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April 30, 2006

Los Angeles Times Names Book Prize Winners

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

Written by Joyce L Chow & William Hoehne April 30, 2006
Written by Joyce L Chow & William Hoehne April 30, 2006

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ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY
MORE THAN FOUR MONTHS BEFORE My Network TV launches, the Fox O&Os that make up its affiliate core are starting to re-brand to reflect the coming network.
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Making good on a promise made months ago, Warner Home Video has announced the first disc with HD DVD content on one side and standard-DVD content on the other.
Raven Symone Opens First Annual 'School's Out!' Radio Disney Music Festival at Morey's Piers June 17
Carson Kressley, Jai Rodriguez of 'Queer Eye' Join Singer Deborah Gibson & Actors Hal Sparks, Wilson Cruz to Kick Off AIDS Walk/Ft. Lauderdale, April 30th
North Shore Animal League America's Tour for Life 'Grand Finale' Celebrity Event at FAO Schwarz In New York City
Los Angeles Times Names Book Prize Winners
26th Annual Literary Awards Presented April 28 at UCLA's Royce Hall
NEWS 12 NETWORKS ADOPTS SONY'S XDCAM HD PROFESSIONAL DISC SYSTEM FOR ENG
Up-Mobile Announces Exclusive Rights to Offer The 2006 FIFA World Cup(TM) Official Mascot TV Series For Mobile Distribution
SPORTS & AUTOS
Oakland & Dodger baseball
Olympic Accommodation Provider for Media, Sponsors, and National Olympic Committees Debuts in Football 2006
DOD
Diplomacy remains America's choice in dealing with Iran
Civilian Leaders Wowed by USS Ronald Reagan's Capabilities
NEWS from China and news in Spanish

Radio Address by President Bush to the Nation
'Had Enough? Vote Democratic!' Is NOT ENOUGH, Need New Double-Citizenship Party
New Government Report Slams SBA on Oversight of Alaska Native Corporations
VATICAN NEWS
Chinese president meets senior UN officials
Chinese President Hu Jintao met with US Vice President Dick Cheney, Senate President Pro Tempore Ted Stevens and National Security Advisor to President Bush Stephen Hadley respectively in the guesthouse where he stayed.
LA ANTIQUE SHOW & Hamshere Gallery with International Canine Pedigree

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ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY
MORE THAN FOUR MONTHS BEFORE My Network TV launches, the Fox O&Os that make up its affiliate core are starting to re-brand to reflect the coming network.
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WWOR in New York, for example, is now "My 9."

WWOR, formerly UPN 9, has placed its newscasts under the "My 9 News" flag and refers to itself in on-air and radio promotions as "My 9."

In Dallas, KDFI is now "My 27." The other stations will gradually take on similar labels throughout the summer.

In February, Fox Television Stations group announced that it would help launch the 12-hour-a-week My Network TV in September to provide programming for its 10 UPN stations that will lose their network affiliation when UPN disbands this fall (UPN and The WB are merging to form The CW). At the time, My Network TV said it would "maintain and strengthen affiliates' community brand recognition with a complete look and feel of a national network that empowers localism."

The Fox-owned My Network stations are in the three largest markets--New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago--and cover 24 percent of the country. The network has since signed up other affiliates, giving it coverage over a wide swath of the country. It's unclear whether the My Network TV stations outside the Fox group such as the 17 owned by the Sinclair Broadcast Group will take on a similar re-brand.

Making good on a promise made months ago, Warner Home Video has announced the first disc with HD DVD content on one side and standard-DVD content on the other.

Rumor Has It… will be in stores May 9, the same day as the regular DVD of the film, a Rob Reiner-helmed romantic comedy starring Jennifer Aniston and Kevin Costner.

The announcement comes exactly one week after the first two HD DVD players, both from Toshiba, arrived in stores, along with just three software titles: Serenity from Universal Studios Home Entertainment and Warner’s The Last Samurai and The Phantom of the Opera.

Steve Nickerson, SVP of market management for Warner, had said several weeks ago that Warner would be releasing a series of “hybrid” discs to ease the transition among consumers from standard to high-def DVD.

“Purchasing a disc now in this format gives consumers the greatest flexibility in viewing options: If they own an HD DVD player, they’ll get all the benefits of HD DVD,” Nickerson said. “If they’re considering a future purchase of an HD DVD player, they can still enjoy the movie [on their existing DVD player] until they upgrade.”

Warner also announced three more titles to be released in the HD DVD format: Goodfellas and Swordfish on May 2 and Training Day on May 9.

They join three previously released HD DVD titles from Warner: Samurai, Phantom and Million Dollar Baby, which had originally been earmarked as part of the April 18 launch package but due to technical issues didn’t arrive in stores until late last week.

Goodfellas, Swordfish and Training Day list for $28.99, while Rumor Has It… will be available at $39.99.
will be in stores May 9, the same day as the regular DVD of the film, a Rob Reiner-helmed romantic comedy starring Jennifer Aniston and Kevin Costner. The announcement comes exactly one week after the first two HD DVD players, both from Toshiba, arrived in stores, along with just three software titles: from Universal Studios Home Entertainment and Warner’s and Steve Nickerson, SVP of market management for Warner, had said several weeks ago that Warner would be releasing a series of “hybrid” discs to ease the transition among consumers from standard to high-def DVD. “Purchasing a disc now in this format gives consumers the greatest flexibility in viewing options: If they own an HD DVD player, they’ll get all the benefits of HD DVD,” Nickerson said. “If they’re considering a future purchase of an HD DVD player, they can still enjoy the movie [on their existing DVD player] until they upgrade.” Warner also announced three more titles to be released in the HD DVD format: and on May 2 and on May 9. They join three previously released HD DVD titles from Warner: and which had originally been earmarked as part of the April 18 launch package but due to technical issues didn’t arrive in stores until late last week. and list for $28.99, while will be available at $39.99.
Raven Symone Opens First Annual 'School's Out!' Radio Disney Music Festival at Morey's Piers June 17

Morey's Piers, New Jersey's premier seaside amusement destination, and Radio Disney, the only 24/7 listener driven radio network where kids and families can rock out together, have joined forces to present the first annual "School's Out!" Radio Disney Music Festival. This mega-concert event will feature Raven (formerly credited as Raven-Symone), one of today's hottest young artists, along with two other Radio Disney performances. Morey's Piers is currently promoting the June 17 concert event with advance ticket sales on its website http://www.moreyspiers.com/, and by calling 1-866-MOREYS-1.

Raven is the star of the hit Disney Channel Series, "That's So Raven." She is also best known for her role as Olivia in the long-running hit series, "The Cosby Show." The multi-faceted teen began her successful music career at age five when she released her first hit single "What Little Girls Are Made Of." Her CDs, to date, include "This is My Time," "Undeniable," "Here's to New Dreams" and the soundtrack from "The Cheetah Girls."

"At just 20 years old, Raven has worked alongside Bill Cosby, launched a music career through Radio Disney, and starred in her own TV show on the Disney Channel. We are extremely excited to present Raven at the Radio Disney AM640 School's Out Summer Concert at Morey's Piers," said Elyse Lupin, Promotions Entertainment Manager for Radio Disney.

"Morey's Piers and Radio Disney are the perfect partners to bring fun and first-class family entertainment to kids and families. With Morey's Piers' unique beach location and thrilling attractions, along with the excitement and enthusiasm that Radio Disney generates with its talented young artists, you have the perfect formula for a full family recreation experience," said Will Morey, President of Morey's Piers.

Financial support for the first annual "School's Out!" Radio Disney Music Festival has been provided by the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority.

Tickets for the concert are limited. Tickets purchased in advance are $15 for Festival only (5pm - 7pm) and $30 for Festival and Morey's Piers ride wristband and Waterpark admission, good from noon to midnight. Any remaining tickets purchased the day of the Festival at Morey's Piers are $20 for Festival only and $48 for Festival and Morey's Piers ride wristband and Waterpark admission. All seats are general admission. Go to http://www.moreyspiers.com/ for advance ticket sales, specific concert times and featured artists.

About Radio Disney:

Radio Disney, the number-one family destination on the radio, is available to 97% of the U.S. through broadcast, satellite and cable distribution. Radio Disney has developed a growing and loyal audience of kids, tweens and their families, especially moms. The 24/7 network offers family friendly music and programming as well as superstar promotions. It has won the "Silver Angel Award for Excellence in Programming," "Parenting's Media Excellence Award" and Radio Ink's "Reader's Choice Award" for best full time format. In addition, Radio Disney can be heard internationally and is currently available in the United Kingdom, Japan, and most of South America.

About Morey's Piers:

Morey's Piers is a family owned and operated amusement center established in 1969. It is located in the center of Wildwood New Jersey, a family resort shore community offering beaches, shopping, dining, nightlife and accommodations. Morey's Piers attractions span six beach blocks and include three amusement Piers and two beachfront Waterparks: Surfside Pier at 25th Avenue, Mariner's Landing Pier at Schellenger Avenue, Adventure Pier at Spencer Avenue, Raging Waters Waterpark on Mariner's Landing Pier and Ocean Oasis Waterpark and Beach Club on Surfside Pier. Convenient to the major population centers of the northeast but a world apart, Morey's Piers combines the pure joy of an amusement park with the sights and sounds of a classic boardwalk and the rhythm of beach life. Morey's Piers is committed to providing a spectacular family recreation experience in an exceptionally safe, clean, friendly and unique environment. Admission to the Piers is free.

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

Carson Kressley, Jai Rodriguez of 'Queer Eye' Join Singer Deborah Gibson & Actors Hal Sparks, Wilson Cruz to Kick Off AIDS Walk/Ft. Lauderdale, April 30th

Sponsored by AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Walk Benefits Local HIV/AIDS Service Organizations, Raises Awareness of Broward County's Increasing AIDS Epidemic

what: AIDS Walk/Ft. Lauderdale

when: THIS Sunday, April 30th OPENING CEREMONY BEGINS @ 9:15AM

where: Huizenga Plaza, Downtown Ft. Lauderdale

who: CARSON KRESSLEY, Queer Eye for the Straight Guy JAI RODRIGUEZ, Queer Eye for the Straight Guy DEBORAH GIBSON, Singer HAL SPARKS, Actor (Queer as Folk) WILSON CRUZ, Actor (My So-Called Life, Rent)

contact: Ft. Lauderdale: WILLIAM ARCHER, AIDS Walk/Ft. Lauderdale, 866.883.WALK Los Angeles: LORI YEGHIAYAN, AHF Communications Specialist, 323.860.5527, 323.377.4312 c

In response to the rising incidence of HIV in Broward County, Craig R. Miller, MZA Events and AIDS Healthcare Foundation proudly present AIDS Walk/Ft. Lauderdale this Sunday, April 30th, 2006 starting and ending at Huizenga Plaza in downtown Ft. Lauderdale. Carson Kressley and Jai Rodriguez (Queer Eye for the Straight Guy), singer Deborah Gibson, actors Hal Sparks (Queer as Folk, Survival of the Richest) and Wilson Cruz, as well as Jessica Care More (Poet, Author and Activist) and others, will join a diverse crowd of thousands of walkers to raise awareness and funds to fight the AIDS epidemic in Broward County. AIDS Walk/Ft. Lauderdale, the first in Broward County for some years, comes on the heels of a study released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cementing South Florida as a major epicenter of the disease in the U.S. with a sizable increase in new AIDS cases in 2004.

Despite updated data showing a small decrease in new AIDS cases in 2005, an increase in new HIV cases in the county indicates that the epidemic is continuing to spread in South Florida.

AIDS Walk/Ft. Lauderdale will focus on funding vital services for people living with HIV/AIDS in Broward, as well as dramatically increasing prevention efforts throughout Broward County. The event benefits AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the nation's largest AIDS organization which operates free AIDS treatment clinics in the US, Africa, Central America and Asia; Minority Development and Empowerment Inc.; Mount Bethel; Mount Olive Development Corp.; and Broward House. All of these organizations' dedicated staff and volunteers provide services to men, women and children affected by HIV/AIDS in Broward County. For more information, to make a donation, or to register as a walk participant go to: www.AIDSWalk.net

"As the rate of HIV cases continues to increase in Broward County, we at AIDS Healthcare Foundation and Positive Healthcare/Florida appreciate this opportunity to bring a renewed awareness to the community to help reverse this alarming trend," said Joey Wynn, AHF Community Affairs Manager, Florida Division. "The AIDS Walk has always been a symbol of collaboration as people come together to fight HIV in their communities and we are grateful to be a benefiting organization of AIDS Walk/Ft. Lauderdale. We look forward to continued collaboration with the communities of South Florida as we seek to address the epidemic head-on, expanding not only our prevention efforts, but also the HIV/AIDS medical services we provide to HIV-positive Floridians who urgently need care."

In addition to operating an HIV/AIDS treatment clinic in Florida, AIDS Healthcare Foundation also runs a Medicaid disease management program serving 10,000 Floridians living with HIV/AIDS. Positive Healthcare/Florida, is the most successful disease management program in the state, as well as the first and only HIV/AIDS disease management program in the United States to have received Full Accreditation by the prestigious National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). AHF outreach efforts have succeeded in bringing hundreds of untreated HIV-positive Floridians into care who urgently need it.

Source: AIDS Healthcare Foundation

North Shore Animal League America's Tour for Life 'Grand Finale' Celebrity Event at FAO Schwarz In New York City

Today North Shore Animal League America's Tour for Life 'Grande Finale' event will take place at FAO Schwarz' flagship store at Fifth Avenue and 58th Street in New York City from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Celebrities along with homeless puppies and kittens from North Shore Animal League America fill the windows of FAO Schwarz, the world's most famous toy store, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. to help save shelter pets. The event, which marks the final stop of the League's annual Tour for Life, continues with pet adoptions in the League's mobile adoption unit from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Additionally, League supporters are invited to a private shopping hour at FAO Schwarz from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. FAO Schwarz will generously donate 15% of the proceeds from this hour to North Shore Animal League America.

Celebrities in attendance will include: Beth Ostrosky, Edie Falco, Malcolm in the Middle's Erik Per Sullivan, American Idol's Constantine Maroulis, Hallie Kate Eisenberg, Queer Eye for the Straight Guy's Jai Rodriguez, Josh Flitter, and Memoirs of a Geisha's Zoe Weizenbaum.

A cooperative initiative with animal shelters across the country, Tour for Life helps save pets across America and reinforces the importance and advantages of adopting shelter cats and dogs. Since its inception in 2001, Tour for Life has placed thousands of needy animals with loving families. Tour for Life commenced on March 29 as two of the League's Mobile Adoption Units began across the country, each on a separate route, helping over 100 shelter and rescue groups across the country find homes for orphaned pets.

FAO Schwarz, the gracious host of this year's grand finale event, join North Shore Animal League America to save lives of numerous pets across the country. For 143 years, FAO Schwarz has enchanted children and adults alike with its unequaled collection of toys and other fine children's products. On April 29th they will help enchant the lives of homeless puppies and kittens by helping them to find loving homes.

Tour for Life is sponsored by Purina(R), Bayer Healthcare(R), LLC Animal Health Division, Fort Dodge Animal Health(R), and Nylabone(R) Products.

If you'd like to attend today's event, please contact Tina Loncaric at 917.892.9350 or Heather Hunter at 516.232.5998

About North Shore Animal League America

North Shore Animal League America, headquartered in Port Washington, NY, is the largest no-kill animal rescue and adoption organization in the world. The League reaches across the country to rescue, nurture and adopt nearly 20,000 pets into happy and loving homes every year. Since being founded in 1944, they have placed closed to 1 million puppies, kittens, cats and dogs into carefully screened homes. One of the first animal rescue agencies on the ground in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the League rescued more than 1000 pets from the region, 790 have been adopted and 22 reunited with their families.

The League is home to the Alex Lewyt Veterinary Medical Center, which provides 24-hour care for the pets sheltered at the League. Every year the medical center takes care of more than 10,000 outpatient visits, administers more than 27,000 vaccinations and performs over 14,000 free spay/neuter procedures for every adopted animal. The League also has a National Shelter Rescue team, and offers a wide variety of programs such as a mobile adoption program, adoption counseling, a Public Education Team and has created a community Pet Outreach Team. For more information on North Shore Animal League

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

Los Angeles Times Names Book Prize Winners
26th Annual Literary Awards Presented April 28 at UCLA's Royce Hall

The Los Angeles Times presented its annual Robert Kirsch Award for lifetime achievement and honored nine Book Prize winners during its 26th annual Book Prizes ceremony, April 28 at UCLA's Royce Hall.

Joan Didion, renowned as a journalist, playwright, essayist and novelist, was presented with the Robert Kirsch Award for lifetime achievement. Born in Sacramento and a graduate of the University of California at Berkeley, Didion draws much of her writing from her life in California. Her books include "Play It as It Lays," "A Book of Common Prayer," "Slouching Towards Bethlehem," "Democracy: A Novel," "The White Album," and her most recent book, "The Year of Magical Thinking."

The citation noted, "Joan Didion is the voice of contemporary California. From her definitive collections 'Slouching Towards Bethlehem' and 'The White Album' -- which evoke a landscape of dislocation, fragmentation, where the center is not holding -- to her more recent 'Where I Was From' and 'The Year of Magical Thinking,' she has never aspired to anything less than telling us who we are."

The Robert Kirsch Award, presented this year by Tim Rutten, recognizes the body of work by an author who resides in and/or whose work focuses on the Western United States and whose contributions to American letters merit body-of-work recognition. The late Robert Kirsch served as The Times' book critic for more than 25 years before his death in 1980. He was a novelist, editor and teacher as well as one the nation's foremost book critics.

This year's Los Angeles Times Book Prizes honored outstanding literary achievement in nine categories: biography, current interest, fiction, first fiction, history, mystery/thriller, poetry, science and technology, and young adult fiction. Each winner, including Didion, receives a $1,000 cash award.

National Endowment for the Arts Chair Dana Gioia served as the master of ceremonies for the presentation of the Book Prizes.

Book Prizes winners

Biography: Hilary Spurling, "Matisse the Master: A Life of Henri Matisse, the Conquest of Colour," 1909-1954 (Alfred A. Knopf); presented by Blanche Wiesen Cook

Current Interest: Anthony Shadid, "Night Draws Near: Iraq's People in the Shadow of America's War" (Henry Holt); presented by Ronald Brownstein

Fiction: Gabriel Garcia Marquez, "Memories of My Melancholy Whores" [translated from the Spanish by Edith Grossman] (Alfred A. Knopf); presented by Luis J. Rodriguez

Art Seidenbaum Award For First Fiction: Uzodinma Iweala, "Beasts of No Nation: A Novel" (HarperCollins); presented by David L. Ulin

History: Adam Hochschild, "Bury the Chains: Prophets and Rebels in the Fight to Free an Empire's Slaves" (Houghton Mifflin); presented by Leo Braudy

Mystery/Thriller: Robert Littell, "Legends: A Novel of Dissimulation" (Overlook Press); presented by Mary Higgins Clark

Poetry: Jack Gilbert, "Refusing Heaven: Poems" (Alfred A. Knopf); presented by Dana Goodyear

Science and Technology: Diana Preston, "Before the Fallout: From Marie Curie to Hiroshima" (Walker & Company); presented by Robert Lee Hotz

Young Adult Fiction: Per Nilsson, "You & You & You" [translated from the Swedish by Tara Chace] (Front Street/Boyds Mills Press); presented by Adam Gopnik

2005 Book Prize finalists (including winners)

BIOGRAPHY

Andrew Delbanco, "Melville: His World and Work" (Alfred A. Knopf)

Doris Kearns Goodwin, "Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln" (Simon & Schuster)

Marion Elizabeth Rodgers, "Mencken: The American Iconoclast" (Oxford University Press)

Hilary Spurling, "Matisse the Master: A Life of Henri Matisse, the Conquest of Colour," 1909-1954 (Alfred A. Knopf)

Steven Watts, "The People's Tycoon: Henry Ford and the American Century" (Alfred A. Knopf)

CURRENT INTEREST

Steve Bogira, "Courtroom 302: A Year Behind the Scenes in an American Criminal Courthouse" (Alfred A. Knopf)

Kurt Eichenwald, "Conspiracy of Fools: A True Story" (Broadway Books)

Jonathan Harr, The Lost Painting (Random House)

Anthony Shadid, "Night Draws Near: Iraq's People in the Shadow of America's War" (Henry Holt)

John Updike, "Still Looking: Essays on American Art" (Alfred A. Knopf)

FICTION

E.L. Doctorow, "The March: A Novel" (Random House)

Mary Gaitskill, "Veronica" (Pantheon Books)

Gabriel Garcia Marquez, "Memories of My Melancholy Whores" [translated from the Spanish by Edith Grossman] (Alfred A. Knopf)

Nick Hornby, "A Long Way Down" (Riverhead Books)

Haruki Murakami, "Kafka on the Shore" [translated from the Japanese by Philip Gabriel] (Alfred A. Knopf)

ART SEIDENBAUM AWARD FOR FIRST FICTION

Kirstin Allio, "Garner" (Coffee House Press)

Karen Fisher, "A Sudden Country: A Novel" (Random House)

Olga Grushin, "The Dream Life of Sukhanov" (Marian Wood/G.P. Putnam's Sons)

Uzodinma Iweala, "Beasts of No Nation: A Novel" (HarperCollins)

Marlon James, "John Crow's Devil" (Akashic Books)

HISTORY

Richard J. Evans, "The Third Reich in Power, 1933-1939" (Penguin Press)

Christopher Bayly and Tim Harper, "Forgotten Armies: The Fall of British Asia, 1941-1945" (Belknap Press/Harvard University Press)

Adam Hochschild, "Bury the Chains: Prophets and Rebels in the Fight to Free an Empire's Slaves" (Houghton Mifflin)

Tony Judt, "Postwar: A History of Europe Since 1945" (Penguin Press)

Sean Wilentz, "The Rise of American Democracy: Jefferson to Lincoln" (W.W. Norton)

MYSTERY/THRILLER

Michael Connelly, "The Lincoln Lawyer: A Novel" (Little, Brown)

James Crumley, "The Right Madness" (Viking)

John Harvey, "Ash & Bone" (Harcourt)

Robert Littell, "Legends: A Novel of Dissimulation" (Overlook Press)

Peter Robinson, "Strange Affair" (William Morrow/HarperCollins)

POETRY

Jack Gilbert, "Refusing Heaven: Poems" (Alfred A. Knopf)

Gail Mazur, "Zeppo's First Wife: New and Selected Poems" (University of Chicago Press)

Marilyn Nelson, "The Cachoeira Tales and Other Poems" (Louisiana State University Press)

Lucia Perillo, "Luck Is Luck: Poems" (Random House)

Donald Revell, "Pennyweight Windows: New & Selected Poems" (Alice James Books)

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Sean B. Carroll, "Endless Forms Most Beautiful: The New Science of Evo Devo and the Making of the Animal Kingdom" (W.W. Norton)

Mariana Gosnell, "Ice: The Nature, the History, and the Uses of an Astonishing Substance" (Alfred A. Knopf)

Brad Matsen, "Descent: The Heroic Discovery of the Abyss" (Pantheon Books)

Chris Mooney, "The Republican War on Science" (Basic Books)

Diana Preston, "Before the Fallout: From Marie Curie to Hiroshima" (Walker & Company)

YOUNG ADULT FICTION

John Green, "Looking for Alaska" (Dutton/Penguin Young Readers Group)

Margo Lanagan, "Black Juice" (Eos/HarperCollins Children's Books)

Per Nilsson, "You & You & You" [translated from the Swedish by Tara Chace] (Front Street/Boyds Mills Press)

Andreas Steinhofel, "The Center of the World" [translated from the German by Alisa Jaffa] (Delacorte Press/Random House Children's Books)

Markus Zusak, "I Am the Messenger" (Alfred A. Knopf/Random House Children's Books)

About the Book Prizes

The Los Angeles Times Book Prizes were established in 1980. Los Angeles Times Book Prizes finalists and winners are selected by eight three-member committees. Fiction category judges also choose the first fiction category finalists and winner. Most of the judges are published authors and serve a two-year term. None of the judges, except for the Kirsch award, are current Los Angeles Times employees.

There is no nationality requirement for author nominees in any category. With the exception of significant new translations of a deceased author's work, all authors should be living at the time of U.S. publication.

The Book Prizes have honored numerous internationally distinguished literary figures including Ray Bradbury, Lawrence Ferlinghetti, Allen Ginsberg, Tony Hillerman, Christopher Isherwood, Milan Kundera, Ursula Le Guin, Frank McCourt, David McCullough, Larry McMurtry, Tillie Olsen, Ishmael Reed, Carl Sagan and W.G. Sebald.

Information about the Book Prize awards ceremony and awards program is available at www.latimes.com/bookprizes.

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 (NYSE:TRB) , 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: The Los Angeles Times

NEWS 12 NETWORKS ADOPTS SONY'S XDCAM HD PROFESSIONAL DISC SYSTEM FOR ENG

News 12 Networks, a division of Cablevision Systems Corp., is adopting Sony's new XDCAM HD™ Professional Disc™ system 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 covering Westchester County, the Hudson Valley, Long Island, the Bronx and Brooklyn in New York; southwestern Connecticut; and 14 counties in New Jersey. The news programs are telecast on cable television systems in each region.

According to Norm Fein, senior vice president for news development at News 12 Networks, the workflow benefits of Sony's optical technology are well-suited to the daily demands of gathering and producing regional news programming.

"Any news organization understands unpredictable schedules and the importance of timeliness, but regional news is unique in that it requires a certain added level of spontaneity," Fein said. "Our crews' shooting assignments vary greatly from day to day, even hour to hour, ranging from local community events and feature profiles to breaking news and emergencies. Our electronic news gathering equipment needs to be equally flexible to keep pace. With Sony's XDCAM HD system, we have found the right technology that can grow with us into an HD future."

Initially, the stations will down-convert recorded content to standard definition. "But the ability to archive an HD master greatly increases the image quality of our file footage for later use, and when our organization is ready to make a full migration to HD, the ENG and production infrastructure will already be in place," said Steve Weinberg, senior vice president of business and news operations for News 12 Networks.

In addition to the benefits of HD resolution images, Weinberg noted that News 12 was attracted by the special advantages of optical disc production, including in-camera editing capabilities, the ability to easily browse footage as thumbnails and preview content on the camcorder's LCD screen, high-speed transfer of proxy A/V and high-resolution data using the MXF file protocol, and immediate random access to data in the field or on the set using the Sony Professional Disc media.

Based on blue-laser technology, the XDCAM system's Professional Disc media enables multi-format flexibility and variable record times. It is also re-writable from 1,000 erase/write/read cycles up to 10,000 erase/write/read cycles in ideal conditions, based on Sony's own testing.

The flexibility possible with XDCAM Professional Disc media allows a production crew to re-use it without experiencing image degradation, providing real budgetary benefits. Professional Disc media is manufactured using Sony's hard coating technology, which results in a disc more resistant to scratches while reducing the static electricity that can attract dust.

The Sony XDCAM HD family of optical products includes two camcorders and two decks, and the same Professional Disc media used in the standard definition version of the XDCAM system is also compatible with the new HD version. As a result, professional users can record up to two hours of high definition content on the versatile optical media, maintaining their workflow continuity by combining HD resolution with the same IT-based benefits made possible by XDCAM technology since its initial launch in 2004.

Up-Mobile Announces Exclusive Rights to Offer The 2006 FIFA World Cup(TM) Official Mascot TV Series For Mobile Distribution

Up-Mobile, Corp., a leading interactive mobile applications and service provider specializing in Hispanic audiences, today announced that it has acquired the exclusive mobile rights to offer Spanish-language content in the U.S. and Latin America featuring the 2006 FIFA World Cup(TM) Official Mascot TV Series.

In today's media-driven society, mascots are images fans can identify with. GOLEO VI, the Official Mascot, is a warm-hearted lion and a versatile "living" character together with his sidekick Pille, the strong-minded football; he can dance, talk, sing and make people laugh. It consists of two separate productions, the first being a live-action puppet format with 21 episodes of 40 seconds each, and the second a 3D animation made up of 24 spots of 10 seconds each.

Ready for mobile distribution, Up-Mobile plans to take full advantage of their rights to distribute the 2006 FIFA World Cup(TM) Official Mascot TV Series. Up-Mobile's Official Mascot TV Series related packages include video clips from the series, 3D animations capturing the most interesting moments of GOLEO VI's road to the 2006 FIFA World Cup(TM), all adapted to view on the go.

"A love of soccer runs deep in the veins of Latino sports fans," said George Rincon, co-founder and COO of Up-Mobile, Corp. "We're thrilled to take part in the momentum surrounding the 2006 FIFA World Cup and are proud to be the exclusive Spanish-language provider of mobile content featuring the 2006 FIFA World Cup Official Mascot TV Series in the U.S. and Latin America."

The Official Mascot TV Series is produced by Creation Club (CC) GmbH, a 100 percent subsidiary of EM.TV AG. For sponsorship opportunities please contact Marcia Grenet-Vidal at Marcia.grenet-vidal@up-mobile.com .

About Up-Mobile

Up-Mobile is a leading interactive mobile content and service provider specializing in Hispanic audiences, providing media companies, wireless carriers and advertisers with innovative value-added and revenue-generating mobile content and premium services enhancing wireless consumers experiences.

Up-Mobile is headquartered in Miami, Florida and has offices in San Diego, Mexico City, and Caracas, with interconnection and product distribution throughout the region. Some of their clients and partners are comprised of major brands and leading music publishers and wireless carriers in the Americas.

Up-Mobile is a subsidiary of Investment Media Group (IMG), a global distributor of Spanish-language television programs and filmed entertainment. For more information about Up-Mobile, visit http://www.up-mobile.com/ .

Source: Up-Mobile, Corp.

SPORTS & AUTOS
Oakland & Dodger baseball
Oakland Rainout
Los Angeles 4, San Diego 2 at PETCO Park
Los Angeles Record: (12-12)
San Diego Record: (8-15)

Winning pitcher - Brett Tomko (3-1)
Losing pitcher - Clay Hensley (1-2)
SV - Danys Baez (8)
at PETCO Park (12-12) (8-15) - Brett Tomko (3-1) - Clay Hensley (1-2) - Danys Baez (8)
LAD HR - N. Garciaparra (2)
SD HR - None
N. Garciaparra (2) None

Olympic Accommodation Provider for Media, Sponsors, and National Olympic Committees Debuts in Football 2006

Corporate Concierge, a specialized event accommodation agency, focused on the short- and long-term accommodation needs of sporting, commercial, media and government organisations operating at international events, aims to please with customised habitat solutions at Germany's World Cup 2006.

Corporate Concierge launched accommodation solutions during the Athens (2004) and Turin (2006) Olympic Games. "The accommodation was very welcoming and comfortable," said France Television Sports Logistics Manager, Michel Andichon. "The apartment pre-inspections in Sestriere (Turin, Italy) were efficient and performed in an uncomplicated manner," he said.

