MBN: The Monte Bubbles Network: Your news source on the web: April 21-24th archives

April 24, 2006

Sony Delivers 'HD for All'

To understand the internet you have to be open to change.

Written by Joyce L Chow & William Hoehne April 24, 2006
MBN
www.montebubbles.com for more MBN news

INTERNET ADVERTISING IS THE FUTURE

Job National Health Partners Expects Significant Member and Revenue Growth from Hispanic Advertising Campaign Featuring International Superstar Lucia Mendez

National Health Partners espera crecimiento importante en miembros e ingresos de su campaña de publicidad hispana con la superestrella internacional Lucía Méndez

NEWSWEEK: Pearl Jam's Vedder on Making a New Album: '

The Home Depot to Sponsor Univision’s Exclusive Spanish-Language Broadcast of FIFA World Cup Germany 2006(TM)
Home Depot patrocinará la transmisión exclusiva en español de Univision de la copa mundial de la FIFA Alemania 2006 (TM)
VATICAN NEWS OF THE PAST WEEK
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ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY
Extending Gas per Gallon with Nitrogen, Octane Boost, and a GasBuddy

With all the grumblings about the price of gas which can be heard round the globe and probably the universe, people are searching for ways to obtain lower gas prices, stretch their gas mileage, perhaps even car pool or if they must not go out as often. If you’re curious where your state stands, see the gas temperature map on www.gasbuddy.com and view your state or city. Not surprisingly, Hawaii as an island pays the highest gas prices. California follows paying the second highest state prices.

Southern Californians have such a fondness for driving that in “LA Story” a satirical look at life in Los Angeles with Steve Martin and Sarah Jessica Parker, he got in his car and drove several houses down to visit one of his neighbors.

Besides the obvious such as making sure your car is tuned, there are a few other tips I’ve discovered:

1) Octane booster added to your gas. While many are skeptical and I can’t quantify the difference on city mileage other than a few miles, when driving on the freeway for extended trips, the mileage increased 30%. Besides the extra mileage, it also gives your driving an extra boost.

2) Nitrogen added to your tires. Nitrogen is a inert,dry gas and as such minimizes fluctuating tire inflations pressures. Oxygen escapes from a tire 3 to 4 times faster than nitrogen. If you’re curious where in the world you can find this, check your neighborhood Costco which adds nitrogen automatically to your tires. With consistent and proper inflation pressure in your tires, your vehicle handles better, maximizes fuel efficiency and extends your tire life.

Costco traditionally has some of the lowest gas prices around. If you choose to pay less as a point, be prepared to wait or schedule your gas trips around lines.

BETSY MCGOWEN JOINS THE CW AS SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AND GENERAL MANAGER, KIDS' WB! ON THE CW

Betsy McGowen will join The CW as Senior Vice President and General Manager, Kids' WB! on The CW, it was announced today by Dawn Ostroff, who will become President of Entertainment, The CW, to whom McGowen will report. A joint venture between Warner Bros. Entertainment and CBS Corporation, The CW is the new fifth broadcast television network scheduled to launch in the Fall of 2006.

McGowen, a senior executive at Kids' WB! since its inception in 1995, will oversee all series development, current programming and scheduling as well as brand, image and marketing for Kids' WB! on The CW.

"Kids' WB! is an integral part of The CW's future, and Betsy McGowen's continued leadership and vast experience make her the perfect executive to oversee this important daypart," said Ostroff. "Betsy has been with Kids' WB! since its inception, and her stellar creative and marketing track record has been instrumental in establishing a dominant programming block that kids have embraced in a major way."

Prior to joining The CW, McGowen had served as Senior Vice President and General Manager, Kids' WB! since May 2004, overseeing all programming and marketing aspects for network television's number one children's block. She had previously served as Senior Vice President, Kids' WB! Marketing and had held a top marketing position at Kids' WB! since 1995, where she helped shape the network's distinct brand image and on-air campaigns.

Before The WB, McGowen worked as a freelance writer/producer/editor for many clients, including Fox and the Disney Channel. From 1992-93, she was a staff promo writer/producer for Fox Kids Network. Prior to Fox Kids, McGowen was an offline/online videotape editor at NBC and Fox.

As previously announced, the new CW Network will consist of a six-night, 13-hour primetime lineup including Monday through Friday nights from 8:00-10:00 PM (ET/PT); Sundays from 7:00-10:00 PM (ET/PT); Sunday from 5:00-7:00 PM (ET/PT) outside of prime time as well as a Monday-Friday afternoon block from 3:00-5:00 PM (ET/PT) and a five-hour Saturday morning animation block from 7:00 AM-12:00 PM. Altogether, the network will program 30 hours a week over seven days.

Sony Delivers 'HD for All' at NAB 2006

Sony is delivering on its theme of "HD for All" at the 2006 National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) convention here this week, highlighting applications of its high-definition technology for all levels of professional digital video production.

"Our line-up of HD systems serves the entire pyramid of customer applications, from event, documentary and corporate video at the base all the way to TV and big-budget motion picture production at the top," said John Scarcella, president of Sony's Broadcast and Business Solutions Company. "When we say, 'HD for All,' we really mean for all: All kinds of professionals, all price points, and all applications."

Sony's announcements at NAB include the continued success of its digital 24P products for TV and motion picture production, and the increasing use of its HD cameras and switchers for high-profile production installations including "Late Night with David Letterman," "Saturday Night Live," "Conan O'Brien" and "Good Morning America."

Sony is also announcing successes for its newest HD technology: the XDCAM HD(TM) line of optical disc camcorders and decks.

News 12 Networks, owned by Cablevision systems, is adopting XDCAM HD technology for all electronic news gathering (ENG) and news production applications. The group plans to roll-out 90 XDCAM HD camcorders across its channels over the next two years.

News 12 Networks operates seven 24-hour local news channels in New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, and according to Norm Fein, senior vice president for news development at News 12 Networks, the advantages of Sony's optical production technology are well-suited to the daily demands of gathering and producing regional news programming.

XDCAM HD technology is also being rolled out at Gannett Broadcasting and at two PBS stations: WETA in Washington, D.C., which will start using XDCAM HD technology for its production of "The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer" and WYCC in Chicago, which will begin acquiring in the XDCAM HD format. Both stations are also upgrading with a range of Sony HD gear including studio and portable cameras, and production switchers.

These two PBS member stations, along with WQED in Pittsburgh, are the latest to begin their HD conversion under the joint Sony/PBS HD Pilot Program, which was created to encourage and develop high definition television production by public TV stations.

Not only TV stations are attracted to XDCAM HD technology. Veteran director of photography Mark Falstad used the new camcorders at last month's Iditarod Sled Dog Race in Alaska. According to Falstad, the camcorders stood up to sub-zero temperatures, they were mounted onto sleds, they were dropped and weren't even enclosed in protective weather gear, but "despite the hammering the sled and the mount took, every frame was perfect."

Sony's family of HDV(TM) products for professionals has also expanded over the past year, with the HVR-A1U compact camcorder joining its larger HVR-Z1U cousin. A recent expedition up Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa was documented with the Sony HVR-A1U and, as cinematographer Joanne Hock noted, the camcorder's compact size was critical "when every ounce saved meant the difference between continuing on and having to stop."

Hock also noted that the camera's durability allowed her to keep shooting in the rugged conditions encountered during the climb, including heat, cold, humidity and dust. Also, the camcorder was "a quick learn," she said, adding that "the ability to use touch-screen pre-sets was a big time-saver. It was very easy to just pull it out, quickly check and adjust the settings, get the shot you want, put it back in your pocket and continue climbing."

Sony HD technology is also establishing a growing presence of in key market segments including the house-of-worship market. For example, Lakewood Church, which now holds its services in the former Compaq Center sports arena in Houston, has purchased eight Sony high definition cameras as part of a phased migration to HDTV.

In addition, Sony HD technology is also expanding to markets beyond traditional broadcast to the medical, government and education sectors, further enhancing the definition of "HD for All."

Source: Sony Electronics Inc.

DAVE.TV TO SHOWCASE CUTTING EDGE IPTV SERVICE DELIVERING CUSTOMIZED CONTENT TO MULTIPLE DEVICES USING THE POWER OF ANY BROADBAND CONNECTION AT NAB 06

Summary: DAVE.TV, an IPTV pioneer and leader in digital entertainment distribution, will showcase its exclusive IPTV Cross Platform Digital Delivery Ecosystem throughout NAB 2006 in the "ITA Content Incubator Pavilion" (SL 2407D). Please join us on Monday morning, April 24, from 8-9:30am for a special press breakfast presentation at the ITA meeting room S-101. Who: DAVE.TV (Distributed Audio Video Entertainment Television) is the first Cross Platform Digital Delivery Ecosystem that consolidates channels of video entertainment from sources around the world into a comprehensive service that delivers them to the PC, TV, portable and mobile devices while facilitating connections between Publishers, Advertisers and Consumers of digital media.

DAVE.TV also develops Internet TV and IPTV solutions and platforms for service providers such as Telcos, CLECs, MSOs and ISPs. DAVE.TV gives consumers the ability to acquire and consume content anywhere, anyplace and on any device while empowering, publishers to reach multiple platforms by enabling them to publish to only one central point to reach multiple devices/platforms while being able to choose their pricing and business model. DAVE.TV also enables advertisers to have a one-on-one interaction with consumers by delivering highly targeted advertising based on demographics and/or geographics. DAVE.TV currently delivers over 100 channels of content from publishing sources worldwide, and that number is continuing to grow rapidly.

For more information please visit www.dave.tv.

VitalStream, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: VSHI), the world leader in audio and video streaming, will launch VitalStream Media Player for Flash at booth #SL4206 at NAB in Las Vegas, NV, April 24-27, 2006.

With VitalStream's Media Player for Flash, viewing Flash video (FLV) content locally is as simple as double-clicking an FLV file. Previously, developers needed to create a Media Player within the Flash Development environment in order to view FLV content on their local computer. The VitalStream Media Player for Flash simplifies the workflow and saves development time by eliminating cumbersome steps in creating Flash video projects.

Key features of VitalStream's Media Player for Flash include:

* Standard media player controls like play, pause, volume controls and a video scrub bar
* At-a-glance data on file name, total running time (TRT), audio and video data rate and video frame size
* Zoom in and out functions for viewing video at 100% or 200%
* Access to a time code display
* Full support for all FLV files, including Flash 6,7 and 8 encoded Flash Video

Working hand-in-hand with Adobe (formerly Macromedia) to develop the Flash streaming platform, VitalStream leads the market as the first and most experienced Flash video streaming service provider. The VitalStream Service for Flash delivers a higher capacity service than other, non-certified CDN Flash providers.

VitalStream be available at NAB to discuss the role of content delivery in media, video streaming and the company's new Media Player for Flash.

InPhase Technologies, the world’s leader in holographic data storage, today announced at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) convention the first holographic storage systems for broadcasters.

InPhase will ship the industry’s first holographic drives to OEM customers in the fourth quarter of 2006. The company also announced its first broadcast customer, Pappas Telecasting, which will incorporate the InPhase Tapestry™ holographic drives into an archival storage system for its flagship stations, KAZR-TV/KREN-TV, in Reno, Nevada. Also, Panasonic Broadcast will show demonstrate the InPhase Tapestry holographic drive, at NAB Booth #C2518, as the ideal solution for the company’s P2 camera.

At NAB 2006, InPhase will have demonstrate a range of holographic products and systems, based on its Tapestry technology, at the Maxell Booth #C6932 in the Las Vegas Convention Center, including:

The industry’s first holographic storage drive, the InPhase Tapestry HDS-300R drive

the industry’s first video disc recorder (HVDR), the OvalRock SD Dynamic holographic video disc recorder (H-VDR)Workstation

a 9.6 terabyte the industry’s first holographic video archive solution, a 30 terabyte (TB) solution that incorporates an asm storage library, the QStar’s Data Protection archive appliance; an ASM storage library, the InPhase Tapestry holographic drive, and Maxell holographic media

a 3TB workstation archive autoloader

The InPhase HDS-300R drive records 300 gigabytes (GB) on a single disk with a transfer rate of 20 megabytes per second (MB/s), or 160 megabits per second (Mb/s). The HDS-300R will enable broadcasters to record 35 hours of broadcast-quality (19 Mbps) video on a single disk in 250 minutes (160 Mbps transfer rate). InPhase will begin shipments of the product to OEM customers at the end of 2006.

“We have followed the progress of holographic storage over the last few years, and have found the characteristics of the InPhase Tapestry drive and media to be ideally suited as an archive solution for our P2 products,” said Phil Livingston, vice president for technical liaison for Panasonic Broadcast. “Our broadcast customers have been asking for a long-life, high-density optical product with rapid access, and the InPhase HDS-300R has now arrived. We’re pleased to showcase this revolutionary technology for our P2 customers.”

The OvalRock SD Dynamic Workstation is a server emulator than can record and play back source material from standard-definition (SD), high-definition (HD), 2K (or, Academy 2K, which is 1828 x 1332 pixels), videotape recorder (VTR), data disc recorder (DDR), or act as a server emulator. Capable of videotape, Blu-Ray, and holographic record/playback functions, the workstation is agnostic of most operating systems and applications and runs most production process applications. It is compliant with x86 hardware and software and can be configured with up to 6.4 TB of hard-disk drive (HDD) RAID arrays.

The first holographic video archive solution – from asm, InPhase, and Qstar – will store more than 200 hours of HD (at 100 Mb/s) or more than 800 hours of SD (at 25 Mb/s) on 32 pieces of Maxell holographic media.

“The progress that holographic storage has made in the past year continues to answer our many questions regarding archive and production, particularly as we incorporate more high-definition programming into our networks. We are fast moving toward a file-based universe, and holographic data storage will be an integral part of this future,” said Ron Tarasoff, vice president of broadcast technology & engineering at Turner Entertainment Networks.

InPhase will also exhibit at the Maxell booth a 10-slot autoloader that holds three TB of data, or more than 66 hours of HD video (100 Mbps).

InPhase has also announced that the HDS-300R drive will be compatible with the FlashNet Archive Manager from Storage Generation, Ltd. (SGL).

“As we bring the first holographic storage products to market, we’re pleased to be aligned with some of the leading developers of next-generation recorders as well as reliable, long-term and near-term archival storage,” said Liz Murphy, vice president of marketing for InPhase. “This NAB marks the beginning of the next generation of storage for broadcasters, and we are showcasing a diverse array of solutions for this initial phase of product delivery.”

About InPhase Technologies

InPhase Technologies is the leading developer of holographic data storage (HDS) recording media and systems. Based in Longmont, Colorado, InPhase was founded in 2000, and is comprised of some of the storage industry's leading executives and scientists. InPhase is funded by venture capital investors New Venture Partners LLC, Signal Lake Ventures, Newton Technology Partners, Yasuda Enterprise Development, Japan Asia Investment Company, Nanotechnology Partners LLC, and Mr. B.J. Cassin. Corporate investors are Hitachi Maxell, Ltd., Bayer MaterialScience AG, and ALPS Information Technology Fund. For more information on InPhase, please visit the company's Web site at www.inphase-tech.com.

FOTOKEM SPEEDS DAILIES WORKFLOW WITH AVD AND ZAXEL SYSTEMS’ ESCORT-DIGITAL DAILIES SYNCING AND OUTPUT SOLUTION

TK-Digital Dailies Solution Enables Faster, Automated Transfer of

Episodic Television and Theatrical Dailies

LAS VEGAS --- AVD, a leading developer of digital video software solutions, and Zaxel Systems, a leading developer of digital video compression systems and products, today announced at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) show in Las Vegas that the companies have collaborated with FotoKem, a premier independently-owned film & video postproduction facility, on a new, automated system for delivering digital dailies for film and television productions.

The AVD Escort Digital Dailies solution, sold exclusively by Zaxel Systems, has enabled FotoKem to save substantial time producing digital dailies for primetime series such as “Trial by Jury,” “Criminal Intent,” “Over There,” and many other productions for both the television and theatrical market. The Escort Digital Dailies system has enhanced the company’s overall digital content workflow, providing for both increased telecine revenues and more color grading time per client.

FotoKem has used the Escort Digital Dailies system since February, 2005. The Escort Digital Dailies system involves the use of multiple DDRchitect workstations to handle the audio ingest, logging, audio-to-video syncing, tape laydown and Avid digitizing outside a telecine room.

The DDRchitect is used by FotoKem for dailies in the mornings, and can be easily re-purposed as a non-linear replacement for videotape recorders (VTRs) in the afternoon.

“The traditional VTR-based router system has evolved into a multi -functional, format-independent system, with workstations that are lower-cost and designed for parallel access via a SAN infrastructure,” said Charlie Taylor, Vice President of Sales at Zaxel Systems Inc.

Integrated with the FotoKem SAN, the Escort Digital Dailies system enables multiple workstations to work simultaneously, sharing the same storage volume so that, for example, the Escort Dailies operator will load and log audio while a colorist loads video to the same storage volume.

“Our work with AVD in the development of the Escort system has proven to be a giant step forward in the automation of the dailies process,” said Rand Gladden, senior VP of digital and data development for FotoKem. “Whether working with film elements or the new digital cameras, we have seen significant improvement in efficiencies. Integrated with FotoKem’s SAN, the Escort system allows for simultaneous sharing among workstations for specific tasks, resulting in more time for color correction and improved accuracy in audio syncing and the collection of metadata. All of this equals higher quality and faster turnaround for our clients.”

The Escort Digital Dailies workflow provides automated down conversion from high-definition (HD) source material to standard-definition (SD) video.

“The FotoKem collaboration has aided us in the development of a flexible, reliable, and very fast system for delivering digital assets in an on-demand universe,” said Richard Lyons, president of AVD Burbank and the co-developer of the Escort Digital Dailies system. “The Escort software enables parallel operation for digital dailies by decoupling the tasks in telecine and automating them in a simple fashion. We have developed a networked, automated system for what had been a very time-intensive process.”

Using the Escort system, all tasks except film transfer can be done by the operator away from the telecine room. The system is designed to export ALE and FLEX files for Avid editing, as well as picture and sound reports. The system enables DPX 2K files, or dual link 1080p RGB video source material to be converted at real-time, from storage to down conversion, with burn-ins used as an option. Users can directly import WAV files from DVD media, and conduct simultaneous lay-off of daily takes to multiple formats.

About Advanced Video Design (AVD) and Preferred Video Products (PVP)

AVD & PVP, located in Burbank CA. are leaders in the development of video solutions for the entertainment, military and space industries. Over the past nine years, AVD has manufactured broadcast and film products, authored unique software solutions and provided turn-key systems engineering, integration and service. Many years before High Definition video became a predominant post-production format, AVD developed and built an 8:8:8 (1440) Telecine which was the highest quality film transfer device of its time. AVD has built software-controlled custom video systems for NASA, the Los Angeles County Sheriff¹s Dept. and the Army/Air Force. Technology developed during Research and Development led to the DDRchitect and software for the entertainment industry. AVD has a proven track record of developing and selling innovative products to the entertainment industry and government agencies. For further information, www.avdburbank.com

About Zaxel Systems, Inc.

Zaxel Systems is a leading developer of digital video compression systems and products, from HD, 2K & 4K real-time disk recorders, servers & players to SAN and NAS real-time I/O units. The company is committed to the delivery of highly reliable, cost-effective, customer-friendly and feature-rich products to the television and digital film industry. Zaxel Systems is the exclusive worldwide distributor of Preferred Video Product’s AVD DDRchitect product line. Founded in 1998, Zaxel Systems Inc. corporate headquarters is located in Sunnyvale, California. For further information, please visit the company Web site at www.zaxel.com.

About FotoKem

FotoKem is a premier independently owned film & video postproduction facility based in

Burbank, CA. Established in 1963, FotoKem is a unique full service facility that embraces the entire sequence of motion picture and television postproduction by combining full-scale laboratory services with advanced digital finishing. See www.fotokem.com for additional information.

Zaxel Systems, a leading developer of digital video compression systems and products, today announced that it has integrated its patented ZLC (Zaxel Lossless Compression) into the AJA OEM dual link high-definition (HD) and serial digital interface (SDI) I/O card, which enables customers to compress and decompress high-resolution digital video at three times the current rate for video capture, editing, and playback in both HD and standard definition (SD). The faster compression rates enable Zaxel customers to save on storage costs, enable them to connect more than twice as many workstations to SAN, and achieve faster data transfer on network.

This technology provides Zaxel customers with the only real-time solution for lossless video compression, essentially providing the power of a full-scale video server on a single video card.

The Zaxel ZLC video codec is integrated into the FPGA on the AJA card, and provides three stages of compression and decompression that enable the prediction of the value of each video pixel, based on previously viewed pixels. The technology provides real-time record and play with no latency. Zaxel guarantees bit-for-bit restoration through multiple codec cycles.

ZAXEL SYSTEMS INTEGRATES LOSSLESS COMPRESSION SCHEME INTO AJA’S OEM REAL-TIME DUAL LINK HD-SDI I/O CARD

Zaxel Systems’ Zaxel Lossless Compression (ZLC^TM) Enables Three Times

Faster Compression/Decompression, Saves Money on Storage

This technology provides Zaxel customers with the only real-time solution for lossless video compression, essentially providing the power of a full-scale video server on a single video card.

“The ZLC technology is a cost-effective upgrade to one of the most powerful video compression technologies available,” said Nick Rashby, Director of Sales and Marketing, AJA. “This integration delivers the power of a video server in a single card and provides Zaxel customers with a powerful method of handling complex graphics and high-resolution imaging. We are pleased to have Zaxel as one of our OEM partners.”

“Now, Zaxel users don't have to invest in new hardware; they can easily upgrade to the highest level of video performance with the latest technology by installing our new solution,” said Dr. Norihisa Suzuki, President & CEO of Zaxel Systems Inc. “The ZLC is designed to provide real-time video compression that renders no loss in quality, with tremendous savings in customer bandwidth and storage capacity. We are pleased to offer this technology to our customers, which represent the vanguard of video creativity.”

ZLC compresses and decompresses digital video without any loss of data. Bit-for-bit restoration is guaranteed at any raster, any resolution, any frame rate, and at any bit depth.

About Zaxel Systems, Inc.

Founded in 1998, Zaxel Systems Inc. corporate headquarters is located in Sunnyvale, California. From HD, 2K & 4K real time disk recorders, servers & players to SAN and NAS real-time I/O units, Zaxel is committed to deliver highly reliable, cost effective, customer friendly and feature rich products to the television and digital film industry.

PAPPAS TELECASTING TO USE INPHASE TECHNOLOGIES HOLOGRAPHIC STORAGE;FIRST BROADCASTER TO INTEGRATE NEXT-GENERATION TECHNOLOGYInPhase Tapestry™ System to be Part of Pappas Archive System in Leading-EdgeBroadcast Facility at KREN/KAZR-TV in Reno, Nevada

InPhase Technologies, the world’s leader in holographic data storage, today announced at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) convention that Pappas Telecasting, the largest privately held, commercial television broadcast group in the United States, will be the first broadcaster in the world to integrate holographic storage into its facility. The new, state-of-the-art Pappas facility that serves KAZR/KREN in Reno, Nevada – the flagship stations of the Pappas group - will incorporate the InPhase Tapestry™ holographic drive and media into its archive system in 2007.

The initial InPhase Tapestry product, which will ship to OEM customers in the fourth quarter of 2006, will be a 300 GB write-once read many (WORM) drive that will enable broadcasters to record 2,100 minutes (35 hours) of broadcast-quality video on a single disk at a transfer rate of 20 MB/s (160 megabits per second) in less than 4.5 hours (250 minutes). InPhase will show the Tapestry system at the Maxell Corp. booth #C6932 at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) convention in Las Vegas, April 24-27, in the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Pappas Telecasting is launching a new automated master control facility, called the “Crystal Palace,” at an indoor shopping mall in Reno that will originate two local high-definition (HD) news programs, for both KAZR-TV and KREN-TV, for the Reno market. The facility is an all-serial digital interface (SDI), all-HD facility that will integrate the InPhase Tapestry technology into its automated program archive system.

“The holographic system that InPhase has developed, from the broadcaster’s perspective, is the most disruptive technology since the transistor. Holographic storage enables us to develop a truly all-digital, tapeless, paperless facility that will provide the highest quality images – from acquisition to archive – on discs that fit into your pocket,” said Harry J. Pappas, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Pappas Telecasting Companies.

Continued Mr. Pappas, “As the leading privately-held station group in the country, Pappas has always been a technology leader for our local stations. It is fitting that the ‘last of the independents’ is in the vanguard of broadcast technology. What was once considered purely ‘science fiction’ – holographic storage – is now reality, and Pappas will help bring it to light in the broadcast market.”

InPhase recently demonstrated the highest data density of any commercial technology by recording 515 gigabits of data per square inch. Holographic storage is a revolutionary departure from all existing recording methods because it takes advantage of volumetric efficiencies rather than only recording on the surface of the material.

“We have worked closely with the broadcast and cable industry over the past few years to understand core system requirements for storage, and have worked with some of the largest players in the field, yet we’re pleased to announce Pappas as the first broadcast customer,” said Liz Murphy, vice president of marketing for InPhase Technologies. “Pappas Telecasting purchased equipment sight-unseen last yea,r even before NAB. They have demonstrated a visionary approach to local station broadcast technology, and we are pleased to be a part of their build-out.”

KREN-TV recently became an affiliate of the CW network, the new network formed by the merger of the UPN and WB networks. The move was part of a long-term affiliation agreement that Pappas Telecasting signed with the CW, which also includes eight other Pappas Telecasting stations.

“The InPhase Tapestry holographic storage will be a key component of the Pappas Telecasting stations, going forward. For both near-line and online storage, holographic makes sense, and is consistent with our move to all-digital,” said James Ocon, deputy director of engineering for Pappas Telecasting, and chief engineer for KAZR-TV.

InPhase was the first to demonstrate a holographic prototype drive, at NAB 2005, and, together with Turner Broadcasting, demonstrated the first playout-to-air of a commercial from a holographic storage system.

“Today’s broadcast facilities, as they migrate to all-HD, all-digital environments, are demanding more from their storage systems, given the size of files that are shot, edited, and played out to air, and holographic storage is now able to fill this growing demand,” said Rick Doherty, president of Envisioneering. “Now that InPhase has lined up OEM vendor agreements, and is rolling out the drives and the media, broadcasters should have little resistance to experimenting with the next generation in optical storage.”

About InPhase Technologies

InPhase Technologies is the leading developer of holographic data storage (HDS) recording media and systems. Based in Longmont, Colorado, InPhase was founded in 2000, and is comprised of some of the storage industry's leading executives and scientists. InPhase is funded by venture capital investors New Venture Partners LLC, Signal Lake Ventures, Newton Technology Partners, Yasuda Enterprise Development, Japan Asia Investment Company, NanotechPartners LLC and Mr. B.J. Cassin. Corporate investors are Hitachi Maxell, Ltd., Bayer MaterialScience AG, and ALPS Information Technology Fund. For more information on InPhase, please visit the company's Web site at www.inphase-tech.com.

Pappas Telecasting Companies is the largest privately held, commercial television broadcast group in the United States in terms of U.S. Household coverage as defined by Nielsen Media Research. The company owns 27 stations, including market-leading FOX, WB, ABC, CBS, UPN and Azteca America affiliates, and operates three other stations pursuant to local marketing agreements, in most regions of the United States.
is the largest privately held, commercial television broadcast group in the United States in terms of U.S. Household coverage as defined by Nielsen Media Research. The company owns 27 stations, including market-leading FOX, WB, ABC, CBS, UPN and Azteca America affiliates, and operates three other stations pursuant to local marketing agreements, in most regions of the United States.

Additionally, Pappas owns 15 on-air digital channels, operates three others under LMAs, and has an agreement to purchase one additional digital channel. The Company holds construction permits to build 10 additional television stations, and has an option to purchase a construction permit for a full-power, five million Watt station. Pappas also is moving KTRB-AM 860 from Modesto to the San Francisco-San Jose radio market, and is constructing KPMP-AM 840 in Modesto. According to statistics from Nielsen, Pappas Telecasting television stations serve more than 16% of all U.S. television households. In addition, the company owns or operates television stations in markets reaching nearly 36% of U.S. Hispanic households and 38% of all U.S. Hispanic persons age 2+. In total, Pappas owns or operates stations in 24 Designated Market Areas. For more information, log on to www.pappastv.com.

Jumpcut, a new online video sharing and remixing – or mashing – service introduced today at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) conference in Las Vegas

enables users to upload video and still pictures and mix them together with video from friends or from other Jumpcut users to create real-time, collaborative group movies that can be shared over the Internet. Users do not need any additional software, and can instantly join the Jumpcut community. The service also enables users to use parts of other user’s movies in their works, and find content for use in movies.

Developed by San Francisco-based MiraVida Media, Jumpcut- available at www.jumpcut.com - is currently a free service and is compatible with Windows and Mac PCs. Users can upload files from a wide range of devices, including digital camcorders, digital still cameras, and PC devices. Also, users can also import images from a Flickr account to use within movies, or to make video slideshows. Once a user finishes remixing a movie, Jumpcut enables the finished product to be shared instantly.

ONLINE VIDEO MASHING SERVICE, JUMPCUT, INTRODUCED

BY MIRAVIDA MEDIA; ENABLES REAL-TIME VIDEO COLLABORATION

Users Can Upload, Create, Share and Remix Movies with Friends;

Create New Versions of Jumpcut User’s Movies Instantly Online

Making – and re-making – a movie just got a lot easier. Jumpcut, a new online video sharing and remixing – or mashing – service introduced today by MiraVida Media, enables users to upload video and still pictures and mix them together with video from friends or from other Jumpcut users to create real-time, collaborative group movies that can be shared over the Internet. Users do not need any additional software, and can instantly join the Jumpcut community. The service also enables users to use approved parts of other user’s movies in their works, and find content for use in movies.

Available at www.jumpcut.com, the Jumpcut service is currently free and is compatible with all Windows PCs and Macs. Users can upload files from a wide range of devices, including digital camcorders, digital still cameras, and PC devices. Also, users can also import images from Flickr to use within movies, or to make photo slideshows. Once a user finishes remixing a movie, Jumpcut enables the finished product to be shared instantly.

According to Alexa rankings, there are currently more than 100,000,000 users of Internet video sharing sites, such as YouTube, MySpace, Snapfish, and others.

“More and more people are capturing video and still images on digital cameras, cell phones, Webcams and other devices, and sharing clips and images online,” said Mike Folgner, CEO of MiraVida Media. “Jumpcut is the Internet version of a global home movie festival; it provides a clearinghouse for video which never gets stale, as users are engaged in continuously reinventing content.”

Once on Jumpcut, users can upload content, or browse and search for content shared within the community to include in their movies. By pressing “make a movie,” users can edit and order clips, while adding transitions, titles, effects and music to make a movie. After completion, users press “publish” and can instantly share their movie with anyone on the Internet, or post to a blog or MySpace page.

The Remix feature of Jumpcut enables users to make their own versions of any movie on the site. Users can re-order the clips, change the audio, drag in their own clips, and ultimately publish their version of a movie.

The Jumpcut community provides features for voting on a user’s work. By clicking on ‘I Like This Director,’ users can keep track of a fellow Jumpcut user’s work.

“The growth of online applications for media sharing and creation has now reached a seminal tipping point, where users can re-shape what they see online, instantly,” said Marc Scarpa, co-chairman of the Producers Guild of America East New Media Council. “The Jumpcut service is an ideal example of a collaborative consumer Internet application that hasn’t even been successfully developed for professionals. MiraVida has created a service that is inherently viral and, most importantly, is addictively fun.”

About MiraVida Media

MiraVida Media, Inc, based in San Francisco, was founded in June of 2005. The company’s flagship service, Jumpcut, enables a community of online users to quickly and easily make movies. For more information, visi the company Web site at http://www.jumpcut.com/

InPhase, asm, and QStar will demonstrate the first holographic video archive system, in the Maxell Corp.

The system will store more than 200 hours of high-definition (HD) video (at 100 megabits per second, or Mb/s) or more than 800 hours of standard definition (SD) video (at 25 Mb/s) on 32 pieces of Maxell holographic media. InPhase will ship the initial HDS-300R drives in the fourth quarter of 2006 to OEM customers, including asm.

The asm library provides a permanent and secure archive for video content. InPhase Tapestry-equipped asm libraries are scalable, offering as much as 1,095 TB or 24,146 hrs of HD at 100 Mb/s on 3,648 pieces of media.

The InPhase HDS-300R drive records 300 gigabytes (GB) on a single disk with a transfer rate of 20 megabytes per second (MB/s), or 160 megabits per second (Mb/s). The HDS-300R will enable broadcasters to record 35 hours of broadcast-quality (19 Mb/s) video on a single disk in 250 minutes (160 Mbps transfer rate). InPhase will begin shipments of the product to OEM customers at the end of 2006.

INPHASE TECHNOLOGIES SIGNS OEM AGREEMENT WITH asm;

WILL ENABLE HOLOGRAPHIC STORAGE LIBRARY SYSTEMS

Leading Holographic Storage Developer Pacts with Leading European Optical

Storage Library Developer to Help Grow Next-Generation Archive Market

InPhase Technologies, the world’s leader in holographic data storage, today announced at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) convention that it has signed an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) agreement with asm, a leading European developer of optical storage library systems. The agreement will enable the roll-out of the first holographic archival systems, using InPhase’s patented Tapestry™ HDS-300R holographic drives, for customers in the broadcast, government, medical, and I.T. markets.

InPhase, asm, and QStar will demonstrate the first holographic video archive system, in the Maxell Corp. Booth #C6932 in the Las Vegas Convention Center at NAB. The system will store more than 200 hours of high-definition (HD) video (at 100 megabits per second, or Mb/s) or more than 800 hours of standard definition (SD) video (at 25 Mb/s) on 32 pieces of Maxell holographic media. InPhase will ship the initial HDS-300R drives in the fourth quarter of 2006 to OEM customers, including asm.

“The introduction of the first holographic archive systems, from asm, will provide broadcast customers, and other data-intensive enterprises, with a reliable, scalable solution for storing and accessing vital assets,” said Art Rancis, vice president of InPhase Technologies. “As our initial customers come on line, we look forward to further work with asm to provide the next generation in optical storage technology.”

The InPhase HDS-300R drive records 300 gigabytes (GB) on a single disk with a transfer rate of 20 megabytes per second (MB/s), or 160 megabits per second (Mb/s). The HDS-300R will enable broadcasters to record 35 hours of broadcast-quality (19 Mb/s) video on a single disk in 250 minutes (160 Mbps transfer rate). InPhase will begin shipments of the product to OEM customers at the end of 2006.

“asm intends to integrate the Tapestry technology throughout the entire product line,” said Johann Deters, Managing Director of asm. “The integration will be done as a parallel process, while InPhase continues to move toward developing the drive device. When InPhase releases the drives and media, asm will be ready to deliver libraries with the new technology already integrated, so units are expected to be available in 2007.”

InPhase announced its first broadcast customer, Pappas Telecasting, at NAB 2006. Pappas will incorporate the InPhase Tapestry™ holographic drives into an archival storage system for its flagship stations, KAZR-TV/KREN-TV, in Reno, Nevada.

About InPhase Technologies

InPhase Technologies is the leading developer of holographic data storage (HDS) recording media and systems. Based in Longmont, Colorado, InPhase was founded in 2000, and is comprised of some of the storage industry's leading executives and scientists. InPhase is funded by venture capital investors New Venture Partners LLC, Signal Lake Ventures, Newton Technology Partners, Yasuda Enterprise Development, Japan Asia Investment Company, Nanotech Partners LLC, and Mr. B.J. Cassin. Corporate investors are Hitachi Maxell, Ltd., Bayer MaterialScience AG, and ALPS Information Technology Fund. For more information on InPhase, please visit the company's Web site at www.inphase-tech.com.

About asm

asm is one of the leading European manufacturers of optical storage libraries. Founded in 1993 in Westerstede / Northern Germany, asm develops and manufactures libraries for all optical storage media, including CD/DVD and blue laser. Libraries are currently available from a capacity of 750 GB to 120 TB. Up to 5000 slots and 70 drives can be integrated into a single system. Tailor-made libraries are also available and are scalable with many add-ons such as iSCSI, fiber channel, integrated server / appliance or barcode-scanners. asm is presently expanding their sales activities to the U.S. market. For more information on asm, please visit the company’s homepage at www.asm-jukebox.com.
asm is one of the leading European manufacturers of optical storage libraries. Founded in 1993 in Westerstede / Northern Germany, asm develops and manufactures libraries for all optical storage media, including CD/DVD and blue laser. Libraries are currently available from a capacity of 750 GB to 120 TB. Up to 5000 slots and 70 drives can be integrated into a single system. Tailor-made libraries are also available and are scalable with many add-ons such as iSCSI, fiber channel, integrated server / appliance or barcode-scanners. asm is presently expanding their sales activities to the U.S. market. For more information on asm, please visit the company’s homepage at .

Blu-Ray disc, data disc recorder (DDR), and holographic drive. The initial workstation will ship with tape drives, with holographic drives to be added in later versions.

Representing a new generation of powerful servers that can emulate a wide variety of media source types, and is compatible with most major broadcast software programs, the OvalRock Dynamic Workstation is designed to duplicate the function of most major pieces of television production equipment. Each component of the OvalRock Dynamic Workstation can integrate data from a variety of sources, process it in real time for a variety of functions, and store it onto local or remote hard disc drives or store it to holographic disc, videotape or Blu-Ray disc for archive and transport.

OVALROCK ANNOUNCES SUPPORT FOR HOLOGRAPHIC STORAGE;

WORKSTATION TO USE INPHASE TECHNOLOGIES TAPESTRY™ DRIVE

OvalRock Dynamic Workstation Capable of Record and Playback of SD, HD, 2K, VTR, DDR Data; Can Act as Server Emulator, Compatible with Most Broadcast Software

OvalRock, a leading designer and developer of convergent broadcast video applications, today announced at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) convention that it will offer a holographic video recorder, the OvalRock Dynamic Workstation. OvalRock will show the workstation, which incorporates the Tapestry™ technology from InPhase Technologies, the world’s leader in holographic data storage, at the Maxell Booth #C6932 in the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Shipping to customers in the third quarter of 2006, the OvalRock Dynamic Workstation enables broadcasters, and video professionals, to record and play back source material from a variety of formats, including videotape, Blu-Ray disc, data disc recorder (DDR), and holographic drive. The initial workstation will ship with tape drives, with holographic drives to be added in later versions.

“Today’s broadcast facility is experiencing a massive shift from legacy analog equipment to the latest digital systems, and the OvalRock Dynamic Workstation enables video professionals of all types to protect their equipment investments while migrating at a reasonable pace,” said Algie Abrams, CEO of OvalRock.

Continued Abrams, “Integrating the first holographic video recording capability, with InPhase Technologies, is a unique feature of the OvalRock Dynamic Workstation that enables us to provide a seamless method of integrating existing AV signal systems and workflows into high-performance IT processing and storage environments. With the OvalRock Dynamic Workstation, customers don’t have to move their data to another piece of equipment, they merely have to change the application.”

Designed with a familiar VTR controller front panel design, with jog and bump commands, the OvalRock Dynamic Workstation includes a high-quality LCD monitor to view input and output video, waveform and vector displays, and file, bin, and edit information. With full VTR editorial functions, the OvalRock Dynamic Workstation can be externally controlled by networked or SP-DIF functions. A fully-functioning virtual VTR, capable of storing both compressed and uncompressed standard- and high-definition video data, the OvalRock Dynamic Workstation operates on an x86 platform, so that all hardware, operating systems, and applications that conform to those standards can be utilized in the system.

Continued Abrams, “A facility may have many flavors of analog and digital equipment, which perform specific functions or tasks. The OvalRock Dynamic Workstation workstation can emulate VTRs, DDRs, network servers, edit and effects and character generators, and can also provide simultaneous file and signal type translations. So, for example, a customer may have an OvalRock Dynamic Workstation running a Windows-based application for one task, but may be running a LINUX-based application for another task.”

The OvalRock Dynamic Workstation SD Dynamic Workstation is a server emulator than can record and play back source material from standard-definition(SD), high-definition (HD), 2K (or, Academy 2K, which is 1828 x 1332 pixels), videotape recorder (VTR), data disc recorder (DDR), or act as a server emulator. It can be configured with up to 6.4 TB of hard-disk drive (HDD) RAID arrays.

The OvalRock Dynamic Workstation is compatible with a wide variety of broadcast software applications, including: Adobe Premier; Avid Express; Matrox; Sonic Solutions; SAI; Louth Systems; Omnibus; Adobe After Effects; Maya; 3D Studio Max; Combustion; Adobe Photoshop; Adobe Illustrator; Windows Media; Real Networks Helix; Digidesign ProTools, and all MPEG and ASI applications.

“With the OvalRock Dynamic Workstation, the broadcast industry will have a video recorder solution that incorporates holographic storage technology, and will enable cost-effective access to legacy data,” said Liz Murphy, vice president of marketing for InPhase Technologies. “The OvalRock Dynamic Workstation enables our customers to integrate holographic storage for today’s applications, in addition to a highly-reliable solution for archival material.”

About OvalRock

OvalRock is a broadcast and electronic media designer and developer that specializes in the convergence of Electronic Media, Information and Telecommunication Systems. The company’s customers are end-users and vendors that require both strategic and tactical knowledge for the development of next-generation systems that merge a wide variety of technologies. OvalRock’s services range from design consulting and manufacturing to direct marketing. The company, based in Vista, California, was founded in 2003. For more information, visit the company Web site at www.ovalrock.biz.

About InPhase Technologies

InPhase Technologies is the leading developer of holographic data storage (HDS) recording media and systems. Based in Longmont, Colorado, InPhase was founded in 2000, and is comprised of some of the storage industry's leading executives and scientists. InPhase is funded by venture capital investors New Venture Partners LLC, Signal Lake Ventures, Newton Technology Partners, Yasuda Enterprise Development, Japan Asia Investment Company, Nanotech Partners and Mr. B.J. Cassin. Corporate investors are Hitachi Maxell, Ltd., Bayer MaterialScience AG, and ALPS Information Technology Fund. For more information on InPhase, please visit the company's Web site at www.inphase-tech.com.

Using the company’s patented Zaxel Lossless Compression (ZLC™), the Zaxel Video Server enables customers in professional video production, digital cinema, and image-intensive applications

including healthcare, government, and computer-aided design (CAD) – to capture, edit, and playback the highest resolution images, including 2k (2048x1080 and 2048X1556) and 4k (4096x2160 and 4096X3112), using up to one-third the storage.

Zaxel will use a quad display, with four monitors, demonstrating the Zaxel Video Server’s 4k image output.

Video is stored by the Zaxel Video Server in a mathematically lossless format, to reduce disk cost. RGB videos can be streamed through Dual Link HDSDI interface, and videos can be presented as a part of PowerPoint presentations with clipped windows.

The Zaxel Video Server enables video to be streamed, through standard PCs, at speeds up to 500 megabytes per second (MB/s), or 4 gigabits per second (Gb/s). Using four HDSDI cards, which can capture a 4k camera output, the Zaxel Video Server offers bit-for-bit compression. The Zaxel Video Server’s compression mechanism enables storage area networks (SANs) to be built and operated more easily, and at less cost, than other solutions.

A real-time record and play system with guaranteed bit-for-bit restoration through multiple codec cycles, the Zaxel Video Server runs on standard Windows platforms, including a single CPU for serial SD video; dual Xeon CPU for HD, 2K, and 4K video. Users do not need to invest in new hardware for Zaxel Video Server upgrades; they simply install the new software on their existing Zaxel Windows platforms.

ZAXEL SYSTEMS SHIPS FIRST VIDEO SERVER WITH LOSSLESS COMPRESSION; UP TO 4K RECORDING FOR PRODUCTION, D-CINEMA, GOVERNMENT CUSTOMERS The Zaxel Video Server Uses Patented Zaxel Lossless Compression (ZLC™); Enables Three Times Faster Compression/Decompression, Saves Money on Storage

Zaxel Systems, a leading developer of digital video compression systems and products, today announced at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) convention that it is shipping the industry’s first video server with lossless compression. Using the company’s patented Zaxel Lossless Compression (ZLC™), the Zaxel Video Server enables customers in professional video production, digital cinema, and image-intensive applications – including healthcare, government, and computer-aided design (CAD) – to capture, edit, and playback the highest resolution images, including 2k (2048x1080 and 2048X1556) and 4k (4096x2160 and 4096X3112), using up to one-third the storage.

The Zaxel Video Server will be demonstrated at Zaxel’s Booth# SL637, in the lower level of the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, during NAB, from April 24-27. Zaxel will use a quad display, with four monitors, demonstrating the Zaxel Video Server’s 4k image output.

“After several years of development, and tremendous early customer feedback, we are now shipping the first transparent, lossless real-time compression server, which is compatible with any professional video production house’s workflow,” said Dr. Norihisa Suzuki, President & CEO of Zaxel Systems Inc. “The Zaxel Video Server is, literally, compression without compromise. Our customers are transferring ever-larger and more complex video and image files around their networks, and we’ve created a system that delivers the highest quality image while saving server and network assets.”

“The Zaxel Video Server offers a practical, cost-effective way to store and retrieve 4k images, without using a bank of computers, and the quality satisfies our digital distribution applications,” said Bill Feightner, executive vice president, chief technology officer of EFILM, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Deluxe Laboratories.

“The compression provided by the Zaxel Video Server can be done with hardware, on an FPGA, or in a software version. The significant factor with lossless compression is that there are no component failures,” said Charlie Taylor, vice president of sales for Zaxel. “We reduce one-third of the mechanical moving devices and thereby reduce the cost of overall mechanical failure points. For our production customers, that is a critical factor in their purchase decisions.”

About Zaxel Systems, Inc.

Zaxel Systems is a leading developer of digital video compression systems and products, from HD, 2K & 4K real-time disk recorders, servers & players to SAN and NAS real-time I/O units. The company is committed to the delivery of highly reliable, cost-effective, customer-friendly and feature-rich products to the television and digital film industry. Zaxel Systems is the exclusive worldwide distributor of Preferred Video Product’s AVD DDRchitect product line. Founded in 1998, Zaxel Systems Inc. maintains corporate headquarters in Sunnyvale, California. For further information, please visit the company Web site at www.zaxel.com.

Roland Systems Group U.S. is reporting better than expected ordering of their new multi-format live video mixer/switcher – the EDIROL by Roland V-440HD,

which began shipping in November 2005. The V-400HD offers a professional high resolution video solution for live events, community broadcast, corporate & worship installations.

Building on the success of the EDIROL by Roland V-4, the HD mixer seamlessly mixes SD video, HD video, and computer signals up to SXGA – 8 inputs in total. The output format is selectable between 1080i, 720p, 480p, and XGA/SXGA. It offers an array of transitions, dynamic Picture-in-Picture via joystick as well as two Keyers (SD and HD).

Kim Nunney, president of Roland Systems Group U.S., comments, “we are excited about offering a solution that will allow our customers to grow into HD. With the V-440HD’s ability to handle standard video and computer inputs, many users can start using it now with their current cameras and data projectors. As they acquire HD/HDV cameras or higher-resolution display technology, the mixer will continue to serve them well.”

Among its many unique features the V-440HD has the ability to cascade multiple units together. This enables a single HD image to be spread across multiple output displays – ideal for multi-screen performance and immersive environments. In addition, V-LINK allows the mixer to be controlled from any Roland/EDIROL instrument via MIDI. Traditional touchscreen or computer control via RS-232C is also supported.

The V-440HD retails for $12,995 and is available nationwide.

About Roland Systems Group U.S.

Roland Systems Group U.S. (RSG) supplies the commercial and performance audio/video industries with application specific equipment from the RSS by Roland and EDIROL by Roland product lines. These product lines address applications for houses of worship, clubs/casinos, theaters/performing arts centers and rental and staging companies. Roland Systems Group U.S is headquartered in Los Angeles with distribution and support offices in Bellingham, Washington. RSG is a member of the worldwide group of Roland companies. For more information, visit www.rolandsystemsgroup.com

Roland Systems Group Reports Better than Expected Ordering of EDIROL Affordable HD/PC Multi-format Mixer

Roland Systems Group U.S. is reporting better than expected ordering of their new multi-format live video mixer/switcher – the EDIROL by Roland V-440HD, which began shipping in November 2005. The V-400HD offers a professional high resolution video solution for live events, community broadcast, corporate & worship installations.

The V-440HD retails for $12,995 and is available nationwide.

About Roland Systems Group U.S.

Roland Systems Group U.S. Releases of RSS by Roland AR-200S Audio Recorder

Roland Systems Group U.S. announces the release of the AR-200S Audio Recorder. The AR-200S is a compact, half rack space digital audio recorder/player with RS-232 control designed for any application requiring high fidelity pre-recorded announcements and sound. The AR-200S serves as a dedicated playback device for theme parks museums, elevators, airports, buses, trains and trams.

Some highlighted features of the AR-200S include:

Simplified Panel, Specialized for Remote Control from Other Devices

Hi-Quality Recording and Playback

Audio Recording System Uses No Moving Parts

A Variety of Control Terminals for a Wide Range of Playback Methods

Compact Half-Rack Size Body

Allows DC-Powered Operation
Historically, the AR-200 has sold well in commercial audio market. However, the AR-200 does not have RS-232C control function and compact flash card features of the newly releases AR-200S. About Roland Systems Group U.S.

SPORTS & AUTOS
Oakland Dodger Baseball
LA Angels 4, Oakland 3 at McAfee Coliseum
LA Angels Record: (10-9)
Oakland Record: (8-11)

Winning pitcher - Kelvim Escobar (3-1)
Losing pitcher - Esteban Loaiza (0-3)
SV - Francisco Rodriguez (7)
LAA HR - V. Guerrero (4)
OAK HR - M. Bradley (3) N. Swisher (8)
V. Guerrero (4) M. Bradley (3) N. Swisher (8) Arizona 4, Los Angeles 6 at Dodger Stadium
Arizona Record: (8-11)
Los Angeles Record: (9-10)

Winning pitcher - Brett Tomko (2-1)
Losing pitcher - Russ Ortiz (0-3)
SV - Danys Baez (5)
at Dodger Stadium (8-11) (9-10) - Brett Tomko (2-1) - Russ Ortiz (0-3) - Danys Baez (5) ARI HR - None
LAD HR - J. Drew (3)
None J. Drew (3) DOD
Three Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers and two Iraqi citizens were killed

and injured today by roadside bombs near Baghdad, U.S. officials announced. The soldiers were killed when their vehicle was struck by a roadside bomb northwest of Baghdad. The names of the deceased are being withheld pending notification of next of kin. The incident is currently under investigation. And terrorists detonated another roadside bomb today that killed an Iraqi adult and a child, and wounded seven other children south of Baghdad, military officials said. Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, arrived at the scene and called for a medical evacuation unit to transport the victims to a nearby U.S. hospital. A witness to the incident told authorities the bomb struck an Iraqi vehicle, reportedly killing the driver instantly and a child playing nearby. The seven other children were also injured in the blast. The witness also reported he saw a terrorist fleeing the area shortly after the blast occurred. Iraqi authorities are investigating the incident.

Iraq Reaches 'Important Milestone' in Forming Unity Government

After months of deadlock, Iraq reached an "important milestone" in its journey toward democracy with an agreement on top leadership posts for a national unity government, President Bush said yesterday. The parliament elected a president, two vice presidents, a parliament speaker and two deputies yesterday. President Jalal Talabani then named Jawad al Maliki as prime minister-designate. "This agreement represents compromise and consensus among many different Iraqi groups and it came after months of patient negotiations," Bush said in a speech at the California Highway Patrol Academy in Sacramento. "The agreement reflects the will of the Iraqi people who defied the terrorists by voting to choose the men and women who will lead their nation forward," the president continued. "And this historic achievement, by determined Iraqis, will make America more secure."

The new leadership has 30 days to assemble an Iraqi cabinet. "Once inaugurated, the new government will hold power for up to four years," Bush said. "Unlike the interim and transitional governments that came before, the new Iraqi government will have full constitutional authority." Although the progress is promising, there is still "a lot of work to do to get the rest of the cabinet in place," said Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice yesterday during a telephone briefing. "But the most important thing is they now have a government; they will now have a government of national unity that can take on the challenges that they will have." The challenges are "major" ones, the president said, adding that "Iraq's new leaders have important responsibilities to the people who chose them."

Bush pointed out a few responsibilities, to include deploying Iraqi security forces to defeat terrorists and insurgents and gain control over the militias; rebuilding an infrastructure to enable commerce and support educational and health needs; strengthening the economy; and encouraging job creation. "It's a long list," Rice said. "Obviously the security situation is key. But this is now going to be a government that needs our help in creating the infrastructure so they can ... deliver these services, and we'll be right there for them." Although the challenges are many and varied, Iraqi leaders can rest assured they will not face them alone, Bush said. "Formation of a new Iraqi government is an opportunity for America to open a new chapter in our partnership with the Iraqi people," he said. "The United States and our coalition partners will work with the new Iraqi government to reassess our tactics, adjust our methods and strengthen our mutual efforts to achieve victory in this central front in the war of terror."

Bush suggested the new government could signal the start of a drawdown of American forces from Iraq, which number more than 130,000. "As more Iraqi forces stand up, American forces will stand down," he said. The U.S. ambassador to Iraq echoed Bush's positive outlook. "As the circumstances change, the size, mission and composition (of U.S. forces) will change," Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad, said in an interview today on CNN's "Late Edition with Wolf Blitzer." "I think the political process will have a very positive effect if it goes forward." A key player in the outcome will be a "good, strong" prime minister, the ambassador said. Khalilzad said the "indications are positive" that Maliki could fill that role, as he is known as a "tough minded, strong leader" who has "taken strong positions against terrorism. "He has a reputation for being a strong leader, a patriotic leader, without being subordinate or having strong ties to any of the regional players," the ambassador said. "We look forward to working with him."

Bush said there will still be tough times ahead but the enemy "suffered a real blow" yesterday. "The Iraqis are showing the world that democracy is worth the wait, that liberty is worth the sacrifice and that freedom is the future of every man, woman and child on this Earth." "This is a good day for Iraq; it's an important day for Iraq," Rice noted.

Army Activates First Interrogation Battalion

The first joint interrogation and debriefing battalion in the Army stood up April 12 during a ceremony here. Army leaders are taking lessons learned from the 2003 Abu Ghraib detainee abuse incidents in Iraq to revamp the intelligence field. Changes include the activation of dedicated interrogation battalions and a new joint training center for the intelligence career field. The 201st Military Intelligence Battalion is the first of four joint interrogation battalions -- two active and two reserve -- to be activated in the next several years.

Its mission is to conduct detainee screening and interrogation missions in support of military operations throughout the world, such as Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. "Being the first dedicated interrogation battalion in the Army, the spotlight is on these fine soldiers and their leadership," said Col. Richard Saddler, commander of the 470th Military Intelligence Brigade and keynote speaker at the ceremony. "Fortunately, they are the finest our nation has to offer, and they will do well in their upcoming missions." The 201st Military Intelligence Battalion comprises 147 active duty soldiers, all specializing in interrogation and intelligence.

The concept for the battalions came about, in part, as a result of a 2004 investigation led by Maj. Gen. George Fay into the Abu Ghraib abuse of detainees. "The Department of the Army, based on the Fay report and other weaknesses in how we conducted intelligence operations, recognized the need for dedicated interrogation battalions," Saddler said. "Prior to this, the command and control stopped at the company level. The Army needed the command and control a battalion structure can provide," explained Lt. Col. John Strycula, battalion commander, who previously served as chief of intelligence operations for U.S. Army Europe and 7th Army in Heidelberg, Germany. Also, soldiers were in smaller elements embedded in units throughout the world instead of consolidated into "highly trained units." While the Army will retain oversight and provide the manpower in theater, the battalion can plug in other services and agencies as needed, Strycula said. "We can bring on Air Force, Marines, Navy, whatever the mission calls for," he said. Strycula said he is looking forward to the challenge of commanding the first-of-its-kind battalion. "I'm honored and excited about commanding this battalion," Strycula said. "There's a lot to do, but this battalion will not fail. "This battalion will succeed because of the competency, motivation and professionalism of the soldiers you see standing before you," he added. "They are that impressive, and I am honored to serve with them." Along with the new battalion, plans for a new joint training center at nearby Camp Bullis are in the works. "This interrogation center of excellence will feature a (major training) event that all interrogation units will rotate through to ensure they are battle ready on all interrogation and warrior tasks before they go to war," Saddler said. A timeline hasn't been set, but Army leaders are taking the fast track on the initiative, Saddler said. "They are committed to improving capabilities, and doing it quickly."

VA Completes Cabinet's Push for Employer Support of Guard, Reserve

With a stroke of Veterans Affairs Secretary R. James Nicholson's pen here today, all 15 U.S. Cabinet secretaries have now signed a joint statement in support of the Defense Department's Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve organization. Nicholson became the last Cabinet secretary to sign the document during a ceremony at VA headquarters. "The Department of Veterans Affairs stands foursquare in support of our Guard and Reserve troops and the ESGR mission," Nicholson said. ESGR has been a very important advocate for the job rights of returning deployed reservists and National Guardsmen, he said.

The Defense Department established ESGR in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between reserve component members and their civilian employers. The joint ESGR statement might be the only document signed by all Cabinet members, said Thomas F. Hall, assistant secretary of defense for reserve affairs. "This is a very historic day, because today we complete the signing of the statement of support by the entire cabinet," Hall said. "I think it is very fitting, and we planned it this way, to have VA as the last signer of this, because it's the bookends. The first signer was DoD, the last is VA." Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve has more than 5,200 volunteers across the country, Hall said. "They ... make sure that when our young men and women answer the call to the colors and come back, they're able to start their education over (and) go right back to their jobs," he said. Craig W. Duehring, principal deputy assistant secretary of defense for reserve affairs, presented Nicholson with a plaque reflecting VA's support for reserve components.

'Thunder Over Louisville' Ends With Patriotic Bang

The biggest-ever "Thunder Over Louisville" festival closed out with a bang here last night, as two "Thunderators" with military ties turned the keys to start the world's largest annual fireworks show. Deputy Assistant Defense Secretary Allison Barber, along with World War II veteran Bruce Voges, had the honor of setting off the gargantuan aerial display that unfolded to a medley of country music hits.

The fireworks lasted more than 30 minutes, with a finale that some observers said would have been a great show on its own. In a preamble to the show, two 60-foot American flags sailed above the Ohio River, illuminated by spotlights as they were towed by seemingly invisible aircraft, fluttering majestically against the black, cloudless sky. A narrator recounted the nation's history and heroes as the more than 800,000 spectators listened in a respectful silence that belied their numbers. The spectacular display culminated two days of Louisville embracing the nation's armed forces. On April 21, the city officially joined the Defense Department's "America Supports You" program, which highlights ways everyday Americans and the corporate sector show support for the men and women serving in the nation's armed forces.

That night, any servicemember who wanted to attend the Louisville Bats baseball game was able to do so as a guest of the city. The family of Kentucky National Guardsman Master Sgt. William K. Buechele, who's deployed to Afghanistan, received free VIP passes to Thunder Over Louisville. Wayne Hettinger, who started Thunder Over Louisville 17 years ago and serves as show producer, said the patriotic theme has always been part of the event, and that the extra Defense Department involvement this year through America Supports You was a welcome addition. "It's been a very patriotic show from the start, and (the Defense Department) just took it over the edge," he said. "So how can you go wrong with support like that?" The Navy's Blue Angels performed yesterday, and the day also featured demonstrations and flyovers by dozens of military and vintage aircraft of every shape and size. Hettinger said that's always been an important part of the event, and coordinating aerial participation is practically a year-round pursuit. "We started on that yesterday (for next year)," he said. He noted that participants and planners started trading ideas already for next year's event, adding work on the 2007 show would start in earnest probably in January." Thunder Over Louisville kicks off the city's Kentucky Derby Festival, a series of celebrations leading up to the "Run for the Roses" on the first Saturday in May. "This is the opening ceremony for two weeks of fun in Louisville," Hettinger said. In an interview with Francene Cucinello of Talk Radio Louisville 84 WHAS, Barber noted that air shows featuring military aircraft have taken on a whole new meaning. "I think that when you go to an air show today, it gives you a new sense of respect for what the men and women of our military are doing in this global war on terrorism," she said. "Five years ago when you saw an air show, you just thought, 'Wow, that's pretty impressive.' Today when you see an air show, you say, 'My gosh, these men and women are committed to serving our country. They're defending our freedom across the globe, and they're using these tools, this technology, to keep our country safe.'" Cucinello noted that while support for the military peaks in the early part of a crisis, interest can wane as the situation continues over time.

She asked what people can do to renew and put into action their desire to support the nation's people in uniform. "We'd love people to go to the America Supports You Web site, www.americasupportsyou.mil," Barber said, "and click on the button that says 'How to Help.' You'll find over 200 ways that people can support our military members. Maybe it's sending care packages, being a pen pal, donating phone cards - all sorts of things people can do." Noting Louisville's partnership with America Supports You, Barber added that the partnership proved yesterday to be much more than a formal proclamation. "We stood at a booth today for several hours, and thousands of people came by," she said. At the booth, people were able to fill out post cards to send messages of support to deployed servicemembers. "Louisville loves the military, and we're just darned grateful," she said.

NEWS

NEWSWEEK COVER: Sex, Lies & Duke

First Round of Tests Showed Some DNA Under Woman's Fingernails, Says Defense Lawyer, But Identity Inconclusive; Prosecutor Hinted That Blood and Urine Tests of Woman Would Reveal Presence of a Date-Rape Drug

Second Dancer Roberts Says Woman Drank Half of Her Own Drink, Knocked It Over and Then Started Drinking Roberts's

Results from a second round of DNA tests in the Duke rape case are expected this week, and defense lawyer Bill Thomas tells Newsweek that in the first round, which did not implicate any of the 46 members of the lacrosse team, some DNA showed up under the woman's fingernails, though tests were inconclusive about identity, Newsweek reports in the current issue.

When the case first broke in the press, Prosecutor Mike Nifong, a white man who is running for election in a racially mixed county, hinted to Newsweek that blood and urine tests of the woman would reveal the presence of a date- rape drug. It appears from medical records that the woman was sexually abused, though the precise timing is unclear. The woman apparently told Nifong that she is "100 percent" sure of the identity of her assailants. But the aggressive lawyers defending the team were quick to point out that she was identifying them only from photos of the team, not from the usual police lineup including suspects as well as people unconnected to the case. (A source familiar with the prosecution's case told Newsweek that the woman broke down and cried when she identified one of the two players indicted last week.)

In the May 1 Newsweek cover story "Sex, Lies & Duke," (on newsstands Monday, April 24), Senior Writer Susannah Meadows and Assistant Managing Editor Evan Thomas examine the case and the potentially complicated motives of the key participants, from the athletes to the exotic dancers to the local prosecutor and his political allies and foes.

According to a timeline put out by defense lawyers, one exotic dancer, Kim Roberts, 31, appeared on time, but another dancer, who was dropped off by a car, arrived a half hour late. (Newsweek, like most news organizations, does not identify alleged rape victims). According to Roberts, who was interviewed last week by Newsweek, the boys gave each of them mixed drinks. Roberts says she did not drink hers, but the other dancer did, knocking her cup over after finishing half her drink, then imbibing Roberts's.

Roberts said that she thought the other woman arrived sober. But when the two began their strip show around midnight, the other woman began having trouble. "She started stumbling," recalled Roberts. "When I think back on it, she had a glassy look in her eyes." Roberts says she "gave her a look that said, 'C'mon, girl, what's going on?'-but got no response. The dance lasted about 10 minutes, according to Roberts; the defense lawyers say it lasted only about three minutes. (The women, who did not know each other, were supposed to put on a roughly two-hour show for the $800.)

The evening ended in recriminations. Roberts called 911 and complained to police that some students at 610 North Buchanan Boulevard were taunting her and her friend with racial epithets. She told Newsweek that she yelled out at the boys, "I called the cops, you dumbasses." The transcript of the 911 call makes it sound as though she and the other dancer were just passersby being racially insulted by students. "I was angry and I had to tell somebody," says Roberts. "I didn't want everyone to know I'm a dancer." During her interview with Newsweek, she disputed the defense timeline, but she would not go on the record to be specific about the discrepancies.

Police also questioned Roberts. It is not clear what she told them, or whether her statement to police matches her later statements to Newsweek and other media outlets. Roberts did say that, within several days of the incident, she went to James D. (Butch) Williams, a prominent local attorney, to ask his advice. She says that from the outset Williams told her that he already represented one of the Duke players. Williams asked if she believed there had been a rape, and Roberts answered no. But when Williams tried to get her to sign an affidavit, she balked. She said she later became livid when she heard that Williams had shared her story with other attorneys. Seeing Williams's face appear on a TV during her interview with Newsweek, she stood up and began punching the air in anger at him. "I feel like he preyed on my naivete," she told Newsweek. "I don't want someone to play me like I'm stupid."

