in this release are not promises or guarantees and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. These statements are based on management's current expectations and assumptions and are naturally subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances. We caution you not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements. Actual results may vary materially from those expressed or implied by the statements herein. Some of the factors which could cause our results to differ materially include the following: the loss of key customers, such as Wal-Mart, Best Buy, Target, GameStop and EB Games; delays in product development and related product release schedules; inability to secure capital; adapting to the rapidly changing industry technology, including new console technology; maintaining relationships with leading independent video game software developers; maintaining or acquiring licenses to intellectual property; fluctuations in the Company's quarterly net revenues and results of operations based on the seasonality of our industry; the termination or modification of our agreements with hardware manufacturers; and other factors described in our SEC filings.

The Company undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statements to conform the statement to actual results or changes in the Company's expectations.

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS, FORGOTTEN REALMS, Neverwinter Nights, Shadows of Undrentide, and Hordes of the Underdark and related logos are trademarks of Wizards of the Coast Inc. in the United States and/or other jurisdictions, and are used with permission.

Hasbro and its logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Hasbro, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other jurisdictions, and are used with permission. Atari and the Atari logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Atari, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other jurisdictions, and are used with permission. Obsidian Entertainment and the Obsidian Entertainment logo are trademarks of Obsidian Entertainment, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other jurisdictions. Copyright 2006 Atari, Inc. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Source: Atari, Inc.

Posted by monte at 04:06 PM | Permalink

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Nation's Drug Czar Connects With Teens in Treatment, Offers Parents Solutions

America's teens are using technology like text messaging and the Internet to facilitate their drug use, and others are being exposed to drugs through technologies such as chat rooms and social networking sites. To highlight this growing problem, the Nation's Drug Czar today hosted a roundtable with adolescents in drug treatment to discuss the many ways technology aided their substance use and to also offer parents advice on monitoring their teens' digital activities.

"I was always searching [the Internet] for new ways to get high," said Sean, age 17, a teen in treatment at Pathway Family Center in Indianapolis. "My friends and I ordered 'legal marijuana,' which was terrible. I found out how to grow marijuana, how to make it more potent, how to crush pills. I linked my IM [instant messenger] to my favorite drug sites so that my friends could find them, too. When my parents wanted to drug test me, I found out online how to detox so I could get around the tests and show up clean."

Amy, age 17, also at Pathway in Indianapolis, said other technologies helped support her drug habit. "My cell phone was the most important tool for me to get drugs. I kept all of my drug dealers' names in my phone book on my cell phone and would sometimes put them under other names so nobody could find out," she said.

Research shows that teens are frequently online unsupervised and often engage in risky behaviors. The Pew Internet and American Life Project reported in 2005 that 64 percent of online teens say that most teens do things on the Internet that they wouldn't want their parents to know about. And nearly half (48%) of 16- to 17-year-olds report that their parents or guardians know "very little" or "nothing" about what they do on the Internet, according to a 2006 survey conducted by Teenage Research Unlimited (TRU) for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and Cox Communications.

"The pusher has moved to the PC. With one click of the mouse, teens can enter a virtual world of drugs," said John P. Walters, Director of National Drug Control Policy. "The Internet can teach teens how to buy or make drugs, how to use different drugs and other products to get high, and how to beat drug tests."

A noted teen expert, Peter Zollo of Teenage Research Unlimited, stressed that teens are using technology all the time, everywhere. "Almost 90 percent of 12- to 17-year-olds use the Internet; half of them use it daily. About 19 million teens instant message, and 60 percent of teens have their own cell phone."

Teens don't have to be looking for pro-drug information to be at risk. Bogus pharmacies also flood e-mail inboxes with spam pushing prescription drugs. "Drug dealers lurk in chat rooms just like pedophiles, targeting teens with offers of drugs," Walters said. "To protect your teens in the digital world, go where they go. Do not let new technologies and innovations get in the way of good parenting."

Walters identified three actions parents can take to help keep their teens safe:

  1.  Learn about the digital devices your teen uses. Visit their Web pages       or blogs and know who is in their cell phone contact list.   2.  Limit the time your teen spends online, put computers in a common area       of the house to more easily monitor their use.   3.  Set limits on which Web sites, chat rooms, games, or blogs they can       and cannot visit, and discuss consequences for breaking these rules.   

The Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) is publishing an Open Letter to Parents this week in the top 27 media markets in national and local newspapers, and in select magazines, which focuses on the ways in which technology can aid- teen drug use and outlines how parents can monitor teens' digital activities. Seven health, parenting, and media education organizations signed the letter, including: American Academy of Pediatrics; Cable in the Classroom; i-SAFE, Inc.; National Institute on Media and the Family; Partnership for a Drug-Free America; PTA; and Web Wise Kids.

Parents can visit http://www.theantidrug.com/ for additional advice and information. The site features a complete, easy-to-understand tutorial about technology in teens' lives, tips on decoding teens' lingo online, as well as specific tools parents can use to monitor their teen's use of technology.

Since its inception in 1998, the ONDCP's National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign has conducted outreach to millions of parents and teens and hundreds of communities to prevent and reduce teen drug use. Counting on an unprecedented blend of public and private partnerships, non-profit community service organizations, volunteerism and youth-to-youth communications, the Campaign is designed to reach Americans of diverse backgrounds with effective anti-drug messages.

Posted by monte at 04:04 PM | Permalink

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'Dracula-75th Anniversary Edition' and 'Frankenstein-75th Anniversary Edition'

Digitally Remastered Classics on DVD September 26, 2006

Two of the most enduring icons from the first golden era of horror films return to commemorate a historic milestone when "Dracula-75th Anniversary Edition" and "Frankenstein-75th Anniversary Edition" come to DVD September 26, 2006 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. Bela Lugosi and Boris Karloff made movie history in 1931 with their respective roles as the screen's most ominous vampire and the most memorable monster in landmark films that established two legendary legacies and launched a multitude of imitators. Upon their release, "Dracula" and "Frankenstein" shocked audiences and inspired an astonishing new genre of moviemaking, introducing fans to dark, supernatural themes that continue to fascinate filmgoers. The two all-new, digitally remastered versions of the classic original chillers include an array of bonus features that make them the perfect treat for any Halloween celebration.

The "Dracula-75th Anniversary Edition" and the "Frankenstein-75th Anniversary Edition" are part of Universal Studio's Home Entertainment prestigious Legacy Series, honoring some of the best and most beloved films in history. Each two-disc set is priced at $26.98.

"Dracula-75th Anniversary Edition"

"The Dracula-75th Anniversary Edition" stars Bela Lugosi as the terrifying Transylvanian count with a thirst for blood. In addition to the all-new digitally remastered film, this very special collectors' edition features loads of extras including:

  *  Lugosi: The Dark Prince - A tribute to the immortal Bela Lugosi with      interviews, film highlights, insights into his relationships with      "Dracula" director Tod Browning and horror rivals Boris Karloff and Lon      Chaney, plus the impact of Lugosi's signature role on his film career.    *  "Dracula" - The complete Spanish version of the timeless tale, also      made in 1931, with a special introduction by its star, Lupita Tovar.    *  The Road to Dracula - An original documentary by film historian David      J. Skal, tracing the development of the Dracula legend in movies.    *  Features interviews with actors and filmmakers from the original movie.    *  Universal Horror Documentary, narrated by Kenneth Branagh, takes you on      a fascinating chronological journey through the making of the most      memorable monster films of all time.    *  Original Score written by Philip Glass, one of the most influential      composers of the 20th century, and performed by the legendary Kronos      Quartet.    *  Feature Commentary by film historian David J. Skal.    *  Feature Commentary by Steve Haberman, screenwriter of "Dracula: Dead      and Loving It," Mel Brooks' hilarious satire of the Dracula myth.    *  Monster Tracks - While watching the film, viewers can elect to see      interactive pop-ups with obscure, interesting and amusing facts about      the making of Dracula.    *  The original 1931 Theatrical Trailer                   "Frankenstein-75th Anniversary Edition" 

Boris Karloff became a star playing The Monster in what has often been called the greatest horror film of all time. "Frankenstein-75th Anniversary Edition" includes comprehensive historical information about the movie that launched the Hollywood horror craze, including short films and wide-ranging commentary from classic movie experts, as well as some of the people involved in making the film. These special features include:

  *  Karloff: The Gentle Monster - A half hour documentary tribute to horror      icon Boris Karloff, tracing his career using film highlights and      interviews, and examining his relationships with "Frankenstein"      director James Whale and fellow actor Bela Lugosi.    *  The "Frankenstein" Files: How Hollywood Made a Monster - A documentary      hosted by film historian David J. Skal discusses the influence of Mary      Shelley's Gothic novel on Hollywood horror films.  Features interviews      with an array of filmmakers, writers and actors, including Boris      Karloff's daughter, Sara.    *  Universal Horror Documentary, narrated by Kenneth Branagh, takes you on      a fascinating chronological journey through the making of the most      memorable monster films of all time.    *  Boo! - This short film, made in 1932, takes a tongue-in-cheek look at      classic monster movies.  Includes clips from "Frankenstein," "Dracula"      and more.    *  Monster Tracks - While watching the film, viewers can elect to see      interactive pop-ups presenting obscure, interesting and amusing facts      about the making of "Frankenstein."    *  Feature Commentary by film historians Rudy Behlmer, Christopher      Frayling and David J. Skal    *  Frankenstein Archives    *  The original 1931 Theatrical Trailer                                   SYNOPSES                                  "Dracula" 

Starring Bela Lugosi in a career-making role, the original 1931 version of Bram Stoker's groundbreaking vampire tale is still one of the most chilling films ever made. An all-new digitally remastered picture that makes the most of director Tod Browning's atmospheric settings as Dracula journeys from a creepy Transylvanian castle to the elegant drawing rooms of London in search of fresh blood. Horror specialist Browning created an eerie and unsettling fable that continues to chill viewers 75 years later.

"Frankenstein"

Perhaps the best-known horror film ever made, "Frankenstein" boasts an unexpectedly compassionate performance by Boris Karloff as the screen's most memorable monster. Dr. Frankenstein (Colin Clive), the original mad scientist, assembles a creature from exhumed body parts in the screen version of Mary Shelley's nightmarish novel. His ghoulish invention escapes his control with tragic and terrifying results.

  "DRACULA"   CAST & FILMMAKERS   Director: Tod Browning   Written By: Tod Browning, Louis Bromfield, Louis Stevens   Based on a Story by: Bram Stoker   Produced By: Carl Laemmle, Jr., Tod Browning   Director of Photography: Karl Freund   Production Designer: John Hoffman, Herman Rosse   Film Editors: Milton Carruth, Maurice Pivar   Costume Designer: Ed Ware, Vera West   Music By: Philip Glass   Cast: Bela Lugosi, Helen Chandler, David Manners, Dwight Frye, Edward Van         Sloan    TECHNICAL INFORMATION   DVD   Street Date: September 26, 2006   Pre-Order Close:  August 22, 2006   Copyright: 2006 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.   Price:  $26.98 SRP   Selection Number: 31022 (Full Frame)   Running Time: 1 Hour 15 Minutes   Layers: DVD-9   Aspect Ratio: Full Frame (1.33:1)   Rating: Not Rated   Technical Info: English Dolby Digital 2.0 Mono; English SDH; French and                   Spanish Subtitles    "FRANKENSTEIN"   CAST & FILMMAKERS   Director: James Whale   Written By: Francis Edward Forough, Garett Fort   Based on a Story by: Mary Shelley   Produced By:  Carl Laemmle, Jr.   Director of Photography: Arthur Edeson   Film Editor: Clarence Kolster   Music By: Bernhard Kaun   Cast: Boris Karloff, Colin Clive, Mae Clarke, John Boles, Edward Van         Sloan, Dwight Frye    TECHNICAL INFORMATION   DVD   Street Date: September 26, 2006   Pre-Order Close:  August 22, 2006   Copyright: 2006 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.   Price:  $26.98 SRP   Selection Number: 21021   Running Time: 1 Hour 11 Minutes   Layers: DVD-9   Aspect Ratio: Full Frame (1.33:1)   Rating: Not Rated   Technical Info: Dolby Digital 2.0 Mono; English SDH; French and Spanish                   Subtitles  

For artwork or screeners, please log on to our Web site at www.ushepublicity.com or fax your request to Universal Studios Home Entertainment Publicity at (818) 866-0226.

Universal Studios Home Entertainment is a unit of Universal Pictures, a division of Universal Studios (www.universalstudios.com). Universal Studios is a part of NBC Universal, one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. Formed in May 2004 through the combining of NBC and Vivendi, NBC Universal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, and world-renowned theme parks. NBC Universal is 80%-owned by General Electric, with 20% owned by Vivendi.

Posted by monte at 04:01 PM | Permalink

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TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX Presents

A LANDSCAPE ENTERTAINMENT

Production

A BETTY THOMAS FILM

JESSE METCALFE

BRITTANY SNOW

ASHANTI

SOPHIA BUSH

ARIELLE KEBBEL

PENN BADGLEY

And JENNY McCARTHY

Directed by..........................BETTY THOMAS

Written by................................JEFF LOWELL

Produced by............................BOB COOPER

....................................MICHAEL BIRNBAUM

Executive Producers............KAREN LUNDER

........................................MARC S. FISCHER

Director of Photography...................................

..........ANTHONY B. RICHMOND, ASC / BSC

Production Designer..............MARCIA HINDS

Edited by....................MATTHEW FRIEDMAN

Music Supervisor...ALEXANDRA PATSAVAS

Music by..............................RICHARD GIBBS

Costume Designer.....ALEXANDRA WELKER

Casting by.........................ANNE McCARTHY

..................................................JAY SCULLY

..................................COREEN MAYRS, CSA

......................HEIKE BRANDSTATTER, CSA

Unit Production Manager.................................

....................................WENDY S. WILLIAMS

First Assistant Director.............JONO OLIVER

Second Assistant Director.......JOSY CAPKUN

CAST

John Tucker.....................JESSE METCALFE

Kate...................................BRITTANY SNOW

Heather............................................ASHANTI

Beth........................................SOPHIA BUSH

Carrie.................................ARIELLE KEBBEL

Scott....................................PENN BADGLEY

Lori..................................JENNY McCARTHY

Tommy.................................FATSO-FASANO

Basketball Coach................KEVIN McNULTY

Coach Williams..................PATRICIA DRAKE

Spelling Bee Girl..........................AMANDA LI

Cute Boy................................JEFF BALLARD

Justin..................................TAYLOR KITSCH

Skip #1.....................................STEVE BACIC

Skip #2.......................................DEAN WRAY

Skip #3.................................JON CUTHBERT

Skip #4................................AARON DUDLEY

Skip #5.................................MARC MENARD

Skip #6 .......................................DAN PAYNE

Stoner Girl...........MERCEDES DE LA ZERDA

Teammate #1....................BRENDAN PENNY

Teammate # 2.....................TAUREAN MILLS

Molly.................................NICOLE LaPLACA

Crying Waitress..............CHELAN SIMMONS

Coach Claypoole................NANCY J. LILLEY

Goth Girl.............................YALDA ETESSAM

Volleyball Girl.......................DEVON WEIGEL

Detention Teacher.ALFRED E. HUMPHREYS

Helmut (Beth's Photographer).........................

.......................................WOODY JEFFREYS

Holly (John’s Movie Date)...............................

.....................................SAMANTHA McLEOD

Chinese Woman In Theatre...........DIANA HA

Chinese Man In Theatre.......DONALD FONG

Sign Language Girls..............KARLIE LOCKE

...................................STEPHANIE A. LOCKE

Chemistry Teacher..............FULVIO CECERE

Game 2 Opponent................LUCAS McCANN

Referee #2.....................BRUCE MORRISON

Beautiful Girl #1.........BARBARA KOTTMEIER

Beautiful Girl #2.........................NICKI CLYNE

Beautiful Girl #3................KATYA VIRSHILAS

Nancy...........................NICOLE FRAISSINET

Freshman Flower Boy........STUART COWAN

Becky From Student Council...........................