The World Cup team of Corporate Concierge boasts members out of 18 countries with service capability to nearly all nations in their mother tongue. The program consists of furnished apartment solutions with quality-controlled standards, hotel options, advanced internet options and transportation.

The offered apartment standards tri-consist of: 'standard', 'business' and 'deluxe' with differences lying in general inventory, location and representative capacity. "CC's focuses on one-stop shopping, supporting the benefits of cost-efficiency and added value, while not compromising on the essential hotel standard service," says Robert Hofmann.

Due to the complexity of a 12-city setup with World Cup, CC has implemented two packages for logical ease: The city package, which offers staying in an apartment in one of the host cities of choice, and the Team Package, which offers an apartment in each host city while following the team of choice.

Corporate Concierge praises their ability to consistently scrutinise their classic service, while simultaneously seeking contemporary solutions. Recent developments include the provision of customised broadband internet solutions either via bundled DSL, S-DSL or internet via satellite.

For examples of our accommodations, please visit: http://www.corporate-concierge.de

Un proveedor de alojamiento olímpico para medios, patrocinadores y comités olímpicos nacionales debuta en 2006 en la categoría de fútbol

Corporate Concierge launched accommodation solutions during the Athens (2004) and Turin (2006) Olympic Games.Corporate Concierge, una agencia especializada en el alojamiento para eventos, centrada en las necesidades de alojamiento a corto y largo plazo de las organizaciones deportivas, comerciales, de medios y gubernamentales que funciona en los eventos internacionales, se complace al presentar sus soluciones de hospedaje para la Copa del Mundo de Alemania 2006.

Corporate Concierge lanzó sus soluciones de alojamiento durante los Juegos Olímpicos de Atenas (2004) y Turín (2006). "The accommodation was very welcoming and comfortable," said France Television Sports Logistics Manager, Michel Andichon."El alojamiento era muy acogedor y cómodo", afirmó el responsable de logística de France Television Sports, Michel Andichon. "The apartment pre-inspections in Sestriere (Turin, Italy) were efficient and performed in an uncomplicated manner," he said."Las pre-inspecciones del apartamento de Sestriere (Turín, Italia) fueron eficaces, y se realizaron sin ninguna complicación", afirmó.

The World Cup team of Corporate Concierge boasts members out of 18 countries with service capability to nearly all nations in their mother tongue. El equipo del Campeonato del Mundo de Corporate Concierge prestará servicio a 18 países, con una capacidad operativa para casi todos los países en su lengua materna. The program consists of furnished apartment solutions with quality-controlled standards, hotel options, advanced internet options and transportation.El programa está formado por soluciones en forma de apartamentos amueblados con los estándares de control de calidad, opciones de hoteles, opciones avanzadas de Internet y transporte.

The offered apartment standards tri-consist of:Los estándares de los tres tipos de apartamentos ofrecidos están formados por: 'standard', 'business' and 'deluxe' with differences lying in general inventory, location and representative capacity.'estándar', 'negocios' y 'lujo', cuyas diferencias residen en el inventario general, localización y capacidad de representación. "CC's focuses on one-stop shopping, supporting the benefits of cost-efficiency and added value, while not compromising on the essential hotel standard service," says Robert Hofmann."CC se centra en las compras de una sola vez, apoyando los beneficios de la eficacia de costes y de los valores añadidos, al mismo tiempo que no compromete el servicio estándar esencial del hotel", comentó Robert Hofmann.

Due to the complexity of a 12-city setup with World Cup, CC has implemented two packages for logical ease:Debido a la complejidad de la disposición de las 12 ciudades de la Copa del Mundo, CC ha implementado dos paquetes para disponer de una utilización lógica: The city package, which offers staying in an apartment in one of the host cities of choice, and the Team Package, which offers an apartment in each host city while following the team of choice.El paquete de ciudad, que ofrece la estancia en un apartamento en una de las ciudades elegidas, y el paquete de equipo, que ofrece un apartamento en cada una de las ciudades en las que juega el equipo seleccionado.

Corporate Concierge praises their ability to consistently scrutinise their classic service, while simultaneously seeking contemporary solutions. Corporate Concierge alaba la capacidad continuada de escrutinio de su servicio clásico, al mismo tiempo que busca las soluciones contemporáneas. Recent developments include the provision of customised broadband internet solutions either via bundled DSL, S-DSL or internet via satellite.Entre los recientes desarrollos se incluye la provisión de las soluciones personalizadas para Internet de banda ancha, ya sea vía DSL, S-DSL o Internet vía satélite.

For examples of our accommodations, please visit:Si desea ejemplos de nuestros alojamientos, visite: http://www.corporate-concierge.de

DOD
Diplomacy remains America's choice in dealing with Iran

President Bush said today. "We're forming a strong coalition of like-minded countries that believe that the Iranians should not have a nuclear weapon," he said during a White House press conference. "And I've told the American people that diplomacy is my first choice, and it should be the first choice of every American president in order to solve a very difficult problem." "It's very important for the Iranians to understand there's a ... common desire by a lot of nations of this world to convince them, peacefully convince them, that they ought to give up their weapons ambitions," Bush said. The International Atomic Energy Agency said today Iran has ignored calls to suspend uranium fuel enrichment and remains in defiance of the U. N. Security Council, according to news reports. The president distinguished Iran from Iraq. "There are significant differences between Iran and Iraq," Bush said. He noted that Iraq had a history of aggressive acts that included using weapons of mass destruction on its own people, invading its neighbors, and firing at U.S. aircraft. "Iraq went through 16 different Security Council resolutions," Bush said. "There was resolution after resolution." To date, the Security Council has not passed a resolution regarding Iran's desire to acquire nuclear weapons capabilities. Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad reportedly told a rally in northwest Iran today that "those who want to prevent Iranians from obtaining their right, should know that we do not give a damn about such resolutions." Asked if he thought the Iranian president was someone he could work with, Bush replied: "That's going to be his choice eventually, and it's going to be very important for Mr. Ahmadinejad to recognize the world is united in our desire, and it's his choice to make."

Civilian Leaders Wowed by USS Ronald Reagan's Capabilities

Civilian opinion leaders who visited the USS Ronald Reagan today got a taste of what it's like to be the biggest, toughest guy on the block - one whose presence brings comfort to his friends but fear in his enemies. The business, civic, organizational and academic leaders, all participants in the Joint Civilian Orientation Conference, visited the world's largest aircraft carrier on its maiden deployment to the Persian Gulf. They met the crew, toured the flight and navigation bridges, flight-control deck and flight deck and watched F-18 Hornet and Super Hornet aircraft take off for some of the 30 sorties they fly over Iraq every day. "We believe this is a very worthwhile effort," Rear Adm. Mike Miller, commander of the Ronald Reagan Strike Group, told the group after it flew in from Bahrain. "We believe we are helping preserve the peace and stability of the Arabian Peninsula." Speaking to group members in the "in-port cabin" that's fashioned to look like the Reagan Administration's White House "Red Room," thanks to donations by the Hampton Roads Navy League, Miller said he's convinced the Reagan is making an impact in the region. "We are firmly convinced that we are making life better for the people here," he said. "People here don't say, 'When are you going away?' They say, 'Please don't leave.'" The Reagan, the ninth Nimitz-class carrier, is the Navy's Mighty Hulk, the largest weapon in the entire U.S. arsenal. It's as long as the Empire State Building is tall and boasts 47,000 tons of steel, a 4.5-acre flight deck and the two nuclear reactors that propel it in excess of 30 knots, Miller explained.

That size, speed and capability make a powerful statement, said Command Master Chief Yoshimi Core of the carrier's air wing. "It's a wonderful feeling to (look) at that a mass of steel and mass of power and be able to influence people by our mere presence," he said. "We're able to reassure people that we're out here having a presence," or in other cases, to send a warning. Capt. Terry Kraft, the Reagan's commander, described himself as the mayor of a city of 5,000 people with a nuclear power plant beneath it and an airfield above. But with all its size and power and state-of-the art technology, the $5 billion dollar vessel's greatest attribute, he said, is its sailors. "This is a modern marvel," Kraft said of the carrier, which began its first-ever deployment since its 2003 commissioning. "But the most impressive thing on board are the 5,000 great Americans.

We give these sailors incredible responsibility, and I couldn't be more proud of them." About 80 percent of the Reagan's sorties are in direct support of troops "over the beach" - serving in Iraq, Kraft told the group. Sorties launched from the carrier's flight deck monitor convoy routes to detect IED sites and gather valuable intelligence they pass on to ground troops, he explained. In addition, two shore-based EA-6B Prowlers jam radio frequencies to prevent insurgents from using cell phones and similar devices to activate improvised explosive devices. At the same time, the Reagan crew conducts broader maritime security operations in the Gulf, both with its ships and aircrews. "Our goal is for terrorists not to be able to operate anywhere in the Persian Gulf or off the coast of the Horn of Africa," Kraft said. By making it more difficult for terrorists to operate, the Reagan crew is "changing the battlefield," he said, "and creating a sanctuary for our forces." "Our number one mission is the service we provide for the guys on the ground," said Lt. Cmdr. John Clary, an F-18C pilot aboard Reagan. "We're their eyes and ears, circling overhead and burning holes in the sky." The gratification of the job comes from knowing that he's "one more 18- or 19-year-old kid got there safely," thanks to support from the sky, he said. Earlier in the war, success was measured in bombs drops and targets taken out, Kraft told the group.

Now, it's measured more in terms seconds of disrupted road identified as potential IED sites and actionable intelligence forwarded to the ground. "The bottom line is that we save lives over the beach, not that we drop bombs," he said. While helping save U.S. lives, members of the Reagan crew said they believe they're making a contribution to Iraq and the entire region. "We're supporting the Iraqi people and helping to keep the world safe," said Lt. Cmdr. Paul Crawford, assistant navigator on the carrier's bridge, which he called "the nerve center of the ship." "What we're doing is providing a presence to make sure that things are fair for everyone," he said.

With less than a year in the Navy under her belt, Seaman Ashley Kolbinskie said she's proud of her role supporting U.S. ground troops in harm's way. "We're giving air protection for troops on the ground. Anything they can't handle, we're here for them," she said. But like her fellow crewmates, Kolbinskie said she recognizes the regional implications of her efforts. "It makes me feel happy that we have freedom, and to be able to help other people get it, too," she said. As the JCOC participants watched the F-18 Hornets and Super Hornets roar off the flight deck, even Operations Specialist Marion Cox took pause. "When you see this every day, you sometimes lose sight of how cool it is," she said. But no one within the JCOC group failed to notice just "how cool it is." Ted Sarandis, a freelance sportscaster based in Boston, described watching the planes shoot of the deck as "a complete adrenaline rush." Sarandis turned almost poetic when he described how the Reagan's crews operate on the flight deck. "It's a thing of synchronized beauty, a bit like watching a mechanized ballet," he said. "Awesome!" was how Robert McDonald, senior vice president for 3M Marketing and Sales, described the experience. An engineer, McDonald resisted the urge to peek into every nook and cranny to check out the electronics as he passed through the carrier's departments. "I'm fascinated by all this," he said. "It's absolutely amazing." Larry Oney, chief executive officer for Hammerman & Gainer International, relished the chance to see an aircraft carrier at sea conducting real-life missions. "Not many people get to see it up close like this," he said. "This has got to be the highlight of the trip." For James Schenck, executive vice president and chief operating officer for the Pentagon Federal Credit Union, gave his first exposure to real-life Navy operations two thumbs up.

Schenck called the Reagan "a testament to America" that "really gets your attention" for its power-projection capabilities. "I have to say, this makes me a proud American taxpayer," he said. Participants in the JCOC program are business, civic, community and academic leaders from around the country who are spending the week observing U.S. Central Command at work. This JCOC trip is the first to the Middle East since the Defense Department started the program in 1948 to help educate civilian "movers and shakers" about the military.

NEWS

Radio Address by President Bush to the Nation

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

THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. Last weekend, the people of Iraq formed a national unity government. This is an important milestone on the road to democracy in Iraq, and it marks the beginning of a new chapter in America's involvement. Last Sunday, I talked to the President, Prime Minister- designate, and Speaker of the new government. And this week, I sent Secretary of State Rice and Secretary of Defense Rumsfeld to Baghdad to meet face-to- face with the new Iraqi leadership. We've all been impressed by the Iraqi leaders' commitment to maintain the unity of their country and effectively represent the Iraqi people.

The new Iraqi government will face many challenges. Iraqi leaders agree that the new government must continue to build up the Iraqi Security Forces to defeat the terrorists and must establish control over militias. They also agree that the new government must rebuild critical infrastructure, strengthen the Iraqi economy, and ensure that all Iraqis benefit as their nation grows in security and prosperity.

During their meetings in Baghdad, Secretaries Rice and Rumsfeld made clear that Iraq will have the continued support of America and our coalition partners, as we begin the new chapter in our relationship. We will help the new Iraqi government assume growing responsibility for the nation's security. And as Iraqis continue to make progress toward a democracy that can govern itself, defend itself, and sustain itself, more of our troops can come home with the honor they have earned.

The terrorists clearly recognize the threat that the new unity government poses to their dark plans for Iraq and the broader Middle East. This week the terrorist Zarqawi, leader of al Qaeda in Iraq, released a video in which he denounced the new government and promised further acts of terrorist violence. Zarqawi lashed out at what he called "this rotten play of democracy" and declared that Iraq's new government will become "a poisoned dagger" in the heart of his plans for the Muslim world.

On Wednesday, Iraq's leaders united to strongly condemn Zarqawi's statements. One Iraqi official declared that the terrorists and insurgents, quote, "are feeling this might be the last chance they have to survive. They're fighting everyone in Iraq -- every Iraqi. I think that shows how weak they are." End quote. A newly appointed first Deputy Speaker of the Iraqi parliament said that Zarqawi fears the new government will unify Shiites and Sunnis and Kurds. He said, quote, "I believe that Zarqawi was caught off guard by the new government taking shape because it will be a very strong one representing all Iraqis." End quote.

The new leaders of Iraq are showing great courage in the face of terrorist threats. In recent weeks, terrorists have assassinated three siblings of top Iraqi politicians -- but the new leaders of Iraq remain determined to lead their nation toward a future of democracy and peace. These brave leaders deserve our continued support -- and I have told them they can count on America to stand with them.

The enemy is resorting to desperate acts of violence because they know the establishment of democracy in Iraq will be a double defeat for them. First, it will deny the terrorists their immediate aim of turning Iraq into what Afghanistan was under the Taliban -- a safe haven where they can plot and plan more attacks against free nations. Second, in the long term, a democratic Iraq will be a major blow to the terrorists' hateful ideology because it will send a powerful message across the region that the future of the Middle East belongs to freedom.

There will be more tough fighting ahead in Iraq and more days of sacrifice and struggle. Yet the enemies of freedom have suffered a real blow in recent days, and we have taken great strides on the march to victory. Iraq's leaders now have laid the foundations for a democratic government of, by, and for the Iraqi people. By helping the Iraqi people build their democracy, America will deal the terrorists a crippling blow and establish a beacon of liberty in the Middle East -- and that will make our Nation and the world more secure.

Thank you for listening.

END

Source: White House Press Office

'Had Enough? Vote Democratic!' Is NOT ENOUGH, Need New Double-Citizenship Party
Robert David Steele Vivas

Robert David STEELE Vivas, CEO of OSS.Net, Inc, a life-long moderate Republican and career intelligence officer who is the #1 Amazon reviewer of non-fiction books about democracy, strategy, intelligence, economics, ecology, war, and peace, has today proposed a new political party focused on electoral reform. He says:

"A really superb Op-Ed by Tim Roemer in the New York Times today (Saturday, 29 April 2006) entitled 'Enough Already,' suggested that all the Democrats need to win in 2006 and 2008 is the simple slogan, 'Had Enough? Vote Democratic!' This worthy gentleman is half-right.

"The Democrats, in my view, cannot beat the Republicans base-on-base or on the issues. Even a character debate will be a toss-up. There is, however, a major opportunity for a lasting revitalization of democracy if the Democrats will match up their most promising unity candidate with a new party, the American Independence Party, and a commitment to a Coalition Cabinet and Coalition Legislature committed to electoral reform.

"This new party would be unique in history in that it would specifically foster the concept of 'dual citizenship' and respect the original political allegiances of the moderate Republicans, the conservative Democrats, the Independents, Libertarians, Greens, Reforms, and the newly mobilized from both the Latin and Asian immigration pool as well as the survivors of the Dean revolution.

"This new party would have 'wings' and leaders from all American political parties, and they would commit to support Democratic *and* Republican legislative incumbents or challengers who agree to dual citizenship in the American Independence Party, and its single reform focus: restoring the vote to *all* Americans. Electoral reform, including instant run-offs, the end of gerrymandering and even physical districts, restoration of multi-party debates, and voting on week-ends so the working poor have a shot at voting without losing work, all need to be part of an American Independence Act of 2007 that will have it greatest effect in 2008. In addition we need to end "party line" voting that forbids our elected representatives from voting for their district instead of their party, and of course end campaign financing while introducing publicly funded campaigns and higher salaries for representatives, teachers, cops, firemen, and preventive health care professionals and other public servants.

"Only one issue can unite all sensible Americans: 'does your vote count?' The answer for most is a resounding 'NO.' If we were to establish a new party and an interim Coalition Cabinet now even before a final candidate for President is chosen, and commit publicly to this single lasting 'fix' on the system, everything else will fall into place including wiser foreign and domestic policy, an end to the double deficit, and a restoration of the moral legitimacy of the Republic. We must restore informed engaged democracy (collective intelligence), honest public policy and moral capitalism, and America the Good instead of America the Idiot Bully.

"In 2006 we demand that incumbents and challengers commit to this unification reform idea. In 2007 we pass the American Independence Act that implements sustainable electoral reform. In 2008 we elect a President and a Coalition Cabinet and Coalition Legislature that restores America the Good, an American Republic that is Of, By, and For We the People."

Web: http://www.oss.net/

New Government Report Slams SBA on Oversight of Alaska Native Corporations

The Government Accountability Office has released a new report detailing a significant lack of oversight by the Small Business Administration in its Alaska Native Corporation 8(a) contracting program. The report states, "SBA lacks adequate data regarding the 8(a) contracting program in general and does not collect any information on ANCs' 8(a) activity." The GAO cited a number of examples where Alaska Native Corporations and their partners were able to take unfair advantage of a program set up to assist small, disadvantaged, women-owned and minority-owned businesses. The SBA is mandated with overseeing the 8(a) contracting program, but one contracting official told GAO that "SBA has 'stepped aside' when it comes to overseeing 8(a) contracts and that it would not occur to her to coordinate ... with SBA." According to the report, ANC 8(a) contracts grew from $265 million in 2000 to over $1 billion in 2004, with a total procurement figure during those years of $2.9 billion.

Special provisions allow the government to make these awards without competition in some instances. In addition, because ANCs are permitted to own an unlimited number of subsidiaries, the actual size of the corporation can be far greater than would be allowed under normal SBA size standards. "The Alaska Native Corporation 8(a) program was designed for abuse and should be abolished immediately," said Lloyd Chapman, President of the American Small Business League. "Most of the benefits go to firms outside of Alaska, many of which are large, white male-owned businesses. This program has allowed billions of dollars to be diverted away from legitimately disadvantaged firms.

Here is yet another example of the types of abuse in small business contracting that the SBA has condoned through its lack of action." Chapman asserted that more than the SBA, he blames the Bush Administration for slashing the agency's resources to the point where it's unable to perform its mission: "This damaging report is another nail in the coffin of the SBA. The Republicans are just itching for an excuse to close the agency and eliminate all Federal contracting programs for small and disadvantaged firms." While SBA told GAO that it has implemented procedures to increase oversight of the ANCs, they failed to provide investigators with any evidence to support this. About the ASBL The American Small Business League was formed to promote and advocate policies that provide the greatest opportunity for small businesses - the 98 percent of U.S. companies with less than 100 employees.

The ASBL is founded on the principle that small businesses, the backbone of a vital American economy, should receive the fair treatment promised by the Small Business Act of 1953. Representing small businesses in all fields and industries throughout the United States, the ASBL monitors existing policies and proposed policy changes by the Small Business Administration and other federal agencies that affect its members.

VATICAN NEWS
DIVINE LAW DOES NOT ELIMINATE HUMAN FREEDOM

Today in the Vatican, Pope Benedict XVI received members of the Pontifical Biblical Commission, who have just celebrated their annual plenary session dedicated to the relationship between the Bible and morality. The session was presided over by Cardinal William Joseph Levada, president of the commission.

The Pope greeted the participants, recalling the fact that he knows them personally, having been president of the same commission. He also highlighted the important theme discussed during the plenary session.

''The primordial impulse of human beings'', he said turning to consider the subject of the plenary, ''is their desire for happiness and a fulfilling life. Nevertheless, there are many today who think that such fulfillment must be attained autonomously, with no reference to God or to His law. Some have even suggested the absolute sovereignty of reason and freedom in the field of moral norms. ... The proponents of this 'moral laicism' affirm that human beings, as rational creatures, not only can but must freely decide the value of their own behavior''.

''This false conviction'', he continued, ''is rooted in a supposed conflict between human freedom and any kind of law." However, "the law of God does not mitigate or eliminate human freedom, on the contrary, it guarantees and promotes it. ... Moral law, established by God at the creation and confirmed in the Revelation of the Old Testament, finds its fullness and greatness in Christ. Jesus Christ is the way of perfection, the living and personal synthesis of perfect freedom in His total obedience to the will of God''.

''In revealing the Father and in His own actions, Jesus also reveals the norms for just human behavior. He explicitly underlines this connection when, at the conclusion of His lessons regarding love for one's enemies, He says 'be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect'.''

''The path indicated by Jesus through His teachings is not a rule imposed from the outside. He Himself walks this path and asks no more than that we follow Him. ... In the search for a Christologically inspired ethic, it is always necessary to remember that Christ is the Word Incarnate Who renders us participants in His divine life, and with His grace He sustains us on the path towards true fulfillment.''

''The essence of human beings'', concluded the Pope, ''appears definitively in the Word made man," and "this relationship with Christ defines the highest fulfillment of man's moral actions. ... It is not an act dictated solely by external norms, it proceeds from the vital relationship that unites believers to Christ and to God.''

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PAPAL MESSAGE TO CONGREGATION FOR THE CAUSES OF SAINTS

VATICAN CITY, APR 27, 2006 (VIS) - Made public today was a Message from Pope Benedict XVI to Cardinal Jose Saraiva Martins C.M.F., prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, which has just concluded its plenary session.

''From her beginnings", says the Message, "the Church has dedicated great attention to the procedures that elevate Servants of God to the glory of the altars. The causes of saints are considered 'major causes' because of their noble and material impact on the lives of the people of God."

The Pope recalled prior interventions by earlier pontiffs who sought to improve the celebration and study of the causes of saints, quoting, among others, Pope John Paul II who in 1983 promulgated the Apostolic Constitution " Divinus Perfectionis Magister" and the "Normae servandae in inquisitionibus ab Episcopis faciendis in Causis Sanctorum."

"The experience of more than 20 years since this text was published has prompted this congregation to publish an 'Instruction for the procedure of diocesan inquiries into the causes of saints,' which is chiefly addressed to diocesan bishops and constitutes the first theme examined by the plenary," says the Holy Father. The instruction "attempts to facilitate the application of the 'Normae servandae' in order to safeguard the seriousness of investigations", into virtues, causes of martyrdom or possible miracles.

"It is clear", writes the Pope "that a cause of beatification or canonization cannot be initiated in the absence of a proven reputation for holiness, even when dealing with people who have been distinguished for their evangelical coherence and for particular ecclesial or social merits."

Going on to refer to the second theme of the plenary session - "the miracle in the causes of saints" - Benedict XVI recalls that "miracles constitute divine confirmation of a judgement expressed by the ecclesial authorities on [a person's] virtuous life. I hope that the plenary will study this subject deeply in the light of the tradition of the Church, of modern theology, and of the most accredited discoveries of science. It should not be forgotten that in examining purportedly miraculous events the competency of scientists and theologians comes together, although the decisive judgement falls to theology which alone is capable of interpreting miracles in the light of the faith. ... It should also be clearly borne in mind that unbroken Church practice establishes the need for a physical miracle, a moral miracle is not enough."

On the third subject, "martyrdom," the Pope writes: "If the motive that impels [people] to martyrdom remains unaltered, having its source and its model in Christ, what have changed are the cultural contexts of martyrdom and the strategies 'ex parte perscutoris' who seek to give ever less explicit prominence to their aversion to the Christian faith, ... but fake different reasons, for example political or social ones. It is of course necessary to find incontrovertible proof of willingness to suffer martyrdom, ... and of the victim's acceptance thereof. But it is equally necessary that, directly or indirectly but always in a morally certain fashion, the 'odium Fidei' of the persecutor should be apparent. If this element is lacking, there is no real martyrdom in accordance with the perennial theological and juridical doctrine of the Church."

Finally, Benedict XVI referred to indications contained in John Paul II's Apostolic Constitution "Divinus Perfectionis Magister" concerning the need to associate bishops with the Holy See in dealing with the causes of saints. On the basis of these indications, Pope Benedict said, "I have implemented the widespread desire that the substantial difference between the celebration of beatification and that of canonization should be more deeply underlined; and that particular Churches should be more visibly involved in the rite of beatification, it being understood that only the Roman Pontiff may concede veneration to a Servant of God."

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AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE HOLY SEE AND BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA

On Wednesday, April 19, the first anniversary of the election of Pope Benedict XVI, a Basic Agreement between the Holy See and Bosnia-Herzegovina was signed at the presidential palace in Sarajevo. The agreement confirmed a number of principles and defined certain issues regarding questions of common interest.

The Holy See was represented by Archbishop Alessandro D'Errico, apostolic nuncio to Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Bosnia-Herzegovina by Ivo Miro Jovic, Croatian member of the country's collegial presidency.

According to a communique made public today, the Agreement, "bearing in mind the respective independence and autonomy of State and Church and their willingness to collaborate with each other, establishes the juridical framework for their reciprocal relations. In particular, it regulates the juridical position of the Catholic Church in civil society; her freedom and independence in her apostolic activities and in the regulation of her own affairs; and her freedom of worship and of action in the fields of culture, education, pastoral care, charity and the mass media. The text also makes provision for the running of Catholic schools of all levels; spiritual assistance to the armed forces, and in prisons and hospitals; and the organization of Catholic healthcare and charity structures''.

The Agreement, the communique concludes, ''will come into force following the exchange of the instruments of ratification."

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AUDIENCES

VATICAN CITY, APR 27, 2006 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received in separate audiences:

- Cardinal Camillo Ruini, His Holiness' vicar general for the diocese of Rome and president of the Italian Episcopal Conference.

- Cardinal Rosalio Jose Castillo Lara S.D.B., president emeritus of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State.

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IN MEMORIAM

VATICAN CITY, APR 27, 2006 (VIS) - The following prelates died in recent weeks:

- Archbishop Longinus da Cunha of Ende, Indonesia, on April 6, at the age of 60.

- Bishop Charles Joseph Henderson, former auxiliary of Southwark, England, on April 10, at the age of 81.

- Archbishop Pasquale Macchi, prelate emeritus of Loreto, Italy, on April 5, at the age of 82.

- Archbishop Jose Mendez Asensio, emeritus of Granada, Spain, on April 15, at the age of 85.

- Bishop Andre Nguyen Van Nam, emeritus of My Tho, Vietnam, on March 16, at the age of 84.

- Bishop Sebastian Valloppilly, emeritus of Tellicherry of the Syro-Malabars, India, on April 4, at the age of 94.

.../DEATHS/... VIS 060427 (130)

POPE'S TELEGRAM FOR VICTIMS OF ATTACK IN NASSIRIYA

Following is a telegram sent by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, Secretary of State, in the name of the Holy Father, to Archbishop Angelo Bagnasco, military ordinary for Italy, regarding the attack of April 27th in Nassiriya, Iraq in which three Italians and one Romanian were killed.

"The Supreme Pontiff received with great sadness news of the attack in Nassiriya in which three Italian members of the armed forces and a Romanian colleague, generously contributing in a mission of peace, lost their lives. The Holy Father expresses his firm condemnation of this new act of violence which, together with other cruel acts perpetrated in Iraq, constitutes yet another obstacle in the path toward harmony and reconstruction in that tormented country."

"His Holiness would like to express his profound spiritual closeness to the families of the victims in the midst of a grave sorrow which also effects the Italian and Romanian armed forces and their respective national communities. The Holy Father also assures his fervent prayers for the young lives cut short, invoking heavenly consolation for those who mourn this tragic loss and he sends to all a special apostolic blessing, thinking in particular about those wounded and those, both civilian and military, who are dedicated to the arduous task of helping the people of Iraq, subjugated to so many difficulties."

TGR/ATTACK IN NASSIRIYA/BAGNASCO VIS 060428 (230)

HELP CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE TO FIND TRUE HAPPINESS

VATICAN CITY, APR 28, 2006 (VIS) - Made public today was a Message from the Pope to participants in the 12th plenary session of the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences, which is being held in the Vatican from April 28 to May 2, on the theme: "Vanishing Youth? Solidarity with Children and Young People in an Age of Turbulence."

Benedict XVI opens his Message by affirming the existence of "two significant and interconnected trends: on the one hand, an increase in life expectancy, and, on the other, a decrease in birth rates."

"This situation is the result of multiple and complex causes - often of an economic, social and cultural character - which you have proposed to study," he adds. "But its ultimate roots can be seen as moral and spiritual; they are linked to a disturbing deficit of faith, hope and, indeed, love. ... Perhaps the lack of such creative and forward-looking love is the reason why many couples today choose not to marry, why so many marriages fail, and why birth rates have significantly diminished."

Often children and young people, "instead of feeling loved and cherished, appear to be merely tolerated. In 'an age of turbulence' they frequently lack adequate moral guidance from the adult world," and many of them "now grow up in a society which is forgetful of God. ... In a world shaped by the accelerating processes of globalization, they are often exposed solely to materialistic visions of the universe, of life and human fulfillment."

"Parents, educators and community leaders ... can never renounce their duty to set before children and young people the task of choosing a life project directed towards authentic happiness, one capable of distinguishing between truth and falsehood, good and evil, justice and injustice, the real world and the world of 'virtual reality'."

Pope Benedict encourages the participants in the plenary to give "due consideration to the question of human freedom, which is "the condition for authentic human growth. Where such freedom is lacking or endangered, young people experience frustration and become incapable of striving generously for the ideals which can give shape to their lives as individuals and as members of society."

Christians, the Holy Father concludes, cannot fail "to be convinced that faith, lived out in the fullness of charity and communicated to new generations, is an essential element in the building of a better future and safeguarding intergenerational solidarity."