Court records obtained by the AP and Newsweek show that Kim Roberts was on probation from a 2001 conviction for embezzling $25,000 from a photofinishing company where she worked, helping to keep payroll records. On March 22, eight days after the alleged rape, Kim spent two hours in jail for breaking the terms of her probation (she had left the state, her attorney says, to visit her sick father.) She posted $25,000 bond and on March 30 found a lawyer, Mark Simeon. Simeon is politically active-in 2002 he ran for District Attorney and lost. He sees Roberts's case as an opportunity for him, too. "I will be there for her if and when she decides to pursue legal remedies on her own behalf," he tells Newsweek.

Simeon has a relationship with prosecutor Nifong that may shed light on the D.A.'s handling of the case. Nifong was the protégé of Simeon's rival in the 2002 race for D.A. The two men did not get along, according to Simeon. But last year, Nifong's boss, Jim Hardin, was appointed to a judgeship, and Nifong was appointed to fill his place. Nifong's term is almost up, and in Durham, district attorney is an elected post. The voters go to the polls on May 2. One of Nifong's opponents is a lawyer named Freda Black, who was passed over for the D.A. job. Black is-or was, until the Duke case-better known around town than Nifong, largely because she won a conviction in a celebrated murder case. Nifong's other opponent is a lawyer with no prosecutorial experience named Keith Bishop. Nifong and Black are white; Bishop is African-American. Durham voters are about 40 percent black, so Nifong almost surely needs to win black votes to keep his job, Newsweek reports.

NEWSWEEK: McClellan Told Bolten He Was Feeling Wear and Tear of the Job

Josh Isn't A Guy Who Says 'You're Fired,' Unless You Do Something Wrong,' Says a Bolten Friend. 'But Did I Know McClellan Would Be Gone? Oh Yeah.'

Aides Listening For Random Applause In West Wing; Could Be A Clue That Someone Was Headed Out The Door

When Andy Card was pushed out as White House chief of staff, Press Secretary Scott McClellan started to rethink his position, Newsweek reports in the current issue. He walked over to see Card's replacement Josh Bolten, who had quietly made it known that he didn't think McClellan was up to the job, according to a close friend of Bolten's who asked not to be named because he wanted to stay close. McClellan told Bolten that he was feeling the wear and tear of doing battle with the press. "Josh isn't a guy who says 'You're fired,' unless you do something wrong," says the Bolten friend, who is also a former senior administration official. "But did I know McClellan would be gone? Oh yeah. [Bolten will] go after anything that seems like it isn't working, or isn't going to change. He is very results-oriented."

Some Bush aides learned about McClellan's resignation from cable TV, report Newsweek Senior White House Correspondent Richard Wolffe and White House Correspondent Holly Bailey in the May 1 issue of Newsweek (on newsstands Monday, April 24). Nervous aides, who knew Bolten wasn't done yet, began listening for random applause coming from West Wing offices, especially during senior staff meetings. "It could be a clue" that someone was headed out the door, says a White House aide who didn't want to be named talking about the new boss. "It's really weird right now," says another senior White House official who likewise asked for anonymity. "People are worried about their jobs."

McClellan won't be the last to go. After the Big Bang of his first week, Bolten is now trying to calm rank-and-file staffers, even as he prepares to deliver more bad news. Treasury Secretary John Snow, who hasn't made much of a mark in the job, is said to be in Bolten's sights. And Candida Wolff, the president's lobbyist on Capitol Hill, is also expected to pack up. But the last thing Bolten wants is to let the firings drag out, which would only cause more frayed nerves. "If you are going to do personnel changes, you want to do it quickly," says a former administration official who asked for anonymity in talking about Bolten. "You don't want this feeling like you are on the set of 'The Sopranos,' thinking, 'Who's next?' "

National Health Partners Expects Significant Member and Revenue Growth from Hispanic Advertising Campaign Featuring International Superstar Lucia Mendez

National Health Partners, Inc. (OTCBB: NHPR), a leading provider of unique discount healthcare membership programs, announced today that it is initiating a national advertising campaign targeting the Hispanic marketplace and that international superstar Lucia Mendez will be starring in television and radio commercials that are currently in production as the company's spokeswoman for the campaign.

"One of the markets that we want to focus on is Hispanic consumers," said David M. Daniels, President and Chief Executive Officer of National Health Partners. "Hispanics have been severely underrepresented among the members of the U.S. population who have health insurance. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the uninsured rate for Hispanics in 2004 was 32.7% compared to 15.7% for all members of the U.S. population. Of the 45.8 million Americans who are uninsured, 13.5 million are Hispanics."

"We are very excited that Lucia Mendez has chosen to represent CARExpress as our spokeswoman for the Hispanic community," continued Mr. Daniels. "Ms. Mendez is an international superstar. Her support provides a substantial amount of credibility to the benefits CARExpress can provide to Hispanics."

"I am very proud to support CARExpress," said Lucia Mendez. "I believe CARExpress provides a tremendous benefit to members of the Hispanic community who cannot afford traditional health insurance. I thank CARExpress for developing such an innovative solution to such a widespread problem."

"Lucia Mendez has always been at the forefront of her profession throughout her career, demonstrating innovation and versatility," stated David Daniels. "We believe that CARExpress is similarly situated. CARExpress is an innovative solution to the complex problems facing the healthcare industry. Through CARExpress, we are able to help uninsured people obtain the healthcare they need at more affordable prices."

Mr. Daniels continued, "We believe that CARExpress is an ideal solution for people who do not have health insurance or who have inadequate health insurance. We look forward to working with Lucia Mendez to bring the benefits of CARExpress to the Hispanic community."

The company intends to start releasing the television and radio commercials in May 2006 in select markets throughout the United States and expects to generate a significant number of additional members and revenues from its Hispanic advertising campaign beginning in the second quarter of 2006.

Lucia Mendez

Lucia Mendez is an international superstar who has been a success throughout her career as a television actress, movie star, singer and model. She is one of Mexico's unique entertaining stars and is considered a living legend for her artistic accomplishments. Her career spans over 30 years during which she has received numerous awards. She is perhaps most recognizable for the role she has played in making soap operas popular worldwide. For more information on Lucia Mendez, please visit her website at http://www.luciamendez.com.

National Health Partners, Inc.

National Health Partners, Inc. is a national healthcare savings organization that provides discount healthcare membership programs to uninsured and underinsured people through a national healthcare savings network called "CARExpress." CARExpress is one of the largest networks of hospitals, doctors, dentists, pharmacists and other healthcare providers in the country and is comprised of over 1,000,000 medical professionals that have agreed to render their services and products to CARExpress members at discounted prices. The company is headquartered in Horsham, Pennsylvania. For more information on the company, please visit its website at http://www.nationalhealthpartners.com.

Safe Harbor Provision

National Health Partners espera crecimiento importante en miembros e ingresos de su campaña de publicidad hispana con la superestrella internacional Lucía Méndez

National Health Partners, Inc. (OTCBB: NHPR), un proveedor líder de programas singulares de atención médica con descuento para miembros, anunció hoy que está iniciando una campaña publicitaria nacional orientada al mercado hispano en la que superestrella internacional Lucía Méndez protagonizará anuncios televisivos y radiales actualmente en producción como portavoz de la compañía en la campaña.

"Uno de los mercados donde queremos centrar nuestros esfuerzos es el de los consumidores hispanos", comentó David M. Daniels, presidente y director general de National Health Partners. "Los hispanos han sido muy mal representados entre los integrantes de la población de EE.UU. quienes cuentan con un seguro médico. Según la Oficina del Censo de EE.UU., el índice de los no asegurados entre hispanos en el año 2004 fue del 32,7% frente al 15,7% para toda la población de EE.UU. De los 45,8 millones de estadounidenses no asegurados, 13,5 millones son hispanos".

"Nos complace mucho que Lucía Méndez haya elegido representar a CARExpress como nuestra portavoz para la comunidad hispana", continuó el Sr. Daniels. "La Srta. Méndez es una superestrella internacional. Su apoyo brinda una gran credibilidad a los beneficios que CARExpress puede ofrecer a los hispanos".

"Me enorgullece apoyar a CARExpress", comentó Lucía Méndez. "Creo que CARExpress ofrece un beneficio tremendo a los miembros de la comunidad hispana que no pueden permitirse el lujo de un seguro médico tradicional. Doy las gracias a CARExpress por desarrollar una solución tan innovadora para un problema tan generalizado".

"Lucía Méndez siempre ha estado en la vanguardia de su profesión durante toda su carrera, demostrando su innovación y versatilidad", comentó David Daniels. "Creemos que CARExpress ocupa una posición similar. CARExpress es una solución innovadora para los complejos problemas que enfrenta la industria de la salud. Mediante CARExpress, podemos ayudar a personas no aseguradas a obtener la atención médica que necesitan a precios más económicos".

El Sr. Daniels continuó, "Creemos que CARExpress es una solución ideal para personas que no cuentan con un seguro médico o que tienen uno inadecuado. Esperamos colaborar con Lucía Méndez para aportar los beneficios de CARExpress a la comunidad hispana".

La compañía tiene la intención de lanzar los anuncios televisivos y radiales en mayo de 2006 en mercados selectos en todo Estados Unidos y espera generar un número importante de miembros e ingresos adicionales de su campaña publicitaria hispana que empieza en el segundo trimestre de 2006.

Lucía Méndez

Lucía Méndez es una superestrella internacional quien ha tenido éxito durante toda su carrera como actriz de televisión y de cine, cantante y modelo. Es una de las estrellas singulares del espectáculo mexicano y se considera una auténtica leyenda por sus logros artísticos. Su carrera abarca más de 30 años durante los cuales recibió muchos galardones. Es quizá más reconocida por el papel que ha jugado en la popularidad mundial de las telenovelas. Para más información sobre Lucía Méndez, visite su sitio Web en http://www.luciamendez.com.

National Health Partners, Inc.

National Health Partners, Inc. es una organización nacional de ahorros para atención médica que ofrece programas de atención médica con descuento para miembros a personas no asegurados y sub-asegurados a través de una red de ahorros para atención médica llamada "CARExpress". CARExpress es una de las redes más grandes del país de hospitales, médicos, dentistas, farmacéuticos y otros proveedores de atención médico, incluyendo a más de un millón de profesionales médicos que han acordado prestar sus servicios y productos a miembros de CARExpress a precios descontados. La compañía tiene su sede en Horsham, Pennsylvania. Para más información sobre la compañía, visite su sitio Web en http://www.nationalhealthpartners.com.

NEWSWEEK: Pearl Jam's Vedder on Making a New Album: '
'

We Didn't Want to Add to the Negative Noise Pollution, But We Did Want to Do Something.' Retreated From Spotlight Because 'Sense of Normalcy as a Human' Is Threatened By Being Out There All The Time...'You Start Making Decisions Based on Public Perception of Who You Are...I Ran Screaming The Other Way'

Pearl Jam, the band that has shunned the limelight for more than a decade yet remains one of the most lucrative live acts around, has a forthcoming album with a single that already hit No. 1 on the Modern Rock charts. "There's a lot of anger and frustration in the atmosphere these days," lead singer Eddie Vedder tells Newsweek in the current issue. "We didn't want to add to the negative noise pollution, but we did want to do something. It's just not the time to be cryptic. I mean, our tax dollars for this war are being funneled through huge corporations-one of which Dick Cheney used to be head of-and there's an even greater disparity between rich or poor in this country. It offends me on a really deep level."

Senior Writer Lorraine Ali talks to the band in the May 1 issue (on newsstands Monday, April 24) about their new self-titled CD, set for release May 2. It's a compelling rock-and-roll album that still shows the band's classic-rock roots, grunge's punk base and Vedder's political conviction. The album is more than a screed against the Bush administration. "Music's at its best when it has a purpose," says Vedder. "In the days of 'Rock Around the Clock' and 'Good Golly, Miss Molly,' the purpose was, like, 'We should be allowed to do this.' We certainly haven't had to go out of our way to find a purpose now."

Vedder talks about why the group retreated from the public eye after the success of their debut album "Ten," which sold almost 10 million copies. "What's threatened by being out there all the time is your sense of normalcy as a human on this planet," he says. "You start making decisions based on public perception of who you are. I've seen people who go for it. They are that thing, and they're really good at it. They somehow made the jump still intact. Me? I ran screaming the other way."

Pearl Jam's rejection of rock stardom, their increasingly idiosyncratic records and Vedder's emerging role as an advocate for progressive causes have cost them casual fans; their last album sold one tenth of what their debut did. Does this worry Vedder? Guess. "If we can survive and play music and put out records and play live shows, and live our lives as family members, community members and friends-that's the goal," he says. "If we're able to do it within this industry, that's even better. It could even be a sign that the industry isn't too polluted."

The Home Depot to Sponsor Univision’s Exclusive Spanish-Language Broadcast of FIFA World Cup Germany 2006(TM)

Univision Communications Inc. the leading Spanish-language media company in the United States, today announced that The Home Depot(R), the world’s largest home improvement retailer, will sponsor, in part, Univision’s exclusive Spanish-language broadcast of the FIFA World Cup Germany 2006(TM)—the most important competition in international soccer and the most widely viewed and followed sporting event in the world. The sponsorship agreement includes World Cup matches, specials, vignettes and other branding opportunities. The FIFA World Cup Germany 2006 TM tournament will take place in 12 cities throughout Germany starting on June 9 in Munich and culminating in Berlin on
July 9.

“We are thrilled to join forces with The Home Depot on the FIFA World Cup Germany 2006(TM),” said Tom McGarrity, Univision co-president of Network Sales. “Univision historically and consistently delivers a massive audience for World Cup. This year, with seven Spanish-speaking countries in the competition, Univision and its sister networks TeleFutura and Galavision are likely to draw even larger audiences than the 2002 telecast.”

The Home Depot will be a sponsor in each of the 64 matches being televised live on Univision and TeleFutura. In addition, The Home Depot commercials will air on daily rebroadcasts on TeleFutura and Galavision networks in primetime.

“The World Cup is soccer’s pre-eminent international sporting event, showcasing the greatest talent in the world,” said Roger Adams, senior vice president, Marketing, The Home Depot. “We look forward to joining our partners at Univision in providing a vehicle for our associates and customers to watch this tremendous display of athleticism and competition.”

The Home Depot is also sponsoring a vignette series currently on the air, featuring great moments from past World Cups and focusing on assists that led to spectacular goals, reinforcing the retailer’s “You can do it. We can helpSM” tagline. The sponsorship agreement also includes two Sunday afternoon preview specials and a primetime entertainment extravaganza, “Viva el Mundial” starring “Sabado Gigante’s” (Gigantic Saturday’s) legendary host, Don Francisco.

To entice soccer enthusiasts to get their homes ready for World Cup entertaining, The Home Depot is also kicking off a “Tu Casa Es Tu Cancha” sweepstakes to run April 15–May 15. Three grand prizewinners will be awarded a $10,000 The Home Depot Gift Card to be used toward any home improvement project. To enter for a chance to win, consumers can log onto http://www.univision.com, UniClave: Home Depot; visit participating The Home Depot stores; or visit http://www.tucasaestucancha.com.

Univision Communications Inc. is the premier Spanish-language media company in the United States. Its operations include Univision Network, the most watched Spanish-language broadcast television network in the United States reaching 98 percent of U.S.-Hispanic households; TeleFutura Network, a general interest Spanish-language broadcast television network, which was launched in 2002 and now reaches 86 percent of U.S.-Hispanic households; Galavisión, the country’s leading Spanish-language cable network; Univision Television Group, which owns and operates 62 television stations in major U.S.-Hispanic markets and Puerto Rico; Univision Radio, the leading Spanish-language radio group, which owns and/or operates 69 radio stations in 16 of the top 25 U.S.–Hispanic markets and four stations in Puerto Rico; Univision Music Group, which includes Univision Records, Fonovisa Records, La Calle Records and a 50 percent interest in Mexico-based Disa Records labels as well as Fonomusic and America Musical publishing companies; and Univision Online, the premier Spanish-language Internet destination in the United States, located at www.univision.com. Univision Communications also has a 50 percent interest in TuTv, a joint venture formed to broadcast Televisa’s pay television channels in the United States, and a non-voting 14.9 percent interest in Entravision Communications Corporation, a public Spanish-language media company. Univision Communications is headquartered in Los Angeles with television network operations in Miami, and television and radio stations and sales offices in major cities throughout the United States.

For more information, please visit http://www.univision.com.

About The Home Depot

Founded in 1978, The Home Depot(R) is the world's largest home improvement specialty retailer and the second largest retailer in the United States, with fiscal 2005 sales of $81.5 billion. The Company employs approximately 345,000 associates and has 2,056 stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, 10 Canadian provinces and Mexico. Through its Home Depot SupplySM Division, the Company operates one of the nation’s largest diversified wholesale distributors, with operations in 41 states and Canada. The Home Depot has been recognized by FORTUNE magazine as the No. 1 Most Admired Specialty Retailer and the No. 13 Most Admired Corporation in America for 2006. Its stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: HD) and is included in the Dow Jones industrial average and Standard & Poor's 500 index.

Home Depot patrocinará la transmisión exclusiva en español de Univision de la copa mundial de la FIFA Alemania 2006 (TM)

Univision Communications Inc. la empresa líder de medios de comunicación en español en Estados Unidos, anunció hoy que Home Depot(R) , el detallista de mercancía para mejoras domésticas más grande del mundo, patrocinará, en parte, la transmisión exclusiva en español de Univision de la Copa Mundial de la FIFA Alemania 2006(TM) — el campeonato más importante del fútbol internacional y el evento deportivo más visto del mundo. El acuerdo de patrocinio incluye partidos de la Copa Mundial, especiales, viñetas y otras oportunidades para destacar la marca Home Depot(R) . La Copa Mundial de la FIFA Alemania 2006(TM) se llevará a cabo en 12 ciudades de Alemania, comenzando el 9 de junio en Munich y culminando el 9 de julio en Berlín.

“Estamos encantados de unir fuerzas con Home Depot para la Copa Mundial de la FIFA Alemania 2006(TM) ”, dijo Tom McGarrity, copresidente de Ventas Nacionales de Univision. “Históricamente y de manera continua, Univision capta una audiencia masiva durante la Copa Mundial. Este año, con siete países de habla hispana compitiendo, Univision y sus cadenas hermanas, TeleFutura y Galavisión, probablemente atraerán una audiencia aun mayor que en la transmisión del 2002”.

Home Depot será patrocinador de cada uno de los 64 partidos que se televisarán en vivo por Univision y TeleFutura. Adicionalmente, comerciales de Home Depot saldrán al aire en las retransmisiones diarias de juegos por TeleFutura y Galavisión en horario estelar.

“La Copa Mundial es el evento deportivo internacional preeminente, donde se luce el mejor talento futbolístico del mundo”, expresó Roger Adams, vicepresidente senior de Mercadeo para Home Depot. “Nos entusiasma unirnos a nuestros socios de Univision para proporcionarles un vehículo a nuestros empleados y clientes para que puedan disfrutar de este extraordinario despliegue de deportismo y competición”.

Home Depot también patrocinará una serie de viñetas que están actualmente al aire, en las cuales se recuerdan grandes momentos de Copas Mundiales pasadas con énfasis en jugadas asistidas que resultaron en goles espectaculares, como una manera de reforzar el eslogan de la compañía: “Usted puede hacerlo. Nosotros podemos ayudar.SM”. El acuerdo de patrocinio también incluye dos especiales dominicales presentando avances del torneo, y un programa de entretenimiento en horario estelar, “Viva el Mundial”, conducido por el legendario animador de “Sábado Gigante”, Don Francisco.

Para estimular a los entusiastas del fútbol a que vayan preparando sus casas desde ahora para recibir invitados durante la Copa Mundial, Home Depot también está lanzando el concurso “Tu casa es tu cancha”, el cual estará en vigor entre el 15 de abril y el 15 de mayo. Tres ganadores recibirán una tarjeta de regalo de Home Depot con un valor de $10,000, que podrá ser usada para costear cualquier proyecto de mejoras domésticas. Para participar y tener oportunidad de ganar, el público puede entrar a http://www.univision.com, UniClave: Home Depot; visitar tiendas The Home Depot participantes; o visitar http://www.tucasaestucancha.com.

Univision Communications Inc. es la empresa líder de medios de comunicación de habla hispana en Estados Unidos. Sus operaciones incluyen Univision, la cadena de televisión en español más vista en EE.UU., con cobertura del 98% de los hogares hispanos del país; TeleFutura, la cadena de televisión en español lanzada en 2002, con cobertura del 86% de los hogares hispanos de EE.U.U.; Galavisión, la cadena de televisión por cable en español líder en el país; el Grupo de Televisión Univision, propietario y operador de 62 estaciones de televisión en los principales mercados hispanos de EE.UU. y Puerto Rico; Univision Radio, el principal grupo radial en español, propietario y/u operador de 69 emisoras de radio en 16 de los 25 principales mercados hispanos y de 4 emisoras de radio en Puerto Rico; Univision Music Group, que incluye los sellos discográficos Univision Records, Fonovisa Records, La Calle Records y 50% del capital accionario de la empresa mexicana Disa Records, y las empresas editoriales Fonomusic y American Musical Publishing; y Univision Online, el destino de Internet en español más importante de EE.UU. con portal www.univision.com. Univision Communications tiene un 50% de participación en TuTv, empresa formada para distribuir en EE.UU los canales de televisión por cable de Televisa, y una participación sin derecho a voto del 14.9% en Entravision Communications Corporation, compañía pública de medios de comunicación en español. Univision Communications tiene su sede principal en Los Ángeles, su centro de operaciones de sus cadenas de televisión en Miami y estaciones y oficinas de ventas de televisión y radio en las principales ciudades de Estados Unidos.

Para más información, por favor visite http://www.univision.net.

Sobre Home Depot

Fundada en 1978, Home Depot(R) es la mayor red de tiendas al detal del mundo especializada en mercancía relacionada con mejoras del hogar, y el segundo detallista más grande de los Estados Unidos, con ventas fiscales de $81.5 mil millones. La compañía tiene aproximadamente 345,000 empleados y 2,056 tiendas en los 50 estados, el Distrito de Columbia, Puerto Rico, las Islas Vírgenes de EE.UU., 10 provincias canadienses y México. A través de su división Home Depot SupplySM, la compañía opera una de las distribuidoras diversificadas al por mayor más grandes del país, con operaciones en 41 estados y Canadá. Home Depot ha sido reconocida por la revista FORTUNE como “la empresa detallista especializada más admirada de todas (#1)” y “la corporación más admirada de Estados Unidos #13” del año 2006. Sus acciones se comercian en la Bolsa de Nueva York (NYSE: HD) y están incluidas en el promedio industrial Dow Jones y el índice Standard & Poor's 500.

VATICAN NEWS OF THE PAST WEEK
EASTER SUNDAY: RISEN CHRIST QUENCHES THIRST FOR PEACE

VATICAN CITY, APR 16, 2006 (VIS) - Benedict XVI celebrated the Easter Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord at 10.30 this morning in St. Peter's Square, which was decorated, as has become traditional, with flowers, shrubs and flowering plants from Holland. At midday, from the central loggia of the basilica, he pronounced his first Easter Message, expressed Easter greetings in 63 languages and imparted his "Urbi et Orbi" blessing.

On the day of his own 79th birthday and three days before the first anniversary of his election as Pope, the Holy Father said: "Today, even in this modern age marked by anxiety and uncertainty, we relive the event of the Resurrection, which changed the face of our life and changed the history of humanity. From the risen Christ, all those who are still oppressed by chains of suffering and death look for hope, sometimes even without knowing it.

"May the Spirit of the Risen One, in particular, bring relief and security in Africa to the peoples of Darfur, who are living in a dramatic humanitarian situation that is no longer sustainable; to those of the Great Lakes region, where many wounds have yet to be healed; to the peoples of the Horn of Africa, of the Ivory Coast, Uganda, Zimbabwe and other nations which aspire to reconciliation, justice and progress."

Turning to the situation in Iraq, he expressed the hope that peace may "finally prevail over the tragic violence that continues mercilessly to claim victims. I also pray sincerely that those caught up in the conflict in the Holy Land may find peace, and I invite all to patient and persevering dialogue, so as to remove both ancient and new obstacles." In this context, he called on the international community, "which re-affirms Israel's just right to exist in peace," to "assist the Palestinian people to overcome the precarious conditions in which they live and to build their future, moving towards the constitution of a State that is truly their own."

"May the Spirit of the Risen One enkindle a renewed enthusiastic commitment of the countries of Latin America," he went on, "so that the living conditions of millions of citizens may be improved, the deplorable scourge of kidnapping may be eradicated and democratic institutions may be consolidated in a spirit of harmony and effective solidarity.

"Concerning the international crises linked to nuclear power, may an honorable solution be found for all parties, through serious and honest negotiations, and may the leaders of nations and of international organizations be strengthened in their will to achieve peaceful coexistence among different races, cultures and religions, in order to remove the threat of terrorism."

The Holy Father concluded by calling on humankind in the third millennium not to be afraid, but to open their hearts to the Risen Christ. "His Gospel totally quenches the thirst for peace and happiness that is found in every human heart. Christ is now alive and He walks with us. What an immense mystery of love! 'Christus resurrexit, quia Deus caritas est! Alleluia!'."

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REGINA COELI: BE "LIVING STONES" TO BUILD THE CHURCH

VATICAN CITY, APR 17, 2006 (VIS) - At midday today, the Pope appeared at the balcony of the Apostolic Palace of Castelgandolfo to pray the Regina Coeli with the faithful gathered in the square below. The Pope travelled to his Castelgandolfo residence yesterday evening to rest after the Easter celebrations.

After recalling how the Regina Coeli prayer substitutes the Angelus during the period of Easter, the Pope affirmed that "Mary guarded in her heart the 'good news' of the resurrection - source and secret of true joy and authentic peace - that Christ, Who died and rose again, has conquered us with the sacrifice of the cross."

He went on: "We ask Mary, just as she accompanied us in the days of the passion, to continue to guide our steps in this time of spiritual joy, that we may grow ever more in the knowledge and love of the Lord, and become witnesses and apostles of His peace."

Benedict XVI then recalled how tomorrow, April 18, marks the 500th anniversary of the day Pope Julius II laid the first stone of the new Basilica of St. Peter's, "which the world entire admires for the powerful harmony of its lines."

The Holy Father also gratefully recalled "the Supreme Pontiffs who commissioned this extraordinary construction over the tomb of the Apostle Peter," and "the artists who with their genius contributed to building and decorating it." He also had words of thanks for the staff of the Fabric of St. Peter's "who oversee the maintenance and protection of this unique masterpiece of art and faith."

May this anniversary, he concluded, "reawaken in all Catholics the desire to be 'living stones' for the building of the holy Church, in which the 'light of Christ' shines out" through works of charity witnessed by the world.

ANG/RESURRECTION:VATICAN BASILICA/... VIS 060420 (310)

FAITH, A FORCE FOR FREEDOM AFTER THE MEETING WITH CHRIST

VATICAN CITY, APR 19, 2006 (VIS) - The meaning of Easter was the theme chosen by Benedict XVI for today's general audience, which coincided with the first anniversary of his election to the pontificate. The Pope arrived by helicopter for the audience - held in St. Peter's Square in the presence of more than 60,000 people - from his residence at Castelgandolfo where he is spending a few days following the Easter celebrations.

"How quickly time passes," said the Pope to the faithful. "A year has already gone since ... the cardinals meeting in conclave chose me to succeed the much mourned and beloved Servant of God, the great Pope John Paul II. With emotion I recall the first impact I received from the loggia of the Vatican Basilica ... with the faithful gathered in this same square."

He continued: "That meeting, which remains impressed upon my mind and heart, was followed by many others, giving me the chance to experience how real the words were that I pronounced during the course of the solemn concelebration with which I began my exercise of the Petrine ministry: 'I feel with renewed conviction that I do not have to carry alone what in truth I could never carry alone'." Apart from God's celestial protection, the Pope mentioned the closeness, understanding, love and prayers of the faithful. "I ask each of you to continue to support me, praying to God to enable me to be mild and firm pastor of His Church," he said.

"Immediately after His resurrection, Jesus called Peter to tend His flock," Pope Benedict added. "Who then could have humanly imagined the development that, over the centuries, would mark that small group of the Lord's disciples? Peter, together with the Apostles and later their successors, ... courageously spread the evangelical message, the fundamental and indispensable core of which is constituted by the Paschal mystery: the passion, death and resurrection of Christ. This is the mystery the Church celebrates at Easter: Christ's triumph over evil and death."

"The Gospel accounts narrating the appearances of the Risen One usually conclude with an invitation to overcome all uncertainty ... and to announce that Jesus, beyond death, is eternally alive, a source of new life for all those who believe. ... Faith is born from the personal meeting with the Risen Christ, and becomes a force of courage and freedom that brings us to cry out to the world that Jesus has risen and lives forever. This is the mission of the Lord's disciples in all ages including our own."

At the end of the audience, Benedict XVI returned to Castelgandolfo. In the first year of his pontificate, more than four million people have participated in his general and special audiences, his Sunday Angelus and liturgical celebrations celebrated by him.

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POPE CONDEMNS TERROR ATTACK IN TEL AVIV

VATICAN CITY, APR 19, 2006 (VIS) - At the end of today's general audience, the Pope said: "With great anguish I learned the news of last Monday's terrible attack in Tel Aviv, Israel, and I feel the need to express my most firm condemnation of that terrorist act. It is not by such abominable acts that the legitimate rights of a people can by protected."

"May the Lord, Prince of Peace, remain close to Israelis and Palestinians, that they do not abandon themselves to a tragic undercurrent but resume the journey that will bring them to live in peace and security, one next to the other as children of the one Father in heaven."

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OTHER PONTIFICAL ACTS

VATICAN CITY, APR 19, 2006 (VIS) - The Holy Father appointed Bishop Jose Mauro Pereira Bastos C.P., of Janauba, Brazil, as bishop of Guaxupe (area 13,953, population 857,374, Catholics 600,161, priests 100, religious 169), Brazil. He succeeds Bishop Jose Geraldo Oliveira do Valle C.S.S., whose resignation from the pastoral care of the same diocese, the Holy Father accepted, upon having reached the age limit.

On Thursday, April 13, it was made public that he:

- Appointed Bishop Luigi Conti of Macerata-Tolentino-Recanati-Cingoli-Treia, Italy, as metropolitan archbishop of Fermo (area 1,318, population 282,534, Catholics 276,921, priests 244, permanent deacons 17, religious 443), Italy. The archbishop-elect was born in Urbania, Italy in 1941, he was ordained a priest in 1965 and consecrated a bishop in 1996.

- Appointed Msgr. Leopoldo Girelli, counsellor at the apostolic nunciature to the United States of America, as apostolic nuncio to Indonesia, at the same time raising him to the dignity of archbishop. The archbishop-elect was born in Predore, Italy in 1953 and ordained a priest in 1978.

NER:NN/.../... VIS 060420 (180)

SPECIAL ENVOY TO CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS FOR ST. TORIBIO

VATICAN CITY, APR 20, 2006 (VIS) - Made public today was a Letter from the Pope, written in Latin and dated March 4, appointing Cardinal Nicolas de Jesus Lopez Rodriguez, archbishop of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, as his special envoy to celebrations marking the fourth centenary of the death of St. Toribio de Mogrovejo, patron saint of the Latin American episcopate.

Accompanying the cardinal to the celebrations - due to be held in Lima, Peru from April 24 to 29 - are Msgrs. Pedro Rufino Hidalgo Diaz, rector of the Pontifical Faculty of Theology in Lima and member of the cathedral chapter; Alberto Maravi Petrozzi, rector of the major seminary of St. Toribio and member of the cathedral chapter; and Angelo Accattino, secretary of the apostolic nunciature to Peru.

BXVI-LETTER/SPECIAL ENVOY/PERU:MOGROVEJO VIS 060420 (140)

BASILICA OF ST. PETER'S CELEBRATES ITS FIFTH CENTENARY

VATICAN CITY, APR 20, 2006 (VIS) - In the Holy See Press Office at midday today, a press conference was held to present the celebrations being organized to mark the fifth centenary of St. Peter's Basilica.

Participating in the event were Cardinals Francesco Marchisano, archpriest of the basilica, and Albert Vanhoye S.J., rector emeritus of the Pontifical Biblical College; Archbishop Angelo Comastri and Bishop Vittorio Lanzani, respectively president and delegate of the Fabric of St. Peter's; Antonio Paolucci, superintendent of the Florentine Museums and curator of the exhibition, "Petros Eni;" and Maria Cristina Carlo-Stella, bureau chief at the Fabric of St. Peter's.

In his talk, Cardinal Marchisano traced a brief history of the basilica, beginning with the emperor Constantine's original fourth-century construction. By the end of the 14th century, in light of the frailty of the Constantinian structure, pontiffs were desirous of building a new church, a project that finally began on April 18, 1506 when Pope Julius II placed the first stone of the current basilica. Work continued for a further 130 years and involved such artists as Bramante, Sangallo, Michelangelo and Bernini.

The basilica, said the cardinal, possesses an extraordinary archive composed of 3,050,000 documents concerning the work carried out from the beginning to our own times. It is, he added, one of the most visited sites in the world, with between five and 20 thousand people crossing its doors each day.

For his part, Archbishop Comastri recalled that in 1939, "by decision of Pope Pius XII, excavation work began under St. Peter's Basilica. To great astonishment, the ancient necropolis interred by Constantine's architects in the year 320 came to light. Moving up the slopes of the Vatican hill, a small monument was found, identified as the 'Tropaion of Gaius;' this discovery was followed by that of the famous red wall with the graffiti 'Petros eni' and a series of other graffiti all testifying to the devotion to Peter in this place."

Bishop Lanzani's talk concerned the issuing of stamps and coins to commemorate the anniversary.

"The Governorate of Vatican City State will issue a series of commemorative stamps of the value of 0.45 and 0.60 euros," he said. "The first represents the commemorative medal of Bramante, produced by Cristoforo Foppa between the years 1505 and 1506. ... The second depicts the medal placed in the foundations of the new St. Peters, also the work of Cristoforo Foppa." Both stamps bear the inscription: "Templum Divi Petri in Vaticano 1506-1606."

The Fabric of St. Peter's will also mint two medals for the occasion, one in silver and one in two different metals, the work of the Italian engraver Sergio Giandomenico. One side shows the consignment of the keys to St. Peter against the background of the basilica, with the emblem of the Fabric of St. Peter's underneath and the inscription "Patriarcalis Basilica Principis Apostolorum 1506-1606" around the edge. On the other side is an image of the Holy Father with the phrase "Benedictus XVI, Pontifex Maximus."

OP/CENTENARY VATICAN BASILICA/... VIS 060420 (510)

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April 23, 2006

Tom Cruise MI 3 Teaser Picture

To understand the internet you have to be open to change.

Written by Joyce L Chow & William Hoehne April 23, 2006

MBN

www.montebubbles.com for more MBN news

INTERNET ADVERTISING IS THE FUTURE

Info@montebubbles.net

Global Sources opened the China Sourcing Fair: Gifts & Home Products today in Hong Kong. It is the largest trade show ever to be held at AsiaWorld-Expo with over 3,600 booths, filling all 10 halls of the 70,000-square-meter venue.

The Fair is co-located with Koelnmesse's International Hardware Fair/Practical World Hong Kong, offering a range of hardware and do-it-yourself products. Both events will run from April 22-25.

Global Sources Chairman and CEO, Merle A. Hinrichs, said: "With over 1,200 mainland China suppliers exhibiting right here in Hong Kong, the Gifts & Home Products show brings a whole new era of convenience to buyers."

Many of Asia's major manufacturers are exhibiting, as well as new suppliers from mainland China's emerging sourcing centers -- including Guangxi, Shaanxi, Henan, Hubei, Jiangsu, Liaoning and Shandong.

There are over 800 booths from Hong Kong companies, and over 500 from Taiwan, plus exhibitors from South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia and India.

Hinrichs added: "The Fairs are perfectly-timed with other shows in Hong Kong and China. The large number of new exhibitors at the China Sourcing Fair is drawing more buyers to Hong Kong, making it truly Asia's Trade Show Capital."

Koelnmesse GmbH, Vice-President Asia Pacific, Michael Dreyer, said: "We will build on our 80-year history of hosting the International Hardware Fair/Practical World in Cologne, Germany -- the world's largest hardware, DIY and outdoor living show -- to create new sourcing opportunities for buyers of these categories right here in Asia."

High-ranking government officials attend opening ceremony

Hong Kong and mainland China government officials participating in the opening ceremonies include:

-- Frederick Ma, JP, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury,Hong Kong SAR

-- Selina Chow Liang Shuk-yee, GBS, JP, Chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board

-- Mike Rowse, JP, Chairman of AsiaWorld-Expo and Director-general of Investment Promotion at InvestHK

-- Raymond Young, JP, Director-general of Trade and Industry, Hong Kong SAR

-- Wang Hui, Deputy Director-general of Economic Affairs Department, Liaison Office of The Central People's Government in the Hong Kong SAR

-- Shen Danyang, Vice President of Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, Ministry of Commerce, People's

Republic of China and Executive Chairman of China Society of Convention & Exhibition

Hinrichs said: "The participation of these officials is a clear sign of the value the China Sourcing Fairs bring to Hong Kong and the global trade community."

World's largest buyers among tens of thousands pre-registered to attend

Over 30,000 buyers pre-registered to attend the trade shows -- among them representatives from KarstadtQuelle, Europe's largest department store and mail order group; Coles Myer, the largest retailer in Australia; and Black & Decker, the world's largest producer of power tools.

Other pre-registered buyers include Kingfisher, Lowe's, Newell Rubbermaid, Li & Fung, Hallmark, Kingfisher, Kmart, Otto, Tesco and Warner Brothers.

Agentrics members with US$1 trillion in retail sales to participate

Agentrics, an organization representing 50 global retailers with $1 trillion in annual sales, will also participate in the Fairs. Member companies include Carrefour, the second-largest retailer in the world; Sears, the third-largest retailer in the United States; and Metro, Germany's largest retailer.

Agentrics' Executive Chairman, Christopher Sellers, said: "Our buyers need to make their sourcing trips as productive as possible. With their specialized focus, convenient access and thousands of new, quality suppliers, the China Sourcing Fairs help our buyers source more effectively."

Global Sources is Agentrics' exclusive sourcing alliance partner in Asia.

Gifts & Home Products Fair features over 3,600 booths

Suppliers from mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia, South Korea, the Philippines, Thailand and India are exhibiting at the China Sourcing Fair: Gifts & Home Products.

Product categories include:

-- Gifts, premiums & toys

-- Christmas & holiday products

-- Stationery & office products

-- Health & beauty products

-- Sporting & leisure products

-- Home decor

-- Kitchen & household products

-- Glassware & tableware

-- Home textiles

One exhibitor, General Manager of Guang Yong Trading, Kathleen Wang, said: "The China Sourcing Fairs have consistently delivered quality buyers who have developed into excellent customers for us. We're certain the Hong Kong shows will attract even more buyers. In fact, we've already booked eight booths for the October show and another eight at each of the shows in 2007!"

First-ever International Hardware Fair/Practical World Hong Kong co-located with Gifts & Home Products

International Hardware Fair/ Practical World Hong Kong, the world's largest DIY show, is being held for the first time in Hong Kong. Exporters from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Vietnam and Indonesia are exhibiting.

On exhibit is a range of hardware and DIY products, including: garden and horticulture products; tools and accessories; home improvement, security products, and fire and safety products.

New Product Galleries display hot new designs

The fair features a New Product Gallery showcasing the best new designs from China and Asia.

Unique sourcing events and conference programs featured The China Sourcing Fairs offer unique value-added buyer and supplier services, including Private Buyer Meetings.

These exclusive meetings create opportunities for pre-selected exhibitors to meet face-to-face with some of the world's top buyers, including:

-- IKEA, the world's largest furniture retailer

-- Carrefour, the world's second-largest retailer, and

-- Lowe's, the world's second-largest home improvement retailer

The Fair also features a comprehensive conference program designed to help buyers source more effectively from China. Topics include product trends, logistics, marketing and other trade topics.

China Sourcing Fair/Practical World Hong Kong show dates and times Opening hours for the China Sourcing Fair: Gifts & Home Products and Practical World Hong Kong are:

-- April 22 - 24: 9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

-- April 25: 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Easy access to AsiaWorld-Expo by Airport Express Train, free shuttle buses

AsiaWorld-Expo is one minute from Hong Kong Airport and 25 minutes from downtown via the Airport Express Train. Visitors who use an "Octopus Card" will enjoy discounted fares for same-day return trips.

Global Sources will provide free buyer shuttle bus service to and from the venue from locations throughout Hong Kong. The venue is also easily accessible by public bus, taxi and private car.

Buyers wishing to visit the trade shows can find more information, including transportation options, at http://www.chinasourcingfair.com/ .

The China Sourcing Fairs ( http://www.chinasourcingfair.com/ ) are an important part of Global Sources' sourcing and product information services, which include Global Sources trade magazines, Global Sources Online ( http://www.globalsources.com/ ) and Global Sources Direct ( http://www.globalsourcesdirect.com/ ). Further information about Global Sources is available at http://www.corporate.globalsources.com/ .

About Global Sources

Global Sources is a leading business-to-business (B2B) media company and a primary facilitator of two-way trade with Greater China. It provides sourcing information to volume buyers and integrated marketing services to suppliers.

The company helps its community of more than 479,000 active buyers to source more profitably from complex, overseas supply markets. With the goal of providing as many effective ways as possible to advertise, market and sell, Global Sources enables suppliers to sell to hard-to-reach buyers in 230 countries.

The company offers the most extensive range of media and export marketing services in the industries it serves. Suppliers using its four primary channels -- online marketplaces, magazines, trade shows and direct online sales -- are supported by its advertising creative, education programs and online content management applications.

Global Sources delivers information on 1.4 million products and more than 130,000 suppliers annually through 10 leading online marketplaces and monthly magazines, more than 100 sourcing research reports, and 14 China Sourcing Fairs and other trade shows. Buyers send more than 5.8 million inquiries annually to suppliers through Global Sources Online ( www.globalsources.com ) alone. Global Sources Direct is the company's new initiative that helps suppliers sell online.

In mainland China, Global Sources has a 25-year track record and 1,400 team members in 44 locations. Its services are backed by 35 years experience as a trade magazine publisher, 14 years as an organizer of trade shows, and 10 years as an online marketplace operator.

About Koelnmesse

Koelnmesse GmbH is one of the world's largest trade fair organizers, with an excellent track record of organizing some of the world's most successful trade events, including International Hardware Fair/Practical World Cologne, Spoga+Gafa, Anuga, imm Cologne, interzum, ISM, and Photokina, which are recognized as global leaders in their respective market segments. With over 80 years experience in organizing large-scale commercial events connecting buyers and sellers, Koelnmesse GmbH continually aims to develop world-leading trade fairs to satisfy a full range of global audience.

Web sites: http://www.globalsources.com
http://www.chinasourcingfair.com
http://www.globalsourcesdirect.com
http://www.corporate.globalsources.com

Source: Global Sources Limited

Kentucky Crowned MISS USA(R) 2006 During Live NBC Telecast on April 21st

This evening, during one of the year's most exciting live television events, a star-studded panel of judges chose Miss Kentucky USA, Tara Elizabeth Conner as MISS USA(R) 2006.

Ms. Conner is a 20 year-old from Russell Springs, Kentucky who is currently studying business administration at Somerset Community College.

Dancing With The Star's cycle two winner Drew Lachey and Access Hollywood's Nancy O'Dell, hosted the live telecast from the 1st Mariner Arena in Baltimore, Maryland. Commentary was provided by Carson Kressley of Bravo's "Queer Eye" along with the reigning Miss USA, Chelsea Cooley throughout the live telecast.

Celebrity Judges for the Pageant included: Olympic gold, silver, and bronze medalist Chad Hedrick; "Apprentice" regular and budding real estate developer, Donald Trump Jr.; shoe guru Steve Madden; NBC's "Passion's" star, James Hyde; "America's Next Top Model" winner and the new face of CoverGirl cosmetics, Nicole Linkletter; Super Bowl MVP, Hines Ward; television personality Jillian Barberie; and Vice President & General Manager - North America and Global Cosmetics, Procter and Gamble, Gina Drosos.

Throughout the two-hour event, the contestants competed in three categories: swimsuit, evening gown and interview. During these competitions the "Top Five" finalists were selected before the crowning. Chelsea Cooley, Miss USA 2005, crowned her successor at the conclusion of the two-hour primetime telecast, before an estimated worldwide viewing audience of more than 250 million.

Final Results:

First Runner Up: Miss California USA, Tamiko Nash, will assume the duties

of Miss USA 2006 if the titleholder is named Miss

UNIVERSE 2006, or for some reason cannot fulfill her

responsibilities.

Second Runner Up: Miss Georgia USA, Lisa Wilson.

Rest of Top Five: Miss Ohio USA, Stacy Offenberger and Miss Florida USA,

Cristin Duren.

Rest of Top Ten: Miss Alabama USA, Haleigh Stidham; Miss District of

Columbia USA, Candace Allen; Miss Rhode Island USA,

Leeann Tingley; Miss South Carolina USA, Lacie Lybrand;

Miss Texas USA, Lauren Lanning.

Miss Photogenic Award: Miss Florida USA, Cristin Duren. The general public voted on http://www.nbc.com/ for the delegate who exemplifies beauty through the lens of a camera.

Congeniality Award: Miss Minnesota USA, Dottie Cannon. The award reflects the respect and admiration of the delegate's peers, who voted for her as the most congenial, charismatic and inspirational participant.

The MISS USA(R) 2006 prize package includes: Official Miss USA Mikimoto pearl tiara; A Year supply of CoverGirl Cosmetics; 2 Year Scholarship from The School for Film and Television in NYC; custom designed wardrobe by Tadashi; A four day 3 night "all-inclusive" vacation from American Airlines; Show wardrobe and cash prize from Steve Madden; a year supply of haircare by Farouk Systems; a swimsuit wardrobe from BSC Swimwear Thailand; New York City apartment for the year of her reign including living expenses; and a personal appearance wardrobe.

The Miss Universe Organization, producers of the MISS UNIVERSE(R), MISS USA(R) and MISS TEEN USA(R) Pageants, is a Donald J. Trump and National Broadcasting Company, Inc. (NBC) partnership. Utilizing its nationwide grass roots infrastructure, the Miss Universe Organization is committed to increasing awareness of breast and ovarian cancers by forging relationships with organizations committed to research and education, such as the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, the National Breast Cancer Coalition, Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, and Gilda's Club.

Source: The Miss Universe Organization

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

Paramount Pictures to Premiere 'Mission: Impossible III' Around the World

In anticipation of the May 5 release of the action-thriller "Mission: Impossible III," Paramount Pictures will roll out the red carpet in a series of star-studded premieres around the world. The festivities begin with the world premiere in Rome on April 24 and continue with premieres in London, Paris, and New York.

Tom Cruise returns as Special Agent Ethan Hunt, who faces the mission of his life in "Mission: Impossible III." Director J.J. Abrams ("Lost," "Alias") brings his unique blend of action and drama to the billion-dollar franchise.

Paramount Pictures presents a Cruise|Wagner production, "Mission: Impossible III." The film is directed by J.J. Abrams and produced by Tom Cruise and Paula Wagner from a screenplay written by Alex Kurtzman & Roberto Orci & J.J. Abrams, based on the television series created by Bruce Geller. The film stars Tom Cruise, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Ving Rhames, Billy Crudup, Michelle Monaghan, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Keri Russell, Maggie Q, and Laurence Fishburne. The film is rated PG-13 for intense sequences of frenetic violence and menace, disturbing images, and brief sensuality.

Paramount Pictures is part of the entertainment operations of Viacom Inc., one of the leading global entertainment content companies, with prominent and respected brands in focused demographics across virtually all media.

Source: Paramount Pictures

America's leading film magazine, Premiere, will once again open the doors of its Premiere Film & Music Lounge during New York City's Tribeca Film Festival

from April 27 to May 1, in partnership with LIVEstyle Entertainment. This year's events will take place at PM Lounge in New York City's meatpacking district at 50 Gansevoort Street.

The Premiere Lounge is the ultimate destination for celebrities and VIP's, and will be hosting parties for films at the festival including: Magnolia Pictures' One Last Thing, with expected cast members Ethan Hawke, Cynthia Nixon, Sunny Mabrey, Gina Gershon, Michael Angarano, Director Alex Steyermark, Screenwriter Barry Stringfellow and HDNet's Mark Cuban and Todd Wagner on April 27; Millennium Films' Journey to the End of the Night world premiere party with expected cast members Brendan Fraser, Mos Def, Scott Glenn, Alice Braga, and Director, Eric Eason on April 28; Millennium Films' Lonely Hearts with cast members John Travolta, James Gandolfini and Director, Todd Robinson on April 30; and Bold Films' Mini's First Time with expected cast members Alec Baldwin, Nikki Reed, Jeff Goldblum, Luke Wilson and Director, Nick Guthe on May 1.

"We are thrilled to bring The Premiere Lounge back to New York City for the third year during the Tribeca Film Festival. This impactful branded entertainment experience brings Premiere's access and influence to life for our advertising partners and sponsors," said Paul Turcotte, Vice President and Publisher, Premiere magazine.

"We're excited to collaborate with our studio and producer partners and host the world premiere parties for what we think are the best titles of the Tribeca Film Festival this year. Through the generous hospitality of our corporate sponsors and New York's best NYC hot spot, PM Lounge, we can continue to make the Premiere Film & Music Lounge the place to be at all the top North American film festivals including this year's Tribeca Film Festival" says David Manning, Co-Managing Partner of LIVEstyle Entertainment and Executive Producer of the Premiere Film & Music Lounge.

"We are grateful to the Premiere Film & Music Lounge and its partners for its confidence in our ability to capture the excitement of the international film community," said UNIK, owner of PM Lounge.

The sponsors who will bring exciting brand-related experiences and product offerings to the Premiere Lounge include: Stella Artois; Monster Energy; The Creative Coalition; Vonage, who will be showcasing it's award winning broadband service and phone systems through a custom Vonage Hospitality Hotline set up at PM. Attendees and celebrities on the red carpet can dial on the Vonage Hospitality Line from outside the red carpet direct to the bar and have their drink awaiting them at their table; Siku Glacier Ice Vodka, where VIPs will enjoy this ultra premium vodka uniquely blended with pure crystal clear ice, which is up to 60,000 years old, from the Qalerallit Sermia glacier in Greenland; and, Kodak who will showcase its newest, most innovative camera featuring the proprietary KODAK RETINA Dual Lens technology

This event is not affiliated, associated or part of the Tribeca Film Festival.

A detailed media alert with dates and times of all Premiere Film & Music Lounge events to follow.

LIVEstyle Entertainment is a New York City based lifestyle marketing and expert event production company. LIVEstyle specializes in engineering non- traditional brand communication solutions within music, film, fashion and sports for its clients. More information about LIVEstyle Entertainment can be found at http://www.livestylent.com/ .

Premiere, America's movie magazine, covers the unparalleled access and influence to Hollywood's A-list as well as the art and commerce of the film industry. Accessible at http://www.premiere.com/ , Premiere is part of a global network that includes editions published in France, Spain, Portugal, Poland, Czech Republic, and Korea. Premiere is published by Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S., Inc. (HFM U.S.), the New York-headquartered subsidiary of Hachette Filipacchi Medias, the world's largest magazine publisher, a division of Lagardere SCA.

PM Lounge is one of New York City's most celebrated hot-spots where celebrities and tastemakers mingle on a nightly basis. The exclusive vibe and layout of the lounge allows for the sophistication and upscale environment that sets the style lounge parties apart from all others.

Vonage is a pioneer in the Internet telephony industry. The award winning Vonage(R) service is sold on the web and through national retailers. Vonage Holdings Corp. is headquartered in Holmdel, New Jersey. For more information about Vonage's products and services, please visit http://www.vonage.com/ or call 1-VONAGE-HELP. Vonage(R) is a registered trademark of Vonage Marketing Inc., a subsidiary of Vonage Holdings Corp.

Eastman Kodak Company is the leader in helping people take, share, print and view images -- for memories, for information, for entertainment. With sales of $13.5 billion in 2004, the company is committed to a digitally oriented growth strategy focused on the following businesses: Health -- supplying the medical and dental industries with traditional and digital imaging-information products and services, as well healthcare IT solutions and services; Graphic Communications - offering on-demand color and black and white printing, wide-format inkjet printing, high-speed, high-volume continuous inkjet printing, as well as document scanning, archiving and multi- vendor IT services; Digital & Film Imaging Systems - providing consumers, professionals and cinematographers with digital and traditional products and services; and Display & Components - which designs and manufactures state-of- the-art organic light-emitting diode displays as well as other specialty materials, and delivers imaging sensors to original equipment manufacturers. More information about Kodak is available at

http://www.kodak.com/ .

Siku \ 'se-ku \ n meaning "ice" in Greenlandic is an ultra-premium vodka blended exclusively with pure, crystal clear ice from Greenland's Qalerallit Sermia glacier, which is up to 60,000 years old. This surprisingly crisp, clear vodka is meticulously crafted in small batches in the Netherlands and distilled five times from the finest quality grains, creating an exceptionally clean, smooth finish. Siku is a registered trademark of Premium Glacier, Inc. and licensed to Ice Cap Enterprises, SRL,(C)2006.

The Creative Coalition is the premier nonprofit, nonpartisan social and political advocacy organization of the entertainment industry. Founded in 1989 by prominent figures in the creative community, including actors Alec Baldwin, Ron Silver, Christopher Reeve, Susan Sarandon, Blair Brown and Stephen Collins, TCC educates and mobilizes leaders in the arts community on issues of public importance, specifically in the areas of First Amendment rights, arts advocacy and public education.

Source: Premiere Magazine; LIVEstyle Entertainment

Web site: http://www.livestylent.com/
http://www.premiere.com/
http://www.vonage.com/
http://www.kodak.com/

Second Annual Giffoni Hollywood Film Festival Celebrates Child and Teen Filmmmakers From Around the World

Celebrities Including Jon Voight, Will Smith and Paula Abdul Among Participants in Week's Activities

Kids from around the globe and the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) will take Tinseltown by storm during the second annual Giffoni Hollywood Film Festival, April 24-29 at Hollywood & Highland Center, just steps from the renowned Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Closed to the general public, Giffoni Hollywood is an extraordinary festival that unites and inspires children and teens from around the world through the power of cinema. What sets this festival apart from the others is that the jury is comprised of children. There will be 15 short films made by kids, bringing to life the art of cinema as seen through the eyes of an adolescent. In addition, 15 feature-length films made by professional filmmakers will be screened and voted on.

This year's participating jurors comprise students from six Los Angeles Unified schools and 36 international students representing Albania, Armenia, Australia, Belgium, Hungary, India, Israel, Italy and Spain. Furthermore, 1,500 students enrolled in LAUSD's Beyond the Bell after-school program have been invited to participate in the award ceremony and a special screening of the film, Hoot.

While the qualifying films are fun and educational, they must be focused on diversity, tolerance and education. There are three categories interested filmmakers can enter -- Dare to Dream is for nine to 11 year olds, Reach the Sky is for 12 to 14 year olds and Make it Happen is for 15 to 17 year olds. Each category has a panel of jurors that will decide on the Best Feature Film. As for deciding on the festival's overall Best Short Film, the collaborative panel Seeds of Celebration, comprised of nine to 17 year olds, will announce the winner.

"We all possess the power of storytelling from a very young age," said Steven Paul, co-founder of Giffoni Hollywood. "We are providing the inspiration and opportunity for these students -- regardless of nationality or ethnicity -- to showcase their talents and to share their stories with the world."

From classes and fieldtrips to celebrity-hosted events, students will follow a schedule of activities that only Hollywood can offer -- film screenings, red carpet events, celebrity sightings and meeting people from around the world. Following is a snapshot of the week's scheduled activities for Giffoni Hollywood:

-- Monday, April 24

* All day: The international students arrive in the United States

* Evening: Students will have dinner at Disneyland

-- Tuesday, April 25

* 9 a.m. -- Participants will travel to Disneyland for Team

Building Day

* 1:30 p.m. -- Students visit the set of American Idol

* 5 p.m. -- Special meet and greet at the Giffoni Club

-- Wednesday, April 26

* 9 a.m. -- Students tour Universal Studios

* 4 p.m. -- Special screening at Grauman's Chinese Theater

* 6 p.m. - Dinner hosted by Wolfgang Puck at Hollywood & Highland

-- Thursday, April 27

* 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. -- Film Screenings at Grauman's Chinese Theater

* 5 p.m. -- Bowling and dinner at Lucky Strike hosted by Will Smith

-- Friday, April 28

* 9 a.m. -- Film Screenings at Grauman's Chinese Theater

* 5 p.m. -- Taste of Italy dinner and Music night at Hollywood &

Highland with Paula Abdul

-- Saturday, April 29

* 3 p.m. -- Award Ceremony at Kodak Theater

* 6 p.m. -- After party at Hollywood & Highland

For find more information, a list of activities or to request press credentials, please visit www.giffonihollywood.com.

About Giffoni Hollywood

Giffoni Hollywood brings the 35-year tradition of the Giffoni International Film Festival to Hollywood, the world's entertainment capital. Based in Giffoni, Italy, the Giffoni International Film Festival is considered the largest children's film festival in Europe, welcoming more than 1,000 children and teens from 30 countries around the world. Now, in only its second year in the U.S., Giffoni Hollywood has attracted some of the largest international companies and brands as festival sponsors, including Washington Mutual, Virgin Atlantic, Nickelodeon, Warner Bros. and The Walt Disney Company, among others.

Source: Giffoni Hollywood

9/11 Movie Release Supported by Military, Veterans and their Families - Nationwide

Survey; By Overwhelming Majority, Members of Veterans Advantage Feel `The Time is Right to be Reminded' through `United 93' Movie

GREENWICH, Conn. --(Business Wire)-- April 21, 2006 U.S. military and veterans overwhelmingly support the timing of the world premiere of "United 93," the first 9/11 movie of its kind, according to Veterans Advantage (http://www.veteransadvantage.com), the leading nationwide membership benefit program for U.S. Active Duty military, Veterans, National Guard and Reserve and their families.

In a survey just conducted over the last week, Veterans Advantage members across the nation approve of the movie's release, because "We need to face history and our enemies - it is not too soon."

"By an 83% to 17% majority, our members feel "we need to face history and our enemies - the time is right to be reminded," said H. Scott Higgins, founder and president of Veterans Advantage, a former Army Lieutenant who served in Vietnam.

"We've even heard from many of those in harm's way today because of that fateful day, and they tell us they understand those reasons, and hope that fellow Americans understand them, too."

The military lost one of its own on that 9/11 flight when Co-pilot LeRoy W. Homer, an Air Force Academy graduate who served in Desert Storm and Desert Shield, perished with the other passengers of the flight.

In followup comments, Veterans Advantage members elaborated on the military's role in a post-9/11 world:

"We Americans have very short memories. If we didn't lose a family member or very close friend during the events of 9/11, or we're not part of the military fighting the Global War on Terror, most of us have already forgotten the tragic loss of that day. This film is not being released too soon. To keep us on our toes, we need periodic reminders that some cultures want to destroy ours," commented LTC Chip Braungart, a Veterans Advantage member, who is on active duty with the Washington D.C. Army National Guard.

"I feel that too many people in this country have already forgotten about 9/11. I think that it is a part of our history that we as a country should never forget, because it was a turning point in our nation's history," said Blake Paul Sattler, a Veterans Advantage member currently serving in the Navy. "As a service member in the armed forces, I am reminded every day that there are people in this world who want to kill us and that is something that no one should ever forget."

"United 93," which premieres at the Tribeca Film Festival on April 25, was produced by Universal Studios. Acclaimed filmmaker Paul Greengrass (Bloody Sunday, The Bourne Supremacy) writes and directs the story of the passengers and crew of United 93, which took off from Newark Liberty International Airport on the morning of 9/11/2001, bound for San Francisco, and crashed in rural Pennsylvania, northwest of Washington, D.C.

The Voice of Veterans Advantage

Veterans Advantage was established in 2001 as a program to thank and reward active duty, veterans, Guard and Reserve with special offers and discounts on goods and services from companies that wish to thank them for their service. With more than 100,000 participants, Veterans Advantage has assembled a growing set of benefits for its members, ranging from insurance, health, travel & entertainment, home/office and computing discounts from leading national and global corporate partners, including Dell & Apple Computer, Amtrak, Continental Airlines, Greyhound Bus, Sallie Mae, North American Van Lines and over 30 others.

"Today's findings is just one way our members can have their voice heard," Higgins added. "And we are proud to offer that service."

ABOUT VETERANS ADVANTAGE

Veterans Advantage is the largest nationwide card membership program delivering new recognition and rewards for U.S. Military Veterans, Active Duty Military, Retired Military, Active and Retired National Guard & Reservists, and their family members. The card membership program provides special offers and money-saving benefits as a thank you for service to the country. Enroll at http://www.veteransadvantage.com.

Veterans Advantage

Sonic Helps Align World's Leading Consumer Electronics, Computer, and Entertainment Companies for HD Launch

Sonic's HDAA - AG to Help Ensure the Seamless Introduction of High-Definition Formats. Sonic Solutions(R) the leader in digital media software, is augmenting its well known High Definition Authoring Alliance (HDAA) with an Advisory Group (called the HDAA AG) and, in doing so, is aligning leading computer and consumer electronic (CE) device manufacturers facilitating next-generation format playback with top-tier Hollywood content holders. The result is a multi-industry cooperative that will test and validate user interactions with the new high-definition formats and help deliver reliable, consistent, and exciting viewing experiences across multiple platforms.

"Sonic has played a major role in empowering artists and companies both large and small with DVD and CD authoring tools and interactive technologies. Sonic's relationships with consumer electronics companies, studios and creators makes the company ideally suited to found and lead the HDAA AG with new tools, resources and opportunities," said Richard Doherty, Research Director for the Envisioneering Group. "Sonic's expert-level knowledge of HD-based formats, particularly in the area of advanced interactivity, will help unite the entertainment industry during this crucial stage in the rollout of interactive, engaging HD capabilities."

HDAA and HDAA AG members have access to evaluation software to test content for standard and advanced playback modes. In addition, members are able to attend HDAA meetings, participate in technical forums, and review research, in-depth documentation and test findings contributed by HDAA and HDAA AG members.

Sonic formed the HDAA in July, 2005, to help leading authoring facilities such as Laser Pacific, Deluxe and Technicolor Creative Services prepare for the release of Hollywood next-generation titles. With the formation of the HDAA AG, authoring houses are now joined by leading CE device and personal computer manufacturers and collectively represent the high-definition value chain from creation through consumption.

For a current list of HDAA-AG members visit: http://www.sonic.com/go/professionalHD

"We're very proud to have the opportunity to take a leadership role in enabling the content creation industry to make a successful format transition," said Rolf Hartley, senior vice president and general manager for Sonic's Professional Products Group. "The work of the HDDA and HDAA AG will help ensure that the high-definition formats deliver maximum performance and optimal compatibility with the release of the first players."

About Sonic Solutions

Sonic Solutions http://www.sonic.com) is the leader in digital media software, providing a broad range of interoperable, platform-independent software tools and applications for creative professionals, business and home users, and technology partners. Sonic's products range from advanced DVD authoring systems and interactive content delivery technologies used to produce the majority of Hollywood DVD film releases, to the award-winning Roxio(R)-branded CD and DVD creation, playback and backup solutions that have become the premier choice for consumers, prosumers and business users worldwide.

Sonic products are globally available from major retailers, online at Sonic.com and Roxio.com, and are bundled with PCs, after-market drives and consumer electronic devices. Sonic's digital media creation engine is the de facto standard and has been licensed by major software and hardware manufacturers, including Adobe, Microsoft, Scientific-Atlanta, Sony, and many others. Sonic Solutions is headquartered in Marin County, California.

Sonic, the Sonic logo, Roxio, and Sonic Solutions, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sonic Solutions or its subsidiaries in the United States and/or other countries. All other company or product names are trademarks of their respective owners and, in some cases, are used by Sonic Solutions under license.

Sonic Solutions

Dolby Digital Selected for First HD Channel in China with 100 Percent of Programming in Surround Sound;

New China Hometheatre Channel HD Movie Channel First to Bring Chinese Viewers a Complete HDTV Experience on All Programming

Dolby Laboratories, Inc. (NYSE:DLB) announced today that the China Movie Channel is launching China's third HD channel, the China Hometheatre Channel HD Movie Channel with Dolby(R) Digital 5.1. The new HD channel will be the first in China's broadcasting history to broadcast 100 percent of its programming in surround sound.

The China Movie Channel group will celebrate the launch of the China Hometheatre Channel HD Movie Channel on April 27, 2006 in a media conference at the Movie Channel Building, where media representatives will be invited to experience the high-quality HD service with both high-definition picture and Dolby Digital surround sound. The new HD channel will start broadcasting to Chinese viewers the same day. Chinese viewers with suitable HD set-top boxes and home theater systems need only subscribe to local cable broadcasters to receive the new HD channel.

"Our viewers will be excited about our move to provide them with stimulating programming both visually and audibly, making the entertainment experience more compelling," said Mr. Ya Ning, Director, China Movie Channel. "When watching television, the video and the audio are equally important to the experience, and working with Dolby insures that viewers will have the highest quality audio possible."