..........................................JULIE PATZWALD

Freshman At Beach.....CONNOR WIDDOWS

Indie Rock Band.........."PEOPLE IN PLANES"

...............................KRISTIAN BLIGHT - Bass

.....................GARETH JONES – Lead Vocals

..............................JOHN MALONEY – Drums

.............................PETER ROBERTS – Guitar

............................IAN RUSSELL – Keyboards

Hallway Girls........................AMANDA CREW

............................................EMILY TENNANT

Guy At Party # 1.................VICTOR Z. ISAAC

Guy At Party #2.BRADEN LESLIE WILLIAMS

Guy At Party #3...............KYLE C. COLEMAN

Guy At Party #4.........................GREG CIPES

Jennifer..............................AMBER BORYCKI

Jill............................................MEGHAN ORY

Teacher In Thong #1.........ALAN SHEARMAN

Teacher in Thong #2...............ARCHIE HAHN

Stunt Coordinator........ MELISSA R. STUBBS

Stunts By:............................LOYD BATEMAN

.......CHAD BELLAMY, COLBY CHARTRAND

....................................LAURO CHARTRAND

..LAURA LEE CONNERY, DOROTHY FEHR

...................CAROLYN FIELD, CORBIN FOX

....LANI GELERA, CHRISTOPHER GORDON

.......ADRIAN HEIN, BRIAN HO, KIM HOWEY

...........YVETTE JACKSON, TREVOR JONES

..JON KRALT, TRACEY RAI, MIKE ROSELLI

...................................................CHAD SAYN

....................GRANT CHRISTOPHER SMITH

.......LARISSA STADNICHUK, RORELEE TIO

Made In Association with DUNE

ENTERTAINMENT LLC and MAJOR

STUDIO PARTNERS

Co-Producer................STEVE RUBENSTEIN

Production Supervisor.....................................

..........................JOSEPH R. HARTWICK, JR.

Art Director..............................BO JOHNSON

Set Decorator......................TEDD KUCHERA

Canadian Art Director.................LEAH HONG

Art Department Coordinator.............................

...........................................LIN-LI ANNE LEE

Art Department Assistant................................

......................................HEATHER WATSON

Assistant Decorator.........................................

..............................BETH NELSON-HOLMES

Set Dec Buyer.............ANDREW EDEN REID

Set Dec Coordinator...........ROSE GORONZY

Lead Dresser....BRANT WILLIAM LINDROOS

On Set Dresser.................SHANE WANLESS

Set Dressers................................MIYA DUBÉ

..................JOHN NEWELL, DAVE MOLSON

Unit Production Manager - LA.........................

........................................MARC S. FISCHER

First Assistant Director – LA............................

...................................JAMES SBARDELLATI

Second Assistant Director – LA.......................

............................................PETER MERWIN

Third Assistant Directors........KEVIN LEESON

................................................ASHLEY BELL

Camera Operator/Steadicam A Cam...........

.................................STEVEN A. ADELSON

B Cam.........................SCOTT MACDONALD

First Assistant Camera A Cam ...........

....................................TAYLOR MATHESON

B Cam....................................NICK WATSON

Second Assistant Camera A Cam............

.......................................RANDY PETERSEN

B Cam.......................BRENDAN CHALMERS

............................................DAN MORRISON

Stills Photographer....................DIYAH PERA

Sound Mixer....................PATRICK RAMSAY

Boom Person.....................DAVE GRIFFITHS

Cable Person...........................NAAN SPIESS

Property Master............TOMMY TOMLINSON

Canadian Property Master........PHIL GOUGH

Assistant Property Masters.............................

.......ROBIN STOOSHNOV, LINDA CHAPPLE

Script Supervisor...........JESSICA CLOTHIER

Assistant Editor...................WARREN PAEFF

Post Production PA.........................................

.......................BENJAMIN "JAMI" PHILBRICK

..............................................LACEY MEDINA

Gaffer....................................DAVID TICKELL

Best Boy Electric.....................JEFF HARVEY

Key Grip............................TONY WHITESIDE

Best Boy Grip...........................MATT ALMAS

Dolly Grip...........................JAMES SALBERG

........................................RUSSELL HAWKES

Company Grips........................DREW DAVID

...........ROBERT LITTLE, OWEN STAMBUCK

Best Boy.................ANDREW PERESZLENYI

Genny Operator......................TOM WATSON

Lamp Operators.............ALIREZA SALAMATI

................................................TING HENSON

Key Rigging Gaffer............SEAN OXENBURY

Rigging Best Boys..................KURT ZELMER

..............................................ROGER WELLS

Rigging Lamp Op...........JORDAN JOHNSON

....STEVE VINCENT, ANDREW McCLENNAN

Key Rigging Grip...................DEAN COLLINS

Rigging Grips........................ROB CHAMRYK

.......CHARLIE GUTTMAN, WILF GUTTMANN

Costume Coordinator.........JANICE DEVRIES

Costume Supervisor.....DAWN LEIGH CLIMIE

Assistant Costume Designer...GAIL L. SMITH

Set Costumers...........................KIA PORTER

....KEVIN HARRISON, DAEVINA DANYLUCK

..........................ANNE BURKE, RUBY DAVIS

Key Makeup Artist..............VICTORIA DOWN

Makeup Assistants....................BEV WRIGHT

............................................VANESSA GILES

Key Hair Stylist.........................IAN BALLARD

Assistant Hair..........................JESSICA RAIN

..................................DANNA RUTHERFORD

Location Manager..........AMIR M. BARSOUM

Production Coordinator...PATRICIA FOSTER

Special Effects Coordinator.WILLIAM H. ORR

Special Effects.............JOHN A. WILKINSON

.....................................TERESA WILKINSON

Construction Coordinator................................

.................................RICHARD M. STRANAN

Construction Foreman.....DAVID FUKAKUSA

Paint Foreman............CARL HEINZ RENKER

Assistant to Betty Thomas (LA)......................

....................................CAITLIN McFARLAND

Assistant to Betty Thomas (Vancouver)..........

.................................................ROGER PAUL

Assistant to Bob Cooper and Karen Lunder....

.......................................MARK TACHOVSKY

Assistant to Marc S. Fischer............................

.........................................JEREMY FISCHER

Production Assistant.........KIMBALL JANSMA

Key PA............................................JON FOX

1st Assistant Production Coordinator...............

..............................................CRAIG J. LANE

2nd Assistant Production Coordinator..............

...........................................CHAD BARAGER

Location P.A.'s.................KENNEDY DAVEY

...............DAVID COSTELLO, DAVID GRAVE

.......MICHELLE NIEKEN, ARMAND SANTOS

....................................MICHELLE TURCOTT

.........LAUREN OPELKA, CRYSTAL BISHOP

Research Consultant..........JODIE TAGGART

Production Accountant...............JULIE SNOW

Assistant Accountants.....................................

......BRENDA McCLELLAN, JESSICA GIHON

...KAREN MARCH, ANTHONY M. FICALORA

Post Production Accountant.............................

..........................................JOHN FLETCHER

LA Casting Associate...............FREDDY LUIS

LA Casting Assistant.............KELLIE GESELL

Canadian Casting Assistant.............................

....................................STEPHANIE PFIEFER

Unit Publicist..................BARBARA CHOMOS

Computer Playback.............SCOTT STEYNS

..........................................BRENT BARRETT

Video Assist........................DAVID KURVERS

Cheerleading Consultant.................................

...................................MOIRA "MOE" BRODY

Basketball Consultant.............SCOTT CLARK

Acrobatic Cheerleading Consultan...................

...........................................POOK-PING YEO

Marine Coordinator..............JASON CROSBY

Transportation Coordinator....SYLVIA NABLO

Transportation Captain...........CLIFF BROWN

Catering...............................EDIBLE PLANET

Chef............................MARILYN KOPANSKY

First Aid / Craft Service......BARBARA BEEBY

......................................LORNE KOSTYSHIN

Supervising Sound Editors...............................

..............MICHAEL J. BENAVENTE, M.P.S.E.

........................................TRICIA LINKLATER

Dialogue Editor.....................ALISON FISHER

Sound Designe.....................MARTIN LOPEZ

Foley Supervisor....................MARK PAPPAS

Foley Artists................PAMELA NEDD KAHN

.......................................VINCENT GUISETTI

Foley Mixer............................KYLE ROCHLIN

Music Editor................RICHARD WHITFIELD

Post Sound Editorial Services by ....................

..........................SONY PICTURES STUDIOS

Post Production Sound Services provided

by........WILSHIRE STAGES, Los Angeles, CA

Re-recording Mixers........KEN TEANEY, CAS

............................MARSHALL GARLINGTON

Additional Re-recording Mixer..........................

..........................................JIM FITZPATRICK

Mixing Recordist.........MARTIN SCHLOEMER

Mix Engineer............MICHAEL MORONGELL

ADR Mixer................ERIC THOMPSON, CAS

ADR Recordist...................CHRIS NAVARRO

Voice Casting........................LEIGH FRENCH

...............................................BRAIN WAVES

ADR Actors......MAXIMINO ARCINIEGA, JR.

....................................LISA "GEORGE" BELL

....THEODORE BORDERS, RANJANI BROW

.WILLIAM ELLIS CALVERT, EMILY CRAMER

.....CAITLIN ROSE CUTT, FRANNIE FELDER

........................SIERRA FRENCH-MYERSON

.......CAZ HARLEAUX, TRACEY N. HEGGINS

.............................CASSIE HERSCHENFELD

..............WENDY HOFFMANN, BILLY JAYNE

..............KEELEY LOCKE, GERRIT LONDON

........AARON MOODY, EMANUEL ORLANDO

........WARREN PAEFF, JACQUELINE PIÑOL

...................SHANI PRIDE, CARRIE REEVES

..KEVIN SCHWIMER, JUSTIN SHENKAROW

....................SHANE SWEET, HANS TESTER

.......................................ARMEN WEITZMAN

...........LISA WILHOIT, TRAVIS VAN WINKLE

Negative Cutter.....................GARY BURRITT

Preview Engineer......................LEE TUCKER

Visual Effects by.....CUSTOM FILM EFFECTS

Additional Visual Effects and Opticals by........

...............................................PACIFIC TITLE

End Title by...RIGHT LOBE DESIGN GROUP

Digital Intermediate Facility....PACIFIC TITLE

Digital Film Colorist.............PAUL BRONKAR

Lab Color Timer..................DENNY McNEILL

Chapman Camera Dollies Provided by............

...........P S PRODUCTION SERVICES, INC. –

.........................................................CANADA

Lighting Equipment Provided by......................

...........................................CINELEASE, INC.

Score Recorded and Mixed by........................

............GORDON FORDYCE, VINCE CIRILLI

Digital Recording by .....NICHOLAS O'TOOLE

Score Recorded and Mixed at.........................

...........................................THE WOODSHED

Score Contracted by .SANDY DeCRESCENT

Music CoordinatorANDREA VON FOERSTER

 SONGS:

I WANT IT ALL

Written by Tim Armstrong, Rob Aston and

Travis L. Barker

Performed by The Transplants

Courtesy of Atlantic Recording Corp.

By arrangement with Warner Music Group

Film & TV Licensing

WE GOT TO LEAVE

Written by Joakim Ahlund

Performed by Caesars

Courtesy of Astralwerks

Under license from EMI Film & Television

Music

MANEATER

Written by Nelly Furtado, Tim Mosley and

Floyd Hills

Performed by Nelly Furtado

Courtesy of Geffen Records/Mosley Music

Under license from Universal Music

Enterprises

CHELSEA

Written by Jimmy Harry and Greg Kurstin

Performed by STEFY

Courtesy of Wind-up Records, LLC

RECUERDOS DE LA ALHAMBRA

Written by Francisco Tarrega

CAN I GET GET GET

Written by Jesper Mortensen and Jeppe

Breum Laursen

Performed by Junior Senior

Courtesy of Crunchy Frog

By arrangement with Zync Music Inc.

DIRTY LITTLE SECRET

Written by Tyson Ritter and Nick Wheeler

Performed by The All-American Rejects

Courtesy of Interscope Records

Under license from Universal Music

Enterprises

I WANT YOU TO WANT ME

Written by Rick Nielsen

Performed by Twintwelve

Courtesy of Architune

FLOAT ON

Written by Isaac Brock, Eric Judy and Dan

Gallucci

Performed by Ben Lee

Courtesy of Ten Fingers Records

HONESTLY

Lyrics by Will Pugh, Music by Cartel

Performed by Cartel

Courtesy of The Militia Group

HIT ME WITH YOUR BEST SHOT

Written by Eddie Schwartz

Performed by The Golden Republic

Courtesy of Astralwerks

Under license from EMI Film & Television

Music

GET DOWN

Written by Ali Theodore, Zach Danziger

and Vincent Alfieri

Performed by Cham Pain

Courtesy of DeeTown Entertainment

By arrangement with Format

50 WAYS TO LEAVE YOUR LOVER

Written by Paul Simon

Performed by Hedy McDonald

Courtesy of Orchard Music Services

1999 Warwick Records

50 WAYS TO LEAVE YOUR LOVER

Written by Paul Simon

Performed by Nada Surf

Courtesy of Barsuk Records

By special arrangement with Bank Robber

Music

EARLY FALL

Written by Hans Gutknecht

Performed by Beat Corp

Courtesy of Kid Gloves Records

CLOSE TO ME

Written by Robert Smith

Performed by The Cure

Courtesy of Elektra Entertainment Group

By arrangement with Warner Music Group

Film & TV Licensing and Fiction

Records/Polydor Limited (UK)

under license from Universal Music

Enterprises

THIS WILL BE OUR YEAR

Written by Chris White

Performed by OK Go

Courtesy of Capitol Records

Under license from EMI Film & Television

Music

CRUSH

Written by Malte Hagemeister and Harry K.

Performed by Urban Delights

Courtesy of Unique Records

By arrangement with Zync Music Inc.

GOODNIGHT GOODNIGHT

Written by Steve Bays, Paul Hawley,

Dustin Hawthorne & Dante DeCaro

Performed by Hot Hot Heat

Courtesy of Sire Records

By arrangement with Warner Music Group

Film & TV Licensing

FOOL FOR LOVE

Written by Jimmy Harry and Stefy Rae

Performed by STEFY

Produced by Jimmy Harry

Stefy Rae appears courtesy of Wind-up

Records, LLC

SUNSET LOVER

Written, Performed and Produced by Josh

Kelley

Josh Kelley appears courtesy of Hollywood

Records

CLUBLAND

Written and Performed by Elvis Costello

Courtesy of Elvis Costello Music

By arrangement with Warner Music Group

Film & TV Licensing

JUST THE GIRL

Written by Adam Schlesinger

Performed by The Click Five

Courtesy of Lava Records LLC

By arrangement with Warner Music Group

Film & TV Licensing

NEVER HAD A DREAM COME TRUE

Written by Stevie Wonder, Sylvia Moy and

Henry Cosby

Performed by Ben Onono

Courtesy of Zync Music Inc.

I NEVER

Written by Jenny Lewis/Blake Sennett

Performed by Rilo Kiley

Courtesy of Warner Bros. Records Inc.

By arrangement with Warner Music Group

Film & TV Licensing

I LIKE WHAT YOU SAY

Written by Matthew Caws, Daniel Lorca

and Ira Elliot

Performed by Nada Surf

Produced by Matthew Caws and Tom

Beaujour

Nada Surf appears courtesy of Barsuk

Records

WIKKED LIL’ GRRRLS

Written by Esthero, Malik Worthy and

Graph Nobel

Performed by Esthero

Courtesy of Reprise Records

By arrangement with Warner Music Group

Film & TV Licensing

LIKE TWISTA

Written by Mike Fratantuno, Terence

Yoshiaki and Brian Lapin

Performed by and Courtesy of

Transcenders

I NEED YOU

Written by Jeff Tucker

Performed by Rock Kills Kid

Courtesy of Reprise Records

By arrangement with Warner Music Group

Film & TV Licensing

I WANT YOU SO HARD

Written and Performed by Eagles of Death

Metal

Courtesy of Downtown Records

TOO COOL

Written by Tommy Boyce

Performed by The Casanovas

Courtesy of Rubber Music Pty Ltd.

By arrangement with Zync Music Inc.

THE NEXT BIG THING

Written by Walter Lee & Chris Wild

Performed by Rockett Queen

Produced by Ben Schigel

INSTANTLY GRATIFIED

Written and Performed by People in Planes

Produced by Dan Austin

People in Planes appears courtesy of

Wind-up Records

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU

Written by Mildred Hill and Patty Hill

TIME AFTER TIME

Written by Cyndi Lauper and Rob Hyman

Performed by Quietdrive

Courtesy of Epic Records

By arrangement with SONY BMG MUSIC

ENTERTAINMENT

WAITING

Written by Dana Taprogge & Gregg Allen

Performed by Taxi Doll

BETTER OPEN THE DOOR

Written by Justin Pierre, Joshua Cain,

Jesse Johnson, Matthew Taylor and Tony

Thaxton

Performed by Motion City Soundtrack

Courtesy of Epitaph

NOT GIVING UP

Written by Anthony Cortese, Allan Taylor,

Sean O’Rourke, Brian Suhovic and Michael

Reeves

Performed by Hudson

Produced by Ryan Sellick and Dan

Scarzella

SOUNDTRACK AVAILABLE ON WIND-UP

RECORDS

THE PRODUCER WISHES TO THANK

THE FOLLOWING FOR THEIR

ASSISTANCE:

NEXT Motorsports

Color and Prints by DELUXE®

LENSES AND CAMERAS

BY CLAIRMONT ®

KODAK

FILM STOCK

DOLBY (logo)

DTS

Approved No 42266

Copyright © 2006 Twentieth Century Fox

Film Corporation and Dune Entertainment

LLC in all territories except Brazil, Italy,

Korea, Japan and Spain.