MESS/PLENARY/ACAD-SS VIS 060428 (410)

DECREES OF THE CONGREGATION FOR THE CAUSES OF SAINTS

VATICAN CITY, APR 28, 2006 (VIS)- Today, during a private audience with Cardinal Jose Saraiva Martins, C.M.F., prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, the Pope authorized the congregation to promulgate the following decrees:

MIRACLES

- Blessed Filippo Smaldone, Italian, diocesan priest, founder of the Congregation of the Salesian Sisters of the Sacred Heart (1848 - 1923).

- Blessed Rafaele Guizar Valencia, Mexican, bishop of Veracruz, Mexico (1878 - 1938).

- Blessed Rosa Venerini, Italian, foundress of the Congregation delle Maestre Pie Venerini (1656 - 1728).

- Blessed Teodora Guerin, ne Anna Teresa, French, foundress of the Congregation of the Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary of the Woods in the United States. (1798 - 1856).

- Venerable Servant of God Basile Antonio Maria Moreau, French, priest and founder of the Congregation of the Holy Cross (1799 - 1873).

- Venerable Servant of God Mariano de la Mata Aparicio, Spanish, priest of the Order of Saint Augustine. (1905 - 1983).

- Venerable Servant of God Margarita Maria Lopez de Maturana, Spanish, foundress of the Institute of the Missionary Sisters of Mercy (1884 - 1934).

MARTYRS

- Servants of God Cruz Laplana y Laguna, Spanish, bishop of Cuenca, Spain (1875 - 1936) and Fernando Espanol Berdie, Spanish, diocesan priest (1875 - 1936).

- Servant of God Narciso Estenaga Echevarria, Spanish, bishop of Ciudad Real, Spain (1882 - 1936).

- Servant of God Libero Gonzalez Nombela, Spanish, diocesan priest (1896 - 1936).

- Servant of God Eusebio del Bambino Gesu, Spanish, professed priest of the Order of the Discalced Carmelites (1888 - 1936).

- Servant of God Felice Echevarria Gorostiaga, Spanish, professed priest of the Order of the Minor Friars (1893 - 1936).

- Servant of God Teodosio Rafael ne Diodoro Lopez Hernandez, Spanish, professed religious in the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian School (1898 - 1936) and three brothers from the same institute.

- Servant of God Sara Salkahazi, Hungarian, of the Institute of the Sisters of the Assistance (1899 - 1944).

HEROIC VIRTUES

- Servant of God Ciriaco Maria Sancha y Hervas, Cardinal of S.R.C., Spanish, archbishop of Toledo, Spain, founder of the Congregation of the Sisters of Charity of Cardinal Sancha (1833 - 1909).

- Servant of God Vincenza Maria Poloni ne Luigia, Italian, foundress of the Institute of the Sisters of Mercy of Verona (1802 - 1855).

- Servant of God Maria Bucchi ne Maria Matilde, Italian, foundress of the Congregation of the Most Precious Blood of Monza (1812 - 1882).

- Servant of God Esperanza Gonzalez Puig, Spanish, foundress of the Congregation of the Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (1823 - 1885).

- Servant of God Cataline Coromina Agusti, Spanish, foundress of the Institute Josephine Sisters of Charity (1824 - 1893).

- Servant of God Maria Dolores Marquez Romero de Onoro, Spanish, foundress of the Congregation of the Philippian Daughters of Sorrowful Mary (1817 - 1904).

- Servant of God Maria Rosa Flesch, German, ne Margherita, foundress of the Congregation of the Franciscan Sisters of Saint Mary of the Angels (1826 - 1906).

- Giuseppina Nicoli, Italian, of the Society of the daughters of Charity (1863 - 1924).

CSS/DECREES/SARAIVA VIS 060428 (530)

CELEBRATIONS PRESIDED BY THE HOLY FATHER: MAY AND JUNE

VATICAN CITY, APR 28, 2006 (VIS) - Today, the Office of the Liturgical Celebrations of the Supreme Pontiff published the calendar for the celebrations that the Holy Father will preside from May to June.

MAY

- Monday, 1: At 5:30pm, the Holy Father will visit the Sanctuary of the Virgin Mary of Divine Love (close to Rome) and will pray the rosary.

- Saturday 6: At 9:30pm, the Holy Father will celebrate Mass in St. Peter's Basilica, commemorating the five hundredth anniversary of the founding of the Pontifical Swiss Guard.

- Sunday 7: The fourth Sunday of Easter, at 9:00am in the Vatican Basilica, the Pope will ordain to the priesthood deacons from the diocese of Rome.

- Thursday 25-Sunday 28: Apostolic trip to Poland.

JUNE:

- Saturday 3: At 8:30pm in St. Peter's Square, the Holy Father will preside at the Pentecost Vigil with the participation of various ecclesial movements and the new communities.

- Sunday 4: The Solemnity of Pentecost, Holy Mass will be celebrated at 9:30am in St. Peter's Square.

- Thursday 15: The Solemnity of Corpus Christi. At 7:00pm, Holy Mass in the basilica of Saint John Lateran, procession to the basilica of St. Mary Major and Eucharistic benediction.

- Thursday 29: The Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul. Holy Mass will be celebrated at the basilica of St. Peter and will include the imposition of the pallium on metropolitan archbishops.

OCL/CELEBRATIONS MAY:JUNE/... VIS 060428 (250)

HOLY FATHER'S PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR MAY

VATICAN CITY, APR 28, 2006 (VIS) - The Holy Father's general prayer intention for May is: "That the abundance of the gifts the Holy Spirit bestows on the Church may contribute to the growth of peace and justice in the world."

His mission intention is: "That in the mission countries those responsible for the public institutions may, with suitable laws, promote and defend human life from its conception to its natural termination."

POPE PRAYER INTENTIONS/MAY/... VIS 060428 (80)

AUDIENCES

VATICAN CITY, APR 28, 2006 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received in separate audiences:

- Cardinal Jose Saraiva Martins C.M.F., prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints.

- Cardinal Crescenzio Sepe, prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples.

- Bishop Robert James Carlson of Saginaw (United States of America).

- Cherie Blair.

He is scheduled to receive this afternoon Archbishop Angelo Amato S.D.B., secretary of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.

AP/.../... VIS 060428 (80)

NOTE

VATICAN CITY, APR 28, 2006 (VIS) - As previously announced, Monday, May 1, feast of St. Joseph the Worker and a holiday in the Vatican, there will be no VIS service. Transmission will resume on Tuesday, May 2.

.../.../... VIS 060428 (40)

Chinese president meets senior UN officials

Chinese President Hu Jintao met here Friday with the United Nations Human Settlement Program (UN-HABITAT) Executive Director Mrs. Anna Kajumulo Tibaijuka and the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) acting Executive Director Shafqat Kakakhel.

Hu said the UN-HABITAT has made positive efforts to promote human residence construction and global sustainable development.

He said the UNEP has played an important role in pushing for the solution of global environmental issues, promoting international cooperation in this regard, and helping developing countries improve environmental protection capability.

He said China has always supported international cooperation in the above-mentioned fields, and will further strengthen exchanges and cooperation with the two UN programs and continue to support their work.

Tibaijuka said China has many beneficial experiences in human habitat development, which the UN-HABITAT is popularizing in other areas of the world.

The UN-HABITAT values China's assistance to the African people in this regard, she said.

Kakakhel said the UNEP appreciates China's attention to and efforts for environmental protection.

He said China has always firmly supported the UNEP's work, and the cooperation between the two sides has progressed steadily at bilateral, regional and global levels.

The UNEP is expecting to deepen cooperation with the Chinese side to jointly meet the challenge in this regard, he said.

Hu arrived here Thursday on a three-day state visit to Kenya as Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki's guest.

Kenya is the last leg of Hu's five-nation tour which has already taken him to the United States, Saudi Arabia, Morocco and Nigeria.

Chinese President Hu Jintao met with US Vice President Dick Cheney, Senate President Pro Tempore Ted Stevens and National Security Advisor to President Bush Stephen Hadley respectively in the guesthouse where he stayed.

When meeting with Cheney, Hu said that this morning he and President Bush held successful talks. Both leaders agreed that China and the US are countries with great influence in the world and share wide strategic interests. Under the new international situation, both sides should strengthen dialogue, expand consensus, increase mutual trust, deepen cooperation, push forward China-US constructive and cooperative relations in the 21st century comprehensively and make new contributions to promoting peace, stability and prosperity in the Asia Pacific region and the world at large.

Cheney said that the United States and China have established sound, solid and healthy relations. In today's world, the US-China relations are so important that he supports the establishment of US-China strategic relationship.

When meeting with Stevens and other members of the US Senate and House of Representatives, Hu expressed appreciation for their long-term support for the development of China-US relations. He noted that we attach great importance to the exchanges with the US Congress. More and more US parliamentarians have realized the importance of building China-US relations and raised a number of positive suggestions on furthering bilateral economic, trade, cultural and educational exchanges and cooperation. He expressed hope that they would continue to pay attention to China-US relations and contribute more to promoting the non-governmental contacts of the two countries and enhancing the mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples.

Stevens said that 60 years ago as a member of the US 14th Air Force he participated in the battle against Japanese invaders in China. At that time he was the youngest member of the 14th Air Force, but today he is over 80 years old. He felt happy from the bottom of his heart to see China's progress and the development of US-China relations. The US-China relations have global significance, and peace and stability in the Asia Pacific region and the world, to a large extent, depend on the development of US-China relations. The parliamentarians also introduced their opinions on enhancing bilateral cooperation in such fields as energy, environmental protection and aviation to Hu Jintao.

During his meeting with Hu Jintao, Hadley said that President Bush thanks President Hu for his successful visit to the US. The visit has promoted the already existing positive relations between the US and China, demonstrating to the two peoples that to maintain sound relations between the US and China is beneficial to the two countries and their people.

Hu said that through the visit he has got great confidence that under the current international situation China and the US share extensive and important strategic interests. China and the US not only are stakeholders but also should be constructive partners. To strengthen the mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries not only brings tangible benefits to the two peoples but also is of great importance to peace, stability and prosperity in the Asia Pacific region and the world at large. The healthy and stable progress of China-US relations benefits our two peoples and people of the world as well.

State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan was present at the meetings.

Hamshere Gallery with International Canine Pedigree Discovered at The LA Antique Show

Written by Joyce Chow and William Hoehne

Pet enthusiasts, especially those with an appreciation for art or jewelry need look no further than Hamshere Gallery out of London. Discovered at The Los Angeles Antiques Show, with internationally prominent galleries and art dealers approved by the prestigious Antique Dealer’s Association of California, a mischievous grin caught my eye.

ham1

Hamshere Gallery holds the largest collection of antique dog paintings in England and the largest collection of period and antique sport jewelry in the world. Following is an interview with John Hamshere, of Hamshere Gallery, www.hamsheregallery.com

MB: I’m here at the LA Antiques Show and noticed some beautiful antique dog paintings and had to stop. Can you tell me about your company, Hamshere Gallery?

JH: We have the largest collection of dog paintings and dog jewelry probably in the world. There’s nobody that has anything this sort of size, specializing in this way and a large collection of dog painting in England, and everybody has dogs.

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MB: Did you know 60% of the population in the U.S. has pets?

I didn’t know that. It’s a very interesting statistic. In England, it’s the second biggest hobby after gardening. I don’t know what it’s like in America. The second biggest hobby after gardening is pets.

MB: They count it as a hobby?

ham4

JH: In expenditure terms, how people spend their money. It’s very interesting. My dogs at home aren’t a hobby, they’re members of the family. They’re not pets. They’re the kids, as well as the kids, so we’ve got many kids.

Statistics wise they divide it up into a hobby, or a pursuit if you like, so gardening’s the first, pets are the second biggest. So it doesn’t surprise me the 60%.

MB: We’re at an antiques show, does your company only have antiques or do they have more current things too for animals?

JH: At the moment., we have only antiques. We just started with one fantastic artist, who really is extraordinary. who came upon us because she stood in front and saw the quality of the work and saw the individualism of the work, if you like, and realized that all the paintings you see here, people actually had the dog in front of them, and painted with the dog in front of them. Today people paint, very easily, you can get something very cheaply done or reasonably done through a photograph. These dogs were painted over a day maybe over 2 days, and somebody sat there and went back to the client went back to the customer, and took time painting the dog.

ham5

We found somebody like that, who want s it exactly the same, who can see why they all have feeling. They all have realism. They all have life. They all have an understanding. Dog paintings comes in a way whereby often the people that paint dogs, they take many years to specialize in painting dogs. They have a feeling for dogs. They have a feeling for animals. They may have lived on a farm. They may have had horses. They may have had a farm or own a farm. They have lived with nature. They live with animals and perhaps the only way to really make it in dog paintings, is to live with them, and have the dog there and understand the dog, and paint the dog, and know the characteristics of the dog.

MB: Are you a painter or an artist?

JH: I ‘m not a painter. I’d love to have the talent, but I don’t, I can’t. I can take photographs, good photographs. I have an eye. I have an appreciation. The reason you see such wonderful paintings here is I have an eye, to be able to pick, to select the right quality. I can do it through a camera lens but I can’t do it with a brush or a pencil.

ham8

MB: You’ve touched on a special artist, can we know their name or is that a secret?

JH: It will be released very soon, very shortly.

MB: Since you work with all these antiques, over time, what makes one dog painting more valuable than another?

JH: It’s a little bit like art really. The problem with art is sometimes it’s fashion, sometimes people chase particular names, sometimes they chase particular dogs. There might be more people chasing Poodles or King Charles Cavaliers. There might be few people chasing Pyrenees Mountain Dogs or Burmese Mountain Dogs. It’s the popularity.

In America there’s an artist called Arthur Wardle and Arthur Wardle is just a sought after artist. There’s an artist called Maldur, she’s a sought after artist, whereas I think her father, George may be equally or might be better., but he’s not sought after as much as Maldur. Maldur, Americans love and is a sought after artist

MB: In the Us do they pay more for the artist or the breed?

JH: It’s the breed, the artist, of course quality. People who look at the paintings. It’s like, why does anything sell or make a certain price? There is a name. There is a breed, there is fashion, but there is quality. The best things, people can see quality and they buy quality.

ham9

MB: Do you find the same thing happens in Europe?

JH: It’s the same in Europe and England. Americans are no different. It’s fashion, quality, name, dog, artist. Its’ the same criteria It doesn’t make any difference.

MB: You mentioned you’ve been at other shows, and you’ve mentioned the AKC/Eukanuba nationals in Tampa, where else have you shown?

JH: Westminster of course followed by Crufts. If I keep going on to dog shows, I would go to the European dog show in Helsinki. We probably won’t go to the World Dog Show in Poland, no particular reason we’ve got other commitments.

MB: So you make the big circuit?

JH: We have to make the big circuit. Our clients, people who buy at the antiques shows don’t got to the dog shows, and the dog show people don’t come to the antiques shows, although they might both buy antique dog paintings.

MB: Do you carry other animals other than dogs because I notice a few cats

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Basically dogs and some cats. When it comes to the jewelry, you’ll see other fabulous pieces such as this fabulous diamond polo player, a fabulous Victorian diamond horseracing, very English football from 1910, Lalique pendant from 1910. So we specialize in sporting jewelry and dog paintings and some cat paintings.

MB: If you were to advise someone that was starting to collect antiques with dogs in them, what would you advise them to buy?

Buy what you like. Whatever you’re buying in antiques, never buy for investments. Buy because you want to put in on your wall, put that in your cabinet, put it on your dresser or table. You want to sit around an antique table, you want an antique painting. Buy it because you like it never buy it for investment. Nothing ever goes down. Everything gets more expensive. Buy it because you want to enjoy it and you want to have it as a lifestyle Something you want to walk into your home and say, fantastic, that’s beautiful, I remember buying it at this show in 1989 or 2006 or whenever you bought it or whatever that period was.

We’re looking forward to discovering Hamshere Gallery’s artist that caught the eye of owner John Hamshere. Until then, digital pictures will capture the spirit.

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April 29, 2006

Dakoda Dowd

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

Content Is King

Written by Joyce L Chow & William Hoehne April 29, 2006

MBN

www.montebubbles.com for more MBN news

INTERNET ADVERTISING IS THE FUTURE

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First there was ABC,CBS,CNN,FOX
and NBC and now there is MBN
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of NEWS by and American company.)
More then 100 pages of news a day
BROADCAST NEWS COMING SOON
VIA PODCAST
SUNDAYS ARE NOW PICTURE DAY

International news from Asia and Latin news in English and Spanish here now

More exciting changes coming each day.
Watch for the MBN Politically incorrect SUV

MONTEBUBBLISM: I won’t say that our editor is old as a dinosaur and slow, all I can tell you is that when he goes out to do anything that turtles ask him if he will move over so they can pass him.
Breaking News:
Dowd has won 185 junior trophies, and is the nation's top-ranked golfer in the graduating class of 2011. As a sixth-grader she was the No.2 golfer on the team at Northside Christian High. Dakoda finished in second place at last year's Florida Class A high school regional tournament, and if you have not guessed yet Dakoda (Koda) Dowd shoots in the low 70s. Look for Dakoda to be beating up on her competition for years to come.
Dakoda (Koda) Dowd is not your average 13 year old when it comes to golf.
The 13-year-old golf prodigy was invited to Reunion, Florida after event organizers learned that her mother Kelly Jo – who doctors say may only have months to live – wanted to see Dakoda play against the pros once in her lifetime. So Ginn organizers offered a sponsor's exemption, which eventually became a special exemption through the LPGA.
Dowd shot a 74 in the first round. She was tied for 53rd after the first round, beating or tying 15 women who've combined to win 33 major championships.

Dakoda tapped in for a double bogey on the 18th hole for an 82 on Friday. She missed the final-round cut by 8 strokes.

ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY
Below are the winners of the 2006 Billboard Latin Music Awards
Craig Ferguson at Barnes & Noble
Statement on Rush Limbaugh From Kraig T. Kitchin, President/COO Premiere Radio Networks
Grendel At The La Opera Seven performances only
And the Beat Goes on With 'VH1 Rock Docs'
IN JUST THREE YEARS, ONLINE'S broadband video advertising upfront has grown from about a $30 million marketplace to one that will reach at least $500 million
Rodale Selects Onstream Media to Provide Digital Media Services
Walt Disney Company, CBS, and Grupo Televisa are now considering buying Univision
TNT'S COMMERCIAL-FREE PREMIERE OF NEW drama "Saved" will be sponsored by Dodge and Quiznos.
CBS NEWS HITS THE HIGHWAY TO COVER THE GAS PRICE CRISIS
CRYSTAL VISION AT NAB2006
American Conservative Union Supports House Move Toward Consumer Choice
Animal Planet and Comcast Invite Knoxville-Area Residents to Spend Quality Time With Their Family and Pets as ANIMAL PLANET EXPO Rolls Into Town on May 13 at World's Fair Park
More Celebreality Blooms on VH1 This Summer!
Celebrity Cruises' Century Presents Venetian Gem
Ship's $55-Million Makeover Includes Specialty Restaurant, Sushi Bar and More
Hundreds of Sleuths 'Uncover the Arts' in Old City for WHYY Treasure Hunt
The World's Most Famous Dog Launches a New Natural Pet Food, Biscuit and Treat Line, Lassie Natural Way(TM)
Playstation Extends Sponsorship of UEFA Champions League
HotMovies.com Takes Lead From iPod(R), Launches MyClips(R) Customized Playlist Upgrade
Sportsmemo.com Announces the May 1 National Debut of the First and Only
Weekday All Sports Gaming Show on Sports Byline USA and Sirius Satellite Radio
Six Flags Marine World Unveils Tava's Jungleland - A Spectacular New Kids' Adventure Area Featuring Seven New Rides
Shakira U.S. Arena Tour Kicks Off With a Technology Boost From Verizon Wireless
Brand New Heavies, Doug E. Fresh & Slick Rick, Goapele, Kindred, Loose Ends, Musiq, New Orleans and Houston Artists Added to the Stellar Coca-Cola Presents the 2006 Essence Music Festival Line-Up
Pastor Rick Warren to Headline LifeLight Music Festival
'Acapulco Heat: Season One' - The First Electrifying Season Arrives on DVD June 27, 2006
Mary J. Blige, Jamie Foxx, Busta Rhymes, Sean Paul, Three 6 Mafia, Chris Brown, T.I. and Mobb Deep Among Those To Perform at Biggest Hip Hop Concert in the World - HOT 97'S SUMMER JAM 2006
Los Angeles Times, Paramount Pictures Turn Everyday Newsrack Experience Into Extraordinary Mission
Universal Spokesperson Statement Regarding EEOC Suit Against Universal Pictures
Backstreet Boys' Brian Littrell Releases Debut Solo Album Welcome Home on May 2
TV Guide Magazine Debuts New Weekly Column - ''Downloads''
AT&T and Starz Entertainment Group to Offer Vongo Movie Download Service to Broadband Customers
mDisney Launches Beta Version of Pirates of the Caribbean Multiplayer Mobile Game
Rival high-definition DVD technologies HD DVD and Blu-ray Disc will never compromise into a single format.
One in Four Viewers Interested in Watching Full-Length Episodes Online
The Club DNA - A New Way to Deter Auto Theft
Rejecting warnings that it was "selling out the public,"
Airplane!” Lands at Academy
For all its buzz, podcasting is a cowboy industry -- and much of its future lies in the hands of a handful of companies vying to play sheriff and bring order.

Buena Vista Games Enters Agreement to Publish Four New Games from Q ENTERTAINMENT
Videos from Legendary Punk Rockers Now Available for the ZVUE
Actor Tony Danza Signs Agreement to do a Cooking Show Produced by Clear Cut Film Technology Studios at Patsy's Italian Restaurant in Manhattan, NY
Evan Rachel Wood Joins Service of ``KING''
Fox Reality Announces New Original Programming: ''MY BARE LADY''; Transatlantic Co-Production with Zig Zag Productions Promises to ''Reveal All''
Gefen Switchers Integrate with Euphonix System to Create Digital State-of-the-Art Professional Audio/Video Mixing Environment
Bill Cosby Hosts 5th Annual 'Great Night in Harlem' Concert Presented by DIRECTV and BET J at the Apollo Theater Benefiting The Jazz Foundation of America (JFA)
ENTERTAINMENT & LIVING: FCC's Indecency Rules
Universal Pictures' United 93 Opens Nationwide on April 28
Marvel Studios Engages All-Star Roster For New Film Slate; Jon Favreau To Direct Iron Man
Walt Disney Pictures and MySpace.com Launch World Premiere of ''Pirates of the Caribbean
Dame Elizabeth Taylor Statement
Newport Beach Film Festival Announces 2006 Award Winners; Awards Ceremony to Be Produced by Media Alliance of Orange County
Now Casting - HGTV Needs Your Help Finding Offbeat Homes in Indiana and Coast-to-Coast
E3Expo, AIAS and LACMA Announce Art Selected for 3rd Annual Into the Pixel

SPORTS & AUTOS

OAKLAND & DODGER BASEBALL
NFL Draft Day, Silver Ticket Program and Commemorative 5-Liter NFL Kickoff Keg Can
1963 Maple Leafs Voted NHL's 'All-Time Greatest' Single-Season Squad
Unclear Offers Frustrate Media Buyers Eager to Buy in
PLAYERS INC Licenses Trading Card Companies to Promote All NFL Players
Patrick on tour to promote autobiography
Teens and Parents Invited to View GEICO 'Real Teen Driving' DVD May 5
DOD
DoD Identifies Casualties
Kids of Deployed Military Parents Need Consistency
America Supports You: Arizona Bikers Roll Out for Troops
DoD Implements NSPS to Spiral 1.1
NEWS & News In Spanish
Bush Nominates Unknown Executive to Head Small Business Administration
Business Ethics Magazine Names Whirlpool One of 100 Best Corporate Citizens
Company One of Only 16 Named to List All Seven Years
Annual Toys 'R' Us Gala Hosts Toy Industry for a Night of Entertainment and Fundraising to Benefit Children in Need
Playstation amplía el patrocinio de la Liga de Campeones de la UEFA
Leading Western and Eastern European Automotive Logistics Executives Meet in Russia
Ejecutivos europeos de Oriente y Occidente de Automotive Logistics se reúnen en Rusia
Katie Couric One of 20 Named 'Rays of Hope' for Cancer Survivorship
Honorees
White House Applauds National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month
President Bush Encourages Progress for Treatments, Cures
NASA Launches Satellites for Weather, Climate, Air Quality Studies
NASA Honors Pioneer Astronaut Frank Borman
Un Día Sin Mexicanos, el Cortometraje de Sergio Arau se Transmitirá Este Lunes en el Canal México 22

____________________________________________________

ENTERTAINMENT, ART, FASHION, TECHNOLOGY
Below are the winners of the 2006 Billboard Latin Music Awards, handed out April 27 in Hollywood, Fla., and broadcast live on Telemundo. The event honors the most popular albums, songs and performers in Latin music, as determined by the actual sales and radio airplay data that informs Billboard's weekly charts during a one-year period ending with the Feb. 5 issue.

Hot Latin Song Of The Year:
(Hot Latin Song, Tema del Año)
"La Tortura" Shakira featuring Alejandro Sanz (Epic/Sony BMG Norte)

Hot Latin Song Of The Year, Vocal Duet:
(Hot Latin Song, Dueto Vocal del Año):
"La Tortura" Shakira Featuring Alejandro Sanz (Epic/Sony BMG Norte)

Hot Latin Songs Artist of the Year:
(Hot Latin Songs, Artista del Año)
Juanes

Latin Pop Album of the Year, Male:
(Álbum Pop del Año, Masculino)
"En La Luna" Reyli (Sony BMG Norte)

Latin Pop Album Of The Year, Female:
(Álbum Pop del Año, Femenino)
"Fijacion Oral Vol. 1" –Shakira (Epic/Sony Music)

Latin Pop Album Of The Year, Duo or Group:
(Álbum Pop del Año, Dúo o Grupo)
"Rebelde" RBD (EMI Latin)

Latin Pop Album Of The Year, New Artist:
(Álbum Pop del Año, Nueva Generación)
"Rebelde" RBD (EMI Latin)

Top Latin Albums Artist Of The Year:
(Top Latin Álbums, Artista del Año)
Daddy Yankee

Latin Rock/Alternative Album Of The Year:
(Álbum Rock /Alternativo del Año)
"Consejo" La Secta AllStar (Universal Latino)

Tropical Album Of The Year, Male:
(Álbum Tropical del Año, Masculino)
"Ironia" Andy Andy (Wepa/Urban Box Office)

Tropical Album Of The Year, Female:
(Álbum Tropical del Año, Femenino)
"Como Olvidar: Lo Mejor De Olga Tañón" Olga Tañón (Warner Latina)

Tropical Album Of The Year, Duo Or Group:
(Álbum Tropical del Año, Dúo o Grupo)
"God’s Project" Aventura (Premium Latin/Sony BMG Norte)

Tropical Album Of The Year, New Artist:
(Álbum Tropical del Año, Nueva Generación)
"Ironía" Andy Andy (Wepa/UBO)

Regional Mexican Album Of The Year, Male Solo Artist:
(Álbum Regional Mexicano del Año, Solista Masculino)
"Mis Duetos" Vicente Fernández (Sony BMG Norte)

Regional Mexican Album Of The Year, Male Duo or Group:
(Álbum Regional Mexicano del Año, Dúo o Grupo Masculino)
"Y Sigue La Mata Dando" Grupo Montez De Durango (Disa)

Regional Mexican Album Of The Year, Female Group or Female Solo Artist:
(Álbum Regional Mexicano del Año, Solista o Grupo Femenino)
"Y Seguimos Con Duranguense!!!" Los Horóscopos De Durango (Disa)

Regional Mexican Album Of The Year, New Artist:
(Álbum Regional Mexicano del Año, Nueva Generación)
"La Reina Del Pasito Duranguense" Diana Reyes (Musimex/Universal Latino)

Latin Pop Airplay Song Of The Year, Male:
(Tema Latin Pop Airplay del Año Masculino)
"La Camisa Negra" Juanes (Surco/Universal Latino)

Latin Pop Airplay Song Of The Year, Female:
(Tema Latin Pop Airplay del Año, Femenino)
"Vìveme" Laura Pausini (Warner Latina)

Latin Pop Airplay Song Of The Year, Duo or Group:
(Tema Latin Pop Airplay del Año, Dúo o Grupo)
"La Tortura" Shakira Featuring Alejandro Sanz (Epic/Sony BMG Norte)

Latin Pop Airplay Song Of The Year, New Artist:
(Tema Latin Pop Airplay del Año, Nueva Generación)
"Algo MÁs" La 5a Estación (Sony BMG Norte)

Tropical Airplay Song Of The Year, Male:
(Tema Tropical Airplay del Año, Masculino)
"Que Ironía" Andy Andy (Wepa/Urban Box Office)

Tropical Airplay Song Of The Year, Female:
(Tema Tropical Airplay del Año, Femenino)
"Bandolero" Olga Tañón (Sony BMG Norte)

Tropical Airplay Song Of The Year, Duo or Group:
(Tema Tropical Airplay del Año, Dúo o Grupo)
"Ella Y Yo" Aventura Featuring Don Omar (Premium Latin)

Tropical Airplay Song Of The Year, New Artist:
(Tema Tropical Airplay del Año, Nueva Generación)
"Lamento Boliviano" Amarfis y La Banda De Atakke (Amarfica/J&N)

Regional Mexican Airplay Song Of The Year, Male Solo Artist:
(Tema Regional Mexicano Airplay del Año, Solista Masculino)
"Dueño De Ti" Sergio Vega (Sony BMG Norte)

Regional Mexican Airplay Song Of The Year, Male Group:
(Tema Regional Mexicano Airplay del Año, Grupo Masculino)
"Eres Divina" Patrulla 81 (Disa)

Regional Mexican Airplay Song Of The Year, Female Group Or Female Solo Artist:
(Tema Regional Mexicano Airplay del Año, Solista o Grupo Femenino)
"Si La Quieres" Los Horóscopos De Durango (Disa)

Regional Mexican Airplay Song Of The Year, New Artist:
(Tema Regional Mexicano Airplay del Año, Nueva Generación)
"Dueño De Ti" Sergio Vega (Sony BMG Norte)

Latin Tour Of The Year:
(Gira del Año)
Luis Miguel

Reggaeton Album Of The Year:
(Albúm Reggaeton del Año)
"Barrio Fino: En Directo" Daddy Yankee (El Cartel/Interscope)

Reggaeton Song Of The Year - *new category
(Tema Reggaeton del Año)-*nueva categoría
"Mayor Que Yo" Baby Ranks, Daddy Yankee, Tonny Tun Tun, Wisin y Yandel, Hector "El Father"