"China Movie Channel is taking a lead in bringing its viewers the most compelling television experience. With the launch of its new HD channel, which is broadcasting completely with Dolby Digital surround sound, China Movie Channel is part of the world's elite broadcasters moving to a comprehensive high-definition presentation," said Bill Jasper, President and Chief Executive Officer, Dolby Laboratories.

Dolby Digital is used extensively in the broadcast television industry worldwide, including North America, Europe, and Australia, via satellite, cable, and terrestrial services for both HDTV and standard-definition DTV programming. In January of this year, China Central TV announced China's first HD channel, CCTV HD Channel, which broadcasts select programming in 5.1 surround sound from Dolby. Also in 2005, Dolby worked with the Shanghai Media & Entertainment Group (SMEG) to launch China's first standard-definition cable television channel with 5.1 surround sound.

About Dolby Laboratories

Dolby Laboratories (NYSE:DLB) develops and delivers products and technologies that make the entertainment experience more realistic and immersive. For four decades Dolby has been at the forefront of defining high-quality audio and surround sound in cinema, broadcast, home audio systems, cars, DVDs, headphones, games, televisions, and personal computers. Based in San Francisco with European headquarters in England, the company has entertainment industry liaison offices in New York and Los Angeles, and licensing liaison offices in London, Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong, and Tokyo. For more information about Dolby Laboratories or Dolby technologies, please visit http://www.dolby.com.

Dolby and the double-D symbol are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories. S06/17239 DLB-G

Dolby Laboratories

Inecom Entertainment Company is pleased to feature Doug Sloan

one of Hollywood's notable horse wranglers, on the commentary track of the new "Horses of Gettysburg" DVD Box Set. Along with Ronald F. Maxwell and Mark Bussler, they talk about working with horses in movies and give additional insight into the use of horses during the Civil War.

Part of the "Civil War Minutes"(R) series, the 116-minute documentary narrated by Ronald F. Maxwell and directed by Mark Bussler, celebrates the honor and courage of the 72,000 horses and mules that fought in the Battle of Gettysburg. The film is now available for preordering with a May 2, 2006 scheduled release. The Special Edition 2-DVD Box Set of "Horses of Gettysburg" contains over three hours of special features including interviews with experts like Ronald F. Maxwell, Doug Sloan and Gettysburg National Military Park Ranger Eric Campbell.

In Sloan's interview, he explains the horse wrangler's role on a film set and details how to care for horses when filming. Sloan says, "The title of the film alone excited me. In 1863 horses were treated like cars are today; they were overlooked, overworked and taken for granted." Doug Sloan's wrangling credentials include "The West Wing," "The Last Samurai," "Gods and Generals," "Gettysburg" and "Far and Away." He's trained actors like Richard Gere, Jodie Foster, Martin Sheen and Danny Glover to ride and drive horse-drawn wagons as well.

According to Sloan, "No one knows exactly how many horses and mules were used in the Civil War, in some batteries it took 100 horses alone just to move the men, that doesn't even take into account all the mules that pulled the wagons. A film on the animals at Gettysburg is pretty neat."

About Inecom Entertainment Company

Inecom Entertainment Company finances and distributes independent films by partnering with innovative producers and working with celebrated talent such as Ronald F. Maxwell, Richard Dreyfuss, Keith Carradine and Gene Wilder.

Since 2001, Inecom has released eight feature documentaries and multiple instructional films for U.S. and international distribution including "EXPO - Magic of the White City" narrated by Gene Wilder, "Gettysburg and Stories of Valor" narrated by Keith Carradine, "Johnstown Flood" narrated by Richard Dreyfuss and "Lincoln and Lee at Antietam - The Cost of Freedom" narrated by Ronald F. Maxwell.

jhalapch@inecom.com

http://www.HorsesofGettysburg.com

http://www.Inecom.com.

.
CEA and NCTA Unite to Broaden Scope of DTV Education Efforts

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA(R)) and the National Cable & Telecommunications Association (NCTA) today announced a coordinated effort to broaden educational outreach to consumers about the transition to digital television (DTV).

"We are excited and pleased to partner with NCTA to undertake this important effort," said CEA President and CEO Gary Shapiro. "Digital and high-definition television (HDTV) continue to capture the imagination of consumers across the nation. Indeed, CEA forecasts that this year sales of HDTV sets will outpace sales of analog TVs. With a hard date set for the end of analog broadcasting, we are now in the home stretch to completing this historic transition. As we continue on this journey, all industries involved have a responsibility to educate consumers about this exciting new era in television. To this end, we will combine our award-winning experience in DTV consumer education with cable's creativity and broad reach to help ensure consumers have easy access to quality information about this transition."

"The cable industry shares the view that it is vitally important for all consumers to understand the realities and opportunities presented by the digital transition," said NCTA President & CEO Kyle McSlarrow. "While cable has invested billions of dollars to jump start the digital TV transition and now offers robust high-definition packages to most customers, it is clear that there is a general lack of awareness of the impending transition to all-digital broadcasting, and the implications for TV viewers. The goal of this comprehensive campaign is to utilize the shared resources of these industries to educate consumers about this significant transition."

While specific details of the campaign are being developed, efforts likely will include: public service announcements, enhanced retailer sales force education, outreach via on demand services, bilingual education, and comprehensive cable customer communication.

The associations also will seek to work with local government and community officials to conduct constituent outreach. This joint campaign will supplement the vast efforts already underway by the individual associations.

CEA's wealth of voluntary educational and promotional initiatives already includes websites, printed collateral and media outreach. CEA currently operates four websites that promote the DTV transition through consumer and dealer education. The websites include http://www.antennaweb.org, http://www.myceknowhow.com, http://www.CEAconnectionsguide.com and http://www.ce.org/hdtv. CEA also provides a wealth of resources to help train and provide the latest information to retailers including CEknowhow.com -- CEA's online retailer certification training program - and downloadable and reproducible tip sheets, brochures and point-of-purchase materials.

A significant benefit of cable's ten-year $100 billion fiber optic investment is the aggressive rollout by NCTA member companies of new digital and HD cable services and programming. Today, 96 million homes are passed by a cable system that offers HDTV service, which represents all of the top 100 TV markets and nearly 90 percent of all TV households. In addition, nearly two dozen cable networks now provide HD programming on a full-time or part-time basis - in a variety of genres including news, sports, movies, general interest and more.

Shapiro and McSlarrow also called upon other industries and relevant government agencies to join in the effort.

"DTV education must become a national priority," said Shapiro. "While millions of consumers have made the transition seamlessly, hundreds of millions more have questions or are completely unaware. We invite industry associations, government agencies, organizations representing key constituencies and all others who can help get the word out to join in our effort."

CEA and NCTA remain committed to leading the way in providing point-of-sale educational materials and overall HDTV promotion and DTV transition education.

About CEA:

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the consumer technology industry through technology policy, events, research, promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA represents more than 2,100 corporate members involved in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and integration of audio, video, mobile electronics, wireless and landline communications, information technology, home networking, multimedia and accessory products, as well as related services that are sold through consumer channels. Combined, CEA's members account for more than $125 billion in annual sales. CEA's resources are available online at http://www.CE.org, the definitive source for information about the consumer electronics industry.

CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES - Defining Tomorrow's Technology. All profits from CES are reinvested into industry services, including technical training and education, industry promotion, engineering standards development, market research and legislative advocacy.

About NCTA:

The National Cable & Telecommunications Association (NCTA) is the principal trade association for the U.S. cable industry, representing cable operators serving more than 90 percent of the nation's cable television households and more than 200 cable program networks. The cable industry is the nation's largest broadband provider of high-speed Internet access after investing $100 billion over ten years to build a two-way interactive network with fiber optic technology. Cable companies also provide state-of-the-art digital telephone service to millions of American consumer.

Consumer Electronics Association

National Cable & Telecommunications Association

The Number of IP TV Subscribers is Expected to Grow to 36.8 Million by 2009

Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c35920) has announced the addition of IP TV Global Forecast - 2006 to 2009 Semiannual IP TV Global Forecast to their offering.

This latest forecast is an update to the IP TV Global Forecast - 2005 to 2009 dated September 2005. It incorporates the most recent information on IP TV deployments, including:

-- The current and planned deployments of IP TV services by large carriers in Europe.

-- The current and planned IP TV deployments by competitive and smaller carriers in Europe.

-- The current state of IP TV deployments at AT&T, BellSouth, and Verizon in the U.S.

-- The initiation of IP TV trials in China and India that indicate very large future IP TV deployments.

-- The success of a number of early IP TV deployments in Canada, Europe, and Asia.

We are forecasting that the number of DSL subscribers will grow from 97 million in 2004 to 256 million in 2009, a compounded annual growth rate of 21 percent. These DSL subscribers are the base for the IP TV subscribers

The number of global IP TV subscribers will grow from 4.3 million in 2005 to 36.8 million in 2009, a compound annual growth rate of 72 percent.

Europe is leading the market and has higher subscriber numbers than the previous forecast. Both Asia and North America have slipped a bit. Some service providers in Asia are having difficulty with marketing the service and we have tempered our enthusiasm for China a bit. The forecast for North America decreased due to a slower than expected rate of fiber deployment, especially with AT&T.

The number of global IP TV subscribers will grow from 4.3 million in 2005 to 36.8 million in 2009, a compound annual growth rate of 72 percent.

Topics Covered

1 Executive Summary

2 Global Outlook for IP TV

2.1 Europe Continuing to Move Forward

2.1.1 France Is Very Competitive

2.1.2 Telecom Enters Italian Market

2.1.3 Benelux Countries

2.1.4 IP TV Starting in Germany and the UK

2.1.5 Other Western European Countries

2.1.6 IP TV Progressing in Eastern Europe

2.2 Asia Depends on China and India

2.2.1 IP TV Will Dominate in Hong Kong

2.2.2 Taiwan Starting to Move Foreward

2.2.3 Japan Facing Marketing Issues

2.2.4 Korea Will Start IP TV in 2006

2.2.5 China Trailing in Mass

2.2.6 IP TV Starting in India

2.2.7 Activities in Other Asian Countries

2.3 The Major U.S. Incumbents Pushing IP TV

2.3.1 Large U.S. Incumbents are Starting IP TV Activities

2.3.2 Canadian Telcos Adopting IP TV

2.3.3 Smalll U.S. Independent Telcos Continuing their Advance

2.4 IP TV Emerging in the Rest of the World

3 Global IP TV Market Forecast

3.1 Methodology

3.1.1 DSL Forecast

3.1.2 IP TV Subscribers and Revenue

3.1.3 Access System Revenue

3.1.4 Video Headend System Revenue

3.1.5 Video On Demand Servers

3.1.6 Set-top Box Revenue

3.1.7 Middleware Software Revenue

3.1.8 Content Protection/Digital Rights Management Software Revenue

3.1.9 System Integration and Professional Services Revenue

3.2 Global Forecast Shows Strong Growth

3.2.1 Global DSL Forecast Shows a Big Increase

3.2.2 IP TV Subscribers Forecast Remains Firm

3.2.3 Global System Revenue Forecast

3.2.4 Global Access System Revenue Forecast

3.2.5 Global Set-top Box Revenue Forecast

3.2.6 Global IP TV Headend Revenue Forecast

3.2.7 Global IP Video On Demand Revenue Forecast

3.2.8 Global IP TV Middleware Revenue Forecast

3.2.9 Global IP TV Content Protection Revenue Forecast

3.2.10 Global IP TV System Integration Revenue Forecast

3.3 IP TV Market Forecast for Europe

3.3.1 DSL Subscriber Forecast for Europe

3.3.2 IP TV Subscriber Forecast for Europe

3.3.3 IP TV System Revenue for Europe

3.4 IP TV Market Forecast for Asia

3.4.1 DSL Subscriber Forecast for Asia

3.4.2 IP TV Subscriber Forecast for Asia

3.4.3 IP TV System Revenue for Asia

3.5 IP TV Market Forecast for North America

3.5.1 DSL Subscriber Forecast for North America

3.5.2 IP TV Subscriber Forecast for North America

3.5.3 IP TV System Revenue for North America

3.6 IP TV Market Forecast for the Rest of the World

3.6.1 DSL Subscriber Forecast for the Rest of the World

3.6.2 IP TV Subscriber Forecast for the Rest of the World

3.6.3 IP TV System Revenue for the Rest of the World

4 Opportunities, Risks, and Recommendations

4.1 Opportunities

4.2 Risks

4.3 Recommendations

Table of Figures

Table of Tables

For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c35920

Las Vegas TV Partners Acquire CMX Century Productions

Las Vegas TV Partners LLC, owners of KTUD-TV, Channel 25 and Cox Cable Channel 14, today announced that it has purchased CMX Century Productions, a leading full-service production and post-production facility in Las Vegas, for an undisclosed amount.

Las Vegas TV Partners LLC, a joint venture between The Greenspun Corp. and Catalyst Investors of New York, sought to acquire CMX Century Productions from Chicago businessman Demetrius Brown when its sale was announced in 2005. Because of CMX Century Productions' resources and talent pool, Las Vegas TV Partners recognized this as an opportunity to strengthen its growing media conglomerate and capabilities.

As part of a new re-branding campaign, CMX Century Productions will get a new name, Sun Media Productions. Sun Media Productions will continue to cater to advertising agencies, television shows and local business clients.

Steve Carlston, president and managing partner of Las Vegas TV Partners, commented, "We are very excited to acquire CMX Century and fully anticipate developing Sun Media Productions into the premiere production facility in Las Vegas."

As the demands of broadcast and corporate production continue to grow, he said Sun Media Productions will continue to provide clients with the newest technology and finest creative talents around. Their services will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, all under one roof. Sun Media Productions offers clients a state-of-the-art facility which includes cameras for location shoots, two edit suites, an online Avid room, a Fire HD suite, a pro tools post-audio suite, a graphics and effects suite, a 1,500-square-foot stage and a 38-foot mobile broadcast television production truck.

The Greenspun Corp. is a privately owned, family-run company that manages and oversees the financial interests of the Greenspun family of Las Vegas. The company operates its own businesses and invests in public and private securities, primarily in the media, communications, travel and tourism, real estate and gaming industries. These businesses include American Nevada Co., Green Valley Ranch Station Casino and Palms Hotel & Casino and Greenspun Media Group, with its primary businesses including the weekly newspaper and magazine publications In Business Las Vegas, Las Vegas Life magazine, Las Vegas Home & Design, Las Vegas Weekly, The Ralston Report, Las Vegas Magazine, The News local community papers, VEGAS Magazine and VegasGolfer magazine. GMG also consists of the Las Vegas Sun daily newspaper, and the Web site VEGAS.com.

Las Vegas TV Partners LLC

The Online Games Market in India is Starting to Heat up Due to an Increase in Internet Users and Broadband Penetration

2006 Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c35928) has announced the addition of Online Games Market in India: An Emerging Market to their offering.

The Online Games Market in India is an in-depth strategic analysis of the emerging online games market in India.

While long dormant, the online games market in India is starting to heat up with a burgeoning Internet cafe culture; increases in Internet users and broadband penetration; and most importantly investment from game operators who are promoting and educating consumers about online games. We believe India in 2006 is comparable to China in 2001 when China's games market started to develop and an online games culture started to form.

The online games market in India is also being driven by key stakeholders with a vested interest in growing the market:

1) Users are discovering online games, intrigued by the community aspects, compelling content and the interactive experience.

2) Game operators are promoting and marketing online games, educating users and creating awareness. Online games represent a viable business model given India's high rates of software piracy.

3) Internet cafe owners are stocking more games since games are one of the biggest revenue drivers and are a "sticky" activity.

4) Publishers who are not yet in India are assessing the market and weighing the risks and rewards of entering this emerging and nascent market.

5) Telecoms and PC hardware manufacturers are pushing games to drive broadband and PC penetration. Broadband is being offered as low as $10 a month by some providers.

6) Advertisers are looking to attract and appeal to the growing urban and tech-savvy gamer population.

The Indian online games market is especially being closely monitored by Korean publishers who view India as a potential multi-million dollar market with its large, young and urban population hungry for content. In an attempt to capture consumer loyalty and establish brand equity early on, Korean publishers are already creating a beachhead in India with their online games.

While the market has clear potential, we also examine the critical cultural, economic, business and technological inhibitors to growing the market.

Research Highlights

This exclusive research document provides an analysis of the online games market in India and includes:

-- An executive summary highlighting major takeaways and key points

-- Socio-economic overview including India's economic growth

-- Analysis of the Indian middle class

-- Robust discussion of inhibitors and drivers to market growth

-- Internet cafes and their role in the online games market

-- - Key metrics Size of the online games market in India 2006-2010

- Number and growth in Internet users

-- Broadband penetration

-- PC hardware penetration

-- Examination of MMOGs currently in the market

-- Online games pricing strategy

-- Billing and payment methods

-- Language and localization

-- Profiles of key players

-- An exclusive matrix comparing China and India's online games market covering online games history, market size, popular types of content, broadband, Internet trends in addition to major socio-economic indices such as population, per capita GDP, literacy rates and software piracy

-- Chindia strategy and the interest of Korean publishers in India

-- Conclusions

Topics Covered

I. Executive Summary and Key Takeaways

II. Socio-Economic Overview

III. Software Piracy

IV. Key Company Profiles

V. Online Games Market: Drivers of Growth

VI. Inhibitors to Growth

VII. China vs. India

VIII. Chindia Strategy

IX. Conclusion

List of Graphs and Charts

Companies Mentioned

-- Sify - Reliance - Tom - Indiagames - Gravity - Level Up - Nvidia - Via - Actozoft - Shanda - Netease

For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c35928

iStor Networks, Inc.
.

the world technology leader of next generation iSCSI integrated storage controllers that provide flexible, affordable and high performance solutions today announced their partnership with Rackmountpro, a Yang-Ming International Corporation (YMI) at the NAB 2006, April 22^nd to the 27^th in Las Vegas, NV.

“We recognize the importance of key partnerships with companies such as Rackmountpro in applying the newest iSCSI technologies to deliver reliable solutions to customers and integrators that are part of a very strong organization as the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB)", says Peter Cmaylo, Vice President, Business Development, iStor Networks, Inc.

Together, iStor and Rackmountpro are building a product portfolio that will support high performance streaming video applications utilizing the cost efficient iSCSI sub-system solutions. The Rackmountpro product solution will feature the GigaStorATX™, a highly integrated storage controller solution designed to conform to the ATX form factor specifications.

The GigaStorATX product family allows OEMs, VARs, and System Integrators to use off-the-shelf White Box Server and Storage ATX enclosures to build high performance, feature rich, and power efficient, cost effective iSCSI RAID storage solutions. GigaStorATX enables the opportunity of creating block based, cost effective RAID storage solutions by utilizing the latest storage industry technologies. The key technology difference, at the heart of the GigaStorATX is iStor`s highly integrated and powerful iSCSI/TCP/IP offload SOC (System on a Chip), with the capability of sustaining 10 GbE wire speed iSCSI traffic. The GigaStorATX offers a fully featured, integrated storage-virtualization firmware stack.

“By partnering with a proven company such as the iStor Networks, we can create a block based, cost effective RAID storage solution for our customers” says William Lin, Product Manager of Rackmountpro.

Rackmountpro will demonstrate the GigaStor ATX in Booth #SL3047.

-------------------------------------

iStor Networks, Inc., is an innovative technology leader of next generation iSCSI integrated storage controllers providing flexible, affordable and high performance solutions to OEM’s, VAR’s and System Integrators. Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Irvine, California has established a global presence with offices in the United States, UK and operational facilities in Asia. For more information, visit www.istor.com

Rackmountpro.com a division of Yang Ming International Corporation, a Southern California based computer parts wholesaler with over 10 years of experience in the industry. Established in 1994, Rackmountpro.com was one of the first pioneers to specialize solely in rackmount servers, chassis, and accessories, along with other industrial servers and components. Their products are currently sold directly to the government, educational institutions, major corporations, and small businesses. For more information, please visit www.rackmountpro.com

Comcast joins with CBS, NBC in Offering Prime-time Shows On-Demand

ABC and Fox will soon join CBS and NBC as on-demand partners with Comcast, Steve Burke, the cable company's chief operating officer, told media buyers today at an early morning video-on-demand upfront presentation.

The breakfast presentation, at the Museum of Radio & Television in Midtown Manhattan, was an overview of what Comcast is offering on its VOD platform and a forecast of things to come.

"The window for TV product is changing dramatically," Mr. Burke said -- refreshingly without the help of that standard upfront tool, a teleprompter. He said all four broadcasters would be on Comcast's on-demand platform "in the next 90 to 100 days."

Under the current deals CBS and NBC shows are available on VOD the day after they air on the linear network. The shows are available for 99 cents and carry advertising, although not necessarily the same advertising embedded within the original broadcast. Comcast pointed to the broadcasters' embrace of VOD as a way to emphasize to buyers that on-demand is now a major medium that they should be considering.

Comcast also pushes a slew of free on-demand content, which accounts for 95% of its VOD orders and today pitched buyers on the value of advertising within those free platforms. It throws out figures such as 70% of digital cable customers use VOD monthly, and if VOD were Nielsen rated, the hours consumers spent viewing it would make it a top 10 network.

Mr. Burke suggested that VOD is poised to take off much like online video advertising has. With online video, he said, the "eyeballs came first and then it took a little while for the advertisers to get there. ... Our hope and belief is that's what's going to happen with VOD."

In the past year, advertisers' interest in VOD appears to have waned in favor of streaming video. Part their frustration with VOD stems from an execution standpoint -- ad buys across multiple cable operators can be difficult. The other frustration lies in metrics and a belief that they're not getting all the data they might like fast enough.

But the cable industry is working on both of those issues, according to executives, with companies such as Rentrak, Nielsen, Atlas, Everstream and DoubleClick. As an example of a successful cross-multiple system operator campaign, Comcast held up a VOD play it executed for Wal-Mart on Comcast, Adelphia, Cox and Time Warner Cable systems.

"We will serve up standards across the industry," said Charlie Thurston, president of Comcast Spotlight.

The presentation also touted VOD as a trove for advertisers trying to reach young consumers. According to Comcast, adults 18-to-34 are the biggest consumers of VOD. While that demo accounts for 20% of linear -- that is, scheduled or programmed -- viewing, they account for 34% of VOD viewing. In fact, the under-34-year-old crowd accounts for 66% of VOD viewing.

Comcast's newest network, called Fear, is a 24/7 on-demand, horror-themed channel with a cache of movies from its partnership with MGM Sony. Fear will be available both as a cable VOD and a broadband channel and will be licensed to other cable operators as well. Comcast has also in the past year turned its PBS Sprout on-demand play into a 24/7 linear network.

"We look at the areas underserved on TV," said Matt Strauss, VP-content acquisition, including parenting, fitness, karaoke and dating.

Comcast VP-Marketing and Communications Vicki Lins said critical mass, both in terms of usage and advertiser interest, spurred on the company's first upfront VOD pitch. And because the upfront period is when most agencies and clients are planning their video budgets, "we didn't want to miss a window of opportunity," she said.

CBS Radio's David Lee Roth Replaced by Opie & Anthony in Seven Markets
Roth Failed to Hold on to Howard Stern Audience

Buyers are mixed on the news that Opie & Anthony are replacing David Lee Roth at seven of CBS Radio's top stations. Mr. Roth's short-lived radio career ended today as the jock bid his audience goodbye. He'll be replaced with familiar voices, XM Satellite Radio's Opie & Anthony, in a first-of-its kind licensing agreement between a satellite radio company and a terrestrial broadcaster.

"This is a truly logical choice," said Rich Russo, director-broadcast, JL Media. "It's one of the smarter things CBS has done in awhile. Opie & Anthony were successful in Boston, Philly, New York, which are Roth's three big markets."

"I'm sure they'll do a better job than Roth," said Dennis McGuire, VP-regional spot director at Carat, although he expressed concern about what the move means for radio's talent pipeline. "Does this represent a dearth of personality talent for radio that they have to go backwards instead of bringing up new talent?"

Mr. Roth was part of a slew of appointments CBS used to replace Howard Stern in 27 markets after Mr. Stern left to become a key player for Sirius Satellite Radio at the beginning of this year. Mr. Roth was a novel experiment on CBS Radio's part -- put a relative radio amateur with star power behind the morning-drive mic in some of its largest markets -- but one that failed miserably as the winter ratings book will indicate. Opie & Anthony will fill the hole left by Mr. Roth in New York, Boston, Cleveland, Dallas, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and West Palm Beach, Fla.

XM gets not only the promotional vehicle of terrestrial radio to push its satellite service, but it gets a licensing fee from CBS and an extra hour of Opie & Anthony content. Additionally, because of the disparate commercial minutes between XM's Opie & Anthony show and CBS Radio's morning sow -- about eight minutes vs. 18, respectively -- XM listeners will hear 10 minutes of bonus material per hour. Both companies declined to comment on the news.

Radio watchers will recall that Opie & Anthony were yanked off the air in 2002 after broadcasting a stunt in which a couple allegedly had sex in Manhattan's St. Patrick's Cathedral. They've continued their shock jock-style show for the past two years in the relative haven of satellite radio, which isn't subject to FCC indecency regulations.

CBS Radio CEO Joel Hollander had touted Mr. Stern's replacements, including Mr. Roth, as more advertiser-friendly, thanks to cleaner shows, and said CBS would be able to appeal to a wider swath of advertisers without Mr. Stern. But some marketers may have concerns about Opie & Anthony, given their polluted past.

"Even Opie & Anthony sanitized will be edgier than Roth was," Mr. Russo said.

The duo will broadcast a cleaner version of their show for three hours, which will air between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. on CBS and XM simultaneously. Then they'll broadcast an additional two hours exclusively for XM. The pair will be allowed to plug their XM show on the CBS broadcast.

TomKitten Arrives and 'People' Gets the Scoop What Everyone Is Talking About Today

TomKitten has arrived. Watercooler offers our congratulations to the proud parents of baby girl Suri. The news came a little late in the week to make magazine deadlines. In fact, for what seems the first week in forever, there was not a single Cruise or Katie reference on the cover of Life & Style or In Touch. OK weekly's cover was behind the times, saying, "Katie: Why Docs Fear for Her Health." Us Weekly's headline: "Tom and Katie: Baby Secrets Revealed." Only People captured the glad tidings with its "It's a Girl!" cover announcement.

Babytastic!

We'd also like to congratulate Brooke Shields on the birth of her daughter, Grier, whose arrival was somewhat eclipsed as a result of the Suri hullabaloo. Watercooler wonders what the odds were that Brooke and her anti-medication, depression-doubting debate partner would have their babies on the same day.

The recent birth of so many eagerly anticipated celeb babies (Donald Trump's Barron, Gwyneth Paltrow's Moses, Suri and Grier) means the end of this spring's baby boom is in sight. What will fill the pages of the tabs once they're all born? At least we have Maggie Gyllenhaal and Peter Sarsgaard's baby to look forward to. And of course, the real big event: the arrival of the Brangelina bundle.

In a brilliant bit of cross-promotion, Jann Wenner's Us Weekly has a cover story about Nick Lachey's interview with Rolling Stone, a magazine also owned by Wenner Media. Us Weekly conveniently gives us the Rolling Stone interview's vital stats. Number of times Lachey breaks down in tears: 6. Number of alcoholic beverages Lachey consumes: 4. Number of times Lachey says he still loves Jessica: 2. Apparently, Jess' ex told Rolling Stone: "I still love her. Love isn't the easiest thing to cut off." But to get the full portrait of the heartbroken man you have to buy a Rolling Stone.

Finally, over at Page Six, the cleanup begins. Rival Daily News reports that as part of the fallout from the Jared Paul Stern extortion scandal all freelance employees of the gossip page, including JPS himself, have been terminated. Now he'll have more time to devote to his Skull & Bones clothing line.

'Rome' Rises Rich With Extras

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a features-laden DVD.

HBO Video has been working on the DVD for the epic series “Rome” for nearly two years, said Sofia Chang, HBO Video’s VP of marketing.

Rome: The Complete First Season streets Aug. 15 with all 12 episodes of the acclaimed series accompanied by a legion of extras. The DVD features the most extensive amount of bonus features produced for an HBO original series, Chang said.

HBO began developing footage for extras as it was filming the series, now in production for the second season. The extras include “All Roads Lead to Rome,” an interactive viewing option that reveals pop-up information, mostly historical tidbits. Viewers will have the choice to further investigate the textual information, Chang said.

“All the features were designed to speak to the history,” she said.

Two “Shot x Shot” features dissect scenes in the series with making-of footage for a gladiator sequence and another for the scene celebrating Caesar’s triumph.

“The Rise of Rome” shows how filmmakers re-created the city and its people, including sets, wardrobe and military training.

“When in Rome” looks at ancient Roman culture, including the role of women, religious rituals and the moral code.

“Friends, Romans, Countrymen” introduces the characters, and a companion “Character Guide” gives profiles, relationships to other characters and other historical information.

The disc also includes eight audio commentaries with cast members, creator Bruno Heller and other filmmakers, as well as a photo gallery with 50 images from the show.

In keeping with the program’s ancient Roman feel, HBO is creating a special pack made of an ultra-lightweight wooden substrate never before used for a home video release.

HBO also is planning an epic marketing campaign centered on the title’s summer release, Chang said, with specifics to come.

“We’re going to make it the DVD event of the year,” she said.
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a features-laden DVD. HBO Video has been working on the DVD for the epic series “Rome” for nearly two years, said Sofia Chang, HBO Video’s VP of marketing. streets Aug. 15 with all 12 episodes of the acclaimed series accompanied by a legion of extras. The DVD features the most extensive amount of bonus features produced for an HBO original series, Chang said. HBO began developing footage for extras as it was filming the series, now in production for the second season. The extras include “All Roads Lead to Rome,” an interactive viewing option that reveals pop-up information, mostly historical tidbits. Viewers will have the choice to further investigate the textual information, Chang said. “All the features were designed to speak to the history,” she said. Two “Shot x Shot” features dissect scenes in the series with making-of footage for a gladiator sequence and another for the scene celebrating Caesar’s triumph. “The Rise of Rome” shows how filmmakers re-created the city and its people, including sets, wardrobe and military training. “When in Rome” looks at ancient Roman culture, including the role of women, religious rituals and the moral code. “Friends, Romans, Countrymen” introduces the characters, and a companion “Character Guide” gives profiles, relationships to other characters and other historical information. The disc also includes eight audio commentaries with cast members, creator Bruno Heller and other filmmakers, as well as a photo gallery with 50 images from the show. In keeping with the program’s ancient Roman feel, HBO is creating a special pack made of an ultra-lightweight wooden substrate never before used for a home video release. HBO also is planning an epic marketing campaign centered on the title’s summer release, Chang said, with specifics to come. “We’re going to make it the DVD event of the year,” she said.

Mobility Electronics Introduces new SIX Slot PCI ExpresS® to PCI expansion system at NAB 2006 Show
Magma’s new PCI Express to PCI Expansion System Provides New Solution for PCI Express Based Computers

Mobility Electronics, Inc.), a leading provider of innovative portable power and computing solutions for the mobile electronic device user, announced today the release of the Magma 6 Slot PCI Express to PCI Expansion System. The new Magma PCI Expansion System will provide a simple and affordable solution for expanding the capabilities of PCI Express based computers by adding PCI slots.

Designed and built by Mobility Electronics’ Magma product group, the PCI Express to PCI Expansion System has a chassis that contains six 64-bit/66MHz PCI slots which are connected to the host computer through a 4 lane (x4) PCI Express host interface card and pair of high performance Infiniband® cables. The 6 Slot PCI Express to PCI Expansion System provides an economical migration path to PCI Express while providing a method to protect investments in PCI Hardware.

Key features and benefits of Magma’s 6 Slot PCI Express to PCI Expansion System include:

Transparent extension of the PCI Bus outside the computer

Add six PCI slots through one PCI Express® slot

Plug and Plug installation

4U black rack-mount enclosure

PCI Express host card is compatible with full-height and low-profile computer cases

Utilizes high-speed Infiniband® cables

Provides a link from PCI Express based computers to legacy PCI hardware

Cost effective solution for adding multiple PCI slots to PCI Express based computers and servers

Ideal migration path to small form factor servers, while maintaining a consistent PCI hardware configuration

Substantially increase I/O capacity

Multiple expansion systems can be used with a single computer

“With our development of the PCI Express to PCI Expansion System, we are continuing our role as a leading innovator in the PCI Expansion arena,” said Charlie Mollo, CEO of Mobility Electronics. “We’ve seen the market move towards the new PCI Express architecture; we anticipate that PCI to PCI Express expansion solutions will be in great demand. This new PCI Express to PCI Expansion System bridges the gap between old technology and new technology—it is the first product to show the transition from PCI based solutions to PCI Express based solutions.

The new PCI Express to PCI Expansion System will be available directly from Mobility Electronics and through Mobility expansion resellers. You can see all the Magma brand products on Mobility Electronics’ web site: www. magma.com.

Magma is the leading provider of PCI Expansion Systems for several industries and provides innovative expansion solutions to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), resellers and end-users in more than 45 countries.

About Mobility Electronics, Inc.

Mobility Electronics, Inc., based in Scottsdale, Ariz., is a developer of universal power adapters for portable computers and mobile electronic devices (e.g., mobile phones, smartphones/PDAs, digital cameras, etc.) and creator of the patented intelligent tip technology (iTips™ Technology). Utilizing iTips Technology, Mobility Electronics' iGo® brand offers a full line of AC, DC and combination AC/DC power products for portable computers and mobile electronic devices.

Through Mobility’s San Diego, Calif. offices, the company offers PCI expansion systems for servers, desktops and portable computers under its Magma brand. The Company also offers hardware, docking systems and other accessories for the mobile electronic device market. Mobility Electronics' products are available at www.iGo.com and www.magma.com as well as through leading resellers, retailers and OEM partners. For additional information about our Magma product line, call 1.800.285.8990 or visit www.mobilityelectronics.com.

Mobility Electronics and iGo are registered trademarks, and Magma and ...improving your mobile experience are trademarks of Mobility Electronics, Inc. All other trademarks or registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

SOURCE: Mobility Electronics, Inc.

ViewCast to Showcase New Technology For Video Streaming at NAB 2006 ViewCast Corporation WHERE: National Association of Broadcasters NAB 2006, South Lower Level, Booth 2840 Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada WHEN: April. 24-April. 27, 2006 Floor hours: Monday, April 24 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 25 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 26 10:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m
ViewCast Corporation WHERE: National Association of Broadcasters NAB 2006, South Lower Level, Booth 2840 Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada WHEN: April. 24-April. 27, 2006 Floor hours: Monday, April 24 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 25 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 26 10:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m

WHAT/WHY:ViewCast will feature multiple demonstrations of new products, including Niagara GoStream and NiagaraSCX 5.0 at Booth # SL2840. The booth is located at the entrance of the hall. Here are highlights of what's in store at NAB 2006: Niagara® GoStream: Niagara® GoStream, is a single-channel, portable streaming media encoder appliance designed for ease of use by streaming experts or novices.

This compact unit can quickly go from its DualDock rack shelf in an indoor environment to outdoor, on-location events for live Web casting. The GoStream product aims to breakdown the technology barriers of most streaming media products by simplifying the users' experience. NiagaraSCX 5.0: NiagaraSCX 5.0 is the latest version of ViewCast Corp's remote control and monitored software application for Osprey®-based encoders. NiagaraSCX 5.0 software incorporates digital rights management (DRM) for Windows Media®, MPEG-4 /H.264 and MPEG-2 encoding standards. The software will be bundled with the Niagara streaming systems and is planned to ship in May 2006. URL: http://www.viewcast.com

SPORTS & AUTOS
Dodger Baseball
Arizona 5, Los Angeles 4 at Dodger Stadium
Arizona Record: (8-10)
Los Angeles Record: (8-10)

Winning pitcher - Miguel Batista (2-0)
Losing pitcher - Jae Seo (0-2)
SV - Jose Valverde (3)
at Dodger Stadium (8-10) (8-10) - Miguel Batista (2-0) - Jae Seo (0-2) - Jose Valverde (3) ARI HR - J. Estrada (2)
LAD HR - None
J. Estrada (2) None

INDY JAPAN 300 RACE

Live timing and scoring reports from the Indy Japan 300 will be available on the Internet at www.indycar.com. The live timing and scoring module provides statistical information, including track segment speeds, lap information and much more.

Andretti Green Racing drivers Bryan Herta, Tony Kanaan and Dario Franchitti have used their time out of the car to torment their rookie teammate Marco Andretti. The three IndyCar Series veterans have aided fans in securing Andretti’s autograph in the paddock several times this weekend and also pulled a prank in Andretti’s room at the Twin Ring Hotel. Herta removed the lightbulbs from Andretti’s room to fool the rookie into thinking his room had lost electricity. Kanaan then offered to help him, and when they returned to the room, he turned on the television, proving power had been restored and leaving the rookie in the dark room.

Marlboro Team Penske drivers Helio Castroneves and Sam Hornish Jr., are slated to join team owner Roger Penske at this weekend’s NASCAR Nextel Cup race at Phoenix International Raceway to support Penske Racing South’s team of Ryan Newman and Kurt Busch. Hornish and Castroneves will accompany Penske on his plane following the Indy Japan 300 to fly back to the United States just in time to catch the race in Phoenix on Saturday night.

Crew for #17 Simmons reports damage sustained during the accident in final practice is too severe to repair. Team will use the backup car in today’s event.

INDY JAPAN 300 RACE SPECIFICS:

· The race is 300 miles, 200 laps on the 1.5-mile oval.

· The pit-road speed is 60 mph.

· The green flag to start the race will be shown the third time past the flag stand.

· The fuel allotment for today’s race is 135 gallons.

· Three-time Indianapolis 500 winner Johnny Rutherford will drive the pace car.

INDY JAPAN 300 PRE-RACE:

At 12:45 p.m., the temperature was 57 degrees with a relative humidity of 41 percent and winds from the south-southwest at 6 mph. Skies were partly cloudy. The track temperature was 100 degrees, according to Firestone engineers.

12:55 p.m. – Command to start engines by Tomikada Fukuda, grand marshal of the event.

INDY JAPAN 300 RACE RUNNING:

Lap 1: GREEN. Bridgestone Corporation CEOSoshi Arakawa waved the green flag. #3 Castroneves leads field into Turn 1.

Lap 5: #3 Castroneves leads #9 Dixon by .9513 of a second.

Lap 10: #3 Castroneves leads #9 Dixon by 1.4195 seconds.

Lap 16: #3 Castroneves leads #9 Dixon by 1.7679 seconds.

Lap 20: #3 Castroneves leads #9 Dixon by 1.8418 seconds.

Lap 25: #10 Wheldon leads #3 Castroneves by .1761 of a second.

Lap 27: YELLOW. #51 Enge and #20 Carpenter make contact with SAFER Barrier between in Turns 3 and 4. Enge and Carpenter climb from their cars without assistance from the Delphi IRL Safety Team. Leaders under yellow are: #10 Wheldon, #3 Castronves, #9 Dixon, #6 Hornish, #11 Kanaan.

Lap 29: Leaders to pit lane for four and fuel. #6 Hornish and #9 Dixon also take wing adjustments. #3 Castroneves wins race off pit road, followed by #10 Wheldon, #27 Franchitti, #11 Kanaan and #6 Hornish.

Medical update for Dr. Geoffrey Billows, IRL medical official: Ed Carpenter and Tomas Enge have been checked and released from the infield care center. Both are cleared to drive.

TOMAS ENGE (No. 51 Cheever Racing Dallara/Honda/Firestone): “I had a few problems at the beginning of the race. I was running behind Felipe (Giaffone) and suddenly I got a call from my team to come in immediately, so I started to break for the pit lane entrance on the backstretch and suddenly something broke on the front suspension. From that point, I was just a passenger.”
“I had a few problems at the beginning of the race. I was running behind Felipe (Giaffone) and suddenly I got a call from my team to come in immediately, so I started to break for the pit lane entrance on the backstretch and suddenly something broke on the front suspension. From that point, I was just a passenger.”

Lap 38: #26 Andretti, #14 Giaffone #17 Simmons to pit lane for fuel only.

ED CARPENTER (No. 20 Vision Racing Dallara/Honda/Firestone): “Going down the backstretch I saw something break on Enge’s car, and he was throwing sparks and headed towards the pit lane. I knew it, I just knew he was going to come back up on the track, so as I headed into (Turn) 3, he turned up right and came right up in front of me. I am hating this for the Vision team. They have been busting their butts all year but we can’t get a break. We can’t seem to get the season started. Hopefully, we can get things turned around for Indianapolis and have a good month. Right now, I can’t catch a break. I felt like I should have raced St. Pete, but they wouldn’t let me. I come here and get knocked out before the first pit stop. Two cars destroyed in the two times I have been in them.”
“Going down the backstretch I saw something break on Enge’s car, and he was throwing sparks and headed towards the pit lane. I knew it, I just knew he was going to come back up on the track, so as I headed into (Turn) 3, he turned up right and came right up in front of me. I am hating this for the Vision team. They have been busting their butts all year but we can’t get a break. We can’t seem to get the season started. Hopefully, we can get things turned around for Indianapolis and have a good month. Right now, I can’t catch a break. I felt like I should have raced St. Pete, but they wouldn’t let me. I come here and get knocked out before the first pit stop. Two cars destroyed in the two times I have been in them.”

Lap 40: GREEN. #3 Castroneves leads field into Turn 1. Behind there is a YELLOW. #8 Sharp spins off of Turn 4. Behind, #17 Simmons makes contact with the rear of #91 Chesson. #91 Chesson makes hard contact with the inside retaining wall. Spinning car of #17 Simmons makes contact with #8 Sharp and overturns one time. Car also makes contact with outside retaining wall on the front stretch. #5 Lazier spins behind the accident.

Lap 49: #4 Meira, #14 Giaffone #2 Scheckter to pit lane for four tires and fuel.

Lap 50: GREEN. #3 Castroneves leads field into Turn 1.

Medical update for Dr. Geoffrey Billows, IRL medical official: P.J. Chesson and Jeff Simmons have been checked and released from the infield care center. Both are cleared to drive.

SCOTT SHARP (#8 Delphi Dallara/Honda/Firestone): “I don’t know (what happened). We were obviously coming off a yellow and worked hard to warm the tires. Just as soon as I picked up the throttle, it snapped on me. It’s very unusual.”
“I don’t know (what happened). We were obviously coming off a yellow and worked hard to warm the tires. Just as soon as I picked up the throttle, it snapped on me. It’s very unusual.”
JEFF SIMMONS (#17 Rahal Letterman Racing Team Ethanol
Panoz/Honda/Firestone): “I got a good restart and was really close to P.J. there but I couldn’t see what was going on. I saw him check up, and I got on the brakes as hard as I could. I still got up in the back of him then spun around going backwards and flipped over somebody and rolled. It’s really disappointing for everyone on Team Ethanol. This is not any way anyone wants to start something. Two wrecked cars in one race weekend is something I have never done before. This is not what anyone on Rahal Letterman was looking for.”
“I got a good restart and was really close to P.J. there but I couldn’t see what was going on. I saw him check up, and I got on the brakes as hard as I could. I still got up in the back of him then spun around going backwards and flipped over somebody and rolled. It’s really disappointing for everyone on Team Ethanol. This is not any way anyone wants to start something. Two wrecked cars in one race weekend is something I have never done before. This is not what anyone on Rahal Letterman was looking for.”
P.J. CHESSON (No. 91 Carmelo Hemelgarn Racing Dallara/Honda/Firestone): “I need to use my favorite line ever. When you are in the back with the squirrels, you are bound to get your nuts cracked. But that’s not fair to say. There was a restart and Sharp spun around and I looked right into his eyes. I tried to pick a direction so I could get around him so I wouldn’t T-bone him. I went in to the inside and I think Jeff might have hooked up into my right rear. I feel really bad for those guys at Rahal Letterman. It was a tough weekend for Jeff, and I know that is not how he wanted his first weekend to go. The guys worked their butts off all weekend. They did a heckuva a job all weekend, and I am real proud of them. My brother James was great up in the tower. We made huge strides this weekend. I am real happy. I hate to end the weekend this way but it was just one of those things.”
“I need to use my favorite line ever. When you are in the back with the squirrels, you are bound to get your nuts cracked. But that’s not fair to say. There was a restart and Sharp spun around and I looked right into his eyes. I tried to pick a direction so I could get around him so I wouldn’t T-bone him. I went in to the inside and I think Jeff might have hooked up into my right rear. I feel really bad for those guys at Rahal Letterman. It was a tough weekend for Jeff, and I know that is not how he wanted his first weekend to go. The guys worked their butts off all weekend. They did a heckuva a job all weekend, and I am real proud of them. My brother James was great up in the tower. We made huge strides this weekend. I am real happy. I hate to end the weekend this way but it was just one of those things.”

Lap 55: #3 Castroneves leads #10 Wheldon by .3458 of a second.

Lap 61: #3 Castroneves leads #10 Wheldon by .4147 of a second.

Lap 65: #3 Castroneves leads #10 Wheldon by .4738 of a second.

Lap 70: #3 Castroneves leads #10 Wheldon by .7874 of a second.

Lap 75: #3 Castroneves leads #10 Wheldon by 1.1028 seconds.

Lap 80: #3 Castroneves leads #10 Wheldon by 1.6267 seconds.

Lap 85: #3 Castroneves leads #10 Wheldon by 1.9153 seconds.

Lap 91: #15 Rice and #16 Patrick to pit lane for four tires and fuel.

Lap 92: #10 Wheldon and #6 Hornish to pit lane for four tires and fuel.

Lap 94: #3 Castroneves to pit lane for four tires and fuel. New leader is #11 Kanaan.

Lap 95: Leader, #11 Kanaan, and #27 Franchitti to pit lane for four tires and fuel. New leader is #9 Dixon.

Lap 96: #26 Andretti to pit lane for four tires and fuel.

Lap 97: Leader, #9 Dixon, to the pit lane for four tires and fuel. New leader is #2 Scheckter.

Lap 100: Leaders, #2 Scheckter and #4 Meira, to pit lane for four tires and fuel. New leader is #3 Castroneves.

Lap 105: After green flag pit stops, #3 Castroneves leads #9 Dixon by 3.9970 seconds.

Lap 110: #3 Castroneves leads #9 Dixon by 3.5647 seconds.

Lap 115: #3 Castroneves leads #9 Dixon by 3.1346 seconds.

Lap 120: #3 Castroneves leads #9 Dixon by 1.9482 seconds.

Lap 125: #3 Castroneves leads #9 Dixon by 1.3157 seconds.

Lap 126: #11 Kanaan to pit lane for four tires and fuel.

Lap 130: #3 Castroneves leads #9 Dixon by 1.0448 seconds. #7 Herta to pit lane for four tires and fuel.

Lap 135: #3 Castroneves leads #9 Dixon by 1.0432 seconds.

Lap 140: #3 Castroneves leads #9 Dixon by .7326 of a second. #16 Patrick and #15 Rice to pit lane for four tires and fuel.

Lap 142: #6 Hornish to pit lane for four tired and fuel.

Lap 143: #10 Wheldon to pit lane for four tires and fuel.

Lap 144: #27 Franchitti to pit lane for four tires and fuel. #27 Crew member is injured on stop after car struck tire on pit entry.

Lap 147: Leader, #3 Castroneves, to pit lane for four tires and fuel.

Lap 149: Leader, #9 Dixon to pit lane for four tires and fuel. New leader is #4 Meira. Dixon stalled on exit.

Lap 150: Leader #4 Meira to pit lane for four tires and fuel. New leader is #3 Castroneves.

Lap 151: After green flag stops, #3 Castroneves leads #10 Wheldon by .1381 of a second

Lap 155: #3 Castroneves leads #10 Wheldon by 1.3321 seconds.

Lap 158: YELLOW. #14 Giaffone makes light contact with the SAFER Barrier in Turn 4, then does a quarter-spin to the right and makes contact with the outside retaining wall on the frontstretch with the nose cone. There is damage to the right side and front of the #14 Giaffone.

Lap 162: Leaders under caution are: #3 Castroneves, #10 Wheldon, #6 Hornish, #7 Herta and #11 Kanaan. Most lead lap cars to pit lane for four tires and fuel. Top three do not pit. #11 Kanaan wins race off of pit road followed by # 15 Rice.

Medical update for Dr. Geoffrey Billows, IRL medical official: Felipe Giaffone has been checked and released from the infield care center. He is cleared to drive.

Lap 167: GREEN. #3 Castroneves leads the field into Turn 1.

Lap 170: #3 Castroneves leads #10 Wheldon by .9776 of a second.

Lap 175: #3 Castroneves leads #10 Wheldon by 1.3351 of a second.

Lap 180: #3 Castroneves leads #10 Wheldon by 1.9592 of a second.

Lap 185: #3 Castroneves leads #10 Wheldon by 2.9680 of a second.

Medical update for Dr. Geoffrey Billows, IRL medical official: Steve Price, left rear tire changer for #27 Dario Franchitti has been transported via ground to Dokkyo University Hospital for evaluation of a leg injury.

Lap 190: #3 Castroneves leads #10 Wheldon by 4.8532 of a second.

Lap 195: #3 Castroneves leads #10 Wheldon by 5.7753 of a second.

Lap 199: WHITE: #3 Castroneves leads #10 Wheldon by 6.4989 of a second.

Lap 200: CHECKERED: Castroneves wins Indy Japan 300 by 6.3851 of a second. Castroneves climbs the fence on the front straightaway after the victory.

INDY JAPAN 300 POST-RACE NOTES:

· This is Helio Castroneves’ ninth career IndyCar Series victory and his second consecutive win of the season. It is the 11^th time a driver has won back-to-back IndyCar Series events. Dan Wheldon was the last driver to accomplish the feat when he won three consecutive races last season.

· Castroneves’ margin of victory, 6.3851 seconds, is the largest margin of victory at Twin Ring Motegi. It is Castroneves’ first win in eight starts in Japan and his 15th career Indy-style win. Prior to today’s win, his best finish at Motegi was second in 2001.

· Castroneves has recorded 27 top-three finishes in the 69 IndyCar Series races he’s run to date (39 percent). He won from the pole position for the fourth time in his IndyCar Series career, tying Greg Ray for second on the all-time list for wins from the pole.

· This is Marlboro Team Penske second win of the season and its 17th win in the IndyCar Series. The team’s last victory came at St. Petersburg with Castroneves. The team now has 76 oval wins out of their record 126 career wins - the most of any team in open-wheel racing.

· Dan Wheldon finished second. It is his third consecutive top-two finish at Motegi and his second top-five finish this season.

· Tony Kanaan finished third. It is his fifth consecutive top-10 finish and his fourth top-five finish in four starts.

INDY JAPAN 300 POST-RACE QUOTES:
HELIO CASTRONEVES (No. 3 Marlboro Team Penske Dallara/Honda/Firestone, winner, Indy Japan 300): “"What a team, what a team. These guys are unbelievable. We were fast from the very start this week, which is good because there wasn't a lot of practice time. But today was perfect, and the car was perfect too. I said yesterday that I wanted to finish where we started, and I don't think it was ever in question. We were fast all day."
“"What a team, what a team. These guys are unbelievable. We were fast from the very start this week, which is good because there wasn't a lot of practice time. But today was perfect, and the car was perfect too. I said yesterday that I wanted to finish where we started, and I don't think it was ever in question. We were fast all day."
DAN WHELDON (No. 10 Target Chip Ganassi Racing Panoz/Honda/Firestone, finished second): “It’s a reasonable result from a points standpoint. I just didn’t have enough for Helio. At some points of the race I was very, very quick, and just tailed off at other points. All in all, it’s a great result. It would have been great to win three in a row. But it just wasn’t meant to be and we’ll move on to Indy.”
“It’s a reasonable result from a points standpoint. I just didn’t have enough for Helio. At some points of the race I was very, very quick, and just tailed off at other points. All in all, it’s a great result. It would have been great to win three in a row. But it just wasn’t meant to be and we’ll move on to Indy.”
TONY KANAAN (No. 11 Team 7-Eleven Dallara/Honda/Firestone, finished third): “Well, it was an OK day for us. We had a flat tire toward the end, I had to pit a lot earlier. The car was OK. I think I was going to be competitive, but we got a set back when we got the flat tire, and I had to pit earlier. Third place is not bad for us today.”
“Well, it was an OK day for us. We had a flat tire toward the end, I had to pit a lot earlier. The car was OK. I think I was going to be competitive, but we got a set back when we got the flat tire, and I had to pit earlier. Third place is not bad for us today.”
SCOTT DIXON (No. 9 Target Chip Ganassi Racing Panoz/Honda/Firestone finished ninth): “I’m pretty disappointed because we had such a good run going, and the Target car was just fantastic. On that last stop, I lost the clutch, stalled it and fell back too many spots too late in the race to make a decent comeback. It really is a shame. Even after messing up my first pit stop when I overshot the box by quite a bit, we were able to pick our way back and saving enough fuel that we made it into the lead a few times. Heading into that last pit stop, the No. 9 Target car was so strong that I was so confident that we could have come out ahead of Helio (Castroneves) for the lead. It’s disappointing but having a car that good today bodes well for the month of May.”
“I’m pretty disappointed because we had such a good run going, and the Target car was just fantastic. On that last stop, I lost the clutch, stalled it and fell back too many spots too late in the race to make a decent comeback. It really is a shame. Even after messing up my first pit stop when I overshot the box by quite a bit, we were able to pick our way back and saving enough fuel that we made it into the lead a few times. Heading into that last pit stop, the No. 9 Target car was so strong that I was so confident that we could have come out ahead of Helio (Castroneves) for the lead. It’s disappointing but having a car that good today bodes well for the month of May.”
VITOR MEIRA (No. 4 Panther Dallara/Honda/Firestone, finished 10th): “This was a very big day for the Panther team because we were able to move up in the championship standings. I think we need to be more aggressive with our setup. It is nice to get a Top Ten, but I think we could have had a Top Five car today. We moved a ton of aero to the front of the Network LIVE car and that was still not enough. But most importantly, being able to move up some spots in the championship right before Indy is big for all of us. When we tested at the Speedway the car was great and I know we’re going to have a very strong month of May.”
“This was a very big day for the Panther team because we were able to move up in the championship standings. I think we need to be more aggressive with our setup. It is nice to get a Top Ten, but I think we could have had a Top Five car today. We moved a ton of aero to the front of the Network LIVE car and that was still not enough. But most importantly, being able to move up some spots in the championship right before Indy is big for all of us. When we tested at the Speedway the car was great and I know we’re going to have a very strong month of May.”
BUDDY RICE (No. 15 Rahal Letterman Racing Team Argent Panoz/Honda/Firestone, finished fifth): “The day wasn't too bad considering where we had to start and the circumstances that we had to deal with during the race. This is a good start for us going into the month of May. We ran strong at St. Pete and we came here and we were good. Obviously we have room for improvement, but when you start 18th a top-five finish is great. The biggest thing that helped this race was my Argent Mortgage pit crew. Every pit stop my crew picked up several spots. My guys deserve a huge pat on the back for this result. The feeling I am getting from this year reminds me of the last time I finished fifth at Motegi (2004) and we will see if we can duplicate that result (won Indy) in May."
: “The day wasn't too bad considering where we had to start and the circumstances that we had to deal with during the race. This is a good start for us going into the month of May. We ran strong at St. Pete and we came here and we were good. Obviously we have room for improvement, but when you start 18th a top-five finish is great. The biggest thing that helped this race was my Argent Mortgage pit crew. Every pit stop my crew picked up several spots. My guys deserve a huge pat on the back for this result. The feeling I am getting from this year reminds me of the last time I finished fifth at Motegi (2004) and we will see if we can duplicate that result (won Indy) in May." KOSUKE MATSUURA (No. 55 Panasonic/ARTA Dallara/Honda/Firestone, finished seventh): “Of course I am disappointed because I expected a better result, but seventh was not too bad. This was good for the championship points. This was the most important race for me this year, and I had a lot of fans here. The team did a great job and I didn’t make any mistakes. The car wasn’t perfect. The gearing was a little bit too short and when I was catching someone, I was hitting the [rev] limiter coming off of Turn Two. It was difficult to overtake. The last fifty laps, I thought I could overtake Buddy Rice, but the gear was too short and I couldn’t do anything. I think a lot of drivers had the same problem. Race by race, the handling of my car is getting better and better. During the month of May, I think we will have a great car and hopefully we can have a top-five finish in the Indy 500.”
“Of course I am disappointed because I expected a better result, but seventh was not too bad. This was good for the championship points. This was the most important race for me this year, and I had a lot of fans here. The team did a great job and I didn’t make any mistakes. The car wasn’t perfect. The gearing was a little bit too short and when I was catching someone, I was hitting the [rev] limiter coming off of Turn Two. It was difficult to overtake. The last fifty laps, I thought I could overtake Buddy Rice, but the gear was too short and I couldn’t do anything. I think a lot of drivers had the same problem. Race by race, the handling of my car is getting better and better. During the month of May, I think we will have a great car and hopefully we can have a top-five finish in the Indy 500.”
DANICA PATRICK (No. 16 15 Rahal Letterman Racing Team Argent Panoz/Honda/ Firestone, finished eighth): “I don't think our Argent Mortgage Honda was that fast, but I do think we were smart enough with our strategy and our pit stops were good enough and we were able to run consistently and it produced a solid result. We just weren't able to run consistently fast enough to overtake the leaders. I had one stint where I was really able to make up some time and gain position, but I battled understeer most of the day. Unfortunately when you have problems at Motegi going through [turns] three and four it will limit what you can do. Overall we weren't super fast, but we did get our result. I am disappointed that on the last restart I got chopped pretty good. Everybody was getting a little feisty with their moves and everybody was a little too bold. At least we finished and scored more points and we didn't do anything stupid."
“I don't think our Argent Mortgage Honda was that fast, but I do think we were smart enough with our strategy and our pit stops were good enough and we were able to run consistently and it produced a solid result. We just weren't able to run consistently fast enough to overtake the leaders. I had one stint where I was really able to make up some time and gain position, but I battled understeer most of the day. Unfortunately when you have problems at Motegi going through [turns] three and four it will limit what you can do. Overall we weren't super fast, but we did get our result. I am disappointed that on the last restart I got chopped pretty good. Everybody was getting a little feisty with their moves and everybody was a little too bold. At least we finished and scored more points and we didn't do anything stupid."

The next IndyCar Series event is the 90^th Running of the Indianapolis 500 on May 28 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The race will be broadcast at 1 p.m. (EDT) by ABC Sports and the IMS Radio Network. The next Indy Pro Series event is the Freedom 100 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on May 26.

Vince Young Announces First Endorsement with Austin-Based NetSpend, National Leader in Prepaid Debit Cards

NFL-bound quarterback, NetSpend fund college scholarship with All-Access card

Former University of Texas football great and sought-after NFL quarterback prospect Vince Young announced Saturday that his first professional endorsement agreement is with Austin, Texas-based NetSpend Corporation, the nation's leading marketer and processor of prepaid debit cards.

Young announced his debut endorsement partnership here at the firm's national headquarters in the company of NetSpend and University officials.

"Just as my time at U.T. helped enable me to have greater opportunities, NetSpend is empowering people all across the nation to change their lives with new freedom in their financial affairs," said Young. "I like what they are doing, and I want to be a part of it."

Young explained that in today's society, many people do not have or want a traditional bank account or credit card, so when they try to rent a car, make an airline reservation, or transact online, they are told "No." But they still need a convenient vehicle to safely control their funds and to make purchases or access cash at will, and NetSpend's All-Access prepaid debit cards are the leading solution.

"This isn't just a card, it's the end of all those no's," Young said. "The All-Access card let's people say 'Yes I can,' and that's what today and this partnership is all about."

As a first step in their new partnership, Young joined NetSpend CEO Rick Savard and founders Roy and Bertrand Sosa to present a giant $10,000 NetSpend All-Access debit card -- rather than the traditional jumbo check -- to the University of Texas College of Communication to establish an Advertising and Sports Marketing Scholarship Fund at the school.

Savard said that the company chose to partner with Young because of the person he is, his values, the way he connects with people and his leadership.

"Vince Young represents the American dream come true," said Savard. "He is a leader, an inspiration, and we are proud that he has joined us to help consumers understand their options to have access to a convenient and secure means to store and spend their money."

NetSpend has become the leader in the rapidly growing prepaid debit payments field. The company markets its own All-Access brand prepaid, re- loadable debit cards through distributors nationally. The Visa or MasterCard branded cards can be used to make purchases anywhere those cards are accepted. The cards can be funded with a deposit of any amount up to $10,000 and act as a secure, federally insured portable bank account, to be used at any of tens of thousands of retail or service locations across the nation, or at any ATM.

NetSpend also partners with prominent retailers to provide private branded cards, along with gift cards, one of the fastest growing categories of payment products.

Founded seven years ago by brothers Roy and Bertrand Sosa, privately-held NetSpend Corporation has grown to a national leader in the prepaid debit category processing close to $3 billion in funds loaded on its cards, and has a staff of more than 200 employees at its Austin headquarters.

About NetSpend Corporation

NetSpend Corporation is the leading provider of prepaid debit cards for America's underserved markets. The NetSpend platform offers an end-to-end approach that is unique in the prepaid payments industry. From customer acquisition and risk management to card fulfillment and customer service, NetSpend offers a vertically integrated product offering that powers the infrastructure for prepaid payment applications. NetSpend's partnerships include agency agreements with the leading companies serving the un-banked and under-banked markets, as well as strategic relationships with card issuers, EFT networks and payment card associations. For more information, visit www.netspend.com.

Source: NetSpend Corporation

LONDON 2012 OLYMPIC GAMES AN AMBITIOUS AND VISIONARY PROJECT

The IOC’s Coordination Commission for the Games of the XXX Olympiad – London 2012, led by its Chairman Denis Oswald, today concluded its first full visit to the British capital since London’s election last July at the 117^th IOC Session in Singapore. The meetings, which took place over three days, demonstrated that London 2012 has an ambitious and visionary project and that it has been able to keep up the momentum of its work since its winning bid last year, to date delivering all key milestones.

The Commission heard from the Chairman of London 2012, Lord Sebastian Coe, and its Chief Executive Officer, Paul Deighton, as well as from key members of the Organising Committee (LOCOG)’s administration. The Commission was also briefed by key leaders of the different stakeholder groups involved in the London Games, including Richard Caborn, Minister for Sport; Ken Livingstone, the Mayor of London; Lord Colin Moynihan, Chairman of the British Olympic Association; and David Higgins, CEO of the Olympic Delivery Authority.

Speaking at the end of the Commission’s visit to London, Chairman Denis Oswald said, “The IOC, as the ultimate guardian of the Olympic Games, is very proud to guide the London 2012 organisers through the preparation and implementation of Olympic Games that will transform the local landscape physically, socially and economically. We are especially delighted by the fact that London has really understood the ethos of the Olympic Games and the Olympic values, whereby the Games are a vehicle and catalyst for development and provide a platform to educate society through sport. London’s project is ambitious and visionary, but as sporting people we admire this ambition and look forward to playing our part in London’s Olympic journey.”

Speaking about LOCOG, Oswald noted, “The very professional approach that LOCOG has shown us during this visit and during my previous visits to London, since its election last July, has demonstrated the energy and excitement that this project is bringing to the city and the country. What is particularly encouraging is the way in which the London team has been thinking about all aspects of Games preparation and planning, and how each area of the project is intrinsically linked. This understanding, and the putting of it into practice by sharing information between departments and entities, will stand LOCOG in good stead for the coming years, and we encourage them to continue in this vein. We are also delighted to see that the IOC’s new and improved Olympic Games management processes, whereby knowledge is transferred from Games to Games, and support is given from a bid’s inception right through to Games delivery, has assisted London in making a speedy and effective transition from bid to host city.”

The Commission members received more detailed reports on the progress of several key functional areas, such as sport, Olympic venue construction, transport, finance, sustainability and environment, communications, marketing, accommodation, culture and the Paralympic Games. They also toured some of the key Olympic sites, including the Millennium Dome, the Olympic Park and Stratford International Railway Station.

Commenting on what the Commission saw during the venue tour, Oswald said, “We were able to see the first, early signs of the huge transformation that will follow, when we saw the work being done to bury electricity cables in the Stratford area. Developments for the indoor arena at the Millennium Dome were also encouraging and exciting.”

LOCOG Chairman Sebastian Coe said the Coordination Commission visit had provided an important opportunity for London Olympic organisers to demonstrate progress made in planning for the Games, highlighting commitments to delivering a lasting legacy of community and sporting benefits from hosting the Games.

"We are united in our desire to see spectacular Olympic Games and Paralympic Games in 2012. We are also committed to ensuring that the Games leave a lasting legacy of social, environmental, economic and community benefits for London, the UK and for sport that demonstrate the power of the Olympic Games to change lives," Coe said.

LOCOG CEO Paul Deighton said the Coordination Commission visit reinforced the close working relationship that the London Olympic organisers had formed with the IOC since London was selected as Olympic host city last July. "Our plans for the London Games will benefit significantly from the highly productive meetings with the IOC's experts, and we look forward to further visits from the Coordination Commission as we move ahead together towards the London 2012 Games."

The next visit of the Coordination Commission to London will take place in 2007. The Commission visits the future host city on a yearly basis until four years from the Games when the frequency increases to two visits per year. The visits of the Commission are supplemented by the regular visits by smaller IOC teams involving the Commission Chairman, selected members of the Commission and members of the IOC administration.