Copyright © 2006 TCF Hungary Film

Rights Exploitation Limited Liability

Company, Twentieth Century Fox Film

Corporation and Dune Entertainment LLC

in Brazil, Italy, Korea, Japan and Spain.

Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation is

the author of this motion picture for

purposes of copyright and other laws.

The events, characters and firms depicted

in this photoplay are fictitious. Any

similarity to actual persons, living or dead,

or to actual events or firms is purely

coincidental.

Ownership of this motion picture is

protected by copyright and other applicable

laws, and any unauthorized duplication,

distribution or exhibition of this motion

picture could result in criminal

prosecution as well as civil liability.

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People thinking about a visit to the Palm Springs Air Museum to see the Da Vinci Experience exhibit can now have a sneak peek at some of the machines to be displayed by visiting http://www.davinciexperience.info/ . The exhibit will open on November 3rd and will be at the museum through March of next year.

"Our interest in creating the Da Vinci Experience Web site was to provide interested potential visitors with the fastest, cleanest and simplest way to get the essential information they need to see replicas of the more than 60 machines designed and described by Leonardo da Vinci," said Godfrey Harris, Curator of the exhibit.

The Web site includes directions and ticket information for the exhibit, information about how the exhibit was created, how it is being presented, and pictures of some of Da Vinci's machines.

The machines in the exhibit are organized around three themes: transportation, military and mechanical. Each replica has been built according to Da Vinci's notes and with the materials available in 15th century Italy. Eleven machines are full-size and 25 are interactive. People of all ages will be fascinated by the chance to manipulate these machines to see how Da Vinci intended them to function. Each replica is displayed with an illustrated explanatory text, some with mechanical drawings of their modern equivalents, and some with 3-D animations of their operation.

Questions about the exhibit can be directed to the Palm Springs Air Museum at 760-778-6262, ext. 239 or e-mailed to davinci@palmspringsairmuseum.org .

Posted by monte at 12:55 PM | Permalink

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Plus -- Leaping Across the Million Dollar Divide, Gen Y Invades the Workplace and 27 Ways to Negotiate a Raise

 Most Americans now believe a woman belongs in the house, the White House that is. The August/September "Women in Politics" issue of PINK profiles the progressive trends and names nine female leaders who are paving the road to the Presidency. Plus, an exclusive interview with Senator Hillary Clinton on the campaign trail.

And mark your calendars -- PINK's fall conference luncheon series is coming to a city near you! Join PINK in New York, San Francisco, Atlanta, Boston, Washington D.C. or Charlotte for lunch and career advice from some of America's most powerful women in business. Check pinkmagazine.com for more information and to register.

  August/September issue editorial highlights:    * THE MILLION DOLLAR DIVIDE       What is the difference between a "thriving small business" and a   "really thriving business?" Only three percent of woman-owned companies   cross the million dollar divide. Three women highlighted in this story   broke conventional rules in achieved the ultimate success -- bringing in   well over $1 million in annual revenue and defying the statistics. Find   out how they did it.    * WORK FIRST, MOTHER SECOND?       Are you a good mother? Is occasionally putting your career first a   character flaw, or simply honest?  PINK talks with top female execs about   the costs and the rewards of not always chasing Mother of the Year status.    * ASK FOR IT       How do you get what you want? You ask for it. Women don't make as much   as their male counterparts, in part because they believe someone will   notice their hard work and reward them. Men ask. Learn 27 ways to get that   promotion or raise you deserve.    * GEN Y IS COMING       By the year 2010, 76 million "Millennials" will flood the workplace   revolutionizing the corporate world. Ignoring this mega-trend technology   lifestyle could mean the end for older generations. Learning the   Millennials' social networking and collaboration techniques will increase   your office's efficiency and improve your chances for corporate survival.    Plus - in every issue:   * Books in the PINK -- The latest books career women are reading   * Triumph -- Spotlight on one woman who has overcome obstacles to become     tops in her field   * PINK Think -- A witty cartoon commentary on life as a professional woman    About PINK 

PINK magazine features a new generation of America's most influential women who are doing great things in their work and in their lives - redefining success in the 21st century. Published seven times in 2006, PINK offers editorial from award-winning writers and columnists in America's only national magazine dedicated to women's professional growth. Visit pinkmagazine.com for more.

Source: PINK

Posted by monte at 11:53 AM | Permalink

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Planetwide Games Licenses Marvel's Library of Super Heroes for Marvel Themed Versions of Comic Book Creator Software and Content 'Booster Packs'

 San Diego Comic Con International 2006 -- Booth #719 -- Marvel Comics and Planetwide Games, Inc. announced today a teaming up of titanic proportions: Planetwide Games entered into a multi-year licensing deal with Marvel Entertainment to create new content for Planetwide Games' original "Comic Book Creator(TM)" interactive entertainment software. Under the terms of the agreement Planetwide Games has the right to create and publish versions of the interactive software and content booster packs for "Comic Book Creator" based on classic Marvel's characters such as the X-Men, Spider-Man, Fantastic Four, Hulk, Daredevil, Ghost Rider, The Punisher, Captain America, Thor, The Avengers, and Dr. Octopus, to name a few.

"Marvel Heroes are some of the most recognizable and beloved characters in the history of entertainment," said Kevin Donovan, president of Planetwide Games. "By marrying Marvel's pantheon of heroes with our original 'Comic Book Creator' self-publishing software, we are making it possible for legions of fans to tap their own creativity in creating professional quality digital and homemade comic books with authentic Marvel Comics art for their personal enjoyment."

Paul Gitter, Senior vice president consumer products, Marvel Entertainment, added, "We see 'Comic Book Creator' interactive entertainment software as an exciting and original way to extend the Marvel brand experience for the consumer. Many of these heroes are very near and dear to our fans. They feel a personal connection to them, and 'Comic Book Creator' allows users to explore team-ups, battles and storylines that until now only existed in their imaginations."

Planetwide Games recently launched "Comic Book Creator," interactive entertainment software that allows consumers to utilize their own video game screenshots, DVD movies, digital photos or art assets to create authentic-looking comic books and comic strips. The company also plans to introduce the www.ComicBookSociety.net, an online social community site that will encourage users from all over the world to collaborate on and share their comic creations, compete in head-to-head competitions and participate in online digital comic book events.

Planetwide Games will also offer Marvel Comics content "Booster Packs" for "Comic Book Creator" and will feature special categories of characters from the Marvel Heroes Universe.

About Planetwide Games

Based in Orange County, CA, Planetwide Games, Inc. has established itself as a provider of innovative software applications, proprietary online technology and video games. The Company's applications, games and self-publishing platform for user generated content easily integrates into DVD home entertainment products, music CD's, internet portals, major game publishers and developers' titles, or can be sold separately through digital downloads and retail box sales. Planetwide Games is providing an enhanced game playing experience with name-brand awareness and ease-of-use.

Visit http://www.mycomicbookcreator.com/marvelheroes, http://www.planetwidegames.com/, http://www.planetwidecomics.com/, http://www.mycomicbookcreator.com/ and http://www.comicbooksociety.net/.

NOTE: Comic Book Creator and Drag n' Drop Comics are trademarks of Planetwide Games Inc. TM & (C) 2006 Planetwide Games, Inc. All rights reserved.

Posted by monte at 11:51 AM | Permalink

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Comedians Ellen Cleghorne and Carrie Snow will team up and bring laughter and comic relief to service members stationed in Spain and Italy as part of a USO/Armed Forces Entertainment (AFE) tour July 27-Aug. 6. The duo will visit a number of military installations and perform their stand-up comedy, offering a change from the daily grind for troops far from home. This will be the first USO/AFE tour for both entertainers.

Ellen Cleghorne is widely known for her impersonations of Anita Hill, Whoopee Goldberg and Natalie Cole during her time as a "Saturday Night Live" cast member. She has since starred in her own sitcom, "Cleghorne!" and currently performs in clubs and theatres across the country. Carrie Snow was host of the PBS award-winning "Comedy Tonight" for two years and "An Evening at the Improv" before heading back on the road and headlining at comedy clubs. The former story editor of "Roseanne" is also currently featured in "The Aristocrats."

This tour continues the USO tradition of bringing entertainment to troops serving far from home. Comedians who recently contributed to the USO mission to bring entertainment to troops include Colin Quinn, Dave Attell, Fred Travalena and Rich Little.

With more than 125 centers worldwide, the USO has provided entertainment to service members during times of peace and conflict all over the world since 1941. In addition, USO centers also provide free e-mail and Internet access, international phone cards, libraries and travel assistance for troops.

About the USO: For more than 65 years, the USO (United Service Organizations) has been providing morale, welfare and recreational services to U.S. military personnel and their families. The USO is a nonprofit, charitable organization, relying on the generosity of the American people to support its programs and services. The USO is supported by Worldwide Strategic Partners AT&T Inc., BAE SYSTEMS North America, Clear Channel Communications, The Coca-Cola Company, Military Channel, S & K Sales Co. and TriWest Healthcare Alliance. Other corporate donors, including the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC-0600), have joined thousands of individual donors to support the USO. For more information on the USO, please visit our Web site at http://www.uso.org/.

Posted by monte at 11:46 AM | Permalink

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Paula's Video 'Doing Too Much' in Rotation at MTV

Debut album from this 16 year old musical artist on the rise In stores August 29th on Arista Records

DeAnda boasts radio audience of 40 Million and over 70,000 Friends at Myspace.com

 Paula DeAnda, a 16 year old musical artist whose debut single is burning up the airwaves with a 40 million audience at the Top 40 and Rhythm formats will get a huge push on the web starting July 18th when her promotion with Yahoo! Music kicks off as "The New Now" featured artist on the Yahoo! Music page. Paula will be a featured artist on Yahoo!'s lead music page for one month with exclusive interview and performance footage.

Paula DeAnda's "Doing Too Much" debuted on MTV's "TRL" last month and the video was just added into rotation at the channel this past week. Her single in heavy rotation at major radio stations such as KISS in LA and Z100 in NYC and is being played on nearly 100 stations across the country.

Co-written by DeAnda and Baby Bash and produced by Happy Perez, her single "Doing Too Much" is currently available at all digital providers. She is currently wrapping up recording of her debut album with Baby Bash, Sean Garrett, Ne-Yo and others. The album is scheduled for release August 29th on Arista Records. Paula auditioned for Clive Davis this spring and was signed to a recording deal on the spot. She already has over 70,000 friends at myspace.com and has been profiled at "Yahoo! Musica."

VIDEO STREAMS - PAULA DEANDA "DOING TOO MUCH"

QUICKTIME

http://media.bmgonline.com/jrecords.com/various/video/PaulaDeanda_TooMuch_HI.mov

http://media.bmgonline.com/jrecords.com/various/video/PaulaDeanda_TooMuch_MID.mov

http://media.bmgonline.com/jrecords.com/various/video/PaulaDeanda_TooMuch_LO.mov

REAL VIDEO

http://media.bmgonline.com/jrecords.com/various/video/PaulaDeanda_TooMuch_HI.ram

http://media.bmgonline.com/jrecords.com/various/video/PaulaDeanda_TooMuch_MID.ram

http://media.bmgonline.com/jrecords.com/various/video/PaulaDeanda_TooMuch_LO.ram

WINDOWS MEDIA VIDEO

http://media.bmgonline.com/jrecords.com/various/video/PaulaDeanda_TooMuch_HI.asx

http://media.bmgonline.com/jrecords.com/various/video/PaulaDeanda_TooMuch_MID.asx

http://media.bmgonline.com/jrecords.com/various/video/PaulaDeanda_TooMuch_LO.asx

Source: Arista Records

Posted by monte at 11:44 AM | Permalink

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 At VSDA in Las Vegas last week the rumor is that "Dead Mans Chest will be out on DVD within the next quarter? A holiday release or earlier?)

89% of Moviegoers Polled Would Have Still Paid to See Captain Jack on the Big Screen Even if Day and Date DVD Release Was Available

Having measured the desire of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest moviegoers to see the film in- theater, the Movie Advisory Board, a joint initiative between Nielsen Entertainment and MovieTickets.com, announced today the results of a survey of over 1700 moviegoers who had seen Pirates from its opening through last week. 89% of Pirates theatergoers stated they would have still seen the film in a movie theater, even if it was available on the day of its theatrical release, either for sale or rental.

The exact question posed to those who purchased a ticket and attended Pirates in a movie theatre was:

   If the DVD of "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest" were available    for sale (for between $19.99 and $24.99) or rental (at your usual rental    fee) on the SAME DAY it premiered in the theatres (last Friday 7/7/06),    would you have:     A. Bought the Pirates DVD and not seen it in the theater    B. Rented the Pirates DVD and not seen it in the theater    C. Still seen Pirates in the theater    D. Still seen Pirates in the theater and also bought the DVD    E. Still seen Pirates in the theater and also rented the DVD    The results were as follows:     7%  -  Bought the Pirates DVD and not seen it in the theater    4%  -  Rented the Pirates DVD and not seen it in the theater    38% -  Still seen Pirates in the theater    47% -  Still seen Pirates in the theater and also bought the DVD    4%  -  Still seen Pirates in the theater and also rented the DVD  

Uniquely, all respondents to the survey were validated as ticket purchasers through the MovieTickets.com transaction data.

"Pirates illustrates the reliable commitment to moviegoing a consumer has when there is equity between the price and time required to consume a movie in the theater and the value derived," said Adrienne Becker, GM Strategic Development for Nielsen Entertainment. "Even with day and date release, the results of this preliminary study illustrate the potential opportunity to expand revenue rather than cannibalize it, with custom release strategies honed for specific films and their targets."

"When it comes to movie consumption options, Pirates demonstrates that the in-theater, moviegoing experience does not require oversized screens or 3D effects to maintain its unparalleled uniqueness," added Gary Hiller, President of MovieTickets.com's Market Research Division. "Whereas Pirates' historic box office numbers highlight moviegoers' interest in the film based on exposure to reviews, recommendations or marketing initiatives prior to seeing the film, these post-viewing survey numbers reveal Pirates moviegoers' specific commitment to see the film in the theater, notwithstanding the hypothetical availability of alternate methods of delivery and consumption."

The Movie Advisory Board's Choice Index continues to be developed and will be released weekly. Clients interested in the service can contact Nicholas Covey at 323/817-1958 of Nielsen.

About the Movie Advisory Board

The Movie Advisory Board (MAB) ( http://www.movieadvisoryboard.com/ ) is a joint initiative between Nielsen Entertainment and MovieTickets.com, a leading Internet box office. MAB is a community of moviegoers who either buy movie tickets or search for movie information online and who have elected to participate in a variety of market research endeavors. Some of the MAB services include moviegoer demographic reports, national exit services, online behavior analyses, windows tracking, time targeted mobile polling and advertising/media effectiveness. MAB affords clients the ability to both observe and converse with moviegoers, before and after a moviegoing decision, as well as the ability to match what the consumer reports doing, with actual behavior.

About Nielsen Entertainment

Nielsen Entertainment was formed in 2003 to bring together the best individuals, methodological practices and data collection resources across the world. Through custom research, consulting and the most comprehensive network of entertainment measurement systems, Nielsen Entertainment delivers Actionable Entertainment Intelligence to clients engaged in the business of selling entertainment and trading in the marketplace of our popular culture.

Nielsen Entertainment is comprised of the following businesses: National Research Group (NRG), Independent (NRGi), EDI and EDI International, Television Services, SoundScan, Broadcast Data Systems (BDS), Music Control, VideoScan, Market Navigator, Mobile, Live Events, BookScan, BookData, and Interactive Entertainment, and utilizes the full portfolio of sister companies including Nielsen Media Research and Nielsen Net Ratings to deliver a whole media point of view. Nielsen Entertainment is part of VNU ( http://www.vnu.com/ ), a global leader in information services for the media and entertainment industries.