Latin Ringtone Of The Year - *new category
(Ringtone Latino del Año)-*nueva categoryía
"La Tortura" Shakira Featuring Alejandro Sanz (Epic/Sony BMG Norte)

Latin Dance Club Play Track Of The Year:
(Tema Dance del Año, Club Latino)
"I Don’t Care/Que MÁs Da (Dance Remixes)" Ricky Martin Featuring Fat Joe (Columbia/Sony BMG Norte)

Latin Rap/Hip-Hop Album Of The Year:
(Álbum Rap/Hip-Hop Latino del Año)
"Kickin’ It…Juntos" Akwid & Jae-P (Univision)

Latin Greatest Hits Album Of The Year:
(Álbum de los Grandes Éxitos Latinos del Año)
"La Historia Continua…Parte II" Marco Antonio Solis

Latin Compilation Album Of The Year:
(Álbum Recopilación Temas Latinos del Año)
"Chosen Few: El Documental" Various Artists (Chosen Few Emerald/Urban Box Office)

Latin Jazz Album Of The Year:
(Álbum Jazz Latino del Año)
"Sandoval: Live At The Blue Note" Arturo Sandoval (Half Note)

Latin Christian/Gospel Album Of The Year:
(Álbum Cristiano/Gospel del Año)
"Dios Es Bueno" Marcos Witt (Canzion/Sony BMG Norte)

Songwriter Of The Year:
(Compositor del Año)
Juanes

Producer Of The Year:
(Productor del Año)
Luny Tunes
Hot Latin Song Of The Year:(Hot Latin Song, Tema del Año)"La Tortura" Shakira featuring Alejandro Sanz (Epic/Sony BMG Norte)
Hot Latin Song Of The Year:(Hot Latin Song, Tema del Año)"La Tortura" Shakira featuring Alejandro Sanz (Epic/Sony BMG Norte)

Hot Latin Song Of The Year, Vocal Duet:(Hot Latin Song, Dueto Vocal del Año):"La Tortura" Shakira Featuring Alejandro Sanz (Epic/Sony BMG Norte)Hot Latin Songs Artist of the Year:

(Hot Latin Songs, Artista del Año)JuanesLatin Pop Album of the Year, Male:

(Álbum Pop del Año, Masculino)"En La Luna" Reyli (Sony BMG Norte)Latin Pop Album Of The Year, Female:(Álbum Pop del Año, Femenino)"Fijacion Oral Vol. 1" –Shakira (Epic/Sony Music)Latin Pop Album Of The Year, Duo or Group:

(Álbum Pop del Año, Dúo o Grupo)"Rebelde" RBD (EMI Latin)Latin Pop Album Of The Year, New Artist:(Álbum Pop del Año, Nueva Generación)"Rebelde" RBD (EMI Latin)Top Latin Albums Artist Of The Year:

(Top Latin Álbums, Artista del Año)Daddy YankeeLatin Rock/Alternative Album Of The Year:

(Álbum Rock /Alternativo del Año)"Consejo" La Secta AllStar (Universal Latino)Tropical Album Of The Year, Male:(Álbum Tropical del Año, Masculino)"Ironia" Andy Andy (Wepa/Urban Box Office)Tropical Album Of The Year, Female:

(Álbum Tropical del Año, Femenino)"Como Olvidar: Lo Mejor De Olga Tañón" Olga Tañón (Warner Latina)Tropical Album Of The Year, Duo Or Group:

(Álbum Tropical del Año, Dúo o Grupo)"God’s Project" Aventura (Premium Latin/Sony BMG Norte)Tropical Album Of The Year, New Artist:

(Álbum Tropical del Año, Nueva Generación)"Ironía" Andy Andy (Wepa/UBO)Regional Mexican Album Of The Year, Male Solo Artist:

(Álbum Regional Mexicano del Año, Solista Masculino)"Mis Duetos" Vicente Fernández (Sony BMG Norte)Regional Mexican Album Of The Year, Male Duo or Group:

(Álbum Regional Mexicano del Año, Dúo o Grupo Masculino)"Y Sigue La Mata Dando" Grupo Montez De Durango (Disa)Regional Mexican Album Of The Year, Female Group or Female Solo Artist:

(Álbum Regional Mexicano del Año, Solista o Grupo Femenino)"Y Seguimos Con Duranguense!!!" Los Horóscopos De Durango (Disa)Regional Mexican Album Of The Year, New Artist:

(Álbum Regional Mexicano del Año, Nueva Generación)"La Reina Del Pasito Duranguense" Diana Reyes (Musimex/Universal Latino)Latin Pop Airplay Song Of The Year, Male:(Tema Latin Pop Airplay del Año Masculino)"La Camisa Negra" Juanes (Surco/Universal Latino)Latin Pop Airplay Song Of The Year, Female:(

Tema Latin Pop Airplay del Año, Femenino)"Vìveme" Laura Pausini (Warner Latina)Latin Pop Airplay Song Of The Year, Duo or Group:(Tema Latin Pop Airplay del Año, Dúo o Grupo)"La Tortura" Shakira Featuring Alejandro Sanz (Epic/Sony BMG Norte)Latin Pop Airplay Song Of The Year, New Artist:

(Tema Latin Pop Airplay del Año, Nueva Generación)"Algo MÁs" La 5a Estación (Sony BMG Norte)Tropical Airplay Song Of The Year, Male:

(Tema Tropical Airplay del Año, Masculino)"Que Ironía" Andy Andy (Wepa/Urban Box Office)Tropical Airplay Song Of The Year, Female:

(Tema Tropical Airplay del Año, Femenino)"Bandolero" Olga Tañón (Sony BMG Norte)Tropical Airplay Song Of The Year, Duo or Group:(Tema Tropical Airplay del Año, Dúo o Grupo)"Ella Y Yo" Aventura Featuring Don Omar (Premium Latin)Tropical Airplay Song Of The Year, New Artist:

(Tema Tropical Airplay del Año, Nueva Generación)"Lamento Boliviano" Amarfis y La Banda De Atakke (Amarfica/J&N)Regional Mexican Airplay Song Of The Year, Male Solo Artist:(Tema Regional Mexicano Airplay del Año, Solista Masculino)"Dueño De Ti" Sergio Vega (Sony BMG Norte)Regional Mexican Airplay Song Of The Year, Male Group:

(Tema Regional Mexicano Airplay del Año, Grupo Masculino)"Eres Divina" Patrulla 81 (Disa)Regional Mexican Airplay Song Of The Year, Female Group Or Female Solo Artist:

(Tema Regional Mexicano Airplay del Año, Solista o Grupo Femenino)"Si La Quieres" Los Horóscopos De Durango (Disa)Regional Mexican Airplay Song Of The Year, New Artist:(Tema Regional Mexicano Airplay del Año, Nueva Generación)"Dueño De Ti" Sergio Vega (Sony BMG Norte)Latin Tour Of The Year:(Gira del Año)Luis MiguelReggaeton Album Of The Year:

(Albúm Reggaeton del Año)"Barrio Fino: En Directo" Daddy Yankee (El Cartel/Interscope)Reggaeton Song Of The Year

- *new category(Tema Reggaeton del Año)-*nueva categoría"Mayor Que Yo" Baby Ranks, Daddy Yankee, Tonny Tun Tun, Wisin y Yandel, Hector "El Father"Latin Ringtone Of The Year - *new category(Ringtone Latino del Año)-

*nueva categoryía"La Tortura" Shakira Featuring Alejandro Sanz (Epic/Sony BMG Norte)Latin Dance Club Play Track Of The Year:

(Tema Dance del Año, Club Latino)"I Don’t Care/Que MÁs Da (Dance Remixes)" Ricky Martin Featuring Fat Joe (Columbia/Sony BMG Norte)Latin Rap/Hip-Hop Album Of The Year:(Álbum Rap/Hip-Hop Latino del Año)"Kickin’ It…Juntos" Akwid & Jae-P (Univision)Latin Greatest Hits Album Of The Year:

(Álbum de los Grandes Éxitos Latinos del Año)"La Historia Continua…Parte II" Marco Antonio SolisLatin Compilation Album Of The Year:

(Álbum Recopilación Temas Latinos del Año)"Chosen Few: El Documental" Various Artists (Chosen Few Emerald/Urban Box Office)Latin Jazz Album Of The Year:

(Álbum Jazz Latino del Año)"Sandoval: Live At The Blue Note" Arturo Sandoval (Half Note)Latin Christian/Gospel Album Of The Year:(Álbum Cristiano/Gospel del Año)"Dios Es Bueno" Marcos Witt (Canzion/Sony BMG Norte)Songwriter Of The Year:

(Compositor del Año)JuanesProducer Of The Year:(Productor del Año)Luny Tunes Craig Ferguson at Barnes & Noble
Wed, May 3 at 7:30 pm
Wed, May 3 at 7:30 pm

Third St Promenade

1201 Third St, SM

(310) 260-9110

for booksigning of "Between the Bridge and the River"

This rambunctious debut novel from the host of CBS's The Late Late Show follows the picaresque adventrues of two Scottish friends and 2 American half brothers - with hilarious stops along the way poking fun at everything from Hollywood and Vegas to Starbucks and Hooters.

Statement on Rush Limbaugh From Kraig T. Kitchin, President/COO Premiere Radio Networks

"I'm pleased that a settlement has been reached between Rush Limbaugh and the state of Florida that finally brings this matter to an end. Rush's not guilty plea is consistent with the position he has taken all along. Throughout it all, he has continued to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to his listeners, affiliates, and advertisers. We have always stood by Rush -- for good reason -- and will continue to do so."

Source: Premiere Radio Networks

Grendel

Composed by Elliot Goldenthal
Directed by Julie Taymor
WORLD PREMIERE - May 27, 2006

Academy-Award wining composer Elliot Goldenthal and Tony-Award winning director Julie Taymor collaborate on Grendel, a ground-breaking operatic premiere inspired by the Beowulf legend. Over 1,000 years ago, two anonymous scribes wrote down an epic poem about a Scandinavian hero who ended the bloody reign of the monster Grendel. John Gardner’s 1971 novel approaches the classic story from the monster’s viewpoint. Estranged from nature and outcast from the world of men, Grendel is a passionate thinker trapped in the body of a beast, who struggles with his own existential conflicts and observations about humanity, and about himself.

Using projections, puppetry, masks and Goldenthal’s richly layered and highly emotional score, Taymor creates an enthralling visual landscape. In this world of kings, queens, storytellers and warriors, Taymor and her co-librettist, J.D. McClatchy, present a Grendel that is a quintessentially modern anti-hero. With language ranging from medieval to modern, Grendel serves as a gripping theatrical allegory of the human struggle.

PRODUCTION DATES: May 27,2006 to June 17,2006 ,seven shows only
May 27,2006 to June 17,2006 ,seven shows only
PRE-PERFORMANCE LECTURE:

One hour prior to each performance.
Michael Walsh will lead the pre-performance lecture.
Pre-performance lectures are generously sponsored by the Flora L. Thornton Foundation and the Opera League of Los Angeles.

And the Beat Goes on With 'VH1 Rock Docs'
VH1 Expands Rock Docs Franchise to Include Eight Additional Music-Based Documentaries Covering Heavy Metal, Hip-Hop, Classic Rock and More

VH1 will expand its documentary series "VH1 Rock Docs" to include eight new high-end feature-length programs. Each of the documentaries will reveal an untold story in the history of rock and hip-hop music, combining never-before-seen footage with a unique and unconventional narrative approach. The documentaries will tell some of the most unique stories of artists and music from a wide range of genres, styles, and musical perspectives.

For this new slate, which includes internally-produced and acquired projects, VH1 builds on the previously announced "Rock Docs" "DMC: My Adoption Journey," "Heavy: The Story of Metal," "The Last Days of Left Eye" and "The U.S. vs. John Lennon."

THE DRUG YEARS

VH1, in association with Sundance Channel, has produced the original documentary series "The Drug Years," a four-part look at the rise of illicit drug use and its cultural impact in the second half of the twentieth century. Spanning the 1950's to the present, "The Drug Years" explores the development of a commercial drug culture in America, using archival footage, never-before-seen film and interviews to illustrate how popular culture -- including music, movies, comedy, television, and theatre -- both shaped and reflected public perceptions of illicit drugs. "The Drug Years" also looks at how drugs became part of the nation's political landscape, from the youth rebellions of the 1960's to the War on Drugs and beyond.

MY GENERATION: WHO'S STILL WHO (Spitfire and VH1)

Authorized by The Who and directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Murray Lerner, "My Generation: Who's Still Who" is the definitive audio-visual record of the legendary British rock band, The Who. Produced by Spitfire and VH1, (Spitfire's last project was the Peabody Award winning documentary "Bob Dylan: No Direction Home") and making its television premiere on VH1, "My Generation: Who's Still Who" moves from the group's origins as a 1960s schoolboy R&B cover band, through their meteoric rise and artistic breakthroughs. The film also documents the infighting, the breakups and reconciliations, and the untimely deaths of drummer Keith Moon and bassist John Entwistle. In addition to never-before-seen private materials released by the group and its fans worldwide, the film includes interviews with prominent witnesses and personal friends. Rare and unreleased concert footage and outtakes are also featured. After its premiere on VH1, the documentary will also air on VH1 Classic.

TUPAC RESURRECTION

Making its network window premiere on VH1, Lauren Lazin's Academy-award nominated portrait of Tupac Shakur, "Tupac: Resurrection" explores Tupac's life viscerally and dramatically-through his own words and music, and through vivid images of the world as he experienced it. The first-ever documentary about Shakur's life created in collaboration with his mother, Afeni Shakur, and Amaru Entertainment, "Tupac: Resurrection" features never-before-seen concert footage, excerpts from his poetry and journals, and private home-movie material. The documentary features a soundtrack of Shakur's best-selling music, as well as the music he loved and was inspired by. Not merely a celebration of his life and artistry, "Tupac: Resurrection" explores honestly and openly Shakur's many complexities, examining his artistic gifts, passions and conflicts.

METAL: A HEADBANGER'S JOURNEY

Making its television premiere on VH1, "Metal: A Headbanger's Journey" follows 30-year old anthropologist Sam Dunn, who has decided to study the plight of a different culture, one he has been a part of since he was a 12-year old: the culture of heavy metal. Sam sets out on a global journey to find out why this music has been consistently stereotyped, dismissed and condemned and yet is loved so passionately by its millions of fans. Along the way, Sam explores metals' obsession with some of life's most provocative subjects -- sexuality, religion, violence and death -- and discovers some things about the culture that even he can't defend. Shot on location in the UK, Germany, Norway, Canada and the US, this documentary is the first of its kind. It is both a defense of a long-misunderstood art form and a window for the outsider into the spectacle that is heavy metal.

AWESOME; I F**KIN' SHOT THAT! (thinkfilm)

Making its television premiere on VH1, "Awesome; I F**kin' Shot That!" is an innovative feature film experience. The Beastie Boys handed out 50 cameras to audience members at their sold-out performance in New York's famed Madison Square Garden in October 2004. These 50 different passionate perspectives shot from the point of view of the audience take the viewer deep inside the world of a live Beastie Boys show, prismatically and kinetically capturing the experience of a live musical performance like no film has ever done.

FADE TO BLACK

Making its network window premiere on VH1, "Fade To Black" offers an intimate look at hip-hop artist Jay-Z, aka Shawn Carter, that reveals the multiple Grammy Award winning artist as never before. From his background and rise to fame to the recording of his last album, the film chronicles the legendary concert of Jay-Z's performance at Madison Square Garden in November 2003. In an unprecedented event, a hip-hop artist sold out an arena in only two hours. The event was a spectacular culmination of Jay-Z's recording career prior to his self-proclaimed retirement from solo performing. Yet this one night also defined a musical generation, showcasing the evolution and reach of the world's most popular music genre. Viewers get the rare glimpse of Jay-Z's creative process as he searches for inspiration, poetry, and perfection in his songs. Narrated by Jay-Z, this documentary takes on reflections of his entire musical career and his journey that led to this one astounding, fabled evening -- rightfully called "Fade To Black."

BOB DYLAN: NO DIRECTION HOME (Spitfire)

Martin Scorsese's Peabody Award winning, definitive documentary of the legendary singer, Bob Dylan is the first feature length film biography done on the artist. The two-part film, which focuses on the singer-songwriter's life and music from 1961-1966, includes never-seen performance footage and interviews with artists and musicians whose lives intertwined with Dylan's during that time. The film also features previously unreleased footage from Bob Dylan's groundbreaking live concerts, studio recording sessions and interviews. After its premiere on VH1, the documentary will also air on VH1 Classic.

NEIL YOUNG: HEART OF GOLD (Paramount Classics)

Jonathan Demme's highly-regarded documentary making its network window premiere on VH1. Legendary singer/songwriter Neil Young is filmed on the occasion of the world premiere of Young's "Prairie Wind" concert at Nashville's hallowed Ryman Auditorium. Young's music provides an emotionally rich view into this unique artist's relationship to family, friends, mortality, and the passage of time. Young is accompanied onstage by many long time musical companions, including country star Emmylou Harris, Neil's wife Pegi Young, and bandleader/steel guitarist Ben Keith. The documentary will also air on VH1 Classic.

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 www.VH1.com.

VH1 is a registered trademark of MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom International Inc. MTV Networks also operates and offers joint ventures, licensing agreements and syndication deals whereby its programming can be seen worldwide.

*all times ET/PT

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

IN JUST THREE YEARS, ONLINE'S broadband video advertising upfront has grown from about a $30 million marketplace to one that will reach at least $500 million

and as much as $1 billion this year, making it the size of a major broadcast network TV daypart, akin to late night, early morning or early evening news, executives helping to develop that market said Thursday during Media magazine's 2006 Outfront Conference in New York. "It will be a $500 million marketplace over the next 12 months for traditional video, 15- and 30-second commercial advertising being either integrated into in-stream environments or in engaged ad units that can support video," estimated Adam Gerber, vice president-ad products & strategy at broadband video developer Brightcove.

"Is it going to become the primary place tat marketer's put their TV budgets? I don't think so. But I think over the long-term, you are going to see major shifts in how advertisers are spending money," added Gerber, who prior to joining Brightcove was head of new media at MediaVest, and was part of the team that helped initiated the so-called broadband upfront at Starcom MediaVest Group three years ago.

But that's the conservative estimate, said Matt Wasserlauf, president-CEO of another broadband video advertising developer, Broadband Enterprises. "The inventory exists today to support a billion dollar business. There could be a billion dollar industry in pre-roll 15- and 30-second commercials."

One of the things that could limit the scale of that market, cautioned Brightcove's Gerber, was a growing perception that so-called "pre-roll," or the commercial units that run intrusively before online video content, may not be as effective as conventional TV commercials.

"Give us a chance," he pleaded to a roomful of planners and buyers, noting, "Already, people are talking about how horrible a model pre-roll is. We need to focus on the model's positives."

Despite strong high-speed penetration rates and consumers' insatiable hunger for video content, Gerber and his fellow "New Channel for Content Distribution" panelists are still fearful of being overlooked by agencies because of negative presumptions and impatience for an immature ad model.

"We're not even in the first inning of broadband," Gerber said, "It's more like batting practice."

"Let's just hope no one comes up with a 5 percent solution," remarked Allison Bodenmann, executive vice president of national sales of WorldNow, the broadband services provider. Bodenmann was referring to ad agencies' hastily reacting to the advent of cable TV by blindly allocating 5 percent of their budgets for the new medium.

"The general idea is that broadband deserves a much closer look by agencies than they gave cable originally," Gerber later explained to OnlineMediaDaily.

Backing up Gerber's defense of broadband, Bodenmann assured members of the audience that "The tech will be there very soon" to silence critics who consider pre-roll ads clunky and half-baked.

To varying degrees, each panelist was professedly optimist about broadband, but none more so than Matt Wasserlauf, president and CEO of Broadband Enterprises, which specializes in broadband video sales, syndication, and original production.

"Television has been the predominant medium for a number of generations, but every generation up to 24-year-olds are going online before TV," said Wasserlauf.

Rejecting the common perception that inventory is scarce, Wasserlauf asserted, "The doors are open and there's plenty of opportunity." To support his position, Wasserlauf noted a comScore statistic that over 4 billion "monetizable" streams exist online per month. (A comScore spokeswoman later confirmed that number for December of last year.)

Still, a lack of agency procedure when planning online buys appears to be slowing progress.

How are agencies and advertisers managing their broadband spending: Line item budget or judgment call?

As an example, Curt Hecht, executive vice president of ad products and strategy at GM Planworks was asked just how planners like himself are managing their broadband spending: line item budget or judgment call. In response, he said: "We attach to properties we care a lot about," adding, "At the end of the day that leads to a line item, but we don't start out that way."

Looking ahead toward a brighter future for pre-roll, Gerber noted the potential for behavioral and contextual targeting technology as the ad model's great hope. "The challenge is audience metrics," he said.

Rodale Selects Onstream Media to Provide Digital Media Services
Leading Global Health and Wellness Publisher to Utilize Onstream Media's Services to Create New Revenue Opportunities From Its Existing Video Content Libraries
Services to Include Ad Insertion Into On-Demand Video Streaming

Onstream Media Corporation , a leading online service provider of live and on- demand, digital media communications and applications, announced today that Rodale Inc., the authoritative source for trusted content in health and wellness around the world, has deployed Onstream Media and its Digital Media Services Platform (DMSP) to provide content processing, various professional services including the development of a video search application with custom players, hosting and dynamic advertisement insertion into Rodale's on-demand (IP-PPV) streaming video content.

"Onstream Media provides Rodale with the opportunity to drive new revenue streams that enhance its strategic digital initiatives for its content and brands as well as leverage its existing advertising franchise," said Ken Citron, Chief Technology Officer and Senior Vice President, Rodale.

Using Rodale's long form video content, as well as the online publishing capabilities of Onstream Media's DMSP and other proprietary technologies, Rodale is expanding the Web presence of its streaming video content among end- users through the creation of shorter length, indexed vignettes and a powerful one-to-one marketing platform. To this end, Rodale has already successfully deployed Onstream Media's turnkey video search application and custom players and seamlessly integrated them into Rodale's site designs and individual Web properties. This implementation provides Rodale with the capability to insert dynamic advertisements into video streams that match a distinct viewer profile.

Other advanced technical solutions provided by Onstream Media to Rodale include:

* Fluid transformation of high resolution streams into a myriad of formats and bandwidth speeds. * Automated ingest and digitization of long and short format programs, cataloging each discreet scene as an independent media asset. * Comprehensive metadata tagging of each video scene, and its contents. * A fast multi-format play out center capable of streaming video from multiple media player formats, such as Flash Video and Windows Media, that can be delivered on multiple platforms such as PC's, Mac's, mobile smart phones, and iPods. * Transaction processing for packaging and selling video on-demand (IP-PPV).

"We're pleased to be partnering with Rodale as it will enable them to better leverage their well-renowned brands such as Men's Health, Prevention and Runner's World in the online space and drive new revenue streams more effectively and efficiently from Rodale's online properties and content," said Randy Selman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Onstream Media. "Although both traditional and new media publishers have been using the Web to stream their video content, there has been no successful, cost effective way to generate revenues from this content until now. Using Onstream Media's DMSP, publishers can now monetize this video content through highly targeted, integrated advertising, that is customized to the profiles of individual users (ad insertion), subscriptions or e-commerce all of which is easily facilitated by the publisher using the DMSP."

About Rodale Inc.

Rodale Inc. is the authoritative source for trusted content in health, fitness and wellness around the world, reaching nearly 40 million people each month. The company publishes some of the best-known health and wellness lifestyle magazines, including Men's Health, Prevention, Women's Health, Runner's World, Best Life, Bicycling, Backpacker, Mountain Bike and Organic Gardening, and is also the largest independent book publisher in America with a collection of international titles, including The South Beach Diet and The Abs Diet franchises. Rodale's broad range of media platforms includes magazines, books, video and extensive Web sites. The company is also a leader in direct response marketing and has more than 25 million active customers in its database. http://www.rodale.com/ .

About Onstream Media Corporation

Founded in 1993, Onstream Media (is a leading online service provider of live and on-demand communications and digital media services including encoding, editorial, hosting, digital asset management, streaming, e-commerce/pay-per-view and distribution via the Onstream Digital Media Services Platform. Onstream Media's pioneering ASP Digital Media Services Platform (DMSP) provides its customers with the necessary tools for webcasting, web conferencing, managing digital assets, publishing content on the Internet and establishing e-commerce storefronts to transact business online. All of Onstream Media's services are focused on increasing productivity and revenues, and reducing capital expenditures and operational costs of any organization in an affordable and highly secure environment. As a result, 78% of the Fortune 100 CEOs and CFOs and almost half of the Fortune 1000 companies have used Onstream Media's services.

Onstream Media customers include: AOL, AAA, AXA Equitable Life Insurance Company, Disney, MGM, Deutsche Bank, Thomson Financial/CCBN, PR Newswire and the U.S. Government.

Source: Onstream Media Corporation

Walt Disney Company, CBS, and Grupo Televisa are now considering buying Univision

SOME MAJOR MEDIA COMPANIES LOOK to be shifting position on a possible purchase of Univision--Walt Disney Company, CBS, and Grupo Televisa are now all actively considering buying the large Spanish-language network, according to published reports.

Recently, media companies had expressed that Univision' price tag---at $40 a share amounting to $14 billion--was too high. Univision, controlled by billionaire Jerrold Perenchio, has been pondering a sale of a company since February.

A number of media companies, including Disney and CBS, did take an initial look at Univision's financial books. Walt Disney Co., however, has been analyzing Univision's books more closely in recent days, according to reports.

CBS may have a different agenda. Yesterday, Les Moonves, chief executive officer of CBS, told investors and journalists in a press conference about its first earnings report as a public company, saying that "we're not looking for an acquisition of that size."

Or perhaps that expensive. Univision's proposed price tag would equate to 19 times cash flow and a 36 price/earning ratio. By way of comparison, Viacom is selling at 11 times cash flow; CBS is an even cheaper 8 times cash flow.

Grupo Televisa, the big Mexican TV production company and broadcaster, has a significant 11 percent stake in Univision, and provides the channel with much of its programming. Last month, The New York Times reported that it has been formalizing a bid with private investors, including Providence Equity Partners, Madison Dearborn Partners, the Cisneros Group of Venezuela, and the media entrepreneur Haim Saban.

Because of Grupo Televisa's stake, media analysts have said the most likely scenario is that a major U.S.-based media company would need a joint bid with Grupo Televisa to gain control of Univision.

This would mean its chief executive, Televisa Chairman and President Emilio Azcarraga, would need to do a Rupert Murdoch--becoming a U.S. citizen as well as relocating its headquarters to the U.S., abiding by Federal Communication Communications rules.

A Univision spokeswoman had no comment about the possible buyers

TNT'S COMMERCIAL-FREE PREMIERE OF NEW drama "Saved" will be sponsored by Dodge and Quiznos.

"Saved" is one of three shows on the Turner network set to premiere this summer with no commercial interruptions--a move that could blunt the impact of ad-skipping DVRs and ease advertisers' concerns about increasing clutter.

Earlier, TNT said the second-season debut of hit "The Closer" would be ad-free and sponsored by Audi. "Nightmares & Dreamscapes: From the Stories of Stephen King" is the third show, although TNT has not announced a sponsor.

Dodge's relationship with "Saved"--which focuses on the personal struggles of a paramedic--also includes product placement. Both Dodge and Quiznos will receive exposure in TNT's marketing efforts behind "Saved," including mentions in on-air promos, print ads, and on tnt.tv.

Agency PHD made the multi-pronged deals with Turner on behalf of clients Dodge and Quiznos.

"Saved" will run Mondays at 10 after "The Closer," forming an original drama block that launches June 12.

In addition, AOL will have a brand integration role in "Saved," as well as on "The Closer." "We can showcase the value of AOL within the actual storyline, making it relevant to the characters' lives," said Richard Taylor, senior vice president of brand marketing for AOL. In an interview prior to Turner's upfront, David Levy, president of Turner Entertainment Group Ad Sales and Marketing, said circumventing DVR ad-skipping wasn't the chief reason behind the ad-free premieres. "We're looking at innovative ways to get the clients' messages across," he said.

Linda Yaccarino, executive vice president at Turner, cited "an uncluttered environment" as an enticement for Dodge and Quiznos.

CBS NEWS HITS THE HIGHWAY TO COVER THE GAS PRICE CRISIS
The Five-Part Series, "CBS News: Eye on the Road," Begins May 1
on the CBS EVENING NEWS WITH BOB SCHIEFFER
CBS News is hitting the road to get a first-hand look at how extraordinarily high gas prices are affecting ordinary people. Correspondent Sharyn Alfonsi and her crew will travel from Florida to Massachusetts on Interstate 95 in three vehicles: a Toyota Prius hybrid; a Ford Expedition SUV and a mid-size Honda Accord. Along the way, Alfonsi and her team will talk to Americans who suffer every time the price at the pump rises. The five-part series, "CBS News: Eye on the Road," begins Monday, May 1 (6:30-7:00 PM ET/PT) on the CBS EVENING NEWS WITH BOB SCHIEFFER. CBSNews.com will also feature Alfonsi's reports.
CBS News is hitting the road to get a first-hand look at how extraordinarily high gas prices are affecting ordinary people. Correspondent Sharyn Alfonsi and her crew will travel from Florida to Massachusetts on Interstate 95 in three vehicles: a Toyota Prius hybrid; a Ford Expedition SUV and a mid-size Honda Accord. Along the way, Alfonsi and her team will talk to Americans who suffer every time the price at the pump rises. The five-part series, "CBS News: Eye on the Road," begins (6:30-7:00 PM ET/PT) on the CBS EVENING NEWS WITH BOB SCHIEFFER. CBSNews.com will also feature Alfonsi's reports.

Alfonsi and producer Michael Solmsen will start in Miami, Fla., where the increased price of fuel has a direct impact on healthcare and other services -- like Meals on Wheels -- provided to the state's elderly population. They'll finish the trip in Cambridge, Mass., but will make stops in the following cities:

Sylvania, Ga., where farmers facing a 113% increase in fertilizer costs may be forced out of business

Zebulon, N.C., home of the Carolina Mudcats, a minor league baseball team that travels more than 10,000 miles by bus per season and whose fans drive to the small town located outside Raleigh

Arlington, Va., one suburb where commuters are rethinking their drive into the nation's capital

Alfonsi will record a video diary and blog -- updated throughout the day -- for CBSNews.com with exclusive commentary about the places she's been and the people she's interviewed. In addition, CBSNews.com will feature exclusive web-only footage, as well as an interactive map of the crew's trip. The "CBS News: Eye on the Road" team will track how much gas each of their vehicle's uses and post the average price for each region on CBSNews.com.

Rome Harman is the executive producer of the CBS EVENING NEWS.