SportStar Awards 2006 at the Olympic Museum

On Thursday 20 April, the Olympic Museum in Lausanne hosted the 4th edition of the SportStar Awards. The ceremony was held under the patronage and in the presence of Jacques Rogge, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Juan Antonio Samaranch, IOC Honorary President for Life, and Mario Pescante, President of the European Olympic Committees. Also present were Valentino Castellani, President of the 2006 Olympic Winter Games Organising Committee (TOROC), and representatives of the Winter Sports International Federations, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and Eurosport.

Created in 2000 by TV channel Eurosport, with the support of the IOC, this event pays tribute to the European athletes who take part in the Olympic Games and who are considered as the best representatives of the fundamental values of sport. Two months after the closing of the XX Olympic Winter Games, the Olympic Museum’s visitors were able to rub shoulders with some of the best athletes of these recent Games whose feats thrilled us all. Among them were Irina Slutskaya, Philipp Schoch, Daniela Meuli, Evelyne Leu, Anette Norberg, Antoine Dénériaz, Enrico Fabris and Giorgio di Centa. At the beginning of the afternoon, a signing session had been organised, offering the Museum’s visitors and many fans the chance to see their idols close up.

For more than 10 years, Eurosport has contributed to promoting sport and the Olympic ideals to television audiences worldwide. On 23 June 1993, on the anniversary of the IOC’s creation, Olympic Magazine was launched. It is a monthly Eurosport programme in which reports cover subjects as varied as Olympic history, sports performances and the positions of the IOC.

All-New 2007 Hyundai Elantra Makes World Debut at New York International Auto Show; Safety and Interior Space Put the Fourth-Generation Elantra a Class Above the Competition

The all-new 2007 Elantra makes its world debut today at the 2006 New York International Auto Show. Hyundai's 2007 Elantra is the seventh all-new model from Hyundai in just 24 months, giving Hyundai the freshest lineup in the industry. All new from headlight to taillight, Elantra brings more refinement, safety and interior space to compact car shoppers.

"The all-new Elantra delivers more interior space than Civic or Corolla -- even more space than Acura TL -- and a level of ride and handling refinement that's both agile and comfortable," said John Krafcik, vice president, Product Development and Strategic Planning, Hyundai Motor America. "Add in great standard safety features like six airbags, anti-lock brakes and active front head restraints, and our assertive new design, and it's clear that Elantra offers unbeatable value."

24/7 Program

The Elantra marks Hyundai's seventh all-new product in 24 months when it goes on sale in fall 2006. This "24/7" product plan included the arrival of the all-new Tucson, Sonata, Accent, Azera, Santa Fe, Entourage and Elantra. From the flagship, full-size Azera, to the entry-level Accent, each of these models offers unsurpassed standard safety technologies in their segments, and each reflects the Hyundai brand's refined and confident nature.

Unsurpassed Standard Safety in the Compact Segment

All Elantra models have six standard airbags, including two advanced front airbags, two front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and two side curtain airbags protecting front- and rear-seat outboard passengers. The combination of side and curtain airbags, which help protect the head and body during side impacts, can reduce fatalities by more than 45 percent according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Side-impact airbags are expensive options on competitors such as Toyota Corolla and Ford Focus, and are not available on the Chevrolet Cobalt. Side curtain air protection is Optional on Corolla and Cobalt and still not available on Focus.

Accident avoidance technologies start with Elantra's all-new chassis featuring fully independent suspension, front and rear stabilizer bars and motor-driven rack-and-pinion steering. The Elantra's standard power braking system has front and rear discs with a four-sensor, four-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) that includes Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). ABS helps the driver maintain vehicle steering control in slippery conditions and in emergency maneuvers. EBD is integrated into the ABS, automatically adjusting the braking force to front and rear axles based on the vehicle loading conditions. Four-wheel disc brakes are a key leadership feature for the segment, as traditional rear drum brakes are still found on the 2006 Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus and Chevrolet Cobalt.

Elantra's standard front-seat active head restraints help prevent whiplash by automatically reducing the space between a front occupant's head and the head restraint during a rear collision and are highly recommended by safety-focused organizations such as the IIHS.

All seating positions feature three-point seatbelts and adjustable head restraints. The shingle-style rear-seat head restraints improve visibility when there are no rear seat passengers, while protecting these passengers when they are in the vehicle. There's also an energy absorbing steering column and front seatbelt pretensioners, force limiters and adjustable-height shoulder anchors. A LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system in the rear-seat area provides secure attachment for child seats.

In low-speed impacts, the Elantra's five-mph front and rear bumpers help minimize damage. In higher-energy collisions, its steel unibody structure is engineered to dissipate crash energy as its crumple zones deform, while bodyside reinforcements help maintain the integrity of the passenger compartment. Hood buckling creases and safety stops help to control the deformation of the hood in a frontal collision.

Expressive and Confident Design

Elantra continues the dramatic new styling resurgence introduced on the all-new 2007 Santa Fe -- refined and confident. This new theme resonates in Elantra's assertive front appearance, rising beltline, sculpted body side and an overall lively appearance. For a more upscale appearance, chrome headlight bezels and grille bars highlight Elantra's assertive face. The profile of Elantra features confidently sculpted surfaces, an expressive bodyside character line that has a family resemblance to Azera and a clean look with bodycolor door handles and mirrors. The rear styling compliments the front design with taillamps echoing the theme of the headlamps, and the cohesive look continues with a bodycolored rear license plate garnish and integrated bumper fascia.

A "Class Above" Interior - More Room Than Acura TL

Elantra is wider and taller than its predecessor. Increasing the height 2.2 inches and moving the driver's seating position up 1.8 inches opened up the cabin for more room and flexibility. Two inches of added width deliver more front and rear shoulder room as well. This repackaging delivers a remarkably spacious interior -- one that is truly a "class above" Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla for interior room. Elantra is so roomy the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies it as a mid-size car, not a compact car like Civic and Corolla. With 97.9 cubic feet of passenger room and 14.2 cubic feet of trunk space, the Elantra has the most interior volume (passenger volume plus trunk space) for a sedan in its class. Elantra's total interior volume of 112.1 cubic feet easily betters the 2006 Civic sedan (102.9 cu. ft.), 2007 Nissan Sentra (110.8 cu.ft.) and 2006 Corolla (103.8 cu. ft.), and, surprisingly, even surpasses the interior volume of the near-luxury Acura TL (110.4 cubic feet) sedan. Elantra trunk capacity also beats Civic and Corolla. Its 14.2 cu. ft. of trunk volume is 18 percent larger than Civic and five percent bigger than Corolla.

Thoughtful design touches bring harmony and substance to Elantra's interior. The dashboard slopes downward to give a feeling of more space and greater visibility while offering an aesthetic shape. The contrasting two-tone color schemes (available in beige and gray tones) combined with metallic finishes match the more sophisticated and upscale exterior styling. New levels of detail and craftsmanship are found throughout the interior. Luxurious supple leather is available on Elantra, but cannot be found on Civic. For the first time, heated seats are available. Another first, Elantra also offers steering-wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls and telescoping adjustment. Blue back lighting adds a youthful, but refined ambience at night.

The center console features a two-level storage compartment and a comfortable armrest. An overhead sunglasses holder has built-in map lights, and map pockets are integrated into the front door panels. Seatback storage pockets provide additional room for small items. Storage can also be found in the dash, center stack and console. A convenient handbag strap holder is sure to surprise and delight owners. Dual front cupholders and an available rear armrest with cupholders complete the interior.

The Elantra's comfortable and versatile seating includes a multi-adjustable driver's seat with height adjustment, adjustable head restraints and a 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback that makes it easy to accommodate cargo.

Conveniences like standard cabin air filter, rear window defroster, tilt steering wheel, tinted glass, two-speed variable intermittent windshield wiper with mist function, dual vanity mirrors, and power windows with driver's auto-down and illuminated switches make the Elantra seem like it's a class above its modest price point. The high-volume Elantra GLS Premium Package offers a 172-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers and Hyundai's first auxiliary jack, which allows iPods(R) and other portable MP3 players to be connected to the vehicle audio system. Also included are air conditioning, cruise control, fog lights, windshield shade band, rear center armrest with cupholders, power heated mirrors, power locks, and remote keyless entry with trunk open, panic alert, and alarm. XM satellite radio will be available beginning in the fall.

Super-Clean Engine

Many Elantras sold in California, Maine, New York, Vermont and Massachusetts will score high on the EPA's Green Vehicle Guide to Green Cars and be certified as Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicles (SULEV). The SULEV Elantra is as clean as many hybrid electric vehicles and helps Hyundai meet its environmental commitments. In fact, the 2007 Elantra is projected to earn Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (PZEV) certification in California, which few models in the entire automotive industry earn. Outside of the green states, the Elantra is available in Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) configurations.

Hyundai's advanced 2.0-liter in-line four-cylinder engine powers Elantra. This sophisticated 16-valve powerplant employs an aluminum cylinder head that features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT). The combination helps give the engine a very broad power spread, coupled with high fuel efficiency and low emissions.

The CVVT unit is positioned on the exhaust camshaft and controls

the intake valve timing by advancing and retarding the intake cam in relation to the exhaust cam. The CVVT system increases volumetric and thermodynamic efficiency, which helps the engine deliver improved performance at high rpm and increased torque at low rpm. With better cylinder charging, fuel economy is also increased. By optimizing valve overlap, NOx emissions are reduced due to the resulting Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) effect.

The ULEV variation is rated at an estimated 138 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 136 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,600 rpm. SULEV engines are available only with a four-speed automatic transmission, and are rated at an estimated 132 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 133 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,600 rpm.

Two Transmission Choices

The Elantra comes standard with a precise five-speed manual gearbox. A smooth four-speed automatic with a new gated console-mounted floor shifter is available as an option and includes an overdrive lock-up torque converter for higher fuel economy at freeway speeds.

Suspension and Steering

Elantra's design team worked to solve the classic design tradeoffs between interior roominess, agility and driving comfort. On one hand, interior space and cargo room are critically important to a sedan in its class; on the other hand, secure, responsive handling and good road isolation are also priorities. The Elantra's ride quality improves upon that offered by Civic, Corolla, Focus and Cobalt. An advanced, motor-driven, engine-speed-sensing rack-and-pinion power steering ensures the new Elantra has a more agile driving feeling than the outgoing model, and key competitors.

Elantra delivers a comfortable ride and responsive handling thanks to a front MacPherson strut suspension with coil springs and gas shock absorbers, and multi-link suspension and twin-tube gas shock absorbers. A 23.0-mm diameter front stabilizer bar and 17.0 mm rear stabilizer bar, which is larger than its predecessor's by 5.0 mm, helps reduce body roll when cornering, and tunes the Elantra's at-the-limit handling for maximum predictability. To enhance stopping power, the front and rear brakes are larger than its predecessor's at 10.8 inches (275 mm) for the front and 10.3 inches (262 mm) for the rear.

The 2007 Elantra body stiffness is up 49 percent from the outgoing model and nine percent over Corolla. Significant increases in body stiffness levels allowed Hyundai engineers to deliver a dynamic package that left little to compromise during the shock and bushing tuning phases. The result is precise steering and handling and a well-controlled, yet comfortable ride. By improving body rigidity and applying an optimized door sealing strategy, Hyundai engineers successfully reduced road noise two decibels below a comparably equipped 2006 Honda Civic based on internal testing.

Three Trim Levels

The Elantra is available in three distinctive trim levels -- GLS, SE and Limited.

Elantra GLS - The Perfect Compact Car

In keeping with Hyundai's high-value approach to standard equipment, the Elantra GLS has a remarkable array of desirable features. The Elantra delivers standard safety technologies unsurpassed in its segment, with six airbags, ABS with EBD, 4-wheel disc brakes, active front head restraints, and adjustable head restraints for all seating positions. A partial list of other standard features includes: power windows, intermittent windshield wipers, multiple storage areas, 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback, tachometer, dual vanity mirrors, tinted windows, two 12-V outlets and tilt steering wheel. The Preferred Package adds air conditioning and a 172-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with tweeters. The available Premium Package includes the equipment in the Preferred Package plus power heated mirrors and locks, remote keyless entry with trunk release, panic alert and alarm, windshield shade band, fog lights, rear center armrest with cupholders, cruise control and an auxiliary jack. The available Premium-Sport Package includes everything in the Premium Package plus 16-inch alloy wheels with P205/55-R16 tires and power sunroof.

Elantra SE - Adding a Sporty Flavor

The sport-oriented SE adds all the equipment in the GLS Premium Package plus a telescoping leather steering wheel with audio controls that features seek, volume, and mute functions, leather shift knob, 16-inch alloy wheels with P205/55HR16 tires, dual illuminated vanity mirrors and trip computer. The only option is a power sunroof. In addition to the available gray and beige two-tone, the SE is also available in a sporty monotone black interior.

Elantra Limited - Luxury Meets Value

The Limited trim takes the Elantra upscale by building on the SE equipment with leather seating surfaces, leather door panel inserts, leather armrest and heated front seats. A Sun and Sound package is available that combines a power sunroof and a 220-watt premium audio system featuring AM/FM/6-CD changer/cassette/MP3 and an external amplifier.

Warranty

The all-new Hyundai Elantra lineup is protected by the Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty(TM). Coverage includes five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection, 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage. In addition, Elantra buyers receive 24-hour roadside assistance coverage at no extra charge for five years (no mileage limit), which includes emergency towing, lockout service and limited coverage for trip-interruption expenses. There is no deductible on any of these coverages.

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif. is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced by more than 700 dealerships nationwide.

Note: Claims based on Autosource Inc. upper small car segmentation.

World Speed Record for Diesel-Powered Truck Set Using Mobil Delvac Heavy Duty Engine Oil

An Australian truck using Mobil Delvac(R) heavy duty engine oil has been recognized by the Guinness World Records(TM) as the World's Fastest Diesel-Powered Truck. Driven by Frank Gaffiero, the "Bandag Bullet," a Kenworth T400 truck powered by two V8 Detroit diesel engines, is the only conventionally powered truck to achieve an average speed of 182.152 kilometers per hour (113.184 miles per hour) over one kilometer from a standing start.

The "Bandag Bullet" broke the Guinness World Record for diesel truck speed on July 16, 2005, at the Queensland International Air Show, held at the Bundaberg Airport in Australia. ExxonMobil was a sponsor and supplied the engine oil for the world record-breaking effort.

"Competing at these high speeds places extreme demands on my truck, so it's important for me to treat my engine with special care," said Frank Gaffiero, driver of the Bandag Bullet. "Mobil Delvac keeps my engine running long and strong -- whether it's breaking world records or helping me get my load delivered on time."

While setting the world record, the truck's engine reached temperatures approximately 100 degrees C (300 degrees F) higher than for typical operating conditions. Despite this, Mobil Delvac heavy duty engine oil was able to provide the protection needed for Gaffiero to achieve his goal.

Since its introduction in 1925, Mobil Delvac heavy duty engine oil has provided power and protection for truck engines around the world in all conditions -- from the extreme heat of Egypt's deserts to the freezing conditions across Siberia, from the mountainous regions of Peru to the super-highways and narrow byways of North America and Europe.

ExxonMobil, Mobil, and Delvac are registered trademarks of Exxon Mobil Corporation or one of its subsidiaries.

Camión Diesel con Aceite para Motores de Trabajo Pesado Mobil Delvac Logra Récord Mundial en Velocidad

Un camión australiano con aceite para motores de trabajo pesado Mobil Delvac(R) ha sido reconocido por Guinness World Records(TM) como el Camión Diesel Más Rápido del Mundo. Conducido por Frank Gaffiero, el camión Kenworth T400, denominado "Bandag Bullet", con dos motores diesel Detroit V8, es el único camión con combustible convencional que logra alcanzar una velocidad promedio de 182,152 kilómetros por hora (113,184 millas por hora) en un kilómetro a partir de la salida parada.

El "Bandag Bullet" batió el récord mundial Guinness para velocidad de camiones diesel el 16 de julio de 2005, en la exposición aeronáutica internacional de Queensland, que se llevó a cabo en el Aeropuerto de Bundaberg, Australia. ExxonMobil fue uno de los patrocinadores y proporcionó el aceite para motores que permitió batir el récord mundial.

"Competir a estas altas velocidad representa una gran exigencia para mi camión, por eso es importante que le brinde un cuidado especial al motor", comentó Frank Gaffiero, conductor del Bandag Bullet. "Mobil Delvac permite que el motor funcione por más tiempo y con mayor resistencia, ya sea para batir el récord mundial o para poder realizar mis entregas en forma puntual".

Para establecer el récord mundial, el motor del camión alcanzó temperaturas de aproximadamente 100 grados centígrados (300 grados Fahrenheit) más altas que en condiciones normales de funcionamiento. A pesar de esto, el aceite para motores de trabajo pesado Mobil Delvac pudo brindar la protección necesaria para que Gaffiero lograra su meta.

Desde su lanzamiento en 1925, el aceite para motor de trabajo pesado Mobil Delvac ha proporcionado potencia y protección a motores de camiones de todo el mundo bajo cualquier condición climática, desde el intenso calor de los desiertos de Egipto hasta el frío glacial de Siberia, desde las regiones montañosas de Perú hasta las grandes autopistas y los angostos caminos poco frecuentados de Norteamérica y Europa.

ExxonMobil, Mobil y Delvac son marcas de fábrica registradas de Exxon Mobil Corporation o de una de sus subsidiarias.

El nuevo Hyundai Elantra 2007 hace su debut mundial en el Salón Internacional del Automóvil de Nueva York; La seguridad y el espacio interior posicionan a la cuarta generación del Elantra una clase por encima de la competencia

El debut mundial del nuevo Elantra 2007 se produce hoy en el Salón Internacional del Automóvil de Nueva York 2006. El Hyundai Elantra 2007 es el séptimo modelo nuevo de Hyundai en solo 24 meses y con él, Hyundai logra la alineación más novedosa de la industria. Totalmente nuevo desde los faros delanteros hasta las luces de freno, el Elantra ofrece más elegancia, seguridad y espacio interior a los compradores de autos compactos.

"El nuevo Elantra ofrece mayor espacio interior que el Civic o el Corolla, incluso más espacio que el Acura TL, y un nivel ágil y confortable de elegancia de conducción y manejo", dijo John Krafcik, vicepresidente del Departamento de desarrollo de productos y planificación estratégica de Hyundai Motor America. "Si a esto sumamos impresionantes características de seguridad estándar tales como seis bolsas de aire, frenos antibloqueo y apoyacabezas activos delanteros, además de nuestro enérgico y novedoso diseño, queda claro que el Elantra ofrece un valor inigualable".

Programa 24/7

El Elantra será el séptimo nuevo producto de Hyundai en 24 meses cuando se ponga a la venta en otoño de 2006. Este plan de producto “24/7” incluye la llegada de los nuevos Tucson, Sonata, Accent, Azera, Santa Fe, Entourage y Elantra. Desde nuestro producto estrella, el Azera modelo full, hasta el modelo básico de Accent, cada uno de estos modelos ofrece tecnologías de seguridad estándar de una calidad insuperable en sus segmentos y refleja la naturaleza refinada y confiable de la marca Hyundai.

Seguridad estándar de calidad insuperable en el segmento compacto

Todos los modelos Elantra poseen seis bolsas de aire estándar, incluidas dos bolsas de aire frontales de avanzada, dos bolsas de aire frontales montadas en el asiento para impacto lateral y dos bolsas de aire laterales tipo cortina para proteger a los pasajeros en la parte delantera y trasera. La combinación de bolsas de aire laterales y tipo cortina, que ayudan a proteger la cabeza y el cuerpo en impactos laterales, puede reducir en más de 45% la mortalidad de acuerdo con el IIHS (Instituto de Seguros para la Seguridad en la Carretera, por sus siglas en inglés). Las bolsas de aire laterales son opciones costosas en autos de la competencia, tales como el Toyota Corolla y el Ford Focus, y no se incluyen en el Chevrolet Cobalt. La protección tipo cortina es opcional en el Corolla y el Cobalt, y todavía no está disponible en el Focus.

Las tecnologías para evitar accidentes comienzan con el nuevo chasis del Elantra, que incluye una suspensión completamente independiente, barras estabilizadoras delanteras y traseras, y una dirección asistida de cremallera y piñón.

El sistema de frenos estándar del Elantra tiene discos delanteros y traseros con un sistema de frenos antibloqueo (ABS) con cuatro sensores y cuatro canales que incluye distribución electrónica de la fuerza de frenado (EBD).

El sistema ABS ayuda al conductor a mantener el control de la dirección en condiciones resbalosas y en maniobras de emergencia. La EBD está integrada al sistema ABS, ajustando de manera automática la fuerza de frenado de los ejes delanteros y traseros en base a las condiciones de carga del vehículo. Los discos de freno en las cuatro ruedas lo destacan dentro de este segmento de automóviles ya que los modelos 2006 del Honda Civic, el Toyota Corolla, el Ford Focus y el Chevrolet Cobalt aún cuentan con los tradicionales frenos traseros de tambor.

Los apoyacabezas estándar activos de los asientos delanteros del Elantra ayudan a prevenir tirones en el cuello ya que reducen automáticamente el espacio entre la cabeza del ocupante del asiento delantero y el apoyacabezas en un choque de atrás, y han sido altamente recomendados por las organizaciones orientadas a la seguridad tales como el IIHS.

Todos los asientos disponen de cinturones de seguridad de tres puntos y apoyacabezas ajustables. Los apoyacabezas del asiento trasero, con diseño en forma de tejas, mejoran la visibilidad cuando no van pasajeros atrás, al tiempo que los protegen cuando se encuentran dentro el vehículo. El modelo también cuenta con una columna de dirección con sistema de absorción de energía y cinturones de seguridad delanteros con pretensores, limitadores de fuerza y sujetadores de hombros de altura ajustable. El sistema de sujetadores y correas más bajas para niños (LATCH, por sus siglas en inglés) en el asiento trasero brinda un ajuste seguro para los asientos de los más pequeños.

En impactos de baja velocidad, los parachoques delanteros y traseros de 8km/h del Elantra ayudan a minimizar el daño. En colisiones con más energía, la estructura de acero de pieza única está diseñada para disipar la energía del choque al deformarse las zonas rugosas, mientras que los refuerzos de la carrocería ayudan a mantener la integridad del compartimiento de pasajeros. La cubierta del motor se deforma y las trancas de seguridad ayudan a controlar la deformación de la cubierta en el caso de una colisión frontal.

Diseño expresivo y confiable

El Elantra continúa con el resurgimiento del impresionante estilo novedoso presentado en el nuevo Santa Fe 2007: es elegante y confiable. Esto se aprecia en la apariencia delantera firme del Elantra, en la curvatura elevada, en su carrocería esculpida y en una apariencia general activa.

Para lograr una apariencia de mayor nivel, los faros con biselado de cromo y las barras de rejilla resaltan la fachada firme del Elantra. El perfil del Elantra incluye superficies esculpidas con firmeza, una línea de carrocería expresiva que tiene un parecido con el Azera y un aspecto limpio con manijas y espejos del color de la carrocería. El estilo trasero hace honor al diseño delantero con luces de freno que combinan con los faros delanteros. El aspecto homogéneo continúa con una decoración trasera de la placa de la matrícula del color de la carrocería y un frente trasero integrado.

Interior de "categoría superior" – más espacio que el Acura TL

El Elantra es más ancho y más alto que su predecesor. Con un incremento de 5,58 centímetros en la altura y el asiento del conductor ubicado 4,57 centímetros más arriba, la cabina se abrió para obtener mayor espacio y flexibilidad. Con este ensanchamiento de 5,08 centímetros se logra también mayor espacio para los hombros en los asientos delanteros y traseros. Este rediseño presenta un interior notoriamente espacioso que realmente pertenece a una "clase superior" en comparación con el Honda Civic y el Toyota Corolla, en lo que a espacio se refiere. El Elantra es tan grande que la EPA (Agencia de Protección al Medio Ambiente, por sus siglas en inglés) lo clasifica como un auto mediano y no como uno compacto como el Civic o el Corolla. Con 29,37 metros cúbicos de espacio para los pasajeros y 4,26 metros cúbicos de espacio de baúl, el Elantra ofrece el mayor volumen interior (volumen de pasajeros más volumen de baúl) para un sedan de su clase. El volumen interior total de 33,63 metros cúbicos fácilmente supera al Civic sedan 2006 (30,87 metros cúbicos), al Nissan Sentra 2006 (33,24 metros cúbicos) y al Corolla 2006 (31,14 metros cúbicos) y, para mayor sorpresa, también supera el volumen interior del casi lujoso Acura TL (33,12 metros cúbicos). La capacidad del baúl también es mejor que la del Civic y el Corolla. El volumen del baúl de 4,26 metros cúbicos es 18% mayor que el del Civic y 5% más grande que el del Corolla.

Los ingeniosos toques de diseño aportan armonía y sustancia al interior del Elantra. El tablero se inclina hacia abajo para dar una sensación de mayor amplitud y visibilidad, mostrando una forma estética. Los esquemas de colores de dos tonos contrastantes (disponibles en tonos beige y gris) combinados con las terminaciones metálicas, combinan con el estilo del exterior más sofisticado y de mayor nivel. En todo el interior se observan los nuevos niveles de detalles y artesanía. La trama de cuero flexible y lujoso se encuentra disponible en el Elantra pero no en el Civic. Por primera vez, se ofrecen asientos con calefacción, controles de crucero y audio montados en el volante, y ajuste telescópico. La iluminación azul trasera agrega un ambiente joven pero refinado en la noche.

La consola central viene con un compartimiento de almacenamiento de dos niveles y un confortable apoyabrazos. El soporte para lentes de sol situado sobre la cabeza incluye luces para ver mapas y los paneles de las puertas delanteras contienen bolsillos para guardar estos mapas. Los bolsillos detrás de los asientos brindan espacio adicional para objetos pequeños. También pueden guardarse objetos en el tablero, en el estante central y en la consola. Un conveniente gancho para la correa de la cartera seguramente sorprenderá y agradará a los propietarios. Dos posavasos en la parte delantera y un apoyabrazos en el asiento trasero con posavasos completan la parte interior.

Los asientos confortables y versátiles del Elantra incluyen un asiento regulable para el conductor con ajuste de altura y de apoyacabeza, y un asiento trasero abatible 60/40 que permite acomodar carga fácilmente.

Algunas comodidades tales como el filtro de aire de cabina, el desempañador del vidrio trasero, la dirección inclinada, los vidrios polarizados, los limpiaparabrisas de dos velocidades de intermitencia variable con función niebla, los dos espejos y las ventanas eléctricas con interruptores iluminados de subida/bajada automática para el conductor, hacen parecer al Elantra un modelo de clase superior considerando su precio modesto.

El paquete Elantra GLS Premium de alto volumen ofrece un sistema de audio AM/FM/CD de 172 vatios con seis parlantes y el primer conector de entrada auxiliar de Hyundai para conectar iPods(R) u otros reproductores portátiles de MP3 al sistema de audio del vehículo. También se incluye aire acondicionado, control de crucero, luces de niebla, parabrisas con franja de sombra, un apoyabrazos central con posavasos, espejos térmicos, seguros eléctricos y entrada sin llave con control remoto con apertura de abierto, alerta de pánico y alarma. Una radio satelital XM estará disponible a comienzos del otoño.

Motor super limpio

Muchos Elantras que se vendieron en California, Maine, Nueva York, Vermont y Massachussets alcanzarán un buen resultado en la Guía de vehículos ecológicos de EPA y serán certificados como SULEV (vehículos de emisión super-ultra baja, por sus siglas en inglés). El Elantra SULEV es tan limpio como muchos vehículos eléctricos híbridos y colabora en el compromiso ambiental de Hyundai. De hecho, se espera que el Elantra 2007 obtenga la Certificación PZEV (vehículos con emisión casi cero, por sus siglas en inglés) en California, que muy pocos modelos de la industria automotriz han obtenido. Fuera de los estados ecológicos, el Elantra se encuentra disponible en configuraciones ULEV (vehículos con emisión ultra baja, por sus siglas en inglés).

El Elantra viene con el avanzado motor de cuatro cilindros y 2 litros en línea de Hyundai. Esta sofisticada central de energía de 16 válvulas emplea una cabeza de cilindro de aluminio que posee un doble árbol de levas a la cabeza (DOHC) y una sincronización variable de las válvulas (CVVT) Esta combinación ayuda a brindar al motor una amplia expansión de energía asociada con una alta eficiencia de combustible y bajas emisiones.

La unidad CVVT está posicionada en el escape del árbol de levas y controla el tiempo de la válvula de entrada adelantando y retrasando el árbol de levas de entrada en relación al árbol levas de escape. El sistema CVVT aumenta la eficiencia volumétrica y termodinámica ayudando a que el motor brinde un desempeño mejorado a alta velocidad y una torsión mayor a baja velocidad. Con una mejor carga del cilindro, también se economiza combustible. Al optimizar la superposición de válvulas, se reducen las emisiones de NOx debido al efecto de recirculación de gases de escape.

La variación de ULEV está estimada en 138 caballos de fuerza a 6.000rpm y 18,80 kilográmetros de torsión a 4.600rpm. Los motores SULEV están disponibles solo con una transmisión automática de cuatro velocidades y se estima que alcancen los 132 caballos de fuerza a 6.000rpm y 18,39 kilográmetros de torsión a 4.600rpm.

Dos posibilidades de transmisión

El Elantra viene con una precisa caja de cambios manual de cinco velocidades estándar. De forma opcional, se ofrece una suave caja automática de cuatro velocidades con una palanca montada en la consola que incluye un convertidor de torsión de sobremando con cierre para economizar combustible a alta velocidad.

Suspensión y dirección

El equipo de diseño del Elantra trabajó para lograr los clásicos equilibrios de diseño entre el espacio interior, la agilidad y el confort para conducir. Por un lado, el espacio interior y el espacio para carga son sumamente importantes para un sedan de su clase; por el otro, el manejo seguro y responsable, y un buen aislamiento de la calle también son prioritarios. La calidad de conducción del Elantra mejora lo ofrecida por el Civic, el Corolla, el Focus y el Cobalt. Una avanzada dirección asistida hidráulica de cremallera y piñón sensible a la velocidad del motor asegura que el nuevo Elantra ofrezca una sensación de conducción más ágil que el modelo anterior y sus principales competidores.

El Elantra brinda una conducción confortable y un manejo responsable gracias a una suspensión delantera con amortiguador MacPherson con muelles helicoidales y amortiguadores de gas, y una suspensión multipunto y amortiguadores de gas de doble tubo. El diámetro de 23 milímetros de la barra estabilizadora delantera y de 17 milímetros de la barra trasera, que es 5 milímetros más grande que la de su predecesor, ayuda a reducir el balanceo al tomar una curva, y hace al Elantra más preciso en la conducción al límite para lograr una previsibilidad máxima. Para mejorar la capacidad de frenado, los frenos delanteros y traseros son más grandes que los de sus predecesor: 275 milímetros en el caso del freno delantero y 262 milímetros en el caso del freno trasero.

La rigidez de la carrocería del Elantra 2007 es 49% mayor que la del modelo anterior y 9% mayor que la del Corolla. Los aumentos significativos en los niveles de rigidez de la carrocería permitieron a los ingenieros de Hyundai lograr un paquete dinámico que redujo el riesgo durante las etapas de ajuste de amortiguadores y cojinetes. El resultado es una dirección y un manejo precisos, y una conducción muy controlada y a la vez confortable. Al mejorar la rigidez de la carrocería y aplicar una estrategia optimizada de sellado de puerta, los ingenieros de Hyundai lograron reducir exitosamente el ruido de la calle, ubicándolo dos decibeles por debajo del que se percibe en el Honda Civic 2006, equipado de manera similar, de acuerdo a pruebas internas.

Tres versiones

El Elantra se encuentra disponible en tres versiones de línea muy diferente: GLS, SE y Limited.

Elantra GLS – El auto compacto perfecto

Manteniendo el enfoque de alto valor de Hyundai respecto del equipamiento estándar, el Elantra GLS posee una enorme variedad de características deseables. El Elantra ofrece tecnologías de seguridad estándar insuperables en su segmento, con seis bolsas de aire, ABS y EBD, frenos de disco en las 4 ruedas, apoyacabezas activos delanteros y apoyacabezas ajustables a todas las posiciones del asiento. Algunas de las otras características estándar: ventanas eléctricas, limpiaparabrisas intermitentes, varias áreas de almacenamiento, un asiento trasero abatible 60/40, tacómetro, dos espejos, vidrios polarizados, dos tomacorrientes de 12 voltios y dirección inclinada. El Preferred Package agrega aire acondicionado y un sistema de audio AM/FM/CD de 172 vatios con altavoces. El Premium Package disponible incluye el equipo del Preferred Package más espejos térmicos y trancas eléctricas, entrada sin llave con control remoto con apertura de baúl, alerta de pánico y alarma, parabrisas con franja de sombra, luces de niebla, apoyabrazos central en el asiento trasero con posavasos, control de crucero y una entrada auxiliar. El Premium-Sport Package incluye todo lo del Premium Package más llantas de aleación de 40 centímetros con neumáticos P205/55-R16 y techo convertible eléctrico.

Elantra SE— Agregándole un sabor deportivo

El SE orientado al deporte agrega a todo el equipamiento del GLS Premium Package una dirección de cuero telescópica con controles de audio que incluyen las funciones buscar, volumen y silencio, el puntero de la caja de cambios de cuero, llantas de aleación de 40 centímetros con neumáticos P205/55HR16, dos espejos con luz y una computadora de viaje. La única opción es un techo convertible eléctrico. Además de los colores disponibles en dos tonos de gris o beige, el SE también se encuentra disponible con un único y deportivo color negro en su interior.

Elantra Limited – Suma de lujo y valor

La versión Limited lleva al Elantra a un nivel superior al basarse en el equipamiento SE con superficies de cuero, paneles de cuero en las puertas, apoyabrazos de cuero y asientos delanteros térmicos. Se encuentra disponible un paquete Sun and Sound (de sol y sonido) que combina un techo convertible eléctrico con un sistema de audio premium de 220 vatios con radio AM/FM/6-CD/casete/MP3 y amplificador externo.

Garantía

La nueva alineación de Hyundai Elantra está protegida por Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty(TM). El alcance incluye cinco años/96.000 kilómetros de garantía de uso en tráfico pesado, 10 años/160.000 kilómetros de garantía limitada del mecanismo de transmisión y siete años/kilometraje ilimitado de garantía anti-perforación. Además, los compradores del Elantra reciben asistencia en carretera las 24 horas sin cargo extra durante cinco años (sin límite de kilometraje), que incluye remolque de emergencia, servicio de cerrajería para automóviles y cobertura limitada para gastos de interrupción del viaje. No hay deducible en ninguna de estas coberturas.

Hyundai Motor America, con sede en Fountain Valley, California, es una subsidiaria de Hyundai Motor Co. de Corea. Hyundai Motor America distribuye los vehículos de Hyundai en Estados Unidos, y su venta y mantenimiento están a cargo de más de 700 concesionarias en todo el país.

Nota: declaraciones basadas en Autosource Inc., segmento de autos pequeños de nivel superior

DOD
Pre-Derby Festival Features 'America Supports You,' Air Show, Fireworks

Throughout the day here, a steady stream of visitors stopped by the "America Supports You" booth to write messages of support on post cards for U.S. troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. America Supports You is a Defense Department program that spotlights what American people and the corporate sector do to show their appreciation for the nation's men and women in uniform. The booth was among others in a venue of an estimated 800,000 people who flocked to the banks of the Ohio River here today to celebrate "Thunder Over Louisville," a weekend of activity that has kicked off the annual Kentucky Derby Festival for the last 17 years. The Navy's Blue Angels F-18 aerial demonstration squadron performed for an appreciative, sun-drenched crowd, with the precision aviators showing off their combat flying skills against the background of a brilliantly blue sky. Besides the Blue Angels, Thunder Over Louisville features demonstrations or flyovers by a wide variety of military and vintage aircraft.

The roar of the aircraft engines and what's billed as the world's largest annual fireworks display to culminate the day's activities are what give the festival its name. Louisville became an official America Supports You partner yesterday. Servicemembers were able to attend a Louisville Bats baseball game last night as guests of the city. The Bats are the top minor league affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds. Allison Barber, deputy assistant secretary of defense for public affairs, was a designated "Thundernator," with the honor of starting tonight's fireworks display. Barber heads DoD's America Supports You program. Messages signed at the booth will go through the "A Million Thanks" effort headed by 16-year-old America Supports You member Shauna Fleming of Orange, Calif. She has long since passed her initial goal of collecting a million messages of appreciation for servicemembers.

She's now gunning for 2.6 million, to represent a message of thanks for each man and woman serving in the nation's active duty and reserve component forces. No matter what their views about the terror war, booth visitors said they wanted the troops to know they're behind them all the way. Many said they know someone who has served or is serving on one of the fronts in the global war on terror. One visitor, though, might well have been the most grateful. "Thank you for Iraq freedom," is all he wrote -- first in English, and then in Arabic.

U.S. Units Help Ethiopians Build Capacity

The 31 Ethiopian soldiers who graduated from border security class here yesterday gave new meaning to "building capacity," buzz words for the Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa's efforts in the region. This class' conclusion was made even more special because the capacity building was by Ethiopian trainers, who had taught their comrades under the watchful an1d proud eyes of U.S. soldiers. The class is part of military-to-military contacts between the task force and the Ethiopian army. The three-week class teaches Ethiopians a range of skills. "This goes from troop-leading procedures to react to contact, break contact, reconnaissance, patrolling, vehicle searches and so on," said Army 1st Lt. Christopher Anderson, the camp's officer in charge. Anderson and his men from B Company, 1st Battalion, 294th Infantry Regiment, are deployed from Guam, and ending their yearlong tour of duty in Ethiopia.

The Ethiopians come from units all over the country of 73 million people. Anderson said the more than 250 soldiers trained to date will go back to their units and pass along that training. "The Ethiopians regard being chosen for this class as a huge step," said Sgt. Ryan Castro, the American team leader for the class. "They love it and eat it up. A part of this class is short-range marksmanship. The Ethiopian army shoots maybe 10 rounds a year. Here, they went through 400 to 500 rounds in a week." The class is very intense, with 144 hours of instruction and countless more rehearsals. Translators worked with American noncommissioned officers to ensure the soldiers understood the instruction. "I have been impressed by the level of professionalism the Ethiopians demonstrate," Anderson said. He said the unit developed the course with advice from Ethiopian army officials. Part of the instruction is on respecting human rights, and British Army Col. Andrew Cameron, the assistant operations chief for the Horn of Africa task force, touched on this during his graduation remarks to the class. "You as individuals, being members of the armed forces, are highly respected," Cameron said. "Your attitudes and behavior will reflect on you and your army. I'm confident you won't let the army down." Cameron told the soldiers that their conduct during operations is just as important as the operations themselves.

The Ethiopians trained this group of soldiers, Anderson said. The American cadre was in "overwatch," correcting only when needed. "This really validated the course for the Ethiopians," he said. Life at the camp was a bit rough, but "we Guam boys make the best of everything," Castro said. The unit received supplies and mail once a week from the airfield at Dire Dawa, about 30 miles away over a dirt road. The troops are looking forward to getting back to their Pacific base and are proud of the effect they have had on the Ethiopians. "There's a big difference between when they come in and when they leave," Castro said. "They are professional when they arrive, but they are not sure what they are doing. When they leave, they know (what they are doing)." Anderson was equally complimentary of the Ethiopian instructors. "They were students themselves who came through the early classes," he said. "They understood what we were trying to do and have made excellent progress."

Army Reserve Changing to Meet Challenges

The Army Reserve is no longer simply a force in reserve, but a vital part of the country's defense that's making big changes to meet its current and future challenges, the commander of U.S. Army Reserve Command said here today. Army Lt. Gen. James R. Helmly observed the Army Reserve's 98th birthday in the Pentagon's MacArthur Corridor, which honors the U.S. combat general who -- like the Army Reserve -- served in World War I, World War II and the Korean War. Helmly noted the vast changes since the U.S. War Department created the Army Reserve as a medical service force in 1908.

Through the world wars, the Cold War and Operation Desert Storm, a strong reserve force has always been important to the country, but never more so than during the current war on terror, he said. More than 150,000 Army Reservists have been mobilized since Sept. 11, 2001, about 25,000 of them serving more than once. "These are clearly hallmarks of heroes," Helmly said. Gone are the days when the Army Reserve was considered a strategic force that stayed in reserve until it was needed to supplement other forces, the general said. "The Army Reserve is a skill-rich, operational force, complementing the joint force where and when needed." This shift has moved the Army Reserve's transformation into fast forward to ensure the force continues to provide the skills and combat readiness needed when it's called on, he said. With the current deployment cycles and the ever-present risk of a sudden, catastrophic event that could demand an instant response, the reserve components must be ready and responsive, he said. "There is no time to get ready," he said. "You have to be ready on a daily basis, and that is what we are doing right now." The Army Reserve is working to streamline the force and increase its capabilities and preparedness to deploy to meet 21st-century challenges, Helmly said.

To achieve this, changes made or under way include: Realignment of 10 Regional Readiness Commands into four Regional Readiness Sustainment Commands that ensure manpower and resources go into the deployable fighting force; Establishment of operational and functional commands to reduce the number of nondeployable headquarters; and Creation of Army Reserve Expeditionary Force packages based on the Army's force-generation model to ensure the force can sustain operations over the longer term. But the biggest change within the Army Reserve is cultural, Helmly said. "You can put labels on things and move blocks around on wiring diagrams and go to different kinds of units, etcetera, but I think the most profound change we are achieving in the Army Reserve is changing our culture," he said. Army Reserve troops recognize themselves as real soldiers, not just a rear-area back-up force. They're training harder, in more realistic and demanding scenarios. And with an ever-increasing number of Army Reservists wearing right-shoulder patches that symbolize their combat duty, they're bringing new confidence and leadership to the force, Helmly said. The total culture change won't happen overnight, but is moving solidly forward, he said.

Sham Marriage Cases Send Message to All Service members

A case in which several sailors face charges for arranging sham marriages to foreign women to boost their military housing allowances sends an important message to all servicemembers, a Navy lawyer told the Pentagon Channel. "You're putting in a claim for money that you are not entitled to, and that is a crime. And if you commit a crime, you can expect to be held accountable for it," said Capt. Jennifer Herold, the Navy's deputy assistant judge advocate general for criminal law policy. "This is something that each of the services take very seriously." On the surface, the scheme looked like a good deal, at least for the people directly involved. The sailors got bigger paychecks when factoring in the higher basic allowance for housing.

Active-duty servicemembers receive the tax-free BAH payment to offset their housing costs if they don't live on base. The allowance increased based on location, marital status and the number of dependents. That's on top of the $6,000 each of the women paid the seaman who arranged the marriages, Steve Cole, a spokesman for the U.S. attorney general's office in Jacksonville, Fla., said. By marrying into the U.S. military, the women, eight from Poland and one from Romania, qualified to apply for U.S. citizenship and receive a military dependent identification card. But in the end, everyone involved in the deal turned out to be a loser. A Naval Criminal Investigative Service agent aboard the USS John F. Kennedy got tipped off to the scam and launched an investigation in September. NCIS agents learned that eight sailors stationed in Mayport, Fla., and a former sailor fraudulently married the women to get the BAH. An investigation by NCIS and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement found that none of the women lived with the sailors they had married. In several cases, the sailors claimed the women lived in high-cost areas so they qualified for higher BHAs. The Navy stopped the allowances, which amounted to a total of $35,000, in November. But the consequences got more serious earlier this month when U.S. Attorney Paul Perez, Carol Kisthardt from NCIS, and Robert Weber from ICE announced the arrests of eight sailors and one former sailor on charges of marriage fraud or conspiracy to commit marriage fraud.

Their wives were also charged. The sailors and women involved could face up to five years in prison per count against them, Cole said. "A lot of people don't realize the seriousness of this and think they'll simply get a slap on the hand it they're caught," said Cole, a former soldier. "But as this case shows, the consequences are really serious." Submitting a false BAH claim -- whether it involves a sham marriage or doctoring numbers to get a bigger payment -- is punishable under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, Herold said. In the most severe cases, the penalty is a dishonorable discharge and up to 10 years confinement, she said. Herold offered a warning to anyone who thinks BAH fraud is no big deal. "They need to stop and think hard before they decide to commit that crime, because the military takes it very seriously," she said

America Supports You: NBA Trophy Tour to Visit U.S. Military Bases

The NBA and Toyota announced April 18 the launch of a 2006 Finals Trophy Tour to five military bases in the heartland of the U.S. The 2006 Finals Trophy Tour will visit Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., May 13; Fort Leavenworth, Kan., May 19; Fort Bliss, Texas, June 1; Fort Riley, Kan., June 24; and Fort Carson, Colo., July 3, according to an NBA news release. The tour was developed by Toyota and the NBA, in conjunction with the United Service Organizations, to thank the U.S. armed forces for their dedication and service.

The customized tour will provide an exciting finals-themed experience to military personnel and their families, according to the news release. During each stop of the 2006 Trophy Tour, the NBA and Toyota will bring a fleet of finals-themed vehicles, including the specially designed Toyota Tundra "Trophy Mobile," the Larry O'Brien Trophy, an interactive NBA-themed activity center, and NBA players or legends. "The NBA is proud to partner with Toyota and the USO on executing the 2006 Finals Trophy Tour as a way to thank and honor our military personnel and their families for the service they provide to our country," said Heidi Ueberroth, executive vice president of global media properties and marketing partnerships for the NBA. "Toyota and the NBA focus on creating memorable experiences for NBA fans through unique vehicles and basketball interaction, so we are pleased to deliver the NBA experience and the Larry O'Brien Trophy to five military bases." The NBA has a long history of support for servicemembers, and NBA players and legends participated on the USO's first tour to Baghdad in 2003, said John Hanson, USO senior vice president for marketing and communications. "Our military men and women face some of life's most difficult situations in service to our country," said Don Esmond, Toyota's senior vice president and also a Marine Corps helicopter pilot in Vietnam, where he earned a Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross and Purple Heart. "We appreciate their dedication and commitment, and we're glad we can help bring some fun and excitement to everyone at these five bases through the NBA experience."

NEWS
Radio Address by President Bush to the Nation

The following is a transcript of a radio address by President Bush to the nation:

THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. This weekend I am traveling in California, where I'm focusing on important issues for our Nation's future, including our economy, energy prices, the war on terror, and immigration reform.

America's economy is strong, and we need to keep it strong in an increasingly competitive world. The talent and innovative spirit of our people have driven America's economic growth. To maintain our economic leadership, our Nation must stay on the leading edge of innovation -- so I have proposed the American Competitiveness Initiative.

One important part of this initiative is improving math and science education for our young people, so they have the right skills to succeed in the 21st century economy. On Friday in San Jose, I had the chance to visit Cisco Systems, a company that understands the importance of preparing the next generation for the high-tech jobs of tomorrow.

Through its Networking Academy Program, Cisco is helping to train high school students in math, science, and information technology skills. By ensuring that we have a skilled workforce for the future, companies like Cisco are helping America compete with confidence, and keeping our economy growing, and creating new jobs for our citizens.

Saturday is Earth Day, and many of you are asking how we can meet our growing energy needs while protecting our environment. The key is technology. So I have proposed the Advanced Energy Initiative to change the way we power our homes, businesses, and cars. I will visit the California Fuel Cell Partnership to take a closer look at hydrogen fuel cells, one of the exciting new technologies supported by my initiative. These fuel cells have the potential to revolutionize the way we power our cars by giving us vehicles that will emit no pollution and will be more efficient than gas-powered cars.

My Advanced Energy Initiative will also help improve hybrid vehicles -- cars and trucks that run partly on electricity and help drivers save gas. We're funding research into a new generation of plug-in hybrid vehicles that could be recharged in electrical outlets and could allow many drivers to make their daily commute using no gasoline.

By developing these and other new sources of clean renewable energy like ethanol, we will continue growing our economy, reduce energy prices and protect our environment, and make America less dependent on foreign oil.

Americans are asking about our progress toward victory in the war on terror. I have confidence in the outcome of this struggle because I know the character of the people who wear our Nation's uniform. On Sunday, I will attend church and have lunch with Marine Corps and Navy personnel and their families at the Twentynine Palms base. I will tell them how honored I am to be their Commander in Chief and express the gratitude of all Americans for their service in the cause of freedom.

Since September the 11th, 2001, the men and women of our military have overthrown a cruel regime in Afghanistan, captured or killed many al Qaeda terrorists, liberated Iraq, and made America more secure from terrorist dangers. We're fighting the terrorists abroad so we do not have to face them here at home. By taking the fight to the terrorists and bringing liberty and hope to a troubled region, our courageous troops are making the world a safer place.

On Monday, I'll visit Irvine, California, to discuss immigration reform with the local community. Immigration is an emotional issue. And it's sparked passionate debate. When we discuss immigration, we're talking about the integrity of our borders, the enforcement of our laws, and the character of our Nation.

Here's what I believe: America does not have to choose between being a welcoming society and being a lawful society. We can be both at the same time. In the coming weeks, I'll press Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform that secures our border, enforces our laws, meets the needs of our economy, and upholds our highest ideals.

We must also ensure that all immigrants assimilate into our society and learn our customs, our values, and our language. America is a land of immigrants and a Nation of laws. And we must stay true to both parts of this great heritage.

As Congress returns from its recess, its members have important and consequential work before them. I urge them to act on my initiatives to keep America competitive, to promote alternative sources of energy, reform our immigration system, and continue their support of our troops fighting in the global war on terror.

By taking these steps, we'll maintain America's strength. And a strong America will help lead the world to a future of greater freedom and prosperity and peace.

Thank you for listening.

Source: White House Press Office

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

AstraZeneca Foundation Patient Assistance Program Expands Eligibility for People with Medicare

The AstraZeneca Foundation today announced that it will enhance its patient assistance services and expand its eligibility requirements for all patients in need of AstraZeneca medicines. The AstraZeneca Foundation Patient Assistance Program (PAP) will continue to provide prescription drug assistance to people with Medicare who do not qualify for the Limited Income Subsidy (LIS) and who choose not to enroll in Part D at this point in time, as well as provide one-on-one education and counseling to help all individuals identify and access health and drug coverage, assistance and services for which they may be eligible.

“The Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit has made comprehensive and affordable prescription coverage a reality for millions of Americans. The key now is to better understand people’s needs and help meet those needs in order to bring about a better health outcome,” said Tony Zook, President and CEO, AstraZeneca US. “AstraZeneca has been actively supporting a number of activities to help smooth the transition to this important program by providing our PAP participants with information and one-on-one counseling. The changes to our PAP are an extension of that work and commitment to helping people get their medicine.”

Effective immediately, the AstraZeneca Foundation PAP will take the following approach for Medicare-eligible patients requesting drug assistance:

PAP patients who may be eligible for the Medicare Part D Limited Income Subsidy (LIS):

-- Will be able to continue their enrollment in the PAP on a temporary basis and will receive their medicines through the PAP until they have completed the Social Security Administration’s LIS application process, have received notification confirming their eligibility and have begun receiving coverage through the Part D plan of their choice.

-- Will receive one-on-one education and counseling to help with the LIS application process, including handling any follow-up or appeals to SSA.

-- Will no longer be eligible for PAP once they enroll and are actively receiving the LIS because they will have access to affordable, comprehensive coverage.

PAP patients who do not qualify for the LIS and who have not enrolled in Medicare Part D:

-- Will be able to continue their participation in the PAP.

-- Can benefit from the available counseling in order to determine whether or not they are eligible for the LIS.

PAP patients of all ages (including under 65 population):

In addition to the one-on-one counseling, AstraZeneca is streamlining its PAP application process to make the income documentation requirement easier and to ensure that individuals will get their medicines promptly while they are helped through the application process. This is a change from previous program features and will help provide an uninterrupted supply of AstraZeneca medicines to applicants.

Furthermore, AstraZeneca is expanding the income threshold for participation in the PAP from 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to 250%, which raises the individual annual income eligibility by nearly $5,000. The FPL at 250% is equal to an annual income of $24,500 for individuals; $33,000 for couples; and, $50,000 for a family of four. These new program features are expected to be in place by mid-May, 2006.

“Helping people find ways to get coverage is the right thing to do, and by offering the individual counseling together with their medicines, AstraZeneca is displaying its commitment to not only those in the PAP who are Medicare eligible but to the many additional people who are uninsured and seeking help,” said Jeanne Boling, Associate Executive Director, Case Management Society of America.

AstraZeneca has two toll-free numbers where people can get information about its PAP:

-- People eligible for Medicare that are seeking prescription assistance may contact AstraZeneca’s Medicare Matters Help Line at 866-300-1953.

-- All others seeking prescription assistance may call the PAP Help Line at 800-424-3727.

“These changes will allow us to help an entire segment of the population who otherwise would not have access to the medicines they need,” said Zook. “We might not have all the answers to the uninsured problem that continues to challenge our nation—but we are working to provide interim solutions that help patients today.”

For more than 25 years, AstraZeneca has offered drug assistance programs side by side with its medicines. In 2005, through the AstraZeneca drug assistance programs, AstraZeneca provided more than $751 million in savings to more than 712,000 patients without drug coverage throughout the US and Puerto Rico.

AstraZeneca is a major international healthcare business engaged in the research, development, manufacture and marketing of prescription pharmaceuticals and the supply of healthcare services. It is one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies with healthcare sales of $23.95 billion and leading positions in sales of gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, neuroscience, respiratory, oncology and infection products. In the United States, AstraZeneca is a $10.77 billion healthcare business with more than 12,000 employees. AstraZeneca is listed in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (Global) as well as the FTSE4Good Index.

For more information about AstraZeneca, please visit: http://www.astrazeneca-us.com

El Programa de Asistencia a Pacientes de la Fundación AstraZeneca Expande la Elegibilidad para las Personas con Medicare

La Fundación AstraZeneca anunció en el día de hoy que mejorará sus servicios de asistencia al paciente y expandirá sus requerimientos de elegibilidad para todos los pacientes que necesiten medicinas AstraZeneca. El Programa de Asistencia a Pacientes (PAP) de la Fundación AstraZeneca seguirá proporcionando asistencia para obtener medicinas recetadas a personas con Medicare que no califican para el Subsidio de Ingreso Limitado (Limited Income Subsidy o LIS, en inglés) y que elijan no inscribirse en la Parte D en este momento, y proveerá educación y asistencia individualizada para ayudar a todas las personas a identificar y acceder a la cobertura, asistencia y servicios de salud y medicinas para los que califican.

“El programa de beneficios en medicinas recetadas de Medicare ha convertido en realidad la cobertura completa y asequible de recetas médicas para millones de norteamericanos. La clave ahora es entender mejor las necesidades de la gente y ayudar a suplir esas necesidades para lograr mejores resultados en el área de la salud”, dijo Tony Zook, presidente y ejecutivo principal de AstraZeneca US. “AstraZeneca ha apoyado activamente una serie de actividades para ayudar a suavizar la transición a este importante programa proveyendo información y asistencia individualizada a nuestros participantes en el PAP. Los cambios en nuestro PAP son una extensión del trabajo y el compromiso que tenemos de ayudar a la gente a conseguir sus medicinas”.

Efectivo de inmediato, el PAP de la Fundación AstraZeneca funcionará de la siguiente manera con los pacientes elegibles para Medicare que soliciten asistencia para obtener medicinas:

Los pacientes del PAP elegibles para el LIS Parte D de Medicare:

-- Podrán continuar su inscripción en el PAP temporalmente y recibirán sus medicinas a través del PAP hasta que hayan completado el proceso de aplicación para el LIS de la Social Security Administration, hayan recibido notificación confirmando su elegibilidad, y hayan empezado a recibir cobertura a través de del plan de Parte D que seleccionen.
-- Recibirán educación y asistencia individualizada durante el proceso de aplicación del LIS, incluyendo cualquier apelación o seguimiento con la Social Security Administration.
-- No serán elegibles para el PAP tan pronto estén inscritos y recibiendo activamente el LIS, ya que entonces tendrán acceso a una cobertura completa y asequible.

Los pacientes del PAP que no califican para el LIS y no inscritos en la Parte D de Medicare:

-- Podrán seguir participando en el PAP.
-- Pueden beneficiarse de la asesoría disponible para determinar si son elegibles o no para el LIS.

Los pacientes del PAP de todas las edades (incluyendo menores de 65 años):
Además de la asistencia individualizada, AstraZeneca está dinamizando su proceso de aplicación para el PAP a fin de facilitar los requisitos de documentación de ingresos y asegurar que las personas obtengan sus medicinas prontamente mientras reciben ayuda durante el proceso de solicitud. Esto es un cambio en las características de los programas previos y ayudará a proveer un suministro continuo de medicinas de AstraZeneca a los solicitantes.

Además, AstraZeneca está expandiendo el límite de ingresos para participar en el PAP de 200% del nivel federal de pobreza (FPL, en inglés) a 250%, elevando el ingreso anual elegible en cerca de $5,000. Un FPL a 250% es igual a un ingreso anual de $24,500 para individuos; $33,000 para parejas; y $50,000 para una familia de cuatro. Se espera que estos elementos nuevos en el programa sean efectivos a mediados de mayo, 2006.

“Ayudar a la gente a encontrar maneras de conseguir cobertura es lo que uno está supuesto a hacer y, al ofrecer a las personas asistencia junto con sus medicinas, AstraZeneca muestra su compromiso no solo con aquellos que forman parte del PAP y son elegibles para Medicare, sino también con otras personas no aseguradas y que buscan ayuda”, dijo Jeanne Boling, directora ejecutiva asociada de la Case Management Society of America.

AstraZeneca tiene dos números telefónicos gratuitos adonde las personas pueden conseguir información sobre su PAP:

-- Las personas elegibles para Medicare que buscan asistencia de recetas médicas pueden contactar la Línea de Asistencia AstraZeneca’s Medicare Matters en el 866-300-1953.
-- Todas las demás personas que buscan asistencia de recetas médicas pueden llamar a la Línea de Asistencia PAP en el 800-424-3727.

“Estos cambios nos permitirán ayudar un segmento completo de la población que de otra manera no tendría acceso a las medicinas que necesitan”, dijo Zook. “Quizás no tengamos todas las respuestas al problema de los no asegurados que continúa significando un reto para nuestra nación, pero estamos trabajando para proveer soluciones que ayuden a los pacientes en este momento”.

Por más de 25 años AstraZeneca ha ofrecido programas de asistencia de medicinas paralelos a sus medicinas. En el 2005, a través de los programas de asistencia de medicinas, AstraZeneca proveyó más de $751 millones en ahorros a más de 712,000 pacientes sin cobertura de medicinas en los Estados Unidos y Puerto Rico.

AstraZeneca es una compañía internacional del cuidado de la salud dedicada a la investigación, desarrollo, fabricación y mercadeo de productos farmacéuticos recetados y el suministro de servicios de salud. Es una de las compañías farmacéuticas líderes con ventas en el cuidado de la salud de $23,950 millones y primeras posiciones en ventas de productos para los campos gastrointestinales, cardiovasculares, neurocientíficos, respiratorios, oncológicos e infecciosos. En los Estados Unidos, AstraZeneca es un negocio de la salud de $10,770 millones con más de 12,000 empleados. AstraZeneca se cotiza en el Dow Jones Sustainability Index (Global) así como en el FTSE4Good Index

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April 22, 2006

Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Other Disney Characters Get Romantic on New Postage Stamps

To understand the internet you have to be open to change.

Written by Joyce L Chow & William Hoehne April 22, 2006
MBN
www.montebubbles.com for more MBN news
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ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY
Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Other Disney Characters Get Romantic on New Postage Stamps
Michelle Roy Designs Leads the Block
MTV Launches Break the Addiction; Sets Goal to Educate and Empower Young People to Help End Global Warming and Mass Overconsumption
SCRUBS: The Complete Third Season DVD Launch Event and Season 5 Wrap Party
Sanaa Lathan, Simon Baker and Blair Underwood Star in This Year's Sizzling Romantic Comedy 'Something New'
Danny Glover, Saxaphonist James Carter and Time Warner's Richard Parsons
The N's Original Animated Comedy Series, O'Grady is Available Now for Download on iTunes(R)
25 Live: George Michael Announces His First European Tour in Fifteen Years
Orb Networks Expands Support for Playing and Recording Internet TV From Windows, Real, and 3GP Mobile Devices
Paris Hilton Offered Chance to Win $178,000 Bentley Back
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Joe Adams, Radio and Television Personality, Broadway Actor, Philanthropist and Longtime Manager to the Late Ray Charles to Visit Columbia's Campus
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______________________________________________
ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY
Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Other Disney Characters Get Romantic on New Postage Stamps

True love is a wish that every heart makes, and the U.S. Postal Service has granted that wish with the help of a few beloved Disney characters. The Art of Disney: Romance postage stamps feature Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse; Lady and the Tramp; Belle and the Beast; and Cinderella and Prince Charming. They'll add a dash of romance to your cards and letters. These stamps were issued during the kick-off of the 13th annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival at Walt Disney World Resort. Available only in Lake Buena Vista, Fl. today, The Art of Disney: Romance stamps will be available nationwide tomorrow, April 22.

"We decided to take our cue from one of the most celebrated couples of all time -- Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse," said Jo Ann Feindt, Vice President, Great Lakes Area Operations, U.S. Postal Service, who dedicated the stamps. "Their commitment to each other over the years has taught us not to play by the rules, but to play by the heart. Our heart tells us that this will not be the last set in the Art of Disney series. We will issue one more next year, now that's love."

Joining Feindt in dedicating the stamps were Al Weiss, President of Worldwide Operations for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, some classic Disney characters featured on the stamps and larger-than-life, seven foot topiary images of the stamps made from fresh flowers and plants.

"All of us at the Walt Disney World Resort -- and at our vacation destinations around the world -- are delighted to dedicate this new set of stamps featuring some of Disney's most beloved characters," said Weiss. "The stamps not only celebrate the enchantment of true love, they spread the joy and magic of these classic Disney characters even wider."

The Art of Disney: Romance self-adhesive 39-cent stamps, available in panes of 20, feature world-famous Disney couples in four stamp designs telling their own romantic tale.

* Cinderella and Prince Charming: Everyone dreams of living a rags-to-

riches fairy tale and dancing with that special someone. As Cinderella

and Prince Charming learn, one waltz can lead to a moment of

realization: "So this is love."

* Beauty and the Beast: This is the evening the Beast has awaited, but

can he tell Belle of his love? He knows his heart, but does she yet

know her own? These two are as uncertain as they are hopeful --

emotions and a tale "as old as time."

* Lady and Tramp: First dates can be full of risks -- and ordering

spaghetti only complicates matters. Fortunately for Lady and Tramp, a

plate of pasta leads to a memorable kiss, turning a simple dinner out

into a wonderful "Bella Notte."

* Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse: Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse have been

sweethearts for many years, yet they still have that first blush of

romance. Seeing this celebrated couple, we can all take heart; they

prove that sometimes the course of love can indeed run smooth.

The Disney relationship with the U.S. Postal Service began in the summer of 1918 when Walt Disney sorted and delivered mail in the Chicago Post Office. Next, Mickey Mouse worked for the Post Office when he starred in the 1933 animated short "Mail Pilot." The achievements of Walt Disney were first recognized on a stamp in 1968. On the stamp, a parade of children, hand-in- hand, appear from a tiny castle to surround a portrait of Walt Disney. The children, representing many nations of the World, are garbed in native costume.

In 1998, a "Snow White" stamp was issued as part of the Postal Service's "Celebrate the Century" stamp series that highlighted the most memorable and significant people, places, events and trends of each decade of the 20th century. In 1937, "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" premiered as the nation's first feature-length animated film. The movie classic was comprised of 240,000 separate drawings and won a special Academy Award(TM) for Walt Disney.

The Art of Disney: Friendship stamps issued in 2004, the first in the current series, honored friendship as it appears in the art of Walt Disney featuring Mickey Mouse, Goofy, Donald Duck and a host of Disney friends. The Art of Disney: Celebration stamps issued in 2005 were the second in the series and featured Mickey Mouse and Pluto; Alice and the Mad Hatter; Ariel and Flounder; and Snow White and Dopey. Each time, U.S. Postal Service art director Terrence McCaffrey joined with the Disney team including artist Peter Emmerich and creative director Dave Pacheco in designing the stamps.

The Art of Disney: Romance 39-cent pane of 20 stamps ($7.80) and the set of 20 24-cent stamped postal cards with all four designs ($9.95) are available at Post Offices and Philatelic Centers nationwide tomorrow.

For Disney memorabilia fans, there are a host of other collectibles, including:

* A set of four 8 x 10 inch stamp-affixed Disney Prints, depicting each

of the stamps, for $14.95,

* A Disney Digital Color Cancellation Keepsake, which includes four

first-day cover envelopes with one each of the stamps for $13.80 and, a

* "Disney Let's Write a Letter Book" which includes stationery and 8

stamps, for $14.95.