About MovieTickets.com

MovieTickets.com ( http://www.movietickets.com/ ), the most powerful Internet movie ticketing service, provides consumers with the ease of a virtual box office from the convenience of their home or office. Formed in spring 2000, MovieTickets.com is a joint venture between AMC Entertainment, Hollywood Media Corp. (NASDAQ:HOLL) , National Amusements, Famous Players, Marcus Theatres (NYSE:MCS) , Viacom (NYSE:VIA) , and America Online, and leverages the collective exhibitor expertise to deliver consumers a premium movie ticketing experience. MovieTickets.com enables consumers to buy tickets online for movie screens across the United States and Canada, and in the U.K. Its elite collection of partner theaters consistently represents over 50% of the top 50 and over 50% of the top 100 grossing theaters in North America on any given weekend.

Source: Movie Advisory Board

Posted by monte at 11:43 AM | Permalink

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Gold-Plus Debut Album 'EYE TO THE TELESCOPE' Maintains Heavy Multi-Media Exposure in Sixth Smash Month of American Release

 As the weeks and months pass, singer/songwriter KT TUNSTALL's debut album, EYE TO THE TELESCOPE, is looking more and more like pop music's most durable breakout of 2006. In response to demand generated by months of radio, video, television and film attention, Tunstall will return to the U.S. for a month of headlining dates in the U.S. northeast, midwest and southern regions in the early fall.

Tunstall's album, was certified gold by the RIAA on April 28, just three months after its February 2006 U.S. release on Virgin, thanks to radio and VH1 play of the lead single "Black Horse and the Cherry Tree," an enthusiastically-received pre-release Stateside tour, and an attention- grabbing early spot on NBC's Today. As spring turned into summer, the album kicked into a new level of awareness with a series of splashy cross-media placements. Both physical and digital sales enjoyed immediate surges and have now sustained strength through the album's sixth month of release. This week, the album's unit sales jumped 17%, the biggest sales increase of any album in the national top 50.

Even as "Black Horse," far from burning out, this week remains the most-played song at adult radio nationally, and mainstream top 40 radio play of the track continues to increase, the second single from EYE TO THE TELESCOPE, "Suddenly I See," enjoys a prime position as the opening song in the Meryl Streep/Anne Hathaway film comedy The Devil Wears Prada, which opened to movie audiences at a strong No. 2 position. Digital sales of the song spiked 162% this week, and Amazon added Tunstall's album to a mini-store dedicated to film-related items. The video clip of "Suddenly I See" will hit VH1.com on July 25th, and have a special world cable premiere on VH1's Top 20 countdown show on Saturday July 29th.

Tunstall's music has been repeatedly sought out this year by television's creatives: a one-verse excerpt of "Black Horse," performed on American Idol by the front-running contestant Katherine McPhee, created an instantaneous spike in Tunstall's online sales, through both Amazon.com and iTunes. "Black Horse and the Cherry Tree" was also featured in the series finale of the long-running NBC comedy Will and Grace, while another Telescope album track, "Universe and U," was heard in the season-ending episode of the hit ABC hospital drama Grey's Anatomy.

Among the major live television performances Tunstall has made since her album release: The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Live with Regis and Kelly, Last Call With Carson Daly, Late Show with David Letterman, Jimmy Kimmel Live, Late Night with Conan O'Brien, Ellen, and DirecTV's satellite-based music program, CDUSA. Upcoming appearances will include Soundstage, airing on PBS July 27th; and, later in the fall, the renowned PBS institution, Austin City Limits.

In May 2006, Tunstall partnered with Origins Natural Resources and Virgin Records for cross-promotion of her music and Origins' line of wellness-based skin care, bath and beauty products, through personal appearances, in-store music programming and charitable endeavors, including Project Sunshine, a non-profit organization that provides free programs and services to children and families affected by serious medical challenges.

  KT TUNSTALL HEADLINE LIVE SHOWS, FALL 2006   (confirmed as of 7/11)    Fri    9/8/2006        Electric Factory             Philadelphia, PA   Mon    9/11/2006       Amos'                        Charlotte, NC   Tue    9/12/2006       The Ritz                     Raleigh, NC   Wed    9/13/2006       Center Stage/Earthlink Live  Atlanta, GA   Fri    9/15/2006       House of Blues               New Orleans, LA   Sat    9/16/2006       Meridian                     Houston, TX   Sun    9/17/2006       Austin City Limits Festival  Austin, TX   Wed    9/20/2006       The Pageant                  St. Louis, MO   Thu    9/21/2006       Liberty Hall                 Lawrence, KS   Fri    9/22/2006       Riviera Theatre              Chicago, IL   Mon    9/25/2006       Barrymore Theatre            Madison, WI   Tue    9/26/2006       Egyptian Room                Indianapolis, IN   Wed    9/27/2006       Bogart's                     Cincinnati, OH   Mon    10/2/2006       City Hall                    Nashville, TN   Tue    10/3/2006       Newport Music Hall           Columbus, OH   Wed    10/4/2006       Mr. Small's Theater          Millvale, PA   Tue    10/10/2006      Toad's Place                 New Haven, CT   Wed    10/11/2006      Lupo's Heartbreak            Providence, RI 

Source: Virgin Records

Posted by monte at 11:35 AM | Permalink

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New Online Ads Are Up in All Nine U.S. Regions

 New unduplicated online job ads increased in June to 2,436,300, according to The Conference Board Help-Wanted OnLine Data Series(TM). The June level was 81,800, or 3 percent above the previous month and followed an increase of 4 percent in May.

The number of new ads for online jobs in June marks a new peak for the series, surpassing the previous high in March 2006 of 2,401,200. In June, there were 1.63 online job ads per 100 persons in the U.S. labor force, compared with 1.57 in May 2006, 1.51 in April and 1.6 in March. Over the year June 2005 to June 2006, new online job ads increased 19.0 percent.

"While the number of online job ads rose in June, the monthly growth rate has slowed over the last several months," said Gad Levanon, Economist at The Conference Board. "The slowdown in month-over-month growth is consistent with the weakening we're seeing in measures of vacancies in other government data, where the growth rate has been essentially flat since the beginning of 2006. The employment numbers from the establishment survey and other labor market indicators, including employment related findings from The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index, are also providing signals of a weakening job market in recent months."

The monthly figures reported in the Help-Wanted OnLine Data Series(TM) are the sum of the number of unduplicated new online job ads for each day of the calendar month. The series is a new series with data available monthly beginning in April 2005 and does not have sufficient history to allow for seasonal adjustments.

A Cross-Country Pickup

New online job ads per 100 persons in the labor force increased in all nine census regions in June compared to the May level. The largest increases for the month were in the West North Central and the Pacific regions, up 9 percent and 6 percent respectively. The smallest increases were in the Middle Atlantic region (New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey), and the Mountain region (Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico), up 1 percent and 2 percent respectively. New England remains the region with the highest number of new online jobs per 100 persons (2.50), and the East South Central with the lowest (1.01).

Over the period June 2006 to June 2005, the number of new job ads was up in all census regions as well. The largest increase was in the West South Central region, up 42 percent over the year. This region includes Texas and Oklahoma as well as Louisiana where the job picture is impacted by last year's severe hurricanes and increased rebuilding activity. Other areas with substantial year-over-year gains in online job ads were the West North Central and Pacific regions (28 percent and 27 percent, respectively).

In contrast, online job ads in the East South Central region (Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi and Tennessee) only increased slightly by 1.7 percent between June 2005 and June 2006. Other areas reporting an increase slower than the national average are the Middle Atlantic region (New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania), up 12.7 percent, and the East North Central region (Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan and Wisconsin), up 12.3 percent. "This OnLine Series is still very new and in a developmental stage, making the regional year-over- year changes something that should be interpreted with caution," said Mr. Levanon.

OnLine Job Ads Rise to a New High in San Diego

In June, San Diego posted a new high of over 4 job ads for every 100 persons in the local labor force. San Diego has led the nation for the last three months, and is the first of the 52 metropolitan areas for which data are reported separately to hit the 4 job ads per 100 labor force mark.

Other metropolitan areas with a large number of ads per 100 persons in the labor force were concentrated on the east and west coasts and include San Francisco (3.69) Seattle-Tacoma (3.66), Boston (3.56) and San Jose (3.39). In June, and in all the previous months in 2006, the Detroit metropolitan area, with less than one online job ad per 100 persons in the labor force (0.87), had the lowest number of ads adjusted for the labor force.

ABOUT THE NEW ONLINE JOB SERIES

The Conference Board Help-Wanted OnLine Data Series(TM) measures the number of new, first-time online jobs posted on more than 1,200 major Internet job boards and smaller job boards that serve niche markets and smaller geographic areas. Like The Conference Board's long running Help-Wanted Advertising Index of print ads (which has been published since 1951), the new online series is not a direct measure of job vacancies. The level of ads in both print and online may change for reasons not related to overall job demand.

The Conference Board, as a standard practice with new data series, considers the estimates in The Conference Board Help-Wanted OnLine Data Series(TM) to be developmental. As a not-for-profit business research organization, The Conference Board is publishing the early months of this series for use by the media, analysts, researchers and the business community. Persons using this data are urged to review the information on the database and methodology available on our website and contact the economists listed at the top of this release with questions and comments. Background information and technical notes on this new series are available at: http://www.conference-board.org/economics/helpwantedOnline.cfm. The underlying data for this series is provided by WANTED Technologies, Inc. CareerBuilder, Inc. provides financial support for the series.

ABOUT THE CONFERENCE BOARD

Non-partisan and not-for-profit, The Conference Board is the world's leading business membership and research organization. The Conference Board produces The Consumer Confidence Index and the Leading Economic Indicators for the U.S. and other major nations. These barometers can have a major impact on the financial markets. The Conference Board also produces a wide range of authoritative reports on corporate governance and ethics, human resources and diversity, executive compensation and corporate citizenship. Our conference and council programs bring together more than 10,000 senior executives each year to share insights and learn from each other. Visit The Conference Board's award-winning website at http://www.conference-board.org/.

About WANTED Technologies Inc.

Founded in 1997, WANTED Technologies Inc. is a leading provider of real- time sales and business intelligence. Through its proprietary data mining and aggregation technology, WANTED delivers concise, accurate and actionable data, aimed at helping to increase sales and profitability for its clientele throughout North America. WANTED was recently bestowed the Model of Excellence Award by the InfoCommerce Group in recognition of online business innovation. For more information, visit http://www.wantedtech.com/.

About CareerBuilder.com

CareerBuilder.com is the nation's largest online job site with more than 20 million unique visitors and over 1 million jobs. Owned by Tribune Company, Gannett Co., Inc., and Knight Ridder, Inc., the company offers a vast online and print network to help job seekers connect with employers. CareerBuilder.com powers the career centers for more than 550 partners that include 165 newspapers and leading portals such as MSN and America Online. For more information about CareerBuilder.com products and services, visit http://www.careerbuilder.com/.

Posted by monte at 11:32 AM | Permalink

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DoD Identifies Army Casualty
            The Department of Defense announced today the death of a
soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.



            Staff Sgt. Jason M. Evey, 29, of Stockton, Calif., died on
July 16 of injuries sustained when his Bradley Fighting Vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device during combat operations in Baghdad, Iraq. 

Evey was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 10th Calvary Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, Fort Hood, Texas.

Identifies Army Casualty

            The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.


            Sgt. Andres J. Contreras, 23, of Huntington Park, Calif., died on July 15 of injuries sustained when his HMMWV encountered an improvised explosive device in Baghdad, Iraq during combat operations.  Contreras was assigned to the 519th Military Police Battalion, 1st Combat Support Brigade, Fort Polk, La.

 Two American soldiers died in Iraq

yesterday, military officials reported, and the Defense Department has
identified two earlier casualties.

A soldier assigned to 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division, died in Anbar
province. A Multinational Division Baghdad soldier died in a bomb
explosion south of Baghdad. Their names are being withheld until their
families are notified.

The Defense Department released the identities of two other
servicemembers killed recently supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

- Army Sgt. Andres J. Contreras, 23, of Huntington Park, Calif., died
July 15 of injuries suffered when his Humvee encountered an improvised
explosive device in Baghdad. Contreras was assigned to the 519th
Military Police Battalion, 1st Combat Support Brigade, Fort Polk, La.
- Army Sgt. Thomas B. Turner Jr., 31, of Cottonwood, Calif., died July
14 at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, in Germany, of injuries
suffered July 13 when an improvised explosive device detonated near his
Bradley fighting vehicle in Muqdadiyah, Iraq. Turner was assigned to the 1st
Squadron, 32nd Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st
Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky.

One coalition soldier was killed and 11

others were wounded yesterday during a battle with Taliban extremists in
the Tarin Kowt district of Afghanistan's Oruzgan province, military
officials reported.

Coalition forces had attacked and destroyed a truck that extremists
were loading with mortar equipment. Afterward, coalition and Taliban
forces engaged in a pitched battle. Enemy casualties have yet to be
reported, U.S. officials said.

"We are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our brave soldiers
today," U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Benjamin C. Freakley, commander of Combined Joint
Task Force 76, said in a statement. "The men killed and wounded today
fought an intense battle against extremists who oppress the rights of
women, murder the innocent and harbor terrorists as they did during the
Taliban regime.

"Our soldier, who sacrificed his life today to prevent such tyranny
from returning to Afghanistan, will not be forgotten," Freakley said.

Elsewhere, Afghan National Army and coalition forces detained a
terrorist leader and seized a large weapons cache south of Kunduz near the
village of Baghlan July 16. Elements of the 2nd Kandak, 1st Brigade, 209th
ANA Corps, and coalition forces detained Amir Gul Hassanyar, an area
terrorist leader, during a search operation.

The terrorist leader is believed to be responsible for numerous attacks
using improvised explosive devices, trafficking in illegal weapons and
drugs, and engaging in other anti-coalition and anti-Afghan government
activities. A detailed search of the compound in which Hassanyar was
found resulted in the discovery of 500 17 mm high-explosive rounds, 80
kilograms of ammonium nitrate, 153 rounds of 82 mm mortar rounds, 42
rocket-propelled grenade rounds, 600 rounds of small-arms ammunition, six
anti-personnel mines, one 50-pound plastic-explosive bomb, one white
Toyota Corolla vehicle, and six Afghan National Police uniforms.

"Gul is a threat to the people and the government of Afghanistan," U.S.
Army Col. Thomas Collins, a coalition spokesman, said. "Receiving and
disposing of these weapons reduces the danger posed by extremists who
would use them to harm innocent civilians and Afghan and coalition
forces."

In other news from Afghanistan, U.S. officials announced today that
Afghan and coalition forces have seriously disrupted Taliban leadership,
facilitators and rank and file fighters throughout southern Afghanistan,
but particularly in the Sangin, Musa Qala and Baghran districts of
Helmand province.

"Afghan and coalition forces have killed numerous low and mid-level
commanders that the senior Taliban leadership rely on to intimidate
villages, threaten elders and lead small bands of extremists to conduct
attacks on Afghan and Coalition forces," Army Lt. Col. Paul Fitzpatrick, a
spokesman for Combined Joint Task Force 76, said.

Mountain Thrust was intended to significantly impact the Taliban
network, and Fitzpatrick said the operation has yielded progress. "We went to
Sangin, left and returned, each move calculated one step ahead of our
common enemy," he said. "We're confident that we're inside their
decision cycle and have seen indications of confusion on their part."

Afghan and coalition forces are not revealing their next move for
security reasons, but are confident they can keep Taliban extremists off
balance, Fitzpatrick said.

"By breaking up Taliban cells and bands, Afghan national security
forces will continue to build upon coalition successes by employing forces
to extend good governance throughout the south," he said. "These actions
will improve the security and stability in the southern provinces,
which opens the door for the construction of more infrastructure, more
employment, economic development and a better life for the Afghan people."

DoD Identifies Army Casualty
            The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier
who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.



            Sgt. Alkaila T. Floyd, 23, of Grand Rapids, Mich., died on July 13
in Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Landstuhl, Germany, of injuries
sustained on July 8 when an improvised explosive device detonated near
his Mine Protected Vehicle in Ar Ramadi, Iraq.  Floyd was assigned to the
54th Engineer Battalion, 130th Engineer Brigade, Bamberg, Germany.

 

DoD Identifies Army Casualty
            The Department of Defense announced today the death of a
soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

            Sgt. Robert P. Kassin, 29, of Las Vegas, Nev., died on July
16 at Larzab Base, Afghanistan, when his platoon encountered enemy forces
small arms fire during combat operations.  Kassin was assigned to the 2nd
Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division,
Fort Polk, La.

Missing WWII Airmen Identified

              The Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced
today that nine servicemen missing in action from World War II have been
identified and are being returned to their families for burial with full military
honors.