CRYSTAL VISION AT NAB2006

2006 is the year of Crystal Vision HD with the launch of eleven new High Definition products.

Three of these are being demonstrated using the booth’s blue screen chroma key set. Now shipping, Safire HD is the first affordable solution to High Definition chroma keying. Fitting in the standard Crystal Vision frames, this modular chroma keyer works with all common High Definition formats as well as SDI and is ideal for studio, sport and all other live chroma keying applications. ViViD HD is ideal for compensating for the delays caused by other equipment in the system, including graphics generators in HD virtual studios. The easy-to-use module provides over half a second of delay in HD and three seconds in Standard Definition, with a minimum setting of a few microseconds and the delay adjustable in time steps. The third virtual studio product is LKEY HD – a High Definition linear keyer designed to key graphics over HD or SD video streams. Distinguished by its unusually small size, the ability to fit six HD linear keyers in 2U saves the customer valuable rack space and makes it especially suitable for multi-layer keying.

Crystal Vision is best known for its expertise in embedded audio, and TANDEM HD brings real flexibility to HD embedding. It can be configured as either a single embedder or single de-embedder and can be used with either one or two groups of audio, depending on how many piggybacks are fitted to the motherboard. Simple to operate, TANDEM HD offers gain control as well as audio routing. The ultimate combined-function HD product, SYNNER HD is a synchroniser, tracking audio delay and embedder/de-embedder on one board. Taking in tri-level syncs or normal Black and Burst, it will synchronise an HD or SD signal containing embedded audio, and can optionally embed or de-embed two groups of audio by fitting two piggybacks to the main board. It offers sophisticated routing, allowing swap and replace of the individual audio channels. There is also a new HD/SDI video frame synchroniser designed for applications without embedded audio: the SYN HD.

Up-and-down is a combined up, down and cross converter with adaptive motion compensation. By using the very latest chipset Crystal Vision has created the most advanced up/down converter at a realistic price, with the added advantage of the 100mm x 266mm module using minimum space. Up conversions are Standard Definition to 720p and 1080i, at both 50Hz and 59.94Hz, while down conversions are 720p and 1080i to Standard Definition at both frame frequencies. Cross conversions of 720p to 1080i and 1080i to 720p are also available. Also new are four low cost HD/SDI distribution amplifiers for those who do not require remote control operation. The HDDA105C, HDDA105N, HDDA111C and HDDA111N between them offer the options of reclocking and non-reclocking and five or eleven outputs.

With most of the world still Standard Definition, Crystal Vision has not forgotten that market. Demon 2 is an updated version of one of Crystal Vision’s most popular products, the Demon de-embedding monitor. Part of Crystal Vision’s new generation of converters which give improved performance at a lower cost, Demon 2 uses the highest quality 12 bit DAC and can convert SDI with embedded audio into combinations of component, composite, Y/C and SDI - along with 20 bit AES and analogue audio simultaneously.

The Smart DA is an intelligent SDI distribution amplifier giving up to eight outputs that will monitor the video and embedded audio and provide warnings should any problems occur. The status of the signal can be viewed by using the Smart DA with Crystal Vision’s Statesman PC Control System, with indications of input present, input standard, video black, video frozen, audio group present, audio silence, EDH missing, EDH full field error and EDH active picture error. A number of alarms can also be set, including video absent, audio absent, black picture, frozen picture and silent audio, as well as three EDH alarms. The Smart DA is ideal for big systems requiring immediate indication of signal or transmission problems, especially in unmanned automatic playout facilities.

The ADDEC 12 bit decoding converters provide an excellent way to bring a variety of analogue sources into a digital environment. Used with sources generated by cameras, tape machines or graphics generators, they can convert different analogue signals (composite PAL/NTSC, Y/C or YUV) to SDI, making them ideal for multi-applications and resulting in reductions in cost and rack space. The SDI output is excellent, thanks to data sampled at 54Mbit per second, the five line comb decoder and the 12 bit A to D which reduces quantising noise. Input sources can be of any quality from full broadcast to VHS, with damaged or jittery signals accepted. The internal video proc-amp allows adjustment of gains and levels for further picture improvements. There is a decoding converter to suit every application and budget. ADDEC-100 has no timing adjustments, making it the straightforward low cost option. ADDEC-200 and ADDEC-300 both have timing adjustments including an on-board framestore synchroniser and the option to add a fixed delay. The advantage of full board edge control makes the ADDEC-300 the fully-featured version.

Based at Whittlesford near Cambridge in the UK, Crystal Vision provides digital keyers and a full range of digital and analogue interface equipment including converters, decoders, encoders, aspect ratio converters and audio embedders to the professional broadcasting industry worldwide.

American Conservative Union Supports House Move Toward Consumer Choice

Bill Lauderback, Executive Vice President, American Conservative Union today made the following statement:

"It appears that the House Energy and Commence Committee is ready to introduce the cable TV establishment to the American system of free enterprise. The introduction would come via the Communications Opportunity, Promotion and Enhancement (COPE) Act which the committee has in mark-up today.

"The COPE Act would finally bring meaningful competition to the cable market by eliminating the archaic local video franchise regulations which have insulated incumbent providers from the realities of a free market for decades. These local franchise regulations have preserved a monopoly business model that has behaved in the classic monopoly manner, exploiting captive consumers with unconscionably inflated prices and indifferent service.

"COPE would replace the labyrinth of 30,000 local video franchise agreements with one national agreement that would allow any new competitor or incumbent cable provider to offer service anywhere in the country. Since the market we know as cable has evolved into a broader market for broadband services, competition is in the national interest as well as in the interest of consumers.

"A vibrant, competitive market will attract the kind of consumer broadband infrastructure investment already being made by new competitors in areas where they have been allowed to enter the market. This investment must be encouraged because America has allowed itself to sink to a ranking of 14th in the world in terms of consumer broadband infrastructure.

"As the Committee strips away the competition-impeding local franchise regulations, we congratulate its members for not further opening a 'Pandora's Box' of new and unnecessary regulations around the false issue of 'network neutrality.' This issue is a thinly disguised attempt to convince Congress to regulate advanced on-line services that haven't been invented yet to correct problems that don't exist. Whatever final telecom legislation Congress eventually passes, we would hope that it would focus on video choice and not be weighed down by issues such as new regulations that would compromise the principle of free enterprise."

Source: The American Conservative Union

Animal Planet and Comcast Invite Knoxville-Area Residents to Spend Quality Time With Their Family and Pets as ANIMAL PLANET EXPO Rolls Into Town on May 13 at World's Fair Park

- Interactive Exhibits and Games Provide Free Fun for the Whole Family, Including the Family Pet! - - Comcast to Make $1,000 Donation to Young-Williams Animal Center -

Energy, imagination and playfulness abound as Knoxville welcomes ANIMAL PLANET EXPO, an event sure to entertain animal lovers of all ages. Animal Planet and Comcast, plus national sponsors, the Smart Spot(TM) program from PepsiCo and the makers of Fresh Step(R) litter, invite Knoxville-area residents to bring their families -- along with Fido and Fluffy -- to celebrate the unique sights, sounds and emotional experiences only animals can provide during ANIMAL PLANET EXPO May 13, from 10 AM to 5 PM on the Performance Lawn at World's Fair Park, located at 954 World's Fair Park in Knoxville.

An annual summer tour, ANIMAL PLANET EXPO has been delighting people around the country for eight years, giving families the opportunity to experience animal-friendly family fun, the Animal Planet way. Inspired by the only television network dedicated to the connection between humans and animals, this year's ANIMAL PLANET EXPO has expanded to offer participants an even richer experience than ever before.

From high-flying Frisbee dog shows and interactive animal trivia games, to "ooh" and "ahh" inspiring live animal shows, the Main Stage features flocks of captivating animal entertainment and demonstrations. The Frisbee dog show times are 11 AM, 12 PM, 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM, and the Main Stage live animal presentation times are 1 PM and 4 PM.

Also part of ANIMAL PLANET EXPO is the not-to-be-missed Discovery Kids' Endurance Experience, a hands-on adventure that allows kids to experience the mental and physical competition of Discovery Kids Channel's wildly popular ENDURANCE series. In Discovery Kids' Endurance Experience kids can compete in a number of challenges that simulate the sights, sounds and physical experience of competing on ENDURANCE, including a climbing wall and a timed "hanging" challenge-plus, USA Swimming is sponsoring an all-new water-based challenge.

Visitors to Animal Planet Expo Theater will find themselves getting up close and personal with exotic animals like a python, an alligator, a fox, a porcupine or a lemur, as they experience animal wildlife firsthand with a captivating demonstration set in a natural habitat. Theater shows will run every half-hour throughout Saturday, with the first show at 10:30 AM and the last at 3:30 PM.

In addition, visitors will see firsthand the clarity of high-definition programming with a sneak-peek at Discovery Channel's groundbreaking new ATLAS series in the Discovery HD Theater Dome. Forms to enter for a chance to win an HD television set will be available to fill out while enjoying breathtaking footage of a country like China or Australia, as they have never been seen before.

Other activity pavilions to enjoy at ANIMAL PLANET EXPO include the following:

* Animal House -- Get to know even more live animals, while animal

experts introduce visitors to exotic species from around the world.

* Safari Snaps -- Download the ultimate digital photo of you with a

virtual version of Animal Planet's Jeff Corwin and Steve Irwin.

* Bug House -- Hear what the buzz is about and learn about a variety of

bugs and butterflies from around the globe.

* Kids' Zone -- Kids can get their faces painted, try the "Happy Gator"

obstacle course and play other fun games.

* Heroes of Animal Planet -- Protect your pet just as the stars of ANIMAL

HEROES: PHOENIX do by creating your own personalized pet tag and engage

in a unique sniff test from the makers of Fresh Step(R) litter.

* Connection Zone -- Kids play a panda-themed game for a prize, while

adults view demonstrations and take advantage of special offers on the

latest products from Comcast.

* Pet Den -- Young-Williams Animal Center will provide pet adoption

opportunities and helpful information on how to find the perfect pet

for your family.

* Pet Misters and Watering Holes -- Give your pets the opportunity to

"chill out" and quench their thirst on a hot day.

* Smart Spot Station -- Kids learn how to eat and live healthier in a fun

and interactive way.

As part of ANIMAL PLANET EXPO, Comcast will make a $1000 donation to Young-Williams Animal Center. Comcast will also be onsite to provide valuable information about their most innovative new products available to consumers.

Knoxville-area viewers can find Animal Planet on Comcast channel 68. Go to http://www.discovery.com/ and click on Animal Planet to find more information on ANIMAL PLANET EXPO.

About Fresh Step(R) litter

Fresh Step(R) litter is a part of the The Clorox Pet Products Company, which is a subsidiary of The Clorox Company, headquartered in Oakland, Calif. The Clorox Company is a leading manufacturer and marketer of consumer products with fiscal year 2005 revenues of $4.4 billion. Clorox markets some of consumers' most trusted and recognized brand names, including its namesake bleach and cleaning products, Armor All(R) and STP(R) auto care products, Fresh Step(R) and Scoop Away(R) cat litters, Kingsford(R) charcoal briquettes, Hidden Valley(R) and K C Masterpiece(R) dressings and sauces, Brita(R) water- filtration systems, and Glad(R) bags, wraps and containers. With 7,600 employees worldwide, the company manufactures products in 25 countries and markets them in more than 100 countries. Clorox is committed to making a positive difference in the communities where its employees work and live. Founded in 1980, The Clorox Company Foundation has awarded cash grants totaling more than $62.3 million to nonprofit organizations, schools and colleges; and in fiscal year 2005 alone made product donations valued at $4.9 million. For more information about Clorox, visit http://www.thecloroxcompany.com/. For more information about Fresh Step, visit FreshStep.com.

About Smart Spot(TM)

PepsiCo, one of the world's largest food and beverage companies, launched the Smart Spot(TM) symbol on select products to make it easier for consumers to identify PepsiCo products that contribute to healthier lifestyles. Products that contain the Smart Spot symbol meet established nutrition criteria based on authoritative statements from the Food and Drug Administration and the National Academy of Sciences. The Smart Spot symbol appears on more than 250 PepsiCo products including Tropicana Pure Premium(R), Aquafina(R) waters, Gatorade(R) thirst quenchers, Baked! Lay's(R) chips, Quaker(R) Oatmeal and Diet Pepsi(R), among many others.

About Animal Planet

Animal Planet, available in more than 88 million homes nationwide, is the only television network dedicated exclusively to the connection between humans and animals. The network brings people of all ages together by tapping into a fundamental fascination with animals through an array of fresh programming that includes humor, competition, drama and spectacle from the animal kingdom. Animal Planet is a property of Discovery Communications, the leading global real-world media company. Discovery has grown from its core property, the Discovery Channel, first launched in the United States in 1985, to current global operations in 170 countries and territories with nearly 1.4 billion cumulative subscribers. DCI's over 100 networks of distinctive programming represent 27 network entertainment brands including TLC, Animal Planet, Travel Channel, Discovery Health Channel, Discovery Kids, Discovery Times Channel, The Science Channel, Military Channel, Discovery Home Channel, Discovery en Espanol, Discovery Kids en Espanol, Discovery HD Theater, FitTV, Discovery Travel & Living (Viajar y Vivir), Discovery Home & Health and Discovery Real Time. DCI's other properties consist of Discovery Education and Discovery Commerce, which operates more than 100 Discovery Channel Stores in the U.S. DCI also distributes BBC America in the United States. DCI's ownership consists of four shareholders: Discovery Holding Company , Cox Communications, Inc., Advance/Newhouse Communications and John S. Hendricks, the Company's Founder and Chairman.

About Comcast Corporation

Comcast Corporation (http://www.comcast.com/) is the nation's leading provider of cable, entertainment and communications products and services. With 21.5 million cable customers and 7 million high-speed Internet customers, Comcast is principally involved in the development, management and operation of broadband cable networks and in the delivery of programming content. The Company's content networks and investments include E! Entertainment Television, Style Network, The Golf Channel, Outdoor Life Network, G4, International Channel Networks, TV One and four Comcast SportsNets. The Company also has a majority ownership in Comcast-Spectacor, whose major holdings include the Philadelphia Flyers NHL hockey team, the Philadelphia 76ers NBA basketball team and two large multipurpose arenas in Philadelphia.

Source: Animal Planet; Comcast

Web site: http://www.discovery.com/
http://www.comcast.com/
http://www.thecloroxcompany.com/

More Celebreality Blooms on VH1 This Summer!

Danny Bonaduce, Flavor Flav, Hulk Hogan, the newly engaged Christopher Knight and Adrianne Curry and a few plus-sized celebrities blossom across VH1's Celebreality landscape

VH1 Announces Series Pick Ups of 'Breaking Bonaduce,' 'Flavor of Love,' 'Hogan Knows Best,' 'My Fair Brady,' 'Celebrity Fit Club 4,' 'Web Junk 20,' 'Best Week Ever' and 'The Fabulous Life'

On the heels of VH1's most watched quarter ever -- and a 50% increase in its key 18-49 ratings -- the Network has ordered new episodes of "Breaking Bonaduce," "Flavor of Love," "Hogan Knows Best," "My Fair Brady, "Celebrity Fit Club," "Web Junk 20," "Best Week Ever" and "Fabulous Life."

"Breaking Bonaduce" (8 episodes)

Premiering October 2006

In its first season, viewers got a candid, uncensored look at the Bonaduces, who have faced drugs, infidelity and Danny's death-wish antics over their fifteen years of marriage. This season, Danny has conquered his addictions but now he and Gretchen are left to deal with the true state of their relationship through newly sober eyes. As Danny transfers his obsessions with substances to an obsession with his wife, Gretchen reaches her limit and kicks him out of the house. As a result, Danny decides it's time to relinquish all of his demons and seek help from a most surprising place.

"Breaking Bonaduce" is a production of VH1 in conjunction with 3 Ball. JD Roth, John Foy and Todd Nelson serve as Executive Producers with Troy Searer as co-executive Producer for 3 Ball. Jeff Olde and Claire McCabe are executive producers for VH1 along with Michael Hirschorn serving as an executive producer for VH1.

"Celebrity Fit Club 4" (8 episodes)

Premiering August 2006

VH1's popular fitness and nutrition reality series, "Celebrity Fit Club," is back for a fourth season with a new lineup of celebrities eager to slim down. Carnie Wilson (Wilson-Phillips), Vinnie Pastore (The Sopranos), Angie Stone (R & B singer), Nick Turturro (NYPD Blue), Erika Eleniak (Baywatch), Bonecrusher (rapper), Tina Yothers (Family Ties) and Ted Lange (Love Boat) are all ready to do battle with the giant scales. Together, they will embark on their own grueling personal fitness journeys and fight together in teams to reach their goals.

VH1's "Celebrity Fit Club 4" is a production of Granada Entertainment and VH1. Richard Hall ("Nanny 911") is executive producer and Carl Buehl is a co-executive producer for Granada. Jim Ackerman, Matt Hanna, Caroline Perez and Michael Hirschorn are executive producers for VH1.

"Flavor of Love" (10 episodes)

Premiering August 2006

Yeah Boyee!! Flava Flav is back and ready to open his heart to true love! After Flav and first-season winner Hoopz realized that their relationship would not work out, Flav became more determined than ever to find love.

During its first season, "Flavor of Love" was the highest rated series in VH1 history, with three of its ten episodes making VH1's top ten rated commercial telecasts of all time. For its 90-minute finale, "Flavor of Love" again made VH1 history by becoming the network's top rated telecast ever drawing six million viewers.

VH1's "Flavor of Love" is executive produced by Mark Cronin, Cris Abrego and Ben Samek for Mindless Entertainment and 51 Pictures, who also produce "Surreal Life" and "My Fair Brady." Jeff Olde and Jill Holmes oversee the series for VH1.

"Hogan Knows Best"

Premiering October 2006

The Hogans get ready to rumble on VH1 for a third season of "Hogan Knows Best." Hulk might be able to stand the pain when he's in the ring, but there is one pain that even he can't escape -- growing pains! This season, daughter Brooke, 18, is beginning to see her dream of becoming a popstar realized as she heads into the studio to record her first album. Son Nick, 15, straddles the fence between boyhood and manhood, leaving Hulk and his wife Linda to flex their parenting muscles as they get body-slammed by their spirited teenage charges.

"Hogan Knows Best" is produced by Pink Sneakers Productions for VH1. Kimberly Belcher Cowin is executive producer. John Ehrhard is producer. Scott Bennett is director/co-producer. Shelly Tatro and Brad Abramson and Michael Hirschorn are executive producers for VH1. Warren Cohen is supervising producer for VH1.

"My Fair Brady: We're Getting Married!" (9 episodes)

Premiering Sunday, May 28

Christopher Knight and Adrianne Curry are going to the chapel and they're getting hitched ... maybe! VH1 reunites America with the reality sweethearts who first laid eyes and other bodily parts on each other on the set of "Surreal Life 4." From there, the May-December love blossomed and now they're engaged and planning a wedding.

"My Fair Brady" is produced by Mindless Entertainment and 51 Pictures with Cris Abrego and Mark Cronin serving as executive producers. Jeff Olde and Jill Holmes serve as executive producers for VH1.

"VH1 & IFILM's Web Junk 20" (6 episodes)

Premiering Friday, June 9

One person's "Web Junk" becomes another's e-mail treasure for a second season when the VH1 and IFILM's hit viral-video countdown show returns. Host Patrice O'Neal will once again celebrate and bring a unique perspective to all the weirdest and wildest internet video clips out there, while guiding viewers with his hilarious commentary.

"VH1 & IFILM's Web Junk 20" is a production of VH1. Executive produced by Rick Hankey, Shelly Tatro and Michael Hirschorn.

VH1 has also ordered new episodes of "The Fabulous Life ... ," the series that takes a first-class joyride through the lavish living enjoyed by the very rich and famous and "Best Week Ever," a weekly half-hour show that provides free-wheeling and funny reviews of the week's most entertaining news and pop culture.

VSPOT at VH1.com and VH1 Mobile

VSPOT at VH1.com (http://www.vspot.vh1.com/ ) will continue to program extended and exclusive on-demand content for all these shows and more. VSPOT programming includes: episode sneak peeks, exclusive behind-the-scenes clips, outtakes, and Q&As with cast members. VH1 mobile puts VH1 shows in the palm of viewers' hands with exclusive voicetones, wallpapers, and video clips.

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

Celebrity Cruises' Century Presents Venetian Gem

Ship's $55-Million Makeover Includes Specialty Restaurant, Sushi Bar and More With today marking the official start of Celebrity Cruises' $55-million, five-week revitalization of Century, the line announced that among the ship's multiple new attributes will be a specialty restaurant quite literally featuring a heart of glass.

Century's new "Murano" specialty restaurant in the center of the ship will sparkle with magnificent chandeliers handcrafted of Murano glass, named for the island of Murano near Venice, Italy, where glass-blowing has been a fine art and tradition since the 13th century.

Complementing the Murano chandeliers will be a large, round granite medallion composed of jewel-toned stone designed to resemble the antique paving of medieval European cities and create the feeling of an Italian piazza. Decorative accents throughout the room will allude to the adventures of early explorers during the discovery of the New World.

"Century's Murano restaurant will be a delightful blend of tradition with a chic, contemporary flair," said Francesca Bucci of BG Studios International in New York, NY, designer of the venue.

A hand-painted mural at the end of the 66-seat venue will display whimsical silhouettes depicting a romantic tale of travel and adventure, while a wine cellar nestled at the aft end of the restaurant will display a colorful composition of backlit bottles in glass-fronted, polished nickel wine armoires.

The restaurant's vestibule will welcome guests with a granite floor and warm pear wood panels reminiscent of the subtle charm and timeless beauty of Venice.

The menu for Murano will be designed by Celebrity's longtime culinary and wine consultant, renowned Master Chef Michel Roux. The cuisine and service will follow the celebrated style of Celebrity's Millennium-class specialty restaurants -- the "Olympic," "SS United States," "Normandie" and "Ocean Liners" -- which presented the industry's first tableside cooking, carving and flambe.

Century's dramatic, two-level "Grand Restaurant" will be entirely refurbished, retaining the glamour and sophistication that made it so popular prior to the revitalization, and maintaining the quality of service and impeccable culinary standards that have won the line extensive praises every year under the deft direction of Chef Roux and Celebrity's culinary team.

Among the many other dining options onboard Century will be a 76-seat Sushi Bar -- Celebrity's first designed specifically to reflect the popular regional cuisine -- with a casual Asian atmosphere created through palettes of caramel-colored bamboo plank floors, tabletops inlaid with cracked coconut, stylish dark wood chairs, and a new collection of artifacts and artwork.

Surrounded by magnificent ocean views, Century's Ocean Grill, designed by Celebrity's Fleet Design department, will offer an alternative dining area with an upscale ambience, where guests can select cuisine ranging from steaks, chops, salads, antipastos and desserts from a fixed menu.

Opposite the Ocean Grill, guests will find fresh, made-to-order omelettes and crepes each morning, and an endless array of pizzas and made-to-order pastas every afternoon and evening. For the sweet tooth in everyone, just around the corner, there will be a station offering a tantalizing array of homemade ice creams and sorbets.

Pairing refreshing sea air with panoramic ocean views, Century's outdoor Sunset Bar will feature a full service bar designed of teak, stone and stainless steel, topped with an arched-glass canopy. There, guests can enjoy an assortment of fresh tapas and appetizers with cocktails and other beverages.

A Celebrity favorite across the fleet, Cova Cafe, the seagoing version of the stylish coffeehouse in the fashion district of Milan, Italy, will serve fresh pastries and cookies to complement its coffees, teas, and other beverages every morning and afternoon, while at night, the space will transform to a romantic, lamp-lit wine bar, complete with live music.

Century will emerge on May 30, 2006, from its aggressive five-week drydock period with the Murano restaurant, 314 new verandas, 14 new suites, 10 new staterooms ranging from inside to veranda category, an expanded number of ConciergeClass category staterooms, and a series of features and amenities that typify the line's acclaimed Millennium-class fleet.

Following its revitalization, Celebrity's "new" Century will set sail on a 9-night "Best of Europe" cruise departing May 30, along with a series of 12- night Baltic and 10- and 11-night Mediterranean sailings, a 13-night "Best of Europe" voyage, and a seven-night Norwegian Fjords cruise.

Century also will be one of the first Celebrity ships to offer short cruises from the cruise capital of the world, the Port of Miami, beginning in November 2006. The ship will present four- and five-night roundtrip Caribbean cruises through April 2007, offering travelers with more limited vacation time the opportunity to experience what the award-winning Celebrity brand has to offer.

Celebrity Cruises offers a comfortably sophisticated, upscale cruise experience with highly personalized service, authentic five-star dining, and extraordinary attention to detail. Its nine ships and the line's service, cuisine and spas consistently dominate top travelers' surveys. Celebrity sails in Alaska, Bermuda, California, the Caribbean, Europe, the Galapagos Islands, Hawaii, the Mexican Riviera, the Panama Canal and South America. For more information, call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111, or visit the Celebrity web site at http://www.celebrity.com/ .

Source: Celebrity Cruises

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

Hundreds of Sleuths 'Uncover the Arts' in Old City for WHYY Treasure Hunt

Look out, Sherlock Holmes: You've got competition! On Saturday, April 29, hundreds of amateur sleuths will take to the streets of Old City Philadelphia in search of some of the city's best arts and culture treasures, as part of "Uncover the Arts: Find It and Know WHYY," an interactive, high-energy treasure hunt guided by seven costumed Sherlock Holmes characters.

WHAT:

Teams of WHYY members and fans will receive clues directing them to area

theaters, museums, historic sites and performance spaces. At each

location, a WHYY staff member will greet visitors and introduce them to an

aspect of WHYY's programs and services that connect with the location. If

participants need help, they can seek out the costumed Sherlock Holmes

characters stationed throughout Old City.

BEST PHOTO OPS:

-- Seven costumed Sherlock Holmes characters, with magnifying glasses in

hand, between 12:30 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. at WHYY, 150 N. 6th Street in

Philadelphia.

-- Teams with Sherlocks in three locations between 1:00 p.m. and

3:00 p.m.: 5th between Market and Chestnut; 6th & Market; and Elfreth's

Alley.

WHEN:

Saturday, April 29. Kickoff: 12:30 p.m.-1:00 p.m. Ending: 3:30 p.m.

WHERE:

WHYY Technology Center, 150 North Sixth Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106,

and throughout Old City Philadelphia.

The World's Most Famous Dog Launches a New Natural Pet Food, Biscuit and Treat Line, Lassie Natural Way(TM)

Lassie 'Em-barks' on National 5 Month Tour to Promote Pet Health on June 1

Bone-appetit! Lassie is launching her new natural dog food, biscuit and treat line, Lassie Natural Way(TM), on May 1st to give pets the opportunity to be "treated" just like the world's most famous pooch. The brand new line is made from all-natural wholesome ingredients and provides complete and balanced nutrition. The star of eleven movies and the two-time Emmy Award winning TV show will "em-bark" on a five month national tour to promote pet health and the benefits of a natural diet.

Lassie Asks, What's in Your Dog Food?

Inspired by Lassie's natural way of life, Lassie Natural Way dog food is made from all-natural ingredients with added vitamins and minerals for superior nutrition. Unlike most nationally advertised brands, there are NO animal by-products (bones, brains, spinal tissue, intestines, or other animal organs) and NO artificial flavors, colors, preservatives or sweeteners are added.

The #1 ingredient in each dog food recipe is high-quality protein from lamb or chicken meal to help build sleek and strong muscle tissue. Natural Way dog food is balanced with rice cereal grain for energy and endurance and is wheat, corn and soy-FREE to help avoid allergic or digestive upsets. The line provides an optimal ratio of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids and double the standard recommended level of linoleic acid to ensure healthy skin and a shiny coat. Healthy joints and cartilage are maintained by naturally sourced glucosamine and chondroitin in the adult and senior formulations. Additionally, every bag of Lassie Natural Way comes with a 100% Great Taste Guarantee demonstrating the superior palatability of its natural flavors.

Two world-renown pet nutritionist PhDs and Lassie's own veterinarian, Dr. Jeff Werber, DVM, developed Natural Way. Dr. Werber has been a practicing veterinarian for more than 20 years and has treated the pets of some of Hollywood's biggest stars including Britney Spears, Julia Roberts, Ben Affleck, Magic Johnson, Eddie Murphy, Paula Abdul, Rod Stewart, Patrick Dempsey, Mandy Moore and Jennifer Love Hewitt. Each Natural Way package includes a "Lassie Smart Tip" from Dr. Werber, which provides important pet care information.

"Thanks to her movies and TV shows, Lassie helped to change the way Americans view their pets," said Dr. Werber. "Pets are now considered members of the family and they deserve the best possible care and nutrition we can provide. A natural diet in conjunction with exercise and lots of love will help ensure that your pet lives a long and healthy life, just like Lassie."

The product line consists of 17 different food and treat products specialized for every stage of a dog's life, from puppy to adult to senior formulas, and is, of course, part of Lassie's own diet. Lassie Natural Way dog food is available in Lamb Meal & Rice (Puppy and Adult), Chicken Meal & Rice & Oatmeal (Adult) and Chicken Meal & Rice (Senior) varieties in 5 and 20 pound bags with prices ranging from $5.99 to $18.99. Available in treats are Lamb & Rice Jerky Strips with Glucosamine and Chondroitin, Beef & Rice Lean Jerky Sticks and Training Treats with Real Lamb ranging from $0.99 to $2.29. Lamb & Rice and Chicken & Rice dog biscuits are also offered for $2.99. Lassie Natural Way finally makes "natural" affordable, costing far less than comparable name brands currently sold in mass or specialty.

John Fraser, VP of Marketing for Classic Media/Lassie Pet Products, said "For the first time, a natural, no by-product dog food is accessible for every consumer. Lassie Natural Way is conveniently available where they shop for their family's food needs at grocery retailers like Kroger, Publix, Vons, Pathmark, Shoprite, Albertsons and many more." He adds, "Lassie Natural Way saves shoppers time and money while providing peace of mind that they are making the best choice for their best friends."

Lassie Comes Home ... to Your Town!

On June 1, Lassie "em-barks" on a five-month cross-country tour to promote pet health. The tour begins in Nashville, TN and will travel to more than 25 cities before its final stop in Los Angeles this October. Dr. Werber will join Lassie on several tour stops. In each city, people will have the opportunity to come out meet Lassie, watch her perform and take away some valuable pet care advice from Dr. Werber and his team of veterinary technicians on topics ranging from the benefits of natural food, to pet obesity, to choosing the right pet for your family.

For a complete tour schedule and pet care tips from Dr. Werber, Lassie fans can log onto http://www.lassie.tv/.