To see The Art of Disney: Romance stamps visit the online Postal Store at http://www.usps.com/shop. Current U.S. stamps and stationery, as well as a free catalog, are available by calling 1-800-STAMP-24. In addition, a selection of stamps and other philatelic items are available at the online Postal Store at http://www.usps.com/shop. Custom-framed prints of original stamp art are available at http://www.postalartgallery.com/.

How to Order the First-Day-of-Issue Postmark

Customers have 30 days to obtain the first-day-of-issue postmark by mail. They may purchase new stamps at their local Post Office, by telephone at 1-800-STAMP-24, and at the Postal Store Web site at http://www.usps.com/shop. They should affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes (to themselves or others), and place them in a larger envelope addressed to:

THE ART OF DISNEY: ROMANCE COMMEMORATIVE STAMPS

POSTMASTER

10401 POST OFFICE BLVD

ORLANDO FL 32862-9998

After applying the first-day-of-issue postmark, the Postal Service will return the envelopes through the mail. There is no charge for the postmark. All orders must be postmarked by May 20, 2006.

How to Order First-Day Covers

Stamp Fulfillment Services also offers first-day covers for new stamp issues and Postal Service stationery items postmarked with the official first- day-of-issue cancellation. Each item has an individual catalog number and is offered in the quarterly USA Philatelic catalog. Customers may request a free catalog by calling 1-800-STAMP-24 or writing to:

INFORMATION FULFILLMENT

DEPT 6270

US POSTAL SERVICE

PO BOX 219014

KANSAS CITY MO 64121-9014

First-day covers remain on sale for at least one year after the stamp's issuance.

Since 1775, the Postal Service and its predecessor, the Post Office Department, has connected friends, families, neighbors and businesses by mail. It is an independent federal agency that visits 144 million homes and businesses every day, six days a week and is the only service provider delivering to every address in the nation. The Postal Service receives no taxpayer dollars for routine operations, but derives its operating revenues solely from the sale of postage, products and services. With annual revenues of more than $69 billion, it is the world's leading provider of mailing and delivery services, offering some of the most affordable postage rates in the world. The Postal Service delivers more than half of the world's mail volume -- some 212 billion letters, advertisements, periodicals and packages a year - - and serves seven and a half million customers each day at its 37,000 retail locations nationwide. Its website, usps.com, attracts more than 21 million visitors each month.

Source: U.S. Postal Service

Web site: http://www.usps.com/
http://www.postalartgallery.com/

Michelle Roy Designs Leads the Block

Heralding in her new retail store after becoming Paris Hilton’s signature Swarovski-adorned flower hair clips, Michelle Roy Designs headlined this block party Thursday on North Robertson just a walk away from The Ivy, a favored celebrity hangout.

designs

No stranger to the style trends in Los Angeles, Michelle Roy’s, www.michelleroydesigns.com, dabbling blossomed after reporting on trends for 13 years.

Her passion for fun and fashion transformed in 2000 after being spotted with her now signature crystals in her hair . Michelle’s enthusiasm, talent for spotting trends, political correctness (20% of sales benefited Project Angel Food) and proximity to celebrity have garnered her a much envied position in the style pages of Cosmopolitan, Life & Style, Glamour, US, and People to name a few. Recently Eva Longoria (Gabrielle) was adorned with a Swarovski-adorned orchid in her hair in a “Desperate Housewives” episode when she kissed Lynette’s husband.

Bellacures, offered mini manis in their oversized lounge chairs. Reasonable standard services are offered but specialties abound with services for children, 7 types of pedicures, Find Your French (test 3 different French looks), intense moisture, microdermabrasion, and those quick minis for those in a rush. Still new on the block, we’re wondering when they’ll fill their shelves with more products to consider.

Wallett Cosmetics offered pout makeovers with formulations including shea buter, vitamin E, chamomile, aloe vera, green tea extracts and citrus botanicals. We noticed a similiarity to Bobbi Brown cosmetics, but then we also realize there are few companies in the world which actually manufacture lip pencils. The magic of the right lip colors transforms your face.

milli

Margarita King margaritas enticed people to Girari Furniture. Designs of contemporary tables, chairs and stools for the kitchen respectfully utilizes recycled sand-cast aluminum which is hand cast and hand finished in the U.S.A.

Delectable nibbles were provided by Breadbar. I wasn’t familiar with the name, loved the taste, and once I started wanted more. Upon researching, I discovered it’s part of internationally known baker Eric Kayser’s expanding operation and a regular at Spago and Bastide, although you wouldn’t probably know it. Fortunately for me, it’s close by on Third Street. It’s a bread worth fighting rush hour traffic.

How does one make an impression through the busy chatter of LA style? A publicist of course (Sugar Public Relations, www.sugarpr.com)…and a Daily Candy email blast.

MTV Launches Break the Addiction; Sets Goal to Educate and Empower Young People to Help End Global Warming and Mass Overconsumption

12-month, 12-step Campaign offers Young People Opportunity to Lead the Fight against Global Warming 'US represents 4% of world population but consumes 25% of world energy.' - Cambridge Energy Research Associates

Following President Bush's State of the Union declaration earlier this year that "America is addicted to oil," MTV announced today the network's latest pro-social initiative, BREAK THE ADDICTION, a year-long campaign to engage, educate and empower young people to take simple, daily actions that can have a measurable impact in the fight against global warming. The campaign will launch with a channel takeover on Earth Day, Saturday, April 22, including an on-air, online and wireless messaging campaign about how to help stop global warming, break-ins to regularly scheduled programming that offer environmental lessons, multiple public service announcements (PSAs), and an MTV News package introducing BREAK THE ADDICTION, featuring a leading young environmental activist.

BREAK THE ADDICTION is MTV's year-long recovery program aimed at mobilizing a new generation of environmental activists. On-air, online and on wireless, the initiative will connect the audience to simple, daily tips, as well as in-depth resources, to help them recognize and change habits that harm the environment. Viewers will be directed online to think.mtv.com to quantify and track their efforts by the amount of carbon dioxide emissions and dollars saved due to changes they commit to making throughout the year. Supplemental MTV programming -- both long-form and news packages -- will air throughout the year and the tips will be revealed in daily PSAs on air on MTV, MTV2, and mtvU as well as online and delivered to cell phones. Additional PSAs will appear on mtv.com, mtv2.com, mtvU.com, MTV Overdrive and mtvU Uber. Through partnerships with StopGlobalWarming.org, National Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Grist.org, Student PIRGs, Campus Climate Challenge, and Clean Air-Cool Planet, MTV will go beyond the broadcasts to create online and wireless resources, as well as opportunities for grassroots organizing and outreach.

"Throughout history young people have always rallied around issues and generated change, and we know from our constant dialogue with young people that they are concerned about the environment but don't know how to make a difference," said Christina Norman, President, MTV. "BREAK THE ADDICTION will educate and empower young people with tangible, simple actions and measurable ways to see how their small efforts have big effects."

MTV will theme each month with a concrete message -- from Examine Yourself to Go Paperless to Get Political -- and create corresponding programming and resources on air, online, on wireless phones and on the ground. Throughout the campaign, young people will be able to access a number of resources on these platforms, including:

* The BREAK THE ADDICTION recycle bin on TRL -- MTV's flagship TRL program will host the BREAK THE ADDICTION recycle bin for audience members who literally must recycle to gain entrance to the studio. Throughout the year, MTV will point to the container as a reminder of simple acts that can make big impacts on the planet.

* think MTV's Carbon Calculator -- An online calculator, built in partnership with topGlobalWarming.org will launch around Earth Day to enable young people to calculate their carbon and financial savings as they commit to making changes in their lives.

* Long-form programming and MTV News packages -- MTV programming will explore the issues of global warming, as well as showcase the innovative ways that young people are fighting to preserve the environment.

* User-generated Content -- MTV viewer ideas will be solicited and showcased through their submission of pictures about how they're stopping global warming.

* Action Center -- Break the Addiction will provide opportunities for young people to take personal, social, and political action to help stop global warming.

* Comprehensive Online Resources -- think MTV will launch a Break the Addiction website on think.mtv.com to serve as a comprehensive portal for information about global warming and ways to take action to reduce one's environmental impact.

Additional on air, online, wireless, and grassroots initiatives will be rolled out throughout the year.

About think MTV

The think MTV initiative includes longform specials, MTV News reports, PSAs, and other special programming dedicated to the issues that young people care about most. A think MTV icon appears onscreen during programming that has an online counterpart at think.MTV.com, to offer a range of opportunities for young people to learn about and engage on critical issues at the local or national level. On every page within the site, young people can search for local volunteer opportunities, contact their political representatives, and register to vote.

About MTV

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 100 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 95 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

Source: MTV

Web site: http://think.mtv.com/
http://www.mtv.com/

SCRUBS: The Complete Third Season DVD Launch Event and Season 5 Wrap Party

Kicks Off the GQ Lounge Weekend at the Palms Casino Resort

Thursday, April 27, 2006, Las Vegas

WHO: Cast members of the Emmy winning series, hit TV show -- Zach

Braff, Donald Faison, Sarah Chalke, Neil Flynn, Christa Miller,

Rob Maschio, season guest stars Elizabeth Banks, Josh Randall,

Dave Foley, Executive Producer of SCRUBS Bill Lawrence and many

more ...

WHAT: Celebrating the DVD release of the third season of SCRUBS, Zach

Braff stars as J.D., a medical resident at Sacred Heart

Hospital, where the staff is bizarre and the laughter is

contagious. Joining the rumpled J.D. are fellow residents Turk

(Donald Faison, "Clueless") as J.D.'s college buddy who is part

of the more elite surgical group, and the beautiful but

socially awkward Elliot Reid (Sarah Chalke, "Roseanne").

SCRUBS' talented cast also includes the sure-of-himself Dr. Cox

(John C. McGinley, "Office Space"), the terrorizing janitor

(Neil Flynn, "Mean Girls"), the fatherly Dr. Kelso (Ken

Jenkins, "The Sum of All Fears") and the feisty Nurse Carla

(Judy Reyes, "Oz"). Together, they weave their way through

each unpredictable day with hilarious results.

SCRUBS: The Complete Third Season will be released on DVD on

May 9, 2006 from Touchstone Television and Buena Vista Home

Entertainment. Fans can enjoy this set bursting with

12 different bonus features including gag reels, exclusive

unaired scenes, alternate lines, and much more!

WHEN: Thursday, April 27, 2006 WHERE: RAIN Nightclub

7:00 PM Press Check In Palms Casino Resort

8:00 PM Arrivals Begin 4321 W. Flamingo Rd.

12:00 AM Rain becomes GQ Lounge Las Vegas, NV

Source: Buena Vista Home Entertainment

Web site: http://www.gqmagevents.com/gqlounge

Sanaa Lathan, Simon Baker and Blair Underwood Star in This Year's Sizzling Romantic Comedy 'Something New'

Charming Audiences on DVD May 16, 2006 From Universal Studios Home Entertainment

Expect the unexpected when the sparkling romantic comedy "Something New" arrives on DVD May 16, 2006 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. "Something New" is a critically acclaimed film about a woman who knows where she's headed in business but has lost her way in affairs of the heart. The first-rate cast is headed by Sanaa Lathan ("Alien vs. Predator," "Love and Basketball") and Simon Baker ("Land of the Dead," "The Ring Two"), with Blair Underwood ("Sex & the City," "Rules of Engagement"), Mike Epps ("Roll Bounce," "The Honeymooners"), Alfre Woodard ("Desperate Housewives," "The Forgotten"), Donald Faison ("Scrubs," "Remember the Titans"), Golden Brooks ("Girlfriends," "Beauty Shop"), and Taraji P. Henson ("Hustle & Flow," "Four Brothers"). In her directorial feature debut, Sanaa Hamri delivers love and laughter in a zesty romance with a twist.

Two worlds collide as "Something New" unfolds against the luminous backdrop of multicultural Los Angeles. Kenya Denise McQueen (Sanaa Lathan), a beautiful, high-powered career woman, knew exactly what she wanted in a man, but with her busy life, she didn't think she'd ever find it. While Kenya and her girlfriends, Cheryl, Suzzette and Nedra, are having fun and looking for love, she finds herself unexpectedly falling for a man (Simon Baker) outside of her social circle. The DVD is priced at $29.98 SRP. Preorder close is April 11, 2006.

April 21, 2006

Jaime Pressly Hosts 'VH1 Rock Honors'

To understand the internet you have to be open to change.

Written by Joyce L Chow & William Hoehne April 21, 2006

MBN

www.montebubbles.com for more MBN news

INTERNET ADVERTISING IS THE FUTURE

Info@montebubbles.net

Jaime Pressly Hosts 'VH1 Rock Honors'

Record-Breaking Disney Channel Musical Sensation Debuts on Disney DVD - May 23
Lincoln Zephyr Rolls Out Red Carpet for Premiere of Lionsgate's 'Akeelah and the Bee'
Mega Movie Star Tom Cruise Shares Secrets to His Mission: Impossible: III Stunts
'Moo-ve' Over Competition PBS Launches The Cow Channel
Rap Star's Final Hours of Freedom Documented in BET's LIL' KIM:
Columbia Records Announces the Release of New Harry Connick, Jr. Collection 'Harry On Broadway, Act I'
Netflix Introduces Comical New Creative to On-Air Line-Up
Penthouse to Acquire Jill Kelly Productions, Inc. Assets for $1.765 Million
Adult Industry Giant Wins Massive Film Library
Baby Boom Icon Sally Field Takes on New Leading Role As Women's Health Advocate
Sony Computer Entertainment America Lowers the Price of PlayStation(R)2 Computer Entertainment System to $129.99
THE TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL AND UNIVERSAL PICTURES PRESENT THE OPENING NIGHT OF THE FIFTH ANNUAL TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL AND THE WORLD PREMIERE OF 'UNITED 93' AT ZIEGFELD THEATRE IN MANHATTAN TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2006
Verizon Named Presenting Sponsor of Merriweather Post Pavilion's Summer 2006 Concert Series
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Vivendi Universal Games Names Martin Tremblay to Global Product Development Position
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DELIRIUM – TURNING MUSIC INTO MOTION CIRQUE DU SOLEIL'S FIRST LIVE ARENA EVENT
Gillette Leverages Shaped Aerosol Packaging From Crown For Unique World Cup Promotion
Literary Focus Turns Westward for 11th Annual Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, April 29-30 at UCLA
GRENDEL PRESS PREVIEW
American Airlines Sends 20,000 Mavericks Fans Flying With Largest-Ever Free Ticket Promotion
Vivendi Universal Games nomina Martin Tremblay allo Sviluppo Globale del Prodotto
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ESPN Deportes and DISH Network(TM) Take One Lucky Soccer Fan to Germany This Summer
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2006 Kia Sedona Honored with ``Top Safety Pick'' by Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
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DOD
Eighty silver goblets commemorating the "Doolittle Raid" over Japan were added of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
A Michigan police officer says he has found his calling in the effort to foster a democratic Iraq and ultimately bring America's troops home.
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President Bush's Job Approval Ratings Remain Low, Says Harris Poll
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Une passerelle qui concilie science et art
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ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY
Grendel World Premiere La Opera May 27^th 2006 at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion for seven only performances.

Joyce chow interviewing Julie Taymor

Then it moves to New York City July 11, 2006 for its New York premiere at the New Your State Theatre, the second night of the Lincoln center festival.

It is composed by Elliot Goldenthal, directed by Julie Taymor , Libretto by Ms Tamor and J. D McClatchy, conducted by Steven Sloan.

Sets by George Tsypin, Costumes by Constance Hoffman, Masks and sculptures by Ms Taymor and Michael Curry, Choreography by Angelin Preljocaj and lighting by Donald Holder.

Co-commissioned and performed at the Los Angeles Opera and the Lincoln center Festival.

It is based upon the 9^th century poem of Beowulf. Grendel is a dark comic retelling of the epic from the monsters point of view. He was born with a bum rap, the seed of Cain, a killer that can’t control who or what he is and hates himself for it. Owens & Shadows

A artist and a thinker trapped in the body of a beast. He speaks in a contemporary language making it easy for the audience to identify with him.

From right to left Erick Owens,Charles TemkeyJonathan Hayes and David Gagnon

Puppets play a major part of Grendel, to be honest they also played a major part in the 2005 off Broadway version of Beowulf. puppets

Those of you that think this story of Beowulf sounds vaguely familiar and very recent in your minds and watch PBS the New Beowulf was last seen on March 28, 2000.

Then there is also the not widely distributed in the United States Beowulf & Grendel the feature film which came out in 2005:Adapted from the Anglo-Saxon epic poem, Beowulf, BEOWULF & GRENDEL is a medieval adventure that tells the blood-soaked tale of a Norse warrior's battle against the great and murderous troll, Grendel. Heads will roll in this provocative take on the first major work of English literature.

Out of allegiance to the King Hrothgar, the much respected Lord of the Danes, Beowulf leads a troop of warriors across the sea to rid a village of the marauding monster. The monster, Grendel, is not a creature of mythic powers, but one of flesh and blood - immense flesh and raging blood, driven by a vengeance from being wronged, while Beowulf, a victorious soldier in his own right, has become increasingly troubled by the hero-myth rising up around his exploits. Beowulf's willingness to kill on behalf of Hrothgar wavers when it becomes clear that the King is more responsible for the troll's rampages than was first apparent.

As a soldier, Beowulf is unaccustomed to hesitating. His relationship with the mesmerizing witch, Selma, creates deeper confusion. Swinging his sword at a great, stinking beast is no longer such a simple act. The story is set in barbarous Northern Europe where the reign of the many-gods is giving way to one - the southern invader, Christ. Beowulf is a man caught between sides in this great shift, his simple code transforming and falling apart before his eyes. Building toward an inevitable and terrible battle, this is a tale where vengeance, loyalty and mercy powerfully entwine. A story of blood and beer and sweat, BEOWULF & GRENDEL strips away the mask of the hero-myth, leaving a raw and tangled tale that rings true through the centuries.

Goldenthals and Taymor current version of Grendel continues this current trend to revitalize this ages old poem.

It has all the makings of something grand. It is up to the audience to make the final judgement on rather it becomes such or not.

By William Hoehne

American Idol(TM) Finalist Lisa Tucker to 'Judge' Performers From Orange County Children's Theatre's Musical 'Once Upon a Mattress'

Rising Star Goes Back to Her Roots to Work With Budding Singers

WHO: Lisa Tucker, one of this year's top ten American Idol

finalists ...

WHAT: Will go "back to her roots" to meet with approximately 50 child performers who are starring in Orange County Children's Theatre's (OCCT) production of "Once Upon a Mattress."

Tucker launched her young career while appearing in an OCCT production of "The Little Princess" in 1999 when she was 9 years-old.

Tucker will meet the children, tell them about her rise to fame, and answer their questions. She then will watch the children perform two numbers from the dress rehearsal of their show and will "judge" them based on her extensive experience with some of the toughest judges out there today.

WHEN: Thursday, April 20, 2006 at 7 p.m.

WHERE: Stanton Civic Center Auditorium

7800 Katella Ave., (near Beach Blvd & Katella Avenue) Stanton, CA

(Free parking is available in lot next to building)

BACKGROUND: Orange County Children's Theatre, founded in 1969, is a non-profit organization that has produced more than 100 live musicals with casts of children between ages 8 and 19. Past

OCCT shows have included "Annie," "Guys and Dolls," "Music Man" and most recently "Oklahoma." Each show is professionally produced, directed and choreographed.

When Lisa Tucker was appearing in OCCT's "The Little Princess," Disney productions called looking for children to audition for the stage production of "The Lion King." Tucker was referred by OCCT, auditioned, and won the role which launched her professional career.

OCCT's current production of "Once Upon a Mattress" is based on the popular children's story "The Princess and the Pea." It will be staged at the Stanton Civic Center Auditorium, 7800 Katella Ave., on April 21, 22, 23, 28, 29 and 30. Tickets are $8-$10 and can be purchased online at

www.occt.org.

Source: Orange County Children's Theatre

The Hollywood Reporter Enters Broadcast Syndication
Entertainment Industry's #1 Trade Magazine Coming to Local Television News
Entertainment Industry's #1 Trade Magazine Coming to Local Television News

VNU, a global information and media company, announced the launch of The Hollywood Reporter into syndication today.

Since 1930, The Hollywood Reporter has been providing inside information about the business of entertainment. Now, the film and television industries' #1 trade publication serves up Hollywood's latest news with eight weekly television vignettes -- short video news reports that will air nationwide through local-market broadcast outlets -- produced by Sandra Carter Global, Inc. and distributed in national syndication by MEDIAHITMAN, Inc.

"The Hollywood Reporter has more reporters covering the television and film industries than any entertainment newsmagazine on television," says Story Editor, Brooks Parsons. "No one can deliver the inside line on everything that goes on in Hollywood like The Hollywood Reporter."

The Hollywood Reporter vignettes promise to take viewers past the velvet rope at gala premieres and behind-the-scenes on the sets of tomorrow's blockbuster films to deliver breaking news and exclusive interviews with all the top stars.

About VNU

VNU is active in more than 100 countries, with headquarters in Haarlem, the Netherlands and New York, USA. The company employs 38,000 people. Total revenues under IFRS amounted to EUR 3.3 billion in 2004. VNU is listed on the Euronext Amsterdam stock exchange.

About Sandra Carter Global, Inc.

Sandra Carter Global ( http://www.sandra-carter.com/ ) has been a major force in production and distribution for over 25 years. The company has produced over fifteen first-run series, including the Emmy-nominated 24 Days of Christmas, and New York and Chicago Film Festival Gold Medal Winners. With clients in over 60 countries and programs in over 20 languages, Sandra Carter Global, Inc. is a dynamic force in international TV syndication. In addition to award-winning documentary features, Sandra Carter Global, Inc. distributes new and exciting sports content as well as animation, educational, fitness, religious, music, entertainment, children's and travel programming.

About MEDIAHITMAN, Inc.

MEDIAHITMAN ( http://www.mediahitman.com/ ) is a leading distributor of short-form content to domestic television newsrooms.

The company recently introduced MedBreak with Dr. Howard Torman, ( http://www.medbreak.tv/ ) television's first DTC / News synthesis, hosted by Veteran CBS Network Medical Correspondent, Howard Torman M.D.

Prior to the launch of MedBreak, the company focused on the distribution and placement of electronic publicity campaigns for many of the World's leading brands.

Source: MEDIAHITMAN, Inc.

Web site: http://www.mediahitman.com/
http://www.medbreak.tv/
http://www.sandra-carter.com/

Warner Bros. Studios Supports Christie/AIX Digital Cinema Funding Plan

Warner Bros. Studios Will Release Its Movies and Pay Virtual Print Fees for Digital System Rollout Now Under Way

Access Integrated Technologies, Inc. ("AccessIT") today announced it has received the commitment of Warner Bros. Studios to release future movies in digital format as part of Christie/AIX's digital cinema nationwide rollout. The sixth studio backing the plan, Warner Bros. will also pay Christie/AIX virtual print fees for each movie booked helping fund exhibitor adoption of digital cinema equipment.

Commenting on the agreement, Dan Fellman, President, Domestic Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures, said: "Warner Bros. has been at the vanguard of advances that fundamentally enhance the entertainment experience. We are especially pleased to support this digital rollout. Digital is an important part of our long-term strategy and we look forward to providing our unique content in digital form to audiences."

Bud Mayo, chairman and CEO of AccessIT, added: "Warner Bros.' embrace of new technology that enhances the movie-going experience spans as far back as the introduction of sound in movies. Their commitment to provide content for our digital systems further underscores that digital cinema is a reality, one that will profoundly change the entertainment industry. We are genuinely excited to have Dan and the entire Warner Bros. Pictures team on board and eagerly look forward to our exhibitor partners beginning to play digital versions of Warner Bros. movies."

The studio's productions will be available to participating exhibitors in the Christie/AIX program, which includes Christie CP2000 projectors featuring DLP Cinema(R) technology. Currently Christie/AIX has signed deals total close to 2,500 screens including Carmike Cinemas, Emagine Entertainment, Inc., Ultrastar, Galaxy Theatres, Cinetopia, and AccessIT's own digital showcase Pavillion 9-plex in New York City

Jack Kline, president and COO of Christie Digital Systems USA, Inc., said: "Warner Bros. Pictures' commitment to delivering digital titles is further affirmation to the industry that digital cinema has arrived. For the first time in a century, we're experiencing a true revolution in theatre entertainment and we're very excited that Warner Bros. Pictures will be an integral part of that revolution."

Strong support by Hollywood's major studios -- Warner Bros. joins Disney, Fox, Universal, Sony, and DreamWorks -- has enabled AccessIT to expand its original planned system installations from 2,500 to 4,000 screens. The company also is continuing late-stage negotiations with other studios including independent distributors to ensure that ultimately all movies can be available in digital versions.

The Christie/AIX-funded deployment of Christie DLP Cinema(R) projectors also includes media players, a central "library" server, two-way satellite communications, data storage equipment, Christie's technical services, project management, and a 10-year maintenance plan which is designed to be comparable to exhibitors' 35mm projection system maintenance agreements. The central servers feature AccessIT's unique vendor-neutral Theater Command Centre ("TCC") software, which allows all digitally-equipped screens in a multiplex to be networked, simplifying theater operations through centralized content management, scheduling and reporting.

Access Integrated Technologies, Inc. (AccessIT) is the industry leader in providing fully integrated software and services to enable the motion picture entertainment industry and all of its constituents to transition from film to digital cinema. The company's Theatrical Distribution System software and electronic satellite delivery services provide studios and content owners with a seamless entry into the digital era while its vendor neutral Theatre Command Center and Exhibitor Management System provide exhibitors with all the tools needed to transition to digital cinema. For more information on AccessIT, visit http://www.accessitx.com/ .

Christie is a leader in visual solutions for world-class organizations, offering diverse applications for business, entertainment, and industry. A leading innovator in film projection since 1929 and a pioneer in projection systems since 1979, Christie has established a global reputation as a total service provider and the world's single source manufacturer of a variety of display technologies and solutions. Christie offers comprehensive solutions for cinema, large audience venues, control rooms, business presentations, training facilities, 3D and Virtual Reality, simulation and education as well as industrial and government environments. For more information on Christie's cinema solutions and to find a theatre with Christie DLP Cinema(R) projectors, visit http://www.christiedigital.com/ .

Source: Access Integrated Technologies, Inc.

Jaime Pressly Hosts 'VH1 Rock Honors'

Foo Fighters and The All-American Rejects Take the Stage for Tribute Performances In First Annual 'VH1 Rock Honors' Paying Homage to Kiss, Queen, Def Leppard and Judas Priest

Premiering Wednesday, May 31 at 9pm*

NVH1 debuts the first ever show to pay homage to the legends who influenced the sound of hard rock with the first annual "VH1 Rock Honors." Hosted by Jaime Pressly of the hit sitcom "My Name Is Earl," this year's celebration will honor the music and influence of KISS, Queen, Def Leppard and Judas Priest.

Premiering on Wednesday, May 31 at 9PM*, "VH1 Rock Honors," will be taped at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas on Thursday, May 25 and will include tribute performances by Foo Fighters and The All-American Rejects. Additional performers, presenters, and special guests will be announced as they are confirmed.

The 2 - hour tribute will salute the groundbreaking bands of rock, the once in a lifetime events and the influential people who made a lasting mark on the history of hard rock. The influence of these honorees will be felt through spoken tributes, filmed packages and performances by some of today's hottest rock acts as well as the legends themselves.

Tickets priced at $60, $125 and $175, not including applicable service charges, will go on sale Saturday, April 22nd via http://www.ticketmaster.com/ and at all Ticketmaster outlets or in Las Vegas by going directly to the Mandalay Bay Box Office or by calling 877-632-7400 or 702-632-7580. For VIP Tickets Contact VH1 Save The Music at 212-846-7882 or rsvp@vh1.com.

For more information go to http://www.vh1.com/ and check soon for interactive honoree profiles, exclusive programming, show information and more.

VH1.com is in search for the top air guitarists in the country, challenging all wanna-be rock icons to its "Air to the Throne" air guitar competition. The champion will win a trip to "VH1 Rock Honors" in Las Vegas where he or she will perform on the red carpet and be crowned VH1's "Air to the Throne." The champ will also win a coveted spot in the official U.S. Air Guitar Championship Finals in New York. To enter, visit http://air.vh1.com/.

"VH1 Rock Honors" is sponsored by Verizon Wireless, Aquafina, Crest(R) Whitening Plus Scope(R) Extreme, TACO BELL(R), Pantene(R) Pro-V(R), Nationwide Insurance, Degree for Men, Listerine Whitening Pre-Brush Rinse.

"VH1 Rock Honors" is executive produced by Lee Rolontz and Rick Krim for VH1 and Greg Sills and Paul Flattery for Choe Productions.

VH1 connects viewers to the music, artists and pop culture that matter to them most with series, specials, live events, exclusive online content and public affairs initiatives. VH1 is available in 87 million households in the U.S. VH1 also has an array of digital services including VH1 Classic, VH1 Soul, VH Uno and VH1 Country. Connect with VH1 at http://www.vh1.com/.

Mandalay Bay Events Center continues its tradition as one of the world's premier entertainment venues in the world. The 12,000-seat multi-purpose Events Center has hosted championship boxing events including De La Hoya vs. Trinidad and Vargas vs. Mosley. The Events Center also has been the home to sold-out concert audiences for such performers as Bette Midler, Kenny Chesney, Van Halen, The Eagles, Britney Spears, Andrea Bocelli and Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. Live televised events have included the Academy of Country Music Awards (ACMA), Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Finals and Brian Boitano's Skating Spectacular.

* Source: VH1

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

Record-Breaking Disney Channel Musical Sensation Debuts on Disney DVD - May 23

High School Musical Encore Edition DVD

DVD Debut of Song-Filled Hit Contains Two Versions of the Movie (Original Version and Sing Along Version) and Exciting DVD Bonuses Including 'Learning the Moves' With Acclaimed Choreographer Kenny Ortega, a Never-Before-Seen Music Video, Behind-The-Scenes Feature & More!

"High School Musical," the contemporary movie musical that has captivated kids, tweens and families as part of the blockbuster Disney Channel Original Movie franchise, and is the highest-rated original programming in the history of the network, will debut on Disney DVD, May 23, 2006. A "break into song" production, the comedic "High School Musical" follows two teens, Troy and Gabriella, who must learn to believe in themselves and follow their dreams, despite the polarization of high school cliques. Allowing fans to experience even more, the DVD will include two versions of the film -- the original telecast version and an exciting sing-along version which displays lyrics on screen during all musical numbers, so audiences can learn the words of the film's chart-topping songs. The debut DVD release also contains bonus features including a "Learning the Moves" feature led by Emmy Award-winning director and choreographer Kenny Ortega (XIX Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony), a never-before-seen music video, "I Can't Take My Eyes Off of You," the rousing music video "We're All In This Together," and a Behind-The-Scenes feature providing viewers a glimpse at the making of the movie. "High School Musical" is available on DVD May 23, 2006, from Walt Disney Home Entertainment.

"High School Musical" is an entertainment industry sensation. A contemporary musical comedy, (as of April 14) it has aired ten times (January 20-March 24) on Disney Channel. Over the course of its ten telecasts, the movie has delivered 34 million unique Total Viewers, 18.8 million Households, 10.0 million Kids 6-11 and 10.5 million Tweens 9-14.

The "High School Musical" soundtrack from Walt Disney Records has been certified double platinum by the R.I.A.A. The duet, "Breaking Free" is a platinum single and four additional singles, including the rhythmic "Get'cha Head in the Game," "What I've Been Looking For," "We're All in this Together," and "Start of Something New" are all gold. "Breaking Free" made the largest jump in the 48-year history of the Billboard Hot 100, catapulting from #86 to #4 in just one week. "Get'cha Head in the Game" broke a 34-year record with its biggest jump ever to #23, from #100. "High School Musical" first reached the #1 position on Billboard's Top 200 the week of February 26, seven weeks after its release and reclaimed the #1 spot on March 22. An exciting "High School Musical Special Edition" 2-CD soundtrack will be released on the same day as the DVD's debut, May 23, 2006.

"High School Musical" follows a popular high school basketball star and a shy, academically gifted newcomer who discover they share a secret passion for singing. When they audition for the lead roles in the school musical, it threatens East High's rigid social order and sends their peers into an uproar. In a desperate effort to maintain the status quo, the "jocks," the "brainiacs" and even the drama club regulars hatch plots to separate the pair and keep them offstage. By defying expectations and taking a chance on their dreams, Troy and Gabriella inspire other students to go public with some surprising hidden talents of their own. Starring are Zac Efron, Vanessa Anne Hudgens, Ashley Tisdale (Disney Channel's "The Suite Life of Zack & Cody"), Corbin Bleu, Lucas Grabeel (Disney Channel Original Movie "Halloweentown High"), Monique Coleman, Bart Johnson, Oleysa Rulin and Alyson Reed.

The movie was written by Peter Barsocchini and directed and choreographed by Kenny Ortega and is Executive Produced by Bill Borden and Barry Rosenbush.

DVD Bonus Materials:

* "Learning The Moves" with Director/Choreographer Kenny Ortega

* Never-Before-Seen Music Video "I Can't Take My Eyes Off You"

* Music Video "We're All In This Together"

* Behind-The-Scenes Featurette

* Two versions of the film -- Original and Sing Along

Street Date: May 23, 2006

Direct prebook: March 28, 2006

Distributor prebook: April 11, 2006

Suggested Retail Price: $26.99 (DVD)

Feature Run time: Approximately 98 minutes

Rating: TV-G

Bonus features not rated or subtitled, and

subject to change.

Aspect ratio: 1.33:1 formatted 4x3

Sound: Dolby(R) Digital 5.1 Surround Sound

Language: English audio.

Walt Disney Home Entertainment is distributed by Buena Vista Home Entertainment, Inc., a recognized industry leader. Buena Vista Home Entertainment, Inc. is the marketing, sales and distribution company for Walt Disney, Touchstone, Hollywood Pictures, Miramax, Dimension and Buena Vista videocassettes and DVDs.

Source: Buena Vista Home Entertainment, Inc.

Lincoln Zephyr Rolls Out Red Carpet for Premiere of Lionsgate's 'Akeelah and the Bee'

The all-new Lincoln Zephyr is teaming with Lionsgate to invite audiences to "Reach Higher" during today's premiere of "Akeelah and the Bee," an inspirational story of an 11-year-old girl from South Los Angeles and her quest for a spot at the Scripps National Spelling Bee opening Nationwide on April 28th.

"Akeelah and the Bee" actors Laurence Fishburne, Angela Bassett and Keke Palmer, along with the movie's director, Doug Atchison, will arrive at The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in Beverly Hills in style and comfort courtesy of Lincoln Zephyr. Sharing the night's spotlight with the film's talent, Lincoln Zephyrs will individually chauffeur the cast and creators to and from the premiere screening and after party.

"Lincoln is pleased to work with Lionsgate and to host the film's A-list talent, including Laurence Fishburne, Angela Bassett and exciting newcomer Keke Palmer in our all-new luxury automobiles," said Ford Motor Company Global Brand Entertainment Manager Myles Romero.

"Lincoln is a classy, all American brand which is a perfect complement for the universal appeal of 'Akeelah and the Bee.' Their presence will add to the glamour of our world premiere event," said Tom Ortenberg, Lionsgate President Theatrical Films.

Prior to the premiere, Lollipop Theater Network (Lollipop), a non-profit organization that brings the magic of movies to children suffering from chronic or life-threatening illnesses at hospitals nationwide, in conjunction with Lincoln and Lionsgate, will host an afternoon screening at Mattel Children's Hospital at UCLA followed by a Spelling Bee conducted by Los Angeles-based non-profit The Art of Elysium.

In addition, Lincoln and Lionsgate will partner with Lollipop in New York and Detroit to screen "Akeelah and the Bee" for children at Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital of New York-Presbyterian and the Children's Hospital of Michigan.

"'Akeelah and the Bee' shares the same source of inspiration as our Lincoln brand -- it celebrates the spirit of American optimism that challenges us all to Reach Higher," said Lincoln Brand Manager Tom Grill, "It's great to work with an organization like Lollipop to bring a film with such a positive message to kids."

"Lollipop is so thankful to Lionsgate and Lincoln for screening such an inspirational film for these special children who are striving to overcome so much in their young lives," said Executive Director Evelyn Iocolano. "'Akeelah and the Bee' will provide a much needed escape for them."

About Lincoln

Lincoln is a brand of the Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., which manufactures and distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With nearly 325,000 employees and 110 plants worldwide, the company's core and affiliated automotive brands include Aston Martin, Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercury and Volvo. Its automotive-related services include Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, visit

www.fordvehicles.com.

About the Lincoln Zephyr

In fall of 2005, Lincoln introduced the Zephyr -- a new theme line celebrating the American entrepreneurial spirit. The all-new 2006 Zephyr begins a new product wave for Lincoln as the brand's first entry-level luxury sedan, making the brand relevant to a new generation of younger consumers ready to move up to a luxury vehicle. The all-new Zephyr masterfully combines advanced features with abundant creature comforts. From outstanding ride characteristics to an available Navigation System, Zephyr delivers a premium ride.

About Lollipop Theater Network

Founded in 2001, Lollipop Theater Network is dedicated to bringing the laughter and magic of movies to children confined to hospitals nationwide, due to chronic or life-threatening illnesses. By working in collaboration with leading motion picture studios, Lollipop Theater Network brings current theatrical G, PG and PG-13 film releases into hospitals for group and isolation patient screenings. The organization has been able to offer its program to 28 hospitals across the country and has screened nearly 100 films since its inception. For more information, please visit: www.lollipoptheater.org

About Lionsgate

Lionsgate (NYSE:LGF) is the leading independent filmed entertainment studio. Fresh off the number one box office hits "Madea's Family Reunion," "Hostel" and "Saw II" and the Best Picture Academy Award(R)-winning "Crash," Lionsgate is a premier producer and distributor of motion pictures, television programming, home entertainment, family entertainment and video-on-demand content. Its prestigious and prolific library of more than 5,000 titles is a valuable source of stable, recurring revenue and is a foundation for the growth of the Company's core businesses. The Lionsgate brand name is synonymous with original, daring, quality entertainment in markets around the globe. For more information on Lionsgate, visit www.lionsgate.com.

Source: Lincoln

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

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

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

Mega Movie Star Tom Cruise Shares Secrets to His Mission: Impossible: III Stunts as Celebrity Host of Nickelodeon's TEENick Airing Saturday, April 29 and Sunday, April 30

Mega movie star Tom Cruise will give kids the inside scoop on performing Mission: Impossible: III-style movie stunts, his childhood ambitions and the best way to prepare for a car chase scene as the celebrity host of Nickelodeon's popular tween programming block TEENick, premiering Saturday, April 29 between 8:00-10:00PM and Sunday, April 30 from 6:00-9:00PM.

Kicking off the TEENick segment taped in front of a live audience in San Pedro, California on April 5, superstar Cruise will wow viewers with a spectacular entrance by helicopter. Cruise is then joined by legendary M:I: III stunt coordinator Vic Armstrong to talk about and then demonstrate how to safely perform a stunt where he flips his car at the end of a heated chase scene. Kids also have the opportunity to get up-close and personal with Cruise and ask him questions like: "When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?" (an actor or an astronaut); "Who is your favorite athlete?" (Mohammad Ali) and "What is your fondest childhood memory?" (traveling).

TEENick, the popular hosted interstitial programming block which airs every Saturday and Sunday night on Nickelodeon, brings kids the hottest line- up of celebrities in an unpredictable, game-filled setting. Featured hosts have included Jennifer Lopez, Adam Sandler, Lindsay Lohan, Chris Brown, Beyonce Knowles, Jack Black, David Spade, Jon Heder, Rob Schneider, Mike Myers and Robin Williams. Taped in front of a live audience, celebrity hosts play along with resident TEENick DJ, J Boogie, and are asked to spin the TEENick bottle. Each spin reveals a different challenge. Some hosts have eaten nachos while wearing boxing gloves, while others have given members of the audience a piggyback ride. Adam Sandler answered questions with a mouthful of ice cubes. David Spade, Jon Heder and Rob Schneider had a sunflower seed spitting contest. Jack Black improvised a song for the "TEENick Prom" and The Click Five went bowling with Thanksgiving turkeys.

TEENick is also a showcase for the latest music and has featured performances by Kelly Clarkson, Black Eyed Peas, Good Charlotte, Jesse McCartney, Ashlee Simpson and Simple Plan.

New this year is a series of "TEENick Behind The Scenes" nights - which offers kids an inside look at celebrities in their own environment. TEENick hit the half pipe with Tony Hawk's Boom Boom Huck Jam Tour in San Diego, got a backstage pass with the American Idol Live Tour in Philadelphia and learned the secrets of Ryan Cabrera's gravity defying hair on tour in Albany. J Boogie also gave viewers exclusive behind the scenes access to the hot TEENick shows, Zoey 101, Unfabulous, Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide and Drake & Josh. In addition, kids can view exclusive "backstage" TEENick moments on TurboNick, Nickelodeon's broadband video platform available on Nick.com. TurboNick gives kids an inside look at the taping of a TEENick, which always has the cameras rolling as the stars rehearse a game, a line or simply hang out backstage.

Nickelodeon, in its 27th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books, magazines and feature films. Nickelodeon's U.S. television network is seen in more than 89 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for more than ten consecutive years. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc.

Source: Nickelodeon

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

'Moo-ve' Over Competition PBS Launches The Cow Channel
MooTube.com is First On-the-Hoof Mobile Entertainment Option

Joining the stampede to create new content platforms, PBS today announced the launch of MooTube.com, the first 24/7 inside look at the daily life of Texas Longhorn cattle. Beginning April 19th, visitors to the site will get an exclusive, bovine's-eye-view, as wireless cow-cams, attached to the Longhorns' collars, reveal the day-to-day intrigues of life on the range.

"In the 500-plus-channel-world, we believe this is a 'bullish' alternative, especially for those who enjoy grazing," said a PBS executive. "Plus, it's a great way to extend the PBS brand to even greener pastures."

Along with activities like chomping grass, flicking flies, mooing and hanging out at the watering hole, the cow-cams capture such fun-loving antics as stealing snacks from the human production crew to roaming the fields in search of the best siesta spot. With spring in the air, alert viewers may catch a glimpse of cattle locking horns in the heat of pixilated romance.

"The Cow of the Day" offers star profiles, including that of Watson 101. Known simply as "101," he holds the world record for the steer with the longest horns, boasting a tip-to-tip measurement of 100 inches. He's outgoing and sociable and enjoys visiting with cows and people alike. 101 signed up and participated in the first day of cow-cam filming as a camera operator, but unfortunately ended up with a faulty transmitter connection and his footage was lost. He has since been lobbying for another chance.

Watson 101 is the world record holder for longest horns.

The "Pasture Blog" may offer features such as "Simple Reflections on a Cow's Life: A Great Day for Grass" and "The Merits of Progress" -- contemplations on civilization from Longhorns on the educational farm near the Johnson Space Center outside Houston, where the cattle roam and retired NASA rockets are put out to pasture. Educational content includes a look at the way the wireless cow-cam works.

The MooTube site is at http://www.mootube.com/

For even more cattle gazing (and grazing), tune in May 1-4 at 8:00 p.m. for TEXAS RANCH HOUSE, the new eight-part, PBS hands-on history series that sends a group of men and women to 1867 Texas to experience the harsh reality of the Old West. In the middle of a hot, forbidding landscape, with only the tools of the era at their disposal, these bold individuals face daily challenges like herding Longhorn cattle, cooking over an open fire and preparing for a cattle drive. With colliding cultures, and cowboys and ranchers who don't always see eye to eye, it will take cooperation, ingenuity and leadership for the ranch to survive. http://www.pbs.org/wnet/ranchhouse/

On Wednesday, April 26 at 8:00 p.m. (check local listings), step inside the colorful and competitive world of "Show Cattle" and follow the trials and tribulations of competitive cows in pursuit of the ultimate honor -- "Supreme Champion" -- at one of the most prestigious cattle shows on the East Coast, the Fryeburg Fair. See inside the little-known world of bovine makeovers, where pride and determination, not to mention steel-capped boots, transform a barnyard cow into a regional celebrity.

PBS is a private, nonprofit media enterprise that serves the nation's 348 public noncommercial television stations, reaching nearly 90 million people each week through on-air and online content. For content on a wide range of subjects go to http://www.pbs.org/

MooTube.com is designed to bring the highest quality, educational "cow content" to the American public.

MooTube.com is produced by Peel Interactive Media, Seattle, WA.

*No animals were harmed in the making of mootube.com, TEXAS RANCH HOUSE or "Show Cattle."

Web site: http://www.pbs.org/
http://www.pbs.org/wnet/ranchhouse
http://www.mootube.com/

Rap Star's Final Hours of Freedom Documented in BET's LIL' KIM:
COUNTDOWN TO LOCKDOWN Season Finale, Premiering Last night at 9:30 P.M. ET/PT

In tonight's season finale of BET's hit reality series LIL' KIM: COUNTDOWN TO LOCKDOWN, it is the day of her surrender and Lil' Kim's family, friends and business associates are trying to adjust to what life will be like once the pint-sized diva begins her 366-day jail term in Philadelphia's Federal Detention Center. Viewers can witness the final chapter in her journey during the episode premiere on Thursday, April 20 at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT.

"Today I'm going away. I'm turning myself in to U.S. Marshalls," says Lil' Kim in the show's intro. "It still feels surreal, but I gotta do what I gotta do."

The first order of business on her to-do list is to undergo a major transformation: though rap superstar Lil' Kim is the one who was convicted for false statements to a Grand Jury about an incident occurring outside a New York City radio station two years ago, Kimberly Jones is the one serving time. That means bye-bye weave, high-glam makeup, fashionista wardrobe and acrylic nails.

Lil' Kim also ponders what else she'd like to do before lockdown -- like maybe "have sex." Her mother, however, is just trying to cope with the fact that her daughter is going to jail in a matter of hours. She is so stressed that she actually faints when the family minister leads a prayer session with Lil' Kim and members of her close-knit inner circle.

BET's cameras captured the emotion as Lil' Kim and her entourage were transported from her New Jersey mansion to Philly on a tour bus. Initially, Lil' Kim's legal team believed their client would receive the same kind of 'Camp Cupcake' location granted to Martha Stewart to fulfill her term of incarceration. But instead of chilling in the West Virginia countryside, Lil' Kim will be serving hard time at Philly's Federal Detention Center. Despite this fact, Kim vows to remain strong and "thug it out."

As the bus draws closer to its destination, her entertainment attorney and business manager Londell is busy running interference with the feds who have issued a warrant for the rap diva's arrest because she is already an hour late. Though he's not a criminal trial attorney, Londell ruminates on whether "all of this could have been avoided" had he handled her defense.

That's a common theme among the other passengers on the bus -- particularly with Lil' Kim's brother, Chris. He still can't wrap his head around the how's and why's of his sister's incarceration. Just before stepping off the bus, an emotionally-spent but resolute Lil' Kim expresses her love for everyone, exhibiting the courage that has awed observers and "camp Kim" insiders alike with a simple statement:

"A cell can only hold my body, not my mind," she says to her supporters. "I love you, and I will see you soon -- sooner than you think."

LIL' KIM: COUNTDOWN TO LOCKDOWN debuted on BET on March 9. The six-episode series chronicling the rapper's last 14 days of freedom was produced by BET in collaboration with Edmonds Entertainment and Queen Bee Entertainment. The premiere episode drew a whopping 1.9 million viewers, making Lil' Kim the most watched original series in BET's 25-year history. It is also the highest- rated cable original series among black viewers this year.

Lil' Kim has been incarcerated since Sept. 19.

ABOUT BET

BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom, Inc. , is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 80 million households according to Nielsen media research, and can be seen in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of businesses extensions: BET.com, the Number 1 Internet portal for African Americans; BET Digital Networks -- BET J, BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; and BET Mobile, a service venture into the lucrative world of ring tones, games and video content for wireless devices.

ABOUT EDMONDS ENTERTAINMENT

Established by Tracey Edmonds and Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds, Edmonds Entertainment Group has soared like a floating star to the ranks of Hollywood's elite entertainment companies, producing award-winning film and television projects such as the critically acclaimed drama Soul Food for Showtime, winner of seven NAACP awards as well as the award winning Soul Food feature film. Other credits include the hit reality series College Hill for BET.

ABOUT QUEEN BEE ENTERTAINMENT

Launched in 1997 by multi-Platinum, Grammy Award-winning recording artist Kimberly "Lil' Kim" Jones, Queen Bee Entertainment is a multi-faceted company that consists of a record company, a film division and a non-profit organization just to name a few. For more information on Lil' Kim or Queen Bee Entertainment, please log on to http://www.lilkim.com/.

Source: BET (Black Entertainment Television)

Web site: http://www.bet.com/
http://www.lilkim.com/

Columbia Records Announces the Release of New Harry Connick, Jr. Collection 'Harry On Broadway, Act I'

2 CD Set Includes New Broadway Cast Recording of Roundabout Theatre Company's Critically-Acclaimed Hit Revival of 'The Pajama Game' Starring Harry Connick, Jr., Kelli O'Hara & Michael McKean plus Songs from 'Thou Shalt Not,' Composed and Performed by Harry Connick, Jr. featuring Kelli O'Hara 'Harry On Broadway, Act I' in Stores Tuesday, May 9

Columbia Records is set to release Harry On Broadway, Act I, a two CD collection of Broadway music performed by Harry Connick, Jr. The new collection includes separate discs devoted to The Pajama Game Cast Album and Thou Shalt Not and will be in stores on Tuesday, May 9.

The first disc included in Harry On Broadway, Act I is devoted to the new Broadway cast recording of the Roundabout Theatre Company's critically-acclaimed revival of "The Pajama Game," starring Harry Connick, Jr. in his Broadway stage debut, Kelli O'Hara, and Michael McKean. Based on the novel, "7-1/2 Cents," by Richard Bissell, "The Pajama Game" is set in the Sleep-Tite Pajama Factory during a strenuous labor negotiation and centers on the simmering romance between a handsome new manager and a lovely union representative that is threatened by the impending strike. With book by George Abbott and Richard Bissell and music and lyrics by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross, the original 1955 Broadway production of "The Pajama Game" won three Tony Awards(R), including Best Musical. The current production, part of the 40th anniversary season of the Roundabout Theatre Company (Todd Haimes, Artistic Director), is in performance at the American Airlines Theatre through June 17, 2006 and is directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner Kathleen Marshall.

http://www.roundabouttheatre.org/

In addition to stellar interpretations of the musical's classic songs including "Hey There," "Steam Heat," and "Hernando's Hideaway," both the Roundabout Theatre production and The Pajama Game Cast Album feature three songs -- "If You Win, You Lose" and "The Three of Us," written by Richard Adler, and "The World Around Us," written by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross -- not included in the original production.

The sold-out run of "The Pajama Game" has generated unanimous raves from the theater going public and press alike.

"Ms. O'Hara and Mr. Connick pulse with an immediacy that makes them, hands down, the hottest couple in the New York theater. With this show, she becomes a full-fledged musical star. So does Mr. Connick, making his Broadway debut as an actor ... If sexual chemistry was illegal, then Mr. Connick and Ms. O'Hara (not to mention their red-handed director and choreographer, Ms. Marshall) would be looking at long jail terms. Mr. Connick and Ms. O'Hara provide the fiery kick in a show that goes down as easily and intoxicatingly as spiked lemonade at a summer picnic."

- Ben Brantley, The New York Times

"Harry Connick Jr ... is absolutely sensational ... He's bright, funny, plays a mean piano and can even dance. This is a debut of legendary proportions."

- Clive Barnes, The New York Post

"That sound you hear coming from 42nd Street is the collective swoon of hundreds of women -- and quite a few men -- whenever Harry Connick Jr. eases into a song in 'The Pajama Game.'"

- David Rooney, Variety

"(Harry Connick, Jr.) has the confidence of talent -- and the sex appeal that goes with it. Connick -- a virtuoso at the keyboard -- launches into a thrilling stride-piano version of 'Hernando's Hideaway,' in what is one of the few genuinely showstopping musical moments in recent years."

- John Lahr, The New Yorker

Thou Shalt Not, the second CD in the Harry On Broadway, Act I collection, showcases "The Pajama Game" stars Connick and O'Hara performing jazz interpretations of songs written by Connick for the Broadway musical "Thou Shalt Not." The program includes songs featured in the 2001 Broadway production, which received a Tony nomination for Best Score, as well as music written for but not included in the production. With the exception of "The Other Hours," which Connick sang on his platinum-selling Sony/Columbia album Only You, none of the songs on Thou Shalt Not have been previously recorded in vocal versions or sung by Harry. The Harry Connick, Jr. Quartet, which features Charles "Ned" Goold (tenor saxophone), Neal Caine (bass), and Arthur Latin, II (drums), appear throughout the Thou Shalt Not album to provide Connick (who also plays piano) and O'Hara with swinging and sophisticated accompaniments.

Harry On Broadway, Act I

The Pajama Game Cast Album

1. Overture 2:25

2. Racing With The Clock 2:49

3. A New Town is a Blue Town 2:51

4. I'm Not At All In Love 4:06

5. I'll Never Be Jealous Again :24

6. Hey There 4:00

7. Sleep Tite :40

8. Her Is 2:42

9. Once-A-Year-Day 4:37

10. Once-A-Year-Day Playoff :50

11. Her Is (Reprise) 1:36

12. Small Talk 3:20

13. There Once Was A Man 3:31

14. Slowdown :54

15. Hey There (Reprise) 1:22

16. Steam Heat 4:47

17. The World Around Us 2:31

18. Hey There (Reprise)/If You Win,

You Lose 3:24

19. Think of the Time I Save 2:37

20. Hernando's Hideaway 8:02

21. The Three of Us 2:33

22. Seven and A Half Cents 4:34

23. There Once Was A Man (Reprise) :48

24. Hernando's Jive :52

25. The Pajama Game 2:59

Thou Shalt Not

1. Oh, My Dear (Something's Gone Wrong) 4:17

2. Can't We Tell 3:59

3. Such Love 5:48

4. I Like Love More 3:05

5. My Little World 4:30

6. All Things 2:22

7. I Need To Be In Love 4:29

8. Oh! Ain't That Sweet 4:00

9. Other Hours 3:48

(10) Take Advantage 4:45

(11) Take Her To The Mardi Gras 3:45

Executive Producer - Ann Marie Wilkins

Produced by Tracey Freeman & Harry Connick, Jr.

HARRY CONNICK, JR.

Over the past two decades, Harry Connick, Jr. has proven to be among the world's most successful and multi-talented artists. Connick first reached a mass audience as a pianist, singer and bandleader, securing his place in the public eye as a renaissance man and versatile entertainer. His love of music and performing dates back to his childhood in New Orleans, where he studied piano with such luminaries as James Booker and Ellis Marsalis. He first performed publicly at age five, appeared on his first jazz recording at age ten, and released his self-titled major label debut for Columbia Records at 19, only a year after his high school graduation and his move to New York City.

Connick achieved widespread success as a musician when director Rob Reiner asked him to contribute the score to his 1989 smash When Harry Met Sally, leading to Connick's first multi-platinum album (also his first big band recording). At the same time, Connick has built a successful film career, appearing both on screen and soundtracks. After making his acting debut in Memphis Belle in 1990, he has also been seen in Little Man Tate, Copycat, Independence Day, Hope Floats, and John Grisham's Mickey. His music has also contributed to the success of such films as Godfather III, Sleepless in Seattle and The Mask.

As a television performer, Connick has starred in two holiday specials built around his best selling holiday albums When My Heart Finds Christmas (CBS) and Harry for the Holidays (NBC), and two Great Performances/PBS concert specials Swingin' Out Live and Harry Connick, Jr.: Only You In Concert for which he won a 2004 Emmy. He teamed with IDT Entertainment (producers of The Simpsons) on The Happy Elf, a one-hour 3D animated holiday TV special which aired on NBC and was released on DVD during the 2005 holiday season. The story is based on his original children's song from the best selling Sony/Columbia Harry for the Holidays release. In addition, he starred opposite Glenn Close in the ABC TV adaptation of the musical South Pacific and played the recurring role of Dr. Leo Markus on the NBC series Will & Grace.

While Connick made his Broadway theatrical debut in The Pajama Game in 2006, he was no stranger to the New York theater scene. His sold-out concert production Harry Connick, Jr. and His Orchestra -- Live on Broadway, directed by Joe Layton was produced in 1990 at the Lunt-Fontaine Theatre. In 2001, he received a Tony nomination for Best Original Score for Thou Shalt Not, directed by Susan Stroman at the Plymouth Theatre.

All of these achievements -- not to mention his album sales of over 25 million, his three Grammy awards, Emmy award, and Tony nomination - reflect a creative energy that make Harry Connick Jr. unique in the world of contemporary entertainment.

http://www.harryconnickjr.com/

http://www.roundabouttheatre.org/

http://www.columbiarecords.com/

Source: Columbia Records

Netflix Introduces Comical New Creative to On-Air Line-Up

New 30-Second Spots Extend 'Movie Waiting for You at Home' Campaign on Network and Cable TV

Netflix , the world's largest online DVD rental service, today introduced new creative that extends the brand's "There's A Movie Waiting for You at Home" television advertising campaign. Three new 30-second spots that entertainingly highlight the ease and convenience of the company's subscription service will begin airing nationally on April 24, 2006.

A spot entitled "Gangster" features actor Tony Sirico of "The Sopranos" fame. Sirico portrays a gangster who comically "encourages" a homeowner to sign up for Netflix. The homeowner's wife puts her two cents in, at her peril.

A spot called "Office" features an exchange between two co-workers, one of whom is already a Netflix member. The member reflects that he probably has a movie waiting for him at home and he does indeed, as a gladiator is giving his wife a massage at that exact moment.

There is a second ending to the "Office" spot that will be alternated throughout the flight to keep viewers guessing. The second ending reflects that a movie is waiting at home as a spy hangs suspended in the member's living room.

The national TV campaign is airing across day parts on both network and cable television. The new creative joins the current rotation of existing spots which feature foreign, war and suspense themes in genre-oriented ads.

"The new creative refreshes the national campaign that brings to life both the Netflix service and the enjoyment of movies," said Neve Savage, vice president of marketing for Netflix.

The creative was developed by Goodby Silverstein and Partners, San Francisco. Copies of the new "There's a Movie Waiting for You at Home" spots are available for review.

Netflix is the world's largest online movie rental service, providing more than four million subscribers access to over 60,000 DVD titles. The company offers a variety of subscription plans, starting at $9.99 a month. There are no due dates, no late fees and no shipping fees. DVDs are delivered for free by the USPS from regional shipping centers located throughout the United States. Netflix can reach more than 90 percent of its subscribers with generally one business-day delivery. Netflix offers personalized movie recommendations to its members and has more than one billion movie ratings. Netflix also allows members to share and recommend movies to one another through its Friends(SM) feature. For more information, visit www.netflix.com.

Source: Netflix, Inc.

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

Penthouse to Acquire Jill Kelly Productions, Inc. Assets for $1.765 Million
Adult Industry Giant Wins Massive Film Library

Penthouse Magazine successfully bid to acquire the significant assets of Jill Kelly Productions, Inc. (JKP) at a California bankruptcy court auction on Monday, April 17, 2006. Competitors Playboy and New Frontier Media also participated.

The $1.765 million acquisition will further expand Penthouse's multi-media platform, which includes: publishing, television, Internet and mobile services and will make Penthouse an even bigger player in the adult DVD arena.

"The JKP assets contain a treasure trove of over 400 high-quality adult feature films and compilations, including over 60 as-yet-unreleased titles," says Penthouse CEO Marc H. Bell. "In this case, Jill Kelly's devoted fan base will drive viewership and sales of adult products and services to the mutual benefit of Penthouse and its mobile licensees, Internet webmasters and cable and satellite television affiliates."

"Platform wise, the acquisition will have a positive impact across the board," says Penthouse President of Entertainment, Jim English, "but will provide the greatest boost to our Penthouse TV broadcast network. The JKP library of movies will be a welcome addition to our much anticipated adult line-up of original programs and movies."

About Penthouse Media Group Inc.

Penthouse Media Group Inc. is an international, multimedia entertainment company. Founded in 1965, Penthouse is globally recognized as one of the premier brands in adult entertainment and publishes one of the most widely circulated groups of men's lifestyles publications. The company also operates http://www.penthouse.com/ , a popular adult entertainment website and provides adult video entertainment and a broad array of products and services via its numerous licensees.

Source: Penthouse Magazine

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

Baby Boom Icon Sally Field Takes on New Leading Role As Women's Health Advocate

For the First Time Field Talks Publicly About Her Diagnosis with Osteoporosis, Feelings on Aging, and Life Expectations

Actress Sally Field, the seemingly ageless icon of a Baby Boom generation that starts turning 60 this year, revealed that she was recently diagnosed with osteoporosis and is leading a public action campaign to educate and inspire women to fight the fragile bone disease.

Surprised by her recent diagnosis, Field chose to go public with her personal health and is launching Rally With Sally For Bone Health(SM), sponsored by Roche and GlaxoSmithKline. The campaign encourages women to protect themselves against fractures so they can remain active and reduce their risk of a debilitating injury.

"My generation has pushed for so much change to improve the lives of women, and today the biggest hurdle many of us face is our health," said Sally Field, the two-time Academy Award winner who has fought for women and workers' rights both on and off screen. "We've never been willing to sit back and take it -- and that includes osteoporosis too. I'm asking women to take action by talking to their doctors and joining me in this commitment at www.BoneHealth.com ."

Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become weaker, more fragile and susceptible to fractures. One in two women over age 50 will suffer an osteoporosis-related fracture in her lifetime,(1) which can result in significant pain, loss of height, and may cause women to lose their ability to dress themselves, stand up, and even walk.(2) It can also lead to possible institutionalization and even death.(3)

"Today, women in their 50s and 60s are leading more active lives than past generations, and it's essential for them to take care of their bones to continue their energetic lifestyles," said Dr. Robin Dore, a rheumatologist and clinical professor of medicine at UCLA. "I'm hopeful Sally's campaign will help women understand there are effective ways to protect their bones without disrupting their busy schedules."

Sally Field Kicks Off A New Kind of 60s Revolution

"Now that I'm almost 60, I want to help change the way women live as they age. We have fought so hard in our lives for things to be better, not to accept the status quo. We surely can't stop now that we are entering this next part of our lives," said Field. "For me, treating my osteoporosis means I can strengthen my bones and continue my active lifestyle without being so afraid of breaking a bone. I can't imagine not doing everything possible to manage my osteoporosis."

After being diagnosed with osteoporosis in early 2005, Field attempted lifestyle changes to slow the progression of her disease, but supplements alone were insufficient. Her doctor then recommended that she begin taking medicine, and he prescribed Boniva(R) (ibandronate sodium), a once-monthly tablet for postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Although 44 million Americans are at risk for or affected by osteoporosis,(4) it often goes undiagnosed until a fracture occurs.(5) The Surgeon General has declared osteoporosis a public health crisis on par with smoking and obesity.(6)

An Inspiring Peek into Sally Field's Personal Life

As part of the Rally With Sally For Bone Health multi-media campaign, Field and Dr. Dore are urging women to understand and manage postmenopausal osteoporosis so it doesn't slow them down. By logging onto http://www.bonehealth.com/ , women can join Field in making a formal commitment to maintain their bone health, a move that may improve their chances of sticking with it. They can also follow along with Field's monthly journal entries, where she shares what's new in her life and in her journey toward better bone health.

"I want to reach women in every way possible. I'm always talking to my sister and friends about changes in our bodies and our health -- like my osteoporosis -- and I want to encourage other women to do the same and also to talk to their doctor. Let's make the most of this next phase of our lives."

Free materials about osteoporosis are available by calling toll-free 877-BoneHealth (877-266-3432) or by accessing http://www.bonehealth.com/ .

About Boniva

Boniva Tablets are contraindicated in patients unable to stand or sit upright for at least 60 minutes, with uncorrected hypocalcemia, or with known hypersensitivity to any component of Boniva. Boniva, like other bisphosphonates administered orally, may cause upper gastrointestinal disorders such as dysphagia, esophagitis, and esophageal or gastric ulcer. Boniva is not recommended in patients with severe renal impairment. Adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D is important in all patients.

Patients have reported severe bone, joint and/or muscle pain after taking bisphosphonate therapy for osteoporosis. Additionally, osteonecrosis of the jaw has been reported in patients treated with bisphosphonates; most cases have been in cancer patients undergoing dental procedures.

The most commonly reported adverse events with once-monthly Boniva regardless of causality were abdominal pain (Boniva 150 mg 7.8 percent vs. Boniva 2.5 mg 5.3 percent), hypertension (6.3 percent vs. 7.3 percent), dyspepsia (5.6 percent vs. 7.1 percent), arthralgia (5.6 percent vs. 3.5 percent), nausea (5.1 percent vs. 4.8 percent) and diarrhea (5.1 percent vs. 4.1 percent). For complete prescribing information for Boniva, see contact information at the end of the news release or go to http://www.4boniva.com/

About Roche and GlaxoSmithKline

F. Hoffmann-La Roche (Roche) and GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) co-promote Boniva for the treatment and prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis in all countries except Japan. The Roche and GSK collaboration provides expertise and commitment to bringing new osteoporosis therapies to market as quickly as possible.