            They are 1st Lt. William M. Hafner, Norfolk, Va.; 2nd Lt.
Arthur C. Armacost, III, Cincinnati, Ohio; 2nd Lt. David R. Eppright,
Warrensburg, Mo.; 2nd Lt. Charles F. Feucht, Reynoldsburg, Ohio; Technical Sgt.
Raymond S. Cisneros, San Antonio, Texas; Technical Sgt. Alfred W. Hill, Temple,
Okla.; Technical Sgt. James G. Lascelles, New York, N.Y.; Staff Sgt. William
C. Cameron, Los Angeles, Calif.; and Staff Sgt. Wilburn W. Rozzell,
Duncan, Okla. All were members of the 63rd Bombardment Squadron, 43 Bombardment
Group.



            The individually-identified remains of Armacost, Cameron,
Hafner and Lascelles will be buried July 19 at Arlington National Cemetery
near Washington, D.C. as are the group remains representing all nine
crewmen. Cisneros, Rozzell, Feucht, Eppright and Hill were buried elsewhere.



On November 4, 1943 Hafner and his crew took off in a B-24 Liberator
from Dobodura, Territory of New Guinea.  The men were on an armed
reconnaissance mission over the Bismark Sea.  A few hours into the flight Hafner
sighted a convoy of Japanese ships and was told to shadow the convoy and report
back.Four hours later the crew radioed from the B-24 that they had made
three direct hits on the convoy and destroyed the target.  That was the last
radio contact with the crew.



            In March 2002 a team from the Joint POW/MIA Accounting
Command (JPAC) was contacted by a local government official through the U.S.
Embassy. The team was exploring unrelated WW II aircraft crash sites in Papua
New Guinea.  The official turned over aircraft data plates, human remains
and three ID tags which had been found at a crash site in Morobe Province.



            During the excavation of the site in Aug.-Sept. 2003, the
team recovered additional remains and personal effects including
identification tags and bracelets.  The remains were submitted to the Armed Forces DNA
Identification Laboratory (AFDIL).  Specialists at JPAC and AFDIL used
mitochondrial DNA as one of the forensic tools to help identify the
remains of these servicemen.  Laboratory analysis of dental remains also confirmed
their identification.

Sea, Air Evacuations Proceed from Lebanon 

A contracted ship has docked in Lebanon to
evacuate U.S. citizens caught in the fighting there, and U.S. officials
have ordered the expeditionary strike group based around the USS Iwo
Jima to assist in the effort, DoD officials said here today.

DoD contracted a Greek ocean liner, the Orient Queen, to evacuate
American citizens from Beirut, and that vessel has docked, a senior DoD
official told reporters.

The liner can hold up to 750 people for the five-hour voyage to Cyprus,
an island nation in the western Mediterranean. In addition, six CH-53
helicopters -- three from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit and three
from U.S. forces based in the United Kingdom -- are evacuating Americans
citizens from the American embassy compound in Beirut. The air
evacuation is aimed at citizens with special needs. The helicopters deliver the
refugees to Cyprus. DoD is building to a capacity of 300 people
evacuated by air per day. "We will increase that number if needed," the
official said.

The destroyer USS Gonzalez is providing security for the Orient Queen,
officials said.

The official said DoD is finalizing contracts with up to four other
vessels with capacities ranging from 200 to 300 people to over 1,000.

State and defense officials did not specify the number of Americans
that U.S. forces would evacuate from Lebanon, saying they will evacuate
however many Americans want to leave the country. There are around 25,000
American citizens in Lebanon, but not all will want to leave the
country, an official said. "It could be 5,000 (who want to leave); it could
be 10,000," a State Department spokesman said. If fighting intensifies
between Israel and Hezbollah, more Americans may wish to escape the
battle, officials said.

The headquarters of Task Force 59, commanded by Marine Brig. Gen. Carl
Jensen, is directing the evacuation operation from Cyprus. The Iwo Jima
group, which includes the Iwo Jima, the USS Nashville, the USS Whidbey
Island, the USS Trenton, and the High Speed Vessel Swift, will arrive
off Lebanon later this week.

The contracted carriers and the U.S. Navy ships will have more than
enough capacity to evacuate anyone who wishes to leave, the senior Defense
official said.

National Guard Ahead of Schedule for Operation Jump Start

 National Guard troops flowing to the
Southwest border are highly visible to drivers at an Interstate 35
inspection station north of this Texas border town as soldiers assist U.S.
Border Patrol agents scrutinizing every northbound vehicle.

In other places -- such as a maintenance shop at the Border Patrol's
Laredo North Station, the stables at the Del Rio Station or the
communications center in Yuma, Ariz. -- the soldiers and airmen are not visible
to the public.

But the National Guard is here. Up to 6,000 troops participating in
Operation Jump Start are expected to be performing duty along the
1,300-mile border in four states from Texas to California by Aug. 1.

The National Guard has exceeded its own operational goals, Army Lt.
Gen. H Steven Blum, chief of the National Guard Bureau, said July 14 at
the Pentagon.

Some 800 troops were promised by June 15; more than 1,000 were
delivered. And about 300 more troops than the 2,500 promised were in the border
states by the end of June. "We are on the glide slope to deliver up to
6,000 by the first of August," Blum said.

The $770-million operation in support of U.S. Customs and the Border
Patrol, which could continue for up to two years, followed President
Bush's mid-May request for the Guard to help strengthen the border.

"This is truly a civilian law enforcement operation that we happen to
be in support of," Blum said.

Border Patrol agents being helped by Operation Jump Start, residents in
border communities and Guard members themselves seem pleased. "I'm
really glad that they're helping us," said Senior Patrol Agent Antonio
Parra, who in mid-July was training a soldier to operate border cameras
from a room in the Laredo North Station in the Laredo Sector. "It helps
get more agents in the field so we can apprehend more undocumented
immigrants."

A man at an Interstate 35 rest area called out to a Guard member
wearing an Army combat uniform. "Thank you!" he said. "I'm glad the Guard is
on the border."

Army Pfc. Michael Perry. of the Texas National Guard's 249th
Maintenance Support Battalion, 36th Infantry Division, said he'll work as a
welder for the Border Patrol at the Laredo North Station "as long as they
let me."

"We're freeing up agents to go do their job," he said.

Guard members are maintaining Border Patrol vehicles, easing a
maintenance backlog at some stations. They are working as wranglers for Border
Patrol horses. They are the eyes in the Border Patrol's communications
centers, scrutinizing dozens of screens that relay images from border
cameras.

Citizen soldiers and airmen are drilling desert wells that will bring
water closer to Border Patrol agents. They are fueling Border Patrol
vehicles. Though deliberately separated from suspected illegal immigrants
and drug runners, they are monitoring those apprehended in booking
facility control rooms.

The Guard is backing up Border Patrol agents who stop traffic to check
for illegal entrants to the United States and run detection dogs around
vehicles. It is building patrol roads and fences; adding lighting,
cameras and sensors; conducting aerial reconnaissance; and providing
transport, medical assistance and communications support.

About 2,500 troops will be on entry identification teams. "They
basically observe illegals or people coming across the border day and night
with night-vision goggles and GPS (Global Positioning Systems)," Blum
said. "They radio that information to the Border Patrol so that the Border
Patrol can intersect or intercept those people, determine whether it's
criminal or it's legitimate, and then take the law enforcement action
necessary."

And Guard members are reaching out to the communities where they are
serving, reassuring residents that the National Guard is not militarizing
the border and demonstrating through their actions the wide variety of
skills possessed by soldiers and airmen.

In Laredo, Guard leaders have attended community luncheons, talked to
community groups, met with elected and appointed leaders, and
volunteered for a blood drive, a charity fundraiser and a July 4 celebration.

"We're not putting (up to) 6,000 armed National Guardsmen on the border
as a show of force," Blum said. "We are in support of a homeland
security operation or a Customs and border protection operation."

"It's a great mission. It's something that's important. So far it's
working great -- Border Patrol agents and Guard members working
side-by-side with each other," said Army Spc. Benito Garza, of the Texas National
Guard's 436th Chemical Company.

Garza and fellow unit member Spc. Fernando Santa Cruz are maintaining
Border Patrol vehicles at the Laredo North Station. "They need a hand,"
Santa Cruz said. "We're helping out a lot."

Senior Patrol Agent Ron Graves said Sgt. Hector Rodriguez, from Texas's
111th Aerial Support Group, will free up an agent who had been working
in a Laredo North Station communications center for law enforcement
duties when he is fully trained to operate cameras and monitoring sensors
and other border surveillance equipment.

"He's a good man to work with, and I'm glad he's here," Graves said.
"It's great because we're shorthanded. We need more agents."

The Guard expects to be on the border for up to two years as the Border
Patrol -- already the nation's largest law enforcement agency -- beefs
up from about 11,000 to more than 17,000 agents.

Many of the more than 3,300 citizen soldiers and more than 270 citizen
airmen who were in the border states July 16 have volunteered to serve
in a duration force, often for periods as long as a year. And many of
them are working in their own states.

"It's good -- Texas taking care of Texas," said Army Spc. Erika
Hinojosa, of the 436th Chemical Company, as she directed tractor-trailer
trucks through a Border Patrol checkpoint north of Laredo July 14. But the
soldier also said she volunteered for one reason: "My country."

And the country is supporting her. More than 30 states so far have
signed memorandums of agreement to support Operation Jump Start, and no
governor has declined to help, Blum said.

Guard members helped out when a detection dog found 11 illegal
immigrants sweating under pallets and boxes on a rental trailer at the
Interstate 35 checkpoint. The trailer had no ventilation and little water.
Their destination was San Antonio, about two hours north. The temperature?
105 degrees.

"They wouldn't have made it," said Army Sgt. Julio Pacheco, of the 3rd
Battalion, 141st Infantry Regiment. He was the noncommissioned officer
in charge of troops serving at the inspection station. "We're here to
support the Border Patrol agents. We felt like we did our job because
we're saving people's lives."

Although Guardsmen and Border Patrol agents say they have had to learn
each others' "languages," they have much in common. The two groups have
worked together for many years on operations that have included
building roads and fences and conducting counterdrug operations. "We have been
operating on the Southwest border now for 20 years," Blum said.

Some Border Patrol agents are Guard members, and it's not uncommon to
see framed pictures of agents serving overseas in military uniforms or
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve certificates honoring the
Border Patrol on their stations' walls.

Agents and Guard members share demanding training requirements, and
both groups are familiar with the military-style culture. The Guard
members receive additional cultural sensitivity training, education in the
rules of force and other training for Operation Jump Start. They also
undergo background checks.

Some of the Guard members who have volunteered to serve for a year say
they are interested in Border Patrol jobs. "It's an opportunity to find
out what the Border Patrol does," Garza said.

Although the Guard is operating along the entire border, two Arizona
areas -- Tucson and Yuma -- and El Paso, Texas, have special focus
because they are viewed as problem areas.

"It is a very, very difficult, frontier-like border in many places,"
Blum said. "In other places, it is very mountainous and very restrictive.
And then in other parts of the border, it is clearly almost like an 

Marine Mother Speaks of Missing Son Killed in Iraq

Sharon Serio said her son, Matt,
was a lot like her. Both middle children, they liked to go out and have a
good time.

"We got along great together, him and I," the Rhode Island woman said.
"(I'll miss) his phone calls."

Assigned to 3rd Platoon, Company C, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Division,
Marine Lance Cpl. Matthew Kenneth Serio's last contact with his mother
was April 4, 2004. He was killed the next day while on patrol in
Fallujah. His Humvee hit a roadside bomb, and insurgents ambushed the Marines
inside. "There were four of them killed," Serio said. "(Matt) got off
half his rounds. Two (Marines) didn't get any rounds off."

Sharon Serio is an American Gold Star Mother, part of a group of
mothers who have lost a child in service to the United States.

Sharon said she takes comfort in knowing Matt was doing what he wanted
to do. He enlisted in the Marine Corps as a high school senior and was
sworn in right after graduation. Boot camp at Parris Island, S.C., was
delayed a few days by the events of Sept. 11, 2001. But 13 weeks after
checking in, he emerged a newly minted Marine "grunt."

"He always wanted to be a Marine," Serio said. "If you were going to be
a serviceman, there was nothing else but a Marine, and it had to be a
grunt."

Shortly after boot camp he found himself on his first tour in Iraq and
part of the force that took Baghdad in March 2003. While news about
servicemembers was scarce for loved ones back home, Serio was able to keep
some tabs on Matt's whereabouts. "I have a son, my oldest, who's in the
Navy, and he was actually stationed on the (USS) Kitty Hawk and was in
the Gulf," she said. "He knew where his brother was because they were
flying support ... for (Matt's unit) off the Kitty Hawk."

Though his mother had a vague idea of where Matt was, she couldn't
protect him from a close call. "(Matt) had just given up his seat (in his
vehicle) ... and right where his seating area was, is where they got hit
by an (improvised explosive device) or whatever it was," Serio said.

When he returned to his home base of Camp Pendleton, Calif., in June
2003, his mother was thrilled. Though she knew he was heading home to
Rhode Island eventually, she had to see him sooner. Matt's girlfriend
heard from him as his unit passed through Germany on its way home.

"I flew out two days later to California," Serio said. "Even though I
knew he was coming home after that, I had to make sure there were no
holes in him."

Serio said she wasn't as concerned for his safety when his unit was
called up for a second tour in March 2004. It was supposed to be safer,
she said. But, "it was worse," she added quietly.

Matt's funeral included full military honors with burial in a private
Catholic cemetery rather than a veterans cemetery. For his mother, that
was one thing that was not open for discussion. "I know people say,
'Well, there's other veterans in the cemetery,' and to me that wasn't the
same," Serio said. "He wasn't being buried alone."

The days that surrounded the funeral were filled with Matt's tight-knit
group of friends from high school rallying to support the Serio family,
she said.

They told stories of the teenager who ate macaroni and cheese after
school and played high school football as one of the "Fat Boys."

"They were linemen I guess, and they were just big and they became the
Fat Boys," Serio said. "They weren't fat, (but) he was 'Fat Matt.'"

She only remembers bits and pieces of the funeral and the days after,
she said. Things like the Mass being held in a Providence cathedral
because the local church couldn't accommodate everyone wanting to honor the
fallen hero, stick out in her mind. So do the construction workers
along the funeral procession; many wearing Marine Corps shirts saluted the
hearse carrying Matt's remains as it passed.

Most importantly, she remembers her son's giving nature.

Matt's last e-mail home, sent the day before his death, included a
request for more chewing tobacco, his mother's homemade cookies and candy
to hand out to Iraqi children, Serio said. "He always took care of
everybody else," she said.

Matt's town continues to recognize and honor that selflessness. His
high school renamed the football stadium in his honor. The local fire
department planted a tree and dedicated a plaque in his honor at a home
where the firefighters do charity work.

Serio's oldest son is currently on shore duty at Naval Air Station
Oceana, Va. Her youngest also has military aspirations that include the
Marine Corps, though not directly.

"He doesn't think he could go through the boot camp of the Marine
Corps, but he wants to be a (Navy medic) so he could basically take care of
Marines," she said. "It stems a lot from what happened to (Matt.)"

Guard Border Security Mission Progressing Well, On Schedule

 With about 3,600 troops reporting on or
ahead of schedule so far for border security duty in the Southwest, the
National Guard is solidly on track to meet the requirement of up to 6,000
troops by Aug. 1, the chief of the National Guard Bureau told Pentagon
reporters today.

Army Lt. Gen. H Steven Blum said he's received nothing but positive
feedback about the National Guard response to the mission, both about its
speed and the capabilities it brings in support of the U.S. Border
Patrol. "We are delivering the capabilities and effects that they have
requested," Blum said.

As Operation Jump Start kicked off June 15, just a month after
President Bush announced it, the National Guard had already exceeded the
scheduled commitment of 800 troops by 237, Blum noted. By the month's end,
the Guard's commitment skyrocketed to 2,800 -- 300 above the expectation.

Most of the Guardsmen are coming from the four border states:

California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. Arizona and New Mexico, both with
smaller National Guard forces than their neighbors to the immediate east
and west, will rely more heavily on augmentees from other states, Blum
said.

Arizona, with two of the biggest areas of focus -- Tucson and Yuma --
is likely to see the most out-of-state forces, he said. These troops
will generally rotate to the region for three-week rotations conducted as
their regularly scheduled annual training periods, Blum explained.

So far, 30 state governors have committed to support the mission, with
no governors refusing to participate, Blum said. "There is a great
cooperation (and) collaboration among the nation's governors, and they
understand the importance of having the National Guard be a reliable,
essential and ready force, because they are also commanders in chief of
their National Guards," Blum said.