ABOUT LASSIE:

Since Lassie's theatrical film debut in 1943, along side Hollywood legend Elizabeth Taylor, no other animal has established such an emotional bond with generations of children and families. With eleven movies and 691 TV episodes to her credit, Lassie is one of the most enduring figures in entertainment history. She has come to symbolize classic American values of trust, loyalty and friendship. Lassie's two-time Emmy Award-winning TV series is one of the longest running programs in television history and has been seen in more than 100 countries around the world. Her latest movie, "LASSIE," opens nationwide on September 1, 2006 and stars Oscar winner Peter O'Toole and Oscar nominee Samantha Morton.

The sales of natural pet food products have more than doubled in the last 5 years. This accelerating growth is fueled by America's continued interest in the consumption of all kinds of natural products for themselves and their families. With pets being treated as full-fledged family members, it is no surprise that there is a pent up demand to purchase high quality natural pet foods like Lassie Natural Way.

ABOUT CLASSIC MEDIA:

Classic Media owns and manages some of the world's most recognizable family properties across all media including feature film, television, home video, and consumer products. The company's extensive library features a diverse collection of popular animated and live-action characters such as: Lassie, Casper the Friendly Ghost, Mr. Magoo, Richie Rich, Peter Cottontail, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, The Lone Ranger, Underdog, Little Lulu, pat the bunny and Lamb Chop. For more information, visit us online at http://www.classicmedia.tv/.

Web site: http://www.classicmedia.tv/
http://www.lassie.tv/

Playstation Extends Sponsorship of UEFA Champions League

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) today announced that it is to extend its successful sponsorship of the UEFA Champions League. This is the second time that PlayStation(R) has renewed its sponsorship of the competition, highlighting the success of the partnership which began in 1997.

The sponsorship agreement will extend up to and including the 2008/2009 season, and further develops PlayStation's commitment to European football and its support of the world's finest club competition.

SCEE's Vice-President of Brand & Consumer Marketing, Darren Carter said: "PlayStation's involvement with the UEFA Champions League has served us well over the past 9 years and has significantly assisted in promoting the PlayStation brand and boosting its awareness across the whole of Europe and beyond. The UEFA Champions League is an extremely powerful communications tool and has been an important part of PlayStation's communication strategy since 1997, during which time the stature of the competition has increased along with the number of PlayStation fans".

Darren Carter added: "Sony Computer Entertainment will be entering a new era of entertainment with the launch of PLAYSTATION 3 later this year, and the UEFA Champions League will help provide a solid foundation for our plans in Europe."

About Sony Computer Entertainment Europe Ltd.

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE), based in London, is responsible for the distribution, marketing and sales of PlayStation(R)2 and PSP(TM)

(PlayStation(R)Portable) software and hardware in 104 territories across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Oceania. SCEE also develops, publishes, markets and distributes entertainment software for these formats, and manages the third party licensing programs for the platforms in these territories. Between its European debut on 24th November 2000 and the end of March 2006, over 38 million PlayStation(R)2 consoles have been shipped across the SCEE territories, over 103 million worldwide, making it one of the most successful consumer electronic products in history. Between its European debut on 1st September 2005 and the end of March 2006, over 5 million PSP systems have been shipped across the SCEE territories, with over 17 million shipped worldwide since its Japanese launch in December 2004.

More information about PlayStation products can be found at www.playstation.com and www.yourpsp.com or visit the Virtual Press Office at www.scee.presscentre.com.

PlayStation and the PlayStation logo are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. PSP and UMD (Universal Media Disc) are trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

Source: Sony Computer Entertainment Europe Ltd

HotMovies.com Takes Lead From iPod(R), Launches MyClips(R) Customized Playlist Upgrade

HotMovies.com, the Internet's fastest growing Pay-Per-Minute, digital delivery web site that offers over 38,000 adult movies, today announced that it had expanded and enhanced the MyClips(R) feature on its popular site.

This new version lets users organize their saved clips into Playlists like those used on iPods(R). Previously, the MyClips(R) feature let users select the start and end times of the part of a movie they liked so they could save it in the "Favorite Clip" section of the HotMovies.com web site.

The upgraded version of MyClips(R) does this and more. Now, users can create and name their Playlists any way they want including by star, category, studio, and more. Whenever they want users can change the order in which the clips appear. In addition, users can also move clips among multiple Playlists they can create.

This innovative development lets users play their favorite clips in a specified order just as if it were a movie. In this way, users can now create their own favorite scene compilations from the tens of thousands of movies currently available on HotMovies.com.

In ongoing surveys, HotMovies.com learned that the majority of users do not want to watch anything close to an entire movie. They want to watch a little of this and a little of that. They go from movie to movie and studio to studio. They also love to watch their clips from their favorite movies.

HotMovies.com says their customers have responded enthusiastically to the new upgrade. James Seibert, National's Director of Business Development, says, "We know this enhanced feature is a success by how many of our users are utilizing the MyClips(R) feature. In just four weeks, users have saved over 37,500 clips. Its immediate acceptance and remarkable usage is far more than we expected."

Siebert also says that around mid-May, HotMovies.com plans to launch a third upgrade of MyClips(R) that will add even more features for HotMovies.com customers.

Seibert adds, "Software advances like these are what separates HotMovies.com from other Video On Demand (VOD) and Pay-Per-Minute (PPM) sites."

HotMovies.com is a Pay-Per-Minute, digital delivery website that uses Micro Billing to sell over 38,000 movies by the minute from over 900 adult studios. HotMovies.com adds 50 to 100 titles every day, around the clock.

At HotMovies.com, visitors watch what they want, when they want, for as little as 8 cents a minute. There are no memberships, no commitments, and more than 38,000 adult titles in streaming or download from which to choose.

Source: National A-1 Internet, Inc.

Sportsmemo.com Announces the May 1 National Debut of the First and Only Weekday All Sports Gaming Show on Sports Byline USA and Sirius Satellite Radio

Sportsmemo.com (http://www.sportsmemo.com/) announces the debut of the Sports Memo Radio Show, May 1, on Sports Byline USA and Sirius Satellite Radio Channel 122 airing 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. EDT weekdays.

Sports Memo has partnered with the Sports Byline USA Network to become the first and only all sports gaming show to air weekdays, nationally on Sirius Satellite Radio.

The show will focus on providing unique and insightful sports talk from a betting perspective with knowledgeable guests ranging from professional athletes, bettors and poker players to politicians, writers and leaders in the gaming industry.

The Sports Memo Radio Show currently airs 7 a.m. - 9 a.m. PDT weekdays via webcast at Sportsmemo.com and in Las Vegas, NV, on KENO AM 1460 where it has aired for the past seven years. The show can also be heard via tape delay on 1510 The Zone in Boston, MA, 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. EDT.

In addition to the radio show, Sports Memo has one of the fastest growing sports gaming information websites (http://www.sportsmemo.com/) in the nation as well as the only year-round, nationally distributed sports betting newsletter.

"We couldn't be happier to take the Sports Memo Radio Show to Sports Byline USA and Sirius," commented Tim Trushel, CEO of Sportsmemo.com. "This expansion allows us to bring one of the most respected and listened to shows in Las Vegas to a national audience that craves good, quality sports information from a betting perspective."

About Sports Memo

Sports Memo, established in 1993, is widely regarded as one of the sports gaming industry's most valuable resources for sports information from a betting perspective. In addition to a nationally syndicated radio show on Sports Byline USA and Sirius Satellite Radio, Sports Memo has a presence in nearly sixty top arbitron markets, the only nationally distributed year-round sports handicapping newsletter and one of the fastest growing comprehensive websites in the marketplace. Leading the industry in providing astute content via the airwaves, print and web have put Sports Memo at the forefront of the handicapping and sports betting industries for more than a decade.

Source: Sportsmemo.com

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

Six Flags Marine World Unveils Tava's Jungleland - A Spectacular New Kids' Adventure Area Featuring Seven New Rides

Park's New Expanded Kids' Adventure Area Commemorates Six Flags Theme Parks 45th Anniversary of Delivering Family Fun.A grand, new mythical journey awaits families as Six Flags Marine World, America's first combination wildlife park, oceanarium and theme park, celebrates Six Flags 45th Anniversary by launching a spectacular new family adventure -- Tava's Jungleland.

The elaborately jungle-themed play area, named after the Park's beloved African elephant Tava, features seven new family rides, a giant treehouse adventure and a splashwater oasis. Families with young children can also wander through the lush land and get up close and personal with rare wildlife including lorikeets, macaws, porcupines, camels and much more. In addition to the up-close animal attractions, families can enjoy animal ambassador presentations by the park's trainers during various times of the day.

The addition of the seven new rides inside Tava's Jungleland, gives the 140-acre park 37 rides that kids and parents can experience together.

"We've designed Tava's Jungleland specifically with families in mind, combining innovative children's rides with rare, up-close animal encounters," said Bill Davis, vice president and general manager of Six Flags Marine World. "With the addition of this vibrant, new children's adventure area, Six Flags Marine World will offer twice the number of attractions that young kids and parents can enjoy together."

The news new rides and interactive attractions within Tava's Jungleland include:

-- Congo Queen -- Set sail for an unforgettable adventure on the latest

innovative family ride that features a unique combination of rocking and whirling motion.

-- Nairobi's Look Out Balloons -- Up, up and away we go! Take a sky-high ride for a spectacular view of the Park on unique hot air balloon gondolas.

-- Tava's Elephant Parade -- Kids fly round and round on soaring pachyderms.

-- Monkey Around -- Glide through the air with ease on these monkey-themed swings.

-- Safari Jeep Tours -- Kids hop aboard and convoy through Tava's Jungleland.

-- Frog Hopper -- Little explorers are lifted 20 feet above the landscape before "hopping" down to their descent.

-- Safari River Journey -- All aboard on these miniature safari vessels for a most memorable voyage.

-- Splashwater Oasis -- Two towers of wet and wild excitement where kids can splash and cool off from the summer heat.

-- Zoe's Treehouse Play Structure -- Kids climb high and explore one of the world's largest play structures, where they can explore three towers of fun offering cargo nets, slides, bridges and more.

This season the park is also debuting an all-new "Shouka's Splashtime Show" featuring the beautiful Orca and her Atlantic bottlenose dolphin friend, Merlin. And this year, Six Flags Marine World will also offer families an expanded operating calendar, which concludes in December with wintertime entertainment during Holiday in the Park.

Six Flags Marine World is located in Vallejo, Calif., off Interstate 80, just 30 miles northeast of San Francisco, 50 miles southwest of Sacramento and near the Napa Valley Wine Country.

Six Flags, Inc. is the world's largest regional theme park company. Founded in 1961, Six Flags is celebrating its 45th Anniversary in 2006. Six Flags, Inc. is a publicly-traded corporation (NYSE:PKS) headquartered in New York City.

NOTE: SIX FLAGS and all related indicia are trademarks of Six Flags Theme Park Inc. TM and 2006.

Source: Six Flags Marine World

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

Web site: http://www.sixflags.com/marineworld

Shakira U.S. Arena Tour Kicks Off With a Technology Boost From Verizon Wireless

'Oral Fixation' Tour Will Hit 23 Cities; Fans to Receive Mobile Invitations and Tickets on Their Verizon Wireless Phones

Bringing one of the world's hottest artist to the stage, Verizon Wireless today announced it will be presenting Shakira's "Oral Fixation" North American tour this summer and leveraging wireless technology to ensure her fans have a unique concert experience. The "Oral Fixation" North American tour begins on August 9 at the Don Haskins Center in El Paso, TX and culminates on September 25 with a performance at the Dodge Arena in McCallen, TX.

In a music and wireless industry first, Shakira will send a multimedia personal video invitation customized to each city she goes to, inviting her fans to come hear her play in their local arena. Fans with Verizon Wireless phones will have the option to text or click through to purchase and win tickets. Some Shakira concertgoers will receive a multimedia message barcode ticket sent to their Verizon Wireless phones. When they arrive at the concert, the wireless bar code tickets will be scanned to get them into the show.

Fans will also help Shakira determine what songs she performs on the tour. Verizon Wireless customers will be able to text which favorite Shakira songs they feel should be played on the "Oral Fixation" tour. Several lucky winners will get the opportunity to go backstage and see what the "Oral Fixation" tour looks like behind-the-scenes.

In a career that spans nearly a decade and has seen more than 33 million albums sold worldwide, singer/songwriter, five-time GRAMMY(R) winner Shakira is without a doubt one of the most galvanizing live performers onstage today. The Colombian-born Shakira is well known for her energetic live rock shows, which feature her band and the kind of hi-tech stage production that is without rival among contemporary performers.

Energized by her Top Ten hit "Hips Don't Lie," which debuted exclusively on the Verizon Wireless V CAST service, Oral Fixation Vol. 2 is firmly planted in the Top Ten of the album charts and has already sold well over a million copies in the United States alone. With "Hips Don't Lie," Verizon Wireless and Shakira made mobile music history with the simultaneous world premiere of the full-length song, music video, ring tone, ring back tone, wallpaper and behind-the-scenes footage of the video shoot for the single prior to it being available in stores or at Web retailers.

"As an artist, I am always looking for new creative mediums," said Shakira. "The Verizon Wireless V CAST service gives me a unique platform to offer different musical expressions that fans can access instantaneously through their mobile phones."

Shakira is also known for using wireless technology to reach her fans. She was among the first music artists to introduce exclusive content to Verizon Wireless V CAST customers last year. To ensure that as many fans as possible can participate in the "Oral Fixation" tour, Shakira and Verizon Wireless are taking their relationship to the next level by bringing unprecedented interactivity between Shakira and her fans.

"Verizon Wireless has been an industry leader when it comes to extending the wireless experience beyond voice. A music fan today can use a Verizon Wireless phone to download ring tones, ring back tones, wallpaper and now tickets to their favorite rock concert," said John Harrobin, vice president of marketing for Verizon Wireless. "Wireless technology and phones are now an integral part of the concert experience, and Shakira recognizes it is a phenomenal way to connect directly with fans."

"Verizon Wireless is really at the forefront of the mobile music matrix. They have been a collaborator in effectively launching two new Shakira albums in two languages this year," said Ceci Kurzman, Shakira's manager. "Their multimedia offerings allow us to have a completely integrated business model that supports all the forms of music we can offer."

To keep up to date with Shakira's latest music, fans can continue to download her full-length songs, ring tones, ring back tones and music videos to their Verizon Wireless phones through the company's V CAST service. For more information on V CAST Music from Verizon Wireless, please visit http://www.verizonwireless.com/music.

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless owns and operates the nation's most reliable wireless network, serving 51.3 million voice and data customers. Headquartered in Bedminster, NJ, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). Find more information on the Web at http://www.verizonwireless.com/. .

Source: Verizon Wireless

http://www.verizonwireless.com/music
http://www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia

Brand New Heavies, Doug E. Fresh & Slick Rick, Goapele, Kindred, Loose Ends, Musiq, New Orleans and Houston Artists Added to the Stellar Coca-Cola Presents the 2006 Essence Music Festival Line-Up

Festival Also Features Mary J. Blige, Diddy and Friends, Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly and a New Edition and Bobby Brown Reunion Essence Festivals LLC announced today the addition of lounge acts for the upcoming Coca-Cola Presents the 2006 Essence Music Festival. Brand New Heavies, Doug E. Fresh and Slick Rick, Goapele, Kindred, Loose Ends and Musiq, as well as local New Orleans and Houston artists Captain Charles, C.O.C.O Brown & The Phat Cat Players, DJ Raj Smoove, Rebirth Brass Band, Myra Washington and Michael Ward, will perform in the Coca-Cola and Budweiser/Bud Light Lounges in Reliant Stadium. In addition, comedian Jonathan Slocumb will serve as the main stage host. This year's awe-inspiring celebration, set for July 1, 2, and 3 in Houston, Texas, will be a "bigger party with a deeper purpose."

The night-by-night schedule of performances is as follows:

SATURDAY, JULY 1 SUNDAY, JULY 2 MONDAY, JULY 3

Main Stage Main Stage Main Stage

Mary J. Blige Diddy and Friends Maze featuring Frankie Beverly

Earth, Wind & Fire New Edition Toni Braxton

Mo'Nique Bobby Brown Cedric the Entertainer

LL Cool J Steve Harvey Charlie Wilson

Yolanda Adams Jaheim Keyshia Cole

Chris Brown

Main Stage Host,

Jonathan Slocumb

Lounges Lounges Lounges

Goapele Kindred Musiq

Doug E. Fresh and Brand New Heavies Loose Ends

Slick Rick Myra Washington Rebirth Brass Band

C.O.C.O Brown & DJ Raj Smoove Michael Ward

The Phat Cat Players

Captain Charles

The Coca-Cola Presents the Essence Music Festival, known as "the party with a purpose," is the nation's largest annual African-American event and the largest gathering of musical talent in the world. The Festival has become a destination of choice for families and friends as they schedule their reunions. This multigenerational Festival offers free inspirational and interactive Empowerment Seminars during the day and exciting performances at night, where Festivalgoers can dance and sing along with the biggest names in entertainment -- R&B, classic soul, hip-hop, neo-soul and jazz -- all on three stages within Reliant Stadium.

The theme for the Empowerment Seminars will be "ESSENCE Cares! A Call To Action To Secure Our Youth," and will feature Magic Johnson and Jamie Foxx.

"ESSENCE Cares! A Call To Action To Secure Our Youth" initiative is designed to help rescue vulnerable children and restore the lives of Hurricane Katrina survivors, while addressing critical issues facing Black America. From poverty and unemployment to the culture of violence, unequal educational systems and the ongoing affects of the devastation of Hurricane Katrina -- all represent a cry for help that can no longer be ignored. Magic Johnson and Jamie Foxx are joining forces with ESSENCE to challenge Festivalgoers to come, listen, learn and choose their method of support from reliable national organizations, including the NAACP and the National Urban League. Seminar attendees will also hear from other celebrities, activists, scholars, politicians, business and spiritual leaders who will work with the "ESSENCE Cares!" initiative, and make a commitment to take a united stand. The entire Empowerment Seminar schedule will be announced in a few weeks.

The Essence Marketplace will showcase artists from throughout the country who offer an array of quality arts and crafts that reflect Black culture. The marketplace will also include sponsor activities, celebrity meet-and-greets, Festival souvenirs and a book fair with author book signings.

The Festival will take place in its new interim home, state-of-the-art Reliant Park in Houston, Texas -- a city with a dynamic melting pot of cultures and a venue for world-class shopping, restaurants and nightlife.

Tickets are on sale at http://www.ticketmaster.com/, (800) 488-5252 or (713) 629-3700 in Houston. Tickets are $45, $56, $67, $72, $83, and $110. All tickets are subject to additional service charges. For hotel accommodations, call (888) 508-5731. For more information, see the June 2006 issue of ESSENCE or log on to http://www.essence.com/.

The Coca-Cola Company is the Festival's presenting sponsor for the ninth consecutive year. The Coca-Cola Presents the 2006 Essence Music Festival's major sponsors are Budweiser/Bud Light, Kraft Foods, Chevrolet, McDonald's and Verizon Communications. In addition, Level Vodka, Southwest Airlines, U.S. Army and Wells Fargo will serve as official sponsors for the Festival. Additional sponsors will be announced at a later date.

The Coca-Cola Presents the 2006 Essence Music Festival is produced by Essence Festivals LLC in association with Festival Productions of New Orleans. Essence Festivals LLC is a division of Essence Communications Inc. (ECI). ECI is also the publisher of ESSENCE magazine. ESSENCE, after 36 years, continues to be the preeminent lifestyle magazine for African-American women.

Source: Essence Festivals

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

Pastor Rick Warren to Headline LifeLight Music Festival
Best-selling Author in U.S. History to Open Nation's Largest Free Outdoor Christian Music Festival

Pastor Rick Warren, best- selling author of "The Purpose Driven Life" will be the featured speaker at the opening night of the three-day LifeLight Christian Music Festival, to be held at the festival grounds of Wild Water West in Sioux Falls on Labor Day Weekend, September 1-3, it was announced today by LifeLight Communications.

This will be the ninth year for this annual event marking the end of summer for many families in the Midwest, which last year drew 275,000 people. In addition to Warren, confirmed speakers include international evangelist Luis Palau, Ben Cerullo, Ron Luce and Joe White.

The program will feature approximately 100 performers on six different stages over three days, including such popular Christian artists as Casting Crowns, Kutless, Audio Adrenaline, Jeremy Camp, Tree 63, Rebecca St. James, Casting Pearls, Go Fish, Mark Schultz, Skillet, Superchick and Livin It -- the skateboarding tour of actor Stephen Baldwin. Information on additional speakers and musical guests will be posted at http://www.lifelightfest.com/ .

Pastor Warren and his wife, Kay, founded Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, Calif. in 1980 with one family. Today, it comprises an evangelical congregation averaging 22,000 weekly attendees, a 120-acre campus, and over 200 ministries to the community to groups such as prisoners, CEOs, addicts, single parents, and those with HIV/AIDS. Recently the church fed 42,000 homeless people, three meals a day, for 40 days.

Warren also leads the Purpose Driven Network, a global movement of churches in 162 countries. Over 400,000 ministers and priests have been trained worldwide, and 189,000 church leaders subscribe to Ministry Toolbox, his weekly newsletter. His previous book, The Purpose Driven Church, is listed in "100 Christian Books That Changed the 20th Century." Forbes magazine called it, "The best book on entrepreneurship, management, and leadership in print."

Founded in 1998, LifeLight Communications is a faith-based, non-profit organization that facilitates numerous concerts, movies, mission trips, and other events by partnering with churches, businesses and other ministries. The LifeLight Festival, held annually on Labor Day weekend, is their largest event, drawing 275,000 people over four days last year. For more information, please visit http://www.lifelightfest.com/ .

Source: LifeLight Communications

'Acapulco Heat: Season One' - The First Electrifying Season Arrives on DVD June 27, 2006 From Mill Creek Entertainment

Mill Creek Entertainment has entered into a long-term licensing and distribution agreement with Keller Entertainment Group for the complete Acapulco Heat series. The first release in this new agreement will be Season One featuring Catherine Oxenberg (Dynasty), Brendan Kelly (Con Air, The Rock, Oz), Alison Armitage (Jerry McGuire, Black Scorpion), John Vernon (Animal House, Batman) and Fabio (Zoolander). The announcement was made today by Ian Warfield, President of Mill Creek Entertainment.

"We've always found that beauty and danger go very well together - making them the perfect ingredients for action and adventure," said Max and Micheline Keller, Executive Producers of the series from Keller Entertainment Group and Balenciaga Productions. The Kellers specialize in producing high-quality network television movies and syndicated television series including Conan the Adventurer and Tarzan: The Epic Adventures.

The series focused on the activities of the Hemisphere Emergency Action Team (H.E.A.T.), a top-secret unit that fought international crime and terrorism from their base in a hotel in Acapulco under the guise of a fashion photography business.

"We are excited to debut the first season of this thrilling series that captured the glitz and glamour of exotic locations, beautiful people and non-stop action," said Warfield.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

DVD

Street Date: June 27, 2006

Pre-Book: May 30, 2006

Rating: Not Rated

Suggested Retail Price: $29.98

UPC #: 683904505354

Running Time: 16 Hours and 13 Minutes

Discs: 5

Number of Layers: Dual

Aspect Ratio: Full Frame 1.33:1

Technical Info: English Dolby Digital 2.0, Spanish Dolby Digital 2.0

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

Mary J. Blige, Jamie Foxx, Busta Rhymes, Sean Paul, Three 6 Mafia, Chris Brown, T.I. and Mobb Deep Among Those To Perform at Biggest Hip Hop Concert in the World - HOT 97'S SUMMER JAM 2006

More Than 50,000 Expected To Turn Out For Most Anticipated Summer Concert Event of the Year .NYC's #1 Hip Hop and R&B radio station, HOT 97 FM (WQHT), today announced that it will present its 13th annual Summer Jam concert on Sunday, June 4th at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. The Queen of R&B and Hip Hop Soul, Mary J. Blige along with Jamie Foxx, Busta Rhymes, Sean Paul, Chris Brown, Ne-Yo, T.I., Young Jeezy, Mobb Deep, Dem Franchize Boys, Jermaine Dupri, Three 6 Mafia, Remy Martin and The Dipset are among the star-studded lineup of Hip Hop and R&B artists who are scheduled to perform with additional performers to be announced shortly.

Now in its 13th year, Summer Jam has become the biggest Hip Hop concert in the world and the longest running urban radio station concert event. Since 1994, HOT 97's Summer Jam concert has grown by leaps and bounds, outgrowing the New York arenas and moving into the area's largest venue, Giants Stadium, for the fourth consecutive year to accommodate fans.

With a consistent record of delivering chart topping acts, Summer Jam has become a historic staple in the music community and is attended by more than 50,000 people each year. Past performers have featured a who's who of hip hop and R&B royalty including Jay-Z, Notorious B.I.G, P. Diddy, Eminem, 50 Cent, Kanye West, Snoop Dogg, Missy Elliott and others.

Boost Mobile is an official partner of Summer Jam 2006 for the third consecutive year and will kick off special ticket promotions for coveted front row seats via the HOT 97 website at http://www.hot97.com/. Additional sponsors include Xbox 360, WHITEBOY, The Tobacco Coalition, and XXL Magazine. Summer Jam 2006 is produced by Trevanna Entertainment.

Tickets for Summer Jam 2006 will go on sale today, April 28 at 10 AM EDT at

all Ticket Master

outlets, by calling 212-307-7171 or http://www.ticketmaster.com/

ABOUT HOT 97

WQHT-NY/HOT 97, is the world's first all Hip Hop station and has held the dominant position in New York for over nine years. HOT 97 is best known for it's celebrity on air talent, such as Miss Jones, Angie Martinez (Grammy nominated artist) and Funkmaster Flex (television host, multiple gold records), as well as being the world's premier source for Hip Hop music culture.

Source: HOT 97 FM (WQHT)

Los Angeles Times, Paramount Pictures Turn Everyday Newsrack Experience Into Extraordinary Mission

'Mission: Impossible III' Point-of-Purchase Campaign Also Promotes Shanghai Consumer Sweepstakes. When "Mission: Impossible III" hits theaters on May 5, even something as routine as picking up your morning paper will be enticing moviegoers to see the action thriller. Equipped with electronic sound boxes featuring the famous "Mission: Impossible" theme song, 4,500 Los Angeles Times newsracks have been recruited into the M:i:III force as "singing" newsracks -- a first-of-its-kind innovation created by the Los Angeles Times and Paramount Pictures.

The "singing" newsracks -- activated when the rack door is opened during a sale -- have been randomly stationed throughout Southern California and will be operational from April 30 through May 7. Several of the racks are located in the heart of Hollywood at 5055 Wilshire Blvd., 5700 Wilshire Blvd., and 6500 Wilshire Blvd.

An additional 18,000 Los Angeles Times newsracks will feature "Mission: Impossible III"-themed rack cards and rack headers promoting both the film and "The Ultimate Mission," a global treasure hunt sweepstakes offering the chance to win an M:i:III adventure to Shanghai.

The "singing" and standard newsracks are part of a comprehensive print, online and point-of-purchase campaign supporting the May 5 "M:i:III" launch.

"The 'singing' newsrack is a new and surprising way to use newspapers and leverage one of Hollywood's most recognized theme songs," said Mickie Sullivan, director of entertainment advertising for the Los Angeles Times. "And it fits Paramount's strategy of creatively engaging consumers where they would least expect it."

"We're always looking for new and innovative ways to reach moviegoers that fit the themes of our movies," said Gerry Rich, president of worldwide motion picture marketing for Paramount Pictures. "This promotion certainly fits the bill: Ethan Hunt's missions always come up when he least expects them and LA Times readers will receive the unexpected when they pick up their morning paper. It takes advantage of one of the most recognizable themes in cinema."

About "Mission: Impossible III"

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.

About the Los Angeles Times

About Paramount Pictures

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: Los Angeles Times

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

Universal Spokesperson Statement Regarding EEOC Suit Against Universal Pictures

The following statement is being issued by Universal Pictures:

Universal Pictures categorically denies the EEOC's accusation. Multiple witnesses have testified that Mr. Davis was replaced on "2 Fast 2 Furious" solely for his inadequate performance as first assistant director. For "2 Fast 2 Furious," Universal Pictures assembled one of the most diverse cast and crews ever, and did not, and would not, single out any individual for replacement because of his race.

Source: Universal Pictures

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

Backstreet Boys' Brian Littrell Releases Debut Solo Album Welcome Home on May 2

Celebrates Album-Launch With Appearance at Lifeway Christian Store at the Mall of Georgia

WHAT: BACKSTREET BOYS' BRIAN LITTRELL LAUNCHES DEBUT SOLO CD WELCOME HOME ON MAY 2.

HE WILL BE SIGNING COPIES OF WELCOME HOME AND GREETING FANS.

WHEN: TUESDAY, MAY 2 4:00 PM / EASTERN TIME

WHERE: BUFORD LIFEWAY CHRISTIAN STORE

Location: Mall of Georgia Crossing

Address: 3125 Woodward Crossing Boulevard, Suite 2000

Buford, GA 30519

About Brian Littrell:

Brian Littrell, a member of the multi-million selling, superstar pop group, Backstreet Boys, scored his first Dove Award in the Inspirational Recorded Song category for his hit single, "In Christ Alone." This chart- topping track was recorded for the WOW #1s project, and was Littrell's first foray into the Christian market.

Brian Littrell is widely-known as a 13-year member of the Backstreet Boys. He has contributed to worldwide sales in excess of 78 million records and has amassed legions of fans around the globe. Last summer, Backstreet Boys released Never Gone, their first studio album in five years. Brian lives in Atlanta with his wife Leighanne and their three-year-old son Baylee. Littrell will continue to perform with Backstreet Boys and looks forward to sharing his solo album with fans.

*For further information on Brian, please visit www.brianlittrellmusic.com

Source: Reunion Records

TV Guide Magazine Debuts New Weekly Column - ''Downloads''

- Highlighting the Best Television Shows Available for Download and Online Viewing

"Downloads" Makes Its Debut in the May 1 Issue of TV Guide (On Newsstands Thursday, April 27)

TV Guide magazine will launch a brand new weekly column called "Downloads," it was announced today by Ian Birch, the magazine's editor-in-chief. The new column will debut in the May 1 issue (on newsstands Thursday, April 27), and will feature information about the best television shows available for download or online viewing each week.

The new column will provide guidance and "tune-in" information for viewers who want to be able to know where on the Web they can find their favorite programs -- so they can watch them at times, and in ways, other than on first-run television or through on-demand.

"The digital age has sparked a 'time shift/place shift' phenomenon in television program viewing choices," said Mr. Birch. "Today, we all have the ability to watch many of our favorite programs on our video iPods, or our personal computers. Since television programs are increasingly available and delivered to viewers in many different ways, we wanted to take the lead in providing our readers -- all enthusiastic television viewers -- the information they need to maximize their viewing experience, wherever that experience may take place."