Roche is one of the world's leading innovation-driven healthcare groups. Its core businesses are pharmaceuticals and diagnostics. Roche has alliances and research and development agreements with numerous partners, including majority ownership interests in Genentech and Chugai. For further information, visit http://www.rocheusa.com/ .

GSK, one of the world's leading research-based pharmaceutical and healthcare companies, is committed to improving the quality of human life by enabling people to do more, feel better and live longer. For company information, visit GSK on the World Wide

Web at http://www.gsk.com/ .

1 "Osteoporosis: Progress and Promise." National Institute of Arthritis

and Musculoskeletal Diseases. Bethesda, MD; August 2000.

http://www.niams.nih.gov/hi/topics/osteoporosis/opbkgr.htm

2 Bone Health and Osteoporosis: A Report of the Surgeon General.

Rockville, MD: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of

the Surgeon General; 2004.

3 Doherty DA, Sanders KM, Kotowicz MA, Prince, RL, Lifetime and Five-Year

Age-Specific Risks of First and Subsequent Osteoporotic Fractures in

Postmenopausal Women. Osteoporosis International: 2001: 12:16-23.

4 America's Bone Health: The State of Osteoporosis and Low Bone Mass in

Our Nation. The National Osteoporosis Foundation: February 2002

5 "Fast Facts," National Osteoporosis Foundation

(http://www.nof.org/osteoporosis/diseasefacts.htm )

6 Bone Health and Osteoporosis: A Report of the Surgeon General.

Rockville, MD: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of

the Surgeon General; 2004.

Source: Roche and GlaxoSmithKline

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

Sony Computer Entertainment America Lowers the Price of PlayStation(R)2 Computer Entertainment System to $129.99

Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. today announced that it has made its PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system more affordable than ever throughout North America. Effective immediately, consumers can purchase the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $129.99/$139.99 CND. The company expects this latest price move to fuel consumer demand even further.

PlayStation 2 is the most popular gaming platform in North America, Europe/PAL territories and Japan/Asia, the only gaming platform to enjoy such widespread global success. To date, more than 101 million PlayStation 2 units and approximately one billion pieces of software for the PlayStation 2 have shipped worldwide, making it the fastest-selling gaming platform in the world. According to The NPD Group, PlayStation 2 continues to lead console unit market share with 55.6 percent in the U.S., more than double of any other console on the market to date. PlayStation 2 also leads on the software front with nearly a 70 percent lead over any other competitor when it comes to software titles available at market in March *.

"While we continue to innovate and design groundbreaking new products, we remain dedicated to our long-term vision for the PlayStation 2 platform," said Kaz Hirai, president and CEO, Sony Computer Entertainment America. "Now even more consumers, as well as casual gamers, can experience what the PlayStation 2 platform has to offer -- an unrivaled combination of the largest selection of software, a growing community for online gaming and one-of-a-kind accessories such as EyeToy(TM) -- at a new value price."

Sony Computer Entertainment America plans to support this new pricing initiative through marketing activities covering print and online advertising, and in-store merchandising support. Print advertising breaks on April 27th and will reach millions of readers nationwide through placements in a variety of daily newspapers including the Boston Globe, Chicago Tribune, Los Angeles Times, New York Times and Philadelphia Inquirer. Online advertising will also begin on April 27th on sites such as AOL.

About Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation(R) and PS one(TM) game console, the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system and the PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable) entertainment system. The PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system is set to revolutionize the home entertainment market, offering the most compelling interactive content and the capability to be used as a network terminal in the coming broadband era. PSP is a new portable entertainment system that allows users to enjoy 3D games, with high-quality full-motion video, and high-fidelity stereo audio.

Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation family of products and develops, publishes, markets and distributes software for the PS one game console, the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system and the PSP system for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif. Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Source: Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

Web site: http://www.us.playstation.com/

THE TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL AND UNIVERSAL PICTURES PRESENT THE OPENING NIGHT OF THE FIFTH ANNUAL TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL AND THE WORLD PREMIERE OF 'UNITED 93' AT ZIEGFELD THEATRE IN MANHATTAN TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2006

WHAT: The opening night of the Fifth Annual Tribeca Film Festival

and the world premiere of the drama "UNITED 93"

WHO: "UNITED 93" writer/director/producer Paul Greengrass;

producers Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner and Lloyd Levin;

executive producers Debra Hayward and Liza Chasin;

filmmaker Sidney Kimmel; members of the ensemble cast of

actors who portray the passengers, crew and hijackers of

United Airlines Flight 93 in the film; family members of

the crew and passengers who lost their lives on Flight 93

on September 11, 2001.

Plus Tribeca Film Festival founders Robert De Niro,

Jane Rosenthal and Craig Hatkoff and many other

special guests.

WHERE: Ziegfeld Theatre

141 West 54th Street

New York City, NY

WHEN: Tuesday, April 25, 2006

5:00 PM Press Call Time

6:30 PM Filmmaker and Family Arrivals

7:30 PM Screening Begins

"UNITED 93" comes to theaters nationwide on Friday, April 28, 2006.

TRANSPONDER INFORMATION:

Feed Date: Tuesday, April 25, 2006

Feed Time: 9:30 - 10:00 PM EDT

Coordinates: C-Band: AMC3 (C)/Transponder 5/Audio 6.2 & 6.8

DL Freq: 3800 (H)

Re-Feed Date: Wednesday, April 26, 2006

Re-Feed Time: 3:30 - 4:00 AM EDT

Re-Feed Time: 6:30 - 7:00 AM EDT

Coordinates: C-Band: AMC 3 (C)/Transponder 5/Audio 6.2 & 6.8

DL Freq: 3800 (H)

Source: Universal Pictures

Verizon Named Presenting Sponsor of Merriweather Post Pavilion's Summer 2006 Concert Series

Verizon to Demonstrate New FiOS TV, Broadband Services at Concerts

Music fans can catch more than the latest acts this summer at Merriweather Post Pavilion here: They'll also be able to experience the hottest broadband and video products on the market - Verizon FiOS services.

Verizon has signed a contract with Merriweather Post Pavilion to be the presenting sponsor of this year's Summer Concert Series, which begins April 22.

As part of the agreement, Verizon will demonstrate and take orders for its new, fiber-optic FiOS TV and FiOS Internet Service at Merriweather events. The Verizon name also will be included in signage and advertising for Merriweather's Summer Concert Series.

"We are extremely pleased to partner with Verizon, a company clearly on the leading edge of technology," said Jean Parker, general manager of Merriweather Post Pavilion. "With Merriweather located right in the heart of FiOS TV territory, this is the right fit at the right time."

In March, Verizon unveiled FiOS TV to approximately 11,000 Howard County residents in Clarksville, Columbia and Ellicott City - the first communities in the state to receive the all-digital, fiber-based video service. The company plans to expand FiOS TV availability to other Maryland communities as it obtains necessary local cable franchises.

"This is not cable TV. This is not satellite. This is FiOS TV," said Mary Ellen Payne, Verizon's vice president of marketing and sales in the Potomac Region. "Verizon has harnessed the speed and capacity of fiber-optic technology to create a revolutionary, new communications and entertainment experience. And we'll showcase FiOS at the region's premier entertainment venue."

Verizon, the only company building a large-scale, all-digital fiber-optic communications network directly to customers, launched FiOS TV in Keller, Texas, last September. In addition to Maryland and Texas, the company now offers the service in parts of Northern Virginia, as well as California, Florida, Massachusetts and New York.

Delivered over Verizon's fiber-to-the-premises network, FiOS TV is designed to be a formidable competitor to cable and satellite. The Verizon all-fiber network is currently under construction in more than half the states where the company offers landline communications services, including numerous Maryland communities in Anne Arundel, Howard, Montgomery and Prince George's counties.

The network brings the power and capacity of fiber optics directly into people's homes and has industry-leading quality and reliability. Fiber delivers amazingly sharp pictures and sound, and has the capacity to transmit a wide array of high-definition programming that is so clear and intense it seems to leap from the TV screen. It also delivers Internet download speeds of up to 30 Mbps (megabits per second) and upload speeds of up to 5 Mbps as well as high-quality voice services.*

* Note: Actual (throughput) speeds will vary.

About Merriweather Post Pavilion:

Merriweather Post Pavilion - with its natural, outdoor concert setting - has hosted a diverse range of artists and events, offering the area's absolute best in contemporary entertainment for over 35 years. Conveniently located in the Baltimore/Washington corridor off Route 29 in Columbia, Merriweather is nestled within the 40 preserved acres known as Symphony Woods. This year's Summer Concert Series kicks off April 22 with a performance by Black Eyed Peas. For more information, visit www.merriweathermusic.com.

About Verizon:

Verizon Communications Inc. , a Dow 30 company, is a leader in delivering broadband and other communication innovations to wireline and wireless customers. Verizon operates America's most reliable wireless network, serving 51.3 million customers nationwide; one of the most expansive wholly-owned global IP networks; and one of the nation's premier wireline networks, serving home, business and wholesale customers. Based in New York, Verizon has a diverse workforce of approximately 250,000 and generates annual consolidated operating revenues of approximately $90 billion. For more information, visit www.verizon.com.

VERIZON'S ONLINE NEWS CENTER: Verizon news releases, executive speeches and biographies, media contacts, high quality video and images, and other information are available at Verizon's News Center on the World Wide Web at www.verizon.com/news. To receive news releases by e-mail, visit the News Center and register for customized automatic delivery of Verizon news releases.

Source: Verizon

Web site: http://www.verizon.com/
http://www.merriweathermusic.com/

LiveWorld Selected to Provide Online Community Services for TV Guide.com
TV Guide's Watercooler TV Community Launches on Platform Provided by Leading Online Community Agency

LiveWorld, Inc. (Pinksheets: LVWD.PK), a leading online community agency, announced today that TV Guide Online has selected LiveWorld as the provider of its new community services collectively know as The Watercooler, to be featured on www.tvguide.com. The first phase of these services launched during April at http://community.tvguide.com/ .

"TV Guide has been a daily part of the life of the American community for decades. With the launch of this new area of our site, we're happy to bring television fans together to discuss their favorite shows and characters as part of a living social network on the web," said Paul Greenberg, General Manager TV Guide Online. "We chose LiveWorld's Community Center platform and skills at managing and moderating communities as the best of breed solution for TV Guide and our community."

The first phase of the services being provided by the community area of TVGuide.com includes columnist blogs, member blogs, member expressive profiles and social networking services, with more to come throughout the year.

"TV Guide has a deep understanding that the television experience goes beyond the box and to the fabric of how Americans relate to each other and their daily lives as a community," said Peter Friedman, Chairman & CEO of LiveWorld. "The TV Guide community is indeed the online watercooler: expression, conversation and social networking for everything TV-the shows, the movies, the news, the gossip, and most important, our daily lives and relationships intertwined together with this medium."

About LiveWorld, Inc.

LiveWorld is a leading full service online community agency that creates, operates, and manages loyalty marketing, customer support, and business intelligence communities based on the Company's unique community applications platform and strategic community model. LiveWorld solutions enable Fortune 1000 companies to strengthen customer relationships, increase revenues, and reduce costs. Clients include companies such as America Online, A&E Television Networks, AOL UK, BEA Systems, eBay, The Campbell Soup Company, Discovery Communications, Dove, HBO, Intel, Intuit Inc., MINI Cooper USA, PayPal, QVC, Slim-Fast, Tulane University, TV Guide, The Walt Disney Company, and Warner Brothers. LiveWorld is headquartered in Los Gatos, California and deploys its services in over 30 country-language combinations.

Safe Harbor" Statement Under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act:

This press release contains forward-looking information concerning LiveWorld's future expectations, forecasts and prospects. These statements include those regarding LiveWorld's current or future financial performance including, potential revenue. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed in the forward looking statements made by LiveWorld as a result of, among other things, the state of the economy, LiveWorld's ability to successfully deliver upon its contractual commitments, clients continuing their ongoing relationships with the Company, LiveWorld's ability to acquire new customers, changing accounting treatments, and other risks applicable to the Company. (See the Company's Q3, 2002 10Q filing for a list that includes other possible risk factors.)

Source: LiveWorld, Inc.

Web site: http://community.tvguide.com/
http://www.liveworld.com/

Poll: No Red Carpet Treatment for Hollywood Celebs When American Adults Think Backyard Barbeque

May Is National Barbeque Month and a New Smokey Bones Survey Reveals American Adults Would Rather Grill With the Nation's Leaders Than Movie Stars

American adults don't much care to invite top Hollywood couples to their backyard barbeques.

But, public officials and music stars are a different matter, according to a nationwide survey conducted by Harris Interactive(R) and released today by Smokey Bones Barbeque & Grill.

When asked to choose from five couples, Hollywood tabloid favorites Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie (12%) and Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher (10%) received less than half the votes of Bill and Hillary Clinton (29%), George and Laura Bush (25%) and music superstars Faith Hill and Tim McGraw (also 25%).

The survey was commissioned by the 126-restaurant company Smokey Bones Barbeque & Grill for National Barbeque Month, which occurs each year in May. Smokey Bones is the leading casual dining restaurant company serving flame- grilled and slow-smoked meals.

"Personally, we would be pleased to share a juicy Flat Iron steak, some of Smokey Bones' signature burgers and a grilled Oregon Pear and Spinach salad with the Clintons and the Bushes," said JJ Buettgen, president of Smokey Bones. "Faith Hill and Tim McGraw are welcome to come by and play a few favorites, too. Grilling on the barbeque is part of the American experience. Listening to music and talking politics by the grill fits right in."

Other survey results:

* Most U.S. adults eat barbequed or grilled food (98%), and the vast majority (94%) agree that an outdoor barbeque is a great way for getting together with friends and family.

* But, 3 percent of U.S. adults admitted that they have used a fire extinguisher when barbequing. (Which is one more reason they might want to eat at Smokey Bones instead.)

* Three-quarters (75%) of U.S. adults are eating as much or more barbequed or grilled food than they were three years ago.

* Nearly nine in 10 U.S. adults own a barbeque grill (88%), and among those who do, beef (82%) and chicken (80%) are the top two foods they enjoy cooking most, over pork (47%), vegetables (36%), seafood (31%) and fruit (4%).

* Men and women are almost equally likely to own a grill (90% men vs. 86% women), yet men are more likely than women to enjoy barbequing or grilling more than other methods of cooking (72% men vs. 62% women).

Harris Interactive(R) fielded the online survey on behalf of Smokey Bones Barbeque and Grill between March 31 and April 4, 2006 among a nationwide sample of 2,364 U.S. adults 18 years of age or older. The data were weighted to be representative of the total U.S. adult population on the basis of region, age within gender, education, household income, race/ethnicity and propensity to be online. Although this online sample is not a probability sample, one can say with 95 percent certainty that the results for the overall sample of adults have a sampling error of plus or minus 3 percentage points.

Smokey Bones operates restaurants in the Eastern and Midwestern United States. Reflecting the nation's barbeque and grilling preferences, Smokey Bones recently added a Flat Iron steak, two signature burgers and two chicken dishes to its menu and will introduce another three chicken entrees this summer.

The restaurant's menu already features flame-grilled sandwiches and steaks, including half-pound Angus and Buffalo burgers, herbed-grilled Mahi- Mahi sandwiches, Portobello Chicken, and unique salads, such as a grilled Oregon Pear and Spinach Salad. Slow-smoked specialties include fall-off-the- bone Baby-back and St. Louis-style ribs and hand-pulled pork.

Smokey Bones features a rustic mountain lodge dining environment. The building uses tall timbers, stacked stone, fireplaces and images you would see in the mountains. The atmosphere is enhanced with television screens throughout the building showing guests' favorite television programs. Each table has an audio box so guests may listen to the television program they choose -- or mute the sound altogether.

Entree prices range from $6 to $19. The restaurant also has a party pack menu that feeds groups of 10 to more than 2,500 people.

Smokey Bones is owned and operated by Darden Restaurants, Inc. , the world's largest casual dining restaurant company. Darden also owns Red Lobster, Olive Garden and Bahama Breeze restaurants. For more information, please visit http://www.smokeybones.com/ .

Harris Interactive Inc. (based in Rochester, New York, is the 13th largest and the fastest-growing market research firm in the world, most widely known for The Harris Poll(R) and for its pioneering leadership in the online market research industry.

Source: Smokey Bones Barbeque & Grill

Web site: http://www.smokeybones.com/
http://www.harrisinteractive.com/

Street Magic Popularity Not Just an 'Ellusion'

Television Specials Such as David Blaine's 'Drowned Alive' Help Spike Popularity of Powerful Street Magic

On May 8, 2006, David Blaine will perform another breathtaking performance on ABC dubbed "Drowned Alive," bringing another spike to the growing trend of street magic. "The number of people interested in learning the art of street magic is phenomenal," says Brad Christian, president and founder of Ellusionist.com, the MTV of online magic retailers whose products center on street magic.

The stunt will feature Blaine encased in a large aquarium for seven days -- in addition to an attempt to break the record of holding one's breath underwater. The current record is set at 8 minutes and 58 seconds. Performances like "Drowned Alive" show the extent of what a magician can do: creating a fascination in magic in the general public and the entertainment world.

"When a special like David's runs, our lines start ringing off the hook. From teenagers and college kids to teachers and business people, everyone wants to learn how to do some magic to impress friends and develop a hidden talent," continued Christian. Blaine, who has brought the term "street magic" into the public's vocabulary, is just one of the magicians that has propelled the profession/hobby into thousands of homes across the world.

Other magicians bringing magic to the mainstream include Criss Angel, whose hit television show Mindfreak on A&E has helped popularity soar. Criss Angel's street magic received the highest ratings in A&E history, and they immediately extended Mindfreak to a three-year contract.

"The experience of performing magic for people is indescribable," said Ellusionist.com creative executive and 18-year-old illusionist Jonathan Bayme. "Once you perform your first trick, you're hooked. The goal of each training product we sell is to make this talent attainable to the average person."

There is no doubt that with the next season of Mindfreak currently being filmed and Blaine's two-hour special airing on May 8, there will be another spike in the popularity of "ellusionists" around the world. Magic is also a surefire tool to give kids confidence in themselves and develop a skill that opens doors and entertains at the same time.

To help with learning, Ellusionist uses an MTV style and mindset to rivet attention. The site offers a powerful product selection that caters to those interested in learning the art of magic from the ground up.

Ellusionist.com teaches the actual tricks David Blaine performs in addition to its own hard-hitting brand of street magic. Ellusionist carries all products by David Blaine including the new Split Spades Playing Cards, the Blaine Fearless DVD, Blaine's book Mysterious Stranger, and full color posters signed and numbered by Blaine.

Source: Ellusionist.com

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

Psychics Make Contact During Filming of Seance to Contact John Lennon

'The Spirit of John Lennon' 90 Minute Special to Air April 24th on iN DEMAND Pay-Per-View World Renowned Psychics Joe Power, Patricia Bankins and Deepankar Virat Reach Out to Departed Beatle

Starcast Productions announced today that during the filming of the upcoming iN DEMAND pay-per-view special, "The Spirit of John Lennon" possible contact with an otherworldly entity or entities was made by the renowned psychics participating in the event. Airing on Monday, April 24 on iN DEMAND Pay-Per-View, the 90 minute special features world-renowned psychics Joe Power, Patricia Bankins and Deepankar Virat.

Filmed in India, New York City and Los Angeles, the special follows the psychics as they travel to various sites significant to the former Beatle, reaching out to him with electrifying results. A team of technical experts is currently reviewing the seance footage to attempt to verify the images and sounds captured as emanating from the spirit of John Lennon.

"I am a dyed-in-the-wool skeptic by nature, but have been simply amazed at what we have seen and heard during the filming of this special," said Paul Sharratt executive producer for Starcast Productions. "I am withholding judgment for the moment, but believe the audience will be bowled over by what we have captured on tape."

During the special, music professionals and individuals who worked with John Lennon will be used to verify whether they believe contact was made.

"I have no doubt in my mind that we were able to make contact with the spirit of John Lennon," said psychic Joe Power. "John was a very spiritual person who was taken from the world in the worst possible way and he wants to reach out. It's not a question of us going out and finding John, it is making ourselves available for him to come to us."

Debuting on iN DEMAND Pay-Per-View April 24th at 9:00 p.m. EST. For more information and to view a trailer of the seance, log on to www.spiritoflennon.com.

The Spirit of John Lennon is being done without the knowledge or consent of John Lennon's Estate.

About Starcast Productions

Starcast Productions, headed by award-winning producer Paul Sharratt, is the company behind a number of high profile projects including "The Spirit of Diana." The special became an international television event as captivated viewers watched world renowned psychics and friends reach out to the spirit world in an attempt to communicate with Princess Diana.

"The Life of Leonardo DaVinci," the Australian/American series "Killer Instinct," and the successful wildlife series "Into the Wild" are among other noteworthy Starcast works.

About Associated Television International

Associated Television International has been successfully producing and distributing television series, specials and feature films for over three decades. ATI's corporate mission is to produce projects that are both educational and entertaining for audiences worldwide. Its programs have aired on all US broadcast networks and the major cable channels. In the last year, such programs as "The National Health Test," "Laura McKenzie's Traveler," "The Unauthorized Biography of Johnny Cash," and "Unlocking DaVinci's Code" all received acclaim.

Source: Starcast Productions

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

Vivendi Universal Games Names Martin Tremblay to Global Product Development Position

Vivendi Universal Games ("VU Games") announced today that Martin Tremblay has joined as President, Worldwide Studios. In his new role, Martin will be responsible for setting the vision for the company's products, overseeing operations of internal studios, and managing external development relationships. Martin will be based out of the company's Los Angeles headquarters.

In his previous position as President and Chief Operating Officer of Ubisoft's internationally acclaimed Montreal studio, Martin helped build the studio from 350 to 1400 people. Under his leadership, it became the second largest games development studio in the world, with several top-selling franchises which are among the industry's leading games.

"We are delighted to have Martin join Vivendi Universal Games. He has the vision, enthusiasm and track record to elevate the company to a leadership position in the industry," said Bruce Hack, Chief Executive Officer, VU Games. "We know that Martin will harness the immense creativity of VU Games' development executives and studios to create top tier mass market experiences for gamers around the globe."

In his role as President, Worldwide Studios, Martin will report to VU Games' CEO Bruce Hack. Peter Della Penna will continue as Chief Operating Officer, Worldwide Studios, reporting to Martin.

"I am excited about working with Peter and the other talented individuals at Vivendi Universal Games," said Martin Tremblay. "It is a great opportunity and I am confident that our teams will be able to invent exciting, top quality games that will thrill gamers everywhere."

Blizzard Entertainment is a stand-alone division reporting to VU Games' CEO, and not part of Martin's product development mandate.

About Vivendi Universal Games

Vivendi Universal Games (www.vugames.com) is a global developer, publisher and distributor of multi-platform interactive entertainment. The company is the leader in the subscription-based massively multi-player online (MMO) games category, holds leading positions in the PC, console, handheld and mobile games markets, and is an emerging player in casual online games. VU Games' two principal studios are Blizzard Entertainment, headquartered in Irvine, CA, the creator of World of Warcraft(TM), Diablo(R), StarCraft(R), and Warcraft(R); and Sierra Entertainment, headquartered in Los Angeles, which includes Radical Entertainment, Swordfish Studios, High Moon Studios, and Massive Entertainment. Sierra is the owner of Crash Bandicoot(R), Spyro The Dragon(R), Empire Earth(R), Leisure Suit Larry(TM), and Ground Control(R). VU Games maintains strategic relationships with industry leading content partners, including Universal Music Group, NBC Universal, Twentieth Century Fox, and Ludlum Entertainment.

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

Source: Vivendi Universal Games

Cirque du Soleil at a glance

It all started in Baie-Saint-Paul, a small town near Quebec City , in Canada . There, in the early eighties, a band of colourful characters roamed the streets, striding on stilts, juggling, dancing, breathing fire, and playing music. They were Les Échassiers de Baie-Saint-Paul (the Baie-Saint-Paul Stiltwalkers), a street theatre group founded by Gilles Ste-Croix. Already, the townsfolk were impressed and intrigued by the young performers – who included one Guy Laliberté who became founder and CEO of Cirque du Soleil .

The troupe went on to found Le Club des talons hauts (the High Heels Club), and then, in 1982, organized La Fête foraine de Baie-Saint-Paul, a cultural event in which street performers from all over met to exchange ideas and enliven the streets of the town for a few days. La Fête foraine was repeated in 1983 and 1984. Le Club des talons hauts attracted notice, and Guy Laliberté, Gilles Ste-Croix and their cronies began to cherish a crazy dream: to create a Quebec circus and take the troupe travelling around the world.

In 1984, Quebec City was celebrating the 450th anniversary of Canada 's discovery by Jacques Cartier, and they needed a show that would carry the festivities out across the province. Guy Laliberté presented a proposal for a show called Cirque du Soleil (Circus of the Sun), and succeeded in convincing the organizers. And Cirque du Soleil hasn't stopped since!

A Few statistics

In 1984, 73 people worked for Cirque du Soleil . Today, the business has over 3,000 employees worldwide, including close to 900 artists.

At the Montreal International Headquarters alone, there are close to 1,600 employees.

The average age of employees is 35.

Cirque's employees and artists represent over 40 nationalities and speak 25 different languages.

Since 1984, Cirque du Soleil 's touring shows have made nearly 250 stops in over 100 cities around the world.

Over 50 million spectators have seen a Cirque du Soleil show.

More than 7 million people will see a Cirque du Soleil show in 2006.

Cirque du Soleil hasn't received any grants from the public or private sectors since 1992.

Cirque du Soleil Shows
In 2006, Cirque du Soleil will present thirteen different shows around the world:
Touring shows
Varekai (North American tour)
Dralion (European tour)
Quidam (Australian tour)
Alegría (Japanese tour)
Saltimbanco (Mexican tour)
Corteo (North American tour)
(North American tour) (European tour) (Australian tour) (Japanese tour) (Mexican tour) (North American tour)
Resident shows
"O" ( Las Vegas , Nevada )
Mystère ( Las Vegas , Nevada )
ZUMANITY, Another Side of Cirque du Soleil ( Las Vegas , Nevada )
LaNouba ( Orlando , Florida )
KÀ ( Las Vegas , Nevada )
A new show at The Mirage ( Las Vegas , Nevada ) in 2006
"O" ( Las Vegas , Nevada ) ( Las Vegas , Nevada ) ( Las Vegas , Nevada ) ( Orlando , Florida ) KÀ ( Las Vegas , Nevada )A new show at The Mirage ( Las Vegas , Nevada ) in 2006
Arena show
DELIRIUM (North American tour)
DELIRIUM (North American tour)
Cirque du Soleil's other shows since 1984:
Cirque du Soleil
La Magie continue
We Reinvent the Circus
Nouvelle Expérience
Fascination
A joint project with Circus Knie
A joint project with Circus Knie (North American tour) (European tour) (Australian tour) (Japanese tour) (Mexican tour) (North American tour)"O" ( Las Vegas , Nevada ) ( Las Vegas , Nevada ) ( Las Vegas , Nevada ) ( Orlando , Florida ) KÀ ( Las Vegas , Nevada )A new show at The Mirage ( Las Vegas , Nevada ) in 2006DELIRIUM (North American tour)A joint project with Circus Knie

Resident Theatres
Walt Disney World® Resort in Orlando , Florida (La Nouba)
Treasure Island in Las Vegas , Nevada (Mystère)
Bellagio in Las Vegas , Nevada ("O")
New York New York Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas , Nevada (ZUMANITY)
MGM Grand in Las Vegas , Nevada (KÀ)
Walt Disney World® Resort in Orlando , Florida ()Treasure Island in Las Vegas , Nevada () Bellagio in Las Vegas , Nevada ("O") New York New York Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas , Nevada () MGM Grand in Las Vegas , Nevada (KÀ)

The Mirage Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada (for a new show to open in 2006)

Major Awards
Emmy, Drama Desk, Bambi, Ace, Gémeaux, Gemini, Félix and a Rose d'Or de Montreux.
Emmy, Drama Desk, Bambi, Ace, Gémeaux, Gemini, Félix and a Rose d'Or de Montreux. Areas of Activity

Cirque du Soleil 's challenge is to continue to grow at a sustainable pace while offering its creators the freedom to dream the wildest dreams and make them come true. Cirque du Soleil is primarily a creative content provider for a wide variety of unique projects. The heart of Cirque du Soleil 's activity remains creating live shows and presenting them under big tops or in theatres. Since 1984 over fifty creators from the four corners of the globe have contributed their talents to this end.
Cirque du Soleil 's challenge is to continue to grow at a sustainable pace while offering its creators the freedom to dream the wildest dreams and make them come true. Cirque du Soleil is primarily a creative content provider for a wide variety of unique projects. The heart of Cirque du Soleil 's activity remains creating live shows and presenting them under big tops or in theatres. Since 1984 over fifty creators from the four corners of the globe have contributed their talents to this end.

In addition to creating shows, Cirque du Soleil has for many years created original and innovative content for television, DVD and film through its multimedia division called Cirque du Soleil Images. In every project, Cirque du Soleil Images aims to capture all the spirit of Cirque du Soleil shows. Its creations have been awarded numerous prizes and distinctions. Among them are Midnight Sun, which won a Gemini Award in 2005; Cirque du Soleil Fire Within, which won a DVD Excellence Award in 2005 as well as a Primetime Emmy Award and two Gemini Awards in 2003; and Cirque du Soleil Presents Dralion, which took three Primetime Emmy Awards in 2001.

The Cirque du Soleil Musique recording company handles the creation, production and sale of the music associated with current and future Cirque du Soleil shows, and to the career development of emerging artists from around the world through the Cirque du Soleil Musique record label.

Cirque du Soleil is also diversifying its commercial activities by targeting another niche: merchandising and licensing. Just like its multimedia projects, all merchandising and licensing activities must meet the same stringent standards of quality and originality that apply to its shows.

Cirque du Soleil always seeks to imbue each new project with the energy and spirit that are the hallmark of its shows.

Nick at Nite to Produce Original Sitcom Based on Network's First Funniest Mom in America Winner

Celebrated Comedian and Writer Carol Leifer to Scribe and Executive Produce

Nick at Nite has secured celebrity comic and writer Carol Leifer ("Seinfeld," "The Larry Sanders Show") to pen and executive produce the sitcom pilot for Darlene Westgor, who won the chance to develop her own show with the network when she was named Nick at Nite's "Funniest Mom in America" in 2005. The pilot, tentatively titled "Darlene," is based on Westgor's real life as a single, divorced mom living and working in Minnesota. The pilot is expected to go into pre-production immediately with plans to shoot in Los Angeles in May. Gil Junger ("Ellen," "Hope & Faith," "8 Simple Rules ..." ) will direct. Sal Maniaci also executive produces on the project and TV Land's Marco Bresaz is executive in charge of production.

Set in the Minneapolis suburbs, "Darlene" focuses on the ins and outs of Westgor's life as a single parent raising two teenagers while managing her job at an Urgent Care Center. Darlene responds to these everyday situations with the wit and sarcasm that made her the hands-down winner of the first "Funniest Mom in America" contest.

"We are thrilled to have Carol, Gil and Darlene working together to bring this show to life," states Sal Maniaci, Senior Vice President of Development and Original Production for TV Land and Nick at Nite. "Carol's extremely funny and has a keen ear for Darlene's voice. Gil is the perfect guy to nurture talent and help build a show around this premise. The caliber of talent on this show is phenomenal. We definitely hit the trifecta."

"The minute I saw Darlene perform I knew she had a hysterical and unique take on being a single, working Mom today," said Carol Leifer. "She reminds me of Roseanne when she first started out -- a completely relatable act to millions of women out there."

Carol Leifer is an Emmy-nominated writer/producer ("Seinfeld," "The Larry Sanders Show," "Saturday Night Live") who has also written and produced five of her own stand-up comedy specials, the most recent being for Comedy Central. She continues to tour around the country as one of the opening acts for Jerry Seinfeld. She will be appearing as a guest star on "Will & Grace" on May 4th.

Having worked on over 600 episodes of television, Gil Junger is a veteran producer and director. Directing credits include "Hope and Faith," "8 Simple Rules," "According to Jim," "Dharma and Greg" and "Blossom." Additionally, Junger was nominated for an Emmy and Director's Guild Award for directing the episode of "Ellen" in which the lead character, played by Ellen DeGeneres, reveals that she is a lesbian. Gil has also directed feature films including "10 Things I Hate About You."

Darlene Westgor was selected to be a part of Nick at Nite's first "Search for the Funniest Mom in America" contest and in May 2005, performed before an audience and a panel of celebrity judges -- one of whom was Carol Leifer. The judges decided that Westgor was "The Funniest Mom in America." As the winner of the competition, Darlene received a development deal with the network as the top prize. Darlene is the mother of two boys and now has started a career in stand-up comedy.

Back for a second season, Nick at Nite's "Search for the Funniest Mom in America 2" kicked off on the network on April 4. Darlene Westgor, last year's winner, makes a cameo appearance in the show when she attends a party with the moms and ends up being a voice of encouragement and inspiration. Hosted by actress Katey Sagal, this five-part reality series will culminate with an hour-long finale on Tuesday, May 9 from 9:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (ET/PT) in which judges Mario Cantone (Broadway's "Laugh Whore," "Sex and the City"), Alfonso Ribeiro ("Fresh Prince of Bel Air," "All of Us") and Carol Leifer select the winner for 2006.

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

http://www.nickatnite.com/. Nick at Nite and all related logos and titles are trademarks of Viacom International, Inc.

. Nick at Nite and all related logos and titles are trademarks of Viacom International, Inc.

Nick at Nite Originals was created in 2003 to develop original programming that meets what the network refers to as the "Four F's" criteria: programming that is Family-Friendly, Funny and Familiar. Nick at Nite Originals produced "Fatherhood" (June 2004), a show based on Bill Cosby's best-selling book of the same name. Nick at Nite also produces "Hi-Jinks," the network's hidden- camera series in which adults play good-natured pranks on kids of all ages, which returned to the network in its second season in February 2006. And last May, Darlene Westgor was crowned "The Funniest Mom in America" when the network aired Nick at Nite's "Search for the Funniest Mom in America," which returned for a second season in April 2006.

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

Source: Nick at Nite

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

Annelies Strba Exhibition to Inaugurate SCALO|GUYE Gallery in West Hollywood Saturday April 22nd, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

SCALO Publishers Ltd and Christophe Guye Are Very Pleased to Announce the Opening of SCALO|GUYE in West Hollywood, California

The collaboration between Zurich, Switzerland-based SCALO Gallery and publishing house with Christophe Guye at a new venue in West Hollywood will bring SCALO's roster of established and emerging photographers and our joint vision of contemporary fine art photography to the West Coast for the very first time. Guye and SCALO bring over 15 years of editorial and gallery expertise, and experience in visual arts. SCALO works with artists who exhibit in museums and galleries internationally and whose quality of work has already been proven. In addition, SCALO has a long history of regularly putting new photographers on the map, turning them into household names. SCALO|GUYE's program will incorporate exhibitions of both historical photography and explore international creative trends in contemporary photography.

Internationally renowned SCALO publications -- from classics to the newest releases -- will be available for purchase.

SCALO|GUYE will celebrate our inaugural exhibition of Annelies Strba with a reception on April 22, 2006 from 6:00 p.m.- 8.p.m.

Annelies Strba's work can be found in private and museum collections internationally. The present exhibition -- her first exhibition on the West Coast -- is intended to present a cross-section of the oeuvre of this exceptional creative personality from 2003 through 2005. The works are not limited to the conventional medium of photography, but rather are adapted to the medium of inkjet on canvas, adopting painterly techniques via digital technology.

The exhibition will open on April 24, 2006 with an opening reception on April 22. Gallery hours are Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. or by appointment.

SCALO|GUYE

Zurich * Los Angeles

established and emerging fine art photography

302 N. Robertson Blvd.

West Hollywood, CA 90048

www.scaloguye.com

Source: SCALO|GUYE GALLERY

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

DELIRIUM – TURNING MUSIC INTO MOTION CIRQUE DU SOLEIL'S FIRST LIVE ARENA EVENT

Cirque du Soleil presents DELIRIUM, its first-ever live arena event. The North American Tour kicks off in Montreal at the Bell Centre.

Created and directed by Michel Lemieux and Victor Pilon, DELIRIUM is a multifaceted event of unprecedented proportion featuring Cirque du Soleil music remixed. Driven by an urban tribal beat and awe-inspiring visuals, musicians, singers and dancers transform the arena into joyous frenzy.

DELIRIUM is the quest for balance in a world that is increasingly out of sync with reality. It pushes the limit of arena performance through technical magnitude, human introspection and creative prowess.
is the quest for balance in a world that is increasingly out of sync with reality. It pushes the limit of arena performance through technical magnitude, human introspection and creative prowess. DELIRIUM is an urban tale, a state-of-the-art mix of music, dance, theatre, and multimedia. Pumped by this re-energized Cirque du Soleil rhythm, the DELIRIUM tour transports audiences into a universe of delirious sensory folly.
is an urban tale, a state-of-the-art mix of music, dance, theatre, and multimedia. Pumped by this re-energized Cirque du Soleil rhythm, the tour transports audiences into a universe of delirious sensory folly.
Turning music into motion

For the first time in Cirque du Soleil history, lyrics have been created for the instrumental tracks and real words integrated in place of invented language, bringing to the music a fresh poetic dimension. The texts are in English, French, Spanish, Wolof and Portuguese. Robbie Dillon, who contributed texts for Cirque du Soleil's ZUMANITY, composed the English lyrics for DELIRIUM.

In all, 20 of Cirque du Soleil's most memorable musical moments – originally created by René Dupéré, Benoît Jutras and Violaine Corradi – have been re-mixed by Quebec producer, composer and arranger Francis Collard, who deftly injects new life into these powerful classics. The result is a hyper-energizing urban tribal beat that explodes with electronic sounds, percussions and world rhythms.

Also for the first time, Cirque du Soleil musicians and singers will be center-stage as their music will be the driving force of this gigantic event.

Amongst the musicians lending to this eclectic mix of sounds are percussionist brothers El Hadji Fall Diouf and Pape Abdou Karim Diouf of Senegal; Gaïa, an energetic group with Brazilian and Peruvian roots dipped in funk, soul and electro jazz; keyboardist and band leader Ric'key Pageot; Italian-born percussionist Raffaele Artiglieri; and Brazilian Italo-Cuban singer Dessy Di Lauro.

The stage and projections

This unique, large-scale event may be the most massive technical production ever created to tour arenas. A 130 foot two-sided stage bisects the arena, submerging the audience in the huge set. Placing all this equipment into an arena is a complex puzzle normally reserved for stadiums.

540 feet of projections dominate the scene – the equivalent in width of almost four IMAX screens – setting the stage for a colossal multimedia presentation. Images projected range from prerecorded visuals to manipulated live feeds that create interactions between the show and the audience.

The artists

DELIRIUM showcases 44 talented and multidisciplinary artists, 8 of whom have collaborated with Cirque du Soleil in the past. Each artist has been selected for individual virtuosity. They include 11 musicians, 6 singers, 18 dancers, 8 acrobats and 4 main characters. In all, 20 countries are represented in the troupe, including 1 American: dancer Alexandra Apjarova from New York.

To heighten the musical experience, DELIRIUM is infused with acrobatic dances choreographed by Mia Micheals, as well as classic Cirque du Soleil feats including aerial, acrosport and hand balancing acts.

The North American Tour

The DELIRIUM tour will be presented in very limited engagements (typically two performances only) in large arenas across North America. The first leg of the North American tour is as follows:

Montréal (QC) – Bell Centre January 26, 27, 28 and 29, 2006
Albany (NY) – Pepsi Arena February 3 and 4, 2006
Buffalo (NY) – HSBC Arena February 13 and 14, 2006
Columbus (OH) – Nationwide February 17 and 18, 2006
Toronto (ON) – Air Canada Centre February 20 and 21, 2006

The next leg of the tour will be announced shortly.

Ticket information

Tickets for Montreal performances go on sale November 19 and will be available by calling (514) 790-1245 (Admission), at the Bell Centre box office (1260 de la Gauchetière Street West) or online at www.cirquedusoleil.com.

Tickets for Toronto performances go on sale November 21 and will be available by calling (416) 870-8000 (Ticketmaster) or online at www.cirquedusoleil.com.

Finally, tickets for performances in US cities go on sale November 19 and will be available by calling 800-30-EVENT (Tickets.Com in Albany), (888) 223-6000 (Tickets.Com in Buffalo) and (614) 431-3600 (Ticketmaster in Columbus) or online for all three cities at www.cirquedusoleil.com.

LIVE NATION (formerly Clear Channel Entertainment)

Live Nation (NYSE: LYV) is a leading live content and distribution company focused on creating superior experiences for artists, performers, sponsors and fans. Live Nation owns, operates or has booking rights for a worldwide network of venues and produced thousands of music, theatrical and motorsports events in 2005. Live Nation is headquartered in Los Angeles, California. More information about Live Nation and its businesses is available at www.LiveNation.com.

Cirque du Soleil

Cirque du Soleil is primarily a creative content provider for a wide variety of unique projects. In addition to shows, the Montreal based company wishes to extend its creative talent to other spheres of activity. While maintaining stringent standards of artistic quality and originality, Cirque du Soleil brings to innovative projects the same energy and spirit that characterizes each of its shows.

Cirque du Soleil is a Quebec-based organization providing high-quality artistic entertainment. Since its beginnings in 1984, over 50 million spectators in over a hundred cities on four continents have been thrilled by Cirque du Soleil. In 2006, Cirque du Soleil will present 13 shows simultaneously across the globe. Cirque du Soleil is the recipient of many prestigious awards, including the Emmy, Drama Desk, Bambi, ACE, Gémeaux, Félix and Rose d'Or de Montreux.

Gillette Leverages Shaped Aerosol Packaging From Crown For Unique World Cup Promotion

Crown Holdings, Inc. (Crown), announces that The Gillette Company has introduced special shaped aerosol packaging for its MACH3Turbo(TM) shaving gel, Gillette Series(TM) shaving gel and Gillette Series(TM) antiperspirant and deodorant.

The 200ml (approximately 6.7oz) limited edition cans are being launched to coincide with the 2006 FIFA World Cup tournament, for which Gillette is an official sponsor. Designed to resemble a football (known as a soccer ball in the United States), the package is contoured in a comfortable, easy-to-grip shape, facilitating product dispensing. The creative shape also underscores Gillette's commitment to the sport of football, which is a passion for many of the company's existing and target customers.

"Gillette recognizes that packaging has become one of the most important ingredients in the adoption and maintenance of a brand's key messaging," remarks Lee Bradley, Business Development Manager at CROWN Aerosols Europe. "Developing these innovative cans is a great way to generate excitement for the World Cup tournament, differentiate the brand in the highly competitive personal care market and improve consumer experience where it matters the most - in the hand."

The ability to create this unique design results from Crown's proprietary blowforming process, which begins with preforms placed in precision engineered molds to create the desired shape. The preform is then blowformed using high- pressure air, causing it to expand into the shape of the mold and forming the unique package.

The promotional cans will be available in supermarkets, drug stores and pharmacies across Europe and the United States throughout the tournament. The final match will be held on July 9, 2006 in Berlin, Germany.

About Crown Holdings, Inc.

Crown Holdings, Inc., through its subsidiaries, is a leading supplier of packaging products to consumer marketing companies around the world. World headquarters are located in Philadelphia, PA.

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

Literary Focus Turns Westward for 11th Annual Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, April 29-30 at UCLA

Authors Scheduled to Participate Include Dave Barry, T.C. Boyle, Ray Bradbury, Taylor Branch, Mary Higgins Clark, Robert Crais, Billy Crystal, Joan Didion, Arianna Huffington, Erica Jong, Chip Kidd, John Lithgow, David Maraniss, Frank McCourt, Joyce Carol Oates, Carl Reiner, Dr. Laura Schlessinger, R.L. Stine, Gore Vidal and Sarah Vowell

The focus of the literary world will once again turn westward as the Los Angeles Times prepares to celebrate its 11th annual Festival of Books on Saturday, April 29, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, April 30, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on the UCLA campus.

Authors scheduled to appear include Dave Barry, T. C. Boyle, Ray Bradbury, Taylor Branch, Mary Higgins Clark, Robert Crais, Billy Crystal, Joan Didion, Arianna Huffington, Erica Jong, Chip Kidd, John Lithgow, David Maraniss, Frank McCourt, Joyce Carol Oates, Carl Reiner, Dr. Laura Schlessinger, R.L. Stine, Gore Vidal and Sarah Vowell.

The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books -- the nation's largest public literary festival -- was created in 1996 by The Times to promote literacy and to unite those who create books with the people who love to read them. It is presented in association with UCLA.

The two-day celebration features a mix of panel discussions, book signings, poetry readings, cooking demonstrations, a movie screening and music -- including a performance by the Rock Bottom Remainders, a band that includes such authors as Mitch Albom, Dave Barry, Kathi Kamen Goldmark, Matt Groening, Greg Iles, Ridley Pearson, Amy Tan and Scott Turow. The Festival affords book lovers the chance to meet best-selling authors, publishers and celebrities. The hundreds of exhibitor booths, stage events and popular children's characters ensure that guests of all ages will find engaging activities.

General event information, including a list of authors, is available at http://www.latimes.com/events. Information is also available by calling 1-800-LA TIMES, ext. 7BOOK.

Admission is free, but tickets are required to attend author/panel discussions, lectures and the April 30 screening of "Peaceful Warrior" because of limited seating. Free tickets will be available at all Ticketmaster locations in Southern California starting Sunday, April 23, at noon until Thursday, April 27, at 5 p.m., or until all tickets have been distributed. A limited number of tickets will also be available on-site during the Festival.

As part of the Los Angeles Times' yearlong 125th anniversary celebration, the 2006 Festival of Books will have panels featuring Times editorial staff and a 125th anniversary-themed Times Pavilion.

Other Festival Highlights

* About 400 authors participating in 97 panels, readings and book

signings

* Six outdoor stages showcasing book and poetry readings, cooking

demonstrations, storytelling, cartoon characters, music, drama and

dance performances

* 26th annual Los Angeles Times Book Prize awards ceremony on April 28

* More than 300 exhibitor booths including specialty booksellers and

major book publishers

* Special screening of the film "Peaceful Warrior" followed by a

discussion with "Way of the Peaceful Warrior" author Dan Millman

(Sunday, April 30, 5:30 p.m. in Royce Hall)

Panel Sessions

LOS ANGELES TIMES 125TH ANNIVERSARY

The Los Angeles Times 125th Anniversary Presents: Stories That Define the

West

The Los Angeles Times 125th Anniversary Presents: The Sunday Funnies

BIOGRAPHY

Against the Grain: Literary Lives

Biography: On Their Own Terms

Biography: Great American Lives

CURRENT EVENTS

In War Time: Personal Stories From Iraq

Red, White, & Global: Envisioning America's Future

No Boundaries: Media and the Freedom of Ideas

Current Interest: The Global Becomes Personal

Iraq: Where Do We Go From Here?

Under Siege: Life in a Culture of Conflict

Against All Odds: The Lost Boys of the Sudan

Current Interest: The American Identity

City Limits: Rethinking Our Sense of Place

Defining California; Under a Crescent Moon

The Changing Shape of the Middle East

Defining Ourselves: Women, Feminism, & Identity

FICTION

Fiction: The Unknown Territory

Fiction: Heroic Storytelling

First Fiction: Breaking Out

First Fiction: Finding A Voice

Fiction: Revisiting History

Fiction: She Said, She Said

Fiction: Latitudes & Attitudes

Fiction: Building A World

Faith in Fiction

Fiction: Reinventing the Family

Fiction: Pushing the Envelope

Until It Hurts: Satirical Fiction

Fiction: L.A. Lit

Testing the Boundaries: Young Adult Fiction

Young Adult Fiction: Rites of Initiation

HISTORY

Out of the Ruins: The History of Disasters

History: The Old World in the New World

Legacy of Lincoln

Unearthing the Roots of Religion

Writing Epic History

HOLLYWOOD/ENTERTAINMENT

Behind the Screen: Hollywood Histories

From Page to Screen

Finding the Groove: Stories from the Music Biz

Animation: New Frontiers in the Art & Medium

Hip Hop: Today's Music

The Outsiders: Independent Film Today

MYSTERY

Mystery: Straight Shooters

Mystery, Mayhem, & Murder

Niche Mysteries

Mystery: The Los Angeles Influence

Mystery: Hip Chicks Packing Heat

Mystery: The Detective Had a Familiar Face

Mystery: Page Turners

NONFICTION

Nonfiction: Unraveling the Story

The Devil in the Details: Quirky Nonfiction

Creative Nonfiction: Shading the Truth

Memoir: They Shaped My Life

Memoir: Vietnam Stories

OUTDOORS/TRAVEL

Nature Writing: Have the Stakes Gotten Higher?

Outdoors in LA

Around the World in 60 Minutes: Travel Writing

POETRY

Distilling Reality: The Poet's Craft

Poetry: Seasons in Verse

PUBLISHING

Book Biz: The Insiders

Publishing: Finding the Next Big Thing

SCIENCE

Science: Writing the Big Ideas

Science Writing: Metaphysics and Beyond

WRITING

Editors Who Write

Writers: Born or Bred?

To the Point: Short Stories

Briefly Told: The Art of the Short Story

Creating New Worlds: Young Adult Fantasy Writing

Famous Last Words: The Art of the Obituary

Larger than Life: Writing the Sports Hero

Dig In: Food Writing

OTHER PANELS

Fertile Ground: Building A Creative Community

Parallel Worlds: Fantasy & Time Travel

Reading: The Pleasures of the Text

Step Up to Reading: Children's Picture Books

Young Minds, Young Eyes: The Picture Book

Film Screening "Peaceful Warrior"

Participants who will be featured in "In Conversation with ... " or in solo sessions are:

* Dean Baquet

* Dave Barry & Ridley Pearson

* T.C. Boyle

* Ray Bradbury

* Taylor Branch

* Mary Higgins Clark & Carol Higgins Clark

* Michael Connelly & Robert Crais

* Joan Didion

* Anne Taylor Fleming & Karl Fleming

* Larry Flynt

* Teri Garr

* Ray Harryhausen

* Chip Kidd

* Frank McCourt

* Mike Mignola

* Joyce Carol Oates

* Carl Reiner

* Dr. Laura Schlessinger

* Gore Vidal

* Sarah Vowell & David Rakoff

Six Stages Featuring Celebrities, Discussions, Readings and Family Entertainment

The Target Children's Stage, designed for the entire family, will feature Peter Abrahams; Angelina Ballerina & Katharine Holabird; Barney; Lauren Child; Billy Crystal; Julie Andrews Edwards; Brett Helquist; HI-5; Jolie Jones; the Justin Roberts Band; David Kirk; John Lithgow; Lori, Lori What's the Story?; Megan McDonald; Ridley Pearson; Rhea Perlman; David Shannon; R.L. Stine; Valerie Tripp; Rosemary Wells; and Henry Winkler.

Canada Presents the Culinary Stage will have a menu that includes Karen Adler & Judith Fertig, Giada De Laurentiis, Ann Gentry, Suzanne Goin, Jenny Jones, and Jasmin Kobajica.

The ETC. Stage will feature a variety of speakers and performers including Kishin Daiko, the Melvin Eddy Blues Band, Kitty Felde, the Flying Other Brothers, Murphy's Flaw, One Ring Zero, the Rock Bottom Remainders, Susie Hansen's Latin Band, Marlo Thomas, and WriteGirl.

The Los Angeles Times Stage in Partnership with Barnes & Noble will feature Gloria Allred, Michael Connelly, Robert Crais, John Grogan, A.M. Homes, Erica Jong, Sebastian Junger, Frances Mayes, T. Jefferson Parker, Carl Reiner, Gay Talese, Sarah Vowell, and Saul Williams.

Gracing the Poetry Stage will be Chris Abani, Ralph Angel, Sarah Arvio, Victoria Chang, John Fitzgerald, Sesshu Foster, Dana Goodyear, Eloise Klein Healy, Jane Hirshfield, Ilya Kaminsky, Dana Levin, Jeffrey Levine, Sarah Maclay, Glyn Maxwell, Gail Mazur, Christopher Merrill, Gabriel Meyer, Marilyn Nelson, James Ragan, Donald Revell, Martha Ronk, Kay Ryan, David St. John, Maurya Simon, Amy Uyematsu, Charles Harper Webb, Terry Wolverton, and Stephen Yenser.

Appearing on the Reading by 9 Storytelling Stage will be Beethoven's Wig, Gisselle Castellanos, the Children's Museum of Los Angeles, Eric Drachman, Cornelia Funke, Marie-Louise Gay, Pat Harvey, Jay Jay the Jet Plane, Sylvia Lopez, "Manners I. Care," Marlee Matlin & Doug Cooney, the Ohmies, Jose Luis Orozco, Elise Paschen, Rachel Payne, Matthew Reinhart, Sally Ride, Adam Rivera, Robert Sabuda, Glen Walker, and Jim Weiss.

Festival of Books Sponsors

Target is the presenting sponsor of the 2006 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books. Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Borders Bookstores and Canada are major sponsors. Ticketmaster is the official ticket provider of the event. The official television sponsor is KCBS-2/KCAL-9. Supporting sponsors are Chronicle Books, C-SPAN, Geffen Playhouse and the L.A. Chamber Orchestra. Media sponsors are Hoy, ESPN Radio 710, KABC Talkradio 790, KCRW 89.9 FM, KFWB News 980, KJAZZ 88.1 FM, KPCC 89.3 FM, KPFK 90.7 FM and Radio Disney (KDIS-1110 AM).

C-SPAN2's Book TV will provide live coverage of non-fiction authors and events from the Festival for their sixth year. C-SPAN's programming will include author panels, open phone lines for viewer calls from around the country, and interviews with authors from the new Book TV Bus.

Los Angeles Times Book Prize Awards Ceremony

The 26th annual presentation of the Los Angeles Times Book Prizes is set for Friday, April 28, at 8 p.m., in UCLA's Royce Hall. The event's emcee will be Dana Gioia, Chair of the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as a poet, critic, essayist, translator, radio commentator and editor. The evening will honor books in nine categories, and Joan Didion will receive the Robert Kirsch Award for lifetime achievement.

Tickets are required for the Book Prizes ceremony and are on sale at UCLA's Central Ticket Office (310-825-2101) and online at www.tickets.ucla.edu under "Special Events." (NOTE: Additional $3 service charge for online ticket purchases.) Tickets are $16 for a reserved seat at the awards ceremony and $63 for a package including a buffet dinner (6-7:45 p.m.) with some of the nominated authors at the UCLA Faculty Center, a prime reserved seat at the ceremony and convenient parking at Royce Hall.

The Los Angeles Times Book Prizes, established in 1980, recognize outstanding literary achievement in biography, current interest, history, poetry, science and technology, fiction, first fiction, mystery/thriller, and young adult fiction. More information is available at www.latimes.com/events.

About the Los Angeles Times

The Pulitzer Prize-winning Los Angeles Times is the largest metropolitan daily newspaper in the country, with a daily readership of nearly 2.4 million and about 3.4 million on Sunday. With its media businesses and affiliates -- including latimes.com, TheEnvelope.com, Times Community Newspapers, Recycler Classifieds, Hoy, and California Community News -- the Los Angeles Times reaches approximately 7.7 million or 59 percent of all adults in the Southern California marketplace every week.

The Los Angeles Times, which this year marks its 125th anniversary covering Southern California, is part of Tribune Company , one of the country's leading media companies with businesses in publishing, the Internet and broadcasting. Additional information about the Los Angeles Times is available at www.latimes.com/mediacenter.

Source: Los Angeles Times

CONTACT: Mike Lange of Los Angeles Times, +1-213-237-3848,

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

Web site: http://www.latimes.com/mediacenter

Web site: http://www.latimes.com/events

GRENDEL PRESS PREVIEW

General Director Placido Domingo, Composer Elliot Goldenthal, Director Julie

Taymor and the Opera's Singers, Dancers and Designers

Thursday, April 20 from 11:00AM - 12:00PM at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion

Who: LA Opera General Director Placido Domingo introduces Academy

Award-winning composer Elliot Goldenthal, multiple Tony

Award-winner Julie Taymor and cast members from the

production.

What: A special behind-the-scenes preview of this new opera which,

will receive its world premiere at LA Opera on May 27, 2006

and its New York premiere at the Lincoln Center Festival on

July 11, 2006.

Featuring musical excerpts, design presentation, photo and

b-roll opportunities, and on-one-one interviews with the

artists.

Where: Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 4th Floor Rehearsal Room

135 N. Grand Ave, Los Angeles, 90012

When: Thursday, April 20 from 11:00AM - 12:00PM

Source: GRENDEL

American Airlines Sends 20,000 Mavericks Fans Flying With Largest-Ever Free Ticket Promotion

Fans Attending Wednesday Dallas Mavericks Game Fly Free From Love Field

American Airlines is sending Dallas Mavericks fans flying in the largest-ever airline ticket giveaway at a single event. The company is giving away more than 20,000 free, round-trip airline ticket vouchers as part of tonight's Dallas Mavericks Fan Appreciation Night at American Airlines Center. Fans may redeem their voucher for one free round-trip ticket anywhere American flies to or from Dallas Love Field Airport.

For loyal fans watching the Mavericks game on television, American Airlines is giving away an additional 1,000 round-trip airline ticket vouchers at random to viewers who participated in a text-message promotion using their mobile telephones.

"We wanted to do something outrageous and original for our fans," said Mavs owner Mark Cuban. "Tonight's announcement is going to be hard to top, and I know that our fans appreciate this unbelievable generosity from American Airlines."

"History was made tonight as American Airlines gave away more than 20,000 free, round-trip tickets as part of the largest-ever airline ticket giveaway," said Dan Garton, Executive Vice President of Marketing for American. "We believe in rewarding people for their loyalty, and tonight these devoted fans went home with free American Airlines ticket vouchers. Each Mavericks fan here tonight will soon have the opportunity to experience American's extraordinary new service from Love Field, and we look forward to showing them our special brand of appreciation."

According to Garton, the unprecedented promotion will allow thousands of travelers to experience firsthand everything they expect from American Airlines at Love Field Airport. Travelers flying to and from Love Field can take advantage of American's superior service, including the largest frequent flyer program in the country, pre-reserved seating, global connections and First Class service on American Airlines flights, he said.

American Supports Gilda's Club Charity on Fan Appreciation Night

As part of Dallas Mavericks Fan Appreciation Night presented by American Airlines, American also donated 100 round-trip airline ticket vouchers to Gilda's Club, a charitable organization supported by Dallas Mavericks guard Jason Terry. The organization offers social and emotional support to people with cancer through 17 clubhouses located in the United States and Canada. American donated 75 round-trip ticket vouchers good for travel anywhere American flies to or from Dallas Love Field Airport, as well as 25 domestic coach-class round-trip tickets good for travel to any American destination in the United States.

Promotion Details

Ticket vouchers issued during Dallas Mavericks Fan Appreciation Night are redeemable for round-trip, non-stop flights to/from Dallas Love Field and Austin, San Antonio, Kansas City or St. Louis. Tickets must be booked by April 30, 2006 and travel completed on or before Nov. 12, 2006. Tickets are not redeemable for cash. The offer does not apply to previous reservations placed on hold or to previously purchased tickets.

American operates four flights a day between Love Field and St. Louis, and three flights daily on the Love Field-Kansas City route, with 136-seat MD80 jets featuring first-class as well as coach service. American Eagle flies four times a day between Love Field and San Antonio, and five times daily between Love and Austin, using 50-seat Embraer 145 Regional Jet aircraft.

The AA.com discount code cannot be reissued or replaced. Passengers are responsible for government-imposed taxes and fees. There are no blackout dates. Tickets are based on available inventory. Trips may be flown seven days from booking. To book a voucher, Mavericks fans may go to http://www.aa.com/hoops for more details.

Following the announcement of the promotion at American Airlines Center, television viewers watching the game were invited to participate in an American Airlines text messaging promotion. UPN (Channel 21) viewers sent the text message "FLYAA" to 4MAVS for a chance to win round-trip airline ticket vouchers to anywhere American serves to or from Dallas Love Field Airport. The game was broadcast nationally on ESPN and locally on UPN (Channel 21).

Terms & Conditions:

Taxes and fees: Passenger is responsible for government-imposed taxes and fees, including the September 11 security fee ($5 roundtrip), the Federal excise tax segment fee ($6.60 roundtrip) and local airport charges (up to $4.50 roundtrip).

Validity: When used according to its terms, this AA.com Discount Code entitles the user to a one-time 100% discount from the applicable published Coach fare for nonstop Coach Class travel on American or American Eagle(R) between Dallas Love Field and Austin, San Antonio, St. Louis or Kansas City only. Travel must be booked and purchased on AA.com. The discount applies to new reservations for one way or round-trip travel on select American Airlines published fares. This discount will also not apply to surcharges. This offer cannot be combined with any other special offer or discount. Only one AA.com Discount Code related to this offer may be used per reservation and is valid for only one person. It is valid for use on AA.com only and cannot be redeemed by calling American Airlines reservations or at American Airlines ticketing locations. The Discount Code cannot be applied to previous reservations placed on hold or purchased tickets. An AA.com Discount Code is transferable but may not be bartered or sold. This offer is not valid for travel by unaccompanied minors.

Tickets: Tickets must be purchased at time of reservation using a credit card with billing address in the U.S. Western Union cash option does not apply. Travel is permitted on or after April 20, 2006 and must be completed on/before November 12, 2006.

Restrictions: Tickets must be booked in "O" inventory and purchased at least seven days in advance. Fare and seats are limited and may not be available on all flights. Travel is valid through November 12, 2006 on American and American Eagle operated flights. Schedules are subject to change without notice.

Cancellations and Changes: No changes will be permitted following ticketing. Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. Service from Dallas Love Field to and from Austin, TX and San Antonio, TX is operated by American Eagle. American Eagle is operated by American Eagle, Inc., which is wholly owned by AMR Eagle Holding Corporation, itself wholly owned by AMR Corporation, the parent company of American Airlines, Inc.

Round-trip travel is defined as travel from your city TO the destination, and FROM the same destination to the city where you originated travel with no deviations.

AmericanAirlines(R) and American Eagle(R) are marks of American Airlines, Inc.

About American Airlines

American Airlines is the world's largest airline. American, American Eagle and AmericanConnection(R) airlines serve 250 cities in over 40 countries with more than 3,900 daily flights. The combined network fleet numbers more than 1,000 aircraft. American's award-winning Web site, AA.com, provides users with easy access to check and book fares, plus personalized news, information and travel offers. American Airlines is a founding member of the oneworld(R) Alliance, which brings together some of the best and biggest names in the airline business, enabling them to offer their customers more services and benefits than any airline can provide on its own. Together, its members serve more than 600 destinations in over 135 countries and territories. American Airlines, Inc. and American Eagle Airlines, Inc. are subsidiaries of AMR Corporation . AmericanAirlines, American Eagle, AmericanConnection,

AA.Source: American Airlines, Inc.

Web site: http://www.aa.com/
http://www.aa.com/hoops

Vivendi Universal Games nomina Martin Tremblay allo Sviluppo Globale del Prodotto

Vivendi Universal Games ("VU Games") ha annunciato oggi la nomina di Martin Tremblay a Presidente di Worldwide Studios. Nel suo nuovo ruolo Martin sarà responsabile delle decisioni relative alle prospettive di sviluppo dei prodotti dell'azienda, della supervisione degli studi di sviluppo interni e della gestione delle relazioni di sviluppo esterne. Martin opererà dalla sede centrale della società, situata a Los Angeles.

Nella precedente posizione di Presidente e CEO del rinomato studio di sviluppo di Ubisoft a Montreal, Martin ha contribuito a portare lo studio da 350 a 1400 dipendenti. Sotto la sua direzione, è diventato il secondo studio di sviluppo di giochi al mondo e vanta numerose concessioni di giochi campioni di vendita che sono tra i principali del settore.

"Siamo lieti dell'arrivo di Martin a Vivendi Universal Games. Ha una visione, un entusiasmo e una carriera così ricca di successi che sarà in grado di portare l'azienda alla posizione di leader del settore," ha dichiarato Bruce Hack, CEO di VU Games. "Sappiamo che Martin saprà sfruttare l'immensa creatività dei dirigenti dello sviluppo e degli studi per creare esperienze di massa di altissimo livello per tutti gli appassionati di videogiochi del pianeta."

In veste di Presidente di Worldwide Studios, Martin riferirà direttamente al CEO di VU Games Bruce Hack. Peter Della Penna continuerà ad essere CEO di Worldwide Studios e farà capo a Martin.

"Sono entusiasta di poter lavorare con Peter e con tutte le altre persone ricche di talento di Vivendi Universal Games," ha dichiarato Martin Tremblay. "È una grande opportunità e sono sicuro che i nostri team sapranno creare giochi emozionanti e di altissima qualità che entusiasmeranno gli appassionati di videogiochi del mondo intero."

Blizzard Entertainment è una divisione a sé stante che fa capo direttamente al CEO di VU Games e che non fa parte del mandato di sviluppo del prodotto conferito a Martin.