"And since Sept. 11, 2001, they have seen how essential the Guard is
both overseas, for the global war on terrorism, and here at home, to deal
with natural or man-made disasters that may happen in our own nation."

Blum said he's abiding by his promise to governors that he will ensure
they always have at least 50 percent of their capability as they
support the terror war, border mission and other national-level requirements.

During Operation Jump Start, Guardsmen are providing communications,
transportation, logistics, training, medical and construction support to
the U.S. Border Patrol as it boosts its own ranks. They're building and
maintaining roads; installing fences, lighting, sensors and towers with
cameras; and providing aviation support over big expanses with no
roads, Blum explained.

The Defense Department hasn't yet authorized the Guard to provide
intelligence analysis support, but Blum said he expects that it will. "We
anticipate we will be doing that, because we do that in the
drug-enforcement mission," he said.

Guardsmen assigned to the mission are getting trained in everything
from the political and cultural sensitivities of the operation to the
practical aspects of operating in the desert heat and being exposed to
insects and reptiles, Blum said. Each Guard member receives a tri-fold card
that explains the rules of engagement. He emphasized that Guardsmen
aren't defending the border, but simply are supporting civilian
authorities who control it. but each has the "inherent right of self-protection,"
he added.

Blum said he expects the mission to last no more than two years, after
the Border Patrol trains more people and develops more infrastructure
so it's able to protect the border without support. "I expect to work
our way out of this mission," he said.

In the meantime, he said, Guardsmen are benefiting through the
opportunity to conduct an important real-life mission in their training

Posted by monte at 11:04 AM | Permalink

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Reminder: Language Access Network, Inc. Facilitated Communication for Many... Live on MN1.com

Michael Guirlinger, CEO of The Language Access Network, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: LANW), will be Live on Market News First (www.MN1.com) on July 19, 2006 at 9:30 a.m. CDT.

The Language Access Network, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: LANW), based in Las Vegas, Nevada, is a pioneer in video language interpretation services with operations in Columbus, Ohio. The company provides healthcare outlets, medical facilities and pharmacies with professionally trained interpreters 24 hours a day, seven days a week through its centralized video language center, interpreting more than 150 different languages through real-time, interactive video technology. By installing an encrypted high-speed IP network connection from a medical facility to a centralized video linguistic center, medical personnel can use a wireless powered mobile cart, equipped with a state-of-the-art video conferencing system, to connect to an interpreter. This service combines the personalization of having an onsite interpreter with the convenience of immediate access to virtually any language with a simple "push of a button."

The Language Access Network, Inc. is the only company on a national basis that offers this type of groundbreaking video language interpretation service, allowing health care providers and medical facilities to provide better, more efficient overall health care.

Please join MN1.com in welcoming The Language Access Network, Inc.

About MN1.com

Market News First is an online microcap news provider which brings investors current up to speed news on the microcap market. Market News First is the only online live radio web site that brings real microcap news to investors and features live interaction with companies from the Bulletin Board, Pink Sheets, and Amex.

Through daily live pressers we bring you up to date on all the established companies and inform the investors of the newest opportunities within the microcap market. Market News First's one on one interviews with the Presidents and CFOs of microcap companies, broadcasted on our website, deliver answers to the questions that microcap investors would ask and provides them insight into the companies' present condition and future plans.

TICC Schedules Second Quarter 2006 Earnings Release and Conference Call for August 3, 2006

 Technology Investment Capital Corp. (NASDAQ: TICC) announced today that it will report second quarter earnings on Thursday, August 3, 2006 at 10:00 AM ET. The toll free dial-in number will be 877-407-8031. There will be a recording available for 30 days. If you are interested in hearing the recording, please dial 877-660-6853. The account number is 286 and the access code is 209105.

About Technology Investment Capital Corp.

We are a publicly traded business development company principally engaged in providing capital to small to mid-size technology-related companies. While the structures of our financings vary, we look to invest primarily in the debt of established technology-related businesses. Companies interested in learning more about financing opportunities should contact Barry Osherow at (203) 661-9572 or visit our website at www.ticc.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements subject to the inherent uncertainties in predicting future results and conditions. Any statements that are not statements of historical fact (including statements containing the words "believes," "plans," "anticipates," "expects," "estimates" and similar expressions) should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. Certain factors could cause actual results and conditions to differ materially from those projected in these forward-looking statements. These factors are identified from time to time in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to update such statements to reflect subsequent events

Newgold, Inc.'s Lander County Nevada Red Caps Project Begins Geophysical Data Acquisition

. (OTCBB: NGLD) has announced that it has chosen to acquire "High-Definition Aeromagnetic Data" from Edcon-PRJ for the Red Caps Project. This is a 200 meter (600') line spacing aerial survey draped 150 meters (450') above the terrain. Newgold will interpret the data and identify faults, alterations and buried intrusive stocks of potentially hosting mineralization. "High-Definition Aeromagnetic Data" is data that represent the magnetic response of the earth as measured from an airplane flying near the surface. Many minerals when formed contain iron in the form of magnetite which was the original compass needle. Different rock types have different initial concentrations of the mineral magnetite. Alteration and the effects of faults are some of the processes that can destroy, or change the magnetite, thus changing the magnetic response. By experience from testing various magnetic responses in the field, and in the lab, a geophysicist can to some degree of confidence provide explanations for the pattern of magnetic response observed.

A past Induced Polarization (IP) survey from previous operators in the vicinity is also being incorporated into the ongoing exploration database. The IP survey has highlighted the range front bounding fault(s) position, angle and possible offsets below the pediment cover, in the area south of the historic Beatty O'Neal mine, located just south of the Red Caps Project. Induced Polarization is a geophysical method where the resistivity and conductance of the earth to electrical current flow is measured. The introduction of silica into a rock body by hydrothermal fluids is known to reduce conductivity and increase resistivity. Faults generally tend to increase conductivity and reduce resistivity.

Other geophysical techniques such as gravity surveys, Controlled Source Audio-Frequency Magneto-Tellurics (CSAMT), and variations on IP, and Electromagnetic (EM) methods are being reviewed to best illustrate structural features, potential intrusive bodies, and alteration. Structural intersections have in the past been identified with bonanza grades at the Beatty O'Neal mine, and could also be the location of enhanced hydrothermal fluid paths in the areas covered by Newgold, Inc.'s project. Recognition of a geophysical response in relation to a surface geochemical anomaly is one of the goals of the geophysics program being designed.

Newgold, Inc. is seeking to develop at its Red Caps Project an open pit, and / or underground gold mine, and is also looking at the potential for of an underground copper-moly mine. The Red Caps Project, along with the Crescent Valley Project, is part of the Crescent Red Caps Joint Venture. The joint venture partners are Newgold and an entity owned by A. Scott Dockter, Chairman and CEO of Newgold. Newgold is the operator of the joint venture.

Please visit Newgold's website at www.newgold.com for additional information about Newgold, Inc.

Safe Harbor Statement

The matters discussed in this release contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended that involve risks and uncertainties. Although Newgold believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, the forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those projected. Newgold cautions investors that any forward-looking statements made by Newgold are not guarantees of future performance and that actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected in forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties regarding the actual mineralization of Newgold's mining properties, the unproven nature of and potential changes to Newgold's business model, the risk that the capital and other resources that Newgold will need to exploit its business model will not be available, and the risks discussed in Newgold's Form 10-KSB and in Newgold's 10-QSB's and in Newgold's other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. 

"North American Space Directory" Released

 In a celebration near NASA Headquarters, SpaceBusiness.com officially released the highly anticipated 2006 edition of the "North American Space Directory."

"As we welcome the Space Shuttle safely back to Earth, we need to remember that this is just one part of the more than $100 billion space industry and the hundreds of thousands of workers that make it happen. From cutting edge R&D to companies providing today's satellite-based TV, radio, GPS, and Internet services to those working on tomorrow's space tourism ventures and activities to explore both our planet and those throughout the solar system, I am pleased to release the 'North American Space Directory,'" said Scott Sacknoff, president of SpaceBusiness.com.

Now in its eighth edition, the 296-page "North American Space Directory" provides detailed coverage of more than 1,200 of the key institutions involved in the space and satellite industry, profiling organizations from industry, government, and academia.

Features:

--  Each profile consists of an organization's name, address, phone/fax,     Internet address, and most importantly, key executive contacts and details     on their group's specialization, capabilities and activities.      --  Heavily indexed to enable you to find information faster and easier --     by company name, key personnel, location, and a Buyer's Guide Index to     specializations, capabilities, and products.      --  Includes firms involved with satellites, launch vehicles, future space     missions, satellite ground equipment, satellite     tv/radio/broadcasting/broadband services, GPS, remote sensing, imagery, and     GIS, microgravity services, and space tourism.     

Designed for business development and sales officials, corporate and government executives, and libraries, the Directory helps individuals and organizations:

--  Understand the landscape and identify competitors; --  Identify organizations for possible future relationships; --  Reach the right contacts to market and sell your products; --  Find the product or service you need.     

The "North American Space Directory" is available via the bookstore at SpaceBusiness.com and retails for $297 per copy plus $5 S/H in the United States and $20 S/H internationally. Copies ordered by mail should be sent to SpaceBusiness.com PO Box 5752 Bethesda, MD 20824-5752 USA. For more information visit SpaceBusiness.com or contact us at +1 (703) 524-2766.  

 Dr. Harold Handley Appointed President of Aethlon Medical, Inc.

 Aethlon Medical, Inc. (OTCBB: AEMD), a pioneer in developing therapeutic devices for infectious disease, announced today that Harold ("Hal") H. Handley, Jr. Ph.D. has been appointed President of the organization. Dr. Handley has over 20 years of management and research experience and was a co-founder of Idec Limited Partners, Inc., today known as Biogen Idec, Inc., operating with a market value exceeding $14 billion. Dr Handley has authored numerous scientific publications and is the primary inventor of more than twelve issued patents. Most recently, Dr. Handley was Executive Vice President and Chief Scientific Officer of Transvivo, Inc., a developer of biofiltration and catheter devices, where he oversaw all regulatory, clinical, patent, and research efforts.

"I believe Aethlon has established a scientific vision that could provide medical benefit to large numbers of civilian and military personnel," stated Dr. Handley. "I'm excited to participate in the effort to commercialize the Hemopurifier™, and look forward to developing other potentially valuable therapeutics," concluded Handley.

As President, Dr. Handley will be responsible for the management of regulatory initiatives, new product development, coordination of grant proposals and science publications, and related communications to the medical community.

"Hal is a tremendous addition to our team," stated Aethlon Chairman and CEO, James A. Joyce. "Especially when considering our near-term plans to file regulatory submissions with the FDA, and the continued testing of the Hemopurifier that is expected abroad. Over the last year, we have assembled a team that is capable of executing our current scientific initiatives and beyond," concluded Joyce, who previously held the position of President in addition to his role as Chairman and CEO.

About Aethlon Medical

Aethlon Medical is developing the first medical device to treat infectious disease. The device, known as the Hemopurifier™, is a broad-spectrum treatment countermeasure against drug and vaccine resistant bioweapons, naturally evolving pandemic threats such as H5N1 Avian Flu, and chronic infectious disease targets including Hepatitis-C (HCV) and the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Global researcher, Frost & Sullivan, recently awarded the Hemopurifier™ the 2006 Technology Innovation Award for its advances in the field of biodefense. Aethlon has also initiated research on a second generation Hemopurifier™ that targets the capture of growth factors inherent in the spread of cancer. More information on Aethlon Medical and the Hemopurifier™ technology can be found at www.aethlonmedical.com.

Certain of the statements herein may be forward-looking and involve risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking statements involve assumptions, known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Aethlon Medical, Inc. to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such potential risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, the Company's ability to raise capital when needed, the Company's ability to complete the development of its planned products, the ability of the Company to obtain FDA and other regulatory approvals permitting the sale of its products, the Company's ability to manufacture its products and provide its services, the impact of government regulations, patent protection on the Company's proprietary technology, product liability exposure, uncertainty of market acceptance, competition, technological change, and other risk factors. In such instances, actual results could differ materially as a result of a variety of factors, including the risks associated with the effect of changing economic conditions and other risk factors detailed in the Company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings.

AtheroGenics, Inc. Announces Two New Board Members

 AtheroGenics, Inc. (NASDAQ: AGIX), a pharmaceutical company focused on the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases, today announced the election of two new members to its Board of Directors: Sam L. Barker, Ph.D., a founder of Clearview Projects, Inc. and former pharmaceutical industry executive at Bristol-Myers Squibb; and Margaret E. Grayson, President of AEP Government Solutions Group and Executive Vice President and General Manager of AEP Networks. Dr. Barker was appointed to serve on the Governance and Nominating Committee of the Board, and Ms. Grayson was appointed to serve on the Board's Audit Committee.

"These new members have extensive knowledge and experience in the areas of strategic business development and corporate financial management and will be important assets to AtheroGenics," stated Russell M. Medford, M.D., Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of AtheroGenics, Inc. "We look forward to their contributions as we move toward the completion of our ARISE study and potential commercialization of AGI-1067."

Sam Barker, Ph.D. is one of three co-founders of Clearview Projects, Inc., a multi-disciplinary advisory firm specializing in strategic thinking, corporate development transactions, product alliances, product strategy/development and executive management, with a focus on the global healthcare sector. Dr. Barker worked at Bristol-Myers Squibb for over 30 years in Research and Development, Manufacturing, Business Development, Sales and Marketing, and General Management. After the merger of Bristol-Myers and Squibb in 1989, he held several executive positions including Vice President, Asia/Pacific for the Pharmaceutical Group; President, Intercontinental, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company; and President, U.S. Pharmaceuticals Group before retiring in May 1999. He served as President and CEO of Clearview Projects from 2003-2004. Dr. Barker has been the Chairman of the Board of Lexicon Genetics, Inc. since March 2005 and serves on the Board of Directors of UCB, US. He is an Advisor to Symphony Capital, a private equity partnership. He is a member of the Board of Trustees, the Cancer Institute of New Jersey. Dr. Barker received a B.S. from Henderson State College, and holds graduate degrees from the University of Arkansas and Purdue University.

Margaret E. Grayson (Peg) is the President of AEP Government Solutions Group and Executive Vice President and General Manager of AEP Networks, a specialty provider of cyber security protection, networking, application access, and information sharing solutions. She is a member of the National Infrastructure Advisory Council (NIAC), serving at the request of President George W. Bush, and provides advice to the Secretary of Homeland Security and the President on the security of our Nation's critical infrastructure. Ms. Grayson is a member of the Potomac Officers Club and has been named to Maryland's Top 100 Women for her professional achievements and contributions to the community. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Montgomery College Foundation, the Dean's Advisory Council for the School of Management at the State University of New York, and the Advisory Board for the Center of Excellence in Information Assurance at SUNY Buffalo. Ms. Grayson served as President of V-ONE Corporation, before it combined with AEP Networks in 2005. Prior to joining V-ONE, Ms. Grayson served as Chief Financial Officer for SPACEHAB, Inc., and for CD Radio, Inc. in Washington, D.C. Ms. Grayson holds an M.B.A. from the University of South Florida and a B.S. in Accounting from the State University of New York at Buffalo.

About AtheroGenics

AtheroGenics is focused on the discovery, development and commercialization of novel drugs for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases, including heart disease (atherosclerosis), rheumatoid arthritis and asthma. The Company has two drug development programs currently in the clinic. AtheroGenics' lead compound, AGI-1067, is being evaluated in the pivotal Phase III ARISE clinical trial as an oral therapy for the treatment of atherosclerosis, in collaboration with AstraZeneca. AGI-1096 is a novel, oral agent in Phase I that is being developed for the prevention of organ transplant rejection in collaboration with Astellas. AtheroGenics also has preclinical programs in rheumatoid arthritis and asthma utilizing its proprietary vascular protectant® technology. For more information about AtheroGenics, please visit www.atherogenics.com.