The debut "Downloads" column features a wide variety of TV Guide's recommendations including current television shows, such as this week's episodes of Desperate Housewives, Commander in Chief, Lost, and the entire season of Alias, available free on streaming video on http://www.ABC.com or for $1.99 to download to a PC or an iPod on iTunes (http://www.Apple.com).

"Downloads" also makes recommendations for vintage television series programs, such as Kung Fu, Falcon Crest, and Wonder Woman, which are all available free on streaming video on television.aol.com/in2tv, and The Twilight Zone, The Brady Bunch, or MacGyver, which are available for download to a PC for $1.99 on video.google.com.

TV Guide magazine is a product of Gemstar-TV Guide International (NASDAQ: GMST).

About Gemstar-TV Guide

Gemstar-TV Guide International, Inc. (the "Company") (NASDAQ: GMST) is a leading media, entertainment and technology company that develops, licenses, markets and distributes technologies, products and services targeted at the television guidance and home entertainment needs of consumers worldwide. The Company's businesses include: television media and publishing properties; interactive program guide services and products; and technology and intellectual property licensing. Additional information about the Company can be found at http://www.gemstartvguide.com.

This news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including risks and uncertainties related to the transformation of our TV Guide magazine publishing business; timely availability and market acceptance of products and services incorporating the Company's technologies and content; our investment in new and existing businesses, including TV Guide magazine, TV Guide Spot and TV Guide Mobile; the impact of competitive products, services and pricing; ongoing and potential future litigation; and the other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's SEC reports, including the most recent reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K, each as it may be amended from time to time. The Company assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

Note to Editors: Gemstar, TV Guide, TV Guide Spot and TV Guide Mobile are trademarks or registered trademarks of Gemstar-TV Guide International, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. The names of other companies, products and services used herein are for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Gemstar-TV Guide International, Inc.

AT&T and Starz Entertainment Group to Offer Vongo Movie Download Service to Broadband Customers

First Distribution Deal for Vongo With a Broadband Provider

AT&T Delivers on Multiple-Platform Strategy to Offer Content and Services on Key Consumer Screens, 14-Day Free Trial for AT&T DSL Customers

AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) and Starz Entertainment Group LLC (SEG), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Liberty Media Corporation (NYSE: L, LMCb), today announced an agreement to offer SEG's Vongo Internet movie-delivery service to AT&T High Speed Internet customers. Vongo, unveiled earlier this year, delivers movies and other video content over the Internet for playback on Windows-based PCs, laptops and select portable media devices as well as on a TV.

The agreement -- the first distribution deal for Vongo with a broadband provider -- will feature a co-branded AT&T and Vongo Web site, http://www.att.vongo.com, with a special 14-day free trial offer to AT&T High Speed Internet subscribers. The companies will also market the Vongo service on the AT&T Worldnet portal at http://www.att.net.

"Vongo's compelling content increases the value proposition for AT&T High Speed Internet customers," said Scott Helbing, chief marketing officer-AT&T Consumer. "With Vongo, we're positioned to deliver quality content, as we build a digital lifestyle platform for our customers."

The agreement focuses on maximizing AT&T's industry-leading high speed DSL customer base and offering a differentiated service that consumers are increasingly demanding.

Vongo subscribers have unlimited access to more than 1,500 movie and video selections as well as a live, streaming Starz TV channel for a monthly cost of $9.99. Members may download movies and video selections onto three eligible devices of their choice for each account, allowing for multiple-viewing options and family enjoyment. Additionally, select popular pay-per-view titles are available for $3.99 a movie. Launched as a beta in January 2006, Vongo is currently available as a free download for broadband subscribers in the United States at http://www.vongo.com.

"We are delighted to work with AT&T as the first broadband distribution partner for Vongo," said Bob Greene, senior vice president of advanced services for SEG. "This relationship is a major step toward realizing our goal of building a complete ecosystem for digital-movie enjoyment so that consumers can access their favorite content whenever and wherever they want."

With more than 7.4 million broadband lines in service, AT&T is the nation's largest DSL provider. Over the last four quarters, the new AT&T has added more than 1.8 million high speed DSL lines. For more information, visit http://www.att.com.

Financial terms of the distribution agreement were not disclosed.

As one of the largest content aggregators in Hollywood, Starz Entertainment Group has access to thousands of theatrical films that it makes available on Vongo, including "Sin City," "The Aviator," "Hostage," "Are We There Yet?" and, coming later this year, "Bewitched", "Flight Plan," "Rent," "Chicken Little," "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe."

Starz Entertainment Group is the exclusive subscription provider of first-run, classic and favorite films from leading Hollywood studios; these include Walt Disney Pictures, Miramax Films, Touchstone Pictures, Hollywood Films, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Columbia Tri-Star, Screen Gems and Revolution Studios. Select recent films are available exclusively from Universal Pictures and New Line Cinema, and library and classic titles are provided by a wide array of Hollywood studios.

Additional programming available to Vongo subscribers includes full-length music concerts (INXS: "Live Baby Live;" Beyonce: "Unauthorized;" Blues Traveler: "Live at Red Rocks;" Jay-Z: "I Will Not Lose;" The Who: "Live in Boston;" and Phil Collins: "A Life Less Ordinary") and extreme sports (Warren Miller's Storm, Warren Miller's Journey, Real Action Sports, Ride Guide).

About the New AT&T

AT&T Inc. is one of the world's largest telecommunications holding companies and the largest in the United States. Operating globally under the AT&T brand, AT&T companies are recognized as the leading worldwide providers of IP-based communications services to business and as leading U.S. providers of high-speed DSL Internet, local and long distance voice, and directory publishing and advertising services. AT&T Inc. holds a 60 percent ownership interest in Cingular Wireless, which is the No. 1 U.S. wireless services provider with more than 55.8 million wireless customers.

Additional information about AT&T Inc. and AT&T products and services is available at http://www.att.com.

About Starz Entertainment Group

Starz Entertainment Group LLC (SEG) is a premium movie service provider operating in the United States. SEG offers 16 movie channels including the flagship Starz(R) and Encore(R) brands with approximately 14 million and 26 million subscribers respectively. Starz Entertainment Group airs more than 1,000 movies per month across its pay TV channels and offers advanced services including Starz HDTV, Starz On Demand and Vongo(SM). Starz Entertainment Group is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Liberty Media Corporation, (NYSE: L, LMCb), http://www.starz.com.

mDisney Launches Beta Version of Pirates of the Caribbean Multiplayer Mobile Game

Game to Be One of the First Large-Scale, Cross-Carrier, Real-Time Multiplayer Applications for Mobile Handsets

mDisney, a mobile publishing unit of the Walt Disney Internet Group (WDIG), today announced it will offer Pirates of the Caribbean Multiplayer, a cross-carrier, real-time multiplayer game for mobile phones. The game, one of the first action adventure mobile multiplayer games, is based on the popular movie franchise, and is slated to launch this summer, in conjunction with the theatrical release of Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest worldwide on July 7, 2006.

The game will be open for beta testing in mid-April at

http://www.piratesmobilemultiplayer.com. It will permit up to 16 players to engage in individual game sessions. Players will be able to chat with other players, make friends and form guilds of hundreds of players on the game's server, which can accommodate tens of thousands of simultaneous players.

. It will permit up to 16 players to engage in individual game sessions. Players will be able to chat with other players, make friends and form guilds of hundreds of players on the game's server, which can accommodate tens of thousands of simultaneous players.

This innovative mobile offering is a natural progression for WDIG, whose Web-based MMP game portfolio includes Disney Online's critically acclaimed Toontown Online, the first 3D MMORPG for kids and families, as well as Disney Online's upcoming Pirates of the Caribbean Online MMORPG, slated for release in 2007.

"The Pirates of the Caribbean mobile multiplayer game combines the best of our experience in the MMP and mobile genres, to extend the excitement, action and adventure of this popular franchise to the third screen," said Larry Shapiro, executive vice president, business development and operations, Walt Disney Internet Group. "Not only is it one of first games to bring an action adventure and real-time multiplayer experience to mobile handsets, it also allows players to interact across multiple carriers. This is an exciting new universe that we believe will provide mobile gamers with month after month of entertaining, high-quality game play anytime, anywhere."

mDisney is collaborating with mobile games developer Floodgate Entertainment (http://www.floodg.com) to create the Pirates of the Caribbean Multiplayer game.

"The world of Pirates of the Caribbean is a brilliant creation, and we've worked hard to develop a mobile game that places the player right in the middle of that world," said Paul Neurath, founder and creative director of Floodgate Entertainment. "Working with mDisney, we've created an action-packed, interactive world that sets a new standard for what mobile entertainment can be."

Formerly Disney Mobile Studios, mDisney publishes and distributes Disney-branded mobile content in more than 40 countries around the globe through agreements with more than 80 carriers and distributors, including all major U.S. carriers. Its content features more than 6,000 products and services, including graphics, ringtones, games, applications and video.

About Walt Disney Internet Group

Walt Disney Internet Group (WDIG) provides strategic leadership, business execution support and a world-class technology platform for all the Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) Internet properties including category leaders ESPN.com and ABCNEWS.com, and directly operates Disney.com worldwide, FamilyFun.com, Movies.com and Disney Mobile.

A market leader in developing and distributing entertainment and informational content to new platforms, WDIG is committed to creating and delivering products for broadband distribution including: ABC News On Demand, a subscription video news service that offers the Internet's first 24-hour, live Internet-only news channel and top ABC News programs for on demand viewing; Disney Connection; and WDIG Motion, a proprietary video technology for broadband users. Through relationships with some of the world's largest wireless carriers, WDIG distributes content and services to wireless users under the mDisney and Starwave Mobile brands. Additionally, WDIG has led the way in developing interactive content for televised programming through its Enhanced TV service. Steve Wadsworth is president of WDIG, which is headquartered in North Hollywood, Calif., and has operations in Budapest, London, Munich, New York, Orlando, Fla., Seattle and Tokyo.

An executive with Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., the parent of consumer electronics manufacturer and Blu-ray supporter Panasonic, reportedly said rival high-definition DVD technologies HD DVD and Blu-ray Disc will never compromise into a single format.

“We are not talking and we will not talk,” Kazuhiro Tsuga, a Matsushita executive, told Reuters. “The market will decide the winner.”

Panasonic is a member of the Blu-ray Disc Association.

One in Four Viewers Interested in Watching Full-Length Episodes Online

If you build it, will they come? And just how many will show up? These are the biggest questions plaguing media companies moving into the digital space. And with ABC.com set to unveil its two-month test of streaming content online, which will include episodes of hits such as "Desperate Housewives" and "Lost," research firms are jumping in to quantify the audience for these offerings.

ABC.com's two-month streaming trial, which starts May 1 and continues through June, includes 'Desperate Housewives,' 'Lost,' 'Alias' and 'Commander in Chief,' supported by ads that can't be skipped. Marketers include Procter & Gamble Co., Ford Motor Co., Universal Pictures, Walt Disney Pictures, AT&T, Cingular, Toyota and Unilever's Suave.

One of the most recent studies, from entertainment-marketing-research firm Advanced Media Perspectives, found that at least one in four TV viewers are interested in watching full-length versions of their favorite TV programs online, and that number is higher for younger viewers. The study comes on the heels of an Online Publishers Association study, conducted by Frank Magid Associates, which found a solid base of interest for online video -- at least one in four people are already watching on at least a weekly basis, and 40% interact with the video or the links surrounding it.

The AMP study took a slightly different slant from the OPA's general online-video snapshot, asking specifically about whether TV viewers would be interested in their favorite shows online. Not surprisingly, the younger demos were more interested. Thirty-four percent of 12- to 29-year-olds indicated definite or probable interest, while interest dipped to 25% for those aged 30 to 64.

When AMP stipulated that commercials couldn't be skipped, interest within the younger demo dropped to 22%; the older demo's interest fell to 15%. The older demo, at 17%, was slightly more interested in paying for ad-free viewing. The younger demo's interest in paying for an ad-free environment hovered around 20%.

ABC.com's two-month streaming trial, which starts May 1 and continues through June, also includes shows "Alias" and "Commander in Chief," and the content will be supported by ads that can't be skipped. Marketers sponsoring the programs: Procter & Gamble Co., Ford Motor Co., Universal Pictures, Walt Disney Pictures, AT&T, Cingular, Toyota and Unilever's Suave.

"ABC's announcement meant another door is opening for people to access content," said Angela Paura, who founded AMP in March, after serving as chief operating officer for AC Nielsen's NRG. "In a way pundits have hypothesized about this for a long time and now it's coming."

"We know 10% to 12% of people have already downloaded content other than short clips to their computers," she said. "Now we're asking them specifically about their favorite TV shows. But it's not like it's foreign territory. Younger viewers have more positive interest."

That finding jibes with the earlier OPA study, which found the heaviest online-video consumers tend to be young, male and affluent. They tend to browse multiple Web sites, and 48% discover videos while randomly surfing online, meaning there is opportunity to drive traffic to video sites with the right search optimization and marketing. And despite much of the talk about employees surfing on company time, most respondents claimed the bulk of their viewing is done at home. Turns out you can't get away from prime time.

The Club DNA - A New Way to Deter Auto Theft

What does DNA have to do with deterring auto theft? Winner International introduces "The Club DNA Vehicle Etch Kit" to serve as a theft deterrent and a means to help track vehicles should one be stolen. In this case DNA not only refers to the unique codes used, but also serves as an acronym for Dual Chemistry Numeric Code Assignment. The unique system works in two ways - it etches glass (windows) and metal (in concealed locations). An etched window loses value as chop shops want clean windows to sell off as parts. Other body parts such as doors and hoods also lose value if they're marked and traceable. The system uses a unique code (hence the name DNA) assigned by the company rather than a VIN. "The reason Winner chose to use a unique code rather than a VIN was that we recently learned of a way thieves were using VINs as yet another means to steal vehicles, in one of their latest techniques," said Kevin Winner. The codes will be kept in a database at Winner to identify a vehicle if found, and return it to its rightful owner. The Club DNA vehicle etch kit is a do-it-yourself product and includes everything needed to complete an etching for 1 vehicle, including 6 labels for marking metal, 8 glass etching stencils, etch cream, latex gloves, the instruction sheet and a registration form. The manufacturer's suggested retail is $39.95. They are currently available in some auto parts stores, or by calling the company directly at 1-800-527-3345. Winner International is best known for its anti-theft device, The Club - the highly visible, bright red steering wheel lock. Winner International focuses on bringing consumer products to market that are easy to use, highly effective, and most of all, affordable.

Rejecting warnings that it was "selling out the public," a House committee today approved a bill that could open the door for phone and cable companies to play a potentially controlling role in the Internet's future.

The neutral 'pipe' of the Internet, which has given small entrepreneurs the same access as giant media companies, could be dramatically changed by a congressional move that would create a 'two-lane' digital highway.

The House Energy and Commerce Committee, which is rewriting the nation's telecommunications legislation, essentially allowed service providers to charge not just consumers, but, for the first time, content providers for access to new higher-speed networks. That move will let some content providers use faster paths to consumers' desktops than rivals.

Under the legislation, service providers could, for example, give ABC but not NBC access to high-speed networks or award access to Verizon and not Vonage.

Phone companies, cable companies and their associations have argued that Internet content providers that make money off the access should bear part of their costs. On the opposite side are consumer groups and some big Web players, among them Amazon, Google and Intel, that argue that the Net's growth was fueled by little companies innovating and successfully competing, a prospect that would be hampered if Congress didn't assure "net neutrality." They suggest consumers should pay extra for faster access, but should get every service when they pay more without discrimination.

U.S. Rep. Ed Markey, D-Mass., who warned that discrimination "will stifle the ambitions of entrepreneurs all over the world," today tried to add language to the bill that would ban discrimination among content providers. The legislation is expected to pass the House this year. Mr. Markey's move was rejected by the panel on a 22 to 34 vote.

U.S. Rep. Anna Eshoo, D-Calif., called the move "the most profound change in the Internet" in history. "This is not about Google or Yahoo, the guys that have made it," she said. "It's about the guys who would be Google. You know why they won … because there was open competition and they came up with the better mousetrap." She warned that the change could impact the ability of the better mousetrap to win in the future.

U.S. Rep. Rick Boucher, D-Va., said the Internet is defined by its openness. "The handwriting is written on the wall," he said. "It will essentially create a two-lane Internet -- the telephone-company content and the content that pays [in one lane] and the slower lane. It will not be possible to compete and [look out for] the effect that latency will have on innovation. … The company starting in the garage will have a hard time competing."

Committee Chairman Joe Barton, R-Texas, and others argued that the legislation includes some limits and that there is little evidence that allowing companies to charge for access will impact competition. They said it may instead give them incentives to expand their high-speed networks.

"I don't think all the draconian things will happen if we don't adopt this amendment. If they spend billions of dollars to put these networks in place, they have a right to charge," Mr. Barton said.

"This is some way of spreading out the cost," said Rep. Charles Gonzalez, D-Texas. "If you use it more often is it fair to treat you the same as that little startup?"

Consumer groups called the vote a "sellout" and promised to continue fighting to bolster public pressure against the move

Airplane!” Lands at Academy

Beverly Hills, CA — Writers/directors Jim Abrahams, David Zucker and Jerry Zucker and actor Robert Hays will be among the participants in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ cast and crew reunion and screening of “Airplane!” on Friday, May 19, at 8 p.m. Academy Governor and producer Hawk Koch, whose father’s company produced the film, will serve as host and moderator for the discussion. The event will take place in the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater.

The legendary comedy is structured around the fateful flight of a commercial airliner. After the crew becomes sick from eating bad fish, an ex-Navy pilot is called upon to safely land the plane, which counts singing nuns and jive-talking dudes among its passengers. “Airplane!” (1980) stars Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Lloyd Bridges, Peter Graves, Julie Hagerty, Robert Hays, Leslie Nielsen, Lorna Patterson, Robert Stack, Stephen Stucker and the inflatable Otto. With an endless barrage of one-liners and sight gags, this spoof of 1970s disaster movies helped usher in a genre of films that continues to this day.

Tickets for “Airplane!” go on sale May 1 for $5 for the general public and $3 for Academy members. The may be purchased in advance at the Academy during regular business hours, by mail, or if still available on the night of the screening when the doors open at 7 p.m. The Academy is located at 8949 Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly Hills. For more information call 310-247-3600.

©A.M.P.A.S.®

For all its buzz, podcasting is a cowboy industry -- and much of its future lies in the hands of a handful of companies vying to play sheriff and bring order.

PodTrac, Podbridge and PodShow are all trying to help advertisers get a better grasp on how many people are listening and what the audience looks like.

Consider the contradictions surrounding the subject: An April 2005 Pew Internet & American Life study estimated 6 million people have downloaded a podcast while a Bridge Ratings study in November of 2005 -- yes, seven months later -- puts the number at 4.8 million. An eMarketer report from March of this year puts the total number of podcast users at 10 million but pins active podcast listeners -- who download at least once a week -- at 3 million.

There's even less agreement about how quickly the podcast audience will grow. A Forrester study just released estimates podcast listners will total 12 million by 2010. EMarketer predicts the active podcast-listening audience will be 15 million but the total market will be closer to 50 million and a Bridge Ratings study published in November of 2005 is also bullish, estimating the podcast audience will grow to between 45 million and 75 million by 2010.

PodTrac, Podbridge and PodShow are all trying to help advertisers get a better grasp on how many people are listening and what the audience looks like.

"It's really difficult to say exactly how many people are listening," said Mohan Renganathan, associate director of digital strategy at MediaVest. He and his cohorts see the emergence of podcast networks that aggregate an audience as a way to make the medium more palatable to advertisers. "You're seeing a Long Tail phenomenon where you have hundreds or thousands of podcasts with a couple thousand listeners," he said. "In isolation, they may not be advertising viable but when you start aggregating them together, all of a sudden it makes sense."

Eluding marketers are the questions of how many people are actually listening to podcasts, because they're primarily delivered via really simple syndication, or RSS, and automatically delivered to a browser. Just because a person subscribes to a podcast doesn't mean he or she listens to every episode. And who are those listeners anyway?

One network, Podbridge, is offering information about whether and when a listener heard an embedded ad. It uses a passive technology to track listening: When a listener subscribes to a podcast within the PodBridge network, it installs a plug-in, a la Macromedia flash, that asks basic demographic questions. The plug-in puts a header into the user's podcast content and captures the time at which the content was played and whether a user listened long enough to hear the ad.

Podbridge has about 35,000 people listening to its network and using the plug-in and has contracts with Clear Channel, the BBC, Consumer Reports and Military.com, said its founder and CEO, Murgesh Navar. It primarily targets established content publishers rather than the mom-and-pop upstarts that populate much of the podcasting space.

"You find a certain pattern and demographics. Some people tend to listen in the morning and some people listen at night," said Mr. Navar, who signed Ronning Lipset Radio, which sells online radio ads, as its third-party ad vendor. "Because we know usage patterns we can slot an ad that's likely to be heard in a particular daypart."

Another network, Podtrac, has signed to its network more than 1,500 podcasts -- some with a few hundred listeners, some with more than 300,000 -- since November. Some of its more popular podcasts include "This week in Tech" and the Harry Potter-themed "Mugglecast." The deal? Podtrac provides third-party measurement and ad insertion for a 25% cut of the advertising revenue. Ads for HBO's new show "Big Love" and for Castrol motor oil have aired on the Podtrac network.

Podtrac also provides demographic information about a podcast's audience through a survey that has so far yielded more than 40,000 responses. Podtrac then overlays its survey responses with responses to Mediamark's Survey of the American Consumer, Mark McCrery, Podtrac's CEO and co-founder, explained. "We're noticing that these podcast listeners and viewers are highly educated. They are predominantly male at this point. They have high incomes and they buy a lot online."

The first company to enter the space was PodShow, launched by Adam Curry and Ron Bloom. It delivers national advertising and sponsorship across its network and recently executed a cross-network sponsorship for GoDaddy.com that included audio, video and host endorsements from more than 50 of PodShow's most popular podcasts. Hosted ads are turning out to be one of podcasting's biggest boons, thanks to the affinity the listeners often have for the host.

One of Starcom's clients, Sara Lee's Senseo coffee brand, had particular success with live reads on Adam Curry's "Daily Source Code" podcast, which many credit with launching the podcasting phenomenon. Starcom knew Mr. Curry was a coffee drinker, since he often spoke about it on the show, and contracted him to push the product on the show.

"If you're going to integrate into a program it needs to be seamless," said Fletcher Whitwall, associate media director at Starcom USA.

At this point, much of podcasting's advertising been done on a sponsorship basis, in which a marketer commits a set amount of dollars against an estimated number of downloads or impressions. Marketers can then back into a cost-per-download -- a number that's ranged between a couple cents to $2.

Buena Vista Games Enters Agreement to Publish Four New Games from Q ENTERTAINMENT

Lumines II, Lumines Plus, Meteos: Disney Edition and Every Extend Extra to Hit Retail Shelves This Fall

Buena Vista Games, Inc. (BVG), the interactive entertainment arm of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS), today announced it has entered into an agreement with Tokyo-based Q ENTERTAINMENT, Inc., to publish four new titles in all international regions except Asia.

BVG will publish the upcoming titles: Lumines II, a mesmerizing sequel to the highly popular action and music puzzle game, for the PSP(TM) system (PlayStation(R)Portable); Lumines Plus(a), a pulsing new version of the original title for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system; Every Extend Extra, an electrifying action puzzle shooter game for PSP; and Meteos: Disney Edition, a new version of the popular galactic action puzzle title Meteos featuring beloved Disney characters, for the Nintendo DS(TM).

"We are looking forward to enhancing our relationship with the talented team at Q ENTERTAINMENT to bring gamers unique and innovative gaming experiences," said Graham Hopper, senior vice president and general manager, Buena Vista Games. "With BVG's expertise in publishing a broad portfolio of video games for the entire family, these new titles are a perfect fit because they appeal to a wide variety of gamers."

"Q ENTERTAINMENT established itself last year as the premier creator of action puzzle games with the best-selling and highly addictive Lumines for the PSP system and Meteos for the Nintendo DS. This year, our goal is to build upon that success and reach new heights around the world with our new publishing agreement with BVG. We are also very excited to introduce another music-based game, Every Extend Extra," said Q ENTERTAINMENT CEO Shuji Utsumi.

Lumines earned widespread acclaim and has sold more than 700,000 units worldwide to date. According to video game review score compilation site Gamerankings.com, Lumines is one of the highest rated PSP system titles to date with an average review score of 90%.

Meteos is one of the top-rated Nintendo DS titles to date with an 88% review score average, according to Gamerankings.com.

Lumines II, Lumines Plus, Every Extend Extra and Meteos: Disney Edition are slated to hit retail stores in Fall 2006.

About Buena Vista Games

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

About Q ENTERTAINMENT

Q ENTERTAINMENT, Inc. specializes in multiplatform development and global marketing. Q ENTERTAINMENT creates, produces, and consults in digital entertainment software such as game console, PC broadband and mobile units.

Principal game creator & Chief Creative Officer Tetsuya Mizuguchi came from SEGA as the president of United Game Artists, where he designed critically acclaimed titles such as the Sega Rally franchise, Space Channel 5, and Rez. Q ENTERTAINMENT CEO Shuji Utsumi had experience of executive position from Disney, SEGA & SCEA. He produced several famous titles such as Crash Bandicoot (SCEA), Sakura Wars (SEGA), and Kingdom Hearts (Buena Vista Games).

Q ENTERTAINMENT is comprised of veteran designers, programmers, and producers. Q ENTERTAINMENT collaborates with other creators, artists and development studios in Japan and overseas. With a large network and enthusiasm, Q ENTERTAINMENT always anticipates the trends and changes in times to come and develops new value in the videogame industry's business.

(a) This title is not yet concept approved by Sony Computer Entertainment America.

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

Videos from Legendary Punk Rockers Now Available for the ZVUE

as HandHeld Entertainment Adds Videos from Music Video Distributors to Its ZTV Download Store

ZTV Also Gets Hip-Hop, Gospel and Metal Videos for Online Download at ZVUE.com

HandHeld Entertainment(TM) (OTCBB: HNDH) today announced that a number of punk rock concert videos, in addition to hip-hop, gospel and metal concert videos from Music Video Distributors' extensive library of concert videos, movies and comedy films have been made available for purchase and download at the ZTV digital download store.

The new ZTV videos, available through a licensing agreement with MVD, include film from renowned punk rock artists such as Bad Religion, Dead Kennedys, Iggy and the Stooges (Iggy Pop), and New York Dolls, in addition to comedy films from former Saturday Night Live comedian Jim Breuer and cult indie films like "Southlander."

"People want a lot of choice when it comes to their entertainment, which makes it thrilling for us to add MVD's wide variety of punk, hip-hop, gospel and metal videos to our growing ZTV digital download store," said Jeff Oscodar, president and chief executive officer of HandHeld Entertainment. "We're also adding more comedy shorts and independent films from MVD's library."

The MVD agreement comes on the heels of recent HandHeld Entertainment announcements, including a music partnership with eMusic, the addition of Latin music videos from Sunflower Entertainment, the acquisition of 1,500 full-length films and television shows from Worldvision Cinema, comedic movies from Fun Little Movies, extreme sports videos from TotalVid, independent films from StoryPIPE.com, and classic TV programs and cartoons from LikeTelevision.

"The ZTV digital download store provides an innovative way for us to deliver videos of world-class artists to even more audiences," said Michael DeMonte of Music Video Distributors. "The portability of the ZVUE lets you take video from Iggy Pop to Trick Daddy with you for on-the-go entertainment."

About the ZVUE

Available today in more than 1,800 Wal-Mart stores around the United States, the $99 ZVUE plays videos and MP3 files available from the ZVUE.com download store and also lets users view digital pictures from a digital camera or home video from a camcorder. The ZVUE offers full-color video and clear audio sound that gives users a robust, on-the-go digital experience when coupled with downloadable content from the ZVUE Web site.

About Music Video Distributors

Since 1986, Music Video Distributors (MVD) has supplied consumers, retailers and distributors with a diverse selection of quality music-related DVDs. In addition, MVD sells more than 50,000 different DVDs to more than 10,000 storefronts across the United States and Canada. MVD also counts Best Buy, Blockbuster, Borders, Fry's Electronics, Hollywood Video, K-Mart, Tower Records, Transworld, Virgin and Wal-Mart as customers.

About HandHeld Entertainment Inc.

HandHeld Entertainment is a digital-media-to-go company with a family of mass-market portable media players priced at mass-market prices as well as its own online video content store. Its ZVUE portable media players are available for purchase online and in more than 1,800 retail locations across the United States, while portable video lovers can visit ZTV (HandHeld Entertainment's video content store at http://www.zvue.com) to buy pay-per-download videos or download thousands of free media titles

HandHeld Entertainment, ZTV and ZVUE are trademarks of HandHeld Entertainment. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

Actor Tony Danza Signs Agreement to do a Cooking Show Produced by Clear Cut Film Technology Studios at Patsy's Italian Restaurant in Manhattan, NY

Clear Cut Film Technology Studios (OTC:TGHG), formerly Trans-Global Holdings, Inc., announces that Tony Danza has signed on to do a Cooking show at Patsy's Italian Restaurant.

The show features famous Chef Sal Scognamillo cooking for Mr. Danza and company (t.b.d. please see "high profile patrons" below.) The first show, with Mr. Danza, is scheduled to be shot in the next two months.

Clear Cut Film Technology Studios is taking the first steps in creating this weekly TV show. The company's goal is to appease both the younger and more mature audiences. Different guest stars will be brought on the show each week, ranging from musicians, sports players, and actors. Basically this is a "Cooking with the Stars" if you will.

About Patsy's Italian Restaurant:

Founded in 1944 by Pasquale "Patsy" Scognamillo, Patsy's Italian Restaurant has been in its current and only theater district location (in the building just next to the original site) since 1954. In over 55 years of existence, Patsy's Italian Restaurant has had only three chefs -- the late Patsy himself, his son Joe Scognamillo, who has been at the establishment since the tender age of seven, and Joe's son Sal Scognamillo, who has been manning the kitchen for the past 15 years.

Some of Patsy's Italian Restaurant's high profile patrons include Rush Limbaugh, Al Pacino, Placido Domingo, Alec Baldwin, Kim Basinger, Tom Hanks, Madonna, George Clooney, Rappers Heavy "D" and Sean "Diddy" Combs, David Letterman, Oprah Winfrey, Keanu Reeves, Jonathan Demme, Tony Bennett, Don King, Robert DeNiro, Don Rickles, Jacklyn Smith, Phyllis George, Stephen King, Mario Puzo, Calvin Klein, Carroll O'Connor, Jon Bon Jovi, Liza Minelli, John F. Kennedy, Jr., Chris Noth, Farrah Fawcett, Jaime Farr, Chevy Chase, Cheryl Ladd, Huey Lewis, and Patty LaBelle, to name several.