Informazioni su Vivendi Universal Games

Vivendi Universal Games (www.vugames.com) è una società globale di sviluppo, pubblicazione e distribuzione di sistemi di intrattenimento interattivo multi-piattaforma. La società è un'azienda leader nel settore dei giochi di ruolo on-line per multi-utenza di massa (MMO), detiene una posizione preminente nei mercati dei giochi su PC, console, console portatili e telefoni cellulari e sta emergendo anche nell'ambito dei giochi on-line ad accesso occasionale. I suoi studi di sviluppo includono Blizzard Entertainment, con sede a Irvine, California, famoso per aver creato World of Warcraft(TM), Diablo(R), StarCraft(R) e Warcraft(R); e Sierra Entertainment, con sede a Los Angeles, che comprende Radical Entertainment, Swordfish Studios, High Moon Studios e Massive Entertainment. Sierra è proprietaria di Crash Bandicoot(R), Spyro The Dragon(R), Empire Earth(R), Leisure Suit Larry(TM) e Ground Control(R). VU Games mantiene anche una relazione strategica con vari partner, leader dell'industria dei contenuti, compresi Universal Music Group, NBC Universal, Twentieth Century Fox e Ludlum Entertainment.

Sito Web: http://www.vugames.com

Source: Vivendi Universal Games

Donna Lombardo di Vivendi Universal Games, +1-310-431-4410

Están Irresistibles los Especiales de CB Television de Michoacán Esta Semana en Estados Unidos

* Grandes personalidades michoacanas intercambian opiniones en un debate tratando el tema migratorio de EE.UU. * La transmisión del programa especial del concierto y entrevistas de los ganadores de tres premios Billboard 2005 al mejor exponente regional mexicano, LOS HORÓSCOPOS DE DURANGO.

Alterna'TV, uno de los distribuidores más importantes de canales de televisión latinoamericana en los Estados Unidos y CB Televisión de Michoacán presentan esta semana dos especiales del canal michoacano que despertarán un gran interés entre sus televidentes:

1. Por su parte Voz y Solución, un programa dedicado a proporcionar

herramientas útiles que apoyen a la comunidad con soluciones prácticas

a temas que les conciernen y preocupan a los michoacanos en su estado y

en Estados Unidos, ha dedicado un segmento especial todos los jueves

para la comunidad mexicana que vive en los Estados Unidos.

En esta ocasión se ha preparado un debate acerca del tema migratorio

contando con la presencia de Pedro Fernández, Líder de la Agrupación

"Fuerza Migrante sin Fronteras", Claudio Méndez, Director de la

Oficina para la Atención al Migrante del Gobierno de Michoacán y Carlos

García, Director de Asuntos Jurídicos de la Oficina para Atención al

Migrante. El programa será trasmitido este jueves 20 de abril a las

7am Pacífico, 9am Centro, 10am Este.

2. Por otro lado se transmitirá el concierto y bailes del grupo Los

Horóscopos de Durango que se realizó en Morelia el pasado mes de marzo

esta transmisión será este sábado 22 de abril a las 3pm Pacífico, 5pm

Centro, 7pm Este. El programa especial incluirá entrevistas con todos

los integrantes de la agrupación y contará con la conducción de Rolando

Corro.

Los Horóscopos de Durango surgieron hace más de 30 años y son por mucho

el grupo más reconocido y los pioneros de la original música

duranguense: "El Tamborazo", una combinación de tuba, tambora y saxofón.

Todos los miembros de esta popular agrupación son músicos de carrera y

de reconocida trayectoria, quienes se han hecho acreedores a varios

premios a nivel agrupación y de manera individual, entre ellos: Tres

Premios Billboard en 2005 y primer lugar en La Escala de la Fama.

Alterna'TV distribuye canales cuidadosamente seleccionados y líderes en su país de origen, tales como: ONCE MEXICO, MEXICO 22, ECUAVISA INTERNACIONAL, NDTV THE DOMINICAN CHANNEL, CB TELEVISION MICHOACAN, LATINOAMERICA TELEVISION, MEXICANAL, AYM SPORTS Y TEVE-DE-MENTE. Los géneros de programación que ofrecen los canales de ALTERNA'TV incluyen documentales, arte y cultura, noticias, música, programación infantil, cocina y entretenimiento en general. Para conocer más acerca de ALTERNA'TV, visite nuestra página: http://www.alternatv.com.mx/ .

CB Televisión Michoacán es uno de los canales líderes en Michoacán y otros trece estados de la República Mexicana. CB Televisión Michoacán es distribuido actualmente en Estados Unidos a través del paquete CableLatino de Comcast en mercados Hispanos selectos. Una mirada local a la vida diaria de los Michoacanos que viven en México y en el extranjero. CB TV llegando hasta ti!

Source: Alterna'TV

NVERZION Celebrates 15^th Anniversary of Pioneering Broadcast Station Automation

Unprecedented New Customer Wins in 2005 Drive Revenue Up 115%

NVERZION, announced today its 15^th anniversary as a preferred provider of digital broadcast and television station automation solutions. Since opening their doors in 1991, NVERZION has established itself as an industry leader providing fully-customizable broadcast station automation, storage, archival and central-casting systems, as well as verification and logging solutions to organizations worldwide. With an established reputation for high-quality products and support, NVERZION has increased sales each year for the past five years. Last year alone, NVERZION contracted a record number of new clients, driving revenue up as much as 115 percent.

“Over the years, NVERZION’s products have become almost an industry standard in automating digital broadcast and television stations," said Reed Haslam, Director of Sales for NVERZION. "Our clients associate NVERZION with quality, ease of implementation and high ROI. We are dedicated to providing the best solution for each unique client need, leveraging our reputation as an innovator by leading the shift to station automation.”

With the help of over 40 industry partners, one key to NVERZION’s success has been the broad range of their station automation solutions. Modular in design, each component works well as either a part of an overall turnkey solution, or as single stand alone component. These tools will dub, segment, edit and schedule broadcast material while managing video servers, VTRs, master control switchers, multiplexers, character generators, satellite receivers, cart machines, storage systems, logo inserters, still stores, routers and more for a clean and powerful broadcast.

For more details on NVERZION products, please visit www.nverzion.com,

From Snails to King Kong: SIGGRAPH 2006 Announces Record Submissions for the Computer Animation Festival

ACM SIGGRAPH today announced record submissions for the Computer Animation Festival for SIGGRAPH 2006, the 33rd International Conference and Exhibition on Computer Graphics and Interactive Techniques, being held 30 July through 3 August 2006 in Boston, Massachusetts.

The Computer Animation Festival jury selected 97 entries from a record 726 submissions for exemplary use of computer-generated imagery and animation, and compelling storytelling. Submissions originate from across the globe including such countries as Australia, Germany, Iran, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, and Spain. For the past two years, pieces accepted into the Computer Animation Festival have used it as a stepping stone to qualify for and go on to receive nominations for the Academy Awards from the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. This year, 38 of the accepted films are from students.

"From across the globe, the word is out that the Computer Animation Festival is one of the premier venues for showcasing artistic and technical talent in the film world. In fact, we witnessed a remarkable 25 percent increase in submissions from 2005 to 2006, and with that increase, the competition amongst films is fierce," said Terrence Masson, the SIGGRAPH 2006 Computer Animation Festival chair from Digital Fauxtography Inc. "The bar of excellence has risen even higher and this year's crop of accepted pieces is diverse, thought-provoking, and technically superb."

The SIGGRAPH Computer Animation Festival is an internationally recognized event that engages and inspires artists and technologists alike. Each year, it serves as a mirror of what is possible today and a window into what can be achieved in the future. It provides equal merit to films from independent and major studios as well as students.

SIGGRAPH 2006 Computer Animation Festival highlights include: -0-

One Rat Short (Best of Show)

Alex Weil

Charlex

United States

A gripping film that follows a New York City rat from his gritty world to the interior of a futuristic laboratory. Along this journey our main character discovers love, danger, and his fate.

Comments from Computer Animation Festival Chair:

"This piece immediately stood out to the Jury for many reasons. The film's emotional tone, cinematography, and technical realization all melded wonderfully into a simple yet touching short film. Repeatedly, the two lead characters transfixed our gaze with extreme close-ups, and we instantly wondered what they were thinking. Our ability to clearly empathize with the main characters' desires is one of the film's single greatest achievements."

458nm (Special Jury Honors)

Jan Bitzer, Ilija Brunck, Tom Weber

Filmakademie Baden-Wuerttemberg

Germany

The romantic story of two mechanical snails that find each other under the moonlight.

Comments from Computer Animation Festival Chair:

"The initial submitted artist's description in no way prepared us for the stunning impact of this film. The grace, beauty, and power conveyed with such humble subjects are only more appreciated upon multiple viewings. Intricate details and subtle animation build layer upon layer of simple elegance."

Fog

Emilio Ramos

Spain

An old man spins a nostalgic story about the village's flying sheep bringing the town to a brief moment of prosperity

Comments from Computer Animation Festival Chair:

"An original and very personal work that is absolutely beautiful in so many ways. The combination of such originality with overall technical excellence makes the piece quite memorable. The look, the storytelling, and the facial animation of the main character specifically are all completely brilliant. A film truly meant to be watched multiple times."

The Building

Eric Riewer

France

The setting is an apartment building where a colorful grandmother bangs on a wall in complaint of the neighbor singing loudly while taking shower.

Comments from Computer Animation Festival Chair:

"The set up, payoff, and comic timing make this one of the most humorous films this year. Another example of great design, animation, and gag all coming together in a superb, technically tight edit. A hilariously funny piece.”

King Kong - New York Minute

Chris White

New Zealand

Watch New York grow before your eyes.

Comments from Computer Animation Festival Chair:

"A brilliant, behind-the-scenes demonstration of a mind-boggling and complex sequence. Much of the vast volume of visual effects work done today fails to impress because we've seen it all and we've seen SO much of it. 'New York Minute' is so stunning that we are reminded just how much thought, time, and effort go into producing today's visual effects feature film work."

Into Pieces

Guilherme Marcondes

Brazil

Have you ever got the feeling things don't fit in?

Comments from Computer Animation Festival Chair:

"Short, simple, hilarious, and brilliant. One of many examples of outstanding short film-making without 3D elements. This year, we specifically requested more 2D animations because there maybe a misconception that SIGGRAPH is all about 3D - this is clearly not the case. The fresh look of this film, the comic timing, and tight animation makes it a very clear favorite."

Delivery

Till Nowak

Germany

An old man lives a lonely life under the dark shadows of industrial smog. One day he receives a mysterious package which gives him the ability to change his environment.

Comments from Computer Animation Festival Chair:

"A perfect example of the power of storytelling. Using computer graphics to illustrate this simple fantasy world is truly the filmmaker taking advantage of the medium." -0-

Robin Hood Flour

Richard Rosenman

Canada

It is a holiday evening and the main characters (Andrew and Elizabeth) are being interviewed at their dining room table. They are furiously busy wrapping gingerbread cookies in gift boxes. The table shows various gift-wrapping accessories, the freshly baked cookies (complete with handwritten names), a glamorous candle ornament, and a kitchen cloth with the Robin Hood logo. The cold winter setting outside contrasts the warm dining room lighting inside and helps develop a cozy holiday atmosphere.

Comments from Computer Animation Festival Chair:

"One of the best examples of character animation in the entire show. Absolutely tight timing with wonderfully subtle eye movements, voice talent, staging, character design, lighting, set dressing, and much more. In fact, the piece was so well received that we put two separate spots in the show - one in the Electronic Theater and one in Animation Theater." -

My Date from Hell

Tim Weimann and Tom Bracht

Germany

The Devil has grown mild-tempered and a bit fat in his old age. He does not like Hell anymore and wants to find a suitable mate to start a new life. Naturally, he starts his search by posting personal ads in the local newspaper, reviewing dating videos, and meeting various women on blind dates. Find out if the Devil can find the true woman of his dreams.

Comments from Computer Animation Festival Chair:

"Great character development makes this film stand out and easily sustain itself even though it is 14 minutes long - by far the longest piece accepted this year. The film has absolutely everything - great character and set design, cinematography, and brilliant attention to detail. An incredible accomplishment by a handful of students from the Filmakademie Baden-Wurttemberg."

For more information on the SIGGRAPH 2006 Computer Animation Festival, visit http://www.siggraph.org/s2006/main.php?f=conference&p=caf.

SIGGRAPH 2006 will bring an estimated 25,000 computer graphics and interactive technology professionals from six continents to Boston, USA for the industry's most respected technical and creative programs focusing on research, entertainment, science, art, animation, gaming, interactivity, education, and the web from 30 July to 3 August 2006. SIGGRAPH 2006 includes a three-day exhibition of products and services from the computer graphics and interactive marketplace from 1-3 August 2006. More than 250 international exhibiting companies are expected. Registration for the conference and exhibition is open to the public.

ACM SIGGRAPH, the leading professional society for computer graphics and interactive techniques, sponsors SIGGRAPH 2006.

ESPN Deportes and DISH Network(TM) Take One Lucky Soccer Fan to Germany This Summer

The Winner Will Receive a Walk-On Role in 'Goal! 3,' an Upcoming Movie to be Filmed in Germany this Summer

April 19, 2006 ESPN Deportes and EchoStar's DISH Network(TM) are giving soccer fans nationwide an opportunity of a lifetime this summer. For everyone who has ever dreamed of being part of a movie and being right in the heart of the action, the chance of a lifetime has arrived. ESPN Deportes and DISH Network have launched a sweepstakes in celebration of "Goal! The Dream Begins," in theatres May 12. The grand prize in this consumer promotion is a walk-on extra role in "Goal! 3," the third film in the "Goal" trilogy to be filmed in Germany this summer during the most coveted soccer tournament in the world.

Chosen at random from a national sweepstakes, one grand prize winner will get, courtesy of ESPN Deportes and DISH Network, an exclusive walk-on extra role in "Goal! 3." The one-month consumer promotion was launched yesterday, just weeks before the May 12 domestic release of "Goal! The Dream Begins," the first installment of the soccer trilogy. "Goal! The Dream Begins" chronicles the life of Santiago Munez (Kuno Becker), an underprivileged Mexican-American immigrant who makes his way from East Los Angeles to England with hopes of becoming a Premier League soccer star. When Santiago is given the chance of a lifetime, he must leave his family in Los Angeles and everything that he knows to travel halfway around the globe to England and into a completely foreign world.

"At ESPN, we continue to look for creative ways to work with our affiliates and 'Goal! The Dream Begins' consumer promotion is an example of how we engage our fans in the celebration and excitement of sports," said Robyn Remick, vice president, affiliate marketing, Disney and ESPN Media Networks. "This summer, soccer will be the engine driving the hearts of sports fans around the world and we're taking the excitement to another level by bringing one fan to the heart of the action."

"DISH Network's DishLATINO viewing packages offer some of the best soccer coverage in the nation, and we wanted a way to give soccer fans an even more exciting way to connect to their favorite sport," said Phil Klein, vice president of Marketing for DISH Network. "We see the passion our Latino viewers have for soccer every day, and are thrilled to reward one lucky winner a truly unique soccer experience."

"'Goal!' has allowed me to live every soccer fan's dream and now this great sweepstakes will give someone the chance to share the same dreams," said Kuno Becker. "Thanks to ESPN Deportes and DISH Network for not only providing this great opportunity to see behind the scenes of the making of 'Goal 3,' but for also taking care of my soccer fix as I never miss a match on ESPN Deportes, broadcast on DishLATINO."

The total grand prize package will include airfare and hotel accommodations for two. Participants can fill out a sweepstakes entry form on http://www.espndeportes.com or http://www.dishnetwork.com/espanol to register for the promotion. For official rules and more information about "Goal! The Dream Begins" sweepstakes, visit http://www.espndeportes.com or http://www.dishnetwork.com/espanol. The promotion ends Monday, May 15.

About ESPN Deportes

ESPN Deportes is the brand under which ESPN Inc. has been serving U.S. Hispanic sports fans since 2000. In addition to ESPN Deportes TV, the roster of branded initiatives now includes ESPN Deportes Radio, the only around-the-clock national Spanish-language sports radio network; ESPNdeportes.com, a fully integrated Spanish-language website; ESPN Deportes La Revista, a Spanish-language version of the popular ESPN The Magazine; and ESPN Deportes Wireless, which offers mobile phone subscribers images of their favorite Latino sports stars.

About EchoStar

EchoStar Communications Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH) serves more than 12 million satellite TV customers through its DISH Network(TM), the fastest growing U.S. pay-TV provider in the last five years. DISH Network offers hundreds of video and audio channels, Interactive TV, HDTV, sports and international programming, together with professional installation and 24-hour customer service. Visit EchoStar's DISH Network at http://www.dishnetwork.com or call 1-800-333-DISH (3474).

Entertainment Media Expo to Feature DVD Forum's North American DVD Conference

Premiere Entertainment Packaged Media Event Returns to Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City, August 7-9, 2006

The DVD Forum will be holding its North American DVD Conference at Entertainment Media Expo (EMX), which is being held from August 7th through August 9th, 2006 at the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City in Universal City, California.

The DVD Forum's one-day conference will provide the latest information on the newly launched HD DVD format, including a demonstration room and double size booth on the EMX showcase floor. The DVD Forum will also present important updates on DVD recordable and other industry-changing specifications and news.

Mark Waring, Director of Sanyo Technology Center USA and DVD Forum North America Promotional Committee Chairperson, comments, "In looking at the 8 years of prior successes that EMX has to offer, we are excited about co-locating our North American Conference with this accomplished event." He adds, "EMX brings to the table all the influential players in packaged media. Content holders, manufacturers, and creative departments come together to discuss their respective expertise making EMX an ideal forum for delivery of important updates to our members."

Co-produced by the International Recording Media Association (IRMA) and CMP Entertainment Media, Inc., EMX is the premiere event for entertainment packaged media serving the needs of video, audio, and game professionals.

IRMA President Charles Van Horn states, "We are pleased to be returning to the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City, the site of the first six DVD Conferences. Our exhibitors and attendees asked for this return in order to ensure ease of access to all events with the conference sessions adjacent to the exhibit floor. With the addition of the DVD Forum's North American DVD Conference we will greatly enhance the learning atmosphere and diversity of information for the next generation of entertainment packaged media."

EMX incorporates an additional two conferences -- the DVD Entertainment Conference and the Entertainment Packaging Summit -- two prestigious awards programs, and a combined exhibition on one showcase floor. The 2005 conference attracted more than 2,000 attendees and 65 exhibitors.

The ninth annual DVD Entertainment Conference & Showcase is the world's largest conference and technology showcase for studios, labels, producers and facilities involved in the creation, production and distribution of DVD Video, Audio and ROM titles. DVD Entertainment also features the ninth annual DVD Awards hosted by Leonard Maltin, the most prestigious award of its kind honoring creators and marketers of digital video recordings. This year's event will launch the next generation, high-definition disc formats.

The fourth annual Entertainment Packaging Summit focuses on packaging issues confronting content holders, retailers, manufacturers and designers working with DVD Video, CDs, DVD Audio, CD-ROM, Video Games, VHS and vinyl. The Packaging Summit also honors outstanding achievement in Entertainment Packaging arts and sciences with the Alex Packaging Awards.

For more information on the Entertainment Media Expo and to register, visit http://www.entertainmentmediaexpo.com

About the DVD Forum

The DVD Forum is an international association of hardware manufacturers, software firms, content providers and other users of Digital Versatile Discs. The Forum's purpose is to exchange and disseminate ideas and information about the DVD Format and its technical capabilities, improvements and innovations. The Forum works to promote broad acceptance of DVD products on a worldwide basis, across entertainment, consumer electronics and IT industries. Membership is open to any corporation or organization which is engaged in activities related to DVD research, development and/or manufacturing. We also welcome new members from software firms or other user of DVD products with an interest in further developing and improving the DVD Format. Forum Members are not required to support the DVD Format to the exclusion of other formats. The DVD Forum was founded in 1995 under the original name DVD Consortium.

About the International Recording Media Association (IRMA)

Founded in 1970, The International Recording Media Association is a global trade association encompassing organizations involved in every facet of recording media. Our membership includes raw material providers, equipment manufacturers, replicators, duplicators, packagers, copyright holders and logistics providers. IRMA is the worldwide forum on trends and innovations in the information and entertainment recording media industry and publishes the professional journal Mediaware. Beginning with the introduction of the audiocassette, through the home video revolution, and right up to the current digital and electronic delivery era, IRMA has always been the organization companies turn to for news, networking, market research, information services and leadership.

About CMP Entertainment Media, Inc.

CMP Entertainment Media produces magazines, books, Web sites, trade shows and events for musicians and the professional audio, video, and installation industries, including Pro Sound News, Guitar Player, Surround Professional, Bass Player, Medialine, Systems Contractor News, Keyboard, EQ, Residential Systems, Rental & Staging Systems, Videography, DV, Government Video, Television Broadcast, Digital Cinematography, Sports TV Production, AutoMedia, Car Sound & Performance, Entertainment Media Expo (co-produced with IRMA), Government Video Technology Expo and Surround 2006.

FIONA APPLE Announces Headlining Summer Tour

Grammy Winning Artist Returns to the Road in Support of Her Critically Acclaimed EXTRAORDINARY MACHINE; Acclaimed Singer Damien Rice to Join on Many Dates, David Garza to Support Throughout

Tour Begins June 20th in Phoenix, AZ

Hot on the heels of her packed-house arena run with Coldplay, Epic recording artist FIONA APPLE is returning to the road for a highly anticipated headlining tour that begins June 20th at the Dodge Theatre in Phoenix, AZ and culminates on August 10th at the Plain Dealer Amphitheatre in Cleveland, OH. Many of the dates will feature acclaimed singer/songwriter Damien Rice. David Garza will support throughout the tour. A complete list of dates is below.

The Grammy-winning singer-songwriter will be summering across the country in support of her remarkable new album, EXTRAORDINARY MACHINE. The record, Apple's first in six years, entered Billboard's Top 200 #7 and iTunes at #1, making it the highest-charting album of her career. Since its release, she's garnered massive critical acclaim, received a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Vocal Album, embarked on a successful headlining tour and scored her second consecutive gold record.

The tour will see Apple playing fan favorites old and new, including EXTRAORDINARY MACHINE's stunning title track, "Parting Gift," "Tymps (the sick in the head song)" and "O'Sailor" (the video for which has garnered seven Music Video Production Association Award nominations).

EXTRAORDINARY MACHINE has drawn rave reviews from critics nationwide, with the New York Times and Entertainment Weekly each proclaiming it to be the album of the year. Among the gaggle of publications that included it in their "best records of the year" lists were Blender, Spin and Rolling Stone who wrote, "Apple's previous albums were rarely so focused or direct, and at twenty-eight, she's just now hitting her stride." The Los Angeles Times added: "There's an almost irresistible feel-good spirit to this refreshing tale of self-affirmation, served up in a pop cabaret style reminiscent of the rich sophistication of French chanteuse Edith Piaf."

Apple established herself as a visionary singer/songwriter at age 19 with 1996's debut album, Tidal. That stunning record went on to earn her a Grammy Award in 1998 for "Best Female Rock Vocal Performance," establishing her as an uncompromising and original artist while gaining intensely loyal fans all over the world. Fiona's second album, When The Pawn...was released in 1999 and showcased her edgy and elegant musical genius. Apple's highly touted albums and captivating videos have garnered accolades from music fans and the industry alike, including two MTV Music Video Awards, two Grammy nominations and worldwide sales exceeding five million units.

Don't miss the opportunity to experience what will easily be the hottest concert ticket of the summer.

Fiona Apple tour dates are as follows: -0-

Date Venue City

6/20/2006 Dodge Theatre Phoenix, AZ

6/21/2006 Pechanga Resort & Casino Temecula, California

6/23/2006 SDSU Open Air Theatre San Diego, CA*

6/24/2006 Greek Theater Los Angeles, CA*

6/25/2006 County Bowl Santa Barbara, CA*

6/27/2006 Mountain Winery Saratoga, CA

6/29/2006 Chronicle Pavilion Concord, CA*

6/30/2006 Mountain Winery Saratoga, CA

7/1/2006 Les Schwab Amphitheater Bend, OR*

7/3/2006 Chateau Ste Michelle Seattle, WA*

7/5/2006 City Lights Pavilion Denver, CO*

7/7/2006 Nokia Theatre Dallas, TX*

7/8/2006 The Backyard Austin, TX*

7/9/2006 Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Houston, TX*

7/12/2006 Verizon Wireless Music Center Indianapolis, IN*

7/13/2006 Charter One Pavilion Chicago, IL*

7/14/2006 Northrop Auditorium Minneapolis, MN*

7/21/2006 Bank of America Pavilion Boston, MA*

7/22/2006 Nikon at Jones Beach Theatre Wantagh, NY*

7/24/2006 Mohegan Sun Uncasville, CT*

7/26/2006 Central Park Summerstage New York City, NY*

7/28/2006 Tweeter Center at the Waterfront Philadelphia, PA*

7/29/2006 Borgata Atlantic City, NJ*

7/31/2006 Filene Center/Wolf Trap Vienna, VA*

8/1/2006 Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre Virginia Beach, VA

8/2/2006 Chastain Amphitheatre Atlanta, GA

8/4/2006 Ford Amphitheatre Tampa, FL

8/5/2006 Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre Charlotte, NC

8/6/2006 Koka Booth Amphitheatre Cary, NC

8/8/2006 Chevrolet Amphitheatre Pittsburgh, PA

8/9/2006 DTE Energy Music Amphitheatre Detroit, MI

8/10/2006 The Plain Dealer Pavilion Cleveland, OH

*with Damien Rice

http://www.fiona-apple.com

Podcast Network Releases Indie Album by Brad Sucks

Release of the indie album, "I Don't Know What I'm Doing" by Brad Sucks, marks the debut of Slo-Monkey, the music label behind the Emergency Podcast System (http://www.emergencypodcastsystem.com). The quirky, witty album's release is backed by a TV campaign on Former Vice President Al Gore's cable network, Current TV. Current TV serves over 20 million households nationwide and has an energetic youth audience. Smart lyrics and danceable tunes made indie band Brad Sucks an obvious choice for the Slo-Monkey label. Says music contract guy Lil' Dawgg, "If we find ourselves singing the tunes around the office, we know we have a winner." Slo-Monkey is, indeed, looking to pick winners. They are not playing a numbers game with thousands of indie songs for sale in a vast, impersonal catalog. The group is sifting through the music world the same way they distilled the podcast world into a hand-picked list of the most entertaining and informative selections. What could come out of this is a brand new, powerful music label built to outlast the hype of Web 2.0. The Brad Sucks album CD, and MP3 album download are available at the Emergency Podcast System website, under "Bands." The Emergency Podcast System is an iconoclastic "best of" podcast website, and the hub for a cluster of features: music, games, contests, ringtones, music, jobs, social networking and more. The angel-financed group has offices in Florida and production facilities in Oregon and California.

Department Media / Enterprises TV and IP TV Converging First Solution for Simultaneous Editing and Program Planning of TV and IP TV

Through the co-operation of Grid-TV AG, leading provider of IP based TV channels, and NorCom AG, provider for multimedia editorial systems and archives, brings the worlds of TV and IP TV closer together. As a first solution resulting from the co-operation the companies present an editing and program planning solution, enabling the automatic distribution of formats and programs for both traditional TV broadcasters and IP TV newcomers. The solution is based on NCPower, a suite for cross medial productions, management and archiving of formats such as news and TV-Edit 5.0 HD, a program planning system for IP based media.

A result is the possibility to broadcast complete existing programs or singular contributions through different channels (traditional or IP TV) simultaneously without any additional efforts. Viewers can not only receive programs through traditional TV channels but also from Internet regardless of their current whereabouts. Existing TV formats are converted and broadcasted in the Internet at the push of a button. In addition to that, the new NCPower editorial solution simplifies and facilitates generation of IP TV programs in a professional way. Broadcasters profit from the opportunity of flexible and cost effective distribution of new and/or archived content.

Even more NorCom and Grid-TV enable the program planning and distribution of HDTV over IP based media. "In particular the distribution of HDTV over IP will complement the current markets and will play a huge role in the near future - more than it is currently recognised", says Ingo Wolf, founder of Grid-TV. Katharina Aliaga, CEO of Grid-TV, adds that "with this co-operation we provide our international partners the missing link between traditional and IP based media broadcast." Once again the Norcom’s NCPower technology proves its flexibility supporting traditional media and new media simultaneously. "The goal of our collaboration is the commercialisation of a comprehensive package for traditional broadcasters and IP TV operators ranging from the source through production technology to content distribution and jointly to break into new international markets", says Wolfgang H. Klein, COO Broadcast/Media of NorCom AG. The new solution will be presented at the stands C6333 B (Grid-TV) and C6333 C (NorCom), parts of the Bavarian Pavilion, at NAB 2006. NAB, the world biggest fair for media technology takes place from the 24th to the 27th of April in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. About NorCom NorCom Information Technology AG is one of the leading providers of e-business and media solutions, located in Germany and Scandinavia. The company is stock listed on the regulated market (DE0005250302) and offers clients from the European Top 100 individual consulting services and tailor-made software solutions. The services range from project management to taking on the total responsibly of large and complex projects, business process definitions, integration of complex application structures as well as transferring business processes into save business solutions.

NCPower is the suite for cross media (TV, radio, internet, mobile telephoning) production, management and archiving around formats such as news. NCPower offers a modern Java and XML platform for a consistent production of multimedia contents as well as seamless system integration. Its’ clients are enterprises from the financial world and the media sector, telecommunication and public authorities. In the financial year 2005 the NorCom made a profit of approx. 25 million Euros. About Grid-TV AG: The core competence of Grid-TV is the international development of IP TV networks. Holding a patent for operation of 24/7 programs over IP-based media, the company establishes country wide and regional networks through affiliates or joint ventures. These networks are interconnected through the International Playout Center in Munich such providing the ability of crossborder content exchange and international IP TV program. FileLoadBalancing neuronal net, TV-Edit and TV-Serve technologies developed by Grid-TV enable unique, target-group specific, global TV based on common internet streaming software over all communication channels such as satellite, terrestrial, cable, UMTS, GPRS and Internet.

Salem Music Network, Daywind Music Group Announce ``2006 Exalting Him Talent Search'' Underway

Salem Music Network and Nashville-based Daywind Music Group announced today they have launched a search for top, unsigned Christian music performers as part of their 6th annual Exalting Him Talent Search. Prior winners of this event have signed with major labels, performed on major tours and have gained significant radio airplay.

Salem Music Network is part of Salem Communications (Nasdaq:SALM), the leading U.S. radio broadcaster, Internet content provider and magazine publisher targeting audiences interested in faith, family and values.

Music industry professionals will listen to and critique the music of each contest entrant. Top performers then will be invited to participate in one of eight regional competitions to be held in Nashville; Atlanta; Dallas; Orlando; St. Louis; Washington, D.C.; Cleveland; and San Francisco.

Open to all genres of Christian music, one group finalist and one solo finalist will be selected from each regional to compete in the finals in Nashville this November. The grand prize winner will receive a recording contract, distribution of his or her music to radio and retail, and a story in one of the leading Christian music publications, such as CCM Magazine or Singing News Magazine.

New this year will be a "Lightning Round" regional whereby those unable to attend a regional competition will submit their video stage performance via DVD or VHS tape. One soloist and one group will be selected from Lightning Round entrants and will be invited to skip the regional competitions to go directly to the finals.

Prior winners of Exalting Him competitions include Julian Drive, whose single "Famous" receives regular airplay on the Today's Christian Music radio network, heard by more than one million weekly listeners. The band also has shared the stage with Matthew West, BarlowGirl, Israel Houghton, Tait, Jeremy Camp and ZOE Girl. In 2006, they will be part of the Blur the Lines tour with NewSong, the Katinas, the Crabb Family and others.

2005 finalist Melodious received a nomination for Gospel Group of the Year by the Black Music Association of America.

Karen Harding, the 2003 winner, has played at Gaither Homecoming concerts, the National Quartet Convention and Crabb Fest. She also has been featured on the Remembering the Greats and Mark Lowry Goes to Hollywood DVDs. The 2003 group division winner, StorySide B, signed with Toby Mac's Gotee Records. They released their first CD, Everything and More, on Dec. 26 to rave reviews and their first single, "Miracle," had significant placement on one of the industry standard Radio & Records charts.

John Mays, a contest judge and former A&R VP who helped sign and work with such Christian music notables as Point of Grace, Nichole Nordeman and The Newsboys, said, "The reason I support the Exalting Him competition is because of its effort to use each performance as an opportunity to encourage, to offer private constructive criticism in a God-glorifying environment, and build common community among all the artists involved. If you are an aspiring musician, I recommend Exalting Him as an excellent opportunity to grow in your craft, and be heard by music industry influencers."

The Exalting Him 2006 contest entry deadline is June 16, 2006, and entry forms, official rules and other details are available online at http://www.exaltinghim2006.com

Salem Music Network is a unit of Salem Communications Corporation (Nasdaq:SALM), the leading U.S. radio broadcaster, Internet content provider and magazine publisher focused on Christian and family themes. In addition to its radio properties, Salem owns Salem Radio Network(R), which syndicates talk, news and music programming to approximately 2,000 affiliates; Salem Radio Representatives(TM), a national radio advertising sales force; Salem Web Network(TM), a leading Internet provider of Christian content and online streaming and Salem Publishing(TM), a leading publisher of Christian-themed magazines. Upon the close of all announced transactions, the company will own 104 radio stations, including 66 stations in 24 of the top 25 markets. Additional information about Salem may be accessed at the company's website,

http://www.salem.cc.

Daywind operates both Daywind Soundtracks, founded in 1985, and Daywind Music Group, formed in 1988. Daywind Soundtracks is the prominent soundtrack line, offering over 3,000 titles from such styles as Southern Gospel, Contemporary, Wedding and Praise music. Also under the Daywind umbrella are the trademark Kidz Tracks designed specifically because "kids sing too," Soulful Sounds produced by the best gospel producers in the business, and the newest line, Karaoke Style, offering six songs with CD+G for $12.98. The Daywind Music Group label has become home to such Southern Gospel greats as Greater Vision, the Crabb Family, the Perrys, LordSong, Brian Free & Assurance, Legacy Five, the McRaes, the Lewis Family and many more. The label's sister company, Vital Communications, is home to both contemporary and gospel recording artists including Christ Tabernacle Choir, Julian Drive and New Harvest. Additional information about Daywind may be accessed at the company's websites, http://www.daywindrecords.com and http://www.daywind.com .

Salem Communications Corporation

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Announces 300:
:

MARCH TO GLORY PSP(TM) System Game Based On Upcoming Film; Developed By Collision Studios, First Time Film-Based Game Launches Simultaneously Only On The PSP(TM) System

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment will unleash 300: MARCH TO GLORY, based on Warner Bros. Pictures' film 300 and developed by Collision Studios, for PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system simultaneously with the film in 2007.

The style and feel of the videogame was influenced by the 300 film, which is based on Frank Miller's graphic novel and directed by Zack Snyder. The film's highly stylized production design, including live-action photography integrated with virtual environments, and unique color treatments create a surreal and amazing world in this retelling of the ancient Battle of Thermopylae in which King Leonidas and 300 Spartans fought to the death against Xerxes and his massive Persian army.

"The 300 film based on Frank Miller's graphic novel offers continual action and an intense storyline that lends itself to be a striking videogame," said Jason Hall, Senior Vice President of Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. "With 300: MARCH TO GLORY we are bringing the battles and story to life in an interactive way, which will challenge and satisfy players so they won't be able to put their PSP system down."

"We are working with Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment to ensure 300: MARCH TO GLORY captures the look and action of the film while making it fun to play on the PSP system," said Philippe Erwin, Executive Producer of 300: MARCH TO GLORY for Collision Studios. "The source material allows for great freedom in making a game where the player can be strategic and heroic."

In the action packed 300: MARCH TO GLORY, published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and developed by Collision Studios, players take on the role of King Leonidas, who leads the brave 300 Spartans against Xerxes and his massive Persian army. The player, as Leonidas, uses their sword, spear and shield and the power of the soldiers in a battle to determine the very fate of western civilization. 300: MARCH TO GLORY will be a visceral experience focused on action and combat, allowing the player to fight both solo and in a phalanx alongside his fellow Spartans.

About 300

Warner Bros. Pictures Presents in Association with Legendary Pictures and Virtual Studios, a Mark Canton / Gianni Nunnari Production, 300. Directed by Zack Snyder (Dawn of the Dead), the film stars Gerard Butler (Phantom of the Opera), Lena Headey (The Brothers Grimm), David Wenham (The Lord of the Rings trilogy), Vincent Regan (Troy), Rodrigo Santoro (Love Actually) and Dominic West (The Forgotten). Gianni Nunnari (The Departed), Mark Canton, Bernie Goldmann (Land of the Dead) and Jeffrey Silver (Training Day) are the producers. Snyder and Kurt Johnstad, with a previous draft by Michael Gordon, adapted the graphic novel by Frank Miller and Lynn Varley. The executive producers are Frank Miller, Deborah Snyder, Craig J. Flores, Thomas Tull, William Fay and Benjamin Waisbren. The creative behind-the-scenes team is led by director of photography Larry Fong, production designer James Bissell, editor Bill Hoy and costume designer Michael Wilkinson. Music is by Tyler Bates. 300 will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

About Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Inc., a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, is a premier licensor and a developer of entertainment content for the interactive space across all current and future platforms, including consoles, PC-based gaming and wireless applications.

About Collision Studios

Collision Studios is a leading developer of entertainment based games across multiple platforms. Staffed by industry professionals from top tier developers and publishers, the team has worked on a variety of high profile franchises.

300 and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and (C) Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. "PSP" is a trademark and "PlayStation" and the "PS" Family logo are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Memory Stick Duo(TM) may be required (sold separately).

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment

SPORTS & AUTOS
2006 Kia Sedona Honored with ``Top Safety Pick'' by Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
Kia Minivan Earns Top Honors for All-around Impact Crash Tests
Kia Minivan Earns Top Honors for All-around Impact Crash Tests

Already having earned a five-star safety rating from the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the all-new 2006 Sedona minivan now has been awarded the Gold Top Safety Pick for its impressive performance with top ratings in frontal, side and rear impact crash tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

"We are extremely proud to learn that the Sedona was recognized yet again for its commitment to safety," said Len Hunt, executive vice president and COO of Kia Motors America. "Being the first minivan to earn the IIHS Top Safety Pick is yet another example of Kia's dedication to providing quality vehicles equipped with the highest level of standard safety features available."

In order to receive a Gold Top Safety Pick Rating from IIHS, the vehicle must receive a rating of "Good" - the Institute's highest rating - in all three categories of frontal, side and rear impact tests. Among the eight current minivan designs the Institute has rated, the Sedona is the only one that earns "Good" ratings in all three Institute tests.

"The Sedona is the best minivan we've tested," said IIHS President Adrian Lund. "Other minivans have earned good front and side ratings, but they haven't achieved a satisfactory level of rear crash protection. The Sedona stands out as the first to get a clean sweep of good ratings across the board."

The all-new 2006 Kia Sedona was the only minivan tested by IIHS equipped with standard active head restraints, and it stood out above other minivans in that it not only performed well in frontal and side impact crash tests, but also in rear impact safety tests.

"Many manufacturers haven't paid as much attention to occupant protection in rear crashes, compared with front and side crashes," Lund points out. "Kia deserves credit for designing the Sedona's seat/head restraints for protection in one of the most common kinds of commuter traffic crashes."

Completely redesigned for the 2006 model year, the all-new Sedona builds upon a commitment to safety that was established with the first generation minivan, which earned the company's first five-star crash rating when it debuted in 2002. The 2006 Sedona continues to offer a high level of standard safety equipment, including six standard airbags, front active headrests, electronic stability control (ESC), ABS with electronic brake force distribution (EBD), a traction control system (TCS) with brake assist, and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Kia Motors America is the sales, marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corp. in Seoul, South Korea. For more information, including photography, visit http://www.kiamedia.com.

Fleetwood Extends Exclusive Use of KVH TracVision Systems aboard New Rvs

Fleetwood to Offer KVH's All-digital TracVision Satellite TV Antennas, including new TracVision R6, along with HDTV on 2007 Model Year Vehicles

KVH Industries, Inc., (Nasdaq: KVHI) announced today that Fleetwood Enterprises (NYSE: FLE), the nation's leading manufacturer of recreational vehicles, has chosen KVH's new TracVision R-series, including the premier TracVision R6, to be the exclusive satellite TV option offered on Fleetwood's 2007 motor homes. Fleetwood will also be offering KVH's High-definition TV (HDTV) Converter for DIRECTV(R) Service as an additional option for those customers wishing to enjoy HDTV programming while on the road.

"We chose KVH as the exclusive satellite TV provider for the 2007 Fleetwood motor home line-up because they are the premier manufacturer and developer of satellite TV systems," explained Chris Braun, executive vice president of Fleetwood RV. "Fleetwood is always looking to align itself with the nation's leading brands that give our customers the flexibility, innovation, and value they deserve."

Ian Palmer, KVH's executive vice president of satellite sales, remarked, "Fleetwood is recognized throughout the industry both for the quality of its vehicles and the innovations it brings to its customers. We are extremely pleased to continue our long-standing relationship with Fleetwood and applaud their selection of our new TracVision systems, including our new flagship TracVision R6. The options available in the TracVision R-series offer Fleetwood's customers the best blend of performance and value available in the RV industry."

KVH will be supplying Fleetwood with its award-winning TracVision satellite TV product family, including the in-motion TracVision R5, the stationary, automatic TracVision R4, and the premier TracVision R6 in-motion satellite TV system, which includes such innovations as a compact 12" high design, electronic dew elimination technology (patents pending), on-screen messaging and diagnostics, and an integrated 12V receiver designed specifically for RV applications. Each of these all-digital systems provide access to more than 300 channels of digital TV programming and commercial-free music via the DIRECTV(R), DISH Network(TM), and ExpressVu services. Each member of the TracVision R-series offer integrated Digital Video Broadcast (DVB(R)) technology for unsurpassed satellite acquisition, identification, and tracking. For greater ease and convenience, advanced control features quickly and automatically switch between satellites simply by changing channels using the remote control, eliminating the need for the manual satellite search required by less sophisticated designs.

Fleetwood's selection of KVH's TracVision systems also reflects Fleetwood customers' growing interest in the resolution and quality offered by high-definition TV. All three TracVision systems are fully compatible with the HDTV programming offered by DISH Network as well as on DIRECTV's standard 101(degree)W and 119(degree)W satellites. Fleetwood will also be offering the KVH TracVision HD Converter as an option so that customers will be able to enjoy HDTV programming broadcast by DIRECTV's new 110(degree)W satellite, which uses unique signals that cannot be decoded by other mobile satellite TV antennas.

For additional information about KVH's award-winning TracVision satellite TV systems, visit http://www.tracvision.com.

About Fleetwood

Fleetwood Enterprises, Inc., is a leading producer of recreational vehicles and manufactured homes. This Fortune 1000 company, headquartered in Riverside, CA, is dedicated to providing quality, innovative products that offer exceptional value to its customers. For more information, visit the company's website at http://www.fleetwood.com.

TracVision systems are available to Fleetwood customers through RiverPark, Inc. (http://www.riverparkinc.com), of Elkhart, IN, a leading distributor of KVH's satellite TV product line and other high-end electronics products to the recreational vehicle industry since 1981.

About KVH Industries, Inc.

Middletown, RI-based KVH Industries, Inc., is a leading provider of in-motion satellite TV and communication systems, having designed, manufactured, and sold more than 100,000 mobile satellite antennas for applications on boats, RVs, trucks, buses, and automobiles. Winner of the prestigious General Motors Innovative Design Award, CES Innovation Award, 21 National Marine Electronics Association "Best Product" awards, and a finalist for the Automotive News PACE Award, KVH's mission is to connect mobile customers with the same digital television entertainment, communications, and Internet services that they enjoy in their home and offices.

This release may contain certain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements include, for example, the functionality, characteristics, quality and performance of KVH's products and technology; anticipated innovation and product development; and customer preferences, requirements and expectations. Factors that may cause such differences include, among others, fluctuations in market demand for and sales of new motor homes, and our dependence on the availability of third-party satellites, which face significant operational risks and could fail earlier than their expected useful lives, for our mobile satellite communication services, as well as those discussed in KVH's most recent annual report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC. KVH assumes no obligation to update its forward-looking statements to reflect new information or developments.

KVH and TracVision are registered trademarks of KVH Industries, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective companies.

KVH Industries

MasterCard Files Suit Against FIFA
Claims Violation of Rights to Sponsor Future FIFA World Cup Events

MasterCard International today filed a complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York seeking an injunction against the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), the governing body of the FIFA World Cup to prevent FIFA from moving forward with an agreement with Visa International to sponsor the 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cups.

It was recently revealed that FIFA had entered into that relationship despite having a contractual agreement giving MasterCard the right of first refusal to continue to be the category-exclusive sponsor of those events.

MasterCard's complaint states that after a period of negotiation in which FIFA assured MasterCard that it was not going to enter into an agreement with a third party, it proceeded in doing so. FIFA did this despite the fact that it had already provided MasterCard with a written contract -- including all terms -- which MasterCard signed and returned to FIFA, which then advised MasterCard that a deal with Visa was completed.

"This action by FIFA is a blatant and deceitful violation of our right of first refusal," said Noah Hanft, General Counsel, MasterCard International, "particularly as we had already signed and accepted FIFA's offer."

As part of MasterCard's 2002-2006 agreement with FIFA, which was signed in 2002, MasterCard was granted the right of first refusal to be the official and exclusive payment solutions sponsor of future FIFA World Cup events. Therefore, FIFA was precluded from entering into such an agreement with Visa.

"Among the key terms we bargained for in the 2002-2006 FIFA World Cup sponsorship negotiation was the right to obtain future FIFA World Cup sponsorship opportunities and a critical aspect of any sponsorship -- particularly one as significant as FIFA World Cup -- is continuity and the building of equity over time," continued Hanft.

"MasterCard will vigorously pursue legal action to compel FIFA to honor the 96-page written and binding agreement it has with MasterCard, providing for us to be an official sponsor of the next two FIFA World Cups," he said.

"MasterCard continues to move forward with the important customer and consumer programming related to the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, which begins in June," said Lawrence Flanagan, Chief Marketing Officer, MasterCard International. "A significant number of our customer financial institutions, more than 300 of them, are activating business-building programs worldwide."

About MasterCard International

MasterCard International is a leading global payments solutions company that provides a broad variety of innovative services in support of our global members' credit, deposit access, electronic cash, business-to-business and related payment programs. MasterCard manages a family of well-known, widely accepted payment card brands including MasterCard(R), Maestro(R) and Cirrus(R) and serves financial institutions, consumers and businesses in over 210 countries and territories. The MasterCard award-winning Priceless(R) advertising campaign is now seen in 105 countries and in 48 languages, giving the MasterCard brand a truly global reach and scope. For more information go to www.mastercardinternational.com.

FOX Tower To 'Bring It!' New Tower Sign to Shine in Red for Red Wings Playoff Run

The Fabulous Fox Theatre will shine with pride and get behind the home team starting today when it turns its recently- restored FOX Tower Sign to red to cheer on the Detroit Red Wings in their playoff run for the Stanley Cup.

"This is an exciting time for the entire Red Wings organization, our fans across the country and around the world," said Christopher Ilitch, president and CEO of Ilitch Holdings, Inc. "It is especially exciting here in the heart of Hockeytown. Detroit is a great sports town -- evidenced recently by the terrific showing in hosting the Major League Baseball All-Star Game in July 2005 and the NFL Super Bowl XL this past January."

The FOX Tower Sign will be programmed to run completely in the color red during all playoff games, both home and away. The signage, originally unveiled in late January, has the ability to be computer programmed to reflect a specific season, event or, in the case of the Red Wings, light up the Detroit skyline in support of its hometown team.

"We hope Red Wings fans everywhere will get behind the team and help cheer them on to victory," said Christopher Ilitch. Now, more than ever, we need the support of our fans to be seen and heard around the world. We know that we've got the greatest fans around and we want to 'Bring It!'"

The Detroit Red Wings favored to win

The Detroit Red Wings will host a kick-off party tonight, April 20, 2006 at 6 p.m. at Hockeytown Cafe located at Woodward and Montcalm in downtown Detroit. A first-ever Celebrity Zamboni Race just off Woodward Avenue featuring Al Sobotka and a surprise celebrity driver will help set the stage for what promises to be an exciting run.

Designated "Hockeytown's Official Fan Headquarters," Hockeytown Cafe is the place to be before, during and after all playoff games this season, with the only live-feed from Joe Louis Arena in town! Consistently named the best sports bar in Detroit, Hockeytown Cafe offers the ultimate sports viewing experience with 63-inch plasma TV's, daily food and drink specials and special playoff Red Wings merchandise available. Several media outlets are expecting to broadcast from the newly-renovated location during the playoffs.

"From my very first day in Detroit, I've been amazed at the passion our fans have for the Red Wings," said Red Wings Head Coach Mike Babcock. "Our fans have been unbelievable all year long and heading into the playoffs, I know they're going to bring it to a new level."

The Detroit Red Wings are a member of the Ilitch Holdings' family of businesses. In addition to the Wings, Ilitch Holdings' primary business interests include -- Little Caesars Pizza, the Detroit Tigers, Olympia Entertainment, Olympia Development, Blue Line Foodservice Distribution, Champion Foods, MotorCity Casino, Uptown Entertainment, Little Caesars Pizza Kit Fundraising Program, and a variety of venues within these entities. The holding company's 2005 total combined revenues exceeded $1.5 billion.

The Detroit Red Wings will face the Edmonton Oilers in the first round.

The schedule is:

Date Time Location Coverage

Friday, April 21 7:00 p.m. Joe Louis Arena WJBK FOX 2 / OLN, CBC

Sunday, April 23 1:00 p.m. Joe Louis Arena WDIV Local 4 / NBC, CBC

Tuesday, April 25 10:00 p.m. at Edmonton FSN Detroit / OLN, CBC

Thursday, April 27 9:30 p.m. at Edmonton FSN Detroit / OLN, CBC

Saturday, April 29 3:00 p.m. Joe Louis Arena WDIV Local 4 / NBC, CBC

Monday, May 1 TBD at Edmonton FSN Detroit / OLN, CBC

Wednesday, May 3 7:00 p.m. Joe Louis Arena FSN Detroit / OLN, CBC

Source: Ilitch Holdings, Inc.

PinnacleSports.com Releases Odds to Win NBA and Conference Titles

Now that the regular season has ended and the playoffs are set to begin this weekend, PinnacleSports.com has released odds on what team will win the NBA and conference championships.

The top seed in the East and owner of the league's best record, the Detroit Pistons have been made the favorite to win the NBA Championship at 11/10 odds (i.e., win $11 for every $10 bet). PinnacleSports.com lists the defending NBA champion San Antonio Spurs with the second-best odds to repeat this year at 3/1 odds followed by the Dallas Mavericks at 9/1. The Shaq and Dwayne Wade-led Miami Heat have been installed at 10/1, while the Phoenix Suns are 11/1 to take home the title.

PinnacleSports.com has made the New Jersey Nets 19/1 to win the championship, followed by the Los Angeles Clippers (39/1), Los Angeles Lakers (60/1) and Sacramento Kings (60/1). Despite earning the third seed in the Western Conference, the Denver Nuggets find themselves as 62/1 long shots to win the NBA title, because they do not have home court advantage in their first round match-up versus the Clippers. The odds also don't look good for LeBron James' Cleveland Cavaliers who are 62/1 to capture the championship. The Memphis Grizzlies and Indiana Pacers also find themselves as large underdogs to win the league title at 85/1 odds. Three of the lowest-seeded teams in the Eastern Conference the Chicago Bulls (120/1), Washington Wizards (130/1), and Milwaukee Bucks (175/1), have been installed as the biggest long shots to win the championship this year.

In the West, the top-seeded Spurs are overwhelming 5/7 favorites to win the conference championship followed by Dallas at 4/1 and Phoenix at 9/2. PinnacleSports.com has made Detroit huge 2/7 favorites in the Eastern Conference with the Heat (9/2) and Nets (8/1) presenting the biggest challenge to the Pistons.

Current Odds: *All Odds Subject To Change*

Odds to Win 2006 NBA Championship

Detroit Pistons 11/10

San Antonio Spurs 3/1

Dallas Mavericks 9/1

Miami Heat 10/1

Phoenix Suns 11/1

New Jersey Nets 19/1

Los Angeles Clippers 39/1

Los Angeles Lakers 60/1

Sacramento Kings 60/1

Denver Nuggets 62/1

Cleveland Cavaliers 62/1

Memphis Grizzlies 85/1

Indiana Pacers 85/1

Chicago Bulls 120/1

Washington Wizards 130/1

Milwaukee Bucks 175/1

Odds to Win Western Conference Championship

San Antonio Spurs 5/7

Dallas Mavericks 4/1

Phoenix Suns 9/2

Los Angeles Clippers 15/1

Denver Nuggets 23/1

Los Angeles Lakers 27/1

Sacramento Kings 35/1

Memphis Grizzlies 37/1

Odds to Win Eastern Conference Championship

Detroit Pistons 2/7

Miami Heat 9/2

New Jersey Nets 8/1

Cleveland Cavaliers 30/1

Indiana Pacers 50/1

Chicago Bulls 60/1

Washington Wizards 70/1

Milwaukee Bucks 100/1

For a complete list of NBA odds, please visit http://www.pinnaclesports.com/ .

About PinnacleSports.com

PinnacleSports.com ( http://www.pinnaclesports.com/ ) is the Internet's largest sports betting site, serving customers in more than 80 countries worldwide. Founded in 1998, PinnacleSports.com was the first sports book to introduce reduced margin wagering, using a -105 pricing model that gives bettors up to 50% better value on wagers than traditional bookmakers. With low minimum bet requirements and the highest maximum limits on the Web, PinnacleSports.com has earned an industry-leading reputation for providing consistent value to the player, professional customer service and the quickest payouts online. Fully licensed and regulated in Curacao, the company offers a secure environment for sports betting, racing and casino gaming.

Source: PinnacleSports.com

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

eBay Hosts Chance to Beat Garry Kasparov -

All-Time Greatest Chess Player

25 winners and their guests will join Garry for a 25-board simultaneous match followed by a sit-down dinner at the famed NY Athletic Club on June 12^th

For those who have dreamed of competing against a World Champion, 25 lucky bidders will have the opportunity to prove their chess prowess against the highest-ranked player of all time, Garry Kasparov. The two-part auction via eBay Giving Works, the dedicated site for nonprofit auctions, is located at http://www.ebay.com/chess, and commences on April 21, at 9 PM (EDT) with the first 12 seats closing on May 1 at 9 PM (EDT), and the remaining 13 seats being auctioned off on May 2 at 9 PM (EDT) and ending on May 12 at 9 PM (EDT).

Not just a game, but a memory in the making, the head-to-head competition takes place on June 12th in Manhattan's famed New York Athletic Club. The 25 highest bidders will be able to invite up to three guests each to share in the evening of festivities, which also includes a cocktail hour, full sit-down dinner, photos and autographs with Garry, as well as a certificate commemorating the event. All proceeds will benefit the Kasparov Chess Foundation's chess education in the schools efforts.

This event marks the first time the Foundation is leveraging eBay's auction platform for a fundraising event and points to the web's increasing role in promoting philanthropic causes. To ensure safe bidding and a smooth auction process, the Kasparov Chess Foundation has hired Auction Cause, a premier online auction management agency, to oversee the activity on eBay. Bidders will need to be prequalified in order to place a bid, which will start at $2000 per slot.

"What makes this event truly unique is that people from all over the world can bid to challenge Garry, as well as help raise needed funds to introduce this wonderful game to children who may not otherwise be exposed to it," commented Michael Khodarkovsky, President of the Kasparov Chess Foundation.

About the Kasparov Chess Foundation

Founded by World Chess Champion Garry Kasparov, KCF's mission is to bring the many educational benefits of chess to children throughout the United States by providing a complete chess curriculum and enrichment programs. The Foundation promotes the study of chess as a cognitive learning tool in curricular classes and after-school programs for elementary, middle and high schools, both in the public and private school sectors. The not-for-profit educational organization also organizes tournaments and competitions on a local and national basis. For more information, please visit

Web site: http://www.auctioncause.com/
http://www.ebay.com/chess
http://www.kasparovchessfoundation.org/

NBA Playoffs Inspire Fan Favorite Player Posters
AllPosters.com Releases Top Ten Best-Selling Player Posters List

As the countdown to the NBA playoffs begins, no one can predict which team will be crowned the 2006 champion. But when it comes to player favorites, the fans have spoken.

AllPosters.com released its top ten best-selling NBA player posters list today, a pointer to who fans scream for at playoff time. Most players who made the list are on teams that are bound for potential glory, except for Tracy McGrady's Rockets, Paul Pierce's Celts and Allen Iverson's '76ers. Rabid fans, who love these players and their posters, will have a great chance to see their favorite player in action and rock the house with excitement as the first round begins on April 21.

According to the AllPosters.com list, these are the players who have captured fans' hearts. And if poster sales are an indication of the team fans want to be crowned champ, Cleveland is the team to beat.

#1 best-selling poster LeBron James - Cleveland Cavaliers - Poster

1122541

#2 best-selling poster Dwyane Wade - Miami Heat - Poster 1000848

#3 best-selling poster Allen Iverson - Philadelpia 76ers - Poster

1363137

#4 best-selling poster Tracy McGrady - Houston Rockets - Poster 1005090

#5 best-selling poster Kobe Bryant - Los Angeles Lakers - Poster 359999

#6 best-selling poster Steve Nash - Phoenix Suns - Poster 1122542

#7 best-selling poster Vince Carter - New Jersey Nets - Poster 823318

#8 best-selling poster Tim Duncan - San Antonio Spurs - Poster 357884

#9 best-selling poster Paul Pierce - Boston Celtics - Poster 1256714

#10 best-selling poster Shaquille O'Neal - Miami Heat - Poster 1236933

Art.com's brands, AllPosters.com, Art.com and Poster.de, are the Internet's most popular destinations for posters and art prints, helping over 4 million customers decorate their walls since 1995. Each of these sites has a selection of over 400,000 items that cover a broad array of subjects including movies, music, fine art and photography. Art.com offers custom framing, mounting and canvas transfer options, giving customers a range of product formats to suit their tastes. For more information about Art.com, visit its corporate Web site at www.corporate.art.com.

Source: Art.com

Web site: http://allposters.com/

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

Chrysler Financial Supports Marketing Launch of All-new 2007 Dodge Caliber
Caliber Program Geared Toward Recent Graduates

* Chrysler Financial introduces new 'First VIP' program for Caliber buyers * First VIP program available in dealerships through June 30

Chrysler Financial is supporting the launch of the all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber with a unique finance program for first-time vehicle buyers called the "First VIP" program. Chrysler Financial will help young buyers establish a strong credit history by connecting with them as they enter the new car buying process. The First VIP program is offered in dealerships through June 30, 2006.

The primary U.S. target market for the Dodge Caliber is a single, 25- to 35-year-old buyer with a college education and a median income of $45,000. In addition, the First VIP program supports a secondary youth market, high school graduates. Many will be first-time new car buyers in the market for an exciting new vehicle that stands out from the crowd.

"We see this as an opportunity to introduce our products and services to an important demographic for us and the Chrysler Group," said Kelly Mankin, Vice President -- Chrysler Brands Marketing, DaimlerChrysler Financial Services. "Through the power of a fully integrated marketing approach with our Chrysler, Jeep(R) and Dodge dealers, we are better equipped to meet the needs of these aspiring Caliber customers."

First VIP Program Qualifications

* Applicable for purchase or lease of an all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber

* No previous new car credit

* A recent graduate of a high school, junior college or accredited

college with a dated copy of the diploma accepted as proof of

graduation

* A minimum two verifiable credit references

* Terms available up to 60 months

* Verifiable income and permanent employment (for minimum of six months)

or verifiable commitment for employment prior to graduation

Chrysler Financial is committed to strengthening financial literacy among youth in the U.S. The business unit supports and participates in grass roots finance education programs such as Money Smart Week Programs in Detroit and Chicago, the Hip-Hop Summits on Financial Empowerment Tour and is a partner in the American Financial Services Association's financial education programs.

2007 Dodge Caliber

Dodge Caliber redefines the entry-level vehicle by combining high value with bold styling and a slew of clever interior innovations. It will appeal to owners around the world who want Dodge attitude packaged with the capability and versatility of a sport-utility vehicle and the affordability and fuel-efficiency of an entry-level compact car.

Dodge Caliber will appeal to up-and-coming buyers who are looking for a compact car that stands out from the crowd and gives them the flexibility to do more in terms of seating friends and storing gear. Caliber has the versatility and flexibility to accommodate their lifestyles, as well as a value price. With a starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $13,985 (including a $560 destination charge), Dodge Caliber is priced $410 below the outgoing Dodge Neon.

Dodge Brand

With more than 1.4 million vehicles sold globally in 2005 (1,179,008 in the U.S.), Dodge is the Chrysler Group's best-selling brand and the number five nameplate in the U.S. auto market. This year, Dodge will expand into international markets with Caliber and Nitro.

Dodge has a seven percent market share in the U.S. In the minivan market, Dodge is the segment leader with a 20 percent market share. In the truck market, Dodge has a 16 percent market share and in the car market, Dodge has a 3.7 percent market share.

About Chrysler Financial

Chrysler Financial offers a complete line of world-class automotive financial products and services for both dealers and consumers of Chrysler, Jeep(R) and Dodge vehicles. In addition to offering vehicle wholesale and retail financing, Chrysler Financial provides fleet management and lines of credit to Chrysler Group dealers. As an industry leader in automotive financing, Chrysler Financial provides its customers with the most innovative and efficient methods of doing business. For more information on Chrysler Financial visit http://www.chryslerfinancial.com/ .

Source: Chrysler Financial

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

Feeling Pinched by the Gas Pump? Chrysler Group Shares Tips for Saving Fuel

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., April 20 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- As fuel prices climb, Chrysler Group passes along tips to help customers maximize the fuel economy of their vehicles.

While Chrysler Group is working to improve the fuel economy of its vehicles through technologies available today such as Multi-Displacement System, more efficient engines and diesel technology, there are additional measures customers can take to enhance their fuel economy.

Modifying Driving Habits

* Slow down -- every 5 mph over 65 mph can decrease fuel economy by as much as 7 percent

* Use modest acceleration when possible, minimizing "jack rabbit" starts

* Moderate use of air conditioning and other accessories such as fog lamps and heated seats

* Use cruise control to help maintain a steady speed

* Limit idle and warm up periods -- don't leave vehicles idle while running in for the cup of coffee in the morning

* Plan your trip to avoid rush hour, if you can, to avoid idling in traffic

Check Vehicle Condition

* Ensure proper vehicle maintenance

-- Replace dirty air filters -- a clogged air filter can reduce fuel

economy as much as 10 percent

-- Check tire pressures -- tires underinflated by just 2 psi can reduce

fuel economy as much as 1 percent

* Remove extra weight from vehicles -- an extra 100 pounds in the trunk or pickup box can lower fuel economy 1 to 2 percent

* Reduce aerodynamic drag on vehicle by taking empty cargo carriers, bike racks, ski racks, etc. off -- at highway speeds, 50 percent of the engine power is used to overcome aerodynamic drag

* Remove unused items from roof racks as a loaded roof rack can reduce fuel economy at highway speeds by as much as 5 percent

* Keep vehicle engine tuned up as a noticeably out of tune engine can reduce fuel economy as much as 4 percent

* If vehicle engine light is on, have the vehicle serviced -- faulty components such as an oxygen sensor can reduce fuel economy as much as 40 percent

Source: Chrysler Group

http://www.daimlerchrysler.com/

Global Electric Motorcars, LLC, Celebrates Production Launch of All New Six-Passenger GEM Electric Vehicles

* Worldwide leader in production and sales of low-speed neighborhood electric vehicles * Product lineup expands for clean, quiet, convenient, fun-to-drive GEM vehicles * Steady market growth expected to continue

Global Electric Motorcars, LLC, a DaimlerChrysler company, today launched production of its all-new six- passenger GEM electric vehicle at the company's headquarters and assembly plant in Fargo, N.D.

The GEM e6 is being added to the current GEM lineup of two- and four- passenger vehicles and two utility vehicle models. The street-legal GEM e6 is the perfect local transportation solution for larger families or shuttling groups of people.

"We created this new GEM model as a result of customer demand," said Rick Kasper, President and Chief Operating Officer of Global Electric Motorcars.

"The GEM e6 is the perfect local transportation solution for larger families or for transporting groups of people around real estate developments, theme parks as well as around business, college and medical campuses. With the 'S' package, the GEM e6 is the perfect all-around shuttle and delivery vehicle for use on roads within resorts, airports and military bases where ruggedness and continuous-duty is an issue."

California remains the strongest market for zero-emission GEM vehicles, along with Sun Belt states such as Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Mississippi, Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, Florida and Hawaii.

"We've just completed a 15-city tour to introduce our upgraded 2006 model lineup, and we're capping it off today with our celebration of the first six- passenger production vehicles to come off the assembly line. We're anxious to get these vehicles to our customers who have ordered them sight-unseen," said Kasper.