This press release may contain forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statements contained in this press release that relate to events or developments that we expect or anticipate will occur in the future are deemed to be forward-looking statements, and can be identified by words such as "believes," "intends," "expects" and similar expressions. Such statements are subject to certain factors, risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, events and performances to differ materially from those referred to in such statements. These risks include statements which address operating performance, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will occur in the future, such as projections about clinical trial results, our future results of operations or our financial condition, research, development and commercialization of our product candidates, anticipated trends in our business, and other risks that could cause actual results to differ materially. These and other risks are discussed in AtheroGenics' Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including, but not limited to, the risks discussed in AtheroGenics' Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise

New PRIMEQUEST 500 Series Server Delivers More Than Double Performance and Advanced Virtualization in Mission-Critical Linux and Windows Environments

Fujitsu Computer Systems today unveiled the PRIMEQUEST™ 500 series servers with Dual-core Intel® Itanium® 2 processors, providing performance improvements up to 2.5 times that of previous models. The PRIMEQUEST servers are built to meet the highest demands on reliability and availability in the data center. PRIMEQUEST 500 series servers deliver the most advanced virtualization capabilities available and extended system scalability for Linux and Windows environments. Combining the dual-core Intel processor with the state-of-the-art Fujitsu architecture and design, the new PRIMEQUEST servers are an ideal choice for enterprises that require the economic benefits and flexibility of industry-standard solutions without compromising their business continuity.

"Using our self-developed chipset and unique dual synchronous system architecture, PRIMEQUEST servers meet the demands of the most sophisticated data centers by offering superior scalability and performance in a compact, energy-efficient design," says Akira Yamanaka, corporate vice president of Fujitsu Limited. "These new servers are one of the cornerstones of our TRIOLE™ strategy, where servers, storage, networks and middleware are united to provide a dynamic and flexible IT environment."

Since the initial announcement in 2005, PRIMEQUEST servers have been deployed in many customer sites around the world, providing them with data center class reliability, high system scalability and total cost of ownership reductions. Customers who have deployed PRIMEQUEST servers include:

--  Banco Popular --  Circle K Sunkus --  Coput --  Institute for Molecular Science --  Shibaura Institute of Technology --  Sung-Ae Hospital --  Vodafone K.K.     

"The new PRIMEQUEST servers are ideal for mission-critical applications which demand high availability, robust performance, enhanced flexibility and optimum resource usage. The next-generation of PRIMEQUEST servers with the highly-anticipated Intel Itanium 2 processor will deliver an advanced system for large-scale database and online transaction processing environments, legacy modernization, and database/server consolidation," said Tom Egan, VP, Global Service Delivery at EDS.

(Click here for details)

"The combination of Oracle and the Fujitsu PRIMEQUEST servers let companies operate cost-effectively by taking advantage of industry-standard solutions while achieving high performance and reliability," said Judson Althoff, VP, Platform Alliances at Oracle. "Oracle believes this new PRIMEQUEST server will enhance reliability, availability and scalability, and will expand with Oracle the customers' choice of business critical IT deployment."

The new PRIMEQUEST 500 series servers are ideal for mission-critical applications that demand high availability, robust performance, enhanced flexibility and optimum resource usage. Typical application deployments for PRIMEQUEST servers include large-scale database and online transaction processing environments, legacy modernization, SAP platform, and database/server consolidation. Offering up to 64 processor cores accessing 2TB of uniform main memory in a maximum of 16 partitions, PRIMEQUEST is at the forefront of high-end systems capable of hosting business-critical operations.

The PRIMEQUEST 500 servers integrate the dual-core Intel® Itanium® 2 processors with a number of architectural design features from Fujitsu to offer a unique combination of power and flexibility. Coupling the advanced eXtended PARtitioning (XPAR) capabilities of PRIMEQUEST servers with the Itanium® 2 Intel® Virtualization Technology offers customers the most advanced virtualization capabilities on the market. Not only can system resources such as CPU and memory be partitioned, but I/O Units can also be individually partitioned to optimize resource allocations on a per-partition basis. Augmenting the PRIMEQUEST physical partitioning capabilities, future enhancements built upon the Intel® Virtualization Technology technology will host virtual partitions, offering a rich multitude of partitioning options. Furthermore, partitions can be defined with System Mirror mode, offering industry-leading fault immunity in the memory and cross-bar implementation.

"Together Fujitsu and Intel are providing state-of-the-art design and system architecture to give enterprises the flexibility and freedom they desire for mission-critical applications," commented Thomas Kilroy, Vice President General Manager, Digital Enterprise Group, Intel Corporation. "With more than double the performance of previous generation Intel® Itanium® 2 processor-based servers, mainframe-class RAS features, and improved energy efficiency, the new dual-core Intel® Itanium® 2 processor-based servers are ideal for application consolidation in mission-critical data centers."

PRIMEQUEST 500 servers will be available globally in September, 2006.

Fujitsu continues its collaboration with leading enterprise vendors of Linux systems Red Hat and Novell SuSE, and with the Open Source Development Lab (OSDL), contributing to the hardening of the open operating system for business-critical deployments. Under the Global Alliance Partnership, Fujitsu is also working closely with Microsoft to deliver business-critical environments for Windows applications standards. Furthermore, Fujitsu is working with its partners and the Itanium Solutions Alliance (ISA) to expand the eco-system for the Linux/Windows enterprise.

PRIMEQUEST servers extend the Fujitsu server portfolio from Fujitsu that includes PRIMEPOWER® servers based on the SPARC64® V processor running the Solaris™ operating system and PRIMERGY® Industry Standard servers. Together they provide a comprehensive server portfolio that satisfies different service level requirements for maximum availability and scalability. The new PRIMEQUEST servers are ideal for customers extending their existing mission-critical infrastructures with open-source Linux, Windows and Itanium technologies.

The PRIMEQUEST server line is offered as part of the Fujitsu TRIOLE strategy for optimized IT, which unites servers, storage, networks and middleware to provide a dynamic and flexible customer IT environment, aimed to increase business continuity, agility and efficiency. Fujitsu will continue to provide and expand TRIOLE templates that include PRIMEQUEST servers, enabling customers to introduce 64-bit mission-critical Linux and Windows technology into the datacenter.

About the TRIOLE Strategy

Fujitsu is committed to providing its customers with products, solutions and services that will further optimize their IT infrastructure and improve their business agility. Its TRIOLE strategy is the aggregate of three core principles: virtualization, automation and integration. Fujitsu has applied these principles to design and deliver highly dynamic IT solutions with the highest levels of compatibility and consistency. The result enables customers to increase efficiency, enhance agility and improve continuity now and into the future. For more information on the TRIOLE strategy please visit: http://www.fujitsu.com/triole.

About Fujitsu Computer Systems Corporation

Headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif., Fujitsu Computer Systems is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fujitsu Limited (TSE: 6702) committed to the design, development and delivery of advanced computer systems and managed services for the business enterprise. The company offers a complete line of high-performance mobile and desktop computers, scalable and reliable servers as well as managed and professional services. Fujitsu Computer Systems emphasizes leading-edge technology, exceptional product quality, and productivity, as well as outstanding customer service. More information on Fujitsu Computer Systems is available at http://us.fujitsu.com/computers.

About Fujitsu

Fujitsu is a leading provider of customer-focused IT and communications solutions for the global marketplace. Pace-setting device technologies, highly reliable computing and communications products, and a worldwide corps of systems and services experts uniquely position Fujitsu to deliver comprehensive solutions that open up infinite possibilities for its customers' success. Headquartered in Tokyo, Fujitsu Limited (TSE: 6702) reported consolidated revenues of about 4.8 trillion yen (US$40.6 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2006. See http://www.fujitsu.com for further information.

(1) PRIMEQUEST 480 was the recipient of the 6th annual eWeek Excellence Awards (2006), in the category of Server Hardware

Fujitsu, the Fujitsu logo, PRIMEPOWER, PRIMEQUEST and TRIOLE are registered trademarks or trademarks of Fujitsu Limited in the United States and other countries. PRIMERGY is a registered trademark of Fujitsu Siemens Computers GmbH in the United States and other countries. Intel and Itanium are registered trademarks or trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries in the United States and other countries. Windows is a registered trademark or trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries. Solaris and all Solaris based marks and logos are registered trademarks or trademarks of Sun Microsystems, Inc. in the United States and other countries, and are used under license. SPARC64 is a registered trademark or trademark of SPARC International, Inc. in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks and product names are the property of their respective owners.

Golden Gate Announces New Improvements to Power Reduction Software; PowerGold Delivers More Power Reduction and Runs Faster; Customers Observe 10% to More Than 20% Reduction in Dynamic and Leakage Power in Tapeout-Ready Designs

Design Automation Conference Booth Number 3332 -- Golden Gate Technology Inc., a company focused on power reduction in nanometer electronic design, announced that it has improved the power reduction capabilities and run time of its flagship software product, PowerGold™ (formerly called Power Optimize Gold™).

PowerGold version 6.2 reduces power consumption 10% to 20% or more and runs 2 to 3 times faster than the previous version, announced last year. It complements industry-standard cell physical design flows, such as those supported by Cadence Design Systems, Magma Design Automation and Synopsys.

PowerGold will be demonstrated at Booth 3332, at the Design Automation Conference in San Francisco, July 24-27, 2006.

"Power reduction is on the top of the list of our customers' concerns," said Dennis Heller, Golden Gate CEO. "At their request, we have improved the power optimization and runtime of our flagship product."

What's New in PowerGold -- Faster run times, Improved power reduction

Power Gold version 6.2 achieves faster runtimes through improvements in the core power optimization algorithms. In addition, new logic restructuring algorithms further reduce power consumption. PowerGold can reduce both dynamic and leakage power, with an average power reduction of more than 15% across typical designs. PowerGold's power reduction capability has been validated on more than 10 customer designs done with Cadence, Magma, and Synopsys physical design flows in 90 nm and 130 nm process technologies. Customers are now evaluating PowerGold for use with 65 nm processes.

More about PowerGold

PowerGold reduces power at several stages in the physical design flow. It works with placement and clock tree synthesis to reduce power consumption in critical clock networks. Because wires account for 5x more power consumption than transistors at the 90-nanometer node, and are projected to account for 30x more power consumption than transistors at 35 nanometers, Golden Gate's power reduction software gives wires priority with its patent-pending optimization technology called WiresFirst. WiresFirst minimizes total capacitance on critical clock and signal nets through route optimization and isolation techniques that reduce power without negatively impacting chip timing, signal integrity or electromigration.

Consistent with a wire-centric approach, PowerGold employs the WiresFirst Routing Prototype Engine at the placement stage to minimize clock wire capacitance. After initial routing, WiresFirst algorithms incrementally rebalance capacitances and restructure logic to reduce excess power consumption with minimal perturbation to a design's timing and physical layout characteristics. Various power reduction techniques implemented by PowerGold are cumulative.

PowerGold supports multiple threshold voltage cell libraries to reduce leakage current without negatively impacting timing. Because PowerGold reduces wire capacitance with the WiresFirst algorithm, low-leakage cells are used more frequently than in traditional design flows, resulting in greater leakage power reduction. PowerGold has the capacity to reduce power on large designs -- up to 10M gates in an overnight run on a 32-bit OS or unlimited gate size on a 64-bit OS.

Price & Availability

PowerGold version 6.2 is available now for Solaris and Linux. Contact Golden Gate Technology for pricing information.

About Golden Gate Technology

Golden Gate Technology, headquartered in San Jose, California, provides leading-edge tools for nanometer IC power reduction that work with existing design flows from major EDA vendors. Using WiresFirst technology, Golden Gate Technology products reduce chip power consumption by up 10% to 20% or more. For more information please visit www.ggtcorp.com.

Golden Gate Technology, Inc. is headquartered at 1101 South Winchester Boulevard, Building P, San Jose, CA 95128, Phone: (408) 249-6200, Fax: (408) 249-6240. For sales inquiries, please email sales@ggtcorp.com. For general assistance e-mail: question@ggtcorp.com

PowerGold, Power Optimize Gold and WiresFirst are trademarks of Golden Gate Technology, Inc.

All other trademarks and tradenames are the property of their respective holders 

Boardwalk Bancorp Declares Quarterly Dividend

 Boardwalk Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: BORD) (NASDAQ: BORDW), parent company of Boardwalk Bank, announced today that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.07 per share, payable August 7, 2006 to shareholders of record as of July 28, 2006.

As previously reported, Boardwalk Bank completed its holding company reorganization on July 1, 2006. For periods subsequent to July 1, 2006, Boardwalk Bancorp, Inc. will report consolidated operating results and financial condition, which will include the operating results and financial condition of Boardwalk Bank.

For further information contact Wayne Hardenbrook, CFO, Boardwalk Bancorp: (888) 720-2265.

This release may contain forward-looking statements. We caution that such statements may be subject to a number of uncertainties and actual results could differ materially and, therefore, readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Information about factors that potentially could affect Boardwalk Bank's financial results is included in the offering circular for our public offering of common stock and in our other filings, including our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, that we make with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Boardwalk Bank does not undertake, and specifically disclaims, any obligation to publicly release the results of any revisions that may be made to any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements, except as required under applicable law.

VSIA Presents Panel on IP Integration at DAC 2006 in San Francisco

The VSI Alliance (VSIA), the leading IP standards body for the electronics industry, invites you to a DAC 2006 panel discussion on IP integration issues. The event is co-sponsored by Chip Estimate, FSA and VSIA.

Where: Room 111

When: Monday, July 24, 2005, 12:30pm-2:00pm

Panel: "How Many Engineers Does It Take? The Real Issues in IP Integration." IP integration and verification is only getting more complex, expensive and risky. IP suppliers, integrators, EDA vendors and foundries must work together in a streamlined fashion to ensure IP success. But are they?

Varying degrees of IP quality, coupled with a host of business and technical issues, makes IP integration the key challenge in modern SoCs. Don't be left holding the cards with your next chip design. This panel will expose the interrelated and often opposing technical and business issues surrounding IP integration and explore how this fragmented industry can work together.

Lunch will be provided.

Who Should Attend: Professionals from IP vendors, third party IP integrators (fabless & IDM), foundries, and EDA companies

Panel Moderator: Adam Traidman, President & CEO, Chip Estimate Corporation

Panelists: Naveed Sherwani, President & CEO, Open Silicon; Jim Ensell, VP of Marketing, Virage Logic; Kurt Wolf, Director of Library/IP Management Division, TSMC; Michael Horne, Group Marketing Director, IP & EDA Alliances, Cadence; Raminderpal Singh, Team Leader, Operations Research Project, 300mm Fab, IBM

About VSIA

The VSI Alliance (VSIA) is an open, international organization that includes representatives from all segments of the SoC industry: System houses, Semiconductor vendors, Electronic Design Automation (EDA) companies, and Intellectual Property (IP) providers. VSIA's mission is to dramatically enhance the productivity of the SoC design community by providing leading edge commercial and technical solutions and insight into the development, integration and reuse of IP. VSIA has wide industry participation with more than 70 member companies from around the world. Membership is open to any company with an interest in the development and promotion of business solutions and open standards used in the design of System-on-Chip. For more information, visit the VSIA web site at www.vsi.org, or e-mail to info@vsi.org.

Eastern Caribbean Airlines Corporation Nears Resumption of Aviation Services

Viva International, Inc. (OTCBB: VIVI) announced this morning that its wholly owned subsidiary Eastern Caribbean Airlines Corporation (EC Air) will be having the mandated FAA proficiency checks on Wednesday July 19, 2006. These proficiency checks will entail a flight of less than two hours under the observation of FAA inspection personnel.

Viva International also announced that EC Air has appointed Pedro Maldonado as Director of Operations and Jesus Rodriguez-Pazo as Chief Pilot. Each of these appointments was made pursuant to FAA interviews and notification that Maldonado and Rodriguez-Pazo meet the requirements of 14 CFR Part 119.71 (d) (1).

EC Air President Jose Nieves indicated that EC Air would immediately begin accepting charter reservations upon a satisfactory completion of the July 19, 2006 proficiency check.

About Viva International

Viva International has a number of airline and aviation-related interests including two developmental-stage carriers being readied to operate in regional markets from hubs in Puerto Rico and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

The Company plans to create a network of regionally based airlines across the Caribbean, eventually to be linked to key points in the United States, Latin America, South America, and Europe.

At present, the Company maintains executive offices in Michigan.

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended ("the Exchange Act"), and as such, may involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements which are based upon certain assumptions and describe future plans, strategies and expectations, are generally identifiable by the use of words as "believe," "expect," "intend," "anticipate," "project," or other similar expressions. These forward-looking statements relate to, among other things, future performance, and perceived opportunities in the market and statements regarding the Company's mission and vision. The Company's actual results, performance and achievements may differ materially from the results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Further information on potential factors that could affect Viva International, Inc. is found in the Company's Form 10-K and other documents filed with the U. S. Securities and Exchange Commission

Ontario International Airport to Host "2006 Wellness/Safety & Lifestyle Fiesta"

WHAT:

Ontario International Airport (ONT) and People Growers of America, Southern California's oldest and largest corporate wellness promotions firm, are hosting a "2006 Wellness/Safety & Lifestyle Fiesta" to promote good health and public safety. The annual expo is open to the public. Admission is free.