Patsy's Italian Restaurant has been known for years as Frank Sinatra's favorite restaurant, and in fact, his family still enjoys dining at Patsy's Italian Restaurant whenever they are in town. In addition to Sinatra and family, Patsy's Italian Restaurant has become a favorite with countless stars on both the east and west coast, who have come to regard Patsy's Italian Restaurant as a mecca of Italian fine dining.

For more information on Patsy's Italian Restaurant, such as News Releases and Reviews, please visit their website at http://www.patsys.com.

About Clear Cut Film Technology Studios, Inc.

Clear Cut Film Technology Studios, Inc. (formerly known as Trans-Global Holdings Incorporated) is an innovative entertainment company that develops and produces exciting motion pictures and television productions by some of the most prominent leaders in the entertainment industry. Recently the Company announced the acquisition of Half Way to Tucson, Incorporated. The Company's motto is "INNOVATION IN EVERY FRAME" and is representative of the creativity and innovation that this company puts into each of their productions. For more information about Clear Cut Film Technology Studios, Inc., please visit http://www.tghgotc.com/.

Clear Cut Film Technology Studios, Inc.

Evan Rachel Wood Joins Service of ``KING''

, Millennium Films, in conjunction with Emmett/Furla Films (a wholly owned subsidiary of Family Room Entertainment (OTCBB: FMLY), announced that Evan Rachel Wood will co-star with Academy Award winner Michael Douglas in "King of California," written and directed by Michael Cahill. Fellow Academy Award winner Alexander Payne and fellow nominee Michael London will produce the picture with Avi Lerner and Randall Emmett. George Furla, John Thompson, Danny Dimbort, Trevor Short and Boaz Davidson are Executive Producers. Emmett/Furla's M. Dal Walton III will serves as co-producer.

Wood will co-star as "Miranda" in the bittersweet comedy about a teenage girl and her eccentric father, played by Douglas, whose obsession with buried treasure in the San Fernando Valley takes over both their lives. Douglas stars in and produced "The Sentinel" for Fox/Regency/Furthur Films, co-starring Kiefer Sutherland, Eva Longoria and Kim Basinger, directed by Clark Johnson, which recently opened in wide release.

Wood, who garnered rave attention for her role in TV's "ONCE AND AGAIN," was nominated for a Golden Globe for her performance in "THIRTEEN."

Michael Cahill will be making his feature film directorial debut on the project. He is best known for his Faulkner Prize winning novel A Nixon Man. A graduate of UCLA Film School and classmate of Alexander Payne's, Cahill won the Morrison/Jacobson Award for his short film "The Knife." His follow up short film "A Broken Horse" was featured at numerous film festivals in the US and Europe.

Emmett/Furla and Millennium will commence principal photography on May 2nd in Los Angeles.

Family Room Entertainment Corporation

Fox Reality Announces New Original Programming: ''MY BARE LADY''; Transatlantic Co-Production with Zig Zag Productions Promises to ''Reveal All''

Fox Reality, the only ALL REALITY, ALL THE TIME channel, today announced a brand new US/UK co-production with Zig Zag Productions. The new Fox Reality Original, "MY BARE LADY," is a series of three, one-hour shows slated to air on the US cable and satellite network in the latter half of '06. The series will follow top US female porn stars who want to see if they can give leading British thespians a run for their money.

Many adult film stars think they can act, but can they cut it in the refined and stuffy world of an English acting school? "MY BARE LADY" is a must-see reality series in which viewers find out if four female U.S. adult stars can make it as legitimate actors in a matter of weeks. They will feel like fish out of water as they swap sex for soliloquies.

After a casting call in Los Angeles, an established British theatre director will select his performers. He will bring them to London and put them through an intensive three week transformation. What happens when you take a group of American porn stars and thrust them on stage in London's famous theatre-land to perform a classic play? "MY BARE LADY" will reveal all...

Fox Reality CEO & General Manager David Lyle said, "We look forward to working with this great British production company and creating an ambitious docu-soap. And it is a wonderful concept to have a production that shoots on both sides of the Atlantic, highlighting a humorous and all-too-real culture clash."

"Zig Zag is very excited about this new and irreverent series for Fox Reality," said Danny Fenton, Managing Director, Zig Zag. "We are really pleased to be making one of the first original commissions for the channel and appreciate their boldness and distinct new flavor. It typifies the freshness of Fox Reality to seize on an idea like 'MY BARE LADY.'"

ABOUT FOX REALITY

Fox Reality launched May 24, 2005 to become the first destination for lovers of unscripted programming. The channel offers major US network favorites, exclusive international reality programming, Original Series and Specials. Fox Reality offers reality viewers more of their favorite reality programming with RealityRevealed in Primetime with never-before-seen footage, exclusive interviews, behind the scenes secrets and more reality fun. Fox Reality is currently seen in more than 18.5 million households, and is on pace to become one of only six new cable or satellite networks to surpass 20 million homes in its first year. To get more information on Fox Reality programs and schedules, please visit foxreality.com.

Media Tonic

Gefen Switchers Integrate with Euphonix System to Create Digital State-of-the-Art Professional Audio/Video Mixing Environment

Some might call it visionary but to John Ross, the new Euphonix digital 5-MC is simply a cutting-edge console designed for today's digital HD realm.

This notable sound supervisor, sound editor and dubbing mixer, whose most recent project is "Take the Lead" starring Antonio Bandaras, has created a unique and ultra-modern method of mixing that incorporates every system component into the central Euphonix System 5-MC control surface to create a total free flowing environment. "To provide the ultimate creative environment, I knew we needed to be looking at the very best, and listening to the very best," said Ross. To do that, Ross made the decision to stay in the digital realm, using the Euphonix dual-operator System 5-MC integrated DAW controller as the command center, linked to four Pro Tools running on Mac G5s, three Nuendos on AMD quad PCs and V-Cube for high resolution projection on the BARCO DP 70 projector. A matrix of Gefen's 4x2 DVI Switchers played a vital role in the system's workflow by enabling each of the operators to switch control and screens between the seven main workstations and four Apple Cinema Displays running 1920x1200 resolutions. The Gefen DVI Switches interface directly to the Euphonix System 5-MC via GPI switch contacts driven from the console for seamless workflow switching. Euphonix recommend Gefen Switches for use with their System 5-MC controller range. "We selected the Gefen boxes because of the company's knowledge of digital video distribution and the quality of its' hardware," said Ross. "We can pull up multiple layers and assign software keys to switch software, Ethernet levels plus hardware and USB control to create a true multi-platform mixing console." Ross credits the entire system with helping him operate on a higher level by creating a true free flow of information where HD playback and thousands of audio tracks are instantly available. "With the advent and continued growth of HDTV, it seems likely that more and more companies will heed the example set by Euphonix and Gefen by re-examining the wheel and re-thinking what can be achieved in the digital realm." View the workflow diagram on this page:

http://www.euphonix.com/press/products/system_5-mc_mc.htm System 5-MC 2 Operator Block Diagram based on John Ross Installation: http://www.euphonix.com/press/products/system_5-mc_2op_blk_01_3000.jpg Room photo: http://www.euphonix.com/press/clients/clients_s5-mc_mc.htm John Ross' Dubbing Theater with an 88 Fader Dual Operator System 5-MC: http://www.euphonix.com/press/clients/euph_jross_dub_01_3400.jpg

System 5-MC 2 Operator Block Diagram based on John Ross Installation: Room photo: John Ross' Dubbing Theater with an 88 Fader Dual Operator System 5-MC:

About Euphonix Celebrating its 18th Year Anniversary in 2006, Euphonix is a leading manufacturer of large format digital audio consoles and digital recording equipment that has satisfied users worldwide in broadcast, post, live sound, and music production. Key products include Max Air and System 5 consoles plus the System 5-MC and the MC DAW controllers. Euphonix can be reached at (650) 855-0400 or on the Web at www.euphonix.com. About Gefen: A leader in the high definition digital domain, Gefen delivers advanced technologies with multi-platform extension, switching, distribution and conversion capabilities. Gefen equipment is utilized all over the world in professional AV/IT and consumer electronics/home theater environments. Their add-on hardware maximizes system functionality and enhances operability by enabling AV systems to go beyond their original capabilties. Solutions support an array of connectivity interfaces including HDMI, DVI, dual link DVI, HD-SDI, SDI, VGA, RCA, USB, Firewire and RS-232. A selection of high quality cabling is also available. Additional information may be found at www.gefen.com.

Bill Cosby Hosts 5th Annual 'Great Night in Harlem' Concert Presented by DIRECTV and BET J at the Apollo Theater Benefiting The Jazz Foundation of America (JFA)

WHO:

* Host Bill Cosby

* Co-Host Danny Glover

* Musicians including: Abbey Lincoln, James Blood Ulmer, Henry Butler,

Newbirth Brass Band, Dr. Michael White and the Original Liberty Jazz

Band of New Orleans, Ron Carter, Odetta, Will Calhoun, Dr. Billy

Taylor, Harold Mabern, Ben Riley, Gary Bartz, Kermit Ruffins and

85-year old Johnnie Mae Dunson -- who wrote tunes for Elvis and Muddy

Waters and played drums for Jimmy Reed.

* Award-Winning Set Designer Tom John

* Richard Parsons -- Event Co-Chair; Chairman and CEO, Time Warner, Inc.

* Agnes Varis -- Event Co-Chair; President & Co-Founder, Agvar Chemicals,

Inc.

* Jarrett Lilien -- Event Co-Chair; President, E*TRADE Financial

* Wendy Oxenhorn -- Executive Director, JFA

WHAT: Jazz Foundation of America's 5th Annual "A Great Night in Harlem"

Benefit Concert

WHERE: Apollo Theater (Harlem, NY)

"Red Carpet" Entrance on 126TH Street (between 7th & 8th Avenue)

WHEN: Thursday, May 4, 2006/Celebrity & VIP Guest Arrival @ 7:15 PM

BACKGROUND:

From the replacement of "Fats" Domino's piano to paying rent and mortgages for Katrina-effected musicians and their families, The Jazz Foundation of America (JFA) has assisted nearly 900 New Orleans musician emergency cases in the few short months since the hurricane and continues to assist 30 elderly jazz and blues artists a week. Now, JFA sets an unprecedented goal of raising $1.5 million dollars from the 5th annual "A Great Night in Harlem" concert presented by DIRECTV and BET J. Hosted by Bill Cosby, the concert will be held on THURSDAY, MAY 4 (8-10 p.m.) at the world-famous Apollo Theater.

"Great Night" veteran Bill Cosby along with JFA's newest board member Danny Glover, will join accomplished musicians for a night to remember including: Abbey Lincoln, James Blood Ulmer, Henry Butler, Newbirth Brass Band, Dr. Michael White and the Original Liberty Jazz Band of New Orleans, Ron Carter, Odetta, Will Calhoun, Dr. Billy Taylor, Harold Mabern, Ben Riley, Gary Bartz and Kermit Ruffins -- including over 30 musicians from New Orleans. Highlighting the evening will be some of the very fathers and mothers of jazz and blues including 85-year old Johnnie Mae Dunson -- who wrote tunes for Elvis and Muddy Waters and played drums for Jimmy Reed.

With DIRECTV and BET J as title sponsors, the event's major sponsors include: E*TRADE FINANCIAL, Agvar Chemicals, Inc., Time Warner, Inc. and HIP Health Plan of NY. Delta Air Lines is the official airlines sponsor. Event patrons and sponsors include: Jarrett & Maritess Lilien, Agnes Varis, Louverture Films, Absolut Spirits, Billionaire Limousine Service, Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, Illy, Mary & Michael Jaharis, K2 Advisors, Knight Capitol Trading, Lehman Brothers, MTV Networks, Mylan Pharmaceuticals, New York Times, Par Pharmaceuticals, Plantex USA Inc., Beryl L. Snyder, Swag Couture Chef, Teva Pharmaceuticals, VH1, David A. Walden, WBGO Jazz 88.3 FM. Coppola Wine is the Official Wine Sponsor.

Source: Jazz Foundation

ENTERTAINMENT & LIVING: FCC's Indecency Rules

1. Behavior: Gas Prices Beginning to Affect Our Mental Health 2. Behavior: Choosing Your Thoughts Can Change the Fabric of Your Life 3. Entertainment: 'Da Vinci Code' Following a Result of Uninformed Laity 4. Home & Garden: Trees Provide More Than Just Aesthetic Appeal 5. Relationships: What Men Really Want in a Girlfriend, Spouse

ROUND-UP: FCC'S INDECENCY RULES

Four TV broadcast networks and their affiliates filed court challenges to a March 15 Federal Communications Commission ruling that found several programs "indecent" because of language. The move represents a protest against the aggressive enforcement of federal indecency rules that broadcasters have complained are vague and inconsistently applied. Millions of dollars in fines have been levied based on those rules.

Following are experts who can comment:

**1. FRITZ J. MESSERE, professor and chair of communication studies at SUNY OSWEGO: "The issue of indecent programming reflects growing polarization between segments who either believe that media is causing moral decay or feel that their rights to speak are being abridged. What many don't realize is the FCC is a creature of Congress and that Congress is being pressured by groups complaining about the media's lax programming. The Republican-led FCC received the message clearly and has responded. What is needed is public debate about the role the FCC should play in guiding American morals and whether it's time to change the communication laws to reflect social standards. This court case may force Congress to hold such a debate

**2. MICHAEL G. CHERENSON, chair of the Advocacy Advisory Board for the PUBLIC RELATIONS SOCIETY OF AMERICA: "PRSA stands solidly behind the First Amendment and its guarantees for free, open and candid expression. Levying of fines by the FCC for violation of vague guidelines could pose too great a risk for small, independent broadcasters to continue operations

**3. ROBERT CORN-REVERE, partner at DAVIS WRIGHT TREMAINE, LLP, advises clients on First Amendment and FCC-regulatory issues. Corn-Revere represented Playboy Ent. Group in a Supreme Court case on indecency and channel blocking in 1999-2000. The case is now the de facto standard for indecency issues. Recently, he represented a coalition of the nation's largest media companies in their petition against the FCC's crackdown on indecency/obscenity. The petition requested that the FCC reverse its ruling against Bono's use of an expletive during the Golden Globes. In 1990, he spent four years as a government regulator for the FCC, which convinced him that pressuring broadcasters to self-regulate "voluntarily" was an oxymoron.

**1. BEHAVIOR: GAS PRICES ARE BEGINNING TO AFFECT OUR MENTAL HEALTH. ROBERT R. BUTTERWORTH, psychologist at INTERNATIONAL TRAUMA ASSOCIATES: "High gas prices are not just taking their toll on our pocketbook, but are beginning to take a toll on our mental health. Day after day, as we travel in our automobiles past gas stations with prices prominently displayed, there is no escape from being reminded of the rising costs. The quickly rising gas prices also translate into future sacrifices, such as shortened or postponed vacations, deferring of future purchases or even family security, leaving us even more depressed. People need to begin to get psychologically prepared to 'fill up' by reminding themselves to stay calm and not take their anger out on innocent victims." Butterworth

**2. BEHAVIOR: CHOOSING YOUR THOUGHTS CAN CHANGE THE FABRIC OF YOUR LIFE. BRENDA ANDERSON, vice president of global business development for SMITHBUCKLIN, a leading association management company, is the CEO of the SOCIETY OF INCENTIVE AND TRAVEL EXECUTIVES, and author of the new book "Playing the Quantum Field." Anderson, whose work is based on recent scientific research and discoveries in quantum physics, reveals how choosing your thoughts not only prevents bad moods, it transforms the very fabric of your life: "Every little choice you make counts; the impact of your choices, no matter how insignificant they may seem, is cumulative. If your choices are negative, negative results expand and beget more negative results. If they're positive, the converse happens

**3. ENTERTAINMENT: 'DA VINCI CODE' FOLLOWING A RESULT OF UNINFORMED LAITY. PAUL F. LAKELAND, Ph.D., professor of religious studies at FAIRFIELD UNIVERSITY: "'The Da Vinci Code' is a good read that is full of nonsense. The only reason that churches and religious institutions are alarmed by it is that they have not educated their members sufficiently in their own traditions that they could see through what is, on the whole, a pretty superficial and rather unlikely story. If we weren't so ignorant, we wouldn't be so credulous. The real Jesus and the real Magdalene are much more interesting than the bourgeois couple at the origin of Dan Brown's tale."

**4. HOME & GARDEN: TREES PROVIDE MORE THAN JUST AESTHETIC APPEAL. LANCE WALHEIM, Bayer Advanced lawn and garden expert, is a best-selling author and regular contributor to Sunset Magazine: "Trees provide more than just aesthetic appeal. Trees produce oxygen, provide a habitat for birds, stabilize soil, reduce erosion, mitigate flooding, reduce pollution and keep the earth cooler. It's critical that we not only plant trees, but provide the proper care for them to protect them because they protect us." Walheim can address all gardening topics from designing with color to pest control (including pests from grubs to Emerald Ash Borer) to Arbor Day (part of major national initiative right now) to caring for roses to decorating with houseplants, etc. Walheim has authored many gardening books, including the popular "Roses for Dummies." )

**5. RELATIONSHIPS: WHAT MEN REALLY WANT IN A GIRLFRIEND, SPOUSE. SHERRY ARGOV, author of "Why Men Marry Bitches: A Woman's Guide to Winning Her Man's Heart," spent hundreds of hours interviewing men to learn their true feelings about relationships and marriage. Armed with insider information, she masterminded 75 relationship principles to love by, each building on her number one rule: "In romance, there's nothing more attractive to a man than a woman who has dignity and pride in who she is." Argov can answer burning relationship questions and show women who are ready to grab the controls and find love on their terms the best ways to land -- and keep -- a husband. Source: ProfNet

Universal Pictures' United 93 Opens Nationwide on April 28

-Acclaimed filmmaker Paul Greengrass (Bloody Sunday, The Bourne Supremacy) writes and directs an unflinching drama that tells the story of the passengers and crew, their families on the ground and the flight controllers who watched in dawning horror as United Airlines Flight 93 became the fourth hijacked plane on the day of the worst terrorist attacks on American soil: September 11, 2001.

United 93 recreates the doomed trip in actual time, from takeoff to hijacking to the realization by those onboard that their plane was part of a coordinated attack unfolding on the ground beneath them. The film attempts to understand the abject fear and courageous decisions of those who - over the course of just 90 minutes - transformed from a random assembly of disconnected strangers into bonded allies who confronted an unthinkable situation.

Greengrass, known for films such as Resurrected and Bloody Sunday, brings to United 93 a history of compassionate filmmaking that has explored some of the most troubled incidents of recent world history - when politics turns to violence, when beliefs slip into zealotry. As there is no perfect record of the hijacking's exact details and hostage retaliation, Greengrass takes a careful hand and partially improvises the events with an ensemble cast of little-known actors who were given studies of their UAL Flight 93 counterparts.

United 93 intends to dignify the memory of those on that flight, the men and women whose sacrifice remains one of the most heroic legacies of the incomprehensible tragedies that unfolded on that autumn morning.

United 93 will open in theaters nationwide on Friday, April 28th.

We invite you to join Universal Pictures in making a donation to the Flight 93 Memorial Fund. For information, visit http://www.honorflight93.org.

Marvel Studios Engages All-Star Roster For New Film Slate; Jon Favreau To Direct Iron Man

Aggressively pursuing its strategy to develop and produce a new slate of feature films, Marvel Studios - a subsidiary of Marvel Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: MVL) - has engaged director/actor/writer Jon Favreau to direct the highly anticipated big screen adaptation of Iron Man. Additionally, the studio has tapped several screenwriters to pen scripts based on some of its marquee Super Hero franchises. The projects to which screenwriters are now attached and have officially begun development include Iron Man, Incredible Hulk, Ant Man, Captain America, Nick Fury and Thor. The announcement was made today by Avi Arad, Chairman of Marvel Studios.

-- Iron Man -- For the legendary Super Hero Iron Man, Jon Favreau will direct the film and develop the script with the writing team of Arthur Marcum and Matt Holloway (Convoy). Favreau's directing credits include Elf and Zathura: A Space Adventure.

-- Incredible Hulk -- Zak Penn, who previously collaborated with Marvel on X2, Fantastic Four, and the upcoming X-Men: The Last Stand, will write a new Incredible Hulk film, inspired by the larger-than-life green giant. Under Marvel's arrangement with Universal, Marvel will develop and produce the Incredible Hulk as a major theatrical release, with Universal retaining various distribution rights.

-- Ant Man -- Writer/director Edgar Wright (Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz) will direct, and co-write with writing partner Joe Cornish, the feature film based on cult-favorite Ant Man. Edgar will also co-produce with his Big Talk Productions partner Nira Park.

-- Captain America -- David Self has been tapped to write Captain America, inspired by Marvel's venerable all-American super soldier. Self's credits include Thirteen Days and Road to Perdition, in addition to numerous rewrites on various studio films. He also worked with Marvel on two other projects: Namor, the Sub-Mariner for Universal, and Deathlok for Paramount.

-- Nick Fury - Marvel's Super Hero with military roots, the iconic super spy Nick Fury, will be brought to life by action/adventure screenwriter Andrew Marlowe. Marlowe's credits include Air Force One, End of Days, and Hollow Man.

-- Thor -- The legendary Norse Thunder deity, Thor, will hammer his way to the big screen with the help of screenwriter Mark Protosevich. Protosevich wrote one of this summer's highly-anticipated films, Poseidon. His credits also include The Cell.

"We are incredibly excited to be able to attract some of Hollywood's top talent to help Marvel launch the first wave of our independently-produced film slate. These screenwriters and directors are at the top of their game, and each brings a unique passion for the individual characters and projects they will be working on. Our goal is to combine great characters with exciting action, and we've assembled a team who will do just that," said Mr. Arad. "In fact, some of these writers have already helped us create major Hollywood blockbuster franchises like Fantastic Four and X-Men. With our independent slate, we look forward to delivering to movie-goers the same type of high-action, gripping entertainment they have grown accustomed to with the Marvel brand."

With screenwriters and directors on board, Marvel is commencing discussions with other talent and visual effects houses as it gears up for full-scale production on the new slate, with the first release anticipated in 2008. These projects are expected to be financed with Marvel's $525 million revolving film financing facility and distributed under Marvel's overall distribution arrangement with Paramount, except for The Incredible Hulk which will be distributed by Universal.

President/COO Michael Helfant will oversee the company's growth to accommodate this newly expanded production activity. The projects will be shepherded and produced by Kevin Feige, President of Production, and Ari Arad, Executive Vice President of Production.

About Marvel Entertainment, Inc.

With a library of over 5,000 characters, Marvel Entertainment, Inc. is one of the world's most prominent character-based entertainment companies. Marvel's operations are focused on utilizing its character franchises in licensing, entertainment, publishing and toys. Areas of emphasis include feature films, DVD/home video, consumer products, video games, action figures and role-playing toys, television and promotions. Rooted in the creative success of over sixty years of comic book publishing, Marvel's strategy is to leverage its character franchises in a growing array of opportunities around the world.

Except for any historical information that they contain, the statements in this news release regarding Marvel's plans are forward-looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including circumstances that may affect Marvel's ability to commence or complete production of its films, and the risk of poor performance of the films in the marketplace. These and other risks and uncertainties are described in Marvel's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including Marvel's Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. Marvel assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements.

Marvel, and all related character names and the distinctive likenesses thereof are trademarks of Marvel Characters, Inc. and are used with permission. TM & (C) 2006 Marvel Characters, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.marvel.com. Super Hero(es) is a co-owned registered trademark.

Walt Disney Pictures and MySpace.com Launch World Premiere of ''Pirates of the Caribbean

: Dead Man's Chest'' Theatrical Trailer; Partnership Gives One MySpace Member the Chance to Debut ''Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest'' Trailer to the World joins with MySpace.com, the leading lifestyle portal to discover music, film and popular culture, to give one MySpace member the exclusive opportunity to launch the world premiere of the theatrical trailer of "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest." MySpace and Walt Disney Pictures invite members to join the movie's official MySpace profile for a chance to become the first person to view the movie trailer for "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest." The winner will then have the chance to distribute the trailer to MySpace's network of more than 74 million members and interview talent from the film as a press correspondent for MySpace at the press junket in Los Angeles.

On Monday, May 1, MySpace will randomly select one friend from the Pirates' MySpace profile. This lucky fan will be given the trailer in the form of a tag allowing the user to view and share via email, instant message, bulletins, or blogs to any person on MySpace.

"We are always looking for innovative ways to bring fresh content to increasingly hard-to-reach consumers," said Oren Aviv, President of Marketing and Chief Creative Officer, Walt Disney Studios. "This partnership with MySpace provides a unique, never-before-done opportunity to empower the passionate, enthusiastic fan base of the Pirates franchise, allowing them to be the primary champions of the film."

To be eligible, the MySpace user must be at least 18 years of age and be a friend of the Pirates of the Caribbean profile (http://www.myspace.com/deadmanschest). Additional prizes will be awarded to every 10,000th member to sign up for the community and to the member who distributes the trailer to the most people. On the Pirates of the Caribbean profile, members can also view stills from the movie and communicate with other MySpace friends and fans through blogs, comments and forums.

"We are thrilled to be a part of this unique effort to promote Disney's new film," said Colin Digiaro, SVP of Sales for MySpace. "MySpace members use the network to discover pop culture and share it with friends and the Disney approach for Pirates takes advantage of the power of MySpace and word-of-mouth marketing in a very efficient and clever way."

Walt Disney Pictures' "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest," stars Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom and Keira Knightley, and opens nationwide on July 7, 2006. It is produced by Jerry Bruckheimer ("Black Hawk Down," "Pearl Harbor") and directed by Gore Verbinski ("The Ring").

About MySpace.com

MySpace is the premier lifestyle portal for connecting with friends and discovering popular culture. By integrating web profiles, blogs, instant messaging, e-mail, music streaming, music videos, photo galleries, classified listings, events, groups, college communities and member forums, MySpace has created a connected community. As the second ranked web domain in terms of page views(a), MySpace.com is the most widely-used and highly regarded site of its kind. With more than 74 million members, MySpace is committed to providing the highest quality member experience and will continue to innovate with new features that allow its members to express their creativity and share their lives, both online and off.

(a)Among the top 2000 domains. comScore Media Metrix, March 2006. For more information on comScore Networks, please go to http://www.comscore.com.

for MySpace.com

Dame Elizabeth Taylor Statement

The following is a statement by Guttman Associates, publicity representatives for Dame Elizabeth Taylor:

"It is regrettable that a recent story in a tabloid gossip paper so erroneously reported the state of the health of Dame Elizabeth Taylor and created so much needless concern. Dame Elizabeth is in excellent health, other than the back problems which sometimes confine her to a wheelchair. She continues on a daily basis to guide the success and product excellence both of White Diamonds and other perfume products of her fragrance line with Elizabeth Arden and her highly successful House of Taylor Jewelry products. She pours similar energy and devotion into her ongoing efforts to fund, supervise and encourage treatment of AIDS patients and research into new treatment and possible cure. The degree to which she is active in both her businesses and her continuing fight against HIV/AIDS clearly reflects the efforts of a healthy woman.

"We would suggest that judicious skepticism is in order when the public and other media read such dire health reports or other misinformation in a story which is substantiated only by quotes from vague sources described as 'close friends.' We don't know of any close friends who would shop a celebrated pal to a supermarket paper."

The following is a statement from someone who actually is very close to and a partner of Dame Elizabeth, Lifestyle Designer Kathy Ireland, as well as observations by one of her main working associates in her jewelry endeavors and her fragrance enterprises: -0-

"I usually don't comment on gossip, but my great love for Dame

Elizabeth and the dishonesty of the vicious lies circulating about her

health forces me to speak out.

"Elizabeth Taylor is my business partner in her publicly traded

company House of Taylor Jewelry, and more importantly my dear friend.

We see each other regularly both professionally and socially. Our

family was invited to her home on Easter and we just had dinner

together in Beverly Hills.

"This story is cruel, nonsensical and damaging to the tremendous

work she does every day for people living with HIV/AIDS as well as her

extraordinary leadership in all of her business ventures."

Kathy Ireland

CEO and Chief Designer

Kathy Ireland World Wide

"I am honored to work for and with Dame Elizabeth on her jewelry

designs daily. This story is ridiculous."

Monty Abramov

Vice President and Design Director

House of Taylor Jewelry

"Dame Elizabeth has always been and remains extremely hands-on in

her work with us, invariably and tirelessly adding her personal touch.

At the House of Taylor fragrances, she is keeping us quite busy on a

daily basis in planning the celebration of the 15th anniversary of

White Diamonds this fall. She has been particularly involved in

creating a beautiful limited edition gold bottle for White Diamonds.

Tamara Steele

Senior Vice President

House of Taylor Fragrances, A division of Elizabeth Arden, Inc.

Guttman Associates

Newport Beach Film Festival Announces 2006 Award Winners; Awards Ceremony to Be Produced by Media Alliance of Orange County

The Newport Beach Film Festival announces the winners of its 2006 Festival tonight. The Festival wraps up its official competition tonight with an Awards Ceremony beginning at 8:00 PM at the Palm Garden Ballroom at the Island Hotel (690 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach).

The 2006 Awards Ceremony marks the second year of a partnership with the Media Alliance Orange County (MAOC) and the Newport Beach Film Festival. "The MAOC, in an attempt to reach its goal of elevating and enhancing its image and awareness of the film, video and multimedia production/post-production industry in Orange County, is proud to be part of this win-win partnership," says Rick Sherman, president of the MAOC.

More than 1,500 films were reviewed by the Festival's selection committee. The films selected to run in the Festival were in competition for jury and audience awards, with a new addition of an award from MySpace.com for online promotion. This year's Festival included over 350 films, representing more than 35 countries.

The winners for the 2006 Festival are as follows: -0-

Jury Awards

Best Feature Film

"Al Otro Lado (To the Other Side)"

Best Director

Feature Film

Gustavo Loza

"Al Otro Lado (To the Other Side)"

Best Actor

Feature Film

Long Nguyen

"Journey from the Fall (Vuot Song)"

Best Actress

Feature Film

Elizabeth Reaser

"Sweet Land"

Best Cinematography

Feature Film

Charlie Lam

"One Last Dance"

Best Screenplay

Stephane Brize and Juliette Sales

"Je ne suis pas la pour etre aime (Not here to be loved)"

Best Documentary

"De nadie (No one)"

Best Short Film

"Binta and the Great Idea"

Best Director

Short Film

Attila Szasz

"Most latszom, most nem latszom (Now you see me, now you

don't)"

Best Cinematography

Short Film

Jeff Waldron

"The Honeyfields"

Special Jury Prize

"Spin"

Best Short Documentary

"A Note of Triumph"

Special Jury Prize

"Recycled Life"

Best Animated Film

"The Fan and the Flower"