The 2006 model lineup has been improved and adds 15 new options. One improvement includes a heavy-duty motor and motor controller with integral cooling for use in extreme duty-cycle operation. Over the past few years, Global Electric Motorcars has made many engineering improvements, including:

* Redesigning the chassis to use automotive suspension and braking systems

* Widening the track

* Reducing turning radius, and

* Adding a "smart" battery charger with GEM-proprietary charging algorithms that provide maximum range driving after each recharge cycle and extend the battery pack life.

"Our leadership in the NEV market includes our commitment to continuous product improvements, as well as new product offerings," said Kasper.

Global Electric Motorcars, LLC is the leading manufacturer of neighborhood electric vehicles in the world. They provide clean, quiet, convenient and low-cost transportation in locations such as master planned communities, college and university campuses, military bases, airports, state and national parks, resorts, city centers and industrial and commercial campuses.

GEM vehicles have a top speed of 25 mph, can be driven on roadways posted up to 35 mph, and meet all federal safety standards for Low Speed Vehicles. They are classified as zero emission vehicles.

"Projections are for continued market growth for neighborhood electric vehicles," said Larry Oswald, CEO and Director of the GEM and Electric Vehicle Product Team for DaimlerChrysler.

"Global Electric Motorcars, LLC is already the industry leader and with this new e6 model we are preparing to extend our leadership even further in the NEV market."

In addition to being the top-selling street-legal all-electric vehicle in the United States, Global Electric Motorcars, LLC has recently expanded its marketing internationally with new distributors in Western Europe.

Global Electric Motorcars, LLC, has also been a significant contributor to the economy of Fargo and the state of North Dakota, with more than 80 jobs and $3.4 million in annual payroll.

Source: Chrysler Group

http://www.daimlerchrysler.com/
http://www.gemcar.com/

DOD
Eighty silver goblets commemorating the "Doolittle Raid" over Japan were added of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio, April 20, 2006 - Eighty silver goblets commemorating each man who flew in the "Doolittle Raid" over Japan were added to the collection of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force here yesterday. "We are honored in the trust you place in us. We will honor and respect that trust." retired Air Force Maj. Gen. Charles D. Metcalf, director of the museum, told the eight raiders attending a reunion here this week on the 64th anniversary of the famous raid. The "Doolittle Tokyo Raiders" were volunteer airmen from the U.S. Army Air Forces, the predecessor of the U.S Air Force, who on April 18, 1942, flew 16 B-25 Mitchell airplanes in an attack against Japan during World War II. Army Lt. Col. James H. "Jimmy" Doolittle led the raid.

The goblets, which were presented to the raiders by the city of Tucson, Ariz., in 1959, have taken a highly symbolic place in the history of military aviation, U.S. Air Force officials said. The goblets were previously housed at the U.S. Air Force Academy, in Colorado Springs, Colo. In 1973, retired Lt. Col. Dick Cole, Doolittle's co-pilot during the raid on Japan, built a portable display case to transport the goblets to the raiders' annual reunions. At every reunion the surviving Doolittle Raiders meet privately to conduct a "Goblet Ceremony." After toasting the raiders who have died since the last reunion, they turn the deceased men's goblet upside down. Each goblet has the raider's name engraved twice - so that it can be read if the goblet is right side up or upside down. In addition, the president of Hennessy Company gave Jimmy Doolittle a bottle of 'Hennessy Very Special' cognac, vintage 1896, the year of Doolittle's birth. When there are only two raiders left, these two men will open the bottle and have a final toast to their departed comrades, Air Force officials said. "I've been wondering who the other guy is going to be to enjoy the bottle of cognac," Cole, who officially presented the goblets to the museum, quipped during the ceremony.

The goblets will be displayed alongside a B-25 bomber at the museum, which receives more than 1 million visitors per year, museum officials said. "Airmen have a proud heritage that we can call upon as we move forward to an unlimited horizon that is ahead of us. The Raiders are not only a part of our Air Force heritage, but they are our heroes," Lt. Gen. Arthur J. Lichte, assistant vice chief of staff and director of the Air Force Staff, said during the ceremony. Lichte credited the Doolittle Raiders with helping turn the tide in the Pacific theater during the war. "The eventual triumph of the Allies was certainly not a given, but the raiders set us on the path to victory and on a path that we will follow for many years to come," he said. The general said the Doolittle Raiders define what it means to be an airman, and their legacy serves as an inspiration. "Our young airmen are inspired by the innovation of their forefathers and, of course, all these raiders," Lichte said. "We pledge to take the heritage we inherited from you and continue to protect our nation, so that you can be proud of America's next best generation."

A Michigan police officer says he has found his calling in the effort to foster a democratic Iraq and ultimately bring America's troops home.
.

Since October, Sgt. Ed Hude, a 31-year veteran with the Mason, Mich., police department, has been sending special supplies to help American military police train and equip their Iraqi colleagues. "The ultimate goal is to support the troops and get these Iraqi police officers up and on the run as fast as we can so we can get our military personnel home as soon as possible," Hude told American Forces Press Service in a telephone interview. The idea began in March 2005, when Hude's son, Edward Hude Jr., was deployed to Baghdad with the Michigan Army National Guard.

While working with a military police unit, Hude Jr. asked his father to send used handcuffs and other equipment to augment the backlogged supply system for the new Iraqi police force. Leery of sending such supplies to his son directly, which might appear improper, Hude began corresponding through his son's commanding officer, and eventually Michigan Rep. Mike Rodgers' office, before sending the first shipment of handcuffs in October. After that first success, Hude decided to expand the effort. He sent e-mails to police departments throughout Michigan after checking with his chief of police, who supported the effort enthusiastically. "On TV ... it appeared that the Iraqi police were using light blue shirts and probably dark blue pants," Hude said. He requested that area departments send uniforms of that type, as well as other police supplies.

Soon, he received a big response from the chief of police in Lansing, Mich., whose department donated over 60 sets of used body armor and 100 serviceable police uniforms. "We went through and screened the body armor," Hude said. "There's some current controversy about the chemical makeup of the vests." But all held up well to testing, he said. Shipping the supplies to Baghdad was made easier thanks to United Parcel Service. The company's international shipping department donated $2,000 in services, helping the packages arrive by the end of November 2005. Since then, Hude has continued to receive equipment from departments throughout the state. The effort contributes rechargeable flashlights, winter coats and even fingerprinting supplies, although sending them has been a difficult cost to bear. "I've tried to encourage (other departments) to ship this equipment directly themselves to Baghdad," he said, adding that he promises to find a way to send the goods if his donors decide they cannot. For the past six months, Hude's contact in Baghdad has been Army Maj. David Detz, executive officer of Task Force 519, a military police battalion, who spoke with American Forces Press Service from Baghdad. "It's been a blessing to have Sergeant Hude take this effort ... and get all these guys to provide us supplies," Detz said. "(The Iraqis') supply system is catching up, but it's just taking a bit longer as they're trying to stand up this whole organization." Detz said he hopes the connection between the Michigan police and those in Iraq will eventually become a stronger cooperation than simply sending supplies.

"We're trying to train these guys on the rule of law and trying to get them from a paramilitary organization to a law enforcement organization," he said. He hopes connections with police in the U.S. will help the Iraqis learn to enforce the laws of a democracy. And the Iraqis aren't the only people who feel Hude's effort. "It's very important for us, from our soldiers' standpoint, to know that guys like Sergeant Hude and his people are back there still thinking about us over here," he said.

CONTRACTS

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY AM General, LLC, Mishawaka, Ind., is being awarded a maximum $25,052,000 firm-fixed-price contract for requirements type contract to support HMMWV RECAP program for the Army. Other locations of performance are Red River Army Depot, Letterkenny Army Depot, and Maine Military Authority. This is a one year contract with 2 option years. There was 1 proposal solicited and 1 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is Jan. 16, 2008. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Columbus, Columbus, Ohio (SP0750-06-D-9711).

ARMY Raytheon, Andover, Mass., was awarded on March 17, 2006, a $9,541,859 modification to a cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for upgrade of M818E2 fuzes to the M818E3A configuration for Japan. Work will be performed in Andover, Mass., and is expected to be completed by Feb. 28, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on Aug. 9, 2005. The Army Aviation and Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-04-C-0114).

Anthony & Gordon Construction Co. Inc.*, Knoxville, Tenn., was awarded on April 17, 2006, a $6,428,000 firm-fixed-price contract for construction of an operations and training/medical facility. Work will be performed in Savannah, Ga., and is expected to be completed by April 17, 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were an unknown number of bids solicited via the World Wide Web on Jan. 12, 2006, and six bids were received. The Property Fiscal Office for Georgia, Atlanta, Ga., is the contracting activity (W912JM-06-C-0004).

_AIR FORCE Honeywell International Inc., Clearwater, Fla., is being awarded an $8,290,977 cost plus fixed fee and firm fixed price contract. The effort, awarded as a result of Broad Agency Announcement VS-05-01, is comprised of two technical components: 1) advanced strategic gyroscope development and, 2) enhanced space integrated Global Positioning System/inertial navigation unit test and qualification. This effort will provide the Air Force with viable options to enhance strategic ballistic missile programs. At this time, $1,527,898 has been obligated. Solicitations began February 2005 and negotiations were complete in April 2006. This work will be complete February 2009. Air Force Research Laboratory, Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M., is the contracting activity. (FA9453-06-C-0097)

Four state governors just returned from Afghanistan, Iraq and Kuwait

shared glowing reports today about the operations they observed there, but reserved their highest praise for the men and women in uniform they met, including National Guard troops from their states. The four governors -- Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels, Iowa Gov. Tom Vilsack and West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin -- shared their insights during a breakfast meeting this morning with President Bush and a White House news conference that followed. "I thanked them for sending a message from home that we ... care about troops, ... that we'll support our troops ... (and) that we appreciate the fact that people are willing to make sacrifices," the president said after the meeting. The governors began their trip April 13 at the Pentagon, where they met with Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld and received briefings about ongoing military operations.

They arrived in Kuwait April 14, visiting an up-armor facility and sharing dinner with troops at Camp Virginia before flying to Iraq. The governors attended Easter services with troops in Baghdad, then flew to Afghanistan for a reception with Afghan governors and a meeting the next day with Afghan President Hamid Karzai. Army Lt. Gen. H Steven Blum, chief of the National Guard Bureau, joined the governors during the whirlwind trip as they toured facilities, watched the U.S. military in action, and met with military leaders and servicemembers from their own and other states. Daniels told reporters today he was impressed by the "sheer proficiency" of the mission the military is carrying out in Southwest Asia. "One knows this, but until you see it firsthand and on the immense scale, (it's) very hard to express how well they do what they are asked to do," he said. Manchin said the trip gave him a new perspective about people's drive for freedoms that Americans often take for granted. "There's nothing free in the word 'freedom,' nothing at all," he said.

The governors said they were most impressed by the troops and their commitment to the mission. "They believe they are doing something important," Daniels said. "And so I simply will report on their behalf that they think this is a noble thing they're doing and are very proud of the contribution they're making-... to the security of our country and their loved ones at home ... (and) to the establishment of freedom in two lands that have been denied it for so long." "Their spirits are high; they're committed to the safety and freedom that every American enjoys and should enjoy -- and hopefully (will) make the rest of the world free," Manchin said. "They're committed to getting the job done and they're working very hard.

They're a dedicated group of people. And it was so good to see them being in such high spirits." Vilsack praised the troops he met and shared a story about his meeting with Army Lt. Col. Robert Stavnes, a former ROTC instructor at the University of Northern Iowa who is now helping train the Afghan army. Stavnes told Vilsack he sees hope every day in the faces of children walking to school, particularly young girls who couldn't attend school under Taliban rule. "They are thirsty for freedom and thirsty for an education," Vilsack said Stavnes told him. Regardless of one's politics, it's difficult not to be impressed by the U.S. armed forces, Vilsack said. "There may be disagreements on policy, but no one can disagree with the fact that we have extraordinarily brave, competent, and dedicated individuals in the armed forces, serving in both Afghanistan and Iraq," he said. The Florida governor shared his traveling mates' enthusiasm about the troops they met during the trip. "These men and women, whether they're reservists, guard or enlisted men and women, are doing heroic work," Bush said. "They're well-trained; they're well taken care of; their morale is high; they're totally focused on the mission.

There is a strategy that they're implementing. It was inspirational." He said the visit reaffirmed his commitment to the mission in Iraq and Afghanistan and support for the troops serving there. "And I'd just like to reiterate what the other governors have said, that it is very important that we stay the course, that we provide support for these incredible people that are doing such a service for liberty around the world and protecting our freedoms here," Bush said. Twenty-six other governors have made visits to Southwest Asia to meet with National Guard and reserve troops from their states as well as active-duty forces. "It's so powerful that the governors visit their National Guardsmen," Blum told a Stars and Stripes reporter of the trips. Meeting with the troops, eating at military dining facilities and sleeping on the military bases give the governors a unique understanding of the conditions troops encounter and personalizes the deployment, he said. "You don't have to be in Afghanistan or Iraq a long time to understand the challenges of the missions," Blum said. "The National Guard brings the face of all America to the theater."

Group Meets to Discuss Way Forward in Afghan, Pakistani Cooperation

A cooperative group of officials from Afghanistan, Pakistan and coalition forces in Afghanistan held its 16th meeting here today. Delegates to the Tripartite Commission included Gen. Ahsan Saleem Hyat, vice chief of the Army Staff of Pakistan; Gen. Bismullah Khan, chief of staff of the Afghan National Army; and U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Karl W. Eikenberry, commander of Combined Forces Command Afghanistan. This was the third meeting in which the Afghanistan and Pakistan delegations were represented at the four-star-general level, U.S. officials said. Officials from NATO and the International Security Assistance Force again participated as observers.

The session began with a guest presentation by the coalition's counter-improvised explosive devises task force on progress in combating the IED threat. Following the IED briefing, the Afghan, Pakistani and coalition delegations each presented briefings focusing on planning for future operational activities, including a review of successes and areas for improvement. The delegations then conducted coordination for their upcoming participation in Exercise Inspired Gambit '06, a joint military exercise conducted between the U.S. and Pakistan that will occur in May. At Pakistan's invitation, this year's exercise will include participation from an Afghan National Army unit for the first time. The next briefing was delivered jointly by the delegations from Pakistan and Afghanistan.

It was a summary of the first Afghan-Pakistani seminar, conducted at the George C. Marshall European Center for Strategic Studies, in Garmisch, Germany. Participants reviewed the seminar's highlights and the progress it made in developing security relationships, promoting active, peaceful engagement, and enhancing enduring partnerships between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The coalition briefed plans for the next of these seminars, tentatively scheduled to be held in September. In addition, the delegates discussed border security and agreed to further enhance communication and coordination in this regard, with particular emphasis on expanding cross-border coordination along the Afghan-Pakistani border areas. This plenary session highlighted the increasingly positive progress of communications and information sharing between Afghanistan, Pakistan, Combined Forces Command, and NATO-ISAF, which has helped improve security in the region, U.S. officials said. The Tripartite Commission will meet again in June in Pakistan. At the June meeting, NATO-ISAF will participate for the first time as a full member of the Tripartite Commission.

DoD, OPM to Appeal Civilian Personnel System Ruling

_NAVY Sierra Nevada Corp.*, Sparks, Nev., is being awarded a $5,438,040 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price, indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract (N00421-05-D-0010) to exercise an option for the procurement of up to 60 AN/APN-245 radio beacon sets. Work will be performed in Sparks, Nev., and is expected to be completed in December 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, St. Inigoes, Md., is the contracting activity.

The Defense Department will appeal a federal judge's decision to block portions of the new civilian personnel system, a National Security Personnel System official told American Forces Press Service today. The Justice Department filed a notice of appeal earlier this week with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit on behalf of DoD and the Office of Personnel Management, Andy Ames, a Justice Department press assistant, confirmed today. The notice signals DoD's and OPM's intention to file a formal appeal to overturn a previous court decision blocking NSPS, Ames said. The two organizations are partnering to establish the system, which eventually will affect more than 650,000 DoD civilian employees. U.S. District Judge Emmet G. Sullivan ruled in late February that provisions of the new system would fail to protect civilian employees' ability to bargain collectively.

These provisions pertain to labor relations, collective bargaining, independent third-party review, adverse actions and the National Security Labor Relations Board, DoD's proposed internal labor relations panel, the 77-page decision noted. The American Federation of Government Employees and 12 other labor unions filed a lawsuit in November 2005 challenging the proposed system. Joyce Frank, NSPS spokeswoman, said DoD is working closely with the Justice Department and looks forward to presenting DoD's position before the U.S. Court of Appeals. The appeal process will not affect the first phase of the system's implementation, scheduled for April 30, she said. About 11,000 DoD civilians will convert to the new civilian personnel system that day in "Spiral 1.1" of the phase-in process. NSPS is one of Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld's key initiatives designed to transform DoD operations to better meet 21st-century needs. It is designed to replace an outdated, 50-year-old civilian personnel management system that had rewarded employees for length of service rather than performance.

The new program, in development since 2003, replaces the current general-schedule personnel system with broad pay bands. Rumsfeld pointed yesterday to the new civilian personnel system as example of the many sweeping changes within DoD that are causing discomfort among people resistant to change. "We have passed a National Security Personnel System so that we could begin to get a grip on how we manage the Department of Defense and the civilian population, the work force, which is so important," Rumsfeld told Pentagon reporters. "And it's tied up in the courts, and it'll take time. It's been three years, I think, that we've been struggling with it, so far. And that's hard for people, that change," Rumsfeld said. "The idea of paying for performance is stunning for some people."

NEWS

Celebrating National Scrapbooking Month in Manhattan

April showers bring May flowers, but what does May bring? National Scrapbooking Month and New York City's first Manhattan Crop & Shop! According to Fun Facts Publishing, scrapbooking has become a $3 billion industry and festivals like this have been gaining in popularity across the country. The Manhattan Crop & Shop festival will be held May 19-20, 2006, at the Metropolitan Pavilion. The all-night crop will start on Friday at 9 a.m. and run overnight until 7 a.m. on Saturday morning. Shopping at the event will be between the hours of 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday. This is the time for scrapbook enthusiasts of all levels to start sifting through their boxes of photos and get their supplies in order.

National Scrapbooking Month is the perfect time to celebrate the art of scrapbooking and preserving memories. There is also no better time to learn how to scrapbook for those new to the craft. This event will give all scrapbookers the most innovative ways to decorate their pages. "This is the first scrapbooking event like this to take place right in Manhattan," says Christine Cifelli, event director at Starfish Junction Productions, the company producing the event. "That's very exciting and we anticipate that people will really love having this available right here in the city. We'll have a variety of activities and information for scrapbookers of all skill levels." The average scrapbooker is female and between the ages of 20 and 50, is college educated, and has a yearly income of over $50,000. Many of these scrapbookers attend events like this because they find them to be a great opportunity to see a variety of products, learn new techniques, showcase talents, share tips, and preview all the latest trends in the scrapbooking industry.

There is no better way to try new products, learn new techniques, and crop until you drop! "Scrapbookers can sign up for one or both days of the event," explains Cifelli. "Along with scrapbooking, there will be raffles, great food being prepared by Saucier Frankie Scala and Susan Walsh of Frankie's Gravy, and most of all a lot of fun." There is a $5 admission to shop at the event. The one-day crop price starts at $89 and the two-day pass starts at $179. There are incentives to sign up early for the event, including getting the chance to win a free massage. There are free goodie bags for all who register before April 30, 2006 that include meal and snack tickets. "We've held scrapbooking events in other locations," adds Cifelli, "and the response we get back from those that attend is wonderful. People have a great time, usually better than they had even expected it would be."

P&G Reaches Settlement Agreement With Vi-Jon Laboratories

The Procter & Gamble Company today announced that a settlement has been reached in the lawsuit filed by P&G against Vi-Jon Laboratories, Inc., on Feb. 15, 2006. The suit alleged that Vi-Jon, a private label manufacturer of health and beauty products, infringed on and diluted the unique trade dress of P&G's Crest Pro- Health Rinse, and also engaged in false advertising of its own mouthwash product ("Vi-Jon Rinse"), sold under store-brand names in retail establishments. Under the settlement agreement Vi-Jon has agreed to withdraw its product from the market, to not use bottle designs that are confusingly similar to those of P&G, to not make "compare to Crest Pro-Health" or gingivitis efficacy claims without specific testing to support these claims, and to pay P&G monetary damages.

"Our objective was to end what we see as a breach of our designs and intellectual property rights by a private label manufacturer," said Jim Johnson, P&G's chief legal officer. "We are pleased the terms of the settlement agreement protect the unique trade dress of the Crest Pro-Health brand."

Crest Pro-Health Rinse is an oral health rinse that kills 99 percent of germs that cause plaque, gingivitis and bad breath without the burn of alcohol. Clinical and laboratory testing shows that Vi-Jon Rinse, which Vi- Jon positioned as comparable to Crest Pro-Health, is not effective in reducing plaque or gingivitis to a meaningful degree, and is in fact no more efficacious than water.

About Procter & Gamble

Three billion times a day, P&G brands touch the lives of people around the world. The company has one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands, including Pampers(R), Tide(R), Ariel(R), Always(R), Whisper(R), Pantene(R), Mach3(R). Bounty(R), Dawn(R), Pringles(R), Folgers(R), Charmin(R), Downy(R), Lenor(R), Iams(R), Crest(R), Oral-B(R), Actonel(R), Duracell(R), Olay(R), Head & Shoulders(R), Wella, Gillette(R), and Braun. The P&G community consists of almost 140,000 employees working in over 80 countries worldwide. Please visit http://www.pg.com for the latest news and in-depth information about P&G and its brands.

Series Takes Off Nationwide to Fight Childhood Obesity

Comprehensive Health Education Foundation (C.H.E.F.(R)), developer of the most widely used prevention curricula in the United States, announced that its innovative, new FUEL(TM) series on childhood obesity has been acquired by school districts nationwide since its launch five months ago. The FUEL series is the first educational video series to address the obesity epidemic through the eyes of today's American teens, and it makes childhood obesity relevant and compelling by focusing on kids talking to kids about making healthy choices.

Since the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention declared in 2001 that "obesity is the most common health problem facing children today," educators, parents, kids, and numerous other key stakeholders have begun to take action to address this important issue. To date, C.H.E.F.'s FUEL series is being used in one or more school districts in 26 states across the nation: Alaska, Arkansas, California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Washington, Wisconsin, and West Virginia. According to Debra Keene Bergeron, Vice President of C.H.E.F., "Based on the extremely enthusiastic response and warm reception that schools across the nation are giving to the FUEL series, it is clear that the need to meaningfully address the childhood obesity epidemic within the classroom is being universally felt and acted upon.

The School and Community Nutrition Program at The Maryland State Department of Education is one such example, having recently purchased the FUEL series for each of their twenty-four county-based school districts statewide. Funding for the purchase came from a Team Nutrition Grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service." In Cupertino, California, junior high school teacher Chris Heumann said, "As my students began to look at the issues around rising obesity rates, FUEL inspired them to take action in positive ways to change their own lives and health, and to influence change in their communities and beyond." "As a nonprofit organization whose mission is focused on improving the health of our nation's youth, we're thrilled that schools have purchased the FUEL series to address the issue of obesity," said Larry Clark, C.H.E.F.'s President and Chief Executive Officer. "Based on feedback we've received from administrators, educators, and students around the country, the FUEL series is perceived to be a substantive, credible, relevant, and user-friendly educational product that is beginning to help kids make positive changes in their lives." About the FUEL(TM) Series Targeted to kids ages 10-18, the FUEL series is an edgy, upbeat, and powerful series that encourages positive teen activism as a way of addressing the important issues of healthy eating, body image, physical activity, self-esteem, and the media. Instead of preaching to teens about a need for change, the FUEL series profiles what real teens are doing to address obesity and make positive changes in their lives and the world around them.

The four-part series includes the titles Skin Deep, Energy for Action, The Perfect Machine, and Taking on the World. Each FUEL Educator's Module includes a VHS and DVD video plus a full curriculum complete with lessons and small-group projects. The FUEL series is also available for home use in a version that includes a DVD and discussion booklet. About Comprehensive Health Education Foundation Founded in 1974, Seattle-based Comprehensive Health Education Foundation (C.H.E.F.(R)) is dedicated to promoting health and quality of life through education, addressing such important topics as childhood obesity, stress, and other unhealthy behaviors. As a nationally known nonprofit organization, C.H.E.F. develops a variety of health promotion and prevention education programs and products targeted to the early childhood, school-aged youth, and healthy aging markets. For information about C.H.E.F.'s new FUEL series designed to fight childhood obesity, please visit http://fuel.chef.org. For C.H.E.F.'s other products and programs, please visit http://www.chef.org

Cheapseats.com 20th Anniversary Celebration Continues With 1 Day Left of Great Airfare Ticket Giveaways!

On April 4th, 2006, Cheapseats.com, formerly known as 1800CheapSeats, a leading online and offline travel provider, announced that it was celebrating 20 years in business by teaming up with its airline partners to provide customers and site visitors an exciting chance to win twenty sets of airline tickets. Since the announcement, over 10,000 registrants have taken advantage of the daily opportunity to win free airfare for two to many great destinations around the world. Until April 20th, 2006, visitors to Cheapseats.com can greatly increase their odds of winning by taking advantage of the opportunity to register up to 3 additional times (once per day) before the promotion ends. Winners will be announced on the Cheapseats.com homepage following verification starting the week of April 24th, 2006. For a complete description of contest rules and details, please visit http://www.cheapseats.com. Participating airlines include: Aero Mexico, Air Canada, Air Tahiti Nui, AirTran Airways, Alaska Airlines, Aloha Airlines, American Airlines, Continental Airlines, Czech Airlines, Iceland Air, LTU International Airlines, Midwest Airlines, Olympic Airlines, Span Air, Spirit Airlines, Sun Country Airlines and TAM Brazilian Airlines. About cheapseats.com: cheapseats.com is an online travel site operated by OneTravel Holdings Inc. in Atlanta, Georgia. Operating call centers in Las Vegas and Atlanta offer customers to call 1-800-CHEAPSEATS to speak with experienced travel agents or book online at http://www.cheapseats.com.

Frame My Photos' Newest Digital Photo Frame Pack Is All About the Great American Pastime

Frame My Photos, LLC (http://www.framemyphotos.com) has hit one out of the ballpark with its new Baseball and Softball Frame Pack (http://framemyphotos.com/fmp_fp_baseball_softball.html). Designed for use at home, the pack comes bundled with the company's acclaimed Framing Station software and includes over 1,500 themed frames for digital photos. "It's baseball and softball season, and Frame My Photos is ready with our first sports pack devoted entirely to a single sport," said Frame My Photos co-founder Ron Fortier. "The Baseball and Softball Frame Pack includes exciting graphics and text treatments, and it's as easy to use as a photo kiosk. From team moms and coaches to summer league players, there's something for everyone here." Included in the newest Frame My Photos pack are baseball and softball trading card frames for every position - even riding the pine. For quick and easy team awards, the pack offers frames proclaiming "Player of the Game," "Awesome Effort," "Coach of the Year," "Most Valuable Mom," and "Thanks for the Great Snack." There are frames for league all-stars, tournament places, and all levels of play.

Users can choose the appearance of the text on any frame, and frames can be sized to fit the most popular photo sizes - 4x6, 6x4, 5x7, 7x5, 8x10 and 10x8 - as well as the most common paper formats for home printers (8.5x11 and 11x8.5). Once framed, images are ideal for display, presentation, or scrapbooking and can be printed, e-mailed and shared over the Internet. Frame My Photos garnered top reviews from over 50 software reviewers last year when it updated Framing Station with its proprietary AccuPosition and Digi-Press technologies. Featuring the company's exclusive Digi-Press rapid response breakthrough, the Framing Station excels at ease of use.

In sharp contrast to traditional photo, clip art and digital scrapbooking software, the Framing Station is easily mastered by those new to computers. Just choose a photo, pick a frame, add text (if desired), then print, save, or e-mail your instant work of art. For a limited time, the Frame My Photos Baseball and Softball Frame Pack with Framing Station is available for just $19.95; teachers and schools receive a 30-percent discount. Those who want to try before they buy can download a 19MB Baseball and Softball Frame Pack sampler for free. "The Baseball and Softball Frame Pack is the ultimate in affordability, versatility and creativity for baseball and softball enthusiasts," said Fortier. "What's more, it's a whole lot of fun for kids and parents alike." About Frame My Photos, LLC Founded in 2004 by the creative and production team behind Disney's ultra successful Print Studio products, Frame My Photos develops software and artwork that enable consumers to effortlessly frame, print, save and e-mail their digital photos. Frame My Photos is a privately held company headquartered in California. To learn more, visit http://www.framemyphotos.com.

Designs By Beth Ann Introduces Its New Line of Handmade Handbags at designsbybethann.com

Beth Ann Scott, owner of Designs By Beth Ann, creates unique, one-of-a-kind and limited-edition handbags that are simple yet stylish, making a smooth transition from casual to cocktails; great for the woman who likes to make an impression Handbag designer Beth Ann Scott is proud to announce the launch of designsbybethann.com, her online boutique, and introduce her new collection of custom-designed, handmade handbags, makeup bags and change purses.

In her new collection Beth Ann combines bright, fun fabrics with polka dot ribbons, sewn-on feminine flowers and rich wooden handles for a fun yet sophisticated look. Each limited-edition handbag is created by hand with a huge selection of quality fabrics and accessories to mix and match so that each customer can design a handbag that they absolutely love. With over 15 different handbag styles to choose from there is something for everyone. Each Designs By Beth Ann bag is a handcrafted original and is attractively priced under $60. Through Beth Ann's online boutique,

http://www.designsbybethann.com, customers can design their own handbag or choose from a NEW selection of ready-made bags. For those of you who cannot seem to decide, host a Designs By Beth Ann Purse Party and get to see all the fabrics, ribbons, handles, and flowers firsthand. Whether you are looking for the perfect gift for your bridesmaids, a birthday, or a baby shower, or just need a little something for yourself - you name it and Designs By Beth Ann can do it. When you design a handbag at Designs By Beth Ann you are getting a unique custom-made bag that all your friends will rave about. These limited-edition handbags, makeup bags and change purses are available through Beth Ann's online boutique at http://www.designsbybethann.com. Online payment is accepted through PayPal. Wholesale is available on an individual basis and inquiries can be sent via e-mail to designsbybethann@yahoo.com.

, customers can design their own handbag or choose from a NEW selection of ready-made bags. For those of you who cannot seem to decide, host a Designs By Beth Ann Purse Party and get to see all the fabrics, ribbons, handles, and flowers firsthand. Whether you are looking for the perfect gift for your bridesmaids, a birthday, or a baby shower, or just need a little something for yourself - you name it and Designs By Beth Ann can do it. When you design a handbag at Designs By Beth Ann you are getting a unique custom-made bag that all your friends will rave about. These limited-edition handbags, makeup bags and change purses are available through Beth Ann's online boutique at . Online payment is accepted through PayPal. Wholesale is available on an individual basis and inquiries can be sent via e-mail to .

President Bush's Job Approval Ratings Remain Low, Says Harris Poll

Two-thirds of U.S. Adults Say the Country Has Gotten off on the Wrong Track

President Bush's job approval ratings remain low, with 35 percent of U.S. adults giving him a positive rating and 63 percent giving him a negative rating. Attitudes toward the state of the country have changed more substantially in the last month. More than one-quarter (27%) of U.S. adults say things in the country are going in the right direction, while 65 percent say things have pretty seriously gotten off on the wrong track. In March, nearly a third (31%) of adults thought things were going in the right direction, while 60 percent said things in the country had gotten off on the wrong track.

These are some of the results from the latest Harris Poll of 1,008 U.S. adults surveyed by telephone between April 7 and 10, 2006 by Harris Interactive(R).

Showing only a modest gender gap in opinion, approximately one-third (32%) of women and 38 percent of men view President Bush's job performance as positive. Regarding how things in the country are going, women are much more likely to be pessimistic. Only 21 percent of women say things are going in the right direction as compared to 33 percent of men.

Partisans appear to fall in line, with 71 percent of Republicans viewing President Bush's job performance in a positive light, as compared to eight percent of Democrats and 27 percent of Independents. While the Republican number is probably lower than the White House would like, members of the president's own party tend to support him. Yet, when ideology is examined, conservatives are less likely than Republicans to be supportive. Half of conservatives (49%) view the president's job in a positive light while half (50%) view it in a negative one.

Congressional ratings

When asked if the election for Congress were held today whether they would vote Republican or Democrat, 37 percent of adults say they would vote for the Republican candidate while 41 percent say they would vote for the Democratic candidate. This is a slight improvement for Republicans since January when 34 percent said they would vote Republican and 43 percent said they would vote Democratic. Perhaps the recent resignation announcement by Majority Leader Tom DeLay helped the Republicans.

With these congressional election numbers, party and ideology differences are closer, but still probably not what Republicans or Democrats would hope for. Eighty percent of Republicans would vote for the Republican candidate, while 84 percent of Democrats would vote for the Democratic candidate. Yet just 58 percent of conservatives would vote for the Republican candidate and 63 percent of liberals would vote Democratic. Independent and moderate opinion also differs. Independents are split with 32 percent voting Democrat and 34 percent voting Republican (25% say they would vote other), while moderates are leaning more Democrat (49%) as compared to the 27 percent of moderates who would vote for the Republican candidate for Congress.

Important issues

The war in Iraq is again the most important issue for the government to address (cited by 23% of U.S. adults). The issue that showed the largest increase in importance is immigration, which has jumped to 19 percent now, up from four percent last month. Congress taking up legislation and subsequent protests around the country appear to have raised this issue's importance. Healthcare is next in importance, as 13 percent think it is the most important issue for the government to address, followed by the economy (12%) and education (10%).

Miller Brewing Company Leads World Beer Cup, Wins More Medals Than Any Other Brewer

Miller and Brewmaster Dr. David Ryder Repeat as World Beer Cup Champions

Miller Brewing Company and Miller brewmaster, Dr. David Ryder, were once again named the World Beer Cup Champion Brewery and Brewmaster (Large Brewing Company) at the bi-annual Brewers Association World Beer Cup(R) 2006. Miller and its subsidiaries together walked away with more awards than any other brewer, taking four gold, two silver and three bronze medals as part of the global beer competition held April 14 in Seattle.

"It's extremely gratifying to return to the World Beer Cup competition and be recognized as the Champion Large Brewing Company and Brewmaster for the second consecutive time," said Ryder. "At Miller, nothing is more important than delivering carefully crafted beers of unsurpassed quality and taste time after time. These awards are a testament to the people who brew our great beers with dedicated passion and consistency to the delight of beer drinkers throughout the country."

Beers in the Miller portfolio that were honored with medals in this year's competition are:

Gold

-- Miller Lite -- American-Style Light Lager

-- Miller High Life -- American-Style Lager

-- Icehouse -- American-Style Specialty Lager

-- Henry Weinhard's Classic Dark -- American-Style Dark Lager

Silver

-- OE HG 800 -- American-Style Specialty Lager

-- Leinenkugel's Honey Weiss -- American-Style Wheat Beer

Bronze

-- Milwaukee's Best Ice -- American-Style Specialty Lager

-- Henry Weinhard's Private Reserve -- American-Style Premium Lager

-- Leinenkugel's Sunset Wheat -- Herb and Spice Beer

The 2006 Brewers Association World Beer Cup is the world's largest and most diverse international beer competition for commercial breweries, this year touting 2,221 entries from 540 breweries in 56 countries. Other major breweries that participated include Anheuser-Busch, Inc; Coors Brewing Co.; Boston Beer Co.; and Heineken. The World Beer Cup has been held every other year since 1996 and is presented by the Association of Brewers, a not-for- profit educational and trade organization founded in 1978 that is dedicated to the promotion of quality beers and brewing throughout the world. The Association also hosts the annual Great American Beer Festival(R) and is based in Boulder, Colo.

Since the first World Beer Cup competition in 1996, Miller Brewing Company and its subsidiaries have garnered 40 medals for its beers. Miller Lite remains the brewery's leader, winning four gold medals for American-Style Light Lager (2006, 2002, 1998, 1996). This year's gold medal for Miller High Life brings the count to four medals for the High Life franchise, and the Miller Genuine Draft franchise has also reaped a medal in prior World Beer Cup competitions.

About Miller Brewing Company

The company also brews smooth, golden rich Miller Genuine Draft using a unique cold-filtering process Miller introduced in 1985. Miller's oldest brew is Miller High Life, the champagne of beers. Miller imports Peroni Nastro Azzurro, Pilsner Urquell and Foster's, and brews regional craft beers Leinenkugel's and Henry Weinhard's. Near- premium beers include Milwaukee's Best Light, Olde English 800, Mickey's Malt Liquor, Icehouse and Sharp's, a non-alcohol brew. Miller is a wholly owned subsidiary of SABMiller plc, the world's second largest brewer. For more information, visit http://www.millerbrewing.com/ .

Source: Miller Brewing Company

China Announces 17th Case of Human Infection With Avian Influenza

The Ministry of Health in China has confirmed the country's 17th case of human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The case occurred in a 21-year-old male migrant worker employed in Wuhan City, Hubei Province. He developed symptoms on 1 April. He is presently hospitalized in critical condition.

The man's source of exposure is under investigation. No poultry outbreaks have been reported in Hubei Province since November 2005. His close contacts have been placed under medical observation.

To date, China has reported 17 cases of H5N1 infection. Of these, 11 have been fatal.

For further information, please contact:

$1 Million in Funding Provided for Avian Flu Drug Development and Green Biotechnology

Brad Greenspan Funds Draths Corp. Developer of Organic Process for the Key Ingredient in Production of Tamiflu

The spread of Avian flu continues to be a worldwide concern, especially with the limited resources available to manufacture the key anti-influenza drug Tamiflu and the potential of genetic resistance among new viral strains. Brad Greenspan, entrepreneur, and investor today announced a $1 million investment which has seed funded and launched the Draths Corporation (http://www.drathscorporation.com/), a "green" bio-based chemical manufacturing company which aims to make the key building block in the production of Tamiflu available and also develop new anti- influenza drug candidates built on higher-yield, more cost effective syntheses.

The company's co-founders, Dr. John Frost, Dr. Karen Draths and Dr. Mark Stowers are leaders in the emerging "green" or bio-based chemical and material technologies. Their research and production of environmentally friendly chemicals is focused on replacing petroleum as the primary starting material with inexpensive, renewable resources such as sugars and starches. Their work represents a historic alternative to the global reliance on petroleum, a scarce, expensive, environmentally unfriendly, and politically sensitive material.

"As an investor, I actively look for emerging technologies that can make a global impact," said Greenspan. "Draths' focus on innovation fits perfectly into my investment scope. This funding allows Draths to accelerate its vital work to save lives. It is an honor to facilitate and empower Dr. Frost, who at Michigan State invented the patented process that Draths has licensed. The team is extremely bright and so are the prospects of Draths as a biotechnology company."

With Greenspan's investment, Draths Corp. has secured the licensing rights to 10 U.S. patents including the patent to synthetically manufacture Shikimic Acid which is the key building block for the synthesis of Tamiflu and other potential anti-influenzal agents. Draths' ability to produce Shikimic Acid will allow companies and countries to stockpile this important starting material in the creation of Tamiflu and could strategically prevent pandemic outbreaks of the Avian Flu.

"Brad's willingness to fund the company quickly was a key factor in our ability to accelerate development of our Tamiflu alternative," said Dr. Frost. "We plan to use the capital infusion to develop additional green alternatives for pharmaceuticals, strategic materials, and functional foods and flavorings. We will utilize our licensed patents to accelerate the shift toward creating chemicals from bio-based materials instead of petroleum. We will opportunistically look to raise additional capital to acquire additional technologies in this growing, critical niche."

Dr. Draths and Dr. Frost have co-authored 27 publications and are co-inventors of 10 issued patents. They will recruit a scientific team and direct the company's operations. Dr. Frost, who has more than 20 years experience in the development of green chemicals and materials, is responsible for all scientific and technical aspects of Draths Corporation. Dr. Stowers has more than 20 years experience in product development, commercialization and general management in agricultural and industrial biotechnology.

In addition to Greenspan's investment, Draths has been awarded a Phase 1 Department of Defense Small Business Innovation Research Program grant. Draths Corp. is based in Okemos, Mich.

About Brad Greenspan

Brad Greenspan, founder of Intermix Media which created Myspace.com, serves as an investor and strategic business advisor for successful start-up companies in high-growth markets. He invests capital and resources that enable companies to meet their short- and long-term business objectives. Greenspan has invested in companies such as vidiLife.com, Borba Nutraceuticals, and bbmao.com.

About Draths Corp.

http://www.drathscorporation.com/

Draths Corporation, a Delaware corporation, located in Okemos, Mich has secured license rights to ten issued US patents and nine patents pending resulting from work done in the Frost Laboratory at Michigan State University. Draths Corporation is now positioned to become the leader in the development, manufacture and marketing of green bio-based chemicals and materials in pharmaceuticals, strategic materials, and food and flavor ingredients industries.

Vivendi Universal Games nombra a Martin Tremblay responsable del desarrollo global de productos

Vivendi Universal Games ("VU Games") ha anunciado hoy que Martin Tremblay ha pasado a ser el nuevo director general de Worldwide Studios. Desde este nuevo cargo, Martin se convertirá en el responsable de establecer la visión de los productos de la compañía, supervisando las operaciones de los estudios internos y gestionando el desarrollo externo de las relaciones. Martin trabajará fuera de la sede central de la compañía, sita en Los Angeles.

En su anterior cargo de director y responsable de operaciones del reputado estudio internacional en Montreal de Ubisoft, Martin ayudó en el crecimiento del estudio, que pasó de tener 350 a 1.400 personas. Bajo su dirección, se convirtió en el Segundo mayor estudio de desarrollo de juegos del mundo, disponiendo de varias de las franquicias más importantes entre los principales juegos de la industria.

"Estamos muy ilusionados por contar con Martin en Vivendi Universal Games. Dispone de la visión, entusiasmo y un destacado historial para hacer crecer a la compañía, llevándola a una posición de liderazgo dentro de la industria", comentó Bruce Hack, consejero delegado de VU Games. "Sabemos que Martin fortalecerá la inmensa creatividad de los estudios de desarrollo y ejecutivos de VU Games, creando un destacado enlace en las experiencias de mercado para los jugadores de todo el mundo".

Desde su cargo de director general de Worldwide Studios, Martin reportará al consejero delegado de VU Games, Bruce Hack. Peter Della Penna seguirá ocupando el puesto de responsable de operaciones de Worldwide Studios, y reportará a Martin.

"Estoy muy contento de trabajar con Peter y con el resto de personas de talento de Vivendi Universal Games", comentó Martin Tremblay. "Se trata de una excelente oportunidad, y confío en que nuestros equipos sean capaces de inventar emocionantes juegos de calidad que sirvan para ilusionar a los jugadores de todas partes".

Blizzard Entertainment es una división única que reporta directamente al consejero delegado de VU Games, y no es parte del mandato de desarrollo de productos de Martin.

Acerca de Vivendi Universal Games

Vivendi Universal Games (www.vugames.com) es un desarrollador, editor y distribuidor de entretenimiento interactivo para múltiples plataformas. La compañía es líder en la categoría de juegos online para múltiples jugadores por suscripción (MMO, por sus siglas en inglés), y cuenta con posiciones de liderazgo en los mercados de los PC, consolas, instrumentos de mano y juegos móviles, y es una compañía emergente en los juegos online de última generación. Los dos principales estudios de VU Games son Blizzard Entertainment, con sede en Irvine, CA, y creadores de títulos como World of Warcraft(TM), Diablo(R), StarCraft(R) y Warcraft(R); y Sierra Entertainment, con sede en Los Angeles, incluyendo Radical Entertainment, Swordfish Studios, High Moon Studios y Massive Entertainment. Sierra es el dueño de títulos como Crash Bandicoot(R), Spyro The Dragon(R), Empire Earth(R), Leisure Suit Larry(TM) y Ground Control(R). VU Games mantiene sus relaciones estratégicas con los principales socios de contenido de la industria, incluyendo Universal Music Group, NBC Universal, Twentieth Century Fox y Ludlum Entertainment.

Página web: http://www.vugames.com

Source: Vivendi Universal Games

The Woodworking Shows Is Coming to POMONA - 3 Days ONLY!

May 5 - 7, 2006 -- Meet the nation's BEST woodworkers and pick your favorite project at the 3rd Annual Student Design Competition, sponsored by The Woodworking Shows and FESTOOL.

Over 100 hours of FREE education in our Master Clinics series and Woodworking A to Z classes conducted each day of the show.

Shop Machinery * Power Tool Techniques * Finishing * Turning -- Sponsored by Delta, Porter-Cable, 3M SandBlaster and Craft Supplies USA. Presented by nationally acclaimed table saw authority and author Kelly Mehler, master craftsmen Mike Heavey, Jim Heavey, contributing craftsman for WOOD Magazine, The Woodworking Shows' official magazine sponsor, and Steven Russell.

Presented by Woodline USA, Sommerfeld's Tools for Wood, Legacy, Jointech, Tormek/SharpToolsUSA and Apollo Spray, our Woodworking A to Z classes cover key topics -- Band Saws * Cabinetmaking * Furniture Building * Precision Woodworking * Sharpening * Spray Finishing.

Marc Adams School of Woodworking returns to sponsor Ask Our Experts, featuring master craftsman David Marks.

Introduced in 2004, The Student Design Competition continues to recognize and reward Southern California High School students for their woodworking accomplishments. Woodworking requires proficiency in mathematics and geometry, the ability to read and follow project plans and instructions, as well as manual dexterity and the ability to use machinery, thus integrating multiple critical skills. As schools in the area struggle to keep shop and woodworking programs in the curriculum, this competition provides exposure for the art and science of woodworking and offers a public platform to showcase participating students' creativity and skill, while encouraging communities to focus attention on the importance of maintaining such programs.

Participation in this year's competition more than quadrupled from last year. Students representing San Jacinto, El Camino Real, Corona, Norco, San Gorgonio, and Bretheren Christian High Schools submitted projects to be judged.

The students' projects will be judged by an expert panel in the areas of design, level of project complexity, quality of construction, and finish. First, second and third prizes in three juried categories, as well as a prize for the 'People's Choice' category, will be awarded. All students submitting completed projects are eligible to win prize packages generously donated by show exhibitors and sponsors. A gallery area displaying the projects will be featured at The Woodworking Shows throughout the course of the event.

Event Hours: Friday -- 12 Noon to 7 pm

Saturday -- 10 am to 6 pm

Sunday -- 10 am to 4 pm

Admission: $9.00 per ticket (3-day admission pass)

Children 12 and under FREE with paid adult admission

Cash only

Location: Fairplex

Building 4

1101 W. McKinley Avenue

Pomona, CA 91768

909.623.3111

Parking: $7.00

www.fairplex.com/fp

For more information, advance seminar registration and online discount coupons visit www.thewoodworkingshows.com.

Source: The Woodworking Shows

Web site: http://www.fairplex.com/fp

New Report Says Teens See Race Relations as Major Issue

Boys & Girls Clubs of America Launches "Youth for Unity" Diversity Program To Help Combat Prejudice, Promote Tolerance

A new report says teens see race relations as one of the most important issues concerning them today. Boys & Girls Clubs of America's (BGCA) "Youth Report to America" (YRTA) also reports teens feel America should strive for racial harmony because it will reduce conflict and unite the country and because all Americans share the same values.

The Report, the largest national survey ever developed and administered by teens, coincides with the national roll out of "Youth for Unity," a new interactive diversity education program funded by The Allstate Foundation.

Youth for Unity will build the ability of local Boys & Girls Clubs to help young people better understand diversity and combat prejudice, bigotry and discrimination. The national rollout follows a two-year, 56 Club, pilot phase and makes the program available to some four million young people at more than 3,700 Boys & Girls Club locations.

"Youth for Unity delivers perspectives and skills that will help youth adapt and thrive in a diverse society," said Judith J. Pickens, senior vice president for program and youth development services, Boys & Girls Clubs of America. "The Youth for Unity program is one of many ways Boys & Girls Clubs of America continues to provide vital youth services in response to our nation's shifting demographics."

The Youth for Unity program is part of a larger Boys & Girls Clubs of America diversity initiative funded by a $4.5 million commitment from The Allstate Foundation. Youth for Unity is designed to help children, teens and caregivers:

- Appreciate themselves as unique and special individuals;

- Understand society's diversity;

- Recognize bias and unfairness; and

- Take personal leadership in confronting bias.

"Youth for Unity speaks to our commitment to inclusion, tolerance and diversity in the communities we serve," said Jan Epstein, executive director, The Allstate Foundation. "The pilot programs were successful and with the national roll out we expect even greater results in reaching our youth about these important issues."

Research Shows Need for Diversity Education

Recent studies suggest that parents play a critical role in helping their children develop positive attitudes about inclusion, re-emphasizing the lessons learned in school or programs like Youth for Unity. A 2005 survey of Boys & Girls Club members found about half of the respondents believe their parents would not approve if they dated someone from another race, religion or ethnic group.

According to the National Center for Education, prejudice and violence continue to cause problems for most schools. In 2003, about one out of ten students ages 12-18 reported that someone at school had used hate-related words against them, and one out of three students ages 12-18 had seen hate- related graffiti.

Diversity Book Project

As part of the national expansion, BGCA is creating a Youth for Unity "Diversity Book" to encourage expression of ideas and personal reflections about experiences in diversity from youth.

The Diversity Book will encourage personal expressions about diversity, critical in the diversity education process. It will reinforce the messages outlined in the Youth for Unity curriculum and be a resource for staff and Club Members to encourage discussions about diversity. The book will be released in late 2006.

About Youth for Unity

"Youth for Unity" incorporates elements for youth, parents and BGCA staff:

- Centerpiece Program (for ages 6-12, teens and parents):

- Diversity Activity Kits: one for 6-12 year olds, and one for teens

with interactive, age-appropriate activities spanning a variety of

Club core program areas

- A teen peer-leadership program

- Parent component exposes adults to current diversity issues and the

potential impact upon their children and the community

- Training and Resources (for Club Professionals) - To help respond and

adapt to America's changing workplace and community demographics

countrywide, staff members participate in diversity workshops.

- Special Event "How To" Kit (for Club leaders and staff) - A collection

of special events highlighting diversity that Clubs can implement.

A "Youth for Unity" National Diversity Advisory Council, including Myrlie Evers-Williams, widow of civil rights activist Medgar Evers and founder of the Medgar Evers Institute; Dr. Louise Derman-Sparks, a professor at Pacific Oaks College in Pasadena, California and the co-author of Teaching/Learning Anti- Racism; and John D. Kemp, president & Chief Executive Officer of HalfthePlanet Foundation, collaborated with Boys & Girls Clubs of America on the curriculum development.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of America

For almost a century, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) has been recognized as community-based organizations that welcomes all youth, regardless of their race, religion or gender. BGCA (www.bgca.org) comprises a national network of some 3,400 neighborhood-based facilities annually serving more than 4.4 million young people, primarily from disadvantaged circumstances. Known as "The Positive Place for Kids," the Clubs provide guidance-oriented character development programs on a daily basis for children 6-18 years old, conducted by a full-time professional staff. Key Boys & Girls Club programs emphasize character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills, the arts, sports, fitness and recreation.

The Allstate Foundation

Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by the subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation. The Allstate Foundation sponsors community initiatives to promote "safe and vital communities;" "tolerance, inclusion, and diversity;" and "economic empowerment." The Allstate Foundation believes in the financial potential of every individual and in helping America's families achieve their American dream. For more information about The Allstate Foundation, please visit www.allstate.com/foundation.

Source: Boys & Girls Clubs of America

http://www.allstate.com/foundation

'Turning Up the Heat on Cancer' - Prime Time National Television News

BSD Medical Corp. today reviewed a prime-time national television news report that appeared yesterday on CBS Evening News, prepared by CBS Medical Correspondent, Elizabeth Kaledin. The report featured what it called, "turning up the heat on cancer -- literally."

"Cancer remains the second leading cause of death in our nation," the report began. "Now doctors are experimenting with a promising, yet basic tool to fight it -- heat." A cancer patient at Duke University, Emma Jean Wilson, was interviewed and described as "one of thousands of volunteers who, along with doctors, are hoping that something as simple as heat can improve standard cancer treatment." "Duke is one of a handful of research institutions [in the U.S., although joined by over two dozen in Europe] pioneering this new field called 'hyperthermia'," the report continued. The report noted that "while scientists have known for centuries that heat has healing powers," the technology for this cancer therapy has only recently been developed.

"Heat weakens tumors in two critical ways," the CBS report explained: "(1) it damages tumor cells, and (2) it makes the tumors more vulnerable to radiation and chemotherapy." Dr. Mark Dewhirst of Duke University was quoted as saying that with mechanisms under research there that involve hyperthermia, "we can deliver 30 times more drug to a tumor like this than you can with the free drug itself." CBS reported that "the Duke team is experimenting with heat on some of the most stubborn cancers -- breast, melanoma, cervical and ovarian." "'The goal,' says Mark Dewhirst, 'is to one day soon have heat actually prescribed just like a drug'," the report noted in conclusion.

BSD Medical's BSD-500 and BSD-2000 hyperthermia systems are used at Duke University, and both systems were shown in the news report. The BSD-500 has FDA approval, and the BSD-2000 has been submitted to the FDA seeking approval.

BSD Medical Corporation is the pioneer and leading developer of precision-focused microwave/RF systems used in the treatment of cancer with hyperthermia therapy. For further information about BSD Medical Corp. and its therapies visit the BSD website at www.BSDMedical.com.

Statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements, as that item is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All forward-looking statements, including all projections and expectations of future events, including the broad use of hyperthermia in future medical practice, are subject to risks and uncertainties, detailed in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Source: BSD Medical Corp.

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

Miller Lite Invites Americans to Join the 'Taste Revolution'

Eleven City Whistle-Stop Tour Commences May 18 in Los Angeles, Will Feature Intimate Performances from Singer/Songwriter Gavin DeGraw

Miller Lite is bringing its campaign for beer drinkers to choose the light beer with "more" -- more color and more taste than Bud Light -- to America's railways.

Harkening back to the tradition of 19th century political campaigns, Miller Lite's "Taste Revolution" is hopping aboard a whistle-stop cross-country train tour to encourage even more legal-drinking-age consumers to choose Miller Lite. In 2005 alone, Miller Lite gained more than 2.5 million new beer drinkers.

"The 'Taste Revolution' is a movement for people who celebrate great-tasting light beer," said Tom Long, Miller's chief marketing officer. "Now we're taking the Miller Lite revolution to the people to spread the word to those who might still be settling for whatever is handed to them. We want even more consumers to get on board with Miller Lite."

The Miller Lite "Taste Revolution" Express starts May 18 at Union Station in Los Angeles, concluding more than two weeks later in Miller's hometown of Milwaukee. The tour will visit 11 cities and will feature "Join the Taste Revolution" stops in each location, as well as private acoustic performances by acclaimed singer/songwriter Gavin DeGraw aboard the passenger train. DeGraw will also perform club shows at eight of the stops.

The "Taste Revolution" Express, an outfitted passenger train featuring a dining car, a performance car and a lounge car with plasmas, video games and plenty of Miller Lite will make stops in San Antonio, Dallas, St. Louis, Chicago, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Indianapolis. National sweepstakes winners will board the Miller Lite train and join DeGraw for a portion of the cross-country trek. In addition, lucky consumers in each market will also have the chance to board the train for a private acoustic concert with Gavin.

Along with DeGraw's small-setting performances aboard the train, a behind-the-scenes look at life on the cross-country tour will be available on http://www.millerlite.com/. Consumers have the opportunity to win tickets for two on a leg of the "Save The Taste" Express at millerlite.com through April 30th. In addition, consumers can purchase tickets to the clubs shows via Ticketmaster.

The Miller Lite "Taste Revolution" campaign kicked off in early March with a series of new television advertisements featuring actor John Farley and continues with this whistle-stop tour. Consumers also have the chance to win one of more than a million t-shirts designed by the Ames Brothers, two cutting edge Seattle-based designers who have worked with bands such as Pearl Jam. For more information, including tour stops, please visit http://www.millerlite.com/.

Gavin DeGraw Club Concert Schedule

May 18 - Los Angeles, The Avalon

May 22 - Dallas, Gilley's

May 25 - Chicago, Metro

May 27 - Cleveland, House of Blues

May 28 - Pittsburgh, Hard Rock Cafe (private show)

May 29 - Philadelphia, Theater of Living Arts

May 30 - Washington, D.C., Clarendon Ballroom (private show)

June 3 - Milwaukee, The Rave

About Miller Brewing Company:

As one of America's oldest brewers, Miller Brewing Company continues the commitment of founder Frederick J. Miller to brew 'confoundedly good beers' with 'uncompromising quality.' Through more than 150 years of innovation and brewing excellence, Miller has built a broad portfolio of award-winning beers that capture approximately 18% of the U.S. beer market. Miller's flagship brand, Miller Lite, is the great tasting, less filling beer that defined the American light beer category in 1975. The company also brews smooth, golden rich Miller Genuine Draft using a unique cold-filtering process Miller introduced in 1985. Miller's oldest brew is Miller High Life, the champagne of beers. Miller imports Peroni Nastro Azzurro, Pilsner Urquell and Foster's, and brews regional craft beers Leinenkugel's and Henry Weinhard's. Near-premium beers include Milwaukee's Best Light, Olde English 800, Mickey's Malt Liquor, Icehouse and Sharp's, a non-alcohol brew. Miller is a wholly owned subsidiary of SABMiller plc, the world's second largest brewer. For more information, visit http://www.millerbrewing.com/.

Source: Miller Brewing Company

Web site: http://www.millerbrewing.com/
http://www.millerlite.com/

Jillian Michaels Calls Upon Pudgy Pets to Participate in the Latest Fitness Challenge to Sweep the Nation

Overweight cats and dogs across the country can discover the thin pet within!

As one of the personal trainers on NBC's hit series The Biggest Loser, you wouldn't expect Jillian Michaels to have an obesity problem in her own household. But Jillian's chubby Chihuahua, Baxter, is one of a rapidly growing number of America's portly pets that are tipping the scales at an all time high. That's why Jillian and Baxter are lending their support to the Hill's 2006 National PetFit(TM) Challenge, a competition designed to help raise awareness of the serious consequences of pet obesity and encourage owners to make positive changes to their pets' lifestyles.

As many as 40 percent of American household pets are obese or overweight* -- that's 48 million cats and dogs! Unfortunately, few pet owners recognize the seriousness of the condition. To help curb this weighty trend, Hill's(R) Pet Nutrition, the maker of Science Diet(R) and Prescription Diet(R) brand pet foods, is giving pet owners the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of their pets by participating in the challenge and following a nutrition and exercise program that is proven to help out-of-shape cats and dogs slim down.

Jillian explains, "While I keep in top shape, I'm afraid to say that Baxter is a little heavier than he should be. The Hill's 2006 National PetFit(TM) Challenge is a great way to raise awareness about the growing problem of pet obesity and get people to think seriously about their pet's health. Baxter and I will be taking the challenge in an effort to show the nation that with the right nutrition and exercise program, we can improve the well being of our four-legged friends."

Give Your Pet a Shot at Stardom

If you think your pet may be lugging around some excess pounds, it is important to speak with your veterinarian who may recommend a change in your pet's feeding program and/or exercise routine. To give your pet a chance at stardom when he or she reaches their target weight, enter your pet into the Hill's 2006 National PetFit(TM) Challenge. Twelve regional winners (six cats and six dogs) will win a year's supply of Hill's(R) Prescription Diet(R) or Science Diet(R) pet food, $500 worth of pet supplies, and an all expense paid trip to New York City for the Hill's 2006 National PetFit(TM) Challenge final awards ceremony in October 2006. The two national winners (one cat and one dog) will also receive two roundtrip airline tickets and a three-night accommodation at an upscale, pet-friendly hotel and will be awarded the title of Hill's 2006 National PetFit(TM) Challenge champions.

Pets entering the competition will be fed either Science Diet(R) Light Adult or Prescription Diet(R) r/d(R), m/d(R), or w/d(R), at the recommendation of their veterinarian. Science Diet(R) Light Adult has fewer calories and fat to help dogs and cats keep their weight down, as well as the great taste and balanced nutrition that they need. Prescription Diet(R) r/d(R), m/d(R), and w/d(R), available exclusively through veterinarians, are designed specifically for the management of dogs and cats that are overweight or obese. Prescription Diet(R) r/d(R) and w/d(R) are low-fat, reduced-calorie, and deliver a high fiber formula that helps pets lose weight while keeping them feeling satisfied. Prescription Diet(R) m/d(R) Feline is a low carbohydrate, high protein food that helps cats lose weight by altering their unique metabolism to reduce body fat and increase muscle mass.

Veterinary hospitals and clinics across the country, including VCA Animal Hospitals, are taking part in the PetFit(TM) Challenge to help pets reach their weight loss goals. If you have a portly pet that you would like to enter into the Hill's 2006 National PetFit(TM) Challenge, please contact your local veterinarian or visit http://www.petfit.com/ .

A Nationwide Obesity Epidemic Among People and Pets!

According to the American Obesity Association, 65 percent of adult Americans are overweight or obese, and obesity is the second-leading cause of preventable death in the United States. This widespread epidemic has literally gone to the dogs (and cats!) as our nation's pets continue to pile on the pounds. Part of the problem is that many pet owners enjoy indulging their pets and often overfeed or give them tasty but unhealthy treats. Consider this: feeding a cat just one cup of milk is the equivalent of a human eating four and a half hamburgers!

Dr. Jennifer Jellison, an Ohio-based veterinarian, explains: "While it may seem like a loving act, it's important for pet owners to understand that overfeeding their pets can actually be quite dangerous. Obesity in pets can contribute to a number of health problems including arthritis, diabetes, and even a shortened life span. It can also hurt the human-animal bond when a pet is too overweight to participate in physical activities with the family."

Dr. Marty Becker, co-author of the upcoming book Fitness Unleashed!, a dog owner's guide to losing weight and gaining health together, says, "The Hill's People and Pets Exercising Together (P-PET) study showed that people and their pets can lose weight and keep it off more effectively if they exercise together. Exercise is an important step in helping an overweight pet reach its ideal body weight, and those long walks may even help the owner drop a few pounds and lighten the load of stress in the process."

* "Overweight Pets Are on the Rise," Veterinary Economics. August 1, 2005.

About Hill's Pet Nutrition

Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. manufactures Science Diet(R) brand pet foods, sold through veterinarians and finer pet specialty food stores, and Prescription Diet(R) therapeutic pet foods, available only through veterinarians. Founded more than 50 years ago by one veterinarian's unique commitment to pet nutrition and well being, Hill's follows its mission to help enrich and lengthen the special relationships between people and their pets by producing the most scientifically advanced, highest quality pet foods available.

About the Hill's(R) People and Pets Exercising Together (P-PET) Study

The Hill's P-PET study demonstrates that both people and their pets are more successful at staying with a weight loss program when they exercise together. Over the course of the 12-month study, both people and dogs lost weight and kept it off: People lost an average of 11 pounds (approximately 5 percent of their initial body weight) and dogs lost an average of 12 pounds (approximately 15.6 percent of their initial body weight). The maximum weight loss for dogs was 35 pounds; for people, the maximum loss was 51 pounds.

Source: Hill's Pet Nutrition

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

Une passerelle qui concilie science et art

- Prélude électroacoustique au sommet informel du Conseil de l'UE à Graz

Les << Poèmes électroniques >> qui seront présentés le 20 avril à Graz parcourent la gamme sensorielle qui va de l'acoustique à trois dimensions aux sons émis par un moteur diesel en passant par un piano aux thèmes mélodiques variables. Dans le domaine de l'électroacoustique, des oeuvres et des technologies de premier plan engendrent de nouveaux panoramas sonores dans les espaces acoustiques uniques de l'Helmut List Hall. Ce concert électroacoustique sera le prélude de la << Réunion informelle des ministres de la Compétitivité >> à Graz.

La << Rencontre informelle des ministres de la Compétitivité >> prend place à Graz du 20 au 22 avril. Le thème directeur de l'événement est << Investir dans l'excellence et l'innovation >>. Ce slogan convient également au Helmut List Hall. Inauguré en 2003, ce dernier se veut une passerelle entre la science et l'art. Cette rencontre entre la science et l'art intervient dans le domaine de l'acoustique, une des compétences essentielles d'AVL. Depuis des décennies, AVL joue, en recherche acoustique , un rôle international de premier plan.

Dans le domaine de l'acoustique des véhicules spécialisés, AVL s'intéresse à la réduction du bruit et à une représentation des sons typiques émis par chaque marque de véhicules. Dans certains cas, les deux mesures doivent être combinées. Afin de représenter le niveau de bruit ciblé et les mesures de sons émis, AVL a développé un logiciel de sons qui peut modifier électroniquement le bruit de n'importe quel véhicule.

AVL est dans le monde la plus importante compagnie privée et indépendante pour la fabrication de systèmes motopropulseurs utilisant des moteurs à combustion et pour le développement de systèmes d'instrumentation et de tests. La compagnie high-tech emploie 3 440 personnes au plan mondial . Elle a affiché en 2005 un chiffre d'affaires de 507 millions d'euros.

Source: AVL List GmbH

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