The interactive expo will feature exhibits, free health screenings, free food samples, door prizes, free informational materials from local non-profit organizations, and plenty of entertainment.

This year, ONT is sponsoring a child identification system developed by NewsTalk 590 KTIE-AM. KTIE will be on site to offer families a free SafeAssured ID child protection system for their children. Using proprietary software, computer, camera and microphone, parents compile information on a mini-CD that has the potential to help locate a missing child. The mini-CD contains the child's photograph, video of the child, photos of the child's identifiable marks, voice recording, fingerprints, general physical description and other information. Medical conditions, specific medications, pet names and nicknames can also be recorded. Police can use the mini-CDs to send quality photographs to law enforcement agencies and media outlets immediately after a child is reported missing.

For more information, the public can call People Growers of America at (877) 742-7462.

WHEN: 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, July 20, 2006 WHERE: Ontario International Airport 1940 E. Moore Way Terminal 1, Main Lobby Ontario, CA 91761 Vineyard Avenue and Airport Drive (Old Terminal)

Validated parking is available at Lot F, located directly across from Terminal 1.

Please bring parking ticket to the event.

Cool Vest for Pets Introduced Just in Time for Dog Days of Summer!

-- One of the hottest pet items in Japan has just arrived to keep dogs here in the U.S. cool during the dog days of summer. The Cool Vest™ is made with a special fabric that absorbs and retains water well. It contains no chemical gels. By simply soaking the adjustable, easy to wear, vest in water, it provides a protective layer from direct and indirect sunlight and heat. Its laminated lining keeps dogs dry.

The sporty vest, in five sizes and two colors, orange or blue, is good for all kinds of dogs, from puppies to seniors. It covers vital organs, providing optimum cooling effects without the excessive coldness that would be harmful to a dog's health.

The vest requires no refrigeration. It utilizes a simple scientific principle -- cooling through evaporation. As water, soaked in the vest's special fabric, gradually transforms from a liquid state into vapor, it takes the heat away. It's just like wearing a wet T-shirt to the beach! It takes less than a few minutes to prepare and on average Cool Vest™ remains effective from 45 minutes to 2 hrs depending on air temperature and humidity levels. To refresh the effect, only thing you need to do is to wet it again with a bottle of water.

Cool Vest™ is truly beneficial for dogs as heat is one of the worst health hazards for dogs. As it is very thin and light in weight even when it's soaked, it is suitable and convenient for many occasions from routine walks around the corner to long-hour outings in the mountainside.

It's easy to care for, too. Simply hand wash in warm water with mild soap and hang dry. Cool Vest™ was one of the best selling new pet products in Japan last year.

This vest helps reducing heat fatigue but is not intended to prevent heatstroke by itself. Always provide drinking water to your dog and choose a shady area for pets even when the product is worn. This is for pet external use only. This vest is not a life vest or harness and does not float in water.

Cool Vest is manufactured by Radic, Inc. in Japan, and is distributed by Gramercy Distribution, Inc. in North America.

  Light*Waves Opens Shanghai Manufacturing Plant

-- Joel Slavis, CEO of Light*Waves Concept, announced the opening of the company's first overseas manufacturing plant, based in Shanghai, China. The Shanghai plant joins Light*Waves' Industrial City original and ongoing facility in Brooklyn, New York.

"This new plant was made possible by Light*Waves' phenomenal growth in the past few years," said Slavis. "Our sales have been growing on an average of 220 percent annually and there's no way our original plant could keep up with the demand."

In addition to manufacturing Light*Waves' lines of designer lighting fixtures, the Shanghai facility will be heavily involved in the company's growing line of energy-saving light-emitting diode (LED) fixtures. "With ongoing concerns about global warming and limited energy resources the demand for these high-tech fixtures is going to skyrocket," Slavis predicted. He noted that the Shanghai plant is ideally situated to manufacture and ship large quantities of lighting fixtures to the growing East European and Asian markets directly from the factory.

Slavis added that the Shanghai plant will also be participating in Light*Waves' extensive research and development efforts. "On the average, we've been introducing a new fixture every other month for a while now. I think it's safe to say you'll see even more growth in our product lines from here on."

Israel and Middle East Volatility Dominate Security Market Discussions

www.HomelandDefenseStocks.com (HDS), a global investor and industry news portal for the homeland defense and security sector, presents a Spade Defense Index Sector Update. With the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah creating one the decade's most serious Middle East crises, many within the investment community are evaluating its potential market impact. Scott Sacknoff, President, The Spade Defense Index® (AMEX: DXS), provides insight into the homeland security and defense market domestically and abroad in light of the Middle East volatility.

Israel's Prime Minister Ehud Olmert told the Israeli parliament on Monday that the offensive against the Hezbollah will continue until the two captured soldiers are returned, and the Lebanese army takes control of southern Lebanon. While a diplomatic resolution has yet to be achieved, international leaders are working towards solutions to help contain and resolve the situation to avoid further bloodshed.

In looking at the potential impact for investors and participating companies in the security sector, Scott Sacknoff explains, "As a leading exporter of defense equipment to the world, especially to Israel, companies exporting there should see orders for replacement parts and equipment to replace that which is being used. Were the conflict to expand into Iran and Syria, it would likely bring some reaction by the United States. Similarly, nearby countries such as Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia which have relationships with Israel and the United States could also end up in the foray. In these cases, U.S. aid and overall spending on defense systems would rise. If the end result is a destabilized region or one where tensions continue to be high, then the forecasted slowing in the growth of U.S. expenditures on defense might be delayed."

To Read the Interview in Full Click Here: http://www.homelanddefensestocks.com/Content_Partners/SI/news/july06a.asp

Recent Online Audio Spade Defense Index Reports:June 2006: http://www.homelanddefensestocks.com/Content_Partners/SI/news/june06.asp May 2006: http://www.homelanddefensestocks.com/Content_Partners/SI/news/May06.asp

www.HomelandDefenseStocks.com (HDS), and www.NationalHomelandSecurityKnowledgebase.com (NHSK), portals within the InvestorIdeas.com content umbrella, do not make recommendations, but offer unique free information portals to research news, articles, blogs, interviews and a growing list of participating public companies in the security industry.

HomelandDefenseStocks.com Portal Sponsors: (HDS is compensated by TraceGuard Technologies Inc. and Technest Holdings, Inc. as disclosed in disclaimer)

TraceGuard Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB: TCGD) develops systems for screening and detection of explosives and other hazardous materials, a rapidly expanding segment of the global homeland security market. The Company recently announced the opening of a new research and development facility in Tel Aviv, Israel. For More Info on TraceGuard: http://www.homelanddefensestocks.com/CO/TCGD/Default.asp

Technest Holdings, Inc. (OTCBB: TCNH) is a provider of advanced remote sensor systems, chemical detectors, intelligent surveillance and advanced 3D imaging technology solutions to the defense and homeland security marketplaces with applications in border security, intelligence, engineering services and training. For More Info on Technest: http://www.homelanddefensestocks.com/CO/THNS/Default.asp

Additional Homeland Security Content:

HomelandDefenseStocks.com (HDS) provides a variety of global defense and security content through: The Defense Market Report, by James H. Smith, Homeland Defense Business Correspondent for MSNBC, CNN and the BBC; The Spade Defense Index with Scott Sacknoff, Mallon's Security Report by Mallon Associates and the HDS Blog all available at: http://www.homelanddefensestocks.com.

HDS also includes one of the most comprehensive free Homeland Security stock lists in the investment industry: www.HomelandDefenseStocks.com/Companies/HomelandDefense/Stock_List.asp

Hear the latest CEO and analyst interviews, roundtables with industry experts and online investor conferences as an additional source of research and due diligence on our audio investor portal: http://www.audioinvestorforum.com/audio_stocks/

Disclaimer: HomelandDefenseStocks.com does not make recommendations, but offers a unique information portal to investors to research news, articles, and recent research. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any specific products or securities. All investments involve risk. Although we attempt to research thoroughly, we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of any information presented. We encourage all investors to use our sites only as a resource to further their own research. All information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of ECON or its related web sites. The site is currently compensated for by its "featured companies." Technest Holdings, Inc. (OTCBB: TCNH) Five thousand dollars per month. TraceGuard Technologies Inc (OTCBB: TCGD) Five thousand dollars per month plus a one time Five thousand dollars equivalent in shares. HDS is not compensated by the Spade Defense Index. www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp

Metal Fatigued? Talk to MATECH on MN1.com to Help!

Robert Bernstein, president and CEO of Material Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB: MTNA), will be featured live on Market News First on July 18, 2006 at 10:30 CDT to discuss the Electorchemical Fatigue Sensor™.

Material Technologies, or MATECH, hopes to improve public and private safety with a technology that, when applied, will better monitor metal fatigue. MATECH's technology offers increased safety and economy from airplanes to bridges, from ships, trains and trucks to nuclear reactors, turbines and steel buildings in the United States and abroad.

Metal fatigue is fatigue being a consequence of a metal undergoing cyclic strain. The EFS is a device employing mechanical/electrochemical principles of interaction to measure the state of fatigue damage in a metal structural member.

To hear more about the device you must listen to MN1.com. Join the live discussion on July 18, 2006 at 10:30 CDT.

About MN1.com

Market News First is an online micro cap news provider. It is a provider which brings investors current and up to speed on the micro cap market. MN1.com is the only live radio web site that brings real micro cap news to investors and features live interaction with companies from the Pink Sheets, Bulletin Board and Amex.

More About Material Technologies, Inc.

MATECH is occupied in the research and development of metal fatigue detection, measurement and monitoring technologies. The mission? To apply its comprehensive system of technologies to monitor and measure metal fatigue cracks and crack growth.

The technologies used are designed to determine the fatigue status of a metal component in a wide variety of structures and equipment. MATECH's marketing focus is on wing and bridge inspections and other inspections of jet aircraft engines.

Silistix to Demonstrate CHAIN Self-Timed Interconnect at the 2006 Design Automation Conference

 Silistix, a provider of innovative software for on-chip communications solutions, will be demonstrating its self-timed chip interconnect, which provides power-dissipation and design-productivity improvements over traditional on-chip, clocked, synchronous bus architectures, at the Design Automation Conference (DAC).

Silistix will be exhibiting at DAC and presenting two demonstrations in Booth 1714. Each demonstration will feature CHAINworks™, a tool suite for the development of self-timed on-chip interconnect.

The first demonstration will show a functional design using self-timed interconnect generated using CHAINworks. This demo will let the observer view the asynchronous signaling of the self-timed fabric as data is transferred through the design, clearly showing the advantages of self-timed technology.

The second demonstration will show CHAINworks integrated with the CoWare Platform Architect and CoWare Model Designer ESL tools, showing how putting ESL tools into the design flow allows designers to identify and resolve system problems earlier in the design cycle.

Come by Booth 1714 to talk with David Fritz, Silistix CEO and see CHAINworks in action.

What: Demonstration of the CHAINworks tool suite for developing self-timed interconnect fabrics

Where: Design Automation Conference (DAC), San Francisco, CA, Silistix Booth #1714

When: July 24-27, 9AM-6PM Monday through Wednesday, 9AM-1PM Thursday

Aspen Exploration Discovers Seventh Gas Well in 2006

 Aspen Exploration Corporation (OTCBB: ASPN), with offices in Bakersfield, California, and Denver, Colorado, announced today a new gas well in the Sacramento Valley gas province of northern California.

The Stoddard-Johnston #1-1 well, located in the West Grimes Gas Field, Colusa County, California, was drilled to a depth of 8,700 feet and encountered 60 feet of potential gas pay in several intervals in the Forbes formation. Production casing was run based on favorable mud log and electric log responses. This was the eleventh successful gas well out of eleven attempts by Aspen on its 5,000 plus acres lease position in this field. Aspen has a 21% operated working interest in this field.

Aspen drilled seven successful gas wells out of eight attempts thus far in 2006, and nine gas wells out of ten attempts in 2005. During the last 5 1/2 years, Aspen has participated in the drilling of 43 operated wells, 37 of which were completed as gas wells, and 6 dry holes, a success rate of 86%. Aspen currently operates 54 gas wells and has non-operated interests in 20 additional wells in the Sacramento Valley of northern California.

Future news releases will keep shareholders informed of Aspen's continuing progress and drilling activity. Aspen's stock is quoted on the OTC Bulletin Board under the symbol ASPN.OB. For more information concerning Aspen, contact Bob Cohan, President and CEO, in Aspen's Bakersfield office at (661) 831-4669. Aspen's web page can be found at www.aspenexploration.com.

DISCLAIMER

This news release contains information that is "forward-looking" in that it describes events and conditions which Aspen Exploration Corporation ("Aspen") reasonably expects to occur in the future. Expectations for the future performance of the business of Aspen are dependent upon a number of factors, and there can be no assurance that Aspen will achieve the results as contemplated herein and there can be no assurance that Aspen will be able to conduct its operations or production from its properties will continue as contemplated herein. Certain statements contained in this report using the terms "may," "expects to," and other terms denoting future possibilities, are forward-looking statements. The accuracy of these statements cannot be guaranteed as they are subject to a variety of risks which are beyond Aspen's ability to predict or control and which may cause actual results to differ materially from the projections or estimates contained herein. These risks include, but are not limited to: the possibility that the described operations (including any proposed exploration or development drilling) will not be completed on economic terms, if at all, or the estimates of reserves may not be accurate. The exploration for, and development and production of, oil and gas are enterprises attendant with high risk, including the risk of fluctuating prices for oil and natural gas, imports of petroleum products from other countries, the risks of not encountering adequate resources despite expending large sums of money, and the risk that test results and reserve estimates may not be accurate, notwithstanding appropriate precautions. Many of these risks are described herein and in Aspen's annual report on Form 10-KSB, and it is important that each person reviewing this report understand the significant risks attendant to the operations of Aspen. Aspen disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement made herein.

ASPEN EXPLORATION CORPORATION 2050 S. Oneida St., Ste. 208 Denver, CO  80224-2426

1-800 Radiator Expands to El Paso

-- 1-800 Radiator increased their stake in the Texas automotive industry when they opened a franchise in El Paso. The outlet, owned by native Texan John Miller, is the sixth 1-800 Radiator location in the state.

Since the start of their franchise program two years ago, 1-800 Radiator has worked closely with entrepreneurs like Miller to open up new territories and expand their services. Thus far 1-800 Radiator has over 80 locations across the country. By the end of this year, the company expects to open at least 50 more stores. This growth is facilitated by the franchisees and 1-800 Radiator's unique services. Features, such as same-day delivery, a lifetime warranty and a small bag of candy in every radiator box, have helped 1-800 Radiator become the nation's largest independent distributor of automotive cooling accessories.

1-800 Radiator franchisees come from many different professional backgrounds. John Miller brings 25 years of sales experience. The company provided him with additional training dealing with the ins and outs of the radiator industry, tips for growing his business, and the workings of the computer systems that will manage and track his inventory and sales. The franchisees have access to an inventory of over 83,000 parts; the computer systems ensure that any of these parts can be made available, quickly to any customer. It was also during this training that Miller became acquainted with 1-800 Radiator's franchise support staff and began preparing for his big opening.

For some time John Miller has been visiting auto shops and introducing himself. He, like many of 1-800 Radiator's franchisees, puts a heavy focus on customer service. Visiting his customers and getting to know them is an important part of this. By offering such personalized service, and 1-800 Radiator's product and prices, Miller hopes to offer West Texans the best possible buying experience. His 1-800 Radiator outlet is open for business today.

About 1-800 Radiator

1-800 Radiator is an auto parts distribution franchise and the largest independent parts distributor in the nation. The 1-800 Radiator business model provides retail and wholesale customers with radiators delivered to their doorstep in a matter of hours at competitive pricing. To their franchisees, 1-800 Radiator provides unprecedented technological and practical support.

If you'd like to know more about 1-800 Radiator, or to schedule an interview with Ted Rippey, Director of Franchising call Ted Rippey at (707) 580-4548 or email him at Ted@1800radiator.com

Spirent Communications PLC announces Transaction in Own Shares

Spirent Communications plc announces that on 18 July 2006 it purchased from JPMorgan Cazenove Limited 1,000,000 Spirent Communications plc ordinary shares at an average price of 34.4813 pence per share. The purchased shares will be held as treasury shares. Following the above purchase, Spirent Communications plc holds 30,240,000 Spirent Communications plc ordinary shares in treasury, and has 940,635,758 Spirent Communications plc ordinary shares in issue (excluding treasury shares).

                  This information is provided by RNS       The company news service from the

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